Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Middle school students participate in Freshman Seminar with extra support.
Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Senior Seminar is focused on post-graduation planning and capstone projects.
Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Senior Seminar is focused on post-graduation planning and capstone projects.
Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Every morning, Monday through Thursday, is dedicated to Seminar, a flexible, extended session from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Students gather in grade-level cohorts of about 16, led by an Advisor who progresses with the group through the years. This time is used for community building, group projects, excursions, independent work, tutorials, self-evaluation and planning, documentation of work, and scaffolded self-directed learning.
Middle school students participate in Freshman Seminar with extra support.
Math Lab is a personalized learning space designed to meet students where they are and support their growth in mathematical thinking, confidence, and skills. Instead of a one-size-fits-all curriculum, each student will collaborate with the instructor to create an individualized learning plan focused on their unique goals, interests, and future aspirations.
Students will engage with the foundations of mathematics while also exploring higher-level concepts as they are ready, with an emphasis on:
Foundational Computation: Strengthening fluency with arithmetic, algebraic reasoning, geometry, and data analysis through regular practice and application.
Developing problem-solving strategies by tackling real-world scenarios, puzzles, and open-ended challenges that require persistence and creative thinking.
Practicing perseverance by approaching unfamiliar problems step by step, building resilience by working through unfamiliar or complex problems, reflecting on mistakes, and adapting approaches when stuck.
Students may work independently or in small groups, with substantial individualized support and attention provided throughout. Whether preparing for future math courses, standardized assessments, personal projects, or life beyond LightHouse, Math Lab fosters confidence and curiosity while helping students understand how mathematics connects to the world around them.
This course prioritizes process over speed—valuing deep understanding, flexible thinking, and the ability to apply mathematical concepts across diverse contexts.
Cell Phone Policy: Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
In this hands-on course, students will learn the art and practice of crochet—a tactile, calming, and expressive fiber art form. Whether you're picking up a hook for the first time or refining your skills with advanced patterns, crochet offers a space to slow down, focus, and create something meaningful.
Beginner students will start with foundational stitches and techniques, learning to read patterns and build basic shapes. Projects may include washcloths, hats, or simple amigurumi (stuffed figures). Emphasis will be placed on process over perfection, helping students develop self-compassion, patience, and attention to detail.
Advanced students will dive into more complex pattern work, experimenting with texture, color theory, wearable design, and original pattern creation. Students will be encouraged to take on long-form or multi-piece projects, developing confidence in their ability to set and meet creative goals over time.
Throughout the course, all students will:
Practice self-care through craft, using crochet as a meditative practice that supports emotional regulation and stress relief.
Develop original creative work, exploring personal style, symbolism, and intention in design.
Strengthen perseverance and focus by working through mistakes, solving technical problems, and completing challenging projects.
Crochet is a skill that cultivates patience, self-expression, and joy.
Cell Phone Policy: Appropriate, non-disruptive cell phone use with headphones is allowed in this class.
Join the heart of our community kitchen as part of the Lunch Team, a small group dedicated to bringing lunch service to life each day. Working side-by-side with Chef Blue, students will:
Refine their culinary skills by learning professional kitchen etiquette, time management, and food presentation.
Develop leadership and collaboration through real-time problem solving, communication, and coordinated teamwork.
Cultivate wellness and service by contributing to our daily shared meals and exploring the connections between food, health, and community.
This role is a key part of LightHouse's commitment to nourishing both body and spirit. As part of the team responsible for final prep and service, students will help set the tone for our shared dining experience—learning what it means to lead through care, show up consistently, and serve with pride.
Join the heart of our community kitchen as part of the Lunch Team, a small group dedicated to bringing lunch service to life each day. Working side-by-side with Chef Blue, students will:
Refine their culinary skills by learning professional kitchen etiquette, time management, and food presentation.
Develop leadership and collaboration through real-time problem solving, communication, and coordinated teamwork.
Cultivate wellness and service by contributing to our daily shared meals and exploring the connections between food, health, and community.
This role is a key part of LightHouse's commitment to nourishing both body and spirit. As part of the team responsible for final prep and service, students will help set the tone for our shared dining experience—learning what it means to lead through care, show up consistently, and serve with pride.
Life Skills is a practical, hands-on lab designed to prepare students for the realities of independent living. This class is intended primarily for students in grades 10–12 who are beginning to think about life beyond LightHouse—whether that means college, work, or living on their own.
Students will build the knowledge and habits needed to manage everyday responsibilities with confidence. Through discussion, applied tasks, and real-world scenarios, the class focuses on three key areas: managing resources, navigating challenges, and taking care of yourself and others.
In this course, students will:
Develop financial literacy by creating and managing budgets, understanding income and expenses, and making informed decisions about spending, saving, and planning for both expected and unexpected costs.
Strengthen perseverance and problem-solving by learning how to navigate systems—accessing local resources, responding to challenges, and maintaining stability even when things feel uncertain or overwhelming.
Build self-care and wellness strategies by understanding physical and emotional health, recognizing warning signs, setting boundaries, and developing habits that support long-term well-being.
Practice essential daily living skills such as meal planning, grocery shopping, home care, laundry, and basic maintenance, with an emphasis on preventing problems before they become crises.
Reflect on personal patterns, habits, and decision-making in order to better understand themselves and make choices that align with their goals and values.
Students will work toward attainments such as managing personal finances responsibly, identifying and accessing support systems, maintaining personal and shared spaces, recognizing signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships, and demonstrating increasing independence in caring for their physical and emotional well-being.
This course is grounded in real life. The goal is not perfection, but capability—leaving with the tools to take care of yourself, handle challenges as they arise, and make thoughtful, informed decisions.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
People often watch films with a passive lens. This class will ask you to look at films intentionally and critically. We will talk briefly about the history of film, then watch films and discuss the plot, themes, messages, characters, film making techniques, and the impact different films have had on culture throughout time. This class is for high school students only. Focus competencies for this class are voice, creativity, and social justice concepts.
In this class students will demonstrate the ability to:
Think on their own and express their thoughts freely
Express original ideas
Discuss injustice productively with others with respect and care
This class explores the plants, animals, and ecosystems of the Pioneer Valley through observation, identification, and hands-on exploration of the natural world around us. Students will learn to recognize common tree species and understand forest ecology, tree health, and invasive pests. We will also practice identifying local birds by sight and sound and learn about fish and aquatic life in the Connecticut River. Whenever possible, class will take place outdoors as we observe seasonal changes, write in field journals, read nature writings, and explore the forests, rivers, and habitats surrounding LightHouse Holyoke.
Supported Independent Study offers dedicated time and guidance for students to pursue their own interests, goals, and projects. Whether you want to learn something new, deepen an existing passion, or focus on a specific objective—like designing a project for completing specific competency attainments, college applications, test prep, language study, or creative work—this space creates the structure and support to help you make it happen.
Supported Independent Study will be offered in a dedicated space each period of the day with a staff person to help you develop a clear plan, set meaningful goals, and follow through. This is a space for self-directed learning with accountability: managing time, staying focused, and making steady progress on work that matters to you.
Students will work toward attainments such as setting and tracking goals, managing time effectively, seeking out resources and support, and reflecting on their growth as independent learners.
Supported Independent Study offers dedicated time and guidance for students to pursue their own interests, goals, and projects. Whether you want to learn something new, deepen an existing passion, or focus on a specific objective—like designing a project for completing specific competency attainments, college applications, test prep, language study, or creative work—this space creates the structure and support to help you make it happen.
Supported Independent Study will be offered in a dedicated space each period of the day with a staff person to help you develop a clear plan, set meaningful goals, and follow through. This is a space for self-directed learning with accountability: managing time, staying focused, and making steady progress on work that matters to you.
Students will work toward attainments such as setting and tracking goals, managing time effectively, seeking out resources and support, and reflecting on their growth as independent learners.
In this hands-on design course, students will explore the creative and structural possibilities of cardboard as a sculptural medium. Beginning with foundational techniques—measuring, cutting, scoring, folding, and joining—students will learn how to transform flat materials into dimensional forms.
The course will start with the construction of a 3D cube, using precise planning and pattern-making to understand how shapes come together in space. From there, students will design and build an original sculpture of their choosing, using hand-drafted or printed templates as a starting point and adapting them as their ideas evolve.
Throughout the process, students will engage deeply in problem solving, creativity, and perseverance. They will:
Develop and communicate original ideas, translating concepts into physical form through iterative design.
Break down complex builds into step-by-step processes, testing solutions and refining their approach as challenges arise.
Identify obstacles in their work, seek guidance when needed, and build resilience by revising plans rather than abandoning them.
Experiment with materials and techniques to create innovative, personal work that reflects their vision.
Students will work toward attainments such as generating and expressing original ideas, constructing logical processes for solving design challenges, communicating solutions and revisions, and demonstrating persistence through trial, error, and refinement.
This course emphasizes both creativity and craftsmanship—supporting students to think differently, work carefully, and stay engaged through the full arc of an idea from concept to completion.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
In this studio-based course, students will explore textiles and print design through a range of hands-on techniques and critical inquiry. Working with methods such as dyeing, block printing, cyanotype, and repeating pattern design, students will investigate how materials, color, and process come together to create meaningful visual work.
The class will balance art-making with discussion, examining both historical and contemporary textile practices. Students will engage with themes of color theory, design planning, material exploration, and the social and ecological dimensions of art-making.
Grounded in Creativity, Advanced Visual Arts, and Social Justice Concepts, students will:
Develop original ideas and express them through a variety of textile and print-based mediums, experimenting with materials and techniques to create innovative work.
Build advanced artistic skills by planning, producing, and refining designs, while also learning to speak about their work and process with clarity and confidence.
Explore the history of textile and print traditions, connecting artistic practices to cultural contexts, movements, and identities.
Examine the social and environmental impact of materials and production, engaging in thoughtful discussion about how art intersects with justice, sustainability, and community.
Students will work toward attainments such as creating original, concept-driven artwork, applying knowledge of artistic styles and history to their own practice, articulating their creative process, and engaging critically and respectfully with issues of culture, identity, and equity.
This course invites both careful craftsmanship and critical thinking—supporting students to create work that is not only visually compelling, but also informed, intentional, and connected to the world around them.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
This small group class introduces students to piano in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Using both baby grand pianos and individual keyboards with headphones, students will build skills at their own pace while also learning alongside others.
Students will learn foundational techniques such as hand position, coordination, rhythm, and basic patterns on the keyboard. The focus is on playing—learning simple songs, experimenting with sound, and developing comfort and confidence at the instrument—rather than formal music reading.
Grounded in Perseverance, Collaboration, and Voice, students will:
Build skills through consistent practice, working through challenges and developing confidence over time.
Learn alongside peers by sharing space, supporting one another, and playing together in a respectful, collaborative environment.
Explore their musical voice by making choices about how they play, experimenting with sound, and expressing themselves through the instrument.
Students will work toward attainments such as persisting through challenges in skill-building, working collaboratively with others in a shared creative space, and expressing ideas and identity through music.
This class is designed for beginners—no prior experience is necessary. The focus is on exploration, repetition, and building comfort with the piano over time.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
Biology - Cells through Genetics
How can living organisms survive in near-boiling hot springs? How can you identify the animals in a forest just though the DNA in the soil? How do cells store the information to function and be a living thing? What are the chemical foundations of life?
This class will cover a variety of subjects drawn from the first half of a typical high school biology curriculum. We will cover molecular biology, cell biology, and genetics. We will mostly not cover evolution and ecology in this class, covering those in zoology and in some other classes.
We will talk about the molecules that make life, the parts of cells and how they function, how cells combine to create organisms, the microbes around us, and how genetic information is stored, used, and inherited.
This class is a double block with Biology-Cells through Genetics Lab immediately following. These should be taken together.
Math Lab is a personalized learning space designed to meet students where they are and support their growth in mathematical thinking, confidence, and skills. Instead of a one-size-fits-all curriculum, each student will collaborate with the instructor to create an individualized learning plan focused on their unique goals, interests, and future aspirations.
Students will engage with the foundations of mathematics while also exploring higher-level concepts as they are ready, with an emphasis on:
Foundational Computation: Strengthening fluency with arithmetic, algebraic reasoning, geometry, and data analysis through regular practice and application.
Developing problem-solving strategies by tackling real-world scenarios, puzzles, and open-ended challenges that require persistence and creative thinking.
Practicing perseverance by approaching unfamiliar problems step by step, building resilience by working through unfamiliar or complex problems, reflecting on mistakes, and adapting approaches when stuck.
Students work independently or in small groups with substantial individualized support and attention. Each student begins wherever they last left off in math—there is no minimum or maximum level of prior knowledge required. This class covers mathematics on a fully personalized basis, using the Massachusetts state standards for high school mathematics as a framework. Together, students and instructor will create individualized learning plans that reflect both the standard high school sequence (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Precalculus, Calculus) and each student’s specific goals, interests, and future plans. Whether preparing for future coursework, standardized assessments, personal projects, or life after LightHouse, Math Lab fosters mathematical confidence, curiosity, and real-world connection.
This course prioritizes process over speed—valuing deep understanding, flexible thinking, and the ability to apply mathematical concepts across diverse contexts.
Cell Phone Policy: Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
Supported Independent Study offers dedicated time and guidance for students to pursue their own interests, goals, and projects. Whether you want to learn something new, deepen an existing passion, or focus on a specific objective—like designing a project for completing specific competency attainments, college applications, test prep, language study, or creative work—this space creates the structure and support to help you make it happen.
Supported Independent Study will be offered in a dedicated space each period of the day with a staff person to help you develop a clear plan, set meaningful goals, and follow through. This is a space for self-directed learning with accountability: managing time, staying focused, and making steady progress on work that matters to you.
Students will work toward attainments such as setting and tracking goals, managing time effectively, seeking out resources and support, and reflecting on their growth as independent learners.
Supported Independent Study offers dedicated time and guidance for students to pursue their own interests, goals, and projects. Whether you want to learn something new, deepen an existing passion, or focus on a specific objective—like designing a project for completing specific competency attainments, college applications, test prep, language study, or creative work—this space creates the structure and support to help you make it happen.
Supported Independent Study will be offered in a dedicated space each period of the day with a staff person to help you develop a clear plan, set meaningful goals, and follow through. This is a space for self-directed learning with accountability: managing time, staying focused, and making steady progress on work that matters to you.
Students will work toward attainments such as setting and tracking goals, managing time effectively, seeking out resources and support, and reflecting on their growth as independent learners.
Flying Machines: Rockets, Gliders, and the Science of Flight
n this hands-on engineering and science course, students will design, build, and test a variety of flying machines—from simple gliders to rockets. Through experimentation, iteration, and a fair amount of “crashing,” students will explore the forces that make flight possible and learn how to improve their designs over time.
The class will move between indoor build time and outdoor testing, as students create machines that fly higher, farther, and more efficiently. Each project will build on the last, developing both technical understanding and practical skill.
This course emphasizes applied scientific reasoning, problem solving, and collaboration. Students will:
Investigate the principles of flight, including lift, drag, thrust, and gravity, using real experiments to test ideas and refine designs.
Apply the scientific method by making predictions, testing prototypes, analyzing outcomes, and revising based on evidence.
Break down complex challenges into step-by-step processes, identifying barriers and developing solutions through iteration.
Work collaboratively in a shared build environment, demonstrating respect, patience, and partnership as they test and improve designs together.
Students will work toward attainments such as explaining scientific concepts through hands-on application, using experimentation to deepen understanding, developing and communicating solutions to design challenges, and building on existing ideas to improve performance over time.
This class is active, experimental, and iterative—focused on learning by doing, testing, and trying again.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
This course explores the power of voice as a tool for storytelling, expression, and connection. Through voice acting, public speaking, and audio storytelling, students will develop the skills to communicate clearly, confidently, and authentically.
Students will work on a range of projects including crafting personal narratives, recording audio pieces, practicing audition techniques, and developing performance skills for live and recorded settings. The class will include vocal warm-ups, exercises in projection and clarity, and opportunities to present work to an audience.
Grounded in Voice, Public Speaking, and Self-Awareness and Identity, students will:
Develop and express original ideas, using their voice to share personal stories, perspectives, and creative work.
Build confidence speaking in front of others, learning how to engage an audience, stay focused, and communicate clearly even under pressure.
Explore how identity, experience, and culture shape the stories we tell and the way we tell them.
Reflect on their own beliefs, values, and perspectives, while also learning to listen to and respect the voices of others.
Students will work toward attainments such as communicating ideas with clarity and confidence, engaging an audience through performance, crafting meaningful and original narratives, and developing a deeper understanding of their own voice and its role in their community.
This class is both creative and personal—an opportunity to strengthen your voice, tell your story, and be heard.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
This discussion-based course explores how art, culture, and media both reflect and shape political and ecological realities. Students will examine the relationships between artistic production, environmental impact, and systems of power, with a focus on how creative work can imagine—and influence—possible futures.
Through short readings, music, and selected media, students will engage with movements such as solarpunk, cyberpunk, Afrofuturism, and analogue revival. These frameworks will serve as entry points for analyzing how artists respond to colonial histories, environmental challenges, and technological change.
Grounded in Global Thinking, Social Justice Concepts, and Environmental Awareness, students will:
Investigate how art and media engage with issues of power, inequality, and ecological responsibility, using research to deepen understanding of complex topics.
Analyze sources critically, considering perspective, context, and intent, and connecting ideas across texts, media, and cultural movements.
Engage in thoughtful discussion about justice, environment, and representation, practicing respectful dialogue across differing perspectives.
Examine the environmental impact of production and consumption, and consider how creative practices can contribute to more sustainable and equitable futures.
Students will work toward attainments such as conducting and synthesizing research from multiple sources, discussing social and environmental issues with care and clarity, and making connections between cultural production and broader global systems.
The course will include short written and discussion-based assignments throughout the block, culminating in a final project that brings together students’ research, analysis, and perspective.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
This class is for students who already have some experience with an instrument and are ready to play music with others. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about showing up with some foundation and a willingness to listen, collaborate, and grow.
Students will work together to choose songs, arrange parts, rehearse, and perform as an ensemble. Along the way, there will be opportunities to try new instruments, experiment with different roles in a group, and even begin writing original material.
Grounded in Collaboration, Perseverance, and Voice, students will:
Develop the skills needed to play in a group, including listening, timing, balance, and adapting to others.
Build confidence through rehearsal, working through challenges, and improving as a group over time.
Express their musical voice by contributing ideas, making creative choices, and shaping the sound of the ensemble.
Students will work toward attainments such as collaborating respectfully in a shared creative process, persisting through the challenges of group performance, and expressing ideas and identity through music.
This is a space for musicians who are ready to take the next step—playing not just on their own, but with others.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
Maker Lab is a small, focused studio for students who are already working on a long-term project—or who have a clear vision they are ready to begin—and want sustained support to bring it to life. This is a space for deep work, iteration, and follow-through.
Students will work closely with a skilled artist/engineer/creator to develop, refine, and execute their projects over time. The emphasis is on commitment: planning, building, troubleshooting, and revising in a thoughtful and sustained way.
Grounded in Problem Solving, Advanced Technical Skills, and Perseverance, students will:
Develop and carry out complex, multi-step projects, breaking ideas into actionable plans and adapting as challenges arise.
Build technical skill through hands-on making, experimentation, and refinement of materials, tools, and processes.
Persist through setbacks, using feedback and iteration to strengthen both the process and the final outcome.
Communicate their ideas, progress, and solutions clearly, both in conversation and through their work.
Students will work toward attainments such as designing and executing extended projects, applying technical skills with increasing independence, revising work in response to challenges, and sustaining focus over time.
This is not an introductory class—students should come prepared with an idea, a project already in progress, or a strong readiness to begin. Admission is by teacher permission only.
Enrollment is limited to 4 students.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
Draw! has been a longstanding class led by beloved art teacher, Brady Fellows. Brady is moving on for block two to pursue exciting professional art opportunities, but his students would like to continue on holding the space for themselves. Supported by LightHouse advisor, Steph Zello, this space will be held and organized by LightHouse student Jake Stack. Thanks, Jake!
Description:
The best way to grow as an artist is simple: draw every single day. In this studio-based course, students will build a consistent drawing practice that fosters creativity, confidence, and technical skill. No tests, no grades—just time, space, and support to develop your craft.
Each class, students will receive a new prompt designed to spark imagination and encourage experimentation. From quick sketches to detailed studies, students will explore a wide range of styles, techniques, and subject matter—learning by doing, and discovering what inspires them most.
In this course, students will:
Strengthen creativity by practicing open-ended problem-solving and exploring personal artistic voice.
Develop advanced visual arts techniques through repeated practice with composition, shading, perspective, and mark-making.
Build perseverance by embracing daily effort, learning from mistakes, and watching progress unfold over time.
No prior experience is required—just bring curiosity and a willingness to experiment. Whether you’re sketching for five minutes or working on a larger piece, this class is about process over perfection and progress over pressure.
Drawing every day doesn’t just make you a better artist—it changes the way you see the world.
This course provides an in-depth, personalized introduction to digital audio production and recording arts. Students will develop technical and creative skills by working on original projects in a professional media lab environment. Instruction includes hands-on training in production techniques, recording, mixing, sound design, and the creative use of effects.
Students will receive guided instruction in Logic Pro—an industry-standard digital audio workstation (DAW)—and will either learn the platform for the first time or advance their existing skills. Emphasis is placed on independent project development, technical proficiency, and creative expression.
Projects may include songwriting, beat-making, audio essays, podcasting, or experimental sound work, depending on student goals. Students are expected to engage in self-directed work while receiving ongoing support and technical mentorship.
Competency Alignment and Attainments:
Advanced Technical Skills
Operate studio hardware and software with increasing independence
Apply professional recording, editing, and mixing workflows
Troubleshoot and resolve common technical problems in audio production
Media Fluency
Compose and edit media using sound as the primary mode of communication
Make deliberate choices in production to influence audience interpretation
Evaluate media content for bias, quality, and effectiveness
Voice
Express ideas and perspectives through original sound-based works
Develop a distinctive personal or artistic style
Tailor creative choices to suit specific audiences or artistic goals
Cell Phone Policy: Students may use phones for relevant classwork.
This class will serve as a lab companion to Biology: Cells Through Genetics. In this lab, we will conduct experiments that illustrate the concepts covered in the main class, help develop scientific skills, and showcase some of the wonders of the natural world. Our labs will cover various areas of biology, with a particular emphasis on evolution and ecology. Examples of activities include identifying plants collected from local forests using a taxonomic key, constructing a phylogenetic tree to understand how organisms are related, simulating the evolution of animal populations, examining cells under a microscope, and designing experiments to answer questions you’re curious about. If time permits, we may also discuss the concepts we’re learning and explore ecological topics that might not be covered as thoroughly in the main class.
This lab is intended to supplement Biology: Cells Through Genetics, and must be taken together.
Supported Independent Study offers dedicated time and guidance for students to pursue their own interests, goals, and projects. Whether you want to learn something new, deepen an existing passion, or focus on a specific objective—like designing a project for completing specific competency attainments, college applications, test prep, language study, or creative work—this space creates the structure and support to help you make it happen.
Supported Independent Study will be offered in a dedicated space each period of the day with a staff person to help you develop a clear plan, set meaningful goals, and follow through. This is a space for self-directed learning with accountability: managing time, staying focused, and making steady progress on work that matters to you.
Students will work toward attainments such as setting and tracking goals, managing time effectively, seeking out resources and support, and reflecting on their growth as independent learners.
Supported Independent Study offers dedicated time and guidance for students to pursue their own interests, goals, and projects. Whether you want to learn something new, deepen an existing passion, or focus on a specific objective—like designing a project for completing specific competency attainments, college applications, test prep, language study, or creative work—this space creates the structure and support to help you make it happen.
Supported Independent Study will be offered in a dedicated space each period of the day with a staff person to help you develop a clear plan, set meaningful goals, and follow through. This is a space for self-directed learning with accountability: managing time, staying focused, and making steady progress on work that matters to you.
Students will work toward attainments such as setting and tracking goals, managing time effectively, seeking out resources and support, and reflecting on their growth as independent learners.
This class offers students the opportunity to learn and develop their skills in table tennis in a focused, active, and supportive environment. We will build from the basics—rules, scoring, and gameplay—into more advanced techniques such as serving, rallying, positioning, and strategic play.
Beyond the mechanics of the game, this course emphasizes growth through perseverance, collaboration, and self-care and wellness. Students will:
Build resilience by practicing consistently, working through frustration, and adapting their approach as they develop new skills.
Identify personal challenges and patterns in performance, learning how mindset, focus, and emotional regulation impact gameplay.
Engage in respectful, collaborative play—demonstrating patience, partnership, and good sportsmanship in both competitive and cooperative settings.
Reflect on habits and behaviors that support physical and mental well-being, including movement, focus, and emotional awareness during play.
Students will work toward attainments such as recognizing and working through challenges, revising strategies in response to setbacks, communicating and collaborating effectively with peers, and demonstrating awareness of how emotions and habits influence performance.
This class is about more than just learning a game—it’s about building discipline, respect, and the ability to stay engaged and improve over time.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
In this hands-on, movement-based class, students will learn how to repair, ride, and understand bicycles—using them as both a practical tool and a way to explore the city of Holyoke. Whether you already have a bike or need one set up, this course will support you in getting rolling and staying rolling.
Students will begin by working on their own bikes or rebuilding one from our shop: identifying issues, taking components apart, making repairs, and putting everything back together so they understand how it all works. From there, the class will move into riding—developing skills, building confidence, and heading out together to ride through the city.
Along the way, students will learn the mechanics behind cycling, including how gears and gear ratios work, how shifting affects movement, and how forces like friction and leverage help control speed and stopping. Students will also explore how body position and movement translate energy into motion—literally turning breakfast into forward momentum.
Grounded in Problem Solving, Self-Care and Wellness Strategies, and Understanding Self as Learner, students will:
Diagnose and repair mechanical issues, breaking problems into manageable steps and communicating solutions clearly.
Develop awareness of physical movement, stamina, and personal well-being through regular riding and reflection on habits that support health.
Build confidence as learners by recognizing different ways of learning—through hands-on work, movement, observation, and practice.
Stay curious and engaged, using trial, error, and persistence to improve both mechanical and riding skills over time.
Students will work toward attainments such as identifying and addressing challenges, applying step-by-step processes to real-world problems, reflecting on personal habits and growth, and developing a deeper understanding of themselves as active, capable learners.
Bring a bike if you have one—we’ll get it into tip top shape. If not, we’ll build one together for you to keep.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
In this class, we will make bad puppets—and then use them to create not-at-all bad stories.
Each week, students will design and build new puppets and develop short performances using a range of storytelling styles: funny, personal, experimental, or even documentary. The “badness” is part of the point—it gives us permission to take risks, try ideas quickly, and focus on creativity and expression rather than perfection. Pieces can be short, strange, meaningful, ridiculous, or all of the above.
Along the way, students will explore the fundamentals of storytelling: character, voice, structure, and audience. Through writing, improvisation, and performance, students will learn how to shape ideas into narratives and bring them to life through puppetry. The course may culminate in a shared presentation, or remain a space for creative experimentation.
Grounded in Creativity, Voice, and Effective Communication, students will:
Generate original ideas and express them through multiple mediums, including puppet design, writing, and performance.
Develop their voice by exploring perspectives, telling personal or imaginative stories, and sharing ideas that may not have been explored before.
Strengthen communication skills by creating clear, engaging narratives and refining them through revision, rehearsal, and feedback.
Analyze how stories work—how structure, point of view, and detail shape meaning—and apply those insights to their own creations.
Students will work toward attainments such as expressing original and innovative ideas, crafting well-structured narratives, revising work to strengthen clarity and impact, and using their voice to communicate meaningfully with an audience.
This class is playful, creative, and a little chaotic—in the best way. The goal is to make something, try something, and have fun doing it.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
This course provides comprehensive training in food safety, preparing students to understand and apply industry-standard practices used in professional kitchens. Students will work through the ServSafe curriculum over the course of the block, with the option to take the ServSafe certification exam at the end.
Students will explore the full scope of food safety, including how foodborne illnesses occur, how to prevent contamination, and how to maintain safe food handling practices from purchasing through service. Topics include pathogens and the “microworld” of food safety, personal hygiene, allergen awareness, time and temperature control, proper storage and preparation, cleaning and sanitizing, and safe facility management.
In this course, students will:
Learn to identify and prevent foodborne illness by understanding how contamination occurs and how to control risks at every stage of food handling.
Develop strong food handling practices, including hygiene, safe preparation, storage, cooking, cooling, and service.
Understand how professional kitchens are designed, managed, and maintained to ensure safety and compliance.
Explore systems for monitoring food safety, including inspections, training, and active management strategies.
Grounded in Community Leadership, Advanced Wellness, and Advanced Sciences, students will work toward attainments such as applying scientific understanding to real-world systems, following and implementing technical procedures with precision, and maintaining high standards of safety and accountability in a shared environment.
This course is ideal for students interested in culinary work, hospitality, or any field involving food service—and for anyone who wants to understand how to keep food safe in both professional and everyday settings.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
This course explores big questions about truth, knowledge, belief, and how we make sense of the world—bringing together ideas from both philosophy and psychology. Students will examine not only how we should think, but how we actually think, and why those two don’t always match.
Through discussion, short readings, thought experiments, and real-world examples, students will explore questions like: What counts as evidence? How do we know something is true? How do bias, perception, and emotion shape our thinking? Why do people believe things that aren’t true—and how are those beliefs reinforced by the media we consume?
Grounded in Effective Communication, Ethical Decision Making, and Media Fluency, students will:
Analyze arguments and ideas, identifying assumptions, bias, and how meaning is shaped across different texts and media.
Examine cognitive biases and psychological patterns that influence decision-making, belief, and perception.
Explore how media—social, digital, and traditional—can influence, persuade, or mislead, and develop strategies for engaging with information critically and responsibly.
Practice respectful dialogue, learning to understand and engage with perspectives different from their own.
Develop and communicate their own ideas clearly, using evidence and reasoning to support their thinking.
Students will work toward attainments such as analyzing how ideas develop across texts and media, identifying bias and persuasive techniques, engaging thoughtfully with others across differences, and communicating ideas with clarity and purpose.
This class is discussion-heavy and idea-driven—designed for students who are willing to question, reflect, and think deeply about both the world and themselves.
Cell Phone Policy:
The teacher and students will agree upon and regularly review a class norm for cell phone use for this class.
In this hands-on design and sculpture course, students will explore how to create durable art by carving foam forms and casting them in concrete. The process begins with shaping and subtractive carving, then moves into mold-making and pouring—transforming lightweight designs into permanent pieces suitable for indoor or outdoor display.
All students will start with a shared skill-building project to learn core techniques: carving, shaping, planning forms, and safely working with materials. From there, students will develop their own original designs, moving from concept to finished object through a process of testing, refining, and rebuilding.
Grounded in Creativity, Problem Solving, and Perseverance, students will:
Generate and develop original ideas, translating concepts into physical, three-dimensional forms.
Break down complex builds into step-by-step processes, identifying challenges and adapting designs as needed.
Work through trial and error, revising plans and techniques to improve both structure and aesthetic outcome.
Build resilience in a material-driven process where mistakes are part of learning and refinement.
Students will work toward attainments such as expressing original ideas through sculptural work, developing processes for solving design challenges, and persisting through iterative cycles of building and revision.
This course emphasizes both imagination and follow-through—supporting students to create work that is not only creative, but also lasting.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.
This small group class is about moving, building strength, and developing a sustainable relationship with your body. Students will travel to the YMCA and work with staff member Nehemiah to create personalized plans based on their individual goals—whether that’s getting stronger, building endurance, improving energy, or simply feeling better in their body. If you have never been to the gym, join this class. ALL welcome.
There is also space in this class to play—through sports, games, and trying new ways of moving. The focus is not on performance or comparison, but on participation, consistency, and growth over time.
Grounded in Self-Care and Wellness Strategies, Collaboration, and Perseverance, students will:
Build awareness of how movement, habits, and lifestyle choices impact physical and mental well-being.
Develop routines that support their health, energy, and daily functioning.
Work alongside peers in a supportive environment, encouraging one another and participating with respect.
Set goals, track progress, and persist through challenges, adjusting their approach as needed.
Students will work toward attainments such as identifying and practicing effective self-care strategies, reflecting on habits and patterns, collaborating respectfully in shared spaces, and demonstrating persistence in working toward personal goals.
This class is about showing up, trying, and building a life where taking care of your body is normal.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
This small group class is about moving, building strength, and developing a friendly relationship with your body. Students will travel to the YMCA and work with staff member Nehemiah to create personalized plans based on their individual goals—whether that’s getting stronger, building endurance, improving energy, or simply feeling better in their body. If you love the gym, join this class. If you have never been to the gym, join this class. ALL welcome.
There is also space in this class to play—through sports, games, and trying new ways of moving. The focus is not on performance or comparison, but on participation, consistency, and growth over time.
Grounded in Self-Care and Wellness Strategies, Collaboration, and Perseverance, students will:
Build awareness of how movement, habits, and lifestyle choices impact physical and mental well-being.
Develop routines that support their health, energy, and daily functioning.
Work alongside peers in a supportive environment, encouraging one another and participating with respect.
Set goals, track progress, and persist through challenges, adjusting their approach as needed.
Students will work toward attainments such as identifying and practicing effective self-care strategies, reflecting on habits and patterns, collaborating respectfully in shared spaces, and demonstrating persistence in working toward personal goals.
This class is about showing up, trying, and building a life where taking care of your body is normal.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.