Apertures

Every day, it seems, brings news of another weather-related disaster. This course will look at current events and place them in the context of global climate change. It will not be an exercise in "doomscrolling," but rather a means to remain hopeful and increase resilience. After a review of atmospheric processes, we will monitor environmental data (temperature, precipitation, streamflow, snowpack, sea surface temperatures, etc.) at select locations, and will practice statistical analysis and presentation of scientific information.

You will investigate the scientific and social context underlying various environmental issues as well as case studies of technologies designed to address these. You will build your critical thinking and collaboration skills through a series of mini-projects and challenges. This course is designed to empower you with a sense of self-efficacy and the conviction that you have the potential to be an agent of positive change.

Beyond "telling people what to do," this class focuses on the fine art of being a good director. This class will deal specifically with casting, blocking, and giving feedback & notes. Be prepared to be on both sides of the table as students will learn how to direct each other as well as experience being the performer. These are the techniques to get the best results from your performers and how to effectively bring your vision to life.

Where does wealth come from, and why is there such a large wealth gap in the United States? This course will look at the national wealth gap and attempt to understand its roots. We will explore the issue through several lenses, including history, economics, and the social sciences. Additionally, we will learn and practice skills that can help you achieve financial stability and success after high school. We will look at taxes, credit cards, investments, retirement planning, the housing market, the stock market, cryptocurrency, and other topics that will have direct applications in your post-school life.

Learning Resources is a designated time for learning support and study skills including time management, phasing projects, and tracking work. Study skills will be taught in the context of the content curriculum from students' core academic courses. The goal of Learning Resources is to support students' academic journey and provide extra support embedded into the school day.

Art has been used as a means to record history, shape culture, cultivate imagination, and harness individual and social transformation. It can not only be a means to generate awareness, but it can also be a catalyst to engage community members to take action around a social issue. Students will have the opportunity to discuss, plan and create art that can impact social justice.