learning with down to earth co-op

 Our hands-on science class sparks curiosity through experiments, exploration, and real-world discovery. Children will touch, build, test, create, and watch science come to life—while also learning how the order, design, and wonder of the natural world point to a Creator and reveal the truth that science and faith are not in conflict, but beautifully connected.  

 In our hands-on social studies class, kids explore history, geography, and cultures through art, cooking, games, and group challenges. They don’t just learn about the world—they taste it, create it, and bring it to life through meaningful experiences.  

 Our hands-on art class invites kids to explore their creativity through painting, sculpting, collaging, and mixed media projects. Each lesson encourages self-expression while introducing new techniques and tools—exposing them to both the greats and more contemporary artists, along with the influences that shaped their work.  

 Our literature class centers around the power of read-alouds, fostering a love for stories while building listening skills, vocabulary, and imagination. By hearing rich language and engaging narratives, children develop deeper comprehension and a lifelong appreciation for great books. K–2 students will enjoy beautifully illustrated picture books chosen for their meaningful messages, while 3rd–5th graders will delve into more complex chapter books that inspire thoughtful reflection and lively discussion.  

 Free play is critical for children’s development, nurturing creativity, problem-solving, emotional regulation, friendships and social skills through unstructured, self-directed exploration. That’s why we treat it with the same importance as our hands-on lessons—giving children a full hour each day to move, imagine, and connect. This extended time allows them to return to learning refreshed, regulated, and ready to engage more fully in the classroom, because 20 minutes simply isn’t enough for meaningful growth. 

Our hands-on science class engages middle school students through experimentation, investigation, and real-world applications that bring scientific concepts to life. Students will design and conduct experiments, build and test models, and explore the natural world through observation and inquiry. Instruction emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving while highlighting the order, design, and complexity of creation, helping students understand that scientific discovery and faith are not in conflict but are thoughtfully and beautifully connected.

 Our middle school History Mysteries course invites students to explore the past through intriguing questions, unresolved events, and pivotal moments in world history. By examining historical “mysteries,” students engage with social studies, history, and geography while learning to analyze sources, evaluate evidence, and consider multiple perspectives. Through map work, timelines, discussion, and hands-on investigations, students develop critical thinking skills as they uncover how historical events shaped cultures, nations, and the world we live in today. The course encourages curiosity, thoughtful questioning, and a deeper understanding of history as an active process of discovery rather than a list of dates and facts. 

 Our hands-on art course encourages middle school students to explore and develop their creativity through painting, sculpture, collage, and mixed-media projects. Students are introduced to a variety of artistic techniques, tools, and styles while learning about influential artists from both historical and contemporary periods and the cultural influences that shaped their work. Emphasis is placed on creative expression, skill-building, and thoughtful experimentation, helping students grow in confidence as artists while learning to communicate ideas visually.

 This middle school course equips students with practical, real-world skills in financial literacy, consumer math, and entrepreneurship. Students learn how money is earned, managed, spent, saved, and given while strengthening math skills through everyday financial scenarios such as budgeting, percentages, taxes, and price comparison. The course introduces foundational entrepreneurship concepts including identifying needs, creating solutions, pricing products or services, and understanding profit and responsibility. Through hands-on activities and discussion, students develop critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and a stewardship mindset, helping them gain confidence in handling money and making wise financial choices that honor God and serve others. 

 Our middle school storytelling course empowers students to explore the elements of narrative and discover their own voices as storytellers by learning how stories are structured, how character and setting shape meaning, and how to communicate ideas in engaging, creative ways. Through activities that include personal reflection, mapping experiences, crafting short and longer narrative pieces, and analyzing themes and genres, students build confidence in both written and spoken storytelling while learning to express themselves clearly and thoughtfully. By the end of the course, students will understand how to use storytelling to make sense of their world, connect with others, and share meaningful ideas with purpose and creativity. 

 Our middle school Novel Studies course guides students through the thoughtful reading and discussion of age-appropriate novels while strengthening literacy, comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. Students analyze characters, plot, themes, and literary elements, practice making connections, and engage in meaningful discussion and written reflection. Through guided reading, activities, and conversation, the course encourages students to develop a deeper appreciation for literature while learning to think critically about stories, ideas, and perspectives.

Rooted: Defending Christianity is a middle school course designed to help students develop a steady, well-grounded faith in a questioning world. The course equips students to confidently defend what they believe while communicating with humility, wisdom, and grace. Christian apologetics is introduced in a developmentally appropriate, age-respectful way, helping students build understanding without pressure or debate. Through interactive discussion, reflection, and real-life application, students learn to think critically, respond thoughtfully, and remain rooted in truth as they engage others in a Christ-centered way.

 Our dedicated free-play period provides middle school students with intentional time for unstructured movement, social interaction, and independent exploration outdoors. Students are encouraged to engage in active play, collaborative games, and creative downtime, including independently organizing sports or group activities with their peers. Daily outdoor time supports physical health, problem-solving, emotional regulation, leadership, and peer relationships, while fresh air and movement help students reset and return to learning focused and refreshed. By allowing a full hour each day, free play is treated as an essential part of the learning experience—giving students the space they need to connect, grow, and thrive.