Classes

Clear Spring School Block Curriculum 2023-2024

Our curriculum is based on a quarterly block schedule that is an intense integrated curriculum that consists of 10 weeks in one thematic area. These blocks contain a mix of academic areas such as language arts, math, science and social studies. Each block may be more heavily weighted in one of these areas. Throughout the year the blocks balance out to provide a well rounded and full experience in all the academic disciplines.

As a progressive education institution we recognize that students arrive with different interests, academic abilities, strengths and challenges. We also recognize that students grow in spurts and plateaus, to meet this we group students by interest and ability, not necessarily age or grade level. On the lower campus, class groupings range from 1st to 4th grade, 5th-8th grade and 9th-12th grade.

This year's blocks center around outdoor sciences, life skills and engagement in the world around us. Students on the lower campus will participate in four blocks. These blocks will address developmentally appropriate needs, intentional math and Language arts pull outs and other academic needs as well as age appropriate travel experiences.

Aly Cabrales - Core Teacher

Biodiversity & Conservation

This course will focus on ecology and conservation. We will get to know the world around us on a deeper level with study, observation, and detailed recordings. We will be conducting field studies, developing conservation campaigns, and investigating sustainable resource management. Students will learn to identify local flora and fauna and create their own field guides over the course of the block.

Brittany Osborne - Core Teacher

Ecology in the Ozarks

This class will introduce students to the basics of ecology. By moving within the classroom environment and out into the different natural habitats in the surrounding Ozarks, students will begin to build an understanding of how plants and animals interact within biomes, how our human actions affect the environment, identify environmental problems, and how we can make informed decisions about the world in which we live. Students will engage in animal and habitat exploration by visiting local nature preserves and state parks where the park rangers will lead us in trail and cave walks and participate in field observations and life cycles. Students will also participate in caring for the school garden, greenhouse and animals.

Tammy Herzig - Core Teacher

Life Skills

This first Life Skills block we will strive to live up to the motto “every job is my job.” This year our main project will be to build out and revision the Ketchup Factory into the new Student Union on campus. The students and I will work and learn together to test our skills in everything from plumbing, electrical and carpentry work to make a space we can all be proud of.

Jenn Robison - Core Teacher

Weather Wonders

This course is designed to introduce students to the fascinating world of meteorology. Students will understand basic weather phenomena, identify different clouds, create weather instruments, recognize different weather patterns, and comprehend the impact of weather on the environment and daily life. We will be integrating literature into the curriculum, exploring weather-themed books, developing reading comprehension skills through weather-related texts, and fostering an appreciation for storytelling and imaginative expression related to weather phenomena.