Middle School

BlueSky’s Online Middle School program brings quality online education to its students while recognizing the unique needs, interests, and skills of each individual. Our approach is centered around three key tenets, which are designed to provide relevant and meaningful learning experiences, develop lifelong success skills, and create compassionate relationships.

Students enrolled in BlueSky’s Online Middle School program are expected to participate in weekly live class sessions with each of their teachers while following a weekly assignment completion schedule. In addition, students will participate in an advisory program designed to build personal connections to their learning and to develop relationships between students and staff.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION


Required:

  • Computer (Windows or Mac OS)
  • High speed internet (minimum upload speed of 3.0 Mbps/minimum download speed of 5.0 Mbps recommended)
  • Webcam
  • Headset, earbuds, or speakers 
  • Microphone
  • Mouse (touchpads and touchscreens are sensitive)  
  • Google Chrome (required default browser)
  • Notebooks (4) or multi subject notebook
  • Composition notebook (1)
  • Pens/pencils
  • Colored pencils
  • Sketch pad
  • Measuring tape/Blendable Ruler (Inches and Centimeters)
  • Access to kitchen, kitchen tools and groceries (FACS classes)
  • Net and wall games equipment (ex. tennis racket and ball or badminton racket and birdie or racquetball and racket or ping pong paddle and ball)


Optional:

  • Scissors 
  • Glue or glue stick
  • Journal
  • Highlighters
  • Pencil sharpener
  • Notecards  
  • Markers
  • Crayons
  • 2nd monitor
  • Post it notes
  • Whiteboard with Expo Markers

We strongly encourage having a designated space to work from on a daily basis. Students and parents/guardians must have an alternate plan for accessing online school if their equipment is damaged, malfunctioning or internet service is disabled/disrupted.

Sixth grade prepares students for middle school and life in their local community. Core courses include Minnesota studies, earth science, math and language arts. Art, music and health create a cornerstone for exploratory classes where students can engage in a variety of subjects and interests. BlueSky’s advisory curriculum allows students to explore and develop their social and emotional skills, including responsible decision making, managing relationships, self management, self awareness and social awareness.

6th Grade Schedule
9:00 – 12:10 | Homeroom & Core Classes
12:00 – 1:00 | Individual Work Time & Lunch
1:00 – 1:50 | Exploratory Time
2:00 – 3:30 | Individual Work Time
*Individual and small group support as scheduled

Staff are generally available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. The expectation for staff is to respond to communications within 24 hours during school days. Students and parents/guardians are also expected to return communications in a timely manner.

Seventh grade prepares students for life in a diverse community. Core courses include American experience, life science, math and language arts. Within language arts, students analyze nonfiction resources, conduct informative and persuasive writing, read and writing fiction, and complete oral presentations. Students can select from a variety of elective courses, including art and music, to enrich their learning and explore areas of interest.​ BlueSky’s advisory curriculum allows students to expand their social and emotional skills, including responsible decision making, managing relationships, self management, self awareness and social awareness.

7th Grade Schedule
9:00 – 9:20 | Homeroom
9:30 – 10:20 | Core Classes
10:30 – 11:50 | Individual Work Time & Small Group Support
1:00 – 1:50 | Elective Classes
*Individual and small group support as scheduled

Staff are generally available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. The expectation for staff is to respond to communications within 24 hours during school days. Students and parents/guardians are also expected to return communications in a timely manner.

Eighth grade prepares students for high school and life in a global community. Core courses include global studies, physical science, algebra and language arts. In language arts,students analyze nonfiction resources, complete informative and persuasive writing, and read a variety of fiction including short stories, novels, poetry, and Shakespeare. Students can select from a variety of elective courses, including art and music, to enrich their learning and explore areas of interest. BlueSky’s advisory curriculum continues to develop and refine student’s social and emotional skills, including responsible decision making, managing relationships, self management, self awareness and social awareness.

8th Grade Schedule
9:00 – 9:25 | Homeroom
9:30 – 10:50 | Individual Work Time & Small Group Support
11:00 – 11:50 | Core Classes
1:00 – 1:50 | Elective Classes
*Individual and small group support as scheduled

Staff are generally available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. The expectation for staff is to respond to communications within 24 hours during school days. Students and parents/guardians are also expected to return communications in a timely manner.

Students are expected to work on their assignments outside of live lesson times. Work should be submitted daily in each subject area, with all weekly assigned work being submitted no later than 11:59 PM Saturday. Work submitted after 12:00 AM on Sunday will count for attendance for the next week.

Due to the nature of online education, communication is critical to the learning environment. Students are expected to respond to all staff communications with 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. Students may also be expected to attend live, online support sessions with teachers and other support staff. Students need to arrive on time and prepared. Students should contact their teacher if they need help in a class.

Counselor: Your Middle School Counselor is your go-to person for help with classes, navigating school, scheduling questions, and any support you need while at BlueSky. The Counselor is here to connect you with the right people to help you succeed.

Teacher: Your teachers provide you with daily instruction and individual help in classes. They are specialists in their area of instruction and can help you with understanding assignments.

School Social Worker: All students have access to a school Social Worker. They are here to assist with school, family, and personal concerns – anything that might affect your well-being. They can provide resources and referrals and are also available for crisis assistance.

Case Manager (optional): Students who have an active Individualized Education Plan may work with a case manager who will provide support in meeting individual goals and needs.

Support at home is critical to the success of middle school students in an online setting. All middle school students are required to have an assigned parent or responsible adult to act as a learning coach in the student’s home. The learning coach will be responsible for learning how to use BlueSky’s systems, monitoring student progress, and having weekly conversations with the advisor. To learn more about your role as the Learning Coach please watch this informational video.

Course Offerings

Quick Jump

6th Grade Core Courses

Language Arts 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

Students in the sixth grade language arts course will expand their skills in the areas of reading, writing, and communication. Students will read critically a variety of literary forms while applying comprehension, interpretation and analyzing skills to expand knowledge of text. Students will frequently write a variety of forms to express their ideas. This includes, but not limited to persuasive, narrative and informative writing tasks. Students will practice and use standard conventions of writing, including spelling, mechanics, and grammar within written work. In addition to developing their writing skills, students will exchange ideas in discussion and collaboration with others while demonstrating active listening skills.

Math 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

Here at Bluesky, we strive to have every student reach their full potential in Mathematics by offering unique ways to learn Math. Students have a chance to explore ideas informally and concretely, building toward a more formal and abstract understanding later in each unit. Understanding the concepts in math is crucial to building those skills to carry them into the rest of middle school and then high school. We use the latest in interactive technology to keep students engaged during live sessions. All Minnesota Mathematics Standards are covered during the year, with engaging activities and thorough curriculum.

Science 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

This course focuses on Earth and Space Science. Students will gain an understanding of the layers and structure of Earth, the forces that are responsible for changing the surface of Earth throughout history, including rivers, volcanoes and earthquakes, and on our place within the solar system and universe. Activities will include projects, lab activities, notes and research.

Minnesota Studies 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

During Minnesota Studies students will learn about the geography and history of the state from pre-European times to today, as well as Minnesota’s role in national events since statehood. In addition, students will study our state government and the role citizens have in an ever changing society. Students will develop an understanding of the relationship between the state and the indigenous people living here, especially the concept of sovereignty which affects the exercise of treaty rights both past and present. Students will also have opportunities for cross-curricular interactions as they conduct historical inquiry and study events, issues and individuals significant to Minnesota history. Lastly, students will identify how the state’s physical features and location of resources affected settlement patterns and the growth of cities as well as basic economic principles which impact them as future workers and consumers.

Health & Wellness 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

In this course students will learn a variety of skills and resources to aid in healthy decision making, which will maintain or improve their current health status. The goal of this course is to prepare students for the changes they’re experiencing, as well as how to navigate common stressors that manifest during their middle school years. The students will be exposed to a broad range of topics, and will have an opportunity to create goals, reflect on experiences, and discuss how their decisions impact not only themselves – but their families, peers, and communities as well.

6th Grade Exploratory

Art 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Q3 | Syllabus

Students in this course will create an art project related to the various cultures around the world. The students will then create a slideshow gallery of their artwork to coincide with each destination. A pouch for art materials and a sketchbook are required for this class *This is a required elective.*

Beginning Band

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6-8 •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus…coming soon

This class is open to students who want to play the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet or trombone. No previous experience is required. Students will start the school year learning the basics of their instrument and end the school year by presenting a concert with the rest of the band. Students who already play an instrument should register for beginning band on a different instrument or take another class.

Minnesota Music Makers 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

Minnesota is home to many different people who make music. In this class, you will learn about Minnesotan musicians from the past and present. We will explore the music of the Dakota and Ojibwe peoples, learn about people who play music (such as the Minnesota Orchestra) and famous musicians from Minnesota (like Prince). You will even become a “Minnesota Music Maker” by making your own music!

Passion Project 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

Passion Project is a quarter-long project-based learning activity in which students research any topic they are passionate about. In this project, students will take complete ownership of their learning. They will get to pick what they learn, how they will learn it, keep track of what they have learned, reflect on their progress, and adjust their learning goals as needed throughout the quarter. Students will then create a presentation to share their project with the class, the school and the community.

Reading for Success

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s):6-8  •  Term: Flex Term  • | Syllabus

This course will focuses on providing students with the skills to be successful in reading grade level material. Students will focus on learning fundamental reading strategies. Participation in one-on-one sessions is required. Only available to students enrolled in BlueSky’s full-time program.

Technology 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Semester 1 | Syllabus

Technology 6, a semester-long course, is an introduction to computer literacy. Students will have opportunities to use technology and develop skills that encourage creativity, critical thinking, productivity and collaboration in the classroom and day-to-day life. Students will participate in guided practice sessions, utilizing computers as a productivity tool.

Travel Cafe 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

Students in this course will receive a sampler of exciting global travel destinations within specific continents and regions each week that include people, national costumes, foods, language and geography. The students will then select a country of interest to them from that region and create a slideshow collage of images and words for that country. Completion of their slide earns the student a passport stamp for that country which will be placed into their virtual passport.

Writer’s Workshop 6

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6  •  Term: Semester 1 | Syllabus

Writers workshop will provide students with an opportunity to creatively practice their writing skills through free writes and additional activities related to their 6th grade ELA course.

7th Grade Core Courses

Language Arts 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

In Language Arts 7, students cover all of the required state academic standards for language arts. Lessons include reading for information, speaking and listening, media literacy and provide exposure to a variety of literature. Projects and assignments encourage real-life connections.

Pre-Algebra 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

Students will learn 7th grade math topics in the areas of numbers and operations, measurements, geometry, algebraic concepts, and data analysis and probability through hands on activities, interactive lessons, and practical math applications.

Science 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

This course will provide students with enlightenment and instruction on the nature of science. We will spend time noticing, wondering and questioning what we see in the natural world around us. Concepts of cells, cell division, reproduction and genetics will be discovered through the use of stunning photography and lively animations. We will hatch chickens early in the term to help us understand how one cell can become a grown organism. Finally, we will learn about genetic engineering and how it relates to both farming and human genetics. During the second semester, we will continue to learn about how organisms change through natural selection. Finally, the basics of environmental science will be covered. Students will interact with endangered species, learn about natural resource use, environmental health, pollution, and biodiversity.This course will provide students with enlightenment and instruction on the nature of science. We will spend time noticing, wondering and questioning what we see in the natural world around us. Concepts of cells, cell division, reproduction and genetics will be discovered through the use of stunning photography and lively animations. We will hatch chickens early in the term to help us understand how one cell can become a grown organism. Finally, we will learn about genetic engineering and how it relates to both farming and human genetics. During the second semester, we will continue to learn about how organisms change through natural selection. Finally, the basics of environmental science will be covered. Students will interact with endangered species, learn about natural resource use, environmental health, pollution, and biodiversity.

American Experience 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

Students in American Experience learn about people, issues and events of significance to this nation’s history from 1800 to the current era of globalization. They examine the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, and Supreme Court decisions for their lasting impact on the American people, economy and governance structure. Students study civics and economic principles in depth, drawing connections between these disciplines and history to explain the impact of various policies on how people lived, worked and functioned in society. They create and use detailed maps of places in the United States and conduct historical inquiry on a topic in the nation’s history.

Health 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Quarter 2 | Syllabus

This course is designed to introduce students to the basics of the assigned body systems. Assessments will be based on Minnesota based Health Standards. Students will learn about the musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, digestive, immune and reproductive systems. They will learn the major parts of each system, how these parts work and how they are impacted by lifestyle choices. Students will connect each body system with lifestyle habits and demonstrate an understanding of how these habits affect the different body systems. This is a required elective.

Fitness 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Quarter 1 | Syllabus

This course focuses on the fundamental components and principles of fitness. Assessments will be based on Minnesota based Physical Education Standards. This course also examines safety guidelines, proper technique and exercise principles, such as the FITT. Students will assess their current level of fitness in relation to the five components of physical fitness: flexibility, cardiovascular health, muscular strength, muscular endurance and body composition. Students will learn strategies to help them begin, design, and maintain an exercise program to keep them fit for life. Students will also learn and participate in skills needed to participate in a variety of physical activities. This is a required elective.

7th Grade Electives

Adobe Creative Cloud

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q2 | Syllabus

Adobe – Through the use of Adobe Creative Cloud, students will gain the creative and digital literacy skills to visually communicate and express themselves through video and other engaging content creation. Projects will be created using Adobe Express, Premier Rush and Fresco.

American Melodies 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

In American Melodies you will learn about the history of American music from before the founding of our country to modern music. Learn about the people who created the music and the instruments that they played. Listen to how music has changed over the years. While learning about American music history, you will learn to read music and use music apps to create your own music. *This is a required elective.*

Art 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

This course offers students an introduction to art appreciation as well as preparation for high school art. The elements and principles of art will be studied and applied to personal expression in two and three-dimensional projects. Students will explore the creative process through projects and by studying works of individual artists. Analyzing and judging works of art is ongoing. A pouch for art materials and a sketchbook are required for this class *This is a required elective.*

Beginning Band

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6-8 •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus…coming soon

This class is open to students who want to play the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet or trombone. No previous experience is required. Students will start the school year learning the basics of their instrument and end the school year by presenting a concert with the rest of the band. Students who already play an instrument should register for beginning band on a different instrument or take another class.

Drama MS

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q4 | Syllabus

Here’s Drama – Lights, camera, action! In this class, students will explore the fascinating elements of drama from diverse voices throughout the ages. Together, students will put on an exciting production over Zoom. Students must be willing and able to turn on their camera and use their mic. Break a leg! (But not literally.)

FACS 7

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7  •  Term: Q1 | Syllabus

Come explore the exciting world of Family and Consumer Science! In FACS 7 you will learn awesome new things to help you with daily living! Refresh on safety tips and tricks for babysitting and being home alone, how to build friendships and self-esteem, make delicious food and do your own laundry! Students will be responsible for providing their own ingredients for recipes.

Imagination Station

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8 •  Term: Q2 | Syllabus ….coming soon

Students will dive into a world of creativity and exploration. Through a series of hands-on projects and interactive activities, students will tap into their creative potential and bring their ideas to life. This class provides a safe and supportive environment where students are free to let their imaginations run wild. Students are able to experiment with different mediums and art forms. Drawing, sculpting, digital design, or storytelling, you can explore it all. Let’s turn your imagination into reality.

Intro to Film

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q3 | Syllabus

This elective course will introduce students to the history of film. Through movies, students will examine elements of plot, setting, style, and point of view. Class activities include viewing, listening, researching, and analyzing film. Students will also learn how to discuss and write about films critically.

Keyboarding

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

This course is designed to introduce the basics of computers and keyboarding skills. Students will develop and enhance touch skills for entering information using a keyboard to compose and produce personal, educational, and professional documents.

Minnesota Melting Pot

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q2 | Syllabus

What is a melting pot, and how does it apply to our great state of Minnesota? The culture of Minnesota was created, and continues to be influenced, by immigrants. Students in this class will be introduced to the different cultures and people that live in Minnesota. In addition, students will explore their own culture and discover how they fit into the melting pot.

My Big Back Yard

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q1 | Syllabus

Students will venture outside into their backyards to explore nature and learn about the environment through activities designed to unleash your creativity. Let the natural world be your classroom!

Pixar in a Box 

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q1 & Q2 | Syllabus

Take a behind-the-scenes look at how Pixar artists do their jobs. The subjects you learn in school are used every day to create amazing movies at Pixar. In this elective class, you will create a storyboard, design a color script, and write your own screenplay. This collaboration between Pixar Animation Studios and Khan Academy is sponsored by Disney.

Reading for Success

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s):6-8  •  Term: Flex Term  • | Syllabus

This course will focuses on providing students with the skills to be successful in reading grade level material. Students will focus on learning fundamental reading strategies. Participation in one-on-one sessions is required. Only available to students enrolled in BlueSky’s full-time program.

Road Trip USA

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q1 & Q4 | Syllabus

Students will plan a virtual road trip across several states. They will map their route, balance a budget, select state attractions to visit and create an album of their adventures. It’s a fun way to experience parts of the country and learn about states and regions.

Where in the World

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8 •  Term: Q3 | Syllabus ….coming soon

This class blends geography, history, art, and critical thinking in a fun and interactive way. Each week, students adventure together to decipher the mystery of “Where in the World” we are. It’s not just about knowing facts; it’s about using critical thinking skills to solve puzzles and riddles. Students will piece together clues, share ideas, and solve the location mystery. It’s a great opportunity to build teamwork skills. This is the perfect class for young explorers.

8th Grade Core Courses

Language Arts 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

The Language Arts 8 course promotes critical reading and comprehension across genres. Course assignments encourage effective writing for a variety of purposes while course materials provide real-life connections relevant to daily life and future academic and career goals.

Algebra 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

Students will learn 8th grade math topics through hands on activities, interactive lessons, and practical math applications. Areas studied include linear functions and graphing, trigonometry concepts, probability and statistics, measurement, and geometry.

Science 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

This course provides a rigorous and comprehensive foundation for the 8th-grade student about to enter high school science. It covers the relevant topics in all the major disciplines, building on prior knowledge and expanding on subjects introduced earlier in middle school. Students begin with a review of the scientific process and get more into depth with the idea of critical analysis of theories and experimental research. They will move on to discuss principles of physical science and energy. In the life science portion of the course, students will cover structure and function of organisms, genetics, and evolution, and tenets of ecology. This will flow into the environmental science topics including earth’s cycles and environmental problems. A brief discussion of the solar system will also be covered. Students will learn about the assigned topics through interactive activities, experimentation, discussion, and engaging text and animations. Graded assignments will be stimulating and thought-provoking, hopefully paving the way for future interest in the scientific disciplines.

Global Studies 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Syllabus

Students in Global Studies explore the regions of the world using geographic information from print and electronic sources. They analyze important trends in the modern world such as demographic change, shifting trade patterns, and intensified cultural interactions due to globalization. Students participate in civic discussion on contemporary issues, conduct historical inquiry and study events over the last half century that have shaped the contemporary world. They analyze connections between revolutions, independence movements and social transformations, and understand reasons for the creation of modern nation states. They learn that governments are based on different political philosophies and serve various purposes. By learning economic principles of trade and the factors that affect economic growth, students understand why there are different standards of living in countries around the world.

Health 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Quarter 2 & Quarter 3 | Syllabus

This course is a required elective that is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills that will enable them to achieve and maintain a healthful lifestyle. Students will learn health information and practices necessary to understand and manage many aspects of their physical, social, intellectual, and emotional health, throughout adolescence into adulthood. Topics include Nutrition, Mental and Emotional Health, Environmental Health, Substance Abuse, Alcohol and Tobacco, and Disease Prevention.

Fitness 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Quarter 4 | Syllabus

 In this course students will be exposed to various physical activities and fitness concepts that will contribute to their overall physical activity level. Students will learn a multitude of skills that will accompany them throughout their lifespan. Key activities and skills include identifying target heart rate, fitness testing, goal setting, safety, aerobic/anaerobic exercise routines, strength training, stress management, various dances, cycling, and other individual games and activities. This is a required elective.

8th Grade Electives

Adobe Creative Cloud

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q2 | Syllabus

Adobe – Through the use of Adobe Creative Cloud, students will gain the creative and digital literacy skills to visually communicate and express themselves through video and other engaging content creation. Projects will be created using Adobe Express, Premier Rush and Fresco.

Art & Technology 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Q1 & Q2 & Q4 | Syllabus

In this course, students will explore basic art fundamentals through the use of technology. Students will learn the connection between art and technology and incorporate technical skills in the development and creation of various forms of artwork. Participants will learn the fundamental concepts of art, how to look at and evaluate art, and the intended function of art through hands-on activities, discussions, written assignments, and objective assessments. A pouch for art materials and a sketchbook are required for this class *This is a required elective.*

Beginning Band

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 6-8 •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus…coming soon

This class is open to students who want to play the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet or trombone. No previous experience is required. Students will start the school year learning the basics of their instrument and end the school year by presenting a concert with the rest of the band. Students who already play an instrument should register for beginning band on a different instrument or take another class.

BizVenture 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Q1 | Syllabus

This course introduces 8th grade students to entrepreneurship. Students will learn about the pros and cons of self-employment and study real life teen entrepreneurs and the personal characteristics that make a successful entrepreneur. Students will focus on a business they would like to start and create marketing materials to promote their business.

Drama MS

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q4 | Syllabus

Here’s Drama – Lights, camera, action! In this class, students will explore the fascinating elements of drama from diverse voices throughout the ages. Together, students will put on an exciting production over Zoom. Students must be willing and able to turn on their camera and use their mic. Break a leg! (But not literally.)

FACS 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

Come explore the exciting world of Family and Consumer Science! In FACS 8 you will learn awesome new things to help you with daily living! Refresh on safety tips and tricks for babysitting and being home alone, how to build friendships and self-esteem, make delicious food and do your own laundry! Students will be responsible for providing their own ingredients for recipes.

For the Love of Animals 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Q2 & Q3 | Syllabus

“The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.” Charles Darwin

As animals play an increasingly important role in our lives, it’s critical that we learn more about their health and well-being. Taking a look at the pets that live in our homes, on our farms, and in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, this course will examine types of animals, animal care, animal behavior, animal welfare and animal careers. If you love animals and want to learn more about them, this course is for you.

Imagination Station

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8 •  Term: Q2 | Syllabus ….coming soon

Students will dive into a world of creativity and exploration. Through a series of hands-on projects and interactive activities, students will tap into their creative potential and bring their ideas to life. This class provides a safe and supportive environment where students are free to let their imaginations run wild. Students are able to experiment with different mediums and art forms. Drawing, sculpting, digital design, or storytelling, you can explore it all. Let’s turn your imagination into reality.

Intro to Film

Year: 2023 – 2024   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q3 | Syllabus

This elective course will introduce students to the history of film. Through movies, students will examine elements of plot, setting, style, and point of view. Class activities include viewing, listening, researching, and analyzing film. Students will also learn how to discuss and write about films critically.

Introduction to Spanish 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

This is an exploratory Spanish language and culture class. Students will learn the fundamental structure of the Spanish language and conversation with the introduction of basic vocabulary. Cultural activities introduce students to the customs and geography of the Spanish speaking world.

A microphone is required to complete speaking assignments.

Keyboarding

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q3 & Q4 | Syllabus

This course is designed to introduce the basics of computers and keyboarding skills. Students will develop and enhance touch skills for entering information using a keyboard to compose and produce personal, educational, and professional documents.

Minnesota Melting Pot

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q2 | Syllabus

What is a melting pot, and how does it apply to our great state of Minnesota? The culture of Minnesota was created, and continues to be influenced, by immigrants. Students in this class will be introduced to the different cultures and people that live in Minnesota. In addition, students will explore their own culture and discover how they fit into the melting pot.

My Big Back Yard

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q1 | Syllabus

Students will venture outside into their backyards to explore nature and learn about the environment through activities designed to unleash your creativity. Let the natural world be your classroom!

Pixar in a Box 

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q1 & Q2 | Syllabus

Take a behind-the-scenes look at how Pixar artists do their jobs. The subjects you learn in school are used every day to create amazing movies at Pixar. In this elective class, you will create a storyboard, design a color script, and write your own screenplay. This collaboration between Pixar Animation Studios and Khan Academy is sponsored by Disney.

Reading for Success

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s):6-8  •  Term: Flex Term  • | Syllabus

This course will focuses on providing students with the skills to be successful in reading grade level material. Students will focus on learning fundamental reading strategies. Participation in one-on-one sessions is required. Only available to students enrolled in BlueSky’s full-time program.

Road Trip USA

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8  •  Term: Q1 & Q4 | Syllabus

Students will plan a virtual road trip across several states. They will map their route, balance a budget, select state attractions to visit and create an album of their adventures. It’s a fun way to experience parts of the country and learn about states and regions.

Where in the World

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 7 & 8 •  Term: Q3 | Syllabus ….coming soon

This class blends geography, history, art, and critical thinking in a fun and interactive way. Each week, students adventure together to decipher the mystery of “Where in the World” we are. It’s not just about knowing facts; it’s about using critical thinking skills to solve puzzles and riddles. Students will piece together clues, share ideas, and solve the location mystery. It’s a great opportunity to build teamwork skills. This is the perfect class for young explorers.

World Rhythms 8

Year: 2024 – 2025   •  Grade Level(s): 8  •  Term: Q1 & Q2 & Q3 | Syllabus

What is a percussion instrument? How are percussion instruments different around the world? In this class, you will learn about percussion instruments around the world. Travel to Indonesia to learn about the gamelan, Japan to learn about taiko drumming and Trinidad to learn about steel drums. While on your world journey, you will create your own percussion instrument, learn to read rhythms, and write and play your own rhythms. *This is a required elective.*