2023 Project Term - MS Catalog 6-8 - Black River Public School
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Project Term 2023 MS Catalog 6-8
PROJECT TERM 2023
Project Term is a four-week term (for grades 4-12) that begins May 16, 2023, and ends June 19, 2023. Project Term
is a valuable opportunity for Black River students and faculty, alike. It provides hands on, experiential learning to
each student, while adhering to Black River’s academic requirements. Before viewing the course selections, please
be aware of our project term policy and mark important dates on your calendar.
The priority registration deadline is Monday, December 5, 2022 by 4:00 p.m. Students who register by this date
will have priority registration over students who turn in their registration form after this date. The final deadline to
register is Friday, December 16, 2022. Any student not registered by December 16 will be assigned to classes with
available space.
TIME SLOTS FOR PROJECT TERM CLASSES
The four time slots are as follows:
8:00 – 11:00 from May 16 – May 26 (Block A)
11:40 – 2:40 from May 17 – May 26 (Block B)
8:00 – 11:00 from May 30 – June 9 (Block C)
11:40 – 2:40 from May 30 – June 9 (Block D)
Keep in mind that some classes and trips require more than one block. This is denoted in the first column before
each class description.
PROJECT TERM OPEN HOUSE
THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 2023
6:30 – 8:00 P.M.
Each year, we have a night to showcase our students’ projects and display the fruits of their labor during the four-
week term. Attendance is mandatory for all students registered in a Project Term course. Please keep this date in
mind as students who do not participate at the Project Term open house may lose credit for the course, at the
discretion of the Dean of Students and teacher of the course.
HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL AT PROJECT TERM REGISTRATION
1. During scheduling, course choices will be prioritized first by application date and second by grade
seniority. Turn your registration in by Monday, December 5 to receive priority scheduling.
2. Fill out the entire schedule request. Do not repeat any classes.
3. Sign up for a variety of different kinds of courses. Students should not sign up for a course they have
already taken unless approved by the teacher.
Students may be limited to one physical education class per two week term, depending on course
availability.
4. Treat your teachers and classmates with respect during the year and act responsibly in the classroom.
Students who behave responsibly and respectfully will be given first priority in off-campus courses and
courses taught by guest teachers. Students who have been on behavior contracts during the year will not
be considered for off-campus trips.
5. Be flexible. Many faculty members have listed several course possibilities for one time slot in order to
provide a variety of choices. Be aware that due to a lack of interest, some courses will not run.
6. Make sure you sign up for a second, third, and fourth choice for each block in case your first choice isn’t
available. If you don’t, please be advised that Mrs. Wise will pick your classes for you after all other
students have been scheduled.PROJECT TERM POLICIES
GENERAL GUIDELINES
1. All students must attend Project Term. Project Term is part of our school year and the attendance policy
does not change from the regular school year. Unexcused absences will be regarded as truancy. Students
who miss more than two days of a Project Term course may fail the course at the discretion of the teacher.
2. The dates for Project Term are May 16, 2023, to June 9, 2023. The school day for on-campus courses will
be from 8:00-2:40 p.m. The elementary and main offices close at 3:30 p.m. during Project Term.
3. Students are expected to participate 100%. Every class has an academic component and students are
required to meet all guidelines established by the teacher.
4. Parents are responsible for transportation to and/or from their project during this term. Keep this in mind if
registering for an independent study project.
FEES
While most projects do not have fees, some may include one. Projects that involve incidental personal expenses such
as travel, food and accommodations or those where students keep the projects they create may have a fee. Fees are
due by Monday, March 20, 2023. Keep in mind that off campus trips may have different deadlines and deposit
requirements.
There may be some opportunities for students to acquire financial assistance. Students requesting financial aid must
fill out a financial aid form by Friday, March 3, 2023. Scholarship request forms are available on the school’s
website or from Mrs. Wise. Students will receive written notification of scholarship awards by Monday, March 13,
2023.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Individuals who would like to sponsor the personal expenses of a Black River student during Project Term
are encouraged to contribute to the Project Term Student Support Fund. Faculty members cannot be
responsible for raising money.
PROJECT TERM AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Project Term is an integral part of the BRPS curriculum. Students in grades 9-12 need to pass three years (1.20
credits) of Project Term in order to graduate. *For the Class of 2023, .8 Project Term credits are required due to
Covid closures in 2020.
Seniors who have successfully completed three years of Project Term have completed their Project Term
requirement for graduation. Seniors who have received either a grade of “incomplete” or “F” must make up the
credit in order to graduate. They must make up this course by taking a project term class during their senior year.
A failing grade in a project term class for students in grades 6-8, in combination with other failing grades, may
result in that student being held back.
Since many Project Term classes involve hands-on activities and a greater responsibility for the individual student, it
is important that for the safety of all the students in the classroom, discipline problems are dealt with swiftly and
effectively. Students who have a number of discipline related referrals will be withheld from Project Term classes.
The Dean of Students will notify the applicable students in writing and will assign the student specific projects to
complete and submit for review.
Students who are removed from Project Term classes due to discipline problems will receive an “F” for the project
and will be suspended for the remainder of Project Term. If a senior or an 8th grade student is removed from Project
Term, he/she may not be allowed to participate in graduation, and it may jeopardize completion of graduation
requirements.INDEPENDENT STUDY
Students are encouraged to participate in Black River courses. However, high school students may elect to do an
independent study with approval if they seek an opportunity that the school is unable to offer. There was an
informational meeting during HS CAP Flex on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, where students received
an Interest Application. Students who missed the meeting must see Ms. Clark for the application. The interest
application is due by Friday, December 2, 2022. Once the project is approved, a more formal proposal will be due
on Friday, March 17, 2023. Students who are interested in pursuing an independent study during project term
should read the course description in the catalog and see Ms. Clark with any questions.
PROJECT TERM
DATES AND DEADLINES AT A GLANCE
Priority Registration Deadline Monday, December 5, 2022
Last Chance to Register Friday, December 16, 2022
Scholarship Requests Due Friday, March 3, 2023
Project Term Fees Due Monday, March 20, 2023
Project Term Begins Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Project Term Open House Thursday, June 8, 2023
Last Day of School Friday, June 9, 2023
The entire 2023 Project Term Catalog for grades 4-12 can be found on the website at:
http://www.blackriverpublicschool.org/Content2/project-termMIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
A Block Grade: MS 3D CAD & CARS Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Schwartz, Todd
Special Requirements: N/A
Come learn and explore the introduction to CAD design as we build “pinewood” derby cars for race and show.
Students will be learning some of the basics of SketchUp as they explore CAD design and theory while ultimately
building their masterpiece racer. Not into the speed? Students will also have the opportunity to be creative and
artistic while they compete in design competitions as well. So come out and see what CAD design is like and
explore the basics of some simple engineering skills.
A Block Grade: MS A MOVIE HISTORY OF WAR Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Gray, Steve
Special Requirements: N/A
The class will watch 8-10 movies/documentaries about war. This class may utilize guest speakers. We will begin
in ancient times and conclude with present day terrorism. Some of these movies will be rated PG or PG-13 for
violence. Parental discretion is advised. (Movies rated R will NOT be shown.) Each day students will journal
about the movie they watch, noting the technology of warfare, why the war occurred, if the war was necessary, and
how it could have been avoided, if it could have been avoided. Projects will include discussion and formal debates,
presentations, and a project board. Students will conclude by collaborating with a group of students on
summarizing the turning points in the attributes of war.
A Block Grade: MS BASKETBALL 3 V 3 AND OTHER GAMES Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Rowe, Brent
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you like to play basketball games? Do you like contests? Do you want to improve your basketball and overall
athletic skills? This class is for beginners to experienced basketball players. Come have some fun and learn new
skills!
A Block Grade: MS BEACH VOLLEYBALL Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Murphy, Colin
Special Requirements: N/A
Want to play like Misty May or ditch the biology lab and play like Crabb? Then come play beach volleyball! In
this course you will learn the basics of beach volleyball through gameplay.
A Block Grade: MS CROCHET TO THE STARS! Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Stephens, Marguerite
Special Requirements: N/A
Crocheting - Your way to using that extra energy to make something. With crocheting you can do it on car trips
or during the summer under a tree! This art is a wonderful way to show what you can do with yarn, a hook and
patience. You will also make a square to add to a blanket to be donated to a local nonprofit organization! A hat,
scarf, or hot pad are only three ideas that you are able to make using basic crochet stitches.
A Block Grade: MS EVERY GIRL FITNESS Fee: $20.00
Teacher: Gaffney, Sarah
Special Requirements: For females only.
If you're somebody that is wanting to learn how to become more active, healthy, and positive about yourself, this
is the class for you! Whether you've never experienced a fitness class or if you are already living an active
lifestyle, this class can offer a variety of opportunities for staying healthy and body positive. We will experience
cardio through hiking, walking and interval training. We will explore yoga, Pilates, stretching, and other exercisesMIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
to strengthen the core. Weight lifting will also be essential in living a stronger, healthier life. Each workout is
adapted to your body and level of fitness. Join us for comfortable, and judgement free young women's guide to
health!
A Block Grade: MS FARM TO TABLE TO STOMACH Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Kalis, Haley
Special Requirements: N/A
Ever wonder how your delicious food gets created? Turns out getting your food comes with a lot of logistical and
environmental challenges. Come learn how food gets all the way from the farm to our bellies. We will explore
various farms, restaurants, grocery stores and Holland’s Farmers Market in order to better understand this process.
You are not expected to purchase any food but you will have plenty of opportunity to do so!
A Block Grade: MS FISH ON! Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Bittrick, Brett Jeanne Kane
Special Requirements: Students may choose to bring their own equipment and tackle.
Give a person a fish and they'll eat for a day, teach a person to fish and they'll enjoy a lifetime of recreation, food,
and appreciation for the great outdoors!
A Block Grade: MS GOOD EATS Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Spisak, Elizabeth
Special Requirements: N/A
Learn about the history and science behind your favorite foods with celebrity chef Alton Brown! We will be
watching episodes of the award-winning food exploration show Good Eats while enjoying some good eats
ourselves (snacks!). We will also be trying some of the recipes/tips from Alton Brown, so you will gain valuable
cooking experience. At the end of this project term class, you will be tasked with creating your own Good Eats
mini episode. You will choose a food to research, write a short script, and film the episode!
A Block Grade: MS JOURNALING 101 Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Millis, Rachel
Special Requirements: N/A
Have you ever wanted to start journaling but don't know where to start? This is the class for you! Bullet journaling
has become extremely popular through multiple social media platforms and is a great way to decompress. But
where do you start? In this class, we will design our own 12 month bullet journal with different themes and page
designs.
A Block Grade: MS MUSHROOM MADNESS Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Donoghue, Elizabeth
Special Requirements: N/A
Did you know that there is a mushroom that you can find in the woods that tastes like chicken? It's true! Learn all
about wild mushrooms, how to identify them, how to cook mushrooms, how to create a spore print, and how to
create interesting mushroom art with real mushrooms! Join professional mushroom hunter, Andrew Flezar of
Michigan Mushroom Hunters, as we venture into the woods to hunt for mushrooms. We will be exploring the
woods near Holland so you can learn how to be mushroom hunters and find mushrooms of your own right in your
hometown.MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
A Block Grade: MS PICTURE PERFECT Fee: $25.00
Teacher: Nykerk, Kaylee
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you have pictures of yourself with friends and family that you don’t know what to do with? Do you enjoy
being creative? Then this could be the class for you! In this course, you can expect to take pictures and turn them
into creative works of art. We will enjoy sharing memories from pictures as we put them together in a scrapbook.
A Block Grade: MS SAVING LIVES: RED CROSS CERTIFICATION Fee: $10.00
Teacher: Shirk, Joy
Special Requirements: N/A
In this course you will learn how to care for injuries and illnesses until Emergency Medical Services arrive to
transport the injured or ill. At the end of the course you will receive Red Cross Certification in First Aid, CPR, and
the use of an AED for infants, children, and adults.
A Block Grade: MS THE LEGEND OF VIDEO GAMES Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Harrity, Noelle
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you love video games? In this class we will explore video games across history from Pong and Pac-Man to
Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Roblox. We will also learn about the behind-the-scenes action that goes
into writing the plot, creating the animations, and composing the music for video games. At the end of the term,
students will create the plot, concept art, and, optionally, music for their own original video game. All are
welcome!
A Block Grade: MS THE PLAY'S THE THING Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Andrews, Rachel
Special Requirements: N/A
If you enjoy theatre, acting and exploring a wide variety of theatrical works- then this course is for you!
Throughout the two weeks, we will be reading, watching, acting out, and listening to a wide variety of plays from
Shakespeare adaptations to newer modern playwrights. For the final project, students will perform a staged
reading of one of their favorite studied plays.
A Block Grade: MS THE SCIENCE OF HARRY POTTER Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Rice, Toni
Special Requirements: N/A
Congratulations! You have been accepted into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, but can you pass
your O.W.L.S. and earn a glass of homemade Butterbeer on your last day? Your time at Hogwarts will begin with
a chemistry-based sorting ceremony to sort you into your houses. Each day you can earn points for your House
and the winning house will receive the Trophy. Submit your wand, crystal ball, golden snitch, and quidditch
broom into the final Harry Potter Wizards Tournament. Classes include: Potions, Defense Against the Darks Arts,
Divination, Wand Making, Arithmancy, Herbology, Quidditch, Charms, The Marauders Map and Invisible Ink,
and Golden Snitch making! Crafts, chemistry, physics, exercise and yummy treats await us in this Harry Potter
inspired project term class!
AC Block Grade: MS INTEGRATED MATH IV Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Laarman, Sarah
Special Requirements: Interested students, currently taking 8th grade math, must get permission from their
math teacher and have a quiz/test average of 95%.MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
9th grade math covers many of the same concepts covered in 8th grade, but takes those concepts to a much deeper
level. Additionally, there are concepts that are covered in 9th grade math that are not addressed in 8th grade math.
Students in this class will cover concepts from the 9th grade class (IM IV) in hopes of advancing from 8th grade
math into 10th. In order to advance, students must successfully pass both final exams for IM IV, which will be
taken in class. Students who meet the eligibility requirements to move from 8th to 10th, but choosing not to take
this course, will still be given the opportunity to review the material independently and take the exams.
B Block Grade: MS #WEAREBR Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Esmeier, Kerrie
Special Requirements: Students will need access to a cell phone that can take good pictures.
Do you enjoy photography, graphic design, and social media? Put your interests and talents to work for Black
River! We will create promotional posters and social media content, write ad copy, and take photos to promote
BR. You might even get to "take over" our social media accounts for a day. #wearebr
B Block Grade: MS ALIENS HAVE LANDED! Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Stephens, Marguerite
Special Requirements: N/A
Listen closely. You can hear the scraping of something along the road. It is dark. You hear another strange sound.
Is it an Alien? How could you tell? War of the Worlds, a radio play, had everyone who listened to this play truly
believing we were being invaded. The power of the voice, the sounds. Use your voice along with others to create
a radio play of your choice. It could be aliens, or something else...only we will know after you are done.
B Block Grade: MS DINOSAURS GALORE Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Aumaugher, Angela
Special Requirements: N/A
Giant creatures once roamed the Earth...but now they are extinct...or are they? We will be exploring the past in this
class, looking at the way the Earth was and how it has changed. We will focus on the age of the dinosaurs and how
we can discover what they were like and how they lived by looking at fossils of their bones. We will do some
research on different dinosaur species and present our findings to the class. We will also get some practice digging
up fossils of our own and putting them together to build miniature models of skeletons. These will be displayed at
the Open House.
B Block Grade: MS EAT MY WAKE! Fee: $155.00
Teacher: Bittrick, Brett Steve Gray
Special Requirements: Swimsuit and towel. You will get wet everyday!
Test the waters in this action packed adventure class! You will be learning and expanding your wakeboarding
skills each day at Action Wake Park. Whether you’re a novice or have been wakeboarding for years this class is
for you! There will be certified instructors providing instruction each day along with cable passes, wakeboards,
helmets, and life vests. Join us at the first and only full-size cable park in Michigan!
B Block Grade: MS FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD... Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Kane, Jeanne
Special Requirements: N/A
Welcome to the Land of Oz! Did you know the author of the famed novel lived right here in Holland, Michigan
for a brief time in his life? During this project term, we will be experiencing all things OZ by reading the original
novel and a few of the sequels, watching different film adaptations, creating art with different mediums, and
exploring the history found within the pages of the novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Come join the munchkins
on a journey through Oz!MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
B Block Grade: MS GREASE PAINT ADVENTURES Fee: $20.00
Teacher: Bishop, Kim
Special Requirements: Students will need to bring a shirt to protect your clothes. If you have an interest in
theatre this class is a must.
Have you ever wondered what you would look like as an old person? Or a cat? Then this is the class for you! We
will be looking at stage makeup as an art and designing new faces for ourselves. We will be learning a variety of
techniques on how to apply stage makeup. We will begin with basic pancake and progress though old age and
clown makeup. There will also be training in special effects such as bruising and wounds. You will need to bring a
shirt to protect your clothes. If you have an interest in theatre this class is a must. Come ready to put on a new
face!
B Block Grade: MS JOURNEY TO GAMELAND Fee: $20.00
Teacher: Nykerk, Kaylee
Special Requirements: N/A
If you enjoy playing board games, being creative, and reading books, this is a great class for you! Students will
explore the book Journey to Gameland as they learn and play a variety of board games. By the end of the two
weeks, students will have created their own board game based off of their favorite book.
B Block Grade: MS NATURE WALKS & JOURNALING Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Kalis, Haley
Special Requirements: N/A
Want to learn more about the natural world around you by spending time hiking in it? This is the class for you! We
will explore some of the awesome natural areas and parks around west Michigan and maybe even learn some
ecology along the way. Be ready to hike (1-2 miles per day) and learn in this class, no matter the weather. By the
end of our time together, you will have a journal to remember your personal nature reflections, not to mention a
list of new parks you’ve explored!
B Block Grade: MS OTTAWA PARKS EXPLORER Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Wimbush, Karsten
Special Requirements: N/A
Like the outdoors? Want to know what the best parks are? Cover both in this class - we'll be touring most of
Ottawa County's parks, exploring what makes for a great park, create reviews for the public, and learn a bit about
how parks are managed.
B Block Grade: MS ROCK THROUGHOUT THE AGES Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Harrity, Noelle
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you love rock music? Would you like to share your favorite bands with others and discover awesome new
bands? Sign up for this class to listen to incredible music and discover rock bands throughout history together.
This class will include rock genres such as classical, pop, punk, blues, alternative, indie, and heavy metal and
bands such as Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, U2, Heart, and 5 Seconds of Summer. Students will choose a
rock band of their choice to learn about in depth and create a culminating visual project to reflect the band’s story,
values, and music.MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
B Block Grade: MS SKATE YOUR HEART OUT Fee: $100.00
Teacher: Murphy, Colin Rachel Millis
Special Requirements: N/A
Ever wonder how those dance skaters on tiktok can move so seamlessly? Sign up for this skate class! This course
will take place at the RollXScape in Holland. This course will be lead by a trained instructor in all things roller
skating/blading. You will learn the beginnings of roller skating: skating forwards, skating backwards, stopping,
crossovers, shoot the duck and more!
B Block Grade: MS SPORTS AND HISTORY Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Dykhouse, Greg
Special Requirements: N/A
How would you tell (write, research, design, present) a history of sports?
Sports and athletic competitions are noticeable features of human societies throughout history. This session will
support you in identifying an area of interest and exploring aspects of the topic. Students will select a book and
film to review. Students will design a website platform to share their findings.
C Block Grade: MS ANYONE FOR GOLF? FORE! Fee: $50.00
Teacher: Fisher, Caleb Tim Witvoet
Special Requirements: Students must have their own set of golf clubs and be able to depart BRPS by 7:40a.m.
each morning.
Do you enjoy golf? Would you like to learn? If yes, then this is the course for you! We will spend time learning
about this great game and practicing our own shots at the golf course. We will spend time on the driving range,
practice greens, and the course itself. Learn how to take the frustration out of your own game by learning
fundamentals and essential etiquette. Students will spend every class period at the golf course. Fore!
C Block Grade: MS ARTS AND CRAFTS Fee: $20.00
Teacher: Kane, Jeanne
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you like to be creative? Come join us and put your creativity to use. In this project term, you will use your
artistic talent to make various crafts. Some of the crafts, which will be presented, include needlepoint, decoupage,
clay creations, tye‐dying, and quilling. You will end this term with many great gifts, along with presents for
yourself!
C Block Grade: MS BOXING DIARIES Fee: $50.00
Teacher: Bittrick, Brett Krista Ekdahl
Special Requirements: N/A
Learn to box under the guidance and expertise of professional boxing coach Sakwam at Sakwamdo Boxing Gym
of Holland. Students will train in the "Sweet Science" of boxing, learn valuable life lessons, and increase their
fitness. You will be evaluated before and after the two-week training session. Your evaluation as well as a
fundraising project will serve as your course evaluation. It just may be the hardest fun you'll ever have!
C Block Grade: MS DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Harrity, Noelle
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you love to dance or want to learn how? This class will introduce and explore elements of ballet, jazz, and
lyrical/contemporary dance styles. Students will learn and perform a choreographed group dance piece together as
well as choreograph their own dance pieces in small groups to perform at the end of the term. All levels of dancers
are welcome!MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
C Block Grade: MS DOUBLE-HANDED SAILING Fee: $105.00
Teacher: Rowe, Karen
Special Requirements: A personal life jacket is required to participate.
This course introduces students to the sport of sailing in a double-handed (two person) sailboat. Students will learn
the basic rules of sailing, practice rigging and de-rigging a sailboat, gain confidence in managing both skipper and
crew roles, and spend time on the water at Lake Macatawa each day. Students need to supply their own life jackets
and should come to class prepared to sail every day. Ideally, students should have at least two years of previous
sailing experience, but students with less experience who are comfortable on the water or with boating are
welcome to sign up!
C Block Grade: MS GAMES OF CHANCE, GAMES OF STRATEGY Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Mousseau, Rebecca
Special Requirements: N/A
This class is for anyone who enjoys playing games-card games, board games, games of chance, strategy games.
Bring your competitive spirit and challenge your friends to see who has the best luck, or who has a winning
strategy. Along the way, we will gather data to answer questions about luck and strategy. Plan on learning new
games and playing old favorites.
C Block Grade: MS INTRODUCTION TO CAKE DECORATING Fee: $25.00
Teacher: Spisak, Elizabeth
Special Requirements: N/A
Want to make a cute tray of cupcakes or create a stunning birthday cake? Come learn the basics of cake decorating
using icing and fondant! The skills you will learn in this course can be applied to nearly any dessert, so the
possibilities are endless! We will cover basic and advanced piping techniques, filling cakes and pastries, and
rolling and shaping fondant icing. We will decorate a variety of desserts throughout the course, and for the final
project, you will be tasked with decorating your own cake, which will be put on display at the Project Term Open
House, and afterwards, you can take it home and enjoy it with your family!
C Block Grade: MS INVISIBLE WORLD Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Aumaugher, Angela
Special Requirements: N/A
Life exists all around us. We are most familiar with the life forms we see every day, but what about the living
things we can’t see? Come and enter a world that is invisible to the naked eye. We will use microscopes to learn
about some of the smallest life forms on our planet. Each student will create their own informational booklet with
drawings and details about these fascinating and tiny creatures. Between microscope use, research time, and book-
making, this class requires large chunks of focused sitting time. Do not take this class if you cannot remain
focused on a variety of tasks at one location for extended periods of time.
C Block Grade: MS MICHIGAN ALL AROUND US Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Stephens, Marguerite
Special Requirements: N/A
There is so much to learn about our state! Let's find out about the government, old towns, parks, lakes, as well as
decide how to take a trip around the Mitten! What would you want to look for? Be ready to learn how our state
works, where we could watch birds the best, how the two peninsula's are different in climate and landforms, and
who has become famous from Michigan! Maybe you would like to write a letter to them. Is there a monument
you would like to create somewhere in our state? Could you write up a super brochure for Michigan, or a city in
Michigan? Come investigate with me!MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
C Block Grade: MS NATURE ART Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Kalis, Haley
Special Requirements: N/A
Get crafty with nature! In this class we will journey outside the classroom to gather natural materials that will help
us create unique works of art. From collages to paint to prints and more, we will explore the many ways that we
can make something beautiful out of outdoor items. Along the way, we will also learn about several professional
artists who work with natural materials and watch videos to understand how projects similar to ours can be
accomplished on a larger scale.
C Block Grade: MS OUTDOOR TENNIS Fee: $.00
Teacher: Millis, Rachel
Special Requirements: You do not have to have any previous experience to sign up for this course but you will
need to bring your own tennis supplies.
You can be a tennis pro too! Have you ever wanted to try out tennis? This class is for you! In this class, we will
learn the basics of tennis including forehand and backhand strokes, serving, overhead strokes and how to keep
score. We will also research some famous tennis players!
C Block Grade: MS STOP-MOTION ANIMATION Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Gorris, Tara
Special Requirements: N/A
What do the movies, Coraline, Nightmare Before Christmas, and Kubo and the Two Strings have in common?
They are all created with the use of stop-motion animation! Stop-motion means that all movements are created
from a series of separate images. Objects are set in place and moved by hand to create the illusion that they are
actually moving. In this class, you will learn about the process of stop-motion animation, which includes creating a
flip-book, story-boards for your movie and creating your own characters out of modeling clay and then using
photographs and the computer soft-ware program, Premier, to help edit your movie!
C Block Grade: MS TAG, YOU'RE IT! Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Nykerk, Kaylee
Special Requirements: N/A
What was your favorite part of Elementary School? Was it RECESS? In this class, we will learn and play group
recess games. We will explore recess games that your grandparents and parents might have played, and will also
learn and play games that you might know of! By the end of the two weeks, you will have learned old and new
games!
CD Block Grade: MS BACKPACKING THE MANISTEE RIVER Fee: $100.00
TRAIL!
Teacher: Gray, Steve Brent Rowe
Special Requirements: All students need a hiking backpack and sleeping bag. Hiking shoes are recommended
but not required.
We will be going on an adventure to the Manistee River Trail. Do you love hiking? Is camping in the woods
something you enjoy? Are you an expert campfire builder? Are you an open fire chef? Would you like to learn?
We will backpack for 2 nights and cover 25 miles. We will engage in rustic camping (no showers) and learn to
use an outdoor bathroom. There will be fantastic views, waterfalls, suspension bridges, campfire food, and
adventures along the trail and around the campfire.MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
D Block Grade: MS ALTERNATE ENDING Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Laarman, Sarah
Special Requirements: N/A
Have you ever watched a movie and thought what a terrible ending, I could have done better than that? Well here
is your chance! Students will be given a daily movie prompt and then released to create their own ending to the
story. Students will be expected to write for about 45 minutes to an hour daily. Students will also be peer editing
classmate's stories for the final project.
D Block Grade: MS ANIMALS OF THE WORLD Fee: $15.00
Teacher: Harrity, Noelle
Special Requirements: N/A
Are you passionate about animals? Come join us as we share our love of animals with one another and learn about
their unique characteristics and ways of life. In this class, we will learn about local animals as well as animals
from around the world such as the capybara, axolotl, and Komodo dragon. We will take a field trip together to the
Fellinlove Farm and see, pet, and interact with animals up close. Students will learn about and create a
presentation to educate others about an animal of their choice at the end of the term.
D Block Grade: MS BOOK MOUNTAIN Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Kane, Jeanne
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you like to read really good books? Are you stuck on the same type and genre of books? Come join this
project term to explore all types of novels - mysteries, biographies, animal stories, poetry, and realistic fiction.
You will explore and be a “student traveler” working independently to complete reading and activities. Come
explore and see how far you can climb the mountain of books!
D Block Grade: MS CHEMISTRY OF CRIME Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Mousseau, Rebecca
Special Requirements: N/A
Do you enjoy suspense and mystery? Would you like to know what techniques are used to solve crimes and
mysterious happenings? Are you hooked on crime shows? If so, you will not want to miss Chemistry of Crime,
where we explore how investigators use logic and science to solve crimes. We will identify handwriting samples
to detect forgery, test ink stains, and solve other mysterious crimes. All students with an investigative and curious
mind will want to join this class!
D Block Grade: MS JAPANESE CRAFTS, HISTORY, AND MORE! Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Stephens, Marguerite
Special Requirements: N/A
This class will require you to participate, no sitting back and just watching! We will read plays and stories, watch
anime, taste tea, dance and sing! You will create new and different ways to share the Japanese stories and
traditions. There will be some games, songs and other Japanese-centered material to give you a wide perspective
on the Japan focus. Come ready to read, listen, watch, and do!
D Block Grade: MS OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Fee: $100.00
Teacher: Nykerk, Kaylee Kerrie Esmeier
Special Requirements: N/A
Kayaks, Paddleboards, Archery, Hiking, Oh my! In this class students will have a chance to try out kayaking in
Holland, paddle boarding on Lake Macatawa, archery at the Outdoor Discovery Center, and hiking our local trails.
Students will use rented kayaks, lifejackets, paddleboards, and archery equipment.MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT TERM COURSES
STUDENTS MUST PICK ONE COURSE FOR EACH BLOCK (A, B, C, & D)
D Block Grade: MS RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Kalis, Haley
Special Requirements: N/A
Calling all students who want to make the world a better place! In this class, we will participate in a variety of
activities to help brighten others’ days and show that little things really can make a big difference. Bring your
creative skills, desire to help others and ideas of what we can accomplish around the school and community. At the
end of this class, you will walk away with goals of how to keep the random acts of kindness going through the
summer and beyond, as well as some community service hours.
D Block Grade: MS SAVING LIVES: RED CROSS CERTIFICATION Fee: $10.00
Teacher: Shirk, Joy
Special Requirements: N/A
In this course you will learn how to care for injuries and illnesses until Emergency Medical Services arrive to
transport the injured or ill. At the end of the course you will receive Red Cross Certification in First Aid, CPR, and
the use of an AED for infants, children, and adults.
D Block Grade: MS SCHOOL OF ROCK! Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Bittrick, Brett
Special Requirements: You must be able to play guitar, bass, drums, or another instrument (vocals are a great
bonus!) to take this class.
Auditions are required. Please see Mr. Witvoet if you are interested. Class is offered for 7th-12th grade
students.
Have you ever dreamed of playing in a rock band? Do you have the beginnings of a rock band, but just need the
time and space to develop your talents? If so, then School of Rock is the class for you! Over the course of four
weeks, you will: form a band with your classmates, learn different songs, perform and practice in front of a live
audience, and put on a rock show at the Project Term Open House. Each student must have his or her own
instrument and be able to play at a level higher than beginner.
D Block Grade: MS THE SCIENCE OF BEAUTY Fee: $0.00
Teacher: Spisak, Elizabeth
Special Requirements: N/A
What do makeup, skincare, nail art, and hairstyling all have in common? They all incorporate science! Come learn
about the chemical and biological background behind today’s beauty methods and popular products. Throughout
the course, you will mix up your own cosmetics, test the products you may already use, and find out how beauty
standards have evolved throughout human history. At the end of this course, you will design your own beauty
experiment similar to those we will perform in class, and share your results through a research poster at open
house.You can also read
