Foothill Learning Academy
K-12 Homeschool Support Program
Celebrating a Decade of Learning 2017-2027
Middle School - 6th-8th CLASSES
ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS CLASSES
Middle School Write On! Response to Literature/How-to Writing
Grades 6-8
$205 per semester (one voucher)
In spring we will begin with an engaging grade appropriate short story and write a theme or character based essay response. Then, we will turn our attention to process writing as the students use their own talents and interests as inspiration for writing a step-by-step process for how to do something or how something works. During this creative process we will explore essential writing skills such as word choice, organization, audience, voice, clarity, elaboration and appeal. We will also explore speaking and presentation skills and practice all five stages of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing.
Teacher: Mary Frederick
email: messages2mary@att.net
phone/text: 916.990.3494
website: writeon4kids.com
Elementary Write On! The Great LEGO Challenge!
Grades 4-6
$205 per semester
We will begin spring with The Great Lego Challenge! Our focus will be on expository writing as students design, create and advertise a new Lego creation. Students will explore “how-to” writing skills including clarity, perspective and organization as they draft and revise detailed instructions to recreate their Lego design. They will also develop an advertisement for their creation, focusing on writing that appeals to a specific audience. Throughout the project, we will explore and practice all five stages the writing process: prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. The semester will culminate in the Lego Challenge Party where friends and family will be invited to come and recreate student designs. *3rd graders with teacher permission only.
Teacher: Mary Frederick
email: messages2mary@att.net
phone/text: 916.990.3494
website: writeon4kids.com
Novel Study: When You Reach Me/The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
Grades 5-8
$205 per semester (includes the cost of both novels)
This interactive class is completely literature-based and fun! We read, discuss, and analyze super engaging, age-level appropriate novels. Each week the students will read and annotate focusing on various aspects of the novel including mood, theme, characters, conflict, literary devices, and personal connections. There is optional homework students can complete for a grade to prepare them for discussion, increase their critical thinking skills, and satisfy state curriculum requirements. This class is perfect not only for students who love to read, but for students who are resistant readers as well. All books will be provided and are included in the class tuition. Fall semester we will be reading When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead, and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S.Lewis. Come join us and READ ON!
Teacher: Mary Frederick
email: messages2mary@att.net
phone/text: 916.990.3494
website: writeon4kids.com
Creative Writing
Grades 6-8
$190 per semester
This class is a place where imagination can come to life and every student becomes an author. Through fun prompts, storytelling games, and guided activities, students learn how to turn their ideas into poems, short stories, and even their own mini books. The class encourages creativity, builds confidence, and helps young writers discover their unique voice while exploring characters, settings, and exciting plots. In a supportive and inspiring environment, students are free to take risks, share their work, and grow as storytellers— proving that everyone has a story worth telling.
Teacher: Leslie Johnson (Timm), Rock on Little Birdie
email: Rockonlittlebirdie@gmail.com
phone/text: 707.301.9983
Mind Mapping
Grades 4-8
$185 per semester
Mind Mapping uses BulletMap’s visual strategies to strengthen executive functioning skills in writing, organization, and communication. Students practice brainstorming, note-taking, and creative writing using three types of mind maps. Especially helpful for students with dyslexia and ADHD, these strategies benefit all learners by building confidence, creativity, and independence while offering new skills and continued practice for both new and returning students.
Standards Alignment: California Common Core ELA/Literacy — Writing (W.4, W.5, W.8) and Speaking & Listening (SL.4, SL.5), grades 4–8.
Teacher: Jenae Cooper
email: jenaecooper@icloud.com
phone: 530-321-5513
MATH
Algebra in Action: Real World Math
Grades: 4-8
$205 per semester
Unlock the power of Algebra with hands-on projects that bring math to life! This interactive class is designed to make Algebra exciting and accessible through real-world applications, giving students a deeper understanding of key mathematical concepts in a fun and engaging way.
Course highlights include:
● Bottle Rocket Challenge – Students will design, build, and launch their own bottle rockets while
exploring the math behind projectile motion. Through hands-on experimentation, they’ll analyze data,
calculate height and distance, and understand how Algebra helps predict flight paths.
● Plant Growth Experiment – Over four weeks, students will track and measure plant growth, learning how
to model real-world data using linear equations. By analyzing growth patterns and environmental variables,
they’ll apply Algebra in a meaningful way.
● Algebra & Investing – Students will take on the role of investors, hypothetically managing a stock
portfolio and tracking their financial growth. They’ll calculate percentage changes, interpret trends, and
develop key budgeting skills using Algebraic reasoning.
This class is perfect for students who enjoy hands-on learning and want to see how Algebra is used in
everyday life. Whether launching rockets, tracking plant growth, or navigating the stock market, students will
develop critical thinking skills, data analysis abilities, and a new appreciation for math in the real world.
No prior Algebra experience is required—students of all levels will be guided through the concepts in an
approachable and engaging way.
Teacher: Joe Vargas
Email: YourFirstChoiceTutoring@gmail.com
Phone/text: 916-805-7333
Website: www.FirstChoiceTutoring.com
Fast Math Facts & Fluency: Mental Math & Speed Strategies
Grades 4-6
$205 per semester
Boost your math confidence and speed with this interactive class focused on mental math fluency. Students will explore multiplication tricks, division shortcuts, and estimation techniques through hands-on activities designed to make numbers easier and faster to work with.
Why join Fast Math Facts and Fluency?
● Master Mental Math: Learn powerful tricks to quickly solve math problems without a calculator, increasing
accuracy and confidence.
● Multiplication & Division Strategies: Discover fun and effective methods to simplify multiplication and
division, making calculations second nature.
● Estimation & Quick Thinking: Develop number sense by learning to estimate answers quickly and refine
problem-solving skills for real-world applications.
● Engaging Math Games & Challenges: Reinforce skills through fun drills, competitions, and interactive
activities designed to build speed and accuracy.
● Problem-Solving in Everyday Life: Apply mental math techniques to everyday situations like shopping,
budgeting, and time management.
Whether your child enjoys math or wants to sharpen their skills, this class makes mental math engaging and practical. Students will leave with faster problem-solving abilities and greater confidence in handlingnumbers.
Teacher: Joe Vargas
Email: YourFirstChoiceTutoring@gmail.com
Phone/text: 916-805-7333
Website: www.FirstChoiceTutoring.com
Math: Money Literacy
Grades 4-6, 4-8
$190 per semester
This semester we will be delving into the world of money, transactions, saving, and spending, and so much more. There are so many things that we are not taught throughout our years of learning that are actually very necessary parts of life. From discounts to investing to loans and insurance. This is what this class will hope to help with this year. It is so important to know how the systems in our world work so that when it does come time to make some choices, they are equipped to make thoughtful and wise choices that will hope to benefit them in their future rather than not.
Teacher: Leslie Johnson, Rock on Little Birdie
email: Rockonlittlebirdie@gmail.com
phone/text: 707.301.9983
Think and Play: Board Game Madness
Grades 4-8
$205 per semester
We have brand new Math games for the Fall ‘26 semester! Math Game Madness is a fun and interactive math class that uses games and puzzles to teach mathematical concepts to homeschool students. Through a variety of engaging and entertaining games, students will learn and practice important math skills such as problem-solving, logical reasoning, strategic thinking, and numerical fluency.
Topics Covered:
● Basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division)
● Fractions, decimals, and percentages
● Geometry and spatial reasoning
● Logic and reasoning
● Probability and statistics
Games and Activities:
● Board games like Monopoly, Settlers of Catan, and Ticket to Ride
● Card games like Set, Uno, and Blackjack
● Dice games like Yahtzee and Farkle
● Strategy games like Chess, Connect Four, and Battleship
● Math-specific games like 24, Math Dice, and Math Boggle
By the end of the semester, students will have a better understanding of important mathematical concepts and skills. They’ll also be able to apply math skills to solve problems in a variety of contexts. Lastly, students will have improved their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, as well as have developed an interest in math through fun and engaging games and activities.
Teacher: Joe Vargas
Email: YourFirstChoiceTutoring@gmail.com
Phone/text: 916-805-7333
Website: www.FirstChoiceTutoring.com
SCIENCE
Chemistry
Grades 4-8
$225 per semester
Students will explore atoms, subatomic particles, molecules, acids/basis, polymers, mixtures, endothermic and exothermic reactions, and more. Examples of activities/models include: building atom and molecule models, making ice cream, slime, and elephant toothpaste, testing the pH of various solutions, and identifying an unknown powder.
Teacher: Lisa Hindmarsh
email: lisahandsonscience@gmail.com
phone/text: 530.313.3789
website: www.handsonsciencefun.com
Crime Scene Investigation Lab
Grades 4-8
$225 per semester
Students will learn how chemistry, biology, and physics are used to solve crimes. Labs will include hands-on activities in handwriting, shoe print, blood spatter, fingerprint, dental, pen chromatography, and blood typing analysis.
Teacher: Lisa Hindmarsh
email: lisahandsonscience@gmail.com
phone/text: 530.313.3789website: www.handsonsciencefun.com
Ingenious Inventions: Building Rube Goldberg Machines
Grades 4-8
$225 per semester
Welcome to the fascinating world of Rube Goldberg machines! Named after the famous American cartoonist and inventor, Rube Goldberg, these contraptions are designed to perform simple tasks in the most complicated, whimsical, and entertaining ways possible. In this class, students will dive into the art and science of creating chain-reaction machines that will amaze and amuse, learn about the principles of motion, force, and energy transfer, explore creative thinking and innovative problem-solving as they plan and design machines, gain hands-on experience in building and testing each element of their contraption, and work together with classmates to brainstorm as they construct/refine their machines.
Teacher: Lisa Hindmarsh
email: lisahandsonscience@gmail.com
phone/text: 530.313.3789website: www.handsonsciencefun.com
Life Science
Grades 4-8
$225 per semester
* Lab materials included in cost
In this hands-on Life Science course, students will discover the incredible complexity, diversity, and wonder of living things. This class blends engaging lessons, interactive discussions, and frequent laboratory investigations to help students build a strong foundation in biology while developing critical thinking and scientific skills. Students will explore how life is organized—from
the tiny building blocks of cells to the vast interactions within ecosystems. They will learn about the characteristics of living organisms, the structure and function of cells, genetics and heredity, the diversity of plants and animals, human body systems and ecology. State standards aligned curriculum. This can be taken as a year long class. Spring students are welcome as well,
with no prerequisites.
Key Topics Covered:
• The Scientific Method and Inquiry Skills
• Characteristics of Living Things
• Cell Structure and Function (including microscopy)
• Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
• Genetics, DNA, and Heredity
• Classification of Living Organisms (taxonomy)
• Bacteria, Protists, Fungi, and Viruses
• Plant Structure, Reproduction, and Adaptations
• Animal Diversity, Behavior, and Adaptations
• Human Anatomy and Physiology (major body systems)
• Ecology: Populations, Communities, Ecosystems, and Biomes
Labs may include:
• Modeling cell membranes with eggs and various solutions (osmosis lab)
• Extracting DNA from strawberries or bananas
• Dissecting flowers to study plant reproduction
• Testing factors that affect photosynthesis (e.g., light, CO2)
• Observing and comparing plant and animal cells
• Building food webs and energy pyramids with real data
• Insect or leaf collection and classification
• Germination experiments and plant growth studies
• Simple enzyme labs (e.g., catalase in liver or potatoes)
• Heart rate and exercise physiology investigations
Teacher: Laura Arroyo
Email: Lifefitpe1@gmail.com
Website: www.lifefitpe.com
Mad Science Lab (Physical Sciences)
Grades 4-8
$200 per semester
An introductory course to all aspects of the Physical Science where students will learn how fun, rewarding, and science can be! Your child will explore chemistry, physics, earth science and astronomy through kinesthetic experiments designed to captivate their curiosity. In each class, your child will learn how to demonstrate a new branch of science using real-world models and prototypes, while also encouraging their imagination and problem-solving skills. Not only are these experiments exciting but give students the foundational knowledge to pursue and understand science in the future. This class is designed to grow with your student and can be taken multiple semesters for up to 3 years without repeating an experiment.
This class promotes Science State Standards including planning investigations, asking questions about data, talking about models, and developing a successful solution to a design problem.
Teacher: Dawn Setters
email: mycurriculumconnections@gmail.com
phone/text: 916.730.8057
Science Magic
Grades 4-8
$225 per semester
Have you ever wanted to discover the mysteries of magic? Well, you can... it just takes a little science! In this engaging hands-on class, students will explore how the center of mass, magnetism, light, friction, motion, inertia, gravity, heat, polymers, and optical illusions can be used to create fun magic tricks to mystify their friends and family. This is some physics, biology, and chemistry fun in disguise!
Teacher: Lisa Hindmarsh
email: lisahandsonscience@gmail.com
phone/text: 530.313.3789
website: www.handsonsciencefun.com
Roller Coaster STEM Challenge
Grades 4-8
$205 per semester
While building paper roller coasters for marbles, students will explore the physics (potential and kinetic energy, friction, inertia, and gravity) and the engineering design process used by engineers in designing roller coasters. Student teams will compete to build the most creative, exciting, and slowest roller coaster.
Teacher: Lisa Hindmarsh
email: lisahandsonscience@gmail.com
phone/text: 530.313.3789
website: www.handsonsciencefun.com
STEM Challenge Lab
Grades 4-6, 6-8, 4-8
$195 per semester (1 voucher)
Ready for a new round of STEM challenges? Students will become engineers, inventors, and problem-solvers as they design, build, test, and improve their own creations. Through hands-on engineering projects, science experiments, creative design challenges, and collaborative problem-solving, learners will discover how to turn ideas into solutions. Every challenge encourages experimentation, perseverance, critical thinking, and out-of-the-box creativity.
Teacher: Amanda Kennedy
Email: Kennedylearningco@gmail.com
Phone/text: (916) 799-2315
SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HISTORY
Food Around the World
Grade 4-8
$225 per semester
All new countries for a new semester! This semester we will be taking a trip around the world and it will center around traditional foods! Each week we will visit a new country and learn about their culture, take a peek into some of their top attractions and of course taste test their food. Some of the countries we will be visiting this semester are Scotland, Turkey, Mexico, and more. Please note we do not cook in this class. Please be aware that because of the nature of how this class is set up this class cannot be tailored for households with food allergies and dietary restrictions.
This course integrates core standards across multiple subject areas
Teacher: Kelley Ayres
email: kidskitchenfla@gmail.com
phone/text: 530-417-1013
History: Ancient Civilizations
Grade 4-6, 6-8, 4-8
$200 per semester
Students will explore ancient history through hands-on, creative activities designed to foster critical thinking and problem solving. For example, the students sculpt terracotta army soldiers while learning about ancient China. Other project based learning include Aztec calendars, creation of Greek pillars and Roman mosaics. Students MAKE the history they study! This class is designed to expand the student’s understanding of history by studying the people and events that ushered in the dawn of the major Western and non-Western ancient civilizations. Geography is of special significance in the development of the human story. Emphasis is placed on the everyday lives, problems, and accomplishments of people, their role in developing social, economic, and political structures, as well as in establishing and spreading ideas that helped transform the world forever. Students develop higher levels of critical thinking by considering why civilizations developed where and when they did, why they became dominant, and why they declined. Students analyze the interactions among the various cultures, emphasizing their enduring contributions and the link, despite time, between the contemporary and ancient worlds. (Year long class, students welcome to join in the Spring)
Teacher: Laurie Chiappe
email: MrsChiappe@gmail.com
phone/text: 408-472-6155
website: historyrockswithmrschiappe.com
History through Cinema: Night at the Museum III
Grade 4-8
$200 per semester
In this course, students will use the Night at the Museum III (PG) movies, as the backdrop to explore geography, historical figures, and literary themes. In the movies, historical figures on display at the British Museum in London magically come to life at night! In class, after watching video clips from the movie, students will learn about the various key characters in the movie that “come to life” in the film. Additionally, we will examine themes within the movie such as collaboration, dedication, and hope. Each week the students will complete a small hands-on project based on the topic/character studied. At the end of the course, the students will watch the movie in its entirety, focusing on discerning fact from fiction.
Teacher: Laurie Chiappe
email: MrsChiappe@gmail.com
phone/text: 408-472-6155
website: historyrockswithmrschiappe.com
Mock Trial
Grade 6-8, 9-12
$200 per semester
Mock trials have proven to be an effective learning tool for students of all grade levels. It helps them understand the law, practice critical thinking, and gain greater confidence in public speaking by assuming the roles of attorneys and witnesses in a fictional criminal or civil trial. Students experience first-hand the difficulties that judges, lawyers and juries face in determining which facts are relevant and what legal arguments are effective. This class is taught by Mrs. Chiappe, a former practicing California Attorney. (Year long class, students welcome to join in the Spring)
Teacher: Laurie Chiappe
email: MrsChiappe@gmail.com
phone/text: 408-472-6155
website: historyrockswithmrschiappe.com
FINE ARTS CLASSES
ART
Art Lab: Relief and Dimensional Art
Grade 7-12
$220 including supplies
Take your art off the canvas and into the dimensional. Some projects stretch over several weeks, like a large sculptural clay flower rising from a flat surface. Between projects spanning several class sessions are shorter, more experimental projects with relief, texture, and unexpected materials. Students build real skills, from clay hand building to planning a piece from sketch to finished work, while testing what art can be when it’s not flat. Works for all levels, beginner to advanced.
Teacher: Jennifer Rowe
email: jenniferrowestudio@gmail.com
phone: 916.212.3282
website: jenniferrowestudio.com
Character Creator
Grade 4-8
$210 including supplies
* Each semester brings fresh instructional emphasis to the same core topics in figure and character design — making this a class worth returning to again and again.
Take your character design skills to the next level! Students can choose one or more styles—anime, manga, Pokémon, Studio Ghibli, Warrior Cats, realistic figures, etc., or original creations. Each week, students will explore a new character or focus on parts of a character—expressions, poses, markings, or accessories—while building creativity and confidence. Lessons focus on refining proportions, storytelling, and personal style, while leaving room for experimentation and creativity. Returning students and newcomers alike can challenge themselves with advanced techniques and more complex designs. Students can stick with one style or mix styles over the 12 weeks.
Teacher: Jennifer Rowe
email: jenniferrowestudio@gmail.com
phone: 916.212.3282
website: jenniferrowestudio.com
Clay Creations
Grade 4-8
$220 per semester including supplies
All new projects! Discover the art of hand building in this exciting clay class. Students will learn key techniques such as slab, coil, and pinch construction while exploring both functional and sculptural forms. The emphasis will be on creativity, craftsmanship, and self-expression as students design and decorate their own unique clay pieces.
Teacher: Jennifer Rowe
email: jenniferrowestudio@gmail.com
phone: 916.212.3282
website: jenniferrowestudio.com
Drawing and Painting
Grade 4-8
$210 including supplies
All new lessons! Fine art techniques including shading, proportions, and texture will be taught through drawing and painting people, wildlife, and a special section - "See-Through" - where students explore transparent and translucent objects like soap bubbles, ice cubes, and gemstones. Throughout the class, the artists will at times work from reference photos I select and at other times work from reference photos they choose. Students will mostly work at their own pace, and some more involved pieces may take several class periods to complete. A variety of media including graphite, watercolor, acrylic, and pastels will be taught and explored in this class.
Teacher: Jennifer Rowe
email: jenniferrowestudio@gmail.com
phone: 916.212.3282
website: jenniferrowestudio.com
DRAMA
Sr. Musical Theater - 2 hour class (Only available at El Dorado Hills 4th and 5th period)
Grades 4-12
$375 per semester
Become a part of a musical theater production! Each child will have a chance to participate as we rehearse and produce the Broadway Musical: Matilda Jr. Auditions for parts happen on day one! We practice stage presence, singing, and dancing as we develop our show. Costumes and props will be necessary. Students will be required to provide base costume pieces (like a certain
colored t-shirt, pants) and possibly a specific piece for their character. We perform our one hour musical on an assigned performance day outside of class meeting times to a live audience! Sr. theater rehearsal time extends to 2:45 pm.
Note: additional rehearsals are required for this class close to our performance date. A rehearsal schedule and further details will be sent out one month before we begin class. Performances will be on May 1st.
Teacher: Rachel Wattson
email: eclecticartsedc@gmail.com
phone: 760-716-2793
MUSIC and DANCE
Guitar
Grades 4-8
$190 per semester
From first chord to full song, this class is a great place to start your guitar journey — or take it further. Students will learn to read notation and chord charts, practice essential strum patterns, and work through a textbook (First Book for the Guitar - Frederick Noad) packed with both beginner-friendly and more advanced material. Wherever you're starting from, there's a place for you here. (Textbook is included in the materials fee)
PLEASE NOTE: Students are expected to bring their own guitars to class each week.
Teacher: Ashley Black
email: ashblackmusic@gmail.com
phone/text: 205-213-3039
Piano
Grades 4-6, 4-8
$190 per semester (one voucher)
Ever wanted to sit down at a piano and actually play something? In this class, students will learn to read sheet music, build chords, and make real music from day one. Using the Adult Piano Adventures: All-in-One course (included in materials fee), lessons are tailored to meet each student where they are — whether they've never touched a key or already have some experience under their belt.
Teacher: Ashley Black
email: ashblackmusic@gmail.com
phone/text: 205-213-3039
Vocal Performance: Greatest Showman Spring 2027
Grades 4-8 (hosted at Foothill Learning Academy)
$195 per semester
Combining good vocals with stage presence takes practice. Learn how to sing, support your voice and harmonize. We hope to add simple choreography to round out our performance. The Greatest Showman Medley is very dynamic and will be performed twice in the semester: We will perform once at the community dinner (not mandatory but highly encouraged) and we will perform on our final day of class for our families.
Teacher: Rachel Wattson
email: eclecticartsedc@gmail.com
phone: 760-716-2793
LANGUAGE
American Sign Language (ASL)
Grades 4-8
$195 per semester
Students will begin to learn the basics of American Sign Language and Deaf Culture. They will learn basic communication skills through ABC's/ fingerspelling, numbers, ASL word order, sentence types, and verbs. We will play fun games and activities to help remember vocabulary. Class fee includes a $5 materials fee.
Teacher: Jaime Layton
email: philandjaime@gmail.com
phone/text: 530-306-0786
Conversational American Sign Language (ASL)
Grades 4-8
$195 per semester
In this American Sign Language class students will be introduced to basic conversational vocabulary and grammatical structures including but not limited to fingerspelling, gestures, signing space and simple written conjugation. Students will learn the alphabet, numbers, colors, emotions, animals, family structures, common nouns and familiar day to day communication. The 5 foundational parameters of ASL will also be taught using fun repetitive songs, games and activities to encourage muscle memory and sight association. In addition to learning a fun new language ASL is a great resource for enhancing cognitive abilities. It improves visual-spatial skills, memory and multitasking capabilities. Students will also learn about deaf culture in the United States, promoting awareness and sensitivity towards diverse communication styles. This class is primarily ASL but I will introduce ‘Exact-Sign’ concepts as a contrast when learning spoken syntax. I absolutely love signing and teaching sign language, it is very rewarding!
This class promotes World Languages State Standards which include interpretive, interpersonal & presentational communication, language comparisons, and culturally appropriate interactions. This class is designed to grow with your student and can be taken multiple semesters for up to 2 years.
Teacher: Dawn Setters
email: mycurriculumconnections@gmail.com
phone/text: 916.730.8057
COMPUTER SCIENCE and TECHNOLOGY
Building Apps and Games
Grades 4-8
$250 per semester (one voucher)
Students learn coding by building web apps and games using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. All learning is self-paced, guided by our online project-based curriculum:
https://www.mrcodeswildride.com/curriculum
Note that this is not a lecture-based class, all learning is very hands-on. Students are expected to work on their projects throughout class. The instructor and teaching assistants will be very proactive in helping students build projects, but students are expected to put in the effort each and every class.
The class will have about a 6-to-1 student-instructor ratio to ensure that all students can get individualized help and guidance. Laptops provided for in-class use.
Teacher: Mr. Code's Wild Ride
email: kellerdb@gmail.com
phone/text:(916) 439-0991
website: www.mrcodeswildride.com
Computer Basics and Typing
Grades 3-8
$ 250 per semester (one voucher)
Students learn basic computer skills like using a mouse, using a web browser, understanding the file system, knowing hotkeys, and word processing with Google Docs. Students also learn touch typing at their own pace through online lessons, with individualized instructor guidance. An outline of the class can be found on our website:
https://www.mrcodeswildride.com/typing
Most of the semester will be mastering typing skills, which is self-paced, so students can work at their grade level with help from the instructor and teaching assistants.
The class will have about a 6-to-1 student-instructor ratio to ensure that all students can get individualized help and guidance. Laptops provided for in-class use.
Teacher: Mr. Code's Wild Ride
email: kellerdb@gmail.com
phone/text:(916) 439-0991
website: www.mrcodeswildride.com
CodeTronics
Grades 4-8
$240 per semester (one voucher)
Turn digital logic into physical magic! Learn how to use code to respond to proximity, distance, and temperature sensors, and control lights, displays, and servo motors. Then put it all together to create fun party lights, an alarm system, a smart parking system, and more!
The microcontroller and electronic components used by the students are included in the class fee. Laptops and tablets are provided for in-class use.
Teacher: Lynda Weiss
email: lynda.weiss@lyndaweiss.net
phone/text: 916.390.6530
ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Advanced Digital Photography
Grades 7-12
$190 per semester
We will explore the functions of more advanced equipment, point and shoot pocket cameras, and how to make your camera phone do what you want it to! We are diving into digital editing and more complex projects. As students progress I increase the complexity of what they learn and challenge them with new assignments designed for their skill level. All students are required
to submit one final piece to the El Dorado County Fair.
Class requirements: a camera (even a camera phone) and laptops available for class use. Second semester and beyond students are encouraged to bring DSLR cameras. All other materials will be provided.
Teacher: Rachel Wattson
email: eclecticartsedc@gmail.com
phone: 760-716-2793
Bible: Middle School
Grades 6-8
FREE
Come learn about Jesus with Alissa!
Alissa Reynolds is overjoyed to have the opportunity to teach this year’s Bible Study class! She began her walk with Jesus in 7th grade and has had a strong desire to serve in any way possible ever since. Alissa is currently in her third year of the middle school residency program and hopes to continue working in youth ministry after completing it. She is excited to dive into the Bible with your students, helping them learn how to read it and live it out in their daily lives.
Teacher: Cat Fossen, Vintage Grace Resident
email: cats@vintagegrace.org
phone/text: 916-597-5678
Chess Academy
Grades 4-12
$195 per semester
Discover the exciting world of chess with an internationally certified FIDE Chess Instructor!
This class welcomes students of all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced players.
Students will learn chess fundamentals, tactics, strategies, openings, and checkmating techniques through interactive lessons, puzzles, and friendly games.
Instruction will be adapted to each student's experience, helping students improve their critical thinking, concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Our goal is to build a strong chess foundation and inspire a lifelong love of the game!
Additional Learning with bichess.com
Creative Competitions: Food Masterpieces
Grades 4-8
$200 per semester
This is the class to put all of the student's skills in creating food masterpieces to the test. Every two weeks students will be
paired up and given a challenge of creating something with the provided materials. They might be tasked to create a building
with graham crackers or an animal with rice Krispies. The first week will be making a plan, understanding the materials they’ll
have to work with, and the second week will be execution and judgement time. This class is a nice blend of teamwork, planning,
and deciding what to do next when your original plan doesn’t seem to work out.
Teacher: Leslie Johnson, Rock on Little Birdie
email: Rockonlittlebirdie@gmail.com
phone/text: 707.301.9983
Hand Sewing
Grades 4-8
$195 per semester (1 voucher)
Have fun learning to sew by hand! Sewing helps improve fine motor skills and focus. Students are able to follow pre-made patterns and projects they will take home. Students will learn basic hand stitches, how to thread a needle, cutting fabric, tying knots, how to sew on buttons and snaps, and adding embellishments like ribbon and lace. We will start with the most basic of skills, and advance step-by-step throughout the semester with fun and creative sewing projects. No previous knowledge needed.
Teacher: Jaime Layton
email: philandjaime@gmail.com
phone/text: 530-306-0786
Home Economics
Grades 4-8
$195 per semester
Home economics is something that everyone should take at some point in their lifetime. Every single person has to take care of their home, whether or not that space includes other people or animals or not. Even if it’s just them as a single person, how you keep your home is important. This class is intended for fun and learning and is not anything that is set in stone for every person’s life journey. It is intended to help kids understand how they can work smarter and not harder doing things they’ll have to do in the future (and hopefully in the present). We’ll go over very simple tasks like sewing on a button to more complex ideas like creating a budget.
Teacher: Leslie Johnson, Rock on Little Birdie
email: Rockonlittlebirdie@gmail.com
phone/text: 707.301.9983
Introduction to Woodworking
Grades 4-6, 6-8
$295 per semester
Measure twice, cut once! In this hands-on class, students learn to use real woodworking tools safely and confidently while building projects they’ll be proud to take home. Each week starts with a short demonstration of a new tool or technique, then students work at their own stations. They’ll practice measuring and marking, cutting with handsaws, drilling pilot holes, driving screws, gluing, sanding, and finishing. Over the semester, students will build a wooden robot, a treasure box, and a birdhouse, with each project adding new skills and a little more challenge. Along the way, they’ll strengthen their math skills, problem-solving, patience, and attention to detail, and they’ll learn that mistakes are part of the building process. No prior experience is needed. Every project is pre-planned and organized step by step, so beginners and experienced builders alike can succeed. Projects are matched to each section’s age and skill level.
All tools, materials, and safety equipment, including safety glasses and aprons, are provided. Students use hand tools only, with the exception of drills/drivers. Students take home every project they build. Class is taught by a woodworker with 20+ years of experience, a former construction company owner, and a career educator.
PLEASE NOTE: This class will be taught in a covered, outdoor space on campus. Students should dress in warm layers (but not bulky or restrictive outerwear), closed-toe shoes are required, and long hair must be tied back. A signed parent/guardian liability waiver is required for each student before the first class.
Teacher: Dr. Brad Trimble, Build Confidence Academy
email: Brad@BuildConfidence.Academy
phone/text: (916) 597-0977
website: BuildConfidence.Academy
Kid's Kitchen
Grades 4-6, 6-8
$265 per semester
All new recipes for a new semester!
In this fun course, students will explore cooking and baking basics. Along with food and kitchen safety, menu planning, recipe creation, and how-to meal prep. Students will learn about different ingredients and spices that will inspire them to create recipes to take home and cook for their families. Some of the recipe ideas we will be covering this semester include a new super bowl dip, spring rolls, baguettes, sausage rolls and more! After an in-class demonstration, food prep, and taste test, students will cook their meals at home with their families, rather than in the classroom. This class is perfect for students who want to become confident in the kitchen!
Please be aware that this class is not tailored for households with food allergies and dietary restrictions.
This course integrates core standards across multiple subject areas
Teacher: Kelley Ayres
email: kidskitchenfla@gmail.com
phone/text: 530-417-1013
Lego Engineering
Grades 4–8
$189 per semester (1 voucher)
Does hands-on building and creating sound like fun? Then come join us in engineering class, where we learn STEM concepts through building projects using LEGO® parts and motors. Design machines that roll, walk, and even play sports, and build large structures inspired by Roman Aqueducts, the Taj Mahal, and more. Develop your problem-solving and teamwork skills while guided by an engineer and experienced instructor. Returning students are welcome – we do new projects each semester.
All materials are provided. Students do not keep their creations but are welcome to bring cameras to class to photograph their projects.
Format:
-
Project discussion/demonstration: 5-10 minutes
-
Design/Build/Experiment: 30-40 minutes
-
Review/Wrap-up: 5 minutes
-
Clean up: 5 minutes
Teacher: Lynda Weiss
email: lynda.weiss@lyndaweiss.net
phone/text: 916.390.6530
Life Fit PE and Nutrition
Grades 4-6, 6-8, 4-8
$195 per semester
Life Fit PE and Nutrition class will explore the fundamental principles of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle through proper nutrition and physical activity. Students will engage in a variety of activities designed to enhance their physical and mental health, nutrition and be introduced to unique activities through sports. Physical Education and Health CA State Standards driven
lessons.
Nutrition/Health topics covered:
● Reading food labels
● Good sugar vs bad sugar
● Healthy alternatives (I can't live without brownies)
● Importance of sleep
Movements:
● How to properly squat
● How to do a proper push up
● Functional movements
Sports:
● Handball
● Pickleball
● Volleyball
● Pilates and Yoga
● Line Dance
Teacher: Laura Arroyo
Email: Lifefitpe1@gmail.com
Website: www.lifefitpe.com
Middle School Leadership & Service
Grade 6-8, 7-10
$200 per semester
Through a series of guided interaction and group exercises, students will explore the principles of leadership and learn to develop individual and group leadership skills to impact their lives and their communities. Content areas include decision-making, goal setting, effective communication, servant leadership, organization and time management skills, and concrete strategies to implement change. Additionally, by planning FLA events and activities, this class gives the homeschool student the unique opportunity to experience traditional "student government" without attending a school. A FLA leadership shirt is included in the class fee. This class may be taken in both the fall and spring semesters.
Teacher: Laurie Chiappe
email: MrsChiappe@gmail.com
phone/text: 408-472-6155
website: historyrockswithmrschiappe.com
PE Games and Fitness
Grades 4-8
$180 per semester
P.E. Games and Fitness is a fun class that will include a variety of exercises that will strengthen and condition your child, using their own body weight. Also this class will incorporate interactive games which will encourage team work and cooperation. This will be a great way to get your child moving and developing motor skills, coordination, balance, and team work.
Teacher: Sara Schneider
email: saraschnei@sbcglobal.net
phone: 530.417.3230
website: http://ba-lates.com
Simply Baking: Kids Kitchen
Grade 4-8
$250.00 per semester
All new recipes for a new semester! Simply Baking is a hands on baking class for kids who love to bake and want to build confidence in the kitchen while learning the basics of baking. Each week, young bakers will measure, mix, and prepare their own batter or dough in class while learning essential kitchen skills such as accurate measuring, recipe reading, flavor pairing, and safe food handling. Because baking is a science, students will explore why ingredients work the way they do and how small changes can affect the final result. After preparing their creations in class, students will take their ready to bake treats home to pop in the oven, enjoy with their families, and show off their new baking skills. This course blends fun, creativity, and real world learning. Please be aware that because of the nature of how this class is set up this class can not be tailored for households with food allergies and dietary restrictions
This course integrates core standards across multiple subject areas.
Teacher: Kelley Ayres
email: kidskitchenfla@gmail.com
phone/text: 530-417-1013
Stop-Motion Animation Lab
Grades 4-8
$200 per semester
Let’s make movies! Students will create a project from start to finish. They will write original storylines. Create a story board. Gather “actors”/materials. Lighting and backgrounds will be provided. They will shoot and edit their movies and then we get to watch them all! Students will work in teams to help each other produce their films. Additional independent projects are
encouraged!
*ipad or cell phone with the app Stop Motion installed is required for this class. Tripods are strongly encouraged.
Teacher: Rachel Wattson
email: eclecticartsedc@gmail.com
phone: 760-716-2793
Speak Up! Public Speaking, Debate, & Interpersonal Communication
Grades 4-8
$190 per semester
During the first semester, this course explores concepts in public speaking, critical thinking, argument, and debate. Students will study different styles of speeches, learn rhetorical strategies and practice the art of speech & debate. The students will give several speeches to classmates. Various styles of speech will be studied, including: persuasion, impromptu, and extemporaneous. Second semester continues with an exploration of interpersonal communication. Student practice skills and strategies designed to enhance their ability to effectively communicate. This is a yearlong class, students are welcome to join the second semester. This course may be repeated as the student dynamics and presentations change the flow and information of each offering. (Year long class, students welcome to join in the Spring)
Teacher: Laurie Chiappe
email: MrsChiappe@gmail.com
phone/text: 408-472-6155
website: historyrockswithmrschiappe.com
Study Hall & Tutoring
Grades 4-8
$160 per semester
This class provides dedicated time for individualized tutoring, homework help, projects, and studying in a supportive, structured environment. Students receive academic guidance and tutoring, particularly in math and language arts, while developing effective study habits, time management, and organizational skills. For students preparing for CAASPP testing, practice questions and additional support will be available, with answer keys provided to parents for reference.
Teacher: Jenae Cooper
email: jenaecooper@icloud.com
phone: 530-321-5513
Unlocking Critical Thinking: Video Game Masters
Grades 4-8
$205 per semester
Welcome to Video Game Masters, a dynamic homeschool class where Nintendo Switch consoles and E-rated games become tools for enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In this class, students will have the opportunity to dive into engaging critical thinking games such as: Big Brain Academy, Nintendo Switch Sports, Professor Rubik's Brain Fitness, Dr. Kawashima's Brain Training
and Minecraft. Each class starts with an engaging lecture on key concepts, followed by hands-on gameplay to apply and reinforce learning in a fun, interactive way.
Why Join Video Game Masters?
● Enhance Problem-Solving Abilities – Develop logic and strategy through engaging challenges.
● Strengthen Critical Thinking – Improve decision-making, reasoning, and adaptability.
● Learn Through Play – Apply educational concepts in an interactive way that keeps students engaged.
● Boost Social & Teamwork Skills – Collaborate with peers through multiplayer games and group discussions.
● Innovative Learning Approach – Experience a unique blend of education and entertainment
While a love for video games helps, the real goal is to sharpen analytical thinking and strategy through an
innovative, cognitive-boosting experience.
*Nintendo Switch consoles will be provided for classroom use.*
Teacher: Joe Vargas
Email: YourFirstChoiceTutoring@gmail.com
Phone/text: 916-805-7333
Website: www.FirstChoiceTutoring.com
Yearbook: Foothill Learning Academy
Grades 6-8
$200 per semester
In this course, students will develop valuable real-world skills in time management, marketing, teamwork, and design principles. Working collaboratively, they will create an innovative and visually engaging yearbook that captures the memories and events of Foothill Learning Academy. Students will learn essential page design, publishing techniques, copywriting, and editing, gaining hands-on experience in the process. A laptop computer is required for this class to facilitate digital design and editing work.
Teacher: Laurie Chiappe
Email: mrschiappe@gmail.com
Phone/text: 408-472-6155
Website: www.historyrockswithmrschiappe.com