In this weekly class, students learn Improv rules and techniques that apply to the stage and beyond. Each class begins with low-pressure group warm-ups followed by specific exercises and scenic work scaffolded to bring the group along together on their Improv journey. Early classes are structured primarily around short-form games that build skills for a transition to scenic long-form Improv later in the semester. Improvisation is unscripted theatre that invites both performers and audiences to collaborate in its creation. It's silly, low stakes, and an amazing way to build confidence, resilience, and connection. Improv is not stand-up or a one-person show. It is fully collaborative and fosters the ability to listen to one another's ideas and be open to the story we build together. The resulting work is unexpected, hilarious, and always surprising. Also, inside jokes. So many inside jokes...

Middle and High school students will dive into the world of Jane Austen. We will examine her literature, explore her characters and investigate the interpersonal relationships woven throughout her narratives. Together we will practice dramatic techniques and character development; design sets, props and costumes; and rehearse and perform an hour-long show. The semester will culminate with the production of "Instant Austen: Jane Austen at Warp Speed" by Treanor Baring - a lively modern twist on Austen's six classics. All rehearsals will take place during class time. We will have one show connected to the end of year showcase and one additional performance (location TBD) outside of AAC time at the end of the semester. Homework expectations include reading/listening to some of Austen's works, line memorization and costume creation (compilation or fabrication). Materials fee is $25 for scripts, props, set materials, etc. There will be no ticket fee for families of performers. Purchased (or library borrowed) Austen titles in print or audiobook will be required for the class. (Original or young reader editions acceptable)

Students learn screenwriting, character development, filming, editing and everything in between while creating an original short film. Emphasis is placed on collaboration, creative problem-solving, and seeing a project through from idea to final cut. No prior experience necessary. Occasional homework required. $45 Supply Fee

This class is designed for younger singers who are in the beginning stages of their musical journey. Throughout the year, learners will begin to explore the ins and outs of the amazing instrument that they carry around with them everyday– their voice! Using a variety of genres spanning multiple time periods, budding musicians will become comfortable singing in both large and small groups, performing in duets and as soloists. An introduction to Solfège and ear training will form the foundation needed for reading music and harmonizing with others. This choir can expect to perform in a minimum of one performance per semester outside of school hours. No experience necessary! Offered Tuesday/Thursday; Register for one OR both days Supply Fee: $25 per semester

This class is designed for younger singers who are in the beginning stages of their musical journey. Throughout the year, learners will begin to explore the ins and outs of the amazing instrument that they carry around with them everyday– their voice! Using a variety of genres spanning multiple time periods, budding musicians will become comfortable singing in both large and small groups, performing in duets and as soloists. An introduction to Solfège and ear training will form the foundation needed for reading music and harmonizing with others. This choir can expect to perform in a minimum of one performance per semester outside of school hours. No experience necessary! Offered Tuesday/Thursday; Register for one OR both days Supply Fee: $25 per semester

This class is designed to be a continuation of the concepts introduced in previous years with an emphasis on ear-training, music literacy and musicianship. Singers will become comfortable singing in two and three part harmony, reading sheet music and communicating the basics of music theory. This choir can expect to perform in a minimum of one performance per semester outside of school hours. Previous music experience is a plus but not required! Offered Tuesday/Thursday; Register for one OR both days Supply Fee: $25 per semester

This class is designed to be a continuation of the concepts introduced in previous years with an emphasis on ear-training, music literacy and musicianship. Singers will become comfortable singing in two and three part harmony, reading sheet music and communicating the basics of music theory. This choir can expect to perform in a minimum of one performance per semester outside of school hours. Previous music experience is a plus but not required! Offered Tuesday/Thursday; Register for one OR both days Supply Fee: $25 per semester

This class is designed for singers who are ready to work hard, learn a ton and have fun while doing so. Quick paced rehearsals will lead to proficiency in ear-training, music literacy and musicianship. In addition to performing in semester showcases, singers in this class may take on additional performance/ audition opportunities as they become available. Requires director approval. Enrollment on both Tuesday AND Thursday is required. Supply Fee: $25 per semester

This course will focus on basic to intermediate music theory as it pertains to composing music across different genres. Musicians will have the opportunity to create individual works as well as collaborate with classmates. This class is offered for an optional grade. Students can expect to spend approximately half an hour outside of class time on editing their compositions. It is offered as a high school course with mature, motivated middle school students welcome. Optional Materials: Manuscript paper Required Materials: Personal tablet or computer with headphones and internet access. Required Text: To Be Announced

This Life Skills course is designed to equip middle school students with essential skills for navigating high school and beyond with confidence and competence. Through interactive lessons, real-world applications, and hands-on activities, students will develop critical life skills in the following areas: ● Financial Literacy – Budgeting, banking, credit, debt management, and smart consumer habits. ● Confidence Building – Self-awareness, goal-setting, personal responsibility, and resilience. ● Communication Skills – Effective verbal communication, active listening, conflict resolution, and digital etiquette. ● Time Management & Organization – Prioritization, scheduling, productivity strategies, and balancing responsibilities. ● Goal Setting & Future Planning- Vision boards, short vs long term goals, growth mindset & resilience ● Health & Wellness – Stress management, mental health awareness, nutrition, and self-care. ● Entrepreneurship & Innovation- Mini business projects, Shark Tank Style Pitches ● Cooking & Meal Planning – Basic cooking techniques, grocery shopping on a budget, meal prepping, reading nutrition labels, and kitchen safety. By the end of this course, students will be empowered with the practical skills necessary for personal and professional success. They will leave with a strong foundation in financial literacy, effective communication, decision-making, and everyday life management—key tools for a thriving future. *This class will have ~1 hour of work required to be done outside of class each week and can be taken for a grade. *This class will have a $5 supply fee. *There will potentially be an HEB field trip, that is within walking distance of the school.

This class meets high school graduation requirements for a year long social studies credit. This Life Skills course is designed to equip high school students with essential skills for navigating adulthood with confidence and competence. Through interactive lessons, real-world applications, and hands-on activities, students will develop critical life skills in the following areas: ● Financial Literacy – Budgeting, banking, credit, debt management, and smart consumer habits. ● Confidence Building – Self-awareness, goal-setting, personal responsibility, and resilience. ● Communication Skills – Effective verbal communication, active listening, conflict resolution, and digital etiquette. ● Time Management & Organization – Prioritization, scheduling, productivity strategies, and balancing responsibilities. ● Career & College Readiness – Résumé writing, job interviews, networking, workplace professionalism, and post-high school planning. ● Health & Wellness – Stress management, mental health awareness, nutrition, and self-care. ● Civic & Social Responsibility – Understanding rights and responsibilities, basic law awareness, and community involvement. ● Cooking & Meal Planning – Basic cooking techniques, grocery shopping on a budget, meal prepping, reading nutrition labels, and kitchen safety. By the end of this course, students will be empowered with the practical skills necessary for personal and professional success. They will leave with a strong foundation in financial literacy, effective communication, decision-making, and everyday life management—key tools for a thriving future. *This class will have ~1 hour of work required to be done outside of class each week and can be taken for a grade. *This class will have a supply fee. *There will potentially be an HEB field trip, that is within walking distance of AAC.

Step into a world of magic, mystery, and mouthwatering meals! In this enchanting elementary cooking class, young chefs will embark on a culinary journey inspired by beloved fairytales and fantasy books. Each week, we’ll explore a story and create delicious dishes that bring these tales to life. But a true hero or heroine must also have impeccable manners! Along with our cooking adventures, we will learn and practice a new manner each week, from polite table settings to how to take turns during a conversation. *No homework will be required for this class. *This class will have a $30 supply fee

Get ready to mix, knead, and bake with purpose! In this hands-on middle school cooking and baking class, students will learn essential kitchen skills while creating delicious homemade treats and savory dishes. Great food is even better when shared! This class also emphasizes teamwork and community service, encouraging students to work together and find ways to give back—whether by preparing meals for loved ones, baking for a cause, or learning about food-related charities. Along the way, we’ll explore the power of food to bring people together and make a difference. *Minimal work outside of class. *This class will have a $30 supply fee. *This class is not allergy friendly. All students are welcome but recipes will not be changed to accommodate dietary restrictions.*

This is not a typical crafty art class. Students are introduced to foundational art skills that support confident, intentional art-making. The curriculum includes still life and form drawing, sketching and shading, watercolor painting, and related exercises designed to strengthen observation, focus, and creative expression. Students are guided in developing skills and tools that allow them to create with confidence and pride in their work. Art Material fees: $35.00

This advanced class is designed for students who view art as more than a hobby and are interested in developing their skills at a higher level. Building on foundational techniques, students focus on precision, new perspectives, and intentional art-making. Instruction includes life drawing, portraiture, one- and two-point perspective, branding, sacred geometry, and portfolio-focused work. Students refine their artistic voice and style in a structured environment for motivated young artists. Art Material Fees: $35

In this class, elementary students use sticks, leaves, and other natural materials to create simple “stick people” figures. After building their characters, students will create and write short stories around them. The activity encourages creativity, clear writing, and hands-on exploration of the natural world.

3rd-5th grade - This will be a fun and energetic introduction to literary analysis. Students will be literary archeologists and learn to sift through the layers of words to uncover meaning and depth. We will deep dive into characterization, inferences, narration, mood and tone. Together we will annotate texts and discover the joy of discussing books! Homework- Students will be required to read outside of class and be ready to discuss what they have read. They will also complete 2-3 projects. Lastly, there is optional written work. Parents are expected to purchase books with the correct ISBN. Books for this course include but are not limited to: The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame and Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh by Robert C. O’Brien

This will be a fun and engaging course where students will learn to become literary archaeologists. They will learn to dig deep and sift through the layers of words to uncover meaning and depth. Students can expect weekly homework assignments including reading, vocabulary, and discussion questions. Students will also complete additional class projects along with 1-2 essays. Students will practice how to craft an analytical essay through the medium of discussion questions. I will also explicitly teach analytical essay writing. This is an ungraded course, however I do review and provide feedback on assignments. Students can expect to spend 3+/- hours a week on homework. Parents are expected to purchase the books with the correct ISBN. Books for this course will include but are not limited to- The Star of Kazan by Eva Ibbotson Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan

In this rigorous English course, students will be expected to read and complete written homework outside of class. They will answer discussion questions, write 1-2 essays per semester, and have additional class projects. Students will also be expected to participate in class discussions. Students can expect to spend 5+/- hours per week on homework. Our focus will be on literary analysis and critical thinking. Students will be literary archeologists and learn to sift through the layers of words to uncover meaning and depth. Students will learn how to craft an analytical essay through the medium of discussion questions. Discussion questions will be stepping stones leading to writing a complete essay. Students should already have basic essay writing in their tool belt and be primed to build upon those skills. The books for this course include but are not limited to: Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Animal Farm by George Orwell The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak Parents are expected to purchase the correct ISBN of each book that I will send out. Any additional resources- poetry, short story, or essay will be provided. This is an optionally graded class. I am happy to provide letter grades, not numeric ones. Here is the fun bit- I am an energetic teacher who loves my subject. I am also deeply committed to helping students succeed. I am available outside of class for help, and I encourage students to use me as a resource. We only have a short time in class together to cover a lot of ground, so I encourage students to call, text, or email me with their questions.

3rd - 5th grade - In this fun and engaging introduction to creative writing, students will learn about vivid verbs, characterization, story structure, literary elements, forms of poetry, and so much more. They will find a supportive environment to allow their imagination to take flight and the tools to organize their ideas and discover the joy of bringing their thoughts to life on paper. Writing homework will be part of the class, the time is dependent upon the student.

Engaging in practice and process for developing works of expression and impact In this second semester we will explore how to engage with one’s own creative process and develop skills that help us weave words into the rich world that writing can be. We will find inspiration and personal meaningfulness to spin yarns that we are moved by and can delight in. We will continually engage with metaphor and pace and will learn skills and tools to develop layers of atmosphere, mood, and meaning. We will pull games and exercises from many worlds, including Gestalt therapy and Zen Dialogic practices, to explore character and system dynamics and explore depth of meaning and association.

3rd-6th Grade This hands-on project-based class will be a deep dive into history. Class time will be spent listening to stories, creating, playing games, solving puzzles and doing projects centering around non-Eurocentric societies and cultures of the Middle Ages. History will be taught from a secular perspective, but relevant religions of the time and place will be taught and explored. Each semester, students will be asked to complete 3 at home assignments: reading 1 book (available on audiobook), writing one article and completing 1 at home project. A list of optional supplemental literature will be provided. Fall: Middle Ages SE Asia: Japan, Korea, Khumer and Thailand Spring: Middle Ages Americas: Puebloan, Maya, Aztec, and Inca Communication will be done through Google Classroom. This class is NOT for a grade.

In this engaging, hands-on U.S. History course, students will explore how the United States grew and changed from the early 1800s to today. Through interactive activities, simulations, debates, map challenges, and creative projects, students won’t just learn history—they’ll experience it. From westward expansion and reform movements to world wars, civil rights, and modern-day America, we’ll examine how choices made in the past continue to shape our lives now. This class emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and civic awareness, helping students understand their role in a democratic society. Along the way, students will be encouraged to ask big questions, consider multiple perspectives, and reflect on how they can help shape the future of the United States.

This world history course explores the past through multiple perspectives rather than a single narrative. The class adapts to student interests, allowing deeper exploration of cultures, events, and time periods that spark curiosity while building historical context. Students are encouraged to question common assumptions, consider different viewpoints, and think critically about how history is recorded and interpreted. Through discussion and student-led exploration, the course helps students develop a broader understanding of the past and its influence on the world today. Logistics: Computer and internet required overall but not required in class, 1-2 hours of outside class needed, instructor will provide materials if needed, grades optional - provided per request

Students will examine the influence of news media in modern society and learn how to gather, research, and report in a variety of journalistic styles. We will also learn the ins and outs of newspaper layout, newspaper production, and fundraising. Students in this class will apply for newspaper staff positions and work together to produce multiple editions of the AAC community newspaper. This is project-based learning at its best!

This class teaches all the conventions of high school and college-level academic writing. We will learn how to conduct research and write essays in every genre, including persuasive, narrative, informative, and expository. The assignments in this class are project-based and collaborative, with the goal of helping students understand the relevance and power of writing.

This class will focus on foundational skills such as basic technique, simple melodies, rhythm games, and introductory note reading—all delivered at a comfortable pace to keep younger students engaged and encouraged.

This will also be a beginner-level class, but we’ll move at a slightly quicker pace, appropriate for older beginners. We’ll cover the same core concepts—technique, note reading, and ensemble skills—but with more structure and deeper musical exploration to match their developmental stage.

This is a club designed specifically for middle and high school graphic novel enthusiasts. It will be an engaging social space to explore sequential art, diverse storytelling, and encourage growth and geeking- out on the aspects of graphic novels that you most enjoy. Come, learn, share, and grow!

The Greek Mythology club is for lovers of Greek Mythology and/or Percy Jackson. This is a middle school focused club for socializing and discussion of all things Greek Mythology. Club time includes games, trivia and/or art. There is always an adult sponsor present, but activities are student led.