Academics :: Class Descriptions :: Schedule of Classes
The Arts :: Graduation Requirements :: Rules

:: ACADEMICS
 
LEARN TO LOVE LEARNING

Our philosophy recognizes that people learn in social, creative, emotional and spiritual ways, which are just as important as academic ones. We recognize that sometimes academics may take a back seat to more urgent areas of healing or growth. Some students have had difficult or even shaming educational experiences from the one learning style accommodated at most large schools. We work with our students, including those with learning disabilities, to meet their needs and interests and to help them regain their love of learning.

Holden students have opportunities to discuss the form and content of their curriculum. All classes are interactive and have an experiential component that allows each student to become actively involved in his or her learning. In academic classes, students are grouped by interest and ability, not by grade level. Staff regularly sends out academic progress reports and evaluations, and ends the year with family conferences.
 
MATH

For students who have struggled with math, we offer Alternative, Problem-Solving and Life Skills Math. In addition, we offer Algebra and Geometry. Students learn inductive reasoning, applied problem-solving, measurement, graphing, statistics and probability, and how to look at patterns and relationships. In all math classes, we strive to empower students to feel that they can enjoy and succeed at math.
 
SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HISTORY

Rather than following traditional texts and time-lines, we use theme-based classes that focus on or can be related to socially relevant subjects. Through World, U.S. and elective social sciences, students learn critical thinking and analysis. Past social science classes have included Ancient Egypt and Rome, Psychology: Personality Systems, Social Relations (life skills, conflict resolution), Radical Political Movements, and History of U.S. Consumerism.
 
SCIENCE

Our science classes catalyze curiosity while broadening conceptual skills and increasing understanding of the natural and physical world. Classes often focus on working with plant and animal life. Our student-maintained organic garden is the lab where students learn basic ecology, biology and chemistry. Evolution of Life, Science of Food, Herps & Herbs, and Agriculture & the Environment are a few of the science classes we have offered.
 
ENGLISH

English classes also incorporate the current interests of students. It is not uncommon for students to be reading horror and science fiction. These texts often grab the interest of students while allowing for the learning of vocabulary, writing, critiquing and reading comprehension.