Online Classes

Every great book, movie, and video game starts with a powerful story. In this fast-paced, interactive class, unschooler will dive into the world of narratives to discover how authors build unforgettable worlds and characters. Together, we will dissect the mechanics of storytelling—from gripping plots and suspenseful conflicts to unique points of view and hidden themes. Unschoolers will not only read select literature, they will learn how to analyze great literature like a pro and how to level up their own creative writing. This class is ideal for unschoolers in grades 6-8. Classes is held twice a week, Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:00-9:45 A CST, beginning September 14, 2026.

Lights, Camera, Analysis! Give your learners a new lens on their favorite movies with our 8-week online Two Thumbs Up!|Film Criticism & Analysis! Far from just a passive screen time activity, this class transforms movie-watching into an active, intellectual adventure. We teach learners how to decode visual storytelling, understand the cultural importance of cinema, and articulate their thoughts through compelling text and video reviews—much like a traditional literature analysis, but with the movies they love. This class designed specifically for grades 6–8.  Class is held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 1:00-1:45P CST, beginning October 19, 2026.

In this weekly Algebra 1 class, learners will build a strong understanding of essential algebraic skills through clear, step-by-step instruction and guided practice. Topics will include solving equations and inequalities, graphing linear equations and functions, systems of equations, exponents and polynomials, factoring and quadratic equations, and real-world applications. Each class will begin with instruction and examples of the skill we are learning. We will model problems step by step, explaining not only how to solve them but also why each step works. Learners will then work through problems before practicing more independently. Our goal is to provide consistent Algebra 1 instruction while helping learnera strengthen their skills, build confidence, and become more independent math learners. This class is designed for grades 6-8. Class is held Mondays  at 6:00-7:00P CST, beginning October 19, 2026.

Motion Pictures is an immersive, 10-week hands-on production class designed for middle school unschoolers ready to step behind the lens. We will transform from passive viewers into active visual storytellers, learning that filmmaking is a blend of technical precision and creative soul. From the first "Action!" to the final cut, we will navigate the entire production pipeline: screenwriting, storyboarding, location scouting, cinematography, sound design, and digital editing. By the end of the term, each unschooler will have produced a short film and developed a roadmap for sharing his or her work with the world. This class includes multiple in-person field trips to help students gain more in-depth knowledge about the filmmaking process and industry. This class is ideal for grades 6-8. Class is held Mondays 11:00-12:30P CST, starting August 17, 2026.

Is your middle schooler ready to move beyond the screen and discover how the world really works? ​In a world dominated by rapid-fire digital algorithms, scrolling feeds, and clickbait headlines, true media literacy is a superpower. Welcome to Front-Page Frontiers: Media Literacy & Current Events. This 8-week class turns the local Sunday paper into a vibrant, hands-on learning lab. Each week, your learner will grab a physical local newspaper and dive in. No screens, just real ink and paper! They won’t just read the news; they’ll learn how the journalism business works—from local newsstands and print distribution to advertisers and ethics. Learners will clip their articles and match them with their written reports on a physical poster board portfolio. This class is ideal for grades 6-8. Class is held Wednesdays, 10:00-10:50A CST, starting August 19, 2026.

Ready to turn screen time into skill-building time? Join us for an 8-week online adventure where your learner will dive into the vibrant universe of Kodable to learn foundational computer science logic! We'll solve mazes, design features, code, and publish their very own playable video game, this hands-on class is perfect for budding young creators! This class is ideal for grades 1-2. Class is held Thursdays, 10:00-10:50A CST, starting December 3, 2026.

How did a swampy trading post on Lake Michigan turn into one of the world’s most iconic metropolises? Chicago Civics & Mapping is a beginner-friendly, 8-week journey into the heart of the Windy City! This class blends local history, urban geography, politics, and civic engagement into an exciting, hands-on learning experience.

We won't just study Chicago—we’ll actively explore it. Throughout the term, we will master the city's grid system, step into the shoes of city officials, analyze neighborhood cultures, and design public service campaigns. This class is ideal for grades 5-8. Class is held Thursdays, 11:00-11:50A CST, starting December 3, 2026.