Grade 8-9 | Credits: 2.5

Students will participate in a fun, hands-on semester course designed to teach real-world skills that they can use for a lifetime while combining creativity, teamwork, and practical learning in an engaging and supportive environment. During one marking period, students step into the kitchen to explore food and nutrition through the MyPlate Food Plan. They’ll learn essential cooking techniques while working alongside classmates in interactive food labs. From kitchen and food safety to measuring, using kitchen tools, meal planning, and basic nutrition, students build confidence and independence as they prepare and evaluate food together. In the second marking period, students bring their creativity to life through sewing and textile projects. They will learn hand sewing and embroidery stitches, attach different types of buttons, and use computerized sewing machines to complete multiple projects. Along the way, students strengthen important skills such as following directions, problem-solving, and attention to detail—skills that transfer to all subjects and future careers. Creative Living 1 is more than a class—it’s an opportunity to learn practical skills, express creativity, and gain confidence in everyday life. Students leave with hands-on experience, finished projects, and abilities they’ll use well beyond the classroom.

Grade 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Co/Prerequisite: Creative Living I

Culinary Essentials is a hands-on, half-year course designed to help students build lifelong cooking skills while exploring the exciting world of food. Through engaging kitchen labs and classroom activities, students learn how to safely prepare a variety of foods, follow and modify recipes, measure accurately, and work effectively as part of a team. Units include baking, fruits and vegetables, dairy, eggs, poultry, desserts, and more—giving students practical skills they can use every day at home. Whether students are interested in pursuing culinary arts as a career or simply want to become more confident, independent cooks, Culinary Essentials offers a fun, interactive learning experience that blends creativity, math, science, and real-world application. This course also serves as a strong foundation for students who may wish to continue in advanced culinary programs in high school and beyond

Grade 8-12 | Credits: 2.5

Food Science is a hands-on, half-year course that brings science to life through the foods students eat every day. Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, this class shows students how science, technology, and real-world problem-solving connect directly to what happens in the kitchen and beyond. Through engaging food labs, cooperative activities, visuals, and interactive investigations, students explore the scientific principles behind food production, processing, preparation, and evaluation. This course goes beyond simply cooking, students discover why foods change, how ingredients interact, and how science ensures food is safe, nutritious, and affordable. Food Science also introduces students to a wide range of exciting food-related careers, including culinary arts, baking, food marketing, food critics, and food science professions. Students examine population trends, consumer influences, and global food challenges, helping them understand how food science impacts everyday life and the world around them. Perfect for students who enjoy hands-on learning, science, or food, Food Science builds critical thinking skills while making learning fun, relevant, and meaningful. It’s an eye-opening course that blends science, creativity, and real-world application, one lab at a time

Grade 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | 

Sew Much More is a creative, hands-on course that introduces students to the art and skill of sewing. Through engaging projects and guided practice, students learn both hand and machine sewing, basic embroidery, pattern reading, and fabric selection. From crafting personalized accessories to constructing simple garments, students gain practical skills and confidence in a fun, supportive environment. Designed for grades 8–9, this course encourages creativity, problem-solving, and attention to detail while exploring how clothing and fabrics are made. Whether students are curious about fashion and design or simply want to learn a valuable life skill, Sew Much More offers an exciting foundation that can spark interest in future Fashion or Interior Design courses—and beyond