Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can. According to Idaho State Board of Education (IDAPA 08.02.03.105), six (6) credits of science, two (2) of which are lab-based credits, are required for high school graduation. One (1) credit is equivalent to 60 hours of instruction. A typical year-long science course is two (2) credits or 120 hours of instruction, and a semester course is one (1) credit or 60 hours of instruction. A two (2) hour lab course that meets once weekly for a semester of 15 weeks is equivalent to 30 hours of instruction or 0.5 credit. A two (2) hour lab course that meets once weekly for a full-year class is equivalent to 60 hours of instruction or one (1) credit.

Both. The life science dissection class would pair well with a life science or biology curriculum. The microscopy class may be paired with any life science curriculum or may be considered an independent lab class. Other classes, such as chemistry or biology, are complete classes incorporating a combination of micro-lectures, discussion, interactive activities, projects, and laboratory experiments.

The lab classes are offered as either semester classes or full year classes. Please see Course Paths for specific details.

The full-year classes, such as chemistry or biology, meet twice weekly. These classes incorporate a combination of discussion, interactive activities, projects, and laboratory experiments. The two-day approach is carefully designed to provide students with a high-quality STEM education while respecting their time and fostering independence.

• Hands-On Learning and Lab Experiments: Lab experiments allow students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of scientific concepts while under the supervision of trained educators to ensure student safety and experimental accuracy.
• Content Clarifications: In-person classes provide an opportunity for students to ask questions, clarify doubts, and correct misconceptions. This interactive environment fosters deeper understanding and ensures that students are on the right track with their studies.
• Collaborative Learning: Group discussions and peer collaboration during in-person classes enhance learning outcomes. Students benefit from diverse perspectives and learn to work as part of a team, which is a crucial skill in STEM fields.
• Flexibility: The two-day schedule strikes a balance between independent learning and guided instruction. It ensures that students receive the support they need without requiring daily attendance.
• Idaho Education Law Compliance: According to Idaho education law, schools must provide structured educational programs that meet state standards. Our two-day schedule ensures that students receive the necessary instruction and support to meet these standards while balancing independent study at home.

The majority of our lab courses are designed for grades 7-12 or ages 13-18. For specific age or grade requirements please see the individual courses.

Yes! A key component of our curriculum is understanding the purpose and function of scientific tools and equipment, as well as learning and practicing lab safety protocols. We endeavor to provide authentic scientific equipment that are feasible to use in a classroom lab setting and are not cost prohibitive.

Our science courses utilize textbooks from Centripetal Press (non-faith-based) and Novare Science (faith-based), offering a rigorous academic foundation designed to foster deep understanding. Built on the principles of Mastery, Integration, and Wonder, the curriculum ensures students not only retain scientific knowledge but also develop curiosity and appreciation for the subject. By emphasizing mastery-based learning, students revisit key concepts regularly, reinforcing their understanding and building confidence in scientific inquiry. Covering science courses for grades 7-12, the texts prioritize long-term retention and problem-solving skills, equipping students with the tools necessary for success. Designed with clarity, durability, and engaging graphics, these materials are both visually appealing and highly effective. The curriculum employs cumulative assessment, preventing rote memorization and promoting genuine comprehension. By focusing on essential material, the texts avoid unnecessary complexity while ensuring students develop strong analytical reasoning.

The Centripetal Press (non-faith-based) and Novare Science (faith-based) curriculums each maintain the same rigorous scientific content while differing in their philosophical framing. The faith-based version integrates a Kingdom Perspective, aligning scientific principles with theological insights to encourage students to see the natural world as part of God’s creation. Discussions on faith are incorporated alongside scientific inquiry, fostering a deeper connection between science and spirituality. The non-faith-based version, while preserving the same high-quality science instruction, presents concepts without religious references, focusing exclusively on empirical evidence, scientific reasoning, and mastery-based learning, making it suitable for secular or diverse educational settings. Both versions uphold the Mastery, Integration, and Wonder approach, ensuring students develop a profound understanding of science while engaging with the material in a structured and meaningful way. Crafted with aesthetic sensitivity, clarity, and durability, the textbooks serve as effective tools for long-term learning, allowing parents and schools to tailor the science curriculum to their educational philosophy while maintaining academic excellence.

Yes, we are an approved vendor with the Idaho Empowering Parents program. For information about this program, please see the Empowering Parents website.