Shabazz City High School Course Catalog - All Courses

Course Description: This is a year long Math class. Algebra and Geometry are recommended for all students.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Grant
• This is a year long course*

Course Description: This is a year long Math class. After taking Algebra 1 and Geometry, this advanced math course is ideal for a student who is interested in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM). This college prep course completes the set of standards to help prepare you for the ACT and college entrance exams. If you are unsure what your post-high school life will be like, you should be taking an advanced math course to keep as many options open as possible.

This course will qualify as a third year of college prep Math for the UW Direct Admit option.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Joe
• This is a year long course*

Course Description: This is an introductory Biology course that will primarily focus on the anatomy and physiology of the nervous, muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems. Students will take a fascinating in-depth look at the human body and be expected to engage in a variety of comparative anatomy dissections throughout the semester.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: In this class students will explore the art genre of animation by creating multiple animated shorts. Students will practice how to plan a work of animation and what components you need to create a successful story, including thinking about your audience. This will include concept art, storyboarding, feedback sessions, animation creation, and post-production editing. Students will generate works of animation using a variety of techniques like hand drawn, stop-motion, claymation, and computer generated animation. These films will be showcased to the school at the end of the semester animation film festival during the Celebration of Learning.mation Film Festival.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: Students who are behind on credits have the opportunity to enroll in the Credit Recovery hour at Shabazz. During this time, students will engage with online course curriculum through Edgenuity. They will also have support from our Credit Recovery teacher during this time. Students work at their own pace to complete 1-2 courses to recover credits and to support moving towards an on-track graduation. 

This course is primarily for students who need to make up credits or are not able to take a course through their regular schedule at Shabazz.
 

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Variable credit
• Instructor: Joel

Course Description: This course requires the use of sharp cutting tools (exacto knives, scissors, rotary blades, and drills). In this class, students will develop an understanding of books, publishing history, and the meaning of "text." The class requires students to regularly read, write, annotate, and make their thinking process visible. They will engage in hands-on projects that integrate storytelling, research, and craftsmanship, culminating in the creation of a repurposed / altered book or an original artist text focusing on a chosen theme. Students will present their final projects at the Celebration of Learning in January. As in all classes, students will practice time management, academic organization, collaboration, and basic study skills daily.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: Cell Biology is a semester science course intended for freshmen/sophomores. The first quarter content focuses on the study of biomolecules and the structure and function of biological cells. The second quarter focuses on cellular processes and begins to lay the foundation of understanding how cells can interact with each other to form organisms. This course is an excellent precursor to Anatomy & Physiology and Genetics.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science 
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: In this class students will explore the art form of ceramic and sculpture through artist exploration and artwork generation. Students will learn to engage in the full process a ceramic or sculpture artist goes through from interpreting works of art to understand the artist’s intention, generating ideas, sculpting a work using handbuilding techniques, and presenting the work to receive feedback. Students will also learn about the rich history of ceramic and sculpture artists, in order to find inspiration. Students will display multiple works from the course in a final gallery show at the end of the semester Celebration of Learning.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: Chemistry is a year long class series intended for students new to high school science courses. Semester one focuses on the structure of atoms and the nature of chemical bonding. Quarter two examines the main groups of atoms, and the meaning behind the structure of the Periodic Table of the Elements. Quarter three examines the fundamentals of organic chemistry and the properties of complex polymers. Fourth quarter examines the mathematical relationships in chemical reactions and how ideal gasses interact in these reactions.

A lot of time is spent on learning about and using basic study skills, developing increasing responsibility and independence, and classroom discussion skills. Credit is earned using the district expectations and assessment occurs via written assessments, in-class work, and completion of laboratory write-ups.

This is not an appropriate course series for experienced science students and it is recommended that such students seek alternative science courses offered at other times or by other instructors.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Grant
• This is a year long course*

Course Description: What shapes who you are and what you'll become? Are you willing to push yourself physically and mentally to think about life's big questions? This class will explore how our relationship with the natural world, diverse perspectives, and philosophies of those around us shape our current and future selves. This class will use nature and a community of mentors as tools to explore what aspects of our lives have the most impact on who we become as adults in our next phase of life. This class involves a multiple day overnight “rite of passage” field trip experience. 

This course is open to seniors only.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: This course is designed to explore geometry’s application in construction. We’ll start with guided woodworking projects in a variety of disciplines before working with a community partner at the Bodgery where we will have access to a broad range of equipment for individual student projects. Students will gain experience in the design process while generating their community impact projects.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Math (.5), Science (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Joe

Course Description: Creative Writing is a class that offers a variety of ways to practice reading and writing skills. The class will read short fiction stories together with a purpose of analyzing author style, characterization, conflict and resolution, as well as societal connections. Students will be creating fiction scenes, writing poetry, completing short analysis pieces, and participating in theme-based creative activities. Classroom discussions will support these skills and cover topics like point of view, dialogue rules, conflict mapping, sensory details, and more. Students will demonstrate their understanding and comprehension through thoughtful reading responses, creative pieces that use literary devices, and detailed writing that reflects both imagination and strong comprehension.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English (.5)
• Instructor: Laura

Course Description: A semester-long course where students create a classroom where they can discuss, debate, and think about what is happening in this world while they develop their own values and ethics. The class will grade heavily on participation and discussion. Daily attendance will be vital to passing this class.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: This interdisciplinary course blends science, social studies, and elective credit to explore the powerful relationship between sports, society, and personal growth. Students will investigate how society has developed through sports, analyzing how athletic movements have influenced culture, policy, and social change. They will also examine how individuals develop through sports by studying human movement, biomechanics, and the ways teamwork, discipline, leadership, and resilience emerge through athletic participation. Through case studies, athlete stories, movement labs, and applied projects, students will learn how sports shape both the world around us and our own physical and personal development.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: .5 Science, .5 Social Studies, .25 Elective
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: The goal of Diversity in Literature is to explore a variety of writing genres and subject matter, focusing on the various interpretations of the word “diversity.” Stories that lift up the experience of marginalized groups, underrepresented cultures, and experiences from around the world will be explored. In addition to subject matter, this course will look at diversity in genre, exploring styles of literature often missing from classrooms (ex. horror, bizarro, afrofuturism, fantasy, etc). Finally, this course will explore the diversity of what it means to be a “literary text” in the 21st century (film? tweets? Tik toks? We’ll figure it out together!).

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: This course will be an overview of Earth and space in order to better understand the foundational environmental cycles that create our world and universe as we know it. Students will build basic science skills and understanding while exploring how these fundamental concepts influence big issues and concepts in the world around us.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: In this course students will have the opportunity to learn introductory ecology concepts while engaging in the environmental systems in the world around them first hand. Dig into the foundations of conservation, ecological cycles, and species identification while applying that knowledge through environmentalism: concern about and action aimed at protecting the environment. Students will explore how the complex dynamics of our society including race, politics, and education all tie into environmental issues and advocacy.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: The expanded Wisconsin Outdoors learning lab will expose students to a range of outdoors skills and the science behind key concepts such as fire-building, first aid, using and maintaining tools, outdoor cooking, paddling, and shelter building. Weather permitting we’ll have at least one overnight field trip to put the skills to the test. Students will also learn about the array of Wisconsin plants, birds, and mammals and how to identify them. Students will have the opportunity to earn the Wilderness First Aid certification as part of this course. Students will also have an opportunity to practice nature photography to add an artistic perspective to their experience in nature. Photography will also include practice with identification of plants, birds, and mammals.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: .5 Science, .5 Art, .25 Elective
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: Students in this course will explore mainstream film as both an art and communication form by analyzing it through literary, dramatic, and cinematic lenses. That means looking at all the “picky” elements that make up the whole visual text – story, setting, character development, symbolism, acting, cast choices, set design, costuming, soundtrack, lighting, editing, etc.

Students will analyze, interpret, record, and articulate their understanding of the visual text’s meaning with detailed evidence as they would with any print material. Recognizing and understanding narrative and visual production elements will help us to understand the filmmaker’s intentions and the effectiveness of the production’s message.

Students will also consider how a film’s message can be informed by both the cultural and historical context of the production and viewing events. The full films and short film clips used in the class may present controversial issues and images from a variety of sociopolitical and literary areas. All students will independently analyze a film from a class list and prepare a detailed presentation of a clip and analysis for the class. Note: students are expected to contribute to daily discussions, note-taking, presentations, and appropriate focused film viewing.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: This course is a tour of the cutting edge science of genetics. As genetics is discovering new innovations constantly, it is also a field of science that is on the front edge of scientific ethics as well. Learn about the function and anatomy of DNA in order to explore how genetics impacts our lives.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: This is a year long Math class. Algebra and Geometry are recommended for all
students.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Joe

Course Description: Health is a course designed to provide skills-based learning experiences that support students in becoming health literate individuals. The course will focus on analyzing internal and external influences, accessing health resources, communicating effectively with others, making healthy decisions, setting personal goals, practicing healthy behaviors, and advocating for personal and community health, through project based learning. Critical content will include personal health and wellness, mental and emotional health, alcohol and other drugs, and human sexuality. This course will also have many expert guest speakers.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Health
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: Health is a course designed to provide skills-based learning experiences that support students in becoming health literate individuals. The course will focus on analyzing internal and external influences, accessing health resources, communicating effectively with others, making healthy decisions, setting personal goals, practicing healthy behaviors, and advocating for personal and community health, through project based learning. Critical content will include personal health and wellness, mental and emotional health, alcohol and other drugs, and human sexuality. This course will also have many expert guest speakers.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Health
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: A heavy reading, research, and discussion based semester-long course where students choose different areas of Latin America to explore. One unit students may focus on folklore and myths. In another unit, they might choose to work on political maps and geography. Student choices will mix in with teacher created case studies of different topics like the Panama Canal, imperialism, or migration. The class will work to create a classroom where they can discuss, debate, and think about what is happening in the Latin American world together.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: A heavy reading, research, and discussion based semester-long course where students choose different areas of Latin America to explore. One unit students may focus on folklore and myths. In another unit, they might choose to work on political maps and geography. Student choices will mix in with teacher created case studies of different topics like the Panama Canal, imperialism, or migration. The class will work to create a classroom where they can discuss, debate, and think about what is happening in the Latin American world together.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: Nontraditional sports/activities with field experiences. (Pickleball, badminton, cornhole, biking, bowling, exergaming (Virtual reality)

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Phy Ed
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: This course will expose students to the science of limnology, the study of freshwater systems, by combining in-class traditional activities with numerous citizen science “hands-on” work in community green spaces, environmental restoration work, and through outdoor leisure activities (snow shoeing, hiking, fly-fishing, paddling). The science content standards are focussed on how matter and energy cycle through natural systems and are influenced by human activities. Part of engaging in this kind of study involves the refinement of communication skills, self and group reflection, and growth in these skills will be supported not only in outdoor science activities but in outdoor “adventures”.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member
   

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Science (.5), Phy Ed (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: Marketing Shabazz is a hands-on, creative course where students develop and implement marketing strategies to showcase what makes Shabazz City High School unique. Through collaborative projects, students will design compelling promotional materials, engage in artistic branding efforts, and refine their messaging to authentically represent the school. The class will also include outreach opportunities, such as recruitment visits to middle and high schools, where students will share their Shabazz experiences and connect with potential future students. Whether through video, social media, graphic design, or live presentations, students will gain real-world marketing experience while strengthening their teamwork and communication skills.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies 
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: Math is a branch of philosophy which explores the ideas of undeniable truths. Thus math has a foundation of logic that it has been built upon. This class will explore logic and practice it using logic-based games and puzzles to understand how we can find those undeniable truths and joy at the same time.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Grant

Course Description: This course focuses on lifelong fitness and mental well-being through walking, yoga, and mindfulness. During the first half of the semester, students will participate in guided walks around the neighborhood and to local parks, including Warner Park, building cardiovascular fitness and appreciation for outdoor activity. As the weather turns colder, the class will transition indoors to focus on yoga, meditation, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices. Students will develop strength, flexibility, stress management skills, and healthy habits they can use beyond high school.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Phy Ed
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: Tech Fitness is a physical education course that uses modern fitness technology, interactive movement-based games, and online fitness trends to promote lifelong physical activity. Students participate in exergaming, fitness apps, wearable technology, and digital workout platforms while exploring how social media, online fitness influencers, and current trends impact motivation, body image, and health behaviors. The course emphasizes safe movement, personal goal-setting, digital responsibility, and understanding how to positively create and share fitness content (Wakelet).

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Phy Ed
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: Create music to explore your own identity and find your authentic voice. Connect with yourself, your past, your culture, your values, and with others who are also exploring their identities. Listen to, analyze, perform, and create music that seeks to answer questions like “Who am I really?” “Where do I come from?” “Who are my people?” “How did I get here?” “Who do I want to be?” Respond to these inquiries through written journaling, musical voice
memos, thoughtful conversations, analyzing existing music & lyrics, and writing your own music & lyrics. Sing, play instruments, use computer loops & instruments to create and perform songs exploring identity. Perform music composed by others, improvised together, created alone, in small groups, and as a class.

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Music
• Instructor: Rachel LH

Course Description: Where there is oppression there is resistance. And for every resistance in history, there has been music leading the change. Study famous historical revolutions and the protest music that inspired, sustained, and united them. Sing and play historically revolutionary music. Connect understanding of past resistance movements to today’s work for social change. Create your own revolutionary music to inspire and sustain movements to fight oppression today.

Sing, play instruments, use computer loops & instruments to create and perform songs of resistance. Perform music composed by others, improvised together, created alone, in small groups, and as a class.

Power to the people! Let our music lead the way!

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Music
• Instructor: Rachel LH

Course Description: In this high school personal finance class, students will embark on a practical and comprehensive exploration of economic reasoning to navigate essential financial decisions. Covering topics such as making substantial purchases, selecting banks, managing credit cards, financing a car, securing housing, and career exploration, the course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for informed financial decision-making. Students will apply economic principles to assess the implications of their choices, fostering financial literacy and empowering them to make sound financial decisions as they transition into adulthood.

Personal Finance is a graduation requirement for all MMSD students. Personal Finance is recommended for Juniors at Shabazz.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Elective
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: In this class students will explore the artform of printmaking through historical perspectives, artist exploration and artwork generation. Students will learn to engage in the full process a printmaker goes through from generating ideas, visioning, carving and inking techniques, and presenting the work to receive feedback. Students will also explore the diversity of artmaking involved in printmaking that includes book construction, fabric printing, stamp creation, and print block creation. Students will work to create multiple prints to be displayed in the Shabazz gallery at the end of the semester.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: The class will allow students to read two books of choice (within certain parameters) and make their reading and thinking more visible to others. This course is designed for students to learn to choose appropriate texts, practice reading strategies, develop note-taking skills, improve reading comprehension techniques, review standards, and effectively articulate written and verbal responses to texts. Students will work through the steps of crafting an argumentative essay (brainstorming, using graphic organizers, developing a claim and thesis statement, and identifying evidence from the note taking process to support and defend that thesis). All students will also participate in a full-class discussion of their books at the end of each quarter.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: The class will allow students to read two books of choice (within certain parameters) and make their reading and thinking more visible to others. This course is designed for students to learn to choose appropriate texts, practice reading strategies, develop note-taking skills, improve reading comprehension techniques, review standards, and effectively articulate written and verbal responses to texts. Students will work through the steps of crafting an argumentative essay (brainstorming, using graphic organizers, developing a claim and thesis statement, and identifying evidence from the note taking process to support and defend that thesis). All students will also participate in a full-class discussion of their books at the end of each quarter.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-10
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: This class will explore the transformation of space (indoor or outdoor) or objects and the implications of that aesthetic transformation in terms of mathematical and social ramifications. Students should be prepared to be artistically creative and willing to go outside to explore places and physically transform them.

This course places an emphasis on the art form of interior and exterior design and the skills needed to work as that type of artist who transforms spaces like drawing, painting, model creating, and schematic work.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject:  .5 Math, .5 Art, .25 Elective
• Instructor: Joe

Course Description: In a world saturated with information, the ability to discern truth from manipulation is a vital survival skill. This course empowers students to become critical consumers of language by examining how rhetoric, persuasion, and propaganda shape public opinion and personal beliefs. Students will deconstruct a variety of texts—from political speeches and commercial advertising to social media campaigns and historical propaganda—to identify logical fallacies, emotional appeals, and bias. By mastering these analytical tools, students will not only learn to recognize when they are being targeted but will also refine their own ability to communicate effectively and ethically in a democratic society.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: In Science Fiction Literature, students will embark on an exploratory journey through the rich and diverse world of science fiction literature, examining its profound impact on society and culture. Learners will uncover the ways in which science fiction mirrors societal hopes, fears, ethical dilemmas, and technological advancements. Engaging in critical discussions, creative projects, and analytical writing, students will delve into themes of dystopia, utopia, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and the human condition, all while exploring the genre's role in inspiring innovation and reflecting upon the societal consequences of future possibilities. This course aims to not only deepen students' appreciation for science fiction as a literary genre but also to enhance their understanding of its lasting influence on the evolution of global culture and thought.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: Science Project students will learn about the philosophical underpinnings of science and how to engage in using the scientific method to conduct an experiment of the students' design. Students will produce a poster that reports on their research and experimental results to be shared with the community at the Celebration of Learning at the end of the semester.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: Food doesn't only nourish the body, it nourishes the soul. Food is a reflection of culture and also helps build community. This leadership class will do just that by taking what has been learned from the primary Seed to Table course and building up from that. Students will help decide field experiences for the class and craft learning experiences for the school connected to our celebration days. We will still harvest, cook, and serve food and we will take on leadership roles in the school community. There will be expectations of volunteering outside of class and participating in at least one overnight learning experience. Priority for this class will be given to students who have taken the primary Seed to Table class previously. ** Must have taken Seed to Table already

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Positive Community Member
• Pathfinder
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Math (.5), Science (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Grant

Course Description: In this class students will explore the art of creating a clear narrative using a sequence of images. The course will begin exploration of the art of illustration, focusing on children’s books and simple stories. The second part of the course will pivot into complex illustration in the form of comic art. Students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of art media including drawing, painting, and digital media. Students will practice the techniques of planning and creating clear stories that can be understood by a viewer. Please note: this course will include multiple service projects
to create an illustrated book for a group of students at Mendota Elementary AND a comic book for the Shabazz community.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: Shabazz Experience is an introduction to the school and the man who inspired its name that is designed for students new to Shabazz. Students will learn how to be successful at Shabazz and contribute to its culture. As they work on ELA skills, students will compare the life of Malcolm X to their own experience while analyzing aspects of their own personal life journey.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: New 9-11th grade students only)
• Subject: English (9-11)
• Instructor: Chris  

Course Description: This version of our journalism course will focus on preserving the living memory of Shabazz City High School. Students will document the transition to a new school building as well as act as oral historians, conducting in-depth interviews with alumni, former staff, and community members to collect and archive the personal stories that define the school’s evolution. While documenting the creepy basement, legendary teachers, or stories about field trips gone awry, students will learn to research subjects, craft probing interview questions, and transcribe spoken words into written text.

The final product will be a publicly accessible archive of these narratives, ensuring that the diverse voices and unique history of our school community are recorded and honored for future generations. Like our standard journalism course, students will develop skills in research, fact-checking, and interviewing while learning to write and produce clear, engaging videos and text.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.5)
• Instructor: 

Course Description: In this hands-on journalism course, students will explore the complete process of news production, from uncovering compelling stories to delivering polished products (ex. Newspaper, TV show). They will develop skills in research, fact-checking, and interviewing while learning to write clear, engaging scripts and copy. Each student will take on the roles of reporter, editor, and presenter, gaining experience in both print and video journalism. Through collaborative projects and real-world assignments, students will sharpen their critical thinking, communication, and storytelling abilities as well as develop a set of technical skills valued in the job marketplace.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: This is both a reading and writing class that will focus on the analysis, discussion, and production of short fiction stories/components. We will identify the deep meaning of short stories we will read together and students will also write their own short fiction. The focus will be on using literary devices and creative writing to show growth in reading and writing skills.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Laura  

Course Description: Song Analysis is a course that surveys how music and song lyrics are powerful sources of personal identity, relatable messages and literary devices. The class will learn the background and use of literary devices and then identify them in songs and analyze their meaning. This process will be modeled with examples by the teacher, together as a class and independently. Students will be responsible for writing an analysis essay, creating a visual project, presenting a song, lyrics, devices and meaning to the class, as well as participate in analysis of classmates’ songs, as well.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Laura

Course Description: This poetry class will focus on the genre of spoken word as text and performance. This will include a study of the history of poetry and performance. Together we will define and examine examples of spoken word to understand poetic devices. We will perform our poetry each week and during the semester at 3 lunch time shows along with a polished showcase for celebration of learning. While doing this we will focus on creating a safe and supportive atmosphere. Poems will focus on identity, celebration and societal issues.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject:  .5 English, .5 Social Studies, .25 Elective
• Instructor: Aaron & Laura

Course Description: This course will provide information and skills for students who wish to improve their success in life after Shabazz. This course will help students become responsible and accountable for their own learning and future planning. The focus of this course will be on learning to learn and learning to be successful. By the time students complete this course, they will have processes and procedures to apply in most learning situations in and out of the academic setting. Topics include personal responsibility; self-motivation; self-management; self-awareness; lifelong learning; effective study skills; interdependence/team building; and belief in self.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Joel

Course Description: Students in this survey course will learn about the many kinds of things living on Earth with an emphasis on animals. We’ll investigate the features that unite and divide these groups. Several animal dissections are planned. Students will also receive instruction in how to design and give quality presentations.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: Team Sports is an inclusive physical education course that emphasizes participation, cooperation, and skill development. Students engage in a variety of modified team sports and group activities that are intentionally adapted to be low-pressure, and accessible to all fitness levels. The course focuses on learning basic rules, teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship in a supportive environment where students can build confidence and experience success. Activities may include small-sided games, cooperative challenges, and non-traditional team sports that prioritize effort, respect, and enjoyment. Units include: Soccer, Kickball, Softball, Volleyball, Floor Hockey, Lacrosse, Basketball, Ultimate Frisbee and more.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Phy Ed
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: This course covers the Shabazz requirement for Modern US History/African American Experience. The idea of this course is to provide a more in depth look at US history through an African American lens. We will cover different eras in modern US history using an inquiry approach. The eras covered will focus on the 1950s to the 1980s and will include the Civil Rights movement, Black Power, and The Birth of Hip Hop. Students will also have time to research into their own areas of interest using the same inquiry approach.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: This course covers the Shabazz requirement for Modern US History/African American Experience. The idea of this course is to provide a more in depth look at US history through an African American lens. We will cover different eras in modern US history using an inquiry approach. The eras covered will focus on the 1950s to the 1980s and will include the Civil Rights movement, Black Power, and The Birth of Hip Hop. Students will also have time to research into their own areas of interest using the same inquiry approach.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: Dive into American history through the lens of resilience in this high school course, focusing on analytical writing. Explore how individuals and communities have experienced, challenged, and overcome prejudice. Through chronological study, students will analyze key events, developing critical writing skills to synthesize information and articulate arguments. By examining the impact of prejudice on diverse groups, students will gain a nuanced understanding of historical struggles and resistance.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-10
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: In this semester-long exploration of advanced math topics students will learn about the conceptual underpinnings that lead to calculus.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Grant

Course Description: This course introduces students to the histories, cultures, sovereignty, and contemporary issues of the First Nations of Wisconsin. Through inquiry-based learning, primary sources, storytelling traditions, and community centered perspectives, students will explore the diverse nations recognized within the state, their historical relationships with the land, and their ongoing contributions to Wisconsin’s social, political, and cultural landscape. Grounded in respect and collaboration, this course empowers students to understand Wisconsin’s First Nations not as groups of the past, but as vibrant, sovereign nations shaping the state today.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: This is an introductory experiential biology course that will primarily focus on the anatomy and physiology of the nervous, muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems through wilderness first aid skills. Students will take a fascinating in-depth look at the human body and be expected to engage in a variety of comparative anatomy dissections throughout the semester. Students will also be expected to learn through wilderness first aid scenarios outdoors and the potential of certification through the Red Cross.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: This is a course for students who are interested in gaining either internship or work experience outside the walls of Shabazz. The first part of the semester will involve developing the skills to successfully engage with a community or work partner and exploring potential internship or career interest areas. During the second part of the semester, students will develop and maintain a volunteering, internship, or working relationship with a community partner and gain work experience. Students will report to their internship daily instead of attending the Learning Lab at Shabazz. Students will receive feedback from both Shabazz staff and the community partner to grow their job skills and experience. Students will complete a final reflection on their experience, develop a potential post-high school plan, and possibly earn Employability Skills or Youth Leadership Certification. This course is primarily open to 10th-12th grade students.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Elective
• Instructor: Joel

Course Description: This is a reading and writing class that targets a specific, younger audience.
Students will analyze and identify the commonalities of children’s stories and create a base for understanding how to create one’s own story. Students will work together with an elementary school class (i.e. kindergarteners) during this
writing process to interview, mentor, and read with a partnered child and foster a teaching relationship.

As time allows, students may also write an educational piece for another younger audience (i.e. middle schoolers).

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Laura

Course Description: Yearbook Writing: This part of the course will focus on writing content commemorating the 2025-26 academic year of the Shabazz community. With guidance, students will collaboratively develop an overall concept or theme for the publication. They will then use daily class time learning formats of articles, organizing, researching, planning, writing, offering feedback, and revising written articles/pages for final yearbook publication. Successful students will be able to utilize technology for writing, effectively collaborate with classmates, generate original ideas, work in a self-directed manner and manage their time, meet deadlines, conduct interviews and research, assess audience expectations, and incorporate revision feedback to make strong, publication-ready writing. After the final publication goes to press, students will prepare a creative project for the year's graduate class. Students will also design and craft a personal zine to celebrate their individual experiences, challenges, and successes throughout the year.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Denise