Description: This class would focus on observation of current and emerging global environmental issues and concerns, research of current status and solutions being explored by others, collaboration with group members on creative solutions and innovative ideas. Explore ideas of reuse, recycle, repurpose, material science etc.

Class Structure:

1. Weekly teaching on current topics such as water availability and quality, energy use and renewable energy, waste management and plastic, food production and distribution, air quality, biodiversity in urban areas or urbanization…etc.
2. Weekly discussion of God’s Word and stepping into our identity and God-given roles relating to the natural world.
3. Research done outside of class by each student on current status and innovative ideas in production - focusing on local businesses.
4. Collaborating in class and designing solutions to be presented to the class at a later date.
5. Class includes a high level of weekly discussion and group collaboration.

Note:  No new students may add to this class at semester.  This is a full year course.

Scheduling Note:  The 2nd semester of this class will be 14 weeks in length.  The tuition has been prorated accordingly.

Tutor: DeAnn Gerdin has a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Fisheries and Wildlife - Management from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus. DeAnn has a strong interest in ecology and animal behavior. While attending the U of M, she spent nine months conducting an independent study on the courtship behavior of Mallard ducks. After graduating, DeAnn worked at Woodlake Nature Center in Bloomington, MN before taking a full-time position at Marshall Fields as a Marketing Effectiveness Analyst. DeAnn furthered her education and received a M.A. of Teaching in Secondary Life Science from the University of St. Thomas. Currently she is a stay-at-home mother and a homeschooler with three children.She enjoys soap making, pottery, birding, and running in her spare time. DeAnn is amazed at the wonder and beauty of God's creation and is eager to share it with others.

1st Semester Cost:  $210, $220 or $230  (depending on registration date)
2nd Semester Cost:  $196, $206 or $216  (depending on registration date)
Level: Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Biology (grade of B or higher)  Chemistry (grade of B or higher), 2 high-school level writing courses
Homework: Weekly research, journaling, contributing to an online video and article library, group discussion and collaboration, preparing research paper and presentation
Text: None     
Supplies: Pencil, paper, computer