Electives

Arts & Science
Throughout the year, students in grades K-8 are offered a variety of classes based on student and teacher interest, often integrating and enhancing current curriculum. Arts & Sciences elective classes are taught by Horizons teachers, middle school students who are supervised by a Horizons teacher, parents, and experts from the Boulder community. Over the course of the school year, students are asked to choose from a broad range of offerings. As a result, multiple intelligences are reinforced and students are able to discover and pursue individual talents and interests. Arts & Sciences electives are financed with funds raised by the Horizons community and managed by the Horizons Council.

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Exploratories
Middle School Exploratories consist of two two-hour elective classes each Friday. Classes continue for approximately one month. Exploratories build upon the school curriculum and offer students hands-on opportunities (such as labs and field trips) to explore content in more depth.

All middle school students participate in social studies and science related Exploratories. Additionally they participate in applied technology labs and performances during Exploratories.

Exploratories address the developmental need of adolescents, stressing hands-on, experiential learning, career awareness, and creative and social self-expression. These classes also provide opportunities for students to explore a wide range of interests, participate in a variety of social groupings, and to build positive, supportive relationships with a variety of adult role models.

Service Learning

Students participate in a wide variety of service learning projects. The goals and priorities of service learning reflect two central themes: (1) to create and expand experiences of making a difference in the world, and (2) to contribute to community needs in a creative and educational manner.

Spanish

The faculty at Horizons recognizes that Spanish is becoming an increasingly vital language both locally and globally. Courses in Spanish are offered for all K-5 students. Additionally, all 6th-8th graders may take up to three full years of Spanish. This emphasis on second-language learning reflects Horizons’ commitment to helping students appreciate cultural diversity and become contributing world citizens. Eight graders are invited to test into High School Spanish, Level 3.

More about the Horizons Spanish program >>

Outdoor Education Week

Through outdoor education, Horizons students and teachers have the opportunity to develop their appreciation for and understanding of ecology, life sciences, and geology, as well as recognize and develop their individual and group roles by taking risks and participating in team building. One week during the year is devoted to outdoor education.

Technology

Computers are available for student use in classrooms, and in the applied technology and computer labs. All grade K-8 classrooms are networked school-wide and have Internet and wireless access. Students receive instruction in keyboarding and specific computer skills.

Winter Sports Program

It is our intent to instill in our students a life-long practice of physical activity. To that end, Horizons sponsors a winter sports program at Eldora Ski Mountain. Students may choose instruction in alpine, cross-country skiing, skate skiing, or snowboarding.