Launch: Life Skills for the Real World
Launch is a hands-on life skills class designed to help students prepare for adulthood. The goal isn't simply to teach students how to "adult." It's to help them better understand themselves, make wise decisions, and gain the confidence and practical skills they'll use for the rest of their lives.
Throughout the year we'll explore topics like goal setting, time management, career and education planning, financial literacy, mental and physical health, household management, healthy relationships, civic engagement, personal safety, and purposeful living. Learning happens through discussions, hands-on activities, guest speakers, field trips, real-world experiences, inspiring books, and practical projects.
Class is interactive, and students are expected to participate in discussions and activities. Homework averages 2–3 hours per week and includes reading, reflection, practical assignments, and occasional projects.
The hope is that students leave this class with practical life skills, greater confidence in themselves, and a better understanding of who they are and the kind of life they want to build. Life doesn't come with a roadmap, but learning to know yourself, think critically, and make thoughtful decisions can make the road ahead a little clearer.
Time 2:30 - 4:25 | Ages 14-18 | Level Master |
Mentors Mara Holloman Wendy Heywood | Tuition $70 Spring Semester |
Class Schedule
Prerequisites
None
Materials Required
We will provide binders that include writing materials.
Homework
Students should expect to spend 2–3 hours per week outside of class. Homework is designed to help students prepare for class and put what they're learning into practice.
Most weeks include reading, videos or podcasts, short reflection or application assignments, and preparation for class activities or discussions.
Throughout the year, students will also complete several larger projects, including reading four class books, writing reflection papers, interviewing or shadowing someone in a career of interest, serving on a committee to help plan Launch Night, and preparing a Launch Talk.
Homework is practical and hands-on. Students might create a vision board, develop a résumé, build a 3–5 year education or career plan, complete budgeting and financial simulations, prepare a simple meal, practice basic home maintenance skills, complete a tax form, participate in mock interviews, or apply other real-world skills connected to the topics we study. These are just a few examples of the many projects and experiences students will have throughout the year.
Notes
AI would be an option for many assignments- but not all. It would be case by case.
Books Students Provide
Required: Yes - Fall
Own or share with sibling? Can Share
Notes:
Notes:
Required: Yes - Spring
Own or share with sibling? Can Share
Notes:
Notes: