Academics at Horizon High School are structured around the following ideals and goals:
To enhance student preparation for adult life, while still maintaining a concentration on the 4 core subjects of High School academics, individual classes inside each area study something that is relevant to the here and now.
The goal is to nurture students and empower them to become adults armed with knowledge about the world they are a part of.
To enable each student to be a critical thinker: Students are active learners who discuss, contribute and take an important role in their education.
Tech Ed at Horizon High School: Inspiring Skills for the Future
At Horizon High School, we’re excited to offer Tech Ed as part of our curriculum, providing students hands-on experience in woodworking and technical skills. Through our partnership with *The Joinery* in Middleton, students have the opportunity to learn essential safety protocols for using power tools, ensuring they work confidently and safely.
Our program introduces students to a variety of small wood projects that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Starting with foundational projects like cutting boards and a small gift box with miter and rabbet cuts, students will progress to more complex designs, such as a small table with a drawer. Each project is crafted to build both technical skills and creativity.
We are fortunate to have access to laser engravers, allowing students to personalize their work, making each project uniquely theirs. As we look ahead, we’re thrilled about incorporating 3-D printing technology into our program, expanding students' possibilities even further. Additionally, we are exploring the addition of a soldering unit to introduce basic electronics and circuit-building, pending future funding.
At Horizon, our Tech Ed program is designed not only to build technical skills but also to inspire forward-thinking, resilience, and pride in craftsmanship. We’re committed to equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond.
Science at Horizon High School: Engaging Minds with Real-World Learning
Our science program at Horizon High School dives into a range of fascinating and relevant topics, fostering curiosity and understanding of the world around us. This year, we’ve covered *Human Anatomy* and examined the impact of lifestyle choices, such as drug and alcohol use, poor nutrition, and inadequate sleep, on the body. Students had a unique, hands-on opportunity to observe healthy and diseased organs brought in by medical professionals through the “Doctors Ought to Care” program from UW-Madison. These experiences give students invaluable insights into the effects of their choices on their health.
We’re also working toward an exciting partnership with the *Delta Program at UW Wisconsin*, allowing graduate students to earn credits by creating and teaching lessons to our students. This collaboration will bring fresh perspectives and deepen our students’ learning experiences.
Looking ahead, our curriculum will explore *Astronomy*, *Climate Change*, and a variety of mini-lessons in *Environmental Science*, ensuring students gain a broad understanding of science topics that shape our world and future.
English Language Arts
Our English program dives beyond traditional reading and writing, encouraging students to connect with literature in meaningful, real-world ways. We use project-based learning to help students explore their personal experiences and cultural backgrounds, fostering skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and creative expression. Whether through analyzing song lyrics or crafting narrative memoirs, our students develop their voices and discover the power of storytelling.
Social Studies
Our social studies curriculum transforms history and civics into engaging, hands-on experiences. Through project-based learning, students investigate past and current events that impact their lives, communities, and the world. We encourage students to ask questions, explore multiple perspectives, and build a deep understanding of complex issues, equipping them to be thoughtful, informed citizens.
Mental Health and Wellness at Horizons High School
At Horizon High School, we’re committed to supporting our students’ mental health and well-being as part of their recovery journey. This year, we’re introducing a new wellness program led by yoga-certified teachers who bring mindfulness and yoga practices into the classroom. These practices, including mindful meditation, are designed to give students effective tools to manage stress, build resilience, and support their sobriety. By incorporating these mindful techniques, we aim to help students cultivate inner calm, self-awareness, and a stronger sense of control over their lives.
