At St. Joseph’s Indian School, we believe learning should be an adventure, not a chore. That’s why this year’s seventh and eighth graders are taking a dynamic lineup of exploratory courses designed to spark creativity, build confidence and maybe even uncover lifelong passions.
These once-a-week classes rotate each quarter, allowing students to try something new every few months. For those who love gaming and strategy, our Esports course runs all semester long, offering a consistent space to build teamwork and digital skills.
Some of the explanations of the courses below may use some modern-day lingo, but don’t worry! We’ll help with some explanations so it’s all crystal clear. In fact, you may want to try out some of the hobbies and techniques for yourself!
Art That Moves Beyond the Basics
From oil painting to stop animation, students are exploring visual storytelling in all its forms. Whether sketching in a personal journal or experimenting with print screen techniques, these courses invite young artists to express themselves in bold, imaginative ways.
It’s amazing to see students light up when they realize they can tell stories with just a sketchbook or a few frames of animation. They’re not just making art. They’re finding their voice.
What’s “stop animation”?
It’s a filmmaking technique where physical objects are moved in tiny increments between individually photographed frames. When the frames are played back in sequence, the objects appear to move on their own, creating the illusion of motion.
Esports: Strategy, Teamwork and Digital Literacy
Esports isn’t just about playing games — it’s about learning to collaborate, think critically and compete with integrity. Students join teams, develop tactics and reflect on their performance, all while having a blast.
We’ve seen students who were quiet in other settings become confident leaders in Esports. It’s a space where strategy meets community.
What are Esports?
Esports, short for electronic sports, are organized, competitive video games played either individually or in teams. Think of it as the digital version of traditional sports, where players train, strategize and compete in tournaments watched by fans around the world.
Personal Living Skills (PLS): Wellness Meets Creativity
In PLS, students center themselves through Pilates and yoga, then shift gears to bullet journaling. It’s a class that nurtures both body and mind.
Bullet journaling gives students a moment to pause and reflect. It’s not just about planning. It’s about learning who they are and what matters to them.
What’s “bullet journaling”?
Bullet journaling is a customizable system that blends a planner, diary, to-do list and creative outlet — all in one notebook.
Physical Education: Strength in Motion
Agility and strength training offer students a chance to push their limits and build resilience. These sessions go beyond traditional physical education, helping students understand their bodies and celebrate progress.
What’s agility and strength training?
Agility and strength training is a dynamic duo in physical education that helps students build both power and precision in how they move. It’s not just about lifting weights or running fast. It’s about learning how to move with control, speed and confidence.
STEM: Hands-On Discovery
From launching rockets to building marble runs and crafting stone tools, STEM classes are all about experimentation. And yes — students really do build catapults to chuck pumpkins. It’s messy, thrilling and deeply educational.
“STEM is where curiosity meets action,” said Sharmel, St. Joseph’s principal. “Students don’t just learn concepts — they test them, build them and sometimes launch them across the field.”
What does STEM stand for?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It’s a powerful educational approach that integrates these four disciplines to help students solve real-world problems through hands-on learning, critical thinking and creativity.
Crafting Connections
Photography, upcycling, crocheting and sewing give students tactile ways to create and connect. These courses blend tradition with modern flair, encouraging students to see beauty in everyday materials.
What’s “upcycling” and isn’t that just like recycling?
Upcycling is the art of turning something old, unwanted or seemingly useless into something new, beautiful and functional without breaking it down into raw materials like recycling does.
Pretty great, huh?
These exploratory courses aren’t just electives — they’re invitations to try, to fail, to succeed and to grow.
“These exploratory courses reflect our belief that every student deserves a chance to discover what excites them,” said Sharmel. “Whether it’s art, movement or engineering, we’re creating space for joy, growth and possibility.”
Whether students discover a hidden talent or simply enjoy the journey, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never hear them saying, “I’m booooored.”
Learn more about St. Joseph’s Indian School’s education program at stjo.org today!
