Courses and Curriculum

Middle School Courses

Grade 6

Science (Physical, Life and Earth Science)
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
Math 1, Math 2, or Pre-Algebra
Language Arts 1 or 2
Religion
Social Studies
Art, Band, or Choir
Physical Education
Rotation: Spanish, Woodshop, Art

Grade 7

Science (Physical, Life and Earth Science)
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
Math 1, Math 2, Pre-Algebra, or Algebra 1
Language Arts 1, 2, or 3
Religion
Social Studies
Art, Band, or Choir
Physical Education
Rotation: Spanish, Woodshop, Art

Grade 8

Science (Physical, Life and Earth Science)
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, or Algebra 2
Language Arts 2, 3, or World Literature (9th)
Religion
Social Studies
Art, Band, or Choir
Physical Education
Rotation: Spanish, Woodshop, Art

S.T.E.M. Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics

Middle School STEM Courses

Three-year Rotation

Medical Detectives - Introduces students to the nervous system, vital signs, and more while applying science and technology to diagnose fictional patients. Students explore how the human body works, investigate disease outbreaks, analyze medical data, and solve medical mysteries through experiments and lab activities.
Automation and Robotics - Introduces students to mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics. Students use a robotics platform to design, build, and program solutions to existing problems.
Green Architecture - Students learn how to apply sustainability to the fields of architecture and construction by exploring dimensioning, measuring, and architectural sustainability as they design affordable housing units using Revit’s architectural design software.

High School STEM Courses

*Some courses offered every other year

STEM Engineering Essentials
STEM Principles of Engineering*
Introduction to Engineering and Design*
STEM Computer Science Essentials
STEM Computer Science Principles
Cybersecurity*
Dual Credit Intro to Programming*

What does STEM look like in high school?

What does STEM look like in high school?

WHAT IS STEM?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math. STEM courses and programs have never been more valuable than they are today. Business leaders have been seeking individuals with 21st-century learning capabilities for the past two decades, and STEM is simply another way SCLA can prepare students for careers beyond high school.

HOW IS IT TAUGHT?

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)—the curriculum SCLA uses for some of its STEM courses—uses the Activity-Project-Problem approach. Students use industry tools and technology in hands-on experiences where they develop skills in communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. Problem-solving is the name of the game, and both the PLTW and non-PTLW courses are loaded with it.

WHY IS IT VALUABLE FOR SCLA STUDENTS?

The need for individuals to fill STEM-related careers has exploded, and students explore components of these careers throughout the curriculum. Significant college scholarships are available for STEM-related programs.

WHO CAN TAKE STEM CLASSES AT SCLA?

In grades 6-8, all students take a semester-long STEM class each year. In grades 9-12, STEM classes are offered as electives. Enrollment is limited for each section, so early enrollment is important.

IS THERE A COURSE FEE?

There is no fee for grades 6-8 for the required STEM science courses. In grades 9-12, there is an initial $500 fee for the student’s first course. This fee helps offset costs of technology and materials specifically for these courses.

High School Courses

Required

Electives

Grade 10

Required
Electives

Required

Electives

Grade 11

Required
Electives

Required

Electives

All previous plus

American Sign Language 2
Anatomy and Physiology
Basic Foods / Child Dev.
Business, Entrepreneurship, and Personal Finance
Construction and Architecture
Digital Media Arts
Dual Credit Computer Science
Dual Credit Psychology
Dual Credit College Math
AP English Language & Composition
AP Precalculus
AP Calculus AB/BC
AP Chemistry
AP Physics 2
AP U.S. History
STEM Computer Science Principles
Woodworking II
Spanish 5
PSEO

Grade 12

Required
Electives

Required

Electives

College Credit in High School

PSEO / Dual Credit Courses

PSEO / Dual Credit Courses

PSEO

The program is available to students throughout the state of Minnesota. Through PSEO, students may take courses on a college or university campus, via online, or, if available, at their high school.

See the academic dean for details.

Dual-Credit College

Programming I
Programming II
Introduction to Psychology
Applied Algebra & Trigonometry
Introduction to Statistics

These are in-person courses taught during the school day. Course costs are in addition to SCLA tuition. MN resident students who take these courses are not eligible to be PSEO students at BLC or WLC. All other Dual Credit and PSEO policies apply. Dual Credit/PSEO Plan forms are due May 1, 2025.

Eligibility:

Juniors and Seniors.
Minimum ACT composite score: 20 (or 1040 SAT equivalent).

Read Dual Credit / PSEO Details

AP Classes

AP Classes

SCLA is the perfect size. The faculty is big enough that they can specialize and get
really good at the things they do, but it still has a family atmosphere.
- SCLA Parent

About SCLA

About SCLA

SCLA is a fully accredited educational institution serving students in grades 6-12. Established in 1958, the school offers middle school and high school Bible-based experiential and college-prep curriculums including STEM, accelerated, advanced placement, and college-credit courses. 95% of graduates pursue higher education after graduation.

SCLA’s Christian college-preparatory program has a reputation for excellence in a friendly and safe environment with supportive instructors. With a challenging curriculum and small class sizes, SCLA is an outstanding educational value.

Excellence in academics is expected and supported by SCLA faculty and staff, 60% of whom hold masters and advanced degrees in their field of study. The academic dean emphasizes learning in the classroom and holds teachers and students accountable for their work.

To assist students with university preparation, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, PSEO, dual-credit courses, and college counseling are available.

Finding the Right School for Your Student

As you search for the best school for your student, consider location, cost, academic excellence, teaching staff, environment, opportunities for personal growth, and spiritual guidance. These elements shape not only your student’s educational experience but also their personal development and future opportunities.

Beyond academics, St. Croix Lutheran Academy offers countless opportunities for students to grow personally and spiritually. Through leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and community service, students learn to apply their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world. Our focus on spiritual guidance helps students build a strong moral foundation, develop resilience, and find purpose in their faith.

Visit our Future Crusaders page to learn about upcoming special events.

Schedule a Campus Tour

Schedule a Virtual Visit

Schedule a Student Shadow

Inquire

Download the Viewbook

Download the Viewbook

Meet the Admissions Staff