Discovery Term
Discovery Term 2025 is coming!
January 2, 3, and 6-8, 2025 SCS will provide opportunities for all students to choose from many different curricular offerings that are not normally covered in the high school curriculum. Discovery Term will engage participants in a five day learning experience, allowing them to choose two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, focusing on a variety of topics. Several offerings are off campus, three of which are trips to Atlanta, New Mexico, and Costa Rica.
Through Discovery Term, it is our deep hope that, whether in work or play, we will discover the magnitude of God’s sovereignty over every square inch of His creation.
2025 Course Offerings
We are pleased to share the upcoming 2025 Discovery Term Trips
8-10 Students will have opportunities in Costa Rica to enjoy God’s beautiful creation, to discover a new culture and be servant workers as they help get the camp grounds ready and minister to children at camp through work and play. Our team, consisting of Spanish III and IV students will be heading to Costa Rica on a mission trip to serve at Camp Penuel. The camp’s mission is centered on providing a camping experience for 7–11-year-olds while learning of the love of Jesus. We will work with missionaries Paul and Thelma Bernhagen who have been leading these camps for over 20 years. Students will have the opportunity to practice their Spanish skills with counselors and campers and help with projects like painting, planting, cleaning, light maintenance, or even a farm project depending on the needs of the camp and team member’s skills. During camp our team members will also help with skits, songs, sports and workshops.
Cost: $1,750
Faculty Sponsor: Señor Engels
This trip is about discovery. 10 students will be heading to Rehoboth and Zuni, New Mexico to commune with our brothers and sister in Christ. Many of the students are Native and come from a very different culture than our own. While there we will be serving at the preK-8 mission school. While other days we will be shadowing High school students at Rehoboth Christian School. This will give students the opportunity to connect with other Christians their own age that come from different cultures and expand their understanding of the body of Christ. We will also go on several excursions in the area to learn about the land and history of the area. We will be working and playing within a culture that is vastly different to ours, but still within the context of Reformed Christianity. We will be discovering the sovereignty of God over all people and locations.
Cost: $850
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. Engbers
On this Discovery trip to Atlanta Georgia, 12-13 SCS students will have the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and serve alongside each other and the ministry, 7 Bridges to Recovery as they work to carry out their mission, “… to rescue our brothers and sisters off the streets and help them break the binds of homelessness, alcohol, drugs, sexual addictions, prostitution, and abuse…”. We will draw a connection between this work and what we are called to do in Isaiah 58: 6-7 which reads, “Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked, that you cover him, and not hide yourself from your own flesh?” My prayer is that the Lord would work in the hearts of the students on this trip and change their perspective and their hearts – that they would understand God’s love for all people. I want students to come back with a desire to serve those suffering from homelessness in our own community here in Sheboygan county.
Cost: $300
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. Hendrikse
2025 Course Offerings
On this trip, students will work alongside the mission 7 Bridges to Recovery. Students will make 200 to 300 lunches per day and go out on roads, under bridges, and in high poverty areas handing out lunches and praying with people. When not en route, students will be helping the men at the ministry do work loading trucks, sorting boxes, folding clothes, etc.. Throughout each day, there will be time for debriefing and reflection as students engage in this life-changing work.
Cost: $250
We will be going to Chicago and serving on the westside. This service is needs based and could include anything from preparing and serving in a soup kitchen to painting the interior of somebody’s house.
Cost: $400
Our team, consisting of Spanish III and IV students, is heading to Costa Rica on a mission trip December 29-January 5 to serve at Christian Camp Penuel in Esparza, Costa Rica. We will work with children ages 7-11 with a special focus on giving the kids an opportunity to hear and learn about Jesus.
This Discovery Term course will enjoy studying and applying the relationship between music and sounds and the foods we enjoy eating. We will make meals from different cultures while listening to and studying the music from that culture. We will enjoy an “edible music composition” where we will compose our own music using different foods and study how all the senses are used in enjoying foods. We will study the relationship between musical selections and how they influence the experience of a meal.
Students will learn about the history and culture of the country of Brazil. They will have the opportunity to experience, move, and perform different styles of Brazilian drumming with instruments including samba, bossa nova, and more!
Has that thought ever crossed your mind? Me, a teacher? No way. Well, now is your chance to start making a decision. During this course, you will have the chance to see teachers at all grade-levels. We will visit classrooms at SCS and OCS to observe teachers and students, work alongside students as they learn, interview teachers, and study some of the basics of classroom teaching. Do you think God might be calling you to teaching? This course will help you see if some of your gifts and interests could lead you to your own classroom someday.
In an emergency situation, what is the first thing administered in the ears? Words of comfort. Because we live in a broken world, we have to deal with tragedies and emergencies on a regular basis. During your time in this class you will learn the fundamentals of life support (CPR), how to stop the bleed and some basic first aid, how local emergency services effectively respond to the 911 calls and then how the entire staff in an ER works together in a person’s most critical time of need. FEE: $15
Have you ever wanted to learn more about 3D printing? Or have you done 3D printing in the past, but wanted to do more? In this Discovery Term course, you will learn how to use a CAD design software to create your own 3D printed projects. We will take time to learn specific CAD design elements and techniques, then learn how to use a slicer software and the 3D printers to create your own designs, as well as learning how to create designs to help others. No prior experience is required.
This will still not be the normal Discovery Term Course. This course will focus on different aspects of law enforcement including traffic stops, drunk driving, crashes, civil unrest, SWAT, active attack events, ethics, and leadership. If there is a question that you always wanted to ask a police officer, now is your chance. We will also dive into how the media and Hollywood are inaccurate at best with their depiction of police. Toss in some firearms safety tips and a bunch of life lessons and you end up with a unique Discovery Term Course. **Disclaimer** This course will deal with content that may be disturbing to some people.
Discover the joy of cooking with YouTube as a teacher! Explore various breakfasts, lunches, snacks, desserts, and dinners through curated YouTube videos that will be made in the Hildebrand Family kitchen. Learn by watching instead of reading recipes to gain experience cooking. FEE: $20
Design and make an actual Puzzle Cube: No experience needed!
We will talk all things College! We will learn about the different postsecondary options, creating your perfect college list, researching colleges, how to pay for college and the college application process. We will also go on 3 college campus visits and have a panel of college students come in and share their knowledge and experience with us. We hope students will leave our course with a better idea of their post high process.
This course will focus on the basics of investments and how they actually work. It will also aid in understanding the time value of money and how starting to save early can be of great benefit.
In this course you will create projects from the raw material leather by working it with tools, and stitching to make something useful, beautiful or even both! We will make at least three things, each customizable to you. This course will include use of possibly dangerous tools if not handled correctly. In the case of misuse students will be asked to leave immediately and may not finish their projects. FEE: $25
Whether you are interested in upping your social media pics or becoming the next Ansel Adams, come and experience how great photos are ‘created’ and not simply ‘taken’. A digital camera of your own is recommended but not required for this class.
In this course we’ll study and experience the motivations, perpetrators, and victims of the atrocity known as The Holocaust. We’ll read, view and dig into the lives of individuals who lived through The Holocaust, on both sides of these horrible events. We’ll also see to what extent our world has learned anything from spending the last 70 years studying it. Finally, we’ll address the most difficult of questions, such as: How would God want us to evaluate our American response to The Holocaust? Does studying the Holocaust impact us as we view the events involving Armenia? Bosnia? Rwanda/Burundi? Is similar genocide practiced today?
A kitchen or dining room table can really turn a house into a home. Whether it’s used for family meals, a space to do homework or to spread out wrapping paper at Christmas time, a large table makes a home.
This year in the woodshop we will be creating large family tables. These tables will be donated to a local church and given to families in need. Come join Mr. Ingelse and guests in creating a place for others to “Gather Around the Table.”
Pine Haven Christian Communities has been serving Sheboygan County’s elderly population since 1950. Their residents and staff are valuable members of the Church. This course has a simple goal; spend time with, and serve the residents and staff of Pine Haven! We seek a joyful experience for both the residents and staff of Pine Haven, and for our SCS students who could potentially glean much spiritual and practical knowledge from our community’s elderly saints. Additionally, students will learn about the variety of professional positions that are vital to a place like Pine Haven.
You are becoming a young adult; soon you’ll be out in the world on your own. That doesn’t mean you can’t eat well! There’s more to life than just Raman! In this course, you’ll learn budget friendly cooking as well as how to entertain a crowd with food and faith-filled fellowship. (We are unable to accommodate any food allergies.) FEE: $25
We’re going to learn how to teach from the Bible. By the end of the course, you will have a prepared sermon on a biblical text of your choosing!
Dive into the shadowy depths of the digital world with “Midnight Protocols: A Cyber Security Crash Course.” In this five-day adventure, you’ll start to unlock the secrets of the cyber realm, learning to navigate its dark corners. From the eerie glow of your computer screen, you will ignite the basic arts of ethical hacking, pluck at the enigmas of encryption, and probe defenses against digital dark arts. You’ll explore weakened networks, expel vulnerable code, and learn to see beyond the veil of the internet’s façade. By the final day, you’ll face your ultimate test in the treacherous labyrinth capture the flag event, proving your newfound powers as a true guardian of the digital realm.
Skilled trades, such as electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, and welding, play a vital role in society and are crucial for infrastructure, manufacturing, and everyday life. With a high demand for skilled workers, many trades offer excellent job security and the possibility of entrepreneurial ventures. This Discovery course is designed for students feeling a call to the trades and will offer information on how to pursue these fields.
Get a feel for what it’s like to be an architect as you design a floor plan for a three bedroom home.
Students will have the opportunity to travel to RCS every day. Our schedule is TBD, but our activities could include: working with participants, teaching in participants’ classes, playing games, socializing, and assisting with organizing or cleaning facilities.
Our body is God’s temple, and we should take care of it as best as possible. During this course, we are going to go on a journey of strengthening and growing our mind, body, and spirit, with a variety of physical activities that will reveal to you many similarities between your walk with God, and your physical wellness.
How well do you really know Jesus and his earthly ministry? After participating in a model lesson, we’ll learn how to use the gospel accounts and historical context to study and apply an incident in the life of Christ and prepare a lesson to share with others.
Wisconsin in winter transforms into a breathtaking wonderland, where the snow blankets rolling hills, forests, and lakes in pristine white. The crisp, cold air is invigorating, and the serenity of snow-dusted trees creates a magical atmosphere that feels like stepping into a holiday card. Outdoor enthusiasts find joy in skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing, while others cozy up by the fire with a warm drink, watching the snowfall outside. Whether it’s exploring the winter landscape or savoring quiet moments indoors, Wisconsin’s winter wonderland offers a special charm that’s both peaceful and exhilarating. FEE: Cost of admission to venues
Everyone enjoys watching a good movie, but have you ever thought about what it takes to make one? In this course, you will work together with a team to write, film, edit, and produce your very own short film. Experience with a camera is helpful, but not at all required. If you have any interest in creating videos, storytelling, or acting, then this class is for you!
In this course, students will learn the relaxing art of needle-felting. Needle felting is the process of taking an animal fiber, like wool, and using a needle to bind the individual fibers together in an artistic manner. Students will practice various needle felting techniques and craft their own unique, textured works of art that showcase their skill, creativity, and appreciation for the beauty of God’s creation. FEE: $10
What is the best french fry in Sheboygan? Who is the best overall player in the NFL? If you have a knack for numbers to answer these questions, this class is for you. Students will understand the basic and intermediate use of spreadsheets via Google Sheets. We’ll explore basic navigation, formatting, formulas and analysis to answer complex questions like those posed in this description. Students will be expected to come up with a big analytical question to answer relevant to their lives and apply concepts learned during class to answer it.
“I Love Animals” – the number one reason people will give for wanting to be involved in Veterinary Medicine. We are here to tell you that there is more to Veterinary Medicine than having a love for animals. This is one of the most rewarding career paths you can take, but it is not without its challenges. In this course we will give you a peek at what this career path may look like and give you directions on how to get started. Students should be aware that live animals may be present and you may be exposed to some graphic visuals. If you are allergic or squeamish this may not be the course for you.
Would you like to feel more confident that your car isn’t going to break down and avoid unnecessary costly repairs? Learn the skills to do maintenance and basic repairs yourself. In this class you’ll learn about basic auto systems, auto maintenance, basic auto repairs, tips on buying a used car, and careers in auto mechanics. This course involves hands-on activities and field trips.
Photo Gallery from Previous Discovery Terms
2025 Schedule
| Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Worship | 7:45 – 8:05 AM | 7:45 – 8:05 AM | 7:45 – 8:05 AM | |
| Share-Out | 8:05 – 8:10 AM | 8:05 – 8:10 AM | 8:05 – 8:10 AM | |
| Morning Session | 8:15 – 11:20 AM | 7:45 – 10:45 AM | 8:15 – 11:20 AM | 8:15 – 11:20 AM |
| Lunch | 11:20 – 11:55 AM | 10:45 – 11:20 AM | 11:20 – 11:55 AM | 11:20 – 11:55 AM |
| Afternoon Session | 12:00 – 3:05 PM | 11:23 – 2:20 PM | 12:00 – 3:05 PM | 12:00 – 3:05 PM |
2025 Assembly
During the Discovery Term Assembly, students will be introduced to all Discovery Term course offerings.
The Discovery Term Assembly will take place on Monday, November 18.
2025 Enrollment
Students taking courses must sign up for one morning course and one afternoon course. Students may not repeat a Discovery Term course unless granted permission by the principal.
Some classes tend to be more rigorous in nature, while other classes may be more hands-on and experiential.
Students and parents must read course descriptions carefully to understand prerequisites, fees, and expectations.
Sign-ups will be done on SignUpGenius. You will receive an email invitation when it is your class’ turn to sign up. Early sign-ups or sign-ups by someone else are NOT allowed. More information on sign-up will be shared at the assembly on Nov. 18.
2025 Attendance
Because each class meets only five times, attendance is required. Students who miss excessive classes may not pass the class. Each circumstance will be considered on an individual basis.
Students involved in extracurricular activities must choose a Discovery Term schedule that doesn’t interfere with their commitments. Students should see a coach or administrator with questions.
2025 Credits & Grades
All morning and afternoon courses receive a pass/fail grade which will be placed on students’ transcripts.
2025 Instruction
Guest instructors from the community join SCS staff to teach Discovery Term courses. Small classes in three-hour blocks provide unique opportunities for instruction. Many courses include service learning or hands-on, project-based experiences that cannot happen in a normal school day. Other courses are team-taught and take place partially or entirely off-campus.
- Expands student horizons
- Teachers teach to their passions
- Has potential for a different learning experience
- Provides closer student/teacher relationshipsE. Partners with the community to provide unique learning opportunities
- The day is split into two, three-hour courses that immerse students in an amplified learning experience
- They take place both inside and outside the classroom
- They allow teachers to dive deeper into a topic or explore a topic not covered during a semester course
Smaller class size is a vital part of Discovery Term, allowing for students and teachers to work more closely and form deeper Christian relationships.
- First semester exams will be completed before Christmas vacation, avoiding an awkward schedule with exams two weeks after an extended Christmas break.
- Discovery Term will replace one week from first semester
Some classes will have a fee to cover materials cost. Trip expenses will be covered by the students/families.
Discovery Term is required for all HS students. Students will receive a pass/fail grade.
Community partnerships are very important to SCS and to Discovery Term. If you are interested in teaching a Discovery Term course, please contact the school.