J-Term 2025
What is J-Term?
J-Term is a short academic session in January, between the fall and spring semesters, that allows Lenawee Christian Middle and High School students to take concentrated courses, participate in study abroad programs, or engage in other special projects. It is a period for focused learning on a specific topic, experiential learning, skill development before the second semester.
Shark Tank
Shark tank is an entrepreneurship class that teaches basic concepts about business. Students will come up with a problem that can be solved by a product they are able to offer. They will then develop their product and sell it for 2 weeks in hopes of earning a profit.
No Cost
Middle School
J-Term Courses
The Armor of God - Teen Bible Study by Priscilla Shirer
In this engaging and interactive Bible study, students will dive deep into Ephesians 6:10-18 to explore the full armor of God and how it equips them to stand strong in their faith. Through video, scripture, and a study guide, students will learn how to recognize spiritual battles and respond with confidence as well as strengthen their identity in Christ. Whether facing peer pressure, anxiety, or questions about purpose, this study empowers students to stand firm and live boldly as followers of Jesus Christ.
Cost: $16
Chain Reaction Engineering: Build Your Own Rube Goldberg Machine
Students will become inventors, engineers, and problem solvers as they design and build a Rube Goldberg machine (a complex device that performs a simple task through a series of creative chain reactions). Working individually or in small teams, students will brainstorm ideas, sketch designs, and construct their machines using everyday materials such as dominoes, marbles, ramps, and string.
Throughout the two weeks, students will apply key principles of physics and engineering while developing patience and persistence through trial and error. Daily testing, tinkering, and redesigning will lead to a final demonstration where each machine performs its chosen task in a delightfully overcomplicated way.
Cost: $5
Music in Film
Music in Film explores how music shapes cinematic storytelling. Through focused listening, scene analysis, and creative projects, students learn how melody, harmony, rhythm, and instrumentation influence mood, tension, and character development.
The course uses short film clips, from early silent films to modern scores by composers like John Williams and Hans Zimmer, and invites students to suggest additional scenes. Students also experiment with adjusting or removing music to see how it changes a scene’s impact.
Mixed with High School Students.
No Cost
Art of the Spanish-Speaking World
Explore the vibrant world of Spanish-speaking cultures through art! This hands on class introduces famous artists like Diego Velázquez, Frida Kahlo, and Fernando Botero, alongside traditional art forms, exploring their history, symbolism, and techniques. Students will create projects such as Huichol yarn paintings, Spanish-style tiles, and piñatas, learning how art reflects culture, community, and identity. No prior experience needed, just curiosity and creativity!
8th Grade Only. Mixed with High School Students.
No Cost
World Mythology
This middle school course explores the myths, legends, and folklore from cultures around the world. Students will learn how ancient civilizations used storytelling to explain nature, teach values, and pass down traditions. Through reading, discussion, creative projects, and performance, students will discover the power of myth and its influences on modern culture.
No Cost
Crack the Code: Adventures in Problem Solving
Crack the Code: Adventures in Problem Solving is a fun, hands-on course for middle school students that develops critical thinking, logic, and teamwork through riddles, brainteasers, puzzles, and immersive escape room challenges. Students will learn creative problem-solving strategies while working collaboratively to tackle engaging challenges.
No Cost
Conversational German: A Journey Through Language and Life in Germany
This immersive J-Term course introduces students to the basics of conversational German while exploring the rich traditions, foods, music, and daily life of German-speaking countries. Through interactive lessons, games, and songs, students will learn practical vocabulary and phrases for greetings, introductions, ordering food, and simple conversations.
Beyond language, students will study German culture - sampling traditional dishes, learning about famous landmarks, holidays, and folk tales, and even trying their hand at a few fun crafts or cultural traditions. The focus is on communication, curiosity, and cultural appreciation rather than grammar drills, making the class both educational and engaging.
Cost: $10
Equip: Training Students for Ministry Leadership
Equipped is a hands-on, two week class where students learn practical ministry skills, speaking, worship, tech, and service, while working together to plan and lead a chapel.
Mixed with High School Students.
No Cost
Stitch & Style: Practical Fiber Arts for Everyday Life
Learn practical sewing and fiber arts skills in this class! Start with basics like hemming, mending, and sewing on buttons, then gain confidence using a sewing machine, try basic crochet, and explore quilting. Students will create projects such as hats, scarves, tote bags, or quilt squares, developing problem solving skills and producing handmade items. No experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to learn!
Mixed with High School Students.
No Cost
History Mysteries
Students take on the role of historical detectives. Each day, they investigate a real-life mystery from history using primary and secondary sources, maps, artifacts, and debate. The focus is on critical thinking, analysis, and evidence-based reasoning—but in a way that feels like solving a case.
No Cost
Fundamentals of Flight
Students study the concepts of weight, lift, thrust, and drag through lecture, experimentation, and video, then spend time building and flying planes and rockets. Course concludes with a field trip to the Lenawee County Airport and presentation of opportunities by the local Civil Air Patrol.
Cost: $5
Jazz Band
Jazz Band is a performance-based course designed for students interested in exploring the rich traditions and dynamic styles of jazz music. Students will develop their musical skills through the study and performance of swing, Latin, funk, blues, and contemporary jazz repertoire. Emphasis is placed on ensemble playing, improvisation, music theory, and stylistic interpretation. This course will serve as a kick-off to a before or after-school Jazz Band.
Mixed with High School Students.
No Cost
Bro-ology
Bro-ology is a crash course for guys for everything relating to being a bro. We'll learn about what it means to be a man through the Bible. We'll talk leadership, watch and discuss sports, learn and play disc golf, learn some of the basic life skills men should know, and more.
Mixed with High School Students.
No Cost
Space Race
Blast off into rocketry and satellite design! In this class, students explore how we reach and operate in space by building and launching rockets, measuring flight data, and using math and physics to explain what they see. The course then shifts to satellites - how orbits work, how sensors gather information, and how communication systems support everyday life. The session concludes with a “Space Expo,” where teams share launch results and pitch their own satellite mission ideas.
Throughout the course, students will apply Newton’s laws to rocket propulsion, use data and basic math to analyze altitude, velocity, and trajectory, and explain how orbital motion works along with the purposes of different satellite types. They’ll also practice using satellite navigation and imagery to solve challenges, all while strengthening their collaboration, experimentation, and scientific communication skills.
No Cost
High School
J-Term Courses
Sanctify and Sweat
Start the new year with purpose. Sanctify & Sweat is a dynamic course designed to strengthen both your faith and your fitness. Each day begins with an in depth, discussion based study of the Gospel of John, where students will explore who Jesus is, what it means to walk in His light, and how His truth transforms our daily lives. After time in Scripture, we’ll shift gears. The second hour will be dedicated to physical movement and fun as we exercise in a variety of ways: running outdoors, training in the LCS Fitness Center, stretching, and even heading out for a rollerskating day. This course is all about balance - building endurance in faith while developing healthy habits for the body. Come ready to move, think deeply, and grow together in community.
Cost: $15
Faith in Middle-Earth: Exploring Christian Themes in The Lord of the Rings
This course explores The Lord of the Rings through its deep Christian themes and symbolism. Through guided film viewings and group discussions, participants will examine how Tolkien weaves reflections on faith, sacrifice, providence, mercy, and the struggle between good and evil into his storytelling. No theological background is needed—just a love for the trilogy and a curiosity about its spiritual layers.
Topics include:
• The nature of evil
• Christ-like figures in the narrative
• Grace, providence, and spiritual warfare
• Fellowship and Christian community
• Redemption and mercy
No Cost
Art of the Spanish-Speaking World
Explore the vibrant world of Spanish-speaking cultures through art! This hands on class introduces famous artists like Diego Velázquez, Frida Kahlo, and Fernando Botero, alongside traditional art forms, exploring their history, symbolism, and techniques. Students will create projects such as Huichol yarn paintings, Spanish-style tiles, and piñatas, learning how art reflects culture, community, and identity. No prior experience needed, just curiosity and creativity!
Mixed with 8th Grade Students.
No Cost
Music in Film
Music in Film explores how music shapes cinematic storytelling. Through focused listening, scene analysis, and creative projects, students learn how melody, harmony, rhythm, and instrumentation influence mood, tension, and character development.
The course uses short film clips, from early silent films to modern scores by composers like John Williams and Hans Zimmer, and invites students to suggest additional scenes. Students also experiment with adjusting or removing music to see how it changes a scene’s impact.
Mixed with Middle School Students.
No Cost
Faith and Film: Applying OICA to the Art of Storytelling
This course uses the OICA method (Observation, Interpretation, Correlation, and Application) to examine how films communicate truth through story. Students will watch selected classics and modern films that explore justice, hope, redemption, and moral conscience, learning to analyze cinematic choices, connect themes with Scripture, and apply those insights to their own faith and worldview.
The class emphasizes discernment, cultural literacy, and spiritual reflection. Assessment is based on participation, discussion, and a final OICA-based reflection project.
Films shown include PG–PG-13 content.
No Cost
Student Aide
Gain hands on experience as a Student Aide at LCS by assisting teachers in grades K-5 classrooms. Students will help peers individually or in small groups with reading and activities, prepare materials, make copies, and support learning stations, gaining valuable insight into teaching and classroom management.
No Cost
Dual Enrollment
This time is dedicated to working on the college-level courses you are currently enrolled in. Students can focus on assignments, projects, and study, receiving support as needed while managing their Dual Enrollment coursework.
Students currently enrolled in DE only.
No Cost
Stitch & Style: Practical Fiber Arts for Everyday Life
Learn practical sewing and fiber arts skills in this class! Start with basics like hemming, mending, and sewing on buttons, then gain confidence using a sewing machine, try basic crochet, and explore quilting. Students will create projects such as hats, scarves, tote bags, or quilt squares, developing problem solving skills and producing handmade items. No experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to learn!
Mixed with Middle School Students.
No Cost
Faith In Motion
Faith in Motion is a Pilates course that integrates physical wellness, mental focus, and spiritual growth. Students will develop strength, flexibility, posture, and balance through Pilates principles while learning to glorify God through movement and mindfulness. Each class includes Scripture reflection, intentional breathing, and guided exercises that emphasize stewardship of the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). Students will explore how discipline, rest, and gratitude intersect in both physical and spiritual health. Through journaling, prayer, and physical practice, participants will cultivate habits of self control, peace, and endurance - virtues that reflect Christ in daily living.
No Cost : Students may want a yoga mat, exercise bands, small weights, etc.
Jazz Band
Jazz Band is a performance-based course designed for students interested in exploring the rich traditions and dynamic styles of jazz music. Students will develop their musical skills through the study and performance of swing, Latin, funk, blues, and contemporary jazz repertoire. Emphasis is placed on ensemble playing, improvisation, music theory, and stylistic interpretation. This course will serve as a kick-off to a before or after-school Jazz Band.
Mixed with Middle School Students.
No Cost
Equip: Training Students for Ministry Leadership
Equipped is a hands-on, two week class where students learn practical ministry skills, speaking, worship, tech, and service, while working together to plan and lead a chapel.
Mixed with Middle School Students.
No Cost
Bro-ology
Bro-ology is a crash course for guys for everything relating to being a bro. We'll learn about what it means to be a man through the Bible. We'll talk leadership, watch and discuss sports, learn and play disc golf, learn some of the basic life skills men should know, and more.
Mixed with Middle School Students.
No Cost
Job Shadow
Students can gain job shadowing experience by spending a day observing professionals in a career they’re interested in. They may complete one shadow per day and are encouraged to explore multiple fields over the two week period. All placements require prior approval and completed paperwork before Christmas break. This experience gives students real world exposure to help inform future career and academic decisions through observation and reflection.
Juniors and Seniors only.
No Cost
Foundations of Audio Production
This two-week, hands-on course introduces students to the core tools and techniques of audio production. From recording and editing to mixing and mastering, participants will work with industry-standard software and equipment while building strong critical-listening skills. Students will learn to create high-quality audio for music, podcasts, video, and more, gaining the confidence to bring their ideas to life.
Topics include:
• Production workflows
• Microphones and recording techniques
• DAW setup and navigation
• Editing and mixing basics
• Effects processing (EQ, compression, reverb)
• Mastering and final output formats
No Cost
GRIT: Growing in Resilience and Intimacy Through Pursuing God
This course pairs triathlon training with spiritual growth, using swimming, biking, and running as metaphors for pursuing a deeper walk with God. Through Scripture study, journaling, and practical training, students explore themes of endurance, faith, rest, and community. Each session connects athletic discipline to biblical truth, showing how physical perseverance mirrors spiritual steadfastness. By the end, participants will be ready for a triathlon and will have developed GRIT, growing in resilience and intimacy with God through challenge and Christ-centered commitment.
Cost: $10
Military History
This course examines U.S. military history, culture, and evolution through film, discussion, and analysis. Students will explore major conflicts—from World War II to the Middle East—focusing on the values of service, leadership, and sacrifice. The class highlights each branch’s traditions, missions, and roles, connecting cinematic portrayals to historical realities, technological impacts, and the meaning of military service across eras.
Disclaimer: Films include violence, gore, and some language.
No Cost
AP Environmental Science
Continuation of APES curriculum, emphasizing advanced concepts, lab work, and preparation for the AP exam.
Current APES students only.
No Cost
AP Chemistry
This course will be a continuation of our work in AP Chemistry. Students will continue to work through the curriculum in order to prepare for the AP Chemistry exam.
Current AP Chemistry students only.
No Cost
Stagecraft and Technical Theatre Arts
This course provides students with experiential learning in the technical aspects of theatre production, emphasizing design thinking, engineering, and artistry. Students will construct and decorate set pieces and props for Newsies while learning safe tool use, project planning, and collaborative problem solving - integrating creative expression with technical precision.
No Cost
Thinking Like a Scientist: Data, Decisions, and Discovery
Step into the role of a real investigator! In this interactive course, students explore how scientists ask questions, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and make evidence-based decisions. Each day presents a new hands-on challenge—from pendulum motion to reaction times to environmental studies—culminating in a Discovery Project where students design and present their own mini-experiment.
Students will apply the scientific method from hypothesis to conclusion, design fair experiments while identifying variables, and analyze data using graphs, averages, and basic statistics. They will also learn to recognize bias, uncertainty, and error in real scientific work, and communicate their findings effectively through both written and oral presentations.
No Cost
