BLI Learning Labs
School Life
Primary Cohort
The primary cohort, for children aged 4-6, is the initial entry point to BLI micro schools. The primary years involve hands-on learning in supportive, creative spaces with experienced, passionate teachers. Our approach includes teaching the foundations in math, science, writing, and reading in a way that engages children and helps them see the value in reading and learning. The morning block is dedicated to academics; the afternoon block is spent in art, music, and health classes.
Quick Facts
- 6:1 student-teacher ratio
- Daily art and music curriculum
- Snack and creative playtime
- Opportunities for parent involvement such as garden helper, mystery reader, and guest expert
- Open-ended learning spaces and activities
Elementary Cohort
The elementary years at BLI, for children aged 7-10, give young students the opportunity to begin their journey as a lifelong learner. Our elementary students develop a strong foundation in core academic subjects, as well as build a strong character and begin to develop a sense of community. The school day is from 8:20-2:30 daily with the morning block dedicated to traditional academic courses. The afternoon block is dedicated to enrichment programming in the arts, health, and STEM.
Quick Facts
- 10:1 student-teacher ratio
- Social Emotional Learning
- Spanish, ELA American History, arithmetic, geography, life, earth, and physical science
- Field experiences
- Gardening
- Enrichment programming in the arts, health, and STEM
Intermediate Cohort
BLI’s intermediate cohort, for children aged 11-14, provides structure and gives students a window for the cultivation of important skills such as organization, independence and autonomy. All students are held to high expectations by both teachers and peers, and work from a curriculum that includes short-term individual research projects and collaborative research-based learning. This provides in-depth explorations of the concepts learned in class. The morning block is dedicated to academics, and students pursue their interests in the arts, health, and STEM during the afternoon hours.
Quick Facts
- 12:1 student-teacher ratio
- Field experiences and apprenticeships for children 14+
- Pre-algebra
- ELA and Creative Writing
- Biology
- World History
- Physical and Earth Science
Secondary Cohort
Course offerings provide students with a quarterly schedule of both high school and college courses. Accelerated classes allow students aged 15-18 to enroll in dual-credit college courses. This collaboration with area colleges and universities aims to produce an individualized learning experience for students that asks them to demonstrate the thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in college and future careers. Additionally, students can enhance their academic, career, and personal development through apprenticeships with local nonprofit and for-profit businesses. Students work and learn through community-based partnerships, experiencing the challenges and growth only these real-world opportunities can provide.
Quick Facts
- 12:1 student-teacher ratio
- In-person and online classes
- Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-calculus, Trigonometry, Statistics
- ELA
- US History
- Chemistry
- Biology 2
- Dual enrollment
- Apprenticeships
