I.E.W. Beginning Level: "Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales"

Melanie Brake

CLASS #3 (Beginning IEW) — IEW Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales   CLASS DESCRIPTION: Writing with Structure & Style: Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales Writing Lessons   In this year-long course, students will develop the skills they need to become compelling and confident writers. Students will delve into dozens of delightful tales as they learn the principles of writing using IEW’s theme-based text Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales Writing Lessons.   The class format will include lecture, discussion and reading, audio/visual teaching aids, and peer interaction/feedback. A year-long syllabus will be provided to ensure open communication and clear expectations between all parties: student/parents/tutor.    Required Text: Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales Writing Lessons ($35; available from iew.com)   Contact Melanie Brake at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with questions or to be placed on the temporary class roster.   This class is best suited for students in the upper elementary and lower middle grades who have little to no IEW experience. As with all IEW-based classes, however, the student’s reading and writing level is the primary consideration. I am happy to discuss placement with you.        

  • When: Period Three 10:50-12:10
  • Cost: Cost: $435 + $40 HERC fee + $25 Supplies fee = $500
  • Minimum Number of Students: 5
  • Prerequisite: none

I.E.W. Advanced Level - "Narnia" Volume 2

Melanie Brake

    CLASS DESCRIPTION: Writing with Structure & Style: Following Narnia, Volume 2: Aslan’s Country   In this year-long course, students will develop the skills they need to become compelling and confident writers. Using the principles established by the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW), students will journey through the latter four novels of The Chronicles of Narnia series: Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, and The Last Battle using IEW’s theme-based text Following Narnia, Volume 2: Aslan’s Country.    The class format will include lecture, discussion and reading, audio/visual teaching aids, and peer interaction/feedback. A year-long syllabus will be provided to ensure open communication and clear expectations between all parties: student/parents/tutor.    Required Text: Following Narnia, Volume 2: Aslan’s Country ($35; available from iew.com)   Contact Melanie Brake at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with questions or to be placed on the temporary class roster.   *This class is best suited for experienced IEW students in the upper middle grades and high school. However, as with all IEW-based classes, the student’s reading and writing level is the primary consideration. I am happy to discuss placement with you.    

  • When: Period Two 9:20 - 10:40
  • Cost: Cost: $435 + $40 HERC fee + $25 Supplies fee = $500
  • Minimum Number of Students: 5
  • Prerequisite: This class is best suited for experienced IEW students in the upper middle grades and high school. However, as with all IEW-based classes, the student’s reading and writing level is the primary consideration. I am happy to discuss placement with you.

Acrylics and Watercolor Painting Techniques, Pastels and Drawing - Same Course offered Thursdays Periods Three, Four and Five

Bob Ross

These Art classes will divide the class times between both Watercolor on paper and expanding your Art talents with Painting with the vast color combinations of Acrylic Painting techniques on canvas.   We also will be experimenting with students doing Digital Photography with their phone and cameras in all class periods. Lessons in Painting, Drawing, and some Art History Lessons.Minimum Number of Students:  9 per period. Cost: per semester $230.00 includes the $20 HERC fee = $230.00 Tutor: Bob Ross    Grade: 5 -12 (5th grade student IF mature, and self-Disciplined, and is able to work on their own projects.) Semester 1 & 2nd Semesters*  When: Thursdays Periods 3 or - 4 -or 5.    Cost: per semester $230.00 this includes the $20.  HERC fee = $230.00*  Minimum Number of Students: 9 per period  (plus instructor makes 10 people in the room)* Prerequisite: none   Contact Bob Ross with questions or to be placed on Temporary Class Roster : <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>    

  • When: Thursdays Period Three, or Four or Five
  • Cost: per semester $230.00 includes the $20 HERC fee = $230.00
  • Minimum Number of Students: MAXIMUM students per class period = 12
  • Prerequisite: none

American Literature - English 11 College Prep

Carla Muller

  This course will lead students through a study of Colonial-Revolutionary, Romantic, Realistic/Naturalistic and Modern American literature while examining the impact of such issues as Darwinism and religious liberalism on these periods. The students will strengthen their understanding of the proper construction of the essay and continue to build their vocabulary through a supplemental Latin course. The class format will include lecture, discussion and reading, as well as audio/visual teaching aids. A year-long syllabus will be sent home to ensure communication between parent/teacher, student and class/instructor. Curriculum Required: American Literature for Christian Schools Bob Jones University Press, any edition 1992 and newer (a few are available from HERC library or $19.99 on amazon.com), and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain. (Supplies fee includes class notebook, all homework sheets and Latin packet) Contact Carla Muller with questions or to be placed on Temporary Class Roster <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: Thursdays, Period Three, 10:50 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.
  • Cost: Cost: $435 + $40 HERC fee +$25 Supplies fee=$500
  • Minimum Number of Students: 7
  • Prerequisite: Must be in grade 10, 11 or 12

American Sign Language 1 College Prep

Diane Baker

American Sign Language is quickly growing to be the third most used language in America, and is a valid choice to meet the high school foreign language requirement. This course will introduce the basics of ASL and show the differences between ASL and other forms of communication for the hearing impaired. Many techniques will be implemented, such as worksheets, videos, skits, class practice. The student will learn Beginning ASL, including vocabulary, deaf culture and history, and the grammar and sentence structure that makes it an official language. Curriculum required: info given at the time of registration. A notebook, binder and writing utensils are required.  For questions or to be added to Temporary Class Roster, email Diane Baker <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: Thursdays Period Thrree 10:50 – 12:10 pm
  • Cost: $500 (includes $40 HERC fee),
  • Minimum Number of Students: 5
  • Prerequisite: none

American Sign Language 2 College Prep

Diane Baker

This is a continued study of American Sign Language and will count as the student’s language requirement. ASL II will address more fundamentals of the language and emphasize grammar structure, conceptual accuracy, sign placement and an increase in vocabulary. We will also work on idiomatic expression, descriptive details, translation and “reading” other signers. Curriculum required: info given at the time of registration. A notebook, binder and writing utensils are required. Signing Naturally text is also used but does not need to be purchased for class. Text sheets will be provided by the tutor when needed. Prerequisite: ASL 1 with grade of C or better. For more information or to be put on a temporary roster, please contact Diane <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: Thursdays, Period Four 12:20-1:40
  • Cost: Cost: $500 (includes $40 HERC fee), $40 non-refundable HERC fee is due at time of early registration in June
  • Minimum Number of Students: 5
  • Prerequisite:  Prerequisite: ASL 1 with grade of C or better

Automotive 2

Conway Lopez

Conway Lopez   Automotive Class Class will continue  – Students will continue learning and practicing car maintenance (changing oil, checking fluids, changing a tire, etc) and repair, vintage car restoration, as well as beginning welding with torches using oxygen and acetylene. Old clothing (long pants and work boots) and safety glasses are required (glasses provided).  *Pre-requisite:  Automotive 1.  Students new to the class can check with the instructor for openings.   Suggested credit as a high school elective       Please email Elizabeth Haber-Lopez / Conway Lopez with any questions  <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>   Grade: 9th - 12th  When: Tuesdays 9:30 - 11:30 am. at Mr. Lopez's shop in East Bakersfield  Cost: $230 per semester plus $20 HERC fee per semester                                           Maximum number of students:  8

  • When: Tuesdays 9:30 - 11:30 (see description for venue)
  • Cost: $230 per semester plus $20 HERC fee
  • Minimum Number of Students: MAXIMUM students 8
  • Prerequisite: Pre-requisite: Automotive 1

Beginning Ballroom Dance

Emma Warren

Beginning Ballroom:  In this class students will further their knowledge and abilities in dancing.  We will focus on 1 dance per semester at depth. They will become more skilled in counting music and leading and following.  This course runs for 2 semesters (an entire school year). 5th period  Intro to Ballroom course required to have been taken. HERC uniforms and closed-toe shoes are required.   (discounts provided if more than one student from a family is attending.)      Contact Emma Warren-Baker for questions or to be placed on Temporary Class Roster <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: Thursday, Period 5, 1:45 p.m. through 3:05 p.m., (venue: Sanctuary)
  • Cost: $340 per student plus  $40 HERC fee= $380  
  • Minimum Number of Students: 6, max 30
  • Prerequisite: Ages 13 and up, Completion of "Intro to Ballroom" course required

Biology (with lab)

Holly Assi

Biology   This full-year Biology course is designed to teach students the importance of the world around them, from the tiniest organisms to the biggest creatures that roam the earth. Throughout the school year we will explore living things created by God. Students will learn to appreciate the complexity of His design and know how living organisms function and respond to their environments. We will look at cells, the building blocks of all life, and even life that we cannot see with our eyes alone. This class will include Lecture, hands-on labs (including dissections) as well as demonstrations and drawings to aid in visual learning. Tests on the material taught will be provided as well. Considering Apologia Exploring Creation with Biology 2nd Edition by Jay Wile for text.  For additional information or questions, or to be placed on a temporary class roster please reach out to Amber or Holly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..     

  • When: Thursdays Period Three 10:50-12:10
  • Cost: $550 (including lab/dissection materials)+ 40 non-refundable HERC Fee
  • Minimum Number of Students: 10
  • Prerequisite: 8th grade and up for Biology, 10th grade and up for Chemistry as well as successful completion of Algebra 1.

British Literature - English 12 College Prep

Carla Muller

Grade: 10-12 full year This course is a survey of British literature from the Middle Ages through the Modern Era. However, our second semester will be a study of the works and life of C.S. Lewis. We will be reading a selection of his works covering some of his novels for children, science fiction, fantasy, myth and various essays. The first semester will include an overview of four major literary periods: The Middle Ages, The Renaissance, The Age of Revolution and The Age of Reform. This Christian historic approach to British literature will concern itself with the political and historical ideas and their influence upon the authors. The class format will include lecture, discussion and reading, as well as audio/visual teaching aids. Most of the homework assignments will focus on essay responses to the reading. A year-long syllabus will be sent home to ensure communication between parent/teacher, student and class/instructor. Curriculum Required: British Literature for Christian Schools Bob Jones University Press (1992 and newer editions). Available for order from : www.bjupress.com or amazon.com.  A few copies are available in the HERC library.  The second semester, students will need the following works by C.S. Lewis. The Magician’s Nephew, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, Out of the Silent Planet and Till We Have Faces.  NO ELECTRONIC TEXTS PLEASE. Many texts are available from the Public Library. Supplies fee includes a class notebook with all homework pages and assignments. Contact Carla Muller with questions or to be added to Temporary Class Roster <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: Thursdays Period 5 (1:45 p.m. - 3:05 p.m.)
  • Cost: $435 + $40 HERC fee +$25 Supplies fee = $500
  • Minimum Number of Students: 6
  • Prerequisite: Must be in 10th, 11th or 12th grade

Chess Club

Randy Cowart

The club meets once a month, 8 - 9 times in the school year, September thru May. See the HERC calendar for details. Chess is the strategy game of kings and generals. The game can be enjoyed at many different levels of play. Chess helps to develop critical thinking. Learn to play chess. All ages and skill levels, including beginners, are welcome. Have fun and improve your game strategy. Club time includes some group and individual instruction and board play time. Chess boards are provided. Students are welcome to also bring their own board if they wish. Strategy is discussed and play notation is encouraged to help develop strategy.   Contact Randy Cowart with questions or to be added to Temporary Club Roster <

  • When: First Thursday of every month 3:15 p.m.
  • Minimum Number of Students: none
  • Prerequisite: none

Drama Club

Sandy Armstrong

Grade: 7-12 This a fun club where we work on acting skills and stage presence through improv and games during meetings and other gatherings. We also work on performances for HERC Showcases and Talent Shows, as well as occasional full-scale productions.  Minimum Number of Students: 5 When: First Thursdays, 3:10 - 4:30 pm Cost: $25 HERC fee Tutor: Sandy Armstrong Contact Sandy with questions or to be added to Temporary Club Roster <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: First Thursday of every month
  • Cost: $25
  • Minimum Number of Students: 4

Economics College Prep

Diane Baker

Economics is the second semester of a student’s 12th grade requirement. This class will deal with the economics of countries and people from a biblical perspective. Topics covered include free enterprise, capitalism, free market, wealth and stewardship, and economic roles of individuals as well as government. There is much discussion, as well as projects, video clips, and class interaction. NOTE: Each component may be taken separately; Together with Government Class, these count as the 12th grade history core classes. Curriculum required: info given at the time of registration. A notebook, binder and writing utensils are required. Contact Diane Baker with questions or to be added to Temporary Class Roster <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: Thursdays, Period 2: 9:25-10:45 Second Semester only
  • Cost: Cost: $250 (includes HERC fee), The $20 non-refundable HERC fee is due at time of registration. (Students may register in June or in January.)
  • Minimum Number of Students: 5
  • Prerequisite: none

English 10 Elements of Literature College Prep

Carla Muller

Elements of Literature (Eng. 10 College Prep) (gr. 10-12) - full year - Carla Muller   This course will lead students through a study of the “elements” of literature--imaginative comparisons, allusions, symbolism, irony, and devices of sound-- by studying primarily American and British authors.  These studies will focus on five genres-- biography, fiction, lyric poetry, drama and the personal essay. There is also a special unit on Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”. The students will learn the importance of literary analysis by studying these pieces and interpreting them in the light of Biblical Truth.  The class format will include lecture, discussion and reading, as well as audio/visual teaching aids. A year-long syllabus will be sent home to ensure communication between parent/teacher, student and tutor.  Curriculum required: 1.) Elements of Literature for Christian Schools, $59.44 christianbooks.com  Bob Jones University Press.  (There are a few copies available in the HERC library);  2.)Tales From Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb (any edition) starting at $3.95 at amazon.com. Contact Carla Muller with questions or to be added to Temporary Class Roster <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>

  • When: (Thursdays, Period 2 (9:25 a.m. - 10:45 am)
  • Cost: Cost: $435 + $40 HERC fee. Supplies fee $25 = $500
  • Minimum Number of Students: minimum of 7 students/maximum 20)
  • Prerequisite: For grades 9-12

General Science

Jessica Grant

Apologia: General Science This is a true General Science course covering a variety of branches of science including astronomy, meteorology, oceanography, earth study, geology, paleontology, and environmental science modules giving students a solid foundation in that broad field of study. This course is designed to help middle schoolers transition from elementary science to the middle school world. This class will be offered 4th period and will cost $360. The basic set of Apologia’s General Science will need to be purchased to get the most out of the class. Apologia.com General Science Basic Set Contact Jessica Grant for questions and/or to be put on a Temporary roster.  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.,

  • When: Period Three: 10:50-12:10
  • Cost: $320+$40 HERC fee = $360
  • Minimum Number of Students: 4
  • Prerequisite: none