2025-2026 School Year
Lego Lab/Art Exploration (SPT)
All 6th grade classes must be taken as a package. This is one of four classes in the package.
Lego Lab and Art Exploration will be held on alternate days for the two day package.
Course Description
Lego Lab is a STEAM class teaching basic computer literacy with hands-on weekly challenges in class involving designing solutions to problems and coding the design. During class students will be given opportunities to work in collaborative teams as they learn various computer skills, coding reasoning, problem solving skills, and communication skills. The instructor will use kits from Lego Education to provide a fun, hands-on method of exploring the world of science and technology.
There will be two short assignments before class starts, they will be posted at the beginning of August in Jupiter Ed.
In their Art Exploration class students will focus on creative expression, art history, and art appreciation. They will use techniques and media to create art pieces such as drawing, painting, mixed media, textiles, sculpture, and printmaking. They will be introduced to art vocabulary organically, including the Elements of Design (line, shape, color, form, texture, value, and space), as well as the Principles of Design. Students will study several artists (modern, contemporary, and a few from other art periods) while also learning how to critique their own works of art.
To be successful in this class:
For Lego Lab success depends on a student’s ability to work effectively with a partner or within a group, manage time wisely, and ability to follow directions. To be prepared for each class, students will need to preview the lesson for the upcoming week at home
The Art Exploration curriculum is based on a three-year rotation to accommodate students from grades 6-8 and those taking the course more than once. Students have no need of prior experience or particular talent, but to be willing to try new things and enjoy the process. Participation and effort are the keys to success. Weekly participation grades will be based on effort and improvement during class.
Homework:
- LEGO class homework will be to preview the upcoming lesson.
- Art Exploration will not be assigned homework.
Grades: 6th Grade
Fees: Tuition: $1440 for 6th grade package of 4 classes *Fee: $60 combined Lego lab and art supply fee.
Required Materials
Lego Lab
Textbook: All in class materials are covered by the lab fee and will be supplied by the teacher.
Other materials: (Students need available at home):
- Computer Access-They will need to be able to watch a video on a computer each week.
Art Exploration
Textbook: none
Other materials:
- One Liquid Elmer’s Glue
- 2B Pencils
- One Pink Eraser
- One Grey Kneaded Eraser
- One Clear Ruler
- 9”x 12” Spiral Sketchbook (to be brought to class each week)
- One Folder with Pockets
- One pack of baby wipes or Clorox wipes (to be left in class)
- Small zippered pouch to hold small art materials

Meet McKenzie Blanton
Education: The University of South Carolina Upstate- Early Childhood Education, Converse College- Master’s of Education
Teaching experience: I began teaching in 2011. I have taught a variety of classes and grade levels from pre-school to a local 9th grade high school campus.
Homeschool experience: I am beginning home school with my children in the 2024 school year.
Certifications: I am certified in Early Childhood Education, Special Education Learning Disabilities, Special Education Intellectual Disabilities, and Preschool Special Education certifications.
Courses taught: Computer Science
Began Teaching at UHC in 2024

Meet Heather Steward
Education: North Greenville University B.A. Theatre. The University of Southern Mississippi M.F.A. Theatre Design and Technology
Teaching experience: Graduate Teaching Assistant at The University of Southern Mississippi 2016. Elementary/Intermediate Theatre at Spartanburg Christian Academy 2022-2024
Homeschool experience: Began homeschooling in 2024
UHC Courses Taught: Middle School Art
Began teaching at UHC in 2024