High School Program

Welcome!

We are delighted for the opportunity to share our high school program with you. Our courses have been thoughtfully prepared to inspire and engage each individual student in a rich academic adventure, taught in light of the restored gospel. Ensign Peak Academy is established to teach Latter-day Saint youth, but welcomes all interested students.

We specialize in high-touch, low-tuition online Learning Communities.

Live Program

Each year, our high school students (grades 9-12) attend a set of live, online core courses, as a Learning Community of no more than 25 students. This facilitates the development of great friendships within the Learning Community.

New students may enroll in our live program at any time, Aug – May.

View the Tuition page and the Admissions Process page for enrollment information.

Students are invited to…

• Enjoy inspiring instruction from our terrific mentors.
• Discuss the lessons with mentors and other students through live webinar-based video, audio and chat.
• Make consistent progress through rich and meaningful lessons.

High School Program Director: Diann Jeppson

Self-Paced Program

• Students may enroll any time of the year.
• Select the courses you want.
• Courses are accessed through Canvas. All grading, feedback and communication is provided within Canvas.
• No time limit for course completion – students work at their own pace. (Exception: Any course taken to meet NCAA Eligibility Requirements must be completed within one year, unless an extension is granted.)
• Upon completion, courses are entered onto the student’s high school transcript.

View the Tuition page and the Admissions Process page for enrollment information.

A Parent Share Her Experience

“Ensign Peak classes took a student who felt overwhelmed and unmotivated and inspired her with a desire to learn and change poor study habits. Ensign classes have interesting, meaningful and applicable content and teachers who care and connect with the students, and are encouraging. The assignments don’t feel like busy work but have purpose and don’t take inordinate amounts of time to complete. Now when I ask my daughter how her classes are going, she doesn’t get grumpy, she smiles and lets me know she is enjoying them. That’s a good sign!”

-Val McCauley, Eagle, ID

Accreditation

Ensign Peak Academy is accredited with Cognia. Visit our accreditation page for more information.

Live Program Calendar and Schedule

2023-2024 Live High School classes are held August 22, 2023 to May 30, 2024. View the 2023-2024 Calendar.

• 1st Semester: August 22, 2023 – January 18, 2024
• 2nd Semester: January 23, 2024 – May 30, 2024

2024-2025 Live High School classes are held August 20, 2024 to May 29, 2025. View the 2024-2025 Calendar.

• 1st Semester: August 20, 2024 – January 16, 2025
• 2nd Semester: January 21, 2025 – May 29, 2025

Note: Students are welcome to join the live program anytime.

Live Class Schedules

• View our 2023-2024 Live Class Schedule
• Full schedule enrollment includes English, Literature, History, Science, Math and two or three electives.
• Most courses include one live scheduled class per week, plus online personal study modules, assignments and quizzes which are completed independently, at times convenient to each student.

Full program or à la carte: Most students enroll in the full live program schedule of classes. All students are welcome to enroll à la carte in any live or self-paced course or courses, at any time.

High School Course Development

English and Literature Schedule Rotation

Our high school English and Literature courses are taught live on a four-year rotating basis and are therefore non-sequential. Students in 9th – 12th grade attend the same courses together, in a given year. Here is the schedule:

• 2023-2024 English: Writing Dynamics, American Literature,
• 2024-2025 English: Writing Skills, British Literature
• 2025-2026 English: Writing Adventures, World Literature
• 2026-2027 English: Writing Essentials, Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature

3 English credits and 3 literature credits are required to graduate.

English and Literature

English: Writing Dynamics

2-semester course, 1 credit

Taught live for the 2023-2024 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

Youth are better prepared to assist in the building of the Kingdom of God, and in preserving liberty when they understand how to write well, and to support written statements with solid reasoning and credible sources. Instruction interrelates with the American Literature course to provide topics for students to use in their writing. The goal of this course is to support students becoming independent, organized and effective readers, writers, listeners, and speakers who are prepared to communicate effectively in academic, professional and social settings.

Part 1

This semester focuses on creative writing through fable, poetry and script writing, including use of multiple points of view. Students will expand their understanding of grammar, and develop the skill of developing a well-written research paper. They will learn about copyright, avoiding plagiarism, and the concept of public domain.  MLA formatting will be taught.

Part 2

This semester introduces students to the art of the interview. Instruction also focuses on preparing to write an excellent college entrance essay. They will develop a solid resume and learn to write well-constructed business letters and a letter of recommendation. Students will continue to expand their understanding of grammar.

American Literature

2-semester course, 1 credit

Taught live for the 2023-2024 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

This course provides an enriching journey through some of the finest American fiction novels.  Students will also experience a classic American short story, a thought-provoking play, and inspiring poetry.  The course is taught in tandem with English: Writing Dynamics. The literature selections will provide a platform for investigations into the importance of scholarship, the family, virtue, Christian discipleship, the pioneer spirit, integrity and courage. Students will explore a variety of literary devices and writing styles.

Part 1 Readings: Rip Van Winkle, by Washington Irving; Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain; Our Town, by Thorton Wilder; Little Men, by Louisa May Alcott; Poetry of Eliza R. Snow

Part 2 Readings: The Chosen, by Chaim Potok; Sackett’s Land, by Louis L’Amour; The Old Man and the Sea, by Ernest Hemingway; and To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee.

English: Writing Skills

2-semester course, 1 credit

Will be taught live for the 2024-2025 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

Part 1

Students are invited on an exciting journey into the craft of writing. This course teaches students to clarify and refine their writing. A focus of this course is writing an extended definition essay, which is a great tool for both scholarship and gospel study. Students will explore the art of sonnet writing. Students will learn how to build context for expanded meaning, understand etymology and parallel structures. Instruction will be provided to improve punctuation and grammar. This course includes a unit on how to write a great church talk. The goal of this course is to support students becoming independent writers, listeners, and speakers who communicate effectively and are better prepared to assist in building the Kingdom of God.

Part 2

In this course, students will learn how to recognize beautiful writing. A focus of this course is learning to write a literary analysis. We will work on improving syntax and learning to express ideas in a creative and concise manner, to a chosen audience. Students will learn more about the art of the short story as they write their own story. They will sharpen up their grammar and punctuation skills and learn some tips and techniques for good keyboarding. The goal of this course is to support students becoming independent writers, listeners, and speakers who communicate effectively and are better prepared to assist in building the Kingdom of God.

British Literature

2-semester course, 1 credit

Taught live for the 2024-2025 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

This course provides an overview of British Literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the 21st century with a focus on the unique social, historical and cultural context of each reading. The course includes a variety of genres for a rich exposure to the vast body that is British Literature. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama and fiction in relation to the literary period in which they were written. The texts lend themselves to meaningful discussions of light and dark, love and hate, nature, humanity, knowledge, redemption, family, forgiveness, spirituality, and courage. 

Part 1

Readings for Part 1 of this course are Sonnets and Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare; Beowulf; “Crossing the Bar” and “The Charge of the Light Brigade” by Alfred Lord Tennyson; A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.

Part 2

Readings for Part 2 of this course are “Bright Star” by John Keats; “Lines Written in Early Spring” and “I wandered lonely as a cloud” by William Wordsworth; The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis; Leaf by Niggle by J.R.R. Tolkien; Frankenstein by Mary Shelley; and The Ball and the Cross by GK Chesterton.

English: Writing Adventures

2-semester course, 1 credit

Will be taught live for the 2025-2026 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

Part 1

This course focuses on writing as communication across history and culture. As such, this course compliments the World Literature course, and the writing skills and assignments parallel the readings in World Literature. Students in this course will think about and learn ways in which their writing communicates messages to the reader and the powerful influence they can have on others through their writing. In the first semester, the students will work on creative projects such as poetry and an oral history project that focuses on family history. This semester also gives the students the opportunity to hone their critical thinking and argumentative skills through the Persuasive Essay assignment.

Part 2

The writing assignments in the first part of the second semester will focus on providing students with the skills necessary to succeed in communicating their message in a more formal environment through the speech and business letter. They will learn how to use proper tone, language, style and grammar to communicate effectively in these important scenarios that will serve them throughout their lives. As students learn how to understand the needs of their readers, they will be more readily prepared to assist in spreading the message of the gospel to others. In the second half of the semester, students will take on cultural projects of their own in the Ethnography and Memoir assignments. Each of these assignments will give the students the opportunity to delve into the cultural experiences of others and to reflect on their own culture and life experiences. These assignments will help students acquire skills to help them communicate with and about others to the world now and in the future.

High School World Literature

2-semester course, 1 credit

Will be taught live for the 2025-2026 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

Part I

In this course, students embark on a historical journey throughout the world through poetry, drama, short story, oral history, fiction and nonfiction. The texts for the first semester span the history of the written word, beginning with poetry from the Asian continent written around the 7th century and ending with a play written by a German playwright about the life of Galileo, which was published in 1938. These texts will introduce the students to a variety of cultures, histories, societies and stories that represent the countries and times in which they were written. In the first semester, the students will read texts from the Asian continent, the Marshall Islands, Spain, Russia, Germany and Tibet. 

Being exposed to other cultures and peoples will help students to become more like Christ as they learn about God’s children in other parts of the world. These texts each deal with issues that are central to our experience here in mortality and help students to find similarities with those who lived in a different time and place. This compassionate view of the world will help prepare them to build the kingdom of God on the earth through Christlike love, just as the Savior did. 

Part I Readings (digital and audio versions are noted in the Canvas Student Center)

• Poetry of Li Bai: “Thoughts on a Silent Night”; “The Summit Temple”; “The Night of Sorrow”; “The Blue Water”; “Why I Live in the Green Mountains”
• Poetry of Jalal al-Din Rumi: “Remember God and Forget Self”; “Life In Death”; “Be Silent”; “What Was Told, That”
• Japanese Haiku: “The Old Pond”; “A World of Dew”; Lighting One Candle”; “A Poppy Blooms”; Over the Wintry”
• Marshall Islands: Legends and Stories by Daniel Kelin
• Life is a Dream by Pedro Calderon de la Barca
• “The Overcoat” by Nicoli Gogol
• Life of Galileo by Bertolt Brecht
• Seven Years in Tibet by Heinrich Harrer

Part II

The second semester starts with Nobel prize winning poet Pablo Neruda, who published from the 1920’s to the 1970’s, and it ends with a contemporary memoir, published in 1996, from a group of young girls who escaped a government-run boarding school after being forcibly removed from their aboriginal mother. This semester also includes The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom, which documents her life as a Jew in Holland during World War II and how her faith in God helped her to survive. Through reading these and other texts this semester, students will learn the importance and value of the freedom that they enjoy every day in America, where they can live, speak, worship and study without the oppressive forces of violence and fear.

The focus and goal of the course in its entirety is to provide the students with an immersive cultural experience of the world, which will highlight both the literature and the unique culture of each country that they will study. This second semester, they will read texts from Chile, Holland, Nigeria, Argentina, Brazil and Australia. The texts were selected not only to offer the students a glimpse of the magnificent world in which we live, but also to provide them with rich, enjoyable reading experiences to which they can relate and from which they can learn.

Part II Readings (digital and audio versions are noted in the Canvas Student Center)

• Poetry of Pablo Nerdua: “Poetry”; “A Dog Has Died”; “If You Forget Me”
• The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom
• “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe
• “The Book of Sand” by Jorge Luis Borges
• The Alchemist by Pablo Coelho
• Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence by Doris Pilkington

English: Writing Essentials

2-semester course, 1 credit

Will be taught live for the 2026-2027 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

The Lord asks for disciples who are prepared to assist in the building of the Kingdom of God through articulate, well-reasoned persuasion. This course focuses on developing student’s skills and strategies for critical, independent reading and writing of expository, narrative, response to literature, and persuasive texts. MLA formatting will be taught. Instruction interrelates with the Science Fiction Literature course to provide topics for students to use as they articulate their own ideas as well as to analyze, interpret, and evaluate the readings. The goal of this course is to support students becoming independent, strategic, critical readers, writers, listeners, and speakers who communicate effectively in various forms, for genuine purposes, and to authentic audiences.

Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature

2-semester course, 1 credit

Will be taught live for the 2026-2027 school year for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.

Currently offered as a self-paced course.

This course is a rich and thrilling adventure through some of the finest selections of science fiction and fantasy literature. It is taught in tandem with English: Writing Essentials. Students will become acquainted with several outstanding authors of these genres, through engaging lessons, novels, novellas, short stories and poetry. These literature selections will provide a platform for investigations into the importance of virtue, Christian discipleship, integrity and courage, as well as literary themes, symbolism, plot-lines, characters, settings, writing styles, etc. Part 1 readings for this course are “‘Repent, Harlequin!’ Said the Ticktockman” Here is a free YouTube Audio Recording. Here is a text version, “The Cold Equations”, by Tom Goodwin (Free digital file) Starship Troopers, by Robert Heinlein, I, Robot, by Isaac Asimov, Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury. Part 2 readings for this course are The Light Princess, by George MacDonald, The Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis, Jabberwocky (Free digital reading), Smith of Wootton Major, by J.R.R. Tolkien, and The Last Unicorn, by Peter S. Beagle.

History and Geography

Four history and geography credits are required to graduate. American History and US Government and Citizenship are required courses. The other two credits may be fulfilled by taking Ancient World History, Modern World History or Human Geography.

Sets of History and Geography courses are offered live in a 2-year alternating schedule as follows:

• 2023-2024: American History, Ancient World History
• 2024-2025: US Government and Citizenship, Modern World History, Human Geography

All 5 History and Geography courses are offered self-paced any time.

American History 

2-semester course, 1 credit

This course is required to graduate.

This course invites students to discover for themselves the tremendous blessings that have been bestowed by the Creator upon the “choice land” known today as America. Read reflections of America’s Founders on the divine purposes of the nation. Experience the joy of reading inspiring stories of the Lord’s providential hand in American history. 

Part 1

What happened when three worlds met, on the American continent? How do historians use artifacts, oral histories, legends and primary sources to explain the reasons for exploration and early settlements? Learn how European powers shaped the dominant political, economic, linguistic, and religious traditions of the United States. Find out about the daily lives of the variety of people who inhabited America during the Colonial Era. Study the mind and heart of the patriots of the American Revolution, the cause of liberty and its long term effects on American identity. Meet key individuals who helped shape the new nation. Gain insight into the origins and drafting of the US Constitution. Learn about the development of political institutions and processes. Gain insights into the growth of religions, western expansion, immigration, transportation and communication. Find out about the Mexican War and how it relates to Latter-day Saints. Learn about the causes, battles, generals and conclusion of the U.S. Civil War and the reconstruction era that followed.

Part 2

Explore the effects of industrialization, compare examples of philanthropy and greed in U.S. History with similar examples from the Book of Mormon. Review various reform movements. Study globalization, intervention and territorial expansion. Learn why and how the U.S. entered World War I, their involvement, and the influence of media and propaganda. Gain a basic understanding of the Spanish American War. Learn about migration, trade and the Spanish Flu. Explore the cultural changes in the early 1900’s including the effects of prohibition, the roaring 20’s, nativism and the growing differences between urban and rural communities. Learn about the Vietnam War and its protestors. Understand the cause and conditions of the dust bowl and the Great Depression. Learn about the New Deal, the Progressive Movement and pros and cons of government involvement during economic crises. Learn why and how the U.S. entered World War II and what defined the conflict for U.S. soldiers in both the European and Pacific theaters. How did the war end and how did it set the stage for the Cold War? Study Soviet expansion and the foreign policy of Eisenhower, Kennedy and Nixon. Learn how to navigate ideology and read prophetic quotes on slowing the spread of communism. How did the Reagan Revolution provide economic success which was counter to the New Deal? Explore major themes of the 21st century including the war on terrorism, immigration, the socialist agenda, populism, national debt and energy. Conclude with a presentation on preserving this “choice land” known as America.

Ancient World History

2-semester course, 1 credit

Part 1

Come with us on an exciting journey that begins with the birth of civilization. Discover the genius of the Sumerians, the empire-building Akkadians, and the great conquests and constructions of the Assyrian and Babylonian Empires. Learn how a young Alexander the Great conquered much of the world. Explore the mighty ancient Egyptian civilizations. Follow the trail of the ancient Hebrews, from the Exodus and the building of the Kingdoms of Israel and Judah, to captivity in Babylon, the return to Jerusalem, and the establishment of Christ’s church in the Holy Land. Study the growth of early Christianity, the Nicene period, and the Crusades. Become acquainted with ancient Islamic and African empires.

Part 2

Discover ancient India, feudal Japan and the dynasties of ancient China. Find out about democracy in ancient Greece, and the fascinating story of Sparta. Learn about ancient Rome – the kingdom, the republic and the empire. Study the Middle Ages and find out about the role of the Anglo-Saxons and the Anglo-Normans in developing western culture and the English language. Discover the history of the powerful Mongol Empire. Take a close look at the great Olmec, Mayan, Inca and Aztec empires.

Modern World History

2-semester course, 1 credit

This exciting course begins with in overview of the history of the Ottoman Empire and the emergence of the Renaissance. Students will then learn about the Age of Exploration and colonization, and the Scientific Revolution. Students will enjoy learning some of the most fascinating aspects of the modern histories of China, India, Korea, Japan, Iran and Russia. Special emphasis will be given to the Reformation, and its relation to the restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Students will then dive into learning about the American and French Revolutions, the Atlantic slave trade, the Napoleonic Wars and the Industrial Revolution. Both World Wars will be covered, followed by the division of Korea, the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Cold War, the Information Age and Post-Colonial Africa.

U.S. Government and Citizenship

2-semester course, 1 credit

This course is required to graduate.

This course reviews the foundations of the U.S. government and provides information that enables a student to be actively involved in helping to shape America, for good. It focuses on the U.S. Constitution and promotes an understanding of important constitutional principles. 

The goal of the course is to help promote a love of America, freedom, and the U.S. Constitution through reviewing actual laws, Supreme Court cases, and real life scenarios to help students see and understand the impact of various policies and decisions. Students will be able to see the importance of self-government and economic freedom in helping America achieve the prosperity and progression that it has achieved.

Ultimately, students should be better equipped to address untruths, understand good and bad legal and political arguments, and be able to be a voice for good.

Human Geography

2-semester course, 1 credit

Come explore the beauty of the earth in an exciting new way, as we delve into the activities and behaviors of its human inhabitants. 

In Human Geography Part 1, students will have the opportunity to examine the connection and interaction humans have had with the earth’s natural systems including the history of human settlement and migration. By studying the gathering and scattering of God’s people throughout history, students will also be able to gain a deeper understanding of the connection between faith and the migration of God’s people anciently.  They will also be invited to think deeply about how the geography of where they live affects their lives.

In Human Geography Part 2, the world will come alive as students dive deep into aspects of culture of the different and beautiful people of this world.  Beginning with an exploration of the different languages of the world, students will have a chance to hear many of them and understand how they are all related.  Students will then explore the different religions of the world as they examine what makes them all different, and as they virtually visit sites that are sacred to others.  Agricultural and urban topics of geography will also be discussed, and students will get to study the formation of societies that have developed into modern political systems.

Science

Students are encouraged to take one science course each year, though three (3) credits of science are required for graduation. A student in any high school grade level may take any science course. Typically, science courses are taken in this order:

• 9th Grade: Earth Science
• 10th Grade: Biology
• 11th Grade: Chemistry
• 12th Grade: Physics

Earth Science

2-semester course, 1 credit

Part 1

Learn about the structure of the earth, plate tectonics, the rock cycle and the science behind earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes and landslides. We will explore the earth’s energy systems, including solar, geothermal, tidal and nuclear energy. Students will also learn about the structure of our atmosphere and how it makes life on earth possible. Explore the hydrosphere – the earth’s water and ocean systems, and learn the science behind floods. Study the layers of the atmosphere and how they relate to human life. Learn the science behind hurricanes. This course invites students to feel gratitude for God’s great creations as they consider the blessings and stewardship of the human family’s relationship with our earthly home.

Part 2

Find out about the earth’s climate systems. What is the cryosphere? Explore the biosphere and learn about the importance of the biogeochemical cycles. Understand the differing ideas between the big bang theory vs. the nebular theory of solar system formation. Learn about the rotation and orbit of the earth, earth’s magnetic field, and the technology used to investigate the earth’s systems. Consider ways to be good stewards of the earth. Find out how mankind obtains, uses and manages the earth’s resources, including mineral, petroleum, alternate energy, water, soil and agricultural resources. This course invites students to feel gratitude for God’s great creations as they consider the blessings and stewardship of the human family’s relationship with our earthly home.

Biology

2-semester course, 1 credit

Part 1

In this course, students will learn about biology as it relates to their environment and to themselves. Gospel principles will be likened to natural mechanisms, processes, and the levels of organization found in each. Students will learn about ecology through discussion of populations, natural cycles of energy and matter, and good stewardship of the Earth. Students will also learn about physiology of organisms, including the basic chemistry and building blocks of life, the processes of growth and change, and the natural flow of resources within an organism and its cells.

Part 2

In part two of biology, students will explore biological principles featuring genetics, inheritance and evolutionary theories. Students will learn how genetic material is passed from organism to organism, and how it guides the growth and development of those organisms. Students will also learn about prevailing theories of evolution, diversity among species, and their connection to intelligent design. Biotechnology, gene therapy, and other applications of biology will be explored.

Chemistry

2-Semester Course, 1 Credit

Part 1:

This is an introductory course in theories and concepts of modern chemistry. The patterns in chemistry will be presented as evidence of intelligent design. Topics will be presented to increase awareness and understanding of the role of chemistry in everyday life and environmental issues. The first semester emphasizes the physical properties of solids, liquids and gasses,  the atomic and molecular structure, the power of the periodic table and chemical bonding. The laboratory work will develop students’ reasoning power, the ability to apply chemical principles; as well as acquaint students with chemical laboratory techniques.

Click here for Part 1 Supply List

Part 2:

The second semester of chemistry continues to increase awareness and understanding of the role of chemistry in everyday life with emphasis in nomenclature, various types of molecules, as well as calculating and balancing various types of chemical reactions. Students will use the periodic table and rules of chemistry to predict and balance various types of reactions. The laboratory work will continue to develop students’ reasoning power, the ability to apply chemical principles; as well as acquaint students with chemical laboratory techniques.

Click here for Part 2 Supply List

Physics

2-Semester Course, 1 Credit

This course invites students to feel gratitude for God’s great creations as they consider the patterns and principles upon which the universe operates.

Part 1

Learn how physics is part of many aspects of science. In this course, students will explore motion in one dimension and motion graphs. Students will also learn about force and acceleration, Newton’s Laws of Motion, momentum and conservation of momentum, and the relationship of these concepts to human safety. Explore work and power, energy in systems and the law of conservation of energy. Study thermal energy, including measurements, conduction, convection, radiation and what happens to energy that seems to disappear. Learn about energy conversion devices, thermal energy transfer and concepts about solving energy problems. 

Part 2

Find out about gravitational force, electrical force and the fields associated with both. Investigate electromagnetic induction and the inverse square law. Explore the behavior of charged particles. Learn about simple harmonic motion, types of waves, wave properties, the electromagnetic spectrum and the behavior of electromagnetic waves. Discover the wave-particle duality of light, the attributes of visible light and how the human eye processes light. Understand the effects of wave energy on living things. Learn about the nature of digital information storage devices and devices used to transmit and capture information and energy. 

Note: Instruction will be included in this course with regards to the math skills needed to complete the physics course assignments. Both conceptual and math-focused assignment options will be provided to allow for varying levels of rigor, to suit the individual needs of students.

Other Courses Required for Graduation

• Taught live every school year, Aug to May.
• Currently offered as self-paced courses

Principles of Leadership

1-semester course

0.5 credit

Great joy and personal fulfillment can result from leading a project or an organization well. In this course, students will explore leadership philosophies, tools and practices that contribute to better families, communities, businesses and church groups. Students will learn to connect their personal mission with a servant-leader approach to life. They will gain an understanding of how to develop a vision for anticipated projects and initiatives. Students will learn to use some key leadership tools and techniques, including how to engage others in a good cause, effective communication, cultivating and nurturing relationships, conducting events and using parliamentary procedure. This course will culminate with a leadership project instead of a final exam.

Health

1-semester course, 0.5 credits

This course will teach students to view their body as a temple for their spirit. They will learn several valuable strategies for cultivating a healthy lifestyle, in order to fulfill their mission on the earth, have joy, and maintain the health and strength necessary for raising their future family.  Students will be encouraged to follow the Word of Wisdom, as they learn about basic nutrition, avoiding harmful substances, heart health and diabetes. They will learn techniques for managing stress and anxiety, and the benefits and strategies for physical fitness, maintaining an active lifestyle, and wholesome family recreation. The course will also cover basic first aid, safety considerations, tips for healthy sleeping, the value of regular hydration, healthy digestion, deep breathing and relaxation techniques. As students consider the health of their future family, they will learn about healthy pregnancy, childbirth and infant nutrition; the basics of prevention and treatment for some of the most common communicable and non-communicable diseases, and how to help themselves and family members recover from illness and surgery.

Family Science

2-semester course, 1 credit

As spirit sons and daughters of Heavenly Parents, we are all members of the family of God, which provides the model for our families on earth. The Lord has designated the family to be the basic unit of the Church and of society. This course is based on “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” and prepares youth for their future family, while strengthening connections with parents and siblings.

Part 1

Discover the difference between dating and courtship, research supporting marriage, reasons to have children and why traditional marriage is good for children. Explore the roles of father and mother, and learn how parents are strengthened when they become partners with God. Learn different approaches to parenting, and the art of communicating with and serving family members. Gain understanding of single individuals and single parents as families. Learn about the joy that comes from protecting marriage, avoiding pitfalls, and maintaining complete fidelity within marriage.

Part 2

Study the role of faith, repentance and forgiveness in family life. Gain understanding of how to increase family respect, love and compassion. Learn about the value of family work and wholesome recreational activities. Find out how parents can care for children’s bodies, minds and spirits, as well as the sacred duty of parents to teach children to be responsible citizens. Explore the blessings of being grandparents, and learn about caring for aging or disabled family members. Consider the individual adaptations of childless couples and adoption. Learn how to protect and heal families from addiction and abuse, and how to navigate family hardships. Study techniques and principles for managing family finances. Discover ways to become an advocate for the family.

Computer Technology

1-semester course, 0.5 credits

This unique course provides broad level computer literacy to prepare students for future careers and to provide general comprehension of computer-related topics, so that students feel confident in seeking for technology solution in many aspects of their lives. Topics covered include hardware, operating systems, software, productivity software, networks, the internet, programming, databases, creativity and entertainment, social platforms, family history, using lds.org, security, safety, privacy, data protection, societal impact, ethics, intellectual property, and legalities, careers and further education, and emerging technologies.

Financial Literacy

1-semester course, 0.5 credits

This course covers a broad array of topics designed to prepare youth to be wise stewards of their finances – now and during their future adult life. Students will learn principles and strategies for tracking money, budgeting, saving, and developing good financial habits and goal setting practices. Guidelines will be given for selecting a financial institution, paying for college, understanding loans and credit scores, buying a car, considering the financial aspects of career options, and mortgages. Instruction will cover eCommerce, merchant accounts, payment gateways, and an introduction to cryptocurrency. A comprehensive overview of church donations will be given, as well as an excellent introduction to the joys of philanthropy. The course concludes with an overview of the rights and responsibilities of buyers and sellers, including protection from fraud, scams, ponzi schemes, avoiding gambling, safe online purchasing, and the role of government in protecting the consumer.

The Senior Capstone Project

0.5 credit course

The Senior Capstone Project is an opportunity for scholarly exploration into some of the greatest ideas that have intrigued mankind for millennia. Study and writing about great ideas invites seniors to recognize, appreciate, seek for and enjoy that which is good, true and beautiful. Mentors and administrators help students prepare to raise their personal “Ensign to the Nations,” as true examples of Christian character and personal discipleship, as they strive to become men and women of wisdom, knowledge, virtue, and purpose. Seniors work one-on-one with a mentor to develop, write and polish three essays, of 1000-1500 words each. Individual students meet with a mentor online, three times for each essay, for 20 minutes each time, at times convenient to the student and mentor.  There are no weekly classes, lessons or assignments. Essay outlines and drafts are submitted for feedback. As a self-paced course, students may complete their Senior Capstone Project anytime during their senior year.

Electives

• Taught live every school year, Aug to May, based on enrollment.
• Currently offered as self-paced courses
• Two elective credits are required to graduate. Elective credit requirements may be met with any of the courses listed here, or additional courses beyond the credit requirements in English, literature, history, geography, science or math.

Life Skills

1-semester course, 0.5 credit

This course covers a broad array of topics designed to prepare youth to be wise managers of their lives – now and during their future adult years. Students will learn principles and strategies for prioritizing values and goals, along with effective time management, problem solving and decision making techniques. They will receive guidance regarding establishing and maintaining healthy relationships, including interpersonal and communication skills as well as courteous living. Recommended guidelines will be provided for good personal care, responsibility and safety. Instruction will cover techniques of good house cleaning, food preparation and basic cooking. The course includes an overview of home and auto maintenance and insurance. Students will gain an understanding of how to manage housing and transportation needs, how to prepare to handle a variety of emergencies, and the basics of paying taxes. The lessons encourage youth to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, parents and church leaders, and refers to “For the Strength of Youth.”

Music Appreciation

1-semester course, 0.5 credit

This music appreciation course covers music in western civilization from the Medieval Era to the present. In this course students will study the life and works of great composers like Hildegard von Bingen, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Copland, and more. This course is structured to accommodate students with and without previous musical training, aiming to inspire a true sense of understanding and appreciation for music and its application to the religious, political, and social environment of the past and present world.

Music Theory

2-semester, 1 credit

The amazing thing about music is that it uses so many parts of our brain and body at the same time! We use our ears, eyes, voice, hands, and tapping feet. We simultaneously use the artistic, creative side of our brain and the logical, mathematical side. Creating music comes naturally as we sing and clap our hands. However, formal music training can sometimes be challenging because learning to read, play, and write music is truly learning a different language. It may seem like a daunting task, but it is worth the effort! A comprehensive study of Music Theory will encourage young musicians to better understand their craft in order to be a better instrument in the hands of the Lord. Students do not need to have a background in music, but if students are currently involved in instrumental or vocal training, they will be encouraged to apply their lessons to their instrument of choice. Students will also be encouraged to experiment with some improvisation at the piano. Access to a piano or keyboard is recommended but not required. 

Additionally, we will incorporate a study of our beautiful hymn book. We will not only learn about the history of the hymns, their composers, and the related scriptures, but we will also analyze all of the amazing music theory contained inside. 

In Part 1, we will learn about the staff, pitch, the musical alphabet, the piano keyboard, rhythm basics, building Major scales, and identifying key signatures. Students will feel confident opening up the hymn book and conducting any hymn in 2/4, ¾, and 4/4 time.  

In Part 2, we will dive a little deeper into intervals, the circle of fifths, minor scales, ear training, the blues scale, advanced rhythm, augmented and diminished intervals, musical terms, and solfege basics. Students will advance to conducting hymns in 6/8, 9/8, and 2/2. By the end of the course students will feel more confident in their ability to read, perform and write music. They will also have a greater appreciation for the power of music to entertain, teach, and testify.

High School Art Appreciation

1-semester course, 0.5 credit

More than an art history class. We study the history of art, yes, but we also study different art mediums, the elements and principles of art, and how to most effectively enjoy an art museum experience. Come see how the Greeks did art. Get into the minds of the Renaissance artists. Find out what Contemporary Art is all about, and how we understand Abstract Art. As part of your assignment options, you will have the opportunity of making art of your own. Or, if you love research or writing, those options are available as well.

High School Studio Art

1-semester course, 0.5 credit

Do you want to sample a variety of art materials and processes? Now is your chance. The Studio Art course allows experiences in the Elements and Principles of Art, through experimenting with and exploring a variety of art media and materials, including drawing, painting (acrylic and watercolor), three-dimensional art, printmaking and digital design. Students will be introduced to artists who exemplify concepts taught in this course. These explorations can lead to further art experiences.

Entrepreneurship

2-semester course, 1 credit

Part 1

Why do people choose to be entrepreneurs? Hear stories of successful entrepreneurs, including youth-owned businesses. Consider the risks and rewards or business ownership. Learn the best processes for identifying a business opportunity. Give attention to the possibility of becoming a craftsman and going into the trades, as an entrepreneur. Explore the types of education and preparation needed to succeed in various types of businesses. Learn how to evaluate a business opportunity, assess the market and leverage experiments to validate your concept. Review the various business entity types as you consider the best fit for different business opportunities. What are the key financial decisions and sources of funding needed to start a business? How do entrepreneurs best manage their finances? Relate your new knowledge with the parable of the talents, as you learn to be a good steward of the opportunities and gifts the Lord has given to each of his children.

Part 2

Understand the entrepreneur mindset. What does it take to be successful? Every business is a marketing business – learn winning marketing practices that have contributed to the success of many businesses. Who’s on the bus? Find out about the types of people needed to run a business. Even a “one-person-show” needs good advice and support services. Learn about contractors, consultants and employees. Discover effective time management techniques for the entrepreneur who knows how to work in the business as well as on the business…and avoid getting caught up in the whirlwind. What is the meaning of scalability? Consider how to determine goals for business growth. Learn how to protect your ideas. Find out how to write a business plan, and how to create, use and refine a good business strategy. Learn how entrepreneurs choose a location for a retail or service business. Evaluate e-commerce as a business option. Discover ways to improve your competitive advantage. Discuss the joys of determining your lifestyle, and becoming able to contribute generously to philanthropic and humanitarian causes.

Career and College Prep

1-semester course, 0.5 credit

This course presents thoughtfully selected strategies to help youth explore and compare options, and then analyze and plan for their future career. Students will be introduced to a broad array of career options. They will have the opportunity to consider how their personal preferences and values may align with specific career choices. This course provides guidance to help students identify and understand how to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for careers of interest, and to create a career prep financial plan. Students will learn about fulfilling career options in the trades. They will discover the many exciting opportunities found at Apprenticeship.gov and other alternatives to attending college.  This course includes an overview of CES schools and a review of other colleges that support Christians and honor the roots of American liberty. Students will analyze and rank criteria for selecting a college, learn about the application process, understand transcripts and how to prepare for the ACT and SAT exams. Recommendations will be provided for how to apply for scholarships. Students will learn how to plan for independent living, gain valuable study skills, learn how to apply for a job, tips on how to start a new job and valuable workplace skills to help them succeed in any career. The lessons encourage youth to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, parents and trusted advisors as they prepare for their future career.

Let Peace Prevail

9-week course, 0.25 credit, taught live only, Wednesdays, January 24 – March 27, 2024, 12:00 – 12:50 pm Mountain Time. Tuition: $95

This course will help students discover ways to have increased peace in their lives. We all have difficult decisions to make. Our relationships with others are not always easy. We have people around us making choices that impact our lives. How do we find peace with our own choices and those being made around us? 

Through our discussions and ideas shared, we will find ways to navigate through the choices in life. We are all children of God. It is important to always remember this about ourselves and about others. Students will be given the tools they need to be more successful in interactions with others, making choices, and remembering who they are. 

We will be studying two different texts. We will use President Nelson’s talks  Let God Prevail (General Conference Oct. 2020) Peacemakers Needed (General Conference Apr. 2023) We will also be studying the book Choose Well by the Arbinger Institute. “The Arbinger Institute is a global leadership development firm that helps organizations shift their mindsets, transform their cultures, and drive changes that lead to exceptional results.” (www.arbinger.com)

High School PE

Running

1-semester course, 0.5 credit

By the end of this course you will be running a 5k. Seems too big?  You will learn the steps athlete Megan Anderson took in the very beginning to become a runner.  We will cover the world of running, nutrition, shoes, accessory exercises and more.  Become a healthier and happier person.

Yoga

1-semester course, 0.5 credits

This class is comprised of twice a week live online yoga instruction and practice. Each class is designed to introduce the student to the philosophy, form and practice of Yoga. Students will need comfortable clothing they can bend and move in and purchase a yoga mat. Having your computer video on is a requirement for this class so the instructor can help each student with form. Yoga is adaptable and can be relaxing or vigorous depending on your level of engagement. Making Yoga a daily practice has proven to help students increase flexibility, strength, give them more peace in their minds and bodies.

Biking

1-semester course, 0.5 credits

The first step in becoming a great cyclist is to get familiar with the fundamentals, whether you are a new rider looking to get hyped on making your first ride or you are an experienced rider who wants to learn how to feel more confident and safer on the bike of your choice, this course is for you. Each class is designed around safe cycling practices, home maintenance, and skill development. We will explore the many different and fascinating cycling disciplines, from casual rides to winning races on a Mountain Bike, BMX, Road, and Gravel. In addition, we will explore shopping advice for appropriate gear, avoiding injuries, and basic first aid. So jump onto whatever (non-electric) bike you have lying around and start to feel the joy that can only be found riding on two wheels. This course will require students to ride their bike on any appropriate surface three times a week for 30-60 min. per ride to get full credit. More detailed requirements and expectations will be discussed at the end of each class. 

Math Courses

Please visit the Mathematics page for full details.

World Language Courses

Please visit our World Languages page for full details.

Holy Land Scripture Series

Please visit our Holy Land Scripture Series page for full details.

Standardized Testing

Most colleges and universities require the ACT or SAT for admissions, so we support our students in preparing for the ACT, as part of our Career and College Prep course. We provide helpful information on our Preparing for College page, and as part of our academic counseling meetings with parents and students. Students may take the ACT or SAT exams independently by registering for an exam at a testing location in their community.

Ensign Peak Academy doesn’t directly conduct standardized testing for students. We rely on course grades and interactions with students to determine how our students are doing. We value your privacy as well as your time, and prefer to focus our time on teaching and learning. To gain insight into this decision, we invite you to read this article published by EducationDive.com: “High school GPA 5 times more likely to predict college success than ACT.” You may also find this article of interest: “The ACT/SAT Optional Admissions Growth Surge”

Ensign Peak High School Graduation Requirements

Review requirements here: High School Graduation Requirements

Physical Education Participation Credit

2 PE credits are required for graduation. Health is a 0.5 PE credit course and is required for graduation. Up to 1.5 pass/fail participation credits may be earned through verified independent guided instruction in a sports team, individual sport, dance, yoga, or training and conditioning, towards fulfilling the Physical Education requirement.

Fine Arts Participation Credit

Up to 1.0 pass/fail participation credit may be earned through verified independent guided instruction in dance, theater, drama, music lessons/ensemble, debate, or studio art, towards fulfilling the Fine Arts requirement.

Participation Credit Application

Complete and submit this Participation Credit Application to receive credit for verified independent instruction in physical education and fine arts.

Track your hours in any manner that works for you. Finish your physical education or fine arts program before submitting the credit application. All participation hours must take place while a student is enrolled in the Ensign Peak Academy High School Program, and may include summers between live program course enrollment.

Participation credit is provided for Physical Education and Fine Arts directed study and only for enrolled students seeking graduation with Ensign Peak Academy. The purpose is to facilitate studio experiences in the fine arts and physical education activities. This credit opportunity is not designed as a method for earning credit for other purposes. It is part of our overall strategy for graduation requirements to include these learning environments that cannot otherwise be provided through our online program.

Note: There is no charge for adding participation credit to your transcript, as it is categorized as being similar to transfer credit.

Electives

Electives may also include any courses that are in addition to the required credit amount, offered live or self-paced, in Fine Arts, World Languages, History, Science, English, Math and Electives.

Graduation Credit Policy

Ensign Peak Academy accepts credit earned at other schools recognized by a national, regional or state accrediting agency.* Credit from other institutions, which is a reasonable match with the Ensign Peak Academy graduation requirements, will meet those requirements. Transfer credit must have minimum grade of C- (70%). A minimum of 25% of the credit applied towards graduation, must be earned through courses taken directly through Ensign Peak Academy. In addition, all Ensign Peak Academy students must complete the Senior Capstone Project in order to graduate.

Credit is awarded for course completion with no more than three (3) missing items (personal study notes, assignments, quizzes), a minimum of  C- grade (70%) and completion of the final exam. Students may purchase a self-paced extension for any incomplete live program course, at anytime during their high school career. (See the Tuition page for details.)

*Recognized regional accrediting agencies include the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Northwest Accreditation Commission, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

BYU Idaho Concurrent Enrollment

High school students may apply college credit earned through BYU Idaho’s Concurrent Enrollment program towards the Ensign Peak Academy high school graduation requirements.  The student must meet the following criteria:

• at least 16 years of age
• enrolled in 11th or 12th grade at Ensign Peak Academy
• have maintained a GPA of at least 3.5 during 9th and 10th grade
• continue to maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 during 11th and 12th grade
• BYU Idaho courses must closely match Ensign Peak Academy courses.

In addition to the tuition paid to BYU Idaho, a $20 per course administrative fee is paid to Ensign Peak Academy. Visit the BYU Idaho Concurrent Enrollment website for more details.

Refer to the following chart:

BYU Idaho Concurrent Enrollment Courses that Fulfill Ensign Peak Academy Graduation Requirements

Note that BYU Hawaii courses are also accepted as concurrent enrollment courses at the $20 per course administrative fee rate.

Concurrent Enrollment at Other Colleges

High school students may apply college credit earned from other colleges towards the Ensign Peak Academy high school graduation requirements.  The student must meet the following criteria:

• at least 16 years of age
• enrolled in at least two Ensign Peak Academy courses per semester, in addition to college concurrent enrollment courses
• enrolled in 11th or 12th grade
• have maintained a GPA of at least 3.5 during 9th and 10th grade
• continue to maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 during 11th and 12th grade
• college courses must closely match Ensign Peak Academy courses.

In addition to the tuition paid to any other college, a $50 non-refundable per-course evaluation fee is paid to Ensign Peak Academy. Courses may or may not be approved. Contact us for details.

One 1-semester, 3 credit college course is worth one 2-semester, 1 credit Ensign Peak Academy course.

Honors Program and National Honor Society

Ensign Peak Academy Honor’s Program will open for the 2024-2025 school year. In addition to outstanding scholarship, we strive to cultivate three things: allegiance to Christ and to family, resiliency (hearts of courage and peace), and student’s understanding of, appreciation for, and desire to seek and enjoy the good, true, and beautiful in this world. These values are foundational to, and incorporated in, our honors seminar classes, our NHS chapter meetings and service programs, and our individual mentorship of honor’s students.

Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, the National Honor Society chapter at Ensign Peak Academy partners academic excellence with spiritual growth and service to others. Our NHS program offers students a unique opportunity to not only excel academically but also to deepen connections to faith and community. Through a combination of rigorous academics, meaningful service projects, and leadership opportunities, our NHS members develop a strong sense of purpose and character rooted in Christ-like discipleship. Join us as we empower students to become compassionate leaders and scholars who make a positive impact on the world around them. Honor’s Program and NHS Applications will be available on this page during the summer of 2024.

NCAA Eligible

Ensign Peak Academy has been granted eligibility as a high school by NCAA. Specific requirements must be met for graduation. Please let our our director know if you wish to meet those requirements and you will be advised accordingly.

College Board

Ensign Peak Academy has been approved for Level 1 by College Board. The ACT High School Code is 662718.

Disclaimer

The courses offered by Ensign Peak Academy are neither made, provided, approved nor endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or opinions expressed, implied or included in or with the courses offered by Ensign Peak Academy are solely those of Ensign Peak Academy and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.