7th Grade

Middle school is vital for developing critical thinking and problem-solving strategies.

The online middle school program at Pathfinder Career Academy of Ohio is tuition-free. We designed our Ohio state-approved online middle school program with your child’s success in mind. We offer education for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade in our online middle school curriculum.

We strive to provide a relevant, engaging, and challenging online public school curriculum that is developmentally appropriate, meets their individual needs, and prepares them for high school.

* Course offerings are subject to change and may vary based on school staffing.

Career Awareness

Career awareness refers to an individual’s understanding of various career options, industries, job roles, and the skills required to succeed. It involves developing a basic understanding of the diverse array of careers available, their qualifications and educational paths, and the potential growth opportunities within each field.

Brixilated

Brixilated is a program that focuses on fostering career exploration, development, and college or career preparation through the integration of LEGO® kits into the curriculum. Our 7th grade department has collaborated with Brixilated’s Program Director of Impact and Learning, Jaqueline Strey, to include the following within their academic curriculum/project-based learning implementation – Enhanced Engagement, Creativity Promotion, Career Exploration, Career Development. The implementation of the Brixilated Builders Academy involves the following

Key steps: Curriculum Integration, Distribution of Kits, Guided Activities & Assessment

Program Impact

“Since the introduction of the Brixilated Builders Academy, teachers have reported noticeable improvements in student engagement, motivation, and enthusiasm. The hands-on nature of the program has sparked a renewed interest in learning historical concepts, leading to deeper understanding and retention of course material. Additionally, students have demonstrated enhanced teamwork and communication skills through collaborative building projects”.

Dr. Strey

Introduction to CTE

An “Intro to CTE” focus aims to expose students to the possibilities and benefits of pursuing a career through technical education, helping them make more informed decisions about their educational and career paths. It lays the foundation for students to explore specific CTE programs and pathways that align with their interests and goals. Intro to CTE will include defining career tech education, career pathways, skills development, industry exposure, educational pathways, hands-on learning, career exploration, and future opportunities. An in-depth introduction to CTE will prepare students to make an informed decision in their 11th grade year on what career pathway program they would like to pursue at Pathfinder Career Academy.

7th Grade Student Experience

7th grade is a year of exploration, innovation, and skill-building. Students will strengthen academic foundations, explore career pathways, and develop problem-solving, leadership, and social-emotional skills through project-based learning and real-world experiences.

Students will participate in academic coursework that connects classroom learning to real-world careers, integrating curriculum for social-emotional growth and teamwork. Listed are some examples of how Pathfinder’s academic and CTE teachers will incorporate real-world applications in your student’s coursework.

💡 English Language Arts (ELA) – Communication & Career Exploration

🧮 Mathematics – Financial Literacy & Real-World Math

🔬 Science – STEM Careers & Engineering Exploration

🌎 Social Studies – Economics & Career Development

🚀 Career Exploration & Readiness

Students will engage in structured career exploration activities to explore career paths and set personal goals.

✔ Naviance Interest Inventory – Self-discovery surveys to explore strengths, skills, and career preferences.
✔ Pathful Connect Activities – Virtual career exploration events, guest speakers, and industry insights.
✔ Career Exploration Elective – Introduction to the five Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways at Pathfinder Career Academy of Ohio:

Health Science
Teaching Professions
Business Administration
Information Technology (I.T.)
Construction

✔ Career Journaling – Students will research careers, reflect on interests, and set academic goals for future pathways.

Students will engage in entrepreneurship, innovation, and career-focused projects that develop real-world skills.

🔹 Kidvation Global Curriculum – Students will design, develop, and pitch a product to a panel of industry professionals at the end of the year.
🔹 Soft Skills in Action – Group projects will focus on communication, leadership, and collaboration.