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Academics » Symposium and Service Learning

Symposium and Service Learning

Symposium
One of the many ways that HCIS is unique in the Duluth area is our Symposium course offerings. These courses are are 5-6 day, single subject classes in various areas of study. There are three courses offered in the school year:

Winter Symposium (1 class, 5 days)

Winter Symposium is offered the first week in January when students return from Winter Break. Winter Symposium allows students to experience what Duluth has to offer through classes such as Curling, Outdoor Adventures, Square Dancing with Children, and more.


Spring Symposium (2 classes, 5 and 6 days)

Spring Symposium is offered the last week in May and the first week in June after 2nd Semester. Students will be able to take courses such as Sailing, hiking the Superior Hiking Trail, Trail Restoration, and more.


Service Learning

In order to promote Global Citizenship in our mission, students are required to take two Service Learning symposiums during their time at HCIS. These courses will spend 60% or more of the class time performing acts of service and community building. Some of our offerings include:

  • Dancing with Children- Students travel to area schools and dance with children as well as traveling to nursing homes.
  • Cooking for a Cause- Students prepare meals for donation to Loaves and Fishes, an organization that supports people experiencing homelessness.
  • Habitat for Humanity- Students partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve homes in Duluth, engaging in tasks such as light construction, carpentry, painting, and office work.