Why middle school
Science classes?
Every child should learn science, but if your child shows an interest in STEM, it’s especially important to build strong foundations early. Middle school is the perfect time to build these foundations in physics, chemistry, and biology.
At Foundations of Science Academy, our goal is to spark curiosity and help students truly understand the core scientific concepts by learning the principles as well as doing hands-on experiments.
By introducing these subjects early and gradually, in a thoughtful, engaging way, we ensure students are ready to excel in required high school classes as well as advancement and AP science classes.
Today, students face a steep learning curve when transitioning from middle school to high school science. This leaves students struggling, overwhelmed and often causes them to lose interest.
We bridge that gap by making the basics second nature, so when they reach high school, they’re confident, capable, and ready to thrive!
Programs & Classes
Whether your child is exploring science for the first time or ready for a more in-depth experience, our programs provide engaging, concept-based instruction in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology with hands-on experiments.
Our course is designed to progressively build over 3 years, in 3 Levels. To ensure a solid foundation, all students start at Level 1 irrespective of whether they are in 6th, 7th or 8th grade. Students joining in 6th grade benefit from the full 3 Levels of progression.
At all levels, we offer 3 options. We recommend signing up for the Innovators option to ensure the most comprehensive learning for your child.
Explorers
Introduction to Science
10 weeks · 1 hour class/week
(Fall - Oct to Dec / Spring - Feb to Apr)
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A 10-week introduction designed to spark curiosity and give students a meaningful first experience with foundational science concepts.
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Explore key concepts across physics, chemistry, and biology.
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Learn through engaging instruction and hands-on activities
Ideal for students who want to experience the program before making a longer commitment.
Experimenters
Essential Science
30 weeks · 1 hour class/week
(Sept - May)
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A comprehensive 30-week program designed to build the strong conceptual foundation students need for future success in science.
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Develop a strong foundation across physics, chemistry, and biology.
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Go beyond memorization to understanding how and why scientific concepts work.
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Reinforce learning through demonstrations, experiments, and real-world applications.
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Build confidence for more advanced science coursework.
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Build a strong platform for high school science classes.
Innovators
Advanced Science
30 weeks · 2 hour class/week
(Sept - May)
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Our most comprehensive & flagship program, with a 2-hour class each week to immerse deeply into each concept.
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Develop a robust understanding of physics, chemistry, and biology.
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Spend more time applying concepts through experiments, problem-solving, and discussion.
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Cover a broader range of topics with greater depth and rigor.
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Build a robust foundation for honors and AP high school science courses.
Class Details
In Person: Classes will be held in San Ramon CA
Online: Classes will be held using Google Meet
Pricing & Class Details: Please fill out the contact form and we'll get back to you with pricing and class details
What to Expect
The number of topics covered and the depth for each topic will vary by the course type (Explorers, Experiments or Innovators). Below is a high-level overview of concepts we teach in the first year:
Physics
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Learn the basics of physics (learn concepts like matter and physical measurements)
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Learn about simple machines and get hands-on experience
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Explore new concepts (energy, force, light, magnetism)
Chemistry
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Understand fundamentals of chemistry (atoms, elements, molecules, compounds, pure substances, mixtures)
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Learn how chemistry relates to our lives (atmosphere, water)
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Learn about lab apparatus and safety, get hands-on experience
Biology
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Understand the basics of life sciences (cells, living things, scientific method)
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Explore classification of living things (bacteria, arache, eukarya – plant kingdom)
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Discover plant processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration
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See how plants shape ecosystems and support human life
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why start science in middle school?
Middle school is the perfect time to start, as students are ready to grasp core scientific ideas. Starting now gives them the time that is required to understand and absorb the basics of physics, chemistry, and biology and build on them at the right pace. -
What makes Foundations of Science Academy different?
We spark joy for learning science while preparing students for high school coursework. We focus on building true understanding by teaching concepts in an engaging way and reinforcing them with hands-on experiments that make science stick. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to teach concepts step by step, keeping in mind the interconnections among the subjects. We encourage questions and discussion and allow students to learn without the pressure of grades. -
Will this really help in high school?
Yes! Today there is a big gap between middle school learning and high school expectations. We bridge that gap.
Without the knowledge of basic concepts, it’s difficult to grasp what is taught in high school courses, especially under the added burden of exams and grades. This leaves students struggling, stressed and often causes them to lose interest in science altogether.
On the other hand, students with strong foundations are prepared and can naturally transition to high school science. They can confidently take on summer advancement courses, honors and AP science courses. We make sure the leap to high school science feels natural and not intimidating. -
When does the 2026-27 session start?
The 30 week, 2026-27 session runs from Sept 2026 to May 2027. The 10 week program runs in Fall (Oct - Dec) and Spring (Feb - Apr). Please contact us for more details. -
Does my child’s grade level matter?
New students build the same core foundation irrespective of whether they are in 6th, 7th or 8th grades. Our instruction continues for 3 years, so a student in 6th grade benefits the most. -
What will the students learn in the program?
The program covers content that teaches the concepts of Physics, Chemistry and Biology in a comprehensive manner. We have thoughtfully put together the program, keeping in mind the subject interconnections and build on key ideas step by step. Students will learn the scientific concepts and perform hands-on experiments that bring the theory to life.
About
Teaching Philosophy
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At Foundations of Science Academy, we believe that science is best learned through curiosity, clarity, and hands-on experience.
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We introduce physics, chemistry and biology as distinct subjects at the middle school level, giving students a clear understanding of each scientific discipline and how it connects to the world around them.
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We focus on building strong conceptual foundations, ensuring students grasp the “why” behind what they learn. Through interactive lessons and hands-on experiments, we bring scientific principles to life and make learning an active, joyful process.
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Most importantly, our goal is to inspire. We aim to instill a lifelong love of science that encourages students to ask questions, seek answers, and approach learning with excitement and confidence.
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Science should never feel intimidating. When taught systematically, it opens minds and sparks wonder.
About the Founder
Hi, I’m Sukriti Sehgal. I’m a mother, educator, scientist and a lifelong learner. For me, science isn’t just about facts, it’s about wonder, problem-solving, and making connections that change how we see the world. I want children to experience the wonder of science, thrive in their learning journey and not be weighed down by unnecessary stress.
Today there is a big gap between middle school learning and high school expectations. Foundation of Science Academy was founded to fill this gap in learning, teach concepts step by step, giving students time to learn, absorb and think, so that when they reach high school they can confidently move forward and excel.
I have over 20 years of experience as a scientist in the corporate world as well as fast paced startups. I’ve taught at UC Davis as an Adjunct Professor of Food Science, a fascinating field that brings together physics, chemistry, biology, microbiology, and engineering to explain how food systems work.
My passion is making science clear, hands-on, and exciting for students, so they build strong foundations, stay curious, and gain the confidence to succeed in high school and beyond.
