The Association for Middle Level Education notes that exploratory courses are a key component of successful middle schools, offering regularly scheduled, short-term enrichment experiences in which students can investigate chosen areas of knowledge and interest. Nipher and North Kirkwood Middle Schools each offer students a number of encore/elective classes, as extensions of other curricular areas and/or as opportunities to explore new areas of interest. Courses range from several weeks to a full year, depending on the grade level, school, and purpose of the course.