We’ve all been there. Sitting in the staff room, talking about new initiatives (inquiry-based learning, project based learning) and invariably the statement is made, “Well, if I had the right resources or better textbooks, then I would be able to get it all done.” Or, we hear that there is “just no way” we can “cover” curriculum by letting go and letting the students drive the program. I believe there is a way to engage kids with the curriculum goals AND provide exciting, authentic experiences. This year, I was determined to use the curriculum as my main resource to set up a full year of project-based learning in my 7th grade classroom. I soon realized that PBL actually would be the most efficient and natural way to reach all necessary expectations.