Summer Programs for Middle & Upper School 2023

Program Dates:  June 19 - June 20 (Monday & Tuesday)

Time:  9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 

Grades:  7 - 12

Lead Instructor:  Elizabeth Doebler

Minimum Enrollment:  50

Maximum Enrollment:  125

Cost:  $250 (Lunch and snacks provided each day)

Registration for this program must be done through this Registration Link.

 

In this two-day yearbook session, student attendees will participate in class offerings on theme, design, photography, writing, marketing and leadership.

 

Students will have the opportunity to build skills at a beginning or advanced level in design, photography, writing for journalism, staff management and how to build content for print publications.

 

The leadership track will include creating a theme packet, coverage and production plan for the 2023-2024 school year. 

 

Enrollment fee includes classes, consultations, and an in-person cover design session with a plant artist. Lunch and morning nutrition snack included. 

 

Reserve your place now! 

Registration for this program must be done through this Registration Link.

Program Dates: June 19 - June 22 (Monday – Thursday)

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

Grades: 6 - 12 

Coach:  Chris Burman (Upper School and Middle School Head Basketball Coach)

Cost: $250

 

Calling basketball players of all ages and skill levels! Whether you are just learning about the game of basketball or are a seasoned veteran, the summer is a great time to work on your basketball skills. During these sessions, students improve upon fundamentals while having fun and learning team-building concepts. Players are grouped according to age and skill level for optimal learning and improvement.

Program Dates: June 19 - June 23

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 10

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Brian McQueen

Cost: $325

 

During this week-long art adventure, we will be exploring a variety of topics that relate directly to graphite drawing, such as: working with hard and soft leads, choosing paper that is right for your style, and focusing on perspective to give your work a sense of reality. We will also investigate contour drawing, gestural drawing, sighting, and graphing. However, the heart of this art week centers on helping you get to know what it is about drawing that excites you.

 

Brian McQueen, skilled art coach and artist, has been working with a variety of media and genres for decades, but admits that his favorite form of meditative expression is the simple graphite pencil put on paper. See www.BrianMcQueenArt.com for a full bio, along with samples of Brian’s work.

Program Dates: June 19 - June 23

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Aaron Gillego

Cost: $325

 

Storytelling is a tale as old as time.  In this course, we go back to the tradition of telling stories in verse but with a modern twist.  Think Homer meets Hamilton and Lizzo meets Dr. Seuss.  Students will be challenged to tell stories using a vernacular of verse with rhythm and rhyme.  Ultimately, these stories-in-verse will come to life through storyboarding and performance. 

Program Dates: June 19 - June 23

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. 

Grades: Only for students entering 12th grade

Maximum:  12 students - You do not have to attend Pacific Ridge School to participate

Instructor:  Lauren Segovia

Cost: $350

 

This week-long workshop combines whole group instruction, individual work time, and one-on-one writing conferences, resulting in a draft of either the Common App Personal Statement or the UC Personal Insight Questions. During whole-group instruction, students will learn the place of the essay(s) in admissions, the strategy of choosing the right individual topic in order to round out an application, and the function of supplemental questions (for Common App schools). We will read and critique sample essays together so that students have a sense of personal writing as a genre and the wide range of topics that are possible for creating an engaging piece of writing. Whole-group instruction will be approximately an hour on the first day of the workshop, and much less for the remaining four days. Students will have a 20-minute (approximately) one-on-one meeting with the instructor each day, where we will generate topics together and discuss feedback and editing. Students will need a laptop and access to Google Docs.

Program Dates: June 19 - 23

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6-10

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Ghiya Ali

Cost:  $375 (includes $50 for materials)

 

Want to start cooking like a chef? This class will start you on your way! You will be exploring the ins and outs of eating and cooking from farm to table! We will be visiting a farm, learning how our food is grown and its importance, frying, sautéing and exploring flavors to unleash your creative side. "Playing with your food” is A-okay when creating and decorating your dishes! We will learn to make several courses, from quick breakfast and lunch to main dishes and desserts. Fresh Pizza and Pasta are on our list...Yum!

Program Dates: June 19 - 23

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Ryan Smith

Cost:  $325

 

Have you ever said, “I wish that in school I could only learn about what I want to learn about!”?  Here is your chance. In this magazine-making course, students will select a topic they are passionate about and create a magazine that covers it. The magazine will likely have a cover (a lesson in graphic design), an about-the-editor page, (a lesson in personal writing), an editorial (a lesson in persuasion), and an advertisement (a lesson in rhetoric). Students will end the summer session with a PDF of their magazine to remember that learning can be fun, especially when you learn about your favorite thing in the classroom.

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6-8

Class Maximum: 18 students

Instructor: Spencer Burrows

Cost: $325

 

 

Buy low, sell high! In this workshop, students will learn the fundamentals of investing and financial analysis while building their own stock portfolio. We will also explore bond purchases, portfolio investing, mutual funds, ETF’s, commodities, income statements, and IPO’s. Finally, students will manage their own stock portfolio and compete against classmates in a stock market game simulation! 

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Garrett Reynolds

Cost: $350 (includes a $25 materials fee)

 

 

Like playing with Mud?! Let’s create art with it!

Students in this camp will adventure into the world of hand building with clay, and learn how to create art with their hands, using tools to create unique forms of art.

 

Projects include but are not limited to:

“Pinch” Pots, working with clay slabs, creating projects using coils, glazing techniques, and intro into the pottery wheel.

Note: Due to drying times and clay firing processes, finished projects will be worked on until the final day of camp, glaze fired over the weekend, and be available for pick up during the following week.

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 9

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Ori Archbold

Cost: $325

 

Throughout the week you will work on your own and in small groups to learn how circuits work, the engineering process, and programming. You will get an introduction to the Arduino UNO board, the accessories for Arduino boards, and the Arduino IDE. Arduino boards are easy to use microcontrollers, devices that process inputs and turn them into outputs, with a very low barrier to entry but a lot of potential. Popular Youtuber and ex-NASA scientist Mark Rober frequently uses Arduino boards for his projects. The ports on the sides of the board means that no complicated soldering is necessary, and the Arduino IDE makes programming the boards much easier. If you are interested but are worried the camp might be too basic, the versatility of Arduino means that the activities can be as easy or as difficult as you want them to be.

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Ryan Smith

Cost:  $325

 

Students have “ideas worth spreading” (the TED motto), and society needs to hear them! TED is an organization that aims to “discover and spread ideas that spark imagination, embrace possibility and catalyze impact.” We will ambitiously try to do the same this summer. Students will select topics, write and revise scripts, build a slides deck, and organize a one-day TED-style conference at which they will video record their TED-style talks. The presenters will become more skillful writers, more confident speakers, and more motivated citizens to use their voice to make a difference.

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m..

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Cecilia Shrivastava & Elba Bocchi

Cost: $325

 

If you love cupcakes and cakes, it is time to take them to the next level. Let’s get ready to decorate cakes and cupcakes with fondant shapes. Imagine creating custom treats for family events, special holidays, or just because! In this class, you will learn the basics of how to roll and color fondant, as well as how to model shapes like three-dimensional flowers, and leaves. With fondant, the possibilities are endless!

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12 

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Ayo Davis

Cost: $325

 

Spend the week learning about different artistic and cultural approaches to crafting beaded ornaments. Using plastic, glass, and Heishi beads students will be able to create various types of beaded accessories. Students will have the option to spend longer to create more detailed pieces using beads and canvas or spend the week crafting easier trinkets such as bracelets, wristlets and more.

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12 

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Toby Green

Cost: $325

 

In this 5-day course, students will dig deep into a popular video game (likely Minecraft, TBD) and learn about the game development and design process by designing, discussing, and then creating+showcasing modifications for the existing video game! Some examples of such ‘Mods’ may include; a lightning-shooting sword in Minecraft, dragon-zombie hybrids, walking and talking trees, and so much more! They will gain a unique insight into video games that they either know about or already play, by creating the content, rather than consuming it, and seeing the whole structure of games from a whole new perspective; the creator!

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m

Grades: 3 - 8

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Brian McQueen

Cost: $325

 

Do you love comic books? Or maybe graphic novels? Are you attracted to images more than words? Do you easily get lost in the colorful pages of an illustrated book and think, I want to do that? This week-long art camp is all about telling your story … or should we say, about showing your story. Before the word, there were pictures, and this week we will be diving into the kind of storytelling that uses words only to enhance the images. If you feel drawn to the idea of being able to say what you want to say without saying anything at all, then this camp is for you! Grab some pens and pencils, and your favorite sketchbook and let’s have some fun sharing ideas. 

Artist Brian McQueen is eager to help you take your vision to the next level.

Program Dates: June 26 - June 30

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m

Grades: 7 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor:  Ryan Smith

Cost: $325

 

Few things are more fun than friends gathering together to share stories. It is what we do as humans; in many ways, it is what makes us human. In this camp, students will study age-appropriate stories from TheMoth.org, select a true personal experience of theirs to tell, draft a personal narrative, voice record their story during an in-class StorySlam, and then build the stories into a podcast to be shared with families. The session will feel like friends having fun, but it will also be time spent learning an important personal, professional, and academic skill that will prove useful again and again. 

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 10

Class Maximum: 16 students

Instructor: Teresa Conahan

Cost: $325

 

This one-week course will explore a variety of creative outlets through the lens of photography. Using digital SLR cameras (provided by Pacific Ridge School) students will learn both technical and artistic skills while capturing a range of subjects including portraits, landscapes, and abstracts. Students will practice basic and intermediate editing skills. We will craft imaginative projects using iPhoto and Photoshop while practicing how to offer positive and effective critique to fellow artists. At the conclusion of the course, students will compile a portfolio of their work.

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 9 a.m. - 12  p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Ghiya Ali

Cost: $325

 

Join us in an exploration of Gender Identity, Gender Studies, and its impact on society including ourselves! Students will broaden their social impact skill set, benefit from a platform to tell their stories, and identify the issues that most deeply affect girls in any community. Lastly, students will use the information they gather to develop strategies to empower girls to raise their voices and make tangible change.

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 8

Class Maximum: 18 students

Instructor: Spencer Burrows

Cost: $325

 

I’m not arguing with you, I’m just explaining why I’m right! In Debate Camp, students will work together to research a topic, write an argument for or against the resolution, and present their case through exploring Public Forum and Parliamentary debate formats used by our local middle school and high school competitive debate leagues. We will discuss strategies for not only building one's own case but also anticipating counterarguments and responding directly to an opponent's claims. We will hone our research skills and explore topics with real-world relevance, while also practicing good sportsmanship and teamwork.

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Aaron Gillego

Cost: $325

 

This course introduces students to the fundamental structure of fiction writing through the genre of short form flash fiction.  Students will understand the elements of the scene, characterization, conflict, point-of-view, pacing, dialogue, and narrative voice.  This class is conducted both as a generative class (with students producing work from prompts) and as a workshop class (with students reading each other’s work and providing peer review through the workshop process). 

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Brian McQueen

Cost: $325

 

For centuries, people have used artistic expression to share ideas and to explore deeper truths that lie just beyond words. This week belongs to the person who wants to explore the magical world of painting. Some people like to create things that look real, others like to smash colors together and see what happens, like a science experiment. Where are you in this unlimited space? We’ll be exploring traditional ideas and painting techniques, that every form of creativity can use. All you need is a few tubes of paint, a small selection of brushes, and something to paint on. Paper?, Canvas? A pair of shoes? Bring some ideas and a lot of curiosity, and we’ll see what happens.  Artist Brian McQueen is eager to help you explore the world of creativity.

 

Brian McQueen, skilled art coach and artist, has been working with a variety of media and genres for decades. See www.BrianMcQueenArt.com for a full bio, along with samples of Brian’s work.

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Clarissa Tan

Cost: $325

 

This course is designed to introduce students with little to no sign language skills to the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) and American Deaf culture. This course is designed to support students’ acquisition of comprehension, production, and interactional skills using basic grammatical features. ASL will be taught within the contexts of everyday life experiences. 

As students engage in these units, they will acquire necessary language skills and intercultural understanding to be able to compare cultural aspects of their own communities with those of the Deaf world. Through the use of authentic resources and a variety of learning opportunities, students will build on prior knowledge and will develop their expressive, receptive, and cultural skills in order to increase proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication.

This course is open to middle and high school students of all experience levels.

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Evan Noyes

Cost: $325

 

 

This week-long course is designed to make students feel comfortable using hand tools and power tools to build, fix, and solve problems.  Students will receive instruction in different ways to cut, attach, shape, and finish wood and other materials, while also learning how to handle tools safely.  Each student will leave camp with a finished project of his or her own design and the knowledge of how to use tools to create solutions.

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 10

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Toby Green

Cost: $325

 

Objective: By the end of this 5-day course, students will be able to manipulate shapes and colors on a vibrant digital canvas using only the code they write. They will also be able to leverage those skills towards a better understanding of how the digital world functions, through an easily accessible and interfaceable medium - digital art!

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 9 - 12

Class Maximum: 18 students

Instructor: Spencer Burrows

Cost: $325

 

Buy low, sell high! In this workshop, students will learn the fundamentals of investing and financial analysis while building their own stock portfolio. We will also explore bond purchases, portfolio investing, mutual funds, ETF’s, commodities, income statements, and IPO’s. Finally, students will manage their own stock portfolio and compete against classmates in a stock market game simulation!

Program Dates: July 10 - July 14

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 10

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Ghiya Ali

Cost:  $375 (includes $50 for materials)

 

Want to start cooking like a chef? This class will start you on your way! You will be exploring the ins and outs of eating and cooking from farm to table! We will be visiting a farm, learning how our food is grown and its importance, frying, sautéing and exploring flavors to unleash your creative side. "Playing with your food” is A-okay when creating and decorating your dishes! We will learn to make several courses, from quick breakfast and lunch to main dishes and desserts. Fresh Pizza and Pasta are on our list...Yum!

Program Dates:  July 17 - July 21

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Christine Haddaway

Cost: $350 (includes a $25 materials fee)

 

 

This week-long course is designed to teach students the basic skills of metal fabrication. Students will work on guided projects and learn to safely use the plasma cutter, welder, and torch to create a one of a kind piece of art. This camp will focus on flowers and leaves and each student will learn techniques for shaping, texturing, and polishing their metal floral design. All levels are welcome.

Program Dates: July 17 - July 21

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Garrett Reynolds

Cost: $350 (includes a $25 materials fee)

 

Welcome to Ceramics 2! It is recommended to take Ceramics 1 before taking this camp, but it is not required. Students will learn the origins of tea pots and the traditions of ancient cultures while learning how to create their own teacups and their own teapot!

Students have the freedom to express their thoughts and creativity in their projects and will produce their own functional teapot and cup(s) set for their own personal use. Projects will be created using techniques learned in Ceramics 1.

 

Note: Due to drying times and clay firing processes, finished projects will be worked on until the final day of camp, glaze fired over the weekend, and available for pick up the following week after their camp.

Program Dates: July 17 - July 21

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 10

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Toby Green

Cost: $325

 

In this 5-day course, students will learn about the game development process by planning, coding, creating art for, and designing a video game! They will gain a unique insight into video games, both in their structure and design, as well as a valuable and intriguing introduction to the world of programming.

Program Dates: July 17 - July 21

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Brian McQueen

Cost: $325

 

This week-long dive into the creative process of combining art materials is sure to provide curious, innovative minds with oodles of fun. We will utilize paint, found objects, magazine clippings, fabric, jewels, and more. Think Matisse, Picasso, or the contemporary Nigerian artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby. Bring your magazines, warm glue guns, and found objects, and get ready for a delightful creative adventure.

 

Brian McQueen, skilled art coach and artist, has been working with a variety of media and genres for decades. See www.BrianMcQueenArt.com for full bio, along with samples of Brian’s work.

Program Dates: July 17 - July 21

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 8 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Cosmo Cothran-Bray & Steve Smith

Cost: $325

 

For centuries, sword-fighting has captivated the attention of audiences around the world. Even in times when people would regularly carry and use real blades, sword fighting on the stage was seen as a separate—and very appealing—art in and of itself. This course aims to give students a foundation in bladework for the stage and screen. The purpose of this course is to build muscles and skills for students' future stage combat endeavors. We will be using traditional single-sword rapiers for this course. This weapon system is famous throughout the world and is the basis for a range of movies from Pirates of the Caribbean to Star Wars. Note that this course is NOT a fencing class; you will learn how to create a fast, safe, and super fun sword fight the same way you would learn and practice a scene for a play or a piece of music. So if you want to learn how to sword fight like your favorite heroes, come join us!

Program Dates: July 17 - July 21

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 9

Class Maximum: 14 students

Instructor: Quinn Patterson

Cost: $325

 

This course will inspire your inner engineer! Students will design and build robots using Tetrix robotics pieces in combination with cardboard in fun and competitive ways. Students will build and drive their own robots to fulfill multiple challenges over this 5-day course. Students will also learn about the design process and how to utilize it in order to effectively plan out their robot designs. We will test, troubleshoot, and revise to improve robot performance as well as give students hands-on experience in robot control. Students of all levels of experience are invited to join!

Program Dates: July 17 - July 21

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 12

Class Maximum: 6 students

Instructor: Kate Michel

Cost: $375 (Includes $50 materials fee)

 

Kids who sign up for this camp will learn the basics of foundation paper piecing! This camp is for people who want to use (or learn to use) a sewing machine to piece their name or a favorite word. The panels created will be turned into a throw pillow that can be used to decorate your space. Once you learn the basics of foundation paper piecing, it is possible to piece complex designs with amazing accuracy. Campers will be shown examples of different paper pieced projects created by quilt artists to get a sense of how many ways they can take their new skills!

Program Dates: July 17 - July 21

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 12

Instructor: Ellen Cothran

Cost: $375 (includes $50 for thrift store shopping)

 

 

Let’s do this!  Learn Ellen Cothran’s best tips and tricks (like, always build in time for coffee or lunch!), and practice super-useful habits for making your thrifting adventure loads of fun and super productive.  We’ll begin the week with a quick visual history of fashion so you’ll start to recognize shapes, colors, and patterns that come and go as styles and fads change over the years.  We’ll go on three to four shopping trips, and end the week with one of the best parts—a spectacular fashion show for friends and family!  Thrifting is for anyone—come join us!

Program Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 10

Class Maximum: 16 students

Instructor: Teresa Conahan

Cost: $325

 

 

This one-week course will explore a variety of creative outlets through the lens of photography. Using digital SLR cameras (provided by Pacific Ridge School) students will learn both technical and artistic skills while capturing a range of subjects including portraits, landscapes, and abstracts. Students will practice basic and intermediate editing skills. We will craft imaginative projects using iPhoto and Photoshop while practicing how to offer positive and effective critique to fellow artists. At the conclusion of the course, students will compile a portfolio of their work.

Program Dates:  July 24 - July 28

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 8 & 9 - 12

Class Maximum: 18 students

Instructor: Spencer Burrows

Cost: $325

 

In this workshop, students will learn how to conduct a trial, including opening statements, direct examination, cross examination, and closing arguments, while building their argumentation and critical analysis skills. Students will assume the roles of witnesses and attorneys for the defense and prosecution teams. Instruction will include advanced trial techniques like objections and witness impeachment, using real-life prosecutors, defense attorneys, and famous trials as examples. The workshop will conclude with students conducting 1-2 full length trials!

Program Dates:  July 24 - July 28

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Christine Haddaway

Cost: $350 (includes a $25 materials fee)

 

Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 7 & 8 (Only open for incoming Pacific Ridge School 7th & 8th graders)

Instructor: Ayo Davis

Cost: $325

 

This week-long course is designed to help incoming 7th & 8th grade Pacific Ridge students develop the skills needed to be successful in middle school.  Students will improve classroom skills such as writing, note taking, active reading, collaborative learning, and Harkness discussion skills. They will also learn productivity strategies and tools such as organization, time management, test preparation, goal setting, motivation and concentration. By introducing and using the technological platforms required of them during the year, such as their Pacific Ridge email account, PowerSchool Learning, and Google Drive, students will be ready to hit the ground running on the first day of school. Students will also leave with a clear understanding of the various academic and student support services available on campus. The transition to a new school and into middle school is exciting and fun, but it can also be challenging for students. This course is designed to help new Firebirds with the transition and to help them fine-tune some of the skills they will need in middle school.

Program Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12 

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Toby Green

Cost: $325

 

In this 5-day course, students will dig deep into a popular video game (for example, Minecraft) and learn about the game development and design process by designing, discussing, and then creating+showcasing modifications for the existing video game! Some examples of such ‘Mods’ may include; a lightning-shooting sword in Minecraft, dragon-zombie hybrids, walking and talking trees, and so much more! They will gain a unique insight into video games that they either know about or already play, by creating the content, rather than consuming it, and seeing the whole structure of games from a whole new perspective; the creator!

Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6th only (Only open for incoming Pacific Ridge School 6th graders)

Instructor: Kelsey Babin

Cost: $325

 

This week-long course is designed to help incoming 6th grade Pacific Ridge students develop the skills needed to be successful in middle school.  Students will improve classroom skills such as writing, note taking, active reading, collaborative learning, and Harkness discussion skills. They will also learn productivity strategies and tools such as organization, time management, goal setting, and habits of mind. By introducing and using the technological platforms required of them during the year, such as their Pacific Ridge email account, Schoology on-line learning platform, and Google Drive, students will be ready to hit the ground running on the first day of school. Students will also leave with a clear understanding of the various academic and student support services available on campus. The transition to a new school and into middle school is exciting and fun, but it can also be challenging for students. This course is designed to help new Firebirds with the transition and to help them fine-tune some of the skills they will need in middle school.

Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 8

Instructor: Ayo Davis

Cost: $325

 

In this workshop, Middle School students will practice and gain confidence in all aspects of the essay-writing process, especially the ability to argue persuasively for a specific position. They will learn how to read for writing, brainstorm, develop a strong thesis statement, use supporting evidence, expand and analyze ideas, draft, and gain comfort with revision as the most important part of the writing process. This essay-writing workshop will benefit all Middle School students, whether they are building their writing foundations or simply wish to gain more practice and confidence with persuasive essay writing.

Program Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Evan Noyes

Cost: $325

 

 

This week-long course is designed to make students feel comfortable using hand tools and power tools to build, fix, and solve problems.  Students will receive instruction in different ways to cut, attach, shape, and finish wood and other materials, while also learning how to handle tools safely.  Each student will leave camp with a finished project of his or her own design and the knowledge of how to use tools to create solutions.

Program Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Brian McQueen

Cost: $325

 

Welcome to Portrait Week at Pacific Ridge! This is a week-long exploration of the basic mechanics of drawing/painting a portrait. Every student will work on various aspects that are needed to achieve a successful rendition of their chosen subject. What about Pet portraits you ask? This class has room for all projects, including your favorite pet or animals. Students will have the option of using graphite, charcoal, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, and colored pencil. These depictions can be life-like or abstract, full color or black and white, it’s completely up to the artist. Bring some reference material of your favorite subject and let’s get started learning about powerful portraits.

 

Brian McQueen, skilled art coach and artist, has been working with a variety of media and genres for decades. See www.BrianMcQueenArt.com for full bio, along with samples of Brian’s work.

Program Dates: July 24 - July 28

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6-12

Class Maximum: 14 students

Instructor: Aaron Gillego

Cost: $325

 

Intermediate and Advanced players will have the opportunity to study the game of chess on a deeper level through analysis and advanced tactics and strategies.  Daily class routines include advanced chess puzzles as warm-up, head-to-head rapid chess matches with other members of the class, replay and review of previous matches, and fun games including bughouse and limitless chess.  The course culminates in a blitz chess tournament.   

Program Dates:  July 31 - August 4

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Class Maximum: 15 students

Instructor: Christine Haddaway

Cost: $350 (includes a $25 materials fee)

 

This week-long course is designed to teach students the basic skills of metal fabrication. Students will work on guided projects and learn to safely use the plasma cutter, welder, and torch to create a one of a kind piece of art. This camp will focus on making a fashion item, such as a purse or hat. Each student will learn techniques for shaping, texturing, and polishing their fashion piece. All levels are welcome.

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 a.m.

Grades: 6 - 12 

Class Maximum: 18 students

Instructor: Spencer Burrows

Cost: $325

 

Buy low, sell high! In this workshop, students will learn the fundamentals of investing and financial analysis while building their own stock portfolio. We will also explore bond purchases, portfolio investing, mutual funds, ETF’s, commodities, income statements, and IPO’s. Finally, students will manage their own stock portfolio and compete against classmates in a stock market game simulation!

Program Dates:  July 31 - August 3 (Monday - Thursday)

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 9 - 12

Instructor: Jed Stotsenberg 

Cost: $205

 

This clinic is for athletes who will compete for a position on their upper school team in the fall. Each session combines individual skill work, position training, group drills & various competition formats. We also emphasize advanced attacking, blocking, serving and defense, as well as advanced team offensive systems and defensive systems.

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time:  9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: Incoming 9th or 10th (this course is only for NEW PRS 9th & 10th graders)

Instructor: 

Cost: $325

 

This week-long course enhances academic skills that foster a successful transition to high school and Pacific Ridge School. Students improve classroom skills such as note taking, active reading, collaborative learning, and test taking. They also learn productivity strategies and tools such as time management, test preparation, goal setting, motivation and concentration. Finally, the class introduces students to the nature of high school disciplines (Biology, History, English, etc.) and the general expectations of those disciplines. Students leave with a clear understanding of the various academic and student support services available on campus. This class is specifically for students who are entering Pacific Ridge School as 9th or 10th graders.  Students who attended Pacific Ridge School in the past should not attend this camp.

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time:  9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12 

Instructor: Clarissa Tan

Cost: $325

 

This course is designed to introduce students with little to no sign language skills to the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) and American Deaf culture. This course is designed to support students’ acquisition of comprehension, production, and interactional skills using basic grammatical features. ASL will be taught within the contexts of everyday life experiences. 

As students engage in these units, they will acquire necessary language skills and intercultural understanding to be able to compare cultural aspects of their own communities with those of the Deaf world. Through the use of authentic resources and a variety of learning opportunities, students will build on prior knowledge and will develop their expressive, receptive, and cultural skills in order to increase proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication.

This course is open to middle and high school students of all experience levels.

 

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time:  9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 7 & 8 (Only open for incoming Pacific Ridge School 7th & 8th graders)

Instructor: Ayo Davis

Cost: $325

 

This week-long course is designed to help incoming 7th & 8th grade Pacific Ridge students develop the skills needed to be successful in middle school.  Students will improve classroom skills such as writing, note taking, active reading, collaborative learning, and Harkness discussion skills. They will also learn productivity strategies and tools such as organization, time management, test preparation, goal setting, motivation and concentration. By introducing and using the technological platforms required of them during the year, such as their Pacific Ridge email account, PowerSchool Learning, and Google Drive, students will be ready to hit the ground running on the first day of school. Students will also leave with a clear understanding of the various academic and student support services available on campus. The transition to a new school and into middle school is exciting and fun, but it can also be challenging for students. This course is designed to help new Firebirds with the transition and to help them fine-tune some of the skills they will need in middle school.

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time:  9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 6th only (Only open for incoming Pacific Ridge School 6th graders)

Instructor: Kelsey Babin

Cost: $325

 

This week-long course is designed to help incoming 6th grade Pacific Ridge students develop the skills needed to be successful in middle school.  Students will improve classroom skills such as writing, note taking, active reading, collaborative learning, and Harkness discussion skills. They will also learn productivity strategies and tools such as organization, time management, goal setting, and habits of mind. By introducing and using the technological platforms required of them during the year, such as their Pacific Ridge email account, Schoology on-line learning platform, and Google Drive, students will be ready to hit the ground running on the first day of school. Students will also leave with a clear understanding of the various academic and student support services available on campus. The transition to a new school and into middle school is exciting and fun, but it can also be challenging for students. This course is designed to help new Firebirds with the transition and to help them fine-tune some of the skills they will need in middle school.

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 7 & 8 (Only open for incoming Pacific Ridge School 7th & 8th graders)

Instructor: Luke Michel, Head of Middle School

Cost: $325

 

This week-long course is designed to help incoming 7th & 8th grade Pacific Ridge students develop the skills needed to be successful in middle school.  Students will improve classroom skills such as writing, note taking, active reading, collaborative learning, and Harkness discussion skills. They will also learn productivity strategies and tools such as organization, time management, test preparation, goal setting, motivation and concentration. By introducing and using the technological platforms required of them during the year, such as their Pacific Ridge email account, PowerSchool Learning, and Google Drive, students will be ready to hit the ground running on the first day of school. Students will also leave with a clear understanding of the various academic and student support services available on campus. The transition to a new school and into middle school is exciting and fun, but it can also be challenging for students. This course is designed to help new Firebirds with the transition and to help them fine-tune some of the skills they will need in middle school.

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 9 - 11 

Instructor: Ayo Salih

Cost: $325

 

In this workshop, Upper School students will practice and gain confidence in all aspects of the essay-writing process, especially the ability to argue persuasively for a specific position. They will learn how to read for writing, brainstorm, develop a strong thesis statement, use supporting evidence, expand and analyze their ideas, draft, and gain comfort with revision as the most important part of the writing process. This essay-writing workshop will benefit all Upper School students, whether they are building their writing foundations or simply wish to gain more practice and confidence with persuasive essay writing.

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

Instructor: Amy Fu

Cost: $325

 

This clinic is for anyone interested in learning how to play the high speed, exciting sports of competitive badminton and Pickleball.  Come for the fun and learn how to play at a more advanced level. These are great sports to get in shape, and to work on your agility and stamina. Each session will combine individual skill work such as clear & drive shots, serves, and drops at the net. We also emphasize strategies for advanced singles and doubles players. Bring your own racquet and paddle or we can provide one for you. Are you ready to hit some birdies and stay out of the kitchen?

Program Dates: July 31 - August 4

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 12

Instructor: Ellen Cothran

Cost: $375 (includes $50 for thrift store shopping)

 

Let’s do this!  Learn Ellen Cothran’s best tips and tricks (like, always build in time for coffee or lunch!), and practice super-useful habits for making your thrifting adventure loads of fun and super productive.  We’ll begin the week with a quick visual history of fashion so you’ll start to recognize shapes, colors, and patterns that come and go as styles and fads change over the years.  We’ll go on three to four shopping trips, and end the week with one of the best parts—a spectacular fashion show for friends and family!  Thrifting is for anyone—come join us!

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Grades: New PRS 6^th - 8^th graders ,depending on placement test results

Instructor: TBD

Cost: $165

 

Are you divided on the topic of fractions?  Do you feel less than 100% about percents?  Have you ever experienced negativity when confronted by negative numbers?

 

Then this boost is for you!  We will review and enrich the basic math skills that continue to pester so many students after 6^th grade.  We’ll learn what it really means to divide a fraction by a fraction (so much more interesting that “keep-change-flip!), how to understand the world of percent work beyond the computations (what, exactly, is a 172% change in my chickens’ egg production?), and why we do what we do with signs (why is a negative times a negative a positive, and why is a positive times a positive NOT a negative?).  We’ll do this while having fun with some mind-bending puzzles, learning some random math history to dazzle the dinner table crowd, and NOT having any homework! Additionally, we’ll start getting comfortable with that fancy new calculator you are required to buy for 7^th grade: TI 84 Plus CE (note the CE!).

 

Materials required: TI-84 Plus CE, a laptop, and a small 3 ring binder.  If you haven’t yet purchased your laptop or tablet, the school has a limited number of loaners available.

 

Who should take this class? New PRS 6^th – 8th graders who will be taking Intro to Algebra at PRS in the fall and who feel like they’d like a boost on the topics listed above. This course is not intended for students taking Algebra/Geometry 1.

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: New PRS 6^th - 8^th graders ,depending on placement test results

Instructor: TBD

Cost: $165

 

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Grades: 7 - 9 (incoming 7^th - incoming 9^th)

Instructor: TBD

Cost:  $165

 

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 9 (incoming 7^th - incoming 9^th)

Instructor: TBD

Cost:  $165

 

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time:  9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Grades: 7 - 10

Instructor: Amy Fu

Cost:  $165

 

This course is for students who will be taking Chinese for the first time in this coming school year.  It will provide a preview of the core vocabularies and basic grammar structures of first year Chinese learning objectives so students can start the year with confidence. Topics such as greeting others, making a self-introduction, talking about family members, daily routines and personal hobbies will be covered through project presentation and role-play speaking exercises. One the last day of class, we will also do some Chinese culture related activities, e.g. writing Chinese calligraphy, painting Beijing Opera Mask, and making dumplings. This class will prepare Middle and Upper School students who are heading into Chinese A or Chinese 1.  Students with experience in Chinese should sign up for Chinese Primer:  Prepare for the Next Level instead of this course.

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time:  10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Grades: 7 - 10

Instructor: Amy Fu

Cost:  $165

 

This refresher will provide a thorough review of the core vocabularies and basic grammar structures of first year Chinese learning objectives so students can start the year with confidence. Topics such as greeting others, making a self-introduction, talking about family members, daily routines and personal hobbies will be covered through project presentation and role-play speaking exercises. One the last day of class, we will also do some Chinese culture related activities, e.g. writing Chinese calligraphy, painting Beijing Opera Mask, and making dumplings. Students who have taken Chinese A and/or B (at PRS) and any student who has had Chinese class or tutoring are welcomed and encouraged to attend. Let's have fun speaking Chinese.  This class will be particularly helpful for students who want to enter high school Chinese with more confidence and preparation. Students who have never taken Chinese before should sign up for Chinese Primer:  Beginners Only instead of this class.

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Grades: 7 - 10

Instructor: Cecilia Shrivastava 

Cost:  $165

 

¿Quieres practicar español? If the answer is YES, come join the Spanish Primer Camp! We will review vocabulary and grammar structures of the first-year Spanish curriculum so students can start the year with confidence. Topics such as greeting others, talking about family members, the time and weather, colors, clothing, and personal hobbies will be covered through projects and hands-on activities. We will devote the last day of class to celebrate the cultures of Latin America, and what we have learned in class. Students who are new to PRS with no previous language experience, or those that took Spanish A are welcomed and encouraged to attend. This class will be particularly helpful for students who want to enter High School Spanish with more confidence and preparation.

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

Grades: 7 - 10

Instructor: Cecilia Shrivastava 

Cost:  $165

 

¿Necesitas revisar la gramática para Español 2 y 3? If the answer is YES, come join the Spanish Primer Camp! We will review vocabulary and grammar structures of B/1B/1/2 Spanish curriculums so students can start the year with confidence. Topics covered in Spanish 1, 2 and Spanish 3 at PRS will be reviewed in class, but which topics specifically will depend on class needs. We will devote the last day of class to celebrate the cultures of Latin America, and what we have learned in class. Students who are new to PRS that have taken Spanish 1 or 2 in the past, or those that have taken Spanish B/1B/1 and 2 are welcomed and encouraged to attend. This Spanish class will be particularly helpful for students who want to start the year with more confidence and preparation.

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Grades: Incoming or rising 8^th - 10^th graders

Instructor: TBD

Cost:  $165

 

This course will review topics of Algebra/Geometry 1 to prepare students for Algebra Geometry 2. It will cover linear equations, inequalities and systems. We will focus our efforts on graphing lines in all three forms and converting between the forms; solving systems of lines using substitution method, elimination method, and by graphing; and, writing and graphing linear inequalities. There will be attention to major geometry topics including coordinate geometry to find area and perimeter of quadrilaterals and triangles, as well as applying Pythagorean Theorem. The goal of the course is to review major topics and build confidence in the material to make deeper connections.

Program Dates:  August 7 - August 11

Time: 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grades: Incoming or rising 8^th - 10^th graders

Instructor: TBD

Cost:  $165

 

This course will review topics of Algebra/Geometry 1 to prepare students for Algebra Geometry 2. It will cover linear equations, inequalities and systems. We will focus our efforts on graphing lines in all three forms and converting between the forms; solving systems of lines using substitution method, elimination method, and by graphing; and, writing and graphing linear inequalities. There will be attention to major geometry topics including coordinate geometry to find area and perimeter of quadrilaterals and triangles, as well as applying Pythagorean Theorem. The goal of the course is to review major topics and build confidence in the material to make deeper connections.