Summer Academy

This course builds upon arithmetic concepts and skills and is designed to ease the transition from arithmetic to algebra.  The properties of integers are studied first and then expanded to include rational numbers and real numbers.  Students explore the concepts of solving multi-step equations and inequalities, performing operations with fractions, and simplifying expressions using exponent properties.  They study rational numbers, ratios, proportions, probability, and percent, as well as graphing in the coordinate plane.  Additional topics that are included in the course are squares and square roots, the Pythagorean Theorem and its applications, probability and statistics, and properties of triangles and quadrilaterals.  Problem solving strategies, communicating mathematically, and utilizing mental math are stressed throughout the year.  Students master these topics through a variety of ways while developing note-taking skills, their ability to express in words their processes and conceptual understanding, a variety of projects and labs, and more formal assessments like tests and quizzes.   The Pre-Algebra course challenges students to enhance their critical thinking skills in order to promote further analytical and mathematical thought. Graphing calculators and computer technology are used extensively to enhance the mastery of concepts in the curriculum.  

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Algebra I integrates algebraic skill development with the broader framework of developing concepts. Functions
and relations (including linear, quadratic, polynomial, and exponential) are used as a main theme in this study
of algebra. Application-based problems are introduced throughout the curriculum. Graphing calculators and
computer technology are integrated into topics to assist in understanding and visualizing statistics and data,
linear equations, and other algebraic functions. An introduction to radicals is the concluding topic of Algebra I.
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or Math 8

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Geometry offers the student a comprehensive study of two-dimensional Euclidean geometry. The language of
geometry, polygons, and circles are studied in depth. The understanding of proof is an objective of the course.
Additional topics of study are: area of plane figures, constructions (where applicable), transformations, and
right triangle trigonometry. Algebraic and geometric concepts are reviewed in tandem to reinforce their
mathematical connections. Applications are studied throughout the curriculum. Graphing calculators are used
where appropriate.

Prerequisite: Algebra I

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Algebra II reviews, sustains, and extends the knowledge of the real number system introduced in Algebra I.
Polynomials, factoring, and graphing are discussed and explored in depth. Mathematical models are utilized in
the discussion of coordinate geometry, problem solving, and in the detailed study of linear and quadratic
functions. Also included is the study of irrational and complex numbers, fractional exponents, systems of
equations, and logarithms. Graphing calculators and computer technology are integrated into the course to
assist in the understanding of solutions of equations and functions. The concluding topic is the study of
rational expressions.

Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Precalculus offers the student a comprehensive study of algebraic and transcendental functions. The course is
constructed to aid students in developing their proficiency in algebraic techniques and in strengthening their
understanding of the underlying concepts. Real-life problems, many using real data, are integrated throughout
the curriculum. As appropriate, the graphing calculator is utilized to augment student understanding of the
mathematical concepts.

Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Calculus topics include an in-depth study of functions: algebraic, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic.
Students investigate the concepts of limits and continuity. Differential calculus and its applications to curve
sketching, maximum and minimum problems, velocity, acceleration, and related rates of change are also
explored in depth.

Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Precalculus

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Computer science provides students with an introductory level understanding of computer programming.
Students learn the fundamentals of program design and programming languages. Projects are assigned for
each topic that allow students to gain and develop proficiency at planning, writing and executing programs.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Biology focuses on the study of life from an evolutionary and sociological perspective.  The students will explore selected topics through lecture, experiments, and inquiry based activities.  A basic appreciation of biological science is emphasized through real life examples wherever possible.  Topics covered may include, but are not restricted to evolution, ecology, genetics, cell structure, and cell processes.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Chemistry focuses on the study of natural processes from a physical and observational perspective. Students
explore selected topics through investigation, experimentation, and inquiry-based activities. Chemistry is
emphasized through real life examples wherever possible. Topics covered may include, but are not restricted
to stoichiometry, periodic properties, reactions in aqueous solutions, nomenclature, solutions, and gasses.

Prerequisites: Biology, Alg I

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Physics is a detailed and analytical study of the physical world. Precise and accurate measurement methods
are utilized during observations to describe or interpret general laws of nature. Theoretical and higher
mathematical concepts and skills are employed throughout the course. Students develop a conceptual
understanding of the physical world and use problem-solving skills to further that understanding.

Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, Alg II (Precalculus for the Honors level)

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

French I is an introductory level language course that allows students the opportunity to learn cooperatively,
while exploring the topics of any traditional high school curriculum for introductory French. Instruction
emphasizes development of the skills of listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing in French with
primary emphasis on speaking. Awareness of and appreciation for the French speaking community and its
culture are among the ultimate objectives of this course.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Spanish I is an introductory level language course that allows students the opportunity to learn cooperatively,
while exploring the topics of any traditional high school curriculum for introductory Spanish. Instruction
emphasizes development of the skills of listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish
with primary emphasis on speaking. Awareness of and appreciation for the Spanish speaking community and
its culture are among the ultimate objectives of this course.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Algebra I integrates algebraic skill development with the broader framework of developing concepts.  Functions and relations (including linear, quadratic, polynomial, and exponential) are used as the main theme in this study of algebra.  Application-based problems are introduced throughout the curriculum.  Graphing calculators and computer technology are integrated into topics to assist in understanding and visualizing statistics and data, linear equations, and other algebraic functions.  An introduction to radicals is the concluding topic of Algebra I.
Algebra I Honors includes the entire Algebra I curriculum at a more enhanced cognitive level.  Additional topics include a more comprehensive study of radicals, as well as a study of rational expressions and a more in-depth look at functions and their graphs.  Students are expected to maintain and utilize a high level of critical thinking skills.
Prerequisite:  Pre-Algebra and recommendation by the department for honors level

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Geometry offers the student a comprehensive study of two-dimensional Euclidean geometry.  The language of geometry, polygons, and circles are studied in depth.  The understanding of proof is an objective of the course.  Additional topics of study are: area of plane figures, constructions (where applicable), transformations, and right triangle trigonometry.  Algebraic and geometric concepts are reviewed in tandem to reinforce their mathematical connections.  Applications are studied throughout the curriculum.  Graphing calculators are used where appropriate.
Geometry Honors includes the entire Geometry curriculum, with a much more extensive study of proof.  Students are expected to maintain and utilize a high level of critical thinking skills.
Prerequisite:  Algebra I plus departmental recommendation for honors level.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Algebra II reviews, sustains, and extends the knowledge of the real number system introduced in Algebra I.  Polynomials, factoring, and graphing are discussed and explored in depth.  Mathematical models are utilized in the discussion of coordinate geometry, problem solving, and in the detailed study of linear and quadratic functions.  Also included is the study of irrational and complex numbers, fractional exponents, systems of equations, and logarithms.  Graphing calculators and computer technology are integrated into the course to assist in the understanding of solutions of equations and functions.  The concluding topic is the study of rational expressions.
Algebra II Honors includes the entire Algebra II curriculum, as well as units on trigonometric functions and conic sections.  Students are expected to maintain and utilize a high level of critical thinking skills.
Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry plus departmental recommendation for honors level
Precalculus Honors
Precalculus Honors offers the student a comprehensive study of algebraic and transcendental functions.  The course is constructed to aid students in developing their proficiency in algebraic techniques and in strengthening their understanding of the underlying concepts.  Real-life problems, many using real data, are integrated throughout the curriculum.  As appropriate, the graphing calculator is utilized to augment student understanding of the mathematical concepts.
Precalculus Honors includes the entire Precalculus curriculum, with students moving at a faster pace and in more depth conceptually.  Students are expected to maintain and utilize a high level of critical thinking skills.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Algebra I, Geometry,  and Algebra II sequence with teacher recommendation and permission of the Department Chairperson.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Biology focuses on the study of life from an evolutionary and sociological perspective.  The students will explore selected topics through lecture, experiments, and inquiry based activities.  A basic appreciation of biological science is emphasized through real life examples wherever possible.  Topics covered may include, but are not restricted to evolution, ecology, genetics, cell structure, and cell processes.
The honors level course is a molecular approach to biology.  Course material will cover a wide range of biological topics, using a molecular thematic approach, essential for a comprehensive understanding of general biology. Students will learn and be able to apply the scientific method through the development and conduction of laboratory investigations.
Prerequisite: Strong student skills, interest in science, independent work habits, plus A level performance on assessments in prior science and math classes.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Chemistry focuses on the study of natural processes from a physical and observational perspective.  Students explore selected topics through investigation, experimentation, and inquiry-based activities.  Chemistry is emphasized through real life examples wherever possible.  Topics covered may include, but are not restricted to; stoichiometry, periodic properties, reactions in aqueous solutions, nomenclature, solutions, and gases.
The Honors Chemistry course studies the nature of change as it relates to chemistry and the environment, using both qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis through problem solving, experimental design and cooperative group learning activities. Specific topics include matter; electron configuration; bonding; gas behavior; mole concept; stoichiometry; redox reactions; acid-base; equilibrium; and solutions.
Prerequisites: Demonstrated interest in the sciences. Strong completion of Biology or Biology honors AND completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II Honors with teacher recommendations. 
 

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

This course is designed to introduce students to a detailed, analytical study of the physical world. Precise and accurate measurement methods are utilized during observations to describe or interpret general laws of nature.  Theoretical and higher mathematical concepts and skills are also used to reach this understanding of the laws.  The theme underlying the course is the development of a conceptual understanding of the physical world, and using problem-solving skills to further that understanding.  Students find that, rather than making the material less accessible, equations and formulae can be used to increase understanding.
Prerequisites: Demonstrated interest in the physical sciences.  Strong performance in Biology and Chemistry. Concurrent enrollment in Precalculus or higher and permission of the Department Chairperson.

June 23 through July 30 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,300

Human Anatomy and Physiology is a course designed to study two complementary branches of science,
anatomy and physiology, which provide us with the concepts to understand the human body. Anatomy is the
concrete study of the structure of body parts and their relationship to each other. Physiology studies the
functioning of the body’s structural machinery, in other words, how all the body parts work and carry out their
life-sustaining activities.

Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Astronomy offers a conceptual exploration of the universe and its wonders. Topics include Cosmology, Gravity
and Light, The Solar System, The Earth-Moon System, The Formation and Evolution of Stars, Galaxies, and
Frontiers of Exploration. Some time is dedicated to discussing the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life,
including recent discoveries of distant solar systems and future plans for finding Earth-like planets.

Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Algebra II.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Environmental Science is a comprehensive science elective applying the fundamentals of biology, chemistry
and physics to challenges facing the environment today. The course is taught using case studies to illustrate
scientific topics. It is a lab science course and students will engage with current environmental science topics
to understand the cycles and earth science forces at work.

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Algebra II

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Ever wonder what the job of a scientist actually entails? While many real scientists wear lab coats and mix
mysterious substances, all scientists - whether they be the epidemiologists trying to understand a novel
disease (think Covid!), or computer scientists and engineers trying to bring quantum computing to your
fingertips, or climate scientists trying to predict the fate of our planet - follow the same basic research process.
In this class, you will learn the steps professional scientists take in every project they do, from interpreting
existing research papers, to data analysis techniques, to communicating research to other scientists and the
broader society. Whether you just want a deeper understanding of how scientific knowledge is created, or you
are interested in doing scientific research yourself, take your science literacy one step further than your
traditional science classes in this 5-week, project-based research course.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

This course is a comprehensive, in-depth scientific study of the marine environment. It is designed to give
students a full understanding of the ways in which marine organisms interact with each other and with their
physical environment. It also strives to educate students about the importance of marine ecosystems to
terrestrial ecosystems and to humankind.

Prerequisite: Biology

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

Graphic Arts combines digital and visual arts skills and applies them to the creation of advanced graphic
design artworks. Programs include Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Indesign and Photobooth.
Students face the challenge of real world projects, which include corporate identity, portraits, CD design, print
advertisements, packaging design, multimedia imagery, editorial design, book design, as well as graphic
pieces for school functions. Students gain a basic foundation of the history of graphic design, and create
artworks in the style of various well-known graphic designers.

Prerequisite: Studio Art

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

This course introduces students to the dynamic processes and activities in Business and Entrepreneurship. The course develops student understanding and skills in the functional areas of business, entrepreneurship, marketing, business law, communication skills, customer relations, economics, human resources management, and operations. Current technology will be used to acquire information and to complete activities. Throughout the course, students are presented ethical dilemmas and problem-solving situations for which they must apply academic and critical-thinking skills. Students learn the proper foundations of turning an idea into an opportunity from ideation and pitching an idea to the elements of a business plan.

June 22 through July 29 --- 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $2,500

This course builds the skills necessary for writing a long-form research paper. Topics include research
questions, keyword research, organization, thesis writing, bibliographic style, and the revision process from
rough draft to final paper. Students will be guided through the entire process from initial topic to final draft in
the first trimester, and given a bit more independence in each subsequent term. In all, every student will
complete three full-length research papers by the end of the year, and they will be prepared with all the skills
and practice needed to tackle any future research papers.

Tuition: $1,250

The Writer’s Workshop gives student authors the opportunity to hone their craft in a workshop setting. In a
workshop environment, students progress at their own pace and receive feedback through individualized
teacher conferencing, and by engaging in peer and self-evaluation. Students use group discussion to analyze
elements of good writing and then apply these features to their own work. Students will produce one main
literary piece and several smaller pieces each quarter. Genres include poetry (narrative and lyrical), short
stories, drama, expository, and research-based. Skills include descriptive technique, narrative style,
vocabulary, and syntax, as well as adapting writing style to different audiences. Students interested in
generating longer works, such as novels, will have the chance to receive feedback during the class.

Tuition: $1,250

Success in life is often measured by the ability to communicate effectively with others. This course
emphasizes development of speech and rhetoric skills that may be used in the formal debate context as well
as life situations. Students will learn argumentation and public speaking skills to participate in different styles
of debate and speaking. Students will participate in philosophical and topical debates in different formats
including single debate and partner debate, while improving skills in communicating with others, and preparing
and delivering formal public speeches. Opportunities in a number of different speaking styles and interpretive
reading presentations will be provided.

Tuition: $1,250

In this course, students will learn about the skills necessary to become a leader in and out of the classroom.
We will outline leadership theories that can improve confidence, build character, and assist students with
influencing and empowering those around them.

Tuition: $1,250

This course is an introduction to the roots and key concepts of philosophical thinking. We will discuss notable
philosophers and analyze their thoughts on the biggest questions of humanity. Students will use film, literature,
and class discussion to study the views of these great thinkers and dive deeply into their own answers to life’s
greatest quandaries.

Tuition: $1,250

Chemistry is notorious for beating students down, especially in the first few months of school. The combination
of unfamiliar science concepts, advanced math skills, and intense instructional pacing can be more than some
students can bear. This course seeks to serve as a primer for the initial concepts and skills of Chemistry.
Completion of Pre-Chemistry will provide students with the foundation necessary to hit the ground running in
September.

Session 1: June 22, 2026 - June 26, 2026 @ 12:30-4:00pm

Tuition: $550

Teachers of any AP History subject will agree that writing, historical reasoning, and document analysis skills
are essential to achieving top scores on their AP exams. Unfortunately, students often arrive in September
without some of these very skills. AP History is so content-heavy that, depending upon their level of weakness,
students may lack the time necessary to learn both the content and these essential skills during the regular
school year. This course is intended to help students entering any AP History class to develop the essential
skills before they are immersed in and overwhelmed by the content.

Session 2: July 6, 2026 - July 10, 2026 12:30 - 4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

Every student needs to develop the skills necessary for learning in school, but too often they gain these skills
too late for academic success. The Study Skills course will help students hone their notetaking, reading, and
questioning skills. It is perfect for students entering the upper school or for those who want to improve their
facility with learning – in high school and beyond.

Session 4: July 20, 2026 - July 24, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

Whether you pursue a career in Engineering, Computer Programming, or Graphic Design, you will need to
understand and apply the Design Process. This course introduces students to the process and uses
project-based learning to apply the process to student work.

Session 3: July 13, 2026 - July 17, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

Everyone wants to eat the best tasting food, but few people can create those dishes at home. Follow a
professional chef on a journey through the kitchen. Students will learn the fundamental techniques for stovetop
dishes and baked goods. If your mouth is starting to water, this is the course for you!

Session 1: June 22, 2026 - June 26, 2026 12:30-4:00PM

Session 2: July 6, 2026 - July 10, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

Genius hour is a movement that allows students to creatively explore their own passions in the classroom. The
idea stems from several places, including Google, which gives its developers time to research and work on a
project that interests them with the understanding that it will advance the company. This course is an
opportunity for students to strengthen their research skills, expand their creativity, and reignite their passion for
learning. Students pick a topic/question that interests them, develop an open-ended question to explore
allowing them to research independently, and create a final product to showcase what they learned for the rest
of the community. Some examples of a final product is a website, documentary, game, TED Talk, model
presentation/simulation, but anything that explains the topic and findings to be shared is acceptable. Students
will share their final presentations in a showcase on the last day of the course.

Session 4: July 20, 2026 - July 24, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

Apple Pay, Venmo, Bitcoin -- these are the financial tools of the 21st century. We will talk about all of these as
well as how to buy a car (loans, leases, and trades), rent an apartment (leases, utilities, and insurance), and
buy property (mortgages, escrow, HOA’s, and investment properties). You will practice managing electronic
payments and learn to avoid the traps that they create. Finally, you will learn about legacy financial tools that
continue to have value today -- budgets, bank accounts, credit cards, and retirement accounts. This course is
meant to prepare students for the real world financial challenges that adults face every day. Whether you want
to accumulate great wealth, start and build businesses, or just make an honest living without struggling from
paycheck to paycheck, this course is for you!

Session 3: July 13, 2026 - July 17, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Session 4: July 20, 2026 - July 24, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

Would you like to learn how to create a stop motion animated film? This animation technique uses objects that are physically manipulated with small changes between individual frames so that they will appear to exhibit motion or change when the frames are played back.

You can animate any object from Playdoh, to Lego minifigures and Barbies, to puppets, or even hand drawn artwork. You will design and develop your own story and make your own animation from start to finish!

Session 2: July 6, 2026 - July 10, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

This course will give students a jump start on how to succeed on the reading, writing and language sections of
the SAT. Practical methodologies, hacks, tips, and tricks that will allow students to excel in a competitive
environment. Statistically students score higher on the SAT in the fall, so this class is the perfect supplement
to a summer preparation for the college board exams.

Session 2: July 6, 2026 - July 10, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

This course is designed to help students excel on the mathematics section of the SAT. Laid out meticulously
and orderly students will find all of the tools, tips, tricks, and hacks needed to succeed on the exam.
Statistically students score higher in the fall, so this summer preparation course is exactly what students need
to excel in a competitive environment.

Session 3: July 13, 2026 - July 17, 2026 12:30-4:00 PM

Tuition: $550

How do you make an audience laugh? How do you make them cry? In this course, students will read scenes from various well-known plays while practicing different comprehension and fluency strategies. They will discuss how words and actions create emotions, and they will practice writing to evoke emotion for multiple purposes. 

This course is perfect for students entering grades 5-8, new or current SRDS students, who want to hone their overall reading and writing skills, current students who want a little more practice with reading and writing strategies, and any students who want to read something outside the traditional curriculum. 

June 22 - July 10 --- 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $1,250

Electrified is a fast-paced, hands-on summer course where students learn how electricity works by building real circuits and engineering fun projects. Over 2.5 weeks, students will investigate how current flows, how circuits are designed, and how engineers use series and parallel wiring to power devices. Students will work with DC motors, switches, LEDs, and batteries while learning to troubleshoot and improve their designs. The course also introduces students to breadboards and Makey Makey, allowing them to create interactive circuits and touch-controlled inventions. Students will leave the course with a strong foundation in electricity, circuit design, and practical engineering skills.

June 22 - July 10 --- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Tuition: $1,250

This course will focus on learning and using grammar rules and new vocabulary to elevate writing. Students will write in a variety of genres to refresh and extend their knowledge of the writing process. Personalized instruction will be given in spelling patterns and other areas of growth for individual students. Students will also read excerpts from well-known texts to support their grammar and vocabulary development. 

This course is perfect for students entering grades 5-8, new or current SRDS students, who want to hone their reading and writing skills, current students who want a little more practice with grammar and vocabulary, and any students who want to enhance their writing.

July 13 - July 29 --- 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Tuition: $1,250