Summer Program Offerings @Notre Dame San Jose

Course Descriptions

Academic Success: Literacy Skills
INSTRUCTOR: Jennifer Johnson
June 10-14, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

This week-long course is great for people who want to improve their reading and writing skills. Learn more about our brain and the process of how we learn to read and write. Then gain some practical strategies to help make improvements in these areas. This week together will support fun self-discovery in an encouraging environment, and you will walk away with new tools for academic success!

Academic Success: Study Skills & Habits
INSTRUCTOR: Susana Garcia
June 17-21, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

This week-long course will teach students different study strategies to cultivate effective study habits. Join us for a week of fun self-discovery in an encouraging environment!

Academic Success: Organizational Skills
INSTRUCTOR: Jennifer Johnson
June 24-28, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Learn how to take ideas from your imagination and turn them into reality! In this week-long course, students will practice organization through goal-setting and backwards planning. They will walk away with practical strategies to organize their physical space and gain a deeper understanding of the science behind how our brains develop organizational skills. This week together will support fun self-discovery in an encouraging environment and leave you with new skills to achieve academic success!

Art of Public Speaking
INSTRUCTOR: Mr. Elliott Gavino
June 10-28, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Public speaking is an art form and practical skill great for school and future careers. Students will have the opportunity to develop and strengthen skills in preparing and presenting oral presentations in a variety of situations. Speaking clearly and comfortably in public is a valuable and often essential skill to possess. Students will be introduced to the basics of speachwriting and delivery, gaining personal self-confidence and reducing anxiety associated with public speaking.

Ceramics
INSTRUCTOR: Alexandra Cunningham
June 10-28, 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Try your hand at creating ceramic art. This class will introduce you to the nature of clay, taking you through the process from construction (pinch, coil and slab) to the final firing of your artwork. You will also learn about the diversity of glazing techniques. On the final day of the class, students will showcase their work and may invite friends/family to view the finished products.

College Application Workshop
INSTRUCTOR: Cecilia Perkins
June 10-14, 9-11:30 a.m.

For rising seniors only: Ready to jump start your college application process? Spend the week with Mrs. Perkins and a host of guest speakers from colleges and universities. Topics include developing an application strategy, beginning the application process, writing a high school resume, crafting the personal statement/supplemental essays, the college application timeline and refining your list of schools.

Creative Writing: Poetry
INSTRUCTOR: Emily King
June 10-14, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

This enrichment course is designed for students who enjoy writing and want to learn more about creative writing as a form of art and personal expression. Students will be guided through the creative writing process in three areas: poetry, prose and flash fiction. The true art of writing includes not only the writing process, but also phases of reading, workshopping, revising and editing. All final pieces you create for this class will reflect this whole process and be put into a writing portfolio.

Creative Writing: Short Stories through Games!
INSTRUCTOR: Elliot Gavino
June 17-21, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Are you a fan of writing and adventure? This course combines playing a story-like game (similar to DnD) while learning to write short stories. Learn the elements of good story writing. By the end of the course, students will have learned character obstacles, character motivations and conflict in an entertaining way.

Creative Writing: Song Lyrics
INSTRUCTOR: Elliot Gavino
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

From the rhythms of your heart to the flows to your feet, find interesting ways to write to the beat! Students will learn about the form and structure of writing lyrics to songs, including some of today's most popular artists. Students will explore genre, theme, audience and expression in a variety of fun ways that are sure to keep them singing in the car.

Dance Workshop
INSTRUCTOR: Emily King
June 10-14, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

This one week dance workshop will get you on your feet and teach you about all things dance. Led by Ms. King, this workshop will cover different dance techniques and give you the opportunity to choreograph. It will culminate in a performance to showcase your talent. Open to dancers of all levels, from beginning to advanced, this workshop welcomes middle and high school students.

Digital Photography and Design
INSTRUCTOR: Nicholas Carrillo
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

In this dynamic course, delve into the world of design and photography as we tap into the powerful tools of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Learn the fundamentals of digital design, from manipulating images to creating stunning graphics and illustrations. Through hands-on projects and expert guidance, you'll explore advanced techniques in photo editing, digital illustration and graphic design. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned artist, this course offers a pathway to elevate your skills and bring your creative visions to life. Join us and embark on a journey of artistic expression and innovation in the digital realm!

Drama Workshop
INSTRUCTOR: Mr. Elliott Gavino
June 10-28, 8:30-10:30 a.m.

This hands-on course explores drama techniques and elements, including improvisation, acting styles and methods. Students will learn to work as a team while building confidence and fundamental performance skills. *All experience levels are welcomed.

Design Your Own Business
INSTRUCTOR: Alexandra Cunningham
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Learn about the basics of building your own business from alumna and business-owner, Ms. Alexandra Cunningham '12. In this class, students will learn about basic business skills, the importance of understanding the economy and local market, and the key elements that will help you launch a business.

Finish the Book: Algebra 1 (for NDSJ students)
INSTRUCTOR: Ms. Tanisha Fitzgerald
June 10-28, 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 or similar integrated math course
This class is for incoming Notre Dame students who completed a year-long Algebra I course but did not pass the competency test for the next math level or want an Algebra 1 refresher. We will review real numbers, solving equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions, functions and quadratic equations. Individualized materials will be available to address specific areas of growth, and a competency test will be given at the end of the course.

Graphic Design
INSTRUCTOR: Nicholas Carrillo
June 10-28, 8:30-10:30 a.m.

When you are reading your favorite magazine or perusing your latest favorite website, have you ever taken time to think about who came up with the design of those pages and how they created them? Graphic Design is an opportunity for students to learn first-hand about the creative process behind the production of such inspiring works. In this class you will learn the theories of graphic design as well as basic and advanced techniques as you design several real-world projects including promotional pieces, publications and digital-art.

Leadership Camp (High School): Learning To Lead
INSTRUCTOR: Tanisha Fitzgerald
June 10-14, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

During our first week of the program, students will attain practical leadership skills as we become more aware of how we function as leaders, how to listen effectively, how to facilitate meetings/small groups, how to manage tasks and how to give and receive feedback.

Leadership Camp (High School): Preparing To Lead
INSTRUCTOR: Tanisha Fitzgerald
June 17-21, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Prerequisite: Learning To Lead
The second week of our leadership program will focus on preparation. Students will prepare and practice lessons that they create for our middle school students and make adjustments based on the feedback that they receive.

Leadership Camp (High School): Learning Others
INSTRUCTOR: Tanisha Fitzgerald
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Prerequisite: Preparing To Lead
During this final week of the program, high school students will deliver the lessons that they created to students enrolled in our middle school summer leadership program. Students that complete all three weeks of the program will be given the opportunity to develop and deliver lessons to peers during leadership collaboration in the 2024-2025 school year.

Leadership Camp (Middle School): The First Person I Lead
INSTRUCTOR: Eran DeSilva
June 10-14, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

During the first week of our leadership program, students will learn that the best way to change the world around them is to start with themselves. Students will evaluate some of the small decisions and the actions that they perform each day as they explore “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens,” as described by author Sean Covey.

Leadership Camp (Middle School): How Other Women Lead
INSTRUCTOR: Eran DeSilva
June 17-21, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

The second week of our leadership program will focus on women that have made an impact on the world around them. We’ll learn about current and past women leaders and explore their leadership styles as well as the attributes that make them change-makers.

Leadership Camp (Middle School): Leadership Matters
INSTRUCTOR: Tanisha Fitzgerald
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

During this final week of the program, middle school students will gain practical leadership skills as we become more aware of how we function as leaders, how to listen effectively, how to facilitate meetings/small groups, how to manage tasks and how to give and receive feedback.

Mindfulness Series: Positive Psychology-The Science of Flourishing
INSTRUCTOR: Ms. Kira Conte
June 10-14, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Embark on a transformative journey into the realm of well-being with "Positive Psychology: The Science of Flourishing." This dynamic one-week course invites students to explore the intricacies of happiness, resilience, and thriving through the lens of cutting-edge psychological research. Guided by case studies, psychological theories, and captivating short stories, participants will delve into the scientific foundations that empower individuals to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. By the course's end, students will not only gain insights into the multifaceted nature of happiness but also embark on a personal exploration to define what flourishing means to them.

Mindfulness Series: Sleep and Dreams
INSTRUCTOR: Ms. Kira Conte
June 17-21, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Embark on a captivating exploration of the science of sleep and dreams in this one-week course tailored for middle and high school students. Uncover the mysteries of sleep cycles, delve into dream interpretation theories, and examine the profound impact of quality sleep on mental and physical well-being. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will not only grasp the physiological aspects of sleep but also develop practical strategies for improving their sleep hygiene.

Mixed Media Art
INSTRUCTOR: Alexandra Cunningham
June 10-21, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

This program provides an introduction to mixed media art techniques with a focus on exploration, collaboration and critical thinking. Students will be introduced to a variety of media while studying the work of instrumentalist artists and participating in various small group challenges. Newfound skills and inspiration will aid in the design and construction of their own work throughout this two week class.

Painting
INSTRUCTOR: Alexandra Cunningham
June 10-28, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

This program explores painting techniques with a focus on application, color theory and theme development. Students will build upon their understanding of composition by studying the works of various artists throughout history and the present day and creating paintings with watercolor, acrylic and spray paint in our classroom studio. All necessary supplies will be provided.

Robotics
INSTRUCTOR: Aidan Ferrer
June 17-21, 1:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Deepen your experience of science and technology in this unique, fun and hands-on camp. This week-long program will introduce the student to the world of robotics and design.

Sports Camp: Basketball
INSTRUCTOR: Ali Bueno
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Basketball Camp is designed to provide the fundamental skills necessary to play competitive competitive basketball. Each day is dedicated to honing specific skills, leading up to competitive games and contests that encourage students to apply what they've learned. The camp will focus on footwork, dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding and defense. Participants should wear appropriate athletic attire and bring a water bottle every day. Camp takes place at Notre Dame in Julie Billiart Hall.

Sports Camp: Flag Football
INSTRUCTOR: John Amarillas
June 10-14, 1:15- 3:15 p.m.

Flag Football Camp is designed to provide participants with the fundamental skills necessary to play competitive flag football. Each day is dedicated to honing specific skills, leading up to competitive games and contests that encourage students to apply what they've learned. The camp will focus on offensive and defensive football skills, basic techniques drills, and proper warm-ups and physical conditioning. Participants should wear appropriate athletic attire and bring a water bottle every day. The camp takes place at Notre Dame in Pardini Park.

Sports Camp: Volleyball
INSTRUCTOR: Don Taylor
June 17-21, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Volleyball Camp is designed to provide the fundamental skills necessary to play competitive volleyball. Each day is dedicated to honing specific skills, leading up to competitive games and contests that encourage students to apply what they've learned. The camp will focus on basic techniques in bumping, setting, blocking and serving. Knee pads are required; participants should wear appropriate athletic attire and bring a water bottle every day. The camp takes place at Notre Dame in Julie Billiart Hall.

Sports Camp: Strength & Agility- Week 1
INSTRUCTOR: Chelsey Beck
June 10-14, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

This camp will support athletes in developing agility and with injury prevention. Agility training improves balance, control, and flexibility. These basic drills develop core strength needed for all athletes. Student athletes may join for one week or for all three weeks.

Sports Camp: Strength & Agility- Week 2
INSTRUCTOR: John Amarillas
June 17-21, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Sports Camp: Strength & Agility- Week 3
INSTRUCTOR: John Amarillas
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

STEAM Camp: Explorations in Data Science
INSTRUCTOR: Kira Conte
June 10-14, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

From our screen time usage to recommended Spotify mixes, data about ourselves is everywhere and tells an interesting story about our preferences and how they shape who we are. Launch into data science by exploring your own experiences using self-generated data to understand and practice the data science process. No experience is needed, and ALL are welcome! During this course, students will use data science software (like CODAP, Google Sheets, and/or EduBlocks) to explore their questions and we will emphasize the importance of a growth mindset, curiosity, and creativity in math! Get ready to launch into a new understanding of the world around you!

STEAM Camp: Human and Environmental Health
INSTRUCTOR: Kira Conte
June 17-21, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Embark on a transformative one-week exploration of the intricate relationship between human health and the health of the planet in this course designed for middle and high school students. Investigate the impact of environmental factors on personal well-being and global health, and explore sustainable practices for individual and community wellness. The goal is to foster environmental stewardship, inspire the adoption of sustainable lifestyles and empower students to contribute to global health initiatives.

STEAM Enrichment: Video Production
INSTRUCTOR: Mr. Nicholas Carrillo
June 10-28, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

In this three-week camp, students will take a hands-on approach to learning the video production process: storyboarding, scripting, filming and editing. Whether for a future as a social media influencer or for developing multimedia presentation skills, students will have fun in this camp that merges technical skill with creativity.

Summer Math Bridge (by invitation only)
INSTRUCTOR: Ms. Tanisha Fitzgerald
June 10-28, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Prerequisite: Incoming Notre Dame 9th grade, invitation only
This class is designed to help incoming freshman students improve their readiness for Algebra 1 at the high school level. The course will address content and student skill-set development based on the initial results from the ALEKS placement test taken at the time of enrollment. Aside from math content, the class will introduce strategies for note-taking, completing assignments, and class participation. This is a unique opportunity for students to get to know each other and their teacher before starting school in the fall.

Teen Interfaith Service Immersion
INSTRUCTOR: Steve Herrera
June 10-14, 8:30 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. (Monday-Thursday), 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Friday)

Join teenagers from various religious traditions in a week-long exploration of local places of worship, engaging in meaningful service projects helping farm workers in Watsonville and low-income families in San Jose. The program features community building activities, opportunities for interfaith dialogue, field trips to synagogues, Sikh Gurdwaras and Buddhist temples for tours and presentations by religious leaders on their spiritual traditions. Participants will also complete 10 hours of direct community service at two local agencies, eligible for community service credit. This experience is neither a traditional academic class nor a camp, but rather an interfaith dialogue and service immersion. Previous participants have described it as transformative, and we anticipate the same for this year's group! (Note: This program requires a minimum of 12 participating students.)

Theater Carpentry and Scenic Painting
INSTRUCTOR: Bryan Ringsted
June 10-28, 10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Use hand and power tools, as well as theatrical scenic painting, to create your set designs. Have fun, build your home improvement skills, and learn how power tools can be your friend. This class is a great introduction before you take the Technical Theater 1 class at NDSJ. We will be building both small and large scale props and set pieces, some of which will be used in our fall play, allowing you to see your work on stage!

Theater Tech: Audio
INSTRUCTOR: Bryan Ringsted
June 24-28, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Gain a working knowledge of basic theatrical audio reinforcement, foley creation for film and theater, and how microphones work. This class is a great introduction before you take the Technical Theater 1 class at NDSJ, or before you launch your career as a DJ.

Theater Tech: Lighting
INSTRUCTOR: Bryan Ringsted
June 10-14, 1:15-3:15 p.m.

Learn the basics of theatrical lighting, including how to hang, focus, and paint the stage with light. Students will also learn basic electrical theory and safe wiring techniques. This class is a great introduction for ND students who wish to take the Technical Theater 1 class.

2024 Summer Program Offerings

Academics

Athletics

Enrichment

Leadership

STEM

Visual & Performing Arts (VAPA)

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