After-School Enrichment
Santa Catalina Lower and Middle School's After-School Enrichment Program includes a variety of activities, including partnerships with local organizations. Students build practical skills, gain confidence, and explore their interests while having fun in safe, supportive environments. Classes run from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. and are held on campus and in various locations around Monterey.
Sample Schedule
The following classes were offered in the winter and spring of 2020.
Class Descriptions
PreK
MONDAY
World Explorers — Ms. Humenik
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
There’s no need to pack your bags in order to explore the world at Santa Catalina! In the World Explorers Club, your child gets to “visit” a different country or region each week through music, art, cooperative play, and inquiry-based learning. Based upon the Five Themes of Geography, students learn defining characteristics of each destination and engage in games, folktales, crafts, and language specific to that area. In fact, we even send our curious questions to educators and friends living in other regions of the world and video conference to hear their answers! Everyone knows it’s impossible to become a globe-trotter without a passport, but don’t worry, we have you covered. Each week your child records his or her exciting journey across the continents by adding a "stamp” to their very own passport. Join us as we embark on a global adventure that will truly bring geography to life!
TUESDAY
Golf — Justin Russo Golf Academy
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Your child will love the process that leads to self-discovery, picture perfect mechanics, and self-confidence as each student experiences the nuances of the game. Students develop putting, short game, and full swing fundamentals. We strive to develop the “play” in every golfer, encouraging students to challenge themselves by learning new skills and reaching new goals. This class provides the foundation for years of fun together on the course. This class takes place on campus.
Nature Discovery — Ms. Lansdale
PreK–Grade 5
Cost: $475.00
Students experience the beauty and joy of nature through outdoor exploration and fun. Activities include nature discovery walks, nature-based art and craft projects, outdoor games, and picnics. Students have the opportunity to be outside, breathe fresh air, run, and play, while at the same time exploring and developing a greater appreciation for the wonder of the natural world and their place within it. Each class includes a healthy snack.
WEDNESDAY
Sports! — Coach Schu and Coach Perez
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Students can look forward to a variety of sports offerings each week, allowing them to play games while staying active and moving after school. The activities planned are soccer, baseball, basketball, and kickball, with more to come! Fundamentals of each activity are established before eventually moving on to more advanced techniques. We rotate through the sports and select popular activities to return to.
Coach Evan began playing baseball and soccer at a young age but found a love for water polo in high school. He began coaching younger athletes at Santa Barbara Water Polo Club and interning with the Department of Recreation for California State Parks to provide community outreach programs for local schools. He played water polo for California Lutheran University in Southern California and on intramural teams for soccer and swimming. After college he went on to coordinate the Refugio Junior Lifeguard program, where he taught children the importance of marine protection while also training them to become future lifeguards. He now plays in the adult league for softball and is an avid hiker.
Coach Servando began playing a variety of sports at a young age but found a love for soccer at the age of 10. He played soccer for three years at the collegiate level with CSU Monterey Bay. During his college experience, Servando started coaching youth soccer on the Monterey Peninsula. He started coaching as a volunteer to give back to kids in the community and teach them to always follow their goals and dreams. After college he pursued a professional soccer career and played semi-pro for one season in Springfield, Missouri. He now plays in local adult leagues for both soccer and softball and loves to compete.
THURSDAY
Beginning Musical Theatre — Pacific Repertory Theatre
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Acting, singing, and dancing skills are great tools to build confidence, self-esteem, and poise. In this performing arts class, designed exclusively for our youngest children, students learn how to “walk, talk, and listen” on the stage—by way of theatre games, group participation, and their own imaginations. Scene work and musical theatre numbers are explored, and having fun and behaving silly is highly encouraged! This class is presented by Donal Meeks, a professional director, instructor, and actor at Pacific Repertory Theatre’s School of Dramatic Arts (SODA). Ms. Meeks is uniquely experienced in working with young beginners and has structured this class as a fun and productive way to expose our youngest students to the skill and craft involved in musical theatre, while helping them to unleash their innate creativity. During the final week of class, students perform in a special musical and theatre showcase for family and friends.
FRIDAY
Arts & Crafts — Mrs. Agro
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Students enjoy a variety of seasonal arts and crafts projects each week. Students work on art projects that reflect the current month, whether it's a holiday or a change in the weather patterns. Projects correlate with storybooks, seasonal songs, and classical music, designed to enhance and encourage the growth of their creativity. Students enjoy the process of crafting and creating their own works that they can feel proud of.
Kindergarten
MONDAY
World Explorers — Ms. Humenik
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
There’s no need to pack your bags in order to explore the world at Santa Catalina! In the World Explorers Club, your child gets to “visit” a different country or region each week through music, art, cooperative play, and inquiry-based learning. Based upon the Five Themes of Geography, students learn defining characteristics of each destination and engage in games, folktales, crafts, and language specific to that area. In fact, we even send our curious questions to educators and friends living in other regions of the world and video conference to hear their answers! Everyone knows it’s impossible to become a globe-trotter without a passport, but don’t worry, we have you covered. Each week your child records his or her exciting journey across the continents by adding a "stamp” to their very own passport. Join us as we embark on a global adventure that will truly bring geography to life!
TUESDAY
Golf — Justin Russo Golf Academy
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Your child will love the process that leads to self-discovery, picture perfect mechanics, and self-confidence as each student experiences the nuances of the game. Students develop putting, short game, and full swing fundamentals. We strive to develop the “play” in every golfer, encouraging students to challenge themselves by learning new skills and reaching new goals. This class provides the foundation for years of fun together on the course. This class takes place on campus.
Nature Discovery — Ms. Lansdale
PreK–Grade 5
Cost: $475.00
Students experience the beauty and joy of nature through outdoor exploration and fun. Activities include nature discovery walks, nature-based art and craft projects, outdoor games, and picnics. Students have the opportunity to be outside, breathe fresh air, run, and play, while at the same time exploring and developing a greater appreciation for the wonder of the natural world and their place within it. Each class includes a healthy snack.
WEDNESDAY
Sports! — Coach Schu and Coach Perez
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Students can look forward to a variety of sports offerings each week, allowing them to play games while staying active and moving after school. The activities planned are soccer, baseball, basketball, and kickball, with more to come! Fundamentals of each activity are established before eventually moving on to more advanced techniques. We rotate through the sports and select popular activities to return to.
Coach Evan began playing baseball and soccer at a young age but found a love for water polo in high school. He began coaching younger athletes at Santa Barbara Water Polo Club and interning with the Department of Recreation for California State Parks to provide community outreach programs for local schools. He played water polo for California Lutheran University in Southern California and on intramural teams for soccer and swimming. After college he went on to coordinate the Refugio Junior Lifeguard program, where he taught children the importance of marine protection while also training them to become future lifeguards. He now plays in the adult league for softball and is an avid hiker.
Coach Servando began playing a variety of sports at a young age but found a love for soccer at the age of 10. He played soccer for three years at the collegiate level with CSU Monterey Bay. During his college experience, Servando started coaching youth soccer on the Monterey Peninsula. He started coaching as a volunteer to give back to kids in the community and teach them to always follow their goals and dreams. After college he pursued a professional soccer career and played semi-pro for one season in Springfield, Missouri. He now plays in local adult leagues for both soccer and softball and loves to compete.
THURSDAY
Beginning Musical Theatre — Pacific Repertory Theatre
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Acting, singing, and dancing skills are great tools to build confidence, self-esteem, and poise. In this performing arts class, designed exclusively for our youngest children, students learn how to “walk, talk, and listen” on the stage—by way of theatre games, group participation, and their own imaginations. Scene work and musical theatre numbers are explored, and having fun and behaving silly is highly encouraged! This class is presented by Donal Meeks, a professional director, instructor, and actor at Pacific Repertory Theatre’s School of Dramatic Arts (SODA). Ms. Meeks is uniquely experienced in working with young beginners and has structured this class as a fun and productive way to expose our youngest students to the skill and craft involved in musical theatre, while helping them to unleash their innate creativity. During the final week of class, students perform in a special musical and theatre showcase for family and friends.
FRIDAY
Arts & Crafts — Mrs. Agro
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Students enjoy a variety of seasonal arts and crafts projects each week. Students work on art projects that reflect the current month, whether it's a holiday or a change in the weather patterns. Projects correlate with storybooks, seasonal songs, and classical music, designed to enhance and encourage the growth of their creativity. Students enjoy the process of crafting and creating their own works that they can feel proud of.
Grade 1
MONDAY
World Explorers — Ms. Humenik
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
There’s no need to pack your bags in order to explore the world at Santa Catalina! In the World Explorers Club, your child gets to “visit” a different country or region each week through music, art, cooperative play, and inquiry-based learning. Based upon the Five Themes of Geography, students learn defining characteristics of each destination and engage in games, folktales, crafts, and language specific to that area. In fact, we even send our curious questions to educators and friends living in other regions of the world and video conference to hear their answers! Everyone knows it’s impossible to become a globe-trotter without a passport, but don’t worry, we have you covered. Each week your child records his or her exciting journey across the continents by adding a "stamp” to their very own passport. Join us as we embark on a global adventure that will truly bring geography to life!
Juggling — Ms. Lansdale
Grades 1–8
Cost: $475.00
This class is an introduction to the joyful art of juggling. Students explore various juggling techniques, such as flower sticks, Chinese yo-yo (aka diabolo), poi, and beanbags.
Juggling is an incredibly fun exercise with numerous health benefits for both the body and brain. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Increased focus and concentration
- Stress relief and relaxation
- Balancing of the right and left hemispheres of the brain
- Increased brain power and processing speed
During the first week of class, students try each juggling technique to decide which they would like to focus on. They are then provided with their own set, which they can take home and use to practice. Throughout the class, students play with the different kinds of juggling techniques while they continue to learn their chosen one.
This class is open to a wide range of ages because each student works at their own ability level and progresses at their own pace. Each class includes a healthy snack to keep energy levels and spirits high.
TUESDAY
Golf — Justin Russo Golf Academy
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Your child will love the process that leads to self-discovery, picture perfect mechanics, and self-confidence as each student experiences the nuances of the game. Students develop putting, short game, and full swing fundamentals. We strive to develop the “play” in every golfer, encouraging students to challenge themselves by learning new skills and reaching new goals. This class provides the foundation for years of fun together on the course. This class takes place on campus.
Nature Discovery — Ms. Lansdale
PreK–Grade 5
Cost: $475.00
Students experience the beauty and joy of nature through outdoor exploration and fun. Activities include nature discovery walks, nature-based art and craft projects, outdoor games, and picnics. Students have the opportunity to be outside, breathe fresh air, run, and play, while at the same time exploring and developing a greater appreciation for the wonder of the natural world and their place within it. Each class includes a healthy snack.
Primary Glee — Miss Gaggini
Grades 1–3
Cost: $475.00
Does your child love to sing? Is he or she interested in learning more about singing in a choir? Join Miss Gaggini as she brings her Glee Club to the primary levels. In this enrichment class, students work through several songs while learning about proper vocal techniques and introductions to part-singing. The class explores multiple genres of music with an emphasis on fun, contemporary songs and, of course, movement! Note: Class does not meet the week of the Spring Concert.
WEDNESDAY
Sports! — Coach Schu and Coach Perez
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Students can look forward to a variety of sports offerings each week, allowing them to play games while staying active and moving after school. The activities planned are soccer, baseball, basketball, and kickball, with more to come! Fundamentals of each activity are established before eventually moving on to more advanced techniques. We rotate through the sports and select popular activities to return to.
Coach Evan began playing baseball and soccer at a young age but found a love for water polo in high school. He began coaching younger athletes at Santa Barbara Water Polo Club and interning with the Department of Recreation for California State Parks to provide community outreach programs for local schools. He played water polo for California Lutheran University in Southern California and on intramural teams for soccer and swimming. After college he went on to coordinate the Refugio Junior Lifeguard program, where he taught children the importance of marine protection while also training them to become future lifeguards. He now plays in the adult league for softball and is an avid hiker.
Coach Servando began playing a variety of sports at a young age but found a love for soccer at the age of 10. He played soccer for three years at the collegiate level with CSU Monterey Bay. During his college experience, Servando started coaching youth soccer on the Monterey Peninsula. He started coaching as a volunteer to give back to kids in the community and teach them to always follow their goals and dreams. After college he pursued a professional soccer career and played semi-pro for one season in Springfield, Missouri. He now plays in local adult leagues for both soccer and softball and loves to compete.
THURSDAY
Beginning Musical Theatre — Pacific Repertory Theatre
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Acting, singing, and dancing skills are great tools to build confidence, self-esteem, and poise. In this performing arts class, designed exclusively for our youngest children, students learn how to “walk, talk, and listen” on the stage—by way of theatre games, group participation, and their own imaginations. Scene work and musical theatre numbers are explored, and having fun and behaving silly is highly encouraged! This class is presented by Donal Meeks, a professional director, instructor, and actor at Pacific Repertory Theatre’s School of Dramatic Arts (SODA). Ms. Meeks is uniquely experienced in working with young beginners and has structured this class as a fun and productive way to expose our youngest students to the skill and craft involved in musical theatre, while helping them to unleash their innate creativity. During the final week of class, students perform in a special musical and theatre showcase for family and friends.
Introducción al Español — Mr. Santos
Grades 1–3
Cost: $475.00
Does your child want to learn Spanish? In this introductory course, Mr. Santos shows the basic rudiments to learn Spanish in a practical and fun way with the aim of motivating the student to quickly learn the language. Following the TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling) methodology, we sing, dance, draw, and have a great time learning Spanish.
Mr. Santos is a native speaker from Spain with a degree in music and special education with extensive experience in bilingual teaching in Spain and California.
FRIDAY
Arts & Crafts — Mrs. Agro
PreK–Grade 1
Cost: $475.00
Students enjoy a variety of seasonal arts and crafts projects each week. Students work on art projects that reflect the current month, whether it's a holiday or a change in the weather patterns. Projects correlate with storybooks, seasonal songs, and classical music, designed to enhance and encourage the growth of their creativity. Students enjoy the process of crafting and creating their own works that they can feel proud of.
Grade 2
MONDAY
Juggling — Ms. Lansdale
Grades 1–8
Cost: $475.00
This class is an introduction to the joyful art of juggling. Students explore various juggling techniques, such as flower sticks, Chinese yo-yo (aka diabolo), poi, and beanbags.
Juggling is an incredibly fun exercise with numerous health benefits for both the body and brain. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Increased focus and concentration
- Stress relief and relaxation
- Balancing of the right and left hemispheres of the brain
- Increased brain power and processing speed
During the first week of class, students try each juggling technique to decide which they would like to focus on. They are then provided with their own set, which they can take home and use to practice. Throughout the class, students play with the different kinds of juggling techniques while they continue to learn their chosen one.
This class is open to a wide range of ages because each student works at their own ability level and progresses at their own pace. Each class includes a healthy snack to keep energy levels and spirits high.
TUESDAY
Nature Discovery — Ms. Lansdale
PreK–Grade 5
Cost: $475.00
Students experience the beauty and joy of nature through outdoor exploration and fun. Activities include nature discovery walks, nature-based art and craft projects, outdoor games, and picnics. Students have the opportunity to be outside, breathe fresh air, run, and play, while at the same time exploring and developing a greater appreciation for the wonder of the natural world and their place within it. Each class includes a healthy snack.
Primary Glee — Miss Gaggini
Grades 1–3
Cost: $475.00
Does your child love to sing? Is he or she interested in learning more about singing in a choir? Join Miss Gaggini as she brings her Glee Club to the primary levels. In this enrichment class, students work through several songs while learning about proper vocal techniques and introductions to part-singing. The class explores multiple genres of music with an emphasis on fun, contemporary songs and, of course, movement! Note: Class does not meet the week of the Spring Concert.
THURSDAY
Introducción al Español — Mr. Santos
Grades 1–3
Cost: $475.00
Does your child want to learn Spanish? In this introductory course, Mr. Santos shows the basic rudiments to learn Spanish in a practical and fun way with the aim of motivating the student to quickly learn the language. Following the TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling) methodology, we sing, dance, draw, and have a great time learning Spanish.
Mr. Santos is a native speaker from Spain with a degree in music and special education with extensive experience in bilingual teaching in Spain and California.
Golf — Justin Russo Golf Academy
Grades 2–8
Cost: $520.00 (transportation fee included)
Whether playing at a beginning or intermediate level, your child will love the process that leads to self-discovery, picture-perfect mechanics, and self-confidence as they experience the nuances of the game. Students develop putting, short game, and full swing fundamentals. The class strives to develop the “play” in every golfer, encouraging students to challenge themselves by learning new skills and reaching new goals. The classes are held at Bayonet and Black Horse golf courses in Seaside, giving players the opportunity to play on the course in order to develop the feel and experience necessary to succeed. The PGA Sports Academy curriculum, which is implemented in these lessons, includes:
- Golf and athletic experiences
- Life skills (concentration, self-discipline, team building)
- Rules and etiquette
- Course management and strategies
- Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) fitness and nutrition
- Video analysis and physical assessments
*One-way transportation to Bayonet and Black Horse is provided by Santa Catalina. Parents must pick up students from the course by 5:00 p.m.
FRIDAY
Sports! — Coach Schu and Coach Perez
Grades 2–5
Cost: $475.00
Students can look forward to a variety of sports offerings each week, allowing them to play games while staying active and moving after school. The activities planned are soccer, baseball, basketball, and kickball, with more to come! Fundamentals of each activity are established before eventually moving on to more advanced techniques. We rotate through the sports and select popular activities to return to.
Coach Evan began playing baseball and soccer at a young age but found a love for water polo in high school. He began coaching younger athletes at Santa Barbara Water Polo Club and interning with the Department of Recreation for California State Parks to provide community outreach programs for local schools. He played water polo for California Lutheran University in Southern California and on intramural teams for soccer and swimming. After college he went on to coordinate the Refugio Junior Lifeguard program, where he taught children the importance of marine protection while also training them to become future lifeguards. He now plays in the adult league for softball and is an avid hiker.
Coach Servando began playing a variety of sports at a young age but found a love for soccer at the age of 10. He played soccer for three years at the collegiate level with CSU Monterey Bay. During his college experience, Servando started coaching youth soccer on the Monterey Peninsula. He started coaching as a volunteer to give back to kids in the community and teach them to always follow their goals and dreams. After college he pursued a professional soccer career and played semi-pro for one season in Springfield, Missouri. He now plays in local adult leagues for both soccer and softball and loves to compete.
Grade 3
MONDAY
Juggling — Ms. Lansdale
Grades 1–8
Cost: $475.00
This class is an introduction to the joyful art of juggling. Students explore various juggling techniques, such as flower sticks, Chinese yo-yo (aka diabolo), poi, and beanbags.
Juggling is an incredibly fun exercise with numerous health benefits for both the body and brain. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Increased focus and concentration
- Stress relief and relaxation
- Balancing of the right and left hemispheres of the brain
- Increased brain power and processing speed
During the first week of class, students try each juggling technique to decide which they would like to focus on. They are then provided with their own set, which they can take home and use to practice. Throughout the class, students play with the different kinds of juggling techniques while they continue to learn their chosen one.
This class is open to a wide range of ages because each student works at their own ability level and progresses at their own pace. Each class includes a healthy snack to keep energy levels and spirits high.
Musical Theatre Dance — Ms. Slama
Grades 3–6
Cost: $475.00
Get your dancing shoes on and get ready to learn some fun moves for the stage! This class focuses on foundational dance skills used in musical theatre and helps students build self-confidence on stage and off. No dance experience necessary. Ms. Slama has a B.A. in theatre arts and continues to work professionally as a performer and stage manager in Monterey County.
TUESDAY
Nature Discovery — Ms. Lansdale
PreK–Grade 5
Cost: $475.00
Students experience the beauty and joy of nature through outdoor exploration and fun. Activities include nature discovery walks, nature-based art and craft projects, outdoor games, and picnics. Students have the opportunity to be outside, breathe fresh air, run, and play, while at the same time exploring and developing a greater appreciation for the wonder of the natural world and their place within it. Each class includes a healthy snack.
Primary Glee — Miss Gaggini
Grades 1–3
Cost: $475.00
Does your child love to sing? Is he or she interested in learning more about singing in a choir? Join Miss Gaggini as she brings her Glee Club to the primary levels. In this enrichment class, students work through several songs while learning about proper vocal techniques and introductions to part-singing. The class explores multiple genres of music with an emphasis on fun, contemporary songs and, of course, movement! Note: Class does not meet the week of the Spring Concert.
Acting for the Stage — Ms. Slama
Grades 3–6
Cost: $475.00
Has your child ever wanted to be on stage? In this class, young performers learn the fundamental tools needed to become capable and self-assured actors. Through improvisation exercises and short scenes, students learn to take risks, make strong character choices, and develop character relationships. We also work on refining audition skills and learning theatre terms. Build self-confidence on stage and off! Ms. Slama has a B.A. in theatre arts and continues to work professionally as an actor and stage manager in Monterey County.
WEDNESDAY
Code Ninjas
Grades 3–8
Cost: $475.00
Code Ninjas is an educationally based curriculum focused on coding and beyond. Coding is quickly becoming a language all children and adults need to have experience with. Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, recently said, “We think coding should be required in every school because it’s as important as any second language.” This class is broken into two nine-week sessions:
- Coding and Game Building: Students meet with Code Senseis to help them build their own video game, and have a blast every step of the way! Games are made in Scratch, a kid-friendly, visual programming language. This opportunity is fantastic for children of all experience levels to flex their creative muscles and strengthen their problem-solving skills, all while having a great time.
- Robotics and Snap Circuits: Ninjas explore the wonders of robotics by using the Ninja Toolbox to its full potential. The Ninja Toolbox is a Code Ninjas-exclusive robotics kit that contains a variety of items, from Ninja Blocks and LEDs to motors and sensors. Each student works with a partner to create projects incorporating these award-winning tool kits.
The class ends with a Family Showcase and Award Ceremony. Your ninjas have been working diligently over the past 18 weeks and are ready to show you the exciting projects they have created. Our family showcase is the highlight of the program and includes award certificates, project showcase, and a group photo. We invite all family members to show support and take part in our showcase.
THURSDAY
Introducción al Español — Mr. Santos
Grades 1–3
Cost: $475.00
Does your child want to learn Spanish? In this introductory course, Mr. Santos shows the basic rudiments to learn Spanish in a practical and fun way with the aim of motivating the student to quickly learn the language. Following the TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling) methodology, we sing, dance, draw, and have a great time learning Spanish.
Mr. Santos is a native speaker from Spain with a degree in music and special education with extensive experience in bilingual teaching in Spain and California.
Golf — Justin Russo Golf Academy
Grades 2–8
Cost: $520.00 (transportation fee included)
Whether playing at a beginning or intermediate level, your child will love the process that leads to self-discovery, picture-perfect mechanics, and self-confidence as they experience the nuances of the game. Students develop putting, short game, and full swing fundamentals. The class strives to develop the “play” in every golfer, encouraging students to challenge themselves by learning new skills and reaching new goals. The classes are held at Bayonet and Black Horse golf courses in Seaside, giving players the opportunity to play on the course in order to develop the feel and experience necessary to succeed. The PGA Sports Academy curriculum, which is implemented in these lessons, includes:
- Golf and athletic experiences
- Life skills (concentration, self-discipline, team building)
- Rules and etiquette
- Course management and strategies
- Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) fitness and nutrition
- Video analysis and physical assessments
*One-way transportation to Bayonet and Black Horse is provided by Santa Catalina. Parents must pick up students from the course by 5:00 p.m.
FRIDAY
Sports! — Coach Schu and Coach Perez
Grades 2–5
Cost: $475.00
Students can look forward to a variety of sports offerings each week, allowing them to play games while staying active and moving after school. The activities planned are soccer, baseball, basketball, and kickball, with more to come! Fundamentals of each activity are established before eventually moving on to more advanced techniques. We rotate through the sports and select popular activities to return to.
Coach Evan began playing baseball and soccer at a young age but found a love for water polo in high school. He began coaching younger athletes at Santa Barbara Water Polo Club and interning with the Department of Recreation for California State Parks to provide community outreach programs for local schools. He played water polo for California Lutheran University in Southern California and on intramural teams for soccer and swimming. After college he went on to coordinate the Refugio Junior Lifeguard program, where he taught children the importance of marine protection while also training them to become future lifeguards. He now plays in the adult league for softball and is an avid hiker.
Coach Servando began playing a variety of sports at a young age but found a love for soccer at the age of 10. He played soccer for three years at the collegiate level with CSU Monterey Bay. During his college experience, Servando started coaching youth soccer on the Monterey Peninsula. He started coaching as a volunteer to give back to kids in the community and teach them to always follow their goals and dreams. After college he pursued a professional soccer career and played semi-pro for one season in Springfield, Missouri. He now plays in local adult leagues for both soccer and softball and loves to compete.
Study Buddies (Grades 1-3)
MONDAY–FRIDAY
Study Buddies – Mrs. Bhaskar and Ms. Hlasny
Grades 1–3
Cost: Varies; see below
Study Buddies allows students to complete their homework (time permitting) in a fun and supportive environment. If they do not have homework, they are asked to bring in a quiet activity that would last about 30 minutes. A snack (provided by the student) and recess start the class. At 4:00 p.m. students head to the Lower School Library, where Mrs. Bhaskar helps them work on their homework until pickup at 5:00 p.m. Students have several options in the library—there are games, Legos, iPads, paper and drawing materials, and lots of books! On "no homework Fridays," students are led by Ms. Hlasny in fun outside play, games, and activities.
Students can attend Study Buddies between 1 and 5 times per week. Day of the week must be predetermined.
- 5 days = $570.00
- 4 days = $530.00
- 3 days = $460.00
- 2 days = $380.00
- 1 day = $250.00
Grades 4-5
MONDAY
Juggling — Ms. Lansdale
Grades 1–8
Cost: $475.00
This class is an introduction to the joyful art of juggling. Students explore various juggling techniques, such as flower sticks, Chinese yo-yo (aka diabolo), poi, and beanbags.
Juggling is an incredibly fun exercise with numerous health benefits for both the body and brain. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Increased focus and concentration
- Stress relief and relaxation
- Balancing of the right and left hemispheres of the brain
- Increased brain power and processing speed
During the first week of class, students try each juggling technique to decide which they would like to focus on. They are then provided with their own set, which they can take home and use to practice. Throughout the class, students play with the different kinds of juggling techniques while they continue to learn their chosen one.
This class is open to a wide range of ages because each student works at their own ability level and progresses at their own pace. Each class includes a healthy snack to keep energy levels and spirits high.
Musical Theatre Dance — Ms. Slama
Grades 3–6
Cost: $475.00
Get your dancing shoes on and get ready to learn some fun moves for the stage! This class focuses on foundational dance skills used in musical theatre and helps students build self-confidence on stage and off. No dance experience necessary. Ms. Slama has a B.A. in theatre arts and continues to work professionally as a performer and stage manager in Monterey County.
TUESDAY
Nature Discovery — Ms. Lansdale
PreK–Grade 5
Cost: $475.00
Students experience the beauty and joy of nature through outdoor exploration and fun. Activities include nature discovery walks, nature-based art and craft projects, outdoor games, and picnics. Students have the opportunity to be outside, breathe fresh air, run, and play, while at the same time exploring and developing a greater appreciation for the wonder of the natural world and their place within it. Each class includes a healthy snack.
Acting for the Stage — Ms. Slama
Grades 3–6
Cost: $475.00
Has your child ever wanted to be on stage? In this class, young performers learn the fundamental tools needed to become capable and self-assured actors. Through improvisation exercises and short scenes, students learn to take risks, make strong character choices, and develop character relationships. We also work on refining audition skills and learning theatre terms. Build self-confidence on stage and off! Ms. Slama has a B.A. in theatre arts and continues to work professionally as an actor and stage manager in Monterey County.
WEDNESDAY
Code Ninjas
Grades 3–8
Cost: $475.00
Code Ninjas is an educationally based curriculum focused on coding and beyond. Coding is quickly becoming a language all children and adults need to have experience with. Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, recently said, “We think coding should be required in every school because it’s as important as any second language.” This class is broken into two nine-week sessions:
- Coding and Game Building: Students meet with Code Senseis to help them build their own video game, and have a blast every step of the way! Games are made in Scratch, a kid-friendly, visual programming language. This opportunity is fantastic for children of all experience levels to flex their creative muscles and strengthen their problem-solving skills, all while having a great time.
- Robotics and Snap Circuits: Ninjas explore the wonders of robotics by using the Ninja Toolbox to its full potential. The Ninja Toolbox is a Code Ninjas-exclusive robotics kit that contains a variety of items, from Ninja Blocks and LEDs to motors and sensors. Each student works with a partner to create projects incorporating these award-winning tool kits.
The class ends with a Family Showcase and Award Ceremony. Your ninjas have been working diligently over the past 18 weeks and are ready to show you the exciting projects they have created. Our family showcase is the highlight of the program and includes award certificates, project showcase, and a group photo. We invite all family members to show support and take part in our showcase.
THURSDAY
Golf — Justin Russo Golf Academy
Grades 2–8
Cost: $520.00 (transportation fee included)
Whether playing at a beginning or intermediate level, your child will love the process that leads to self-discovery, picture-perfect mechanics, and self-confidence as they experience the nuances of the game. Students develop putting, short game, and full swing fundamentals. The class strives to develop the “play” in every golfer, encouraging students to challenge themselves by learning new skills and reaching new goals. The classes are held at Bayonet and Black Horse golf courses in Seaside, giving players the opportunity to play on the course in order to develop the feel and experience necessary to succeed. The PGA Sports Academy curriculum, which is implemented in these lessons, includes:
- Golf and athletic experiences
- Life skills (concentration, self-discipline, team building)
- Rules and etiquette
- Course management and strategies
- Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) fitness and nutrition
- Video analysis and physical assessments
*One-way transportation to Bayonet and Black Horse is provided by Santa Catalina. Parents must pick up students from the course by 5:00 p.m.
Intermediate Glee — Miss Gaggini
Grades 4–5
Cost: $475.00
Join Miss Gaggini as she brings her Glee Club to the intermediate levels. In this enrichment class, students work through several songs learning about proper vocal technique and introductions to part-singing. Students explore multiple genres of music with an emphasis on fun, contemporary songs and, of course, movement! Note: Class does not meet the week of the Spring Concert.
FRIDAY
Sports! — Coach Schu and Coach Perez
Grades 2–5
Cost: $475.00
Students can look forward to a variety of sports offerings each week, allowing them to play games while staying active and moving after school. The activities planned are soccer, baseball, basketball, and kickball, with more to come! Fundamentals of each activity are established before eventually moving on to more advanced techniques. We rotate through the sports and select popular activities to return to.
Coach Evan began playing baseball and soccer at a young age but found a love for water polo in high school. He began coaching younger athletes at Santa Barbara Water Polo Club and interning with the Department of Recreation for California State Parks to provide community outreach programs for local schools. He played water polo for California Lutheran University in Southern California and on intramural teams for soccer and swimming. After college he went on to coordinate the Refugio Junior Lifeguard program, where he taught children the importance of marine protection while also training them to become future lifeguards. He now plays in the adult league for softball and is an avid hiker.
Coach Servando began playing a variety of sports at a young age but found a love for soccer at the age of 10. He played soccer for three years at the collegiate level with CSU Monterey Bay. During his college experience, Servando started coaching youth soccer on the Monterey Peninsula. He started coaching as a volunteer to give back to kids in the community and teach them to always follow their goals and dreams. After college he pursued a professional soccer career and played semi-pro for one season in Springfield, Missouri. He now plays in local adult leagues for both soccer and softball and loves to compete.
Grades 6-8
MONDAY
Juggling — Ms. Lansdale
Grades 1–8
Cost: $475.00
This class is an introduction to the joyful art of juggling. Students explore various juggling techniques, such as flower sticks, Chinese yo-yo (aka diabolo), poi, and beanbags.
Juggling is an incredibly fun exercise with numerous health benefits for both the body and brain. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Increased focus and concentration
- Stress relief and relaxation
- Balancing of the right and left hemispheres of the brain
- Increased brain power and processing speed
During the first week of class, students try each juggling technique to decide which they would like to focus on. They are then provided with their own set, which they can take home and use to practice. Throughout the class, students play with the different kinds of juggling techniques while they continue to learn their chosen one.
This class is open to a wide range of ages because each student works at their own ability level and progresses at their own pace. Each class includes a healthy snack to keep energy levels and spirits high.
Musical Theatre Dance — Ms. Slama
Grades 3–6
Cost: $475.00
Get your dancing shoes on and get ready to learn some fun moves for the stage! This class focuses on foundational dance skills used in musical theatre and helps students build self-confidence on stage and off. No dance experience necessary. Ms. Slama has a BA in theatre arts and continues to work professionally as a performer and stage manager in Monterey County.
TUESDAY
Acting for the Stage — Ms. Slama
Grades 3–6
Cost: $475.00
Has your child ever wanted to be on stage? In this class, young performers learn the fundamental tools needed to become capable and self-assured actors. Through improvisation exercises and short scenes, students learn to take risks, make strong character choices, and develop character relationships. We also work on refining audition skills and learning theatre terms. Build self-confidence on stage and off! Ms. Slama has a B.A. in theatre arts and continues to work professionally as an actor and stage manager in Monterey County.
WEDNESDAY
Code Ninjas
Grades 3–8
Cost: $475.00
Code Ninjas is an educationally based curriculum focused on coding and beyond. Coding is quickly becoming a language all children and adults need to have experience with. Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, recently said, “We think coding should be required in every school because it’s as important as any second language.” This class is broken into two nine-week sessions:
- Coding and Game Building: Students meet with Code Senseis to help them build their own video game, and have a blast every step of the way! Games are made in Scratch, a kid-friendly, visual programming language. This opportunity is fantastic for children of all experience levels to flex their creative muscles and strengthen their problem-solving skills, all while having a great time.
- Robotics and Snap Circuits: Ninjas explore the wonders of robotics by using the Ninja Toolbox to its full potential. The Ninja Toolbox is a Code Ninjas-exclusive robotics kit that contains a variety of items, from Ninja Blocks and LEDs to motors and sensors. Each student works with a partner to create projects incorporating these award-winning tool kits.
The class ends with a Family Showcase and Award Ceremony. Your ninjas have been working diligently over the past 18 weeks and are ready to show you the exciting projects they have created. Our family showcase is the highlight of the program and includes award certificates, project showcase, and a group photo. We invite all family members to show support and take part in our showcase.
THURSDAY
Golf — Justin Russo Golf Academy
Grades 2–8
Cost: $520.00 (transportation fee included)
Whether playing at a beginning or intermediate level, your child will love the process that leads to self-discovery, picture-perfect mechanics, and self-confidence as they experience the nuances of the game. Students develop putting, short game, and full swing fundamentals. The class strives to develop the “play” in every golfer, encouraging students to challenge themselves by learning new skills and reaching new goals. The classes are held at Bayonet and Black Horse golf courses in Seaside, giving players the opportunity to play on the course in order to develop the feel and experience necessary to succeed. The PGA Sports Academy curriculum, which is implemented in these lessons, includes:
- Golf and athletic experiences
- Life skills (concentration, self-discipline, team building)
- Rules and etiquette
- Course management and strategies
- Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) fitness and nutrition
- Video analysis and physical assessments
*One-way transportation to Bayonet and Black Horse is provided by Santa Catalina. Parents must pick up students from the course by 5:00 p.m.