2023 Summer Programs | Registration Now Open!

2023 SUMMER PROGRAMS

The 2023 Summer Programs will run from Monday, June 12 - Friday, September 1. 

Registration is NOW OPEN.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Every summer, Saint John's is proud to offer summer courses and programs for both Saint John's students and students throughout the community.

We have expanded our program offerings by partnering with Notre Dame Academy and Venerini Academy and offering a newly expanded, robust catalog of courses for students of all ages in a variety of interests. 

Whether your student is interested in academics, arts, athletics, college prep or any other topic, we have courses available to meet the interests of everyone! 

Should you have any questions relating to Summer Programs at Saint John's, please e-mail our Directors, Michael Hughes and Jim Kelly, at sjsummer@stjohnshigh.org


Early & Elementary

List of 5 items.

  • Saint John's Summer Camp

    COURSE NAME: Saint John’s Summer Camp

    AGE GROUP: All boys and girls entering Grades 1 - 6 in the fall of 2023.

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    Your elementary aged child will have a week to remember on the Saint John’s High School campus.  Each day, campers will spend time in fun and engaging activities with Academics, Arts, and Athletics.  Campers will be grouped by grade level and rotate through exciting sessions in the morning and again after lunch.  High school and middle school counselors will join our veteran instructors to enhance your child’s experience. 

    Academics: Do you like learning? A focus on hands-on and collaborative learning will help our campers experience the joy of learning. Campers will have a new theme each day and engage in age-appropriate lessons in ELA, Science, Math, and Social Studies.  

    Arts: Do you like to draw? Do you like to sing? Have you ever improvised a scene from a show or told a joke?  Campers will develop their creative talents and have a blast doing so in the process.  Drawing, singing, theater, improv and music will be introduced and supervised by our talented staff utilizing our top notch facilities. 

    Athletics: Do you like to play games and sports? Do you want to make new friends?  Do you want to get out and get some exercise playing sports that you love and finding new sports to try? Campers will have fun playing many different sports in a recreational approach to athletics.  Basketball, kickball, flag football, and many other games … Get ready for good times and good fun!! 


    COURSE LENGTH: One Week

    SCHEDULE: July 10 - July 14 from 9 AM - 3 PM.

    COST: $375

    Extended Day Available:
    AM (8-9AM) - $50 for the week
    PM (3-4PM) - $50 for the week
              


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Academics: Saint John’s staff members … TBD.
    Arts: Mrs. Christine Petkus is the Fine Arts teacher at Saint John’s Middle School.  She has a Masters in Music from the New England Conservatory as well as extensive performing and training experience, both regionally and abroad. A Summer introduction to the fine arts is a great way to hone skills, gain valuable experience and confidence to grow in one’s love of the arts which can be enjoyed throughout life. 
    Athletics: Mr. Michael Curran is a long time English teacher and Basketball Coach at Saint John’s high school.  He’s been an assistant for the Saint John’s Varsity for the past ten years, working under legendary coach Bob Foley.  Coach Curran has been a part of three district championship teams, including one state finalist, and the Pioneers have compiled a 167-56 record. Having young children of his own, he’s excited to share his love and knowledge of athletics with our young campers.



    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Preschool Summer Fun Camp

    COURSE NAME: …Preschool Summer Fun Camp

    AGE GROUP: 3 and 4 year olds (must be potty-trained)

    COURSE DESCRIPTION - Summer fun specially designed for preschoolers. Under the umbrella of a weekly theme, students will engage in outdoor play, water fun, STEM projects,  art projects, music and movement,  gardening, and a daily story time.

    COURSE LENGTH: One week 

    COST: $350 (Session 1)  or  $325 (Session 2)  or  $350 (Session 3)

    Extended Day Option: 
    AM (8-9 AM) = $50
    PM (3-4 PM) = $50

    SCHEDULE: 
    Session 1: Monday, June 12th - Friday, June 16th from 9 AM - 3 PM
    Session 2: Tuesday, June 20th - Friday, June 23rd from 9 AM - 3 PM
    Session 3: Monday, June 26th - Friday, June 30th from 9 AM - 3 PM

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Venerini Academy Faculty and Staff

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Kindergarten Boot Camp

    COURSE NAME:  Kindergarten Boot Camp

    AGE GROUP: All boys and girls entering Kindergarten

    COURSE DESCRIPTION This Kindergarten Boot Camp is geared for those students entering kindergarten in preparation for the year ahead. The purpose is to refresh their school time routines in late summer and help them make a smooth transition into the classroom. Basic literacy and math skills will be reviewed along with some fun activities sprinkled throughout the day.


    COURSE LENGTH: One week

    COST: $350 for Session 1 or Session 2

    Extended Day Option: 
    AM (8-9 AM) = $50
    PM (3-4 PM) = $50

    SCHEDULE: 
    Session 1: Monday, August 21st - Friday, August 25th from 9 AM - 3 PM
    Session 2: Monday, August 28th - Friday, September 1st from 9 AM - 3 PM


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Venerini Academy  Faculty and Staff 

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Flying Into First Grade

    COURSE NAME:  FLYING into FIRST GRADE

    AGE GROUP: All area boys and girls entering First Grade

    COURSE DESCRIPTION 
    This camp is designed to reacclimate students to classroom routines with a focus on reviewing kindergarten skills they worked so hard to develop.  Concepts in literacy, math and writing will be presented in a fun, hands-on way with some surprises along the way!

    COURSE LENGTH: One week

    COST: $350 for Session 1 or Session 2

    Extended Day Option: 
    AM (8-9 AM) = $50
    PM (3-4 PM) = $50

    SCHEDULE: 
    Session 1: Monday, August 21st - Friday, August 25th from 9 AM - 3 PM
    Session 2: Monday, August 28th - Friday, September 1st from 9 AM - 3 PM

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
     Venerini Academy Faculty and Staff

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • The Arts: Summer Sampler

    COURSE NAME:  The Arts: Summer Sampler

    AGE GROUP:  All area boys and girls entering grades 1-4

    COURSE DESCRIPTION: Students will have a chance to sample the Arts: music, dance, theater, pottery, and a variety of  visual arts.

    COURSE LENGTH: One week 

    COST: $350 (Session 1)  or  $375 (Session 2) 

    Extended Day Option: 
    AM (8-9 AM) = $50
    PM (3-4 PM) = $50

    SCHEDULE: 
    Session 1: Tuesday, June 20th - Friday, June 23rd from 9 AM - 3 PM
    Session 2: Monday, June 26th - Friday, June 30th from 9 AM - 3 PM

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
     Venerini Academy Faculty and Staff

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO

Athletics

List of 11 items.

  • “World Cup” Co-ed Soccer Tournament

    COURSE NAME: “World Cup” Co-ed Soccer Tournament

    AGE GROUP: Boys and Girls entering grades 5 through 9

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    St. John’s is excited to offer this opportunity to play for boys and girls.  Members of the Varsity team will serve as leaders to help give players a great experience and get lots of touches on the ball in small sided game settings.  Join us on the St. John’s campus for three days of ‘World Cup’ fun and games. 
     
    Each player will need to bring their OWN SOCCER BALL, SNACKS, and plenty of WATER for the day!  (T-shirts can be ordered when camp is purchased!!) 
     
     (Note: This course will be held LIVE on the Saint John’s campus at Pioneer Field. ) 

    COURSE LENGTH: Three Days   

    COST: $175

    SCHEDULE: 
    July 5 – July 7   Wednesday–Friday from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.  (Saturday - rain date).
    (Note…Daily Lunch will be served prior to the clinic in the SJ cafeteria from 12-1 and can be purchased at checkout.)  

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY:

    Kurt Swanbeck–Kurt Swanbeck is the Varsity Soccer Coach at St. John’s High School.  He arrived at St. John’s after serving 11 years as the Associate Director of Admissions and Boys Varsity Soccer Coach at Hebron Academy in Hebron, Maine.  Prior to that, Kurt served as the Men’s Head Soccer Coach at the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY (2002-2009), Berry College in Mount Berry, GA (1993-2002), and at Clark University in Worcester (1988-1993).  During that time he also served as a staff coach for men’s and women’s teams in the United States Olympic Development Program and was named collegiate coach of the year a number of times.  
    Kurt was born and raised in Franklin, MA, and earned his BA, MA, and M.Ed from Columbia University.  

     
     

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
    sjsummer@stjohnshigh.org 
  • Baseball Camp

    COURSE NAME: Baseball Camp

    AGE GROUP:  Boys entering grades 7-10

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    Do you want to play baseball at the Varsity level?  Do you want to play the game the Pioneer way, a way which has sent numerous players on to success at the college and the professional level?  Come and train for a week with us to learn how to improve your game to better enjoy the competition and transition from the Little League Diamond  to the High School field.   

    SJ Varsity Assistant Baseball Coach Michael Coonan is excited to offer this baseball camp to all area students entering grades 7 through 10.  Members of the SJ Baseball Team will also serve as camp counselors to help players develop their skills and learn what it takes to compete at a high level.  
     (Note: This course will be held LIVE on the Saint John’s campus.)

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week    
    (Note…Daily Lunch will be served in the SJ cafeteria from 12-1 and can be purchased at checkout.)  


    COST: $350
    (Note … Camp T-Shirts can be purchased for $16 at Checkout.)

    SCHEDULE:
    Monday, July 10th - Friday, July 14th from 8 AM - 12 PM (Saturday 7/15 - Rain Date)

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY:
    Mr. Michael Coonan brings a wealth of baseball experience and expertise having been a player and coach at both the HS and College levels.  After finishing his playing career at St. Leo College in Florida, he began his coaching career at Anna Maria College in Paxton, Ma as an assistant coach.  After 5 years coaching at Anna Maria, he moved on to Becker College where he spent 5 years, 3 as an assistant and the final 2 years as the Head Baseball coach. After his stint at Becker, Mike then moved on to St. John’s High, where he was an assistant under Coach Eppinger for 3 years. After those three years, he moved on to become the Head Coach at Grafton High and then at Holy Name.  Mike came back to St. John’s in 2021 and is presently an assistant on Coach Eppinger’s staff for the 2021-2022 season. Mike currently serves as a Mathematics teacher and also the Athletic Director at St. Peter’s Central Catholic School, where he has been since 2000.


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Basketball Camp

    COURSE NAME: Basketball Camp

    AGE GROUP: 
    Boys entering grades 6-10

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    Players will learn the fundamentals of the game from Assistant Varsity Coach Michael Curran as well as current and recent St. John’s players. Through various competitions, skill instruction, and games, each camper will develop as an individual and a team player in a fun and competitive environment.  

    Basketballs: If campers plan to bring their own basketball, they should make sure to put their name on it. Indoor and Outdoor basketballs will also be available for campers. They will be used during warm-ups each day. 

    Lunch: Students may bring their own lunch or purchase daily lunch in advance through the SJ Summer Program at checkout. Lunch and free time will occur in the air-conditioned cafeteria during the middle of each day. 

    Snack Station: Snacks and gatorades will be available for cash purchase during break times and during lunch. Parents can also bring cash to deposit at the beginning of the week or at dropoff each day for their children.

    What to Bring: All campers should bring a water bottle and sunscreen. Campers are encouraged to bring drawstring bags or backpacks to keep their water, sunscreen, and other personal items together. 


    COURSE LENGTH: One Week (Monday through Thursday)   


    SCHEDULE: 
    July  17 - July 20  from 9 AM - 3 PM 

    COST: $375.  
    ($16 for camp t-shirt–optional purchase available at checkout)

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY:
    Coach Curran has been an assistant for the Saint John’s Varsity for the past ten years, working under legendary coach Bob Foley, the all-time wins leader in New England high school basketball history. Over those ten years, Coach Curran has been a part of three district championship teams, including one state finalist, and the Pioneers have compiled a 167-56 record. He has also spent eight seasons as the Saint John’s Freshman coach where his teams have competed against public, private, and prep schools. In those eight seasons, his teams have put together a combined 132-29 record. Prior to Saint John’s, he worked with the Fairfield University basketball team under Coach Tim O’Toole, the current Associate Head Coach at the University of Pittsburgh. He also worked summer basketball camp for Coach Ed Cooley, the current Head Coach of Providence College. In addition, he spent a year on the Millis High School basketball staff. An English teacher for the last eleven years at Saint John’s, Mr. Curran currently teaches freshman, junior, and senior English. He works with every level of student from college prep to AP and frequently participates in campus ministry retreats. He played his high school basketball at rival Xaverian Brothers High School. 


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Basketball Clinic

    COURSE NAME: Pioneer & Rebel Basketball Clinic

    AGE GROUP: All Boys & Girls entering grades 6-10 

    COURSE DESCRIPTION: 
    Campers will have a great experience learning and playing basketball from both St. John’s HS and Notre Dame Academy coaches and player-counselors.  A focus on fundamentals and skill development will be a major theme of each day.  Players will be grouped by age and skill level so they can be taught and developed at their appropriate level.  

    In addition, each day will have time devoted for scrimmaging in multiple formats (1v1, 3v3, 5v5, etc.)  This will help campers put what they’ve learned into practice and give them time to have fun playing in live game situations.  To cap things off, campers will have the chance to compete in a tournament-type event on the final day against players of their own group.

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week    

    COST:
    $175

    SCHEDULE: Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th from 1 PM - 4 PM

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    St. John’s Basketball Coach: Sean Hastings is the Assistant Director of Athletics and Director of Intramurals at Saint John’s.  Sean is also a member of the Saint John’s football, basketball, and baseball staffs.  He has been involved with running a variety of different summer camps and sports academies since 1993.  Additionally, he has taught Biology for 23 years at Saint John’s.  Sean is very excited to draw on his experience to offer this program to all students of all abilities.

    Notre Dame Academy Basketball Coach: Ivana Kostic is Varsity Basketball Head Coach and the Assistant Director of Athletics at Notre Dame Academy. Ivana was born and raised in Serbia where she played until she was 18 years old. After that she moved to Denmark, Copenhagen where she played and coached professionally for over 10 years. Ivana is a FIBA Certified Coach and has coached the Danish u14, u16 and u18 women's national teams. Ivana was also the u18 men’s coach for the Falcon Basketball Club in Denmark.
      

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Basketball Player Development Clinic

    COURSE NAME: Co-Ed Basketball Player Development Clinic

    AGE GROUP: All Boys & Girls entering grades 5-9 

    COURSE DESCRIPTION

    Improve your basketball skills with the Notre Dame Academy Basketball Coach, Ivana Kostic.

    Varsity Coach Ivana Kostic is offering players the chance to focus on individual development while learning basic skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, pivoting and competing 1v.1, 3v.3, and 5v.5.

    Campers will have a great experience learning and playing basketball from and Notre Dame Academy coaches and player-counselors.  A focus on fundamentals and skill development will be a major theme of each day.  Players will be grouped by age and skill level so they can be taught and developed at their appropriate level.  

    COURSE LENGTH: 3 day clinics    

    COST:
    $175

    SCHEDULE: Monday-Wednesday, June 12th-June 14th 5-8pm

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY

    Notre Dame Academy Basketball Coach: Ivana Kostic is Varsity Basketball Head Coach and the Assistant Director of Athletics at Notre Dame Academy. Ivana was born and raised in Serbia where she played until she was 18 years old. After that she moved to Denmark, Copenhagen where she played and coached professionally for over 10 years. Ivana is a FIBA Certified Coach and has coached the Danish u14, u16 and u18 women's national teams. Ivana was also the u18 men’s coach for the Falcon Basketball Club in Denmark. 

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Flag Football Camp

    COURSE NAME: Flag Football Camp

    AGE GROUP:  Boys entering grades 5-10 and Girls entering grades 5-8.
    Juniors Division - Boys & Girls entering grades 5-8
    Seniors Division - Boys entering grades 7-10
    (Note - Boys entering grade 7 & 8 can be placed in either level based on experience, skill level, or personal preference.)


    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    St. John’s Football Coach, Mr. Sean Hastings, is excited to offer this flag football camp to area students entering grades 5 through 10.

    Players will be placed in the Junior or Senior Division based on their age (and/or skill level.)  Players will be exposed to all skill positions in a competitive, but development-oriented environment.  Players will improve their football understanding and skill through a series of fun and effective drills.  

    Coach Hastings, along with upper class members of the SJ football team, will help to teach and organize all activities and drills.  In addition, players will be placed on a specific “team” where they’ll compete in practices and scrimmages.  Finally, the last  day of camp will be a round-robin tournament, with a championship team crowned per age group.  

     (NOTE … This camp will be held LIVE on the St. John’s HS football fields.)

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week    

    COST: $275

    SCHEDULE: Monday, June 26th - Friday, June 30th from 1 PM to 4 PM.

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY:
    Sean Hastings is the Assistant Director of Athletics and Director of Intramurals at Saint John’s.  Sean is also a member of the Saint John’s football, basketball, and baseball coaching staffs.  He has been involved with running a variety of different summer camps and sports academies since 1993.  Additionally, he has taught Biology for 23 years at Saint John’s.  Sean is very excited to draw on his experience to offer this program to all students of all abilities.

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Soccer Camp

    COURSE NAME: Soccer Camp

    AGE GROUP: Boys entering grades 5 through 9

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    St. John’s Summer Program and Head Varsity Coach Kurt Swanbeck are excited to offer this soccer camp to boys and girls.  Members of the St. John’s soccer team and current College soccer players will serve as camp coaches to help give campers a great experience and learn how the game is played at higher levels.  Join us on the St. John’s campus for a one week intensive training in the fundamentals and the fun of this great sport. Train for a week with us to learn how to improve your game.
     
    Each camper will need to bring their OWN SOCCER BALL, SNACKS, and plenty of WATER for the day!  (Camp t-shirts can be ordered when camp is purchased!!) 
     
     (Note: This course will be held LIVE on the Saint John’s campus at Pioneer Field. ) 

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week    


    COST: $350

    SCHEDULE: 
    July 10 – July 14 Session 1: Monday–Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.  (Saturday - rain date).
    (Note…Daily Lunch will be served in the SJ cafeteria from 12-1 and can be purchased at checkout.)  

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY:
    Kurt Swanbeck–Kurt Swanbeck is the Varsity Soccer Coach at St. John’s High School.  He arrived at St. John’s after serving 11 years as the Associate Director of Admissions and Boys Varsity Soccer Coach at Hebron Academy in Hebron, Maine.  Prior to that, Kurt served as the Men’s Head Soccer Coach at the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY (2002-2009), Berry College in Mount Berry, GA (1993-2002), and at Clark University in Worcester (1988-1993).  During that time he also served as a staff coach for men’s and women’s teams in the United States Olympic Development Program and was named collegiate coach of the year a number of times.  
    Kurt was born and raised in Franklin, MA, and earned his BA, MA, and MEd from Columbia University. 
     
     

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
    sjsummer@stjohnshigh.org 
    KSwanbeck@stjohnshigh.org
  • Soccer Player Development Clinic

    COURSE NAME: Soccer Player Development Clinic

    AGE GROUP: Boys and Girls entering grades 4 through 9

    COURSE DESCRIPTION 

    Notre Dame Academy Summer Programs and NDA Head Varsity Soccer Coach Caitlyn Germain are excited to offer this soccer clinic for boys and girls. Sessions will help maximize player development by using repetition of key techniques that form the building blocks of all developing soccer players, while preparing them to compete at the high school level. Sessions will focus on improving individual skills, including dribbling, feints, change of direction, passing, receiving, and shooting, while also incorporating tactical concepts that build into small-sided and full field games. Agility and conditioning will be built into every session as well. Members of the NDA girls soccer team and current College soccer players will serve as clinic coaches to help give players a great experience.
     
    Each player  will need to bring their OWN SOCCER BALL, SNACKS, and plenty of WATER for the day!  

    (T-shirts can be ordered when the clinic is purchased!!) 

    (Note: This program will be held on the Saint John’s campus at Pioneer Field. ) 

    COURSE LENGTH: Three Days    

    COST: $200

    SCHEDULE: 
    July 17 – July 19 Monday–Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. - 11:00p.m. (Thursday 7/20 rain date)
    (Note…Daily Lunch will be served in the SJ cafeteria from 12-1 and can be purchased at checkout.)  

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY:
    Caitlyn Germain is the Athletic Director and Varsity soccer coach at Notre Dame Academy. As a player,  Caitlyn was an All-American soccer player at St. Peter-Marian and continued her career playing at the University of Delaware and semi-professionally with the Western Mass Lady Pioneers. While at the University of Delaware, she was a four time Colonial Athletic Association All-Star, led her team in scoring and was a selection for the ESPN Academic All-American. When beginning her teaching career, she carried her playing background into a coaching career, where she served as the Varsity Coach at Burlington High School for 11 years. She co-founded Middlesex Soccer Academy, which provided camps, clinics and small-group training sessions to soccer players of all ages and abilities. Additionally, she ran training workshops for coaches within the Burlington Youth Soccer Association. When moving back to Central Mass to be closer to family, Ms. Germain coached the Varsity Girls Soccer Team at Sutton High School prior to joining Notre Dame Academy. She has club coaching experience within the FC Stars and South Shore Select programs.

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Strength and Conditioning--Girls grades 5-12

    Open to Girls Grades 5-12.

    The emphasis of the Summer program will be to improve overall performance. The program combines agility , dynamic movements , plyometrics, core training  and  weight training into every girl's workouts to provide the optimal way to improve in sports performance . 

    The programs will be designed specific to every girl's needs to help improve both physically and mentally  successfully on their particular field of play.  

    The program will  be supervised by Coach Keller. He prides himself on teaching the proper techniques in all these movements to build confidence in a safe training environment . The workouts will be  designed specific to every girl's needs to help improve athletic performance. 
    It is important to train properly and to learn how to perform these movements safely.  When your daughter is finished with the program she will have mastered these movements and become a better athlete. 

    Coach Keller has over 20 years of experience in coaching. Is certified (CSCS) Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist.  ( USAW )  USA  Weightlifting
    Coach Keller has taught at  every level from grade school, high school , college & professional athletes and Special Olympics. 


    The cost is  $ 350 dollars  for ten workouts. 

    The girls will have a punch card with how many workouts they have purchased.   Each girl will have their own specific workouts posted on Google Classroom designed for their needs to improve .

    Days  :  Monday , Tuesday  & Thursday 
    Times  :   4:00 - 6:00
    Dates : June 5th through August 3rd (excluding June 19, July 3, & 4)
    Place: Notre Dame Academy Athletic Center

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
    jkeller@nda-worc.org


  • Tennis Camp

    COURSE NAME: Tennis Camp

    AGE GROUP: Boys and Girls Entering Grades 5-10. 

    COURSE DESCRIPTION

    This tennis camp is for boys and girls entering grades 1-12. Campers will be separated by age group and skill level so that each player will be taught and compete at their appropriate level.  Each student should bring a tennis racket and water with them to camp. The kids will learn the exact technique on how to hit a forehand, backhand, volley, overhead, and serve. They will also learn tennis strategy and how to play a tennis match.

    The purpose of this camp is to excite joy within the kids so that they associate joy with tennis and make tennis a lifetime sport. Each drill and game is designed to keep the kids engaged, smiling, and excited. The atmosphere will be one of enthusiasm, mutual support and fun. Joy and improvement are the main objectives.

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week 

    COST: $200

    SCHEDULE: June 26th - June 30th from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM.

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Chris Ellis is the St. John’s HS Varsity Assistant Tennis Coach and the SJ Head JV Tennis Coach. Chris was a top player at SJ during his time as a Pioneer Tennis player.  As Chris says, “I finished my junior tennis career ranked #1 in New England in the 12’s, 14’s, 16’s, and 18’s. During that time, I was coached by Francisco Montoya who coached both Serena and Venus Williams. I went to Bates College where I finished a two-time All-American. After college, I received a scholarship to law school where I finished #2 in my first year. In my third year, I found out that entrepreneurship, writing, and joy were my true passions. So, I stopped law school, and created a tennis academy at Saint John’s High School called The Win-Win Tennis Academy with the one goal of creating a community where everyone is supporting each other in being the best tennis players they can be. We train players ranging from three year olds and beginners all the way to the professional level. I am also currently writing a book called “Joy” incorporating all my research into The Academy. Embodying and spreading joy is my purpose, and right now, tennis is my vehicle.

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
    sjsummer@stjohnshigh.org 
  • Volleyball Player Development Clinic

    COURSE NAME: Volleyball Player Development Clinic

    AGE GROUP:
    Session 1: All Boys & Girls entering grades 4-7
    Session 2: All Girls entering grades 7-11

    COURSE DESCRIPTION: Notre Dame Volleyball is serving up some serious fun! All aspects of the game are taught through drills and play that focus on setting, passing, hitting and serving. Session 1 will be  co-ed and is designed for the beginner to intermediate player and will incorporate essential life-lessons such as teamwork and sportsmanship.  Session 2 will be Girls-Only and will build on the foundation and develop the concepts and skills necessary for girls to play at the High School level.  Members of the NDA Volleyball varsity team will serve as camp counselors in both sessions.  

    What To Bring:  All campers will need a positive attitude, water bottle(s), indoor & outdoor sneakers, sleeve t-shirt, athletic shorts, knee pads, and a snack

    COURSE LENGTH: 1 Week

    COST: 
     
     Session 1: $200
    OR
     Session 2: $225

    SCHEDULE: 

    Session 1:  June 26–June 30, 10:30 a.m. --12:00 p.m.
    OR
    Session 2:  June 26–June 30, 1 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

    (Note: The location will be at the Notre Dame Academy Gym. Sessions should be bought separately at checkout.)


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Coach Donna Coonan is the Head Varsity Volleyball Coach at Notre Dame Academy.  She has coached for over 20 years amassing over 200 wins and 3 District Titles.


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO


Arts

List of 2 items.

  • Intro to Graphic Arts

    COURSE NAME: Intro to Graphic Arts

    AGE GROUP: All Boys & Girls entering grades 6-12 

    COURSE DESCRIPTION: 
    Over the course of the week, students will learn the basics of Graphic Design - not only through the use of the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign & Photoshop) but also the thoughts and planning to consider ahead of beginning a graphic project or assignment. Instruction will include the basics of the communications mindset, project set-up, exploration of common design tools, best practices in communicating through design - with a culminating final project for students to present at the week’s end. 

    At the end of the course, students will leave comfortable with the basics of design programs and be prepared to continue to practice and execute any desired design project from home - invitations, flyers, stickers, postcards, business cards, or any other print or digital design of their choosing!  (Note: this course does not fulfill the graduation requirement for one semester of computer science.)

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week  

    COST:  Session 1: $225      Session 2: $150


    SCHEDULE: 
    Session 1 (max 20 students): June 26th - June 30th.  Weekdays from 1 PM - 4 PM
    Session 2 (max 20 students): July 5th - July 7th.  Weekdays from 1 PM - 4 PM

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Having received a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Journalism, and a Master's in Marketing, my career in the communication field, coupled with my creativity, quickly led me to the art of promoting messages through graphic design. As a self-taught designer, I have honed the craft over the past ten years - now fluent in the creation of all types of graphic design materials for both professional or personal use. 

    Currently, in my role as Director of Communications at Saint John's High School, I am able to not only help shape and craft the desired messaging for the school - whether it be for events, admissions, advancement solicitations, magazines, etc. - AND work to support those messages through graphic design! 

    At home, I enjoy graphic designing for my family and friends and have become the go-to designer for birthday, wedding, and shower invitations, greeting cards, and much more. 

    Graphic design is a tremendous skill to have in your back pocket and I very much look forward to sharing this creative outlet with boys and girls throughout the region!


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Theater Camp & Production

    COURSE NAME: Theater Camp & Production

    AGE GROUP: All Boys & Girls entering grades 5-12

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    If, as Shakespeare said…”all the world’s a stage…” then prepare to develop your talents this summer in the Theatrical Arts!  Students from all schools and from grades 5 through 12 are invited to take the stage at St. John’s High School, under the direction of Ms. Christine Petkus and a talented array of student performers from the schools of the AICS.  Core concepts in stage production and performance will be covered, leading to a live performance onstage at the Jay Theater.  
    Whether you can sing, dance, act, perform, recite, or hope to learn any and all of these skills, come to hone your craft and share it with family, friends, and the wider community!  

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week

    COST:  $350 (This includes the cost of a Camp T-Shirt.)

    SCHEDULE: 
    July 17th - July 21st (9 AM to 3 PM)
    (*Note … This program will take place on the St. John’s Campus.  Production will be on Friday, July 21st)

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Ms. Christine Petkus

    I teach in St. John’s Middle School and have a Masters in Music from the New England Conservatory and extensive performing and training experience, both regionally and abroad. A Summer introduction to the fine arts is a great way to hone skills, gain valuable experience and confidence to grow in your love of the arts, which can be enjoyed throughout your whole life.  

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO

Academic & College Prep

List of 3 items.

  • AICS Pre 8th (Math & English/Humanities)

    COURSE NAME: AICS Pre 8th (Math & English/Humanities)

    AGE GROUP: All area and AICS students entering 8th grade

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    The Pre-8th Summer Studies Program, for students entering the eighth grade at all area schools and at Saint John's High School, Notre Dame Academy, and Venerini Academy in the Fall, is designed to solidify the educational background in English/Humanities and Mathematics and to acquaint students with the demands of a college preparatory middle and high school curriculum. 

    It is especially recommended to and encouraged for all enrolled or prospective members of the SJ & NDA Class of 2028, and VA Class of 2024. It is also recommended for any area students hoping to mitigate "learning loss" from their post-Covid middle school years.  

    In addition to acclimating students to the demands of a college preparatory middle school curriculum, students will engage in lessons on study skills.

    Lastly, a focus on community building will be present in this course.  This will help them enter 8th grade at St. John’s, Notre Dame, or Venerini with a greater sense of confidence and comfort due to the relationships created with fellow classmates and staff members.  


    Pre-8th Program - Math:
    This course is designed to reinforce the concepts and skills covered in the 7th grade mathematics curriculum and also to extend knowledge into various Pre-Algebra & Algebra 1 topics that students will encounter in 8th grade.  This will give students a true “leg up” for their 8th grade math course. 

    The goal of this course is to solidify the students’ foundation of mathematics prior to starting their 8th grade math course and also give opportunities to extend and challenge their conceptual abilities and skills. The topics chosen for this course are some of the most important to review and to reinforce skills and knowledge prior to entering 8th grade. 

    Topics include: Order of Operations, Evaluating Algebraic Expressions, Solving Linear  Equations (One & Multi-Step), Operations with Rational Numbers, and Operations with Exponential Numbers & Expressions. Additional topics for advanced students may include Graphing & Interpreting Linear Functions, Graphing & Interpreting Linear Inequalities, and Solving Nonlinear Equations (Square Root, Quadratic, etc.) 

    Pre-8th Program - English
    The primary focus of Pre-8th English is strengthening basic skills: grammar, sentence structure and composition, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and study techniques. We will use a variety of short stories, poetry and other types of writing  in order to explore the different elements of English literature and language.

    This course provides students with the skills that will enable them to meet the challenge of a college preparatory English program with confidence and ability. 




    COURSE LENGTH: Two Weeks 

    COST: $525

     SCHEDULE: 
    (Classes on SJ Campus) Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30th
    (Classes on NDA Campus) Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th
    *Eight total weekday classes from 8:30 AM - 12 PM. 



    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    AICS Staff


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • College Essay Bootcamp

    COURSE NAME: College Essay Bootcamp

    AGE GROUP: All students entering grade 12

    COURSE DESCRIPTION  
    This course for rising seniors will take students through the process of composing engaging, authentic, well-written personal statements for the Common App and any supplemental essay.   Students will consider how they wish to brand themselves as they move through the process of brainstorming, drafting, and editing. They will read and discuss samples that work, share and workshop their own writing, and receive regular one-on-one feedback from the instructor. With dedicated and thoughtful completion of assigned activities, students can finish this course with a completed College Essay, ready for submission to the Common Application and any supplemental essay in the fall.

    COURSE LENGTH: Six Weeks, Two days a week (Hybrid: In person and remote) 

    COST: $500

    SCHEDULE:
    Mondays and Thursday evenings: 6 PM - 9 PM.
    In person: June 12, 15, Remote: June 20 (Tues.), 22, 26, 29th, July 3rd, 6, 10th, 13th, 17th, In person: July 20th. 

    (Note: The three in-person classes will be held at St. John’s High School, Founder’s Hall.  Students will only be required to attend a scheduled portion of each 3 hour remote class. Schedule will be set by the teacher and student each week.)
                 
    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    I have been teaching English language arts as a teacher and as a tutor for thirty years.  I am currently in the process of completing my first year at Notre Dame Academy teaching freshman and sophomore English.  Prior to arriving at NDA, I taught AP junior, sophomore, freshman, and eighth grade English at the Trivium School.  As an undergraduate at Framingham State University, I was asked by my professor, Dr. Miriam Levine, to tutor writing to freshman students.  It was this experience that led me to pursue and receive my graduate degree from Boston College.  My most gratifying experience has been to successfully help my three sons apply for and enter university.


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • SAT (& PSAT) Preparation

    COURSE NAME: SAT (& PSAT) Preparation

    AGE GROUP: All students entering grades 10 - 12.

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    This course provides students with the tools they need to achieve their highest SAT (or PSAT) scores as well as practice in writing College Application Essays. In addition to overall test strategies, students will be taught the specific Concepts and Skills that are tested in the Math, Reading, & Writing portions of both the PSAT and SAT. Students will benefit from a variety of effective learning strategies to help them accomplish their college prep goals.  Mr. Hughes and Mr. Kelly have had extensive experience in running SAT and PSAT courses since 2008.  This course will feature all of the key aspects of their highly effective SAT preparation program … Direct instruction with guided practice, collaborative peer to peer learning activities with tutorial help, and individualized practice based on students’ areas of weakness.

    COURSE LENGTH  One Week

    COST: 
    In-Person Session = $400
    (Pioneer Cares Financial Aid is available for SJ students only, upon application to Lynn Cronin (lcronin@stjohnshigh.org))

    SCHEDULE
    In-Person Session: Monday, July 17th - Friday, July 21st from 8 AM - 12 PM  
    (Note…Course is capped at 25 students)
     

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Mr. Michael Hughes has been a member of the Saint John’s High School Religious Studies Department since 1998. Mr. James Kelly was a member of the Leominster High School Mathematics Department from 2003-2022 and is currently a Dean of Students at LHS. 
    In 2008, we began offering SAT Prep courses and have continued to do so every year since with great success. Our students have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars in merit-based college scholarships and have secured more college acceptances due to their score increases.  We have extensive experience in running our courses both Remotely for the past three years and In-Person since ‘03.  The course will feature all of the key aspects of our highly effective SAT preparation program … Direct instruction with guided practice, collaborative peer to peer learning activities, and individualized practice based on each student’s areas of weakness.

    For more information, please visit www.KellyandHughesSAT.com

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO

More

List of 6 items.

  • AICS Leadership

    COURSE NAME: AICS Leadership

    AGE GROUP: 
    Current & Incoming Notre Dame, St. John’s, & Venerini students entering grades 7-10
       

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    In this course, students will develop as leaders for the three AICS schools. Student participants will think critically about their personal leadership styles and strengths, while also reflecting on the purpose of “leadership” in their lives and in their communities: at home, at school, and in the world.  More specifically, the students will understand how a good leader practices Love-in-Action, grounded in faith and service.  Through small and large group discussions, team building activities, guest speakers, reflections, and service opportunities, students will grow in harmony with God, themselves, and others as they work on becoming the best version of themselves.  
    (Note:  An “Off-Campus” service experience is planned for this course where students will be able to see and put into action the leadership principles that they’ve learned in the course.  A permission slip will be provided and filled out at registration/checkout.)

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week
    COST: $175
              
    SCHEDULE 
    (Classes on SJ Campus):  Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th from 1 PM - 4 PM. 
    (For Notre Dame, Venerini, and St. John’s Boys and Girls ONLY)

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Mr. Matthew Giles: Mr. Giles is a Religion Teacher and Campus Minister in the Middle School Division at St. John’s High School. Additionally, he facilitates the Middle School Debate Club. He began his teaching career in Brooklyn, New York and has since taught middle school in Boston and Waltham, Massachusetts before coming to St. John’s. In addition to a degree in Philosophy, he also holds a Master of Education from Emmanuel College and a Master of Theological Studies from Saint John’s Seminary. 

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Historical Thinking Skills

    COURSE NAME:   Historical Thinking Skills

    AGE GROUP:   Entering grades 9-12, Notre Dame & Saint Johns

    COURSE DESCRIPTION

    This program is open to and strongly encouraged for any students taking advanced honors or college-level history classes. 

    Students entering advanced history courses often have to overcome the misconception that rote memorization is the key to success in class. This course is designed to introduce students to the discipline of history, to the way in which primary and secondary sources are used to assemble historical narratives and explanations. The course introduces the student to the skills of historical thought and analysis, how to read and understand sources, to weigh evidence, evaluate it and place it in a larger context, and to explain why and how past events happened. 

    Topics include: Chronological Reasoning (Historical Causation, Continuity and Change over Time, and Periodization), Comparison and Contextualization, Crafting Historical Arguments from Historical Evidence, and Historical Interpretation and Synthesis. 

    Students taking this course will be required to bring their own device (laptop or tablet) to class each day. 

    COURSE LENGTH: One Week

    COST: $200

    SCHEDULE: July 17th-21st, 9am-12pm held on NDA campus


    Instructor Biography:
    Sharon Goyette is currently the Social Studies Department Head and Instructional Coordinator at Notre Dame Academy where she has taught for the past three years. At NDA, Mrs. Goyette has taught A.P. U.S. History, A.P. World History, Honors and Advanced Honors U.S. History 1, Honors U.S. History 2, and Honors World History 2. Prior to joining NDA she taught Social Studies for over a decade in the Northborough Public Schools. Mrs. Goyette also offers individual tutoring services. 


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
    sgoyette@nda-worc.org
  • Introduction to Sign Language

    COURSE NAME: Intro to Sign Language

    AGE GROUP: All Boys & Girls entering grades 7-12 

    COURSE DESCRIPTION: 
    This is an Introductory Course to ASL/Sign English vocabulary and phrases.  Vocabulary will include finger spelling, animals, common food, and common everyday phrases.  Students will receive vocabulary handouts with instruction involving activities and video instruction.
    (Note: this course will be held LIVE on the NDA campus.)

    COURSE LENGTH: 1 Week

    COST:  $100.00

    SCHEDULE: 

    TBD


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Instructor Donna Coonan has a Masters in Deaf/Blind Studies from Boston College.  She has worked with students with a wide range of hearing impairments.  Her teaching experience ranges from Pre-School to the College level.

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • Personal Financial Literacy Course

    COURSE NAME: Personal Financial Literacy Course

    AGE GROUP: All High School Girls & Boys entering grades 10 through 12

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    This course is designed to focus on everyday, real life math situations.  The course will begin with practical math review (percent proportions, simple vs compound interest, linear vs exponential equations) and will introduce budgeting, taxes, loans and credit scores.  The course will culminate with students being assigned a job and having to design a budget to live on based on their salary.  The students must secure housing and transportation, while realistically budgeting for food, insurance, utilities, potential student loans, entertainment and savings.  The “Wheel of Reality” will have to be spun periodically, causing students to incur unexpected expenses or income, resulting in budget alterations.  Students will leave this course with an overall  understanding of what it costs to “live” in the real world, and with tools to help make future financial decisions.
    Materials Needed:
    • Laptop/Tablet with Google Classroom accessibility
    • Calculator
    • Printing capabilities at home
    Course objectives:  Students will be able to
    • Distinguish between gross and net income
    • Understand credit score and what type of transactions will affect it (positively and negatively)
    • Explore the financial impacts of attending college vs entering into a vocational trade
    • Produce a successful budget based on certain parameters.
    • Gain introductory knowledge on taxes (federal, state and local)
    Methodology:
    • Introductory explanations and guided practice
    • In-class discovery labs
    • Homework review and discussion
    (Note:  This camp will run in-person on the NDA campus.)

    COURSE LENGTH: Two Weeks

    COST:  $200 

    SCHEDULE: 
    June 20, 22, 27, and 29 from 9-11 AM.


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Denise Shipp is the Math Dept. Head at Notre Dame Academy.  After a long career as a Software Engineer, Denise made the decision to enter teaching.  She has taught Mathematics for 19 years and is currently completing her third year at NDA.  
    Denise graduated with a B.A. from Assumption College (Mathematics), a B.S. and M.S, from WPI (Computer Science).  Denise is a huge proponent of financial literacy and  believes it is never too early to start the conversations. 


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • The Meaning of Life: A Crash Course

    COURSE NAME: The Meaning of Life: A Crash Course

    AGE GROUP: All High School Boys and Girls entering grades 10, 11, and 12.

    COURSE DESCRIPTION:

    What is love? Can we prove the existence of God? Is faith a feeling or an action? Is being good a good idea? Ultimately, what is the meaning of life? 

    In this course, we will explore these questions in a seminar and recruit the help of the most influential Philosophers in the West, including Plato, Socrates, Aquinas, Descartes, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche, during our discussions. By the end of the course, students will have thoroughly explored these long-standing questions and engaged seriously in the most important ideas of Western thinkers. Students will leave this course with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of life, and an appreciation for the complex evolution of thought, value, and belief over the course of history.

    Materials Needed:
    • n/a
    Course objectives: Students will
    • Compare and contrast the foundational beliefs and axioms of important philosophers in the Western Canon
    • Observe and analyze how philosophical beliefs and axioms give rise to and counteract each other.
    • Through class discussion, come to a more nuanced understanding of their own views of these questions
    Dail Schedule:
    • Monday: What is Love?
    • Tuesday: Can we prove the existence of God? 
    • Wednesday: What is Faith?
    • Thursday: What is Goodness? 
    • Friday: What is the meaning of life?
    (Note:  This camp will run in-person on the NDA campus.)



    COURSE LENGTH: 1 Week

    COST: $200

    SCHEDULE: July 17-21, 9:00-11:00

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Cole Crusciel is a graduate of Saint Anselm College. There, he completed degrees in Philosophy and English, winning awards from both departments for academic excellence and community engagement. He has previously worked for the Center of Ethics in Society in Manchester, NH, facilitating conversations concerning economics, politics, and education between businesses, elected officials, students, and institutions. He is currently a member of the Religious Studies department at Notre Dame Academy, where he teaches World Religions to seniors and Scripture Studies to freshmen.

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • More Courses Coming Soon!

    Hope you like what you see here on the catalog page.  If you don't, be sure to fill out the Course Interest Form to help us shape what courses you would like to see offered in the future!

Saint John's Students Only

List of 6 items.

  • SJ Honors Precalculus

    COURSE NAME: SJ Honors Precalculus

    AGE GROUP: St. John’s students entering 11th or 12th grade

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    This course will stand in for the full year Precalculus course and enable students to qualify for AP Calculus course-either AB or BC, depending on your results.  Applications are due to your math teacher by March 31st–approval by the department is required before purchasing the course.  

    This course is intended for advanced rising seniors who are presently taking Honors Algebra 2 & Trigonometry and are seeking to take Calculus next year.

    Guidelines for Juniors (to be seniors):
    Mathematics courses taken: Honors Algebra I, Honors Geometry, and Honors Algebra II &
    Trigonometry (or their equivalent)
    Mathematics courses grade average: A- or better
    PSAT/SAT: 650 or better
    Overall Unweighted GPA: 3.7 or better
    These students, if they pass the course, will be placed into BC Calculus or AB Calculus depending on their grade in the course. If they fail the course, they will be placed into Honors Pre-Calculus in the fall.


    Exceptional rising juniors may apply for the course. Please understand that the preferred option of the Mathematics Department is to take the full year course in Precalculus.

    Guidelines for Sophomores (to be juniors):
    Mathematics course taken: Honors Algebra I, Honors Geometry, and Honors Algebra II &
    Trigonometry (or their equivalent)
    Mathematics courses grade average: A or better
    PSAT/SAT: 680 or better
    Overall Unweighted GPA: 3.9 or better
    These students, if they pass the course, will be placed into BC Calculus.
    If they fail the course, they will be placed into Honors Pre-Calculus in the fall.

    Freshmen (to be sophomores) are not eligible for the course.

    After the applications received through your math teacher are returned, the Mathematics department, in conjunction with the Assistant Principals for Academics, will review the applications and determine the students recommended into the Summer Pre-Calculus program. 


    COURSE LENGTH: Five Weeks 
     
    COST: $625 (Pioneers Care Financial Aid is available, upon application to Lynn Cronin: lcronin@stjohnshigh.org)
    Note: Students are encouraged to wait until approved by the Math Department before purchasing. 

    SCHEDULE: June 12–July 11, 8 AM to 11 AM, Weekdays except 6/19, 6/26, 7/3 and 7/4


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Mr. Tim Williams and Mr. Steve Gregory



    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • SJ Pre 7th - Math & English

    COURSE NAME: SJ Pre 7th: Math & English

    AGE GROUP: St. John’s students entering 7th grade

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    The Pre-7th Summer Studies Program, for students entering the seventh grade at Saint John's in the Fall, is designed to solidify the educational background in English and Mathematics and to acquaint students with the demands of a college preparatory middle and high school curriculum. 

    It is strongly recommended to and encouraged for all incoming members of the SJ Class of 2029.

    In addition to acclimating students to the demands of a college preparatory middle school curriculum, students will engage in further curriculum, lessons on study skills, and a library orientation.  

    Lastly, a focus on community building will be present in this course to help rising SJ 7th graders begin their journey into the SJ Brotherhood.  This will help them enter St. John’s with a greater sense of confidence and comfort due to the relationships created with fellow classmates and staff members.  



    Pre-7th Program - Math:
    This course is designed to reinforce the concepts and skills covered in the 6th grade mathematics curriculum (if needed) and also to extend their knowledge into various Pre-Algebra and Algebra topics that they will encounter in 7th grade at SJ. This will give students a true “leg up” for their 7th grade math course. 

    The goal of this course is to solidify the student’s foundation of mathematics prior to starting at Saint John’s as a Grade 7 student in the fall but also give opportunities to extend and challenge his conceptual abilities and skills.  Students will encounter lessons grounded in science and engineering topics to practice math skills, and they will also get to use interactive websites and teacher-lead games during lessons.

    Topics include: Order of operations, evaluating variable expressions, one-step equations, two step equations, Positive/Negative integer operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division), and introduction to exponents rules. Additional topics for advanced students may include more exponent rules, combining like terms, the distributive property, multi-step equations, and linear inequalities. 

    Pre-7th Program - English

    This course aims to prepare students entering 7th grade to shift from reading for a storyline to advanced reading for a theme. Students will practice the fundamentals of close reading and annotating literary works to build their comprehension skills. Using high-interest short stories, we will also practice discussing and interpreting literature and examine the process and components essential for effective essay writing. We will spend time strengthening basic skills: grammar, sentence structure and composition, vocabulary, and study techniques to give students an authentic experience of Middle School English. 

    The primary focus of Pre-7th English is strengthening basic skills: grammar, sentence structure and composition, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and study techniques. We will use a variety of short stories, poetry and other types of writing  in order to explore the different elements of English literature and language.

    This course provides students with the skills that will enable them to meet the challenge of a college preparatory English program with confidence and ability. 



    COURSE LENGTH: Two Weeks 

    COST: $525. (Pioneer Cares Financial Aid is available, upon application to Lynn Cronin (lcronin@stjohnshigh.org)

     SCHEDULE: Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30th & Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th:  Eight total weekday classes from 8:30 AM - 12 PM. 


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Ms. Kristen Outler (Math):  Ms. Outler is a current middle school science and STEM teacher at St. John’s and this will be her second summer teaching this SJ Pre-7th course.  Ms. Outler has taught for 11 years in New Jersey and Massachusetts. She has worked at the Middle School Division  at St. John’s since it opened in the fall of 2020.  Ms. Outler enjoys teaching any STEM subjects, and she likes to use technology and hands-on experiences to allow her students to explore new concepts.  When she is not teaching, Ms. Outler likes to read psychological thrillers, listen to crime podcasts, spend time with her two little girls, and dream up new lessons for the future.  Ms. Outler is excited to spend time with our incoming students this summer!

    Mrs. Sara Provost (English):  Mrs. Provost is a current middle school Social Studies at St. John’s and this will be her third summer teaching this SJ Pre-7th course.  Mrs. Provost has lived and worked in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the United Kingdom. She has been fortunate  to teach at all boys, all girls, and co-educational schools - this has allowed her to experience first-hand the differences between young men and women and their learning styles. Her favorite book is War and Peace, and upon entering any museum or gallery, she heads straight to the Renaissance collection. If Mrs. Provost had not fallen in love with teaching, she would have spent her time curating exhibitions. 


    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • SJ Pre 9th - Math & English (2 Week)

    COURSE NAME: SJ Pre 9th - Math & English (2 Week)

    AGE GROUP:  St. John’s High School students entering 9th grade

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    The Pre 9th Summer Studies Program, for students entering the ninth grade at Saint John's in the Fall, is designed to solidify the educational background in English and Mathematics and to acquaint students with the demands of a college preparatory high school curriculum. 

    It is highly recommended and encouraged to all members of the SJ Class of 2027.

    In order to acclimatize students to the demands of a college preparatory high school curriculum, students in the English portion will focus on the English Summer Reading Text.  They will also engage in cross-curricular lessons and skills which prepare a student to excel in a wide range of academic subjects.  Students will focus on 'Reading and Writing' college preparatory skills, including developing/discerning point of view, organizing paragraphs, finding and sorting facts, structuring sentences with proper grammar, and building vocabulary.  As a result, students will  have read, reflected upon, and mastered their assigned SJ 9th grade English Summer Reading text.

    The Math portion of the SJ Pre-9th program will have a two-fold purpose.  First, depending on the student’s needs, teachers will develop, solidify, and advance the students' conceptual understanding and skills for the important Pre-Algebra and/or Algebra 1 topics that are essential for success in high school mathematics.  Next, teachers will introduce and develop the students' conceptual understanding and skills for the major Algebra1 and/or Algebra 2 topics that students will encounter in 9th grade.  This will give students a "Leg Up" for their Freshman Algebra 1 or Algebra 2 class and put them in a much better position for success.  When necessary, teachers will remediate any lessons for students that need it in order for them to achieve mastery.  Likewise, for those students ready for more advanced material, teachers will move them at a challenging pace that allows them to interact with more advanced Algebraic concepts and skills. 

    Finally, the teachers' ability to scaffold their English and Math lessons will be enhanced by their access to SJ upperclassmen who will be serving as classroom teacher aides.  These SJ peer tutors will not only help students academically, but they will also develop social relationships with them as they become members of the St. John's Brotherhood.  

    (NOTE ... SJ students looking for “Level Placement Adjustment” for their freshman Math and/or English courses MUST take the 4-Week program in order for this to be an option.)


    COURSE LENGTH   Two Weeks


    COST: $525. (Pioneer Cares Financial Aid is available, upon application to Lynn Cronin (lcronin@stjohnshigh.org)

     SCHEDULE:
    OPTION 1: Monday, June 26th - Friday, June 30th & Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th:  Eight total weekday classes from 8:30 AM - 12 PM. 

    OR

    OPTION 2: Monday, July 10th - Friday, July 21st: 10 total weekday classes from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM.


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Option 1: 
    Matthew Giles (English): Mr. Giles is a Religion Teacher and Campus Minister in the Middle School Division at St. John’s High School. Additionally, he facilitates the Middle School Debate Club. He began his teaching career in Brooklyn, New York and has since taught middle school in Boston and Waltham, Massachusetts before coming to St. John’s. In addition to a degree in Philosophy, he also holds a Master of Education from Emmanuel College and a Master of Theological Studies from Saint John’s Seminary. 

    Math: Mr. Chris Benestad.  Mr. Chris Benestad is a member of the St. John’s HS Math, Religion, and Social Departments.  He has taught at SJ since the fall of 1999.  Mr. Benestad teaches statistics, algebra, calculus, economics, and business ethics.  Mr. Benestad enjoys teaching in the SJ summer program introducing new Pioneers to the SJ curriculum.  


    Option 2:
    Instructors TBD – Contact sjsummer@stjohnshigh.org with questions

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
  • SJ Pre 9th - Math & English (4 Week)

    COURSE NAME: SJ Pre 9th - Math & English (4 Week)

    AGE GROUP:  St. John’s High School students entering 9th grade

    COURSE DESCRIPTION.  
    The Pre 9th Summer Studies Program, for students entering the ninth grade at Saint John's in the Fall, is designed to solidify the educational background in English and Mathematics and to acquaint students with the demands of a college preparatory high school curriculum. 

    It is highly recommended and encouraged to all incoming members of the SJ Class of 2027.

    (NOTE ... SJ students looking for “Level Placement Adjustment” for their freshman Math and/or English courses MUST take the 4-Week program in order for this to be an option.)


    In order to acclimatize students to the demands of a college preparatory high school curriculum, students in the English portion will focus on the Summer Reading Text.  They will also engage in cross-curricular lessons and skills which prepare a student to excel in a wide range of academic subjects.  Students will focus on 'Reading and Writing' college preparatory skills, including developing/discerning point of view, organizing paragraphs, finding and sorting facts, structuring sentences with proper grammar, and building vocabulary.  As a result, students will  have read, reflected upon, and mastered their assigned SJ 9th grade English Summer Reading text.

    The Math portion of the SJ Pre-9th program will have a two-fold purpose.  First, depending on the student’s prior knowledge, teachers will develop, solidify, and advance the students' conceptual understanding and skills for the important Pre-Algebra and/or Algebra 1 topics that are essential for success in high school mathematics.  Next, teachers will introduce and develop the students' conceptual understanding and skills for the major Algebra1 and/or Algebra 2 topics that students will encounter in 9th grade.   This will give students a "Leg Up" for their Freshman math class and put them in a much better position for success.  When necessary, teachers will remediate any lessons for students in order for them to achieve mastery.  Likewise, for those students ready for more advanced material, teachers will move them at a challenging pace that allows them to interact with more advanced Algebraic concepts and skills. 

    The 4-Week version of the Pre 9th courses allow teachers to go into greater depth with the different topics covered and at a pace that helps each student to achieve mastery.  Likewise, this added time also allows for the possibility of a greater breadth of topics to be covered, developed, and mastered.  This will give them even greater familiarity with what they’ll encounter in their 9th grade Math class.

    Finally, the teachers' ability to scaffold their lessons will be enhanced by their access to SJ upperclassmen who will be serving as classroom teacher aides.  These SJ peer tutors will not only help students academically, but they will also develop social relationships with them as they become members of the St. John's Brotherhood.  


    COURSE LENGTH   Four Weeks


    COST & SCHEDULE   $725 (Pioneers Care Financial Aid is available, upon application to Lynn Cronin (lcronin@stjohnshigh.org)


     SCHEDULE: 
    Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30th.  Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th: Eight weekday classes from 8:30 AM - 12 PM. 
    AND
    Monday, July 10th–Friday, July 14th. Monday, July 17th–Friday, July 21st: Ten weekday classes from 9:00 AM - 12 PM. 


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    St. John’s HS Staff

    Jerry Taylor (Math): Jerry Taylor  graduated from WPI with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and went on to get a Master of Mathematics also from WPI. He taught Math at St. John’s for 30 years, retiring in 2014. He has worked as an adjunct professor at Clark University, Worcester State University, and Assumption University since retiring from SJ. He is currently teaching Pre-Calculus at Assumption.

    English: Mr. Jason Pink. Mr. Jason Pink is a Social Studies teacher in the St. John’s Middle School Division. He graduated from Assumption University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle and Secondary Education and History and went on to get a Master of Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College. Prior to teaching at Saint John’s where he has been since the founding of the Middle School 3 years ago, he taught at Lawrence Public Schools and Blessed Sacrament School in Walpole, MA. 

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO
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  • SJ Leadership

    COURSE NAME: SJ Leadership

    AGE GROUP: 
    Current & Incoming St. John’s students entering grades 7-10

       
    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    In this course, students will develop as St. John’s leaders. Student participants will think critically about their personal leadership styles and strengths, while also reflecting on the purpose of “leadership” in their lives and in their communities: at home, at school, and in the world.  More specifically, the students will understand how a good leader possesses the 5 spiritual values of the Xaverian Brothers (humility, trust, zeal, compassion, and simplicity).  Through small and large group discussions, team building activities, guest speakers, reflections, and service opportunities, students will grow in harmony with God, themselves, and others as they work on becoming the best version of themselves. 


    COURSE LENGTH: One Week
    COST: $275

    SCHEDULE 
    June 26 - June 30. Weekdays from 1 PM - 4 PM


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Michael Foley:  Mr. Foley grew up surrounded by the legendary leaders of Saint John’s.  A son of a veteran SJ teacher, coach, and leader, Michael has been surrounded by the Pioneer spirit his entire life.  He graduated from SJ in 2007 where he was the president of his senior class and captain of the football team.  He went on to be a 2 year captain of the football team at Assumption College and returned to Saint John’s right after his graduation in 2011. He has served in many roles here at his alma mater, including campus minister,  history teacher, social studies department chair, Global Encounter leader (Haiti, West Virginia, New Jersey), Class Dean, and Assistant Varsity Football Coach.   

    Tyler Ferolito:  Mr. Ferolito is a teacher in the History Dept. in the High School Division of St. John’s. He has taken on a variety of leadership roles throughout his career. During high school, he managed his high school’s community garden and served on the superintendent’s advisory committee. While at Holy Cross, he served in various roles as co- student chair of the history department and even worked as an editor of a professor’s history podcast. Before coming to Saint John’s this year, he worked to build community relations through a parent volunteer and outreach club at his previous school. At St. John’s he currently works with the history club, co- moderates the audio production club, and serves as a football coach. He brings years of leadership experience to this course and is very excited to collaborate with Mr. Foley. 

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  • SJ Robotics and Engineering: Developing STEM Skills

    COURSE NAME: SJ Robotics and Engineering: Developing STEM Skills

    AGE GROUP: Current & Incoming St. John’s Middle and High School students through Grade 10.
    (NOTE: Class size capped at 24 students)
     

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    Students work in small (five students or fewer), guided groups on CAD, Building, modifying, and Programming of robots and machines. Task groups will be led in workshop-style by leading members of our world-class Pioneer Robotics (FTC) team.  For programming, we will use Arduino; for building, we will use Actobotics parts and an Elegoo Uno R3 car kit or its equivalent.  You will also have direct access and use of our MakerSpace’s laser cutters, 3-D printers, and CNC routers.  The equipment in the Saint John’s MakerSpace is state-of-the-art.   Even if you are experienced in Arduino or have used Actobotics parts or an Elegoo kit, this course will offer many creative challenges.  Our ultimate goal is to build or modify a machine and program it for tele-op and autonomous activity which will include in-house competition mirroring the theme for the FTC competition in 2022-2023.  Other foundational Engineering exercises are included in the curriculum as well. In addition to learning career skills in engineering, participants will have ample time to “get to know” a crew of highly motivated and successful Saint John’s students.  

    EQUIPMENT:  All materials will be provided; students have the option of purchasing materials that go beyond the scope of the course for laser or CNC cuts.    

    COURSE LENGTH: Two Weeks   

    COST: $475  (Pioneer Cares Financial Aid is available, upon application to Lynn Cronin (lcronin@stjohnshigh.org)

    SCHEDULE:  
    Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30th & Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th:  Eight total weekday classes from 1 PM - 4:30 PM. 

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Dr. Tonelli earned his doctorate in Physics and Mathematics Education from U-Mass Lowell, and has taught physics and engineering through project based learning for 25 years.  He has mentored Saint John's Pioneer Robotics (FTC Team 12589) for the last 4 years. The team has participated in the State Championship tournament all four years, and has already taken home two state titles.  This course’s student instructors include members of the Pioneer Robotics Team team that placed 20th (of 7,000 teams) in the world in 2019, and won the State Inspire Award, ranking them #1 in the state for the 2021 season.  All of the course’s instructors are, or have been, members of Pioneer Robotics FTC team 12589.  These team members represent the rising Saint John’s Eighth Grade through Senior classes, and are excellent students, teachers, and role models.  

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Notre Dame Academy Students Only

List of 2 items.

  • NDA Pre 7th - Math & Humanities

    COURSE NAME:   NDA Pre 7th - Math and Humanities

    AGE GROUP:   Notre Dame Academy Incoming 7th Graders 

    COURSE DESCRIPTION

    This program is open to and strongly encouraged for any incoming Notre Dame 7th-grade student.

    This course is designed to reinforce the mathematics covered in the 6th grade mathematics curriculum but also extend knowledge into Pre-Algebra concepts and topics. The goal of this course is to solidify the student’s foundation of mathematics prior to starting at Notre Dame as a Grade 7 student in the fall but also give opportunities to extend and challenge their conceptual abilities and skills. Through our experience teaching middle school mathematics, the topics chosen for this course are some of the most important to review and reinforce skills and knowledge prior to the fall. The course is open and designed for students entering Pre-Algebra in the fall. 

    Topics include: Working with all operations involving positive whole numbers, fractions, and decimals, order of operations, evaluating variable expressions, one-step equations, two step equations,and introduction to exponents rules if time permits. 

    Students taking this course will be required to bring their own device (laptop or tablet) to class each day. 


    The Pre-7th Humanities course is open to and strongly encouraged for any rising and incoming Notre Dame Academy 7th-grade student. Over the course of the two-week program students will review grammar principles, complete their summer reading assignments, improve their writing skills, and develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. At the end of the course, students will be prepared to begin the rigorous 7th grade instruction at NDA.  

        

    COURSE LENGTH: Two Weeks 

    COST:  $525

    SCHEDULE: Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30th & Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th:  Eight total weekday classes from 8:30 AM - 12 PM. 


    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Math: Kate Connor has been a math teacher at Notre Dame Academy since 2016 and is also a 1991 graduate of NDA.  She has a BA from St. Michael's College in Winooski Vermont and a Masters from Worcester State University.  She has taught 7th grade Math, Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra 2 from grades 7-11.   She lives in Holden with her husband, 3 kids and 1 cat.

    Humanities: Lauren Inman is the head of the St. Julie Division and an English instructor at Notre Dame since 2020.  She has been the dance instructor at Notre Dame Academy for the past several years and has worked on the Spring Musicals for Notre Dame Academy. Lauren is excited to prepare these girls both academically and socially as they enter Notre Dame Academy this fall. 

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  • NDA Pre 9th - Math & Humanities

    COURSE NAME:   NDA Pre 9th - Math and Humanities

    AGE GROUP:   Notre Dame Academy Rising  and Incoming Freshman 

    COURSE DESCRIPTION
    This course is open to and strongly recommended for all Notre Dame students entering Grade 9.  
    The Pre-9th Math course will focus on the prerequisites for Algebra I (H) or Algebra II (AH), including but not limited to Integers, Slope, Linear Forms of Equations, Coordinate Plane Graphing, Solving Multi-Step Equations, Exponents, Matrices, and Imaginary Numbers.

    Students taking this course will be required to bring their own device (tablet or laptop) to class daily.

     Over the course of the two-week Pre-9th Humanities program, students will review grammar principles, complete their summer reading assignments, improve their writing skills, and develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. At the end of the course, students will be prepared to begin the rigorous 9th grade instruction at NDA.  
        
    COURSE LENGTH: Two Weeks 

    COST:  $525

    SCHEDULE: Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30th & Wednesday, July 5th - Friday, July 7th:  Eight total weekday classes from 8:30 AM - 12 PM. 

    INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
    Math: Kate Connor has been a math teacher at Notre Dame Academy since 2016 and is also a 1991 graduate of NDA.  She has a BA from St. Michael's College in Winooski Vermont and a Masters from Worcester State University.  She has taught 7th grade Math, Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra 2 from grades 7-11.   She lives in Holden with her husband, 3 kids and 1 cat.

    Humanities: Lauren Inman is the head of the St. Julie Division and an English instructor at Notre Dame since 2020.  She has been the dance instructor at Notre Dame Academy for the past several years and has worked on the Spring Musicals for Notre Dame Academy. Lauren is excited to prepare these girls both academically and socially as they enter Notre Dame Academy this fall. 

    INSTRUCTOR CONTACT INFO