AROUND THE WORLD
Mrs. Chetanna

Taste mochi from Japan and tamales from Mexico. Make African masks. Play fun games from Australia. Join us as we travel around the world investigating and experiencing art, language, geography, music, history, food, games and daily life from different locations around the globe.

CERAMICS
Mrs. Hargis

A complete course in designing, forming, decorating and glazing pottery. Learn basic hand building techniques including pinch, slab (tile making), and sculpture.

CHEF’S CORNER
Miss Bellows

Bon Appetit… discover the fun of being a chef and working in a kitchen with friends. Prepare fancy hors d’oeuvres, luscious desserts, perfect pasta, amazing pizza, and more. Students may be exposed to tree nuts, almonds, eggs, seeds, and dairy. Not recommended for students with food allergies.

CREATIVE WRITING: Mrs. Edelstein

Do you love to write? If so, then this is a class for you! Students will create an imaginative fun summer story incorporating elements of character development, setting, plot and structure. Aspiring authors will respond to a variety of prompts designed to stimulate creative ideas and innovative thinking. Our supportive summer writing community will have fun offering encouragement and constructive feedback to each other. Everyone has a story to tell…and no one can tell your story but you! 

DRAWING AND PAINTING
Mrs. Hargis

Learn the basics of pen and ink drawing, sketching, and perspective. Have fun using watercolor, tempera, charcoal, and pastels. Watch your creativity come to life.

FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR TEENS
Mr. Hay

Prepare for your financial future with this engaging summer course! Learn essential money skills, from investing in the stock market to managing a checking account, saving wisely, and even buying your first car.

– Stock Market (5 days) – Dive into investing, mutual funds, and real-world stock tracking with a guest stockbroker!
– Career & Income Goals (2 days) – Explore careers, passions, and financial success.
– Checking & Savings (5 days) – Master deposits, checks, bank statements, and interest calculations.
– Insurance (2 days) – Understand auto, property, and life insurance.
– Smart Buying (1 day) – Learn what to consider when purchasing a car or major appliances.

Don’t miss this opportunity to build financial confidence before adulthood! Sign up now!

FUTSAL
Mr. Daley

Join Peninsula Boys Soccer Head Coach Patrick Daley for an action-packed Summer Futsal Class! Designed for players of all levels, this fast-paced, high-energy program will help you sharpen your skills, improve your footwork, and elevate your game—all while having a blast! Don’t miss this chance to train with top coaching and take your soccer to the next level. Spots are limited—sign up today!

INTRO TO MATH 6 (INTRO TO PVCM 6)
Mrs. Chetanna

This class is for incoming 6th graders working at grade level and coded for regular Math 6 in the fall, as well as incoming 7th graders needing additional support. This class will cover whole number arithmetic, writing and calculating rational numbers (fractions and decimals), divisibility rules, number theory, and mathematical puzzles.

INTRO TO MATH 7 (INTRO TO PVCM 7)
Mr. Kroon

This class is for students coded into Math 6 Accel or Math 7, and 8th graders needing additional support. This class will cover integer arithmetic, the real number system, order of operations, variables and expressions, equations and inequalities, ratios and proportions, and mathematical puzzles. Incoming 6th graders must be coded for Math 6 Accel in the fall.

INTRO TO MATH 8 (INTRO TO PVCM 8)
Mr. Scheftic

This class is for students coded into Math 7 / 8 Accel or incoming 8th graders coded for Math 8 in the fall. This class will cover solving simple and complex equations, angles and triangles, graphing and writing single and systems of linear equations, functions, real numbers, the Pythagorean Theorem and mathematical puzzles.

KEYBOARDING
Mr. Hay

Ready to level up your typing skills? In this hands-on class, you’ll master accurate typing with proper finger placement—no peeking at the keyboard! Using engaging computer-based programs and drills, you’ll boost your speed and efficiency while gaining confidence in your skills. What You’ll Learn:

– Proper finger positioning for fast, accurate typing
– Mastering all letters and numbers on the keyboard
– Speed drills to increase efficiency
– Intro to PowerPoint & Excel for essential computer skills

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve, this class will set you up for success in school, work, and beyond!

KEYS TO SUCCESS
Mrs. Edelstein

Discover the essential keys to success in middle school! Sixth graders will kick off the school year with confidence after this exciting, active and informative class. Uncover the secrets to mastering your new campus, from unlocking the mysteries of the lunch period and those pesky padlocks to rocking those PE uniforms. Dive into the details of a full school day, learn the intricacies of all the exciting clubs and activities and gain survival skills for organization, test taking, note taking and more to ensure a stellar start to your middle school journey.

MARINE BIOLOGY
Mr. Kroon

Discover the wonderful underwater world in this class. Acquire an appreciation and knowledge of the ocean and its inhabitants from the great whales to the tiny crustaceans that they eat. Includes dissection of marine life and microscope use.

PATHWAY TO MATH 6 ACCEL (PATHWAY TO PVCM 6 ACCEL)
Mr. Scheftic

This 2-period block course is available to current 5th grade students who would benefit from further instruction to prepare for entrance into Math 6 Accel in sixth grade. Completion of this course will strengthen students’ mathematical skill base, provide a stronger foundation of conceptual understanding and better prepare students for the fast pace and rigor associated with the accelerated-level coursework. PVPUSD encourages students to attend this summer program (or enroll in an independent study option**) particularly if the student was not initially recommended by his or her fifth-grade teacher for the Math 6 Accel course.

PICKLEBALL
Mr. Daley

Get ready to jump into the fastest-growing sport in the country – PICKLEBALL! Whether you’ve never played before or you’re looking to level up your game, this fun and exciting summer course is the perfect way for middle schoolers to learn, compete, and stay active. What’s in Store?

– Learn the Basics – Serving, volleys, dinking, and scoring
– Master Strategy – Placement, footwork, and winning shots
– Improve Reflexes & Agility – Quick movements = big plays!
– Friendly Matches & Mini-Tournaments – Play with friends and put your skills to the test!

Why Pickleball? It’s easy to learn, tons of fun, and a great way to stay active, build coordination, and develop teamwork, all in a fast-paced, exciting environment! Parents, this sport is perfect for kids looking for a fun way to exercise and make new friends.

STEM: CREATE, BUILD, TEST AND IMPROVE
Mrs. Thomas

Get ready for an exciting hands-on journey into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)!

– CREATE, TEST, SHARE & EXPLORE – Dive into the Engineering Design Process and bring ideas to life!
– Build & Code – Learn basic coding and design tailored for your age group.
– Hands-on Engineering – Work with VEX GO, VEX IQ, and other cool tools to tackle fun challenges!

Perfect for young innovators who love to build, experiment, and problem-solve in a fun, interactive environment! Join us this summer!

STEM IN MOTION: THE SCIENCE OF SPORTS MEDICINE/FLAG FOOTBALL
Mr. Young

The Introduction to Sports Medicine and Athletic Training Beginning course is designed for students interested in fields such as athletic training, physical therapy, athletic injuries & sports medicine, nursing, fitness, physiology of exercise, kinesiology, nutrition, EMT, and other sports medicine-related fields. This course focuses on the basic information and skills important in the recognition, care, prevention, and preliminary rehabilitation of athletic injuries. The course includes classwork and hands-on application, focusing on Basic Anatomy, Sports Injuries, Rehabilitation, Care, and Prevention of Athletic Injuries.

Through classroom engagement and hands-on experience, students will become familiar with the concepts relevant to sports medicine. Students will learn to prevent, treat, and evaluate athletic injuries and maintain an efficient, professional athletic training facility. Additionally, students in this course will gain experience covering and playing flag football, applying their knowledge in a real-world setting to enhance their skills in injury prevention and care.

VOLLEYBALL
Mr. Scheftic

Ready to bump, set, and spike your way into an awesome summer? This action-packed volleyball course is perfect for middle school athletes looking to build skills, boost confidence, and have a blast on the court! Whether you’re new to the game or looking to sharpen your technique, this program is designed to help you learn, improve, and compete in a fun and supportive environment. What to Expect:

– Fundamentals & Techniques – Serving, passing, setting, hitting, and defense
– Game Strategy & Teamwork – Learn how to work together and outplay your opponents
– Conditioning & Agility – Build strength, endurance, and quick reflexes
– Fun Drills & Scrimmages – Practice your skills in real game situations

Parents, this program is a great way for students to stay active, develop discipline, and foster a love for volleyball, all while making new friends and having fun! Spaces are limited, so sign up today!

Afternoon Sports Academy

Week 2: Pickleball
6/23 – 6/27
$125

Week 4: Futsal
7/7 – 7/11
$125

ANIME & STORYTELLING: INSPIRED BY AWKWARD!
Mrs. Stavropoulos

Love anime, comics, and storytelling? This exciting summer class brings together art, creativity, and character development as we dive into the graphic novel Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova! What You’ll Do:

– Explore the World of Awkward – Discuss themes of friendship, confidence, and middle school life
– Create Your Own Anime-Inspired Characters – Develop original characters with unique personalities and designs
– Learn Manga & Anime Drawing Techniques – Master expressions, dynamic poses, and storytelling through art
– Storyboarding & Comic Panels – Bring your ideas to life in comic-style scenes!

Parents, this course fosters creativity, literacy, and artistic skills in a fun and engaging way—perfect for young artists and anime enthusiasts! Students will gain confidence in both their storytelling and drawing abilities while having a blast with classmates.

AROUND THE WORLD
Mrs. Ong

Taste mochi from Japan and scallion pancake from Taiwan. Make dancing dolls from Spain. Paint maracas from Mexico. Join us as we travel around the world investigating and experiencing art, geography, music, history, food, games and daily life as you travel with Mrs. Ong. If you had fun last year, come again this year as we will travel to different countries.

Ms. Ong loves to travel, and she thinks math is fun.  That’s why she really enjoys summer school. 

Come to her class and you will have lots of fun!

BOARD GAMES
Mr. Tsudama

Students will have fun while engaging in a variety of different board games. They will learn and discover the rules and strategies for each game and test their skills in playing them. Through playing and constructing their own games, students will develop problem-solving skills and teamwork in a creative and enjoyable environment.

BOY’S AND GIRL’S CHORUS
Dr. Anikouchine

Girl’s Chorus (“Singing with the Angels?”) is an opportunity to build your singing voice and sing fun songs. Boy’s Chorus (The Singing Raiders) is an opportunity to build your singing voice and sing fun songs.

Dr. Anikouchine has conducted choral tours throughout Europe, Hawaii, Washington DC, and Santa Barbara.  He has led choirs at PVHS and PVIS.

He is now available this summer at RIS. Come on board for a rewarding summer experience!

BROADCAST JOURNALISM
Mrs. Demerjian

This summer in Broadcast Journalism, kids will have an awesome time learning about broadcasting. You will learn about how to interview people, design a video story, anchor a show, edit using Final Cut Pro, and how to plan video stories for a show as a producer and director. We will have all the equipment you need including iMac’s, software, studio lights, a green screen, tripods, and various cameras. We will put together a few news shows during summer school.

COED FLAG FOOTBALL CLASS
Mr. Tsudama

Get ready for an action-packed and fun-filled introduction to flag football! This class is designed for middle school students of all skill levels, whether you’re new to the game or already have some experience. Students will learn the fundamentals of flag football, including passing, catching, running, and flag pulling, all while focusing on teamwork, sportsmanship, and having fun.

CONTENT CREATOR
Mrs. Demerjian

In Content Creator, students will create videos, photos and posters that demonstrate advertising/commercials, talk shows, video stories, and students will create a short film with a few of their new summer school friends.

We will have all the equipment you need, including iMac’s, Final Cut Pro for editing, lighting, a green screen, props, costumes, tripods and various cameras to film.

CREATIVE WRITING
Mrs. Stavropoulos

Do you love to write? If so, then this is a class for you! Students will create an imaginative fun summer story incorporating elements of character development, setting, plot and structure. Aspiring authors will respond to a variety of prompts designed to stimulate creative ideas and innovative thinking. Our supportive summer writing community will have fun offering encouragement and constructive feedback to each other. Everyone has a story to tell…and no one can tell your story but you!

CSI: FORENSIC LAB LESSONS
Ms. Kealey

Are you ready to use your problem-solving skills to help solve a crime? This hand-on class will teach students about real-life forensic lab techniques from blood typing to DNA fingerprinting. These lab skills will be used to analyze evidence and find out who did it.

INTRO TO E-SPORTS
Mr. Tsudama

Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of e-sports with our Middle School Esports course! Designed for gaming enthusiasts, this class combines the excitement of gaming with valuable skills in teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. Students will explore popular esports titles on the Nintendo Switch, learn about gaming culture, and develop their gaming prowess in a supportive and structured environment. Join us for an engaging and educational journey into the thrilling realm of e-sports!

INTRO TO MATH 6 (INTRO TO PVCM 6)
Mrs. LaRocca

This class is for incoming 6th graders working at grade level and coded for regular Math 6 in the fall, as well as incoming 7th graders needing additional support. This class will cover whole number arithmetic, writing and calculating rational numbers (fractions and decimals), divisibility rules, number theory, and mathematical puzzles.

INTRO TO MATH 7 (INTRO TO PVCM 7)
Ms. Smith

This class is for students coded into Math 6 Accel or Math 7, and 8th graders needing additional support. This class will cover integer arithmetic, the real number system, order of operations, variables and expressions, equations and inequalities, ratios and proportions, and mathematical puzzles. Incoming 6th graders must be coded for Math 6 Accel in the fall.

INTRO TO MATH 8 (INTRO TO PVCM 8)
Ms. Smith

This class is for students coded into Math 7 / 8 Accel or incoming 8th graders coded for Math 8 in the fall. This class will cover solving simple and complex equations, angles and triangles, graphing and writing single and systems of linear equations, functions, real numbers, the Pythagorean Theorem and mathematical puzzles.

KEEP CALM AND BREATHE – MINDFULNESS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mrs. Stavropoulos

This interactive and calming class helps students practice mindfulness – being fully present in the moment without judgment. Through guided exercises, discussions, and creative activities, students learn how to focus their attention, reduce stress, and regulate their emotions in a healthy way. By practicing mindfulness, students can improve their concentration in school, manage stress, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness.

– Breathing Techniques: Simple, deep breathing exercises that help students calm their minds and bodies.
– Mindful Listening: Activities that encourage paying attention to sounds in the environment, which helps students stay in the present moment.
– Guided Meditation: Short, kid-friendly meditations that help students clear their minds and build emotional resilience.
– Stress Reduction Tools: Practical tips for dealing with school pressure, friendships, and daily challenges in a calm, centered way.
– Reflection and Journaling: Opportunities for students to reflect on their thoughts and feelings, helping them gain insights into their emotions and behaviors.

KEYBOARDING
Mr. Fajardo

Learn to type accurately on the computer with proper finger positions, without looking at the keyboard. You will be introduced to all of the letters and numbers using computer-based programs, in addition to various drills to increase your speed. Some Power Point and Excel may be included.

Greetings! My name is Michael Fajardo, and I am proud to introduce myself as a dedicated father and passionate educator. Alongside my role as a teacher, I am also an enthusiastic sports lover, which influences much of my teaching style. Currently, I have the privilege of teaching math at Palos Verdes Intermediate School.

In my classroom, I aim to create an engaging environment where the worlds of mathematics, sports, and my personal experiences come together to enhance learning. I believe that these elements can inspire students and make challenging concepts more relatable and enjoyable.

I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to share my knowledge and passion with you this summer. I look forward to meeting and teaching all of you!

KEYS TO SUCCESS
Mrs. LaRocca and Ms. Smith

Discover the essential keys to success in middle school! Sixth graders will kick off the school year with confidence after this exciting, active and informative class. Uncover the secrets to mastering your new campus, from unlocking the mysteries of the lunch period and those pesky padlocks to rocking those PE uniforms. Dive into the details of a full school day, learn the intricacies of all the exciting clubs and activities and gain survival skills for organization, test taking, note taking and more to ensure a stellar start to your middle school journey.

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Mrs. LaRocca is in her first year at Ridgecrest as the 7th grade Resource Teacher. During the regular school year, she teaches Math 7, Language Arts 7 and Support 7. She also teaches Math Intervention classes during the school year after school, helping students fill the gaps in their math foundational skills. Mrs. LaRocca earned a Southwest SELPA Staff & Community Partners Award as someone who has made a significant impact on students’ classroom. Prior to Ridgecrest, Ms. LaRocca was a substitute teacher for Torrance Unified School District for TK-12th grades and Special Education. In her free time, she plays tennis, hikes and spends time with her husband, 12-year-old daughter, cat, and dog.

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During the regular school year Ms. Smith serves as the 8th Resource teacher at Ridgecrest. She teaches Math 8, Languages Art 8, and Support 8. She has previously taught Math 6 and 7 as well as Language Arts 7 and Support 7 at PVIS. Ms. Smith has also taught Reading Intervention at Rancho Vista Elementary School as well as a variety of subjects from Algebra and English to History and Psychology at Rancho Del Mar Continuation High School. She is in her 18th year in PVPUSD and has just earned her 3rd Southwest SELPA Teacher of the Year award.

MATH & LOGIC PUZZLES
Mrs. Starodoub

In this engaging middle school course, “Fun with Math and Logic Puzzles,” students will embark on an exciting journey through the world of puzzles that challenge their mathematical reasoning and logical thinking skills. Students will explore various types of puzzles, including Sudoku, Ken Ken, Cross Sums, and logic problems, fostering a fun and collaborative learning environment.

By the end of the course, students will not only have a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts but will also have improved their logical reasoning skills in a playful context. This course aims to inspire a love for math through engaging activities that promote creativity, perseverance, and enjoyment in learning.

MUSIC APPRECIATION (THE WORLD OF MUSIC)
Dr. Anikouchine

Music Appreciation (The World of Music) focuses on exploring the history and structure of western music. While there is no performance, some singing will occur!

Dr. Anikouchine has conducted choral tours throughout Europe, Hawaii, Washington DC, and Santa Barbara.  He has led choirs at PVHS and PVIS.

He is now available this summer at RIS. Come on board for a rewarding summer experience!

NATURALIST IN TRAINING
Ms. Kealey

Naturalist In Training is a 2-period block course. Why does moss grow on the north side of a tree? What does the shape of a leaf tell you about its natural environment? How can you use the clouds to predict the weather? The natural world is full of exciting learning opportunities. Join us as we explore the outdoors with daily hands-on activities. Bring your sunscreen and hat, we will be spending 90% of our time outdoors.

NEEDLECRAFT
Mrs. Starodoub

In this engaging summer school course designed for middle school students, participants will explore the art of needlecraft through hands-on projects that focus on basic sewing skills, needlepoint and/or embroidery. Throughout the course, students will learn to use various tools and materials, develop fundamental stitching techniques, and create their own unique textile projects. By the end of the course, students will have gained confidence in their crafting abilities and developed a deeper appreciation for textile arts. This immersive experience will not only enhance their fine motor skills but also encourage self-expression and the joy of making. Join us for a summer of creativity, friendship, and fun in the world of needlecraft!

PATHWAY TO MATH 6 ACCEL
(PATHWAY TO PVCM 6 ACCEL)
Mr. Fajardo and Mrs. Starodub

This 2-period block course is available to current 5th grade students who would benefit from further instruction to prepare for entrance into Math 6 Accel in sixth grade. Completion of this course will strengthen students’ mathematical skill base, provide a stronger foundation of conceptual understanding and better prepare students for the fast pace and rigor associated with the accelerated-level coursework. PVPUSD encourages students to attend this summer program (or enroll in an independent study option**) particularly if the student was not initially recommended by his or her fifth-grade teacher for the Math 6 Accel course.

———————————

Greetings! My name is Michael Fajardo, and I am proud to introduce myself as a dedicated father and passionate educator. Alongside my role as a teacher, I am also an enthusiastic sports lover, which influences much of my teaching style. Currently, I have the privilege of teaching math at PVIS.

In my classroom, I aim to create an engaging environment where the worlds of mathematics, sports, and my personal experiences come together to enhance learning. I believe that these elements can inspire students and make challenging concepts more relatable and enjoyable.

I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to share my knowledge and passion with you this summer. I look forward to meeting and teaching all of you!

———————————

Mrs. Starodub has been teaching math and electives at PVIS since 1995. Prior to that, she attended middle school and high school in PVPUSD. It is important to her to prepare students for the future by providing a strong math background. Elective classes are a fun way to take the pressure off!

PATHWAY TO MATH 7/8 ACCEL
(PATHWAY TO PVCM 7/8 ACCEL)
Mrs. Ong

This 2-period block course is available to current 6th grade students who would benefit from further instruction to prepare for entrance into Math 7/8 Accel math. Completion of this course will provide an introduction to the Math 7 standards and prepare students for the fast pace and rigor associated with the accelerated-level coursework. This course is encouraged particularly for those students who were not enrolled in Math 6 Accel but are planning to join the accelerated pathway in 7th grade, or those students who have completed Math 6 Accel but feel they need to build a stronger foundation. This course will focus on the math 7 standards that students from Math 6 Accel will have been exposed to prior to entering Math 7/8 Accel – integers, rational number system, algebraic expressions and equations.

Ms. Ong loves to travel, and she thinks math is fun.  That’s why she really enjoys summer school. 

Come to her class and you will have lots of fun!

SINGING WITH THE STARS – VOICE
Dr. Anikouchine

Voice (“Singing with the Stars”) is an opportunity to focus on one’s solo voice while preparing a song for recital.

Dr. Anikouchine has conducted choral tours throughout Europe, Hawaii, Washington DC, and Santa Barbara.  He has led choirs at PVHS and PVIS.

He is now available this summer at RIS. Come on board for a rewarding summer experience!

STEM FUNDAMENTALS
Mr. Woodward

This dynamic foundation to engineering class is divided into the four fundamentals of STEM: Coding, Gaming, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), and Robotics. Students will learn JavaScript and Python through platforms like Code Combat, Make Code, and more. Create your favorite platform, maze, and scrolling games with the dynamic “Game Salad” and “Game Maker” programs. Learn to design like an architect with the awesome 3D modeling software, “Sketchup”. Build and Operate Lego “Spike Prime” Robots to perform intricate maneuvers using specific Sensors and coding. Explore a world of virtual robotics using “Vex Code” as you program them to navigate through a variety of mazes. All of this and a lot more awaits you in the fun and challenging class of STEM Fundamentals!