High School Courses and Workshops
Overview
Welcome to Palos Verdes Peninsula Summer School! In addition to our excellent onsite and online courses, we also offer incredible enrichment workshops. Please see below for details, and use the High School tab above to find additional information on courses, workshops, policies, and registration. Also, do not ever hesitate to contact Adam Genovese (PVPSS High School Director) at genovesea@pvpss.com with any questions. We are always glad to provide support.
General Information
- Students from all districts and states are welcome to attend PVPSS.
- PVPSS offers both onsite and online WASC accredited courses for advancement, all of which meet the UC/CSU and NCAA college requirements.
- We are also proud to offer outstanding enrichment workshops, which do not provide grades or credits.
- Onsite courses and workshops will take place at Peninsula High School in the Summer of 2027.
- See dates, times, and descriptions in the 2027 Schedules and Formats section below.
- Go to the High School Courses and Workshops page to view all of our offerings.
Course Information
- All courses run Monday to Thursday from June 21 – July 29, with the exception of onsite history courses, which end on July 15.
- Onsite courses run from 8:00am – 1:30pm at Peninsula High School, with breaks from 10:00 – 10:15am and 12:00 – 12:15pm (bring food/drinks).
- Online classes are asynchronous (no attendance), and students may work ahead, but they cannot fall behind.
- It is very important to stay on track because each school day covers a great deal of material.
- Due to the fast pace, teachers cannot provide extensions on assignments/exams for any reason, including illness.
- PVPSS is a nonprofit private entity which does not follow predetermined accommodations, such as extra time to submit assignments.
- Students/parents are encouraged to share helpful information with the instructor.
- The amount of homework will vary by class and student interests/skills.
- Many students do not have any homework at all, whereas others need to put in a little more time.
- Please note that anyone in an honors class should expect quite a bit of homework due to the increased rigor.
Workshop Information
- Make sure to check out our legendary workshops for both intermediate and high school students!!!
- Workshops run at Peninsula High School for two to three hours per day, over the course of one to three weeks.
- There is also a great deal of onsite and/or virtual support provided.
- Workshops do not provide grades/credits, and they can be taken concurrently with an online course.
- Students may also take multiple workshops, as long as the dates/times do not conflict.
Resources & Contact Information
- Go to the High School Informational Video Page for a full overview of the program in under eight minutes.
- Feel free to contact Adam Genovese, PVPSS High School Director, at genovesea@pvpss.com with any questions.
- A reference guide is below for your convenience.
- We look forward to another great summer with you!
2027 Courses & Workshops
Onsite courses run from 8:00am – 1:30pm at Peninsula High School, and online courses are asynchronous with no attendance
All courses run from June 21 – July 29, with the exception of onsite history courses, which end on July 15
Workshops take place at Peninsula High School with various dates/times – see table below for details
Students may take a workshop and online course simultaneously
Students may take multiple workshops if the dates/times align
Grade level refers to the student’s grade in the fall of 2027
View the HS Information Page for details on all programs
| Course | Course Information |
| World History |
This course provides a basic understanding of world history, geography, and culture. Content will cover political thought in the development of law, religion, philosophy, and culture, while also emphasizing the influence of ancient civilization on modern society. Please note that onsite World History is completed in only four weeks, and online students are allowed to work ahead. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Onsite Dates/Times: June 21 – July 15, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Dates: June 21 – July 29 |
| United States History |
This course analyzes American political, social, and economic behavior during major periods in history. There is a focus on the multiple factors that affect continuity, outstanding contributions of individual Americans, change in ethnic composition of American society, the movement toward equal rights for racial minorities and women, and the expanding role of the Federal government in addressing critical issues. Please note that onsite United States History is completed in only four weeks, and online students are allowed to work ahead. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Onsite Dates/Times: June 21 – July 15, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Dates: June 21 – July 29 |
| American Government |
This semester course provides perspective on politics and government in the United States. It compares systems of government in the world today, and analyzes the changing interpretations of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and current state of the government branches. The course also promotes familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that make up the American and comparative political system. Onsite American Government and Economics must be taken together, but students may enroll in one or the other through our online program. Please note that onsite American Government and Economics are completed in only four weeks, and online students may work ahead. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Onsite Dates/Times: June 21 – July 15 Online Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29 |
| Economics |
This course involves the study of microeconomics and macroeconomics to help students become responsible/effective decision makers. It provides an understanding of supply and demand, scarcity, the role of the marketplace, competition, and consumer choice. The course also covers inflation, unemployment, measures of national wealth, the economic role of the government, international trade/finance, personal economic decision making, investments, budget, job choice, and consumer information. Onsite American Government and Economics must be taken together, but students may enroll in one or the other through our online program. Please note that onsite American Government and Economics are completed in only four weeks, and online students may work ahead. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Onsite Dates/Times: June 21 – July 15 Online Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29 |
| Course | Course Information |
| Geometry |
This course provides an understanding of the concept of proof in geometric constructs and construct formal logical arguments. Students will study geometric constructions using compass and straight edge; properties of parallel and perpendicular lines, transformations, triangles and other polygons, similarity, basic trigonometry, circles and three dimensional shapes. Algebraic techniques are applied for both two and three dimensional figures. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| Geometry Honors |
This course provides an in-depth understanding of the concept of proof in geometric constructs and construct formal logical arguments. Students will study geometric constructions, properties of parallel and perpendicular lines, transformations, polygons, similarity, basic trigonometry, circles, and three-dimensional shapes. Algebraic techniques are applied in the solution of problems for two and three dimensional figures. Students should only enroll in an honors class if they excel in the subject area and plan to do two to eight hours of homework per night. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Onsite Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Hybrid Dates: June 21 – July 29, One Classroom Visit Per Week Please note that the online hybrid format is mostly asynchronous, but students must be present in the classroom every Thursday from 8-10am for exams. Mr. Bird will also teach the lessons in his classroom on a daily (Monday to Thursday) basis for those who would like to learn in person. Online video teaching and Teams chat will be available for all students in the class, as well. Prerequisites: B or above in Algebra 1 H, Grades 8-12 |
| Course | Course Information |
| Biology |
The lessons in this course include cell biology, basic chemistry, plant growth and Development, genetics, evolution, natural selection, reproduction, physiology, and ecology. Tuition plus $75 lab materials fee. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| Biology Honors |
This course prepares students for Advanced Placement Biology (Biology 2 AP), with a focus on laboratory investigations. The lessons include biochemistry, energy, fermentation, structure/function of the cell, genetics, origin of life, evolution, ecology, human physiology, classification, and plant physiology. Students should only enroll in an honors class if they excel in the subject area and plan to do two to eight hours of homework per night. Tuition plus $75 lab materials fee. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Onsite Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Hybrid Dates: June 21 – July 29, One Classroom Visit Per Week Please note that the online hybrid format is mostly asynchronous, with one required classroom visit per week (dates/times TBD). Ms. Salgado and Ms. Hughes will also provide onsite and virtual support for any interested students. Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 1, Grades 9-12 |
| Chemistry |
The lessons in this course include atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, matter/energy conversion, stoichiometry, gases, acids, bases, solutions, chemical thermodynamics, rates of reactions, chemical equilibrium, nuclear processes, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. Experiments, mathematical calculations, and models are used to attain an understanding of the concepts. Tuition plus $75 lab materials fee. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29 |
| Chemistry Honors |
This course prepares students for Advanced Placement Chemistry, with more of an emphasis on depth and problem-solving than seen in Chemistry. Experiments, mathematical calculations and models are used to attain an understanding of the concepts. Students should only enroll in an honors class if they excel in the subject area and plan to do two to eight hours of homework per night. Tuition plus $75 lab materials fee. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29 |
| Course | Course Information |
| Digital Photography |
This course teaches students how to take well-composed photographs, while also discussing the history and evolution of film and photography. Emphasis will be placed on topics such as handling skills, compositional guidelines, utilization of light, and lens capabilities. Students will use advanced techniques to create images while going through the photographic process (contrast control, cropping, etc). In lieu of a materials fee, students will purchase their own Adobe Photoshop subscription. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Dates: June 21 – July 29 |
| Drawing & Painting |
This course explores aesthetic perceptions and develops skills for using visual arts media effectively. These skills will enhance the ability to interpret and communicate ideas, feeling, and values. Tuition plus $75 materials fee. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 29 |
| Workshop | Workshop Information |
| College Application Prep |
This three-week workshop assists rising seniors in producing excellent college applications. Students focus on creating a balanced college list and writing outstanding college essays. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. College Application Prep (CAP) is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 8 |
| College Application Prep Jr |
This one-week workshop helps rising juniors get an early start on the college application process. Students will explore their strengths, passions, and values while learning to present an authentic and compelling narrative for college applications. In addition, students will create a resume reflecting their unique aptitudes and accomplishments. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. College Application Prep Jr (CAP Jr) is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Dates/Times: June 21 – 24 |
| SAT Prep |
This three-week workshop provides exceptional SAT training for both the reading/writing and math sections. Students will learn academic content and test-taking strategies specific to the exam, and a comprehensive workbook is provided. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. SAT Prep is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Session 1 Dates/Times: June 21 – July 8, 9am – 12pm Session 2 Dates/Times: July 12 – 29, 9am – 12pm |
| Algebra Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Algebra (regular or honors), so that students are set up for more success and less stress in the upcoming school year. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. Algebra Prep is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Dates/Times: July 19 – 29, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| Geometry Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Geometry (regular or honors), so that students are set up for more success and less stress in the upcoming school year. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. Geometry Prep is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Dates/Times: July 19 – 29, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| Pre-Calculus Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Pre-Calculus (regular, limits, or honors), so that students are set up for more success and less stress in the upcoming school year. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. Pre-Calculus Prep is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Dates/Times: July 19 – 29 |
| Workshop | Workshop Information |
| Python Coding & AI |
This hands-on workshop introduces students to Python programming and the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence. Students will learn Python through practical programming exercises and projects, then use their programming skills to explore AI concepts, data, machine learning, and real-world AI applications. The course is designed for students with little or no previous programming experience and emphasizes problem-solving, creativity, and project-based learning. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 15, 8:00 – 10:30am (Option 1) or 11:00am – 1:30pm (Option 2) |
| Cook & Taste |
This workshop provides students with a fun and flavorful experience, allowing them to engage in cooking, baking, knife skills, and much more. Students will experiment with creative dishes and, of course, they get to eat it all afterward! Dates/Times: June 21 – July 15, Time TBD |
| Algebra Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Algebra (regular or honors), so that students are set up for more success and less stress in the upcoming school year. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. Algebra Prep is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Dates/Times: July 19 – 29, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| Geometry Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Geometry (regular or honors), so that students are set up for more success and less stress in the upcoming school year. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. Geometry Prep is not a graded course for credit, and it can be taken concurrently with any online class. In addition, students may enroll in multiple workshops if the dates/times do not conflict. Dates/Times: July 19 – 29, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| Bridge to Algebra |
Bridge to Algebra is available for students completing Math 7 who would like to take Algebra 1 in grade 8. This workshop provides the missing content from Math 7/8 Accelerated, so that students have a proper foundation in Algebra 1 the following year. Dates/Times: June 21 – July 15, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| Stage Production |
Learn all about the wonderful world of theatre, with an emphasis on performing, writing, stage setup, and having fun. Students will engage in various activities, while also sharing ideas and constructive critiques. Dates/Times: July 19 – 29, 9:00am – 12:00pm |