High School Courses and Workshops
Overview
Palos Verdes Peninsula Summer School 2026 high school registration is now open! 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. Thank you!
General Information
- Students entering grades 9-12 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.
- Go to the High School Courses and Workshops page to view all of our offerings.
- Onsite courses and workshops will take place at Palos Verdes High School this summer.
- All courses and workshops run from Monday to Thursday each week (no Fridays).
Course Information
- Courses run from June 15 – July 23, with the exception of onsite history courses, which finish on July 9.
- 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.
- Online classes are asynchronous (no attendance), and students may work ahead, but they cannot fall behind.
Workshop Information
- Make sure to check out our amazing workshops, too!
- Workshops run onsite 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 taken 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 nine 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!
SUMMER 2026 courses and workshops
Courses are June 15 to July 23 (exceptions: onsite history courses end on July 9, and online students may work ahead)
Onsite courses run from 8:00am – 1:30pm at PVHS, and online courses are asynchronous with no attendance
Workshops take place at PVHS 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 2026
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 15 – July 9, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Dates/Times: June 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, Asynchronous |
| 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 15 – July 9, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Dates/Times: June 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, Asynchronous |
| 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 15 – 25, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Dates/Times: June 15 – July 2, Monday – Thursday, Asynchronous |
| 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 29 – July 9, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm Online Dates/Times: July 6 – 23, Monday – Thursday, Asynchronous |
| 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 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, 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 that subject area and plan to do two to five hours of homework per night. See the Summer High School Information tab for details on schedules and formats. Dates/Times: June 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| 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 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, 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 that subject area and plan to do two to five 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 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| 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 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| 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 that subject area and plan to do two to five 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 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| 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/Times: June 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, Asynchronous |
| 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 15 – July 23, Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 1:30pm |
| 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 15 – July 2, Monday – Thursday, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| College Essay Prep |
This three-week workshop assists rising seniors in producing excellent college essays. Whereas College Application Prep provides support for both the college list and essays, College Essay Prep focuses solely on the essays. Virtual support is also available outside of the classroom hours. College Essay 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: June 15 – July 2, Monday – Thursday, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| 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 15 – 18, Monday to Thursday, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| 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 15 – July 2, Monday – Thursday, 9:00am – 12:00pm Session 2 Dates/Times: July 6 – 23, Monday – Thursday, 9:00am – 12:00pm |
| Spanish 1 & 2 Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Spanish 1 or 2, 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. Spanish 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 13 – 23, Monday – Thursday, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| Algebra 1 & 2 Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Algebra 1 or 2 (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 13 – 23, Monday – Thursday, 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 13 – 23, Monday – Thursday, 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: June 15 – 25, Monday – Thursday, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| Calculus Prep |
This two-week workshop is an outstanding opportunity to learn the basic concepts of Calculus (regular or AP), 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. 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 13 – 23, Monday – Thursday, 9:30 – 11:30am |
| Tai Chi Fan |
This three-week workshop provides an incredible experience with Taijiquan, aka Tai Chi. Deeply interconnected with Daosim, Tai Chi serves as a dynamic form of meditation and exercise, promoting a holistic approach to physical/mental health. Students will learn Tai Chi Fan Dance, as well. Tai Chi Fan 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 15 – July 2, Monday – Thursday, 9:00am – 12:00pm |
| Chinese Red Drums |
Chinese Red Drums, which symbolize power and luck, are commonly used for ceremonies and celebrations. Students will learn several beats per session in preparation of a short performance on the fourth and final day. Chinese Red Drums 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 6 – 9, Monday – Thursday, 9:30am – 11:30m |