West Suburban Summer School - district287.org · Once an opening occurs, you will be invited to...

Celebrating 40 Years!

West Suburban

Summer School

Summer 2018 ProgramsEnrichment Course Guide 2018 Grades 2-12

Gifted Education Services

Intermediate District 287RESPONSIVE INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hqh2isDo3Ck&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hqh2isDo3Ck&feature=youtu.be

Table of Contents Page

Welcome 4

Registration Guide 5 - 6

Other Summer Opportunities & Gifted Education Resources

7

Class Lists by School Site & Date 8 - 13

Class Descriptions Alphabetically 14 - 51

Instructor Biographies 52-57

Maps to School Sites 58-59

2018 DatesJune 18 – 22, 2018

June 25 – 29, 2018

July 9 – 13, 2018

July 16 – 20, 2018

July 23 – 27, 2018

Woodland Elementary

Wayzata West Middle School

South Education Center

8:30 am - 4:00 pm

One Week Sessions

5 Days Per Week

Intermediate District 287 is an innovative education partner to 11

West Metro school districts. For 50 years, member districts and

other professional educators have trusted District 287 to

customize unique services for their most challenging students and

complex business needs so that all students receive the best

education possible. Learn more at www.district287.org

DID

YOU

KNOW?

http://www.district287.org/

What makes WSSS different?

• Instructors design classes in their area of

expertise to provide high-potential students

with unique experiences to challenge their

abilities.

• Classes are focused on a theme that

includes several disciplines such as math,

science, writing, and art. Most classes are

limited to sixteen students.

• Those who receive access to this brochure

are either in their school district’s gifted

and talented program or have been

accepted through the nomination process.

• Teachers prepare feedback for students,

which is sent to parents, but no grades are

given.

• West Suburban Summer School does not

give academic credit for courses, but

course information will be provided to

those who wish to request credit from their

home schools.

• This program is self-supporting. It is not

funded by independent school districts or

gifted and talented programs.

Welcome to our 40th Summer Program

West Suburban Summer School, a program of Intermediate District 287's

Gifted Education Services, serves gifted and talented students from member

districts who are entering grades 2-12. Students from other districts are

welcome to register at a higher fee.

Brooklyn Center Kirstin Moldan

Eden Prairie Sue Feigal-Hitch

Edina Deb Richards

Hopkins Susan Gruidl

Orono Jane Smith

Osseo Robin Gunsolus

Osseo Laura Thompson

Richfield Tia Clasen

Robbinsdale Mary Jane Adams

St. Louis Park Kari Ross

Wayzata Brad Anderson

Westonka Mark Femrite

For information about West Suburban Summer School contact:

Leslie Hanson

[email protected]

763-550-7167

Kim Kallroos

[email protected]

763-550-7245

Connie Fladeland

[email protected]

763-550-7264

Gifted Education Services Advisory

Committee is comprised of

representatives from each member

district and other agencies. They

identify programs and services to

enrich local district offerings.

Committee Members include:

mailto:[email protected]



Overview• New students will receive a postcard from their school's gifted and talented coordinator to be

eligible for registration. Please contact your G/T Coordinator or West Suburban Summer

School staff if you have questions.

• Students who have attended in the past five years have an account and can register without a

postcard from the school.

• All classes meet for one week, five days, from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

• Students may register for more than one session. See schedules on the following pages.

• Students will need to bring a lunch and a beverage. Supervision will be provided during lunch.

• Additional class fees reflect the cost for field trips and/or special materials.

Course Selection

• View the course catalog online or download the PDF version from the website:

http://www.district287.org/wsss

• Select a class corresponding to the grade (2-12) the student WILL BE ENTERING in the FALL

of 2018.

When You Are Ready To Register:

• Please visit the website at http://www.district287.org/wsss and click on REGISTRATION

PROCESS

• Instructions and links are on that page.

• If you do not have Internet access and would like the registration materials mailed to you,

please contact Kim Kallroos at 763-550-7245.

Waiting List

• If a course is full, you will be placed on the waiting list.

• You will not be charged for securing a place on the waiting list. Once an opening occurs, you

will be invited to register.

• Once invited, you will have four days to register and make payment.

Carpool List

If you would like your student’s name and contact information to be placed on a list of other

students attending the same session, you may indicate that during registration. You will gain

access to the carpool list prior to the start of the session, and may make transportation

arrangements with other families.

• ONLY STUDENTS WHO HAVE REQUESTED CARPOOLING WILL BE ON THE LIST

• ONLY THOSE WHO HAVE REQUESTED CARPOOL WILL HAVE ACCESS TO THE LIST.

Site Note

Site adjustments may be made based on pending construction projects and cleaning schedules

in schools. Notification will be sent to students affected by any changes, and the opportunity to

withdraw without penalty will be provided. The West Suburban Summer School staff thank you

for your understanding.

Registration Preparation



T-Shirts (optional)

If you would like to order a T-shirt for your child, please check the size during registration.

Your fee will be increased by $10.00 for the cost of the T-shirt.

Next Steps

1. Status of registrations and payment accounts will be emailed to the primary guardian

email account provided during registration.

2. A packet with maps and information will be mailed to the primary guardian’s home

address two weeks before the scheduled class.

Total payment required at time of registration

Scholarships funds and payment options are available on a limited basis. For additional

information, please contact Leslie Hanson.

Refund and Late Registration Policy

• For any course registered and paid for, there is a seven day grace period to withdraw

without a penalty. After seven days, $100 will be deducted from refunded fees.

• A late fee of $25 per class will be charged after May 21 to register for June classes and

after June 11 to register for July classes.

• No refunds will be made except for medical reasons, after:

Monday, May 21 for the June Sessions

Monday, June 11 for the July Sessions

Checks and any mailed correspondence may be sent to:

Intermediate District 287

West Suburban Summer School

1820 Xenium Lane North

Plymouth MN 55441

(Checks payable to Intermediate District 287)

Member District:

$210 Tuition

+ Fee (see course description)

+ $10 (Optional T-shirt)

= Total per class

Non-Member District:

$250 Tuition

+ Fee (see course description)

+ $10 (Optional T-shirt)

= Total per class

Leslie Hanson

[email protected]

763-550-7167

Kim Kallroos

[email protected]

763-550-7245

Connie Fladeland

[email protected]

763-550-7264




Additional Gifted Education Resources

www.district287.org/gifted/ www.district287.org/fermi/

www.hoagiesgifted.org/

MN Council for Gifted and Talented (MCGT)

www.mcgt.net (952) 848-4906

MN Department of Education for Gifted Education

education.state.mn.us/MDE/fam/gifted/

National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)

www.nagc.org

NSO classes are available this summer.• Earn high school graduation credit at home.

• High quality online classes with fully licensed

teachers.

Details at: www.northernstaronline.org

Questions: [email protected]

Summer 2018 Opportunities from Home

Fermi Off-The-Wall Math League…Goes to Summer School: Math in Your Bathrobe!

Starts: June 10, 2018

• The all internet-based Fermi Math League has a four-week summer session that can be done at

home. No carpools.

• Students encounter non-routine problems to encourage creative mathematical thought and

enhance communication skills.

• Students may create models for each week’s solution; Gr. 7-9 may post solutions on their own

personal web pages.

• Students do not have to be in a gifted program to enroll. It is perfect for neighbors/friends who like

to play with math and art.

Divisions (individuals and teams):

• Grades 1-2 (Family Math), Grades 3-4, Grades 5-6, Grades 7-9

• Details at www.district287.org/fermi/

• The fee is $65 and is payable through the Fermi registration process, not WSSS.

Questions? Contact Karen Newell at: [email protected]

http://www.district287.org/gifted/

http://www.district287.org/fermi/

http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/

http://www.mcgt.net/

education.state.mn.us/MDE/fam/gifted/

http://www.nagc.org/

http://www.northernstaronline.org/


http://www.district287.org/fermi/


2018 West Suburban Summer School ScheduleClasses are sorted by LOCATION and listed in alphabetical order

[ Click on class to see course description ]

June Classes at South Education Center

Week # Class Name Dates Times Grade Additional Fee

1 Chess 1: An Introduction June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $10.00

2 Dukes of Ukes June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $70.00

2 Explore Strategy Advanced June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-12 $15.00

1 Explore Strategy Beginner June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-12 $15.00

2 Introduction to Photography June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 $35.00

1 Invent and Present June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-6 None

2 It’s a Secret: It Really is Math Part 1 June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 $30.00

1 Magnificent Makers June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-7 $20.00

2 Mini Reef June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-7 $150.00

2 Mythical Creatures June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $25.00

2 Puzzle Island June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-6 None

1 Secret Formulas June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $25.00

2 Secret Formulas June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $25.00

1 Shark Mania June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $100.00

1 Speaking Made Easy Part 2 June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-9 $25.00

1 Spin Through the Universe June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 $10.00

2 Textile Studio Art June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-9 $20.00

2 Thinking with Your Hands June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $10.00

1 Unlocking the Moli Stone June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-4 None

1 What’s Baking June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-6 $50.00

2 What’s Baking June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-6 $50.00

1 Young Writers’ Workshop June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 None

June Classes at Woodland Elementary

Week # Class Name Dates Times Grades Additional Fee

1 Art Studio/3D Art June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $30.00

2 Art Studio/3D Art June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-10 $30.00

1 Arthink/Funthink June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-7 None

2 Breakout June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-8 $95.00

2 The Business of Baseball June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-9 $40.00

2 Chess I: An Introduction June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $10.00

1 Creative Minds June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $10.00

2 Creative Minds June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $10.00

2 Great Artists, Great Art June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $15.00

2 Harry Potter Hullabaloo I June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-7 $20.00

1 Ingenious Engineers! June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $45.00

2 Ingenious Engineers! June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $45.00

1 Library Games June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $25.00

2 Library Games June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $25.00

1 Live Artfully June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-8 $25.00

1 Mix It Up June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-5 $15.00

2 Mix It Up June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-5 $15.00

2 Mysterious Millions June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-7 None

1 Mythical Creatures June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $25.00

1 Not Quite Brain Surgery June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-8 $35.00

1 Our Big Backyard June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $70.00

2 Our Big Backyard June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $70.00

1 Ready! Set! Action! June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 None

2 Ready! Set! Action! June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 None

1 Scratch Programming Workshop June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 None

2 Scratch Programming Workshop June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 None

1 The Wooden Spoon June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-8 $30.00

1 Writing to Get Published June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-10 None

2 Writing to Get Published June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-10 None

1 Youth Theater Part 1 June 18-22 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-8 $20.00

2 Youth Theater Part 2 June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-8 $20.00

2 Zoology Inside and Out 2018 June 25-29 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-7 $50.00


July Classes at Wayzata West Middle School


4 Amateur Aviation July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-9 $30.00

4 Camp Half Blood July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-7 $20.00

3 Chess 2: A Universe of Variants July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $25.00


3 Creative Minds July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $10.00

4 Creative Minds July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $10.00

3 Dive Adventure July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $90.00

3 Dukes of Ukes July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $70.00

4 Explore Music Through Piano and Guitar July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-8 $10.00

3 From Story to Stage July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-5 $10.00

3 Great Artists, Great Art July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $15.00

4 Great Artists, Great Art July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $15.00

3 Harry Potter Hullabaloo 2 July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-7 $20.00

3 Invent and Present July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-6 None

3 It’s a Secret: It Really is Math Part 2 July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-8 $30.00

4 Live Artfully July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-8 $25.00

4 Mix It Up July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-5 $15.00

3 Mock Trial Introductory July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-8 $15.00

3 Musical Improv Theater July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-7 $15.00

4 One Act Play July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-7 $20.00

3 Origami Art July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-10 $20.00

3 Our Big Backyard July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $70.00

4 Puzzle Island July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-6 None

4 Shark Mania July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $100.00

4 Speaking Made Easy Part 1 July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $10.00


July Classes at Wayzata West Middle School


3 Spin Through the Universe July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 $10.00

3 Teen Textiles July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-9 $45.00

4 Teen Textiles July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-9 $45.00

4 Thinking with Your Hands July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $10.00

4 Twenty First Century Young Composer July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-8 $30.00

3 Young Architects July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-4 $15.00


July Classes at Woodland Elementary

Week # Class Name Dates Times GradesAdditional

Fee

5 Advanced Art Studio July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-10 $30.00

3 Alien Worlds July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-8 None

5 Around the World July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $15.00

4 Art Studio/3D Art July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $30.00

3 Breakout: Escape Club July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-10 $95.00


5 Creative Minds 2 July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $35.00

3 Digital Photography: First Exposure July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $40.00

4 Digital Photography: First Exposure July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-6 $40.00

3 Discover Duct Tape July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $30.00

5 Dive Adventure July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $90.00

5 Explore Music Through Piano and Guitar July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-8 $10.00

4 Explore Strategy Advanced 2.0 July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-12 $15.00

4 From Story to Stage July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-5 $10.00

5 Future Problem Solving July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-7 None

5 Harry Potter Hullabaloo 3 July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-7 $20.00

3 Live Artfully July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-8 $25.00

5 Mock Trial 3: Advanced July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $20.00

3 Mummies, Pharaohs, Pyramids July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $35.00

4 Mysterious Millions July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-7 None

5 Native American Arts and Crafts July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $25.00

3 No Fear Shakespeare July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-8 $50.00

4 No Fear Shakespeare July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 4-8 $50.00


July Classes at Woodland Elementary

Week # Class Name Dates Times Grades Additional Fee

3 Not Quite Brain Surgery July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-8 $35.00

3 One Act Play July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-7 $20.00

4 Opera Workshop July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-10 $25.00

4 Origami Art July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-10 $20.00

4 Polar Opposites July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $40.00

3 Propaganda and Policy Debate July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-8 None

3 Really Awesome Game Class July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-7 $15.00

5 Secret Formulas July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $25.00

3 S.T.E.M. Explorers July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $10.00

4 S.T.E.M. Explorers July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-3 $10.00

4 Summer Chamber Music July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $30.00

5 Summer Chamber Music July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-9 $30.00

3 Textile Studio Art July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-9 $20.00

4 That’s a Wrap: Filmmaking July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 $10.00

5 That’s a Wrap: Filmmaking July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 3-5 $10.00

5 Thinking with Your Hands July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 $10.00

4 Time and Time Travel July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-8 $25.00

5 Ultimate Strategy Game Tournament July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 7-12 $15.00

3The Worlds of Historical Fiction: Plague,

Speakeasies and WarJuly 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-8 None

4 Writers Unite July 16-20 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 6-8 $10.00

5 Writing to Get Published July 23-27 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 5-10 None

3 Young Writers’ Workshop July 9-13 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 2-4 None


Advanced Art Studio

Dates Location Grades Week #

July 23-27 Woodland 5-10 5

Prerequisite: This advanced art course is designed

for students who are interested in the visual arts and

have taken at least one of the following: Art Studio/3D

Art, Discover Duct Tape, or an equivalent course.

Please contact West Suburban Summer School staff

(see page 4 for contact information) with questions of

eligibility.

You learned a variety of introductory media in Art

Studio/3D Art and Discover the Creative World of Duct

Tape and now your artistic adventure continues! Learn

how to carve linoleum and create impressive detailed

prints. Have fun mixing concrete and applying colorful

pieces of glass to make a functional outdoor

steppingstone. Continue brainstorming ideas as you

design and construct your very own city using colorful

strips of duct tape and other art supplies to make your

creation come to life! You will also have an opportunity to

explore rock painting, make a scratch board design using

a metal stylus, create impressive recycled newsprint art,

paint surrealistic and impressionistic compositions on

canvas, use colored pencil on suede board, and much

more!

Additional Fees: $30.00

Instructor: Kris Holtmeyer

Alien Worlds



Are you tired of watching alien movies over and over

and over - and you think the aliens are just plain

DUMB? In THIS class, you will create star systems,

alien worlds, maps, habitats, biomes, ecologies and

1,700,000 life forms (that’s how many we’ve

catalogued here on Earth)! You’ll choose one and

morph it into an intelligent alien including internal

organs, language, belief systems, artifacts and culture.

We will ALSO be critiquing Hollywood’s idea of aliens

and see if they can stand up to a little serious

ecological, anatomical and biological dissection. The

conclusion of the class will be a massive meeting of all

the aliens, where I will pose problems to them as a

group. They will need to discuss the problem, come to

consensus and then vote how THEIR alien would vote.

Additional Fees: None

Instructor: Guy Stewart

Around the World



Bring your sketchbook and plane ticket as we travel around

the world. This journey across five continents will explore

aspects of culture and arts throughout the world. We will try

activities and ceremonies from different cultures and create

projects with an arts emphasis as we travel around. We’re

going to have a little bit of everything – from a tea ceremony

and anime from Japan, to Viking runes and longships, from

mindfulness to exploring Mni Waconi (water is life) here in the

United State. We will find things we have in common with

people throughout the world and time. Fill in your passport, fill

in your travel journal, and buckle up for the journey.


Instructor: Moriah Thielges

Amateur Aviation


July 16-20 Wayzata 6-9 4

Have you ever wondered what it's like to become a pilot?

If so, this would be a great course for you! During the

course, we will preview the basics of flying, the modern

aviation system, and flight characteristics. Students will

explore concepts through hands-on activities central to

flying including weather, physics, rules of flight, and

general aviation. There will be a field trip to a local airport

with a tour and time spent around aircraft.

Additional Fees: $ 30.00

Instructor: Cory Knudtson and John Johnson

Art Studio/3D Art


June 18-22 Woodland 2-4 1



Do you like being creative? Expand your artistic talents by

working with a variety of mediums and learning new

techniques in the world of art! Succeed in drawing three-

dimensional objects, create beautiful landscapes with

pastels, design your own advertisement, paint a colorful

watercolor and learn how to use a metal stylus and India

ink to make your composition come to life! Students will

also have the opportunity to mold and paint clay sculptures,

experiment with copper art, work with stained-glass scratch

art and compose their own masterpiece using acrylics on

canvas. Instruction will be given at the beginning of each

class to allow students ample studio time to complete their

projects.


Instructor: Kris HoltmeyerArthink/Funthink

Process & Skills for Invention and Innovation



Creative Problem Solving (CPS) is a non-linear process

that involves the head (knowledge), heart (intuition) and

hands (exploration). Arthink connects all three using

hands-on methodology that applies principles of the arts

for innovative thinking. Projects are designed to engage

the innovator in challenging scenarios that lead them

through the four step process while applying the following

twelve creativity tools used by artists, inventors and

designers: Critical Thinking, Brainstorming, Visual

Thinking, Concept Sketching, Concept Modeling, Idea

Journaling, Mind Mapping, Collaboration, Incubation,

Springboard Research, Persistence, and Practice.

Previous art experience is not necessary.


Instructor: Ray Frigard

Breakout



The clock is ticking. Can you piece together the clues in

time to Breakout!? You may save the world from a

zombie apocalypse or navigate through history before

time runs out. This class is not for the weak-minded or the

weak-hearted. It will test the limits of your critical thinking

and problem solving against the clock as you try to

escape in puzzle-based, locked room simulations. We will

find our way through a variety of scenarios on site and in

a special location. In addition, you will become the game

master, putting friends and family to the test with your

own creation. Escapees will leave the course with a kit

and materials that will allow you to continue to hone your

skills and test your friends long after the clock reaches

zero. A field trip to Escape MSP is included in this class.


Instructors: Sarah Bailey, Betsy Fine

Breakout: Escape Club



Will you accept the challenge and escape? Will you face

only the greatest challenges Breakout Game Masters can

create? Players/Agents will face new parameters as you

escape, unlock, diffuse and outwit to beat the clock and

the culprits as you try to escape in these puzzle-based,

locked room simulations. As with Breakout, we will find

our way through a variety of scenarios on site and in a

special location. Not only will you have to escape, but you

will become the game master to put friends and family to

the test with your own creation. Choose Escape Club if

you have taken Breakout and want a greater challenge, if

you pick up on games and codes quickly and aren’t afraid

of a little extra challenge, or if you fancy yourself a super

spy (or villainous mastermind) waiting for your chance to

show your exceptional skills. Escape Club will have its’

own super agent swag that will complement a basic

breakout kit that any agent will need. Agents will take a

trip to a secret off site training facility (Escape MSP). This

class will be more student driven and self-guided than

Breakout as agents choose what types of training they

want to focus on throughout the week.

(Breakout is not a prerequisite to take this class).


Instructors: Sarah Bailey, Besty Fine

The Business of Baseball



Ever wonder what it would be like to be a baseball general manager, coach or scout? Students will have the opportunity to

draft a fantasy team, keep track of their stats, and make roster decisions using sabermetrics. We will tour Target Field and

weather permitting, we will do other activities outside as well. In addition to learning about the statistics of baseball, we will

learn about baseball’s impact on culture and society. Students will learn how sports and American culture have

overlapped in our history. Each student will have the opportunity to select a topic to investigate and share with the rest of

the group.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE VIDEO


Instructor: Bryan Bjorlin

Camp Half Blood



Were you struck by The Lightning Thief and loved the adventure in the Percy Jackson books by Rick Riordan? Join us at

Camp Half Blood as you settle into your cabin, play camp games, and learn new camp crafts—all Percy Jackson style!

You’ll be sent on a quest with your demigod friends but watch out for mythical creatures along the way. We will construct

an edible Mount Olympus, create our own “bronze” swords and travel through the Labyrinth.


Instructor: Tami Junkermeier

WATCH VIDEO

http://www.district287.org/cf_media/index.cfm?cat=105



Chess 2: A Universe of Variants (Intermediate)





This class combines playfulness, creativity, exploration, and

teamwork to expand your knowledge and appreciation of one

of humankind’s oldest games. You will not only increase your

chess skills in a fun and challenging way, but you will also

learn how the principles of chess are applicable in school

and everyday life. In addition to friendly individual and group

games, you will have the opportunity to explore a particular

aspect of the game for a deeper learning (e.g. chess art,

chess psychology, chess and the brain, chess history, etc.).

If you are imaginative, you may choose to create and share

an improved version of chess - with your own vision of

pieces, rules and powers. There is a universe of wonder and

creativity to be discovered in this wonderful game. So if you

like strategy, creating, exploring on your own, and being part

of a supportive community, this class is for you! A field trip to

the School Chess Association Tournament in St. Louis Park

is included.

Note: This class is for students who already know how

to play chess (how to move all the pieces, the rules, the

point values, how to checkmate) and want to deepen

their knowledge and appreciation of the game.


Instructor: Paul Sackaroff

Chess 1: An Introduction


June 18-22 SEC 4-6 1


This class combines playfulness, creativity, exploration,

and teamwork to expand your knowledge and

appreciation of one of humankind’s oldest games. You will

learn how the principles of chess are applicable in school

and everyday life. In addition to friendly individual and

group games, you will have the opportunity to explore a

particular aspect of the game (e.g. chess art, chess

psychology, chess and the brain, chess history, etc.). You

may also choose to design your own puzzles, funny chess

poems, and chess art. There is a universe of wonder and

creativity to be discovered in this wonderful game. So if

you like strategy, creating, exploring on your own, and

being part of a supportive community, this class is for you!

Note: This class is for beginners to chess who know

very little or nothing about the rules of the game.


Instructor: Paul Sackaroff

Creative Minds






Calling all inventors! Have you ever wanted to build a pasta

tower to the moon? How would you like to create a gumdrop

dome? Girls and boys, please join us for lots of fun and

adventure exercising our minds and bodies. We will explore

our minds with Optical Illusions and Boggles as well as

search for the inventor in us by creating helicopters, super

loppers, and bubbles inside of another bubble. Students will

create chemical reactions when making elephant toothpaste,

erupting volcanos, rockets, glop and crystals. In addition, we

will create a propeller flyer made out of popsicle sticks that

glides on a fishing wire; exercise our bodies by playing silent

ball and wacky water games; and conduct many more

interesting experiments. To culminate our week, students will

participate in a egg drop during our open house. Come join us

for an exciting week of Creative Minds!


Instructor: Kristiann Stotz

Creative Minds 2



Attention All Engineers! This is NOT a drill! Do you

want to engineer the fidget spinner of your dreams?

Create a flashlight with your own hands? Have you ever

wondered what your DNA looks like? Let’s EXPLORE! In

Creative Minds 2, we will generate chemical reactions to

build our own edible rock candy, create density lava

lamps, and invent kinetic sand. Students will explore

physical science, life science, engineering, chemical

reactions and more. In addition, we will defy the laws of

gravity by creating a bouncy ball that never stops

bouncing! To further our knowledge in science and

technology, we will investigate our curiosity of science by

taking a field trip to The Works Museum. Join us for the

week of your lifetime, and help us put the “create” in

Creative Minds 2!


Instructor: Alexandra Stotz

Digital Photography: First Exposures




What is it like on the other side of the camera? In this class, you can step well beyond taking snapshots. You

will capture memories after studying resolution, point of view, image composition, brightness control, contrast

and much more. Join the fun in learning how to make basic image adjustments and evaluating your results.

Your best photos will be included in the First Exposures Photo Gallery. This class could lead you to a lifetime

of enjoyment in photography. To practice your skills, you will participate in field trips at photogenic locations.

Digital cameras and memory cards will be provided.


Instructor: Jon Foty

Discover the Creative World of Duct Tape



Duct tape was originally created by a

Minnesotan, for use during World War II. But did

you know that artists today construct amazing

sculptures using this same duct tape medium?

Join us as we explore the creative world of duct

tape art! In this class, you will have an

opportunity to design and construct a wide

variety of interesting, two and three-dimensional

works of art. Using flexible armature wire and

various other art supplies, learn how to design a

sturdy foundation for your sculpture and

transform it into a world-famous landmark.

Design your own realistic animal and give it a

unique name. Create your favorite cartoon or

gaming character, and more. Once you have

constructed your base sculptures, you will apply

colorful strips of duct tape to your creations to

make them come to life. In addition, we’ll be

brainstorming ideas for other types of duct tape

artwork and coming up with new original

ideas…the sky is the limit! Be prepared to have

a great time!



Instructor: Kris Holtmeyer

Dive Adventure




Want to go snorkeling and scuba diving? Plan on going snorkeling or

scuba diving in a coral reef someday? Are you comfortable in the

water? We will spend one entire day at a local dive shop’s pool where

we will experience the thrill of scuba diving. In the classroom, we will

explore the history, techniques and science of scuba diving. Upon

completion of this class, you will be better prepared and confident to

enroll in a scuba certification class. Note: All participants must be at

least ten years old. All paperwork must be completed correctly in

order to participate.


Instructor: Walter Johnson

WATCH VIDEO

http://www.district287.org/cf_media/index.cfm?chnl=52



Explore Music Through Piano & Guitar




Do you enjoy music? Would you like to be able to play

some fun songs on the piano and guitar while learning

more about music? No prior experience is necessary,

but if you have played either instrument before, that

will work too! Learn the basics and develop skills at

your own pace. Instruments will be provided, but you

may bring a home-owned guitar if you wish.

Note: The guitars provided are full size.


Instructor: Karen Gotz

Dukes of Ukes

Location Grades Week #

June 25-29 SEC 4-6 2


Have you ever met a sad ukulele player? Me neither!

This is your chance to learn to play and even MAKE

your own ukulele. During the course, students will build

and decorate their own high quality instrument, learn to

play cords and melodies, and develop skills necessary

to guide their own independent learning once the course

is complete. On a field trip to Groth Music, students will

participate in a “jam session.” We will celebrate the end

of the week with a concert to show off our new skills. No

previous experience required.


Instructor: Sarah Henning

Explore Strategy Beginner


June 18-22 SEC 6-12 1

What if you had an entire week of "game day" at

school? Well, this is it! When you walk into the

classroom, it'll look like we went to a board game

store and bought four of everything (which is basically

what we've done). We've picked out a collection of

the best games to challenge the minds of bright

students like you. We'll teach you rules and strategies

and then give you a lot of time to play and compete in

tournaments for prizes. High school and college age

veterans of the class will be around to help. You won't

want to leave when class is over, BUT your brain will

hurt from thinking so much that you'll have to go home

and rest. See you this summer. It's Game On!

Note: This class is the same as the "Really Awesome

Game Class" except that we include some longer and

more complex games for older students. Former

students are welcome to take this class again to learn

new games and re-visit favorites. You might also

consider the "Advanced" class or "The Ultimate

Strategy Games Tournament" to find a match for your

experience level and summer schedule.


Instructor: Jim Pekarek

Explore Strategy Advanced


June 25-29 SEC 7-12 2

The advanced class builds on games taught in the beginner

class and the “Really Awesome Game Class.” In this advanced

class, we will spend less time teaching the basics of these

games and more time exploring strategies through class

discussion. Students will have opportunities to learn new games

and get better at the ones they already know. This class

features more total time to play than the beginner classes, and

tournaments involving more advanced games. Warning: This

class will make you think so hard, your brain will hurt.

Note: “The Ultimate Strategy Games Tournament” class is

similar to the advanced class and might also be considered to fit

your schedule.



Explore Strategy Advanced 2.0



The advanced class builds on games taught in the beginner class and the "Really Awesome Game Class.” We

will spend less time teaching games and more time developing strategies. This class will look different from

advanced classes in the past. Advanced 2.0 will place an emphasis on the longer, campaign length games

such as Ikusa, Twilight Struggle, Fortress America, Axis & Allies, Diplomacy, Game of Thrones the board

game, and new games like 1775 The American Revolution. Students will play a campaign game each day and

then spend time at the end with shorter games. The tournament structure will have a new format that invites

learning new games. While for experienced players, new students with high ability and focus are welcome to

join this class. This just might be the best game class ever!

Note: "The Ultimate Strategy Games Tournament" is similar to this class and might also be considered to fit

your summer schedule.



From Story to Stage




Calling all 4th and 5th grade actors, writers and directors.

This is the class you’ve been waiting for! Over the course

of a week, you will brainstorm story ideas, improvise a

script, rehearse the script, and of course, perform the

script! You will realize your hidden talents through theatre

exercises and improvisation games, as well as explore the

far reaches of your imagination. Don’t miss this

opportunity to write and perform in your very own show,

created by you and a group of like-minded friends.


Instructor: Liz McAllister

Future Problem Solving



Creative thinking and problem solving skills are

combined with a six-step writing process to give

students a foundation for excellent research and

writing skills. Students work in teams of four to solve

the problems of the future! If you enjoy researching

current topics and writing about what you learned,

then Future Problem Solving (FPS) is for you. Using

written and verbal communication skills are part of the

process. Students work both independently and in

small groups as they follow the FPS steps. At the

culmination of the writing process, students create a

skit based on their written work.


Instructor: Beth Benezra

Great Artists, Great Art





Do you know how to splatter paint or make a self-

portrait? In this class we will delve into many great artists

and create some of our own masterpieces using their

style and technique. You will even create a style and

technique of your own. We will complete the class with a

display at our own art exhibit. A field trip to the

Minneapolis Institute of Arts will be included.


Instructor: Anne Uselman

Harry Potter Hullabaloo III



Jump into your Harry Potter portal or use your floo

powder to transport yourself back to Hogwarts for

another great session of Harry Potter fun. This class

will take us further into the magical world of Harry

Potter’s adventures. You will tame a spinning serpent

in Hagrid’s Magical Creature Class, create

Abracadabra candy in Spells Class, design and create

a Harry Potter Prophecy game, make a dancing wand

and more! We’ll create the Ministry of Magic where

you and your friends will visit magical “rooms”. Watch

out for the falling prophecy orbs. Don’t worry if you

haven’t taken Harry Potter Hullabaloo I or Harry Potter

Hullabaloo II. You can still apparate right into the fun!



Harry Potter Hullabaloo I



Are you a Harry Potter fan? Come join us as we delve

into the magical world of Harry Potter. We will

creatively discuss the HP books, make fizzy potions,

secret treasure maps and magic wands, host a

“quidditch” tournament, design a fantasy creature, and

lots more. We will even set up shops on Diagon Alley

where you will design and make magical products to

sell in your shop. Don’t be a boring muggle. Come join

the fun!



Harry Potter Hullabaloo II



Jump on the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 ¾ for

another great session of Harry Potter fun. This class will

take us further into the magical world of Harry Potter’s

adventures. We will design and create our own Tri-cup

tournament, plant mandrakes in Professor Sprout’s

Herbology Class, send owlers to your friends and

experiment with delectable concoctions in our

Honeydukes cooking class and more! Don’t worry if you

haven’t taken Harry Potter Hullaballoo I. You can still

jump right into the fun!



Ingenious Engineers!




In this class, you will study Newton’s Laws of Motion and

basic construction principles that help engineers design

bridges and roller coasters. You will apply what you learn

in building bridges and roller coasters on computers, just

as engineers do, before building bridges made of balsa

wood and roller coasters made of tubes and marbles.

Your bridge may hold more than 500 times its weight.

Your roller coaster can include, loops, helixes and cork

screws. The week will culminate with three hours of fun at

Nickelodeon Universe.


Instructor: John Foty

Invent and Present


June 18-22 SEC 3-6 1


Have you ever put two toys together, added something to

a toy or made a toy from a recycled object? Well – then

YOU are an inventor! This class will help you focus your

abilities to be flexible and to recognize that you can design

an original solution to a problem. Students will identify

problems, invent solutions and build a model. Students will

also learn how to diagram, use graphics to communicate

to an audience and present their ideas at our Invention

Fair the last day of class.


Instructor: Mindy Peabody Schroeder

Introduction to Photography

(Formerly Photography 101)


June 25-29 SEC 3-5 2

In this class we will observe the plants and animals around

us as photographers. We will use the camera to take black

and white photos and up-close macro pictures; learn

techniques to improve picture quality; and learn how to

download photos onto a flash drive. Students will practice

their photography skills on a field trip to the Como Zoo.

We will create a PowerPoint slideshow of our best work,

along with a journal that has photography tips we learn

throughout the week. Cameras and flash drives will be

provided. Students will take all of their work home on the

flash drive provided.


Instructor: Jennifer Olson

It’s a Secret! It Really is Math: Part 2



The world is made of math, and I don’t mean workbooks, and

packets. Almost everything we do each day has a

component of math. This class will involve logic problems,

the stock market, creating your own board game, food,

finance, and sports statistics. All because of math! A field

trip to a bowling alley will be included.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT VIDEO


Instructor: Judy Daily

It’s a Secret! It Really is Math: Part 1


June 25-29 SEC 3-5 2

Almost everything we do each day has a component of

math. This class will involve the stock market, art,

games, thinking skills, remote control vehicles and

sports statistics. A field trip to play mini-golf is included.

Come have fun with Math!



WATCH VIDEO




Library Games:

Inspired by the Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series




Based on the award-winning Mr. Lemoncello series by

Chris Grabenstein, students will participate in a variety

of literary challenges and fact-finding missions to free

themselves from each day’s conundrum. We will

dabble in making commercials, programming robots,

and building simple machines to bring out dream

libraries to life! Bring your favorite book(s) to include in

the adventures! A field trip to the Minneapolis Central

Library will be included.


Instructor: Lisa Dooley

Live Artfully! (formerly Artists of the Future)





What we play is life, and what we create is art. Join

us as we play and create in a world of art, where if

you can imagine it, you can create it. If you dream it,

you can become it. We will learn together as we

explore and experiment with the elements and

principals of design. We will create artwork

incorporating 3D illusions, watercolors, acrylics,

cartooning, pastels, nail art and digital photography.

We will tour the Minneapolis Institute of Art to

discover the many aspects of art through Andy

Warhol, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Vincent van

Gogh, and Salvador Dali. Remember, art has a life

of its own - so join us, and live artfully!


Instructor: Jill Denk

Magnificent Makers

Dates Location Grades Week

#

June 18-22 SEC 4-7 1

Everyone is a maker! Find your passion during Genius Hour

(open ended exploration) using Makerspace activities in arts

and crafts, electricity, construction, coding, robotics,

engineering and more. It’s hands-on learning.

“The thing you make is evidence that you did something.

There is also an entire process behind making that can be

talked about and shared with others. Making is not just

explaining the technical process; its also about the

communication of what you’ve done. The goal is to not only

give kids tools to build the things they can imagine, but to

also imagine the world that they can build.” We will use

these Makerspace activities (but not limited to): Makey-

Makey, Snap Circuits, Squishy Circuits, K’nex, Keva Planks,

Straw Building, Design Extraordinaire, Finger Knitting,

Action Contraptions, Electric Jewelry, Ozobots, MiP Drones,

Lego We Do, Raspberry Pi and Rigamajigs. Robotic

activities will depend on availability. Stretch your brain!

Come join the fun for a fast paced week of creativity!



Mix It Up





Do you get tired of doing the same thing? Do you like

to try lots of different activities during the day? Do you

like to try things that stimulate you intellectually, but

also stretch you physically? If so, this class is for you.

Activities will include:

• Writing a book of different types of poetry

• Creating a bit of art

• Learning and playing a variety of strategy board

games

• Working with challenging math problems

• Doing Yoga

• Solving a variety of puzzles

• Working in groups on science and engineering

based problems

• Cooking and baking treats

*Please note: Treats include dairy, gluten,

chocolate and peanut butter. Parents may provide

substitutes if needed.


Instructor: Robyn Roub

Mini-Reef Aquarium


June 25-29 SEC 3-7 2

Bring home a strikingly beautiful mini-reef aquarium that

adds interest and conversation to any room. Your three

gallon, crystal clear, all glass desktop aquarium will be

where you and your family and friends can conveniently

watch tiny invertebrates creep and crawl out of “live rock”

while your reef fish peacefully plays in the current. Take

the “plunge” and enter the exciting world of macro

invertebrates and begin or continue your study of aquarium

science. You will set up your mini-reef aquarium, complete

with live rock and a fish, in our classroom. The last day of

class, you will bring your completed aquarium home with

you. Crabs, sea stars, anemones, sea urchins, algae,

snails, shrimp, clams, coral reef fish, and more will be

discussed. Get your hands wet as this “hands on” class

allows you to enjoy direct observation and study of your

marine creatures. Expand your working knowledge of

biology, chemistry, math and more! The hobby of saltwater

aquarium-keeping can last a lifetime! We will spend an

entire day touring a group of selected marine aquarium

shops in the metro area.



Mock Trial Introductory



If you are interested in experiencing the exhilaration of

live courtroom drama, this is the class for you!

This class has it all: individual and cooperative learning

activities, historical analysis of case law, a humorous

yet alarming look at recent frivolous lawsuits, and the

hands-on and highly engaging activity of participating in

actual court cases. Students will take on various roles

such as prosecutor and defense attorney, witness, jury

member, and maybe even serve as the judge, as they

enhance their communication skills and their

understanding of our legal system. On Wednesday, we

will travel to the Hennepin County Courthouse to

experience the legal system first-hand. Our class will

culminate with a final case, with each student taking a

legal role in the trial, and with parents and siblings

serving as the jury. The final court case allows parents

to see the outstanding effort and tremendous ability

exhibited by all of our students.


Instructors: Cory Knudtson, Sean Padden

Mock Trial 3 Advanced Legal Advocacy and Trial Practice



This class is designed for students who like to argue, make

friends, work hard, and most importantly, have fun while

they learn! We will visit the Hennepin County Courthouse to

observe the criminal system first hand, visit a law school to

speak with professors and aspiring lawyers, and continue to

learn more in depth trial practice. Each student will take on

the role of plaintiff, prosecuting attorney, defense attorney,

witness, judge, and jury as they sharpen their understanding

of the courts. Instructor Cory Knudtson will share his

experience as a lawyer as we explore crime and

punishment in the past, present, and future. Students will

analyze historical court cases, prepare and deliver

arguments, utilize technology to research and present

arguments along with evidence based on the record, and

discuss strategies as they create and anticipate

arguments. We will also learn more about various aspects

of non-trial practice, including jury selection, introducing

evidence before the trial, and interviewing witnesses.


Instructors: Cory Knudtson, Sean Padden

Mummies, Pharaohs & Pyramids: Discover Ancient Egypt



Do you think that mummies are the only cool thing about

the Ancient Egyptians? Think again! In this course, you

will find out that the Egyptian society really was amazing.

You’ll immerse yourself in the life and times of the

Egyptians, and learn secret codes and systems, how to

preserve a mummy, Egyptian mythology, and more about

their amazing secret tombs. We will also see a real

mummy at the Science Museum of Minnesota. Get ready

to explore Ancient Egypt!


Instructor: Denise DuBois

Musical Improv Theater (M.I.T.)



Welcome to Musical Improv Theater (or M.I.T. for short)! In

this class, students will create and perform theatrical

performances using unconventional and handmade

instruments in a similar fashion to the junkyard percussion

group “Stomp.” Through the process of making their own

instruments and creating their own stories, students will

learn the value of improvisation. Creativity will be explored

through interactive, hands-on learning activities. By the end

of this experience, students will have learned the basic

elements of storytelling, theater and stage terminology, and

basic percussion rhythms. In addition to performances the

last day of class, recordings of performances will be on

display. Come join in the fun!


Instructor: Daniel Georgakopoulos

Mythical Creatures and Where to Find Them



June 25-29 SEC 4-6 2

Ever wonder what it would be like to grapple with a Gryphon?

Battle with a Basilisk? Have you ever pondered where the

legend of the Phoenix came from? If so, then this is the class

for you. We will investigate the origins and depictions of

various mythical creatures throughout human history and

across cultures. By examining the creatures through the study

of literature, art and film, we will deepen our understanding of

the beasts while investigating how these creatures are

depicted in popular modern works such as Harry Potter and

The Lord of the Rings. By course end, students will have

created a website dedicated to the mythical creature of their

choice. Hope to see you there!


Instructor: Sean Kern

Mysterious Millions




Technology is king in this class. Students have walked

away from the class wanting to sign up again next

summer because of the countless ways they can create

many projects. The course integrates math, reading,

writing, art and creativity using mysteries and millions as

the theme. The students will use PowerPoint, Excel

spreadsheets, word processing, the Internet and digital

cameras. They will be involved in a competition to see

who can win the most money in an art auction game as

they explore the size of a million. The students will also be

challenged to read one million words before the class is

over!


Instructor: Steve Auer

Native American Arts and Crafts



Do you enjoy Native American legends? Are you a person

who likes to make art of many different types? This week

we will explore legends and create artwork from all five

major Native American culture regions, including

dreamcatchers, toys, shelters, clothing and pottery. We

will also take a fieldtrip to the Minneapolis Institute of Art

to view the Native American art exhibit.



Not Quite Brain Surgery




Code Red! Code Red! We need all surgeons to report

immediately for a crash course on brains! You will have

the opportunity to learn about your nervous system,

diseases of the brain, create brain puzzles, and

participate in heated battles of Cranium and Chess. You

will not only visit the Science Museum, but you will also

be able to create a PowerPoint to show off what you

have learned. To top it off, brain specimens will be

available to dissect! This course is wonderful for the

“brainy” student who wants to get a “head” of the others.


Instructor: Steve Auer

One Act Play




Have you always wanted to star in a Broadway play or

maybe just be one of the supporting cast or crew? Do you

have lots of on-stage experience or maybe absolutely none

at all? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then

we have the opportunity for you! You can be part of a once-

act production this summer taking place in your West

Suburban Summer School classroom. Students will

memorize lines, create props and set decorations, and

produce a fabulous show which will be performed for family

and friends.


Instructors: Beth Benezra, Jacy Lawrence

No Fear Shakespeare!




Just what do you think you know about Shakespeare

anyway? Come explore the world of the bard in this

weeklong intensive literature course. It’s far more than

merely reading old books, as we’ll undertake model-building

projects, take a tour of the Guthrie Theater, and see several

plays staged live, just for this class! Students will receive

their own No Fear Shakespeare mini-library-to keep! We’re

even going to write sonnets. If you don’t know what that is,

it’s totally okay. Just come and learn with us!


Instructor: Daniel Reynolds

Our Big Backyard





We all have lots of fun learning about fascinating and far away creatures like elephants, giraffes, rhinos and cheetahs, but

how about all the amazing and diverse animal inhabitants of our great state of Minnesota? We will learn what flies, hops,

runs, swims and crawls across our state and what adaptations allow them to live in a place where the average temperature

can vary up to 140 degrees over 12 months. Everybody knows about the Bald Eagle, the Northern Pike, and the Beaver,

but what about the Loggerhead Shrike, the Plain Hog Nosed Snake and the Paddle Fish? This class will be a fun interactive

look at our animal friends right here at home with a class visit and instruction from the MN Raptor Center and the MN Zoo’s

Zoomobile. In addition, we will enjoy a field trip to the Nature Center to learn about abundant wildlife contained in

Minnesota ponds. Students will work in teams and individually as they reason, do research, create presentations using

different mediums, build presentation skills, and learn how to be a responsible citizen with nature’s resources. We will use

math skills, reading and communications skills as we discover Minnesota critters!


Instructor: Ben Roub

Origami Art: Awesome Yoda to Beautiful Jewelry




Go beyond the basics of origami. Fold origami models from

one piece of paper, including an amazing Yoda! Create

beautiful origami jewelry, buttons, magnets, flowers, and

ornaments. Fold and assemble origami units to create

fantastic three-dimensional models. Master the use of

diagrams when folding models. Learn how to select and

create special paper for folding. Finally, try your hand at

creating your own origami models. You may take this

course multiple times and learn different models over the

summer!


Instructor: Steven Rollin

Opera Workshop



Do you like to sing? Do you like to act? Are you

creative? Do you wish to have your imagination come

to life? Then join the Opera Workshop where students

get the opportunity to create their own opera from

scratch! From learning how to compose music and a

storyline libretto to creating choreography and

costumes, this course requires teamwork along with

individual creativity. It is very satisfying to experience

something you have created yourself so why not share

it with an audience?


Instructor: Amy Erlandson

Polar Opposites! Penguins, Polar Bears and Whales



Some like it cold and some like it colder! Are you

interested in penguins? What about polar bears? Do

you know these cold loving creatures are polar

opposites? In this class you will learn about these

majestic ice dwellers and discover why they are so well

adapted to life in their extreme environments. You will

also learn about the powerful, awesome whales that

are at home in both arctic regions. Get ready for some

COOL learning! A trip to the Como Zoo to observe the

polar bears and penguins will be included.



Puzzle Island


June 25-29 SEC 3-6 2


Do puzzles drive you crazy? This class is all about puzzles, including brain teasers, logic problems, visual, physical, word,

math and science puzzles; mazes, hidden pictures; codes and ciphers; optical illusions; games and much more. If you are

crazy about puzzles, this class may drive you crazy. Come and join the fun!


Instructor: Dana Jensen

Propaganda and Policy Debate



Are you the kid that likes to have the last word in an

argument? Do adults tell you that you’d be a great lawyer or

President of the United State? If you love to perform logical

and creative feats while thinking on your feet, this course is for

you. We will learn how to argue with class, style, and most

importantly, FACTS! We will learn to think in circles around our

opposition while presenting our arguments with poise and

grace. We will learn how to research, to figure out when we

are being tricked by words and images (propaganda), and

most importantly, we will practice debating and solving real-

world issues.


Instructor: Julia Fromm

Ready! Set! Action!




Would you like to be a star? Do you want to write your own play? You will write your own script, design your own scenery,

and act in a play! Have fun writing and performing in your very own show, created by you and your classmates.

Join us and improve your writing skills.


Instructor: Julie Sotak

Really Awesome Game Class



What if you had an entire week of "game day" at school? Well, this is it! When you walk into the classroom, it'll look like

we went to a board game store and bought four of everything (which is basically what we've done). We've picked out a

collection of the best games to challenge the minds of bright girls and boys like you. We'll teach you rules and strategies

and give you a lot of time to play and compete in tournaments for prizes. High school and college age veterans of this and

the "Explore Strategy" classes will be around to help. You won't want to leave when class is over, BUT your brain will hurt

from thinking so much that you'll have to go home and rest. See you this summer. It's Game On!

Note: Former students are welcome to take this class again to learn new games and re-visit favorites.

You might also consider the "Explore Strategy" classes or "The Ultimate Strategy Games Tournament" to find a match for

your age range and summer schedule.



Secret Formulas


June 18-22 SEC 2-4 1

June 25-29 SEC 2-4 2


Students investigate the properties of substances as they

make their own personal brands of paste, toothpaste,

cola, and ice cream. The activities have been carefully

designed to convey key science and mathematics skills

and concepts, provide motivating real-life experiences

with chemistry and build students’ understanding of cause

and effect, central to later understanding of controlled

experimentation. These fun and engaging labs create a

very positive early experience with chemistry. Students

will also participate in a field trip during the week –

destination to be determined.


Instructor: Carla Wallace (Wk. 1, 2), Julie Sotak (Wk. 5)

Scratch Programming Workshop




Create your own games, programs and animations

and share them with your friends! Learn how to use

Scratch, a visual programming language that helps

you design and code your own programs. In this

class you will develop new programming skills and

have opportunities to build programs and games

that you want to invent. As you finish your projects,

you can choose to share them on the Scratch

website so that your friends and family can

experience them too. Come see what you can

design!


Instructor: Kareena Kraemer

Shark Mania


June 18-22 SEC 5-9 1


Can’t get enough of sharks? Then this class is for you.

Have fun learning all about sharks in this “hands on”

class. You will make a key to identify the sharks of the

world and view the dissection of a shark. You will also

go on a field trip to Sea Life Aquarium, where you will

snorkel in the coral reef exhibit; get a behind the

scenes tour of the shark exhibits; fabric paint a t-shirt

with sharks; and much, much, more!



Speaking Made Easy and Fun: Part 1



You know those people who say “um” and “you know” all the

time when they speak? Don’t be like them! Be the student

who stands up and delivers the answer. From now until you

finish college you will be expected to deliver presentations for

grades. Come and learn how - NOW -while it is fun. Learn

the skills that will help you to speak like a pro.



A Spin Through the Universe


June 18-22 SEC 3-5 1


This course will teach you about our solar system, space

travel, and the universe beyond our own Milky Way. Learn

about the special characteristics of each of the eight planets

(and why Pluto doesn’t count anymore). Build a scale model

of the solar system to see how far apart the planets really

are. See 3-D Images taken by the Mars Rover and NASA

satellites and then make your own planetary diorama based

on what you’ve observed. Build rockets that can launch

across football fields while learning about the physics of

flight and rocketry. Take a virtual trip to the International

Space Station and use a 3-D printer to design and build

different tools and equipment to help the astronauts on

board. This course promises to be out-of-this-world fun!


Instructor: Nathan Edwards

Speaking Made Easy and Fun: Part 2


June 18-22 SEC 7-9 1

You know those people who say “um” and “you know”

all the time when they speak? Don’t be like them! Be

the student who stands up and delivers the answer.

From now until you finish college you will be expected

to deliver presentations for grades. You’ll have lots of

fun opportunities to practice speaking in front of a

group.



S.T.E.M. Explorers




Put on your captain’s hat and set sail on a STEM adventure! Each day we will learn about the Scientific Method by doing fun

experiments and about the Engineering Design Process through building different types of bridges and testing their strength.

You will sail away with 10 Problem Solving Strategies for solving math and logic problems that you will be able to use for years

to come. Set your compass to discover some new technology as you create and program simple robots, practice math facts

with the OSMO and complete coding challenges with the Ozobots. You won’t want to come back to land!


Instructor: Lisa-Marie Stienessen

Summer Chamber Music: Make Music with Friends!




Do you play an instrument? Come spend a week making music

with friends in a chamber ensemble setting. Chamber music is

where you play without a conductor and get to take charge of all

the aspects of music making. You’ll learn how to work together

to rehearse a piece, how to apply music theory, and how to

conduct research to learn more about the music. The course

will include visits from professional area musicians who will

share their stories and talents with us. You will also take a field

trip to observe a rehearsal of professional musicians and learn

from what they do. All middle school and high school

instrumentalists (student who play band and orchestra

instruments or piano or guitar) are welcome.

Students should have at least one year of experience on

their instrument, and students from last year may return to

study all new music. Students should plan on bringing

their instrument to class every day.


Instructor: Alexandra Carlson

Teen Textiles




Do you love to design and create homemade gifts? Do

people ever tell you that you have “style?” Using knitting

and other handcraft techniques, we will explore textile-

based projects in Teen Textiles. Personalization is the

key, so whether you’re experienced or new to knitting and

sewing, you will find the class full of creative inspiration. A

field trip will be included.


Instructor: Emily Wyse Moore

Textile Studio Art


June 25-29 SEC 7-9 2


This is a studio class focusing on creating art through

different types of textiles. Students will work with stenciling,

embroidering, sewing, weaving and pattern making. We will

explore the use of textiles throughout history in art and

design. Students will create original art including a woven

project, a self designed plush toy, an embroidered and

stenciled bag, and a fine art piece using mixed media.


Instructor: Kristina Makousky

“That’s a Wrap” Film Making




This class is designed as an introduction to various film making software: WeVideo, iMovie, Stop Motion animation and

green screen. Mornings will be spent learning the software in a step by step guidance model where the instructor

shows students how to incorporate technical pieces (e.g.sound) and students will practice doing it. In the afternoon,

students will expand their knowledge and collaborate with peers to create a product.


Instructor: Lon Peralez

Thinking with Your Hands


June 25-29 SEC 2-4 2



You will be making the coolest K'NEX constructions

ever when you learn how your imagination works.

Practice being fluent, flexible, elaborate and original

thinkers. Students will use K'NEX to solve problems

and find solutions for a variety of independent and

group challenges. Identify your creative thinking skills

and then practice how to present your solutions. On

Friday, families are invited to see displays and learn

about our final solutions of the week.



Instructor: Mindy Peabody Schroeder

Time and Time Travel



Time. Time to go. Time to start. No time to waste. Hurry! Stop!

What is time? In this class, we’re going to look at time—from

sun movement and sundials to rice hourglasses the size of the

one in the Wizard of Oz; from water clocks and the phases of

the moon to the seasons and tides. We will also explore parts of

Stephen Hawking’s A Brief History of Time. We will talk about

telling time and what “time” is. As history is the passage of time,

each student will research and make a timeline of THEIR

favorite ten years of history. In addition, we will explore nuclear

decay clocks and the speed of light as a measure of time and

distance. It’s all related and it’s all exciting. Finally, students will

pick a moment in their favorite decade and change what

happened. What if we hadn’t landed on the moon? What if

Columbus had been turned down by Queen Isabella? What if

China had decided to explore the world? It’s going to be a very

twisty ride! A field trip to the History Center in included.



WATCH VIDEO






The Twenty-First Century Young Composer



Note: Students who were involved in the course last

year are encouraged to attend again this summer, as we

will work on different projects.

Cat got your tongue? Explore using music composition as a

means of expression and communication! This course is

designed for students with an interest in music who would

like to try their hand at composing. Students at all levels of

music composition experience are invited to enroll in this

course and will receive individualized coaching as they work

on their compositions. We will have lessons on a variety of

topics and levels to meet the needs of a diverse class. In

addition to expanding their music composition skills,

students will delve into the role of music and composers in

society and will critically debate several issues that arise in

the business of music. Students will collaborate to

experiment with writing for different instruments and will

perform each other’s compositions. The course will include a

mid-week field trip to The Schubert Club museum and

Backstage at The Ordway. The week will conclude with a

performance of students’ original works. Students enrolled in

this course should have experience singing and playing from

written music and should plan to bring their instruments and

voices to class each day!



Instructor: Mary Beth Huttlin

The Ultimate Strategy Games Tournament



The Ultimate Strategy Games Tournament is similar

to the Explore Strategy Advanced class. Students will

be older than the beginner classes, the level of

competition higher, and class discussions more

sophisticated. The unique feature to this class is the

week-long tournament that involves the games from

all of the classes. Games will be placed on a points

chart, thus maximizing student choice and variety

within the tournament. This class is the grand finale of

the strategy games season.



WATCH VIDEO




Unlocking the Moli Stone


June 18-22 SEC 3-4 1

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a

mathematician on an archeological dig for ancient

numerical systems? Imagine going to rural China, Egypt

or Rome in the quest for the ancient Moli Stone which is

similar to the Rosetta Stone. You have been requested to

unravel the mysteries of numeration systems etched on

this stone. During the duration of this course you will learn

in-depth about place value, base systems and face

systems of counting from around the world, from ancient

to more modern times. You will explore the importance

and use of symbols in representing different numbers.

Throughout the week you will use your knowledge of

number systems to solve the mystery. By the end of the

week you will form your own archeological team of

mathematicians for your dig site. Your team will quest to

develop your own stone with an original numerical system

to be decoded by your classmates or fellow teams of

mathematicians.


Instructor: Kari Govig

What’s Baking?


June 18-22 SEC 3-6 1

June 25-29 SEC 3-6 2

Whether you already enjoy the fun of baking, or are

brand new to baking, this class is for you. During this

week we will mix, blend, and bake a fun variety of

cookies, breads and rolls. You will learn the basics of

baking, how to measure ingredients, and the science

behind common baking ingredients. Over the course of

this week we will make and eat a variety of cookie types

- drop, rolled, sandwich—as well as a variety of breads

and rolls. The class is a small hands-on class where you

will have the opportunity to make the recipe from start to

finish. Then you can continue to bake your favorite

recipe from the class the rest of the year. Join us in a

kitchen surrounded by the delicious tastes and smells of

baking. Your family will be thrilled when you come home

every night with freshly baked goodies for them to eat!

Additional Fees:

$50.00

Instructor: Jane Zins

The Wooden Spoon:



Is working hard, thinking on your feet, and earning a profit your idea of a good time? Do you have a generous spirit and

enjoy helping others? The Wooden Spoon project needs your entrepreneurial mindset and charitable attitude. In this

course, you will gain knowledge of what running a small business entails, including, but not limited to, designing a

product, securing a bank loan, choosing marketing strategies, and using basic statistics to make decisions. Everything

we do will be in preparation for an authentic experience - helping run Rock Elm, a local restaurant. The money raised

at the restaurant will be presented in person to the staff of I.O.C.P. (Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners). We

will tour the nonprofit organization on the last day of class, learning about how they provide food, clothing, housing,

childcare, and job resources to families in need. With the right knowledge and skills, motivated and talented individuals

can truly make a difference in this world. Join this small business endeavor to be one of them!

Note: To allow more students the opportunity to experience the Wooden Spoon, we ask that previous

participants not register for this class.


Instructor: Samantha Heitke

The Worlds of Historical Fiction: Plague,

Speakeasies, and War



Are you a curious novelist exploring uncharted genres or

are you a current writer of the past seeking new

adventures? This class is a unique and exciting

introduction to the genre and craft of historical fiction, for

aspiring authors and curious students - anyone with a

passion for the past. Read student-written examples of the

genre, dive into the process of historical research, and be

challenged by an encounter with an elaborate writing

process - similar to a college-level writing assignment.

Join us in “The Worlds of Historical Fiction,” transcend to

an inspiring era and write your own piece of history.


Instructor: Alyssa Meyerdirk

Writing to Get Published





If writing poetry, personal essays, “how-to” articles,

interviews, letters-to-editors, children’s stories, short stories,

skits, 5-minute mysteries and flash fiction are your idea of a

good time, then maybe this class is for you. After some time

of discussion and warm ups, we’ll spend time writing in the

classroom or in the computer lab revising. Our goal will be

to send out one of your pieces to a venue that you will find—

though I’ll be watching over your shoulders and making

suggestions! I will be teacher, inspiration, editor and coach

as well as marketing manager. I will critique the work of

every student to help them clarify what it is they want to say,

discover how to more tightly focus their writing and make

editorial suggestions on how to polish their writing. We will

also post student work to an online blogsite called FirsTime.



Writers Unite!



Do you love writing? Consider this creative writing class for

beginners. In this class, students are tasked with writing a

short story or creating a short graphic novel in five days.

With their instructor, they will go over the elements

involved in creating a short story, whether fiction or non-

fiction, and turn it into a full blown story by the end of the

week.


Instructor: Sara Wakeham

Young Architects



Let's build some structures and learn why they

stand strong! In this class students will learn

some history of Architecture, study famous

architects, learn the basics of loads and weight

distribution... and build lots of structures.

Activities will include building weight-bearing

structures; tall structures; sculptural architecture;

and building design. Students will keep a

sketchbook to take class notes, design buildings

and solve architectural problems.



Instructor: Harry Pulver

WATCH VIDEO

Youth Theater Live! On-Stage


June 18-22

Part 1

Woodland 4-8 1

June 25-29

Part 2

Woodland 4-8 2

Ever been in a play before? Join us for a 10-day excursion into the

limelight, as we produce a 40 minute theatrical piece from the ground

up. More than just memorizing lines, this will be an ensemble-driven

project that focuses on team-building, personal responsibility, and

hard work...with a healthy dose of mandatory fun! So whether you

have just gotten your callbacks from Children’s Theatre Company, or

you’ve never been on stage, there’s a place for you this summer in

Youth Theater Live!

Note: There are two parts to this class. Students MUST register

for Part 1 (June 18-22) and Part 2 (June 25-29) to participate.

Additional Fees: $20.00 per week. Total $40.00

Instructor: Daniel Reynolds




Zoology Inside and Out 2018



Zoology is the study of animals. Students will dissect

frogs, squid and fetal pigs. In addition, students will

make a super insect collection to take home and a

terrarium for a lucky cricket. Nature hikes, pond

exploration, making a bat craft mascot, and learning

about birds' feet, beaks and nests are some of the

other activities included in this class. And finally, to

enhance our study of animals, students will go on

three field trips: The Raptor Center and Vet School,

Como Zoo and the Humane Society.


Instructor: Bryan Olson

Click Here to Return to Class List

Young Writers’ Workshop


June 18-22 SEC 2-4 1


Do you like to write? Do you enjoy the magic of books

and words? This class will be a time to imagine, create

and share a wide variety of poems, stories and other

types of writing. Each student will write (and illustrate)

several beautiful and fun stories and also put together

a book of all the wonderful poems written throughout

the course. How would you finish this line: “The stars

are like…?”


Instructor: Dana Jensen

Meet our West Suburban Summer School Teachers

Steve Auer has thirty-two years of teaching

experience with elementary and middle school

students and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and

Instruction. He currently teaches sixth grade math at

Maple Grove Middle School in the Osseo School

District.

Sarah (Menk) Bailey is a sixth grade Social Studies

teacher and former gifted education teacher in District

279. She holds a degree in Social Studies, a reading

licensure and a Master’s Degree in Education. She is

passionate about learning and providing challenge for

even the most voracious students. Mrs. Bailey loves

providing unique and memorable learning experiences

for her classes and WSSS is a great place to do so.

Beth Benezra is the media specialist at Wayzata East

Middle School. Instructing students regarding practical

research strategies using critical thinking skills is a

priority in the media curriculum. This background is

helpful to coaching the Future Problem Solving (FPS)

teams at Wayzata East. Most of the FPS teams during

her tenure as coach advance to the State competition

and, in addition, one team has qualified for and

participated in the Future Problem Solving

International competition. Bringing this experience to

WSSS provides the foundation needed to work with

the summer school students. She really enjoys the

intensive yet relaxed environment that the summer

program provides. More information on the Minnesota

Future Problem Solving program can be found at:

http://www.mnfpsp.org/.

Bryan Bjorlin is a first grade teacher in the

Robbinsdale Public School District who loves social

studies. Helping students become better citizens is

one of his primary goals in teaching.

Alexandra Carlson Instrumental music teacher and

oboist, Lexi Carlson is thrilled to return to her home

state of Minnesota for the summer. She currently

teaches band, chamber music, choir, piano and guitar

at Syracuse Academy in Syracuse, NY. You will find

her playing and singing in groups around central

New York. She holds a Master’s in Music Education

from the University of Colorado and a Bachelor’s

Degree from Northwestern University in Oboe

Performance and History. She lived for over three

years in South America, where she performed with

a Chilean orchestra and taught with the Venezuelan

youth orchestra program, El Sistema. In her spare

time, she plays Ultimate Frisbee, bakes and does

crossword puzzles.

Judy Daily has been involved in public speaking since

1989, giving presentations in Canada and Singapore

on how to be a better speaker, and to corporations

around the Twin Cities. She is a past winner of the

nationwide Canada Day Speech Contest. Mrs. Daily

has also presented workshops for students and

teachers on how to have fun with math. She has taught

and volunteered with elementary and middle school

students both in Canada and here in Minnesota.

Jill Denk teaches 6th grade Social Studies at Maple

Grove Middle School. She is excited to begin her third

summer at West Suburban Summer School. Her

PACKER and BADGER pride are strong, as she grew

up in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Outside of school

commitments, she loves to be active in sports -

basketball, volleyball, softball, swimming - you name it!

She also enjoys relaxing at the lake with her family,

especially her two nephews.

Lisa Dooley is the Media Specialist at Highlands

Elementary School in Edina, where she facilitates the

weekly news show, instructs students in research and

information literacy skills, and has climbed aboard the

maker movement in helping facilitate a learning lab

with robotics, DIY supplies, and a 3D printer among

other things. In her free time she enjoys commuter

biking, reading and Tai Chi (but never all at the same

time!).

Denise DuBois is a primary grade teacher in an

Exceptionally Gifted and Talented classroom in the

Bloomington Schools. She has more than twenty years

of experience teaching the gifted population, and

thoroughly enjoys the opportunities to offer enriched

learning for high-ability students.

Nate Edwards received his MA in Education from

Bethel University and has been teaching for almost

nine years. Mr. Edwards currently teaches grades

three to five at Poplar Bridge Elementary School in

Bloomington. He's been curious about our country, our

world and our universe for many years. One of his

coolest "space" memories growing up was celebrating

the 20th anniversary of the moon landing by visiting

the Griffith Observatory in California. When he's not

teaching, Mr. Edwards is an avid performer and

children's speaker. He has visited and performed with

puppets, music and illusions all across the country, as

well as in Europe and Africa. He loves incorporating

his talents into the classroom.

You'll never quite know what to expect!


Amy Erlandson is a native Minnesotan from

Maplewood. She received her Bachelors of Music in

Music Education at St. Olaf College in Northfield

where she was a member of the St. Olaf Choir, the

St. Olaf Chamber Singers, and St. Olaf’s nationally

ranking Women’s Ultimate Frisbee team. Amy had a

variety of experienced working in the St. Olaf Music

Organizations Office, St. Olaf’s Performance

Ensemble Library, as well as directing the children’s

choir at First UCC in Northfield. Amy is currently the

Youth Director of Music at St. John’s Lutheran

Church in Lakeville MN.

Betsy Fine is the Behavior Intervention Teacher at

Weaver Lake Science, Technology, Engineering and

Math Magnet in the Osseo School District. During her

27 year teaching career, she has taught second

grade, sixth grade, Gifted and Talented, and ELL.

She receives her energy from working with students

as they persevere, solve problems and produce

quality work. Mrs. Fine is excited to team with Mrs.

Bailey to offer an awesome summer experience!

John Foty has a Master’s Degree in Gifted and

Talented Education and over twenty-five years of

gifted teaching experience. Presently, Mr. Foty is

teaching gifted children in Delano Schools. He is an

advanced amateur photographer with many years

working in a color photographic darkroom and using

Photoshop. For the past thirteen years, Mr. Foty has

been creating digital images with a focus on nature

photography. He has taught WSSS since 1989. He

loves to challenge his students with hands on

activities that apply new learning.

Ray Frigard is an artist, inventor, industrial designer,

author, and educator. Mr. Frigard currently is the

artist in residence at Our Savior Lutheran School, has

exhibited sculptures in a number of juried shows and

is named on a diverse range of patents including

Rollerblades, cameras, sailboats and toys. He has

licensed concepts with many of the leading toy

companies and has won several notable creativity

awards. He has also modeled full-sized vehicles in

clay for Ford, Chrysler, BMW and Polaris Industries.

Mr. Frigard has sculpted numerous commercial

figures including Disney, Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock,

Jim Davis’s Garfield and McDonald’s Happy Meal

toys. For the past seven years he has taught creative

problem solving and art in Minneapolis area schools

and community organizations.

The author of Arthink and Funthink, two workbooks

on creativity, he has presented workshops at MITY,

MCGT, SBC, NAEA, Search Institute and Creative

Educational Foundation national conventions.

Julia Fromm currently teaches 6th grade English at

Maple Grove Middle School, where she also coaches

Destination Imagination. Ms. Fromm is a self-

proclaimed “word nerd” who has degrees in both

history and english. She was on her high school

debate team and was the opinion editor of her high

school newspaper, so her love of responsible, sound

argument is life-long. Ms. Fromm wants to teach

students how to think critically, think for themselves,

and always seek and speak the truth.

Daniel Georgakopoulos graduated Magna Cum

Laude from the University of St. Thomas. A licensed

Minnesota music educator, he earned degrees in

Music Performance and K-12 Instrumental Music

Education. His primary instrument is the clarinet and

his secondary instruments are piano and voice. He

was honored to have held the position of principal

clarinetist for St. Thomas’ Symphonic Wind

Ensemble. In addition to education and performance,

he has been trained in Recording Arts/Electronic

Music, composition and arranging, and Music Theory.

Daniel has had a variety of K-12 teaching

experiences. In addition, he was a University of St.

Thomas Music Theory and Piano Skills Teaching

Assistant and Tutor. Daniel taught elementary

students in St. Paul and was a middle school and

high school student teacher in the Minnetonka School

District.

Karen Gotz teaches Band, Orchestra, and

Classroom Music at Minnetonka Middle School East.

She has taught all grade levels in both Wisconsin and

Minnesota. Ms. Gotz has three children; two currently

in college and one in high school. Her hobbies

include reading, music (of course!) and pets - one

dog, two kittens and one rabbit.

Kari Govig has been teaching for twenty-four years

in grades 1, 3, 4 & 5. She has her Master’s Degree in

Gifted and Talented Studies from the University of St.

Thomas. She is currently a teacher of gifted and

talented third graders in Bloomington ISD. Although

she enjoys all subjects, math is one of her favorites.


Samantha Heitke is the coordinator of advanced academic services for Princeton Area Schools. She truly enjoys the challenges of working with advanced kids and advocating for their academic, social and emotional needs. She has a Master’s Degree and graduate certificate in gifted and talented instruction. When not teaching, she enjoys cooking, work-out videos, gardening, and working around her family’s 93-acre farm in Milaca MN. She is married and has two little boys.

Sarah Henning has been teaching music for the past

ten years throughout the Twin Cities. She has a passion

for elementary music and teaching the ukulele. She

receive a grant in 2015 to start a ukulele program at

Lakeview Elementary in Robbinsdale. Ms. Henning is

excited to spread a love for music making to even more

students.

Kris Holtmeyer owns and operates Artistic Moments,

a Minneapolis-based, on-site business, which provides

artistic instruction to students of all ages. Ms.

Holtmeyer teaches courses for the Intermediate

District 287 Gifted and Talented Program, as well as

the Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented.

She also has a background working with special and

regular education students and is an advisor for MNYC

(Minnesota Youth Community), helping all students

learn about the visual arts.

Mary Beth Huttlin is a Minneapolis/St. Paul-based

composer whose works have been performed

throughout the Midwest. She completed her doctorate

at the University of Minnesota and currently teaches

music in the Minnetonka Public Schools.

Dana Jensen is a professional writer and teacher. He is

a roster artist in the COMPAS Writers and Artists in the

Schools Program.

John Johnson has a B.S. in Aviation (professional

flight) from Minnesota State University - Mankato. His

licenses include: Private, commercial, multi-engine,

instrument, flight instructor, and ATP (Airline Transport

Pilot). He flew a CRJ-900 for over six years with

Mesaba Airlines (now known as Endeavor), one of the

many regional carriers for Delta. Aviation was and still is

his passion. Mr. Johnson is a former Special Education

Assistant for Minneapolis Schools at Hmong

International Academy. Today he has rejoined the

aviation community as a pilot for Compass Airlines.

Walter Johnson currently teaches middle school

science at a charter school in Minneapolis. He has

experience snorkeling and scuba diving in Hawaii,

Mexico and the Florida Keys, and has been a marine

aquarium enthusiast since childhood. Mr. Johnson has

taught West Suburban Summer School for twenty-six

years.

Tami Junkermeier is currently a media specialist at

Minnewashta Elementary School in the Minnetonka

School District. She has taught in both elementary and

middle schools. She loves reading and technology,

and has hosted book clubs and technology clubs for

students after school.

Sean Kern is currently a 7th grade Language Arts

teacher at Minnetonka Middle School East. Born and

raised in the Twin Cities, he moved to Connecticut

upon graduation from college where he taught 7th and

8th grade Language Arts. He moved back to Minnesota

two years ago and is very excited to be back in his

home state. He absolutely loves literature, with a

particular passion for Blues Literature, and stories

revolving around mythical creatures. In his leisure time,

Mr. Kern is an endurance athlete, participating in

rowing, running, and skiing races across the country.

He loves camping, hiking, and anything that gets him in

the “Great Outdoors”.

Cory Knudtson is an 8th grade Communications

teacher at Wayzata East Middle School. He has been

teaching elementary through high school students for

eleven years. In addition to advanced education

degrees, he obtained a law degree from Hamline

University with honors. When not teaching, he

volunteers time to the legal community. Cory is an avid

aviator who holds his private pilot’s license with an

instrument rating.

Kareena Kraemer has been teaching technology to

elementary students in Wayzata Public Schools for

twelve years. Ms. Kraemer’s students have been

creating amazing programs with Scratch since 2008.

She received her M.Ed. in Learning Technologies from

the University of Minnesota in 2016.


Jacy Lawrence is a licensed language arts teacher and

has spent the last four years teaching in the Wayzata

Public School District. She teaches 7th grade language

arts, and is the director of INK, the creative writing club

at Wayzata East Middle School. She is also one of the

6th grade play directors. Completing her Master’s

degree in Curriculum and Instruction in March 2017, Ms.

Lawrence is passionate about working with students

and sparking their creativity.

Kristina Makousky is an elementary art teacher at

Earle Brown Elementary School in Brooklyn Center,

MN. Kristina enjoys being outside, camping, biking,

eating and making art!

Liz McAllister is a native New Yorker who grew up

riding the subway and going to as many Broadway and

Off Broadway shows as possible. Her love for theatre is

what brought her to MN, where she performed at the

Ordway, Illusion Theatre, Red Eye Theatre, and the

Fringe Festival. During her “off stage” time, Ms.

McAllister began teaching theatre to young people and

decided to add a teaching license and Masters Degree

in Education to her BFA degree. She opened and ran

her own part-time Theatre School, StageCoach Theatre

Arts, for 19 years with her husband. Ms. McAllister has

been the Theatre and Study Skills teacher at

Minnetonka Middle School East for the past nine years

and has been awarded “Teacher of the Year.” Along

with her husband, Liz has two sons. As a family, they

love to travel, go to the theatre, attend baseball games,

and play with their two adorable dogs.

Alyssa Meyerdirk is an English Language teacher for

Princeton Public Schools. In the past, she has been a

sixth grade teacher, a substitute teacher, and a site

leader at a summer camp. In her free time, she enjoys

reading and writing, playing volleyball, camping and

doing anything else outdoors!

Emily Wyse Moore is the personalized learning coach

at Chaska High School. Emily has traveled and taught

on three continents, across many curricular areas, and

with diverse student populations. Driven by her passion

for arts education, Emily has degrees in music

education, culinary arts and education leadership. Emily

has loved teaching at West Suburban Summer School

for years and was once a WSSS student herself!

Bryan Olson taught science at Osseo Junior High for

35 years. Since retiring, he has taught at a number of

places and is currently teaching at PACT Charter

School. Mr. Olson has a Master’s Degree in Science

Education and has taught a variety of classes at WSSS

for thirty-five years.

Jennifer Olson is currently an elementary teacher in

the Eastern Carver County Schools. She has taught a

total of fifteen years in the elementary schools both in

first and second grade. Ms. Olson has a Master’s

Degree in Environmental Education and Natural

Sciences from Hamline University. She enjoys the

outdoor sciences, capturing sights with the camera, and

sharing her knowledge and excitement with students.

Sean Padden teaches 7th and 8th grade Health at

Roseville Area Middle School. In addition to his teaching

licensures, he has a Master’s Degree in Educational

Leadership and Administration as well as a Degree in

Applied Science in microcomputer technology.

Jim Pekarek teaches 7th grade history at Minnetonka

Middle School East. He has been teaching the strategy

games classes at WSSS for over twelve years. He is

assisted by highly trained and motivated high school

and college students who help establish an environment

that is welcoming, engaging, competitive, but most of all

- fun.

Lon Peralez currently works as an Information

Innovation Learning Specialist for Eastern Carver

County Schools. Previously she was employed by

Fridley Public Schools as a Media Specialist and

worked as a Language Arts teacher on the island of

Maui. Ms. Peralez has two children (eleven and

thirteen) that are in Spanish Immersion in the

Minnetonka District. She loves dogs and has a two year

old “Bugg” – a cross between a Boston Terrier and Pug.

She enjoys traveling in the summer, reading and being

outdoors.

Harry Pulver Jr. has attended St. Olaf, MCAD, and

Pratt Manhattan School of Design. As a professional

illustrator for over twenty years, his clients include The

Children’s Television Workshop, Scholastic Inc., and the

Wall Street Journal. He has also coached for

Destination Imagination and taught at Watershed High

School, The Minnesota Council for the Gifted and

Talented Annual Conference and West Suburban

Summer School (www.harrypulver.com).

http://www.harrypulver.com/


Daniel Reynolds is a husband, father, cat-lover,

theater kid, pro-wrestling nut, board game enthusiast,

and all around nerd extraordinaire. Since 1994, Daniel

has been part of the live performance and theatre

scene wherever he may happen to find himself. He

currently resides in Saint Paul MN where he has

worked in and around Saint Paul Public Schools and

Community Education since 2012. In his spare time, he

is the Artistic Director of Last Ditch Effort Productions,

a local film and theatre collective under which he

produces a monthly improvisational theater competition

show at Bloomington’s Mugshot Coffee Company. He

holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts from Hamline

University and is currently pursing a Masters of

Education in English and Literature.

Steven Rollin was given an Origami book, Secrets of

Origami, when he was nine years old. He folded all the

models in the book, and then he was hooked on

Origami for life. Steve is a lifelong member of Origami

USA, and has regularly attended Origami conventions

since 1986. Steve started a local Origami group in

1987. He meets international Origami enthusiasts

yearly and discusses how Origami has grown from a

craft into an art!

Benjamin Roub has nine years of experience

teaching kindergarten, first, and second grade. He has

spent time teaching in Germany and in the country of

Bahrain in the Middle East. He is currently teaching first

grade at Crest View Elementary in Osseo. Passionate

about teaching science and math, he loves to explore

with children as they learn and create. “I love to get

kids out of their seats and moving around while they

learn.”

Robyn Roub has taught grades three through six for

over twenty years and is currently teaching fifth grade

in the Robbinsdale School District. Robyn has degrees

in Elementary Education and Speech Communication,

a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and

her Reading Licensure. This is her ninth year at WSSS.

She loves challenging students and not letting them off

the hook when they get frustrated. Her goal is to instill

the growth mindset thinking into the activities during

the week. She is married to fellow WSSS instructor

Ben, and they have one son.

Paul Sackaroff has been playing chess for over thirty

years. He has taught English (and played chess) in

many countries including Hungary, Romania,

Indonesia, South Korea and India. He completed his

M.Ed. in English Education at the University of

Minnesota and taught advanced classes in English

(Pre-AP, AP, CIS) at Columbia Heights and Brooklyn

Center High Schools. He has coached chess to high

school, middle school and elementary students and is a

certified USCF (United State Chess Federation) coach.

He was an instructional coach at Earle Brown

Elementary School and taught chess after school to

fourth and fifth graders. Now he is teaching English

and chess to sixth through twelfth graders. In addition

to chess, he loves poetry, comedy movies, meditation

and being in nature.

Mindy Peabody Schroeder is a returning WSSS

teacher who has been encouraging young thinkers to

identify and use their creative problem-solving abilities

for over fifteen years. This summer she welcomes

young thinkers to learn as they build with K'NEX, and

solve a problem with a new invention. In both classes

(Invent & Present and Thinking with Your Hands),

students will have opportunities to present their

solutions. Mindy has taught Gifted and Talented

students in Minneapolis, Richfield and is currently in

Hopkins.

Julie Sotak has been teaching elementary and middle

school students for twenty-six years for the Westonka

Public Schools. She has had many teaching

experiences with gifted and talented students including

Inventors Workshop, Camp Invention, drama and

theater.

Guy Stewart Teacher, guidance counselor and writer,

Guy Stewart has been a science teacher for thirty-four

years to students in grades four through twelve and has

covered everything from Astronomy to Zoology

(literally!). He has taught special education science

classes as well as English Language Learners and was

Cooper High School’s first International Baccalaureate

Middle Years Program Physical Science Honors

teacher. In addition, he is a writer with publications in a

number of magazines and online sources. His first book

was published in 1998 and is still available on

amazon.com. He is represented by Red Fox Literacy.

He has taught classes with West Suburban Summer

School for nineteen years and worked with students at

the Minnesota Gifted and Talented Conference and at

Young Author’s Conferences all over the state.


Lisa-Marie Stienessen (“Mrs. S”) is currently a

substitute teacher in the Osseo School District.

In addition, she has designed and implemented

a STEM program for high achieving students in

grades K-2. As the mother of two GT students,

she understands the unique needs and talents

of these children. She has taught Community

Education classes to both children and adults

throughout the Twin Cities for nearly 20 years

and brings course content to students in a fun

and engaging environment. In her spare time,

she loves to cook and do crafts.

Alexandra Stotz is an instructor for District 279

Summer School Program. She is also a graduate

of the West Suburban Summer School Program.

Kristiann Stotz provides technology support for

Wayzata Public Schools. This is the seventeenth

year “Creative Minds” has been offered in West

Suburban Summer School.

Moriah Thielges is an art teacher in the Minneapolis

metro area. She has been teaching for four years.

Though she has lived in Minnesota her whole life,

she has a travel bug, starting her own journey to fill

up her new passport from 2018 onwards. Art, people,

and creation are her greatest loves, and she is

excited to show a combination of all of these to

students to create future global citizens and

travelers.

Anne Uselman currently teaches kindergarten for

Glencoe-Silver Lake Public Schools. She has been

teaching for more than sixteen years and loves it.

She has two teenagers and two cats. Ms. Uselman

loves to spend time with her family, go out to eat,

travel, dance, and listen to music.

Sara Wakeham recently graduated from Winona

State University with a BA in English Writing and a

minor in GeoScience. She is from Minnetonka but

was born in Texas. Ms. Wakeham loves reading and

writing and has been doing both extensively since

she was ten. Hobbies include camping, hiking and

ice skating.

Carla Wallace has nine years of experience

teaching second and third grade students enrolled in

the Elements Program for gifted learners in

Bloomington ISD #271. She holds a certificate in

Gifted and Talented Education as well as a Master's

Degree in Educational Leadership. Among her

passions are the desire to encourage students to

think flexibly, take risks as learners and to make

learning fun!

Jane Zins has been baking since she was a young

girl. When Ms. Zins is not baking, she works as a

Media Specialist with the Minnetonka Public

Schools.

Maps to West Suburban Summer School SitesClick Address to Open in Google Maps

Woodland Elementary

4501 Oak Grove Pkwy

Brooklyn Park MN 55443

Wayzata West Middle School

149 Barry Ave N,

Wayzata, MN 55391

https://www.google.com/maps/place/4501+Oak+Grove+Pkwy,+Minneapolis,+MN+55443/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x52b33a47dc7ba889:0x6c7fb675bc0130fe?sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiR9O2f8JTZAhVIC6wKHZFxBL8Q8gEIJTAA



https://www.google.com/maps/place/Wayzata+West+Middle+School/@44.975255,-93.5206027,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x52b34c8dd6bccdf7:0xaef037e6289f1df3!8m2!3d44.975255!4d-93.518414



https://www.google.com/maps/dir/''/Woodland+Elementary+4501+Oak+Grove+Pkwy+Brooklyn+Park+MN+55443/@45.1280897,-93.4076895,12z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x52b33a47dc7ba889:0xc5a883e4e95829f8!2m2!1d-93.3376497!2d45.1281111

https://www.google.com/maps/dir/''/Woodland+Elementary+4501+Oak+Grove+Pkwy+Brooklyn+Park+MN+55443/@45.1280897,-93.4076895,12z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x52b33a47dc7ba889:0xc5a883e4e95829f8!2m2!1d-93.3376497!2d45.1281111

https://www.google.com/maps/dir/''/Wayzata+West+Middle+School+149+Barry+Ave+N,+Wayzata,+MN+55391/@44.9700116,-93.4993615,13z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x52b34c8dd6bccdf7:0xaef037e6289f1df3!2m2!1d-93.518414!2d44.975255

https://www.google.com/maps/dir/''/Wayzata+West+Middle+School+149+Barry+Ave+N,+Wayzata,+MN+55391/@44.9700116,-93.4993615,13z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x52b34c8dd6bccdf7:0xaef037e6289f1df3!2m2!1d-93.518414!2d44.975255

Maps to West Suburban Summer School SitesClick Address to Open in Google Maps

South Education Center

7450 Penn Avenue South

Richfield, MN 55423-3621

For information about West Suburban Summer School contact:

Leslie Hanson

[email protected]

763-550-7167

Kim Kallroos

[email protected]

763-550-7245

Connie Fladeland

[email protected]

763-550-7264

https://www.google.com/maps/place/South+Education+Center/@44.8679158,-93.3131476,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x87f6242fff8ecb93:0x178858906295e19d!8m2!3d44.8679158!4d-93.3109589






https://www.google.com/maps/dir/''/South+Education+Center+7450+Penn+Avenue+South+Richfield,+MN+55423-3621/@44.8520761,-93.3250371,12z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x87f6242fff8ecb93:0x178858906295e19d!2m2!1d-93.3109589!2d44.8679158

https://www.google.com/maps/dir/''/South+Education+Center+7450+Penn+Avenue+South+Richfield,+MN+55423-3621/@44.8520761,-93.3250371,12z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x87f6242fff8ecb93:0x178858906295e19d!2m2!1d-93.3109589!2d44.8679158

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