Course Descriptions

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Courses and instructors will be updated as courses are confirmed.

Active Team Games
Share the ball! Share the fun! Learn the essentials of team play and its importance to group games such as "Capture the Flag" and competitive sports like soccer. Students will play their own favorite games and some they haven't tried before. Participants should be prepared for a high level of physical activity indoors and out, and need to dress in a way that allows them to move-- fast!
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Adventure Week (Ropes, Rocks,Water & A Cave)
Adventure week itinerary to be determined.
Location: Daily field trips to destinations which are be to determined. Presented by: Wander Wisconsin

Archeology
Few people know that Wisconsin had a walled town with earthen pyramids and temples around a central town square 500 years before Christopher Columbus was born. Students can expect to learn about this and other interesting facts as well as possibly visiting an active archaeological excavation (schedule and weather permitting). Through computer simulations and hands on activities, the class will open a window on our state’s past while expanding critical thinking and analysis tools. Visits to museums and prehistoric sites will compliment instruction.
Location: Jefferson Middle School; transportation provided for field trips. Instructor: Joe Monarski

Babysitter Training
This course prepares youth for the many responsibilities associated with caring for infants and young children. Participants will learn to make good decisions regarding the health and safety of young children as well as basic care skills. The course will also include emergency first aid skills. Participants who complete the course satisfactorily and pass a written exam will be Red Cross certified.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Presented by: American Red Cross

Baking
Students will bake a variety of treats from cookies to cakes and pies to muffins. Learning basic baking skills will help make participants at home in the kitchen whether fixing a snack for themselves or a main dish for their family.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Sarah Tarpey

Ball Games & Sports
This week will include a host of active games played with all kinds of balls. Koosh balls, hacky sacks, playground balls, basketballs and soccer balls will all be included. The week will focus on variety and offer a chance to play traditional games like kick ball, and non-traditional games like Bocce Ball. Students should be prepared with clothes and shoes appropriate for a high level of activity.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Will O'Connell

Basketball
“Get your game on, because court is in session!” Students will learn new skills and improve the ones they have - dribbling, passing, driving and shooting. Playing a variety of games and practicing fast paced drills will build students’ individual player skills, teamwork skills and sportsmanship.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Will O'Connell

Beaded Jewelry
Learn a lifetime craft: beaded jewelry. Students will make popular and fashionable beaded jewelry with basic patterns or from their own creative designs. Students can experiment with jewelry-making tools and unusual “found” objects to make their own special creations. A field trip to choose materials is included in the course.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Bike Maintenance
Learn the basics of bicycle maintenance and bike repair. Tools and equipment will be provided for students to use. All students need to bring is a desire to get greasy! A few of the activities in this program will be for students to give their own bike a tune up, visit a bike repair store, and taking apart/putting together one of our Wisconsin Youth Company bikes.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Patrick Garvey

Billiards
Learn the thinking person’s pool game! From basic shot techniques to advanced strategies, students will learn to enjoy a game that challenges their brain as well as their hand-eye coordination. Instruction and supervision for the billiards course is provided by Middle School U staff, with an area business supplying the facility and equipment.
Location: Area billiards facility; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: TBD

Board & Card Games
This course is for students who like to challenge their brain with all kinds of board and card games and who enjoy the stimulation of friendly competition. Students will play old favorites like Monopoly or learn new and unusual ones. They will learn traditional and not-so-traditional card games while using strategy and their imaginations. Students can participate in a round-robin game tournament or use the uninterrupted time to play longer more complex versions of games.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Joe Monarski

Bowling
Think anyone can bowl? You’re right! But students can take their game to the next level by nailing the basics such as using the right ball, solid footwork and a smooth release. Students will learn from an avid recreational bowler willing to share the strategies and enjoyment of this popular Wisconsin activity. Students may even learn how to keep score the “old-fashioned” way, with a pencil and a score sheet.
Location: Madison area bowling center; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: TBD

Breakfast Anytime
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Students will learn how to make it interesting and to enjoy it at any time of the day. The course will feature some ideas for healthy “on-the-go” breakfasts as well as leisurely alternatives such as French toast and baked brunch dishes.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Bucket Drumming
Who needs snares and high hats? Get funky with a bucket! Students will learn how to play basic funk and hip-hop rhythms using sticks and plastic buckets as well as experimenting with a variety of other playing surfaces. Participants will learn about keeping time, understanding rhythm and playing in sync with others. For serious students of music or kids just looking for ways to express that noise in their head, participants will enjoy making new sounds and finding their own groove.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Cake Decorating
Express your creativity in an edible art form! Learn to bake, frost and decorate your own great cake. Make and take home a completed cake and a kit containing professional decorating supplies. The week will also include a birthday party where you'll eat cake, make ice cream in a plastic zipper bag, fold a fancy napkin.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Marilaine Blair-Patrick

Candle Making
Learn the basic techniques of candle making and safe ways for handling the materials needed to make hand crafted candles. Students will create many different types of candles including gel, honeycomb, floating, dip and drip, carved, beaded, scented, and molded candles.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Michael Graveen

Candy Making
This candy course will include molded candies and sculpted candies, such as lollipops. It will also include cooked candies, such as fudge and homemade caramels. Students will learn both microwave and stove top preparation. Food safety and correct handling of hot materials will be stressed. The course will aslo include different methods of presentation of the created candies. At least one example of another type of food gift will be created to share with family or friends. A field trip to a candy shop or specialty supply store is planned.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Canoe & Kayak
Learn new skills and knowledge for rewarding and safe paddling. This introductory course is for those who have never taken paddling lessons or for those who want to develop greater paddling skills. Students will spend the week learning to canoe and kayak with Rutabaga Outdoor Programs. Participants will spend two days learning to canoe, two days learning to kayak and then take a local trip on Friday. The course is intended to develop a solid foundation of paddling ability to create passion and excitement on the water! *Participants must have a valid Red Cross Level 3 swim card or equivalent.*
Location: Rutabaga, 220 W. Broadway, Monona; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Presented by: Rutabaga Outdoor Programs

Clay Sculpture & Polymer Clay
Did you ever while away hours with modeling dough as a small child? This course will give participants a chance to create their own unique sculptures with different types of clay. The color and versatility of polymer clay will provide an entirely different craft material to work with as well. Use clay tools to learn new techniques to assist with your creations.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Cooking Local Foods
Want to reduce your carbon footprint? Want to eat healthier, better tasting food? Want to help keep organic farmers on the land? This course will explore where to buy fresh organically grown foods from local farmers and how to prepare them. The course will include a visit to a farmers’ market, a community supported agriculture farm, or a natural foods co-op. In this course, students will participate in every step from selecting the food to enjoying its consumption.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Sarah Tarpey

Dice & Domino Games
Dice and domino games have been around since early civilization. They are played in every culture by all ages. This course takes participants back to basics: no computers, no video games. It’s just the players and their brains and some simple game pieces. Students will return to a simpler time when their brains were the only computers they needed!
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Digital Photography
Digital cameras have revolutionized the art of picture taking! If you don’t like it, just erase it! This introductory course in digital photography will cover composition, angles, lighting and lens. Students will produce a display of their work by the end of the week. *Students are requested to bring their own camera, if at all possible.*
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Rose Johnson-Brown

Disc Golf & Ultimate
Take advantage of Madison’s Elver Park course and learn the active, fast paced game of disc golf. Students will play the course, check out specialized discs and learn the tricks of the disc. Course time will also be spent on learning Ultimate Disc. In Ultimate the idea is to pass the disc to teammates until the goal line is crossed. Students are encouraged to invite their friends to enroll in this course as well - the more people, the better the game.
Location: Jefferson Middle School with field trips to area disc courses. Instructor: Casey Hopp

Discover Madison Destinations- New!
See Madison like a tourist. Each day, visit a different Madison attraction. Sites may include Olbrich Gardens (where you’ll see the Blooming Butterflies exhibit), the Wisconsin State Capitol (where you’ll have a great view of Madison from the observation deck), the Wisconsin Veterans Museum (see Old Abe, the eagle that followed troops during the Civil War), the University of Wisconsin Geology Museum (see fossilized dinosaur poop, a mastodon skeleton and glow-in-the-dark rocks), a behind-the-scenes tour of Camp Randall Stadium, the University of Wisconsin Arboretum, the Wisconsin State Historical Museum, and/or the Wisconsin Union (where you’ll enjoy Babcock ice cream on the terrace).
Location: Daily field trips to destinations mentioned above; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: Marilaine Blair-Patrick

Drawing
Always doodling? Want to learn more about how to draw something that interests you? This course will teach you how. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with a wide range of drawing materials including India ink, chalk, pens, pencils, and markers. After trying different media, the students will learn more about contour drawing so that their work can acquire additional shape and depth.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Jonathan Kramka

Electricity & Magnetism
Flip the switch and the lights come on! We take electricity for granted in our energy-dependent world. This course will give participants a hands-on understanding of electricity from how a flashlight works to why some strings of holiday lights don’t work when one bulb is burned out. Students will explore circuits and create their own electric-powered invention. They will work with magnets and observe the connection between electricity and magnetism.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Entrée Cooking
Students will cook complete entrées from lasagna to fish, and vegetarian dishes from scratch within a specified budget. Students will work with the instructor to determine what entrées to make and then create their own shopping list. The group will enjoy the rest of the week cooking and eating their creations.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Sarah Tarpey

Fantasy Adventure Role-Playing Games, Beginning
For generations, people have enjoyed Role-Playing Games as a social pastime where player interaction and collaborative imagination tell an exciting adventure story. In this course students will learn the history of the hobby as well as explore the basics of various different role-playing games systems including the D20 system. The course will also include the basics of game world design and cover the use of miniatures in gaming. While tailored to the new enthusiast, experienced players will find this class of interest as well.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Joe Monarski

Fantasy Adventure Role-Playing Games, Intermediate
What makes “Role” playing different from “Roll” playing? If you have enjoyed playing D&D or other table top RPGs, this class will help you find new ways to plan adventures, play a character and find creative new ways to play the game. You will learn about new online resources (especially FREE ones!) and tried and true tricks of the trade from an instructor who first started gaming in 1978.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Joe Monarski

Fencing
As well as being a modern Olympic sport and a time honored symbol of nobility and refinement, the sport of fencing represents one of the most exciting and challenging of athletic events. This brief introduction to the sport will allow students to experience some of that excitement as well as the tradition and self discipline which marks fencing as a unique martial art. Use of all necessary equipment and protective clothing is provided in the cost of the course.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Joe Monarski

Fishing
Is there a better way to spend a summer day than fishing? We don’t think so! This course will offer participants an opportunity to fish some of Madison’s great fishing hot spots. Students will spend time in beautiful natural areas learning to fish or honing their fishing skills. Students will also learn basic canoeing and water safety skills, fishing techniques, equipment use, knot tying, fishing safety and fish identification. Come get “hooked” for a week of angling fun and adventure!
Location: Madison area; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School to local fishing hot spots. Presented by: Wander Wisconsin

Football
The quarterback throws the ball and the wide receiver catches it but what is everyone else doing? How do all these players perform their roles and come together as a team? This course teaches the basics of football as a team sport. Students will gain understanding of different player’s roles and the skills required for those roles while practicing the game in a non-contact environment.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

French Cuisine
Students will explore the basics of French cuisine. Inspired by Chef Thomas Keller's French Laundry, students will indulge in recipes like "macaroni and cheese", Pot-au-feu, and strawberry sorbet shortcakes with sweetened crème frache sauce.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Sarah Tarpey

Geojourney
Rocks, ROCK! Students will explore all the natural treasure the earth has to offer. They will investigate the basic components of our earth-- rocks, minerals and gems. They will search for clues and discover a life story hidden inside a rock. Student will immerse themselves in the Cave and learn how caves and speleothems form. As part of the journey, students will learn the basics of using an orienteering compass to set and find a bearing. They will practice their new skills; plot their course and take a journey on the orienteering course. In addition to visiting Cave of the Mounds, students will spend time at geology exhibits, and hunting for rocks and fossils.
Location: Daily field trips including trips to Cave of the Mounds, 2075 Cave of the Mounds Rd., Blue Mounds; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Presented by: Cave of the Mounds and Wander Wisconsin

Glass Mosaics
Learn the basics of mosaics and transform glass scraps into beautiful art objects! Students will have the opportunity to make several mosaic projects, such as a mirror, flowerpot, garden stone, picture frame, or votive candleholders. Students will have plenty of glass in every color of the rainbow available, and our instructors will teach students how to use a mosaic nipper to cut and shape the pieces of glass for their projects. Once their pieces are cut, students will learn about different types of adhesives and grout. This is a fun opportunity to work in our studio and students will leave with a few art pieces that they will be proud to display or give as gifts.
Location: The Vinery, 4317 W. Beltline Hwy; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Presented by: The Vinery

Golf
Students will learn the basics and work on their golf skills. This course will review the fundamentals of grip, club selection and other basics of course play. Time on the practice range and at Par-3 courses will be based on the skill level of the group. Students are requested to bring a beginning set of golf clubs, if at all possible.
Location: Jefferson Middle School with field trips to area driving ranges and golf courses Instructor: Will O'Connell

Gym Games
This course is for students whose favorite time of day is “gym time”! Students will have a chance to play all the gym games they’ve always loved like “Steal the Bacon” or “Dr. Dodge”. They’ll learn new variations on some old games and learn some new games too.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Will O'Connell

Hemp & Floss Jewelry
This course features the techniques of hemp and floss weaving and knot tying. Participants will have the opportunity to create their own necklaces, bracelets and decorations. Students will take a field trip to a bead store to select some decorations to use in their creations and also have an opportunity to create their own clay beads.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Hiking & Exploring
Students will explore some of the most beautiful parts of Southern Wisconsin’s state parks. They will hike to a “hidden” cave in Governor Dodge State Park, climb to the top of the bluffs at Devil’s Lake State Park with spectacular views of the lakes, and explore the many caves of Wyalusing State Park, weather permitting. Good hiking shoes and daypack with water and stamina for sustained hiking are necessary.
Location: Jefferson Middle School with daily field trips. Instructor: Casey Hopp

Hip Hop 360
Students will explore the history of Hip Hop from it’s origins in the 1970s to the present and discover why Hip Hop has become so popular. Students will experience the major elements of Hip Hop culture including deejaying, urban art and music production. Then, they will explore and discover how Hip Hop can be used for self-expression, education and as a catalyst for personal and social growth. This course emphasizes positive messages and appropriate language.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Tony Travis

Homemade Breads
Description coming soon!
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Sarah Tarpey

Ice Cream Making & Creations
Who screams for ice cream? We all do! Students will learn how to make homemade ice cream from scratch and other ice cream desserts. Perhaps they will be able to create their own special flavor! An old-fashioned ice cream social will be held on the last course day. A field trip to Babcock Hall or an ice cream parlor is planned.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Improv
Memorizing lines is boring! Students will learn how to be great and have a good time every time they get on stage. This course focuses on teamwork, pantomime, story-telling and making friends.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Presented by: Atlas Improv Co.

International Cooking
Students should bring a willingness to try something new and all of their taste buds. Students will focus on recipes from other countries, as well as some vegetarian dishes. Students will learn how to adapt basic dishes to specific cultures by using different ingredients and spices.
Location: Jefferon Middle School Instructor: Sarah Tarpey

International Games
Learn to play bocce ball, try La Crosse or perhaps, cricket, anyone? Participants will get to try a variety of games and sports played in other countries. After a sampling, the students will select the games they want to continue playing.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Jewelry Making
Learn to create jewelry using wire, stones, safety pins or beads. Participants will be able to use jewelry making tools to experiment and create their own jewelry. Basic patterns will be provided as a starting point. A field trip will be taken to a craft store to get ideas and materials.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Join the Band
OK kids, it’s finally time for your first concert tour! Well, maybe it’s only to MSU and back, but that’s a start! This program is open to participants who currently play a musical instrument. We will create a band out of whatever instruments we have to work with, and compose songs for the band to play. Participants will learn the ropes about being a musician: how to practice, the history of some of the world’s most successful musical groups, and what it’s like to perform. Let’s get that guitar out of the basement and on the road to Join the Band!
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Eric Koppa (tentative)

Kayak Camp
If you love being on the water, join us for a week of kayak camp with Rutabaga Outdoor Programs! Students will spend the entire week kayaking; working on paddling skills, deep water rescue skills, games to help improve their paddling skills, navigating with chart and compass, and float plans. Days one and two will cover the basics of kayaking, and days three, four and five will be spent exploring the waterways near Rutabaga while learning more advanced skills. *Participants must have a valid Red Cross Level 3 swim card or equivalent.*
Location: Rutabaga, 220 W. Broadway, Monona; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Presented by: Rutabaga Outdoor Programs

Kitchen Science
Why do onions make you cry? How does yeast make bread rise? What makes popcorn pop, whipped cream frothy and angel food cake fluffy? Participants will learn the scientific answers to these questions and conduct a lot of other experiments with everyday materials found around the kitchen. Students should bring their scientific curiosity to “cook up” something interesting
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Learn to Knit
Have you ever seen a scarf in a store and wished it came in your favorite color? Have you ever wanted to know how sweaters are made? In this class, students can learn how easy it is to knit things yourself! Students will learn basic knitting techniques and design and make their own hats, scarves or bags.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Machine Sewing
Students will learn basic hand and machine sewing techniques and will be able to choose projects provided or one of their own. A field trip to a fabric store will allow students to select their own fabric and notions in order to create their project.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Madison Bike Tour
Did you know that you live in one of the best “biking” cities in the country? This biking beginner/chill rider course is designed to give students a chance to leisurely discover the many wonderful bike paths that run through Madison. Each day will be spent exploring bike paths and some of the cool destinations that they take us to. Cruise around the capital building, enjoy some ice cream while taking a break at the Union, ride from playground to playground, and then take a laid-back ride around the lake and stop for a swim. These are just a few of the activities planed for the week. This course will even show students where the secret “bike elevator” is. *All students will need a multi-gear bike in good working condition, a bike lock and a bike helmet.*
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Patrick Garvey

Microwave Cooking
Students will find out how to use a microwave oven to do more than make popcorn or reheat food. Participants will learn how to create appetizers, beverages, soups, salads, main dishes, and desserts. Students can enjoy their creations during the course or take them home to share with family and friends.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Mini-Musical Theater
Come learn and experience the world of musical theater. Students will explore various shows and styles as they learn and prepare the music and basic choreography for a mini-revue to be presented for family and fellow students at the end of the course.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Mosaics
The art of mosaics dates back thousands of years. Participants will learn the equipment and techniques necessary to create a mosaic piece from a range of materials. Perhaps a trivet or pot; maybe a stepping-stone or wall decoration; all of these are possibilities. Students will make their own mosaic creations to keep for themselves or share with their friends and families.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Mountain Biking
Time to get dirty! Mountain biking is an exciting and challenging sport that will prove to be more extreme than your normal bike path. This course will take students to several different off road trails in the Madison area, weather permitting. Students will learn the skills of off-road riding and basic maintenance and repair of your bicycle. *All students will need a multi-gear bike (no hybrid or 27 inch wheels) in good working condition, a bike lock, a bike helmet, and stamina for sustained biking.*
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Patrick Garvey

Net Sports
This recreational course will offer a variety of sports in which the use of a net is included. Participants will play volleyball, tennis, badminton and table tennis. The instructor will offer insight into the strategy of the game and beginning skill instruction. The course emphasis is on variety and sportsmanship.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Not Just Juggling
Students will learn the art and skill of juggling from a professional juggler and performer! Students can juggle scarves, balls, pins, rings and more! They can try box and hat manipulations, knot tricks, yo-yos, Chinese sticks, shaker cups, western rope swinging and other unique skills and toys.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Alan Tilove, "Mr. Tricks"

One Act Play
This will be a fun play with parts for everyone! Actors will spend the week learning parts, staging and rehearsing the play, as well as creating the set and personal costumes. The final performance will be shared with other Middle School U students and families at the end of the week.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Painting
In this painting course, students will explore different painting techniques including watercolor, acrylic and oil stick to create original works. The styles and techniques used in the course will be based on observations of works by well- known painters. The course will include at least one field trip to a local gallery or museum.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Jonathan Kramka

Paper Arts
From the delicate Japanese art of origami to constructing durable paper maché projects, this course will examine the endless possibilities of paper. Functional pieces and oversized decorative works will be created. This course will include at least one field trip to a local gallery or museum.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Jessica Jones

Pasta Galore
Participants in this course will learn about and have an opportunity to make different types of pasta as well as different pasta sauces. They will also have an opportunity to make their own pasta using a pasta machine, and, of course, taste-test their work. A field trip to a specialty store is planned.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Sarah Tarpey

Photojournalism
Students will learn basic photography skills and how to use their photos to express a point of view or tell a story. This course will allow participants to combine their photos and writing skills to produce a finished product to share with friends and family. *Students are requested to bring their own digital camera, if at all possible.*
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Rose Johnson-Brown

Pottery
*This is a two-week course offered with an intervening week to allow projects to dry. Students need to be available for both weeks.* During the first week of this two-week course, students will create several containers and small clay pieces using a variety of hand-built and wheel-thrown techniques. Following a week break that is necessary for the clay to dry, students will return to paint and glaze their creations. Additional activities may include a fi eld trip to a local potter and/or gallery.
Location: Wisconsin Youth Company, 1201 McKenna Blvd., Madison; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Jessica Jones

Quilting
Learn to use a sewing machine to make a 36” x 44” Amish-inspired quilt. Take home a completed quilt. Give it as a gift or keep it for yourself. It’s the perfect size to cuddle up with while reading or watching TV. No sewing or quilting experience required. The week includes a shopping trip to a fabric store where you’ll choose your own materials. You’re also welcome to bring material from home.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Marilaine Blair-Patrick


Rock Climbing, Indoor I
Check out one of the hottest sports for kids…ROCK CLIMBING! This course will cover all the basic skills that are needed to climb safely indoors. Students will progress through the week learning knots, belay skills, climbing technique, and proper stretching for healthy, injury-free exercise. Of course, there will be plenty of challenging climbing as well. Upon completion of the course, students will become certified Boulders belayers.
Location: Boulders Climbing Gym, 3964 Commercial Ave., Madison; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Presented by: Boulders Climbing Gym

Rock Climbing, Indoor II
This course has been designed for the students who have already completed the basic Indoor Rock Climbing course and would like to continue to learn climbing techniques. *Previous rock climbing course is required.*
Location: Boulders Climbing Gym, 3964 Commercial Ave., Madison; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School. Presented by: Boulders Climbing Gym

Rocketry and Aviation
Whether you’re interested in aviation or just like to watch things go boom, this course is for you. Students will learn how to build and safely launch model rockets. Participants will build several different rockets ranging in difficulty and look at how various designs affect the flight. Rockets will be launched on Friday and observers are welcome. Time will also be spent on paper airplane design and flight. No experience needed.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Joe Monarski

Running & Fitness
In this course students will be running and learning about health and fitness. Participants will learn how to correctly warm up the body using appropriate stretching and other exercises. Students will spend time practicing their running technique along trails, roads and on a track. Both long, medium and sprint distances will be run. Course participants will also spend some time discussing health and nutrition. This course offering is physical but no one is required to be a strong runner, only someone who wants to try hard and learn how to keep their body healthy. *Participants must have running shoes, workout clothes and a water bottle.*
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Scrap Booking
Don’t lose precious memories or photos! Students will create their own personal memory book using the popular art of scrap booking. Students can capture fun times with friends or family in an attractive book they’ll want to look at again and again. Each participant will choose their own materials to create their own special book by the conclusion of the course.
Location: Jefferson Middle School with a field trip to Archiver's. Instructor: Terry Schultz

Sculpture, Non-clay
Not all sculpture is created with clay. Students will use a variety of non-clay materials to create interesting sculptures. Plaster, paper maché, wire, metal and even “found” objects will be explored during this week. A field trip to a gallery to see all kinds of sculpture is planned.
Location: Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: TBD

Snacks & Treats
Snacks aren’t all good and treats aren’t all bad. It depends on what you picture in your mind when you say those words. This foods course will give you a little taste of both snacks and treats, some sweet and some salty, some healthy, some portable, and some that participants would like to create for themselves. Cooking, baking and food safety skills will be learned along the way.
Location: Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: TBD

Soap & Plaster Molding
In this course students will use molds to make scented and decorative soaps. They will be able to make both cake and gel soaps and learn about using scents and colorants. Experiment with making sachets and bath salts to pamper yourself or to share with family and friends. For a change of pace, you will also have time to create and paint plaster molded objects or stepping stones.
Location: Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: TBD

Soccer
Participants get to spend the week with an ex-semiprofessional soccer player and coach from Chile. Students will learn basic soccer techniques, game rules and strategies through drills, exercises and games. They will discover what makes soccer the world’s most popular game! *Soccer shoes, shin guards and proper attire required.*
Location: Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: TBD

Soups & Sandwiches
It’s the classic lunch but it doesn’t have to be boring! In this course students will learn to make different kinds of soup from scratch as well as how to “dress up” a soup that comes from a mix. They’ll learn to make cold soups as well as hot soups. Participants will create their own sandwich fillings, warm and cold, and try them out on different types of breads.
Location: Jefferson Middle School. Instructor: TBD

So You Want to Be a Writer...
This course is for students who dream of becoming the next J.K. Rowling, Kevin Henkes or Steven King. Students will spend a week with a published author learning how to become an authors themselves! Students will discuss how to get readers to keep turning pages of their own story by creating well-developed characters who find themselves in the middle of a conflict. They will learn about point of view, narrative arc (plot) and how to let your creativity flow during “sloppy copies,” or first drafts. Who will be the next famous author?
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Stephanie Golightly Lowden

Stained Glass
Students will make a high-quality, one of a kind, stained glass panel. Each student will choose their own pattern and glass colors, and our instructors will guide you through the whole process of making a stained glass panel. The steps include pattern work, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and applying patina. Although it is a lot of work to complete their first panel, students love this class from day one, when they learn to cut glass!
Location: The Vinery, 4317 W. Beltline Hwy.; transportation will be provided from Jefferson Middle School. Presented by: The Vinery

Strategy Board Games
Risk it all on a roll of the dice, move your pieces carefully on the board and enjoy a brain exercising week of social interaction. Strategy games you already know and some you have yet to try will be available. And along with the fun students will gain insights into good sportsmanship, cooperation and social etiquette that makes face-to-face board games more fun than one will ever have with just a video screen.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Joe Monarski

Summer Book Group- New!
Read and discuss the book, Hoot, by Carl Hiaasen. Each day, spend half the class time reading in a comfy chair. Spend the other half sharing your ideas and opinions about the book with your classmates or in other activities. Other activities will include a walk to Sequoya Library with a stop at the Chocolate Shoppe for ice cream, and viewing the movie made from the book. Do all the reading in class. No outside reading required. Read for enjoyment only. No homework. No grades. No pressure, just the joy of summer reading.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Marilaine Blair-Patrick

Table Tennis
Table Tennis is more than just a rec-room game. It is a fast-paced game that requires lightning fast hand-eye coordination and strategies to confuse your opponent. It is the second most played sport in the world. Students will learn to play table tennis at a higher level with tactics, stroke techniques, spins and serves. The better you get, the more fun the game is!
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

T-Shirt Surgery / Tie Dye & Batik- New!
Most of us have approximately ten zillion oversized t-shirts from campus and vacations that we never wear. Why not use them to make something fun and creative? The class will also learn tie-dye and batik techniques to make their creations unique. Students will learn how to make things like pillows, blankets and purses. Even if they have never even touched a needle and thread before in their life, this class will teach students how to transform old t-shirts into something that is hip, fun and fits them and only them.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Jessica Jones

UW Science- New!
Description coming soon!

Video Production
Students will learn the operations of a television station, focusing on fast-production and real-time video mixing. The projects will model real-life live television production of the news, with all the component pieces we’re familiar with: the news desk anchors, remote reporters conducting public in- the-street-interviews, the meteorologist predicting the weather, and so on. Students will actually perform real-time productions using station mixers, cameras, microphones, recording decks, and character generating software (for titling). They will also tape outdoor sequences for “remote” segments that may include footage of nature and/or pedestrian interviews, but mostly “made-up” news reports. Each student will get a DVD recording of their live show.
Location: WYOU, 609 E. Washington Ave.; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School Presented by : WYOU

Weaving
Weaving is among the most ancient crafts of civilization. Students will use a variety of looms and have a chance to create their own special wall hanging or other work of art. Small and large looms will be available and students can also choose to create a weaving without a loom. Small bead looms for creating Native American style decorations may also be used.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Jessica Jones

Wilderness Survival
You hope it never happens but what if you were lost in the wilderness? Students will learn all the outdoor skills they would need to survive in the wilderness. Students will spend the week at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center learning to build a fire and trying out their outdoor cooking skills. They will make a shelter from natural materials; learn orienteering and geo-caching techniques and most importantly how to avoid having to use these skills by practicing proper trail safety. Students will celebrate their “survival” with a water carnival on Friday.
Location: Aldo Leopold Nature Center, 300 Femrite Dr.; transportation provided from Jefferson Middle School Presented by: Aldo Leopold Nature Center

Wizard Workshop
How does he do that? Students will learn to amaze and amuse their family and friends with magic. They will learn the kinds of tricks that confound others. Only the students will know how they work! Participants will learn from a professional performing magician.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Wayne "theWizard" Peterson

Woodworking
This beginning woodworking course will help students construct a basic wood project from scratch. Students will learn a variety of beginning and intermediate skills including safe use of hand and electric tools, choosing wood, design and measurement. This course will emphasize safe tool use and skill development so students can eventually build on their own.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: Michael Graveen

Yarn & Needle Crafts
Yarn crafts include knitting, spool knitting (also known as corking) and plastic canvas; while needle crafts include embroidery, needlepoint and counted cross stitch. This survey course will introduce students to the basic skills and techniques of each of these crafts in the first two days of the course. On the third day, each student will choose a technique to create a specific project to focus on in the remaining course time.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD

Yoga - New!
This yoga course is taught in a fun, kid-friendly manner, incorporating cooperative games and emphasizing breathing and body awareness. Learn to adjust postures to individual needs with instructor guidance. Students learn about posture, breathing and deep relaxation, and receive support for making yoga a daily part of a balanced and focused life.
Location: Jefferson Middle School Instructor: TBD