space now available

Course Description: Let’s have some FUN while learning different chess strategies. Class time is divided between lessons and practice games. Lessons will range from basic rules to advanced tournament strategies. Students will have the opportunity to play in tournaments (in-person and online) outside of the club time. In-person tournaments are at an additional cost. The group will have an opportunity to participate in weekly practice tournaments and an event with world champion Magnus Carlsen or Judit Polgar, the best female chess player of all time.  All skill levels are welcome.  

Course Description: This is the way! Get ready to embark on your LEGO® journey as we defend the Wookies on Kashyyyk, repair the Rebel shield generator on Hoth, and rescue Baby Yoda from Moff Gideon. Come explore a galaxy far, far away with the help of an experienced Play-Well instructor and learn which "Force" is actually with us!

limited Space Available

Course Description: This class is for students who love being active in a fast paced high-energy environment. Our youngest panthers will participate in games that they have enjoyed in Physical Education class and will also be introduced to traditional team sports such as basketball, soccer and flag football. Students will improve their overall coordination and work on their throwing, catching and kicking skills. All skill levels are welcome.

Limited Space available

Course Description: In this class, students will be introduced to the Spanish language through participation in conversation, games, and songs. They will learn the alphabet (vowels and consonants), and some basic vocabulary related to greetings, colors, numbers, food, and pets. They will also begin to develop an “ear” for the spoken language, including tones, accents, and rhythms. The objective is to make the student’s initial exposure to Spanish a relaxed, enjoyable, and enriching experience.

Course Description: In this class, students will be introduced to the Spanish language through participation in conversation, games, and songs. They will learn the alphabet (vowels and consonants), and some basic vocabulary related to greetings, colors, numbers, food, and pets. They will also begin to develop an “ear” for the spoken language, including tones, accents, and rhythms. The objective is to make the student’s initial exposure to Spanish a relaxed, enjoyable, and enriching experience.

Course Description: Come enjoy an hour of creative fun led by Middle School teaching fellow Ella Nagy-Benson. Each week, Ms. NB will lead you through an art project where you will learn new skills and techniques. We will explore different mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, colored pencils, oil pastels and collaging. No art experience is necessary, and all supplies will be provided. 

Course Description: Learn about public speaking and discourse through debate! Under the direction of Harry Strong and Dr. Jeremy Metz, as well as current Varsity students in the Upper School competitive program, students begin to learn about debate through a World Schools style parli format. Participants are expected to prepare and debate using evidence that is provided, and also evidence they produce through their research. The students will have an opportunity to scrimmage students from other Independent schools around the country.

Limited Space available

Course Description: This class will give students the practical skills of building a clear argument and communicating that argument effectively. The content-based skills will focus on logical flow and providing evidence for their claims. The delivery-based skills are eye contact and projection. In 5^th grade Speech Squad will work with the instructor, Kayla Williamson, to put these skills into practice so they have a solid foundation of confidence in their speaking 

Full, waitlist only

Course Description: Students are bound to have loads of fun as they learn the basics of remote/radio controlled vehicle operation. From building robotic machines to racing RC cars through obstacle courses and even learning to fly drones in the gymnasium, this class covers all things related to the RC world! In addition to the thrill of operating these vehicles, students will also be introduced to the history of RC as well as many modern day applications for this technology.

Only open to students enrolled in fall season

Course Description: This robotics session is only open to students who attended the fall season and is scheduled to begin Tuesday, January 10, 2022.  The winter session will include another tournament in February and potentially the State tournament on March 4, 2023 if the team qualifies

Teamwork is essential to the success of the program, therefore it is mandatory that every member of the team attends all after school meetings including the tournament in February. This tournament is dependent on COVID conditions and restrictions. If the team should advance to the VA State tournament, additional practices will be necessary and an additional fee will apply for continued participation in the ETC program. The class fee includes the tournament fee and a t-shirt. There may be additional expenses for transportation and food at the tournament.

Class Cancelled

Course Description: Master the magic of Harry Potter using LEGO®! Visit Diagon Alley, play a game of Quidditch, and duel the evil Lord Voldemort. Hone your magical skills while learning about advanced Muggle (STEM) concepts.