#01.  French Art Fun
By Laura Martinson
Grade 2

In this class, you will learn about famous French artists like Monet and VanGogh.  As we study their magnificent artwork and learn about the techniques they used, you will make your own representations of their work.  You will spend one day observing and painting water lilies, just like Monet. Another day you will use dots to paint pictures, just like Seurat.  One of our field trips will be to the Minnesota Institute of Arts to view and study French artwork on display there.  Each student will choose one artist to study and create a unique display that will be presented at open house.

Laura Martinson is a gifted and talented cluster teacher in the Columbia Heights School District and a coach of Destination Imagination.  She has a French major from Hamline University.  Ms. Martinson studied in Rennes, France, for a semester during her later college years.  This is Ms. Martinson’s eighth year at Summer Academy.

 

#02.  El Mercado
By Kerry Feirn
Grades 2-3

Imagine going to flea markets of the Spanish-speaking world.   Imagine being surrounded by the art, clothing, music, dances, families, food, folktales, history, games and beautiful buildings of Hispanic culture.  In El Mercardo, we begin to learn to speak, read, write and understand Spanish.  We will break piñatas, dance and visit an authentic Spanish restaurant.  We will sing, visit local markets, play Spanish games, and make crafts for the Open House market.

NOTE:  During the Academy an additional amount not to exceed $15 will be collected for our visit to the restaurant.

Kerry Feirn returns for her sixth year teaching at Summer Academy.  Ms. Feirn has lived and taught English in both Mexico and Spain.  She has a BA in Spanish and Education from the College of St. Benedict. She teaches Spanish at White Bear High School where she also coaches girls' soccer and track.  

 

#03.  From Story To Stage
By Doreen Karlsson & Collen Daniels
Grades 2-3

Harry Potter, Cinderella, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, The Wizard of Oz, Snow White . . . Have you ever wondered what it takes to change a book or story like these into a play or movie? Bring your imagination and your favorite story or book, and From Story to Stage will guide you through the process of changing your selection into a script for a play.  But that’s not where the experience ends.  Make decisions necessary to prepare your script for production.  You will build models of sets, design costumes, choose music and sound effects, write stage directions, and make a props list.  Then you will put it all together to make a director’s book so that, when you leave this Summer Academy experience, you will be ready to produce your play!  Field trips to a local theatre and supply company will help you get ideas from the professionals.

Doreen Karlsson is a returning Summer Academy teacher.  She is a retired guidance counselor at Rush City High School, and previously taught English, Speech, theatre and journalism courses and has a Master’s degree in psychology.  Ms. Karlsson has directed both school and community theatre productions for over 20 years.

Colleen Daniels is a returning Summer Academy teacher.  She has served as the technical director of drama productions at Rush City High School for the past 18 years.  She has extensive experience in costuming and set creation.

 

#04.  Pay To The Order Of…
By Teresa Peterson & Amber Neva
Grades 2-3

How many times have you been asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"  How do you usually answer?  Do you already have a pretty good idea of what job you would like to do, or are you still thinking about all wonderful possibilities?  In our class you will have the opportunity to become an expert on a career that you choose.  You will design and build a visual of your job and create your own personal career portfolio. You will even receive a mock paycheck and learn to maintain your own checkbook.  You will also have the opportunity to work with a small team of your classmates as entrepreneurs and come up with a product that could be sold at the Minnesota State Fair.  Your group will design a model of a display booth, make a prototype of your product and come up with a plan to persuade customers to purchase your product.  One of the many highlights of our class is running the two Summer Academy's concession stands and seeing first-hand how a real business works.  You will take your turn to work in the concession stand making sales to Summer Academy students and staff.  Join us as we explore “real world” experiences that may help you to imagine your place in the future. 

Teresa Peterson received her BA degree in elementary education and psychology from Hamline University and her Master's degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of St. Thomas.  Ms. Peterson has taught second grade in Mahtomedi for 20 years.  For the past three years she has served as a teacher coach for the elementary and secondary schools in Mahtomedi.  This is her 17th year at the Academy.

Amber Neva received her BS degree in elementary education K-8 from St. Cloud State University.  She has worked with pre-school through 8th grade students.  She is currently teaching 5th grade in Minot, North Dakota.  This is her fifth year at Summer Academy.

 

#05.  Written & Illustrated By You
By Joy Morrey & Loralyn Eckstrom
Grades 2-3

HELP WANTED!  The Summer Academy Publishing Company is looking for authors and illustrators.  Do you love books?  Can you read, write and draw?  Do you have unique experiences, hobbies and interests that you can share with others?  Then you are  qualified!! Apply today!  Join us as we turn our classroom into a publishing company.  In three weeks, you will write, illustrate, and publish a book of your very own.  In addition, you’ll meet an author of children’s books.

Loralyn Eckstrom taught in the Somerset and Hayward, Wisconsin, school districts.  This is her fifteenth year with the Academy.  Ms. Eckstrom earned her BS degree in elementary education from Northwestern College in St. Paul and her Master’s of Education degree in teacher leadership from the University of Minnesota.

Joy Morrey, a returning Academy teacher, graduated from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, with a BA in English.  This is her twelfth year teaching Written & Illustrated By You.

NOTE:  In past Academies, Ms. Eckstrom and Ms. Morrey have taught two sections of Written and Illustrated By You, where they worked carefully to ensure that course content was identical in both sections. 

 

#06.  Inventions & Engineering
By Tracy & Anna Pluim
Grades 2-3

Did you know that some of the world’s finest inventions like bubble gum, Coca Cola, band-aids, and Post-It Notes were invented by chance?  We think the next great inventor might be joining this class!  This is your opportunity to enter the world of engineering and invent something new.  

You are invited to solve everyday problems by creating solutions and thinking creatively while you do it.  We will learn about simple machines and put our new knowledge to use in building amusement park rides.  We will create catapults and learn how to engineer them to shoot the farthest and most accurate.  We will build and test structures, instruments, rockets, and cars.  Maybe you will invent a new kitchen gadget, a tasty food or a new toy or game.  You can look forward to this and so much more when you sign up for Inventions & Engineering.

Tracy Pluim is a third-grade teacher at Turtle Lake Elementary School in the Mounds View School District. He has taught after school programs and summer programs through his district. He just finished a Masters of Arts Curriculum Instruction and is moving on to pursue a Masters in Administration.  This will be Mr. Pluim’s second year with the Academy.

Anna Pluim is a kindergarten teacher at Heritage Christian Academy in Maple Grove.  She also works as a dance instructor and as a tutor.  She is looking forward to her first year with the Academy.

Note:  Mr. and Mrs. Pluim work closely to ensure that the two sections will be alike in content and activities.  Field trips will be taken together.

 

#07. Bug Detective
By Linda Edmondson
Grades 2-3

Are you bug-eyed about bugs?  Do you get that creepy crawly feeling when you see an insect?  Whether you wonder about bugs or are fascinated by them, this class is for you!  In this class, we will make a bug hotel, and get a closer look at how bugs fly, crawl and squirm. We will do this by constructing our own bugs and discovering the importance of bugs in our world.  Come join us for a close look at some of our bug friends.

Linda Edmondson, a returning Summer Academy teacher, is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She received her Master’s degree in Education from St. Mary’s.

 

#08.  Strategy Games Of The World
By Tom Mathern
Grades 2-3

Chess!  Mancala!  Nine Man Morris!  Go-Moku!  These strategy games from around the world were developed hundreds of years ago, yet are still played today.  In this exciting class you will learn the history of these challenging games, the rules to play, and thinking strategies that will help develop your problem-solving abilities.  We will analyze different games and discuss what makes them challenging, but fun.  As a final activity, you will design a new strategy game or modify an existing one.  Checkmate!

Tom Mathern has taught second and fourth grades and was a building technology coordinator.  He has a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from St. Cloud State University and is currently teaching second grade at Blue Heron Elementary in the Centennial School District.  This is Mr. Mathern’s eighth year at Summer Academy.

 

#09.   International Detectives
By Max Donsker
Grades 2-3

Adventure!  Excitement!  Mystery!  Being an International Detective means having the opportunity to explore a variety of nations, while solving local riddles and mysteries.  You’ll solve problems and learn about the culture and history of each destination.  Some of the places we will be exploring will be Cuba, Italy, Germany and China.  We will also
take field trips to explore the local food and artifacts of our global destinations.

Max Donsker received his Master’s degree in Education from the University of St. Thomas. He is an elementary teacher at a K-5 Minneapolis school. Max has taught in a summer program in Chendgu, China, teaching Chinese students about the English language and American culture/history to grades K-12.  Mr. Donsker has  studied in Havana, Cuba, and Rome, Italy.  This is his sixth year at Summer Academy.  

 

#10.  Safari
By Kirenza Swanson
Grades 2-4

Hujambo, Karibu – welcome to a safari across Southern and Eastern Africa?  Have you ever heard of a kudu, genet, or bushbaby?  We will be exploring the wild animals of these beautiful countries.  During our travels we will explore the lands, homes, foods, and language of this region.

We will read African stories and take a trip to the MN institute of Arts.  Africa is filled with wonderful crafts.  We will create our own African beadwork, rainsticks, talking sticks, and masks.  We will even make our own African clothing!  Experience life in a Swahili market place as you speak Swahili to barter for the food we cook.  Travel to a local African restaurant to taste the flavors of Africa.

Kirenza Swanson, a returning Academy teacher, is a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota.  She currently teaches at a STEM magnet school in Burnsville.  Ms. Swanson traveled to Tanzania and South Africa as a student and teacher.  While there, she lived with families from these areas and traveled extensively throughout the southern and eastern African region.  Ms. Swanson has a language certification in Kiswahili.

 

#11. Ocean Adventures
By Michelle Gilsrud
Grades 2-4

Have a “whale” of a time fishing for exciting underwater facts and fun!  Map the oceans, learn about waves, tides and ocean critters through hands-on activities, experiments, computers, books, and videos.  Go under the sea with your new friends to investigate various mammals, fish invertebrates, and crustaceans!  Do you like art projects?  Each day has a craft activity sure to make you dance in your flippers!  Our extended days include a trip to the Sea Life Aquarium at the Mall of America (with a possibility of a Behind-The-Scenes Tour) and a second trip to visit Discovery Bay and the Tropics Aquarium at the Minnesota Zoo!

For the past nine years, Michelle has been a Talent Development teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She was a fourth grade teacher for eight years before that.  During the summer, she loves to travel—especially to locations near the ocean.  She has developed a fascination with life “under the sea.”

 

#12.  Japan
By Christine Tauer
Grades 2-5

Konnichiwa!  Hello from Japan…the land of the rising sun.  Come, learn about Japanese culture and life with us.  We’ll look at foods, clothing, ceremonies, and festivals.  We’ll try our hands at origami and other artistic endeavors.  We’ll write Haiku poetry and make our own miniature Japanese Gardens after we visit several Japanese gardens for inspiration.  We’ll have lunch at a Japanese restaurant and visit the Japanese exhibit at the Minneapolis Art Institute.  We’ll observe and compare Japanese woodblock art and the French impressionists.  We’ll make our own kimonos and perform Japanese folk tale plays.  Sayonara!

NOTE:  During the Academy, an additional amount, not to exceed $15, will be collected for our visit to the restaurant.

Christine Tauer, currently a music/reading teacher at Cedar Creek Community School, has taught gifted education for seven years.  Besides her Master’s in Education, she has a degree in Vocal Music and two and a half years in graduate theatre.  She has directed, performed in, taught and written for many local school, private theatre, and community theatre productions.  Ms. Tauer has presented many state workshops for standards and brain-based arts-infused education.  She is a 2001-2002 Christa McAuliffe fellow and her project Eureka combined science and drama.  In October 2002, Ms. Tauer went to Japan for three weeks on the Fulbright Memorial Teacher Program and returns to Summer Academy for her tenth year.

#02.  El Mercado
By Kerry Feirn
Grades 2-3

Imagine going to flea markets of the Spanish-speaking world.   Imagine being surrounded by the art, clothing, music, dances, families, food, folktales, history, games and beautiful buildings of Hispanic culture.  In El Mercardo, we begin to learn to speak, read, write and understand Spanish.  We will break piñatas, dance and visit an authentic Spanish restaurant.  We will sing, visit local markets, play Spanish games, and make crafts for the Open House market.

NOTE:  During the Academy an additional amount not to exceed $15 will be collected for our visit to the restaurant.

Kerry Feirn returns for her sixth year teaching at Summer Academy.  Ms. Feirn has lived and taught English in both Mexico and Spain.  She has a BA in Spanish and Education from the College of St. Benedict. She teaches Spanish at White Bear High School where she also coaches girls' soccer and track.  

 

#03.  From Story To Stage
By Doreen Karlsson & Collen Daniels
Grades 2-3

Harry Potter, Cinderella, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, The Wizard of Oz, Snow White . . . Have you ever wondered what it takes to change a book or story like these into a play or movie? Bring your imagination and your favorite story or book, and From Story to Stage will guide you through the process of changing your selection into a script for a play.  But that’s not where the experience ends.  Make decisions necessary to prepare your script for production.  You will build models of sets, design costumes, choose music and sound effects, write stage directions, and make a props list.  Then you will put it all together to make a director’s book so that, when you leave this Summer Academy experience, you will be ready to produce your play!  Field trips to a local theatre and supply company will help you get ideas from the professionals.

Doreen Karlsson is a returning Summer Academy teacher.  She is a retired guidance counselor at Rush City High School, and previously taught English, Speech, theatre and journalism courses and has a Master’s degree in psychology.  Ms. Karlsson has directed both school and community theatre productions for over 20 years.

Colleen Daniels is a returning Summer Academy teacher.  She has served as the technical director of drama productions at Rush City High School for the past 18 years.  She has extensive experience in costuming and set creation.

 

#04.  Pay To The Order Of…
By Teresa Peterson & Amber Neva
Grades 2-3

How many times have you been asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"  How do you usually answer?  Do you already have a pretty good idea of what job you would like to do, or are you still thinking about all wonderful possibilities?  In our class you will have the opportunity to become an expert on a career that you choose.  You will design and build a visual of your job and create your own personal career portfolio. You will even receive a mock paycheck and learn to maintain your own checkbook.  You will also have the opportunity to work with a small team of your classmates as entrepreneurs and come up with a product that could be sold at the Minnesota State Fair.  Your group will design a model of a display booth, make a prototype of your product and come up with a plan to persuade customers to purchase your product.  One of the many highlights of our class is running the two Summer Academy's concession stands and seeing first-hand how a real business works.  You will take your turn to work in the concession stand making sales to Summer Academy students and staff.  Join us as we explore “real world” experiences that may help you to imagine your place in the future. 

Teresa Peterson received her BA degree in elementary education and psychology from Hamline University and her Master's degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of St. Thomas.  Ms. Peterson has taught second grade in Mahtomedi for 20 years.  For the past three years she has served as a teacher coach for the elementary and secondary schools in Mahtomedi.  This is her 17th year at the Academy.

Amber Neva received her BS degree in elementary education K-8 from St. Cloud State University.  She has worked with pre-school through 8th grade students.  She is currently teaching 5th grade in Minot, North Dakota.  This is her fifth year at Summer Academy.

 

#05.  Written & Illustrated By You
By Joy Morrey & Loralyn Eckstrom
Grades 2-3

HELP WANTED!  The Summer Academy Publishing Company is looking for authors and illustrators.  Do you love books?  Can you read, write and draw?  Do you have unique experiences, hobbies and interests that you can share with others?  Then you are  qualified!! Apply today!  Join us as we turn our classroom into a publishing company.  In three weeks, you will write, illustrate, and publish a book of your very own.  In addition, you’ll meet an author of children’s books.

Loralyn Eckstrom taught in the Somerset and Hayward, Wisconsin, school districts.  This is her fifteenth year with the Academy.  Ms. Eckstrom earned her BS degree in elementary education from Northwestern College in St. Paul and her Master’s of Education degree in teacher leadership from the University of Minnesota.

Joy Morrey, a returning Academy teacher, graduated from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, with a BA in English.  This is her twelfth year teaching Written & Illustrated By You.

NOTE:  In past Academies, Ms. Eckstrom and Ms. Morrey have taught two sections of Written and Illustrated By You, where they worked carefully to ensure that course content was identical in both sections. 

 

#06.  Inventions & Engineering
By Tracy & Anna Pluim
Grades 2-3

Did you know that some of the world’s finest inventions like bubble gum, Coca Cola, band-aids, and Post-It Notes were invented by chance?  We think the next great inventor might be joining this class!  This is your opportunity to enter the world of engineering and invent something new.  

You are invited to solve everyday problems by creating solutions and thinking creatively while you do it.  We will learn about simple machines and put our new knowledge to use in building amusement park rides.  We will create catapults and learn how to engineer them to shoot the farthest and most accurate.  We will build and test structures, instruments, rockets, and cars.  Maybe you will invent a new kitchen gadget, a tasty food or a new toy or game.  You can look forward to this and so much more when you sign up for Inventions & Engineering.

Tracy Pluim is a third-grade teacher at Turtle Lake Elementary School in the Mounds View School District. He has taught after school programs and summer programs through his district. He just finished a Masters of Arts Curriculum Instruction and is moving on to pursue a Masters in Administration.  This will be Mr. Pluim’s second year with the Academy.

Anna Pluim is a kindergarten teacher at Heritage Christian Academy in Maple Grove.  She also works as a dance instructor and as a tutor.  She is looking forward to her first year with the Academy.

Note:  Mr. and Mrs. Pluim work closely to ensure that the two sections will be alike in content and activities.  Field trips will be taken together.

 

#07. Bug Detective
By Linda Edmondson
Grades 2-3

Are you bug-eyed about bugs?  Do you get that creepy crawly feeling when you see an insect?  Whether you wonder about bugs or are fascinated by them, this class is for you!  In this class, we will make a bug hotel, and get a closer look at how bugs fly, crawl and squirm. We will do this by constructing our own bugs and discovering the importance of bugs in our world.  Come join us for a close look at some of our bug friends.

Linda Edmondson, a returning Summer Academy teacher, is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She received her Master’s degree in Education from St. Mary’s.

 

#08.  Strategy Games Of The World
By Tom Mathern
Grades 2-3

Chess!  Mancala!  Nine Man Morris!  Go-Moku!  These strategy games from around the world were developed hundreds of years ago, yet are still played today.  In this exciting class you will learn the history of these challenging games, the rules to play, and thinking strategies that will help develop your problem-solving abilities.  We will analyze different games and discuss what makes them challenging, but fun.  As a final activity, you will design a new strategy game or modify an existing one.  Checkmate!

Tom Mathern has taught second and fourth grades and was a building technology coordinator.  He has a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from St. Cloud State University and is currently teaching second grade at Blue Heron Elementary in the Centennial School District.  This is Mr. Mathern’s eighth year at Summer Academy.

 

#09.   International Detectives
By Max Donsker
Grades 2-3

Adventure!  Excitement!  Mystery!  Being an International Detective means having the opportunity to explore a variety of nations, while solving local riddles and mysteries.  You’ll solve problems and learn about the culture and history of each destination.  Some of the places we will be exploring will be Cuba, Italy, Germany and China.  We will also
take field trips to explore the local food and artifacts of our global destinations.

Max Donsker received his Master’s degree in Education from the University of St. Thomas. He is an elementary teacher at a K-5 Minneapolis school. Max has taught in a summer program in Chendgu, China, teaching Chinese students about the English language and American culture/history to grades K-12.  Mr. Donsker has  studied in Havana, Cuba, and Rome, Italy.  This is his sixth year at Summer Academy.  

 

#10.  Safari
By Kirenza Swanson
Grades 2-4

Hujambo, Karibu – welcome to a safari across Southern and Eastern Africa?  Have you ever heard of a kudu, genet, or bushbaby?  We will be exploring the wild animals of these beautiful countries.  During our travels we will explore the lands, homes, foods, and language of this region.

We will read African stories and take a trip to the MN institute of Arts.  Africa is filled with wonderful crafts.  We will create our own African beadwork, rainsticks, talking sticks, and masks.  We will even make our own African clothing!  Experience life in a Swahili market place as you speak Swahili to barter for the food we cook.  Travel to a local African restaurant to taste the flavors of Africa.

Kirenza Swanson, a returning Academy teacher, is a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota.  She currently teaches at a STEM magnet school in Burnsville.  Ms. Swanson traveled to Tanzania and South Africa as a student and teacher.  While there, she lived with families from these areas and traveled extensively throughout the southern and eastern African region.  Ms. Swanson has a language certification in Kiswahili.

 

#11. Ocean Adventures
By Michelle Gilsrud
Grades 2-4

Have a “whale” of a time fishing for exciting underwater facts and fun!  Map the oceans, learn about waves, tides and ocean critters through hands-on activities, experiments, computers, books, and videos.  Go under the sea with your new friends to investigate various mammals, fish invertebrates, and crustaceans!  Do you like art projects?  Each day has a craft activity sure to make you dance in your flippers!  Our extended days include a trip to the Sea Life Aquarium at the Mall of America (with a possibility of a Behind-The-Scenes Tour) and a second trip to visit Discovery Bay and the Tropics Aquarium at the Minnesota Zoo!

For the past nine years, Michelle has been a Talent Development teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She was a fourth grade teacher for eight years before that.  During the summer, she loves to travel—especially to locations near the ocean.  She has developed a fascination with life “under the sea.”

 

#12.  Japan
By Christine Tauer
Grades 2-5

Konnichiwa!  Hello from Japan…the land of the rising sun.  Come, learn about Japanese culture and life with us.  We’ll look at foods, clothing, ceremonies, and festivals.  We’ll try our hands at origami and other artistic endeavors.  We’ll write Haiku poetry and make our own miniature Japanese Gardens after we visit several Japanese gardens for inspiration.  We’ll have lunch at a Japanese restaurant and visit the Japanese exhibit at the Minneapolis Art Institute.  We’ll observe and compare Japanese woodblock art and the French impressionists.  We’ll make our own kimonos and perform Japanese folk tale plays.  Sayonara!

NOTE:  During the Academy, an additional amount, not to exceed $15, will be collected for our visit to the restaurant.

Christine Tauer, currently a music/reading teacher at Cedar Creek Community School, has taught gifted education for seven years.  Besides her Master’s in Education, she has a degree in Vocal Music and two and a half years in graduate theatre.  She has directed, performed in, taught and written for many local school, private theatre, and community theatre productions.  Ms. Tauer has presented many state workshops for standards and brain-based arts-infused education.  She is a 2001-2002 Christa McAuliffe fellow and her project Eureka combined science and drama.  In October 2002, Ms. Tauer went to Japan for three weeks on the Fulbright Memorial Teacher Program and returns to Summer Academy for her tenth year.

 

#13.  Rock World
By Lorna Plana
Isaac Engel
Grades 3-4

Are you a rock hound?  When you see an interesting rock, do you pick it up and tuck it into your pocket?  Do you know what it is like to be surrounded by rocks nearly a mile below the surface of the earth? If you answered yes to any of these, then grab your hard hat and join our amazing journey as we “live and breathe” rocks!  On our journey we will grow a rock, drop and roll a rock, study a rock, wear a rock and yes, even love a rock!  You will be astounded and impressed at the many things we will learn and notice about rocks. Through this course, we will meet geologists, a gemologist, a landform expert, and a hydrogeologist.  You will gain experience in taking notes and will write, speak and act like a geologist!   

Our learning will also take us on a one-night overnight on Wednesday, June 20th-Thursday, June 21st.  On the first day, we have an appointment at the Soudan Underground Mine and at Duluth’s Omnimax Theater. The next day, we will travel to Gooseberry Falls State Park to explore its grand geology.  Later, we will visit with a park naturalist at Jay Cooke State Park and learn about the area’s unique geology.  Finally, we’ll go agate hunting at a gravel pit in the Moose Lake Area after a visit to Moose Lake State Park’s Agate Center.  We will stay at the Comfort Inn in Duluth on Wednesday evening.

Tuition for this course is $450.  

Lorna Plana is a third grade teacher at Brimhall Elementary in the Roseville School District. She graduated from the College of St. Benedict and is receiving her Master of Arts in Teaching at Hamline University. Lorna has taught and studied abroad in both China and Thailand and enjoys teaching for the GEM (Girls Engaged in Math) Program at the University of Minnesota. In her classroom, she teaches with the Journeys and Destinations language arts curriculum for gifted children from the College of William and Mary.

Isaac Engel is a fourth grade teacher at Brimhall Elementary in the Roseville School District.  He has taught fourth grade for the past three years and has previously taught third and fifth grade.  Isaac has been a Future Problem Solver coach for the past three years and has taken teams to state and international competition.  He has also been involved in after-school and summer programs in his district.  He will earn his Masters of Arts in Curriculum Instruction degree from Concordia University in March of 2012.

Note:  Ms. Plana & Mr. Engel work closely to ensure that the two sections will be alike in content and activities.  Field trips will be taken together.  If only one section fills, Ms. Plana will teach it. 

 

#14.  Samantha & Molly’s World: Life of an American Girl 
By Nancy Roussin
Grades 3-4

What was life like for an American girl growing up in 1904? Take part in our turn-of-the century hat factory and create a stylish hat that reflects the influence of this time.  Assemble, build and decorate a gingerbread house to enjoy one of Samantha’s important family traditions.  We will discover even more about life as an American girl in 1904 as each of you takes part in a play about Samantha that brings her daily adventures to life!  Now America was deep in the midst of World War II.  Learn about the importance of the war effort on the home front as you make your own Victory Garden, Victory Pin, and participate in Rosie the Riveter Day.  Gather around the radio to learn about the President’s Fireside chats.  Then, add your creative touches, dramatic flair, and sound effects to a class radio program that captures the true spirit of American life during Molly’s day.  From American girl pastimes and passions to the influence of the Presidents and others, please join us as we explore the changing world of an American girl.

Nancy Roussin returns to Summer Academy for her 25th summer.  She has taught in the Mounds View School District for 31 years where she teaches 7th grade Language Arts and 8th grade Advanced English Language Arts at Chippewa Middle School.  During her years as a high potential resource teacher, Ms. Roussin discovered her passion for bringing history alive for her students.

 

#15.  Is It Magic….Or Illusion?
By Tom Cloutier
Grades 3-5

If you are looking for something unique to do this summer, how about doing some magic?  In this class, you will learn some of the great secrets of the world of illusion.  Make objects appear and disappear.  Change color or shape.  Read minds.  You may not believe your own eyes!  By creating your own special performances, you will make the illusions unique.  You will work with your classmates to put on a magic show that will offer mystery and fun.  You will be making most of your own tricks to take with you at the end of Summer Academy.  We are also planning a field trip to a magic shop in the Twin Cities where students can watch a magician work.  What a great way to start the summer!

Tom Cloutier, a returning Academy teacher, retired from the elementary classroom after 31 years of teaching.  He has taught all grades, spending the past 15 years in a fifth-grade classroom.  He received his BA and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota. Magic has been a hobby of his for 30 years.  He enjoys observing illusions in the world around us.

 

#16.  The Weight Of It All
By Bruce Pap
Grades 3-5

GIRLS AND BOYS - do bridges and skyscrapers fascinate you?  Join this class and be a civil engineer as you and a partner form a construction company that will design and build your own bridge and skyscraper.  Then, in a nail-biting competition, test your bridge for strength - literally to a breaking point. You will have a hands-on opportunity to learn and apply abstract concepts of stress, fulcrum, laws of gravity, and the strength of different geometric shapes.  You’ll also write checks, balance accounts, maintain a task schedule, and work with others to accomplish a common goal.  GIRLS AND BOYS, come, see how much fun it is to be a civil engineer as you investigate The Weight Of It All!

Bruce Pap graduated from Sioux Falls College with a BA degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s of Science degree from Mankato State University.  He has 31 years experience teaching elementary students.  Mr. Pap returns for his 24th year at Summer Academy and currently teaches sixth-grade science in the Centennial School District.

 

#17.  Cool Caves
By Jeff Lynum & Michelle Lynum
Grades 3-5

Caves have mystified people for years - rocks that "grow," animals stranger than science fiction, and shapes never imagined in nature.  It's a world caused by the slow drip of water through the ground over millions of years.  Come to this class and understand what most people only see.  Visit real caves. Create realistic caves.  Challenge people's knowledge of caves.  Explore and compare famous caves and experience life in caves! Students will travel to Crystal Cave in Spring Valley, Wisconsin, to see the largest cave in that state.

There also will be one long day as the class travels to see the largest caves in Minnesota - Mystery and Niagara Caves. On our long day we will be leaving at 6:00 a.m. and returning at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 20th.

Jeff Lynum, a returning Academy teacher, is in his 16th year of teaching high school earth science in the North St. Paul/Maplewood/Oakdale School District.  Mr. Lynum is an advisor for the Astronomy Club and often hosts star parties for high school, public groups, and elementary-aged students.  His visit to Cosmic Caves in Arkansas led to his interest in caves.

Michelle Lynum is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She is a returning Academy teacher.  This is Ms. Lynum’s ninth summer teaching Cool Caves.

NOTE:  Jeff and Michelle Lynum are working closely to ensure that the two sections will be alike in content and activities.  Field trips will be taken together.

 

#18.  Go West Young Woman
By Rhonda Lajko
Grades 3-5

Extra!  Extra!  Read all about it!  As a newspaper reporter, you will have the chance to relive the experiences of pioneer families during the westward movement. Get the scoop on the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
Travel to Scandia to report on customs of early Swedish pioneers and learn how to make hard tack and a braided rug!   Visit Gibbs Farm and step back into history as you personally experience typical prairie life.  Report on the relationships pioneer families had with the Native Americans.  Share with your readers the knowledge and skills of this era as you learn to make such things as butter, soap, a pioneer town replica, candles and other pioneer crafts. 

Rhonda Lajko was a first-grade Talented and Gifted (TAG) cluster classroom teacher and now works in an ESL collaborative setting in Columbia Heights.  She has taught kindergarten through sixth grade.  She graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, and has a Masters of Arts degree in education from the University of Minnesota.  She has attended numerous TAG training sessions through the Columbia Heights School District.  Ms. Lajko grew up on a farm in west-central Minnesota, attended a country school, and learned many pioneer skills from her family.  This is her ninth year teaching at Summer Academy.

               

#19.  Animals In Art
By Rachel Cathey
Grades 3-5

Have you ever wanted to capture a tiger?  Do you know how to stop a sprinting gazelle?  Could you bring to life a sleeping grizzly bear?  Join us this summer as we use photography, drawing, and 3-dimensional art to study the animal world.  We will not only study examples of excellence in these Media, but get involved with the action ourselves through trips to the Minnesota Zoo and other animal sanctuaries, studio sessions with family pets, and practice with turning our own photography into beautiful sketches.  We will also be putting our talents to good use as we volunteer our services in the community to advertise for local animal agencies through our art.  No experience is required, just a love for animals and an interest in various forms of artistic expression.  Come and discover Animals In Art!

Rachel Cathey has been teaching fifth grade at Fridley Middle School for ten years.  Prior to Fridley, she worked at Tri-District Elementary School in Little Canada.  Ms. Cathey experienced Summer Academy for many years as a student and teacher’s aide, and later, taught a class about the Renaissance.  This year she will be offering a class inspired by her life-long love for animals and art.  Experiences with animals include several years of working at a domestic pet veterinary clinic, volunteering for the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota avian nursery, working with bald eagles and great horned owls at the Minnesota Raptor Center, and being the primary caretaker for cats, dogs, a ferret, a gecko, and several snakes.  She loves photographing animals in wild and domestic environments, and has filled many personal sketchbooks.

 

#20. Bubbleology
By Marcia Kath
Grades 3-5

Bubbleology: a scientific approach to the physics and chemistry of bubbles. Science, but fun science! Can you imagine the concept of anti-bubbles? Can there be square bubbles? How does a NASA scientist use bubbles in space exploration?  Did they use bubbles on the Mars Mission?  We will learn air bubbles importance to art by visiting artists at a glassblowing studio; we will visit the University of Minnesota Cavitation Research lab to learn about their work with the Navy, and submarine propellors and the destructive power of air bubbles on bridges and dams.

Visiting scientists will guide us through bubble experiments, and testing various bubble formulas. We will learn about the importance of bubbles to scuba diving and heart transplant surgery. Come and study bubbles with us! We will learn about the physics and chemistry of bubbles and much more!

Marcia Kath, a returning teacher, has been a Roseville Area Schools elementary teacher for 16 years as a gifted and talented teacher. She received her Master’s degree in Education from Hamline University with an emphasis on developing higher-level thinking skills through curriculum writing. Much of her post-graduate work has been focused on differentiating the curriculum. Bubbleology combines Ms. Kath’s love of science and math and her interest in teaching high potential students.

 

#21. Computer Projects For Global Pals
By Elizabeth Nelsen
Grades 3-5

Have you ever wanted to make friends across the world? In this course you will build your positive digital footprint using the computer like never before. With your international ePals along for the ride, our focus will be on sharing creative online projects with our friends from another country! Have fun learning and designing using online tools such as ePals, XtraNormal, Glogster, and digital storytelling. Choose projects based on your interests and collaborate to learn more about your friend's unique culture. On our trip to the U of M Digital Technology Center, see how a huge university explores digitally just like you do with the use of robots, 3D visualizations and virtual reality.

Elizabeth Nelsen received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education from the University of Minnesota - Duluth in 2007, and in 2010, she completed her endorsement in Computer Applications from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. Elizabeth will begin her 5th year teaching Computer Communications for Spring Lake Park schools this fall, where she also serves as a 21st Century Curriculum Lead for the district.

 

#22.  Creative Computers
By Danny Johnsen
Grades 3-6

This PC-based course is designed for the young computer student who wants to learn new things and enhance what has been learned before.  Understanding the computer process now may be important for applying computers to our future needs.  Here is an opportunity for concentrated use of basic computer skills as well as an understanding of more advanced multimedia programming, with the flexibility to progress at your own rate. Projects are designed using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher, and Excel.  These projects emphasize inventions and entrepreneurship.  We will also focus on digital imaging and website design with Adobe software like Photoshop and Dreamweaver.  Time will also be provided to explore additional graphics programs and problem-solving software.

Activities may vary depending on the software available.  We will use the internet as allowable.

Danny Johnsen has taught elementary school for 35 years and holds a Master’s of Arts degree in computer-based education.  This is Mr. Johnsen’s 27th year at the Academy.  He was a judge at the First Lego League robotics competition this year, as well as a test scorer for Data Recognition Corp.

 

#23.  Design Studio
By Ann Roman
Grades 3-6

Did you ever wonder who designed the Golden Arches on the McDonald’s sign or the logo for your favorite sports team?  Well, join us in the Summer Academy Graphic Arts Studio and learn for yourself, while you work on a variety of challenging design projects.  You will work in a group to come up with a logo for a fictitious sports team and, as the artist of your own business, you will be commissioned by a client in the Summer Academy to design a logo for their class.  In the process, you will improve your drawing skills and experiment with new techniques and mediums.  A visit to a graphic design studio and the College of Visual Arts will introduce you to future options in the art world.  Have fun this summer sharing your enthusiasm, talent and creativity.

Ann Roman is a professional Artist and Storyteller.  Annie just retired after teaching art for 26 years with Centennial School District.  She is now focusing on her own endeavors, offering art residencies and workshops through her business, “Discovery & Creativity.”  Annie has been teaching for the Summer Academy for 15 years.

 

#24. The Puzzling Art Of Geometry
By Paula Andrzejewski
Grades 3-6

Do you like puzzles, exploring shapes, observing patterns, and creating art? Then come discover the art in geometry and problem solving through puzzles. Develop your spatial senses and powers of observation as we look at optical illusions, explore pentominoes and discover the geometry of tangrams. We will ponder pattern blocks, and then tackle tessellations. Unique art pieces will evolve from your own tessellation creation.  Come away with your own self made pentominoes and tangram puzzles.

Paula Andrzejewski, new to Summer Academy, is not new to teaching. She has twenty-six years of teaching 4th-5th grade students and Advanced Math. She has a B.S. degree from U. W. Stout and U. of M. and a Master’s Degree in Teacher Leadership from the U. of M. She has received both the Minnesota and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching.  Teaching The Puzzling Art of Geometry allows Mrs. Andrzejewski to share the joy of puzzles, math and art with gifted students. 

 

#25. Clay The Architectural Way
By Maria Ahrndt
Grades 3-5*
This is a change from the printed brouchure

Have you ever thought how fun it would be to build a dream house? A place you can call your own. If building with clay sounds like fun, then this combination will be a blast. Our first step will be creating a blue print of your future house.  Next, we will be building clay walls and all the details.  Once the home is carefully constructed, and fired in the kiln, we will assemble our very own community.  A real estate brochure will complete our course.

My name is Maria Ahrndt.  I have been an art teacher at Spring Lake Park High school since 1993.  I taught at the Summer Academy from 1994-1998 just before my first son was born.  Now that he is 13 and my daughter is 11, I am excited to return and reconnect with the creative young minds at Summer Academy.     Although it is very rewarding to see high school graduates return with news about their exciting new art careers, I miss the early stages of creativity and enthusiasm of an elementary child. I enjoy teaching every aspect of art production like drawing, painting, crafts, and sculpting in clay and plaster.  My interests are reading, mural painting, camping, and going to museums.

#10.  Safari
By Kirenza Swanson
Grades 2-4

Hujambo, Karibu – welcome to a safari across Southern and Eastern Africa?  Have you ever heard of a kudu, genet, or bushbaby?  We will be exploring the wild animals of these beautiful countries.  During our travels we will explore the lands, homes, foods, and language of this region.

We will read African stories and take a trip to the MN institute of Arts.  Africa is filled with wonderful crafts.  We will create our own African beadwork, rainsticks, talking sticks, and masks.  We will even make our own African clothing!  Experience life in a Swahili market place as you speak Swahili to barter for the food we cook.  Travel to a local African restaurant to taste the flavors of Africa.

Kirenza Swanson, a returning Academy teacher, is a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota.  She currently teaches at a STEM magnet school in Burnsville.  Ms. Swanson traveled to Tanzania and South Africa as a student and teacher.  While there, she lived with families from these areas and traveled extensively throughout the southern and eastern African region.  Ms. Swanson has a language certification in Kiswahili.

 

#11. Ocean Adventures
By Michelle Gilsrud
Grades 2-4

Have a “whale” of a time fishing for exciting underwater facts and fun!  Map the oceans, learn about waves, tides and ocean critters through hands-on activities, experiments, computers, books, and videos.  Go under the sea with your new friends to investigate various mammals, fish invertebrates, and crustaceans!  Do you like art projects?  Each day has a craft activity sure to make you dance in your flippers!  Our extended days include a trip to the Sea Life Aquarium at the Mall of America (with a possibility of a Behind-The-Scenes Tour) and a second trip to visit Discovery Bay and the Tropics Aquarium at the Minnesota Zoo!

For the past nine years, Michelle has been a Talent Development teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She was a fourth grade teacher for eight years before that.  During the summer, she loves to travel—especially to locations near the ocean.  She has developed a fascination with life “under the sea.”

 

#12.  Japan
By Christine Tauer
Grades 2-5

Konnichiwa!  Hello from Japan…the land of the rising sun.  Come, learn about Japanese culture and life with us.  We’ll look at foods, clothing, ceremonies, and festivals.  We’ll try our hands at origami and other artistic endeavors.  We’ll write Haiku poetry and make our own miniature Japanese Gardens after we visit several Japanese gardens for inspiration.  We’ll have lunch at a Japanese restaurant and visit the Japanese exhibit at the Minneapolis Art Institute.  We’ll observe and compare Japanese woodblock art and the French impressionists.  We’ll make our own kimonos and perform Japanese folk tale plays.  Sayonara!

NOTE:  During the Academy, an additional amount, not to exceed $15, will be collected for our visit to the restaurant.

Christine Tauer, currently a music/reading teacher at Cedar Creek Community School, has taught gifted education for seven years.  Besides her Master’s in Education, she has a degree in Vocal Music and two and a half years in graduate theatre.  She has directed, performed in, taught and written for many local school, private theatre, and community theatre productions.  Ms. Tauer has presented many state workshops for standards and brain-based arts-infused education.  She is a 2001-2002 Christa McAuliffe fellow and her project Eureka combined science and drama.  In October 2002, Ms. Tauer went to Japan for three weeks on the Fulbright Memorial Teacher Program and returns to Summer Academy for her tenth year.

 

#13.  Rock World
By Lorna Plana
Isaac Engel
Grades 3-4

Are you a rock hound?  When you see an interesting rock, do you pick it up and tuck it into your pocket?  Do you know what it is like to be surrounded by rocks nearly a mile below the surface of the earth? If you answered yes to any of these, then grab your hard hat and join our amazing journey as we “live and breathe” rocks!  On our journey we will grow a rock, drop and roll a rock, study a rock, wear a rock and yes, even love a rock!  You will be astounded and impressed at the many things we will learn and notice about rocks. Through this course, we will meet geologists, a gemologist, a landform expert, and a hydrogeologist.  You will gain experience in taking notes and will write, speak and act like a geologist!   

Our learning will also take us on a one-night overnight on Wednesday, June 20th-Thursday, June 21st.  On the first day, we have an appointment at the Soudan Underground Mine and at Duluth’s Omnimax Theater. The next day, we will travel to Gooseberry Falls State Park to explore its grand geology.  Later, we will visit with a park naturalist at Jay Cooke State Park and learn about the area’s unique geology.  Finally, we’ll go agate hunting at a gravel pit in the Moose Lake Area after a visit to Moose Lake State Park’s Agate Center.  We will stay at the Comfort Inn in Duluth on Wednesday evening.

Tuition for this course is $450.  

Lorna Plana is a third grade teacher at Brimhall Elementary in the Roseville School District. She graduated from the College of St. Benedict and is receiving her Master of Arts in Teaching at Hamline University. Lorna has taught and studied abroad in both China and Thailand and enjoys teaching for the GEM (Girls Engaged in Math) Program at the University of Minnesota. In her classroom, she teaches with the Journeys and Destinations language arts curriculum for gifted children from the College of William and Mary.

Isaac Engel is a fourth grade teacher at Brimhall Elementary in the Roseville School District.  He has taught fourth grade for the past three years and has previously taught third and fifth grade.  Isaac has been a Future Problem Solver coach for the past three years and has taken teams to state and international competition.  He has also been involved in after-school and summer programs in his district.  He will earn his Masters of Arts in Curriculum Instruction degree from Concordia University in March of 2012.

Note:  Ms. Plana & Mr. Engel work closely to ensure that the two sections will be alike in content and activities.  Field trips will be taken together.  If only one section fills, Ms. Plana will teach it. 

#14.  Samantha & Molly’s World: Life of an American Girl 
By Nancy Roussin
Grades 3-4

What was life like for an American girl growing up in 1904? Take part in our turn-of-the century hat factory and create a stylish hat that reflects the influence of this time.  Assemble, build and decorate a gingerbread house to enjoy one of Samantha’s important family traditions.  We will discover even more about life as an American girl in 1904 as each of you takes part in a play about Samantha that brings her daily adventures to life!  Now America was deep in the midst of World War II.  Learn about the importance of the war effort on the home front as you make your own Victory Garden, Victory Pin, and participate in Rosie the Riveter Day.  Gather around the radio to learn about the President’s Fireside chats.  Then, add your creative touches, dramatic flair, and sound effects to a class radio program that captures the true spirit of American life during Molly’s day.  From American girl pastimes and passions to the influence of the Presidents and others, please join us as we explore the changing world of an American girl.

Nancy Roussin returns to Summer Academy for her 25th summer.  She has taught in the Mounds View School District for 31 years where she teaches 7th grade Language Arts and 8th grade Advanced English Language Arts at Chippewa Middle School.  During her years as a high potential resource teacher, Ms. Roussin discovered her passion for bringing history alive for her students.

 

#15.  Is It Magic….Or Illusion?
By Tom Cloutier
Grades 3-5

If you are looking for something unique to do this summer, how about doing some magic?  In this class, you will learn some of the great secrets of the world of illusion.  Make objects appear and disappear.  Change color or shape.  Read minds.  You may not believe your own eyes!  By creating your own special performances, you will make the illusions unique.  You will work with your classmates to put on a magic show that will offer mystery and fun.  You will be making most of your own tricks to take with you at the end of Summer Academy.  We are also planning a field trip to a magic shop in the Twin Cities where students can watch a magician work.  What a great way to start the summer!

Tom Cloutier, a returning Academy teacher, retired from the elementary classroom after 31 years of teaching.  He has taught all grades, spending the past 15 years in a fifth-grade classroom.  He received his BA and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota. Magic has been a hobby of his for 30 years.  He enjoys observing illusions in the world around us.

 

#16.  The Weight Of It All
By Bruce Pap
Grades 3-5

GIRLS AND BOYS - do bridges and skyscrapers fascinate you?  Join this class and be a civil engineer as you and a partner form a construction company that will design and build your own bridge and skyscraper.  Then, in a nail-biting competition, test your bridge for strength - literally to a breaking point. You will have a hands-on opportunity to learn and apply abstract concepts of stress, fulcrum, laws of gravity, and the strength of different geometric shapes.  You’ll also write checks, balance accounts, maintain a task schedule, and work with others to accomplish a common goal.  GIRLS AND BOYS, come, see how much fun it is to be a civil engineer as you investigate The Weight Of It All!

Bruce Pap graduated from Sioux Falls College with a BA degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s of Science degree from Mankato State University.  He has 31 years experience teaching elementary students.  Mr. Pap returns for his 24th year at Summer Academy and currently teaches sixth-grade science in the Centennial School District.

 

#17.  Cool Caves
By Jeff Lynum & Michelle Lynum
Grades 3-5

Caves have mystified people for years - rocks that "grow," animals stranger than science fiction, and shapes never imagined in nature.  It's a world caused by the slow drip of water through the ground over millions of years.  Come to this class and understand what most people only see.  Visit real caves. Create realistic caves.  Challenge people's knowledge of caves.  Explore and compare famous caves and experience life in caves! Students will travel to Crystal Cave in Spring Valley, Wisconsin, to see the largest cave in that state.

There also will be one long day as the class travels to see the largest caves in Minnesota - Mystery and Niagara Caves. On our long day we will be leaving at 6:00 a.m. and returning at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 20th.

Jeff Lynum, a returning Academy teacher, is in his 16th year of teaching high school earth science in the North St. Paul/Maplewood/Oakdale School District.  Mr. Lynum is an advisor for the Astronomy Club and often hosts star parties for high school, public groups, and elementary-aged students.  His visit to Cosmic Caves in Arkansas led to his interest in caves.

Michelle Lynum is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She is a returning Academy teacher.  This is Ms. Lynum’s ninth summer teaching Cool Caves.

NOTE:  Jeff and Michelle Lynum are working closely to ensure that the two sections will be alike in content and activities.  Field trips will be taken together.

 

#18.  Go West Young Woman
By Rhonda Lajko
Grades 3-5

Extra!  Extra!  Read all about it!  As a newspaper reporter, you will have the chance to relive the experiences of pioneer families during the westward movement. Get the scoop on the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
Travel to Scandia to report on customs of early Swedish pioneers and learn how to make hard tack and a braided rug!   Visit Gibbs Farm and step back into history as you personally experience typical prairie life.  Report on the relationships pioneer families had with the Native Americans.  Share with your readers the knowledge and skills of this era as you learn to make such things as butter, soap, a pioneer town replica, candles and other pioneer crafts. 

Rhonda Lajko was a first-grade Talented and Gifted (TAG) cluster classroom teacher and now works in an ESL collaborative setting in Columbia Heights.  She has taught kindergarten through sixth grade.  She graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, and has a Masters of Arts degree in education from the University of Minnesota.  She has attended numerous TAG training sessions through the Columbia Heights School District.  Ms. Lajko grew up on a farm in west-central Minnesota, attended a country school, and learned many pioneer skills from her family.  This is her ninth year teaching at Summer Academy.

               

#19.  Animals In Art
By Rachel Cathey
Grades 3-5

Have you ever wanted to capture a tiger?  Do you know how to stop a sprinting gazelle?  Could you bring to life a sleeping grizzly bear?  Join us this summer as we use photography, drawing, and 3-dimensional art to study the animal world.  We will not only study examples of excellence in these Media, but get involved with the action ourselves through trips to the Minnesota Zoo and other animal sanctuaries, studio sessions with family pets, and practice with turning our own photography into beautiful sketches.  We will also be putting our talents to good use as we volunteer our services in the community to advertise for local animal agencies through our art.  No experience is required, just a love for animals and an interest in various forms of artistic expression.  Come and discover Animals In Art!

Rachel Cathey has been teaching fifth grade at Fridley Middle School for ten years.  Prior to Fridley, she worked at Tri-District Elementary School in Little Canada.  Ms. Cathey experienced Summer Academy for many years as a student and teacher’s aide, and later, taught a class about the Renaissance.  This year she will be offering a class inspired by her life-long love for animals and art.  Experiences with animals include several years of working at a domestic pet veterinary clinic, volunteering for the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota avian nursery, working with bald eagles and great horned owls at the Minnesota Raptor Center, and being the primary caretaker for cats, dogs, a ferret, a gecko, and several snakes.  She loves photographing animals in wild and domestic environments, and has filled many personal sketchbooks.

 

#20. Bubbleology
By Marcia Kath
Grades 3-5

Bubbleology: a scientific approach to the physics and chemistry of bubbles. Science, but fun science! Can you imagine the concept of anti-bubbles? Can there be square bubbles? How does a NASA scientist use bubbles in space exploration?  Did they use bubbles on the Mars Mission?  We will learn air bubbles importance to art by visiting artists at a glassblowing studio; we will visit the University of Minnesota Cavitation Research lab to learn about their work with the Navy, and submarine propellors and the destructive power of air bubbles on bridges and dams.

Visiting scientists will guide us through bubble experiments, and testing various bubble formulas. We will learn about the importance of bubbles to scuba diving and heart transplant surgery. Come and study bubbles with us! We will learn about the physics and chemistry of bubbles and much more!

Marcia Kath, a returning teacher, has been a Roseville Area Schools elementary teacher for 16 years as a gifted and talented teacher. She received her Master’s degree in Education from Hamline University with an emphasis on developing higher-level thinking skills through curriculum writing. Much of her post-graduate work has been focused on differentiating the curriculum. Bubbleology combines Ms. Kath’s love of science and math and her interest in teaching high potential students.

 

#21. Computer Projects For Global Pals
By Elizabeth Nelsen
Grades 3-5

Have you ever wanted to make friends across the world? In this course you will build your positive digital footprint using the computer like never before. With your international ePals along for the ride, our focus will be on sharing creative online projects with our friends from another country! Have fun learning and designing using online tools such as ePals, XtraNormal, Glogster, and digital storytelling. Choose projects based on your interests and collaborate to learn more about your friend's unique culture. On our trip to the U of M Digital Technology Center, see how a huge university explores digitally just like you do with the use of robots, 3D visualizations and virtual reality.

Elizabeth Nelsen received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education from the University of Minnesota - Duluth in 2007, and in 2010, she completed her endorsement in Computer Applications from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. Elizabeth will begin her 5th year teaching Computer Communications for Spring Lake Park schools this fall, where she also serves as a 21st Century Curriculum Lead for the district.

 

#22.  Creative Computers
By Danny Johnsen
Grades 3-6

This PC-based course is designed for the young computer student who wants to learn new things and enhance what has been learned before.  Understanding the computer process now may be important for applying computers to our future needs.  Here is an opportunity for concentrated use of basic computer skills as well as an understanding of more advanced multimedia programming, with the flexibility to progress at your own rate. Projects are designed using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher, and Excel.  These projects emphasize inventions and entrepreneurship.  We will also focus on digital imaging and website design with Adobe software like Photoshop and Dreamweaver.  Time will also be provided to explore additional graphics programs and problem-solving software.

Activities may vary depending on the software available.  We will use the internet as allowable.

Danny Johnsen has taught elementary school for 35 years and holds a Master’s of Arts degree in computer-based education.  This is Mr. Johnsen’s 27th year at the Academy.  He was a judge at the First Lego League robotics competition this year, as well as a test scorer for Data Recognition Corp.

 

#23.  Design Studio
By Ann Roman
Grades 3-6

Did you ever wonder who designed the Golden Arches on the McDonald’s sign or the logo for your favorite sports team?  Well, join us in the Summer Academy Graphic Arts Studio and learn for yourself, while you work on a variety of challenging design projects.  You will work in a group to come up with a logo for a fictitious sports team and, as the artist of your own business, you will be commissioned by a client in the Summer Academy to design a logo for their class.  In the process, you will improve your drawing skills and experiment with new techniques and mediums.  A visit to a graphic design studio and the College of Visual Arts will introduce you to future options in the art world.  Have fun this summer sharing your enthusiasm, talent and creativity.

Ann Roman is a professional Artist and Storyteller.  Annie just retired after teaching art for 26 years with Centennial School District.  She is now focusing on her own endeavors, offering art residencies and workshops through her business, “Discovery & Creativity.”  Annie has been teaching for the Summer Academy for 15 years.

  

#24.  The Puzzling Art Of Geometry
By Paula Andrzejewski
Grades 3-6

Do you like puzzles, exploring shapes, observing patterns, and creating art? Then come discover the art in geometry and problem solving through puzzles. Develop your spatial senses and powers of observation as we look at optical illusions, explore pentominoes and discover the geometry of tangrams. We will ponder pattern blocks, and then tackle tessellations. Unique art pieces will evolve from your own tessellation creation.  Come away with your own self made pentominoes and tangram puzzles.

Paula Andrzejewski, new to Summer Academy, is not new to teaching. She has twenty-six years of teaching 4th-5th grade students and Advanced Math. She has a B.S. degree from U. W. Stout and U. of M. and a Master’s Degree in Teacher Leadership from the U. of M. She has received both the Minnesota and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching.  Teaching The Puzzling Art of Geometry allows Mrs. Andrzejewski to share the joy of puzzles, math and art with gifted students.
                               

#25. Clay The Architectural Way
By Maria Ahrndt
Grades 3-5*
This is a change from the printed brouchure

Have you ever thought how fun it would be to build a dream house? A place you can call your own. If building with clay sounds like fun, then this combination will be a blast. Our first step will be creating a blue print of your future house.  Next, we will be building clay walls and all the details.  Once the home is carefully constructed, and fired in the kiln, we will assemble our very own community.  A real estate brochure will complete our course.

My name is Maria Ahrndt.  I have been an art teacher at Spring Lake Park High school since 1993.  I taught at the Summer Academy from 1994-1998 just before my first son was born.  Now that he is 13 and my daughter is 11, I am excited to return and reconnect with the creative young minds at Summer Academy.     Although it is very rewarding to see high school graduates return with news about their exciting new art careers, I miss the early stages of creativity and enthusiasm of an elementary child. I enjoy teaching every aspect of art production like drawing, painting, crafts, and sculpting in clay and plaster.  My interests are reading, mural painting, camping, and going to museums.

 

#26. Improv-athon
By Scott Larson
Grades 4-6

Take a fantastic journey through your imagination in our improvisation acting class.  Learn to perform improv like you see on TV.  Using simple props and costumes, allow the right side of your brain to create your own commercials, characters and fairytales.  Play a variety of fun, thought-provoking games, which will challenge your creativity and exercise your brain muscles!  Discover your leadership abilities while directing others in an improv activity.  Join a group to create impromptu plays or work independently on your own storytelling skills.  We will show off our newfound talents at the annual SA Open House. Come, be part of our Improv-athon!

Scott Larson teaches improvisation and children’s theatre classes through the Twin Cities area.  Mr. Larson has taught in the Columbia Heights School District for 23 years.   This is his fifth year with Summer Academy.

 

#27. “Gold!”
By Susan Heumann
Grades 4-6

Meet Levi Strauss, the maker of fine blue jeans and the rest of the 49’ers as they search for gold.  We have the script and the score, but we need you to make the story and the music come to life!  Learn good singing technique (both solo and choral), design creative choreography and become a convincing actor.  Come, experience musical theater firsthand as you discover “Gold!”

Susan Huemann has seventeen years of elementary music teaching experience.  She obtained her Master’s of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota.  She currently teaches music at Dayton Elementary School in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  Pit orchestra, chorus, leading roles and later directing musical plays for elementary, high school and community theatre are all a part of Ms. Huemann’s involvement in music theater.  This is Ms. Huemann’s 20th year at the Academy.

 

#28. Take A Liking To A Viking
By Le Wangsness Bahr
Grades 4-6

Have you wondered where our MN Vikings got their name?  Been fascinated by mythology and trolls?  Love travel and learning another language?  Prepare yourself for a historical and magical trip to Norway and the land of the Vikings! Go back to the time of those mighty warriors through a demonstration of Viking life, apparel, and weapons. Learn about their life and times through hands-on experience with archery, Viking tent building, Viking arts, raptors, and Viking games. See how the life and culture of today’s Norway grew from these Viking days to be one of the world’s richest and progressive nations.  Explore an old Norwegian trunk, learning about the people who immigrated to America. Hear and create tales of trolls and Norsk mythology. Learn to speak words and phrases in Norwegian. Create the national art of Norway, rosemaling. Prepare and eat a smorgasbord of Norwegian treats. Listen and dance to this nation’s music. Come, explore this beautiful land, culture, and people.

There will be one day of travel to Decorah, IA, to visit the Vesterheim Museum….America’s most renowned museum on the Norwegian-American culture. On that day, the students will leave the Academy at 8:00 a.m. and return to the Academy by 8:00 p.m. Parents will need to collect their students at 8:00 p.m. at the Academy.

This class will be taught Le Wangsness-Bahr for the first 2 weeks. The final four days will be taught by Tonya Rootes.

Le Wangsness-Bahr, returning Academy teacher, teaches in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Originally from Decorah, IA, she is of 100 percent Norwegian ancestry . Growing up in the Norwegian community of Decorah, Ms. Bahr has a deep pride and appreciation for her cultural background.   

Tonya Rootes teaches in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. She is a co-worker with Ms. Bahr and has previously been a Talent Development teacher in her school district.

 

#29.  Kovacs & Associates, Attorneys At Law
By Jamie Kovacs
Grades 4-6

Become an associate attorney in this rapidly expanding law firm.  All new associates will be assigned to defend or prosecute someone accused of breaking the law.  Explore your own sense of right and wrong and compare it to real laws.  If you are hired by this firm, you will be given the chance to draft wills, contracts and business agreements.  You will be a vital team member in this law firm and will be attend staff meetings, study laws that apply to your caseload, and prepare and present legal papers such as Summons and Petitions, Complaints, Briefs, and Proposed Judgments.  You will explore the most effective ways to resolve disputes considering procedure, result and cost.  You will be asked to negotiate settlements and mediate disagreements.  You will pursue the best course of action on your client’s behalf.  Your name will even be on the letterhead! 

Part of your job in this firm will be to design your own office, and shop for your office furniture and supplies.  You will also be asked to design a business card for yourself to hand to prospective clients.  What works and what doesn’t to get business in the door?  You will decide on advertisements and yellow page ads to promote your services.

As part of the experience you will visit local law offices, a law school and a county courthouse.  After observing lawyers at work, you will put your knowledge to the test as you present your arguments to “the Court.”

If this sounds like the job for you, please fill out the ‘job application’ you will find in this catalogue.  (Others may refer to this as the Summer Academy admission application but I will know it’s your job application if you select this course.)

Jamie Kovacs, an attorney, graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1982 and went from there to Drake University Law School, graduating in 1985.  She was admitted to the Minnesota Bar in 1985 and practiced law until 2001.  Starting in 1997, Mrs. Kovacs took time off from her law practice to teach this Summer Academy course that provides elementary students the opportunity to see what it’s like to be a real attorney.  After her experiences teaching Summer Academy and, in her own children’s classrooms teaching Junior Achievement and other enrichment programs, Ms. Kovacs returned to school and got her teaching license in 2006.  She was hired by the White Bear Lake School District that very month and has been teaching at Oneka Elementary School ever since.  This will be her 10th year at the Academy. 

 

#30.   Take It To The Limit
By Holly Ashton
Grades 4-6

Do you like a good math challenge?  If so, have I got some problems for you!  In Take it to the Limit you will find trigonometry even in circles.  You will find Calculus topics such as limits, derivatives and integrals at amusement parks.  You will work in teams to complete challenges and you will construct roller coasters and other amusement park rides that use mathematics to thrill us!  We will study famous mathematicians and the concepts they recognized.  We will take a trip to Nickelodeon Universe and experience math firsthand while riding roller coasters and Ferris wheels.  We will see mathematics in many new and amazing places.  If you love math, join us as we Take it to the Limit!

Holly Ashton graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a degree in mathematics.  She has her Master’s degree in Applied Math from Iowa State University in Ames.  Ms. Ashton taught math in an elementary school for several years in Florida and then began teaching at the community college level.  She currently resides with her family in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she teaches math at Pikes Peak Community College.  In addition to teaching college students, Ms. Ashton has spent years volunteering in her children’s elementary school classrooms working with high-achieving math students, challenging them to stretch their math skills to the limit.  This is Ms. Ashton’s sixth year with Summer Academy.

 

#31.  More Than A Game
By Joel Nydam
Grades 4-6

What makes a game “fun?”  Is it chance, strategy, or a combination of both?  The only way to find out is by playing.  Come, join us for card games like Cribbage, dice games like 5,000, active games like The Mole, board games like Landslide and many more.  Not to mention a visit from a Mensa-award winning game designer, a live auction from a professional auctioneer, and an outdoor field trip that will “bowl” you over.  Even try your own hand at making the “perfect” game.  If you enjoy friendly competition and cooperative problem solving while sharpening your strategy expertise, this course is for you.

Joel Nydam is a fourth-grade teacher at Otter Lake Elementary School in the White Bear Lake School District.  For the past seven years, he has advised the Otter Lake Chess Club.  He has also formed a Cribbage Club to help students sharpen thier math and strategy skills.  In his home collection, he owns numerous board and card games.  He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern College and his Master of Arts in Education from Saint Mary's University. This is Mr. Nydam's first year with the Academy.

 

#32. Physics, Physics, Physics!
By Abe Hanson
Grades 4-6

Do you ever wonder how rollercoasters make you feel the way they do?  Have you ever seen a pitcher throw a ridiculous curveball and say to yourself, “How did they do that?!!?”  Does a 310 metric ton hovercraft “floating” on air completely baffle you?  It sounds like you are more interested in physics than you thought!

Physics is an international language of its own, which you will learn to understand and speak by immersing yourself in it.  Observe, measure, and analyze how physics influences the world around you.  Become an expert in the motion of everyday objects like toys, racecars, rockets, and even your friends. 

Understand how and what forces affect you while going about your daily life, like walking down the street, riding your bike, playing catch, or even twisting around turns on roller coasters!  Discover the different types of energy that influence our universe, such as mechanical and gravitational energy.  Build your own car, hover craft, roller coaster, and water rocket!  Excited yet?  Then come bolster your budding physist minds.

Abe Hanson, an elementary teacher in the Roseville School District, is a gifted and talented cluster teacher. He has coached Future Problem Solving (FPS) for seven years, qualifying countless teams for the MN state tournament, and sending one to the international competition in 2007. Mr. Hanson is a returning Summer Academy teacher.

 

#33. Castles, Kings & Other Things
By Mair Owen
Grades 4-6

Prepare yourself for a historical trip to Great Britain!  Back to the magical age of King Arthur, Camelot, and the Mabinogion!  See how castles were built, learn how and why the battles were won or lost, dance the dances, eat the food, and learn the language of Welsh.  Design costumes, build castles, and participate in an Eisteddfod (celebration) as you experience the richness of early Great Britain.  We will also learn about falconry and have hands-on experience with fencing and archery.  On the extended day we will visit the Sculpture Gardens, visit Arms and Armor, go lawn bowling and have lunch at an Irish restaurant.

NOTE:  During the Academy, an additional amount, not to exceed $15, will be collected for our visit to a restaurant.

Mair Owen, a native of Wales, Great Britain, is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She has a Master’s degree from Hamline University and also has a Gifted Certificate from Hamline.  This is Ms. Owen’s fourteenth year with the Academy.

 

#34. Master Magazine Makers
By Elizabeth Johnson
Grades 4-6

Would you like to create your own magazine?  Do you like going to restaurants, museums, and malls?  Do you like knowing about the latest new electronic toys and video games?  Do you like finding out about the coolest things to do and see in the Twin Cities?  Help create a magazine that tells all your friends about the latest trends!  Learn how to write and edit articles, photograph products and places, and design the layout of your magazine pages.  You will also talk to a real creative director of a magazine in New York City.  If you want to be part of a highly creative and energetic team working on a fast-paced project, then this is the class for you!

Elizabeth Johnson is an ESL and Spanish teacher at Highview Middle School in the Mounds View School District.  After receiving a B.A. in Art History from the University of Minnesota, she moved to New York City where she worked for a printing and graphics company. Elizabeth has a Masters in TESOL from Hunter College in New York City.  Elizabeth has also had the opportunity to teach at an international school in Tokyo, Japan.

 

#35. SAM Animation: Stop Action (Movie Production)
Amy Oelshlager
Grades 4-6

Lights, Camera, ACTION! In this class we will become filmmakers using the amazing technology of Stop Motion Animation. We will learn about different types of animation—from Wallace and Grommet clay-mation to Disney’s cartoon animation. As a creative team, we will create an original animated movie from start to finish. You will be a screen writer when we write our own script, a director when we use video cameras and computers to capture our animations, and a video editor when we add special effects and music in post production. Finally, we will debut our animation to the public and release our very own DVD!

Amy Oelschlager is a Technology Integration Specialist in the Columbia Heights School District. She has a Masters of Education in Technology Integration and a minor in Multimedia and Video Production. She taught 4th grade and technology in Texas for the last four years.  During that time she developed a “Commended Kids” program (Gifted and Talented Program) and created an interest driven podcast that was completely planned, written and produced by students.

 

#36.  Bitten By The Blogging Bug
By Lindsay Samelian
Grades 4-6

Have you ever had so much to say, you felt like you were about to burst? Take your witty writing and designing abilities to the next level. Come learn how to create your own multi-media blog. This computer-based course will stretch you to explore your interests, express your ideas, polish your works, design your own web layout, upload photographs, and hook your readers in. Work along side other passionate writers. Join the world of bloggers! We will take a field trip to a local coffee shop to let our creativity flow, as well as a trip to a writing center to learn more about the professional publishing process. You will leave with an intriguing blog you can continue at home and an interested audience awaiting your next post.

Lindsay Samelian has taught fourth and fifth grade in the Mounds View Public School District for 6 years. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin - River Falls with a BS in Elementary Education and English. Her love of teaching and learning continues at Hamline University where she is completing her Masters of Arts in Education. Miss Samelian loves to work with high potential students and share her passion for reading, blogging, technology, and the creative writing process. 

 

#12.  Japan
By Christine Tauer
Grades 2-5

Konnichiwa!  Hello from Japan…the land of the rising sun.  Come, learn about Japanese culture and life with us.  We’ll look at foods, clothing, ceremonies, and festivals.  We’ll try our hands at origami and other artistic endeavors.  We’ll write Haiku poetry and make our own miniature Japanese Gardens after we visit several Japanese gardens for inspiration.  We’ll have lunch at a Japanese restaurant and visit the Japanese exhibit at the Minneapolis Art Institute.  We’ll observe and compare Japanese woodblock art and the French impressionists.  We’ll make our own kimonos and perform Japanese folk tale plays.  Sayonara!

NOTE:  During the Academy, an additional amount, not to exceed $15, will be collected for our visit to the restaurant.

Christine Tauer, currently a music/reading teacher at Cedar Creek Community School, has taught gifted education for seven years.  Besides her Master’s in Education, she has a degree in Vocal Music and two and a half years in graduate theatre.  She has directed, performed in, taught and written for many local school, private theatre, and community theatre productions.  Ms. Tauer has presented many state workshops for standards and brain-based arts-infused education.  She is a 2001-2002 Christa McAuliffe fellow and her project Eureka combined science and drama.  In October 2002, Ms. Tauer went to Japan for three weeks on the Fulbright Memorial Teacher Program and returns to Summer Academy for her tenth year.

 

#15.  Is It Magic….Or Illusion?
By Tom Cloutier
Grades 3-5

If you are looking for something unique to do this summer, how about doing some magic?  In this class, you will learn some of the great secrets of the world of illusion.  Make objects appear and disappear.  Change color or shape.  Read minds.  You may not believe your own eyes!  By creating your own special performances, you will make the illusions unique.  You will work with your classmates to put on a magic show that will offer mystery and fun.  You will be making most of your own tricks to take with you at the end of Summer Academy.  We are also planning a field trip to a magic shop in the Twin Cities where students can watch a magician work.  What a great way to start the summer!

Tom Cloutier, a returning Academy teacher, retired from the elementary classroom after 31 years of teaching.  He has taught all grades, spending the past 15 years in a fifth-grade classroom.  He received his BA and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota. Magic has been a hobby of his for 30 years.  He enjoys observing illusions in the world around us.

 

#16.  The Weight Of It All
By Bruce Pap
Grades 3-5

GIRLS AND BOYS - do bridges and skyscrapers fascinate you?  Join this class and be a civil engineer as you and a partner form a construction company that will design and build your own bridge and skyscraper.  Then, in a nail-biting competition, test your bridge for strength - literally to a breaking point. You will have a hands-on opportunity to learn and apply abstract concepts of stress, fulcrum, laws of gravity, and the strength of different geometric shapes.  You’ll also write checks, balance accounts, maintain a task schedule, and work with others to accomplish a common goal.  GIRLS AND BOYS, come, see how much fun it is to be a civil engineer as you investigate The Weight Of It All!

Bruce Pap graduated from Sioux Falls College with a BA degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s of Science degree from Mankato State University.  He has 31 years experience teaching elementary students.  Mr. Pap returns for his 24th year at Summer Academy and currently teaches sixth-grade science in the Centennial School District.

 

#17.  Cool Caves
By Jeff Lynum & Michelle Lynum
Grades 3-5

Caves have mystified people for years - rocks that "grow," animals stranger than science fiction, and shapes never imagined in nature.  It's a world caused by the slow drip of water through the ground over millions of years.  Come to this class and understand what most people only see.  Visit real caves. Create realistic caves.  Challenge people's knowledge of caves.  Explore and compare famous caves and experience life in caves! Students will travel to Crystal Cave in Spring Valley, Wisconsin, to see the largest cave in that state.

There also will be one long day as the class travels to see the largest caves in Minnesota - Mystery and Niagara Caves. On our long day we will be leaving at 6:00 a.m. and returning at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 20th.

Jeff Lynum, a returning Academy teacher, is in his 16th year of teaching high school earth science in the North St. Paul/Maplewood/Oakdale School District.  Mr. Lynum is an advisor for the Astronomy Club and often hosts star parties for high school, public groups, and elementary-aged students.  His visit to Cosmic Caves in Arkansas led to his interest in caves.

Michelle Lynum is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She is a returning Academy teacher.  This is Ms. Lynum’s ninth summer teaching Cool Caves.

NOTE:  Jeff and Michelle Lynum are working closely to ensure that the two sections will be alike in content and activities.  Field trips will be taken together.

 

#18.  Go West Young Woman
By Rhonda Lajko
Grades 3-5

Extra!  Extra!  Read all about it!  As a newspaper reporter, you will have the chance to relive the experiences of pioneer families during the westward movement. Get the scoop on the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
Travel to Scandia to report on customs of early Swedish pioneers and learn how to make hard tack and a braided rug!   Visit Gibbs Farm and step back into history as you personally experience typical prairie life.  Report on the relationships pioneer families had with the Native Americans.  Share with your readers the knowledge and skills of this era as you learn to make such things as butter, soap, a pioneer town replica, candles and other pioneer crafts. 

Rhonda Lajko was a first-grade Talented and Gifted (TAG) cluster classroom teacher and now works in an ESL collaborative setting in Columbia Heights.  She has taught kindergarten through sixth grade.  She graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, and has a Masters of Arts degree in education from the University of Minnesota.  She has attended numerous TAG training sessions through the Columbia Heights School District.  Ms. Lajko grew up on a farm in west-central Minnesota, attended a country school, and learned many pioneer skills from her family.  This is her ninth year teaching at Summer Academy.

               

#19.  Animals In Art
By Rachel Cathey
Grades 3-5

Have you ever wanted to capture a tiger?  Do you know how to stop a sprinting gazelle?  Could you bring to life a sleeping grizzly bear?  Join us this summer as we use photography, drawing, and 3-dimensional art to study the animal world.  We will not only study examples of excellence in these Media, but get involved with the action ourselves through trips to the Minnesota Zoo and other animal sanctuaries, studio sessions with family pets, and practice with turning our own photography into beautiful sketches.  We will also be putting our talents to good use as we volunteer our services in the community to advertise for local animal agencies through our art.  No experience is required, just a love for animals and an interest in various forms of artistic expression.  Come and discover Animals In Art!

Rachel Cathey has been teaching fifth grade at Fridley Middle School for ten years.  Prior to Fridley, she worked at Tri-District Elementary School in Little Canada.  Ms. Cathey experienced Summer Academy for many years as a student and teacher’s aide, and later, taught a class about the Renaissance.  This year she will be offering a class inspired by her life-long love for animals and art.  Experiences with animals include several years of working at a domestic pet veterinary clinic, volunteering for the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota avian nursery, working with bald eagles and great horned owls at the Minnesota Raptor Center, and being the primary caretaker for cats, dogs, a ferret, a gecko, and several snakes.  She loves photographing animals in wild and domestic environments, and has filled many personal sketchbooks.

 

#20. Bubbleology
By Marcia Kath
Grades 3-5

Bubbleology: a scientific approach to the physics and chemistry of bubbles. Science, but fun science! Can you imagine the concept of anti-bubbles? Can there be square bubbles? How does a NASA scientist use bubbles in space exploration?  Did they use bubbles on the Mars Mission?  We will learn air bubbles importance to art by visiting artists at a glassblowing studio; we will visit the University of Minnesota Cavitation Research lab to learn about their work with the Navy, and submarine propellors and the destructive power of air bubbles on bridges and dams.

Visiting scientists will guide us through bubble experiments, and testing various bubble formulas. We will learn about the importance of bubbles to scuba diving and heart transplant surgery. Come and study bubbles with us! We will learn about the physics and chemistry of bubbles and much more!

Marcia Kath, a returning teacher, has been a Roseville Area Schools elementary teacher for 16 years as a gifted and talented teacher. She received her Master’s degree in Education from Hamline University with an emphasis on developing higher-level thinking skills through curriculum writing. Much of her post-graduate work has been focused on differentiating the curriculum. Bubbleology combines Ms. Kath’s love of science and math and her interest in teaching high potential students.

 

#21. Computer Projects For Global Pals
By Elizabeth Nelsen
Grades 3-5

Have you ever wanted to make friends across the world? In this course you will build your positive digital footprint using the computer like never before. With your international ePals along for the ride, our focus will be on sharing creative online projects with our friends from another country! Have fun learning and designing using online tools such as ePals, XtraNormal, Glogster, and digital storytelling. Choose projects based on your interests and collaborate to learn more about your friend's unique culture. On our trip to the U of M Digital Technology Center, see how a huge university explores digitally just like you do with the use of robots, 3D visualizations and virtual reality.

Elizabeth Nelsen received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education from the University of Minnesota - Duluth in 2007, and in 2010, she completed her endorsement in Computer Applications from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. Elizabeth will begin her 5th year teaching Computer Communications for Spring Lake Park schools this fall, where she also serves as a 21st Century Curriculum Lead for the district.

 

#22.  Creative Computers
By Danny Johnsen
Grades 3-6

This PC-based course is designed for the young computer student who wants to learn new things and enhance what has been learned before.  Understanding the computer process now may be important for applying computers to our future needs.  Here is an opportunity for concentrated use of basic computer skills as well as an understanding of more advanced multimedia programming, with the flexibility to progress at your own rate. Projects are designed using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher, and Excel.  These projects emphasize inventions and entrepreneurship.  We will also focus on digital imaging and website design with Adobe software like Photoshop and Dreamweaver.  Time will also be provided to explore additional graphics programs and problem-solving software.

Activities may vary depending on the software available.  We will use the internet as allowable.

Danny Johnsen has taught elementary school for 35 years and holds a Master’s of Arts degree in computer-based education.  This is Mr. Johnsen’s 27th year at the Academy.  He was a judge at the First Lego League robotics competition this year, as well as a test scorer for Data Recognition Corp.

 

#23.  Design Studio
By Ann Roman
Grades 3-6

Did you ever wonder who designed the Golden Arches on the McDonald’s sign or the logo for your favorite sports team?  Well, join us in the Summer Academy Graphic Arts Studio and learn for yourself, while you work on a variety of challenging design projects.  You will work in a group to come up with a logo for a fictitious sports team and, as the artist of your own business, you will be commissioned by a client in the Summer Academy to design a logo for their class.  In the process, you will improve your drawing skills and experiment with new techniques and mediums.  A visit to a graphic design studio and the College of Visual Arts will introduce you to future options in the art world.  Have fun this summer sharing your enthusiasm, talent and creativity.

Ann Roman is a professional Artist and Storyteller.  Annie just retired after teaching art for 26 years with Centennial School District.  She is now focusing on her own endeavors, offering art residencies and workshops through her business, “Discovery & Creativity.”  Annie has been teaching for the Summer Academy for 15 years.

  

#24.  The Puzzling Art Of Geometry
By Paula Andrzejewski
Grades 3-6

Do you like puzzles, exploring shapes, observing patterns, and creating art? Then come discover the art in geometry and problem solving through puzzles. Develop your spatial senses and powers of observation as we look at optical illusions, explore pentominoes and discover the geometry of tangrams. We will ponder pattern blocks, and then tackle tessellations. Unique art pieces will evolve from your own tessellation creation.  Come away with your own self made pentominoes and tangram puzzles.

Paula Andrzejewski, new to Summer Academy, is not new to teaching. She has twenty-six years of teaching 4th-5th grade students and Advanced Math. She has a B.S. degree from U. W. Stout and U. of M. and a Master’s Degree in Teacher Leadership from the U. of M. She has received both the Minnesota and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching.  Teaching The Puzzling Art of Geometry allows Mrs. Andrzejewski to share the joy of puzzles, math and art with gifted students.
                               

#25. Clay The Architectural Way
By Maria Ahrndt
Grades 3-5*
This is a change from the printed brouchure

Have you ever thought how fun it would be to build a dream house? A place you can call your own. If building with clay sounds like fun, then this combination will be a blast. Our first step will be creating a blue print of your future house.  Next, we will be building clay walls and all the details.  Once the home is carefully constructed, and fired in the kiln, we will assemble our very own community.  A real estate brochure will complete our course.

My name is Maria Ahrndt.  I have been an art teacher at Spring Lake Park High school since 1993.  I taught at the Summer Academy from 1994-1998 just before my first son was born.  Now that he is 13 and my daughter is 11, I am excited to return and reconnect with the creative young minds at Summer Academy.   Although it is very rewarding to see high school graduates return with news about their exciting new art careers, I miss the early stages of creativity and enthusiasm of an elementary child. I enjoy teaching every aspect of art production like drawing, painting, crafts, and sculpting in clay and plaster.  My interests are reading, mural painting, camping, and going to museums.

 

#26. Improv-athon
By Scott Larson
Grades 4-6

Take a fantastic journey through your imagination in our improvisation acting class.  Learn to perform improv like you see on TV.  Using simple props and costumes, allow the right side of your brain to create your own commercials, characters and fairytales.  Play a variety of fun, thought-provoking games, which will challenge your creativity and exercise your brain muscles!  Discover your leadership abilities while directing others in an improv activity.  Join a group to create impromptu plays or work independently on your own storytelling skills.  We will show off our newfound talents at the annual SA Open House. Come, be part of our Improv-athon!

Scott Larson teaches improvisation and children’s theatre classes through the Twin Cities area.  Mr. Larson has taught in the Columbia Heights School District for 23 years.   This is his fifth year with Summer Academy.

 

#27. “Gold!”
By Susan Heumann
Grades 4-6

Meet Levi Strauss, the maker of fine blue jeans and the rest of the 49’ers as they search for gold.  We have the script and the score, but we need you to make the story and the music come to life!  Learn good singing technique (both solo and choral), design creative choreography and become a convincing actor.  Come, experience musical theater firsthand as you discover “Gold!”

Susan Huemann has seventeen years of elementary music teaching experience.  She obtained her Master’s of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota.  She currently teaches music at Dayton Elementary School in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  Pit orchestra, chorus, leading roles and later directing musical plays for elementary, high school and community theatre are all a part of Ms. Huemann’s involvement in music theater.  This is Ms. Huemann’s 20th year at the Academy.

#28. Take A Liking To A Viking
By Le Wangsness Bahr
Grades 4-6

Have you wondered where our MN Vikings got their name?  Been fascinated by mythology and trolls?  Love travel and learning another language?  Prepare yourself for a historical and magical trip to Norway and the land of the Vikings! Go back to the time of those mighty warriors through a demonstration of Viking life, apparel, and weapons. Learn about their life and times through hands-on experience with archery, Viking tent building, Viking arts, raptors, and Viking games. See how the life and culture of today’s Norway grew from these Viking days to be one of the world’s richest and progressive nations.  Explore an old Norwegian trunk, learning about the people who immigrated to America. Hear and create tales of trolls and Norsk mythology. Learn to speak words and phrases in Norwegian. Create the national art of Norway, rosemaling. Prepare and eat a smorgasbord of Norwegian treats. Listen and dance to this nation’s music. Come, explore this beautiful land, culture, and people.

There will be one day of travel to Decorah, IA, to visit the Vesterheim Museum….America’s most renowned museum on the Norwegian-American culture. On that day, the students will leave the Academy at 8:00 a.m. and return to the Academy by 8:00 p.m. Parents will need to collect their students at 8:00 p.m. at the Academy.

This class will be taught Le Wangsness-Bahr for the first 2 weeks. The final four days will be taught by Tonya Rootes.

Le Wangsness-Bahr, returning Academy teacher, teaches in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Originally from Decorah, IA, she is of 100 percent Norwegian ancestry . Growing up in the Norwegian community of Decorah, Ms. Bahr has a deep pride and appreciation for her cultural background.   

Tonya Rootes teaches in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. She is a co-worker with Ms. Bahr and has previously been a Talent Development teacher in her school district.

 

#29.  Kovacs & Associates,
Attorneys At Law
By Jamie Kovacs
Grades 4-6

Become an associate attorney in this rapidly expanding law firm.  All new associates will be assigned to defend or prosecute someone accused of breaking the law.  Explore your own sense of right and wrong and compare it to real laws.  If you are hired by this firm, you will be given the chance to draft wills, contracts and business agreements.  You will be a vital team member in this law firm and will be attend staff meetings, study laws that apply to your caseload, and prepare and present legal papers such as Summons and Petitions, Complaints, Briefs, and Proposed Judgments.  You will explore the most effective ways to resolve disputes considering procedure, result and cost.  You will be asked to negotiate settlements and mediate disagreements.  You will pursue the best course of action on your client’s behalf.  Your name will even be on the letterhead! 

Part of your job in this firm will be to design your own office, and shop for your office furniture and supplies.  You will also be asked to design a business card for yourself to hand to prospective clients.  What works and what doesn’t to get business in the door?  You will decide on advertisements and yellow page ads to promote your services.

As part of the experience you will visit local law offices, a law school and a county courthouse.  After observing lawyers at work, you will put your knowledge to the test as you present your arguments to “the Court.”

If this sounds like the job for you, please fill out the ‘job application’ you will find in this catalogue.  (Others may refer to this as the Summer Academy admission application but I will know it’s your job application if you select this course.)

Jamie Kovacs, an attorney, graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1982 and went from there to Drake University Law School, graduating in 1985.  She was admitted to the Minnesota Bar in 1985 and practiced law until 2001.  Starting in 1997, Mrs. Kovacs took time off from her law practice to teach this Summer Academy course that provides elementary students the opportunity to see what it’s like to be a real attorney.  After her experiences teaching Summer Academy and, in her own children’s classrooms teaching Junior Achievement and other enrichment programs, Ms. Kovacs returned to school and got her teaching license in 2006.  She was hired by the White Bear Lake School District that very month and has been teaching at Oneka Elementary School ever since.  This will be her 10th year at the Academy. 

 

#30.   Take It To The Limit
By Holly Ashton
Grades 4-6

Do you like a good math challenge?  If so, have I got some problems for you!  In Take it to the Limit you will find trigonometry even in circles.  You will find Calculus topics such as limits, derivatives and integrals at amusement parks.  You will work in teams to complete challenges and you will construct roller coasters and other amusement park rides that use mathematics to thrill us!  We will study famous mathematicians and the concepts they recognized.  We will take a trip to Nickelodeon Universe and experience math firsthand while riding roller coasters and Ferris wheels.  We will see mathematics in many new and amazing places.  If you love math, join us as we Take it to the Limit!

Holly Ashton graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a degree in mathematics.  She has her Master’s degree in Applied Math from Iowa State University in Ames.  Ms. Ashton taught math in an elementary school for several years in Florida and then began teaching at the community college level.  She currently resides with her family in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she teaches math at Pikes Peak Community College.  In addition to teaching college students, Ms. Ashton has spent years volunteering in her children’s elementary school classrooms working with high-achieving math students, challenging them to stretch their math skills to the limit.  This is Ms. Ashton’s sixth year with Summer Academy.

 

#31.  More Than A Game
By Joel Nydam
Grades 4-6

What makes a game “fun?”  Is it chance, strategy, or a combination of both?  The only way to find out is by playing.  Come, join us for card games like Cribbage, dice games like 5,000, active games like The Mole, board games like Landslide and many more.  Not to mention a visit from a Mensa-award winning game designer, a live auction from a professional auctioneer, and an outdoor field trip that will “bowl” you over.  Even try your own hand at making the “perfect” game.  If you enjoy friendly competition and cooperative problem solving while sharpening your strategy expertise, this course is for you.

Joel Nydam is a fourth-grade teacher at Otter Lake Elementary School in the White Bear Lake School District.  For the past seven years, he has advised the Otter Lake Chess Club.  He has also formed a Cribbage Club to help students sharpen thier math and strategy skills.  In his home collection, he owns numerous board and card games.  He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern College and his Master of Arts in Education from Saint Mary's University. This is Mr. Nydam's first year with the Academy.

 

#32. Physics, Physics, Physics!
By Abe Hanson
Grades 4-6

Do you ever wonder how rollercoasters make you feel the way they do?  Have you ever seen a pitcher throw a ridiculous curveball and say to yourself, “How did they do that?!!?”  Does a 310 metric ton hovercraft “floating” on air completely baffle you?  It sounds like you are more interested in physics than you thought!

Physics is an international language of its own, which you will learn to understand and speak by immersing yourself in it.  Observe, measure, and analyze how physics influences the world around you.  Become an expert in the motion of everyday objects like toys, racecars, rockets, and even your friends. 

Understand how and what forces affect you while going about your daily life, like walking down the street, riding your bike, playing catch, or even twisting around turns on roller coasters!  Discover the different types of energy that influence our universe, such as mechanical and gravitational energy.  Build your own car, hover craft, roller coaster, and water rocket!  Excited yet?  Then come bolster your budding physist minds.

Abe Hanson, an elementary teacher in the Roseville School District, is a gifted and talented cluster teacher. He has coached Future Problem Solving (FPS) for seven years, qualifying countless teams for the MN state tournament, and sending one to the international competition in 2007. Mr. Hanson is a returning Summer Academy teacher.

 

#33. Castles, Kings & Other Things
By Mair Owen
Grades 4-6

Prepare yourself for a historical trip to Great Britain!  Back to the magical age of King Arthur, Camelot, and the Mabinogion!  See how castles were built, learn how and why the battles were won or lost, dance the dances, eat the food, and learn the language of Welsh.  Design costumes, build castles, and participate in an Eisteddfod (celebration) as you experience the richness of early Great Britain.  We will also learn about falconry and have hands-on experience with fencing and archery.  On the extended day we will visit the Sculpture Gardens, visit Arms and Armor, go lawn bowling and have lunch at an Irish restaurant.

NOTE:  During the Academy, an additional amount, not to exceed $15, will be collected for our visit to a restaurant.

Mair Owen, a native of Wales, Great Britain, is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She has a Master’s degree from Hamline University and also has a Gifted Certificate from Hamline.  This is Ms. Owen’s fourteenth year with the Academy.

 

#34. Master Magazine Makers
By Elizabeth Johnson
Grades 4-6

Would you like to create your own magazine?  Do you like going to restaurants, museums, and malls?  Do you like knowing about the latest new electronic toys and video games?  Do you like finding out about the coolest things to do and see in the Twin Cities?  Help create a magazine that tells all your friends about the latest trends!  Learn how to write and edit articles, photograph products and places, and design the layout of your magazine pages.  You will also talk to a real creative director of a magazine in New York City.  If you want to be part of a highly creative and energetic team working on a fast-paced project, then this is the class for you!

Elizabeth Johnson is an ESL and Spanish teacher at Highview Middle School in the Mounds View School District.  After receiving a B.A. in Art History from the University of Minnesota, she moved to New York City where she worked for a printing and graphics company. Elizabeth has a Masters in TESOL from Hunter College in New York City.  Elizabeth has also had the opportunity to teach at an international school in Tokyo, Japan.

 

#35. SAM Animation: Stop Action (Movie Production)
Amy Oelshlager
Grades 4-6

Lights, Camera, ACTION! In this class we will become filmmakers using the amazing technology of Stop Motion Animation. We will learn about different types of animation—from Wallace and Grommet clay-mation to Disney’s cartoon animation. As a creative team, we will create an original animated movie from start to finish. You will be a screen writer when we write our own script, a director when we use video cameras and computers to capture our animations, and a video editor when we add special effects and music in post production. Finally, we will debut our animation to the public and release our very own DVD!

Amy Oelschlager is a Technology Integration Specialist in the Columbia Heights School District. She has a Masters of Education in Technology Integration and a minor in Multimedia and Video Production. She taught 4th grade and technology in Texas for the last four years.  During that time she developed a “Commended Kids” program (Gifted and Talented Program) and created an interest driven podcast that was completely planned, written and produced by students.

 

#36.  Bitten By The Blogging Bug
By Lindsay Samelian
Grades 4-6

Have you ever had so much to say, you felt like you were about to burst? Take your witty writing and designing abilities to the next level. Come learn how to create your own multi-media blog. This computer-based course will stretch you to explore your interests, express your ideas, polish your works, design your own web layout, upload photographs, and hook your readers in. Work along side other passionate writers. Join the world of bloggers! We will take a field trip to a local coffee shop to let our creativity flow, as well as a trip to a writing center to learn more about the professional publishing process. You will leave with an intriguing blog you can continue at home and an interested audience awaiting your next post.

Lindsay Samelian has taught fourth and fifth grade in the Mounds View Public School District for 6 years. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin - River Falls with a BS in Elementary Education and English. Her love of teaching and learning continues at Hamline University where she is completing her Masters of Arts in Education. Miss Samelian loves to work with high potential students and share her passion for reading, blogging, technology, and the creative writing process. 

 

#37.  Architectural Design
By Fred Feirn
Grades 5-6

Explore design ideas and concepts and construction principles.  You’ll develop floor plans and elevation plans to create a home design.  You use Auto-CAD software to construct the plans. When you complete the design and plans, you’ll construct a scale model of your work!

Fred Feirn is an industrial tech teacher in the White Bear Lake School District where he teaches CAD (Computer Aided Drafting).    He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a BS in Technology Education with concentration in manufacturing engineering and drafting and design.  This is Mr. Feirn’s seventh year with Summer Academy.

               

#38.  Chemistry:  Fun With Matter
By Dave Eckstrom
Grades 5-6

Have you ever experienced something exploding, burning, glowing, changing color, fizzing or getting cold?  When this is happening, there is a change in the matter that makes up what you are seeing.  Changes in matter happen whether we are paying attention or not, but people who study these changes have a lot of fun exploring how the world works.  These people are called chemists and I’m inviting you to become one for a few weeks this summer.

Join us as we make matter change and measure some of the results.  Each day, we will perform a different experiment (or two or three) and see what we can learn from all the changes in color, temperature, size, texture and even taste.  That’s right – cooking is mostly chemistry, so some of our experiments will be edible!  We’ll also talk to some people who do chemistry for a living and get some idea of the cool things they do.  Perhaps you are thinking about becoming a scientist, a medical professional or an engineer.  Being a chemist for a week will introduce you to some things that will definitely be a part of your future in those careers.  But this class is not just for science geeks – it’s for anyone who wants to have fun and learn more about how the world works at the same time.  Plus, you’ll get to wear some really stylish goggles!

Dave Eckstrom has taught nine classes at Summer Academy in radio, carpentry and physics.  In his regular life, he teaches chemistry in the Hayward High School in Hayward, Wisconsin.  He is a former engineer who has worked on projects ranging from designing chicken processing equipment to testing bomb parts to developing laser systems for medical equipment.  

 

#39.  Introduction To Aviation
By John Schmidt
Grades 5-7

Fly!  The word has been a thought of mankind’s for thousands of years, but only in the last 100 has society actually been transported in airplanes.  We will look at antique airplanes and flying techniques, the science, the history, the personalities, and the FUTURE of aviation. Students will make a model airplane and a model airfoil.  We will visit airplane museums, a control tower, meet a flight instructor, fly a flight simulator, and see aircraft engines.

John Schmidt teaches in the Columbia Heights School District.  He is a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilot’s Association.  Mr. Schmidt has been a private pilot since 1990 with 400 hours logged flight time, including tailwheel, complex, and high-performance endorsements.  He owns a 1947 Stinson 108-1 and is building an RV6 and a replica Piper Vagabond.  Mr. Schmidt owns a hangar in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and serves on the Forest Lake Airport Commission.  This is his fifth year with Summer Academy.

 

#40.  Outdoor Adventure-Geocaching
By Jay Huemann
Grades 5-7

Have you ever been lost in the woods?  Have you ever wanted to find hidden treasure?  Learn the exciting technology called GPS and never have to worry about getting lost again.  We will be participating in a world-wide scavenger hunt called Geocaching.  We will also be exploring and learning about triangulation, maps, and the history of navigation.  Bring your walking shoes and a rain jacket; we will be enjoying the outdoors as we visit interesting cache sites and create a few of our own!

NOTE:  This class will involve a lot of physical outdoor activity every day of Summer Academy.  Please dress for the weather.  Rain and shine, being outside is divine!

Jay Huemann is a technology teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  His hobbies include bicycling, cross-country skiing, podcasting, website creation and Geocaching.  He has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Social Studies from Mankato State University and a Master of Art in Educational Technologies from the University of St. Thomas.  This is Mr. Huemann’s fourth year with the Academy.

 

#41.  Incredible Machines, Devices & Gizmos
By John Stangl & Jim Shey
Grades 5-7

Design, then build devices and contraptions that twist, turn, and even defy the laws of gravity.  Apply the forces of the universe to make your own, unique roller coaster and self-propelled gizmos.  No scientific background is necessary, but be prepared to “fire up” your creative, artistic, and logic skills. You will learn how engineers and architects work by designing, then building a 21st century environment or even your own mechanical pinball machine.  GIRLS AND BOYS, if you enjoy problem-solving with both your hands and minds, this engineering course is for you.         

NOTE:  For girls and boys who are toying with the possibility of a career in an engineering field, this course offers a sound environment where one can tinker. Tinkering is something that all of us should know how to do, for it affects many fields of work and play.

John Stangl returns to the Academy for his 28th year.  He has designed and taught many successful engineering courses at the Science Museum of Minnesota, University of St. Thomas, Augsburg College, the University of North Dakota, and school districts throughout the upper Midwest.

Jim Shey returns to the Academy for his 12th year.  In addition to teaching grades six through college for 36 years, he is a master carpenter and certified welder.  Mr. Shey has built numerous homes and is self-employed as a “genuine handy man” who can fix just about anything, including electronics and networks.

 

#42.  Passion For Fashion
By Stacy Anderson
Grades 5-7

Do you enjoy looking at fashion, paging through fashion magazines, and designing clothing?  In this course, we will look at fashion designers, their influences and how fashion changes over time.  We will also take a field trip to experience fashion with people who work with it every day, learning how clothing is created and the process to get it into the store.  We will put on a fashion show at the open house and display the other work we’ve done during the Academy.

Stacy Anderson has worked at Roseville Area High School for the past nine years and has taught fashion at a local community college for three years.  She designed the fashion courses at the high school.  Ms. Anderson takes her high school students to New York City on a fashion trip during the school year to expand their knowledge and give them a real-life experience.

 

#43. Calling All Cool Cats…
By Mark Suggs
Grades 5-7

What do Hip-Hop, Pop, Rock and Funk all have in common?  Not only are they types of music, but they have all been influenced by Jazz.  Come explore the world of jazz and the behind-the-scenes stories of so many legendary songs.  We will pump up the volume of incredible tunes, get crazy as we learn a little scat, become experts on quality of music, and take center stage while being DJ for a mock broadcast segment of jazz radio.  Live music will bring the jazz experience to life!  No musical background needed.

Mark Suggs is a community liaison for Mounds View Public School.  He earned both his bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communication and master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University St. Paul.  Mark was raised in Queens, NY, and graduated from Cultural High School with a focus in vocal performance.  His family exposed him to gospel, jazz, and classical from an early age.  Mark is a member of the Twin Cities Gospel Choir and has performed at the Guthrie Theater, First Avenue, and the  Metrodome for Kirby Puckett’s memorial service.  Performing vocal jazz at Arnella’s in St. Paul as well as various clubs throughout the Twin Cities has allowed him to share his love of jazz with others.  Mark resides in Roseville with his wife and three children.

 

#44. Video Games For Good!
By Kristen Nellis
Grades 5-8

What if video games could actually help people?  In this class we will not only create video games, but also partner with local non-profit organizations.  Through the power of social media and marketing, students will design games to draw attention to the local organization and aid in their efforts.  You will use your creativity to design and program your own games that will be able to be played by others on the web!  This class will teach the programming skills needed to create the newest game sensation!

Kristen Nellis has been teaching technology for over ten years at Forest Lake High School.  She has a Marketing Education degree and is completing her masters in Management and Leadership.  She has taught courses about Online Web Design, Web Design I and II, Video Game Design and was voted 2011 TIES Outstanding Teacher of the Year.

 

#45. Around The World With Paper
By Terra Houltberg
Grades 5-8

Have you ever wondered where paper comes from? Did you know that paper can be made from plants, vegetables, or even your old jeans?  You know books are made out of paper, but did you know you can create art pieces just with paper or even build sculptures? This course presents students with an opportunity to experience the full circle of paper, you will learn the science of papermaking by turning raw materials into paper, study the history of paper, learn about the different paper traditions around the world and create 2-D and 3-D pieces of artwork. We will also take a field trip to the MN Book Arts and see and experience how paper comes to life in book making.  In this class you will be a part of a group exhibition, which will include a collaborative sculpture that will be created with guess what…PAPER!

Mrs. Houltberg has traveled around the world from Pakistan to the Philippines, from the Swiss Alps to Mexico, and in each of these journeys she has had the opportunity to see and explore cultures different from her own. Fueled by her love for diversity, these travels have inspired the artwork that she makes and her approach to teaching.  As an artist, she enjoys working in mixed media including painting, drawing, sculpture and lots of different kinds of PAPER! After receiving her Masters degree in Art Education from the University of Minnesota, Houltberg began her dream of teaching art. She currently teaches at Anoka Middle School for the Arts where she teaches: ceramics, sculpture, art lab, drawing and painting.

 

#46.  Clay Studio
By Ann Celiberti
Grades 5-11

Come, play in the mud with us!  Clay mud, that is.  For three great weeks we will discover the joys of working in clay.  Let your imagination come to life as you create your own clay creatures, characters, and other clay projects. We will learn several clay techniques including slab, coil, pinch, and wheel throwing.  See and experience the process from beginning to end.  At the end of the class, you will take your work home to display.

Ann Celiberti is a local potter who has been working in clay for 34 years.  Some of her work has been displayed and sold at the Uptown Art Fair, Renaissance Festival as well as at an annual family art celebration in Mahtomedi.  Her studies include clay and other art medium at the University of Minnesota and the College of St. Catherine.  Ms. Celiberti has many years of experience teaching pottery to young students and is a returning Academy teacher.

 

#47. Simulation Games For Merchants, Generals & Emperors
By Richard Lemanczykafka
Grades 5-11

Take gaming to the next level, beyond Stratego, Risk and Settlers of Catan! If you derive enjoyment from historical “what ifs”, analyzing maps, resolving political intrigue, developing a civilization or simply want to take over the world, this is the experience for you. Join us as we learn how to play, analyze and form winning strategies for several games. Simulations let you call all the shots as the general, CEO, president, tycoon, or emperor. You will be put into historical situations as you match wits with your classroom rivals, deciding whether to cooperate or compete to reach your simulated objectives. Gaming scenarios will be selected that offer a variety of strategic challenges for three or more players. Not only will you get to play many intense and intriguing games but you will also analyze their game mechanics and visual appeal/aesthetic design in order to create your own game components. Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to expand a business or a civilization? As the leader and decision-maker, you will find out as you apply your knowledge of geography, economics, politics and history to be successful in this course!

Richard Lemanczykafka coached Odyssey of the Mind for three years at Pinewood Elementary School, ran a gaming club during his two years at Chippewa Middle School, and has been in charge of the Chess and Board Gaming Club at MVHS for the past three years. Gaming has been an enthusiastic pass time that he has been involved with since early childhood. And shortly after graduating from college at the U of MN with Honors, he began his game collection, with games going back to the 1890’s, and numbering close to a thousand games! He has experience in all forms of gaming from cards and chess to board gaming, miniatures and even role-playing. He is looking forward to his second year at the Academy.

 

#48.  Chess
By Paul Sackaroff
Grades 5-11

C….H….E….S….S!  Come and have fun playing one of the oldest board games known to humanity….CHESS!  Chess is not just a fun, strategic game, it fosters important thinking skills that are useful for life.  Students can expect lots of fun, friendly competition, individual instruction, group problem solving, and a chance to hone each other’s skills.  The atmosphere is relaxed, supportive and exciting.

This chess class is for the beginner, intermediate, and advanced boy and girl players.  It is for the student who wants to be a better player through understanding the fundamental principles of the game.  It appeals to those who are naturally creative and curious. 

Here is what you can expect:

•          individual & group problem solving
•          analyze positions in middle game
•          think creatively
•          compete against each other & the teacher
•          how to make a plan
•          learn new versions of chess
•          how to read & notate chess games
•          opening tricks
•          battle tactics
•          checkmate patterns
•          how chess can help you in school & in life

In addition to lots of fun and instruction, we will watch DVD and you tube videos of famous players and great games; we will explore the best web sites for competitive chess playing; you will also have chances to create their own version of a new chess game, make your own chess puzzles, read chess books, explore “chess art”, play in class tournaments, go on a Chess Campus field trip, and challenge a Lifetime Master Chess player.

Chess is a wonderful, lifelong hobby that will make you into a better student, thinker, and artist.  So come and join the fun!

“Chess is a creative process.  Its purpose is to find the truth” – Pandolfini

Mr. Sackaroff has been playing and teaching chess for many years.  He has lived and taught English in countries such as Hungary, Romania, Indonesia, South Korea and India.  He has also taught Comprehension/Speed-Reading classes for University of St. Thomas.  He completed his M.Ed. in English education at the University of Minnesota, taught AP and CIS writing classes at Columbia Heights High School, and now teaches English at Brooklyn Center High School.  This is Mr. Sackaroff’s fourth year at Summer Academy. 

 

#49.  The People Drawing Studio
By Jean Thurston
Grades 5-11

Do you often find yourself, with pencil in hand, sketching people?  Are you ready to take the leap and learn techniques of how to draw people that look like people?  Would you like to draw yourself, your family, and sport figures? Come, capture the images of friends, family photos, and newspaper photos.  Develop your awareness of detail, proportion, and action.  Experience continuous line drawing, pencil/eraser shading, and other techniques, some of which will be expanded to include animals and other objects of nature.  We will study an artist who is very proficient with each technique we learn.  Come to the Studio and draw people this summer! 

Note:  This course may be taken more than once, with new experiences at each level.

Jean Thurston, a returning Academy teacher, holds a Master’s degree in drawing, painting, and sculpture.  She has completed the educational specialist degree coursework with a focus on gifted and talented and has had extensive experience working with gifted students in art, both at secondary and elementary levels.  Ms. Thurston developed, for the Anoka School District, a plan for identification of the gifted and talented in art and has made state and national presentations on various topics concerning the gifted and talented art student.

 

 

#22.  Creative Computers
By Danny Johnsen
Grades 3-6

This PC-based course is designed for the young computer student who wants to learn new things and enhance what has been learned before.  Understanding the computer process now may be important for applying computers to our future needs.  Here is an opportunity for concentrated use of basic computer skills as well as an understanding of more advanced multimedia programming, with the flexibility to progress at your own rate. Projects are designed using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher, and Excel.  These projects emphasize inventions and entrepreneurship.  We will also focus on digital imaging and website design with Adobe software like Photoshop and Dreamweaver.  Time will also be provided to explore additional graphics programs and problem-solving software.

Activities may vary depending on the software available.  We will use the internet as allowable.

Danny Johnsen has taught elementary school for 35 years and holds a Master’s of Arts degree in computer-based education.  This is Mr. Johnsen’s 27th year at the Academy.  He was a judge at the First Lego League robotics competition this year, as well as a test scorer for Data Recognition Corp.

 

#23.  Design Studio
By Ann Roman
Grades 3-6

Did you ever wonder who designed the Golden Arches on the McDonald’s sign or the logo for your favorite sports team?  Well, join us in the Summer Academy Graphic Arts Studio and learn for yourself, while you work on a variety of challenging design projects.  You will work in a group to come up with a logo for a fictitious sports team and, as the artist of your own business, you will be commissioned by a client in the Summer Academy to design a logo for their class.  In the process, you will improve your drawing skills and experiment with new techniques and mediums.  A visit to a graphic design studio and the College of Visual Arts will introduce you to future options in the art world.  Have fun this summer sharing your enthusiasm, talent and creativity.

Ann Roman is a professional Artist and Storyteller.  Annie just retired after teaching art for 26 years with Centennial School District.  She is now focusing on her own endeavors, offering art residencies and workshops through her business, “Discovery & Creativity.”  Annie has been teaching for the Summer Academy for 15 years.

  

#24.  The Puzzling Art Of Geometry
By Paula Andrzejewski
Grades 3-6

Do you like puzzles, exploring shapes, observing patterns, and creating art? Then come discover the art in geometry and problem solving through puzzles. Develop your spatial senses and powers of observation as we look at optical illusions, explore pentominoes and discover the geometry of tangrams. We will ponder pattern blocks, and then tackle tessellations. Unique art pieces will evolve from your own tessellation creation.  Come away with your own self made pentominoes and tangram puzzles.

Paula Andrzejewski, new to Summer Academy, is not new to teaching. She has twenty-six years of teaching 4th-5th grade students and Advanced Math. She has a B.S. degree from U. W. Stout and U. of M. and a Master’s Degree in Teacher Leadership from the U. of M. She has received both the Minnesota and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching.  Teaching The Puzzling Art of Geometry allows Mrs. Andrzejewski to share the joy of puzzles, math and art with gifted students.
                               

#26. Improv-athon
By Scott Larson
Grades 4-6

Take a fantastic journey through your imagination in our improvisation acting class.  Learn to perform improv like you see on TV.  Using simple props and costumes, allow the right side of your brain to create your own commercials, characters and fairytales.  Play a variety of fun, thought-provoking games, which will challenge your creativity and exercise your brain muscles!  Discover your leadership abilities while directing others in an improv activity.  Join a group to create impromptu plays or work independently on your own storytelling skills.  We will show off our newfound talents at the annual SA Open House. Come, be part of our Improv-athon!

Scott Larson teaches improvisation and children’s theatre classes through the Twin Cities area.  Mr. Larson has taught in the Columbia Heights School District for 23 years.   This is his fifth year with Summer Academy.

 

#27. “Gold!”
By Susan Heumann
Grades 4-6

Meet Levi Strauss, the maker of fine blue jeans and the rest of the 49’ers as they search for gold.  We have the script and the score, but we need you to make the story and the music come to life!  Learn good singing technique (both solo and choral), design creative choreography and become a convincing actor.  Come, experience musical theater firsthand as you discover “Gold!”

Susan Huemann has seventeen years of elementary music teaching experience.  She obtained her Master’s of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota.  She currently teaches music at Dayton Elementary School in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  Pit orchestra, chorus, leading roles and later directing musical plays for elementary, high school and community theatre are all a part of Ms. Huemann’s involvement in music theater.  This is Ms. Huemann’s 20th year at the Academy.

 

#28. Take A Liking To A Viking
By Le Wangsness Bahr
Grades 4-6

Have you wondered where our MN Vikings got their name?  Been fascinated by mythology and trolls?  Love travel and learning another language?  Prepare yourself for a historical and magical trip to Norway and the land of the Vikings! Go back to the time of those mighty warriors through a demonstration of Viking life, apparel, and weapons. Learn about their life and times through hands-on experience with archery, Viking tent building, Viking arts, raptors, and Viking games. See how the life and culture of today’s Norway grew from these Viking days to be one of the world’s richest and progressive nations.  Explore an old Norwegian trunk, learning about the people who immigrated to America. Hear and create tales of trolls and Norsk mythology. Learn to speak words and phrases in Norwegian. Create the national art of Norway, rosemaling. Prepare and eat a smorgasbord of Norwegian treats. Listen and dance to this nation’s music. Come, explore this beautiful land, culture, and people.

There will be one day of travel to Decorah, IA, to visit the Vesterheim Museum….America’s most renowned museum on the Norwegian-American culture. On that day, the students will leave the Academy at 8:00 a.m. and return to the Academy by 8:00 p.m. Parents will need to collect their students at 8:00 p.m. at the Academy.

This class will be taught Le Wangsness-Bahr for the first 2 weeks. The final four days will be taught by Tonya Rootes.

Le Wangsness-Bahr, returning Academy teacher, teaches in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Originally from Decorah, IA, she is of 100 percent Norwegian ancestry . Growing up in the Norwegian community of Decorah, Ms. Bahr has a deep pride and appreciation for her cultural background.   

Tonya Rootes teaches in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. She is a co-worker with Ms. Bahr and has previously been a Talent Development teacher in her school district.

 

#29.  Kovacs & Associates, Attorneys At Law
By Jamie Kovacs
Grades 4-6

Become an associate attorney in this rapidly expanding law firm.  All new associates will be assigned to defend or prosecute someone accused of breaking the law.  Explore your own sense of right and wrong and compare it to real laws.  If you are hired by this firm, you will be given the chance to draft wills, contracts and business agreements.  You will be a vital team member in this law firm and will be attend staff meetings, study laws that apply to your caseload, and prepare and present legal papers such as Summons and Petitions, Complaints, Briefs, and Proposed Judgments.  You will explore the most effective ways to resolve disputes considering procedure, result and cost.  You will be asked to negotiate settlements and mediate disagreements.  You will pursue the best course of action on your client’s behalf.  Your name will even be on the letterhead! 

Part of your job in this firm will be to design your own office, and shop for your office furniture and supplies.  You will also be asked to design a business card for yourself to hand to prospective clients.  What works and what doesn’t to get business in the door?  You will decide on advertisements and yellow page ads to promote your services.

As part of the experience you will visit local law offices, a law school and a county courthouse.  After observing lawyers at work, you will put your knowledge to the test as you present your arguments to “the Court.”

If this sounds like the job for you, please fill out the ‘job application’ you will find in this catalogue.  (Others may refer to this as the Summer Academy admission application but I will know it’s your job application if you select this course.)

Jamie Kovacs, an attorney, graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1982 and went from there to Drake University Law School, graduating in 1985.  She was admitted to the Minnesota Bar in 1985 and practiced law until 2001.  Starting in 1997, Mrs. Kovacs took time off from her law practice to teach this Summer Academy course that provides elementary students the opportunity to see what it’s like to be a real attorney.  After her experiences teaching Summer Academy and, in her own children’s classrooms teaching Junior Achievement and other enrichment programs, Ms. Kovacs returned to school and got her teaching license in 2006.  She was hired by the White Bear Lake School District that very month and has been teaching at Oneka Elementary School ever since.  This will be her 10th year at the Academy. 

 

#30.   Take It To The Limit
By Holly Ashton
Grades 4-6

Do you like a good math challenge?  If so, have I got some problems for you!  In Take it to the Limit you will find trigonometry even in circles.  You will find Calculus topics such as limits, derivatives and integrals at amusement parks.  You will work in teams to complete challenges and you will construct roller coasters and other amusement park rides that use mathematics to thrill us!  We will study famous mathematicians and the concepts they recognized.  We will take a trip to Nickelodeon Universe and experience math firsthand while riding roller coasters and Ferris wheels.  We will see mathematics in many new and amazing places.  If you love math, join us as we Take it to the Limit!

Holly Ashton graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a degree in mathematics.  She has her Master’s degree in Applied Math from Iowa State University in Ames.  Ms. Ashton taught math in an elementary school for several years in Florida and then began teaching at the community college level.  She currently resides with her family in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she teaches math at Pikes Peak Community College.  In addition to teaching college students, Ms. Ashton has spent years volunteering in her children’s elementary school classrooms working with high-achieving math students, challenging them to stretch their math skills to the limit.  This is Ms. Ashton’s sixth year with Summer Academy.

 

#31.  More Than A Game
By Joel Nydam
Grades 4-6

What makes a game “fun?”  Is it chance, strategy, or a combination of both?  The only way to find out is by playing.  Come, join us for card games like Cribbage, dice games like 5,000, active games like The Mole, board games like Landslide and many more.  Not to mention a visit from a Mensa-award winning game designer, a live auction from a professional auctioneer, and an outdoor field trip that will “bowl” you over.  Even try your own hand at making the “perfect” game.  If you enjoy friendly competition and cooperative problem solving while sharpening your strategy expertise, this course is for you.

Joel Nydam is a fourth-grade teacher at Otter Lake Elementary School in the White Bear Lake School District.  For the past seven years, he has advised the Otter Lake Chess Club.  He has also formed a Cribbage Club to help students sharpen thier math and strategy skills.  In his home collection, he owns numerous board and card games.  He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern College and his Master of Arts in Education from Saint Mary's University. This is Mr. Nydam's first year with the Academy.

 

#32. Physics, Physics, Physics!
By Abe Hanson
Grades 4-6

Do you ever wonder how rollercoasters make you feel the way they do?  Have you ever seen a pitcher throw a ridiculous curveball and say to yourself, “How did they do that?!!?”  Does a 310 metric ton hovercraft “floating” on air completely baffle you?  It sounds like you are more interested in physics than you thought!

Physics is an international language of its own, which you will learn to understand and speak by immersing yourself in it.  Observe, measure, and analyze how physics influences the world around you.  Become an expert in the motion of everyday objects like toys, racecars, rockets, and even your friends. 

Understand how and what forces affect you while going about your daily life, like walking down the street, riding your bike, playing catch, or even twisting around turns on roller coasters!  Discover the different types of energy that influence our universe, such as mechanical and gravitational energy.  Build your own car, hover craft, roller coaster, and water rocket!  Excited yet?  Then come bolster your budding physist minds.

Abe Hanson, an elementary teacher in the Roseville School District, is a gifted and talented cluster teacher. He has coached Future Problem Solving (FPS) for seven years, qualifying countless teams for the MN state tournament, and sending one to the international competition in 2007. Mr. Hanson is a returning Summer Academy teacher.

 

#33. Castles, Kings & Other Things
By Mair Owen
Grades 4-6

Prepare yourself for a historical trip to Great Britain!  Back to the magical age of King Arthur, Camelot, and the Mabinogion!  See how castles were built, learn how and why the battles were won or lost, dance the dances, eat the food, and learn the language of Welsh.  Design costumes, build castles, and participate in an Eisteddfod (celebration) as you experience the richness of early Great Britain.  We will also learn about falconry and have hands-on experience with fencing and archery.  On the extended day we will visit the Sculpture Gardens, visit Arms and Armor, go lawn bowling and have lunch at an Irish restaurant.

NOTE:  During the Academy, an additional amount, not to exceed $15, will be collected for our visit to a restaurant.

Mair Owen, a native of Wales, Great Britain, is an elementary teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  She has a Master’s degree from Hamline University and also has a Gifted Certificate from Hamline.  This is Ms. Owen’s fourteenth year with the Academy.

 

#34. Master Magazine Makers
By Elizabeth Johnson
Grades 4-6

Would you like to create your own magazine?  Do you like going to restaurants, museums, and malls?  Do you like knowing about the latest new electronic toys and video games?  Do you like finding out about the coolest things to do and see in the Twin Cities?  Help create a magazine that tells all your friends about the latest trends!  Learn how to write and edit articles, photograph products and places, and design the layout of your magazine pages.  You will also talk to a real creative director of a magazine in New York City.  If you want to be part of a highly creative and energetic team working on a fast-paced project, then this is the class for you!

Elizabeth Johnson is an ESL and Spanish teacher at Highview Middle School in the Mounds View School District.  After receiving a B.A. in Art History from the University of Minnesota, she moved to New York City where she worked for a printing and graphics company. Elizabeth has a Masters in TESOL from Hunter College in New York City.  Elizabeth has also had the opportunity to teach at an international school in Tokyo, Japan.

 

#35. SAM Animation: Stop Action (Movie Production)
Amy Oelshlager
Grades 4-6

Lights, Camera, ACTION! In this class we will become filmmakers using the amazing technology of Stop Motion Animation. We will learn about different types of animation—from Wallace and Grommet clay-mation to Disney’s cartoon animation. As a creative team, we will create an original animated movie from start to finish. You will be a screen writer when we write our own script, a director when we use video cameras and computers to capture our animations, and a video editor when we add special effects and music in post production. Finally, we will debut our animation to the public and release our very own DVD!

Amy Oelschlager is a Technology Integration Specialist in the Columbia Heights School District. She has a Masters of Education in Technology Integration and a minor in Multimedia and Video Production. She taught 4th grade and technology in Texas for the last four years.  During that time she developed a “Commended Kids” program (Gifted and Talented Program) and created an interest driven podcast that was completely planned, written and produced by students.

 

#36.  Bitten By The Blogging Bug
By Lindsay Samelian
Grades 4-6

Have you ever had so much to say, you felt like you were about to burst? Take your witty writing and designing abilities to the next level. Come learn how to create your own multi-media blog. This computer-based course will stretch you to explore your interests, express your ideas, polish your works, design your own web layout, upload photographs, and hook your readers in. Work along side other passionate writers. Join the world of bloggers! We will take a field trip to a local coffee shop to let our creativity flow, as well as a trip to a writing center to learn more about the professional publishing process. You will leave with an intriguing blog you can continue at home and an interested audience awaiting your next post.

Lindsay Samelian has taught fourth and fifth grade in the Mounds View Public School District for 6 years. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin - River Falls with a BS in Elementary Education and English. Her love of teaching and learning continues at Hamline University where she is completing her Masters of Arts in Education. Miss Samelian loves to work with high potential students and share her passion for reading, blogging, technology, and the creative writing process. 

 

#37.  Architectural Design
By Fred Feirn
Grades 5-6

Explore design ideas and concepts and construction principles.  You’ll develop floor plans and elevation plans to create a home design.  You use Auto-CAD software to construct the plans. When you complete the design and plans, you’ll construct a scale model of your work!

Fred Feirn is an industrial tech teacher in the White Bear Lake School District where he teaches CAD (Computer Aided Drafting).    He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a BS in Technology Education with concentration in manufacturing engineering and drafting and design.  This is Mr. Feirn’s seventh year with Summer Academy.

               

#38.  Chemistry:  Fun With Matter
By Dave Eckstrom
Grades 5-6

Have you ever experienced something exploding, burning, glowing, changing color, fizzing or getting cold?  When this is happening, there is a change in the matter that makes up what you are seeing.  Changes in matter happen whether we are paying attention or not, but people who study these changes have a lot of fun exploring how the world works.  These people are called chemists and I’m inviting you to become one for a few weeks this summer.

Join us as we make matter change and measure some of the results.  Each day, we will perform a different experiment (or two or three) and see what we can learn from all the changes in color, temperature, size, texture and even taste.  That’s right – cooking is mostly chemistry, so some of our experiments will be edible!  We’ll also talk to some people who do chemistry for a living and get some idea of the cool things they do.  Perhaps you are thinking about becoming a scientist, a medical professional or an engineer.  Being a chemist for a week will introduce you to some things that will definitely be a part of your future in those careers.  But this class is not just for science geeks – it’s for anyone who wants to have fun and learn more about how the world works at the same time.  Plus, you’ll get to wear some really stylish goggles!

Dave Eckstrom has taught nine classes at Summer Academy in radio, carpentry and physics.  In his regular life, he teaches chemistry in the Hayward High School in Hayward, Wisconsin.  He is a former engineer who has worked on projects ranging from designing chicken processing equipment to testing bomb parts to developing laser systems for medical equipment.  

 

#39.  Introduction To Aviation
By John Schmidt
Grades 5-7

Fly!  The word has been a thought of mankind’s for thousands of years, but only in the last 100 has society actually been transported in airplanes.  We will look at antique airplanes and flying techniques, the science, the history, the personalities, and the FUTURE of aviation. Students will make a model airplane and a model airfoil.  We will visit airplane museums, a control tower, meet a flight instructor, fly a flight simulator, and see aircraft engines.

John Schmidt teaches in the Columbia Heights School District.  He is a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilot’s Association.  Mr. Schmidt has been a private pilot since 1990 with 400 hours logged flight time, including tailwheel, complex, and high-performance endorsements.  He owns a 1947 Stinson 108-1 and is building an RV6 and a replica Piper Vagabond.  Mr. Schmidt owns a hangar in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and serves on the Forest Lake Airport Commission.  This is his fifth year with Summer Academy.

 

#40.  Outdoor Adventure-Geocaching
By Jay Huemann
Grades 5-7

Have you ever been lost in the woods?  Have you ever wanted to find hidden treasure?  Learn the exciting technology called GPS and never have to worry about getting lost again.  We will be participating in a world-wide scavenger hunt called Geocaching.  We will also be exploring and learning about triangulation, maps, and the history of navigation.  Bring your walking shoes and a rain jacket; we will be enjoying the outdoors as we visit interesting cache sites and create a few of our own!

NOTE:  This class will involve a lot of physical outdoor activity every day of Summer Academy.  Please dress for the weather.  Rain and shine, being outside is divine!

Jay Huemann is a technology teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  His hobbies include bicycling, cross-country skiing, podcasting, website creation and Geocaching.  He has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Social Studies from Mankato State University and a Master of Art in Educational Technologies from the University of St. Thomas.  This is Mr. Huemann’s fourth year with the Academy.

 

#41.  Incredible Machines, Devices & Gizmos
By John Stangl & Jim Shey
Grades 5-7

Design, then build devices and contraptions that twist, turn, and even defy the laws of gravity.  Apply the forces of the universe to make your own, unique roller coaster and self-propelled gizmos.  No scientific background is necessary, but be prepared to “fire up” your creative, artistic, and logic skills. You will learn how engineers and architects work by designing, then building a 21st century environment or even your own mechanical pinball machine.  GIRLS AND BOYS, if you enjoy problem-solving with both your hands and minds, this engineering course is for you.         

NOTE:  For girls and boys who are toying with the possibility of a career in an engineering field, this course offers a sound environment where one can tinker. Tinkering is something that all of us should know how to do, for it affects many fields of work and play.

John Stangl returns to the Academy for his 28th year.  He has designed and taught many successful engineering courses at the Science Museum of Minnesota, University of St. Thomas, Augsburg College, the University of North Dakota, and school districts throughout the upper Midwest.

Jim Shey returns to the Academy for his 12th year.  In addition to teaching grades six through college for 36 years, he is a master carpenter and certified welder.  Mr. Shey has built numerous homes and is self-employed as a “genuine handy man” who can fix just about anything, including electronics and networks.

 

#42.  Passion For Fashion
By Stacy Anderson
Grades 5-7

Do you enjoy looking at fashion, paging through fashion magazines, and designing clothing?  In this course, we will look at fashion designers, their influences and how fashion changes over time.  We will also take a field trip to experience fashion with people who work with it every day, learning how clothing is created and the process to get it into the store.  We will put on a fashion show at the open house and display the other work we’ve done during the Academy.

Stacy Anderson has worked at Roseville Area High School for the past nine years and has taught fashion at a local community college for three years.  She designed the fashion courses at the high school.  Ms. Anderson takes her high school students to New York City on a fashion trip during the school year to expand their knowledge and give them a real-life experience.

 

#43. Calling All Cool Cats…
By Mark Suggs
Grades 5-7

What do Hip-Hop, Pop, Rock and Funk all have in common?  Not only are they types of music, but they have all been influenced by Jazz.  Come explore the world of jazz and the behind-the-scenes stories of so many legendary songs.  We will pump up the volume of incredible tunes, get crazy as we learn a little scat, become experts on quality of music, and take center stage while being DJ for a mock broadcast segment of jazz radio.  Live music will bring the jazz experience to life!  No musical background needed.

Mark Suggs is a community liaison for Mounds View Public School.  He earned both his bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communication and master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University St. Paul.  Mark was raised in Queens, NY, and graduated from Cultural High School with a focus in vocal performance.  His family exposed him to gospel, jazz, and classical from an early age.  Mark is a member of the Twin Cities Gospel Choir and has performed at the Guthrie Theater, First Avenue, and the  Metrodome for Kirby Puckett’s memorial service.  Performing vocal jazz at Arnella’s in St. Paul as well as various clubs throughout the Twin Cities has allowed him to share his love of jazz with others.  Mark resides in Roseville with his wife and three children.

 

#44. Video Games For Good!
By Kristen Nellis
Grades 5-8

What if video games could actually help people?  In this class we will not only create video games, but also partner with local non-profit organizations.  Through the power of social media and marketing, students will design games to draw attention to the local organization and aid in their efforts.  You will use your creativity to design and program your own games that will be able to be played by others on the web!  This class will teach the programming skills needed to create the newest game sensation!

Kristen Nellis has been teaching technology for over ten years at Forest Lake High School.  She has a Marketing Education degree and is completing her masters in Management and Leadership.  She has taught courses about Online Web Design, Web Design I and II, Video Game Design and was voted 2011 TIES Outstanding Teacher of the Year.

 

#45. Around The World With Paper
By Terra Houltberg
Grades 5-8

Have you ever wondered where paper comes from? Did you know that paper can be made from plants, vegetables, or even your old jeans?  You know books are made out of paper, but did you know you can create art pieces just with paper or even build sculptures? This course presents students with an opportunity to experience the full circle of paper, you will learn the science of papermaking by turning raw materials into paper, study the history of paper, learn about the different paper traditions around the world and create 2-D and 3-D pieces of artwork. We will also take a field trip to the MN Book Arts and see and experience how paper comes to life in book making.  In this class you will be a part of a group exhibition, which will include a collaborative sculpture that will be created with guess what…PAPER!

Mrs. Houltberg has traveled around the world from Pakistan to the Philippines, from the Swiss Alps to Mexico, and in each of these journeys she has had the opportunity to see and explore cultures different from her own. Fueled by her love for diversity, these travels have inspired the artwork that she makes and her approach to teaching.  As an artist, she enjoys working in mixed media including painting, drawing, sculpture and lots of different kinds of PAPER! After receiving her Masters degree in Art Education from the University of Minnesota, Houltberg began her dream of teaching art. She currently teaches at Anoka Middle School for the Arts where she teaches: ceramics, sculpture, art lab, drawing and painting.

 

#46.  Clay Studio
By Ann Celiberti
Grades 5-11

Come, play in the mud with us!  Clay mud, that is.  For three great weeks we will discover the joys of working in clay.  Let your imagination come to life as you create your own clay creatures, characters, and other clay projects. We will learn several clay techniques including slab, coil, pinch, and wheel throwing.  See and experience the process from beginning to end.  At the end of the class, you will take your work home to display.

Ann Celiberti is a local potter who has been working in clay for 34 years.  Some of her work has been displayed and sold at the Uptown Art Fair, Renaissance Festival as well as at an annual family art celebration in Mahtomedi.  Her studies include clay and other art medium at the University of Minnesota and the College of St. Catherine.  Ms. Celiberti has many years of experience teaching pottery to young students and is a returning Academy teacher.

 

#47. Simulation Games For Merchants, Generals & Emperors
By Richard Lemanczykafka
Grades 5-11

Take gaming to the next level, beyond Stratego, Risk and Settlers of Catan! If you derive enjoyment from historical “what ifs”, analyzing maps, resolving political intrigue, developing a civilization or simply want to take over the world, this is the experience for you. Join us as we learn how to play, analyze and form winning strategies for several games. Simulations let you call all the shots as the general, CEO, president, tycoon, or emperor. You will be put into historical situations as you match wits with your classroom rivals, deciding whether to cooperate or compete to reach your simulated objectives. Gaming scenarios will be selected that offer a variety of strategic challenges for three or more players. Not only will you get to play many intense and intriguing games but you will also analyze their game mechanics and visual appeal/aesthetic design in order to create your own game components. Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to expand a business or a civilization? As the leader and decision-maker, you will find out as you apply your knowledge of geography, economics, politics and history to be successful in this course!

Richard Lemanczykafka coached Odyssey of the Mind for three years at Pinewood Elementary School, ran a gaming club during his two years at Chippewa Middle School, and has been in charge of the Chess and Board Gaming Club at MVHS for the past three years. Gaming has been an enthusiastic pass time that he has been involved with since early childhood. And shortly after graduating from college at the U of MN with Honors, he began his game collection, with games going back to the 1890’s, and numbering close to a thousand games! He has experience in all forms of gaming from cards and chess to board gaming, miniatures and even role-playing. He is looking forward to his second year at the Academy.

 

#48.  Chess
By Paul Sackaroff
Grades 5-11

C….H….E….S….S!  Come and have fun playing one of the oldest board games known to humanity….CHESS!  Chess is not just a fun, strategic game, it fosters important thinking skills that are useful for life.  Students can expect lots of fun, friendly competition, individual instruction, group problem solving, and a chance to hone each other’s skills.  The atmosphere is relaxed, supportive and exciting.

This chess class is for the beginner, intermediate, and advanced boy and girl players.  It is for the student who wants to be a better player through understanding the fundamental principles of the game.  It appeals to those who are naturally creative and curious. 

Here is what you can expect:

•          individual & group problem solving
•          analyze positions in middle game
•          think creatively
•          compete against each other & the teacher
•          how to make a plan
•          learn new versions of chess
•          how to read & notate chess games
•          opening tricks
•          battle tactics
•          checkmate patterns
•          how chess can help you in school & in life

In addition to lots of fun and instruction, we will watch DVD and you tube videos of famous players and great games; we will explore the best web sites for competitive chess playing; you will also have chances to create their own version of a new chess game, make your own chess puzzles, read chess books, explore “chess art”, play in class tournaments, go on a Chess Campus field trip, and challenge a Lifetime Master Chess player.

Chess is a wonderful, lifelong hobby that will make you into a better student, thinker, and artist.  So come and join the fun!

“Chess is a creative process.  Its purpose is to find the truth” – Pandolfini

Mr. Sackaroff has been playing and teaching chess for many years.  He has lived and taught English in countries such as Hungary, Romania, Indonesia, South Korea and India.  He has also taught Comprehension/Speed-Reading classes for University of St. Thomas.  He completed his M.Ed. in English education at the University of Minnesota, taught AP and CIS writing classes at Columbia Heights High School, and now teaches English at Brooklyn Center High School.  This is Mr. Sackaroff’s fourth year at Summer Academy. 

 

#49.  The People Drawing Studio
By Jean Thurston
Grades 5-11

Do you often find yourself, with pencil in hand, sketching people?  Are you ready to take the leap and learn techniques of how to draw people that look like people?  Would you like to draw yourself, your family, and sport figures? Come, capture the images of friends, family photos, and newspaper photos.  Develop your awareness of detail, proportion, and action.  Experience continuous line drawing, pencil/eraser shading, and other techniques, some of which will be expanded to include animals and other objects of nature.  We will study an artist who is very proficient with each technique we learn.  Come to the Studio and draw people this summer! 

Note:  This course may be taken more than once, with new experiences at each level.

Jean Thurston, a returning Academy teacher, holds a Master’s degree in drawing, painting, and sculpture.  She has completed the educational specialist degree coursework with a focus on gifted and talented and has had extensive experience working with gifted students in art, both at secondary and elementary levels.  Ms. Thurston developed, for the Anoka School District, a plan for identification of the gifted and talented in art and has made state and national presentations on various topics concerning the gifted and talented art student.

#50. Astronomy: Our World In Space
By Jeff Bullard
Grades 6-8

Have you ever observed the night sky from a location far from city lights?  What did you see?  What did you wonder?  What did you think?  For at least 10,000 years our ancestors must have, no doubt, looked up at the night sky too.  What did they see?  What did they wonder?  What did they think?  Human curiosity combined with scientific inquiry has led to a fascinating, mind expanding, and changing view of the earth and its place in the universe.  Did you know that over 2200 years ago a Greek librarian measured the Earth.  After that the Greeks figured out the size of the moon and its distance from Earth.  And then they figured out how far away and how big the sun was!  We can too!

Each day we will use a telescope with a special filter that will allow us to view sunspots on the surface of the sun.  We will make daily observations of the moon and the path of the sun across the sky.  We will create earth models that will allow us to visualize the way our planet looks as viewed from space (locations receiving direct sunlight, night and day).  Imagine walking through our own scale model solar system (part of that journey will require a bus ride to a local planetarium).  We will look through different types of telescopes and figure out how (and how much) they magnify.  These telescopes can be taken home with parents in the evening for student star parties.  Optional field trips to Minnesota Astronomical Society star parties and evening Long Lake Park (dark) star parties will be offered for parents and students.

Join us as we imagine & investigate, compare & contrast, explore & explain the mysteries of our space environment.

Jeff Bullard is from Enid, Oklahoma, where he taught Junior High Earth Science until 1993 when he and his wife Ione, a Montessori teacher, moved to Minnesota.  Since then Jeff has been a chemistry, math, and earth and space systems teacher at Fridley High School.  Jeff’s first experience with the Summer Academy was last year when he substitute taught the first week of Dave Eckstrom’s Chemistry: Fun with Matter class.  Amazed by the students and staff of the Academy, Jeff hopes that students will be excited with this new astronomy class.

 

#51.  Confectionery Crafting
By Renee Janas-Johnson
Grades 6-11

Envision making the beautifully decorated cakes of fine bakeries.  Perhaps creating a bouquet totally of cookies on a stick would be your decorating style.  Maybe designing and decorating a keepsake sugar crystal cake with royal icing would be your adventure. Whatever choice you make, you will marvel at learning how to create beautiful decorations for that special creation.  Come, join in the fun of exploring how cake decorating came about, including the history and the tradition of this fine art.  Learn about the tools, foods and techniques that will make your creations both delicious and professional.  You will have the opportunity to work with frosting and acquire the skills of the pastry bag making roses, borders, writing, printing and leaves.  You will try both butter cream frosting and royal icing.  Explore how this skill could prove profitable as we explore home-based decorating businesses. Students will be introduced to a new art form in the cake designing business called "CAKE POPS".  This is an amazing technique that will certainly spur creativity and fun.  Students will try their skills at "Rice Krispie treat carving" taking the simple little treat to new levels of adventures in eating and viewing. The course not only offers the excitement of being creative, but also learning how to keep your food products safe and clean during preparation. Be part of the Confectionery Crafting team and enjoy a delicious adventure into the fascinating world of cake decorating.

Students will further explore the use of the Cricut Cutting System typically used for scrapbooking and paper crafting to design and cut designs from gumpaste.

This course will also explore food photography as it relates to projects made in this class.  Students will have the opportunity to food style their individual projects and photograph them.

Renee Janas-Johnson has won many culinary competitions, including the Minnesota State Fair, Pillsbury Pie Contest, Redbook Magazine Cake Decorating Contest, Hershey’s Chocolate Challenge ’06 and Ghiradelli Choco Contest ‘06.  She has her Master’s degree in Curriculum from the College of St. Thomas.  Ms. Janas-Johnson teaches at Columbia Heights High School where she designed a popular confectionery class enjoyed by both boys and girls.  This is her sixth year at Summer Academy.

 

#52.  Write Stuff, Produce, Polish & Publish
By WORDMAN Jack Kreitzer
Grades 6-11

Get to write, including in a high school computer lab.  Get your creative writing abilities stretched.  Get how to break through writer’s block.  Get to look at it again and again to make it better (ReReRe*Vision).Get constructive feedback from a professional writer.  Conference.  Get to meet with a professional editor.  Get fellow young writers who love to write.

Leave with ideas and experience and confidence.  Leave with your writing polished and ready to publish, a professional cover letter, a list of names and addresses of likely markets looking for YOUR writing.  Leave a submission package in the mailbox.  Leave the world changed.

Jack Kreitzer, a returning Academy teacher, has published six volumes of poetry, taught creativity at universities, and worked as an educational consultant focusing on youth at risk, giftedness, and very special arts with persons experiencing disabilities.  For over 20 years at hundreds of schools in dozens of states, Mr. Kreitzer has worked as a writing specialist or an artist-in-residence.

#39.  Introduction To Aviation
By John Schmidt
Grades 5-7

Fly!  The word has been a thought of mankind’s for thousands of years, but only in the last 100 has society actually been transported in airplanes.  We will look at antique airplanes and flying techniques, the science, the history, the personalities, and the FUTURE of aviation. Students will make a model airplane and a model airfoil.  We will visit airplane museums, a control tower, meet a flight instructor, fly a flight simulator, and see aircraft engines.

John Schmidt teaches in the Columbia Heights School District.  He is a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilot’s Association.  Mr. Schmidt has been a private pilot since 1990 with 400 hours logged flight time, including tailwheel, complex, and high-performance endorsements.  He owns a 1947 Stinson 108-1 and is building an RV6 and a replica Piper Vagabond.  Mr. Schmidt owns a hangar in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and serves on the Forest Lake Airport Commission.  This is his fifth year with Summer Academy.

 

#40.  Outdoor Adventure-Geocaching
By Jay Huemann
Grades 5-7

Have you ever been lost in the woods?  Have you ever wanted to find hidden treasure?  Learn the exciting technology called GPS and never have to worry about getting lost again.  We will be participating in a world-wide scavenger hunt called Geocaching.  We will also be exploring and learning about triangulation, maps, and the history of navigation.  Bring your walking shoes and a rain jacket; we will be enjoying the outdoors as we visit interesting cache sites and create a few of our own!

NOTE:  This class will involve a lot of physical outdoor activity every day of Summer Academy.  Please dress for the weather.  Rain and shine, being outside is divine!

Jay Huemann is a technology teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  His hobbies include bicycling, cross-country skiing, podcasting, website creation and Geocaching.  He has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Social Studies from Mankato State University and a Master of Art in Educational Technologies from the University of St. Thomas.  This is Mr. Huemann’s fourth year with the Academy.

 

#41.  Incredible Machines, Devices & Gizmos
By John Stangl & Jim Shey
Grades 5-7

Design, then build devices and contraptions that twist, turn, and even defy the laws of gravity.  Apply the forces of the universe to make your own, unique roller coaster and self-propelled gizmos.  No scientific background is necessary, but be prepared to “fire up” your creative, artistic, and logic skills. You will learn how engineers and architects work by designing, then building a 21st century environment or even your own mechanical pinball machine.  GIRLS AND BOYS, if you enjoy problem-solving with both your hands and minds, this engineering course is for you.         

NOTE:  For girls and boys who are toying with the possibility of a career in an engineering field, this course offers a sound environment where one can tinker. Tinkering is something that all of us should know how to do, for it affects many fields of work and play.

John Stangl returns to the Academy for his 28th year.  He has designed and taught many successful engineering courses at the Science Museum of Minnesota, University of St. Thomas, Augsburg College, the University of North Dakota, and school districts throughout the upper Midwest.

Jim Shey returns to the Academy for his 12th year.  In addition to teaching grades six through college for 36 years, he is a master carpenter and certified welder.  Mr. Shey has built numerous homes and is self-employed as a “genuine handy man” who can fix just about anything, including electronics and networks.

 

#42.  Passion For Fashion
By Stacy Anderson
Grades 5-7

Do you enjoy looking at fashion, paging through fashion magazines, and designing clothing?  In this course, we will look at fashion designers, their influences and how fashion changes over time.  We will also take a field trip to experience fashion with people who work with it every day, learning how clothing is created and the process to get it into the store.  We will put on a fashion show at the open house and display the other work we’ve done during the Academy.

Stacy Anderson has worked at Roseville Area High School for the past nine years and has taught fashion at a local community college for three years.  She designed the fashion courses at the high school.  Ms. Anderson takes her high school students to New York City on a fashion trip during the school year to expand their knowledge and give them a real-life experience.

 

#43. Calling All Cool Cats…
By Mark Suggs
Grades 5-7

What do Hip-Hop, Pop, Rock and Funk all have in common?  Not only are they types of music, but they have all been influenced by Jazz.  Come explore the world of jazz and the behind-the-scenes stories of so many legendary songs.  We will pump up the volume of incredible tunes, get crazy as we learn a little scat, become experts on quality of music, and take center stage while being DJ for a mock broadcast segment of jazz radio.  Live music will bring the jazz experience to life!  No musical background needed.

Mark Suggs is a community liaison for Mounds View Public School.  He earned both his bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communication and master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University St. Paul.  Mark was raised in Queens, NY, and graduated from Cultural High School with a focus in vocal performance.  His family exposed him to gospel, jazz, and classical from an early age.  Mark is a member of the Twin Cities Gospel Choir and has performed at the Guthrie Theater, First Avenue, and the  Metrodome for Kirby Puckett’s memorial service.  Performing vocal jazz at Arnella’s in St. Paul as well as various clubs throughout the Twin Cities has allowed him to share his love of jazz with others.  Mark resides in Roseville with his wife and three children.

 

#44. Video Games For Good!
By Kristen Nellis
Grades 5-8

What if video games could actually help people?  In this class we will not only create video games, but also partner with local non-profit organizations.  Through the power of social media and marketing, students will design games to draw attention to the local organization and aid in their efforts.  You will use your creativity to design and program your own games that will be able to be played by others on the web!  This class will teach the programming skills needed to create the newest game sensation!

Kristen Nellis has been teaching technology for over ten years at Forest Lake High School.  She has a Marketing Education degree and is completing her masters in Management and Leadership.  She has taught courses about Online Web Design, Web Design I and II, Video Game Design and was voted 2011 TIES Outstanding Teacher of the Year.

 

#45. Around The World With Paper
By Terra Houltberg
Grades 5-8

Have you ever wondered where paper comes from? Did you know that paper can be made from plants, vegetables, or even your old jeans?  You know books are made out of paper, but did you know you can create art pieces just with paper or even build sculptures? This course presents students with an opportunity to experience the full circle of paper, you will learn the science of papermaking by turning raw materials into paper, study the history of paper, learn about the different paper traditions around the world and create 2-D and 3-D pieces of artwork. We will also take a field trip to the MN Book Arts and see and experience how paper comes to life in book making.  In this class you will be a part of a group exhibition, which will include a collaborative sculpture that will be created with guess what…PAPER!

Mrs. Houltberg has traveled around the world from Pakistan to the Philippines, from the Swiss Alps to Mexico, and in each of these journeys she has had the opportunity to see and explore cultures different from her own. Fueled by her love for diversity, these travels have inspired the artwork that she makes and her approach to teaching.  As an artist, she enjoys working in mixed media including painting, drawing, sculpture and lots of different kinds of PAPER! After receiving her Masters degree in Art Education from the University of Minnesota, Houltberg began her dream of teaching art. She currently teaches at Anoka Middle School for the Arts where she teaches: ceramics, sculpture, art lab, drawing and painting.

 

#46.  Clay Studio
By Ann Celiberti
Grades 5-11

Come, play in the mud with us!  Clay mud, that is.  For three great weeks we will discover the joys of working in clay.  Let your imagination come to life as you create your own clay creatures, characters, and other clay projects. We will learn several clay techniques including slab, coil, pinch, and wheel throwing.  See and experience the process from beginning to end.  At the end of the class, you will take your work home to display.

Ann Celiberti is a local potter who has been working in clay for 34 years.  Some of her work has been displayed and sold at the Uptown Art Fair, Renaissance Festival as well as at an annual family art celebration in Mahtomedi.  Her studies include clay and other art medium at the University of Minnesota and the College of St. Catherine.  Ms. Celiberti has many years of experience teaching pottery to young students and is a returning Academy teacher.

 

#47. Simulation Games For Merchants, Generals & Emperors
By Richard Lemanczykafka
Grades 5-11

Take gaming to the next level, beyond Stratego, Risk and Settlers of Catan! If you derive enjoyment from historical “what ifs”, analyzing maps, resolving political intrigue, developing a civilization or simply want to take over the world, this is the experience for you. Join us as we learn how to play, analyze and form winning strategies for several games. Simulations let you call all the shots as the general, CEO, president, tycoon, or emperor. You will be put into historical situations as you match wits with your classroom rivals, deciding whether to cooperate or compete to reach your simulated objectives. Gaming scenarios will be selected that offer a variety of strategic challenges for three or more players. Not only will you get to play many intense and intriguing games but you will also analyze their game mechanics and visual appeal/aesthetic design in order to create your own game components. Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to expand a business or a civilization? As the leader and decision-maker, you will find out as you apply your knowledge of geography, economics, politics and history to be successful in this course!

Richard Lemanczykafka coached Odyssey of the Mind for three years at Pinewood Elementary School, ran a gaming club during his two years at Chippewa Middle School, and has been in charge of the Chess and Board Gaming Club at MVHS for the past three years. Gaming has been an enthusiastic pass time that he has been involved with since early childhood. And shortly after graduating from college at the U of MN with Honors, he began his game collection, with games going back to the 1890’s, and numbering close to a thousand games! He has experience in all forms of gaming from cards and chess to board gaming, miniatures and even role-playing. He is looking forward to his second year at the Academy.

 

#48.  Chess
By Paul Sackaroff
Grades 5-11

C….H….E….S….S!  Come and have fun playing one of the oldest board games known to humanity….CHESS!  Chess is not just a fun, strategic game, it fosters important thinking skills that are useful for life.  Students can expect lots of fun, friendly competition, individual instruction, group problem solving, and a chance to hone each other’s skills.  The atmosphere is relaxed, supportive and exciting.

This chess class is for the beginner, intermediate, and advanced boy and girl players.  It is for the student who wants to be a better player through understanding the fundamental principles of the game.  It appeals to those who are naturally creative and curious. 

Here is what you can expect:

•          individual & group problem solving
•          analyze positions in middle game
•          think creatively
•          compete against each other & the teacher
•          how to make a plan
•          learn new versions of chess
•          how to read & notate chess games
•          opening tricks
•          battle tactics
•          checkmate patterns
•          how chess can help you in school & in life

In addition to lots of fun and instruction, we will watch DVD and you tube videos of famous players and great games; we will explore the best web sites for competitive chess playing; you will also have chances to create their own version of a new chess game, make your own chess puzzles, read chess books, explore “chess art”, play in class tournaments, go on a Chess Campus field trip, and challenge a Lifetime Master Chess player.

Chess is a wonderful, lifelong hobby that will make you into a better student, thinker, and artist.  So come and join the fun!

“Chess is a creative process.  Its purpose is to find the truth” – Pandolfini

Mr. Sackaroff has been playing and teaching chess for many years.  He has lived and taught English in countries such as Hungary, Romania, Indonesia, South Korea and India.  He has also taught Comprehension/Speed-Reading classes for University of St. Thomas.  He completed his M.Ed. in English education at the University of Minnesota, taught AP and CIS writing classes at Columbia Heights High School, and now teaches English at Brooklyn Center High School.  This is Mr. Sackaroff’s fourth year at Summer Academy. 

 

#49.  The People Drawing Studio
By Jean Thurston
Grades 5-11

Do you often find yourself, with pencil in hand, sketching people?  Are you ready to take the leap and learn techniques of how to draw people that look like people?  Would you like to draw yourself, your family, and sport figures? Come, capture the images of friends, family photos, and newspaper photos.  Develop your awareness of detail, proportion, and action.  Experience continuous line drawing, pencil/eraser shading, and other techniques, some of which will be expanded to include animals and other objects of nature.  We will study an artist who is very proficient with each technique we learn.  Come to the Studio and draw people this summer! 

Note:  This course may be taken more than once, with new experiences at each level.

Jean Thurston, a returning Academy teacher, holds a Master’s degree in drawing, painting, and sculpture.  She has completed the educational specialist degree coursework with a focus on gifted and talented and has had extensive experience working with gifted students in art, both at secondary and elementary levels.  Ms. Thurston developed, for the Anoka School District, a plan for identification of the gifted and talented in art and has made state and national presentations on various topics concerning the gifted and talented art student.

#50. Astronomy: Our World In Space
By Jeff Bullard
Grades 6-8

Have you ever observed the night sky from a location far from city lights?  What did you see?  What did you wonder?  What did you think?  For at least 10,000 years our ancestors must have, no doubt, looked up at the night sky too.  What did they see?  What did they wonder?  What did they think?  Human curiosity combined with scientific inquiry has led to a fascinating, mind expanding, and changing view of the earth and its place in the universe.  Did you know that over 2200 years ago a Greek librarian measured the Earth.  After that the Greeks figured out the size of the moon and its distance from Earth.  And then they figured out how far away and how big the sun was!  We can too!

Each day we will use a telescope with a special filter that will allow us to view sunspots on the surface of the sun.  We will make daily observations of the moon and the path of the sun across the sky.  We will create earth models that will allow us to visualize the way our planet looks as viewed from space (locations receiving direct sunlight, night and day).  Imagine walking through our own scale model solar system (part of that journey will require a bus ride to a local planetarium).  We will look through different types of telescopes and figure out how (and how much) they magnify.  These telescopes can be taken home with parents in the evening for student star parties.  Optional field trips to Minnesota Astronomical Society star parties and evening Long Lake Park (dark) star parties will be offered for parents and students.

Join us as we imagine & investigate, compare & contrast, explore & explain the mysteries of our space environment.

Jeff Bullard is from Enid, Oklahoma, where he taught Junior High Earth Science until 1993 when he and his wife Ione, a Montessori teacher, moved to Minnesota.  Since then Jeff has been a chemistry, math, and earth and space systems teacher at Fridley High School.  Jeff’s first experience with the Summer Academy was last year when he substitute taught the first week of Dave Eckstrom’s Chemistry: Fun with Matter class.  Amazed by the students and staff of the Academy, Jeff hopes that students will be excited with this new astronomy class.

 

#51.  Confectionery Crafting
By Renee Janas-Johnson
Grades 6-11

Envision making the beautifully decorated cakes of fine bakeries.  Perhaps creating a bouquet totally of cookies on a stick would be your decorating style.  Maybe designing and decorating a keepsake sugar crystal cake with royal icing would be your adventure. Whatever choice you make, you will marvel at learning how to create beautiful decorations for that special creation.  Come, join in the fun of exploring how cake decorating came about, including the history and the tradition of this fine art.  Learn about the tools, foods and techniques that will make your creations both delicious and professional.  You will have the opportunity to work with frosting and acquire the skills of the pastry bag making roses, borders, writing, printing and leaves.  You will try both butter cream frosting and royal icing.  Explore how this skill could prove profitable as we explore home-based decorating businesses. Students will be introduced to a new art form in the cake designing business called "CAKE POPS".  This is an amazing technique that will certainly spur creativity and fun.  Students will try their skills at "Rice Krispie treat carving" taking the simple little treat to new levels of adventures in eating and viewing. The course not only offers the excitement of being creative, but also learning how to keep your food products safe and clean during preparation. Be part of the Confectionery Crafting team and enjoy a delicious adventure into the fascinating world of cake decorating.

Students will further explore the use of the Cricut Cutting System typically used for scrapbooking and paper crafting to design and cut designs from gumpaste.

This course will also explore food photography as it relates to projects made in this class.  Students will have the opportunity to food style their individual projects and photograph them.

Renee Janas-Johnson has won many culinary competitions, including the Minnesota State Fair, Pillsbury Pie Contest, Redbook Magazine Cake Decorating Contest, Hershey’s Chocolate Challenge ’06 and Ghiradelli Choco Contest ‘06.  She has her Master’s degree in Curriculum from the College of St. Thomas.  Ms. Janas-Johnson teaches at Columbia Heights High School where she designed a popular confectionery class enjoyed by both boys and girls.  This is her sixth year at Summer Academy.

 

#52.  Write Stuff, Produce, Polish & Publish
By WORDMAN Jack Kreitzer
Grades 6-11

Get to write, including in a high school computer lab.  Get your creative writing abilities stretched.  Get how to break through writer’s block.  Get to look at it again and again to make it better (ReReRe*Vision).Get constructive feedback from a professional writer.  Conference.  Get to meet with a professional editor.  Get fellow young writers who love to write.

Leave with ideas and experience and confidence.  Leave with your writing polished and ready to publish, a professional cover letter, a list of names and addresses of likely markets looking for YOUR writing.  Leave a submission package in the mailbox.  Leave the world changed.

Jack Kreitzer, a returning Academy teacher, has published six volumes of poetry, taught creativity at universities, and worked as an educational consultant focusing on youth at risk, giftedness, and very special arts with persons experiencing disabilities.  For over 20 years at hundreds of schools in dozens of states, Mr. Kreitzer has worked as a writing specialist or an artist-in-residence.

 

#53. Board Game Design, Manufacturing
By Bill Nara
Grades 7-11

Looking to play even more sophisticated games such as Shogun , Diplomacy, Hansa Teutonica, Lancaster, Brass, Age of Industry, and others?  Have you taken all the other game classes SA has to offer?    Have you secretly, or not so secretly, been working on the next Monopoly, Risk Variation, Settlers of Catan, Clue or Blokus? Bring your ideas to the Summer Academy Venture Capitalists Inc. where you can work with a graphic designer, printer, small business lawyer, banker, and game designer/publisher in order to bring your idea to the market. Interact both as a team and individually to prototype and package your entire game design. Learn what it takes to develop and bring a product to market by the professionals. This class is for experienced gaming students that enjoy playing sophisticated board games at a high level and are also ready for a more complete game design project. We will also be visiting design and manufacturing facilities to understand mass production. Half of your time will still be used to play and test games and half of your time will be used to design and prototype your product. A thirst for invention and strong academic skills are critical for success. Seeing your game idea come to life can be as much, or more fun, than playing someone else’s game!

(Prior membership in a game club or registration in a SA game class such as More than a Game or Simulation Games is highly recommended.)

Bill Nara brings to Summer Academy eight years of experience as a Social Studies teacher. Four of those years were spent as an Advanced Placement World History teacher at Columbia Heights High School. Prior to teaching, he worked ten years as a cartographer, making topographic maps and analyzing aerial photography. He has run Strategy Board Games clubs at Irondale HS, Edgewood and Chippewa Middle Schools. Besides his passions for studying civilization and entrepreneurship, one of his favorite hobbies has always been recreating historical situations and teaching through games and simulations. He is looking forward to his fourth year at the Academy.

#46.  Clay Studio
By Ann Celiberti
Grades 5-11

Come, play in the mud with us!  Clay mud, that is.  For three great weeks we will discover the joys of working in clay.  Let your imagination come to life as you create your own clay creatures, characters, and other clay projects. We will learn several clay techniques including slab, coil, pinch, and wheel throwing.  See and experience the process from beginning to end.  At the end of the class, you will take your work home to display.

Ann Celiberti is a local potter who has been working in clay for 34 years.  Some of her work has been displayed and sold at the Uptown Art Fair, Renaissance Festival as well as at an annual family art celebration in Mahtomedi.  Her studies include clay and other art medium at the University of Minnesota and the College of St. Catherine.  Ms. Celiberti has many years of experience teaching pottery to young students and is a returning Academy teacher.

 

#47. Simulation Games For Merchants, Generals & Emperors
By Richard Lemanczykafka
Grades 5-11

Take gaming to the next level, beyond Stratego, Risk and Settlers of Catan! If you derive enjoyment from historical “what ifs”, analyzing maps, resolving political intrigue, developing a civilization or simply want to take over the world, this is the experience for you. Join us as we learn how to play, analyze and form winning strategies for several games. Simulations let you call all the shots as the general, CEO, president, tycoon, or emperor. You will be put into historical situations as you match wits with your classroom rivals, deciding whether to cooperate or compete to reach your simulated objectives. Gaming scenarios will be selected that offer a variety of strategic challenges for three or more players. Not only will you get to play many intense and intriguing games but you will also analyze their game mechanics and visual appeal/aesthetic design in order to create your own game components. Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to expand a business or a civilization? As the leader and decision-maker, you will find out as you apply your knowledge of geography, economics, politics and history to be successful in this course!

Richard Lemanczykafka coached Odyssey of the Mind for three years at Pinewood Elementary School, ran a gaming club during his two years at Chippewa Middle School, and has been in charge of the Chess and Board Gaming Club at MVHS for the past three years. Gaming has been an enthusiastic pass time that he has been involved with since early childhood. And shortly after graduating from college at the U of MN with Honors, he began his game collection, with games going back to the 1890’s, and numbering close to a thousand games! He has experience in all forms of gaming from cards and chess to board gaming, miniatures and even role-playing. He is looking forward to his second year at the Academy.

 

#48.  Chess
By Paul Sackaroff
Grades 5-11

C….H….E….S….S!  Come and have fun playing one of the oldest board games known to humanity….CHESS!  Chess is not just a fun, strategic game, it fosters important thinking skills that are useful for life.  Students can expect lots of fun, friendly competition, individual instruction, group problem solving, and a chance to hone each other’s skills.  The atmosphere is relaxed, supportive and exciting.

This chess class is for the beginner, intermediate, and advanced boy and girl players.  It is for the student who wants to be a better player through understanding the fundamental principles of the game.  It appeals to those who are naturally creative and curious. 

Here is what you can expect:

•          individual & group problem solving
•          analyze positions in middle game
•          think creatively
•          compete against each other & the teacher
•          how to make a plan
•          learn new versions of chess
•          how to read & notate chess games
•          opening tricks
•          battle tactics
•          checkmate patterns
•          how chess can help you in school & in life

In addition to lots of fun and instruction, we will watch DVD and you tube videos of famous players and great games; we will explore the best web sites for competitive chess playing; you will also have chances to create their own version of a new chess game, make your own chess puzzles, read chess books, explore “chess art”, play in class tournaments, go on a Chess Campus field trip, and challenge a Lifetime Master Chess player.

Chess is a wonderful, lifelong hobby that will make you into a better student, thinker, and artist.  So come and join the fun!

“Chess is a creative process.  Its purpose is to find the truth” – Pandolfini

Mr. Sackaroff has been playing and teaching chess for many years.  He has lived and taught English in countries such as Hungary, Romania, Indonesia, South Korea and India.  He has also taught Comprehension/Speed-Reading classes for University of St. Thomas.  He completed his M.Ed. in English education at the University of Minnesota, taught AP and CIS writing classes at Columbia Heights High School, and now teaches English at Brooklyn Center High School.  This is Mr. Sackaroff’s fourth year at Summer Academy. 

 

#49.  The People Drawing Studio
By Jean Thurston
Grades 5-11

Do you often find yourself, with pencil in hand, sketching people?  Are you ready to take the leap and learn techniques of how to draw people that look like people?  Would you like to draw yourself, your family, and sport figures? Come, capture the images of friends, family photos, and newspaper photos.  Develop your awareness of detail, proportion, and action.  Experience continuous line drawing, pencil/eraser shading, and other techniques, some of which will be expanded to include animals and other objects of nature.  We will study an artist who is very proficient with each technique we learn.  Come to the Studio and draw people this summer! 

Note:  This course may be taken more than once, with new experiences at each level.

Jean Thurston, a returning Academy teacher, holds a Master’s degree in drawing, painting, and sculpture.  She has completed the educational specialist degree coursework with a focus on gifted and talented and has had extensive experience working with gifted students in art, both at secondary and elementary levels.  Ms. Thurston developed, for the Anoka School District, a plan for identification of the gifted and talented in art and has made state and national presentations on various topics concerning the gifted and talented art student.

 

#51.  Confectionery Crafting
By Renee Janas-Johnson
Grades 6-11

Envision making the beautifully decorated cakes of fine bakeries.  Perhaps creating a bouquet totally of cookies on a stick would be your decorating style.  Maybe designing and decorating a keepsake sugar crystal cake with royal icing would be your adventure. Whatever choice you make, you will marvel at learning how to create beautiful decorations for that special creation.  Come, join in the fun of exploring how cake decorating came about, including the history and the tradition of this fine art.  Learn about the tools, foods and techniques that will make your creations both delicious and professional.  You will have the opportunity to work with frosting and acquire the skills of the pastry bag making roses, borders, writing, printing and leaves.  You will try both butter cream frosting and royal icing.  Explore how this skill could prove profitable as we explore home-based decorating businesses. Students will be introduced to a new art form in the cake designing business called "CAKE POPS".  This is an amazing technique that will certainly spur creativity and fun.  Students will try their skills at "Rice Krispie treat carving" taking the simple little treat to new levels of adventures in eating and viewing. The course not only offers the excitement of being creative, but also learning how to keep your food products safe and clean during preparation. Be part of the Confectionery Crafting team and enjoy a delicious adventure into the fascinating world of cake decorating.

Students will further explore the use of the Cricut Cutting System typically used for scrapbooking and paper crafting to design and cut designs from gumpaste.

This course will also explore food photography as it relates to projects made in this class.  Students will have the opportunity to food style their individual projects and photograph them.

Renee Janas-Johnson has won many culinary competitions, including the Minnesota State Fair, Pillsbury Pie Contest, Redbook Magazine Cake Decorating Contest, Hershey’s Chocolate Challenge ’06 and Ghiradelli Choco Contest ‘06.  She has her Master’s degree in Curriculum from the College of St. Thomas.  Ms. Janas-Johnson teaches at Columbia Heights High School where she designed a popular confectionery class enjoyed by both boys and girls.  This is her sixth year at Summer Academy.

 

#52.  Write Stuff, Produce, Polish & Publish
By WORDMAN Jack Kreitzer
Grades 6-11

Get to write, including in a high school computer lab.  Get your creative writing abilities stretched.  Get how to break through writer’s block.  Get to look at it again and again to make it better (ReReRe*Vision).Get constructive feedback from a professional writer.  Conference.  Get to meet with a professional editor.  Get fellow young writers who love to write.

Leave with ideas and experience and confidence.  Leave with your writing polished and ready to publish, a professional cover letter, a list of names and addresses of likely markets looking for YOUR writing.  Leave a submission package in the mailbox.  Leave the world changed.

Jack Kreitzer, a returning Academy teacher, has published six volumes of poetry, taught creativity at universities, and worked as an educational consultant focusing on youth at risk, giftedness, and very special arts with persons experiencing disabilities.  For over 20 years at hundreds of schools in dozens of states, Mr. Kreitzer has worked as a writing specialist or an artist-in-residence.

 

#53. Board Game Design, Manufacturing
By Bill Nara
Grades 7-11

Looking to play even more sophisticated games such as Shogun , Diplomacy, Hansa Teutonica, Lancaster, Brass, Age of Industry, and others?  Have you taken all the other game classes SA has to offer?    Have you secretly, or not so secretly, been working on the next Monopoly, Risk Variation, Settlers of Catan, Clue or Blokus? Bring your ideas to the Summer Academy Venture Capitalists Inc. where you can work with a graphic designer, printer, small business lawyer, banker, and game designer/publisher in order to bring your idea to the market. Interact both as a team and individually to prototype and package your entire game design. Learn what it takes to develop and bring a product to market by the professionals. This class is for experienced gaming students that enjoy playing sophisticated board games at a high level and are also ready for a more complete game design project. We will also be visiting design and manufacturing facilities to understand mass production. Half of your time will still be used to play and test games and half of your time will be used to design and prototype your product. A thirst for invention and strong academic skills are critical for success. Seeing your game idea come to life can be as much, or more fun, than playing someone else’s game!

(Prior membership in a game club or registration in a SA game class such as More than a Game or Simulation Games is highly recommended.)

Bill Nara brings to Summer Academy eight years of experience as a Social Studies teacher. Four of those years were spent as an Advanced Placement World History teacher at Columbia Heights High School. Prior to teaching, he worked ten years as a cartographer, making topographic maps and analyzing aerial photography. He has run Strategy Board Games clubs at Irondale HS, Edgewood and Chippewa Middle Schools. Besides his passions for studying civilization and entrepreneurship, one of his favorite hobbies has always been recreating historical situations and teaching through games and simulations. He is looking forward to his fourth year at the Academy.