Summer Scholars
Grades 7-8
Four Weeks
July 3 to August 1
(Morning Options)
Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.
2+2 option
Students may combine two two-week morning major courses to create a
four-week program. Click below to see the possible courses.
Your afternoon options will be the same as the full four-week program.
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Launch into the physics, engineering, and imagination behind spaceflight.
From the laws of motion to the thrill of lift-off, this hands-on course blends astronomy, physics, and engineering with the excitement of rocketry and space exploration. You’ll design, build, and launch your own model rockets while exploring orbital mechanics, propulsion, satellite systems, and the challenges of human space travel. Guest speakers, including NASA astronauts and members of the U.S. Space Force, will share firsthand insights into the science, teamwork, and innovation that power today’s missions.
Whether you dream of designing spacecraft, studying astrophysics, or leading future missions to Mars, this intensive course offers a powerful launchpad for students interested in STEM and the universe beyond. Through inquiry, experimentation, and collaboration, you’ll gain not only technical knowledge but also critical problem-solving and leadership skills that will serve you in college, careers, and beyond.
An additional course fee applies.
Four-week course or Session 1. Periods 1 and 2.
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Discover the power of physics through hands-on experiments, engineering, and one unforgettable design challenge.
You’ll explore the essential principles of physics — forces, motion, energy, and buoyancy — through interactive lessons, collaborative labs, and creative design projects. From experimenting with momentum and balance to understanding what keeps planes aloft and boats afloat, you’ll learn how the physical world works through inquiry and innovation. The course culminates in The Great Cardboard Regatta, a high-spirited engineering competition where student-designed boats, made entirely of cardboard and tape, will put classroom concepts to the test in a race across the NMH pool or pond.
Physics in Motion builds confidence, teamwork, and analytical thinking while laying a strong foundation for future success in physics, engineering, and other STEM fields.
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2.
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In this comprehensive course covering a full academic year of content, you’ll delve into key topics such as properties of mathematical systems, solutions of equations and inequalities, graphs of linear equations and systems, operations on polynomials, and more. Prepare to unravel the mysteries of mathematical concepts, including solving quadratic equations through factoring and the quadratic formula. The art of solving word problems is woven into the fabric of this course, providing a practical application for your skills.
This course will equip you with the tools to confidently tackle high school-level mathematics.
Prerequisite: Prealgebra
Four-week, credit eligible course. Periods 1-3
Note: Math courses can cover much of a full year of curriculum in four weeks. Students should expect a fast-paced, intensive, engaging course and must demonstrate a pattern of high achievement with a recommendation from their current math teacher. While some of these courses are eligible for credit, NMH cannot guarantee credit or acceleration at another school. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain approval from their school prior to commencing with a credit-eligible course. Please note the prerequisites for each course.
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In this course, you’ll explore the intricacies of shapes and spatial relationships with clarity and precision. Prepare for an intellectual expedition where deductive and inductive reasoning serve as your trusty guides. Explore triangles, polygons, parallel lines, and circles, unlocking the secrets of congruence, similarity, and the three-dimensional wonders of solids.
This credit course is a roadmap to understanding the geometry that shapes our world and a gateway to deeper mathematical exploration. You will master the art of logical reasoning as you prepare for the next level, Algebra 2.
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Four-week, credit-eligible course. Periods 1-3.
Note: Math courses can cover much of a full year of curriculum in four weeks. Students should expect a fast-paced, intensive, engaging course and must demonstrate a pattern of high achievement with a recommendation from their current math teacher. While some of these courses are eligible for credit, NMH cannot guarantee credit or acceleration at another school. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain approval from their school prior to commencing with a credit-eligible course. Please note the prerequisites for each course.
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Whether you're aiming to boost your grade, deepen your understanding, or prepare for the next level in the upcoming academic year, this comprehensive review course is for you. Dive into a thorough exploration of essential Algebra II concepts, from functions and equations to quadratic systems, presented in a student-centered manner.
Gear up for a learning adventure that clarifies complex algebraic ideas and paves the way for advancement. This course equips you with the tools for success, bolsters confidence, and presents Algebra II as accessible and rewarding for students on their mathematical journey.
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Four-week course. Periods 1 and 2. Non-credit
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Explore the forces, systems, and energy that shape the world around you.
In this four-week deep dive into physical science, students explore how the natural world works—from the movement of rivers and rock formations to the physics of motion, energy, and force. Combining outdoor discovery with hands-on lab work, you’ll uncover the connections between earth science and physics, experiment with energy transfer, and study the systems that power our planet.
From simple machines to chain reactions, and from light and sound to motion and mechanics, you’ll design, build, and test your own ideas through interactive projects, outdoor investigations, and team challenges. Along the way, you’ll sharpen your critical thinking, collaboration, and scientific inquiry skills—valuable preparation for high school, STEM pathways, and future innovation.
Each two-week course may be taken separately, or consecutively as the full Physical Science Fellowship for a more complete and connected exploration of physical science in motion.
Periods 1 and 2
Full Afternoon Options
(Period 3 and 4)
Four Weeks
Summer Scholars
Grades 7-8
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Navigate the great outdoors, conquering new heights as you rock climb, canoe or raft New England rivers, or mountain bike through forests and woodland trails. A partnership with local outdoor experts and Wild Med Adventures, LEAD will plunge you into nature, teaching you hands-on wilderness survival skills and first aid. From crafting shelters and foraging for edible plants to mastering the art of fire-making, stone-tool crafting, and wood carving, you'll emerge not just as an adventurer, but as a more experienced, resilient leader with the confidence and tools to survive and thrive in nature and beyond.
Prerequisites: Students must be ready for physical exertion and able to understand and willing to follow safety instructions. Students must be able to swim at least 50 meters unaided. For health and safety reasons, international students must have an intermediate level of English or TOEFL B1 level or above (writing: 15; reading: 15; speaking:16-20; listening: 17-21).
Periods 3 and 4.
See Tuition page for additional fees.
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Spend your afternoons getting hooked on the art and science of fly fishing in the beautiful Connecticut River Valley . This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of fly-tying, casting, and reading the water in diverse ecosystems, from streams to lakes. You’ll also gain insight into conservation and ecology, learning how these vibrant waterways support life.
Perfect for students passionate about science, conservation, or the outdoors, this course fosters patience, problem-solving, and a deeper connection with nature. Whether you’re casting for trout or bass or studying the rhythms of a river, each lesson offers a new challenge and a deeper understanding of our natural world and ourselves.
Periods 3 and 4.
See Tuition page for additional fees.
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Sharpen your swing and master your mindset on the scenic greens of western Massachusetts’ Connecticut River Valley.
In this course, you’ll strengthen your fundamentals, improve your short and long games, and enjoy the challenge and camaraderie of golf. You’ll practice and play at a local nine-hole club, visit nearby courses, and train using NMH’s on-campus golf simulator.
Golf develops focus, patience, and integrity, skills that carry far beyond the fairway. Whether you aim to compete or simply play for life, you’ll build confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship for success in academics, your career, and beyond.
Participants should bring their own clubs; an additional fee applies for course/greens fees and transportation.
Four-week course. Periods 3 and 4.
Afternoon Options
(Period 3)
Four Weeks
Summer Scholars
Grades 7-8
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Basketball
Dance +
Fitness & Weight Training +
Racket sports: tennis, pickleball, and table tennis
Soccer
Swimming +
Ultimate Frisbee
Volleyball
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Get creative with clay! You’ll learn the hand-building techniques of pinching, coiling, and slab building as well as how to throw simple functional pottery, such as cups and bowls, on the pottery wheel. In addition to learning about form, space, texture, and function, you will be introduced to alternative firing techniques and options for surface decoration.
Period 3
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Calling all aspiring thespians! In this course, you’ll explore acting, improvisation, mime, short scenes, and monologues. You’ll learn the basics of stage production, such as set design, lighting, costume design, and the use of props, and prepare a production to be performed for the campus community at the conclusion of the session.
Period 3. Grades 7 to 12.
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This four-week course, taught by Summit Educational Group instructors, focuses on the academic skills and test-taking techniques you’ll need to succeed on the SSAT for entrance into many independent secondary schools. You’ll focus on developing a game plan for each section and question; understanding content, including math, grammar, and how to approach the reading and science sections; and practice, helping you build confidence to move efficiently through the test.
This course is taken in addition to your main course(s) in Period 3, two days a week, alternating with sports on the other two days.
Only available for 4 week students.
See Tuition page for additional fees. description
Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.
Afternoon Options
(Period 4)
Four Weeks
Summer Scholars
Grades 7-8
Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.
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Have you ever gazed up at the sky and wondered what’s out there? How was the Earth created? How big is the universe? What is a black hole? You’ll explore these questions and many more and we consider the vastness of space.
NMH’s observatory is a wonderful location for viewing clear night skies and studying stars and planets, thanks to the minimal amount of “light pollution” in our pristine, rural area. The course includes a daily classroom component as well as two evening viewing/stargazing sessions every week.
Two-week (Session 1 only) or four-week course.
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Dive into the art of photography and explore both digital and darkroom skills to bring your creative vision to life! You’ll learn camera fundamentals — from shutter speed to aperture and depth of field — and get behind the lens to capture landscapes, portraits, close-ups, and even sports action. Experiment with digital editing techniques, then step into the darkroom to develop your own black-and-white prints, discovering the magic of bringing images to life in real time. Perfect for anyone passionate about visual storytelling, social media, or the arts, this course equips you with skills for high school projects, college portfolios, and beyond.
Note: You must bring your own digital SLR camera.
Four-week or Two-week course. Period 4.
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Get creative with clay! You’ll learn the hand-building techniques of pinching, coiling, and slab building as well as how to throw simple functional pottery, such as cups and bowls, on the pottery wheel. In addition to learning about form, space, texture, and function, you will be introduced to alternative firing techniques and options for surface decoration.
Two- or Four-week course.
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Get involved in the community! In this course, you’ll learn about local and global needs while working with nearby support and service organizations. Discussions, fundraising efforts, and other activities will focus on issues such as homelessness and housing, food insecurity, health care, education, and children’s welfare.
Two- or four- week course.
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Mastering Classic Entrees
Roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of classic culinary favorites! In this introductory cooking course, you’ll explore the science and art behind preparing delicious entrées, such as spaghetti carbonara, chicken parmesan, tacos with homemade salsa, stir-fried vegetables, grilled salmon, and roasted chicken.
From mastering safe knife skills to building confidence in the kitchen, this course is for students eager to learn foundational cooking techniques while experimenting with fresh ingredients and combining classic flavors. Each session will focus on a new recipe, offering a chance to learn the basics of seasoning, sautéing, and plating with style. By the end of the two weeks, you’ll be able to prepare several signature dishes with the confidence of a pro.
Sweet Creations and Desserts
If you’ve ever dreamed of creating picture-perfect desserts, this course is for you. Over two exciting weeks, you’ll discover the secrets to crafting timeless sweet treats, such as chocolate chip cookies, crème crûlée, apple pie, chocolate mousse, pavlova, and cheesecake.
You’ll explore the science behind baking, whipping, and tempering while learning the essential skills of measuring, mixing, and blending textures and flavors. With a focus on technique and creativity, this course will help you gain the confidence to make mouthwatering desserts that not only taste amazing but look Instagram-worthy, too! Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a more experienced baker, these classic recipes will be sure to impress your friends and family.
Session 1 and 2, Period 4.
See Tuition page for additional fees. description
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Overcome stage fright forever and prepare yourself for class and public presentations in high school and college. You’ll learn the principles of effective public speaking and practice, practice, practice as you prepare and present various forms of public address, from brief improvisational talks to formal speeches. In the process, you’ll improve your skills and confidence through ongoing, constructive feedback.
Two- or four-week course. Period 4.
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Bring your laptop and your curiosity and explore the limitless possibilities of hands-on design in our dynamic MAKE! course in the cutting-edge makerspace in NMH’s Gilder Center.
You’ll explore design-thinking and fabrication, combining analog and digital techniques in a safe, collaborative, and fun environment that celebrates risk-taking and emphasizes support. Our “high-tech to no-tech” approach incorporates a wide range of materials and tools, allowing us to meet you where you are as you develop competency and confidence. You’ll dive into projects in drawing, 3-D modeling and printing, laser-cutting, woodworking, small-motor robotics, and digital design using a Glowforge laser cutter.
No prior experience required.
Period 4. Two- or four-week.See Tuition page for additional fees. description
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Share your love of music with like-minded peers as you collaborate and create with your voices. You’ll learn songs and practice together with music selections based on your collective interests. No experience is necessary, and the ability to read music is not required. All levels of vocalists — from shower singers to choir members — are encouraged to join and to lift your voices together in song.
Two- or four-week course. Grades 7 to 12.
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Express your creativity and capture the world around you in bright colors — or in black and white. This course is tailored to your individual interests and artistic abilities and is an opportunity to hone your skills in the visual arts media of drawing and painting, whatever your level of experience. You’ll learn or review fundamentals while receiving constructive feedback and encouragement.
Two- or four-week course. Period 4.
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Dance +
Fitness & Weight Training +
Swimming
Period 4. Grades 7-12