Summer Enthusiasts

Grades 9-12

Session 1
July 3 to July 18

(Morning Options)

Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.

  • Develop and hone critical skills in literary analysis and in developing and writing research papers and persuasive essays for high school and college. You’ll learn how to create strong thesis statements, build focused paragraphs, and look deeply at texts. 

    You’ll also build a strong foundation through extensive freewriting, peer editing, note-taking, and reviews of grammar and punctuation rules, along with exercises designed to hone your individual writing voice. 

    Two-week course. Periods 1 and 2.

  • Step into the shoes of a global diplomat in this hands-on intensive. Through simulations, crisis scenarios, and workshops, you’ll develop essential skills in debate, negotiation, and public speaking. This program offers the chance to hone your persuasive powers on high-stakes UN bodies such as the Security Council and the Economic and Social Council, while tackling pressing global issues such as climate change and human migration.

    With the guidance of NMH’s global alumni network and local environmental initiatives, you’ll gain insights into international relations, conflict mediation,and brokering agreements under pressure. Whether you’re preparing for your next Model UN conference or aiming for a future in global diplomacy, this course will sharpen your leadership and critical thinking skills.

    Two-week course. Periods 1 and 2.

    Students attending the four-week program can combine this course with the Session 2 course, Model UN II: Diplomatic Strategy and International Relations, to experience the Model UN Fellowship.

  • Designed for students who are preparing to enter Algebra 1 or want to strengthen their prealgebra skills, this fast-paced program will help you develop the key mathematical concepts and problem-solving strategies needed for success in algebra and beyond.

    You’ll be introduced to the essential building blocks of algebra, with hands-on lessons, interactive activities, and real-world applications to make learning both fun and practical.

    Two-week course. Periods 1 and 2

    Prerequisite: PreAlgebra

  • Taught by the Summit Educational Group, this course employs a three-pronged approach to standardized testing success including a proven combination of academic skill-building, test-taking strategy, and ongoing practice testing. Working with smart, caring tutors who know how to make learning fun, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to reach your true potential on test day and beyond. 

    In addition, Summit’s vast network of resources — including proven proprietary course materials — will be accessible to you along the way. 

    Two-week course. Periods 1 and 2.

    See Tuition page for additional fees.

  • Explore economic forces that shape markets, choices, and the global economy.

    Every decision has an economic side, and in this dynamic introduction to economics, you’ll discover how individuals, businesses, and nations make choices that shape the world. Through simulations, case studies, and interactive group projects, you’ll explore key principles such as supply and demand, market structure, inflation, and trade. You’ll also examine current global trends and the role of policy and technology in driving economic change.

    In class discussions and mock decision-making exercises, you’ll practice critical thinking, data interpretation, and communication — core skills for success in any field. You’ll also hear from experts who connect these concepts to real-world challenges. Whether you dream of launching a start-up, working in global policy, or simply understanding how money moves, this course will lay the groundwork for both academic and career success.

    This course can be taken with Finance II: Financial Decision-Making for Personal Success for the Finance Leading-Edge Fellowship.

    An additional course fee applies for field trips.

    Session 1. Periods 1 and 2.

  • How does the human mind work, and what drives the way we think, feel, and act? In this engaging introduction to psychology, you’ll explore the fundamentals of human behavior and the science behind personality, motivation, emotion, and learning. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and small-group experiments, you’ll examine topics like perception, memory, cognitive bias, and social influence, while testing your own powers of observation and analysis.

    Working both in the classroom and lab, you’ll apply psychological principles to real-world scenarios, from designing simple experiments to exploring the psychology of teamwork and leadership. You’ll also meet practitioners in the field, gaining insight into diverse career paths such as counseling, forensic psychology, education, and behavioral research. Whether you’re fascinated by how the brain processes information or how people make choices, this course will sharpen your understanding of yourself and others — valuable tools for college, career, and life.

    This course can be taken with Psychology II: Neuroscience in the Brain, Behavior, and Beyond for the Psychology Fellowship.

    Session 1. Periods 1 and 2.

  • Discover your environment through hands-on exploration of ecosystems, landscapes, and the science of place as you step outdoors and into science.

    In this immersive introduction to environmental studies, NMH’s 1,500-acre campus becomes your living laboratory. You’ll study the interconnected habitats of fields, forests, ponds, and streams while learning key concepts in ecology, biodiversity, and sustainability. Through fieldwork, lab analysis, and collaborative research, you’ll gain practical skills in data collection, mapping, and environmental observation.

    From testing water quality to identifying native species and exploring land use, you’ll see how scientists and citizens alike study and protect their environments. Along the way, you’ll meet local conservationists and ecologists who bring this work to life. This course is ideal for students interested in biology, sustainability, or environmental advocacy — and for poets, artists, and scientists alike who want to understand the natural systems that shape our world.

    This course can be taken with Environmental Science II: Connecticut River as a Living Classroom for the Environmental Science Fellowship.

    Session 1. Periods 1 and 2.

Full Afternoon Options

(Period 3 and 4)

Session 1
Summer Enthusiasts
Grades 9-12

  • 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).

    4 week or 2 week (Session 1 or Session 2)
    Period 3 and 4

    See Tuition page for additional fees.

  • 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.
    4 week or 2 week (Session 1 or Session 2)

    See Tuition page for additional fees.

  • 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.

    Full afternoon Periods 3 and 4.

Afternoon Options

(Period 3)

Session 1
Summer Enthusiasts
Grades 9-12

  • This is a unique, hands-on math course designed to meet you where you are and help you conquer essential math concepts with confidence. In this self-paced, teacher-guided course, you’ll strengthen your skills through problem-solving, teamwork, and practical applications.  You’ll explore key areas in math, ranging from algebraic thinking and geometry to data analysis and probability, while building the critical thinking, competence, and collaboration skills necessary for future STEM pursuits. This is a perfect course for students enrolled in English-Language Immersion or morning enrichment classes who want to stay sharp and progress in math in a supportive, fun environment.

    Period 3

    4 weeks or 2 weeks (Session 1 or Session 2)

    4 week students may combine Advanced Topics in Math (2 weeks) and Podcasting (2 weeks)

  • 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.

  • 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. Period 3.

  • 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.

    Prerequisite: You must bring your own digital SLR camera.

    Two- or four-week course.
    (Session 1 only)
    Period 3.

  • 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.

  • 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.

    Period 3
    4 week or 2 week (Session 1 or Session 2)

    No prior experience required.

    See Tuition page for additional fees.

  • Explore exercise physiology to understand how your body operates, while delving into the science of sports nutrition to optimize performance. You’ll learn about the synergy of advanced training methods, sports nutrition, and exercise physiology as well as potential pitfalls. You’ll also consider the hazards of sports enhancement drugs and the consequences of overtraining or persisting through injuries. 

    Build the skills you need as an athlete, understand your body and how it works, and develop healthy habits, fitness and strength, and team leadership skills along the way. 

    Four-week course.
    Period 3

  • Enter the world of podcasting in this dynamic course designed for aspiring creators, storytellers, and performers. Whether you’re passionate about sharing stories, exploring audio technology, or mastering the art of social media, this course covers everything you need to create a compelling podcast from start to finish. Students will learn the fundamentals of audio production, scripting, interview techniques, and how to develop engaging content. Hands-on projects include recording, editing, and publishing your own podcast episodes.

    Perfect for middle and high school students interested in publishing, the performing arts, and writing, this course also emphasizes the role of podcasts in shaping modern media. By the end, you’ll have developed valuable skills in communication, collaboration, and creative thinking and expression.

    Two-week course Session 1 only (or full four weeks).
    Period 3.

  • Taught by the Summit Educational Group, this course employs a three-pronged approach to standardized testing success including a proven combination of academic skill-building, test-taking strategy, and ongoing practice testing. Working with smart, caring tutors who know how to make learning fun, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to reach your true potential on test day and beyond. In addition, Summit’s vast network of resources — including proven proprietary course materials — will be accessible to you along the way. 

    Available options (with additional fees):

    • Two-week SAT math and verbal: Period 3 or Period 4, four days per week . Session 1 ONLY.

    • Two-week intensive SAT prep: Full morning Period 1 and Period 2, Monday through Friday - Session 1 or 2


    See
    Tuition page for additional fees.

  • 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 3.

  • Dance +

    Fitness & Weight Training +

    Swimming

    Grades 7-12

Afternoon Options

(Period 4)

Session 1
Summer Enthusiasts
Grades 9-12

  • 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 4. Also offered in Period 3.

  • 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.

    Session 1
    Period 4

    See Tuition page for additional fees.

  • 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.

    Session 1 or Session 2.
    Grades 7 to 12.

  • Taught by the Summit Educational Group, this course employs a three-pronged approach to standardized testing success including a proven combination of academic skill-building, test-taking strategy, and ongoing practice testing. Working with smart, caring tutors who know how to make learning fun, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to reach your true potential on test day and beyond. In addition, Summit’s vast network of resources — including proven proprietary course materials — will be accessible to you along the way. 

    Available options (with additional fees):

    • Two-week SAT math and verbal: Period 3 or Period 4, four days per week. Session 1 ONLY.

    • Two-week intensive SAT prep: Full morning Period 1 and Period 2, Monday through Friday - Session 1 or 2


    See
    Tuition page for additional fees.

  • Basketball

    Dance +

    Fitness & Weight Training +

    Racket Sports - Tennis, Pickleball, and Table Tennis

    Soccer

    Swimming +

    Ultimate Frisbee

    Volleyball

Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.