Summer Enthusiasts Courses,
Grades 9-12,
Two Weeks

  • Taught by the SUMMIT Educational Group, this course employs a three-pronged approach to standardized testing success, 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, students gain the knowledge and confidence to reach their true potential on test day.

    For over 30 years, SUMMIT has provided personalized guidance, expert tutors, and effective teaching methods in one-on-one tutoring programs designed to reduce students’ anxiety and build their confidence. In addition, SUMMIT’s vast network of resources — including proven proprietary course materials — is accessible to you along the way.

    Two-week non-credit course

  • In this course, you’ll master essential skills for successful college-level writing and college application essay writing. You’ll learn how to craft compelling essays, elevate your storytelling abilities, and make your narratives stand out. You’ll also gain insights into the college application and learn how to present yourself effectively in your application.

    Through hands-on writing exercises tailored for college readiness and constructive feedback, you’ll refine your skills and build confidence in expressing your ideas.

    Two-week non-credit course

  • Learn about the three Cs (clarity, coherence, and conciseness) and five Ws (who, what, when, where, and why?) of journalism as you unleash the power of your voice and master the art of effective communication.

    In this exciting course, you’ll refine your reporting, interviewing, and writing skills as you learn how to captivate your audience. You’ll dive deep into the techniques, principles, and ethics of journalism. You’ll explore the diverse areas of journalism, including news, features, profiles, opinion pieces, and criticism, and experiment with audio and video storytelling. You’ll engage in vibrant classroom discussions about readings from a range of publications, learn how to address writing challenges, and learn from classmates through peer editing. Get ready to uncover stories on campus and in your community using multiple storytelling modalities.

    Two-weeks non-credit course

  • Gearing up for the challenges of Algebra II or looking to reinforce your foundational Algebra I skills before the fall term? This course will provide a comprehensive review of essential algebraic concepts. Whether you're returning to algebra after a break or simply seeking a head start, you’ll enter your next course with confidence and a solid understanding of fundamental algebraic principles such as linear equations and inequalities, quadratic functions, polynomials and factoring, rational expressions and equations, systems of equations, functions and relations, and exponents and radicals.

    Through engaging lectures, interactive problem-solving sessions, and practical applications that demonstrate the relevance of algebra, this course will reinforce your understanding of algebraic concepts and give you a head start on your algebraic journey.

    Two-week non-credit course

  • This intensive program is designed to build your foundational mathematical skills, preparing you for success in precalculus or other advanced mathematics courses. Whether you're returning to math after a hiatus or seeking a head start, this workshop will empower you with a solid understanding of key precalculus concepts, trigonometry fundamentals, graphs and functions, polynomial and rational functions, analytic geometry, systems of equations and inequalities, sequences and series, and complex numbers. Problem-solving practice will reinforce your understanding of precalculus concepts.

    Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra II

    Two-week non-credit course

  • Join us in the world of dramatic arts. This dynamic program is designed to elevate your theatrical skills to new heights. From acting fundamentals and character development to stagecraft and production techniques, participants will embark on a comprehensive journey through the nuanced and captivating realm of theater. Whether you're a budding actor, aspiring director, or behind-the-scenes enthusiast, this class promises an immersive and transformative experience that will leave you well-equipped and inspired in the magical world of theater.

Afternoon Options for Grades 9-12

(Period 1)

  • Bring your laptop and your curiosity and the limitless possibilities of hands-on design in our dynamic Make! course, in the Gilder Center’s cutting-edge makerspace.

    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 students where they are as they grow in competency and confidence. You’ll dive into hands-on projects ranging from drawing and 3-D modeling to laser-cutting and wood engraving. Projects include drawing, woodworking, small-motor robotics, digital design work using a Glowforge laser cutter, and 3-D modeling and printing.

    No prior experience required.

    Additional fee: $775 (five weeks)/$525(three weeks)/ $275 (two weeks)

    Available as an afternoon class in AP1. Grades 7-8

    Available as an afternoon class in AP2. Grades 9-12

  • Work with your hands and 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 various options for surface decoration.

  • Get involved in the community! In this course, you’ll learn about local and global needs while working with local support and service organizations. Discussions, fundraising efforts, and activities will focus on issues such as homelessness and housing, food insecurity, health care, education, and children’s welfare.

  • 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.

  • Calling all aspiring thespians! In this course, you’ll explore acting, improvisation, and mime, short scenes, and practicing monologues. You’ll learn the basics of stage production, such as set design, lighting, costume design, and the use of props. Students in the course will prepare a production to be performed for the campus community at the conclusion of the session!

Afternoon Options for Grades 9-12

(Period 2)

  • Basketball

    Dance

    Fitness

    Soccer

    Swimming

    Tennis/Pickleball

    Volleyball

  • Work with your hands and 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 various options for surface decoration.

  • 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.

  • 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 lift their voices together in song.

Enrichment Courses

  • MAKE!

    Bring your laptop and your curiosity and the limitless possibilities of hands-on design in our dynamic Make! course, in the Gilder Center’s cutting-edge makerspace.

    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 students where they are as they grow in competency and confidence. You’ll dive into hands-on projects ranging from drawing and 3-D modeling to laser-cutting and wood engraving. Projects include drawing, woodworking, small-motor robotics, digital design work using a Glowforge laser cutter, and 3-D modeling and printing.

    No prior experience required.

    Additional fee:

    Two weeks: $275

    Available as an afternoon class in period 1. Grades 9-12

  • Leadership, Education, Adventure, and Discovery (LEAD) Program

    In NMH’s LEAD program, you’ll 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 outdoor experts Earthwork Programs 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 confident, resilient leader with the confidence and tools to survive.

    Prerequisites: Because of the nature of the activities, students must be ready for physical exertion, able to understand and willing to follow safety instructions. Students must be able to swim at least 50 meters unaided.

    Required equipment: a backpack, a hat, closed-toed shoes/hiking shoes, bug spray, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a waterproof jacket. Water shoes are encouraged but not required.

    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).

    Additional fee:

    Two weeks: $450

  • Lifeguard Certification

    Train to become a certified American Red Cross lifeguard. Through practical lectures, hands-on training, and practice, you’ll learn the basics of water safety and protocols for responding safely, efficiently, and professionally to emergencies. You’ll hone your surveillance techniques and learn how to use rescue equipment and how to manage a suspected spinal injury.

    Participants must attend all classes and pass a written and skills test to receive certification. Upon successful completion of this course, you’ll receive an American Red Cross Lifeguard/CPR/AED/First Aid certificate that is valid for two years.

    Prerequisites: Must be 15 years old by the completion of course.
    Must be able to proficiently:
    • Swim 300 yards (12 lengths of pool; no time limit) continuously, demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing using front crawl or breaststroke. Goggles are allowed.

    •Tread water for two minutes using only your legs.

    • Complete within 1 minute, 40 seconds: From shallow end of pool, swim 20 yards, surface dive to retrieve a 10-pound object from the deep end of pool, return to starting point holding object with both hands while keeping face out of water, and exit water without using ladder or steps. Goggles are not allowed. You need to open your eyes underwater. (Contact lens wearers, please be aware of this)

    Optional two-week Lifeguarding Certification offered July 22- August 2.

    Additional fee: $300