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Summer Discovery (For Rising Pre–K through Grade 8 Students)

Summer Discovery is a STEAM-focused camp divided into seven different one-week sessions that focus on seriously engaging topics. Imagine, invent, and interact with engaging teachers in small groups based on age and interest. Open to rising Pre-K–Grade 8 students.

Summer Research Academy (For Rising Grade 8-12 Students)

The Summer Research Academy (SRA) is an enrichment opportunity to explore areas of science & humanities in-depth, beyond what is covered in a typical high school classroom. SRA is open to motivated students entering grades 8-10 from MCDS and the general public. Older students can apply to be a peer leader.

Science Research Opportunities

Our science research experiences are offered as a partnership between Madison Country Day School and Edgewood College. Students will have the opportunity to engage in authentic science research, learning from experts in their field.

There are three goals for this intensive program:

  • Learn about a new area of scientific research from experts in the field

  • Design and carry out your own scientific investigation

  • Reflect on the process of doing science and develop research skills that will be useful throughout your academic career

New this year! Historical Research

Learn more about / Register for Summer Research Academy

 

 

 

Session 1
June 17-21

 

Session 1 Courses

June 17-21 (***no camp June 19***)

 

 

Rising Grades
Pre-K–K
Rising Grades
1-2
Rising Grades
3-4
Rising Grades
5-7
Rising Grades
8-10
STEAM
         
Business Academy
     
 
 
Humanities
     
Model UN: 1919 Paris Peace Conference Simulation
 
Summer Research Academy
       
Field Study of Lake Wingra: A snapshot of lake health & human impact
(Week 1 of 2)
Chess Camp
   
Chess Camp Session 1 (grades 3-8)
Chess Camp Session 1 (grades 3-8)
Chess Camp Session 1 (grades 3-8)
Add-on Options
     
Before camp & After camp care
 

 

 

 

 

Rising Grades 3-4

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 1 (June 17-21: no camp June 19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 5-7

Model UN: 1919 Paris Peace Conference Simulation

illustrationThe Great War is finally over, and now it is time to make peace, but as you’ll soon discover, making peace is harder than making war. You will play the role of a real-life diplomat from the 1919 Paris Peace Conference in this Model UN-styled simulation. Can you bring everlasting peace to Europe and still satisfy your country’s lofty demands? To achieve these goals, you will need to develop important skills like researching, writing, public speaking, negotiating, and role-playing, as well as learning about World War I and its many consequences.

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5–7
Offered: Session 1 (June 17-21: no camp June 19)


 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 1 (June 17-21: no camp June 19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 8-10

Field Study of Lake Wingra: A snapshot of lake health & human impact (Week 1 of 2)

illustrationThink like a limnologist! Embark on a two-week field study program where students develop lab techniques and data analysis skills to answer the enduring question: “What is the health of Lake Wingra and what role do humans have in this?” In order to answer this question, students will gather data from the field, hear from experts in local limnology, and propose future topics of advocacy for exploration. The program will culminate with a State of Lake address where students present research and propose future advocacy opportunities. Comfort being on and near the water (e.g. kayaking for 1+ hours at a time) is required.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8–10
Offered: Session 1–2 (June 17-28) This is a TWO-WEEK course. No camp June 19.

 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 1 (June 17-21: no camp June 19)

 

Register via Popsicle

Biodesign: Creation Inspired by nature (Week 1 of 2)

illustrationBiodesign is a multidisciplinary field which takes inspiration from natural functions, systems, or components. This inspiration is then used to solve problems such as designing artificial devices, structures or buildings or it is used as inspiration for artistic projects. In this course, students will study various aspects of the natural world including how the human hand functions and how natural structures are able to support so much weight. Students will use the design process to create, prototype, test, and finally produce their own nature-inspired product in the Edgewood Fabrication Laboratory.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8–10
Offered: Session 1–2 (June 17-28) This is a TWO-WEEK course. No camp June 19.

 

Register via Popsicle

 

 

Session 2
June 24-28

 

Session 2 Courses

June 24-28

 

Rising Grades
Pre-K–K
Rising Grades
1-2
Rising Grades
3-4
Rising Grades
5-7
Rising Grades
8-10
STEAM
Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Plant and animal friends and foes
Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Animal homes
Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Little School on the Prairie
Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Waters of the Cherokee Marsh
 
Business Academy
My First Lemonade Stand
Little Inventors
Sports Management
Junior CEOs
 
Humanities
   
Dungeons and Dragons
Dungeons and Dragons
 
Summer Research Academy
       
Field Study of Lake Wingra: A snapshot of lake health & human impact
(Week 2 of 2)
Chess Camp
   
Chess Camp Session 2 (grades 3-8)
Chess Camp Session 2 (grades 3-8)
Chess Camp Session 2 (grades 3-8)
Add-on Options
Before camp & After camp care
Before camp & After camp care
Before camp & After camp care
Before camp & After camp care
 

 

 

 

Rising Grades PK–K

Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Plant and animal friends and foes

illustrationWhat plants and animals do we find in different ecosystems? How do they all get along in the same space? Together we will explore the ecosystems around our campus and see what variety of life exists and learn how they work together!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

My First Lemonade Stand

illustrationLearn how to make sweet and tangy lemonade – and make money by selling it! Experiment with recipes, design flyers, learn how to count money, make change and tally your profits. Then, in a showcase finale event, launch your lemonade stand and sell, sell, sell, and raise funds for a charity students select!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 1-2

Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Animal homes

illustrationEveryone needs shelter whether they are people, birds or frogs. We know what kinds of homes people live in, but what about the other creatures in an ecosystem? Together we will explore the ecosystems on our campus and look for animal homes. We'll answer questions like: How are they built? What materials do they use? How long do they last? And we will try our hand at building our own animal homes!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

Little Inventors

illustrationIn this “inventive” program, students design and create solutions to problems, teaming up to identify the need for a new invention, and producing real structures and solutions. In one STEM challenge, students build bridges using a variety of materials and experiment with how much weight they can hold. Students will also learn about famous inventors, and discuss how inventions improve our lives.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 3-4

Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Little School on the Prairie

illustrationOur environment provides us with valuable ecosystem services! How do we use the resources our environment provides? How did people use these resources in the past? Together we will embark on an exploration of the biodiversity in plants and animals right outside our door!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

Dungeons and Dragons

illustrationOur Dungeon Master Maggie Richardson provides students with a customized fantasy campaign drawing from Dungeons & Dragons lore. Students will design their characters, develop their backstory, and interact with their fellow group members as they engage in problem solving, storytelling, and overcome challenges. This class is an excellent vehicle to practice a variety of Social Emotional Learning skills including:

  • Self-awareness
  • Social awareness
  • Relationship skills
  • Responsible decision making

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

Sports Management

illustrationFor the sports lover, future team General Manager, sports team owner, ESPN analyst or coach, this unique program helps students view the world of sports from a business perspective. Students actively discuss and analyze different topics, including player contracts, mock drafts, college sports, endorsements, the Nike vs. Under Armour competition, the Super Bowl, e-sports and more!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 2 (June 24-28)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 5-7

Ecosystems of the MCDS Campus: Waters of the Cherokee Marsh

illustrationHave you ever wondered what makes a healthy watershed? Learn about the Yahara River Basin through water sampling, finding macroinvertebrates, and experimenting with how runoff can impact our environment by building models of our watershed.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

 

Dungeons and Dragons

illustrationOur Dungeon Master Maggie Richardson provides students with a customized fantasy campaign drawing from Dungeons & Dragons lore. Students will design their characters, develop their backstory, and interact with their fellow group members as they engage in problem solving, storytelling, and overcome challenges. This class is an excellent vehicle to practice a variety of Social Emotional Learning skills including:

  • Self-awareness
  • Social awareness
  • Relationship skills
  • Responsible decision making

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

Junior CEOs

illustrationHow would you like to be the boss of Apple or Amazon for a day? In this leadership program, you can! Students act as CEOs for leading companies and work in groups to make strategic recommendations to address real business issues. Case studies include popular companies, such as Coke, McDonald’s, Under Armor, Nike, Tesla, Uber and more! Students enhance their problem-solving skills, develop business savvy and cultivate a strategic mindset as future leaders.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 2 (June 24–28)

 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 2 (June 24-28)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 8-10

Field Study of Lake Wingra: A snapshot of lake health & human impact (Week 2 of 2)

illustrationThink like a limnologist! Embark on a two-week field study program where students develop lab techniques and data analysis skills to answer the enduring question: “What is the health of Lake Wingra and what role do humans have in this?” In order to answer this question, students will gather data from the field, hear from experts in local limnology, and propose future topics of advocacy for exploration. The program will culminate with a State of Lake address where students present research and propose future advocacy opportunities. Comfort being on and near the water (e.g. kayaking for 1+ hours at a time) is required.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8–10
Offered: Session 1–2 (June 17-28) This is a TWO-WEEK course. No camp June 19.

 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 2 (June 24-28)

 

Register via Popsicle

Biodesign: Creation Inspired by nature (Week 2 of 2)

illustrationBiodesign is a multidisciplinary field which takes inspiration from natural functions, systems, or components. This inspiration is then used to solve problems such as designing artificial devices, structures or buildings or it is used as inspiration for artistic projects. In this course, students will study various aspects of the natural world including how the human hand functions and how natural structures are able to support so much weight. Students will use the design process to create, prototype, test, and finally produce their own nature-inspired product in the Edgewood Fabrication Laboratory.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8–10
Offered: Session 1–2 (June 17-28) This is a TWO-WEEK course. No camp June 19.

 

Register via Popsicle

 

 

Session 3
July 8-12

 

Session 3 Courses

July 8-12

 

Rising Grades
Pre-K–K
Rising Grades
1-2
Rising Grades
3-4
Rising Grades
5-7
Rising Grades
8-10
STEAM
Human Body: Sensing our World
Human Body: You are what you eat
Human Body: Bodies in Motion
Human Body: Our Amazing Brain
 
Business Academy
My First Passport
Money Math
Budding Entrepreneurs
Bulls & Bears
 
Humanities
 
 
 
 
 
Summer Research Academy
 
 
 
 
  
Historical Research: Evidence & Imagination (Week 1 of 2)

 

Paleomagnetism: Explore the Earth's ancient past (Week 1 of 2)
  
Genetic Engineering (Week 1 of 2)
Chess Camp
 
 
   Chess Camp Session 3 (grades 3-8) 
   Chess Camp Session 3 (grades 3-8) 
   Chess Camp Session 3 (grades 3-8) 
Add-on Options
Before camp & After camp care
Before camp & After camp care
Before camp & After camp care
Before camp & After camp care
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rising Grades PK–K

Human Body: Sensing our World

illustrationExplore your five senses and how they can teach us about our world. We'll spend will spend lots of time outside connecting our experiences with the science of our senses!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

My First Passport

​illustrationThis fun program helps students develop a global mindset and build international awareness early in life! Explore cultural differences across countries, geography games, famous landmarks, world currencies, current global events, the role of international institutions like the UN, and more. Students role-play as diplomats and come up with solutions to key global problems like hunger, poverty and pollution.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 1-2

Human Body: You are what you eat

illustrationLearn about nutrition and the digestive system in this camp that is sure to satisfy your hunger for learning!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

Money Math

illustrationDesigned for our youngest students, this program serves as a real-life math lab where students practice their computational skills and develop a foundation in financial literacy. Students participate in money math games and activities that help them internalize how they can use their math skills in everyday life.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 3-4

Human Body: Bodies in Motion

illustrationLearn about the biomechanics of the human body! Build functional, robotic models of your body to help you understand how and why it moves the way it does.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)
 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

Budding Entrepreneurs

illustrationThis program empowers students with an entrepreneurial mindset to develop a plan for their very own business ideas, drawing from such disciplines as marketing, finance and strategy, in a supportive environment fostering teamwork. From designing marketing flyers to estimating profits, students have fun while developing business savvy!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 5-7

Human Body: Our Amazing Brain

illustrationExplore the brain and the nervous system through hands on activities in this camp that is sure to electrify your curiosity!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

Bulls & Bears

illustrationLearn how you can start investing at a young age in this fully interactive program! Build your own $100,000 stock portfolio and trade stocks like Apple, Nike or Amazon with a cool investing simulation tool. This innovative experience empowers students with the tools and mindset to face future investment decisions with confidence and buy low, sell high! A solid foundation for successful future investors!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 8-10

Historical Research: Evidence & Imagination (Week 1 of 2)

illustrationPop quiz: what state capital is the home of the oldest publicly-funded historical society in the United States? If you answered Madison, Wisconsin, you’re right! Historians in our area have been preserving documents, collecting stories, interpreting information, and sharing their work with the public since at least 1846 (two years before Wisconsin even became a state!). This course will follow in that rich tradition, as students will learn basic principles of historical inquiry and investigation by working together to identify and solve a local “historical mystery.” Over the course of this two-week session, we will: a) get hands-on experience working with different types of documents at area archives, including the Wisconsin Historical Society and local colleges/universities; b) find and connect with relevant community organizations to expand and contextualize our knowledge; and c) collaboratively create a public history “product” (i.e., an editorial, documentary, podcast, mural, etc.) in order to share our work with a wider audience.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8-10
Offered: Session 3–4 (July 8–19) This is a TWO-WEEK course.

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Genetic Engineering (Week 1 of 2)

illustrationIn this session, you'll learn to think like a geneticist and to use biotechnology to explore the effect of mutations on yeast cells. Students will get to use laboratory techniques like PCR, electrophoresis and cellular transformation to alter the genes in yeast cells using recombinant DNA plasmids. We will also use 3D modeling of proteins to predict how mutations might affect the function of proteins. Using these tools, students will design their own experiments to better understand how yeast cells work.

Peter Kuhn, PhD is an associate professor of Biological Sciences at Edgewood College, where he teaches courses in genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Before Edgewood he studied yeast genetics at UW-Madison and plant genetics at Michigan State University. Outside of the lab, Dr. Kuhn raises chickens and enjoys cross-country skiing.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8-10
Offered: Session 3–4 (July 8–19) This is a TWO-WEEK course.
Location: Edgewood College 

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Paleomagnetism: Explore the Earth's ancient past (Week 1 of 2)

illustrationMerging physics and volcanoes! Paleomagnetism can be used as an application to recreate the past of Earth’s previous magnetic fields. This study combines physics, geology, and computer programming to answer questions on how we use geophysics to enhance volcanic hazard assessment. The study area is the Snake River Plain, a volcanic province that stretches 600 km from eastern Oregon across southern Idaho and into northwest Wyoming. We will correlate lava flows across various coreholes within the Eastern Snake River Plains using a combination of computer programming and experiments in the lab. Student projects work will be based on an ongoing volcanic hazard assessment facilitated by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the United States Geological Survey. Students will have the opportunity to visit the geophysics labs at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and meet paleomagnetists.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8–10
Offered: Session 3–4 (July 8–19) This is a TWO-WEEK course.

 

Register via Popsicle

Chess

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 3 (July 8-12)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

 

Session 4
July 15-19

 

Session 4 Courses

July 15-19

 

Rising Grades
Pre-K–K
Rising Grades
1-2
Rising Grades
3-4
Rising Grades
5-7
Rising Grades
8-10
STEAM
Prehistoric Worlds: Building a Planet
Prehistoric Worlds: Water, Water Everywhere
Prehistoric Worlds: Bones to Stones
Prehistoric Worlds: Mass Extinctions
 
Business Academy
Little Inventors
My First Passport
Finance Club
Sports Management
 
Humanities
 
 
Dungeons and Dragons
Dungeons and Dragons

Woodworking Intensive
(Gr. 5-12)
Woodworking Intensive
(Gr. 5-12)
Summer Research Academy
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
Historical Research: Evidence & Imagination (Week 2 of 2)
 
Paleomagnetism: Explore the Earth's ancient past (Week 2 of 2)
  
Genetic Engineering (Week 2 of 2)
  
  
Chess Camp
   
   
   
   
   
Add-on Options
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rising Grades PK–K

Prehistoric Worlds: Building a Planet

illustrationExplore the materials that our planet is made of and the processes that create them. We'll explore the beauty and mystery of rocks, minerals, soils, volcanoes, glaciers and oceans through fun, hands-on activities.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

Little Inventors

illustrationIn this “inventive” program, students design and create solutions to problems, teaming up to identify the need for a new invention, and producing real structures and solutions. In one STEM challenge, students build bridges using a variety of materials and experiment with how much weight they can hold. Students will also learn about famous inventors, and discuss how inventions improve our lives.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 1-2

Prehistoric Worlds: Water, Water Everywhere

illustrationOur bodies are made up of about 60% water and over 70% of our planet is covered with water! What is this amazing substance that is so important in shaping and sustaining plants, animals and our planet? We will explore water in its many forms and its power to transform out planet.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

My First Passport

illustrationThis fun program helps students develop a global mindset and build international awareness early in life! Explore cultural differences across countries, geography games, famous landmarks, world currencies, current global events, the role of international institutions like the UN, and more. Students role-play as diplomats and come up with solutions to key global problems like hunger, poverty and pollution.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 3-4

Prehistoric Worlds: Bones to Stones

illustrationThe plants and animals that have inhabited our planet have not always looked the way they do now. We can learn so much from exploring the world of fossils! From dinosaurs to trilobites we will explore a variety of prehistoric organisms and the amazing lives they lived.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

Dungeons and Dragons

illustrationOur Dungeon Master Maggie Richardson provides students with a customized fantasy campaign drawing from Dungeons & Dragons lore. Students will design their characters, develop their backstory, and interact with their fellow group members as they engage in problem solving, storytelling, and overcome challenges. This class is an excellent vehicle to practice a variety of Social Emotional Learning skills including:

  • Self-awareness
  • Social awareness
  • Relationship skills
  • Responsible decision making

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

Finance Club

illustrationLearn how to manage your money in this program promoting essential life skills! Set your financial goals, develop a budget from scratch, shop for a credit card and calculate the monthly cost of your dream car. Students also learn about mortgages, FICO scores, taxes and the dangers of piling up debt. Through simulations and hands-on activities, students explore financial decisions they will have to make in the future.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Rising Grades 5-7

Prehistoric Worlds: Mass Extinctions

illustrationHave you ever wondered what happened to the dinosaurs? Are you fascinated about asteroids? There have been several mass extinctions throughout geologic time that are just as fascinating and mysterious. Join us in walking through an epic timeline exploring prehistoric life!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Dungeons and Dragons

illustrationOur Dungeon Master Maggie Richardson provides students with a customized fantasy campaign drawing from Dungeons & Dragons lore. Students will design their characters, develop their backstory, and interact with their fellow group members as they engage in problem solving, storytelling, and overcome challenges. This class is an excellent vehicle to practice a variety of Social Emotional Learning skills including:

  • Self-awareness
  • Social awareness
  • Relationship skills
  • Responsible decision making

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Sports Management

illustrationFor the sports lover, future team General Manager, sports team owner, ESPN analyst or coach, this unique program helps students view the world of sports from a business perspective. Students actively discuss and analyze different topics, including player contracts, mock drafts, college sports, endorsements, the Nike vs. Under Armour competition, the Super Bowl, e-sports and more!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Woodworking Intensive (Gr. 5-12)

illustrationSummer Wordworking Intensive during Summer Discovery will teach students grade 5 through 12 how to operate a wood lathe and hand tools. Students will learn how to read a design drawing, evaluate a blank piece of wood and use woodturning tools to create a two-tier wall mounted shelf unit. This will start students on the path of turning design concepts into the tools they need to bring their larger ideas to life. This class will alternate between two locations depending on equipment needed and skills being taught: The Bodgery at 740 Oscar Ave and MCDS Makerspace. Transportation will be provided by MCDS as students need to move between locations.

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5-12
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

 

Rising Grades 8-12

Historical Research: Evidence & Imagination (Week 2 of 2)

Aug 5-9Pop quiz: what state capital is the home of the oldest publicly-funded historical society in the United States? If you answered Madison, Wisconsin, you’re right! Historians in our area have been preserving documents, collecting stories, interpreting information, and sharing their work with the public since at least 1846 (two years before Wisconsin even became a state!). This course will follow in that rich tradition, as students will learn basic principles of historical inquiry and investigation by working together to identify and solve a local “historical mystery.” Over the course of this two-week session, we will: a) get hands-on experience working with different types of documents at area archives, including the Wisconsin Historical Society and local colleges/universities; b) find and connect with relevant community organizations to expand and contextualize our knowledge; and c) collaboratively create a public history “product” (i.e., an editorial, documentary, podcast, mural, etc.) in order to share our work with a wider audience.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8–10
Offered: Session 3–4 (July 8–19) This is a TWO-WEEK course.

 

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Genetic Engineering (Week 2 of 2)

illustrationIn this session, you'll learn to think like a geneticist and to use biotechnology to explore the effect of mutations on yeast cells. Students will get to use laboratory techniques like PCR, electrophoresis and cellular transformation to alter the genes in yeast cells using recombinant DNA plasmids. We will also use 3D modeling of proteins to predict how mutations might affect the function of proteins. Using these tools, students will design their own experiments to better understand how yeast cells work.

Peter Kuhn, PhD is an associate professor of Biological Sciences at Edgewood College, where he teaches courses in genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Before Edgewood he studied yeast genetics at UW-Madison and plant genetics at Michigan State University. Outside of the lab, Dr. Kuhn raises chickens and enjoys cross-country skiing.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8-10
Offered: Session 3–4 (July 8–19) This is a TWO-WEEK course.
Location: Edgewood College 

 

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Paleomagnetism: Explore the Earth's ancient past (Week 2 of 2)

illustrationMerging physics and volcanoes! Paleomagnetism can be used as an application to recreate the past of Earth’s previous magnetic fields. This study combines physics, geology, and computer programming to answer questions on how we use geophysics to enhance volcanic hazard assessment. The study area is the Snake River Plain, a volcanic province that stretches 600 km from eastern Oregon across southern Idaho and into northwest Wyoming. We will correlate lava flows across various coreholes within the Eastern Snake River Plains using a combination of computer programming and experiments in the lab. Student projects work will be based on an ongoing volcanic hazard assessment facilitated by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the United States Geological Survey. Students will have the opportunity to visit the geophysics labs at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and meet paleomagnetists.

Series: Summer Research Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 8–10
Offered: Session 3–4 (July 8–19) This is a TWO-WEEK course.

 

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Woodworking Intensive (Gr. 5-12)

illustrationSummer Wordworking Intensive during Summer Discovery will teach students grade 5 through 12 how to operate a wood lathe and hand tools. Students will learn how to read a design drawing, evaluate a blank piece of wood and use woodturning tools to create a two-tier wall mounted shelf unit. This will start students on the path of turning design concepts into the tools they need to bring their larger ideas to life. This class will alternate between two locations depending on equipment needed and skills being taught: The Bodgery at 740 Oscar Ave and MCDS Makerspace. Transportation will be provided by MCDS as students need to move between locations.

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5-12
Offered: Session 4 (July 15-19)

 

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Session 5
July 22-26

 

Session 5 Courses

July 22-26

 

Rising Grades
Pre-K–K
Rising Grades
1-2
Rising Grades
3-4
Rising Grades
5-7
Rising Grades
8-10
STEAM
Material Science: What's this stuff?
Material Science: Best Fit for the Job
Material Science: Materials of Life
Material Science: Engineering Materials of the Future
 
Business Academy
Money Math
My First Lemonade Stand
Debate Club
Budding Entrepreneurs
 
Humanities
 
 
Model Kit Building
Model Kit Building
 
Summer Research Academy
         
Chess Camp
   
   
   
   
   
Add-on Options
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rising Grades PK–K

Material Science: What's this stuff?

illustrationWhat are the properties of different materials? Some are hard, others are soft, some are bendy, while others are slimy or runny. We will explore the properties of materials, make some of our own creations, and experiment with different formulas that yield different, exciting results!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Money Math

illustrationDesigned for our youngest students, this program serves as a real-life math lab where students practice their computational skills and develop a foundation in financial literacy. Students participate in money math games and activities that help them internalize how they can use their math skills in everyday life.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Rising Grades 1-2

Material Science: Best Fit for the Job

illustrationSo, you want to build something. What material would be the best for your project? What do you need to take into consideration? We will test different materials for our chosen projects and determine which are the best ones to use based on our criteria.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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My First Lemonade Stand

illustrationLearn how to make sweet and tangy lemonade – and make money by selling it! Experiment with recipes, design flyers, learn how to count money, make change and tally your profits. Then, in a showcase finale event, launch your lemonade stand and sell, sell, sell, and raise funds for a charity students select!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Rising Grades 3-4

Material Science: Materials of Life

materials of life illustrationBodies are complicated things for many reasons. One is the variety of materials that organisms are made of that enable their survival. From the tiniest butterfly to the largest oak tree, we will look at the materials of life and how they enable the growth and function of organisms

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Model Kit Building

illustrationSpend time selecting, building and perfecting one or more model kits. This activity is perfect for kids who enjoy both engineering and art. Skills learned will include model building, gluing, painting & finishing. Model building time will be interspersed with activities such as prairie walks, PE class and camp games.

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Debate Club

illustrationLearn the art of persuasion! Students work in rotating groups and practice their debating skills in a supportive environment, including developing arguments, issuing rebuttals, providing examples, rebuilding their case and summarizing points of view. Students learn to think on their feet and enhance their public-speaking skills, gaining self-confidence in the process.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Rising Grades 5-7

Material Science: Engineering Materials of the Future

materials science

Fabric that collects solar energy, recyclable plastics, artificial bones: all of these innovations call for new kinds of materials. We will explore the science and engineering of new materials and try our hand and creating some of our own to address a current human need.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Model Kit Building

illustrationSpend time selecting, building and perfecting one or more model kits. This activity is perfect for kids who enjoy both engineering and art. Skills learned will include model building, gluing, painting & finishing. Model building time will be interspersed with activities such as prairie walks, PE class and camp games.

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Budding Entrepreneurs

illustrationThis program empowers students with an entrepreneurial mindset to develop a plan for their very own business ideas, drawing from such disciplines as marketing, finance and strategy, in a supportive environment fostering teamwork. From designing marketing flyers to estimating profits, students have fun while developing business savvy!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 5 (July 22-26)

 

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Session 6
July 29-Aug 2

 

Session 6 Courses

July 29-Aug 2

 

Rising Grades
Pre-K–K
Rising Grades
1-2
Rising Grades
3-4
Rising Grades
5-7
Rising Grades
8-10
STEAM
Technology & Design: Nature's Little Engineers
Technology & Design: Exploring Electricity!
Technology & Design: Advanced Fort Building
Technology & Design: Engineering the Future
 
Business Academy
Young Philanthropists
My First Piggy Bank
Bulls & Bears
Finance Club
 
Humanities
   
Dungeons and Dragons
Dungeons and Dragons
 
Summer Research Academy
         
Chess Camp
   
   
     Chess Camp Session 6 (grades 3-8)
  Chess Camp Session 6 (grades 3-8)
  Chess Camp Session 6 (grades 3-8)    
Add-on Options
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
 Before camp & After camp care 
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rising Grades PK–K

Technology & Design: Nature's Little Engineers

illustrationExplore natural engineering from nest building to flowering plants. Spend a week immersed the art and engineering of the natural world!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Young Philanthropists

illustrationStudents internalize the benefits of doing well and doing good, reviewing a number of charities and discussing the merits of giving back. Students collaborate in small teams to select a charity or issue they feel passionate about and come up with practical ways they can support that cause (including raising awareness, volunteering and fundraising), then create their own mock foundation!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Rising Grades 1-2

Technology & Design: Exploring Electricity!

illustrationElectricity is being used for everything from lighting the darkness to powering our transportation and storing human knowledge. We will explore what electricity is, what it does, and how we can direct it to power the future!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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My First Piggy Bank

illustrationEarn, save, spend, donate! Through math games and hands-on activities kids learn about these and other key financial concepts like money, budgeting and saving. Students will also learn the basic concepts of philanthropy and donating to charity. And, everyone will make their very own piggy bank to take home!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Rising Grades 3-4

Technology & Design: Advanced Fort Building

illustrationDesign and build your dream tree house! Experiment with building forts out of different natural materials. Learn the physics of strong structures and princles of architectural design, all while having lots of outdoor fun!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Dungeons and Dragons

illustrationOur Dungeon Master Maggie Richardson provides students with a customized fantasy campaign drawing from Dungeons & Dragons lore. Students will design their characters, develop their backstory, and interact with their fellow group members as they engage in problem solving, storytelling, and overcome challenges. This class is an excellent vehicle to practice a variety of Social Emotional Learning skills including:

  • Self-awareness
  • Social awareness
  • Relationship skills
  • Responsible decision making

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Bulls & Bears

illustrationLearn how you can start investing at a young age in this fully interactive program! Build your own $100,000 stock portfolio and trade stocks like Apple, Nike or Amazon with a cool investing simulation tool. This innovative experience empowers students with the tools and mindset to face future investment decisions with confidence and buy low, sell high! A solid foundation for successful future investors!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Chess Camp Session 6 (grades 3-8)

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Rising Grades 5-8

Technology & Design: Engineering the Future

illustrationFrom prosthetics to water filtration, the future demands new and better technologies to create a quality life for all. Spend some time exploring design principles and working with 3D printing and other modern maker space technology!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Dungeons and Dragons

illustrationOur Dungeon Master Maggie Richardson provides students with a customized fantasy campaign drawing from Dungeons & Dragons lore. Students will design their characters, develop their backstory, and interact with their fellow group members as they engage in problem solving, storytelling, and overcome challenges. This class is an excellent vehicle to practice a variety of Social Emotional Learning skills including:

  • Self-awareness
  • Social awareness
  • Relationship skills
  • Responsible decision making

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Finance Club

illustrationLearn how to manage your money in this program promoting essential life skills! Set your financial goals, develop a budget from scratch, shop for a credit card and calculate the monthly cost of your dream car. Students also learn about mortgages, FICO scores, taxes and the dangers of piling up debt. Through simulations and hands-on activities, students explore financial decisions they will have to make in the future.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Chess Camp Session 6 (grades 3-8)

illustrationNo matter whether you are a first-time player or an experienced chess player, our chess camp has a spot for you. Our coaching team will have National Master Alex Betaneli, International Master Erik Santarius, and other professional coaches. During the chess camp, we will have masterclasses and interactive discussions of strategy and tactics supplemented by thematic tournaments and puzzle solving workshops. Plenty of time is set aside for outdoors and sports.

Series: Chess
Open to: Rising Grades 3-8
Offered: Session 6 (July 29-Aug 2)

 

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Session 7
Aug 5-9

 

 

 

Session 7 Courses

Aug 5-9

 

Rising Grades
Pre-K–K
Rising Grades
1-2
Rising Grades
3-4
Rising Grades
5-7
Rising Grades
8-10
STEAM
Cosmic Explorers: Mini Space Explorers
Cosmic Explorers: Astronaut Training Camp
Cosmic Explorers: Rocketry
Cosmic Explorers: Astrophysics
 
Business Academy
My First Piggy Bank
Young Philanthropists
Junior CEOs
Debate Club
 
Humanities
 
 
 
Model UN: Greek Gods Simulation
 
Summer Research Academy
         
Chess Camp
   
   
   
   
   
Add-on Options
     
 Before camp & After camp care 
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rising Grades PK–K

Cosmic Explorers: Mini Space Explorers

illustrationWhat do you see when you look up at the night sky? Is the moon really changing shape? How can you tell time with the Sun? We will explore our sky and solar system through imaginative fun and games here on earth!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

My First Piggy Bank

illustrationEarn, save, spend, donate! Through math games and hands-on activities kids learn about these and other key financial concepts like money, budgeting and saving. Students will also learn the basic concepts of philanthropy and donating to charity. And, everyone will make their very own piggy bank to take home!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades Pre-K–K
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

 

Rising Grades 1-2

Cosmic Explorers: Astronaut Training Camp

illustrationDo you have what it takes to be an astronaut? We'll plan a space mission and try living like astronauts while doing science experiments and learning about our universe!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Young Philanthropists

illustrationStudents internalize the benefits of doing well and doing good, reviewing a number of charities and discussing the merits of giving back. Students collaborate in small teams to select a charity or issue they feel passionate about and come up with practical ways they can support that cause (including raising awareness, volunteering and fundraising), then create their own mock foundation!

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 1-2
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

 

Rising Grades 3-4

Cosmic Explorers: Rocketry

illustrationBuild a rocket that really soars! It might not make it to the moon, but you will learn about forces, gravitational energy, and the aerodynamics of flight while experimenting and testing your creation!

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

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Junior CEOs

illustrationHow would you like to be the boss of Apple or Amazon for a day? In this leadership program, you can! Students act as CEOs for leading companies and work in groups to make strategic recommendations to address real business issues. Case studies include popular companies, such as Coke, McDonald’s, Under Armor, Nike, Tesla, Uber and more! Students enhance their problem-solving skills, develop business savvy and cultivate a strategic mindset as future leaders.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 3-4
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

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Rising Grades 5-7

Cosmic Explorers: Astrophysics

astrophysics research

Learn about the amazing new research being done by astrophysicists using new techology such as space telescopes, including exoplanets, black holes, dark matter, and supernova.

Series: STEAM
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

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Debate Club

illustrationLearn the art of persuasion! Students work in rotating groups and practice their debating skills in a supportive environment, including developing arguments, issuing rebuttals, providing examples, rebuilding their case and summarizing points of view. Students learn to think on their feet and enhance their public-speaking skills, gaining self-confidence in the process.

Series: Business Academy
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

Register via Popsicle

 

Model UN: Greek Gods Simulation

greek gods negotiating

In the celestial realm of Ancient Greece, the Titans have broken free from their imprisonment in the depths of Tartarus and now yearn to reclaim dominion and sow chaos. You will play the role of an Olympic god or goddess in this Model UN-styled simulation. Can you work with your fellow Olympians to banish the Titans once again or will the personal ambitions and past grudges of the Olympians get in the way? To achieve your goal, you will need to develop important skills like researching, writing, public speaking, negotiating, and role-playing, as well as learning about Ancient Greece and Greek mythology.

Series: Humanities
Open to: Rising Grades 5-7
Offered: Session 7 (Aug 5-9)

 

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Register today!

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Contact Us

 

How to Reach Us

Please call the Front Desk at (608) 850 -6000 or email us at summercamp@madisoncountryday.org if you have a question or concern. We will be happy to speak with you regarding your child or our program and help direct you to the appropriate staff. Keep in mind that our staff is very busy focusing their attention on your child and the camp program and more than likely will not be at the front desk when you call. Please provide your telephone number and a convenient time to return your call.

Camp Address: 5606 River Road, Waunakee, WI. 53597
Office Telephone: (608) 850-6000

 

Meet the Team

MCDS Summer Discovery has a team of mature, experienced, and enthusiastic staff, chosen for their ability to create a warm, caring, and diverse community for kids. 100% of faculty and staff are from Madison Country Day School, ensuring a continuing commitment to high-quality education and student/parent service during the Summer Discovery camp.

Our staff and faculty have been specifically trained for summer, with an emphasis on basic medical knowledge. Our dedicated team leads by example as they maintain a safe environment with a healthy balance of fun and challenge.

 

Summer Discovery Administrative Staff

Alice Torti

Alice Torti

Dominick LaPorte

Register today!

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