About
Summer

GSB Summer Institute

The Gill St. Bernard's Summer Institute offers accredited courses, as well as a wide variety of opportunities in academic preparation, enrichment, and academic review.  As they work with our renowned faculty and like-minded peers this summer, students from each division can enjoy exploring new frontiers, strengthening their skills, and preparing for the rigors of the coming year.

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Lower School

Middle School

Upper School

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Lower School Courses

List of 9 items.

  • Artistic Endeavors (EC-1)

    Instructor: Wendy Hanks
    Grades: EC-1
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Summer is the perfect time for creative exploration! During our Artistic Endeavors Camp, campers will engage in a FUN interactive art program designed to foster imagination, creativity, and self-expression. Students will have the opportunity to explore various mediums and create their very own original works of art. 

  • Artistic Endeavors (2-4)

    Instructor: Wendy Hanks
    Grades: EC-1, 2-4
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 20-24; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Summer is the perfect time for creative exploration! During our Artistic Endeavors Camp, campers will engage in a FUN interactive art program designed to foster imagination, creativity, and self-expression. Students will have the opportunity to explore various mediums and create their very own original works of art. 

  • GSB Farm Camp

    Instructor: GSB Farm Team
    Grades: 2-4
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

    GSB’s Farm Camp is designed for campers ready to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty (either virtually or in-person). We will explore science as it is related to animals, nutrition, healthy living, and our environment. Learn what it takes to grow fresh vegetables, create farm-related projects, and jumping into “behind the scenes” farming operations.

  • Reading & Writing Workshop (EC-1)

    Instructor: Diane Lipnickey
    Grades: EC-1
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 6-10; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Reading, Writing, and FUN!  In this workshop, children will be introduced to exciting stories and then explore the themes by incorporating games, songs, and fun activities to expand and deepen their reading and writing skills. They will have fun while being introduced to new vocabulary words and hone phonetic skills while developing fine motor skills. They will grow writing and reading skills using phonetic spelling and sight words. They will also deepen their abilities to follow multi-step directions byplaying games and creating art projects linked to the theme of the day.

  • Reading & Writing Workshop (2-4)

    Instructor: Jenna Chewens
    Grades: 2-4
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 6-10; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    In conjunction with the GSB curriculum, this class will dive into the power of digital tools and media within writing and reading workshops, with an aim to foster digital literacy. This course will accelerate the development of skills through different types of writing with a concentration of passion project-based learning.

  • Singapore Math (EC-2)

    Instructor: Mary Healey
    Grades: EC-2
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    This course is intended to provide your early learner with building blocks to support a mathematical foundation as he/she begins the journey in Singapore Math. Throughout this course, we will focus on finding solutions using hands-on material and pictures to aid in understanding the problem. We will concentrate mainly on breaking down word problems and applying math skills to everyday life. Each day will focus on a different concept to support this development, giving your child a toolbox of multiple strategies to access throughout his/her education.

  • Singapore Math (3-6)

    Instructor: Kristina Lasher
    Grades: 3-6
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    This course is intended to provide your middle-grade learner with building blocks to support his/her mathematical foundation to continue the journey in Singapore Math. Throughout this course, we will focus on finding solutions using pictures, bar models, and variables to aid in understanding the problems and mathematical concepts. Learners will develop strategies for breaking down word problems and applying math skills to everyday life. Each day will focus on a different concept to support this development, giving your child a toolbox of strategies to access throughout his/her education.

  • Tinker Time: Summer Edition (EC-1)

    Instructor: Lynn Prosen
    Grades: EC-1
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 20-24; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Tinkering is about invention and exploration. Tinker Time will offer a variety of activities in six different categories: In the Kitchen, Fiber Art Fun, Building Blocks, Great Outdoors, Paper Play, and Storytelling. During this program we will use a variety of materials to construct, craft, and design. Participants will learn about the properties of different materials, discover simple architecture techniques, and use their imagination to become a maker.  

  • Tinker Time: Summer Edition (2-4)

    Instructor: Lynn Prosen
    Grades: 2-4
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Tinkering is about invention and exploration. Tinker Time will offer a variety of activities in six different categories: In the Kitchen, Fiber Art Fun, Building Blocks, Great Outdoors, Paper Play, and Storytelling. During this program we will use a variety of materials to construct, craft, and design. Participants will learn about the properties of different materials, discover simple architecture techniques, and use their imagination to become a maker.  

Middle School Courses

List of 10 items.

  • Artistic Endeavors

    Instructor: Wendy Hanks
    Grades: 5-8
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

    Summer is the perfect time for creative exploration! During our Artistic Endeavors Camp, campers will engage in a FUN interactive art program designed to foster imagination, creativity, and self-expression. Students will have the opportunity to explore various mediums and create their very own original works of art.

  • Fish, a Novel by L.S. Matthews (2006)

    Instructor: Kyle Armstrong and Marisa DeSilva
    Grades: 5-8
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 7-10; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    “A subtle and sophisticated exploration of life, the strength of humanity, and survival in an unforgiving world, Fish is a story that will teach those who doubt that, when hope is almost extinguished, miracles can happen”
     
    Open to all middle schoolers, this week-long journey will explore the concepts of hope and resilience. Using Fish as the foundation text, students will discuss, write, and collaborate in a humanities-style classroom.

  • Girls' Summer Leadership Program

    Instructor: Cendahl Cornellio-Alter, Montana Vasquez-Grinnell, Irene Mortensen
    Grades: 7-8
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

    This program is for rising seventh and eighth grade girls to learn the values of leadership, respect, and service. The week provides young girls the safe space to learn and practice skills of leadership. Each day students will explore situations allowing them to strengthen their decision-making skills, develop confidence, and collaborate with their peers. Through daily activities, including journaling, practices of self-care, and engagement with community leaders, students will experience the empowerment of self-awareness.

  • Makerspace: Summer Edition

    Instructor: Lynn Prosen
    Grades: 5-8
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 20-24; 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

    Making is the art of creating something. Making includes many different things and many different fields. In this summer’s makerspace we will explore making in several different ways. We make when we bake, create, construct, code and make media. During this program, we will use a variety of materials and techniques to construct, craft, and design something new. 

  • Math Skill Builder

    Instructor: Stacy Schnurr
    Grades: 5-6
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Are you in need of guidance and dedicated time to complete that summer math assignment?  This course will strengthen prerequisite skills, preview upcoming concepts, and provide summer math assignment support.  

  • Mock - Ethics Bowl

    Instructor: Kyle Armstrong
    Grades: 5-8
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Based on the National High School Ethics Bowl model, Mock-Ethics Bowl for the middle schoolers is an opportunity to engage with other students around moral and ethical issues. Students will review cases, construct ideas and positions about those cases in a collaborative setting and end the week with a Mock-Ethics Bowl. Students will “practice and build the virtues central to democratic citizenship, thus preparing them to navigate challenging moral issues in a rigorous, systematic, and
    open-minded way.”

  • Music Technology Camp

    Instructor: Joe DeVico
    Grades: 5-8
    Cost: $250
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 6-10; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
    July 27-31; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    This camp combines training in the concepts and skills of home multi-track recording and mixing using freely available software. Students will learn best techniques for making quality recordings at home or in a professional environment.
     
    The students will take part in a “Virtual Band” recording of the music they create in class, learning how to share files and create projects with other students at a distance. No previous instrumental experience is required.
     
    Topics covered include microphone types and uses, general sound and recording techniques, console navigation, basic mixing techniques, what to look for when purchasing gear, and how to set up your home studio. At the completion of the camp, students will understand technologies in modern sound design, mixing techniques, and recording processes.

  • Pre-Algebra & Algebra 1

    Instructor: Stacy Schnurr
    Grades: 7-8
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    Are you in need of guidance and dedicated time to complete that summer math assignment? This course will strengthen prerequisite skills, preview upcoming concepts, and provide summer math assignment support.  

  • Reading & Writing Workshop

    Instructor: Jenna Chewens
    Grades: 5-8
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 20-24; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    In conjunction with the GSB curriculum, this class will dive into the power of digital tools and media within writing and reading workshops, with an aim to foster digital literacy. The course is designed to accelerate the development of skills through different types of writing with a concentration of passion project-based learning.

  • Singapore Math

    Instructor: Kristina Lasher
    Grades: 3-6
    Cost: $325
     
    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    This course is intended to provide your middle-grade learner with building blocks to support his/her mathematical foundation to continue the journey in Singapore Math. Throughout this course, we will focus on finding solutions using pictures, bar models, and variables to aid in understanding the problems and mathematical concepts. Learners will develop strategies for breaking down word problems and applying math skills to everyday life. Each day will focus on a different concept to support this development, giving your child a toolbox of strategies to access throughout his/her education.

Upper School Courses

List of 21 items.

  • Algebra 1 Review

    Instructor: Nasrin Ameri (GSB Mathematics)
    Cost: $750

    Available Course Offerings:
    August 3-7, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

    This one-week review course strengthens skills and content from Algebra 1 in order to ensure a smooth transition to Geometry during the full academic year.

  • Algebra II/Trigonometry (For Credit)

    Instructor: Manny Hercules (GSB Mathematics)
    Cost: $2000

    Available Course Offerings:
    June 22-July 31; 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

    Successful completion of this six-week course offers a full year of credit for Algebra II/Trig.  Students explore all aspects of Algebra II and Trigonometry. Topics satisfy all IB requirements.

  • Algebra II/Trigonometry Preview

    Instructor: Fred Corona (GSB Mathmatics)
    Cost: $250

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 6-10; 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
    August 3-7; 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

    This introductory course gives students a preview of concepts and problem solving in Algebra Two/Trigonometry in preparation for the full course taken during the academic year.

  • Art Week

    Instructor: Sarah Isusi (GSB Art)
    Cost: $900

    Available Course Offerings:
    June 22-26; 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

    If you are planning to take Honors Portfolio Development, AP 2D Art and Design, apply to an Art School, or submit a portfolio as a supplement, this workshop is for you! Immerse yourself in making art for a week, create strong work for your portfolio, or get a head start on your AP Concentration. All supplies are included.

  • Calculus Preview

    Instructor: Fred Corona (GSB Mathematics)
    Cost: $250

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
    July 20-24; 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.

    This introductory course gives students a preview of concepts and problem solving in Honors Calculus or AP Calculus AB in preparation for the full course taken during the academic year.

  • Creative Writing

    Instructor: Kerri Small (GSB Director of College Guidance)
    Cost: $250

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

    Calling all poets and narrative writers! This course is a dive into creative non-fiction. It will include workshop, so you must be comfortable sharing your work.

  • Driver's Education

    Instructor: JonnaDeFalco (GSB Athletics)
    Cost: $350

    Available Course Offerings:
    June 22-26, 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
    June 29-July 2; 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
    July 13-17; 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
    July 20-24; 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

    This test-prep course prepares students for the NJMVC's written exam administered at the conclusion of the program. For automobile insurance discount information, call your provider directly; this class may or may not meet each company's requirements. Students must attend each class to be eligible to take the exam at the end of the course.

  • Filmmaking Workshop

    Instructor: Mike Chimes (Former GSB Technology Director)
    Cost: $750

    Available Course Offerings:
    August 10-14, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

    Students complete several short video projects and a music video using their phones as primary video equipment. To learn about choices made by master directors, students also study short independent films as well as segments of Hollywood hits.

  • Geometry (For Credit)

    Instructor: Fred Corona (GSB Mathematics)
    Cost: $2000

    Available Course Offerings:
    June 22-July 31, 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

    Successful completion of this six-week course offers a full year of credit for Geometry. Students explore all aspects of geometry. Topics satisfy all IB requirements.

  • Geometry Preview

    Instructor: Fred Corona (GSB Mathematics)
    Cost: $250

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 6-10; 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
    July 20-24; 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

    This introductory course gives students a preview of concepts and problem solving in Geometry in preparation for the full course taken during the academic year.

  • Introduction to Chinese

    Instructor: Lei Cooley (West Morris Regional World Language Teacher)
    Cost: $750

    Available Course Offerings:
    August 10-14, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

    Students will gain an introduction to Chinese language and culture. No experience or background in the language is necessary.

  • Introduction to Digital Animation

    Instructor: Kelly Schiesswohl (Current Pratt Senior - 2D Animation Digital Art Major)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    June 22-26; 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

    This course provides a jam-packed introduction into digital animation. Students will learn basic design, animations principles, and digital tools to bring their drawings to life in motion picture! Students will explore a wide variety of animation styles.

  • Introduction to Digital Photography

    Instructor: Francesco Mazzotta (GSB Fine Arts)
    Cost: $400

    Available Course Offerings:
    June 29-July 2; 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

    This course serves as an introduction to the historical, technical, and aesthetic responsibilities of digital photography using anything from a DSLR camera to a cell phone camera.Topics include camera basics, lighting, and shooting techniques. Students will become comfortable using a camera and talking about art in constructive and productive ways.

  • Introduction to Game Making in Python

    Instructor: Ian Prevost (GSB Computer Science)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    August 10-14; 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

    This workshop introduces students to programming in Python using the Pygame module. This course is designed to accommodate students of diverse programming backgrounds and levels.

  • Object-Oriented Programming in Java

    Instructor: Ian Prevost (GSB Computer Science)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    August 10-14; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    This workshop introduces beginner and intermediate students to object-oriented programming in a fun and application-focused manner. Students will use modules and game development environments to complete projects.

  • Pre-Calculus Preview

    Instructor: Fred Corona (GSB Mathematics)
    Cost: $250

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17; 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
    August 3-7; 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

    This introductory course gives students a preview of concepts and problem solving in Precalculus in preparation for the full course taken during the academic year.

  • SAT English Prep

    Instructor: Kerri Small (GSB Director of College Guidance)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    August 3-7; 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

    This course focuses on strengthening skills that students will need to master in order to succeed on the SAT and ACT.

  • SAT Mathematics Prep

    Instructor: Anita Kurisko (GSB Mathematics)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    August 3-7; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    This course focuses on strengthening skills that students will need to master in order to succeed on the SAT and ACT.

  • Spanish 1 Review

    Instructor: Brittany Casser (GSB Spanish)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 13-17, 12:30 to 3:00 p.m.

    Students strengthen the basic skills and content of their Level 1 Spanish program in order to ensure a smooth transition to Level 2 Spanish. The review course includes basic vocabulary, grammar concepts, and communication skills.

  • Upper School Preview

    Instructor: Margery Schiesswohl (GSB 9th Grade Dean, Performing Arts) and Mike Wendell (GSB Assistant Dean of Student Life)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

    This class is designed for rising 9th graders at Gill St. Bernard’s School in order to ensure a smooth transition to the Upper School. Topics include schedule management, organization, note-taking, time management, and campus resources. The course also provides social opportunities in preparation for the academic year.

  • Writing For Document-Based Questions

    Instructor: Kathleen Hiott (GSB History)
    Cost: $500

    Available Course Offerings:
    July 27-31; 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

    In addition to the basics of Upper School composition, this class will introduce rising freshmen to Document Based Questions and present techniques on how to analyze primary and secondary sources.

Gill St. Bernard's School

P.O. Box 604, St. Bernard's Road, Gladstone, NJ 07934  |  908-234-1611
Gill St. Bernard’s is a private, coeducational day school for students age three through grade 12, located in suburban New Jersey. Each of the three school divisions provides a rigorous, meaningful, and age-appropriate curriculum, and all students benefit from the environmental learning opportunities that exist on our 208-acre campus.