Online Summer Camps 2020
June 22-August 14, Campers Age 4-Grade 12
We are excited to bring robust, hands-on, educational experiences to the online learning world. Our camps are designed for campers of all ages and taught mostly by Catlin Gabel teachers who have gained valuable insights and experience in providing remote learning experiences this spring. You will find an array of fun and creative options for different ages every week so be sure to review the entire set of offerings.
Because our instructors are online and campers are at home, different classes require different levels of supervision or assistance. Please read age requirements and instructor requests carefully. In general and depending on age, a parent /guardian may need to be close enough to observe and be ready to help.
Classes are 90-minutes long and limited in size to ensure personal interaction and camper engagement. Classes are open to campers in any city, state, or country. All programs are Pacific Time (PT). They require reliable internet access and personal devices as courses will use ZOOM as the learning platform. We look forward to seeing you soon!
- WEEK 1 (JUNE 22 - JUNE 26)
- Week 2 (June 29 - July 3)
- WEEK 3 (July 6 - July 10)
- WEEK 4 (July 13 - July 17)
- WEEK 5 (July 20 - July 24)
- WEEK 6 (July 27 - July 31)
- WEEK 7 (August 3 - August 7)
- Week 8 (August 10-August 14)
WEEK 1 (JUNE 22 - JUNE 26)
Sew Cool–Felt
Grades 1-3
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Have you ever wanted to sew your own creations? Learn basic hand sewing stitches through a variety of projects like patches, pouches, puppets, and small stuffed animals. The possibilities are endless! Live and pre-recorded tutorials, instructions, ideas, time to share and get feedback will be a regular part of the sessions. Materials required for this camp: sewing needles (blunt and large eye), embroidery floss, felt fabric, measuring tape, fabric scissors, poly filling, sewing clips, fabric marker.
Sheri Coquio teaches Lower School science at Catlin Gabel School. She has taught preschool through adults in a variety of positions always with a big focus on project- and place-based learning. Please email Sheri if you have any questions about this camp.
Making Faces with Nature, Found Objects, and Drawing
Grades 1-3
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Using nature, household objects and our imaginations we will create faces! We will also explore the process studying shapes needed to draw our faces. Materials required for this camp: pencils, paper, crayons, watercolor, found objects, natural objects, access to a camera.
Sarah Welsh is a Catlin Gabel School Summer Programs teacher who teaches in the public schools. She is a past CGS parent. Please email Sarah if you have any questions about this camp.
Splash! Reading & Writing Fun!
Grades 1-3
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This fun, summer-theme based camp will provide students opportunities to practice their literacy skills through decoding, fluency, comprehension and writing skills.
Sheryll Orbase is a 3rd grade teacher at Catlin Gabel School. She has a varied and lengthy background teaching around the world for many years. Please email Sheryll if you have any questions about this camp.
Learn the Olympic Sport of Fencing
Grades 1-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Learn the basic tactical and technical skills of the Olympic sport of sabre fencing. This dynamic sport offers challenges to quick thinking, coordination, strength and stamina. Virtual camp will cover footwork drills for fitness and tactical drills to learn the fencing actions and moves. Coaches will demonstrate each movement and fencers will repeat on their own. The rules of fencing will be covered and fencers will watch fencing bouts via the screen sharing options. Materials required for this camp: 4ft by 4ft space to move in, athletic clothes, bare feet or athletic shoes, water bottle.
The coaching staff is provided by Oregon Fencing Alliance, home of 6 Olympic medals and numerous World Champions. Coach Adam has 15 years of competitive experience and over 20 years of coaching experience. He was ranked number one fencer in the US for four consecutive years and has coached several fencers to national and world championship levels. Coach Ian grew up in Portland and started fencing at a young age accomplishing national team status. Ian was assistant coach at Northwestern University and later Assistant Coach at Notre Dame before returning to Portland with his family. Please email Coach Adam if you have any questions about this camp.
Digital Books and Comics
Grades 4-6
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Create great stories digitally. For the week you will be able to put all your artistic and technological skills together to do some story creating to become a digital book creator and author. At the end of the week, you will have some great stories to share out to your family and friends and skills to keep creating. Materials required for this camp: computer or tablet, Book Creator, PowerPoint, drawing materials.
Shanti Williams is a teaching assistant and coach at Catlin Gabel School and Summer Programs teacher. She has taught students in preschool through 12th grade. Please email Shanti if you have any questions about this camp.
Cool Summer Crafting
Grades 6-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Arts & Crafts–doodling, drawing, weaving, coloring, paper crafts, beading, collage and more. Just want to make things because it’s fun? Love to explore and try new things? We’ll explore all sorts of ways to enjoy crafting. A materials list will be provided for each project to students. Campers will be able to modify projects based on available supplies at home.
Mia Bane is Director of Technical Theatre at Catlin Gabel School where she also teaches drama and theatre tech. Additionally, Mia is a visual artist who teaches sewing, jewelry making, and a variety of crafts. Please email Mia if you have any questions about this camp.
Fitness and Aerobics with Javier!
Grades 6-12
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Featured will be high and low intensity full body workouts, yoga, and cardiovascular aerobics. Stay fit! Materials required for this camp: comfortable clothing and shoes, water bottle, towel, music and snack.
Javier Duque teaches PE at Catlin Gabel School where he also coaches numerous athletic teams. Javier is passionate about teaching young people about sports, athletics and fitness. Please email Javier if you have any questions about this camp.
Basketball Skills Workshop
Grades 6-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This basketball camp will focus on practice and mastering basic basketball skills like dribbling, defense, fakes, passing, rebounding and pivoting. We will also learn step back principals, cross overs and proper shooting form. (No hoop needed). Materials required for this camp: basketball, little obstacles at home, chair, comfortable clothing, water bottle, towel.
Javier Duque teaches PE at Catlin Gabel School where he also coaches numerous athletic teams. Javier is passionate about teaching young people about sports, athletics and fitness. Please email Javier if you have any questions about this camp.
Week 2 (June 29 - July 3)
Sew Cool–Felt
Grades 1-3
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Have you ever wanted to sew your own creations? Learn basic hand sewing stitches through a variety of projects like patches, pouches, puppets, and small stuffed animals. The possibilities are endless! Live and pre-recorded tutorials, instructions, ideas, time to share and get feedback will be a regular part of the sessions. Materials required for this camp: sewing needles (blunt and large eye), embroidery floss, felt fabric, measuring tape, fabric scissors, poly filling, sewing clips, fabric marker.
Sheri Coquio teaches Lower School science at Catlin Gabel School. She has taught preschool through adults in a variety of positions always with a big focus on project- and place-based learning. Please email Sheri if you have any questions about this camp.
Splash! Reading & Writing Fun!
Grades 1-3
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This fun, summer-theme based camp will provide students opportunities to practice their literacy skills through decoding, fluency, comprehension and writing skills.
Sheryll Orbase is a 3rd grade teacher at Catlin Gabel School. She has a varied and lengthy background teaching around the world for many years. Please email Sheryll if you have any questions about this camp.
Digital Books and Comics
Grades 4-6
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Create great stories digitally. For the week you will be able to put all your artistic and technological skills together to do some story creating to become a digital book creator and author. At the end of the week, you will have some great stories to share out to your family and friends and skills to keep creating. Materials required for this camp: computer/tablet, book creator, PowerPoint, drawing materials.
Shanti Williams is a teaching assistant and coach at Catlin Gabel School and Summer Programs teacher. She has taught students in preschool through 12th grade. Please email Shanti if you have any questions about this camp.
Ink and Magic: Creative Writing
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Writing is fun! Students who sign up should love reading and want to learn about writing. We focus on content and creativity, not grammar or “strict rules.” Each session we will have many different kinds of writing exercises. We use all of our senses to explore creative nonfiction, genre fiction (fantasy, romance, sci-fi, etc.), poetry, and the short story. We’ll also discuss publications that accept submissions from young writers.
Debby Dodds has been teaching for over 25 years, fourteen at Catlin Gabel Summer Programs teaching writing and humanities. She is a published author featured in over twenty anthologies and whose debut novel, Amish Guys Don’t Call, was named one of the Best of 2017 by Powells Books. Please email Debby if you have any questions about this camp.
The Art of Folding with Circles
Grades 4-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you marvel at the intricate patterns inside of flowers, fruits, the handiwork of insects or the molecular structures of starstuff? Engage your powers of observation and creative expression by exploring the patterns and connections that exist everywhere in nature through the folding of paper circles. Visit Wholemovement.com for a peek at what awaits you in the circle. Materials required for this camp: single-ply and uncoated 9” paper plates, bone creaser or hard straight-edged tool, bobby pins, masking tape, markers, crayons, and/ or colored pencils.
Ashley Smith is Director of Art Adventures at Catlin Gabel School and has worked with people of all ages for over twenty years. As an educator, visual artist, and theatre designer, she enjoys collaborating with young people as they become aware of their own creative process. Please email Ashley if you have any questions about this camp.
Basketball Skills Workshop
Grades 6-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This basketball camp will focus on practice and mastering basic basketball skills like dribbling, defense, fakes, passing, rebounding and pivoting. We will also learn step back principals, cross overs and proper shooting form. (No hoop needed). Materials required for this camp: basketball, little obstacles at home, chair, comfortable clothing, water bottle, towel.
Javier Duque teaches PE at Catlin Gabel School where he also coaches numerous athletic teams. Javier is passionate about teaching young people about sports, athletics and fitness. Please email Javier if you have any questions about this camp.
WEEK 3 (July 6 - July 10)
Family Connection & Mindfulness
Age 4-Grade 2
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you know that we all have a superpower for getting us through challenging moments? When we learn to focus on what’s happening in each moment and not think about anything else, it’s called Mindfulness. There are many ways to practice this quiet superpower on our own and as a family. We will spend our week developing our mindfulness muscles to help us move through uncertainty with more ease and comfort. Some of the things we will practice are gratitude, yoga, mindful doodling, and meditation–all designed to be done together as a family! A parent is required for youngest learners.
Katie Fleetwood teaches 2nd grade at Catlin Gabel School. Additionally, Katie is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher and yoga instructor for adults and children. Please email Katie if you have any questions about this camp.
Splash! Reading & Writing Fun!
Grades 1-3
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This fun, summer-theme based camp will provide students opportunities to practice their literacy skills through decoding, fluency, comprehension and writing skills.
Sheryll Orbase is a 3rd grade teacher at Catlin Gabel School. She has a varied and lengthy background teaching around the world for many years. Please email Sheryll if you have any questions about this camp.
Van Gogh Inspired Art Making
Grades 1-3
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
We will learn about Vincent Van Gogh, watch some videos of his work and work inspired by him around the world, and then try to create some of his works with our own creative interpretations, using pencil, crayon and watercolors. Materials required for this camp: pencil, crayons, watercolor paint, brush, watercolor paper, images.
Sarah Welsh is a Catlin Gabel School Summer Programs teacher who teaches in the public schools. She is a past CGS parent. Please email Sarah if you have any questions about this camp.
Learn the Olympic Sport of Fencing
Grades 1-8
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Learn the basic tactical and technical skills of the Olympic sport of sabre fencing. This dynamic sport offers challenges to quick thinking, coordination, strength and stamina. Virtual camp will cover footwork drills for fitness and tactical drills to learn the fencing actions and moves. Coaches will demonstrate each movement and fencers will repeat on their own. The rules of fencing will be covered and fencers will watch fencing bouts via the screen sharing options. Materials required for this camp: 4ft by 4ft space to move in, athletic clothes, athletic shoes (bare feet ok), water bottle.
The coaching staff is provided by Oregon Fencing Alliance, home of 6 Olympic medals and numerous World Champions. Coach Adam has 15 years of competitive experience and over 20 years of coaching experience. He was ranked number one fencer in the US for four consecutive years and has coached several fencers to national and world championship levels. Coach Ian grew up in Portland and started fencing at a young age accomplishing national team status. Ian was assistant coach at Northwestern University and later Assistant Coach at Notre Dame before returning to Portland with his family. Please email Coach Adam if you have any questions about this camp.
Cats Away, The Mice Will Play, with Peggy
Grades 2-6
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
We will experiment with and learn about different forms of arts and crafts. Textiles, painting, collage, print making, drawing and 3-D sculptures will most likely be the camp areas of focus. Materials required for this camp: 9"x12" sketch book, watercolor paper (or similar), construction paper, pencils, colored pencils, markers, watercolors, oil pastels (small box), scissors, masking tape, ruler, string, cardboard, watercolor brushes (small, medium, large).
Peggy Schauffler teaches Art at Catlin Gabel School. Peggy is passionate about art and teaching, it brings her great joy! Please email Peggy if you have any questions about this camp.
Digital Books and Comics
Grades 4-6
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Create great stories digitally. For the week you will be able to put all your artistic and technological skills together to do some story creating to become a digital book creator and author. At the end of the week, you will have some great stories to share out to your family and friends and skills to keep creating. Materials required for this camp: computer/tablet, Book Creator, PowerPoint, drawing materials.
Shanti Williams is a teaching assistant and coach at Catlin Gabel School and Summer Programs teacher. She has taught students in preschool through 12th grade. Please email Shanti if you have any questions about this camp.
Ink and Magic: Creative Writing
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Writing is fun! Students who sign up should love reading and want to learn about writing. We focus on content and creativity, not grammar or “strict rules.” Each session we will have many different kinds of writing exercises. We use all of our senses to explore creative nonfiction, genre fiction (fantasy, romance, sci-fi, etc.), poetry, and the short story. We’ll also discuss publications that accept submissions from young writers.
Debby Dodds has been teaching for over 25 years, fourteen at Catlin Gabel Summer Programs teaching writing and humanities. She is a published author featured in over twenty anthologies and whose debut novel, Amish Guys Don’t Call, was named one of the Best of 2017 by Powells Books. Please email Debby if you have any questions about this camp.
Locally Grown Garden to Home-Cooking and Crafting
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Learn to cook with fresh local ingredients. Turn a pint of freshly picked raspberries into raspberry muffins, or freshly picked mint into refreshing summer beverages. You will learn to cook and craft with ingredients sourced from the Catlin Gabel School organic garden to create delicious foods and crafts to share with your family. Join the Catlin Gabel Garden Coordinator for a series of 90-minute cooking and crafting sessions. Fresh, garden grown ingredients and supplies will be provided. Materials required for this camp: Campers will be provided with food and other materials grown on CGS campus. Families will need to have some basics like flour and other baking supplies on hand.
Alison Ward ’99 is Catlin Gabel School’s Garden Coordinator who also works in the school’s Inclusion Office and Learning Center. Alison loves growing food, cooking and crafting with students of all ages. Please email Alison if you have any questions about this camp.
Science of Sound
Grades 6-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Explore the science behind sound and how sound can move things! Students will develop a model to explain how a sound source can make another object move. We will grow our understanding of the complex ideas of force, waves, amplitude, energy, frequency and pitch as we engage and experiment with everyday materials.
Berkeley Gadbaw is a Middle School science teacher at Catlin Gabel School. Please email Berkeley if you have any questions about this camp.
Songwriting and Music Production
Grades 6-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
How are songs written, recorded, and produced? Find out in this camp while writing, recording and producing your own music. Whether you’re a seasoned songwriter or producer, or whether you’re interested in how to write your first song, we’ll go over elements of rhythm, lyric writing, beat making, recording and producing music. Then, you’ll get hands-on support with online software to record and make your own songs in any genre or style that inspires you.
Clara Baker is an educator, songwriter, musician, and audio engineer who has released three albums, played hundreds of shows, and toured all over the US. When not touring and playing shows, Clara has been a sought after substitute teacher at Catlin Gabel School. Please email Clara if you have any questions about this camp.
WEEK 4 (July 13 - July 17)
Yoga Time
Age 4-Grade 5
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
This yoga camp is focused on relaxation, fun, fitness and strengthening.
Rachael Cruthirds teaches Children’s and Family Yoga in the Portland area. Completing her Children’s Yoga Training through Yoga Playgrounds, Rachael has experience in mindful movement with all ages and has taught multiple summer camps at Catlin Gabel. Please email Rachael if you have any questions about this camp.
Splash! Reading & Writing Fun!
Grades 1-3
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
This fun, summer-theme based camp will provide students opportunities to practice their literacy skills through decoding, fluency, comprehension and writing skills.
Sheryll Orbase is a 3rd grade teacher at Catlin Gabel School. She has a varied and lengthy background teaching around the world for many years. Please email Sheryll if you have any questions about this camp.
Learn the Olympic Sport of Fencing
Grades 1-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Learn the basic tactical and technical skills of the Olympic sport of sabre fencing. This dynamic sport offers challenges to quick thinking, coordination, strength and stamina. Virtual camp will cover footwork drills for fitness and tactical drills to learn the fencing actions and moves. Coaches will demonstrate each movement and fencers will repeat on their own. The rules of fencing will be covered and fencers will watch fencing bouts via the screen sharing options. Materials required for this camp: 4ft by 4ft space to move in, athletic clothes, athletic shoes, water bottle.
The coaching staff is provided by Oregon Fencing Alliance, home of 6 Olympic medals and numerous World Champions. Coach Adam has 15 years of competitive experience and over 20 years of coaching experience. He was ranked number one fencer in the US for four consecutive years and has coached several fencers to national and world championship levels. Coach Ian grew up in Portland and started fencing at a young age accomplishing national team status. Ian was assistant coach at Northwestern University and later Assistant Coach at Notre Dame before returning to Portland with his family. Please email Coach Adam if you have any questions about this camp.
Cats Away, The Mice Will Play, with Peggy
Grades 2-6
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
We will experiment with and learn about different forms of arts and crafts. Textiles, painting, collage, print making, drawing and 3-D sculptures will most likely be the camp areas of focus. Materials required for this camp: 9"x12" sketch book, watercolor paper (or similar), construction paper, pencils, colored pencils, markers, watercolors, oil pastels (small box), scissors, masking tape, ruler, string, cardboard, watercolor brushes (small, medium, large).
Peggy Schauffler teaches Art at Catlin Gabel School. Peggy is passionate about art and teaching, it brings her great joy! Please email Peggy if you have any questions about this camp.
Family Connection & Mindfulness
Grades 2-6
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you know that we all have a superpower for getting us through challenging moments? When we learn to focus on what’s happening in each moment and not think about anything else, it’s called Mindfulness. There are many ways to practice this quiet superpower on our own and as a family. We will spend our week developing our mindfulness muscles to help us move through uncertainty with more ease and comfort. Some of the things we will practice are gratitude, yoga, mindful doodling, and meditation–all designed to be done together as a family!
Katie Fleetwood teaches 2nd grade at Catlin Gabel School. Additionally, Katie is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher and yoga instructor for adults and children. Please email Katie if you have any questions about this camp.
Digital Books and Comics
Grades 4-6
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Create great stories digitally. For the week you will be able to put all your artistic and technological skills together to do some story creating to become a digital book creator and author. At the end of the week, you will have some great stories to share out to your family and friends and skills to keep creating. Materials required for this camp: computer/tablet, Book Creator, PowerPoint, drawing materials.
Shanti Williams is a teaching assistant and coach at Catlin Gabel School and Summer Programs teacher. She has taught students in preschool through 12th grade. Please email Shanti if you have any questions about this camp.
Art-Rithmetic!
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Whether a budding artist or an occasional doodler, these drawing techniques will bring 3-dimensional life to your artwork. Learn the secrets of optical illusions and the beauty of proportion while discovering the science of color and the engineering of line designs. Materials required for this camp: drawing paper, graph paper, drawing pencils, colored pencils, markers/pens (optional), scissors, glue, ruler, protractor, compass.
Stefanie Foster is a Catlin Gabel School Summer Programs teacher and tutor at the school. Stefanie loves seeing students discover connections and relevance between math and art. Please email Stefanie if you have any questions about this camp.
Dog Training: Good Manners Basics
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Campers will learn how to speak a dog’s language, and bond with your family’s pet while training common cues and behaviors such as sit, down, stay, come when called, settle on a mat, and more using positive reinforcement methods. Each day will also include an interactive game to enhance the human-canine bond and provide fun enrichment for your child and dog! This program is appropriate for beginner or experienced student trainers, and for dogs 6 months and older. Materials required for this camp: clicker and wrist coil, training pouch, training treats.
Meg Sanders teaches 1st grade at Catlin Gabel School. A veteran teacher, Meg is also a professional dog trainer and runs a small business helping people train and live harmoniously with their pets. Working with people to help train their dogs brings together Meg's passion for education and animal training. Please email Meg if you have any questions about this camp.
Ink and Magic: Creative Writing
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Writing is fun! Students who sign up should love reading and want to learn about writing. We focus on content and creativity, not grammar or “strict rules.” Each session we will have many different kinds of writing exercises. We use all of our senses to explore creative nonfiction, genre fiction (fantasy, romance, sci-fi, etc.), poetry, and the short story. We’ll also discuss publications that accept submissions from young writers.
Debby Dodds has been teaching for over 25 years, fourteen at Catlin Gabel Summer Programs teaching writing and humanities. She is a published author featured in over twenty anthologies and whose debut novel, Amish Guys Don’t Call, was named one of the Best of 2017 by Powells Books. Please email Debby if you have any questions about this camp.
MYOPS: Make Your Own Paper Skeleton
Grades 4-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Join this class if you’d like to make your very own life-size card stock skeleton! If you can trace a pattern and use scissors to cut card stock, you have all the skills you need to make this one-of-a-kind model of your skeleton to hang in your closet, on your porch or where ever you want! Materials required for this camp: Each camper will need to provide their own scissors, hole punch, stapler, pencil and scotch tape. Each camper will be provided with 4 large sheets of card stock, paper bone templates, and 1 bag of brass fasteners.
Larry Hurst teaches Science at Catlin Gabel School and for years has helped hundreds of students learn about their skeletal system as well as decorate their house during Halloween and Dia de los Muertos. Please email Larry if you have any questions about this camp.
Imposter Syndrome: Dealing with Self-Doubt at School
Grades 6-12
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
For any student who has ever felt that they “didn’t belong,” experienced self-doubt about their ability to perform in class, or want to strengthen their decision making skills, this is the session. The Imposter Syndrome begins in childhood. This session will provide skills and practices to combat those feelings and increase the confidence of any student. Materials required for this camp: writing tools for notes and reflection.
Erica Babino is Coordinator of Multicultural Programming at Catlin Gabel School. She is also a children’s book author, speaker and conflict management coach for families and schools. Please email Erica if you have any questions about this camp.
Songwriting and Music Production
Grades 6-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
How are songs written, recorded, and produced? Find out in this camp while writing, recording and producing your own music. Whether you’re a seasoned songwriter or producer, or whether you’re interested in how to write your first song, we’ll go over elements of rhythm, lyric writing, beat making, recording and producing music. Then, you’ll get hands-on support with online software to record and make your own songs in any genre or style that inspires you.
Clara Baker is an educator, songwriter, musician, and audio engineer who has released three albums, played hundreds of shows, and toured all over the US. When not touring and playing shows, Clara has been a sought after substitute teacher at Catlin Gabel School. Please email Clara if you have any questions about this camp.
Into the 21st Century
Grades 9-12
9a.m.-10:30a.m. and 1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This class is 3 hours per day for 1 week
$250
A course focused on the Western Hemisphere from Reagan to the present. Using different forms of media (films, documentaries, photography), students will engage in an in-depth analysis into what has the defined contemporary history within this part of the world. Topics ranging from the rise of terrorism, the birth of modern teenage culture, latchkey kids, the rise of the machines (the personal computer) and the ubiquity of social media, participants will be asked to deconstruct the last 40 years of history in a design thinking format.
Mickey Del Castillo teaches social studies at Catlin Gabel School. He has a wide variety of interests and expertise having specialized and taught a wide range of classes including: World History, Economics, African History, African- American History, Design Thinking Humanities, Media Studies, Executive Function Coach, Philosophy, Film and courses synthesizing history and science. Please email Mickey if you have any questions about this camp.
WEEK 5 (July 20 - July 24)
Mindful Movement, Art, & Imagination
Age 4-Grade 3
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Mindful movement can strengthen a child's relationship with themselves and others in a positive and caring way. Creative movement will be the focus of this session! Camp will be led by Children's Yoga instructor, Rachael Cruthirds. Each day will hold a new theme of imagination where campers will create crafts, read stories and practice mindful movement.
Rachael Cruthirds teaches Children’s and Family Yoga in the Portland area. Completing her Children’s Yoga Training through Yoga Playgrounds, Rachael has experience in mindful movement with all ages and has taught multiple summer camps at Catlin Gabel. Please email Rachael if you have any questions about this camp.
Splash! Reading & Writing Fun!
Grades 1-3
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
This fun, summer-theme based camp will provide students opportunities to practice their literacy skills through decoding, fluency, comprehension and writing skills.
Sheryll Orbase is a 3rd grade teacher at Catlin Gabel School. She has a varied and lengthy background teaching around the world for many years. Please email Sheryll if you have any questions about this camp.
Learn the Olympic Sport of Fencing
Grades 1-8
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Learn the basic tactical and technical skills of the Olympic sport of sabre fencing. This dynamic sport offers challenges to quick thinking, coordination, strength and stamina. Virtual camp will cover footwork drills for fitness and tactical drills to learn the fencing actions and moves. Coaches will demonstrate each movement and fencers will repeat on their own. The rules of fencing will be covered and fencers will watch fencing bouts via the screen sharing options. Materials required for this camp: 4ft by 4ft space to move in, athletic clothes, athletic shoes, water bottle.
The coaching staff is provided by Oregon Fencing Alliance, home of 6 Olympic medals and numerous World Champions. Coach Adam has 15 years of competitive experience and over 20 years of coaching experience. He was ranked number one fencer in the US for four consecutive years and has coached several fencers to national and world championship levels. Coach Ian grew up in Portland and started fencing at a young age accomplishing national team status. Ian was assistant coach at Northwestern University and later Assistant Coach at Notre Dame before returning to Portland with his family. Please email Coach Adam if you have any questions about this camp.
Family Connection & Mindfulness
Grades 2-6
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you know that we all have a superpower for getting us through challenging moments? When we learn to focus on what’s happening in each moment and not think about anything else, it’s called Mindfulness. There are many ways to practice this quiet superpower on our own and as a family. We will spend our week developing our mindfulness muscles to help us move through uncertainty with more ease and comfort. Some of the things we will practice are gratitude, yoga, mindful doodling, and meditation–all designed to be done together as a family!
Katie Fleetwood teaches 2nd grade at Catlin Gabel School. Additionally, Katie is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher and yoga instructor for adults and children. Please email Katie if you have any questions about this camp.
Tiny Comics
Grades 4-6
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Love reading comic strips and comic books? Always wanted to write some of your own? We will read several comics together, break down what makes a good comic, and then write some of our very own. Get peer feedback and help others develop their ideas to form even more intriguing storylines and characters. We will also Zoom an artist who worked for DC Comics! Materials required for this camp: colored pencils and ruler; optional: Sakura Pigma Micron pen size 03 or 05.
Sheri Coquio teaches Lower School science at Catlin Gabel School. She has taught preschool through adults in a variety of positions always with a big focus on project- and place-based learning. Please email Sheri if you have any questions about this camp.
Ink and Magic: Creative Writing
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Writing is fun! Students who sign up should love reading and want to learn about writing. We focus on content and creativity, not grammar or “strict rules.” Each session we will have many different kinds of writing exercises. We use all of our senses to explore creative nonfiction, genre fiction (fantasy, romance, sci-fi, etc.), poetry, and the short story. We’ll also discuss publications that accept submissions from young writers.
Debby Dodds has been teaching for over 25 years, fourteen at Catlin Gabel Summer Programs teaching writing and humanities. She is a published author featured in over twenty anthologies and whose debut novel, Amish Guys Don’t Call, was named one of the Best of 2017 by Powells Books. Please email Debby if you have any questions about this camp.
Locally Grown Garden to Home-Cooking and Crafting
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Learn to cook with fresh local ingredients. Turn a pint of freshly picked raspberries into raspberry muffins, or freshly picked mint into refreshing summer beverages. You will learn to cook and craft with ingredients sourced from the Catlin Gabel School organic garden to create delicious foods and crafts to share with your family. Join the Catlin Gabel Garden Coordinator for a series of 90-minute cooking and crafting sessions. Fresh, garden grown ingredients and supplies will be provided. Materials required for this camp: Campers will be provided with food and other materials grown on CGS campus. Families will need to have some basics like flour and other baking supplies on hand.
Alison Ward ’99 is Catlin Gabel School&srquo;s Garden Coordinator who also works in the school’s Inclusion Office and Learning Center. Alison loves growing food, cooking and crafting with students of all ages. Please email Alison if you have any questions about this camp.
Train Your Puppy
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Campers will create a lifelong bond with their puppy while learning about puppy language and training basic skills. They will learn how to play in fun and safe ways with their puppy and understand more about their puppy’s needs. Appropriate for beginning or experienced student trainers and puppies 12-24 weeks old. Materials required for this camp: clicker, training treats, treat pouch, toy, Kong dog toy.
Meg Sanders teaches 1st grade at Catlin Gabel School. A veteran teacher, Meg is also a professional dog trainer and runs a small business helping people train and live harmoniously with their pets. Working with people to help train their dogs brings together Meg&srquo;s passion for education and animal training. Please email Meg if you have any questions about this camp.
College Essay Workshop
Grade 12 only
9a.m.-10:30a.m. and 1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This class is 3 hours per day for 1 week
$250
Rising high school seniors...get ready for the adventure of applying for college! How do you want to illustrate your experiences, values, and dreams in action in your admissions essay? This class will offer you an opportunity to read and discuss sample essays, to consider the Common Application essay prompts, and to begin writing about and getting feedback on an essay idea. You will learn more about yourself and your goals through reading, reflecting, writing, and workshopping. We’ll practice the craft of vivid writing together, so you can embark on this adventure with confidence and creativity.
Maureen Reed teaches English at Catlin Gabel School and has taught writing to high school and college students for over twenty years. She enjoys working with students as they apply for college because of the opportunities the process creates for building self-awareness and setting goals. Please email Maureen if you have any questions about this camp.
WEEK 6 (July 27 - July 31)
Things That Fly, Oh My!
Grades 1-3
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
We will draw, paint and make 3-D creations of all things flying! Learn how to mix colors with clay and create an imaginary bird with eggs and nest, discover the symmetry in butterflies, and used mixed media to explore other inspired possibilities. Materials required for this camp: watercolor paper, pencil, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, images, scissors, glue sticks, model magic.
Sarah Welsh is a Catlin Gabel School Summer Programs teacher who teaches in the public schools. She is a past CGS parent. Please email Sarah if you have any questions about this camp.
Family Connection & Mindfulness
Grades 2-6
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you know that we all have a superpower for getting us through challenging moments? When we learn to focus on what’s happening in each moment and not think about anything else, it’s called Mindfulness. There are many ways to practice this quiet superpower on our own and as a family. We will spend our week developing our mindfulness muscles to help us move through uncertainty with more ease and comfort. Some of the things we will practice are gratitude, yoga, mindful doodling, and meditation–all designed to be done together as a family!
Katie Fleetwood teaches 2nd grade at Catlin Gabel School. Additionally, Katie is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher and yoga instructor for adults and children. Please email Katie if you have any questions about this camp.
Tiny Comics
Grades 4-6
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Love reading comic strips and comic books? Always wanted to write some of your own? We will read several comics together, break down what makes a good comic, and then write some of our very own. Get peer feedback and help others develop their ideas to form even more intriguing storylines and characters. We will also Zoom an artist who worked for DC Comics! Materials required for this camp: colored pencils and ruler; optional: Sakura Pigma Micron pen size 03 or 05.
Sheri Coquio teaches Lower School science at Catlin Gabel School. She has taught preschool through adults in a variety of positions always with a big focus on project- and place-based learning. Please email Sheri if you have any questions about this camp.
Dog Training: Good Manners Basics
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Campers will learn how to speak a dog’s language, and bond with your family’s pet while training common cues and behaviors such as sit, down, stay, come when called, settle on a mat, and more using positive reinforcement methods. Each day will also include an interactive game to enhance the human-canine bond and provide fun enrichment for your child and dog! This program is appropriate for beginner or experienced student trainers, and for dogs 6 months and older. Materials required for this camp: clicker and wrist coil, training pouch, training treats.
Meg Sanders teaches 1st grade at Catlin Gabel School. A veteran teacher, Meg is also a professional dog trainer and runs a small business helping people train and live harmoniously with their pets. Working with people to help train their dogs brings together Meg's passion for education and animal training. Please email Meg if you have any questions about this camp.
Writing Your First Children’s Book & More!
Grades 4-12
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Ever wanted to write a children’s book before? This session will provide the tools needed to become a successful manuscript writer and even publish a book. Developing editing skills will be a part of the sessions to assist the student in their school work throughout the year. Materials required for this camp: Laptop/tablet, paper, pen/pencil, and imagination.
Erica Babino is Coordinator of Multicultural Programming at Catlin Gabel School. She is also a children’s book author, speaker and conflict management coach for families and schools. Please email Erica if you have any questions about this camp.
The Art of Folding with Circles
Grades 4-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you marvel at the intricate patterns inside of flowers, fruits, the handiwork of insects or the molecular structures of starstuff? Engage your powers of observation and creative expression by exploring the patterns and connections that exist everywhere in nature through the folding of paper circles. Visit Wholemovement.com for a peek at what awaits you in the circle. Materials required for this camp: single-ply and uncoated 9” paper plates, bone creaser or hard straight-edged tool, bobby pins, masking tape, markers, crayons, and/ or colored pencils.
Ashley Smith is Director of Art Adventures at Catlin Gabel School and has worked with people of all ages for over twenty years. As an educator, visual artist, and theatre designer, she enjoys collaborating with young people as they become aware of their own creative process. Please email Ashley if you have any questions about this camp.
Designing on Power Point
Grades 6-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Let’s get creative with Powerpoint! Here is your chance to learn about all the cool tricks that you can do in Powerpoint to create amazing presentations and stories. Materials required for this camp: computer/tablet, PowerPoint.
Shanti Williams is a teaching assistant and coach at Catlin Gabel School and Summer Programs teacher. She has taught students in preschool through 12th grade. Please email Shanti if you have any questions about this camp.
College Essay Workshop
Grades 12 only
9a.m.-10:30a.m. AND 1p.m.-2:30p.m.
This class is 3 hours per day for 1 week
$250
Rising high school seniors...get ready for the adventure of applying for college! How do you want to illustrate your experiences, values, and dreams in action in your admissions essay? This class will offer you an opportunity to read and discuss sample essays, to consider the Common Application essay prompts, and to begin writing about and getting feedback on an essay idea. You will learn more about yourself and your goals through reading, reflecting, writing, and workshopping. We’ll practice the craft of vivid writing together, so you can embark on this adventure with confidence and creativity.
Maureen Reed teaches English at Catlin Gabel School and has taught writing to high school and college students for over twenty years. She enjoys working with students as they apply for college because of the opportunities the process creates for building self-awareness and setting goals. Please email Maureen if you have any questions about this camp.
WEEK 7 (August 3 - August 7)
Yoga Time
Age 4-Grade 5
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
This yoga camp is focused on relaxation, fun, fitness and strengthening.
Rachael Cruthirds teaches Children's and Family Yoga in the Portland area. Completing her Children's Yoga Training through Yoga Playgrounds, Rachael has experience in mindful movement with all ages and has taught multiple summer camps at Catlin Gabel. Please email Rachael if you have any questions about this camp.
Wild Thangs!
Grades 1-3
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Using Maurice Sendack’s book, WILD THINGS, we will use our imaginations to create our own wild things with different medias and techniques. Materials required for this camp: pencils, watercolor paper, colored pencils, pens, watercolors, oil pastels, glue sticks, scissors, model magic.
Sarah Welsh is a Catlin Gabel School Summer Programs teacher who teaches in the public schools. She is a past CGS parent. Please email Sarah if you have any questions about this camp.
Adventures in Drawing
Grades 1-4
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Let’s draw together! In art school, we grew our drawing skills through the art of careful observation and creative exploration. We’ll try some of those drawing exercises and more... We’ll learn from other artwork and share our own! Materials required for this camp: watercolor paper, pencil, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, images, scissors, glue sticks, model magic.
Lori Buesking teaches 2nd grade at Catlin Gabel School. As both a sculpture major and teacher, Lori is always looking for ways to share her art background with her students. Please email Lori if you have any questions about this camp.
Train Your Puppy
Grades 4-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Campers will create a lifelong bond with their puppy while learning about puppy language and training basic skills. They will learn how to play in fun and safe ways with their puppy and understand more about their puppy’s needs. Appropriate for beginning or experienced student trainers and puppies 12-24 weeks old. Materials required for this camp: clicker, training treats, treat pouch, toy, Kong dog toy.
Meg Sanders teaches 1st grade at Catlin Gabel School. A veteran teacher, Meg is also a professional dog trainer and runs a small business helping people train and live harmoniously with their pets. Working with people to help train their dogs brings together Meg&srquo;s passion for education and animal training. Please email Meg if you have any questions about this camp.
Learn the Olympic Sport of Fencing
Grades 1-8
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Learn the basic tactical and technical skills of the Olympic sport of sabre fencing. This dynamic sport offers challenges to quick thinking, coordination, strength and stamina. Virtual camp will cover footwork drills for fitness and tactical drills to learn the fencing actions and moves. Coaches will demonstrate each movement and fencers will repeat on their own. The rules of fencing will be covered and fencers will watch fencing bouts via the screen sharing options. Materials required for this camp: 4ft by 4ft space to move in, athletic clothes, athletic shoes, water bottle.
The coaching staff is provided by Oregon Fencing Alliance, home of 6 Olympic medals and numerous World Champions. Coach Adam has 15 years of competitive experience and over 20 years of coaching experience. He was ranked number one fencer in the US for four consecutive years and has coached several fencers to national and world championship levels. Coach Ian grew up in Portland and started fencing at a young age accomplishing national team status. Ian was assistant coach at Northwestern University and later Assistant Coach at Notre Dame before returning to Portland with his family. Please email Coach Adam if you have any questions about this camp.
The Art of Folding with Circles
Grades 4-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you marvel at the intricate patterns inside of flowers, fruits, the handiwork of insects or the molecular structures of starstuff? Engage your powers of observation and creative expression by exploring the patterns and connections that exist everywhere in nature through the folding of paper circles. Visit Wholemovement.com for a peek at what awaits you in the circle. Materials required for this camp: single-ply and uncoated 9” paper plates, bone creaser or hard straight-edged tool, bobby pins, masking tape, markers, crayons, and/ or colored pencils.
Ashley Smith is Director of Art Adventures at Catlin Gabel School and has worked with people of all ages for over twenty years. As an educator, visual artist, and theatre designer, she enjoys collaborating with young people as they become aware of their own creative process. Please email Ashley if you have any questions about this camp.
Designing on PowerPoint
Grades 6-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Let’s get creative with PowerPoint! Here is your chance to learn about all the cool tricks that you can do in PowerPoint to create amazing presentations and stories. Materials required for this camp: computer/tablet, PowerPoint.
Shanti Williams is a teaching assistant and coach at Catlin Gabel School and Summer Programs teacher. She has taught students in preschool through 12th grade. Please email Shanti if you have any questions about this camp.
YouTube Studio
Grades 6-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
YouTube Studio teaches you how to use any video camera to create amazing YouTube-worthy content to share with family and friends! There are daily lessons and challenges on how to set up a mini studio at home, achieve eye-catching effects, editing tricks, and more. You get to set your own goals for growth in this camp, allowing you to become the kind of creator you’ve always wanted to be! Materials required for this camp: video camera/device that records video, tripod, mount to secure device to tripod.
Brendan Gill teaches Media Arts at Catlin Gabel School. He’s also a professional photographer and video producer, specializing in content for nonprofit organizations and institutions. Please email Brendan if you have any questions about this camp.
Songwriting and Music Production
Grades 6-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
How are songs written, recorded, and produced? Find out in this camp while writing, recording and producing your own music. Whether you’re a seasoned songwriter or producer, or whether you’re interested in how to write your first song, we’ll go over elements of rhythm, lyric writing, beat making, recording and producing music. Then, you’ll get hands-on support with online software to record and make your own songs in any genre or style that inspires you.
Clara Baker is an educator, songwriter, musician, and audio engineer who has released three albums, played hundreds of shows, and toured all over the US. When not touring and playing shows, Clara has been a sought after substitute teacher at Catlin Gabel School. Please email Clara if you have any questions about this camp.
Week 8 (August 10-August 14)
Yoga Time
Age 4-Grade 5
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
This yoga camp is focused on relaxation, fun, fitness and strengthening.
Rachael Cruthirds teaches Children's and Family Yoga in the Portland area. Completing her Children's Yoga Training through Yoga Playgrounds, Rachael has experience in mindful movement with all ages and has taught multiple summer camps at Catlin Gabel. Please email Rachael if you have any questions about this camp.
Adventures in Drawing
Grades 1-4
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Let’s draw together! In art school, we grew our drawing skills through the art of careful observation and creative exploration. We’ll try some of those drawing exercises and more... We’ll learn from other artwork and share our own! Materials required for this camp: watercolor paper, pencil, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, images, scissors, glue sticks, model magic.
Lori Buesking teaches 2nd grade at Catlin Gabel School. As both a sculpture major and teacher, Lori is always looking for ways to share her art background with her students. Please email Lori if you have any questions about this camp.
Learn the Olympic Sport of Fencing
Grades 4-8
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Learn the basic tactical and technical skills of the Olympic sport of sabre fencing. This dynamic sport offers challenges to quick thinking, coordination, strength and stamina. Virtual camp will cover footwork drills for fitness and tactical drills to learn the fencing actions and moves. Coaches will demonstrate each movement and fencers will repeat on their own. The rules of fencing will be covered and fencers will watch fencing bouts via the screen sharing options. Materials required for this camp: 4ft by 4ft space to move in, athletic clothes, athletic shoes, water bottle.
The coaching staff is provided by Oregon Fencing Alliance, home of 6 Olympic medals and numerous World Champions. Coach Adam has 15 years of competitive experience and over 20 years of coaching experience. He was ranked number one fencer in the US for four consecutive years and has coached several fencers to national and world championship levels. Coach Ian grew up in Portland and started fencing at a young age accomplishing national team status. Ian was assistant coach at Northwestern University and later Assistant Coach at Notre Dame before returning to Portland with his family. Please email Coach Adam if you have any questions about this camp.
The Art of Folding with Circles
Grades 4-12
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
Do you marvel at the intricate patterns inside of flowers, fruits, the handiwork of insects or the molecular structures of starstuff? Engage your powers of observation and creative expression by exploring the patterns and connections that exist everywhere in nature through the folding of paper circles. Visit Wholemovement.com for a peek at what awaits you in the circle. Materials required for this camp: single-ply and uncoated 9” paper plates, bone creaser or hard straight-edged tool, bobby pins, masking tape, markers, crayons, and/ or colored pencils.
Ashley Smith is Director of Art Adventures at Catlin Gabel School and has worked with people of all ages for over twenty years. As an educator, visual artist, and theatre designer, she enjoys collaborating with young people as they become aware of their own creative process. Please email Ashley if you have any questions about this camp.
Designing on PowerPoint
Grades 6-8
9a.m.-10:30a.m.
Let’s get creative with PowerPoint! Here is your chance to learn about all the cool tricks that you can do in PowerPoint to create amazing presentations and stories. Materials required for this camp: computer/tablet, PowerPoint.
Shanti Williams is a teaching assistant and coach at Catlin Gabel School and Summer Programs teacher. She has taught students in preschool through 12th grade. Please email Shanti if you have any questions about this camp.
YouTube Studio
Grades 6-8
1p.m.-2:30p.m.
YouTube Studio teaches you how to use any video camera to create amazing YouTube-worthy content to share with family and friends! There are daily lessons and challenges on how to set up a mini studio at home, achieve eye-catching effects, editing tricks, and more. You get to set your own goals for growth in this camp, allowing you to become the kind of creator you’ve always wanted to be! Materials required for this camp: video camera/device that records video, tripod, mount to secure device to tripod.
Brendan Gill teaches Media Arts at Catlin Gabel School. He’s also a professional photographer and video producer, specializing in content for nonprofit organizations and institutions. Please email Brendan if you have any questions about this camp.
Summer Camps and Art Adventures Camp Directors
Please email Summer Camps at summercamps@catlin.edu and Art Adventures Camp at artcamp@catlin.edu if you have questions.
Chris Dorough
