Needham Community Education

What happens when we think of discarded materials as art tools worthy of our attention? In this class, we will put down our pencils and paintbrushes and pick up newspapers, plastic bottles, cardboard tubes and more as we mess about in open-ended exploration. How many different ways can we use a single material? How big can we go? Can we invent something new or useful? Student artists will flex their skills in improvisation, problem-solving, and collaboration as we sculpt, print, play, and push the limits of recycled media. Instructor: Nini Catalasan, Instructional Assistant, Sunita Williams Elementary ACTIVE EXPLORATIONS: In addition to the outdoor movement and break times planned by each instructor, students participating in full-day Summer Explorations classes will enjoy a 40-minute active break each day led by highly qualified Needham Public School P.E. and Wellness Instructors. During this time, students will head to the gym or venture outside to get some fresh air and move their bodies. Whether it's a brisk walk around the grounds, high-energy running games and relay races, or exciting team sports and activities, this time is a great way to break up the day, get some energy out, and boost focus for the rest of class!

Students will take the stage to explore the dynamic world of theatre through high-energy games and creative play. This class will focus on building confidence and self-expression through engaging improvisation challenges and character-building activities. Participants will dive into the basics of theatrical movement and vocal expression, learning to think on their feet while collaborating with others to turn every session into a unique performance. The group will celebrate everyone's unique personalities as they explore storytelling and comedic timing in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Students will be guided through a variety of theatre games designed to spark imagination and boost stage presence without the pressure of a traditional script. Throughout the week, students will develop their creative instincts, sharpen their active listening, and find new ways to express themselves through spontaneous ensemble play. Instructor: Charlie Volpe, Instructional Assistant, Newman Elementary ACTIVE EXPLORATIONS: In addition to the outdoor movement and break times planned by each instructor, students participating in full-day Summer Explorations classes will enjoy a 40-minute active break each day led by highly qualified Needham Public School P.E. and Wellness Instructors. During this time, students will head to the gym or venture outside to get some fresh air and move their bodies. Whether it's a brisk walk around the grounds, high-energy running games and relay races, or exciting team sports and activities, this time is a great way to break up the day, get some energy out, and boost focus for the rest of class!

Ever wonder how giant boats stay afloat or how a wall of dirt can hold back a whole lake? Become a Water Engineer and find out! Students will build models of cargo boats that carry heavy loads, design strong dams to stop a rushing flood in its tracks and experiment with the the many powers of water. We'll focus on the engineering design process: define, imagine, plan, create, and test. We will get to think like inventors as you build, splash, and improve our designs. Grab your blueprints and get ready to get a little wet! Note: Students are encouraged to bring a change of clothes as we will get wet in this class. Instructor: Elaine McKenna, Kindergarten Teacher, Sunita Williams Elementary ACTIVE EXPLORATIONS: In addition to the outdoor movement and break times planned by each instructor, students participating in full-day Summer Explorations classes will enjoy a 40-minute active break each day led by highly qualified Needham Public School P.E. and Wellness Instructors. During this time, students will head to the gym or venture outside to get some fresh air and move their bodies. Whether it's a brisk walk around the grounds, high-energy running games and relay races, or exciting team sports and activities, this time is a great way to break up the day, get some energy out, and boost focus for the rest of class!