2026 CHPS Summer Enrichment Program
Available to all students who reside, or go to school, in Cherry Hill.
Open to students entering 6th Grade through current 10th graders.
Program Week 1: July 13-16: Monday-Thursday
2 Sessions: AM Session 9-12 PM; PM Session 1-4 PM
Program Week 2: July 20-23: Monday-Thursday
2 Sessions: AM Session 9-12 PM; PM Session 1-4 PM
REGISTRATION PROCESS
***IMPORTANT INFORMATION - PLEASE READ***
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CANCELLATION-REFUND POLICY
Class sizes will be strictly enforced and classes may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment. All classes have limited enrollment and are available on a first come, first served basis. Should any course(s) be canceled, you will be notified and may request another available course or a refund. If a parent/guardian wishes to cancel by June 22nd, a full refund will be received. Cancellations received after June 22nd will incur a $75 cancellation fee.
Courses Offered
Shark Tank - Business Startup (S.Ansert) * NEW! *
Ignite your entrepreneurial spirit at this high-energy Business Startup Course! Bring your big ideas—from apps to small businesses—and learn how real companies turn their visions into success stories. You’ll explore what makes startups thrive, avoid common pitfalls, and discover how to take an idea from concept to launch. Then, team up to create your own business, design a pitch deck, and build a brand that stands out. At the end of the week, pitch your idea to your peers and compete to win the most investor support—will your startup rise to the top or be eaten by the sharks?
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Intro to Guitar (J. Murtha)
Have you ever dreamed of playing a song on the guitar? From melodies to chords - Let's explore the simple techniques that can get you started. Acoustic guitars provided for session use. Rock on!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Intro to Piano/Keyboard (J. Murtha)
Does playing the piano/keyboard sound like music to your ears? Let's explore the simple note reading skills that can get you started. Students will learn a variety of melodies - pop, classical, video games, movie themes and more ! .... keyboards provided for session use.
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
The History of Theater (L. Coats Fleischmann) * NEW! *
Lights on, stage set, orchestra prepped-- but how did theater come to be? This class traces theater from the earliest days of Greece all the way to the Tonys 2026. At the end of the week we'll perform our own historically inspired monologue! Crafts, games, music and dance are all in store for this fun class.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Intro to Technical Theater (C. Gorelick)
This class will introduce students to working behind the scenes on a play. Students will study the basics of set design, costume design, lighting design, sound design, stage management, and rudimentary set construction. They will spend time sketching ideas based on both their impressions and ideas as well as taking descriptions from scripts and transferring words into images. They will also spend time looking at fashion history, discussing how costumes can inform character, and practicing basic figure drawing. Students will come out of the course with a small sketchbook and a better understanding of all the decisions that go into a successful production.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Intro to Acting and Improv (C. Messias)
Have fun while learning basic acting skills and improvisation. This course is designed to allow students to develop performance skills, learn about improvisation and work on monologues and scenes. Students will have the opportunity to write and perform their own work while experiencing the excitement and rewards of theatre as they develop social skills, confidence and the ability to work with others.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Speech and Debate Workshop (H. Vaughn)
Are you interested in improving your public speaking skills, reducing public speaking anxiety and sharing your ideas? Come FIND YOUR VOICE this summer with East's public speaking teacher/speech and debate coach and members of the East Speech and Debate team! In this four-day session, you will be introduced to multiple genres of speaking (speech and debate), and end with a showcase of your work.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Philosophy: Ethics & the Art of Thinking (M. Pierlott)
Who determines what behaviors are considered ethical? What makes a well-lived life? We will take a minds-on approach to solving problems that affect us and our society. This class is perfect for the curious and open-minded person wanting to have thoughtful and meaningful conversations about important topics that affect our community and world.
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Learning To Love Literature (A. Maniscalco) * NEW! *
Learning To Love Literature is a course designed for students who want to build a strong foundation for literary appreciation. You will learn practical skills for understanding a book's full context before you even begin to read it. The course focuses on identifying and appreciating deeper meanings, symbolism, and the most common literary elements necessary for a more complete understanding of literature. Students will be exposed to a wide array of literary genres, including novels, epic poetry, and plays, with time built into each session for independent reading and exploration. This course is your first step toward unlocking the joy and depth of reading.
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Creative Writing (B.Connolly)
Creative Writing is designed for budding writers so that they might express themselves as eloquently and vividly as possible. Over the course of the week, we'll tackle descriptive writing, poetry, drama and fiction. We'll also work on vocabulary development, creative writing techniques, and other skills.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Become a Detective! (E. Poller)
Put your detective skills to the test this summer! In this engaging course, students will build deductive reasoning and problem-solving skills through popular mystery games like Clue, Codenames, and Guess Who. Each day brings new challenges that require spotting patterns, analyzing clues, and thinking strategically. Students will collaborate with teammates, sharpen critical thinking skills, and enjoy friendly competition. The course culminates in an exciting scavenger hunt where teams apply everything they’ve learned to solve clues and race to the finish.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Interactive Storytelling with Dungeons & Dragons (D. Klehamer)
Have you ever read a story and wanted to actually be a part of it? Explore the vast world of D&D in this enrichment course where we will develop and build a character, creatively solve problems, and create the story that you want to tell! D&D, as a role-playing game, provides ample opportunities for critical thinking outside of the box, helps with public speaking, and even performing small, mathematical calculations. There truly is something for everyone, all ages and experience levels are welcome! This is a great way to get a taste for the hobby and meet other folks who could become your future gaming group!
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Graphic Novels: Explore and Tell Your Story Frame by Frame (K. Pennock) * NEW! *
This course invites students to dive into the world of graphic novels by reading a landscape of engaging texts and excerpts and then creating their own! Participants will explore storytelling techniques such as paneling, pacing, dialogue, and visual composition. After exploration, students will experiment with illustration and narrative development by creating their own graphic text. By the end of the program, each student will be on their way to creating their own original graphic novel, showcasing both their artistic and storytelling skills. Students will be able to use their own drawings or use technology to tell their story frame by frame!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
A Brief History of Cartoons (C. Gorelick) * NEW! *
Ever wonder about the history of Disney's Mickey Mouse or Donald Duck or Looney Toons' Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck? How about how they relate to the Pink Panther, Scooby Doo, Animaniacs, Spongebob, and more modern cartoons? In this class, students will learn about the history and significance of animation from silent films through modern cartoons while watching and discussing famous short animated films. They will keep a film journal in which they note the significance and critiques.
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Unleash Your Creativity: Junk Journaling (C. Dustman)
Unleash your creativity in this hands-on junk journaling course, where everyday materials become meaningful works of art! You’ll transform scraps, recycled papers, and other materials into layered, personalized, aesthetic works of art. Through guided techniques and open-ended exploration, you’ll develop your own unique artistic style. This course blends creativity, storytelling, and mindfulness, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced creators. By the end, you’ll have a personalized journal filled with texture, memories, and imagination!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Artistic Expressions: Crafting Creativity (T. Convery)
Join us for an exciting opportunity where students can unleash their creativity through arts and crafts! Participants will dive into the world of artistic expression by crafting their own notebooks and designing one-of-a-kind pens. In addition, students will explore other creative projects that combine artistic exploration in a fun, supportive environment.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Crafts and Community Kindness (D. Augustyn) * NEW! *
Join us for a fun, hands-on 4-day crafting camp where students will explore their creativity through a variety of engaging projects! Campers will rotate through exciting craft stations including bracelet making, bookmark design, bedazzling, painting tote bags, rock painting, and more. In addition to creating items to take home, students will also participate in meaningful community service by making crafts to donate and spread kindness in our community.
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Relax, Rejuvenate and Create with Watercolor (A. Savidge) * NEW!
Have you ever wanted to learn some creative watercolor techniques? In this calming session, students will have the opportunity to experiment with various watercolor techniques to create their own beautiful paintings. Some watercolor styles to be covered include a flat wash, graded wash, graded wash with more than 1 color, wet on wet paper, and wet and dry paper. Students will use tube watercolors, salt, plastic wrap and more to create their own paintings.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Beyond the Frame: Experimenting with Photography (A. Savidge) * NEW! *
Do you like taking pictures and want to learn to be creative with photography? In this session, students will explore various photographic possibilities using DSLR (digital) and Polaroid cameras. Students will learn how to use manual mode to “paint with light” and create stop motion images. They will also use Polaroid cameras to create instant photographs that students can turn into one-of-a-kind works of art with a technique called emulsion lifts. Students can add paint, markers and other mediums to their work.
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Your Summer Just Got a 90’s Glow Up (M. Speciale) * NEW! *
If you like chill vibes, throwback music, playing games, and making cool stuff, this is your kind of class. Every day is packed with hands-on projects inspired by 90s trends and DIY culture, like sand art, string bracelets, and beaded animal keychains. You’ll also get to play classic board and card games that were popular in the 90s. No stress, no experience needed—just creativity and good energy.
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Get Your Brick (lights) On! (L. Leibowitz) * NEW! *
Do you love building with LEGO bricks and K’NEX? Ever wonder why you get shocked or how we power our world with electricity? Come join us this summer to compete in a LEGO Masters competition, build K’NEX bridges, build/code mini robots with LEGO Mindstorms, build electrical circuits and experience how electricity can make your hair stand up!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Intro to Architecture (C. Gorelick) * NEW! *
Have you ever thought about designing buildings? Do you like sketching rooms or working with scale models? Then this class might be for you! Students will learn the basics of design, producing sketches, renderings, and a 3D scale model of one of their designs.
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Vex Robotics (J. McGrath) * NEW! *
In this course, students will work in teams using Vex Robotics IQ components to build a robot and participate in driving competitions. This hands-on experience also explores the science of how circuits and motors function using VEX IQ parts.
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Economics for Everyone! (M. Pierlott)
We use economic thinking to make decisions from the moment we wake up each day. This class will provide fun, hands-on learning opportunities to explore economic concepts that help everyone become better decision-makers as well as provide a basic understanding of how the economy affects our lives.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Math, Logic and Games! (J. Albuquerque) * NEW! *
Whether it's logic riddles, brain teasers, or creative problem-solving challenges, our club is all about the fun side of math. We explore interesting puzzles, tackle challenges, and work together to crack codes and unlock solutions. No tests, no homework—just math for the thrill of it. Open to all skill levels—bring your curiosity and let’s puzzle it out together!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Mission to Mars ( D. Klehamer) * NEW! *
Students will have a blast learning the engineering process by designing their own mission to Mars, and building their own rocket while completing a number of challenges that NASA engineers must solve for a successful mission. No experience necessary, all ages are welcome!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Robotics (H. Weidner)
Students will build either a claw robot to pick items up or a small four-motor drive Vex robot that they will race against each other.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Survivor Challenge (C. Suarez)
Expect to engage in various teamwork activities and exercises in this course based on the Survivor TV show. Students will be building team-working skills and confidence all while having fun. There will be tribes, word scrambles, hidden items, obstacle courses, competitions, and scavenger hunts. Along with hands-on activities, students will receive lessons about how to work with others and understand group dynamics. Students can expect to work both outdoors and indoors throughout the course. Please wear appropriate athletic clothing for this course.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Distance Running For Beginners (A. Maniscalco)
In this program, budding student athletes will learn how to create and implement a distance running schedule. Using the track and the fields at Cherry Hill High School East, we will go on short distance runs to practice form and technique, while working on building stamina and speed. Additionally, student athletes will learn the proper nutrition and general health skills to get into excellent running shape!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
The Business Side of Sports (T. Drob)
Students will explore how data and finances impact sports teams both on and off the field. They will learn how teams use analytics to make decisions, statistics to analyze player performance, and how teams manage the salary cap. This course is perfect for anyone interested in the business side of sports.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Becoming a High School Athlete (D. Cesare)
This course is designed for all who are interested in playing sports in high school. The course will cover aspects of balancing school life, nutrition, and training. Students will start each session in the classroom, then it will be followed by a training session. This will include introductions to agility, conditioning, and weightlifting. All sports and levels are welcome! Please wear appropriate athletic wear and athletic shoes.
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Let’s Move, Groove, and Dance! (M. Speciale) * NEW! *
Do you love to dance? Are you interested in learning how to dance, but don’t know where to start? This fun and upbeat course is perfect for students of all dance abilities and experience levels! Dancers will learn exciting routines in styles like pom, hip hop, and jazz while building confidence, technique, and performance skills. Whether you’re brand new to dance or already love to perform, this class is a great way to try new styles, stay active, and have fun with friends. Please bring a water bottle and wear sneakers. Dance shoes are optional - but feel free to bring them if you have them!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Your Healthy Body: Exploring Human Anatomy (K. Lewis)
Want to learn about the inner workings of the human body? Look no further! From bones to muscles, organs to systems, this course covers it all. Through hands-on learning, engaging discussion and interactive activities the human body will be brought to life. Whether you're a future doctor or just curious about your own health, this class is perfect for students of all backgrounds! (This course may include optional dissection.)
Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Intro to Medicine (K. Lewis) * NEW! *
Discover what it’s like to step into the world of medicine with this exciting new course! Have you ever wanted to be a doctor? Wonder what they do—or how they do it? This Intro to Medicine course offers a fun, engaging look into the world of healthcare. Through hands-on activities, interactive challenges, and real-world scenarios, students will explore how the human body works and how medical professionals think and solve problems. Perfect for curious minds who enjoy science and learning by doing, this course is a great way to try something new and see if a future in medicine might be right for you.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Inside the Brain: A Hands-On Neuroscience Experience (K. Lewis) * NEW! *
Discover the power and complexity of the human brain in this exciting course! Have you ever wondered how your brain controls everything you do, think, and feel? This hands-on experience explores the fascinating world of the nervous system through engaging activities and real-world connections. Students will have the unique opportunity to participate in a brain dissection and view a real human brain, gaining a deeper understanding of its structure and function. Perfect for curious learners who enjoy science and discovery, this course offers an unforgettable look inside the organ that makes you you.
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
No Textbook Spanish: Speak It, Live It (M. Rivas-Mintz) * NEW! *
Nervous about speaking Spanish? You’re not alone, and this is the place to try without stress. No tests, no pressure, just fun, real-life Spanish through games, music, and everyday situations. Just show up and give it a try!
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 2 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Snack Around the Spanish-Speaking World (M. Rivas-Mintz) * NEW!
Come explore the Spanish-speaking world through snacks! Taste popular treats from different countries, learn fun facts, and pick up easy, real-life Spanish along the way.Just come curious and hungry!
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM, Week 1 PM Session: 1-4 PM
Italian Immersion: Culture, food and Conversation (M. Campagna) * NEW! *
This is an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the Italian culture through language, foods, and music. An emphasis will be placed on the different regions of Italy and everything the beautiful country has to offer. Everyday, we will make a tasty Italian treat and learn the basics of this beautiful language. No knowledge of the Italian language is required.
Week 1 AM Session: 9-12 PM
Week 2 AM Session: 9-12 PM
