Story by Diana Whittle
Photos by Billy Hardiman
Summer school classes in the
Tempe Elementary district offer
kids plenty of cool learning
opportunities without being in the hot
sun.
“Tempe’s summer school program
is among the least expensive in the
Valley, and it offers a wide variety of
classes for both in- and out-of-district
students going into kindergarten
through the ninth grade,” said
Monica Allread, public information
coordinator for the district.
“Our Summer Enrichment
Program focuses on interactive and
engaging activities to prepare students
for the coming school year,” said
Allread.
“We continue to offer gifted
classes in math, literature, debate
and science, but we also offer some
interesting enrichment courses that
involve fun and hands-on experiences
such as art, cooking, music and
computer classes.”
Additionally, a few unique classes
can awaken a kid’s natural curiosity,
while teaching them academic lessons,
says Allread.
“Our summer program is also a
great way for families who are new
to our district or who are considering
attending one of our schools, to learn
more about the district,” said Allread.
Due to popular demand, STEM
(Science, Technology, Engineering,
and Math) classes are back, including
“Li’l Engineers,” “Engineering and
Robotics,” “T is for Toys,” “Take on the
Rubik’s Cube Challenge,” and “Solve It
CSI Style.”
There also are classes on the
study of what creates bubbles—
“Bubbleology”— and another,
“Grossology,” that explores a person’s
bodily fluids, and “Run by the Sun…
and More,” which looks at the many
uses of solar power.
Classes run Monday through Thursday until June 26, and take place at Curry Elementary and Connolly Middle schools. Currently, 865 students are enrolled in the classes, which are popular with students, said Denise Dunwoody,
Summer Enrichment program coordinator for the
Tempe Elementary District.
“I spoke to a student racing his solar car. He was
able to tell me how the solar panel creates energy to
turn the gear and axle, which then moves the wheels.
It’s exciting as a teacher to watch learning come alive
through fun activities.
“Students have the opportunity to learn in a fun
and engaging way. We are proud of the number of
classes taught by certified staff to meet a wide range
of interests. The Summer Enrichment Program gives
kids the chance to explore new ideas in a less formal
environment,” said Dunwoody.
Until July 9, the Tempe Elementary district is
enrolling children, between kindergarten through the
eighth grade, for the 2014-15 school year.
Registration is available Monday to Wednesday
from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at
the Sanchez Administration Building, 3205 S. Rural
Road (Southern & Rural, next to Fry’s).
