Educators
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Physics, STEM, and Engineering Education
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Environmental and Civil Engineering
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Technology and Computer Sciences
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Visual Arts
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Geoscience
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Sociology and Anthropology
Who We Serve
500
2023-2024 Students
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Innovators
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Creative Thinkers
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Explorers
Enrollment
2,200
2023-2024 Registrations
What Makes Acera
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Adventure- Based Playground
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Project-Based Learning
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Team-Based Learning
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Student Support
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Facilities include: woodshop, innovation lab, kitchen, makerspace, science lab, and more!
CREATIVITY – LEADERSHIP – COLLABORATION
NICK FINNO (NICKFINNO.EDUCATION@outlook.com)
Register for all Enrichment Programs through our online software CampBrain
After School Enrichment Classes
Our After School Enrichment Classes are tailored to inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Led by a team of passionate educators with diverse expertise, students engage in interactive activities that cultivate STEM skills, artistic expression, and collaborative problem-solving. Whether exploring the principles of robotics or delving into the art of storytelling, each class is designed to empower students to explore their interests and expand their horizons.
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Drop Off: 3-3:30pm (Check in at Front Desk)
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After School Class: 3:30-5:30pm (30min snack break on our adventure-based playground)
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Pick Up 5:30-6pm (Check in at Front Desk)
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For students arriving on the Winchester Public Buses, drop-offs can start as early as 2:15pm from the bus. They will then join our Enrichment staff in our common space to enjoy board games, building blocks/legos, and art materials until 3pm.
After School 2024-2025 Trimester 2 & 3 Offerings ONLY
MONDAY CLASS OFFERINGS- TRIMESTER 2 & 3
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Advanced Block Building (ages 5-8)
Young students are encouraged to participate in building challenges that teach math, geometry, architecture, and more.
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Girls in STEM (ages 5-8)
We will investigate and explore topics including biomimicry, physics, biology, chemistry, and engineering.
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Kids’ Test Kitchen (ages 7-10)
The opportunity to explore new and familiar foods as a team to prepare a final dish. **Allergy accommodations available
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Creative Computing and Robotics (ages 8-11)
A unique opportunity for students to develop computational thinking while exploring a range of digital tools featuring Scratch, TinkerCAD, and CoSpaces. **Chromebooks provided
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Dungeons and Dragons Role Play (ages 10-14)
Create characters and weave a story, from epic quests to dangerous foes.
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Beginners Spanish (ages 10+)
The Global Child Program emphasizes listening and speaking skills with theme based movement and manipulatives. **Must sign up for Wednesday as well
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Chess (ages ages 7-14)
Study chess with renowned chess player and coach, International Master David Vigorito. Chess has tremendous benefits as a learning aid and helps students with concentration, self-discipline, and self-confidence. Chess develops skills which traditional methods tend to ignore, such as critical thinking in a changing environment and problem solving. All levels welcome! David was the Massachusetts Champion in 2007 and 2016. He has over 30 years experience teaching children.
TUESDAY CLASS OFFERINGS- TRIMESTER 2 & 3
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Knitting (ages 5-8)
Craft your own cuddly companions with felt, fur, and fluff.
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Miniature Clay Creations (ages 5-8)
Sculpt, mold, and model clay portraits, animals, and more.
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Kids in the Kitchen (ages 7-10)
Chefs of all levels gain confidence in kitchen skills while learning recipes to recreate at home.
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Filmmaking (ages 9-14)
Lights, Camera, Action! Students will enhance their visual and auditory storytelling abilities by delving into production procedures.
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Drama Club (ages 9-14)
Discover the art of acting in this immersive curriculum, with several opportunities for students to take the stage throughout the year.
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The Art and Engineering of Structures (ages 10-14)
This project-based afterschool class will explore the art and engineering of structures, from spiderwebs to skyscrapers. Students will investigate the forces that act on structures such as tension and compression, and will design, build, and test bridges, both hands-on and using an engineering simulation program, as well as powered structures such as Ferris wheels and small catapults. Students will design houses or other buildings, using SketchUp, a 3D design program, and will then construct and frame physical models of what they have designed, using post-and-beam framing. Finally, students can use Microbit microcontrollers to make ‘smart’ houses, with interactive lights, fans, doors, and sounds.
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LARP Games: A Fun Way to Foster Critical Thinking in Students (ages 9-14) *TRIMESTER 2 ONLY
LARP Games are a great way to improve your critical thinking skills while staying active. In these sessions, you’ll learn the basic rules of LARPing and explore aspects of game design. Our classes are held outdoors in a park-like setting to give you plenty of space to run around and develop your own strategies and tactics. Don’t worry if you’re new to LARPing – no prior experience, costumes, or characters are required!
If you’re interested in delving deeper into the world of LARPs, check out our LARP Foundations class. In this class, you’ll learn about character creation, costuming, and prop design.
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Soccer @ Teamworks (ages 7-12) *TRIMESTER 3 ONLY
This will take place every Tuesday at the Winchester Community Park Grass Field. Acera will walk participants from school to the facility 5 min away. The Teamworks Soccer Staff will lead the program and teach basic soccer skills such as dribbling, passing, and shooting through various drills and games. By the end of the program, players will compete against each other in “small-sided” team games with the skills they’ve learned in the previous sessions! To participate, bring a snack, water, shinpads, and cleats.
WEDNESDAY CLASS OFFERINGS- TRIMESTER 2 & 3
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Extraordinary Paper Creations (ages 5-8)
We will be using an array of tools and techniques to transform a variety of papers to create unique 2D and 3D art, sculptures and functional objects.
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LEGO Spike Prime Robotics (ages 5-8)
The LEGO SPIKE Prime system is a fantastic way for students to delve into the basics of robotics and coding. They’ll learn how to control motors and sensors to create their own customized robots that can navigate mazes, travel over rough terrain, and transport a payload to a specific destination.
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Game Design (ages 7-10)
Students will plan and build their own fantasy playland using our makerspace supplies to test and modify their creations while working both individually and as teams. Additionally, we will branch into vivid board game design, theory, and pragmatics of storytelling and psychology through games- why and how things are made!
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Digital Modeling, Simulation & Fabrication (ages 8-11)
In this exciting class, students will have the opportunity to experiment and work with digital tools for designing and constructing 3D objects, such as toys, household products, and artwork.
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Intro to Woodworking (ages 8-11)
Our woodshop at Acera welcomes you to learn the basics of woodworking, such as hammering, sawing, and building with hand tools. You’ll have the chance to create a toy airplane, pencil box, tool tote, and other fun projects!
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Baking (ages 8-11)
From mixing and measuring ingredients to decorating mouthwatering treats, baking covers a wide range of recipes that are sure to excite young taste buds. Whether it’s crafting colorful cupcakes or baking delicious cookies, participants will have the opportunity to unleash their imagination and create edible masterpieces to share with family and friends.
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Digital Website Design & Creative Writing (ages 9-14)
In this dynamic course, students will dive into the fundamentals of digital website design and create their own personalized websites, all without the need for complex coding languages. Your child will have the chance to publish their projects on their websites, develop their portfolios, or construct platforms to showcase their unique content.
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Band (ages 10-14)
This class focuses on building a strong musical foundation through ensemble playing, understanding of music composition and theory, and performance opportunities. Students will explore a variety of musical styles, improve their technical abilities, and develop a deeper appreciation for the art of music. In order to participate in this class, students will need to have basic competence in playing an instrument and the ability to read music, but ALL LEVELS ARE WELCOME!
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Beginners Spanish (ages 10+)
The Global Child Program emphasizes listening and speaking skills with theme based movement and manipulatives. **Must sign up for Wednesday as well
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LARP: Live Action Role Play (ages 8-12) *TRIMESTER 2 ONLY
Have you ever wanted to seek treasure and unravel the universe’s secrets? Battle brutal bandits, gruesome goblins, unworldly undead, and deadly dragons? Find your way through the dungeon and claim the ancient treasure. Now, you can be armed with a sword and spell in an interactive theater world. Will you be a Hero or a Villain? Find the Philosopher’s Stone and save the world, or let the shadow of the Great Conjunction fall upon the land of Etheraz forever? *LARP Adventure Program’s Heroes Academy(R)
THURSDAY CLASS OFFERINGS- TRIMESTER 2 & 3
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Enchanted Electronics (ages 5-8)
By combining tactile materials like playdough, stuffed animals, art materials, and more with electronic components, students will have the chance to explore electricity and magnetism in a unique way.
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Stop Motion Animation (ages 7-10)
In this imaginative camp, participants will be able to craft and share a story of their own invention using stop-motion animation.
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Engineering Challenges (ages 8-10)
In Engineering Challenges, participants will embark on a series of exhilarating engineering challenges designed to ignite their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
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Sewing Arts (ages 9-12)
We’ll help you select or create a project, cut out the pieces, and guide you through the sewing process. Our projects range from pillowcases, pajama shorts, and bags to quilts and more!
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LEGO Spike Prime Robotics: Solving Real-world Problems (ages 9-14)
The LEGO SPIKE Prime system is a fantastic way for students to delve into robotics and coding. They’ll learn how to control motors and sensors to create their own customized robots that can solve real-world problems. Projects include Greeting/Joy Robot, Morning Helper, Future Furniture, Community Garden, Disability Assistant, and Future City.
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Model UN Club (ages 10+)
Engage in deep discussions about current events. Get exposure to primary sources and formative ideas in the political science, governmental, historical and philosophical landscape. Each trimester, participate in Model UN conferences (costs included in registration fee) in which you take on the perspective and voice of different countries, focusing on current issues.
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Study Hall & Screen-Free Hangout (ages 10+)
Upper School students now have access to a peaceful environment where they can work on homework, high school applications, or engage in another quiet activity like reading. Ms. Jamie, an experienced social science and math teacher, is present to offer writing support. This is a perfect space for students who need extra help with their homework to work with a knowledgeable teacher in a stress-free environment. In addition, students can enjoy supervised screen-free downtime with their peers after school.
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Intermediate & Advanced Woodworking (ages 10+)
Join our class and gain access to the materials, tools, and expert coaching that you need to bring your wooden creations to life! This class is designed for students who already have woodworking experience and want to design and build their own projects with support and guidance from Mr. Josh. Projects are typically desktop scale or smaller, and emphasis is on quality.
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Python Programming (ages 11-14)
Embark on a fun and interactive journey into the world of coding with this hands-on Python course! Students will master the fundamentals of programming using Python and the VSCode editor to create meaningful projects and solve real-world problems. Each session introduces key programming concepts through engaging lessons and interactive exercises, reinforced by optional weekly challenges to enhance learning.
Instructor Manisha, a seasoned Cloud Solutions Architect with Microsoft, brings over 15 years of industry experience in Computer Science Engineering. Her expertise lies in Data and Artificial Intelligence, and her passion for teaching inspires young minds to excel in technology. Outside of work, Manisha enjoys painting and gardening, blending creativity with her technical acumen.
By the end of the course, students will have the confidence to create their own Python projects, culminating in a two-part data visualization project that highlights their progress. The final session includes a student-led project presentation, celebrating their achievements and showcasing their skills.
Topics Covered:
- Introduction to Python and VSCode
- Data Types, Variables, Lists, and Tuples
- Conditional Statements and Loops
- Functions, Dictionaries, and File Handling
- Object-Oriented Programming: Classes and Methods
- Testing and Debugging Code
- Hands-on Project: Data Visualization
FRIDAY CLASS OFFERINGS- TRIMESTER 2 & 3
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Electronic Arts (ages 7-10)
Join us for a unique and exciting class experience that unites art and electronics. We’ll utilize arts and crafts materials to delve into storytelling and visual elements such as line, texture, contrast, transparency, and composition. With the addition of paper circuitry, we’ll bring light and interactivity to our projects.
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LARP Quests (ages 9-14)
Our immersive narrative adventure events occur in LARP’s original world, Etheraz 2, and it’s open to new and seasoned adventurers. All participants will create an Etheraz 2 character or bring their existing character on board. Throughout the program, players will learn new character skills and feats of the Etheraz 2 game in points and powers setting.
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Hack Toys (ages 5-8)
Partnering with Acera Education Innovation in a new twist on old toys, students will incorporate electronic art and functional circuitry into figure to give them a new life. Classes also include using electronics as an art form, and mixing technology with every day life.
After School Snack Program
If you’ve enrolled your child in our Snack Program, we’re delighted to offer them two snacks during the 3-3:30 PM time slot. We have a wide range of options to choose from, including Pirate’s Booty, SunChips, Garden Veggie Straws, PopCorners – Popped Corn Chips for the chip option, pretzels, popcorn, and Bare Baked Crunchy Fruit Snack, Wellesley Farms Chocolate Chip Granola Bar, Welch’s Fruit Snacks, GoGo SqueeZ Organic Applesauce for the smaller side snack. Rest assured, we have gluten-free options available. We’ll be rotating to new snacks every 2-3 weeks, so your child will always have something new to look forward to. To learn more or to register email enrichment@aceraschool.org.
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One Class a Week: $30/Trimester
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Two Class a Week: $60/Trimester
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Three Class a Week: $90/Trimester
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Four Class a Week: $120/Trimester
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Five Class a Week: $145/Trimester
After School Refund Policy
Our Cancellation Policy is as follows: for class cancellations 2 weeks prior to the start date, we will provide a refund. Alternatively, you may transfer enrollment to any other program at no charge. After 2 weeks, only transfers are available, not refunds.
No refund or reduction in fees is possible for a child who arrives late, leaves early, or attends part of a session due to illness (other than hospital stay).
After School Bus Transportation (Winchester Public Schools ONLY)
Bus transportation is available from Winchester Public Elementary & Middle Schools. Please list Acera as your After School Program bus stop on the transportation application.
Summer Camps
Experience a summer like no other at Acera Enrichment. Our Summer Camps blend education and adventure, offering a dynamic range of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities. From coding and physics experiments to filmmaking and outdoor exploration, each camp session is crafted to ignite creativity and foster a lifelong love of learning. With flexible scheduling options including full-day and half-day programs, children have the opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on projects that reflect their passions and strengths.
Summer 2025 Registration OPENS Sunday, 12/15 at 12pm
Acera’s STEAM summer camp enables kids ages 5 to 14 to tackle enticing challenges – from drawing and coding to physics and film making – individually and in groups. Sessions run in mornings, afternoons, or for full days. We are pleased to announce that our Summer 2024 camps are now ready for viewing. Please find a full list of offerings below.
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Early Drop Off: 8-8:30am *additional charge
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Drop Off: 8:30-9:15am (Rolling Drop Off. Parents can park if needed.)
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Morning Camps: 9-12pm (30min snack break on our adventure-based playground)
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Lunch/Recess Outside: 12-1pm (Morning Camp Pick Up 12-12:45pm & Afternoon Camp Drop Off 12:15-1pm)
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Afternoon Camps: 1-4pm (30min snack break on our adventure-based playground)
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Pick Up 3:45-4:10pm (Rolling Pick Up)
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Late Pick: 4-6pm *additional charge
Summer Camp Parking
Please do not park in any spaces marked for other businesses! Park only in the PURPLE spots indicated on the map below. The spots are located along the treeline behind the school on the left side. YOU RISK BEING TOWED, IF YOU PARK IN NON-ACERA SPOTS. We must respect our other businesses and their customer parking spaces.
Counselor in Training (CIT) Program
Acera’s Summer CIT Program offers teens a chance to step into leadership roles while immersing themselves in the dynamic world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Guided by experienced educators and research professionals, this program delivers top-tier instruction that empowers teens to inspire and make an impact in their community. As CITs, teens will mentor younger campers, guiding them through hands-on STEAM projects that foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Join us this summer and watch your teen grow into a confident leader while embarking on a transformative journey of learning and personal growth.
Acera’s CIT Program provides teens with a hands-on learning experience, continuing our commitment to nurturing lifelong learners. CITs work alongside counselors and campers, supporting more than 140 camp offerings for ages 5–14. By sharing their knowledge and experiences, CITs not only deepen their own learning but also contribute to strengthening Acera’s vibrant academic community.
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Program benefits include: CPR/ First Aid Training, Childhood Development, Behaviorism, and Education Training, Mentor Pairing, Customized Cohort Messaging, Leadership and Resume Training
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Sessions run June 24th- July 29th, Monday- Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
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***CITs do not need to sign up for both sessions in a consecutive season, however, completion of the CIT2 program will yield the greatest results.
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$750/4-week session
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Features 3x 1.5 hour learning sessions per week hosted by school administration, faculty, and guest speakers
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CITs will act as assistant teachers for our morning and afternoon camps, assigned to a class based on their personal interests
TO RECEIVE THE ENROLLMENT APPLICATION OR FOR QUESTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL ENRICHMENT@ACERASCHOOL.ORG
STEAM Innovator Badging Program
Starting in summer 2025, Acera Enrichment will launch the STEAM Innovator Badge Program to inspire students of all ages to explore various STEAM fields and extend their learning at home. After completing a course in each STEAM category—Science, Technology, Art, Engineering, and Mathematics—students will earn a personalized Acera “STEAM Innovator” backpack. This reward will include category stickers, an Innovator Certificate, an Acera Rubik’s Cube, and their choice of one of three STEAM kits: Snap Circuits, Microbits, or Electrical Puzzles.
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Students must complete a full week of camp in each of the subject fields (5 weeks total, consecutive or non-consecutive)
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Absences and attendance concerns will be handled on a case by case basis
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Emails will be sent at the end of the week to notify families of their “STEAM Innovator” progress. Badges and certificates will also be sent via a digital copy
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Please reference the STEAM Innovator Course Catalogue to view classes by category
Summer 2025 Schedule
Week 1: June 9th – June 13th
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LARP Heroes Academy ® 10-14 yo- Full Day
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Science Explorers 5-7yo- Morning
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LEGO SPIKE Prime Robotics 8-10yo – Morning
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Circuit Building 10-14 yo- Morning
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Block Engineering 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Artistic Journeys: Study & Create 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Engineering Challenges 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Electronics & Coding with Arduino – 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 2: June 16th – June 20th (NO CAMP THU, 6/19)
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LARP Heroes Academy 10-14yo- Full Day
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Innovation Through STEAM 5-7yo – Morning
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Mini Fantasy Worlds 5-7yo – Morning
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Game On! Playground Games 8-10- Morning
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LEGO Spike Robotics 8-10 yo- Morning
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Ooey Gooey 5-7yo- Afternoon
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Enchanted Electronics 5-7yo- Afternoon
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Movie Makers Studio 8-10- Afternoon
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LEGO Architects 8-10- Afternoon
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LEGO Spike Robotics 11-14 Afternoon
Week 3: June 23rd – June 27th
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LARP Heroes Academy® 10-14yo – Full Day
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Miniature Clay Creations 5-7yo – Morning
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LEGO Spike Prime Robotics 5-7yo – Morning
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Ocean Exploration and Ecosystems 5-7yo – Morning
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Stop Motion Animation 8-10yo – Morning
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Innovation through STEAM 8-10yo – Morning
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Seeds, Soil & Sunshine 8-10yo- Morning
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Fantasy World-Building 9-14yo – Morning
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Circuit Building 11-14yo – Morning
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Fiber Arts Exploration 5-7yo – Afternoon
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LEGO Spike Prime Robotics 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Backyard Art Lab 5-7yo- Afternoon
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Experiments in Art 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Seeds, Soil & Sunshine 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Creative Computing & Robotics 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Digital Modeling, Simulation & Fabrication 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 4: June 30th – July 3rd (NO CAMP THU, 7/4)
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Circuit Building 5-7yo – Morning
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Baking 8-10yo – Morning
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Smart Homes 10-14yo – Morning
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Smart Homes 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Circuit Building 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Fine Arts 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 5: July 7th – July 11th
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Ocean Exploration and Ecosystems 5-7yo – Morning
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Circuit Building 5-7yo – Morning
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Game On! Playground Games 8-10yo – Morning
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Anatomy & Physiology Jr 8-10yo – Morning
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LEGO SPIKE Prime Robotics 8-10yo – Morning
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D&D Roleplay 9-14yo – Morning
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Smart Homes 11-14yo – Morning
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Forts & Fantasy Adventures 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Innovation through STEAM 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Sculpting with Clay 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Outdoor Science Discovery 8-10yo – Afternoon
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The Art of Engineering with Recycled Materials 9-12yo – Afternoon
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Electronics & Coding with Arduino 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 6: July 14th – July 18th
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LEGO & Block Engineering 5-7yo – Morning
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Enchanted Electronics 5-7yo – Morning
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Circuit Building 5-7yo – Morning
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Chemistry of Cooking 8-10yo – Morning
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LEGO Spike Robotics 11-14yo – Morning
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Extraordinary Paper Creations 5-7yo – Afternoon
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LEGO Architects 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Board Game Studio 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Power of Pressure 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Aerial Adventures 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Movie Makers Studio 11-14yo – Afternoon
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LEGO Spike Prime Robotics 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 7: July 21st – July 25th
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Sculpting with Clay 5-7yo – Morning
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Puppetry and Play 5-7yo – Morning
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LEGO Spike Prime Robotics 8-10yo – Morning
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Game On! Playground Games 8-10yo – Morning
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Digital Modeling, Simulation & Fabrication 8-10yo
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Fantasy World-Building 11-14yo – Morning
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Sewing Arts 11-14yo – Morning
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Ooey Gooey 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Innovation through STEAM 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Farmer’s Kitchen 8-10yo – Afternoon
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The Art of Engineering with Recycled Materials 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Mini Med School 8-10yo – Afternoon
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LEGO Spike Prime Robotics 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 8: July 28th – August 1st
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Play-Palooza! 5-7yo – Full Day
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Game On! Playground Games 5-7yo – Morning
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LEGO & Block Engineering 5-7yo – Morning
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Snackable Science 8-10yo – Morning Camp
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Movie Makers Studio 8-10yo – Morning
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D&D Roleplay 11-14yo – Morning
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Electronics & Coding with Arduino 11-14yo – Morning
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LEGO Architects 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Stuffie Studio: Build Your Buddy 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Carnival Magic: Design & Build 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Knitting 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Enchanted Electronics 8-10yo – Afternoon
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LEGO SPIKE Prime Robotics 11-14yo – Afternoon
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Model United Nations 10-14yo – Afternoon
Week 9: August 4th – August 8th
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LARP Heroes Academy® 10-14yo – Full Day
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Stop Motion Animation 5-7yo – Morning
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Optical Landscapes 5-7yo – Morning
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Cartoonist Club 8-10yo – Morning
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Young Craftsmen: Woodworking Workshop 5-7yo – Morning
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Game On! STEM Sports 8-10yo – Morning
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Building a Futuristic LEGO Smart City 11-14yo – Morning
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Electronics & Coding with Arduino 11-14yo – Morning
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Electronic Arts 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Art Explorations 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Animal Innovations Lab 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Sci-Fi Stop Motion Animation 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Tabletop Game Adventures 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Intermediate Woodworking 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Building the Ultimate Arcade Game 11-14yo – Afternoon
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Building a Futuristic LEGO Smart City 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 10: August 11th – August 15th
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Electronic Arts 5-7yo – Morning
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Innovation through STEAM 5-7yo – Morning
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Wilderness Explorers: Survival Skills 8-10yo – Morning
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LEGO Architects 8-10yo – Morning
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Circuit Building 8-10yo – Morning
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Mastering the Art of Dungeon Master 9-14yo – Morning
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Digital Art 11-14yo – Morning
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Ooey Gooey 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Science Explorers 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Electronic Arts 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Galactic Explorers 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Macrame 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Environmental Investigators 9-12yo – Afternoon
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Fine Arts 11-14yo – Afternoon
Week 11: August 18th – August 22nd
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LARP Heroes Academy® 10-14yo – Full Day
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Ninja Obstacle Challenge 5-7yo – Morning
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Engineering Design Quest – ages 5-7 – Morning
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Mystery Masters 8-10yo – Morning
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Movie Makers Studio 8-10yo – Morning
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D&D Roleplay 11-14yo – Morning
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Artistic Journeys: Study & Create 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Forts & Fantasy Adventures 5-7yo – Afternoon
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Outdoor Science Discovery 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Art of Fantasy Realms 8-10yo – Afternoon
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Innovation through STEAM 11-14yo – Afternoon
Summer Camp Refund Policy
For class cancellations before May 1, we will provide a full refund. Alternatively, you may transfer enrollment to any other program at no charge. After May 1, only transfers are available, not refunds.
No refund or reduction in fees is possible for a child who arrives late, leaves early, or attends part of a session due to illness (other than a hospital stay).
Summer Camp Early Drop Off & Late Pickup Options
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Early Drop Off: 8-8:30am ($50/week)
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Late Pick Up: 4-6pm ($120/week)
Summer Camp Health Forms
In order for your child to participate in Acera’s summer camp families need to upload the following health forms on their CampBrain account:
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Physical (Dated within the last 18 months)
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Immunizations Records
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Optional Allergy Plan
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Optional Medication Administration
Is Acera Summer Camp nut-free?
We are not a “nut-free” facility, but we have a designated allergen-free eating area. If your child has severe allergies or prescription medications, please contact nurse@aceraschool.org for appropriate support.
If we plan to enroll in both an AM camp and a PM camp, will we need to pick them up between 12 and 1 p.m.?
No, students can remain on campus for recess and lunch from 12 to 1 p.m., supervised by Acera summer camp teachers.
What is Acera’s approach to outdoor play and weather-related safety?
At Acera, we believe in the value of outdoor play and exploration, so we encourage students to enjoy time outside even in light rain or snow. However, the safety of our students is our top priority. In the event of thunder, lightning, or heavy rain or snow, we will keep everyone indoors, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. Please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather to fully enjoy their outdoor experiences.
Does Acera provide Lunch or Snacks?
Unfortunately, Acera does not provide lunch or snacks during camp time. Campers will need to bring everything from home. However, families have the option to enroll in our late pick-up snack program (4–6 p.m.), which includes two snacks per day provided by Acera.
Is there a nurse available at summer camp?
Yes, our nurse is onsite on Mondays and available as needed during the rest of the week. Additionally, our front desk staff is trained to handle all first aid throughout the week.
Summer Camp Jobs
Each summer, we build a team of summer summer assistants (ages 18+), and lead teachers (21+). If interested, email a resume and cover letter to enrichment@aceraschool.org and address it to Ryan Cutter, Enrichment Program Manager. Thank you!
Vacation Camps
Are you looking for a unique and enriching experience for your children during February or April break? Acera, a pioneer in individualized, project-based learning since 2010, has just the solution for you. Get ready for an adventurous break filled with fun and learning!
Our vacation camps blend Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) into engaging, hands-on classes that spark creativity and curiosity. Every day, campers explore new themes through interactive, project-based learning led by expert teachers. From designing machines to coding robots, our programs inspire discovery and innovation.
Daily Schedule:
- Drop-Off: 8:30-9:15 AM
- Morning Camps: 9 AM-12 PM (Includes 30-min snack break)
- Lunch/Recess: 12-1 PM (Morning Pickup: 12-12:45 PM; Afternoon Drop-Off: 12:15-1 PM)
- Afternoon Camps: 1-4 PM (Includes 30-min snack break)
- Pickup: 3:45-4:10 PM (Extended Pickup: 4-6 PM, additional charge)
FEBRUARY VACATON 2025: Tuesday, Feb. 18 – Friday, Feb. 21
Camp Details:
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February Dates: Tuesday, Feb. 18 – Friday, Feb. 21
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Age Groups: STEAM Challenger (Ages 5-8) & STEAM Challenger (Ages 9-14)
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Extended Pickup NEW (4-6 PM): Modeled after our summer camps for added flexibility.
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Flexible Enrollment: Sign up for one to four days—mix and match to fit your schedule!
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Cost: Each 1-day camp is $90/participant
APRIL VACATION 2025: Tuesday, Apr. 22 – Friday, Apr. 25
Camp Details:
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April Dates: Tuesday, Apr. 22 – Friday, Apr. 25
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Age Groups: STEAM Challenger (Ages 5-8) & STEAM Challenger (Ages 9-14)
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Extended Pickup NEW (4-6 PM): Modeled after our summer camps for added flexibility.
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Flexible Enrollment: Sign up for one to four days—mix and match to fit your schedule!
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Cost: Each 1-day camp is $90/participant
Removal From Acera Enrichment Programs
Decisions about participation in STEAM camp are made at the discretion of the instructor and the Enrichment Program Manager. If a student is not able to participate in a safe and productive way, or if the teacher feels that the student is not engaging at a level appropriate for the program, the instructor may ask that s/he switch to a different session, or not return to the program. We have a zero-tolerance policy for physical aggression or physical behaviors towards other participants.
Refunds will not be provided for students removed from the program due to behavioral issues.
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“The programming is high quality, the staff is exceptional, and the facilities are great.”
WHO WE SERVE
We provide enrichment programs for children aged 5-14 all year round in a dynamic, hands-on learning setting. Our offerings include After School Enrichment Classes, February and April Vacation Camps, and Summer Camps. Students engage in a wide range of subjects such as engineering, biotechnology, math, arts, theater, design, electronics, music, chemistry, physics, teamwork, and forming friendships, while also exploring their own identities as individuals, learners, and collaborators.
Establishing an enrichment after school curriculum is paramount for continued success and growth. Outside the constraints of standardized lesson plans and time pressures, enrichment educators can delve into their passions, experiment with innovative teaching methods, and tailor activities to students’ interests. Enrichment classes offer a less formal environment where educators can pilot new approaches, technologies, and interdisciplinary projects, fostering a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement. By collaborating with community organizations, industry experts, and other educational institutions, Acera Enrichment can offer a diverse array of learning opportunities that complement and enhance the core curriculum, ultimately enriching the educational experience for all involved.
Reaching the Greater Boston communities, the majority of our students hail from Arlington, Cambridge, Lexington, Medford, Melrose, Somerville, and Winchester. Serving ages 5-14, we seek to understand the lives of our families in order to better serve them.
WHAT MAKES ACERA
Our Amazing Facilities
MAKER SPACE
WOODSHOP
TECH HUB
KITCHEN
PLAYGROUND
SCIENCE LAB
INNOVATION LAB
WILLOW DOME & GREENHOUSE
8 SPACIOUS CLASSROOMS
Student Support during Enrichment Programs
We are pleased to introduce our NEW Student Support Form, designed to enhance the personalized experience of our programs. This form aims to gather comprehensive information about our students, including home languages, personal interests, and any academic support they receive. We email this form out before the start of your child’s program.
Families’ input will allow us to tailor our activities and interactions to better meet the unique needs and preferences of each child. Please note that while we may consult with our counseling team based on the information provided, we are not equipped to offer one-on-one support in the classroom or daily counseling services during enrichment time.
Enrichment Calendar & Important Dates
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24/25 After School Trimester 1 Dates: September 3rd-November 26th
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24/25 After School Trimester 2 Dates: December 3rd-March 7th
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24/25 After School Trimester 3 Dates: March 12th-June 6th
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2025 Summer Camp Weeks: Dates Coming December 2024…
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2025 February Vacation Week: Tuesday-Friday / February 18th-21st
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2025 April Vacation Week: Tuesday-Friday / April 22nd-25th
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2025 Reed Hollett Enrichment Trivia Night: Thursday, February 6th, 2025
Enrichment Pricing
After School3-6pm Weekly
$ 45
Per Day - 2 hour classVacation Camps9-4pm Tue-Fri
$ 90
Per Week - 3 hour campSummer Camp8-6pm Mon-Fri
$ 450
Per Week - 3 hour campFinancial Aid for Enrichment Classes
At Acera, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to experience the enriching and transformative power of our programs, regardless of their financial situation. To support this vision, we offer our Reed Hollett Scholarship designed to make our innovative educational experiences accessible to all families. Our financial aid program considers a variety of factors to ensure fair and equitable distribution of funds. We encourage interested families to apply and provide the necessary documentation for a thorough review. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures that every child can benefit from our diverse subject offerings and hands-on learning opportunities.
For more information on how to apply for financial aid, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/A5Xg4VeA85gM1yVK8. any questions, email enrichment@aceraschool.org.
The Reed Hollett Enrichment Scholarship Fund was created in 2017 by Reed Hollett’s family and Acera staff in honor of Reed’s memory. Reed was a beloved Acera teacher who passed away unexpectedly in 2015. He passionately believed in the importance of getting children outdoors to experience nature and championed the hands-on, inquiry-driven approach to learning that is the hallmark of Acera’s curriculum, classes, and camps. The Reed Hollett Enrichment Scholarship Fund ensures that non-Acera students who would not otherwise be able to afford Acera programming can attend Acera’s enrichment programs. This scholarship embodies Reed’s dedication to inclusive and immersive education, helping to carry forward his legacy and passion for learning.
Contact Us
Address
5 Lowell Avenue Winchester MA 01890
Emails
Enrichment@aceraschool.org
Phone
781.729.3489
Adventure Based Playground
Acera’s adventure playground offers a plethora of activities and sights to explore. Here’s what you can expect to find:
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Cables for balancing
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A 100-foot zip line
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Hammocks and swings set up by students
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Climbing trees with treehouse platforms
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Pulley systems for creative play
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Wheelbarrows, shovels, rope, and various natural objects for fort-building and games
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Opportunities to invent games, run restaurants, and stage theatrical performances
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Learning to balance on ripsticks and cables
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Reinventing games like foursquare and soccer with new rules
Acera’s Registration Software
CampBrain provides an intuitive and easy-to-navigate platform, making it simple for our parents to register their children for our enrichment programs, manage their accounts, and update information. The platform offers detailed information about our various programs, schedules, and activities, allowing our parents to make informed decisions about the best fit for their children.
Enrichment Program Manager
Ryan Cutter – ryan@aceraschool.org
Enrichment Program Assistant
Ali Antinarelli – ali@aceraschool.org
OUR PARTNERS
OUR ENRICHMENT TEACHERS
At Acera Enrichment, we are dedicated to nurturing young minds through innovative, hands-on learning experiences designed for children aged 5-14. Our comprehensive programs encompass After School Enrichment Classes and Summer Camps, offering a rich tapestry of subjects including engineering, biotechnology, mathematics, arts, theater, design, electronics, music, chemistry, physics, and teamwork.
Science Teachers
BS Psychology, Elementary Special Education Teacher
BA in Communications & Radio and Video Production from Lasell University & MFA in Creative Writing from Fairfield University
BS Biology, M.Ed
Technology Teachers
SB Geoscience, Teacher Education Program
PhD STEM Education, MS Engineering Education Research, BS Technology, Engineering, and Design Education
MA Science and Engineering Education
BA in Communications & Radio and Video Production from Lasell University & MFA in Creative Writing from Fairfield University
BS Mechanical Engineering, MS Mechanical Engineering, MS Engineering Management, MS Human-Robot Interaction, PhD Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Teachers
BS Physics and Physical Oceanography, Certificated G.I.S. and Cartography
BA Child Development and Education
SB Life Science, SB Electrical Engineering, MAT
BS Engineering and Environmental Science, MS Civil Engineering, BA History
Art Teachers
BS Psychology, MEd School Psychology
BSA Studio Arts
BS Studio Arts and Psychology
BA Visual Arts, MEd
BA Elementary Education and Psychology
Mathematics Teachers
BA in Communications & Radio and Video Production from Lasell University & MFA in Creative Writing from Fairfield University
BA, MA Education
Student Support Teachers
While we may consult with our counseling team, we are not able to provide 1:1 support in the classroom or daily counseling. Please reach out to enrichment@aceraschool.org with any additional questions.
BS Psychology, Intermediate Floortime Provider Interdisciplinary Council on Development and Learning
