Students have the opportunity to explore the beauty of string music by choosing to learn either the violin or cello. This program emphasizes strong technique, note-reading skills, and ensemble playing, with students performing in at least two concerts each school year. In addition to after-school lessons, participants will join a weekly group class during recess or PE, giving them valuable time to grow as musicians alongside their peers. Participation in this program is contingent on the student taking private lessons concurrently outside of school. Students are welcome to participate in both Strings and the PE Tennis program; instructors work closely with the coach to coordinate schedules. To register please click here: Strings Registration Form Led by LJCDS Music Educators Joan Diener and Kelley Hart

EcoArts Kids makes art time the best part of the week! Kids get to paint, sculpt, draw, and build with all kinds of materials. From watercolors and clay to pastels and cool recycled stuff, every project is inspired by real plants and animals, so kids can discover the amazing nature all around them. We play with color, try new art skills, and create things they’ll be proud to bring home, all while learning how to help take care of our planet. What to expect each week: Drawing & Painting Techniques Recycled Sculptures Eco -Themed Projects Art Journals for self-expression Student finale showcase Led by EcoArts Kids

Thank you for your interest in registering. Please contact Aaron Bullard at abullard@villamusica.org to register and select specific lesson times. By signing up for lessons, you are committing to the whole trimester. You will billed for the entire session after you select your lesson times. These after-school lessons are available through a partnership with Villa Musica, a local non-profit community music center. They take place on campus and are designed to be a nurturing environment where students can further develop skills they learn during the day with music classes and ensembles directed by LJCDS music teachers. Parents will be billed through the school for lesson fees. Lesson options include: Private violin lessons (Grades 1–12) Private piano lessons (Grades 1–12) Private voice lessons (Grades 1-12) Private guitar lessons (Grades 3–12) Students with private lessons will meet with their teacher for 30 minutes between 3:30 and 7:00 p.m. one day a week. Dates: Mondays (9 sessions): Dec. 1–Feb. 23 (No class on Dec. 22, 29, Jan. 19, Feb. 16) Tuesdays (11 sessions): Dec. 2–Feb. 24 (No class on Dec. 23, 30,) Wednesdays (11 sessions): Dec. 3–Feb. 25 (No class on Dec. 24, 31) Thursdays (11 sessions): Dec. 4–Feb. 26 (No class on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1) Fridays (8 sessions): Dec. 5–Feb. 27 (No class on Dec. 19, 26, and Jan. 2, 23 and Feb. 6, 13) $54/private lesson Led by Villa Musica instructor

This advanced communication and career-readiness course prepares students for real-world opportunities long before high school. Through hands-on practice and personalized coaching, students learn how to present themselves with confidence in academic interviews, leadership roles, and early internship or volunteer placements. Students will build a strong foundation in:• Interview Skills: How to answer challenging questions, think on the spot, and communicate clearly and professionally.• Resume Building: Crafting a polished, age-appropriate resume that highlights strengths, experiences, and achievements.• Career Exploration: Understanding personal strengths, interests, and pathways that match future career goals.• Internship & Program Prep: Guidance on how to introduce themselves, showcase their abilities, and prepare for competitive opportunities.• Professional Presence: Tone, body language, eye contact, and leadership communication. By the end of the program, students walk away with a completed resume, increased confidence, and a powerful toolbox of communication skills that set them up for success in school, internships, and future career pathways. Led by Kodely Team Instructors

Join Seaside Arts Center’s musical theater team for an abbreviated production of Beauty and the Beast, in a program emphasizing the theatrical principles of play, ensemble, and empathy. This experience not only empowers individual students to speak with full voices, stand confidently in front of others, and lead with a playful imagination, but it also empowers them within a collaborative ensemble. Led by Seaside Arts Center

This energetic clinic teaches students the fast-growing sport of pickleball in a supportive, confidence-building environment. Students learn proper grip, serving, footwork, and strategy through movement-based games and team challenges. Whether new to the sport or ready to improve, students build coordination, resilience, and a love for staying active. A great fit for athletes of all levels. Led by Kodely Team

In this mindful hand building ceramics class, we slow down and connect with the tactile joy of clay. Through simple, meditative techniques, you’ll learn to shape functional and sculptural pieces while cultivating presence, patience, and creative flow. No prior experience is needed—just your hands, curiosity, and a willingness to play. Led by LJCDS Visual Arts Educators Sani Vanderspek and Alexis Grinbold

Storybook Café: Step into a world where stories come to life! In this after-school class, students will explore different versions of classic fables and fairy tales, then head to the kitchen to whip up a delicious, story-inspired snack. With hands-on baking experience and a dash of creativity, each session blends reading, cooking, and fun for a truly magical adventure. Thursdays (11 sessions) 3:30–4:30 p.m Led by LJCDS Kindergarten Educator Laura Tonini and Associate Educator Sandra Carlton

Cool Cats kindergarten program teaches confidence, focus, and social skills through the fundamentals of martial arts (awareness, traditional karate, kicking, and boxing). Students receive a complimentary Freestyle Martial Arts T-shirt and white belt to wear to every class. Led by Freestyle Martial Arts Instructor Maia Hayden

This children’s yoga class is designed to support physical and emotional growth by blending movement, breath, and mindfulness in a fun and engaging way. We practice yoga postures and relaxation techniques to help students build strength, flexibility, self awareness, resilience, and confidence, helping children navigate daily stresses with greater ease and well being. Led by Certified Yoga Therapist Kla-Bada Bee

We’re excited to kick off the school year with the return of our 5/6 Middle School Homework Club, offered every Tuesday from 3:30–4:30 PM. This after-school program is a great opportunity for students to get a head start on homework, build strong organizational and study skills, spend time reading, and enjoy some light snacks! We have 18 spots available for this session, and enrollment will be on a first-come, first-served basis. If more than 30 students express interest, we’ll explore adding another day to accommodate additional participants. Families of the first 18 students to sign up will receive a confirmation email with further details about our first session, which begins on September 8th. We look forward to a productive and fun homework club! Led by LJCDS Educators Miranda Katz (Grade 5) and Sam Severe (Grade 6)

The LJCDS Middle School Cheer and Dance class is open to any student who wants to learn skills in cheer and dance; no audition or prior experience is required. The class will focus on a combination of skills based technique in both cheer and dance prior to joining Upper School Cheer and Dance teams. Winter (10 sessions) 3:15–4:30 p.m. Led by LJCDS Lower School Educator and Cheer Coach Sandra Carlton and K-12 Dance and Musical Theater Educator Christy Yin

Mini Med gives students a rare opportunity to step into the world of medicine with age-appropriate, hands-on activities. Wearing kid-friendly lab coats, students learn how the human body works, explore germs and immunity, and practice simple medical techniques using real tools and models. This engaging program inspires future doctors and scientists by making health science exciting, meaningful, and fun. Led by Kodely Team Instructors

Our upper-level Olympiad program challenges students with higher-order math that strengthens analytical thinking, strategic reasoning, and confidence under pressure. Students work through multi-step competition problems in algebra, geometry, and logic, building readiness for Math Olympiad (MOEMS) and Math Kangaroo.This class directly prepares students for the March 19, 2026 competition day, giving them the tools, strategies, and practice they need to excel. Ideal for motivated learners seeking enrichment beyond classroom math. Led by Kodely Team Instructors

Begin learning the cello or continue your studies with Bing Yan for 30-minute sessions on Wednesdays between 3 and 5:30 p.m. After registering online, please contact Bing at celloyan60@gmail.com to schedule a session time. Winter ( sessions) December 3, 10, 17 (No class Dec. 24, 31) January 7, 14, 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 Led by Bing Yan

Grades 1-4: A fun, beginner-friendly introduction to girl's lacrosse! Students will learn basic skills - cradling, passing, catching, and shooting-through games and active drills. The focus is on teamwork, confidence, and having fun with friends. Our final week will include getting the opportunity to experience what it feels like to be part of the high school varsity team's first home game of the season! Grades 5 & 6: Students will learn basic skills through games and active drills, with a focus on teamwork and confidence. 5th and 6th graders will take on leadership roles, helping guide and support younger players from the lower school as they learn the sport. In the final week, everyone will get to experience what it feels like to be part of the high school varsity team's first home game of the season! Led by Instructor Middle School Lacrosse Assistant Coach Caroline Lounsbury

Book Club (Grades 6–7) Wednesdays 3:30-4:30 (LS Library) The Middle School Book Club offers students an opportunity to engage with powerful stories, share thoughtful discussions, and participate in meaningful activities inspired by what we read. Together, we’ll explore themes of mystery, history, identity, and resilience — all while enjoying a good book (and some snacks, too!). This year, we’ll be reading three compelling titles: Blood in the Water by Tiffany D. Jackson — a gripping story filled with suspense, secrets, and the search for truth. A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat — a humorous and heartfelt graphic memoir about self-discovery and growing up. The Bletchley Riddle by Steve Sheinkin and Ruta Sepetys — a thrilling historical mystery that blends codebreaking, courage, and friendship. Each meeting will include guided discussions, creative or analytical activities connected to the books, and time to reflect on the characters and themes. Join us as we read, discuss, and think deeply about stories that challenge, inspire, and stay with us long after the final page. Led by Rebekah Dawson-Bowman

This clinic is for students interested in learning the fundamentals and skills of basketball, including: Stretch and warm-up Ball handling skill work Shooting skills work Ball handling games or competition Shooting games or competition Skills review (homework assignment) Defense skill work (as skills improve) Offensive concepts (as skills improve) Winter (11 sessions) Time: 3:30–4:30 p.m. Location: LS Basketball Courts Led by LJCDS Lower School Educator Adrian Hayes, H.A.Y.E.S Academy

A perfect first science experience for young learners. This hands-on lab invites students to become real chemists as they explore bubbling reactions, colorful mixtures, and simple experiments that spark wonder. Each class strengthens early observation skills while building confidence and curiosity. Designed specifically for Kindergarten, this program makes science joyful, safe, and accessible for even the youngest learners. Led by Kodely

A joyful introduction to competition-style math designed to build confidence, problem-solving strength, and a love of challenge. Students practice fun puzzles, patterns, and Math Olympiad-style problems while building foundational skills for Math Kangaroo.This class will prepare students for the March 19, 2026 competition day, and families who wish to register their child for Math Kangaroo will find this program to be an excellent head start. Perfect for students who enjoy thinking creatively and solving problems in new ways. Led by Kodely

En Garde. Ready? Fence! Torrey Fencing is here! LJCDS athletes thrust and lunge their way to victory in a class taught by Coach Oscar Arnold. Students are challenged to improve their posture, cardiovascular fitness, and problem-solving skills while they learn the basics of swordsmanship through a fun and engaging program. Led by Oscar Arnold; Joanne Edelstein; Tedd Padgitt

Jump into an explosion of science! Junior Mad Scientists will use their senses to study a variety of hands-on topics that help us learn how the world works. They will become entomologists, physicists, geologists, set designers, and more! Each student will get to cherish their Mad Science memories by taking home a toy related to each topic. Led by Mad Science

Little Torrey Dance participants join the LJCDS varsity dance team to learn a dance routine with basic dance moves and techniques. In each class, dancers will also have the opportunity to create their own dances and explore movement. Little Torrey Dancers will perform at a home basketball game with the varsity dance team. The date will be announced when the basketball schedule is publicized. All junior dancers will receive a Little Torrey Dance T-shirt and hair accessories. No experience is necessary. The dress code is clothes they can move in (e.g., comfortable tops, leggings, shorts, and skorts). Please bring a water bottle. Led by Dance Club Coaches Micah Baird and Hannah Kehmna