Summer at Portledge

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Summer at Portledge offers a diverse range of enriching and educational courses for students from pre-nursery through 12th grade. Enrichment courses will include sports, performing arts, visual arts, and STEM, among others. Educational courses will bridge Portledge programs and Upper School credit courses.

Contact

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  • Photo of Kim Baratoff

    Kim Baratoff 

    Portledge School
    Assistant Director of Admissions, Coordinator of Financial Assistance
    (516) 750-3203

Featured Programs

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  • Robotic Dogs, AI, and Autonomous Systems
    Grades 9–12
    July 20–August 14

    Beginner Robotics Course
    This course introduces students to modern robotics through hands-on work with robotic dogs (quadruped robots). These machines are designed to walk, balance, and navigate environments using sensors and AI, making them an ideal entry point into real-world autonomous systems. Students learn how robotic dogs move like animals, see the world through cameras and sensors, and make decisions without constant human control. The focus is on understanding how robotics systems work as a whole rather than just operating a robot.
     
    What Students Will Do
    • Operate and test a real robotic dog
    • Explore different walking gaits and movement behaviors
    • Use AI-based vision to detect obstacles and targets
    • Build and test autonomous navigation behaviors
    • Design and 3D-print custom robot attachments
    • Compete in structured robotics challenges and missions
    What Students Will Learn
    • Fundamentals of quadruped robot motion and balance
    • How sensors provide environmental awareness
    • How AI models support decision-making
    • The difference between manual control and autonomy
    • How engineers debug real robotic systems
    • How hardware, software, and AI work together
    End-of-Course Challenge
    Students participate in an autonomous robotic dog challenge where their robot must navigate obstacles, reach targets, and complete missions with minimal human input. Evaluation focuses on system design, reliability, and problem-solving—not just speed.

    Price:
    $5,000

List of 1 frequently asked questions.

  • Humanoid Robotics, AI, and Intelligent Motion
    Grades 11–Undergraduate
    July 20–August 14

    Advanced Robotics Course
    This advanced course immerses students in humanoid robotics, one of the most complex and challenging areas of modern engineering. Students work with a full humanoid robot that must balance, coordinate many joints, and respond intelligently to its environment. The curriculum mirrors how humanoid robots are developed in professional research labs, giving students early exposure to college-level and industry-level robotics concepts.

    What Students Will Do

    • Program humanoid motion and coordinated behaviors
    • Use AI vision systems to trigger robot actions
    • Test behaviors in simulation before running them on real hardware
    • Debug balance, timing, and perception failures
    • Design and 3D-print custom tools or sensor mounts
    • Build and demonstrate a complete humanoid AI system

    What Students Will Learn

    • Whole-body control and coordinated motion
    • Sensor fusion using vision and inertial data
    • AI-assisted perception and decision pipelines
    • Simulation-to-real robotics workflows
    • Why humanoid robots fail and how engineers improve stability

    Final Capstone Project

    Students design and demonstrate a humanoid intelligence task such as vision-based interaction, balance recovery, AI-triggered behaviors, or coordinated full-body motion. Projects are evaluated on technical depth, reliability, and engineering reasoning.

    Price:
    $5,600
     

Summer Programs

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  • Parent & Child
    Ages 12–36 months
    Click for Dates

    Sessions: 
    Tuesdays & Thursdays
    Dates: June 30–August 6

    Description:
    Inspire imagination, self-expression, social interaction, and physical development through a variety of shared activities ideal for children ages 12 to 36 months. Class structure will include free play, art, singing, storytime, snacks, and outdoor play. This program runs from 9:30–10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Dates TBD. 

    Price: 
    $180 for 1 day per week for a six-week session. 
    $300 for 2 days per week for a six-week session

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  • Bright Beginnings
    Ages 2–3
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    Sessions: 
    Session A: June 29-July 10
    Session B: July 13-July 24
    Session C: July 27-August 7

    Description:
    Children will enjoy a half-day of engaging activities, including social play, art projects, exploration, outdoor games, music, and movement. This program offers a well-rounded experience that fosters creativity and interaction in a nurturing setting.

    Sample Schedule: 
    • 9 a.m. Arrival
    • 9–9:30 a.m. Creative Play
    • 9:30–10 a.m. Arts and Crafts
    • 10–10:20 a.m. Snack
    • 10:20–10:50 a.m. Library
    • 10:50–11:30 a.m. Outdoor Water Play
    • 11:30–12 p.m. Specialty Class or Sports
    • 12 p.m. Dismissal
    Price:
    *3-year-olds must commit to a 5-day schedule. 
    $1,100 per two-week session
     
    *2-year-olds may choose 3, 4, or 5 days.
    3 days: $660, 4 days: $880, or $1,100 per two-week session
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.

  • Passport to Pre-K
    Age 4
    Click for Dates

    Sessions: 
    Session A: June 29-July 10
    Session B: July 13-July 24
    Session C: July 27-August 7

    Description:
    Children will engage in active outdoor play and creative exploration while diving into math, literacy, and writing through playful activities and hands-on learning. It’s the perfect way to make the most of summer and gear up for an amazing Pre-K year ahead.

    Sample Schedule: 
    • 9 a.m. Arrival
    • 9–9:30 a.m. Creative Play
    • 9:30–10 a.m. Handwriting
    • 10–10:20 a.m. Snack
    • 10:20–11 a.m. Water Activities
    • 11–11:30 a.m. Lunch
    • 11:30–12 p.m. Arts and Crafts
    • 12–12:30 p.m. Mathematical Thinking
    • 12:30–1 p.m. Library
    • 1–1:30 p.m.  Specialty Class or Sports
    • 1:30–2 p.m. Outdoor Play/Reflection
    • 2 p.m. Dismissal
    Price:
    $1,550 per 2-week session

    *Before care from 8 am to 9 am is available for an additional $50 per week
    *Aftercare from 2 pm-5 pm is available for an additional $100 per week
     

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  • Rising K-5th Enrichment
    Grades K–5
    Click for Dates

    Sessions: 
    Session A: July 13–July 24
    Session B: July 27–August 7

    Students select two half-day activities per session, with options including sports, STEM, performing arts & visual arts.

    Sports Description:
    Our Multi-Sports program is designed for young athletes of all skill levels. This dynamic program offers a fun and engaging introduction to a variety of popular sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball, and t-ball. Over the course of two weeks, participants will have the opportunity to develop their skills through exciting drills, friendly games, and sport-specific techniques, all while learning teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition. Led by Daniel Kapps, Portledge's Associate Director of Athletics, the program creates a supportive and energetic environment where kids can build confidence, coordination, and a love for physical activity.

    STEM Description:
    Our STEM program offers a fun, engaging, and educational experience where young learners will explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive activities, experiments, and projects. With a focus on creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, kids will have the opportunity to develop essential STEM skills while discovering how these subjects impact the world around them. Whether building robots, experimenting with chemistry, or exploring the wonders of space, our summer STEM program is the perfect place for kids to spark their curiosity and expand their knowledge in a dynamic, supportive environment. The program is led by our experienced science teacher and PYP Coordinator, Colleen Burke, who is passionate about fostering a love of STEM in young minds.

    Performing Arts Description:
    Our Performing Arts program is the perfect place for students of all skill levels to explore the exciting world of acting, singing, and dancing! Whether you're a seasoned performer or trying something new, this program will help you build confidence and creativity through fun, hands-on training in all three disciplines. Students will learn the basics of acting, vocal techniques, and dance moves, developing important skills like expression, coordination, and teamwork. Throughout the program, participants will work together to create a short performance, giving everyone the chance to shine and showcase what they've learned on stage for families and friends.

    Visual Arts Description:
    Our Visual Arts program encourages young artists to explore a variety of artistic techniques and media, from drawing and painting to sculpture and collage. Through fun projects and guided instruction, students will discover their unique artistic voices, experiment with colors and textures, and build their confidence in expressing ideas through art. Whether they are beginners or budding artists, kids will have the opportunity to develop their skills, share their creations, and enjoy the process of making art in a supportive, fun environment. By the end of the program, they'll leave with their own gallery of original works to show off and cherish.

    Sample Schedule:
    • 9 a.m. Arrival
    • 9–11:30 a.m. Choice 1
    • 11:30–12:30 p.m Lunch/Outdoor Activities
    • 12:30–3 p.m. Choice 2
    • 3 p.m Dismissal
    Price:
    $1,750 per two-week session
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.

  • Maker’s Camp
    Grades K–5
    Dates: August 10–14

    Description:
    This engineering camp sparks a passion for science and tech. Maker Kits boost mechanical, artistic, and engineering skills, encouraging students to become inventors. They design remote-controlled hydraulic arms, power race cars with energy, and experiment with structural design. Strawbees, an award-winning prototyping toy, fosters creativity while students explore hands-on projects using plastic, paper, and other polymers. Build a Bot offers an immersive STEAM experience, where students practice their engineering skills to create a series of robot models with different mechanisms and purposes. This camp is fully aligned with NGSS standards, and students even get to keep their Bots and other creations to proudly share with family and friends.

    Sample Schedule:
    • 9 a.m.—Arrival
    • 9–10:00 a.m. Block 1  Makers Club
    • 10–10:15 a.m. Snack
    • 10:15–10:30 a.m. Life Skills
    • 10:30–10:45 a.m. Fitness
    • 10:45–11:30 a.m. Block 2 Build-a-Bot
    • 11:30–12:30 p.m. Lunch/Outdoor Activities
    • 12:30–12:40 p.m. Joy Break
    • 12:40–1:30 p.m. Block 3 Makers Club
    • 1:30–2:00 p.m. Fitness
    • 2:00–3:00 p.m. Block 4 Build-a-Bot
    • 3 p.m.—Dismissal
    Price:
    $875 for a one-week session
     

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  • The Fashionable Stylista
    Grades 3–8
    Dates: June 15–19

    Description:
    Portledge School is thrilled to partner with The Fashionable Stylista to host a Fashion Design and Sewing Camp. This exciting camp offers students the chance to develop essential fashion design skills and experience what it’s like to step into the world of a future fashion designer. The week will conclude with a fabulous fashion show, where parents are invited to see students model their creations, including clothing and accessories they designed and crafted, as well as their illustrated fashion design
    Collections. Activities include: hand sewing techniques, sewing with a machine, fashion illustration, fashion design skills (e.g., pinning and cutting patterns), creating at least one clothing item, and two accessories. Students will learn the entire design process, from brainstorming concepts and creating designs to completing their final projects. The camp not only builds confidence but also encourages creativity and self-expression!

    *No prior sewing experience necessary

    Sample Schedule:
    • 9:00–11:30 a.m. Illustration and Mood Boards
    • 11:30–12:30 p.m. Lunch and Outdoor Activities
    • 12:30–3:00 p.m. Sewing on a machine. Hand sewing, cutting fabric, and pinning. Developing creations using a pattern.
    Price:
    $875 for a one-week session
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.

  • Jam Studio
    Camp
    Grades 6–8
    Dates: June 15–26

    Description:
    Jam Studio Camp is a high-energy two-week camp that allows middle school students to have fun not only learning to play Rock/Pop music together in a band, but also having a unique experience to record their songs in a professional-style recording studio. Students will have instrument-specific masterclasses where they will study and explore the techniques of great musicians. Additionally, each student will join a 'band' where they will pick songs, rehearse, and practice for a performance. On the last day of camp, the students will get on stage and give a live concert to share their pieces with an audience. The performance will be recorded and sent to families. Students will also create websites for their band and can learn about the music business as well.

    Sample Schedule:
    • 9:00-9:30 a.m. Session 1: Listening / Analysis. Students listen to famous recordings with the faculty and discuss musical elements that are present.
    • 9:30-11:00 a.m.  Session 2 Band rehearsals. Bands rehearse with a faculty mentor.
    • 11:00–11:45 a.m. Session 3 Masterclass A/B. Students will attend recordings, playing various styles, rhythmic reading, sheet music, etc.
    • 11:45–12:30 p.m. Session 4 Masterclass B/A
    • 12:30–1:00 p.m. Lunch
    • 1:00–2:30 p.m. Session 5 Band rehearsals. Bands rehearse with a faculty mentor.
    • 2:30–3:00 p.m. Session 6 Teambuilding/website. Students work together to design band logos, t-shirts, websites, etc.
    Price:
    $1,750 for a two-week session
     

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  • SAT & ACT
    Preparation
    Grades 9–12
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    Sessions:
    Session A: June 22–26
    Session B: Aug 10–14

    Description:
    Prepare for success with our intensive SAT/ACT Bootcamp, designed to help students maximize their test scores and approach the exam with confidence. During the bootcamp, students will have a comprehensive review of all test sections, including critical reading, math, writing, and science (for ACT students). They will learn proven test-taking strategies, time-management techniques, and approaches to reduce test anxiety, all tailored to give an edge on exam day. At the end of the bootcamp, students will take a practice test to assess their progress and receive personalized feedback, helping identify areas for improvement. Whether students are taking the test for the first time or aiming to boost a previous score, this bootcamp will provide the tools, knowledge, and support needed to achieve their best possible results.

    *This is a half-day offered from 9 am–12 pm

    Price:
    $875 for a  one-week session
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.


  • Course for Credit:
    Algebra I
    Grades 9–12
    Dates: June 29–August 7

    Description:
    Algebra 1 is the study of the fundamental operations of algebra, introducing variables, algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, and multiple representations. In this class, students will develop the ability to explore and solve real-world application problems, demonstrate the appropriate use of graphing calculators, and communicate mathematical ideas clearly. This course lays the foundation for mathematical literacy that will help students succeed in every subsequent mathematics course. 

    Major topics of study include the evaluation of algebraic equations, exponent rules and manipulation, polynomials, solving and graphing linear equations, solving and graphing two variable inequalities, solving systems of equations, radicals, word problems, solving and graphing quadratic equations, and factoring.

    *This course is available to public and private school students. Students must pass the final examination to receive credit for this course.

    Dates: 
    June 29–August 7
     
    Instructor:
    TBD

    Price:
    $4,500
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.


  • Course for Credit:
    Geometry
    Grades 9–12
    Dates: June 29–August 7

    Description:
    Prerequisite: Algebra 1
    Geometry continues students’ early study of geometric concepts of shapes and solids and focuses on the study of the properties of two and three-dimensional shapes; the symmetry, congruence, and similarity of these shapes, and uses deductive reasoning and logical arguments in formulating direct proofs. Students will acquire and demonstrate knowledge of Euclidean geometry, including basic definitions, postulates, theorems, and corollaries, implemented through mathematical modeling.

    Major topics of study will include logical reasoning and formal proofs; properties of triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles; triangle similarity, triangle congruence, and right triangle relationships; analysis of area and volume; properties of two and three-dimensional geometric figures and solids; and geometric constructions and transformations. 

    *This course is available to public and private school students. Students must pass the final examination to receive credit for this course.

    Dates: 
    June 29–August 7
     
    Instructor:
    TBD

    Price:
    $4,500
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.


  • Course for Credit:
    Algebra II
    Grades 9–12
    Dates: June 29–August 7

    Description:
    Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Geometry
    Algebra II continues to develop the fundamental algebraic skills needed for success in higher-level mathematics. Algebra II thoroughly studies functions, including parent functions, families of functions, and transformations. Students will develop the ability to create and apply models to situations represented by functions. The continued study of equations, systems of equations, inequalities, quadratics, factoring, and solving quadratic equations builds on Algebra I concepts in greater depth as students work to define new functions.

    Major topics of study include linear and quadratic expressions, equations, and functions; polynomial, rational, and exponential functions; logarithmic functions, equations, and expressions; complex and imaginary numbers, sequences, and series. Trigonometric concepts involving right triangles are studied, and laws involving non-right triangles are also introduced. 

    *This course is available to public and private school students. Students must pass the final examination to receive credit for this course.

    Dates: 
    June 29–August 7
     
    Instructor:
    TBD

    Price:
    $4,500
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.


  • Course for Credit:
    Precalculus
    Grades 9–12
    Dates: June 29–August 7

    Description:
    Prerequisite: Algebra II
    Precalculus builds upon the student's understanding of algebra, geometry, and mathematical functions.  Students will develop a deeper understanding of the fundamental concepts and relationships of functions while strengthening mathematical skills in preparation for Calculus. In addition to content mastery, students will further develop their problem-solving skills.  
       
    Major topics of study include functions and their graphs with special attention to polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, and analytic trigonometry, complex numbers, systems of equations and inequalities, trigonometric identities, and trigonometric applications.

    *This course is available to public and private school students. Students must pass the final examination to receive credit for this course.

    Dates: 
    June 29–August 7
     
    Instructor:
    TBD

    Price:
    $4,500
     

List of 1 frequently asked questions.


  • Course for Credit:
    Chemistry
    Grades 9–12
    Dates: June 29–August 7

    Description:
    Prerequisite: 1 year of Biology.
    A laboratory course for students who want to understand the structure of matter, its properties, composition, and the changes that matter undergoes, with some reliance on mathematical relationships of chemical reactions. Topics will include the structure of the atom, chemical formulas, types of (and balancing) chemical reactions, phases of matter, gas laws, bonding, molecular geometry,  intermolecular forces, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry.  The emphasis in this course will be on understanding concepts, although problem-solving will require some basic algebra.  Labs will provide “hands-on” experience for in-depth exploration of chemical laws and principles.  Occasionally, technology will be integrated into the lab experiments.

    *This course is available to public and private school students. Students must pass the final examination to receive credit for this course.

    Dates: 
    June 29–August 7
     
    Instructor:
    TBD

    Price:
    $4,500
     
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