2024 Summer Session

The Rye Country Day Summer Session offers rising Grades 5-12 students from any school the opportunity to develop areas of special interest, explore new ideas, earn advanced credit, or review subjects that need strengthening.

Summer Session is open to qualified students entering Grades 5-12 from any school. Courses meet for one- to six-week sessions, depending on the course. All courses meet Monday through Friday, unless otherwise noted, and take place between July 1 - August 9, 2024. Please note that Summer Session will be closed on July 4, 2024.

Students may sign up for as many or as few classes as they would like. Class sizes generally range from four to twelve students.

Browse the 2024 course dates and details below. Registration for 2024 Summer Session is open now through the button below.

Program Information

Classroom Experience

Class Size

Class size ranges from four to twelve students.

Minimum Enrollment

Minimum enrollment for a course is four students. If there are fewer than four students enrolled in a course, the course will be canceled. Families will be notified of the cancellation, and any course fees already paid will be refunded.

Learning Mode

Summer Session courses are fully in-person, on the Rye Country Day School campus, unless otherwise noted.

Placement and Credit

If the goal for your child is to earn placement or credit through their summer work, the student should discuss these goals with the appropriate person at their school before registering. Further, if the school agrees to placement or credit as a result of the summer work with us, we ask that a letter of permission be secured and sent to the Director of Summer Session in advance of the start of the class.

Payment and Financial Assistance

Payment

Payment for summer courses is due at the time of registration. Questions about payment can be directed to Kyle Mitschele, Director of Summer Session.

Financial Assistance

While registering, please complete the required financial aid application materials. Please make sure these are submitted as early as possible to ensure consideration.

RCDS Students (returning or incoming) who will receive financial aid for the 2024-25 school year will have the same percentage of their grant applied to the cost of summer academic classes.
Students from other schools are welcome to apply for financial assistance. We strive to meet the documented needs of applicants as much as possible. In order to be given full consideration, it is vital for applicants to ensure that their application includes all required financial documentation. Applicants for financial assistance will be notified of the decision regarding assistance in mid-June.

Health Policies

Contact Information

Director of Summer Session

Kyle Mitschele

CONTACT
Phone: 914-925-4511

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Middle School Skills

Grammar Boot Camp, Grades 7-10

JULY 29 - AUGUST 9 (2 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

This course will offer students intensive instruction and practice in several key elements of English grammar: the parts of speech, the parts of a sentence, phrases, clauses, subject-verb agreement, pronoun usage, and comma rules.

The course is appropriate for students entering grade seven and above, and it is especially recommended for students new to RCDS entering grades seven through ten.

Course Fee: $950

Math Skills, Grades 5-6

JULY 1 - AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

This course is offered to build skills and enrich mathematical understanding in students entering grades five and six. Topics covered include whole numbers, fractions, mixed numbers, multiplying and dividing mixed numbers, decimals, geometry, and measurement.

This course is open to students entering Grades 5-6.

Course Fee: $1350

Math Skills, Grades 7-8

JULY 1 - AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

This course is offered to build skills and enrich mathematical understanding in students entering grades seven and eight. Topics covered properties of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and mixed numbers; ratios, proportions and percentages; integers, algebraic concepts, geometry, and measurement.

This course is open to students entering Grades 7-8.

Course Fee: $1350

Pre-Algebra, Grades 7-8

JULY 1 - AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

This course is offered for students entering Algebra to review prerequisite skills and to pre-teach concepts. Topics covered include variables, working with units, equations and inequalities, linear relationships, systems, functions, exponents, radicals and irrational numbers.

This course is open to students entering Grades 7-8.

Course Fee: $2000

Reading/Study Skills, Grades 5-6

JULY 1 – JULY 26 (4 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

This developmental reading course includes work on four reading skills: pre-viewing, recognizing main ideas, identifying major and minor ideas, and recall. Vocabulary enrichment and practice in the study skills of outlining and summarizing will form a substantial part of the course. Students read textbooks and fiction material to develop and improve basic reading and comprehension skills.

This course is open to students entering Grades 5-6.

Course Fee: $1050

Reading/Study Skills, Grades 7-8

JULY 1 – JULY 26 (4 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

A primary focus of the class will be reading for main idea and supporting details, in order to help further build and develop comprehension and recall of the text. Vocabulary enrichment and practice in the study skills of outlining and summarizing will form a substantial part of the course. Students read textbooks and fiction material to develop and improve basic reading and comprehension skills.

This course is open to students entering Grades 7-8.

Course Fee: $1050

Writing Workshop, Grades 5-6

JULY 1 – AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

The objective of Writing Workshop is grade level-appropriate development/improvement of the student's ability to produce sound, effective writing, ranging from paragraphs to short essays (test-type questions and personal narratives) and longer compositions. Attention will be given to all steps of the writing process, including effective outlining, generating a thesis statement/claim, sentence and paragraph structure, selection and use of supporting information, proofreading, and revising.

Students are grouped according to grade levels and will work both collaboratively and individually throughout the course. It is important to note that the full benefit of the course comes with attendance for the full length of the program.

Students will complete much of the work in class, but there will be regular homework.

This course is open to students entering Grades 5-6.

Course Fee: $1350

Writing Workshop, Grades 7-9

JULY 1 – AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
Session 1: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Session 2: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Students are grouped according to grade levels and will work both collaboratively and individually throughout the course. It is important to note that the full benefit of the course comes with attendance for the full length of the program.

Students will complete much of the work in class, but there will be regular homework.

This course is open to students entering Grades 7-9.

Course Fee: $1350

Middle School Enrichment

Elections and Democracy, Grades 8-11

WEEK 1: JULY 15 – JULY 19 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: JULY 22 – JULY 26 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

In 2024, more people will vote in democratic elections around the world than ever before! More than four billion people—over half the world’s population—are eligible to vote in nations including the US, Mexico, South Africa, and India. This week-long seminar is designed with the goal of helping students understand how democracy works, their role in our democracy, and how to understand upcoming elections—both in the US and abroad! Students will examine issues that are central to the upcoming presidential election and will compare and contrast our democracy with other democracies around the world. Most importantly, and most fundamentally, this class is a place for students to discuss, debate, articulate their ideas in writing, and learn more about the issues they find important.

Please note that the week-long seminar will repeat during the different weeks.

This course is open to students entering Grades 8-11.

Course Fee: $400

World History I Skill Building, Grades 8-9

WEEK 1: JULY 15 - JULY 19 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: JULY 22 – JULY 26 (1 Week)
WEEK 3: JULY 29 – AUGUST 2 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

This one-week course is designed to build essential historical thinking skills for those who are new to or approaching high school level. This class will practice skills such as note-taking, annotating, writing, and evaluating primary sources by exploring a different historical topic each day. Topics covered will include Ancient Egypt, Han Dynasty China, the Renaissance, Early African Kingdoms, and the French Revolution.

Please note that the week-long course will repeat during the different weeks.

This course is open to students entering Grades 8-9.

Course Fee: $300

World Revolutions (16th-20th Centuries), Grades 8-12

WEEK 1: JULY 8 - JULY 12 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: AUGUST 5 - AUGUST 9 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

This week-long course will help students to explore the ingredients of scientific and political revolutions in World History while practicing essential skills for historical analysis and investigation. Students will utilize a variety of primary and secondary sources in order to evaluate the causes and consequences of different revolutions throughout the week, including the Scientific Revolution, the French Revolution, the Haitian Revolution, the Russian Revolution, and the Iranian Revolution.

Please note that the week-long course will repeat during the different weeks.

This course is open to students entering Grades 8-12.

Course Fee: $300

Upper School Academics

Algebra I - CANCELED

Algebra II/Trigonometry

JULY 1 – AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

This course includes a study of linear, quadratic, and polynomial functions, systems of equations in two and three variables, inequalities, complex numbers, variation, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, and trigonometric functions, including applications.

Open to all students. The course is designed for students who have not yet taken Algebra II/Trigonometry. The text used is Common Core Standards aligned, so students required to take the Algebra II Regents (CCSS) exam will be prepared.

Non-RCDS students seeking credit or placement for their work from their school should follow the instructions for “Seeking Credit/Placement” while registering.

RCDS students seeking enrollment in Algebra II/Trigonometry should discuss their summer goals with the Principal and Math Department Chair before submitting registration.

Course Fee: $4600

Geometry

JULY 1 – AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

This course studies the properties of plane figures including parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent and similar triangles, polygons, circles, right triangle trigonometry, areas, and volumes, as well as introductions to solid and coordinate geometry. Throughout the course, the student's ability to develop and present formal proofs is systematically strengthened and expanded through the use of inductive and deductive reasoning. A review of Algebra 1 is included, using equations based on geometric theorems.

Open to all students. The course is designed for students who have not yet taken Geometry. The text used is Common Core Standards aligned, so students required to take the Geometry Regents (CCSS) exam will be prepared.

Non-RCDS students seeking credit or placement for their work from their school should follow the instructions for “Seeking Credit/Placement” while registering.

RCDS students seeking enrollment in Geometry should discuss their summer goals with the Principal and Math Department Chair before submitting registration.

Course Fee: $4600

Health

JULY 1 – JULY 26 (4 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
Section 1: 8:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. (FULLY ENROLLED)
Section 2: 9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

The Health course offers practical knowledge and skills to help students make thoughtful decisions. Lectures and discussions include topics on nutrition, decision-making, eating disorders, chemical awareness, human anatomy, human sexuality, relationships, and HIV education.

This course satisfies the RCDS Health requirement for students in Grade 10.

This course will meet virtually on Zoom. Class is synchronous. Attendance and on-camera participation is mandatory.

Course Fee: $1750

Introduction to Computer Science, Grades 9-12

JULY 1 - JULY 26 (4 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
9:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

One of the joys of computer science is learning to make things move, and interacting with them on the screen. Capitalizing on this wonderful, “Aha!” moment, this course explores the basic principles of Computer Science using the highly visual and interactive language of Processing. Students in this course write their first interactive programs, while learning object-oriented design and the fundamental tools of programming. Many of the problem sets invite students to program or design interactive games.

This course (or equivalent experience) is required to take Advanced Placement Computer Science; it will be equivalent to a 1/2 unit course, and will be included on RCDS students’ transcripts.

This course fulfills the RCDS Computer Science requirement in the Upper School.

This course is open to students entering Grades 9 – 12.

This class will require a student to have access to a computer. Students coming to campus for class this summer will need to bring a laptop. If you have questions about this, please contact the Director of Summer Session.

Course Fee: $3125

Pre-Calculus

JULY 1 – AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

This course extends the content of algebra through advanced-level consideration of various functions and develops skill in mathematical analysis. Polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions are considered along with the study of analytic geometry, polar coordinates, and sequences and series.

Open to all students. The course is designed for students who have not yet taken Pre-Calculus.

Non-RCDS students seeking credit or placement for their work from their school should follow the instructions for “Seeking Credit/Placement” while registering.

RCDS students seeking enrollment in Precalculus should discuss their summer goals with the Principal and Math Department Chair before submitting registration.

Course Fee: $4600

Upper School Skills

ACT Preparation

JULY 15 – AUGUST 9 (4 Weeks)
Monday – Thursday
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Summer Session is partnering with Summit Educational Group to offer our ACT Preparation Class. This course will cover general test-taking strategies with a focus on strengthening core skills. Topics will be covered in English, Reading, Writing, Mathematics and Science. Our course has been specifically designed to give your child a combination of the academic skills and strategies they will need on test day.

The opportunity to sit for an entire, timed, practice exam may be arranged through the instructor at the time of the course's completion.

Course Fee: $1800

SAT Preparation

JULY 15 – AUGUST 9 (4 Weeks)
Monday – Thursday
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Summer Session is once more partnering with Summit Educational Group to offer our SAT Preparation Class. This course will cover general test-taking strategies with a focus on strengthening core skills. Mathematics topics covered will include: Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Algebra, Advanced Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry. Evidence-Based Reading & Writing topics covered will include: Reading Comprehension, Grammar, and Rhetorical Analysis. Our course has been specifically designed to give your child a combination of the academic skills and strategies needed on test day.

The opportunity to sit for an entire, timed, practice exam may be arranged through the instructor at the time of the course's completion.

Course Fee: $1800

Algebra Boot Camp

JULY 22 – AUGUST 2 (2 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

This class is a refresher course for students who have had a year of Algebra. We will review at least 20 key topics taught in Algebra classes. Intended for the student who never felt that they learned all the concepts deeply enough or have forgotten important concepts, this course can provide a great opportunity to practice and strengthen needed skills for Algebra 2 before September. Competency in Algebra is fundamental for moving on to the next level in math, and we will use this course as an opportunity to (re)build these core skills.

Course Fee: $1050

Grammar Boot Camp, Grades 7-10

JULY 29 - AUGUST 9 (2 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The course is appropriate for students entering grade seven and above, and it is especially recommended for students new to RCDS entering grades seven through ten.

Course Fee: $950

Trigonometry Boot Camp

JULY 29 – AUGUST 9 (2 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

This class is a refresher course for students who have studied Trigonometry. We will review the key topics taught in Trigonometry. Intended for the student who never felt that they learned all the concepts deeply enough or have forgotten important concepts, this course can provide a great opportunity to practice and strengthen needed skills for Trigonometry before September. Competency in Trigonometry is fundamental for moving on to the next level in math, and we will use this course as an opportunity to (re)build these core skills. Some topics include: degrees, radians, use of the unit circle to evaluate, solve, graph (all 6 functions) with simple transformations, 8 basic identities, triangles (right triangles, law of sines and law of cosines), and applications.

Course Fee: $1050

World History I Skill Building, Grades 8-9

WEEK 1: JULY 15 – JULY 19 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: JULY 22 – JULY 26 (1 Week)
WEEK 3: JULY 29 – AUGUST 2 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Please note that the week-long course will repeat during the different weeks.

Open to students entering Grades 8-9.

Course Fee: $300

World History II Skill Building, Grades 9-10

WEEK 1: JULY 15 – JULY 19 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: JULY 22 – JULY 26 (1 Week)
WEEK 3: JULY 29 – AUGUST 2 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
11:000 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The one-week course is designed to build upon foundational high school reading and note-taking skills with a greater emphasis on analytical reading and writing using primary sources from topics in the 19th-21st centuries. Writing practice will focus on constructing strong thesis statements, effective arguments, and evaluating credible evidence and sources. Students will explore a different historical topic each day, including the Industrial Revolution, World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and Globalization.

Please note that the week-long course will repeat during the different weeks.

Open to students entering Grades 9-10.

Course Fee: $300

Writing Workshop, Grades 7-9

JULY 1 – AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
Session 1: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Session 2: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Students will complete much of the work in class, but there will be regular homework.

This course is open to students entering Grades 7-9.

Course Fee: $1350

Writing Workshop, Grades 10-12

JULY 1– AUGUST 9 (6 Weeks)
Monday - Friday
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Students will complete much of the work in class, but there will be regular homework.

This course is open to students entering Grades 10 through 12.

Course Fee: $1350

Upper School Enrichment

Biotechnology & Innovation, Grades 9-12

JULY 1 – JULY 5 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
9:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Major advances in biology and technology are transforming the way scientists conduct medical research. The biotechnology industry boomed recently due to development of COVID-19 medicines/vaccines as well as positive developments in other therapeutic areas. In this hands-on laboratory course, students will gain an introduction to several scientific concepts and laboratory research techniques currently used in the field of biotechnology. Furthermore, students will explore and evaluate career opportunities, meet with scientists in this field, and conduct laboratory experiments, such as molecular genetic techniques (PCR and electrophoresis), CRISPR-Cas9, and bacterial cloning.

Prerequisites: General Biology or a love of science

Open to rising Grades 9-12 students.

Course fee: $500 (materials fee included)

Elections and Democracy, Grades 8-11

WEEK 1: JULY 15 – JULY 19 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: JULY 22 – JULY 26 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Please note that the week-long seminar will repeat during the different weeks.

This course is open to students entering Grades 8-11.

Course Fee: $400

Philosophy, Grades 9-12

WEEK 1: JULY 8 – JULY 12 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: AUGUST 5 – AUGUST 9 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

This week-long seminar will allow students to build their critical thinking and discussions skills by investigating the history of philosophy and evaluating the ways we "know" about the world around us. The course will introduce students to the writing of key philosophers in different fields within the subject. Students will explore a different topic each day, including Early Greek Philosophers, Evaluating the Self, the Art of Reasoning and Knowledge, East Asian Philosophies, and the Ethics of Modern Technology.

Please note that the week-long seminar will repeat during the different weeks.

Open to students entering Grades 9-12.

Course Fee: $300

World Revolutions (16th-20th Centuries), Grades 8-12

WEEK 1: JULY 8 - JULY 12 (1 Week)
WEEK 2: AUGUST 5 - AUGUST 9 (1 Week)
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Please note that the week-long course will repeat during the different weeks.

This course is open to students entering Grades 8-12.

Course Fee: $300