Summer Enrichment Program

Since 1982, SUNY Adirondack has provided learning opportunities for area students through our Summer Enrichment Program. Browse our 2023 offerings below!
 
Registration: Register online using our Summer Enrichment Registration Request Form.
 

QUICK LINKS

For students entering grades 4-6
For students entering grades 7-10
For students entering grades 11-12 or recent graduates
ENTERING GRADES 4-6 | 8:15 TO 10:15 A.M.
 
American Sign Language (ASL) for Beginners
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
This beginners’ course will teach basic signs and conversations of American Sign Language (ASL). Through games and activities, you’ll learn the alphabet, fingerspell your own name and play ASL bingo. Also, learn ASL signs for new vocabulary words. Learn the signs for animals, numbers, math activities, opposites, facial expressions, feelings and much more! Eventually, you will learn to have small conversations with each other in ASL.
 
You’ll know enough sign language by the end of this course to be able to tell a short story, as well as show off your skills during the showcase event. The instructor, Colette Steves, has certification through the American Sign Language Teachers Association, and teaches ASL courses at SUNY Adirondack.
 
Instructor: Colette Steves
Price: $165 (Course price includes a $10 materials fee.)
CRN: 70007
 
 
 
Wild Watercolor Experience NEW!
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Make a splash this summer by experimenting and playing with a variety of materials as you create unique paintings! Discover the joy and freedom of painting
with watercolors. Experience how much fun watercolors can be as you explore a different technique, style or trick during each session, and put your new artistic
knowledge to use. In this wild watercolor experience, you’ll start out with basic techniques and move on to a graffiti project, shaving cream marbling, mosaics, geodes and bubble snakes.
 
Instructor: Leslie Gould
Price: $145 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 70016
 
 
 
Hands-On History (Grades 4-6)
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Look at history in a whole new way! Forget memorizing names, dates and events — this class brings history to life using hands-on arts and crafts, technology, STEM and even food! Learn about different eras through global history in fun and memorable ways. We’ll make models of ancient wonders, board games and sweet treats, and perform science experiments to demonstrate important discoveries made in our world.
 
Instructor: Marie Williams
Price: $135 (Course price includes a $5 materials fee.)
CRN: 70006
 
 
 
Forensic Science & Genetic Genealogy (Grades 4-6) NEW!
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
This forensic science course is a modern take on the established field of forensics. We’ll start with a review of traditional forensic techniques such as fingerprinting and crime scene analysis, and move toward the future to discuss DNA databases and forensic genetic genealogy. We will cover analysis of crime scenes, blood spatter, fingerprints, STR and sequencing DNA.
 
Instructor: Tobi A. Kirschmann, DNA Investigations LLC
Price: $149 (Course price includes a $20 materials fee.)
CRN: 70029
 
 
 
Intro to Computer Programming NEW!
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Learn the fundamentals of coding through a variety of projects and games. This course will start with basics such as variables, conditional statements, loops, coordinates and more. Projects including Magic 8 Ball, Rock Paper Scissors simulator, Hungry Snake and others will implement and reinforce basic skills learned.
 
Instructor: Jessika Pietryka
Price: $129
CRN: 70031
 
 
 
ENTERING GRADES 4-6 | 10:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.
 
Adventures in Rocket Engineering NEW!
July 10 to 27
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Learn the engineering design process by designing, constructing and testing water rockets to fly great distances and return precious cargo to earth. This class will focus on distance and launching rockets for height — the second of which will return an egg cargo back to earth safely. Use the engineering design process to learn and explore your ideas in exciting and engaging ways using water rockets.
 
Instructor: Kris Darlington, New York State Master Teacher
Price: $139 (Course price includes a $10 materials fee.)
CRN: 70017
 
 
 
The Wonderful World of Science NEW!
July 10 to 27
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Spark an interest in multiple branches of science with hands-on experiments and inquiry-based learning. We will conduct experiments/activities from multiple branches of science each week.
  • Ecology — Learn about coral reefs, an amazing ecosystem in our oceans. Explore Nemo’s home, and examine what organisms make the reefs their habitats and how humans are engineering structures to help protect and conserve these beautiful landscapes.
  • Forensic Science — Play the role of a detective and use forensic tests to solve the case of the missing cookie. Examine how to properly collect evidence and conduct hair analysis, fingerprinting and more!
  • Anatomy & Physiology — Discover the human body, one of the most complex machines. We will explore the different body systems with fun-filled activities. Our final investigation will be a frog dissection.
 
Instructor: Lea Houle
Price: $159 (Course price includes a $30 materials fee.)
CRN: 70019
 
 
 
Drawing & Painting Animals NEW!
July 10 to 27
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Learn how to draw and paint domesticated and wild animals with a special attention to shape, anatomy, texture, color and environment. Activities include anatomical studies of animals in pencil with watercolor wash, pastel drawings and tempera paintings using texture and color. Work from photo references with some sketching outdoors.
 
Instructor: Katherine Patterson, SUNY Adirondack adjunct instructor
Price: $145 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 70018
 
 
 
ENTERING GRADES 4-6 | 1 TO 3 P.M.
 
Pokémon Battle Arena NEW!
July 10 to 27
1 to 3 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury Campus
 
Pokémon Battle Arena celebrates and explores all things Pokémon! This course will train you to become the ultimate Pokémon master in the Battle Arena card game. Explore different types of Pokémon and their abilities. Through two-person game play, learn the intricate moves involved in the Pokémon Battle Arena card game. Who will you choose?
 
Instructor: Lea Houle
Price: $145 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 70020
 
 
 
Crystal Myths & Magic NEW!
July 10 to 27
1 to 3 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury Campus
 
Spend 24 hours exploring rock and mineral crystals in the SUNY Adirondack geology lab! Each day, you’ll work with a team to identify samples of rocks and minerals using the tools of a geologist. Grow crystals, examine their shapes and build models of their atomic structure. Create a scientist’s notebook, in which you’ll draw diagrams and write observations, make lists, organize your data, share findings with your team and create questions for further investigation. We’ll connect the science and history of crystals with centuries of the myth and magic of how civilizations used these precious resources.
 
Instructor: Linda Fusco, Ph.D.
Price: $155 (Course price includes a $25 materials fee.)
CRN: 70021
 
 
 
All About Dogs
July 10 to 27
1 to 3 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury Campus
 
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to learn the language dogs speak? Learn about dog safety, body language, games to play with your dog and proper behavior around dogs. Highlights of this class will include dog visitors and opportunities to earn “Bonus Bones” toward great prizes at the end. You don’t need to have a dog to enjoy this class! Have fun and learn more about our canine companions.
 
Instructor: Helen Bemis
Price: $135 (Course price includes a $5 materials fee.)
CRN: 70008
 
 
 
ENTERING GRADES 7-10 | 8:15 TO 10:15 A.M.
 
Drawing & Painting Exploration NEW!
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Artists will explore technical and creative aspects of drawing with charcoal, then expand into an investigation of black, white and colored paint. During the first week, try observational drawing in charcoal. During the second week, we’ll paint in in black and white. Finally, during the third week, we’ll paint in color.
 
Instructor: Katherine Patterson, SUNY Adirondack adjunct instructor
Price: $145 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 70023
 
 
 
Science Explorations NEW!
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Gain hands-on experience in multiple branches of science.
  • Ecology — Learn about coral reefs, an amazing ecosystem in our oceans. Explore what organisms make reefs their habitats and how humans are engineering structures to help protect and conserve these beautiful landscapes.
  • Forensic Science — Play the role of a detective and use forensic tests to solve a murder mystery. Examine how to properly collect evidence and conduct hair analysis, blood splatter and fingerprinting!
  • Anatomy & Physiology — Discover the human body, one of the most complex machines. Explore the different body systems with inquiry-based activities. Our final investigation will be a frog dissection.
 
Instructor: Lea Houle
Price: $159 (Course price includes a $30 materials fee.)
CRN: 70025
 
 
 
Adventures in Rocket Science NEW!
July 10 to 27
8:15 to 10:15 a.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Learn how to use the principles of motion to design a water rocket that can travel great distances and heights. Examine elements of rocket design — aerodynamics, propulsion and thrust — all powered by two-liter soda bottles using compressed air and water. By designing, building and testing a water rocket, you’ll use the laws of motion to your advantage to maximize your rocket’s performance. With the scientific method, design experiments that will test rocket flights, as well as design and examine their motion. Explore your ideas in an exciting and engaging way using water rockets, and learn what makes them work.
 
Instructor: Kris Darlington, New York State Master Teacher
Price: $139 (Course price includes a $10 materials fee.)
CRN: 70022
 
 
 
ENTERING GRADES 7-10 | 10:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.
 
Mural Painting 101 NEW!
July 10 to 27
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Murals have the potential to make powerful statements that express the values of a community, involve a diverse group of participants and enhance a public space. Learn the essentials of mural-making —logistics, history and technique — while also getting hands-on experience creating a collaborative mural. Build your communication skills while learning the start-to-finish processes of an alternative creative career path. Students who finish the class will receive an official certificate of completion that can be used for a college art portfolio. This course is taught by Hannah Williams, whose work includes a mural on Warren Street and art on electrical boxes in downtown Glens Falls.
 
Instructor: Hannah Williams
Price: $155 (Course price includes a $25 materials fee.)
CRN: 70024
 
 
Hands-On History (Grades 7-10)
July 10 to 27
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Look at history in a whole new way! Forget memorizing names, dates, and events — this class brings history to life using hands-on arts and crafts, technology, STEM and even food! Learn about different eras through global history in fun and memorable ways. We’ll make models of ancient wonders, board games and sweet treats, and perform science experiments to demonstrate important discoveries made in our world.
 
Instructor: Marie Williams
Price: $135 (Course price includes a $5 materials fee.)
CRN: 70010
 
 
 
Theater: Next Stage
July 10 to 27
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Next Stage is a performance program designed for new and skilled actors in grades 7 through 10, offered in conjunction with Lake Theatre Productions (Lake George Dinner Theatre). Audition and rehearse for the play “Whodunit?” by Anne Coulter Martens. During the rehearsal process, learn to use your voice, body and acting tactics to create individual characters and work as an ensemble. On the last day of this three-week program, family and friends will be invited to the Summer Enrichment Showcase event, where you’ll perform this one-act play. You’ll also receive one free ticket to see a matinee at Lake George Dinner Theatre’s “Shear Madness” and receive and LGDT swag!
 
Please note: Students should plan on attending all sessions of this class.
 
Instructor: Johnna Maiorella
Price: $149 (Course price includes a $20 materials fee.)
CRN: 70011
 
 
 
Forensic Science & Genetic Genealogy (Grades 7-10) NEW! (currently full; waitlisted)
July 10 to 27
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
This forensic science course is a modern take on the established field of forensics. We’ll start with a review of traditional forensic techniques such as fingerprinting and crime scene analysis, and move toward the future to discuss DNA databases and forensic genetic genealogy. We will cover the analysis of crime scenes, blood spatter, fingerprints, STR and sequencing DNA.
 
Instructor: Tobi A. Kirschmann, DNA Investigations LLC
Price: $149 (Course price includes a $20 materials fee.)
CRN: 70030
 
 
 
ENTERING GRADES 7-10 | 1 TO 3 P.M.
 
Introduction To “Dungeons & Dragons”
July 10 to 27
1 to 3 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Join us to learn how to play “Dungeons & Dragons,” the world’s most popular table-top role-playing game (TTRPG). Problem solve and engage in cooperative teamwork while crawling through a dungeon, building a character, casting spells and learning about d20s. You’ll also have a chance to learn how to run the game as a gamemaster.
 
Instructor: John Hills
Price: $129
CRN: 70009
 
 
 
Mystery Solved 2023
July 10 to 27
1 to 3 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Live synchronous & Queensbury campus
 
This classic course is back with all new riveting cases to investigate! You and other students will take on the exciting roles of suspects, witnesses, attorneys and judges in this examination of selected literary mysteries. Explore new cases from master detectives Sherlock Holmes, Auguste Dupin and Hercule Poirot. Historical mysteries are explored in the same intriguing format. This is also a great course for those who enjoy debates.
 
Please note: This class will be held using live, synchronous video through Zoom, with a limited number of spots available for students to join in person. Students will use Google Classroom. Accessing this course online requires a parent or student email address that is not a K-12 school email, as many districts use Google and there are issues with accessing Google Classrooms courses in different domains. Students must have access to the internet and enough bandwidth to support live video streaming.
 
Instructor: Paul Phillips
Price: $129
CRN (attending on Zoom): 70012
CRN (attending in person): 70013 (currently full; waitlisted)
 
 
 
Bookbinding NEW!
July 10 to 27
1 to 3 p.m. | Monday through Thursday | Queensbury campus
 
Learn to design and make a variety of books, including pamphlet, Japanese bound, Coptic and book block styles. Activities include cutting and crafting with paper, making homemade wheat paste glue, gluing decorative papers to cover boards, and assembling and stitching both hardcover and softcover books.
 
Instructor: Katherine Patterson, SUNY Adirondack adjunct instructor
Price: $145 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 70026
 
 
 
CULINARY ARTS CAMP
 
Culinary Arts Camp
July 14 to Aug. 4
Fridays | SUNY Adirondack Culinary Arts Center, Glens Falls
 
Entering grades 4-6: 9 a.m. to noon (CRN: 70014) (currently full; waitlisted)
Entering grades 7-10: 1 to 4 p.m. (CRN: 70015) (currently full; waitlisted)
 
Join SUNY Adirondack faculty chef Chris Leathem on a culinary adventure this summer. Young cooks will enjoy hands-on cooking experiences, getting a foundation in cooking basics. Each day, students will have the opportunity to make and try something different — varying from healthy snacks to desserts. These young chefs will work in the state-of-the-art Culinary Arts facility and teaching kitchen at Seasoned restaurant in downtown Glens Falls. Under expert instruction, and with access to incredible locally sourced ingredients, Culinary Arts Camp will help students become more creative and confident cooks.
 
Please note:
  • The Culinary Arts Center is a facility that processes nuts and other allergens. When registering for this program, indicate any food allergies on the Medical Release Form.
  • Students must be dropped off no more than 15 minutes before the start of the program, and students must be picked up promptly after the course ends. There is no before or after care for this course.
  • Students will use cutting utensils and cooking elements in these classes.
  • Students should bring an apron or old shirt and something to secure hair back.
 
Instructor: Chef Chris Leathem, SUNY Adirondack Culinary Arts
Price: $139 (Course price includes $40 materials fee.)
 
 
ENTERING GRADES 11-12 OR RECENT GRADUATES
 
Faculty Assistant & Summer Enrichment Office Assistant Program
 
Are you looking for a fun and rewarding way to spend a few weeks of your summer? If you are a student entering grades 11-12, or a recent graduate, you can participate in our Summer Enrichment Program as a faculty assistant or Summer Enrichment office assistant.
 
Faculty assistants have an opportunity to volunteer as an assistant with a Summer Enrichment faculty member in an area of interest, working with kids and helping them learn. Summer Enrichment office assistants volunteer at the Continuing Education office and assist with the program. At the end of the program, you will receive a certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation. Gain valuable experience building your resume! Contact our office at conted@sunyacc.edu or 518-743-2238 and we’ll send you an application.