Veritas Discovery Program: Middle School Summer Enrichment

The St. Agnes Academy Veritas Discovery Program offers a vibrant and dynamic environment where young minds can explore, create, and thrive. Designed to supplement traditional curriculum, these camps provide an array of enriching activities spanning various disciplines such as STEM, arts, humanities, and physical education. Students will be encouraged to think critically, collaborate with peers, and hone their problem-solving skills. Beyond academics, these courses foster personal growth and self-confidence. Whether delving into the mysteries of science, unleashing creativity through artistic expression, or discovering new passions, the St. Agnes Academy Middle School Enrichment Summer Experience ignites curiosity and inspires lifelong learning. Participants will leave with cherished memories, lasting friendships, and a newfound enthusiasm for exploring the world around them.

The program will run two weeks: June 2-6, 2025 and June 9-13, 2025 and there will be two sessions each week. The program is choose your own adventure style and students may sign up for only one course or up to four courses.

The program timing is indicated by: 
  • Week 1: Session 1 (June 2-6, 8:00-10:00 a.m.)
  • Week 1: Session 2 (June 2-6, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.)
  • Week 2: Session 1 (June 9-13, 8:00-10:00 a.m.)
  • Week 2: Session 2 (June 9-13, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.)


REGISTRATION FOR THE 2025 SUMMER PROGRAM OPENS SOON!

VDP Director

List of 1 members.

  • Photo of Kathleen Fritsch

    Kathleen "Katie" Fritsch 

    St. Agnes Academy
    History & Social Science Teacher
    713-219-5543
    National University - M.A.
    Trinity University - B.A.
    2002

2024 Week 1, Session 1 Course Samples

List of 4 items.

  • Podcast Pioneers: Unleash Your Voice!

    This course is tailor-made for 6th to 8th graders ready to dive into the world of podcasting. Learn the art of storytelling through voice as we cover scriptwriting secrets, voice modulation mastery, and basic editing techniques. The spotlight is on you as you craft and record your own mini-podcasts on topics that spark your imagination. Unleash your creativity and make your voice heard in the Podcast Pioneers community.


  • Sew Much Fun: Crafting Creativity One Stitch at a Time

    Welcome to “Sew Much Fun” – a delightful beginning sewing course that promises to unleash your creativity and fill your world with handmade charm! In this course, participants will embark on a journey into the colorful realm of fabric and thread, learning basic hand sewing techniques while making a variety of useful and whimsical creations. Whether crafting stylish bags for everyday use, adorable stuffies to cuddle up with, or personalized bookmarks to adorn favorite books, participants will delight in the process of designing and stitching their own unique creations. This course is perfect for beginners who are eager to explore the joys of seeing while unleashing their imagination.


  • A Sirius Course for Muggles: The Harry Potter Series

    Step into the magical world of Harry Potter with our immersive enrichment class! Upon receiving their Hogwarts letters of acceptance, students will embark on a journey of discovery and camaraderie. Sorted into their respective houses through Pottermore, they will delve into the rich history and notable members of their chosen house while crafting personalized nametags with house-related themes. Engaging discussions on book themes will lead to the creation of a "Harry Potter, a History" book chronicling the series' main events, while charms class will see students crafting their own wands and mastering various spells. Defense Against Dark Arts classes will culminate in thrilling duels, adding an element of excitement to the curriculum. Participants will also learn about Hogwarts itself, constructing a detailed model of the iconic school and embarking on a horcrux hunt within its halls. Classes on potion-making and divination, including reading tea leaves, will further deepen students' understanding of magical practices. The experience will culminate in a Triwizard Tournament, Harry Potter trivia, and Quidditch matches set up in the back pavilion, complete with a selection of Harry Potter-themed candies. Finally, students will capture memories with a Hogwarts Class of 2024 picture alongside their finished Hogwarts model, commemorating their unforgettable journey into the wizarding world.

  • Summer Fusion: Wellness Workout Wonderland

    Embark on a transformative journey of holistic wellness with our summer enrichment class tailored to invigorate both mind and body. Embracing a diverse range of exercise techniques, from the serene mindfulness of yoga to the dynamic intensity of CrossFit, participants will discover the joy of movement in myriad forms. Guided by an experienced instructor, each session promises not only physical revitalization but also mental rejuvenation, fostering a deeper understanding of self-care and balance. Whether you're seeking to stretch and unwind with gentle yoga poses or challenge your limits with high-intensity CrossFit workouts, this program offers something for everyone. Join us to begin a summer of wellness, empowerment, and personal growth.

2024 Week 1, Session 2 Course Samples

List of 4 items.

  • Creative Mavericks and Mastering Ads

    Dive into the dynamic universe of advertising where creativity meets technology in “Creative Mavericks.” This week-long adventure is tailor-made for 6th to 8th graders eager to unleash their imaginative prowess. In this course, students will embark on a dual journey – first they’ll plunge into the captivating work of Social Media Marketing Simulation. Get ready to craft fictional social media profiles for out-of-this-world products, strategize to captivate the online masses, and unravel the secrets of digital influence. Unleash your creativity, become a marketing maestro, and let the world witness the rise of Creative Mavericks! Get ready for a week of laughter, learning, and limitless possibilities in the ever-evolving landscape of advertising.
  • Recreational Sports & Games: Play, Score, Thrive!

    Discover the excitement of our Recreational Sports & Games course, tailor-made for middle schoolers eager to unleash the fun! Dive headfirst into an action-packed lineup featuring a variety of exhilarating activities, including badminton, pickleball, spike ball, and more. Whether you're honing your skills on the badminton court, mastering the finesse of pickleball, or diving into the fast-paced world of spike ball, there's something for everyone in this dynamic course. With a focus on teamwork, sportsmanship, and active play, participants will develop essential physical and social skills while having a blast with their peers. Join us as we dive into the world of recreational sports and games, where the fun never stops!
  • STEM Spectacular: Hands-On Science Adventure

    Throughout this week-long class, each day follows a structured routine designed to engage students in various scientific principles through captivating demonstrations, discussions, and hands-on projects. Led by the teacher, the day kicks off with attention-grabbing demonstrations, aiming to elicit a “wow factor” and spark curiosity. Subsequently class delve into the underlying science principles behind the showcased demos, fostering a deeper understanding among students. Following this, students immerse themselves into crafting projects or conducting experiments aimed at reinforcing the concepts explored earlier in the day. The daily projects are meticulously curated to cover a spectrum of scientific disciplines, offering a diverse learning experience. From physics-based explorations into convection and buoyancy to chemistry-centered investigations on separation techniques and color-changing chemistry, each day offers a unique blend of theory and practical application. Furthermore, an engineering-focused day highlights concepts related to stored energy, culminating in the creation of cardboard cars, mirroring the hands-on approach prevalent throughout the class. Through this immersive and interactive approach, students are not only exposed to foundational scientific concepts, but also encouraged to explore and experiment, fostering a lasting appreciation for the wonders of science and engineering.
  • The Eras Class: Are You Ready for It?

    Welcome to “The Era Class: Are You Ready for It?” – a dynamic journey through the storytelling prowess of Taylor Swift’s music. In this course, students will embark on an exploration of Swift’s songs, dissecting their intricate narratives, poetic devices, and rhetorical flourishes. From the raw emotion of her early country ballads to the empowering anthems of her pop era, participants will analyze Swift’s evolution as a songwriter and storyteller. Through engaging discussions and hands-on projects, students will uncover the artistry behind Swift’s lyrics, identifying themes, motifs, and literary techniques that resonate across her discography. Whether crafting visual interpretations through Canva or unleashing their creativity with handmade projects, students will channel their insights into captivating presentations that showcase their understanding of Swift’s craft. Get ready to dive deep into the world of Taylor Swift’s music and emerge with a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling in songwriting.

2024 Week 2, Session 1 Course Samples

List of 7 items.

  • A Sirius Course for Muggles: The Harry Potter Series

    Step into the magical world of Harry Potter with our immersive enrichment class! Upon receiving their Hogwarts letters of acceptance, students will embark on a journey of discovery and camaraderie. Sorted into their respective houses through Pottermore, they will delve into the rich history and notable members of their chosen house while crafting personalized nametags with house-related themes. Engaging discussions on book themes will lead to the creation of a "Harry Potter, a History" book chronicling the series' main events, while charms class will see students crafting their own wands and mastering various spells. Defense Against Dark Arts classes will culminate in thrilling duels, adding an element of excitement to the curriculum. Participants will also learn about Hogwarts itself, constructing a detailed model of the iconic school and embarking on a horcrux hunt within its halls. Classes on potion-making and divination, including reading tea leaves, will further deepen students' understanding of magical practices. The experience will culminate in a Triwizard Tournament, Harry Potter trivia, and Quidditch matches set up in the back pavilion, complete with a selection of Harry Potter-themed candies. Finally, students will capture memories with a Hogwarts Class of 2024 picture alongside their finished Hogwarts model, commemorating their unforgettable journey into the wizarding world.
  • Brushstrokes and Beyond: Exploring the Fundamentals of Art

    Brushstrokes and Beyond offers students a comprehensive exploration of the essential elements and principles of design, color theory, and two-dimensional art, complemented by an insightful journey through Modern art history. Over the span of one week, participants will delve into creative thinking skills, cultivating a deeper artistic awareness while honing their practical abilities in contemporary art creation. Through hands-on experiences in drawing, conceptual design, painting, and color theory, students will develop proficiency in fundamental art techniques. Engaging class discussions will illuminate the historical significance of visual arts across diverse cultures, providing context for the artistic journey. This immersive course not only equips students with a solid creative foundation but also encourages experimentation with basic art materials and mediums. Culminating in the creation of a 10”x10” abstract painting inspired by Henri Matisse’s collage works, participants will leave with both practical skills and a newfound appreciation for the visual language of art.
  • Flight School: Gravity, Kites, and Rocket Science

    Embark on a thrilling journey of discovery this summer with our dynamic enrichment class, where the wonders of gravity, the buoyancy of helium in balloons, the mechanics of airplane and bird flight, the art of kite-making, and the excitement of rocket launches collide. Through a blend of hands-on experiments, captivating demonstrations, and interactive projects, students will unravel the mysteries of the universe. They’ll learn about the fundamental force of gravity and its role in keeping our feet firmly planted on the ground, while also exploring the fascinating dynamics of helium-filled balloons as they gracefully defy gravity’s pull. From understanding the principles of lift and thrust that enable airplanes to soar through the sky to dissecting the intricate aerodynamics of bird flight, participants will gain a deep appreciation for the physics behind flight. With each lesson sparking curiosity and imagination, this summer class promises to be an unforgettable journey in the realms of gravity, flight, and beyond.
  • Podcast Pioneers: Unleash Your Voice!

    This course is tailor-made for 6th to 8th graders ready to dive into the world of podcasting. Learn the art of storytelling through voice as we cover scriptwriting secrets, voice modulation mastery, and basic editing techniques. The spotlight is on you as you craft and record your own mini-podcasts on topics that spark your imagination. Unleash your creativity and make your voice heard in the Podcast Pioneers community.
  • Recreational Sports & Games: Play, Score, Thrive!

    Discover the excitement of our Recreational Sports & Games course, tailor-made for middle schoolers eager to unleash the fun! Dive headfirst into an action-packed lineup featuring a variety of exhilarating activities, including badminton, pickleball, spike ball, and more. Whether you're honing your skills on the badminton court, mastering the finesse of pickleball, or diving into the fast-paced world of spike ball, there's something for everyone in this dynamic course. With a focus on teamwork, sportsmanship, and active play, participants will develop essential physical and social skills while having a blast with their peers. Join us as we dive into the world of recreational sports and games, where the fun never stops!
  • The Eras Class: Are You Ready for It?

    Welcome to “The Era Class: Are You Ready for It?” – a dynamic journey through the storytelling prowess of Taylor Swift’s music. In this course, students will embark on an exploration of Swift’s songs, dissecting their intricate narratives, poetic devices, and rhetorical flourishes. From the raw emotion of her early country ballads to the empowering anthems of her pop era, participants will analyze Swift’s evolution as a songwriter and storyteller. Through engaging discussions and hands-on projects, students will uncover the artistry behind Swift’s lyrics, identifying themes, motifs, and literary techniques that resonate across her discography. Whether crafting visual interpretations through Canva or unleashing their creativity with handmade projects, students will channel their insights into captivating presentations that showcase their understanding of Swift’s craft. Get ready to dive deep into the world of Taylor Swift’s music and emerge with a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling in songwriting.
  • VentureCraft: Igniting Entrepreneurial Sparks

    Welcome to VentureCraft – an exciting entrepreneurial course that will empower students to unleash their creativity and business acumen! In this dynamic workshop, participants will dive headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship, collaborating in groups or individually to conceptualize, create, market, and sell their own products. From innovative inventions to artisanal crafts, students will have the opportunity to bring their ideas to life while learning essential business skills along the way. As the course progresses, students will delve into market research, branding strategies, and sales techniques, honing their entrepreneurial mindset and problem-solving abilities. The culmination of the course will be a “farmers market” type event where participants will vie to attract customers and make sales. Get ready to unlock your potential and embark on a journey of innovation, collaboration, and business success!

2024 Week 2, Session 2 Course Samples

List of 5 items.

  • Creative Mavericks and Mastering Ads

    Dive into the dynamic universe of advertising where creativity meets technology in “Creative Mavericks.” This week-long adventure is tailor-made for 6th to 8th graders eager to unleash their imaginative prowess. In this course, students will embark on a dual journey – first they’ll plunge into the captivating work of Social Media Marketing Simulation. Get ready to craft fictional social media profiles for out-of-this-world products, strategize to captivate the online masses, and unravel the secrets of digital influence. Unleash your creativity, become a marketing maestro, and let the world witness the rise of Creative Mavericks! Get ready for a week of laughter, learning, and limitless possibilities in the ever-evolving landscape of advertising.
  • Crowns and Controversy: Real-Life Princesses Behaving Badly in History

    Step into the scandalous world of royalty with our captivating course, “Crowns and Controversy: Real-Life Princesses Behaving Badly in History.” Delve into the untold tales of princesses who defied convention, challenged authority, and stirred up controversy throughout the ages. From notorious love affairs to political intrigue, participants will uncover the captivating stories of royal women who refused to conform to society’s expectations. Through engaging lectures, lively discussions, and immersive activities, we will explore the scandals, betrayals, and triumphs of these remarkable figures. From the scandalous escapades of Princess Caroline of Brunswick to the rebellious spirit of Princess Margaret, no royal stone will be left unturned. By examining the lives of these complex and multifaceted princesses, participants will gain a deeper understanding of power, privilege, and the human condition. Get ready to be captivated by tales of intrigue, passion, and defiance in this enthralling journey through royal history.
  • Sew Much Fun: Crafting Creativity One Stitch at a Time

    Welcome to “Sew Much Fun” – a delightful beginning sewing course that promises to unleash your creativity and fill your world with handmade charm! In this course, participants will embark on a journey into the colorful realm of fabric and thread, learning basic hand sewing techniques while making a variety of useful and whimsical creations. Whether crafting stylish bags for everyday use, adorable stuffies to cuddle up with, or personalized bookmarks to adorn favorite books, participants will delight in the process of designing and stitching their own unique creations. This course is perfect for beginners who are eager to explore the joys of seeing while unleashing their imagination.
     
  • Stuck in the MIDDLE: Not a god, not a human – how Percy Jackson reveals what it’s like to be in between

    Embark on an extraordinary journey with our captivating course, “Stuck in the MIDDLE: Not a god, not a human – how Percy Jackson reveals what it’s like to be in between.” In this immersive exploration, participants will delve into the enchanting world of Rick Riordan’s beloved Percy Jackson series, discovering the rich tapestry of myth and modernity woven throughout its pages. Through a blend of literary analysis, philosophical inquiry, and lively discussion, students will unravel the complexities of being neither fully divine nor entirely mortal, just like Percy himself. From grappling with identity and belonging to navigating the challenges of adolescence and heroism, participants will uncover the universal themes and timeless truths embedded within Percy’s epic quest. Through engaging activities and creative projects, students will explore their own experiences of “being in between,” gaining insights into resilience, empathy, and the power of embracing one’s unique journey. Join us as we embark on an odyssey of self-discovery, where the lines between gods and humans blur, and the true essence of heroism lies in embracing the magic within.
  • Summer Fusion: Wellness Workout Wonderland

    Embark on a transformative journey of holistic wellness with our summer enrichment class tailored to invigorate both mind and body. Embracing a diverse range of exercise techniques, from the serene mindfulness of yoga to the dynamic intensity of CrossFit, participants will discover the joy of movement in myriad forms. Guided by an experienced instructor, each session promises not only physical revitalization but also mental rejuvenation, fostering a deeper understanding of self-care and balance. Whether you're seeking to stretch and unwind with gentle yoga poses or challenge your limits with high-intensity CrossFit workouts, this program offers something for everyone. Join us to begin a summer of wellness, empowerment, and personal growth.

Inspirit A.I. Summer Program

St. Agnes Academy is excited to host an in-person, pre-college, project-based artificial intelligence program through Inspirit AI, an AI education program developed and taught by Stanford and MIT graduates this summer.
 
Artificial intelligence is the defining technology of our times: in our voice-activated devices, smartphone face recognition systems, autonomous vehicles, and now in generative AI like ChatGPT. This is a unique opportunity for students with diverse interests to understand and apply AI to improve the world.
 
More about the 2025 Inspirit AI Summer Program to come.