In the Commons Series, local and regional leaders facilitate discussions about mindfulness, empathy, environmental sustainability, civic engagement, and inquiry-driven exploration.
Commons Series Event Live Stream
Watch the live event below, or click HERE to watch on Vimeo
Mr. Becker was a truly incredible teacher with a passion for his subject, and he shared his passion for chemistry with his students during each and every class. He pushed students to do their best and he worked hard to make sure they succeeded in his class. Whether it was re-working a homework problem, explaining labs, or helping students outside of class, Mr. Becker was always there to lend a hand.
His enthusiasm for chemistry was infectious, and it energized the class. He was also constantly innovating. During one lab, we produced an unknown gas, and he lit a match and stuck it in the test tube so that we could determine what it was. It was this kind of experience that made his class engaging. Mr. Becker had a love of learning, teaching, and his subject that made him an incredible teacher. I am so lucky to have been in his AP Chem class this year, and I wish him luck as he moves on to new and exciting opportunities.
—Frances Dickinson ‘23
Len Wilcox retired after 47 years of service at The Harley School. He held various roles including Upper School math teacher and computer science teacher. As head of the computer program, he helped Harley become one of the first schools in the area to introduce computers to the classroom.
Len said he will miss working with students, as well as the camaraderie he shared with his colleagues.
Larry Frye: “With the retirement of Len Wilcox, [we are] losing an invaluable member of our faculty who has truly made a difference in the lives of so many Harley students. On behalf of the entire school community, we wish Len all the best in his retirement. While we will miss his presence in our school, the impact he made during his time as an educator will continue on through every student he taught.”
Click here to see a piece written by Alex DeSantis
Kristin Sheradin: Bill Schara is a rock star in the Upper School who mastered how to make learning both meaningful and fun. Students idolized him because of his “magic” in the classroom, and here are two of the reasons why:
Being Passionate! Bill cared deeply about what he taught, and this made the students care, too. Through questioning, students actually felt the importance of what he was teaching — whether it was the injustices of capitalism or the Cold War.
Being Provocative! Using a technique, I fondly named “The Schara Hook,” Bill would open a lesson, such as one on Marxism, with a provocative question like, “How many of you know how to properly skin a squirrel?” (It involves starting from the back end, by the way.)
He loved throwing out a line (to keep the fishing metaphor going) and seeking the angle that would capture teens’ minds. He’d lure students into pretty much any topic — and they’d become “hooked” and want to know more.
His passion in the classroom was always inspiring, and his impact on so many students will be carried with them no matter what their futures hold.
Kim McDowell: “A lifelong teacher, Bill has taught first grade all the way through college. He began at Harley in Middle School in 1997 before migrating to Upper School. Bill insists that "He couldn't have asked for a better job," citing his appreciation for Harley's academic freedom and its people. Although he has taught history and social studies courses, ranging from World Revolutions to Food & Society, US Government to Philosophy & Ethics, Bill's favorite course has been "whatever kids are engaged in."
He’s looking forward to a retirement that feels as if "every day is Saturday” and plans to spend plenty of time fishing, camping, hiking, traveling, and visiting his grandchildren. As Bill transitions from inspiring teacher to student of nature, I wish him plenty of dry campsites, memorable vistas, and hungry fish.
He’s looking forward to a retirement that feels as if "every day is Saturday” and plans to spend plenty of time fishing, camping, hiking, traveling, and visiting his grandchildren. As Bill transitions from inspiring teacher to student of nature, I wish him plenty of dry campsites, memorable vistas, and hungry fish.”
Victor Ortiz joined the Maintenance Staff in 1982. As an evening maintenance crew member over 28 years, Victor left his mark with his quiet and friendly manner. He found humor in those every day, little things and always had a kind word to share with others.
Victor brought his lunch with him, usually leftovers that this mother made or chicken wings from the local convenience store, but on days when the dining hall cooked up some of his favorites, he would show his appreciation by eating both. We will miss his kind words, his friendly greetings, and his chuckle.
Mike Buck: “Victor was always a team player and would help out anyone and everyone who needed it.”
In December, Nita Goronkin retired after 23 years at The Harley School. Nita was in charge of human resources as the administrator and also accounts receivable. Her compassion and thoughtfulness for others was evident every day in her work. She listened to the concerns of faculty, staff, and Harley families, and spent the time to really get to know them on an individual level.
As an integral part of the finance team, Nita would constantly debate the right way to develop and administer policy with CFO, Ken Motsenbocker. Their discussions and attention to detail while developing employee policy were always respectful to the individuals while maintaining the integrity of the school.
Nita tirelessly advocated for her peers and made sure their voices were heard and that everyone was treated equally. She is greatly missed, but we are so happy for her as she takes this next step in her journey.
In 2008, Ken Motsenbocker joined Harley as Chief Financial Officer — just as the country went into the recession. His work helped create the strong and solid financial footing we have today. His work reviewing and negotiating contracts and paying off the school’s debt have made a lasting difference.
Ken helped manage many capital projects, such as: The Commons, an overhaul of our HVAC system, and everything from permits to contractors for the Peckham Wellness Center. He helped renegotiate our Industrial Development Agency Bonds and refinance them with a new bank at a more favorable rate, saving us a great deal every year.
What we will miss most about Ken is his dry wit, lavender-scented treats from his farm, and his banjo playing. In retirement, he looks forward to spending more time with his wife Connie, their 11 grandchildren, and his goats.
Larry Frye: “It is rare to find a CFO who so fully embraces the mission of a school, but that is Ken. From crunching numbers with the business folk on the Board Finance Committee to overseeing — and enthusiastically participating in — Lower School recess, Ken has truly done it all at Harley. He is a happy, curious, and playful person; and all the while he has helped oversee great educational and financial success for Harley.”
Tony Cinquino taught at Harley since 1979, and before that worked at the Rochester Psychiatric Center (1973 to 1978) with children from ages 4–16. He helped children and parents by developing behavior modification programs.
Tony began teaching in the Primary (then for K, 1st, and 2nd graders) and has been solidly planted in Grade 2 for a good long while. In 1981, he was awarded the Richard Wilson Teaching Endowment for a course in Children's Literature. In the 80s and 90s, he created and ran a summer computer camp, as well as an adult computer workshop.
He has served as coordinator for Grades 2 to 4 numerous times, and has served on many committees. He is also the mastermind behind the Second Grade Overnight, Creek Walk, and the Twoville Post Office.
Pam Kimmet (past head of LS): “You are the model of a master teacher,” and “Tony Cinquino is a self-renewing, dedicated teacher. His tremendous good humor and thoughtful ways enhance the affective climate in our division.”
Terry Smith: “One can't imagine a Harley where Tony isn't demonstrating how to catch elusive crayfish, hosting the Halloween Parade after party with jokes and puns, dressing up as a pirate, or promoting the Estimation Jar and math packets. But, we also can't imagine Tony not fully embracing his retirement and new role as Grandpa! We wish Tony the best in his grand adventures ahead! His influence can be seen in all aspects of the Lower School, and his spirit and attitude permeate the entire school. We will miss him deeply as a colleague, but we all know that he will still be involved in the school as a friend from his position of freedom.”
Dr. Deborah A. Abowitz '77
Jeffrey Alexis and Christine Hay
Mr. Laurent Alpert and Ms. Johanna Fend Alpert '64
James '74 and Cecilia Alsina
Mr. and Mrs. Chad Anderson
Ms. Emily Andrews '10
Ms. Sarah Andrews '12
Anonymous (7)
Ms. Beth Bailey and Ms. Melissa McHenry
Ms. Christine Baker
Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund
Jim and Carol Barclay
Mr. Chris Becker
Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Beer
Dr. Eric L. Bell
Charlene Berry
Dr. and Mrs. Heath Boice-Pardee
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Bowley
Mr. Christopher Brand
Ms. Whitney Brice
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Briggs
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Briggs
Ms. Valerie R. Bronte '99
Mr. Ryan Brush and Mrs. Melissa Fujimoto-Brooks
Paul J. Burgo '97
Ms. Susan Bush and Dr. Marianne Taylor
Ms. Patricia Butler
Mr. Seth Button '97
Martha Cameron '81
Ms. Sarah E. Chambers
Drs. Mitchell A. Chess and Patricia R. Chess
Kerry C. Cho '88
Mr. James Chung '89
Mr. John Clark and Dr. Nancy Shafer-Clark
Patricia Corcoran
Mr. Samuel Crabb and Dr. Glynis Scott
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur J. Dagen '51
Mr and Mrs. William Dalton
John D'Amanda '75 and Kathy Durfee D'Amanda '76
Ms. MaryLynn Dandrea and Mr. Stephen Kupferschmid
Stewart D. Davis
The DeNatale Family
Sarah Dengler '75
Beth DeWeese '75
Mr. and Mrs. Trevor DiMarco
Mr. Michael Discenza and Dr. Jacque Trama-Discenza
Dr. Gregory Dobson
Dr. Zhiyao Duan and Ms. Yunping Shao
Mr. Nathaniel G. Duckles '04
Robert and Lisa Duerr
Mr. Rashid Duroseau '05
Jo Eaton and Richard Babin
Ms. Christine Edge
Dr. Charles D. Fallon '60
Mr. Thomas E. Feldman '76 and Ms. Andrea J. Michie
Marilyn Fain Fenster
Mr. George Ferguson and Ms. Pia Cseri-Briones
Drs. Paulo Fernandes and Lucelene Lopes
Mr. David Fetterman and Ms. Adrienne McHargue
Ms. Selena Fleming
Mr. Andrew Flinders '89
Ms. Arline Fonda
Dr. Rich Fonda
Scott Frame '73 and Katherine Kearns Frame '73
Drs. Jonathan Friedberg and Laura Calvi
Mr. Lawrence Damrad Frye and Ms. Robin Damrad Frye
James and Marjorie Fulmer
Christopher Gabel '92
Brian and Julie Gambill
John '70 and Karen Gardner
Mr. Hugh Germanetti
Mr. Ward J. Ghory and Ms. Anne Ghory-Goodman
Richard and Joyce Gilbert
John L. Goldman '52
Mr. and Mrs. Lee Goldman '86
Miss Taixi Gong
Mr. Robert Gray '92 and Ms. Alison Carling
Anthony L. and Earlene C. Gugino
Gregory and Priscilla Gumina
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Haldeman
Haldeman Family Foundation
Cynthia Hallenbeck '75
Ned Hallick '68
Mr. Gregory Halpern and Ms. Ahndraya Parlato
Mr. and Mrs. Henry NG Hanson '60
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Hartman
Barbara Hays '47
Betsy Hecker '73
Mr. and Mrs. Shaun Heckman
Dr. and Mrs. Wade C. Hedegard
Mr. William Hosley
Chris and Kristy Houston
Drs. Fred M. Howard and Cynthia R. Howard
Mr. Steven R. Jackson '06
Mr. Jeremy Jamieson and Ms. Karsten Solberg
Dr. Roy Jones
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Joslyn
Ms. Elizabeth Kabes
Ms. Anna Kennedy '13
Dr. and Mrs. Paul Kennedy
Ms. Anna J. Kieburtz '06
Paul Kingsley and Kathleen McGrath
Ms. Naomi Kinsler
Robert Kopfman and Sharon Humiston
Dr. Harlan Kosson
Ms. Sonja B. Kreckel
Mrs. Susan Weil Kunz '52
Ms. Marcia Layton Turner
Dr. Hochang Lee and Mrs. Christine Chung
Ms. Cynthia Lees
Ms. Hillary M. Levitt '04
Mr. Mark Goldstein and Dr. Dena Levy
Dr. Kenneth Lindahl and Mrs. Kathy Lindahl
Dr. and Mrs. Stuart Loeb
Ms. Victoria A. Lomaglio '06
Dr. Alan Lorenz and Ms. Nancy Sands
Dr. Frederick S. Cohn and Ms. Janice Loss
Staffan '66 and Lee Craig Lundback '66
Maple Ave Dental
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Marcus
Mr. and Mrs. Madhava Marri
Mrs. Kenneth Maxwell
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew McAlpin
Kurt and Lisa McConnell
Mr. and Mrs. David McCoy
Lee S. McDermott (Lee Sherwood Allen '64)
Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. McGraw, III
Robert McLear '88 and Claire McLear '87
Jon and Susan Parkes McNally
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mendolia
Dr. Mary Gail Mercurio
Mike '78 and Betsy Merin
Jeannette C. Mitchell
Drs. Scott Mooney and Chin-Lin Ching
John '81 and Erinne Morse
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Mortellaro
Mr. Roderick Mortimer
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Muisus
Mr. Marvin Muller, III and Mrs. Jennifer Schwartzott
Mr. Jeffrey Neable and Ms. Laural Hartman
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Neumaier
Drs. Patricia Newcomb and Janet Gillespie
Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Nice
Carl Nielsen and Patricia Corcoran
Robert and Milena Novy-Marx
Mr. John Nugent and Ms. Dawn Thomson
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Obourn
The Oese-Siegel's
Ms. Mirel Oese-Siegel '08
Ms. Jean M. Oswald
Drs. Ryan-Jon Palmitesso and Alisa Kim
Mrs. Julie Walker Parker '79
Walter Parkes
Ms. Sandra E. Patla
Mrs. Julia Messenger Pearsall '80
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Pinch
Terry Platt and Dianne Edgar
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Plonsky
Mr. Douglas Pratt
Mr. and Mrs. David Publow
Mr. Paul Raca and Ms. Nancy Raca
Mr. Gabriel Racz '90 and Ms. Melanie Walker
Drs. Amit Ray and Jessica Lieberman
James and Nancy Rinehart
Mr. Tim Robinson and Mrs. Page Durant Robinson '01
Rochester Area Community Foundation
Neal Roden
Mr. and Mrs. Todd Rogers
Mr. and Mrs. David Rutberg
Jane Liesveld and Deepak Sahasrabudhe
Ms. Karen Saludo and Mr. Dennis Drew
Miss Izabella Sander
Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Sander
Sarphatie Educaton
Drs. Edward Sassaman and Michelle Shayne
Alicia Morgenberger Schober '85
Dave and Nancy Schraver
Dr. and Mrs. Steven Schulz
Schwab Charitable Fund
Ms. Samantha R. Scott '15
Mr. Russell Scott and Dr. Christine Scott
Mr. Amos Scully and Ms. Stephanie Ashenfelder
Chip and Marit Sheffield
Laurie Sherwood '69
Mr. Shashi Sinha and Dr. Corinna Schlombs
The Sisson Family
Mrs. Margaret Smerbeck
Jackie Smith
Dr. Regina Smolyak
Mr. Niko Smrekar and Ms. Cara Cardinale
Alan and Helen Soanes
Drs. Alexander Solky and Valerie Lang
Dr. Hannah Solky
Mr. Paul Sparacino '72
Mrs. Suzy Spencer
Dr. Eric Spitzer
Ms. Virginia Smythe Spofford '74
Dr. Douglas Stockman and Ms. Marietta Cutrone
Charles Stuard '82
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Sullivan
Brenda Fuhrman Swain '77
Deb and Mike Szuromi
Rustam Tahir and Vivian Lewis
Andrea Taylor
Tim Tindall and Erica Harper
Michael R. Todd '64
Ms. Connez Todd '65
Ted '98 and Jennifer Townsend
Jim '61 and Anne Townsend
Ms. Sarah Townsend '01
Susan Turiano
Marguerite Urban and Linda Spillane
United Way of Greater Rochester
Mrs. Mary Ellen T. Urzetta
Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program
Drs. Anthony Villani and Zsuzsanna Marchl
Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Walker
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Wallace
Mr. Andrew Washburn and Dr. Elizabeth Santos
Drs. Joseph Wedekind and Clara Kielkopf
Mr. and Mrs. William T. West
Mr. Peter V. Whitbeck '71
Dr. Julie L. Whitbeck '81
Bill '58 and Bobbi Whiting
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Wilcox
Miss Winifred S. Wilcox-Fox
Helen Wiley and Marian Payson
Mr. Alan Winchester and Dr. Larissa Temple
Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Winslow
Karen Yeoman '98
Mr. Daniel P. Yeoman '00 and Ms. Beth Bafford
Ms. Margot Townsend Young '64
Dr. Xulong Zhang and Mrs. Xiaobei Qiu
Ms. Jianping Zhu
Fati Ziai '82
Jane Hopfinger and Robert Zogas
AM - In Person
Grades: 2 to 4
Fee: $200
Create fun, one-of-a-kind fiber art projects in this weaving camp! Students will build looms from various objects such as sticks, embroidery hoops, and cardboard. Campers will learn to express themselves creatively through fiber while creating multiple pieces. AMY BRAND
PM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $210
Campers will create leaf prints on rocks, press flowers into clay, make pine cone bird feeders and so much more! We will spend the week exploring our surroundings and making things with the objects we find. AMY BRAND
Full Day
In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $320
Learn the art of baking and decorating! We will create a delicious selection of sweet treats including, cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more! Campers will learn to make buttercream flowers, decorate sugar cookies with royal icing, sculpt decorations out of fondant, and more. Treats will be sent home daily. Campers need to bring their own lunch. AMY BRAND
AM - In Person
Grades: 7 to 12
Fee: $250
Fee includes materials and donation to Wall\Therapy for guided tour. Students in this class will learn firsthand how public art is transforming, inspiring, and building community in Rochester. They will tour WALL\THERAPY murals in downtown Rochester, discuss the power of art as a means to educate society, capture their ideas in a sketchbook, explore a variety of art materials and methods—including spray paint, create works of art, and curate their own art show. EVINN NEADOW
AM - In Person
Grades 7 to 12
Fee: $185
On Monday, all campers will learn or review how to play the guitar. Previous experience is not necessary, but helpful (or knowledge of how to play any other instrument!). On Tuesday, we will branch out and try drumset, bass, and keyboard. We will form our own band and play popular music and basic chord progressions. Song requests welcome! Instrument exploration will be based on student interest! KELLY SCHROEDER
PM - In Person
Grades: 7 to 12
Fee: $185
We will delve into the imaginative world of the Dungeons and Dragons game. The participants will create artwork based on their characters, write stories, and build relationships. Problem solving, moral dilemmas, and team building will be elements of gameplay. WAYNE HOLT
AM In Person
Grades: K to 2
Fee: $195
Do you love animals? Did you know that giraffes have black tongues? They do! Do you know why? Let’s explore amazing animals together through art, literature, and games. SHANNON COSTANTINO
PM - In Person
Grades: K to 2
Fee: $195
Calling all Lab Rats! Explore, investigate, and create this summer with a super fun STEM camp. We will experience Science, Technology, Engineering and Math through hands on activities. Come and be an architect, mix solutions, build a robot, and explore light and shadows with your friends. SHANNON COSTANTINO
AM - In Person
All Ages
Fee: $185
Come and play chess with us! Chess is a lifelong activity that sharpens the mind by developing logic and analytical skills. Beginners learn the fundamental rules and strategy of the game; more advanced players participate in instruction at their own level. ROCHESTER CHESS CENTER.
AM - In Person
Grades: 9 to 12
Fee: $300 (includes materials)
In this class students will explore and create using alternative photographic processes such as Cyanotypes, Pinhole Cameras, and Digital Negatives. EVINN NEADOW
AM - In Person
Grades: 3 to 6
Fee:$185
Using ordinary arts & crafts materials, students design, build and use code to animate their artistic vision in a way that is interactive. Hummingbird Kits are small, programmable circuit boards literally built around the Arduino microcontroller board. Unlike the Arduino though, the Hummingbird has specific, color-coded ports for each component (LEDs, motors, servos, sensors) that help students confidently wire their board. Coding is done using visual or block programming code—this means students do not have to learn any text-based coding language. Campers need to bring their own lunch. ELISA SHARMAN
AM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $185
This string-instrument immersion experience is for students that are planning to play in September, OR for those who just want to try a string instrument for a week! Additionally, if students already play a violin, viola, or cello, and want to try a different one, they are welcome. We will learn to read notes, pluck, and bow, and will end the week with a short recital for family and friends. KELLY SCHROEDER
AM - In Person
Grades: 3 to 8
Fee: $200
Research shows children who are involved with cooking are better, healthier eaters. Have fun as we learn to cook delicious, healthy meals. Together we will research the recipes, plan the menu, calculate serving sizes, prepare ingredients, and cook the food. We will prepare a different full meal with dessert each day, taste our creations, and then package them to take home. MARGARET TOLHURST
9:00 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
In this engaging four–week course, strengthen skills in fractions, decimals, ratios and proportions, percentages, signed numbers, simple equations, and basic concepts of geometry. In addition to these topics, time will be spent working on mental math skills that can be used for a lifetime. We will use a variety of techniques including pre–testing, drill and practice, assessments, use of manipulatives or technological resources, and group work. There will be homework assignments each night. Limited enrollment R.REID
10:30 am-12 pm
In Person
Grades: 8 to 12
Fee: $500
In this four-week course, fundamental skills are reviewed and practiced in order to build a solid foundation for future work in math. Concepts and their application to specific problems are emphasized, along with verbal problems and problem-solving techniques. Topics include signed numbers, equations and inequalities, factoring, rational expressions, the straight line, quadratic functions, and radicals. Limited enrollment is available. R.REID
9 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 9 to 12
Fee: $500
Invaluable for success in school and beyond, writing well is a skill that can be honed through practice. This course allows high school students to experiment with a wide range of writing styles and techniques, including fiction, non-fiction, interviews, advertisements, and much more. The range of approaches will make students more versatile writers. Along the way, they will also pick up advanced lessons about grammar, diction, syntax, audience, voice, logical reasoning, and etymology.
KIRSTYN SMITH
10:30 am- 12 pm
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
Invaluable for success in school and beyond, writing well is a skill that can be honed through practice. This course allows high school students to experiment with a wide range of writing styles and techniques, including fiction, non-fiction, interviews, advertisements, and much more. The range of approaches will make students more versatile writers. Along the way, they will also pick up advanced lessons about grammar, diction, syntax, audience, voice, logical reasoning, and etymology.
KIRSTYN SMITH
AM - In Person
Grades: 2 to 4
Fee: $210
Campers will create leaf prints on rocks, press flowers into clay, make pine cone bird feeders and so much more! We will spend the week exploring our surroundings and making things with the objects we find. AMY BRAND
PM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $210
In this course students will spend the week getting creative with handmade paper! We will learn the basics of paper making and how to dye our pages with natural materials such as avocado pits. Other projects will include plantable paper, seed bombs, and more. Campers will learn some basic bookbinding skills so they can turn some of their handmade paper into journals. AMY BRAND
AM at Home
Grades: 5 to 12
Fee: $350
The world is full of automated and remote-controlled devices. How do they all work? Investigate the fundamentals of electronics, coding and logic. Delve into design thinking, and learn practical skills such as wiring and prototyping, using both a virtual circuit creator and the actual electronic components to explore and experiment with basic electrical circuits. Using low voltage (3v to 5v) Arduino-type microcontrollers (small, programmable circuit boards), campers create simple circuits and basic code that controls different components such as LED lights, Piezo speakers (sound) and mechanical movement. After learning the basics of how the Arduino Microcontroller can be wired and programmed, the campers will use the provided components to create a series of experimental projects and incorporate their own design ideas and imagination. Campers will be experimenting with both block-coding and text based coding languages, however, because of the limited time, the campers will have a basic introduction to the Arduino language (similar to C++), using existing Arduino “sketches” (code) and then modifying and adapting the code to improve its functionality. They will have the option to create an obstacle avoidance rover, or, use their imagination to make some other animated/robotic creation using the sensors and other kit components.
Campers will be provided daily with both recorded and live/online instruction and support. There will be opportunities for full group, smaller (2 or 3) group and individual live chats to get support, direction and to share progress over the two weeks. An online virtual discussion “room” (using an educational virtual learning environment called “Schoology”) will be available for campers to have discussions, share ideas, chat and get to know each other (monitored and moderated) and a virtual exposition site where campers can post videos and pictures of their progress, and creations. IMPORTANT: Because students will be using electricity, it is understood that there will be adult supervision/presence at all times, as even the low voltage we are working with has the potential to be short-circuited by the inexperienced user and create a burn or fire hazard. Campers will also need to create accounts in some educational, online learning tools/apps, if under 13 years old, they may need parental permission and help.
NOTE: approximately $80 of the cost of the course purchases the Arduino experimental Kit supplies that they will keep. The board & sensors can be reused over and over, for other projects and there are plenty of resources to expand & explore the world of microcontrollers.
JEANNE WEBER
AM - In Person
Grades: 4 to 12
Fee: $210
Looking for a fun activity that will strengthen your child's cognitive abilities without them even knowing it? The Olympic sport of fencing is a unique physical and mental workout aptly nicknamed ‘physical chess’ for its ability to provide a full body workout while developing logic and problem-solving skills. Your child will improve their mental agility while enjoying the thrills of swordplay in a safe environment. This camp is suitable for beginners and those with prior experience! Participants must wear athletic shoes (sneakers).
CHRISTINE GRIFFITH, Rochester Fencing Club
AM - In Person
Grades: 4 to 8
Fee: $195
Come out and play ball! This camp focuses on baseball fundamentals. Campers will spend a portion of the time in small groups learning various aspects of the game from staff instructors. A snack will be provided during a daily break. The last hour consists of games utilizing all the skills learned. Campers are grouped for games based on age and ability and are provided an excellent way to fine tune their skills. Included with registration is a camp gift. This camp is open to all students.
PETER MANCUSO
AM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $185
Campers will discover the diversity of the Francophone world with hands-on activities while learning conversational French. From circus in Quebec to story telling and song in West Africa, explore a different French-speaking region and its traditions each day. Campers will learn useful French vocabulary: introductions, colors, numbers, and basic travel words. Come join us for a virtual trip around the French-speaking world with crafts, games, role-playing, music, dance, and culinary delights! Limited to 15 students.
MICHAEL BRUNDAGE
AM - In Person
Grades: 7 to 12
Fee: $195
Wood will serve as the common thread of this camp. From there, students can explore many avenues of crafting. Hammer! Nails! Paint! Glue! Woodburning pens! Melted crayon wax! The possibilities are endless. There will be many options of crafts to complete, from name signs to string design art to picture frames. All materials included.
KELLY SCHROEDER
PM - In Person
Grades: 8 to 12
Fee: $310
A unique glass-making experience! Learn the basics of manipulating hot glass in The Harley glass studio. Beginners are introduced to the basics of glass sculpting. Advanced students work on projects that fit their interest and skill level. Enrollment is limited to 6 students per session.
ALLYSON DINGMAN
AM - In Person
Ages: 3 to 6
Fee: $185
Join us for a brand new camp for ages 3–6, Color Wars Hip Hop Camp! During this high intensity week we’ll learn hip hop moves and combinations, play dance games and create some messy color blasting crafts! Parents are invited to join us on Friday for our Dance Camp Showcase.
J. FITZSIMMONS
AM - In Person
Ages: 7 to 12
Fee: $185
Join us for one of our most popular camps, Just Dance Hip Hop Camp! This high-energy camp will be a week filled with Hip Hop and Jazz classes along with dance related games and crafts. By the end of the week we will be ready to show friends and family our new moves. Parents are invited to join us on Friday for our Dance Camp Showcase.
J. FITZSIMMONS
PM - In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $210
This week campers will learn the basics of crochet and how to read a pattern. These new skills will be used to create magical creatures. Students will be able to choose from multiple patterns. Options will include octopus, narwhal, whale, cute monsters, bunnies, and so much more!
AMY BRAND
AM - In Person
Grades: 11 to 12
Fee: $200
During this course, students will draft and polish essays suitable for submission with their college applications. We will work with writing prompts appearing on the Common Application and briefly consider required supplemental essay questions. After discussing the merits of sample essays, students will work through all stages of the writing process—from brainstorming to publishing—as they develop college essays of their own. Each session is limited to 12 students.
PATRICIA MALONE
AM - In Person
Grades: 4 to 6
Fee: $185
You're on holiday travelling back from an amazing travel experience when...oh no! your plane malfunctions and crashes in an unknown location. Everyone is safe and unharmed, but where are you? How do you escape this land? What provisions do you need to survive the trip? Work together in a small group in this mock-escape team Project Based Learning simulation to see if you have what it takes to escape the Rainforest!
ELISA SHARMAN
PM - In Person
Grades: 3 to 5
Fee: $185
Ever wonder why solids, liquids, and gases do what they do? Why some things mix and others don't? Then slime camp is for you. Each day of this week features how to make a different ooey-gooey substance and the science behind why the ingredients interact the way they do... or don't! ELISA SHARMAN
Grades: 3 to 12
Fee: $170
Beginner and competitive swimmers alike benefit from a focus on stroke technique and turns. Using drills and exercises, we’ll practice making swimming and turns easier and faster. The camp is led by HAC head coach Peter Mancuso and HAC swim coaching staff. Participants are encouraged to bring their own goggles. PETER MANCUSO
AM - In Person
Grades: 3 to 8
Fee: $200
Research shows children who are involved with cooking are better, healthier eaters. Have fun as we learn to cook delicious, healthy meals. Together we will research the recipes, plan the menu, calculate serving sizes, prepare ingredients, and cook the food. We will prepare a different full meal with dessert each day, taste our creations, and then package them to take home. MARGARET TOLHURST
8:30-3:30
In Person
Grades: 7 to 12
Fee: $350
This is a camp for ambitious young cyclists! Each day, we will bike around the Rochester area, covering points of local history as we go. We will make full use of the Erie Canal path to bike to Pittsford and Fairport as well as downtown Rochester, and even as far north as Charlotte Beach. This year, we will also load bikes onto a trailer so we can range far and wide, biking around the Finger Lakes. This is a physically demanding camp with five or more hours of pedaling each day, so campers should be fit and skilled on a bike. Campers need to bring their own lunch. DOUG GILBERT
9:00 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
In this engaging four–week course, strengthen skills in fractions, decimals, ratios and proportions, percentages, signed numbers, simple equations, and basic concepts of geometry. In addition to these topics, time will be spent working on mental math skills that can be used for a lifetime. We will use a variety of techniques including pre–testing, drill and practice, assessments, use of manipulatives or technological resources, and group work. There will be homework assignments each night. Limited enrollment R.REID
10:30 am-12 pm
In Person
Grades: 8 to 12
Fee: $500
In this four-week course, fundamental skills are reviewed and practiced in order to build a solid foundation for future work in math. Concepts and their application to specific problems are emphasized, along with verbal problems and problem-solving techniques. Topics include signed numbers, equations and inequalities, factoring, rational expressions, the straight line, quadratic functions, and radicals. Limited enrollment is available. R.REID
9 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 9 to 12
Fee: $500
Invaluable for success in school and beyond, writing well is a skill that can be honed through practice. This course allows high school students to experiment with a wide range of writing styles and techniques, including fiction, non-fiction, interviews, advertisements, and much more. The range of approaches will make students more versatile writers. Along the way, they will also pick up advanced lessons about grammar, diction, syntax, audience, voice, logical reasoning, and etymology.
KIRSTYN SMITH
10:30 am- 12 pm
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
Invaluable for success in school and beyond, writing well is a skill that can be honed through practice. This course allows high school students to experiment with a wide range of writing styles and techniques, including fiction, non-fiction, interviews, advertisements, and much more. The range of approaches will make students more versatile writers. Along the way, they will also pick up advanced lessons about grammar, diction, syntax, audience, voice, logical reasoning, and etymology.
KIRSTYN SMITH
AM at Home
Grades: 5 to 12
Fee: $350
The world is full of automated and remote-controlled devices. How do they all work? Investigate the fundamentals of electronics, coding and logic. Delve into design thinking, and learn practical skills such as wiring and prototyping, using both a virtual circuit creator and the actual electronic components to explore and experiment with basic electrical circuits. Using low voltage (3v to 5v) Arduino-type microcontrollers (small, programmable circuit boards), campers create simple circuits and basic code that controls different components such as LED lights, Piezo speakers (sound) and mechanical movement. After learning the basics of how the Arduino Microcontroller can be wired and programmed, the campers will use the provided components to create a series of experimental projects and incorporate their own design ideas and imagination. Campers will be experimenting with both block-coding and text based coding languages, however, because of the limited time, the campers will have a basic introduction to the Arduino language (similar to C++), using existing Arduino “sketches” (code) and then modifying and adapting the code to improve its functionality. They will have the option to create an obstacle avoidance rover, or, use their imagination to make some other animated/robotic creation using the sensors and other kit components.
Campers will be provided daily with both recorded and live/online instruction and support. There will be opportunities for full group, smaller (2 or 3) group and individual live chats to get support, direction and to share progress over the two weeks. An online virtual discussion “room” (using an educational virtual learning environment called “Schoology”) will be available for campers to have discussions, share ideas, chat and get to know each other (monitored and moderated) and a virtual exposition site where campers can post videos and pictures of their progress, and creations. IMPORTANT: Because students will be using electricity, it is understood that there will be adult supervision/presence at all times, as even the low voltage we are working with has the potential to be short-circuited by the inexperienced user and create a burn or fire hazard. Campers will also need to create accounts in some educational, online learning tools/apps, if under 13 years old, they may need parental permission and help.
NOTE: approximately $80 of the cost of the course purchases the Arduino experimental Kit supplies that they will keep. The board & sensors can be reused over and over, for other projects and there are plenty of resources to expand & explore the world of microcontrollers.
JEANNE WEBER
PM - In person
Grades: 2 to 6
Fee: $195
AM - In Person
Grades: 4 to 8
Fee: $185
Campers learn/review the basic foundational concepts of computer coding, and delve deeper. They will explore both block and text-based coding languages, and investigate all sorts of areas where coding is used in the world. Putting all that knowledge to good use in real-world application, they will design and create an interactive online game using Scratch coding, as well as have fun programming the Dash & Dot robots and Sphero robots to run through obstacle courses and mazes, or whatever other creative things we can figure out together as a group! NOTE: Campers will need to have permission to create user accounts on some coding websites in order to access/edit whatever they’ve created in camp, if not, they will be provided temporary accounts for the duration of the camp. TBD
AM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 10
Fee: $200
Students in this class will use Harley’s state-of-the-art Moore/Brown Center for Creative Media to explore digital photography, DSLRs, lighting and Photoshop. Projects will be printed and students will finish the class with a portfolio of images. EVINN NEADOW
AM - In Person
Grades: 1 to 3
Fee: $175
Each day, students will engage in engineering activities using snap circuits or K'NEX kits and explore how electricity interacts with their creations. The daily experience will include dedicated time applying math to what we learned. No previous experience with snap circuits or K'NEX is necessary, just enthusiasm to learn and ask questions. Campers will benefit from having the ability to periodically be self directed using a diagram to construct the snap circuits or K'NEX. For an optional extra cost, you can purchase the snap circuit kit we use to bring home once camp is over. SETH O’BRYAN
AM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $200
9:00 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
In this engaging four–week course, strengthen skills in fractions, decimals, ratios and proportions, percentages, signed numbers, simple equations, and basic concepts of geometry. In addition to these topics, time will be spent working on mental math skills that can be used for a lifetime. We will use a variety of techniques including pre–testing, drill and practice, assessments, use of manipulatives or technological resources, and group work. There will be homework assignments each night. Limited enrollment.
R. REID
10:30 am-12 pm
In Person
Grades: 8 to 12
Fee: $500
In this four-week course, fundamental skills are reviewed and practiced in order to build a solid foundation for future work in math. Concepts and their application to specific problems are emphasized, along with verbal problems and problem-solving techniques. Topics include signed numbers, equations and inequalities, factoring, rational expressions, the straight line, quadratic functions, and radicals. Limited enrollment is available.
R. REID
9 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 9 to 12
Fee: $500
Invaluable for success in school and beyond, writing well is a skill that can be honed through practice. This course allows high school students to experiment with a wide range of writing styles and techniques, including fiction, non-fiction, interviews, advertisements, and much more. The range of approaches will make students more versatile writers. Along the way, they will also pick up advanced lessons about grammar, diction, syntax, audience, voice, logical reasoning, and etymology. KIRSTYN SMITH
10:30 am- 12 pm
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
Grades: 5 to 12
Fee: $370 includes Rover kit and supplies
Automatic doors, Roomba vacuum cleaners, self-driving cars —“robots” are all around us! Come and explore the basics of robotics using sensors, LEDS, motors and other components. Investigate the fundamentals of electronics, coding and logic. Delve into design thinking, and learn practical skills such as wiring and soldering, and even 3D design and printing! Using low voltage (3v to 5v) Arduino-type microcontrollers (small, programmable circuit boards), campers begin by creating simple circuits and basic code that controls the blinking of LEDs. They explore how sensors, motors, and servos are used to allow robots to interact with the world around us, and after learning the basics of how the Arduino Microcontroller can be wired and programmed, the campers will build their very own obstacle-avoiding rover using provided components and their own design and imagination. The campers will not be learning the Arduino text-based coding language (similar to C++) in depth, but they will have a basic introduction, using an existing Arduino “sketch” to initially operate their rover, and then modifying or adapting the code to improve its functionality. Campers need to bring their own lunch.
JEANNE WEBER
AM - In Person
Grades: K to 3
Fee: $185
All of Harley’s robots are sad when summer comes. There are no kids to play with them! But now is their chance! Help keep our robots from getting bored over the summer months. Campers learn the basics of computer coding by experimenting with simple block/stacking code to animate characters on the computer, then make use of coding knowledge to program the Ozobots, Dash & Dot, and Sphero robots to do amazing things, including code that will help them navigate through camper–created obstacle courses! Clearly, the robots aren’t the only ones who will have fun! TBD
AM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $200
In this course students will go over basic wheel throwing techniques. Students will experiment with thrown forms such as mugs, bowls, plates, and vases. This course will cover surface decoration, glazing, and finishing. We will be unable to glaze all pieces during the class times. A glazing day is included that will take place in late July or early August. Enrollment is limited to 10 students per session.
REBECCA TRACEY
PM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $215
Campers will learn of the history of photography while transforming everyday objects into photographic devices! Each student will build their own pinhole camera. Students will capture images using photographic paper which will then be developed using household materials like coffee and lemon juice.
AMY BRAND
9 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 9 to 12
Fee: $500
Invaluable for success in school and beyond, writing well is a skill that can be honed through practice. This course allows high school students to experiment with a wide range of writing styles and techniques, including fiction, non-fiction, interviews, advertisements, and much more. The range of approaches will make students more versatile writers. Along the way, they will also pick up advanced lessons about grammar, diction, syntax, audience, voice, logical reasoning, and etymology.
KIRSTYN SMITH
10:30 am- 12 pm
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
Invaluable for success in school and beyond, writing well is a skill that can be honed through practice. This course allows high school students to experiment with a wide range of writing styles and techniques, including fiction, non-fiction, interviews, advertisements, and much more. The range of approaches will make students more versatile writers. Along the way, they will also pick up advanced lessons about grammar, diction, syntax, audience, voice, logical reasoning, and etymology.
KIRSTYN SMITH
9:00 am-10:30 am
In Person
Grades: 6 to 8
Fee: $500
In this engaging four–week course, strengthen skills in fractions, decimals, ratios and proportions, percentages, signed numbers, simple equations, and basic concepts of geometry. In addition to these topics, time will be spent working on mental math skills that can be used for a lifetime. We will use a variety of techniques including pre–testing, drill and practice, assessments, use of manipulatives or technological resources, and group work. There will be homework assignments each night. Limited enrollment.
R. REID
Algebra 10:30 am-12 pm
In Person
Grades: 8 to 12
Fee: $500
In this four-week course, fundamental skills are reviewed and practiced in order to build a solid foundation for future work in math. Concepts and their application to specific problems are emphasized, along with verbal problems and problem-solving techniques. Topics include signed numbers, equations and inequalities, factoring, rational expressions, the straight line, quadratic functions, and radicals. Limited enrollment is available.
R. REID
AM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $175
In this studio course, students will get a chance to brush up on their drawing and painting skills. Students will get a chance to explore portraits, still life objects, landscapes, and collages. Students will get to create both realistic and abstract artwork. We will be creating several small watercolor paintings, as well as one larger acrylic painting. Enrollment is limited to 12 students per session.
REBECCA TRACEY
AM - In Person
Grades: 4 to 12
Fee: $210
Looking for a fun activity that will strengthen your child's cognitive abilities without them even knowing it? The Olympic sport of fencing is a unique physical and mental workout aptly nicknamed ‘physical chess’ for its ability to provide a full body workout while developing logic and problem-solving skills. Your child will improve their mental agility while enjoying the thrills of swordplay in a safe environment. This camp is suitable for beginners and those with prior experience! Participants must wear athletic shoes (sneakers).
CHRISTINE GRIFFITH, Rochester Fencing Club
AM - In Person
Grades: 3 to 5
Fee: $185
Come find out how basic everyday substances make our word work! Learn how to make useful and interesting things using what you can find outside and at home! Make rockets, solar ovens, lights and more using basic everyday household items.
ELISA SHARMAN
PM - In Person
Grades: 2 to 4
Fee: $210
Learn the art of baking and decorating! We will create
a delicious selection of sweet treats including, cakes, cupcakes, cookies and more! Campers will learn to make buttercream flowers, decorate sugar cookies with royal icing, sculpt decorations out of fondant and more. Treats will be sent home daily. Campers need to bring their own lunch.
AMY BRAND
AM - In Person
Grades: K to 2
Fee: $190
Art is a natural way to practice mindfulness. The colors, textures and sounds of creating pull us into the moment. Students in this class will be introduced to mindfulness techniques while exploring a variety of art materials. EVINN NEADOW
AM - In Person
Grades: 3 to 5
Fee: $185
Robotics is EVERYWHERE in the world today. From self-driving cars to floor-cleaning vacuum bots, home automation, medical procedures, aeronautics, and space exploration! Join us and explore robotics in a hands-on, week-long program. Participants will work with LEGO kits and a teacher’s guidance to design, build, and program robots using Lego Mindstorms EV3 Home Edition kits while investigating the expanding applications of modern robotics. An exhibition at the end of the week will invite campers to demonstrate their bots in action.
COVID-19 update: This year, families will be required to acquire their robotics kits at additional expense. LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Home Edition kits can be rented from Lurnbot.com at a cost of $58.20 plus tax with free shipping. Pieces will not be shared and social distancing will be part of the camp’s organizational plan. As always, we plan to have fun and learn together. (up to 10 students) DAVID YOUNGBLUT
PM - In Person
Grades: 8 to 12
Fee: $310
A unique glass-making experience! Learn the basics
of manipulating hot glass in The Harley glass studio. Beginners are introduced to the basics of glass sculpting. Advanced students work on projects that fit their interest and skill level. Enrollment is limited to 6 students per session.
ALLYSON DINGMAN
AM - In Person
Grades: 5 to 8
Fee: $210
In this camp, students will learn the basics of needle felting to create adorable miniature creatures, food, plants, and more! Using a felting needle and foam block campers will learn to sculpt wool into miniature masterpieces.
AMY BRAND
All Day (8:30-3:30)
In Person
Grades: 7 to 12
Fee: $350
This is a camp for ambitious young cyclists! Each day, we will bike around the Rochester area, covering points of local history as we go. We will make full use of the Erie Canal path to bike to Pittsford and Fairport as well as downtown Rochester, and even as far north as Charlotte Beach. This year, we will also load bikes onto a trailer so we can range far and wide, biking around the Finger Lakes. This is a physically demanding camp with five or more hours of pedaling each day, so campers should be fit and skilled on a bike. Campers need to bring their own lunch.
DOUG GILBERT
AM - At Home
Ages: 3 to 6
Fee: $185
Note: This is an online class. You are royally invited to escape the summer heat with a winter themed dance camp. This camp is inspired by some of our favorite ice princesses and silly snowmen and promises to be a blast!!! Get ready to dance to new music from the latest princess movies and create some “cool” crafts. Parents are invited to join us on Friday for our Dance Camp Showcase.
J. FITZSIMMONS
All Day (8:30-3:30)
In Person
Grades: 7 to 12
Fee: $350
This is a camp for ambitious young cyclists! Each day, we will bike around the Rochester area, covering points of local history as we go. We will make full use of the Erie Canal path to bike to Pittsford and Fairport as well as downtown Rochester, and even as far north as Charlotte Beach. This year, we will also load bikes onto a trailer so we can range far and wide, biking around the Finger Lakes. This is a physically demanding camp with five or more hours of pedaling each day, so campers should be fit and skilled on a bike. Campers need to bring their own lunch.
DOUG GILBERT
Science and Math Integration
Whole Learners
Arts
Students may create independent studies with supervising teachers throughout their Upper School experience or, during Grade 12, they can design Capstone projects—intensive collaborations with Harley faculty and off-campus mentors—involving rigorous academic study and culminating in public presentations. They are empowered to create their own curriculum, set goals, and work on time management skills in order to accomplish their objectives.
Independent Studies run the gamut from The Psychology of Sports to Furniture Design to The Neuroimaging of Alzheimer’s Disease. Capstones, meanwhile, are as diverse as the students who pursue them: Fictional Rochester, Autobiographical Art, Biomimicry Education, Organic Fuel, and Rochester Refugees.
Indicative of Upper School curiosity and creativity, pursuits such as these distinguish our graduates in college. Through deep dives of this sort, Harley students master more than speaking, writing, and computing: they learn to communicate, advocate, collaborate, organize, listen, and empathize.
Science and Math Integration
Whole Learners
Arts
About
Academics
Key Programming
Enrollment
