CLASS CATALOGUE WS 2025
(GRADES 6-12)
Click Registration Form to open the registration form in a new window, so that you can view the Class Catalogue next to the registration form in your browser. Please request permission by emailing karen@karengolden.com, if your student would like to register for a class that is not listed for their age.
* If you are a student at a homeschool charter school, you may be able to take our high school classes for credit if you talk to your contact person from the school. All the schools have different procedures and policies. Please let us know if you need assistance with syllabi and curriculum.
MONDAY CLASSES (10 WEEKS) In-person at Temple Akiba
World History: From The First Humans to The Decline And Fall of Rome
Monday: 9:30 am – 10:55 am (10 weeks)
Sept. 8, 15, (no 22), 29 Oct. (no 6, 13), 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Dec. 1, 8
Grades 6 and up
All humans, whether they are Europeans, Australian Aborigines, or Africans, belong to the same subgroup of human beings, Homo Sapiens Sapiens, or wise, wise humans. We have more in common with our ancient ancestors and with each other than we often admit, and we have survived thousands of years because of our ability to adapt and progress. The material covered for the first semester will be from prehistory up to 500 AD, and will include the history from many regions of the world, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Ancient Greece and Rome. We will be covering a lot of material in a short amount of time, so students will be expected to pay keen attention in class, take notes, and do a fair amount of homework, including a research paper (3–5 pages), or an equivocal-length PowerPoint presentation. Students will not only learn the important events in history, but also learn how the information fits together in terms of human development, time periods, and regions of the world. Students will be engaged in as many hands-on activities as time allows. The curriculum will be based on the first unit of the Glencoe World History book.
Students are welcome to take this class remotely. Please let us know when you register.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $325
Story Speak
Monday: 11:00 am – 11:55 am (10 weeks)
Sept. 8, 15, (no 22), 29 Oct. (no 6, 13), 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Dec. 1, 8
Grades 6 and up
In this class, students will explore a variety of public speaking styles—from delivering a speech to telling a story around a campfire or dinner table. They will practice both impromptu and prepared speaking, storytelling, (learning to tell both folk and personal stories), all while gaining the skills to give confident, engaging oral presentations. The course also emphasizes how to give and receive constructive feedback, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can grow as a speaker. Public speaking is one of the most common fears, and this class provides a safe and encouraging space for students to build confidence and find their unique voice.
TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $285
Escape Room Design
Monday: 12:30 pm – 1:25 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 8, 15, (no 22), 29 Oct. (no 6, 13), 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Dec. 1, 8
Grades 6 and up
Escape rooms have rapidly become an exceptionally popular entertainment form over the last decade. This class examines the history, style, and structure of escape rooms as well as puzzle creation, narrative design, and business models for this growing fun diversion. Students will practice creating their own escape rooms individually and in groups.
TEACHER: Aaron Vanek
SEMESTER FEE: $320
Jump Rope Skills
Monday: 1:30 pm – 2:25 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 8, 15, (no 22), 29 Oct. (no 6, 13), 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Dec. 1, 8
Grades 6 and up
This jump rope course will teach students the basics of Single Rope, Double Dutch, and Group Jumping. Students will learn a variety of skills and jump rope activities to improve confidence, endurance, focus, teamwork, and creative expression. All skills will be age appropriate.
Mike will be selling jump ropes for $15 and you can purchase them directly from him.
Students will be responsible for bringing their ropes to class. If your child would like to leave a rope at CLP, this is fine. It will be labeled with their name.
Returning and new students welcome!
TEACHER: Mike Fry
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Drawing Fundamentals
Monday: 2:30 pm – 3:25 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 8, 15, (no 22), 29 Oct. (no 6, 13), 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Dec. 1, 8
Grades 6 and up
People often tell me that they cannot draw. My answer is always the same: “Everybody can draw. You first need to learn how to see.” When you learn to play an instrument, you learn to identify the sound of the notes and you should practice often to become good. That is the same with drawing. We study the science of drawing (perspective and lighting), mixed in with doodling techniques, and other topics the students express interest in. Each student will need a sketchbook (minimum size 8”x10”) and will be expected to draw in it regularly outside of class. We will provide all other materials, but students are welcome to bring their own supplies.
New projects for returning students.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $295
WEDNESDAY CLASSES (10 WEEKS) In-person at Temple Akiba
Physics And Applied Science This class is full. Please sign up for the waitlist
Wednesday: 9:30 am – 10:25 am (10 weeks)
Sept. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Oct. (no 1, 8, 15), 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, (no 26), Dec. 3, 10
Grades 6 and up
This year-long class is lecture-based and follows a curriculum guide that allows everyone to have a strong foundation in scientific principles and concepts. A 6th-grade level math comprehension is recommended, though the formula for any math components will be provided by the instructor and included on any formative assessments, such as quizzes. This class also allows for a more rigorous option for students seeking charter school credit via a guided textbook and assessments. The textbook we will use is Prentice Hall Science Explorer: Motion, Forces and Energy ISBN: 0-13-115099-5.
The students here will take charge and devise experiments of their own to demonstrate concepts like buoyancy and forces by completing labs and lab write-ups.
TEACHER: Mr. Layman
SEMESTER FEE: $295
Middle School English This class is full. Please sign up for the waitlist
Wednesday: 10:30 am – 11:55 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Oct. (no 1, 8, 15), 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, (no 26), Dec. 3, 10
Grades 6 - 8
From Shakespearian plays to spooky poetry by Edgar Allan Poe, and the dystopian worlds of Ray Bradbury to the allegorical novellas of George Orwell, this class will explore the richness and variety that the literary world has to offer. Students will learn how to analyze literature, and think critically about different ideas and themes. They will learn to write creatively as well as academically. Writing skills include richer word choices, stronger paragraphs, idea brainstorming, organizational tools, description enrichment, the five-paragraph essay format, and editing strategies. Students will be expected to complete weekly assignments on Google Classroom where they will also receive individualized feedback. Access to a Gmail account is required for this class. No textbook required. New material for returning students.
Required materials:
- Pencils and erasers
- Lined paper
- Folder
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $325
US History
Wednesday: 12:45 pm – 1:40 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Oct. (no 1, 8, 15), 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, (no 26), Dec. 3, 10
Grades 6 and up
This course covers pre-Columbian America through the mid-1800s and follows the California social studies curriculum. This class will be notes and lesson-based with some light projects. This is Mr. Layman's most taught class ever, and over the past 20 years, he has compiled thorough notes for the students from a wide variety of primary and secondary sources. There will be quizzes and formal assessments for every chapter covered. This will be a year-long class. Students may take this class remotely.
TEACHER: Mr. Layman
SEMESTER FEE: $295
Podcademy 4 Kids - Podcasting & YouTube Intro.
Wednesday: 1:45 pm – 2:40 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Oct. (no 1, 8, 15), 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, (no 26), Dec. 3, 10
Grades 4 and up
Explore the growing world of media through a real hands on experience creating, engineering, and developing different styles of podcasts. This class is a crash course on equipment, techniques, and recording real life podcasts. With infused video concepts students will get an introduction to creating visual content . We encourage beginners and returners to join us for a semester of podcasting fun and enrichment.
This class has a maximum of eight students. Register early to get a spot.
New and returning students are welcome.
TEACHER: Keith Good News McElhannon
SEMESTER FEE: $325
Singing For Unity
Wednesday: 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Oct. (no 1, 8, 15), 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, (no 26), Dec. 3, 10
All ages
Do you love to sing? If the answer is "yes," than this class is for you. Over the course of 11 weeks, students will learn a variety of vocal warm ups and exercises to strengthen, control, open up, and become acquainted with the voice. Students will be introduced to the basics of sight-reading musical scores, different types of notes, and how they are used in music. Students will also learn techniques on how to breathe while performing a song and how to sharpen the skills of controlling volume and vocal strength to enhance the power of a song. The theme this semester is unity and each song will be meaningful and carry a powerful message. The students will join together and discover how to sing as a unit, combining all of their unique voices to create something unified and beautiful. Beginning and experienced singers are welcome.
New songs this semester.
TEACHER: Leila Balter
SEMESTER FEE: $285
Cyber Explorers: Digital Safety and Coding
Wednesday: 2:35 pm – 3:30 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 3, 10, 17, (no 24), Oct. (no 1, 8, 15), 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, (no 26), Dec. 3, 10
Grades 6 and up
This 10-week journey introduces students to the exciting world of cybersecurity through a mix of storytelling, hands-on activities, and beginner-friendly coding. Each week, students will:
- Meet unforgettable characters from the "Genfinity CyberTales" collection who face real-world tech challenges
- Learn how to spot online scams, create strong passwords, and protect their personal information
- Discover how hackers think, and how to outsmart them
- Explore basic coding concepts using tools designed for young minds
- Take on interactive missions that turn them into Junior Cyber Defenders
By the end of the course, your child won’t just be better at using technology, they’ll be more confident, more aware, and more equipped to make smart choices in their digital world. Whether they want to be a future tech leader or just stay safe while gaming or surfing the web, this course lays the foundation for both. Let your child step into a fun, engaging learning experience that combines storytelling, STEM, and life skills in one unforgettable program.
TEACHER: Deshan Edwards
SEMESTER FEE: $310
FE JCC 5k with TEAM CLP. Team training is for EVER
FRIDAY CLASSES (12 WEEKS) Online. Your teacher will send you the Zoom links.
Storytelling - Let's Tell Stories
Friday: 8:00 am – 9:00 am PST (12 weeks)
Sept: 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct. 3, (no 10), 17, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, (no 28), Dec. 5, 12
Grades 3 - 7
Humans love stories, and a well told story is even more beloved. In this class, we will learn to tell stories from a variety of sources including personal and family stories, folktales, legends and more. Students will learn what makes a good story and how to offer supportive suggestions for helping their classmates tell a better story. This class enhances creativity, public speaking, and the art of listening in a fun, interactive, and safe environment where even the shyest students can shine. Because this class is virtual, we can make friends from near and far and will have the opportunity to hear other professional storytellers from far-away places.
New and returning students welcome!
TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $325
Chess in The Age of Technology
Friday: 9:15 am – 10:15 am PST (12 weeks)
Sept: 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct. 3, (no 10), 17, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, (no 28), Dec. 5, 12
Grades 1 and up
Kids love technology; from the iPad to the Xbox to whatever thing is next, they can't stop smudging the screen with their little kid fingers! In this class we will put technology in the hands of good by using it to enhance and further Chess knowledge. Each week we will explore a different kind of technology to help the students understand the game better. From the 1970s Chess Challenger to apps to self moving magnetic pieces to virtual reality and everything in between, this class is sure to be "liked" by all!
*All students should be confident in the basic rules of Chess. This is a perfect follow up class for any children who previously attended Beginners Chess*
TEACHER: Brian Julian
SEMESTER FEE: $335
Chess 4 Everyone
Friday: 10:30 am – 11:30 am PST (12 weeks)
Sept: 5, 12, 19, 26, Oct. 3, (no 10), 17, 31 Nov. 7, 14, 21, (no 28), Dec. 5, 12
All ages
This is neither a beginner nor an advanced class; it’s both! In this course Kids To Kings welcomes students of all ages and experience levels. Players that are new to Chess will be introduced to The Game of Kings and learn everything from the names of the Chessmen all the way to special moves like Castling. For more experienced players, we will go beyond the basics to explore Chess strategy, technique and style! The class will be fun and upbeat and will include gameplay, puzzles, and group activities. And there will be something challenging for all involved.
This is truly Chess 4 Everyone!
TEACHER: Brian Julian
SEMESTER FEE: $325
Intro. To Photoshop
Friday: 10:30 am – 11:30 am PST (12 weeks)
Sept: 5, 12, 19, 26, Oct. 3, (no 10), 17, 31 Nov. 7, 14, 21, (no 28), Dec. 5, 12
Grades 5 and up
We will learn the basics of Photoshop, including working with layers, adjusting image quality, making selections, retouching images, using color, adding text and shapes, combining images, applying filters, and more. Each week there will be assignments to complete using your newly learned skills, including seamlessly deleting people from a photo and creating your own Mini Cooper car advertisement.
Adobe offers an “All Apps” plan to students for just $19.99/mo. for the first year.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $325
Math Circle: A Partnership With 21st Century Math
Registration for this class is a two part process:
1. Email instructor Eric Kogan erickogan@21centurymath.com to request placement for the class, dates and fees.
2. Email Karen@karengolden.com to register for the class.
If you are part of a charter school, the Purchase Order is to be made out to Creative Learning Place. Thank you!
Beginners 2, Grade 5-6
Beginners 2 is based on the book, Math Adventures with ORMC, Level 2 "UCLA Math Circle" , From Ciphers to Nets of Solids, by Dr. Gleizer and Dr. Radko.
The course is designed for mathematically inclined children 9 to 12 years of age. There are 20 lessons in the book. Each lesson takes two to three 50-minute-long sessions to cover. Each lesson is followed by homework. The lessons cover the topics including ciphers, functions, solids, projections, introduction to logic, microchip design, and more.
Intermediate 1, Grade 7-8
The classes are suitable for mathematically inclined children 11 to 13 years of age. The topics covered include the Tower of Hanoi and the Sierpinksi Triangle, Egyptian multiplication and binary numbers, introduction to geometry, compass and ruler constructions, clock-face arithmetic, coordinates in the plane and on a sphere, functions and graphs, and geometry on the cylinder.
For more details about the program, such as our curriculum, grade levels, classes and fees please visit: https://www.21centurymath.com/.
Feel free to download the LESSON EXAMPLES to share with your children.
TEACHER: Eric Kogan
SEMESTER FEE: Will be based on the day of the week your child is placed.
Private Recorder Or Saxophone Lessons
Private Recorder or Saxophone Lessons
Learn to play the recorder or saxophone or brush up on your recorder skills. For beginning through advanced players. Private lessons can be arranged anytime Karen is not teaching a class at CLP, including Tuesdays and Thursdays, and in the afternoon and early evening hours. Both in-person and online.
TEACHER: Karen Golden
Class Fees: Private lessons will be sold in lesson packages: $160 for four 30 minute lessons.
Please email Karen@karengolden.com to schedule a time.
Tutoring
Are you interested in tutoring sessions in math or reading and writing for your child? A number of our CLP teachers are available to help your kids. Please check the box for tutoring on the registration form, or request tutoring here, and we will let you know about fees and availability.