CLASS CATALOGUE Fall 2026
(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.
Please note, new this year: If students aged 12 and under have a gap in their schedule (they are not taking classes that are adjacent to each other in the CLP schedule), they must have adult supervision provided by a parent or guardian. We will only provide supervision during lunch.
Students age 13 and up may remain at CLP without adult supervision during gaps in their schedule, provided they:
- Bring quiet, non-electronic activities to occupy themselves, such as homework, reading materials, art projects, or board games.
- Do not enter non-designated areas of Temple Akiba, including the main building or the back section of the yard near the temple storage areas.
- If a student does not follow these guidelines, a parent or guardian will be required to supervise the student during all future breaks in their schedule for the remainder of the semester.
MONDAY CLASSES (10 WEEKS) In-person at Temple Akiba
World History: The Early Modern World 1400 - 1800
Monday: 9:30 am – 10:55 am (10 weeks)
Sept. 14, (no 21, 28), Oct. (no 5), 12, 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, (no 23), 30, Dec. 7, 14, (no 21, 28)
Grades 6 and up
Today, 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 ancestors and each other than we often admit, and we have survived thousands of years because of our ability to adapt and progress.
This is the third semester of a 6-semester curriculum, but students can join at any time. 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 weekly quizzes and a 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. We will make a timeline so that we can better understand how different societies developed over the course of history with similar stories. The curriculum will be based on the third unit of the Glencoe World History book.
Students are welcome to take this class remotely. Please let us know when you register. However, if you would like a remote-only option for this class on a different day and time, please email: Karen@karegolden.com. If we have enough interest, we will open a virtual-only class that fits into the schedule of the students and instructor.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $325
Psychology and Technology
Monday: 11:00 am – 11:55 am (10 weeks)
Sept. 14, (no 21, 28), Oct. (no 5), 12, 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, (no 23), 30, Dec. 7, 14, (no 21, 28)
Grades 6 and up
Together, we will explore the separate but related fields of psychology and computer science. We will take on questions such as: What is a mind? What is intelligence? In what ways are brains like and unlike computers? We will learn about the various parts of the human brain and nervous system and what role they play in our subjective experiences and expressed behaviors. We will learn about the components of computer systems and how they are put to use in our modern world.
Students will get to see the inside of a real computer and experience taking apart and assembling one! We will learn how the field of psychology has evolved and continues to do so through scientific experimentation and research. Students will even get to craft and conduct experiments of their own! We will dive into related subjects such as linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy, and cognitive science. We will connect the fields of psychology and computer science through the study of language processing, neural networks, user interfaces, and artificial intelligence. Get excited for a one-of-a-kind class that will bring together a variety of independent topics under the umbrella of cognition – the science of thinking!
TEACHER: Daniel Penso
SEMESTER FEE: $300
Jump Rope
Monday: 12:30 pm – 1:25 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 14, (no 21, 28), Oct. (no 5), 12, 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, (no 23), 30, Dec. 7, 14, (no 21, 28)
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.
This class will include hula hoops, hopscotch, rope flow, freestyle jump roping, and group exercises. Students will explore how rhythm plays a part in everything we do and correlate that to various forms of play.
We will provide jump ropes for all classes and will also have ropes for sale. Students are also welcome to bring their own ropes.
Returning and new students welcome!
TEACHER: Courtney Tell
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Introduction to Creative Writing: Universes in You
Monday: 1:30 pm – 2:25 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 14, (no 21, 28), Oct. (no 5), 12, 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, (no 23), 30, Dec. 7, 14, (no 21, 28)
Grades 6 and up
In this fun and engaging class, we will be exploring our imaginations to express our thoughts and feelings and to envision and create worlds! Through the vehicles of poetry and prose, students will unlock their creativity and be inspired to find and share their unique inner perspectives. This class will have enough structure to guide students to get their own process going, and at the same time, will allow students to bring their individuality to the work that they will produce.
We will use various techniques for igniting the writing process, such as creative prompts, poetry “tag”, journaling, and stream of consciousness writing. We will learn the differences between prose and poetry and how the two can overlap. We will learn the basics of story structure and how to build a narrative. Students will write their own poems, short narratives, and touch on longer form story composition. It is my goal to have students produce a variety of written works of art that they will be proud of having created. I am excited to see what we will make together!
TEACHER: Daniel Penso
SEMESTER FEE: $290
Drawing Fundamentals
Monday: 2:30 pm – 3:25 pm (10 weeks)
Sept. 14, (no 21, 28), Oct. (no 5), 12, 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, (no 23), 30, Dec. 7, 14, (no 21, 28)
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 (11 WEEKS) In-person at Temple Akiba
Earth Science
Wednesday: 9:30 am – 10:25 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 9, 16, 23, (no 30), Oct. (no 7), 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, (no 11), 18, (no 25), Dec. 2, 9, 16, (no 23, 30)
Grades 6 and up
This class is lecture-based and follows a curriculum guide that allows students to have a strong foundation in scientific principles and concepts aligned with the California state standards. This class also allows for a more rigorous option for students seeking charter school credit via a guided textbook and assessments. The students will take charge and conduct experiments in a wide array of biological, physical, and chemical combinations of science branches to better understand the Earth and the universe.
TEACHER: Mr. Layman
SEMESTER FEE: $312
Middle School English (In-Person)
Wednesday: 10:30 am – 11:55 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 9, 16, 23, (no 30), Oct. (no 7), 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, (no 11), 18, (no 25), Dec. 2, 9, 16, (no 23, 30)
Grades 6 - 8
This course helps students strengthen their English Language Arts skills through engaging instruction and individualized support. Students will read a variety of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and essays to build reading comprehension while developing their ability to analyze and interpret literature.
Writing instruction emphasizes the complete writing process, including brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising, and editing, to help students write with greater clarity, organization, and style. Students will also participate in class discussions, debates, Socratic seminars, and presentations, learning to support their ideas with evidence, ask thoughtful questions, communicate effectively, and respond respectfully to others.
The course is designed to foster critical thinking, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for reading and writing while preparing students for academic success. Weekly assignments will be posted through Google Classroom, where students will receive individualized feedback on their work. A Gmail account is required. No textbook is required. Returning students are welcome—new material is presented each year.
Required materials:
- Pencils and erasers
- Lined paper
- Folder
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $350
US History Part 2
Wednesday: 12:45 pm – 1:40 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 9, 16, 23, (no 30), Oct. (no 7), 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, (no 11), 18, (no 25), Dec. 2, 9, 16, (no 23, 30)
Grades 6 and up
This course covers the post-Civil War era of Reconstruction and continues up until the turn of the millennium and beyond! If you had part 1, this picks up right where we left off. Topics include the rise of the U.S. into a global superpower, the changing nature of work, and sociology through the last 150 years. This class is more notes and lesson-based. This class also allows for a more rigorous option for students seeking charter school credit via a guided textbook and assessments.
New and returning students are welcome.
TEACHER: Mr. Layman
SEMESTER FEE: $312
Podcademy 4 Kids - Podcasting & YouTube Intro.
Wednesday: 1:45 pm – 2:40 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 9, 16, 23, (no 30), Oct. (no 7), 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, (no 11), 18, (no 25), Dec. 2, 9, 16, (no 23, 30)
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.
Returning and new students welcome!
TEACHER: Danielle and Keith Good News McElhannon
SEMESTER FEE: $350
Story Speak
Wednesday: 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 9, 16, 23, (no 30), Oct. (no 7), 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, (no 11), 18, (no 25), Dec. 2, 9, 16, (no 23, 30)
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.
Returning and new students welcome!
TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $312
Singing For Unity
Wednesday: 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 9, 16, 23, (no 30), Oct. (no 7), 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, (no 11), 18, (no 25), Dec. 2, 9, 16, (no 23, 30)
All ages
Do you love to sing? If the answer is "yes," then 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: $312
FE JCC 5k with TEAM CLP. Team training is for EVER
FRIDAY CLASSES (11 WEEKS) Online. Your teacher will send you the Zoom links.
Storytelling - Let's Tell Stories
Friday: 8:00 am – 9:00 am PST (10 weeks)
Sept. (no 11), 18, (no 25), Oct. (no 2, 9), 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20, (no 27), Dec. 4, 11, 18, (no 25)
Please note that there is no storytelling class on 10/9
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 faraway places.
New and returning students welcome!
TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Chess 2: Advanced Chess
Friday: 9:15 am – 10:15 am PST (11 weeks)
Sept. (no 11), 18, (no 25), Oct. (no 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20, (no 27), Dec. 4, 11, 18, (no 25)
Grades 1 and up
In this class for more experienced players, we will be taking Chess education to a higher level. We'll begin with a lightning-fast review of the rules of the game, but quickly move beyond that to dive into Chess strategy, technique, and style! And there will be something challenging for all involved. The class will be fun and upbeat and will include gameplay, puzzles, technology, and group activities.
*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: $322
Chess 1: Welcome to The Game Of Kings And Queens
Friday: 10:30 am – 11:30 am PST (11 weeks)
Sept. (no 11), 18, (no 25), Oct. (no 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20, (no 27), Dec. 4, 11, 18, (no 25)
All ages
The old saying goes, "Chess is the game of Kings (and Queens)", and in this class we'll find out why. Chess subtly teaches children all the qualities of a noble king or queen: Perseverance, Nobility, Courtesy, Benevolence, Responsibility, problem-solving, confidence, sportsmanship, planning, patience, social skills, critical thinking, imagination, and more. And if that weren't enough, it's also super awesome fun! In this class, we'll start at the beginning to discover all the different characters(pieces) of Chess and background information about who they are and where they come from. Then it's on to how they move on the board and the rest of the dynamic rules of this 2000-year-old Game of Kings!
TEACHER: Brian Julian
SEMESTER FEE: $312
Middle School English (Online)
Friday: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. (no 11), 18, (no 25), Oct. (no 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20, (no 27), Dec. 4, 11, 18, (no 25)
Grades 6 - 8
From Shakespearean 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. Returning students are welcome—new material is presented each year.
The Zoom link will be provided by the instructor.
TEACHER: Hyla Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $322
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, reading, or 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.