CLASS CATALOGUE Fall 2026

(GRADES K–5)

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.

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

Psychology and Technology

Monday: 9:30 am – 10:25 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 3 - 5

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

Intro To Earth Science

Monday: 9:30 am – 10:25 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 K - 3

Step into a world of science! This introductory level class for young learners gets students involved in hands-on experiments. Students will learn basic science terms, develop reading and writing skills using those terms, and conduct experiments on Earth science topics, including landforms, erosion, what wind is, and the difference between weather and climate.

TEACHER: Mr. Layman
SEMESTER FEE: $285

Jump Rope

Monday: 10:30 am – 11:25 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 K - 3

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

History: Then and Now

Monday: 10:30 am – 11:25 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 3 - 5

What were the Mongols like 1000 years ago; what's Mongolia like today? Did the Vikings vote? Wait a second, Cleopatra in ancient Egypt studied ancient Egypt when she was in school, because to her, the pyramids were over 2000 years old? This course is designed for young learners and includes map-making, geography, writing, and learning about ancient cultures and their modern counterparts. A fun exploration of and introduction to the people and places on Earth, and how they've changed over time.

TEACHER: Mr. Layman
SEMESTER FEE: $285

Drawing Fundamentals

Monday: 11:30 am – 12:25 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 1 - 3

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. This semester, we will look at the works of famous artists throughout history and create drawings based on their techniques and styles, and we will study the science of drawing (perspective and lighting), mixed in with doodling techniques, and other fun exercises. 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 material for returning students!

TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $295

Jump Rope

Monday: 11:30 am – 12:25 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 3 - 5

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

Gardening Club

Monday: 12:45 pm – 1:30 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 K - 3

In this hands-on class, students will learn how to sprout seeds, grow plants from cuttings, and make kitchen scrap gardens. They will understand that plants have different requirements for water, sun, and soil, and make their own mini root view farms. Students will increase their awareness of the environment, natural resources, ecology, conservation, composting, and recycling. We will plant a variety of take-home container garden projects and terrariums and visit some amazing Los Angeles gardens.

TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $285

Drum Circle: World Rhythm

Monday: 12:45 pm – 1:30 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 3 - 5

Join me on an incredible musical journey around the world of rhythm! Together, we’ll explore the most amazing beats from every corner of the globe – from the Samba and Bossa Nova of Brazil, to the Salsa and Merengue of Cuba and Puerto Rico. We will travel through Colombia, Egypt, Israel, and Syria, and dive into the unique rhythms of China and Japan in the far East. We'll cross Northern Africa through Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria, travel from Western to Eastern Europe, and feel the powerful beats of Cameroon, Ghana, and Nigeria in Western Africa, and so much more! Let’s explore the world together!

Rooted in joy and inclusivity, each session transforms the classroom into a dynamic musical community where every student’s voice is heard—through the beat.

TEACHER: Aaron Yedidia
SEMESTER FEE: $315

Elementary Math

Monday: 1:30 pm – 2:15 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 3 - 5

We will reinforce multiplication and begin to learn division and fractions. Other skills to learn will be determined by what students know and need to work on. Possible subjects will be telling time, Roman numerals, counting money, graphing, 2-dimensional shapes, place values and rounding, and decimals. Class structure will depend on the students in the class. We will work as a group when possible, but students will also work individually if that works best.

Prerequisite: the ability to do 3-digit addition and subtraction, and beginning to learn multiplication.

New material for returning students!

This class has a maximum of 5 students. Register early to get a spot.

TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $285

Drum Circle

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 K - 3

Rooted in joy and inclusivity, each session transforms the classroom into a dynamic musical community where every student’s voice is heard—through the beat.

TEACHER: Aaron Yedidia
SEMESTER FEE: $315

Social Skills: We All Have Superpowers

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 K - 3

Developing social skills is strongly connected to reading signals around us. One of the most challenging skills for children is managing their emotions. Expressing thoughts and feelings involves navigating what is happening around us, making sense of it, and then responding in a helpful manner for both ourselves and those around us. Sometimes, children (and adults) are not sure what they are feeling or how to read their body signals to help them figure out how they are feeling. In this class, the students will be learning about feelings, their body signals that tell them information about how they feel, and how to express their emotions in helpful ways. These skills and more will be practiced in a fun, thoughtful, and creative manner through different activities, such as a variety of games, stories, art, music, role-playing, and mindfulness.

Whether your child has taken my class before or is taking it for the first time, they will have fun making friends and learning about themselves. Your children will practice skills such as self-regulation, listening, respectful communication, giving and receiving help, and working cooperatively in groups. Students will also connect with others of diverse cultures by building group cohesion, curiosity, and embracing our differences.

Your child will discover their own superpower and celebrate others’ superpowers!

Returning and new students welcome!

TEACHER: Dr. Sharon Bacharach
SEMESTER FEE: $295

Wednesday CLASSES (11 WEEKS) In-person at Temple Akiba

Beginning Writing: Think, Write, and Create

Wednesday: 9:30 am – 10:20 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 K - 2

This class is tailored for young learners beginning their journey into literacy. Each student will receive individual attention, allowing them to work at their own pace while also having time to cooperate with their peers. Some students will focus on recognizing letters, sounds, and simple words. As we assess their development, those who are ready will begin to explore writing longer sentences and how to build a paragraph on their own. They will be introduced to these fundamental reading and writing skills through interactive games, songs, stories, and worksheets, including MadLibs, Word Searches, and the creation of their own handwritten books. The class will be divided into 2 or 3 groups to accommodate everyone's skill level.

New material for returning students!

TEACHERS: Karen Golden and Jeannine Chanin Penn
SEMESTER FEE: $312

Elementary English

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 3 - 5

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
—Dr. Suess

Join us on an adventure through words as we explore poetry, short stories, and level-appropriate novels. Students will begin to think deeper about what they are reading and make connections to other texts and to their own lives. They will learn how to structure their paragraphs, transition gracefully between sentences, and strengthen their word choice. Students will look at the elements of a good story and even write some of their own. Each class will include a lesson and an activity to inspire expression and reinforce what students have learned. 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. New material for returning students.

Please note: Students entering this class should be able to read chapter books and write a paragraph.

New material for returning students!

Required materials:

Pencils and erasers
Lined paper
Folder

TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $312

Beginning Math: Numbers, Logic and Teamwork, Oh my!

Wednesday: 10:30 am – 11:20 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 K - 2

Teamwork and independent thinking will be reinforced as we explore different projects using math skills, including basic addition and subtraction, measuring, using money, solving puzzles, charting graphs, and much more. Each week, there will be a fun, hands-on math/logic-themed exercise or game. Each student will work at their own pace, receive individual attention, and also have opportunities to cooperate with their peers. The curriculum includes many worksheets specifically made for this class, including mazes, tangrams, charting graphs, and other puzzles. The class will be divided into 2 or 3 groups to accommodate everyone's skill level.

New material for returning students!

TEACHERS: Karen Golden and Jeannine Chanin Penn
SEMESTER FEE: $312

Earth Science

Wednesday: 10:30 am – 11:25 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 3 - 5

Step into a world of science! Students will learn basic science terms, develop reading and writing skills using those terms, and conduct experiments on Earth science topics, including landforms, erosion, what wind is, and the difference between weather and climate. This intermediate class focuses more on reading and applying Earth Science concepts, such as the water cycle, erosion, different forms of rocks, as well as the science of planets and moons!

TEACHER: Mr. Layman
SEMESTER FEE: $312

Art: Dress Up The World

Wednesday: 11:30 am – 12:25 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 3 - 5

CULTURAL EXPLORATION · FIGURE COLLAGE · PATTERN-MAKING

Each week, students "travel" to a different culture and explore its traditional dress — from Japanese kimono to West African kente to Mexican Otomi embroidery. Kids create a collage figure wearing that culture's style, then add their own personal touch: a favorite color, an invented pattern, something uniquely them. Every session is self-contained. A finished piece goes home the same day.

Cultures explored include Japan, West Africa, India, Mexico, Scotland, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, and China.

Sample sessions include:

Self-Portrait: My Style, My Outfit
Japan: Kimono layers & hand-drawn pattern
India: Sari drape in tissue paper & metallics
Scotland: Design your own family tartan
Peru: Andean woven-look cut-paper figure
Final: My World Outfit, combining favorites

TEACHER: Jeannine Chanin Penn
SEMESTER FEE: $332

Storytelling: Geography Tales

Wednesday: 11:30 am –12:25 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 K- 3

Travel the world without leaving your seat. Well, not exactly...students will be out of their seats for most of this class, acting out the characters: roaring like lions and flying like butterflies. Each week, we will visit a new country and experience the culture through folktales and songs. Students will meet Anansi, Juha, Coyote and other tricksters and heroes while discovering foods and customs that are part of the tapestry of world culture. Participants will also discover what makes a good story, while shaping and sharing their own telling of tales in a safe place. 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. We will follow story themes around the world and discover that we are more alike than we may have thought.

TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $312

Art: Dress Up The World

Wednesday: 12:45 am – 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 3 - 5

CULTURAL EXPLORATION · FIGURE COLLAGE · PATTERN-MAKING

Cultures explored include Japan, West Africa, India, Mexico, Scotland, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, and China.

Sample sessions include:

Self-Portrait: My Style, My Outfit
Japan: Kimono layers & hand-drawn pattern
India: Sari drape in tissue paper & metallics
Scotland: Design your own family tartan
Peru: Andean woven-look cut-paper figure
Final: My World Outfit, combining favorites

TEACHER: Jeannine Chanin Penn
SEMESTER FEE: $332

Podcademy 4 Kids - Podcasting & YouTube Intro.

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 3 - 5

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 McElhannon
SEMESTER FEE: $350

Elementary Math

Wednesday: 12:45 pm – 1:30 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 3 - 5

Prerequisite: the ability to do 3-digit addition and subtraction, and beginning to learn multiplication.

New material for returning students!

This class has a maximum of 5 students. Register early to get a spot.

TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $312

Beginning Recorder - Let's Make Music Together

Wednesday: 1:45 pm – 2:40 pm (11 weeks) (Students will be assigned a time within this time slot and will be grouped with other students at their level)

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 K - 3

This is both a beginning class and a continuing class for recorder students who can play the notes B, A, G and C and will include note reading and beginning music theory. Students will need the following for this class:

A soprano recorder labeled with your child's name.

You can use a recorder you already have, or you can order one here
Please order this music book here
The recorder and book will be under $20.

TEACHER: Karen Golden
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)

Grades 4 and up

This class has a maximum of eight students. Register early to get a spot.

Returning and new students welcome!

TEACHER: Danielle McElhannon
SEMESTER FEE: $350

Elementary Math

Wednesday: 1:45 pm – 2:30 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 3 - 5

Prerequisite: the ability to do 3-digit addition and subtraction, and beginning to learn multiplication.

New material for returning students!

This class has a maximum of 5 students. Register early to get a spot.

TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
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 10 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 for this semester!

TEACHER: Leila Balter
SEMESTER FEE: $312

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

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.

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.