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McDonogh offers a variety of fun and enriching after-school opportunities for McDonogh families and the greater Baltimore community. We also offer an AfterCare Program for McDonogh students in kindergarten through fourth grade.
Scroll down to view the fall offerings! Registration will open on Monday, August 4.
MCA is a unique program providing McDonogh families and the greater Baltimore community with high-quality extracurricular visual and performing arts classes right here on our campus! MCA includes classes for children and adults, and each offering is designed to spark creativity, self-expression, and artistic abilities. Sessions feature classes taught by McDonogh faculty as well as teachers from the Johns Hopkins Peabody Preparatory Institute.
Questions? Email communityarts@mcdonogh.org.
Fall sessions begin the week of September 15 and run for eight weeks, with the exception of Monday classes, which will run for seven weeks due to school closures. Registration will open on Monday, August 4. Programs with rolling admission can be found at the bottom of this page.
Grades: Second-Fourth Grade
Time: Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Patty Welch
Cost: $230
You know that Eagles can fly, but did you also know they can dance? Come join the Lower School Dance Troupe on Wednesdays after school with Ms. Stanziale and Ms. Welch! We will learn different dance routines together to popular songs. Let’s get our Eagle wings flapping and toes tapping!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Prekindergarten-First Grade
Time: Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Maya Richard
Cost: $230
Step into the magical world of dance with our Introduction to Dance class designed specifically for energetic and creative minds! In this engaging program, students will embark on a journey of self-expression and movement exploration and be led through the basics of dance, fostering coordination, rhythm, and a love for creative expression. Through imaginative play and age-appropriate choreography, your child will develop confidence and grace in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Join us as we twirl, leap, and dance our way into a world of creativity and joy!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Second-Fourth Grade
Time: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Sarah Spund
Cost: $230
Get ready to jump, dance, and cheer! The Lower School Cheer Team is the perfect place for young students to build school spirit, teamwork, and confidence. Each week, cheerleaders will learn fun cheers and energetic dance routines in a supportive and positive environment. Whether your child is new to cheer or already loves to perform, this team is all about movement, motivation, and making friends. Bring your energy, your spirit, and your biggest smile! The last day will feature an end-of-class showcase where parents can come watch their cheerleaders show off all they have learned!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-First Grade
Time: Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Sarah Spund
Cost: $230
Get ready to jump, dance, and cheer! The Lower School Cheer Team is the perfect place for young students to build school spirit, teamwork, and confidence. Each week, cheerleaders will learn fun cheers and energetic dance routines in a supportive and positive environment. Whether your child is new to cheer or already loves to perform, this team is all about movement, motivation, and making friends. Bring your energy, your spirit, and your biggest smile! The last day will feature an end-of-class showcase where parents can come watch their cheerleaders show off all they have learned!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Ages: Second-Fourth Grade
Day: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Common Tone
Cost: $240
Dive into group music-making using authentic instruments! Students will continue to refine music skills, techniques, and knowledge through the joy and excitement of group music-making. Together, they will experience music in an ensemble setting and will explore various instrumental techniques on guitar, ukulele, piano, and percussion. Each student will have an opportunity to learn how to play songs on an instrument of their choosing.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Ages: Prekindergarten-First Grade
Day: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Common Tone
Cost: $240
Try-Tones is a community of students that celebrates confidence and builds essential skills through singing, movement, and playing authentic musical instruments in an ensemble setting. Every student will have the opportunity to explore engaging musical concepts on the guitar, ukulele, piano, and various percussion instruments. These concepts will be applied in class by exploring songs that utilize appropriate melodic, rhythmic, and formal techniques. Try-Tones is a positive, exciting, and successful first step for any student with an interest in learning a musical instrument.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Age: Prekindergarten-First Grade
Time: Monday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Maya Richard
Cost: $230 (7 weeks)
Spark your child’s imagination with our Introduction to Drama class! Tailored for young performers in prekindergarten through first grade, this class introduces the magical world of theater through playful and engaging activities. Our nurturing and enthusiastic instructors will guide students as they explore basic acting skills, express themselves through creative storytelling, and build confidence in a fun, supportive environment. Kids will learn to work together.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Age: Third-Fifth Grade
Time: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Dan Wagner
Cost: $230
Students will participate in fun theater activities and games that teach skills for the stage, including improvisation, character development, script reading, scene work, and unarmed stage combat. Students will gain confidence and self-esteem as they learn and improve their skills in a supportive, ensemble-building, and teamwork-focused environment.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Age: Kindergarten-Fourth Grade
Time: Tuesday, 4:00-5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Holly Thompson
Cost: $275
Dive into the colorful world of painting! In this fun and engaging class, students will explore different painting techniques, tools, and styles to create their own masterpieces. From vibrant watercolors to bold acrylics, young artists will experiment with color mixing, brushwork, and texture to bring their imaginations to life. Projects will include nature-inspired artwork, whimsical abstracts, and even storytelling through painting. This class encourages creativity and self-expression while building foundational art skills. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is needed. Sign-up and let your artistic journey begin!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Age: Prekindergarten-Fourth Grade
Time: Monday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructors: Shanita Scott and Tracey Hill
Cost: $225 (7 weeks)
It’s time to become a sewing master! This class is designed to introduce our young learners to the fascinating world of sewing, aiming to enhance their creativity, fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Age: (18+)
Day: Monday, 4:00-4:45 p.m.; Thursday, 4:00-4:45 p.m.
Instructor: Nina Pongratz (Monday), Laura King (Thursday)
Cost: $87.50 (7-weeks), $15/Drop-In Class
Location: McDonogh Dance Studio, Edward St. John Student Center
Join MCA Adult Yoga to enhance your focus, reduce stress, and begin or end your workday with renewed energy and balance. Whether your goals are to cultivate a clear mind, boost physical activity, or set a positive intention for the week ahead, yoga is the perfect way to find balance and wellness within our community. This is an adult-only class, no previous experience is necessary. Sign up now to experience the transformative benefits of yoga!
Ages: 5+
Day: Varies
Session: 6-, or 12-week sessions offered; lessons begin the week of 9/16/24
Instructor: MCA Dance Faculty
Cost: $732 (12 weeks, $61/lesson), $366 (6 weeks, $61/lesson)
McDonogh proudly offers individual dance lessons for students of all ages, experience levels, and dance interests. MCA Dance Lessons emphasize the development of skills in creating and performing dance in various genres. The lessons are 30 minutes. If lessons are missed due to sickness or other school-imposed conflicts, efforts will be made to make up the lesson at a separate time; one make-up lesson is built into the fall session to accommodate these conflicts. Please note: 24-hour advance notice is required for missed lessons, and no credits are given due to unexcused student absences. If you choose to withdraw your child from the program, no credit will be given for any remaining lessons.
Ages: 5+
Day: Varies
Session: 6-, or 12-week sessions offered; lessons begin the week of 9/16/24
Instructor: MCA Visual Art Faculty
Cost: $732 (12 weeks, $61/lesson), $366 (6 weeks, $61/lesson)
McDonogh proudly offers individual art lessons for students of all ages, experience levels, and art interests. MCA Art Lessons emphasize developing skills in creating visual art in various mediums. The lessons are 30 minutes. If lessons are missed due to sickness or other school-imposed conflicts, efforts will be made to make up the lesson at a separate time; one make-up lesson is built into the fall session to accommodate for these conflicts. Please note: 24-hour advance notice is required for missed lessons and no credits are given due to unexcused student absence. If you choose to withdraw your child from the program, no credit will be given for any remaining lessons.
McDonogh After-School Programs provide high-quality, extracurricular opportunities throughout the school year for McDonogh students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Our programs feature a wide variety of activities and subject matter and take place once a week and begin at 4:00 p.m. Questions? Email afterschool@mcdonogh.org.
Fall sessions begin the week of September 15 and run for eight weeks, with the exception of Monday classes, which will run for seven weeks due to school closures. Registration will open on Monday, August 4!
Grades: Seventh and Eighth Grade
Instructor: Daryl Burch
Day: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $195
Award-winning debate coach Daryl Burch, along with members of McDonogh's Upper School varsity debate team, will train and coach Middle School students in the skills of competitive debate. Participation in the program teaches public speaking, critical thinking, and research skills that are highly valuable in every facet of the school curriculum. Students will debate a current event controversy and prepare for a mini-tournament to which all parents are invited.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-Sixth Grade
Time: Monday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Instructor: Arkadiy Frenkel
Cost: $170 (7 weeks)
Chess is a fun game that helps kids learn life skills: how to concentrate, recognize patterns, solve problems, think creatively, cultivate teamwork (among their pieces), execute short-term tactics, develop long-term strategies, manage time, and (most important!) exercise impulse control. When kids lose pieces and games because they moved their pieces impulsively, they learn to resist succumbing to the quick fix of instant gratification. When kids win pieces and games because they moved their pieces patiently, they learn to savor the enduring joy of delayed gratification. Based on their skill level and age, players are divided into two groups that alternate between 30 minutes of lessons and 30 minutes of friendly games. Beginners are welcome!
Arkadiy Frenkel is a U.S. Chess National Master and full-time chess coach. He also has directed the Chess Camp for McDonogh Summer Camps for the last eight summers. All chess supplies provided.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Fifth and Sixth Grade
Instructor: Daryl Burch
Day: Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $195
The number one fear most people have is speaking in public. This class will motivate and encourage students to speak in public. Students will work on understanding speech, invoking emotion and pathos in delivering a speech, conveying appropriate tone and sentiment in the speech content, and enunciating the speech. The goals are to help students become better orators and to create interest among Middle School students for the Upper School debate program.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Third-Fifth Grade
Instructor: Susan Scherz
Day: Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $225
Junior Baking Masters is a fun and enriching program for students in grades 3–5 who are ready to take their baking skills to the next level. Each week, young bakers will explore new techniques—from rolling dough and assembling layered cakes to experimenting with flavor combinations and decorating with flair. Along the way, they’ll build kitchen independence, collaborate with peers, and gain confidence in both their baking and presentation skills. With a sprinkle of math, a dash of science, and a whole lot of creativity, this program offers a well-rounded recipe for learning and fun!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-Second Grade
Instructor: Susan Scherz
Day: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $225
Little Bakers Club is the perfect introduction to the joys of baking for our youngest chefs in grades K–2! Each week, students will roll up their sleeves and dive into hands-on kitchen fun as they learn to measure, mix, and decorate a variety of sweet and simple treats. Along the way, they’ll strengthen fine motor skills, practice following directions, and discover the importance of kitchen safety and hygiene—all in a supportive, age-appropriate environment. With plenty of opportunities for creativity and teamwork, this class is as enriching as it is delicious. Let the baking adventures begin!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-Second Grade
Teacher: Robothink
Day: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $240
During the Cosmic Space Robots program, students are invited to partake in an immersive hour-long cosmic odyssey where they engage in constructing miniature versions of actual spacecraft, such as rovers, rocket
ships, and drones. This program is deliberately designed for beginners, ensuring that no prior experience is necessary. Guided by instructors, participants will explore the intricacies of space technology and have the opportunity to delve into the captivating realm of space exploration, fostering their creativity, problem-solving skills, and hands-on learning experiences. Join us for an exciting and educational journey, where young minds can unleash their curiosity and fascination for space in a lively and engaging environment!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4..
Grades: Third-Fifth Grade
Teacher: Robothink
Day: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $240
During the Cosmic Space Robots program, students are invited to partake in an immersive hour-long cosmic odyssey where they engage in constructing miniature versions of actual spacecraft, such as rovers, rocket
ships, and drones. This program is deliberately designed for beginners, ensuring that no prior experience is necessary. Guided by instructors, participants will explore the intricacies of space technology and have the opportunity to delve into the captivating realm of space exploration, fostering their creativity, problem-solving skills, and hands-on learning experiences. Join us for an exciting and educational journey, where young minds can unleash their curiosity and fascination for space in a lively and engaging environment!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-Seventh Grade
Teacher: Gregg Kleiman
Day: Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $225
Students will be immersed in the world of innovation. This class ignites wonder, encourages confidence, and builds essential STEM skills through collaborative and creative problem solving. Each week, students will dive into thrilling hands-on projects like crafting marshmallow launchers, building catapults, launching kinetic rockets, designing marble mazes, and much more. Every participant takes home their unique creations weekly, fostering a tangible connection to their learning journey.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-Seventh Grade
Teacher: Gregg Kleiman
Day: Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $225
Join us and discover that everything is truly awesome! In this dynamic class, students dive into the exciting world of STEAM through playful, hands-on learning. Each day, they’ll tackle thrilling missions that become the foundation for their creative builds. With dedicated time for choice builds, their imaginations can run wild. Plus, at the end of the class, each student takes home their very own LEGO kit—fueling their creativity long after the class ends.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-Seventh Grade
Teacher: Gregg Kleiman
Day: Monday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $200 (7 weeks)
Come explore the wild, weird, and wacky wonders of science. Create chemical chaos with slime and colored geysers, and explore how stuff works. It's a bit of magic and a bit of science. Students will be engaged in fun and new experiments each week!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: PK to First Grade
Instructor: Soccer Shots
Time: Monday, 4:00-5:00 p.m. or Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $200 (Monday-7 weeks); $230 (Wednesday)
Soccer Shots focuses on individual skill, fitness, and sportsmanship, providing an opportunity for children to be challenged through soccer skills, fun games, and team interaction. Children will also be introduced to competition in a developmentally appropriate manner.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Second to Fifth Grade
Teacher: Soccer Shots
Day: Monday, 4:00-5:00 p.m. or Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $200 (Monday-7 weeks); $230 (Wednesday)
Soccer Shots focuses on individual skill, fitness, and sportsmanship, providing an opportunity for children to be challenged through soccer skills, fun games, and team interaction. Children will also be introduced to competition in a developmentally appropriate manner.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: PK to First Grade
Instructor: Dynasty Sports Academy
Time: Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $230
This program introduces players to the fundamentals of the sport while focusing on skill development. Each week, players will explore a new skill, building confidence through simple drills and fun games. Participants will learn essential lacrosse techniques and familiarize themselves with common terminology and basic strategies—all while sharpening their stick skills. An STX 30-inch FiddleSTX will be provided, but players are welcome to bring their own sticks if they prefer.
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
Grades: Kindergarten-Fifth Grade
Teacher: Gregg Kleiman
Day: Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Class Cost: $195
Come join us for fun-filled afternoons and some of your favorite outdoor activities such as rock climbing, laser tag, kickball, soccer, capture the flag, frisbee golf, and more!
REGISTER HERE STARTING AUGUST 4.
AfterCare provides McDonogh lower schoolers with friendship and fun in a nurturing, well-supervised atmosphere. Each day includes a mix of indoor and outdoor play, with opportunities to run, climb, build, read, and explore. A light snack is provided, and students who have homework are given a quiet, monitored space to focus and complete assignments.
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