Middle SChool

Club listings and schedules:

To view detailed course listings and schedules for Spring 2025 programming, please click here.

Spring 2025 Starts January 27


Questions? 

Contact Sheyla Ortiz Pena at fieldstonauxprograms@ecfs.org.

Important Dates

details

There must be a minimum of six students enrolled in order for a program to run. The maximum number of students in a club varies; once a club reaches maximum capacity, registration will close.

Financial Aid

Families utilizing their apportioned financial aid will not initially see the program cost reflect the financial aid contribution upon enrollment. Following enrollment and the $25.00 deposit, the School will apply financial aid to the account. After financial aid is applied, the remaining balance will be due at 50% by Monday 2/10 with total balance paid by Monday 3/10. 

Refunds and Cancellations

We understand that circumstances may change, and sometimes adjustments are needed. If you request a refund after your child's first session, the School will provide a 100% refund, deducting only the cost of that initial session less the $25.00 deposit. Following the second session, families are eligible for a 50% refund. However, please note that refunds are not available after the third session.

Should you need to request a refund, please reach out to Sheyla Ortiz Peña. There are no refunds for snow days or other emergency closures.


Club Listings: Monday

Speech and Debate

Speak up, sharpen your arguments, and embrace the art of persuasive communication. Develop your voice, refine your skills, and engage in thought-provoking discussions.


The Middle School Speech and Debate Club will cultivate a passion for intellectual discourse, mature student oral skill-set, and teach the fundamentals of public speaking and debate.


 Students will engage in different debate styles while learning to argue both sides of an issue with a view to logic. This process will foster confidence, open minds, advance listening, note-taking skills, and mature their ability to think and organize ideas effectively. 


In our club, attendance and participation are key to fostering growth and improvement. Regular attendance ensures that students benefit from continuous learning, skill-building exercises, and the opportunity to engage in debates, practice sessions, and public speaking drills.


Commitment to attending our Saturday conferences is crucial for students to showcase their skills, compete, and network with peers from other schools. These events offer invaluable opportunities to test one's abilities, learn from others, and gain exposure to diverse perspectives.


The program is for all, from experienced to the novice, Students will compete in debate competitions. If you are ready to debate, this is the club for you.


7th & 8th Grade Musical Theater


This year the 7th and 8th grades will once again perform a musical on the main stage!   Students will have the opportunity to have a say in staging, costumes, and props and be a part of a piece of theater that is truly ensemble centered.  We will announce the Musical later in January.

This process-oriented production is designed to introduce your child to working collaboratively, theater-making as a craft, and foundational skill-building. This is a great way for students to get to know people in their grades and to welcome new students to ECFS.  Everyone is welcome and all are cast.


Key Dates:

Tech Weekend:

Tech Week:

Performance Dates:


Register HERE


For further details, please contact Stephanie Stone at sstone@ecfs.org. 

Developmental Basketball

The Developmental Basketball class for middle school students is designed to introduce and enhance fundamental basketball skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. This program focuses on developing key techniques such as dribbling, shooting, passing, and defensive strategies. It is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to those with some basketball experience.

Students participate in a variety of drills and exercises aimed at improving their agility, coordination, and overall fitness. Emphasis is placed on understanding the rules of the game, proper footwork, and teamwork. Through structured practice sessions and scrimmage games, students learn the importance of communication, sportsmanship, and working together as a team.

In addition to skill development, the class also aims to build confidence and a love for the game. Coaches provide individualized feedback and guidance, helping each student to improve at their own pace. The supportive atmosphere encourages students to set personal goals and strive to achieve them.

AI Pioneers by MIT & Stanford

In AI Pioneers, our emerging engineers will learn how to create projects for social good with Python programming language. Through hands-on coding, students will learn how computers can use data to solve complex problems like natural language processing and computer vision. Our students will explore the ways they can meaningfully use AI to predict heart disease, create social robots, assist with disaster relief, and navigate autonomous vehicles. 


In this interdisciplinary program, taught by Stanford & MIT AI researchers, we emphasize ethical responsibility, career paths in artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary applications! From beginner to advanced coders, we envision a future where students of all backgrounds can contribute towards a bright future of inclusivity and technological advancement. Please note that we will prioritize students who can commit to the full term.


Extended Day

This is for students who plan to be on campus beyond the Middle School regular dismissal for late pickup. Students are able to stay for study sessions, to visit the Tate Library, or to watch a game. This can be used as a drop-in system and does not require a semester commitment, unless needed. Students are required to check in at the first floor Academic Center and register when taking advantage of this service. 

Club Listings: Tuesday

Literary Crumbs Club

Let’s bake at the Tate Library! Did you know that the Tate Library has a kitchen? Well it does, and you and your friends are invited to use it to create some delicious treats, then relax in the exclusive soft seating area of the library to chat about books, enjoy book pairings, play literary games, AND READ. 


In this exciting club, young chefs and readers will indulge in the art of baking while exploring the enchanting world of literature right on the library grounds. Our culinary adventures begin with baking delights! Students will immerse themselves in the world of baking, exploring a variety of recipes to craft delicious treats. 


However, our class offers a unique twist! In addition to our baking escapades, we'll harness the serene surroundings of the library to delve into the captivating world of books. Through engaging discussions, storytelling, and reading sessions, we'll explore a diverse array of literature covering different genres, themes, and adventures.


This fusion of baking and book exploration aims to spark creativity, curiosity, and a love for both culinary arts and the joy of reading. Tuesday’s after school have never been more fun! If you have any dietary needs, we’ve got you covered.


Game Design: Roblox Studio

This isn’t about playing games—it’s about creating them! In this workshop, students will dive into Roblox Studio, a powerful tool used to design, build, and code immersive 3D worlds and games. They’ll learn to code using Lua, a beginner-friendly but versatile programming language widely used in game development. Students will start with the basics of Lua scripting, such as creating variables, loops, and conditionals, and gradually move on to more advanced concepts like functions, events, and object-oriented programming.


Through hands-on projects, participants will design unique environments, build interactive objects, and add dynamic elements to their games, such as player controls, scoring systems, and animations. By the end of the workshop, students will have a fully functional game they can share with friends and even publish for others to play on Roblox. This exciting experience not only enhances creativity and logical thinking but also introduces students to real-world skills in game development, coding, and storytelling in the digital age.


Extended Day

This is for students who plan to be on campus beyond the Middle School regular dismissal for late pickup. Students are able to stay for study sessions, to visit the Tate Library, or to watch a game. This can be used as a drop-in system and does not require a semester commitment, unless needed. Students are required to check in at the first floor Academic Center and register when taking advantage of this service. 

Model UN

The Model UN Club is an After School program for students with an interest in exploring the field of international relations. We will teach students to hone their public speaking and communication skills, and learn the art of debate. 


Throughout our sessions, students will delve into the art of diplomacy, global affairs, and debate, preparing them to engage effectively in Model UN simulations. A key focus of this class is cultivating a strong commitment to active participation and attendance at conferences. Our ECFS MUN Club is expected to participate in a variety of conferences including but not limited to Saint Ann’s, Horace Mann’s, Ursuline’s, and Masters School conference. 


Students will explore various aspects of international relations, researching and understanding global issues, developing negotiation skills, and honing public speaking abilities. They will learn to represent assigned countries or roles, crafting and articulating diplomatic positions on diverse topics, fostering a deeper understanding of global perspectives.


We emphasize the significance of commitment to regular attendance, preparation, and engagement as fundamental pillars of success in Model UN. Students will learn the value of dedication, teamwork, and collaboration as they work towards representing their country or role with diligence and excellence.


This program will require students to be present for Saturday conferences, with the expectation that they will renew their enrollment in the Spring.


Yearbook Club 

The Middle School Yearbook highlights our students and chronicles yearly events, clubs, activities, sports teams, and advisories. The Yearbook Club invites students of all three grades to participate in the yearbook’s design, planning, and production. Students in the club are encouraged to contribute via photography, designing page layouts, creating collages, and developing an overall theme. This club is a year-long commitment, and students will be expected to invest time and effort outside of club time to complete specific assignments and attend and photograph various school events throughout the year.


Advanced Chess Club

​​Chess relies on logical thinking, spatial relations, and problem-solving skills. For every child taking our program, we aim to provide a foundation for the basics and principles of sound chess play.  This is done by introducing key concepts of Opening, Middle game, and Endgame strategies in brief demonstrations for the entire class.  There are interactive evaluations over the board, as students play each other or work in small groups with an Instructor.  Further reinforcement is provided through worksheets and related puzzles handed out in class.  These are then reviewed and appraised by our outstanding staff of experienced instructors.

Club Listings: Wednesday

Fieldston Digital Journalism

Building on fall's Junior Newsbreakers class, Digital Journalism takes students further into the world of news and storytelling with advanced skills in reporting and digital publishing. In this interactive course, middle school students will learn the essentials of journalism, from uncovering stories and interviewing sources to writing engaging articles and capturing compelling photos. Throughout the semester, professional journalists will visit the class, sharing their expertise and giving students an insider's look into the world of reporting. Each student will contribute to a class news blog, gaining first hand experience in reaching an online audience. Whether interested in sports, entertainment, social issues, or local events, this course empowers students to safely and responsibly share their voices in the digital world!


Model UN

The Model UN Club is an After School program for students with an interest in exploring the field of international relations. We will teach students to hone their public speaking and communication skills, and learn the art of debate. 


Throughout our sessions, students will delve into the art of diplomacy, global affairs, and debate, preparing them to engage effectively in Model UN simulations. A key focus of this class is cultivating a strong commitment to active participation and attendance at conferences. Our ECFS MUN Club is expected to participate in a variety of conferences including but not limited to Saint Ann’s, Horace Mann’s, Ursuline’s, and Masters School conference. 


Students will explore various aspects of international relations, researching and understanding global issues, developing negotiation skills, and honing public speaking abilities. They will learn to represent assigned countries or roles, crafting and articulating diplomatic positions on diverse topics, fostering a deeper understanding of global perspectives.


We emphasize the significance of commitment to regular attendance, preparation, and engagement as fundamental pillars of success in Model UN. Students will learn the value of dedication, teamwork, and collaboration as they work towards representing their country or role with diligence and excellence.


This program will require students to be present for Saturday conferences, with the expectation that they will renew their enrollment in the Spring.


Volleyball Club

Volleyball Club is a developmental class tailored for 5th–8th grade students, providing a welcoming and enjoyable introduction to the sport. The program focuses on teaching fundamental skills like serving, passing, setting, and spiking through engaging, age-appropriate drills and interactive activities.


In addition to building essential skills, the program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship, fostering a positive environment where students grow in confidence and ability. A key aspect of Volleyball Club is its unique role in connecting 5th grade students with middle school peers, creating opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and building a sense of community through shared experiences on the court.


Whether your child is new to volleyball or looking to deepen their interest, this program offers the perfect balance of learning, growth, and fun, while strengthening bonds across grade levels.


Register Here


7th & 8th Grade Musical Theater

This year the 7th and 8th grades will once again perform a musical on the main stage!   Students will have the opportunity to have a say in staging, costumes, and props and be a part of a piece of theater that is truly ensemble centered.  We will announce the Musical later in January.

This process-oriented production is designed to introduce your child to working collaboratively, theater-making as a craft, and foundational skill-building. This is a great way for students to get to know people in their grades and to welcome new students to ECFS.  Everyone is welcome and all are cast.

Key Dates:

Tech Weekend:

Tech Week:

Performance Dates:


Register HERE


For further details, please contact Stephanie Stone at sstone@ecfs.org. 

Club Listings: THURSDAY

7th & 8th Grade Musical Theater


This year the 7th and 8th grades will once again perform a musical on the main stage!   Students will have the opportunity to have a say in staging, costumes, and props and be a part of a piece of theater that is truly ensemble centered.  We will announce the Musical later in January.

This process-oriented production is designed to introduce your child to working collaboratively, theater-making as a craft, and foundational skill-building. This is a great way for students to get to know people in their grades and to welcome new students to ECFS.  Everyone is welcome and all are cast.


Key Dates:

Tech Weekend:

Tech Week:

Performance Dates:


Register HERE


For further details, please contact Stephanie Stone at sstone@ecfs.org. 


Pizza Making Club

The Pizza Making Club offers an engaging, hands-on culinary experience for middle school students, where they will learn the art of making their own pizzas from scratch using the school’s new pizza oven. Participants will explore the history of pizza, learn about dough preparation, sauce making, and topping selection, while developing kitchen safety skills and teamwork. Each week will focus on different aspects of pizza-making, and of course, eating pizza!


Robotic with Micro:bits and Python Programming


In this exciting workshop, students will bring robots to life using micro:bit microcontrollers—small, beginner-friendly devices packed with cool features like lights, buttons, and sensors. No prior experience with coding or Python is needed!


We start by introducing students to the micro:bit and showing them how to use its fun built-in tools, such as flashing LED patterns, pressing buttons to trigger actions, and experimenting with movement sensors. From there, students will learn Python, a simple and easy-to-learn programming language. They’ll start with the basics, such as creating step-by-step instructions for their robots, and gradually learn how to make their projects even smarter with interactive features.


By the end of the workshop, students will have created their own amazing robot projects, like devices that light up, react to touch, or even move around on command. This hands-on experience builds creativity, problem-solving skills, and confidence in a fun and supportive environment!


Extended Day

This is for students who plan to be on campus beyond the Middle School regular dismissal for late pickup. Students are able to stay for study sessions, to visit the Tate Library, or to watch a game. This can be used as a drop-in system and does not require a semester commitment, unless needed. Students are required to check in at the first floor Academic Center and register when taking advantage of this service. 

Meet our After School Staff and stay up to date with photos of our classes!

FM After School monitor

Moises Belizario

Emmy-nominated writer and director, formerly the voice of Spanish Elmo, Moises is dedicated to empowering young voices. A passionate youth advocate, Moises currently serves as a school-wide assistant at Fieldston Lower School, committed to fostering creativity and expression among young people.

FM After School monitor

Justin Myers

Justin Myers is a Fieldston After-School staff assistant in the Middle School division. He supports students by facilitating engaging activities and offering academic assistance. Justin is dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to participate.

Speech & Debate/ Model UN

Mx. Sefeny Diaz

Mx. Sefeny Diaz is entering their third year as a Fieldston After-School instructor. With a passion for languages and a diverse teaching background, Mx. Diaz incorporates global perspectives into each of their clubs, providing students with enriching, worldly experiences across a variety of subjects.

Speech & Debate/Model UN

Ciara Dalton

Ciara Dalton is a passionate educator with a strong background in advocacy, social justice research, and program evaluation. With experience as a Model UN instructor at Ethical Culture Fieldston School and a former lead debater, Ciara excels in fostering constructive discourse around international issues. She holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and has worked on global initiatives such as clean water advocacy in India and women’s economic empowerment. Ciara is committed to empowering students through education and teamwork.

Model UN

Melanie Corcino

As an educator with 14 years of experience, children and education are Ms. Melanie Corcino's passions. Ms. Corcino is BIG on fostering relationships with children and encouraging them to be their most authentic selves, sprinkle or spark their creativity everywhere, take risks, and never quit believing in themself. Being a part of afterschool allows Ms. Corcino to practice what she preaches and participate in activities she truly enjoys! 

junior newsbreakers

Lilyanna D'Amato

Lilyanna D’Amato is a writer and editor based in Brooklyn, NY. She has worked at publications like The New Yorker, Law360, and RawStory—and also taught Amore’s “Junior Journalist” class in Washington, DC. She is passionate about language’s exceptional capacity to change the way we move through the world and is excited to nurture the next generation of writers!


computer animation

Ms. Fajer

Fajer, a Computer Science graduate, is passionate about educating students in technology. With experience working part-time with children of all ages, Fajer discovered a love for inspiring young minds. As an instructor, Fajer has guided K-12 students in exploring coding, robotics, 3D printing, and problem-solving skills. Committed to creating a stimulating learning environment, Fajer aims to ignite curiosity and foster creativity through hands-on projects and interactive lessons. By instilling a love for technology and learning, Fajer seeks to prepare students for success in a rapidly advancing technological society and inspire future leaders in STEM fields.


Developmental BAsketball

Omari Bernard

Omari Bernard serves as the Upper School Assistant Special Testing Coordinator and Developmental Basketball Instructor. A graduate of Iona University, Omari has extensive experience in basketball skills training and player development, having worked at various local camps and with travel AAU programs. Eager to share his knowledge of the game, Omari is dedicated to helping students improve their skills and advance each day.


Canva Workshop

Yomira Meregildo

Yomi is a Manhattan-based teaching artist with two years of experience at Fieldston Lower, where she has served as an associate teacher and summer camp instructor. Her passion for art, which began in childhood, has led her to showcase her work at galleries like NoMAA (Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance) and to establish a community collective that hosts art workshops for her neighborhood. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Art Education at the School of Visual Arts.

Literary crumbs

Katie Elwood

Katie Elwood, one of the librarians at the Tate Library, is entering her eighth year at ECFS. She works with Fieldston students from 6th through 12th grade. The Literary Crumbs Club has been a fantastic experience, offering a fun way for her to connect with middle school students while discovering their favorite books—and snacks!


Literary Crumbs

Kathleen Hayes

Kathleen Hayes has been the Upper and Middle School Chorus teacher at Fieldston for over 30 years, shaping the program into a cornerstone of the school's arts community. Beyond her passion for music, Kathleen has an interest in both baking and literature, making her an ideal fit for the Literary Crumbs program, where she can blend her creative talents to inspire and engage students.

Speech and debate tournament awards

Isabelle Green, Yaoyi Zhou & Kaylah Newell

First place for Varsity at Blind Brook

Maya Sener

First Speaker Prize

Congratulations to all of our speakers!

Our First 2 Weeks of After School