Middle SChool

Club listings and schedules:

Scroll below for full course listings.

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 Friday 8/16 with total balance paid by Friday 9/20. 

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

WoodShop


The After-School Woodshop Class for middle school students is a dynamic program designed to spark creativity and provide hands-on learning experiences. Held every Tuesday from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM in the school woodshop room, this class offers a unique opportunity for students in grades 6-8 to design and build their own woodworking projects.


Under the guidance of experienced instructor Gezime Baliaj, students will start by sketching and planning their projects, which can range from birdhouses to small pieces of furniture or decorative items. The class focuses on teaching safe and effective use of various tools such as saws and sanders, ensuring students understand comprehensive safety practices. Participants will develop a wide range of woodworking skills, from measuring and cutting to sanding and finishing, while also enhancing their problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. The program fosters a fun and supportive environment where students can express their personal style, and take pride in creating something tangible and unique. 


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.

6th Grade Musical Theater


This year the 6th  graders will 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.  


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.


Dates for the show will be announced in September. Please note that dress rehearsals will be mandatory. No exceptions will be made for any rehearsals and students must be available for the entirety of the rehearsal each day.


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 and Machine Learning


Prepare to dive into the forefront of technology! This course introduces students to the fascinating world of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Through real-world applications, students will unravel the mysteries of prompting, large language models, AI algorithms, neural networks, and data analysis techniques. Individually and in teams, will hone their ability to harness AI in everyday life, explore ethical considerations in AI development, and discover the potential impact of AI on society. Whether it is designing chatbots, analyzing data sets, or creating predictive models, this course offers an exciting opportunity for young minds to develop critical thinking skills, computational thinking, and a deeper understanding of the technologies shaping our future. Join us as we embark on a journey to unlock the secrets of AI and Machine Learning!

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

Virtual Reality with CoSpaces

Create immersive VR environments and interactive 3D experiences by learning essential coding skills and the principles of 3D design. Students will master programming languages such as C# and JavaScript. They will also learn 3D modeling and animation with tools like Blender and Maya.

Through project-based learning, students will create their own VR applications and explore the latest VR hardware. This course equips students with the knowledge to innovate and harness the transformative power of VR, preparing them for careers in various fields such as gaming, education, and healthcare.

Artistic Storytelling: Explore and Create

Students will learn to create visual stories in addition to exploring a variety of art materials. This course will begin with an introduction to an art medium such as graphite, watercolor, acrylic paint, pastels, and other similar materials along with projects that demonstrate storytelling techniques. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the tools needed to create their own comic, illustration, or zine inspired by their personal stories and favorite artistic materials. Students will learn new creative techniques and utilize what works best for their own art projects. This class promotes empowerment and meaningful artmaking. All ages are welcomed!

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.


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.


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: Wednesday

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.


7th Grade Drama Workshop

Welcome back to the Department of Theatre and Dance at Fieldston Middle School as a company member for this 7th and 8th grade Drama Workshop.

 

Our process begins in September as students embark on a journey to further their study of acting and focus on performing a piece of scripted material for performance.  Students will be a part of rehearsals and performances, deepening their skills as a theater maker from acting technique to collaborative skill building.  The Drama Workshop offers students a safe environment to take creative risks, while having fun in our department- a space that is both a rigorous and comfortable home for many of our students.  


This year the drama workshop will perform a play that will be chosen by the actors in the group during our first few weeks of meeting. We will read 6 to 8 plays of varying styles and vote on which play to perform.  The group will collectively cast the play and work to produce it with students taking on roles as actor, costumer, designer and props. Rehearsals will take place on Wednesdays after school from 3:30-6:00 pm. We will communicate with families in terms of a start date in the upcoming weeks.  


The final performance will be on January 22, 2025.

 

To register click on the link here

For further details, please contact Stephanie Stone at sstone@ecfs.org.  Please note, all enrolled families will receive more detailed information in September.



Canva Workshop: Your Voice Visualized


Welcome to our Canva workshop, where we'll explore Graphic Design, Storytelling, and the Power of Voice. This workshop will guide participants through three key stages: Theme Exploration, Visual Communication, Presentation and Expression. Each student will choose a topic of personal importance, research it, and refine their ideas through quick drafts and vision boards. We will be focusing on graphic design elements like composition, color, typography, and imagery and the ways in which different design techniques impact their message. The workshop begins by exploring how to navigate the canva website, utilizing all of the great features provided on canva and how to get started on a new design. 


The workshop emphasizes creativity, clarity, and impact, with projects designed to promote individuality and diversity in thought and visual styles. By the end, students will have created a portfolio of posters that effectively share their stories and messages, harnessing the power of visual storytelling and self-expression. The skills gained can be applied outside of the workshop with platforms on social media and presentation design. 


Art en Français


This class fuses beginner language skills with a love of art, inviting students to explore influential French art genres, and try out the styles of renowned artists like Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, and Henri Matisse. Throughout the course, students will adopt the vocabulary of an artist, hone their drawing and painting skills, and bend and mold projects to suit their creativity. Whether your child is a beginner or has years of experience, this class will support French-speaking artists of all levels!


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.

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: THURSDAY

6th Grade Musical Theater


This year the 6th  graders will 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.  


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.


Dates for the show will be announced in September. Please note that dress rehearsals will be mandatory. No exceptions will be made for any rehearsals and students must be available for the entirety of the rehearsal each day.


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


Digital Entrepreneurs


From designing blogs, to creating e-commerce sites or brand-building sites students will learn about structure, content, layout, typography and design. Our tech savvy students will be designing and building web pages using HTML and CSS. Students will take on “business missions” for potential clients in different fields and create mock websites for their clients.


7th & 8th Grade Musical Theater


Welcome back to the Department of Theatre and Dance at Fieldston Middle School as a company member for this 7th and 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 this summer as well as start dates and rehearsal commitments.


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.

For further details, please contact Stephanie Stone at sstone@ecfs.org.  Please note, all enrolled families will receive more detailed information in February.


Grandmaster Chess Club


This club offers an exciting opportunity for students to delve deeper into the intricate world of chess. Led by an international master, participants will experience a comprehensive curriculum designed to elevate their skills.


The club emphasizes active participation through frequent chess matches, fostering a dynamic learning environment. From team-based challenges that encourage collaborative thinking to adrenaline-pumping speed chess and engaging competitions, there's a diverse range of activities to keep the excitement high.


Critical thinking and problem-solving are at the forefront, encouraging students to think several steps ahead and make informed decisions, both in chess and beyond. 


Students will be invited to optional tournaments and competitions organized outside of our ECFS community.

Junior Newsbreakers


In this class, students will dive into the exciting world of journalism! Throughout the session, they'll create and publish their very own school newspaper while learning the foundations and core values of journalism from various guests, including accomplished print and media journalists representing The New York Times, NBC News, The New Yorker, and more. From investigative reporting to sportscasting, cartooning to opinion writing, the Junior Newsbreakers will explore the facets of journalism that interest them most. Each week they'll work to create engaging content for their newspaper, learn how to do great interviews, and improve their writing skills. Get ready to become a talented storyteller, learn the importance of truthful reporting, and make a big impact on our school!


Computer Animation


Have you ever wanted to make your own short cartoon? In this class we will learn how to draw digitally and how to structure and animate a character in one of the programs your favorite cartoons are made with.


We'll draw our own character on the computer, learn how to create a skeleton for the character, and then start to make them move! The best part of animating in a computer, you learn how to make the computer make the character move for you. We will learn how to use flowcharts and graphs to show the computer what to do so we don't have to draw every picture in our video (and it's definitely a lot of pictures!)












Club Listings: FRIDAY

No Clubs on Fridays

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.