Summer Enrichment Program for Rising 7th, 8th and 9th Graders

Enrichment courses are designed to pique curiosity, introduce students to fun, inspiring topics and engage them in hands-on group projects and activities.

Creative teachers from Serra's network, who have a passion for learning and doing, will lead these unique programs. Each course is a half day (morning or afternoon), but two courses can be combined together to become a full day experience. A variety of lunch options are also available.
 

Calendar at a Glance

(click on course to go directly to description)  
 

A.M./P.M.

Session 1
June 15-19

(June 19 holiday)

Session 2
June 22-26

Session 3
June 29-July 3

(July 3  holiday)

Session 4
July 6-10

Session 5
July 13-17

Aug 3-7

A.M.

CSI Forensics Camp

CSI Forensics Camp CSI Forensics Camp

Smart Money Camp

Smart Money Camp Digital Video Camp

A.M.

Robotics Innovation Camp

Robotics Innovation Camp Robotics Innovation Camp

Camp Español

Medical Detectives Camp

 

A.M.   

Physics in Action

Physics in Action

Camp Español

 

 

 

A.M.

Mock Trial

 

 

 

 

 

A.M.

Summer Service

 


 


 


 

 

A.M.

French Food Truck          

P.M.

Robotics Innovation Camp Robotics Innovation Camp Robotics Innovation Camp Mock Trial Mock Trial  

P.M.

Chemistry and Cooking

Chemistry and Cooking

Camp Español

Sports Photography Camp

Sports Photography Camp

 

P.M.

3D Art and Ceramics Camp

3D Art and Ceramics Camp

 

Smart Money Camp

Engineering DNA

 

P.M.

 

Mock Trial

 

Camp Español

 

 

 

Course Descriptions

3D Art Summer at Serra Course
3D art and ceramics camp (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
june 15-18, course fee: $280 | hours: 12 P.m.-3 p.m. 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
june 22-26, course fee: $350 | hours: 12 P.m.-3 p.m. 

Unleash your creativity and discover the art of building in three dimensions. During this one-week, hands-on camp, students will explore sculptural forms using clay, wire, and mixed media. Campers will learn different construction techniques—hand-building, additive and subtractive methods, texturing, glazing, and more.

No prior art experience is required. Beginners will receive supportive guidance every step of the way, while students with ceramics or art experience can deepen their skills and experiment with more advanced approaches.

Campers will work in our beautiful ceramics studio, designed specifically for 3D art—natural light, spacious worktables, sinks for cleanup, and professional-grade kilns. Clay pieces will be glazed and fired, allowing students to take home finished artwork they’ll be proud of.  

Clara Lonardo
Meet the instructor: Ms. Clara Lonardo

Clara Lonardo is a talented ceramics instructor at Serra High School, where she guides students in exploring the art of hand-building, wheel-throwing, and creative expression with clay. With a focus on fostering creativity, technique, and experimentation, Ms. Lonardo helps students bring their ideas to life through hands-on projects in the ceramics studio.

 

 

register here


 

Camp Español: Language, Movement and Expression! (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
june 29-july 3, course fee: $280 | hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
june 29-july 3, course fee: $280 | hours: 12 p.m.-3 p.m. (FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
july 6-10, course fee: $350 | hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. 
july 6-10, course fee: $350 | hours: 12 p.m.-3 p.m.

Welcome to a week of Spanish language, music, dance, and culture! Camp Español introduces campers to the rich cultures of Spanish-speaking countries through hands-on activities, movement, art, and performance. 

Throughout the week, campers will: practice conversational Spanish in real-life situations; learn dances such as salsa and merengue; visit a classroom “mercado,” order food, and role-play shopping in Spanish; work in teams to produce short skits in Spanish. 

Campers should have some previous exposure to Spanish (school program, family, or independent study). The camp focuses on building confidence and fluency, not perfect grammar.

Join us for a cultural adventure where Spanish comes alive through rhythm, creativity, and community!

Talavera and Labrador Camp Espanol
Meet the instructors: Yvonne Talavera and Daniela Labrador

Camp Español is led by Señoritas Yvonne Talavera and Daniela Labrador, two of Serra’s most beloved Spanish teachers. Known for the energy, creativity, and warmth they bring to the classroom, Señoritas Talavera and Labrador are native Spanish speakers who have a deep love for Spanish language, culture, and traditions.

They delight in sharing their lived experiences with students and believe that the best way to learn a language is to use it actively and joyfully. In their classes, Spanish comes alive through dance, music, singing, acting, and movement, creating an engaging and supportive environment where students feel confident taking risks and trying something new.

Señoritas Talavera and Labrador are passionate about helping students build real-world communication skills while discovering the richness and diversity of Spanish-speaking cultures. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and their camp is designed to be both educational and fun, leaving campers inspired, energized, and excited to keep learning Spanish.

register here


cSI forensics Camp: three-week modular camp (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
june 15-19, course fee: $280 | hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
june 22-26, course fee: $350 | hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
june 29-July 3, course fee $280 | hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
 (FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY)

Step into the world of crime-solving at CSI Forensics Camp, where rising 7th–9th graders become real-life detectives. In this hands-on camp, students learn the foundations of forensic science, from examining evidence and using microscopes to understanding how investigators analyze clues. Campers will work through realistic challenges, practice crime-scene techniques, and build critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as they uncover the truth behind each mystery. Special guest speakers—including a U.S. Secret Service agent and experts from the San Mateo County Crime Lab—will bring authentic real-world insight into how investigations unfold.

This year’s program offers three separate one-week sessions, each with a different theme—so whether campers join us for one week or all three, they’ll enjoy a brand-new mystery and fresh hands-on experiences.

Session Themes:
Week 1 – Crime Scenes & Evidence:
Campers explore how forensic investigators approach a crime scene, collect evidence, and document their findings, then dive into fingerprinting and pattern analysis to solve a simulated case.

Week 2 – Handwriting, Fibers & Currency:
This week examines the science of hairs and fibers, introduces forensic handwriting techniques, and highlights real anti-counterfeiting strategies used in U.S. currency to spot fakes.

Week 3 – Blood Spatter & DNA:
Campers investigate how blood spatter patterns reveal what happened at a crime scene and learn the basics of DNA analysis, then apply both to crack the final mystery of the week.

Across every session, campers work together to crack the case. Whether you’re fascinated by science, mysteries, or crime dramas, CSI Forensics Camp is a thrilling, hands-on adventure for aspiring forensic experts.

Meet the instructor: Dr. Natacha Shaw

Dr. Natacha Shaw, who holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Cornell University and has nearly two decades of teaching experience, leads the CSI Forensics Camp with a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm. Drawing on her deep scientific knowledge and years of mentoring students, Dr. Shaw creates an engaging and educational environment where campers delve into the world of forensic science. Through activities such as microscopy of hairs and fibers, DNA analysis, and weekly mock crime scene investigations, she encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and teamwork. Dr. Shaw's passion for teaching and her dedication to inspiring the next generation make her an exceptional guide for this unique camp experience.
 

register here 
 


 

chemistry and cooking: the science of food (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
june 15-18, course fee: $280 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
june 22-26, course fee: $350
hours: 12 p.m.-3 p.m. 

What do ice cream, bread, chocolate, and salad dressing have in common? Chemistry!

In this hands-on, lab-based enrichment camp, students explore the science behind everyday foods through experiments, demonstrations, and taste-safe activities. Working in a chemistry lab (not a kitchen), campers investigate how ingredients interact, how heat and energy change matter, and how chemistry shapes flavor, texture, and structure.

Throughout the week, campers will:

  • Experiment with mixtures, emulsions, and solutions
  • Explore acids, bases, and pH using food-based indicators
  • Investigate fermentation, gases, and food structure
  • Conduct small-scale food science experiments using real lab tools
  • Collaborate in teams to design and present a final food science challenge

This camp emphasizes hands-on discovery rather than lectures and is designed for students with a wide range of science experience. 

 
Meet the instructor: Dr. Natacha Shaw

Dr. Natacha Shaw brings deep scientific expertise and infectious enthusiasm to the Chemistry and Cooking Camp. She holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Cornell University and has nearly two decades of experience teaching and mentoring students. Dr. Shaw loves helping students discover how chemistry shows up in everyday life, especially in something as familiar—and fun—as food.

In this camp, she guides students through engaging, lab-based experiments that explore how ingredients interact, how chemical reactions shape flavor and texture, and how scientists investigate the food we eat. Known for making complex ideas accessible and exciting, Dr. Shaw creates a supportive, hands-on environment where curiosity, collaboration, and experimentation are encouraged.

register here


 

Digital Video and Music Camp
digital video and music production camp: make your own music
dates and course fee:
august 3-7, course fee: $750 
($700 IF YOU REGISTER BY MARCH 31)
hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 

In this immersive, one-week camp, young creators will explore the world of digital storytelling from start to finish. Campers will learn the fundamentals of videography, storyboarding, and scripting as they design an original concept for a short film or music video. They’ll then take their ideas into the editing suite, using GarageBand to compose a custom soundtrack or score that brings their visuals to life.

With guidance from instructors at Murphy Music Camps, students will experiment with camera techniques, audio production, pacing, and creative direction as they collaborate in small groups. By the end of the week, every camper will have produced a polished short video paired with their own music creation—an impressive piece they can proudly share with family and friends. 

No prior music or video experience required—just imagination and a desire to create something new. 

Joe Murphy
Meet the instructor: Joe Murphy

Joe Murphy is an accomplished music educator with more than 20 years of leadership experience. As Serra High School’s music director, he leads ensembles ranging from symphonic and jazz bands to choir and a drumline. He also pioneered Serra’s digital music curriculum, helping students explore composition, production, and creative expression. With a deep commitment to student learning and creativity, Joe Murphy brings the perfect blend of expertise and enthusiasm to the Digital Video and Music Production Camp.

 

register here through the murphy music camp website


 

Serra High School_Engineering DNA
 
engineering dna (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
july 13-17, course fee: $350

hours: 12 p.m.-3 p.m. 

In this hands-on biotechnology camp, students step into the role of scientists as they explore how DNA and proteins control how living things work. Through engaging lab activities, they’ll discover how scientists study and use DNA in medicine, research, and everyday life.

Students will make bacteria glow green under special light to see genes in action, extract DNA, and separate it using lab gels to learn how scientists compare and analyze genetic information. They’ll also explore proteins by purifying them and learning how a protein’s shape helps it do its job in the body.

Throughout the week, students will use real lab tools, work as part of a research team, and think through their results just like professional scientists.

From glowing bacteria to real lab experiments, this camp is ideal for students who want to explore how living things work at the cellular level in a hands-on, memorable way.

Which camp is right for you? Love solving medical mysteries? Try “Medical Detectives”. Prefer hands-on lab experiments and glowing bacteria? “Engineering DNA” is for you. Together, they can be taken as a full-day science option (AM + PM).
 
Dr. Tara Mann
Meet the instructor: Dr. Tara Mann

Dr. Tara Mann is an accomplished scientist and educator with expertise in microbiology and biotechnology. A former Harvard University pre-med instructor, she brings deep scientific knowledge and a passion for hands-on learning to Serra. As Chair of the Science Department, Dr. Mann is known for designing engaging lab experiences that help students understand how cells, genes, and proteins work together. Her approachable, inquiry-based teaching style makes complex ideas accessible—and exciting—for middle school learners.

 

register here


 

Camp Francais
the great french food truck challenge (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
june 15-18 | course fee: $280 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. 

Bienvenue! In this hands-on, creative French camp, students take on The Great French Food Truck Challenge—working in teams to design, build, and launch a mock French crêpe food truck. Along the way, campers explore French language and culture through food, creativity, and friendly competition.

Throughout the week, campers will:

  • Learn basic conversational French through games, food-themed activities, and daily practice
  • Explore French culture and food traditions, with a focus on crêpes
  • Design a food truck concept, including a name, menu, pricing, and visual branding
  • Prepare and cook crêpes for a fun end-of-week showcase and friendly competition

The week culminates in a celebratory Friday challenge, where teams present their food truck ideas and serve their crêpes—parents may be invited to sample the results.

Whether you’re brand new to French or have tried it before, this camp is designed to meet you where you are, using food as a fun and accessible way to bring French language and culture to life.

Marianne Biron
Meet the instructor: Marianne Biron

Madame Marianne Biron teaches French at Serra High School and serves as the World Languages Department Chair. A native speaker of both French and English, she loves helping students experience French as a lively, expressive language—one meant to be spoken, shared, and enjoyed.

With a background in international work and cross-cultural communication, Madame Biron brings real-world perspective into everything she teaches. She creates an encouraging, low-pressure environment where students feel comfortable trying new words, exploring culture, and learning through hands-on projects. In this camp, she is especially excited to bring French to life through food, creativity, and teamwork—inviting campers to explore language and culture in a fun, memorable, and collaborative way.

register here


 

Medical Detectives Camp
medical detectives camp: solve real-world health mysteries (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:

juLY 13-17, course fee: $350 
hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
 

Step into the shoes of a medical investigator in this hands-on, one-week camp. Students will explore how scientists and doctors diagnose illnesses, trace outbreaks, and uncover the causes of mysterious symptoms. Through interactive challenges, lab-style activities, and collaborative problem-solving, campers will analyze clues, interpret data, and use critical thinking to crack medical cases.

Campers will learn about bacteria, viruses, genetics, the immune system, and how diseases spread—then apply this knowledge to solve themed “mysteries” inspired by real science. Along the way, they’ll build skills in observation, teamwork, and scientific inquiry while gaining a deeper understanding of how medicine protects and heals communities.

Which camp is right for you? Love solving medical mysteries? Try “Medical Detectives”. Prefer hands-on lab experiments and glowing bacteria? “Engineering DNA” is for you. Full-Day Science Option: “Medical Detectives” (AM) + “Engineering DNA” (PM)
 
Dr. Tara Mann
Meet the instructor: Dr. Tara Mann

Dr. Tara Mann is an accomplished scientist and educator with expertise in microbiology. She brings to Serra the skills she honed while teaching pre-med students at Harvard University, combining rigorous academic standards with a focus on connecting science to everyday life. At Serra, she serves as Chair of the Science Department and has pioneered the highly popular course Diseases and Human Physiology, inspiring students to explore the human body, pathogens, and health at a deeper level. Dr. Mann's engaging, hands-on approach encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and curiosity, making her the perfect guide for campers stepping into the role of a medical detective.

 

register here


mock trial (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:

june 15-19, course fee: $280 | 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. (four days due to holiday)
june 22-26, course fee: $350 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m.
july 6-10, course fee: $350 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m.
july 13-17, course fee: $350 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m.

Discover what it takes to build a case, question a witness, and think on your feet in Serra’s Mock Trial Summer Camp. This immersive, high-energy program introduces students to the skills and strategies used by real trial teams through hands-on activities and team-based challenges.

The camp is led by Dr. Buckels—Serra’s Mock Trial head coach—and a team of experienced instructors who guide students in analyzing cases, crafting arguments, and presenting in front of an audience. Campers will rotate through roles such as attorney, witness, and expert, gaining a well-rounded understanding of trial structure and courtroom communication.

Whether campers are brand new to mock trial or returning for another round, each week offers fresh ways to engage—from exploring new roles to switching sides of a case or trying out different skills in preparation, questioning, and performance.

Throughout the week, students build confidence in public speaking, critical thinking, persuasive writing, collaboration, and improv-style thinking, all within a supportive and fun environment. The week culminates in a full mock trial where parents are invited to spectate and campers put their skills to the test.

Meet the Instructional Team

Dr. Christopher Buckels

Dr. Christopher Buckels, the Chair of Serra's Theology Department and coach of Serra's Mock Trial team, brings his expertise and passion for critical thinking to the Mock Trial Summer Camp. With a commitment to fostering intellectual growth and public speaking skills, Dr. Buckels guides campers through the exciting world of courtroom simulations. Participants learn the fundamentals of legal proceedings, argumentation, and teamwork as they prepare and present their cases. Drawing on his extensive experience mentoring students, Dr. Buckels creates an engaging and supportive environment where campers develop confidence, analytical skills, and an introduction to justice and advocacy.

 


GrantGibbs_SerraHighSchool
Grant Gibbs — Associate Instructor

Grant Gibbs is a 2025 Serra graduate and current student at the University of Notre Dame, where he is pursuing majors in Political Science and American Studies. A former Serra Mock Trial attorney and pretrial specialist, Grant brings years of competitive mock trial experience and a strong understanding of courtroom procedure to the camp. Under the direction of Dr. Buckels, he helps campers build confidence, sharpen argumentation skills, and learn how real trial teams prepare and present a case.
 

 


GwenSimpson_SerraHighSchool
Gwen Simpson — Associate Instructor

Gwen Simpson is a current student at the University of California, Santa Cruz and a former member of the Serra–Mercy Mock Trial team, where she earned a Certificate of Excellence from the San Mateo County Bar Association for her performance in competition. She brings firsthand mock trial experience along with strong youth leadership skills developed as a lead swim instructor at Serra. Under the direction of Dr. Buckels, Gwen supports campers as they learn trial structure, build confidence in public speaking, and collaborate effectively as a team.
 

 

register here


 

physics in action (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
june 15-18, course fee: $280 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
june 22-29, course fee: $350
hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
Push it. Drop it. Launch it. Test it.

Physics in Action is a fast-paced, hands-on camp where students explore the laws of physics by building, experimenting, and problem-solving. Campers jump straight into creative projects that challenge them to design, test, and improve their ideas.

Working in teams, students tackle fun, real-world challenges that bring physics concepts to life, from forces and motion to energy and structures. Campers might design and test toothpick-and-glue bridges to explore strength and load, engineer protective systems for an egg drop challenge, or build and launch small catapults or paper rockets to investigate motion, energy transfer, and accuracy.

Along the way, campers learn how engineers think: try something, see what happens, adjust, and try again. Mistakes are part of the process, and curiosity leads the way.

This one-week camp is designed for rising 7th–9th graders and welcomes students of all experience levels.

Kai Yee
Meet the instructor: Mr Kai Yee

Mr. Kai Yee teaches physics at Serra High School and is known for bringing energy, curiosity, and creativity into the classroom. He loves helping students see physics not just as equations on a board, but as something you can build, test, and experience firsthand.

In his classes and labs, Mr. Yee encourages students to ask questions, experiment boldly, and learn through trial and error. He creates an engaging, supportive environment where teamwork and problem-solving take center stage, and where mistakes are viewed as an essential part of learning. Campers in Physics in Action can expect an active, hands-on week filled with fun challenges, real-world experiments, and plenty of the unexpected.

 


register here


 

robotics innovation camp: three-week modular program (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
june 15-19 | 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. | course fee: $360 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
june 22-26 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m. | course fee $450 
june 29-July 3 | 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. | course fee: $360 
(FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 

june 15-june 19 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m. | course fee: $360 (FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY) 
june 22-26 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m. | course fee: $450
june 29-july 3 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m. | c
ourse fee $360 (FOUR DAYS DUE TO HOLIDAY)    

Unleash your creativity and engineering skills in the world of robotics. Our Robotics Innovation Camp introduces rising 7th–9th graders to the full engineering process—from designing and prototyping to coding autonomous functions. Each hands-on week highlights a different stage of robot creation, and campers will collaborate to build, test, and improve their machines. Both beginners and returning campers are welcome. Newcomers will learn foundational skills, while experienced students—especially those who participated last year—can dive into advanced builds or take on leadership roles within their project teams. Every week culminates in a friendly mini-competition where robots face real challenges.

Session Themes:
Week 1 — Design
Campers develop their robot concepts, explore mechanical principles, and experiment with structure, gearing, and strategy as they blueprint, model, and plan prototypes.

Week 2 — Fabrication
Students bring their designs to life as they assemble mechanical systems, integrate components, and use fabrication tools—such as 3D printing or modular robotics kits—to build functional prototypes.

Week 3 — Coding
Campers learn to program movement, sensors, and task-based behaviors, working toward autonomous performance and tuning their robots for competition.

Participants may enroll in individual weeks or build skills cumulatively across all three, progressing from design to fabrication to coding to create a fully functional robot by the end of the program.

Participants may enroll in individual weeks or build skills cumulatively across all three, progressing from design to fabrication to coding to create a fully functional robot by the end of the program.
 
Meet the instructor: Dr. Kevin Shaw

Dr. Kevin Shaw leads the Serra Robotics team and teaches Engineering and Honors Robotics at Serra. He is an accomplished CTO, inventor, entrepreneur, and educator with extensive experience in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. Dr. Shaw holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University and has contributed to cutting-edge research in sensors, cloud computing, machine learning, and robotic design. Passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineers, Dr. Shaw believes in hands-on learning and empowers students to explore the exciting world of robotics through creativity and collaboration.

 

register here


 

smart money camp: financial literacy for teens (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
july 6-10 | hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
july 6-10 | hours: 12 p.m.-3 p.m.
july 13-17 | hours: 8:15 a.m.-11;15 a.m.
course fee: $350 

Get ready to take control of your financial future at Smart Money Camp! Designed for rising 7th - 9th graders, this camp offers a fun and engaging way to learn the basics of money management. Campers will explore budgeting, saving, comparison shopping, and credit, all while playing games and taking part in real-world challenges. Through hands-on activities and interactive lessons, they'll gain the confidence to make smart financial decisions, whether it's saving for something special or making a smart purchase.

Meet the instructors:
Guillermo Jimenez_Serra High  School
Guillermo Jimenez

Guillermo Jimenez is a member of Serra’s Academic Resource Center, where he works closely with students in math and science and also teaches math courses at Serra. With a strong focus on skill-building and confidence, Mr. Jimenez excels at helping students break down complex ideas into manageable, practical steps.

In Smart Money, he emphasizes real-world applications of financial decision-making, helping students understand budgeting, saving, and planning through clear explanations, collaborative activities, and guided practice designed to meet students where they are.


CandaceNguyen_SmarMoneyCam_Serra
Candace Nguyen

Candace Nguyen is a dynamic math educator with experience teaching a wide range of courses, including Algebra, Geometry, Precalculus, and Calculus, across multiple Bay Area high schools. She is known for her student-centered, discovery-based approach and for using games, technology, and real-life scenarios to make math engaging and meaningful.

Drawing on her background in culturally responsive teaching and inquiry-based learning, Ms. Nguyen brings financial concepts to life in Smart Money through interactive challenges and group problem-solving—helping students see how math skills translate directly into everyday financial choices.

register here


 

Sports Photography
sports photography camp (rising 7th-9th graders)
dates and course fee:
July 6-10 | hours: 12 p.m.-3 p.m. | course fee: $350
July 13-17 | hours: 12 p.m.-3 p.m. | course fee: $350

Capture the action—on and off the field! In this dynamic, hands-on camp, students learn how to photograph sports in motion as well as the candid moments that tell the full story of a game. Campers practice freezing action, anticipating key plays, and capturing authentic expressions, teamwork, and emotion.

Throughout the week, students will:

  • Learn camera basics and settings for action and candid photography
  • Practice capturing movement, energy, and behind-the-scenes moments
  • Explore composition, framing, and creative perspective
  • Review and critique photos in a supportive, collaborative environment
  • Build a small portfolio of action and candid sports images

This camp is designed for beginners and students with some photography experience. Campers should come with their own camera and an ipad or laptop for editing.  A DSLR camera or a mirrorless camera will work well. Emphasis is on observation, creativity, and learning by doing—on the field and behind the lens.

 
Diane Mazzoni
Meet the instructor: Diane Mazzoni

Diane Mazzoni has been a professional school photographer since 2003, with extensive experience capturing life on high school campuses. She began her career at Lifetouch, where she spent 11 years as a candid and sports photographer, before transitioning to freelance work with public and private high schools throughout the Bay Area. Diane photographs a wide range of school events, with a particular passion for candid moments and sports—capturing determination, teamwork, and excitement as they unfold. She is deeply committed to visual storytelling and spends as much time thoughtfully editing her images as she does behind the camera. Diane enjoys mentoring students and often welcomes them to observe her process on the sidelines as she works to capture the strongest possible images.

register here


 

summer service (rising 9th graders)
dates and course fee:
June 15-19, course fee: $350
hours: 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
(hours could vary based on needs of service organizations)
ENRICHMENT CLASS FOR RISING SERRA FRESHMEN ONLY

During the Summer Service Week, incoming Serra freshmen will experience the joy of serving those in need and making a positive impact on their community. Students will participate in a variety of volunteer service opportunities, from helping at local food banks and social service agencies to organizing clean-up projects and supporting senior citizens. Through hands-on projects and team-building activities, students will develop empathy, leadership skills and a sense of social responsibility. Campers will meet on campus on Monday and Tuesday from 8:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. There will be off-campus service opportunities on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Times may vary. (Note: there will be service opportunities on June 19 even though it is a holiday for many.)

Meet the instructor: Billy Byrnes

Billy Byrnes, Serra's director of campus ministry, is a dedicated leader and passionate advocate for faith-based service and community engagement. With years of experience in ministry and youth programs, Mr. Byrnes fosters a spirit of compassion and service, inspiring participants to connect their beliefs with practical acts of kindness. Through hands-on projects and reflective discussions, Mr. Byrnes equips students with tools to make a positive impact in their communities while developing empathy, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.

 

register here

 

Cancellation Policy

The last day to withdraw from all programs without incurring any charges is February 28.

  • A 25% fee will be deducted from all refunds for withdrawals from March 1 through May 9.
  • A 50% fee will be deducted from all refunds for withdrawals from May 10 through May 31.
  • No refunds will be provided for withdrawals after June 1.
  • In the event that Serra cancels a specific program due to insufficient enrollment, a full refund will be provided.

Questions? Send us an email