Students follow their passions and explore new interests

Clubs:

FOLLOW YOUR PASSION, LEARN SOMETHING NEW

WOODWORKING CLUB

Students in the middle and upper school woodworking clubs get comfortable using the Fabrication Studio’s tools and learn to use them to solve problems. Upper school students also learn basic wiring, plumbing, wall repair, and more. Emerson Casola ‘22 thinks “it’s very cool that we’re allowed to do something so hands-on and build skills that are pretty important. I’d like to know how to fix things in my apartment some day instead of having to call someone.”

FIRELABS

Firelabs club members work on independent research or group projects, such as collecting soil samples and sequencing the DNA of bacteriophages found within. Sophie Uchitel ‘22 enjoys Firelabs because “it allows you to explore realms of science that aren’t normally taught in the classroom. The advisors (Dr. Burckin and Dr. McCabe) are so knowledgeable, you can explore things you might not have known about before or known you were interested in.”

APPAREL DESIGN

Students interested in graphic design use software, die-cutting machines and heat presses to create designs for t-shirts and other apparel. The club offers its design and production services to other clubs and service learning groups. Like club leader Ethan Loofbourrow ‘19, students also work on their own projects. Ethan enjoys creating designs he can sell in his online store.

SEAPERCH UNDERWATER ROBOTICS

Middle school club members build underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). After soldering circuit boards and wiring motors, they test their ROVs for buoyancy and maneuverability. Student teams compete in San Diego’s Regional SeaPerch Competition, seeking a trip to the national competition. This year’s SeaPerch challenge includes a rescue-recovery mission inspired by the recent Thailand soccer team cave rescue!

SURF CLUB

Surf Club members ride the waves once a week during a combined lunch and clubs period, and compete in local meets. According to Mr. Kelso, who supervises the club along with Mr. Webber, “The kids getting to do this during the academic day means so much to them. When we’re out in the water they can refocus their energy. If we could bottle up how they feel and drink it, it would be like drinking the fountain of youth!”

AVIATION CLUB

Mateo Parker ‘21 loves flying and is pursuing a private pilot’s license at Palomar Airport. “I thought It would be nice to bring flying to people who don’t know much about it,” he said. Mateo leads the club along with Jake Sager ‘20. Students use flight simulation software and controllers to experiment, learn and develop good flying habits. “It’s a different kind of STEM learning experience.”

MIDDLE SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC CLUB

Students in what is affectionately known as the “Pizza Band” (due to monthly pizza lunches) can pursue their passion for music in an ensemble setting. The club’s repertoire includes mostly popular movie scores, but may soon include classical pieces. According to Kylie Martindale ‘24, playing her flute in the ensemble is fun. “I like that it is small, so I can really be heard.” The club performs twice each year.