Middle School Programs

Semester Offered: Fall

Dates Offered: Fall: September 30, October 7, October 14, October 21, October 28, Showcase November 4 (4-5:30 pm)

Time: 3:30–5:00 p.m.

Program Leader: Jeff Mullins, Robotics Program Director

Ever wondered how robots come to life? In this hands-on workshop, you’ll join the Pres Robotics team and dive into the exciting world of engineering, mechanics, and strategy! Explore the systems behind real competitive robots—from building and programming to game strategy and team marketing. Each session features fun challenges like spaghetti tower competitions, mini circuit projects, robot driving demos, and even a T-shirt cannon! Along the way, you’ll learn what it’s like to be part of a FIRST Robotics team and develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. No experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to build cool stuff.

Semester Offered: Fall

Dates Offered: September 30, October 7, October 14, October 21, October 28, Showcase November 4 (4-5:30 pm)

Time: 4–5 p.m.

Program Leader: Kate Deak, Art Teacher

Join us for an inspiring workshop where students can unleash their creativity through a wide range of art techniques, including graphite, pastel, watercolor, ink, acrylic paint, and printmaking. This immersive experience encourages participants to explore their artistic potential and experiment with various mediums under the guidance of an experienced instructor. By engaging in these diverse techniques, students will develop new skills, express their unique visions, and create stunning works of art.

Whether you're a beginner looking to discover your artistic side or an experienced artist aiming to refine your craft, this workshop offers something for everyone. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with fellow art enthusiasts in a supportive and inspiring environment. Dive into the world of art and let your imagination run wild!

Semester Offered: Fall

Dates Offered: Fall: September 30, October 7, October 14, October 21, October 28, Showcase November 4 (4-5:30 pm) 

Time: 3:30–5:00 p.m.

Program Leader: Martin Dang, Math Teacher

In this high-energy, strategy-packed workshop, you’ll learn how to outsmart, outplay, and outthink the competition using the power of math! From classic board games like Monopoly and Connect 4 to epic Mario Kart races and game show simulations, you’ll uncover the hidden strategies behind winning moves. Discover how probability, patterns, and decision-making shape the games we love—and learn how to tip the odds in your favor. Whether you’re a gamer, a math whiz, or just love a good challenge, this workshop will level up your brain and your game!

Semester Offered: Fall

Dates: 
Fall: September 30, October 7, October 14, October 21, October 28, Showcase November 4 (4-5:30 pm) 

Time: 3:30–5 p.m.

Program Leader: Carmen Pauls Wiens, Wellness Center Coordinator and Yvette Frojelin, School Counselor

Join us for a holistic program at the Pres Wellness Center, offering students personalized practices in mindfulness, healthy eating, self-care, and community building. Through hands-on activities like yoga, gardening, cooking, and creative projects, students will cultivate health, joy, and peace. The program includes community-building icebreakers, sessions on mental health, and opportunities to meet wellness center interns and therapy dogs, making wellness an engaging and interactive experience.

Each themed session—find your voice, find your balance, find your people, and bring change to mind, provides unique activities and learning experiences. From meditation and healthy snack preparation to role-playing and designing wellness projects, students will explore the connections between physical, mental, and emotional well-being.