These optional, year-long courses are designed for students eager to pursue personal passions while building advanced skills under the mentorship of experienced faculty.
Through workshops, hands-on projects, and individual advising, students acquire real-world knowledge and insight that extends beyond the classroom. Each program culminates in a meaningful capstone project, giving students the chance to synthesize and present what they’ve learned in a creative and impactful way.
Signature Programs Offered:
Prior participation in arts-based electives such as metalworking, 3-D design, woodshop, or ceramics. Submission of a project proposal that outlines a creative solution to a real-world need. Iterative design of a prototype, with peer and faculty feedback before final build. Presentation of the completed project to an audience of peers and faculty.
Makerspace Design
Innovate, Design, Solve
In the Makerspace Signature Program, students dive into real-world problem solving through hands-on, project-based learning. Working in Rumsey’s dynamic Makerspace classroom, students explore the design process from concept to creation, identifying challenges, prototyping solutions, and engineering final products using both traditional tools and modern technology.
This STEAM-based program encourages innovation through a cross-curricular lens, integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Students begin by learning foundational concepts in electrical engineering and design thinking, then move on to self-directed projects tailored to their interests.
Enrollment in Civics and Current Events elective. Participation in on- and off-campus civic experiences and field trips. Collaboration in the publication of a school newspaper each term. Completion of a final year-in-review publication as the Capstone project.
Civics & Current Events
Engage, Understand, Lead
The Civics and Current Events Signature Program fosters an understanding of the fundamental principles of American democracy, while equipping students with the tools to become informed, engaged citizens. Students learn about the structure of government, the role of an informed citizen within a democracy, and media literacy while exploring a variety of topics including the U.S. Constitution, the function of government at the local, state, and federal levels, the legislative process, the judicial system, and the executive branch. Students also have the opportunity to discuss relevant current events and develop media literacy skills.
Enrollment in the Social and Community Leadership elective. Design and execution of one or more community-based projects. Volunteer for a minimum of 15 hours of community service organized by Rumsey Hall. Participation in one inter-school workshop. Group-lead at least one student discussion panel.
Social and Community Leadership
Lead with Purpose and Impact
The Social and Community Leadership Signature Program empowers students to become thoughtful leaders and changemakers. Grounded in community engagement and social responsibility, students develop leadership, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills. They learn how to design and implement initiatives that make a positive impact in their communities.
Weekly meetings with a faculty advisor to review progress and plan next steps. Participation in National Junior Art Honor Society, Orchestra, or Clef Club. Enrollment in at least three of the following term-based courses: Ceramics Metal Working Drawing Painting Dramatic Production Guitar Ukulele Presentation of selected works to faculty and peers at the end of the year.
Fine Arts Studies
Create, Perform, Express
For students passionate about the visual and performing arts, the Fine Arts Signature Program offers a personalized and rigorous creative journey. Students focus on studio art, performing arts, or a combination of both, working closely with faculty mentors to build a customized course of study. This program supports the development of artistic skills and self-expression, culminating in a recital, portfolio, or performance that reflects their growth.
Program Structure
Part 1: Programmatic Engagement
Throughout the school year, students participate in focused classes, clubs, and enrichment activities aligned with their chosen program. These experiences build the foundation for independent exploration and growth.
Part 2: Capstone Project
In the spring term, each student completes a capstone project that demonstrates their learning, creativity, and initiative. Guided by a dedicated faculty advisor, students meet regularly for mentorship and support. While the advisor provides structure and feedback, the capstone is intentionally student-driven.
