Summer at Thornton Academy
Learning first. Fun second. Friends forever.
Discover new classes and make friends for life at the Summer at Thornton Academy program. Held on Thornton Academy's beautiful campus, the program features two blocks of classes in the mornings and two activities per day in the afternoons and evenings.
Summer at Thornton Academy is designed for both day and boarding students and features classes in arts, STEM, humanities, English Language Learning, and more! The program is open to all students ages 12 - 17, no matter if they will enroll at Thornton Academy in the fall.
Afternoon and evening activities encourage students to discover American culture, have fun, and explore topics from the morning classes. One day, we might visit an art museum. The next, we learn about lobstering as we go out in a lobster boat in Casco Bay.
Program Dates for 2024 will be announced & REgistration will open in december
In This Section
* Required
What is Summer at Thornton Academy?
- Sample Class Descriptions
- Sample Daily Schedule
- Day Student Tuition & Registration
- Boarding Student Tuition & Registration
- Last Year's Teachers
- Accommodations
- Activities
Sample Class Descriptions
Session 1 | Block 1 (8:00am - 10:00am)
Creative Writing
Explore your creative side in this writing class. Student will work on individual projects that could include poetry, short stories, personal narratives, and more. The class will convene daily to workshop their pieces, provide constructive feedback, and work through the editing process together.
Film as Literature
While we are used to studying the formal and thematic elements of poetry, short fiction, and novels in school, we rarely have the chance to do the same with film, even though we live in an increasingly visually-oriented world of media and storytelling. In this course, students will learn the basics of how to consider film as the literary medium it is. While we will begin our study considering films through traditional lenses of literary study such as plot, character, and theme, we will swiftly move on to those aspects of storytelling specific to film. These include but are in no way limited to color, light, sound design, and editing.
Robotics: build a 3d car
During this course, students will learn how to program an Arduino micro-controller for a variety of projects. Students will also work with 3D printing and design software. At the end of the course, students will leave having utilized their new knowledge in the process of creating a 3D printed remote-controlled car! No prior experience needed.
Pilates & Yoga
Strengthen your body and deepen your soul by learning the basics of pilates and yoga. This class will focus on proper techniques, movements, and body positioning. Basic yoga movements like sun salutations and breathing exercises will be taught. At the end of the class, students will have learned sequences that they are able to continue using in their own personal practice. No experience required.
English Language Learning - Written
Designed for our international students, ELL-Written will focus on reading and writing in the English language. You will study English grammar, work on reading comprehension, and improve your writing skills. Texts will be authentic and chosen to meet your language level. Afternoon and evening activities will enhance your learning and provide real-world connections to what you learn in class!
Session 1 | Block 2 (10:00am - 12:00pm)
Photography 101
In this introduction to photography course, we will be exploring photography through different technical elements such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. In addition to technical elements, we will be exploring a variety of types of photography, learning about the history of photography, and doing hands-on projects. This is a chance for you to explore a new creative medium, have fun, and learn about the art of photography! You will come out of this class feeling comfortable behind the camera, and knowing how to take different kinds of photos.
American Jazz Dance
American Jazz Dance is a popular, high-energy form of dance. Jazz is the style that you'll typically see on Broadway. In this class, you will learn technique that includes kicks, leaps, jumps, turns, and everything in between! The class will also practice jazz repertory including both classical and contemporary styles.
Computer Programming 101
In this introductory course, students will begin exploring basic concepts in computer programming using Apple's Swift language. Students will write code to solve puzzles and create their own beginner-level apps.
Intro to Acting
Introduction to Acting is an exploration into all aspects of performance. Students will learn basic technique with a focus on movement, expression, volume, and diction. This class will target improvisation, memorization, and monologue & partner scene work. Students will have the opportunity to display their growth in a small performance at the end of the program. This course is for students of any performance level - whether you are looking to overcome your fear of public speaking or improve upon your developing acting skills, this is the course for you!
English Language Learning - Oral
Designed for our international students, ELL-Oral will focus on spoken English. Feel comfortable writing and reading, but the idea of having a conversation scares you? This class will help you feel comfortable talking to others and increase your listening comprehension. Filled with games and fun activities, you won't believe how much you can improve!
Session 2 | Block 1 (8:00am - 10:00pm)
climate change: our effect on the planet
This course will provide an overview on how humans have impacted the rate of climate change on our planet. Through this course, students will get a historical overview of climate change throughout the history of the planet, how the rate of climate change has changed since the industrial revolution, and implications of climate change on major earth systems. Student’s will build research skills along with field and laboratory techniques to investigate the impacts of human caused climate change.
methods of storytelling
Students will develop their own story and then discover a method of telling it that fits the story. Previous methods have included creating their own hand drawn book, filming a short movie, creating a cartoon comic, and coding an animation. No experience with any of this is needed but students should be motivated in developing new ideas.
Indigenous American Fiction
When D'Arcy McNickle, the first major "Native American" writer, began publishing his work, indigenous people and their culture had been literary figures for over three hundred years and central to a range of American identities. This class will read the traditions of fiction-about "Native Americans" (the sometimes preferred self-descriptions of the people "native" or "indigenous" to North America) in relation to the tradition of fiction-by Native Americans that has sprung up in its wake. Authors may include Herman Melville, Willa Cather, Black Elk, Leslie Marmon Silko, and Louise Erdrich.
geography of the earth
In this course students will travel the globe...in ten days! We will learn about different landforms, bodies of water, and lost and changing environments. We will even take a look at some of Earth’s natural wonders, like Angel Falls in Venezuela and the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This is a quick exploration of different regions across the seven continents and over the five oceans, from latitude to longitude, Antarctica to Zimbabwe. Current events will be woven into our regional discussions, such as Australia’s wild fires. What is the hottest place on Earth? Is Everest actually the highest mountain? Where is the most isolated inhabited island? We’ll answer these questions and find some new ones to ask!
Visual Art Exploration
During this two-week course, students will explore a variety of materials to develop their expression through art. Students will learn techniques that support an understanding of landscapes, still life, and portraits. We will discover how to use different materials by investigating the playful side of art.
English Language Learning - Written
Designed for our international students, ELL-Written will focus on reading and writing in the English language. You will study English grammar, work on reading comprehension, and improve your writing skills. Texts will be authentic and chosen to meet your language level. Afternoon and evening activities will enhance your learning and provide real-world connections to what you learn in class!
Session 2 | Block 2 (10:00am - 12:00pm)
American writers on democracy
This class invites students to think about democracy as a modern way of life. In doing so, we turn to some big thinkers of American democracy such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Walt Whitman, and Ralph Ellison. What unites these writers is the idea that democracy is a thoughtful practice of individuals. Our aim is to understand the democratic spirit of individualism that has proven so powerful since its modern birth in the American Revolution.
intro to musical theater
Do you like to sing, act, and have fun? This may be the course for you! Students will apply music reading and understanding of musical score to effectively perform narrative songs! We will explore American Musical Theater to find connections both musically and dramatically. Students will build the performance of a song through the story, characters, and the relationship between performers and the audience. Performance numbers will include contemporary and traditional musical theater repertory.
geography of the earth
In this course students will travel the globe...in ten days! We will learn about different landforms, bodies of water, and lost and changing environments. We will even take a look at some of Earth’s natural wonders, like Angel Falls in Venezuela and the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This is a quick exploration of different regions across the seven continents and over the five oceans, from latitude to longitude, Antarctica to Zimbabwe. Current events will be woven into our regional discussions, such as Australia’s wild fires. What is the hottest place on Earth? Is Everest actually the highest mountain? Where is the most isolated inhabited island? We’ll answer these questions and find some new ones to ask!
marine ecology
The Gulf of Maine is an exciting ecological region that is diverse and wondrous. Students will investigate ecological interactions along the intertidal zones of Maine to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the relationships between living and non-living features of this region. Upon completion of this course, students will have developed an understanding of how organisms adapts to their environment, food web dynamics, and how humans impact the ecological equilibrium of these systems.
Painting Sweets
During this two-week course, students will connect to painting still life by inspiration from candy, cookies, and cupcakes. Students will develop an understanding of color theory and color mixing with acrylic and watercolor paints. We will learn techniques that develop skills in observation and create a series of work using a variety of sweets. Students will create a final work on canvas at the end of the course.
English Language Learning - Oral
Designed for our international students, ELL-Oral will focus on spoken English. Feel comfortable writing and reading, but the idea of having a conversation scares you? This class will help you feel comfortable talking to others and increase your listening comprehension. Filled with games and fun activities, you won't believe how much you can improve!
It was an absolute pleasure being a part of the summer camp this year! To witness the bonds form between these students through the shared experiences of the program was truly something special.
corey Jones, Summer at Thornton Academy teacher
Sample Daily Schedule
Each day is different at Summer at Thornton Academy but every day is filled with classroom learning, fun with friends, and new adventures!
7:00am - Wake up, shower, get ready for a great day!
7:30am - Breakfast in the dining commons.
8:00am - Block 1: click class descriptions to see all of our options.
10:00am - Block 2: click class descriptions to see all of our options.
12:00pm - Lunch in the dining commons.
2:00pm - Afternoon activity: Lobster boat cruise! Catch your own lobster and learn about these interesting animals.
4:00pm - Free time for shopping.
5:30pm - Dinner in the dining commons.
7:00pm - Evening activity: Mini-golf and ice cream. Compete with your friends and enjoy a delicious treat!
9:00pm - Dorm Hangout time - play games, call your family, relax.
10:30pm - Lights out - get lots of sleep for another busy day tomorrow!
Day Student Tuition & Registration
Session 1 (2 weeks)
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There are two blocks in Session 1: Block 1 (8am - 10am) and Block 2: (10am - 12pm)
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Students may sign up for two classes during Session 1 (both blocks) or one class during Session 1 (block 1 or block 2)
- Classes cost $200 per block
Session 2 (2 weeks)
- There are two blocks in Session 2: Block 1 (8am - 10am) and Block 2: (10am - 12pm)
- Students may sign up for two classes during Session 1 (both blocks) or one class during Session 2 (block 1 or block 2)
- Classes cost $200 per block
All classes will take place on Thornton Academy's campus. Students do not earn credit for the courses and the program is open to all students, ages 12-17. whether or not they're enrolled at Thornton Academy.
Boarding Student Tuition & Registration
Boarding Tuition
$7,000 for the full four-week program
$4,000 for one two-week session
What's included?
- Three meals on weekdays and two meals on weekends
- Boarding in our modern dormitories with two students per room
- Health insurance
- Activity fees for two activities each day
- Local transportation
- Airport transfer (select dates only)
- Class materials
What's not included?
- Flights to / from the United States
- Snacks
- Souvenirs
- Other incidental costs
Last Year's Teachers
frank brancely, indigenous fiction, american democracy
Frank Brancely graduated from Thornton Academy in 2006. Frank went on to study Human Rights at Bard College before receiving his M.A. in American Studies at New York University. In 2021, Frank graduated from the University of Maine School of Law with a J.D. and joined a leading Maine law firm in 2022. Frank is getting certified to teach English in a Foreign Language (TEFL) and volunteers at Volunteer Lawyers Project and at Portland Adult Education.
During his time at Thornton, Frank most enjoyed his extracurricular involvement in Amnesty International and Speech & Debate. He is delighted to be joining the summer program this year.
katie buttarazzi, creative writing & intro to acting
Katie Buttarazzi graduated from Thornton Academy in 2016. Aside from studying, she was involved with the TA Players, Chamber Singers, and Treble Choir. She recently graduated in May from The University of Maine. She received a B.S. in Secondary Education English and a minor in theatre. Over the past four years at UMaine, she has participated in nine theatrical productions. During the academic year, Katie teaches at Thornton Academy Middle School.
bailey ferris, marine ecology & climate change
Bailey Farris joined Thornton Academy in 2022 as a Physical Science and Biology teacher. Her bachelor's degree is in Ocean Studies and Marine Affairs (UNE) and she has her MSEd in Teaching and Learning (USM). Last year Bailey completed her 7-12 State of Maine teacher's certification in Life Sciences! Before joining TA, Bailey worked with youth as the Assistant Director of Programs and Outreach for the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust running K-12 field trips and summer camps. She loves any time she can get out on the water, reading, or traveling.
rachel kathryn, visual arts exploration and painting sweets
Rachel Kathryn graduated from Thornton Academy in 2021. She received high achievements in varsity lacrosse, choir, and academics, but was most proud of her Senior Art Award. Rachel is currently studying Liberal Studies at Southern Maine Community College, with a focus in Fine Arts and English. She has worked closely with children and animals her entire life, and aims to bring her love and passion for the world into art and her classroom.
Tori lands, english language learning
Tori Lands graduated from Thornton Academy in 2013. As a graduate from the University of Maine at Farmington and a current master’s student at University of Southern Maine, Tori holds a 5-12th grade certification in Social Studies and a K-12 certification in Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages. Tori has experience teaching and coaching students of all ages. Tori lived and taught in Daegu, South Korea for several years before returning to Maine where she is currently a multilingual educator in Western Maine. She loves traveling, reading, and being outside.
Nikki ledoux, film as literature, photography 101
Nikki Ledoux graduated from ThorntonAcademy in 2017.Also a recent college graduate, she earned a B.A. in Visual and CommunicationArts with a minor in Environmental Science from Franklin University Switzerland. The TA aluma is currently teaching ESL and Technology at a bilingual high school in Madrid, Spain, while working on getting certified to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL). Her philosophy as an educator is to create an inclusive and interactive learning environment to make learning English as fun as possible!
An avid traveler, Nikki has been living in Europe for the past five years, and has visited 18 different countries. During her time at Thornton Academy as a student, she participated in dance company, volleyball, tennis, and even hosted international students with her family.
daniel picard, Robotics
Daniel Picard graduated from Thornton Academy in 2015. He went on to study at the University of Maine at Farmington. In 2020 he graduated with a degree in secondary education with a concentration in mathematics. He also minored in computer science and earned a certificate in teaching English Language Learners. Daniel has worked at Thornton Academy summer camps for the past 7 years. During the academic year he works as a technology coordinator and technology teacher at a small elementary school in central Maine.
Tony sequiera, geography of the earth
Tony grew up in Maine, but left for the United States Marine Corps after high school. After spending several years stationed in Hawaii, and seeing a few other parts of the world, Tony returned home and attended the University of Southern Maine. He graduated with a Bachelor’s in History, and is pursuing a Master’s in Educational Psychology with a focus in behaviorism. Tony has been working with kids in several capacities since 2008. Initially Tony worked primarily serving families with children on the autism spectrum. He then worked as a one-to-one in Maine schools and ran a before and after school program in New York. In 2019 Tony joined the Thornton Academy faculty.
katie spagnolo, intro to musical theater
Katie Spagnolo graduated from Thornton Academy in 2017. During her time here, she was deeply involved in every corner of the performing arts program. She was involved in 15 theatrical productions, 2 dance show cases, and more band and choral concerts than she can count. She went onto the University of Maine, and in December 2021 obtained a Bachelor of Music Education degree. She taught the 2019 sessions of this camp program, and it made such a positive impact on her, she came back for more!
Accommodations
Students live in Thornton Academy’s modern dormitories in double placement. The dormitories have bathrooms, laundry, kitchen, and lounges for studying and socializing. Staying in the dorm is one of the most important and fun parts of the program. Hang out with your new friends and practice your conversational English.
Meals are held in the Atkinson Dining Commons. Three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are served on weekdays while two meals (brunch and dinner) are served on weekends. Occasionally, we will eat off-campus with either a bagged lunch or at a restaurant during a longer excursion. The dining staff prepares delicious, healthy food for our students and staff. They can make adjustments for any dietary concerns, just let us know before you arrive on campus!
Activities
Summer at Thornton Academy is FUN! We do two activities per day: one in the afternoon, and one in the evening. Weekends mean no classes and trips off-campus that explore the beauty of Maine.
Afternoon activities include:
- Hiking
- Lobster boat cruise
- Soccer tournament
- Visits to universities
- Swimming at the beach
- Amusement parks and more!
Evening activities include:
- Bonfire & s’mores,
- Basketball tournament,
- Art projects,
- Trivia night,
- Watching the sunset at the beach and more!
Weekend activities:
- Trips to Boston to visits to MIT and Harvard,
- Hiking in beautiful state and national parks
- Taking a ferry boat to a remote ocean island
- Whitewater rafting and more!
