Meet Our Teachers and Vendors

AI Explorers Lab with Edge Up! (Grades 2nd - 5th) 

This class introduces students to how Artificial Intelligence works through play, problem-solving, and creative projects, helping them think critically about technology and its role in our world.

https://www.edgeupjc.com/

Dungeons & Dragons by Play! Hoboken (Grades 2nd - 5th) 

Join a party of adventurers as they clear dungeons and slay dragons!

Dungeons & Dragons is a creative storytelling game, where the story is narrated by the Dungeon Master and the players make decisions in order to achieve a common goal.

Dungeons & Dragons is the perfect way to help children reinforce their reading comprehension, social skills, arithmetic, problem solving, and collaboration, all while having fun with a thrilling adventure of magic and monsters!

https://playhoboken.com/

Music & Movement with Elite Musicians (Grades PreK4 - K)

A joyful, high-energy class where young children build confidence through music, movement, and play. Students explore rhythm, singing, creative movement, and age-appropriate instruments such as piano, ukulele, guitar, percussion, even special instruments of the week.

Each class blends music games, dance, and hands-on instrument exploration to strengthen coordination, listening skills, creativity, and self-expression, while having so much fun. No prior music experience needed.

Perfect for children who love to move, sing, and explore sound in a supportive, encouraging environment.

Learn more about Elite Musicians at https://www.theelitemusicians.com/

Rising Voices Youth Chorus with Zombie Opera (Grades 2nd - 5th) 

Perform with UNDEAD ARTS (the team behind Zombie Opera) and the NJ SYMPHONY!

Join Undead Arts and be a part of their first ever youth chorus, "Rising Voices". 

Students will learn vocal technique, ensemble instruction, and basic elements of music theory, all culminating in an incredible end of semester performance opportunity! Along with learning their choral parts for Magic Flute, they will also learn two Broadway numbers. 

The class will culminate with a grand finale performance where the students will sing LIVE with the New Jersey Symphony and our opera singers in The Magic Flute at Harborside Atrium on Saturday May 2nd & Sunday May 3rd 2026,.

Important Notes:

Students who register for this course MUST commit to FOUR off-site dates 

Location in downtown Jersey City

• • Sunday, April 26: 2-5pm

  • Thursday, April 30: 5-8pm

  • Saturday, May 2: Full dress & tech Rehearsal 11am & Show 3pm

  • Sunday, May 3: Show 3pm

Students MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian who will remain on site for the duration of the rehearsal and performance. 

Costume will be pulled from students personal clothes - i.e. jeans/shorts/t-shirts etc

Teaser of ZOMBIE OPERA 2025

Check out more here: www.undeadarts.org

Coding with Scratch: Level 1 (Beginners) (Grades 2nd - 5th)

Students continuing from the Fall session and new students without prior Scratch experience are welcome!

Get ready to code, create, and bring your ideas to life! In this exciting beginner-friendly course, students explore Scratch, MIT’s fun and colorful programming language made for young creators. Using drag-and-drop code blocks, they’ll design their own games, animate characters, tell stories, and even build science simulations—all while learning real coding concepts.

From the first click, kids are in control—choosing their own projects, moving at their own pace, and unleashing their creativity. By the end, they’ll have a portfolio of interactive creations they can share with family and friends!

Students will learn to:

• Navigate the Scratch interface and understand essential coding blocks

• Program characters, backgrounds, and animations

• Design video games and interactive adventures

• Tell stories, simulate science experiments, and create digital art

• Apply object-oriented programming principles in a fun, visual way

Learn. Create. Play. Repeat. Join us for a coding adventure where imagination meets innovation!

Coding with Scratch: Level 2 (Intermediate) (Grades 2nd - 5th)

Students continuing from the Fall session and new students with prior Scratch experience are welcome!

Our Scratch Intermediate course is for students who have completed the introductory Scratch class and are ready to level up their coding skills. They’ll dive into advanced concepts like custom blocks, variables, lists, and complex conditionals—all within the fun and familiar world of Scratch.

Through hands-on projects, students will design multi-level games and animations, strengthen their problem-solving and logical thinking, and begin to think like real programmers. This course encourages creativity and independence, allowing students to take ownership of their projects and express their unique ideas through code.

Students Will Learn:

• Advanced Scratch Concepts: Use custom blocks, variables, lists, and more to build structured, efficient programs

• Creative Game Design: Design multi-level games with scoring, lives, and user interaction

• Real-World Coding Skills: Strengthen logical reasoning and planning through applied math and algorithmic thinking

• Project Development: Build complete projects from concept to final product with an emphasis on independence

• Problem Solving: Tackle more complex coding challenges with guidance and support from instructors

By the end of the course, students will have a strong grasp of intermediate-level programming concepts and be ready for more advanced Scratch courses or text-based coding languages.

 http://www.alphamindsacademy.com/

Learn the Rubik’s Cube (Grades 1st - 6th) 

Crack the cube and unlock your problem-solving superpowers! In our Rubik’s Cube Master Class, kids will learn step-by-step methods to solve the classic 3×3 cube—and beyond—while building spatial reasoning, memory, and logical thinking.

Through hands-on practice, fun challenges, and friendly competitions, students progress from beginner techniques to advanced solving strategies. Along the way, they’ll strengthen focus, patience, and persistence—skills that go far beyond the cube.

By the end of the course, every student will be able to solve the cube independently, understand solving algorithms, and tackle new patterns with confidence. Whether your child wants to impress friends, compete in speedcubing, or just enjoy a satisfying mental workout, this class makes learning fun and rewarding!

Important Note:

Each student is required to bring their own Rubik’s Cube to class each week. Having their own cube helps students become familiar with its feel and movement, which is essential for improving their solving speed and precision.

 http://www.alphamindsacademy.com/

Baseball and Softball Skills Clinic with Mrs. Fuchs (Grades 2-5)

Mrs. Fuchs grew up playing both baseball and softball.  She coached recreational and travel softball for 10 years and ran her town's recreation softball league for 12 years.  

This clinic is designed to introduce young athletes to the fundamentals of softball and baseball in a supportive environment. 

Players will learn and practice basic skills such as:

• Throwing and catching mechanics

• Hitting fundamentals

• Fielding ground balls and fly balls

• Base running and game awareness

• Teamwork, effort, and sportsmanship

Through fun drills and activities designed for all skill levels. Emphasis will be placed on skill development, sportsmanship, and having fun in a positive learning environment.  The goal is to gain confidence, improve coordination, and develop a love for the game—all while having fun!  Whether your child is a beginner or has played in the past this clinic will be beneficial.

If your child has equipment such as a glove he/she should bring it because it is necessary.  Mrs. Fuchs does have gloves available for those that do not have but it is always best to have your own glove so you can practice your skills at home. If your child is a lefty please contact Mrs. Fuchs because she only has 2 left handed gloves.

Tennis with Kidokinetics (Grades K - 1st)

Tennis with Klara Obiaya (Grades 2nd - 5th)

Klara Miklikova-Obiaya has over 20 years of experience coaching both children and adults of all levels, from beginners to advanced players. Tennis has been a lifelong passion of hers and she loves introducing young players to the game in a positive and encouraging environment. 

This 10-session tennis program is designed for students in grades 2–5 and focuses on building strong foundations while keeping children engaged and excited to learn.

Each session is interactive, age-appropriate, and progressive, allowing students to develop skills at a comfortable pace. Children will learn the fundamentals of tennis, including basic strokes, footwork, coordination, and movement patterns, all through games, drills, and activities that promote confidence and enjoyment.

By the end of the program, students will:

• Have a solid foundation in basic tennis skills

• Understand fundamental movement and coordination patterns

• Feel confident in their abilities on the court

• Develop a positive attitude and love for the game

Most importantly, children will leave the program with a sense of accomplishment and the confidence to continue practicing and growing as tennis players in the future.

Art with Mr. Nogueira (Grades PreK4 - 3rd)

Cordero’s talented and well-loved art teacher will have students experiment with different art mediums, portraits and drawing perspective. 

Simple Sweets with Ms. Capollari (Grades PreK4 - 1st)

Ms. Capollari has 12 years of experience teaching pre-K to 2nd grade, most of her years being in pre-K and kindergarten.  She is offering a Simple Sweets Class geared toward pre-K4 and kindergarten students in which children will make delicious treats without having to bake!

Literacy Crafts with Ms. Boules (Grades PreK4 - K)

Ms. Boules will teach this session's Literacy Crafts class geared toward pre-K4 and kindergarten students in which children will enjoy a book and then make a craft inspired by that book. Ms. Boules is Ms. Capollari's long-time assistance in Literacy Crafts.

Chess by Alpha Minds

Level 1: Beginners (Grades K - 4th) "Pawn Control"

*Students from the previous Beginners session and new students without prior chess experience are welcome!

Our Chess for Beginners classes introduce children to the fundamentals of chess, building a strong foundation for future growth. Designed for kids with little to no prior experience, lessons are fun and engaging, blending storytelling, games, and interactive activities.

Students will learn to:

• Recognize and move each chess piece

• Understand the chessboard and its coordinates

• Apply basic rules and concepts (check, checkmate, stalemate, castling)

• Identify common checkmate patterns

• Play with awareness of openings, tactics, and strategy

• Navigate the three phases of the game: opening, middlegame, and endgame

Beyond the game, chess helps children:

• Boost IQ and foster critical, creative, and original thinking

• Build patience, focus, and self-discipline

• Strengthen problem-solving, memory, reading, and math skills

• Gain confidence, social skills, and resilience in taking thoughtful risks

Classes include board demonstrations, guided practice, and plenty of gameplay to reinforce learning.
Join us for a year of fun, discovery, and growth in the world of chess!

Level 2: Intermediate (Grades K - 4th)  "Knight Explorers"

*Intermediate students continuing from the prior session and new students with prior chess experience are welcome!

Our Intermediate Chess classes are designed for students who already know the basics and are ready to deepen their skills and strategies. Students are grouped by ability to ensure targeted instruction and maximum progress.

Key Skills Covered:

• Game Phases: Opening, middlegame, and endgame strategies

• Advanced Tactics: Pins, forks, skewers, double attacks, overloading, and deflection

• Positional Play: Controlling key squares, open files, and diagonals

• Pawn Play: Structure, development, and promotion (including en passant)

• Checkmating Patterns & Defenses

• Endgame Mastery: Opposition, zugzwang, and critical squares

• Game Analysis: Studying famous matches and learning notation

Through board demonstrations, guided practice games, and instructor feedback, students will sharpen their skills and prepare for competitive play. Participation in local chess tournaments is encouraged.

Who Can Join:
This class is perfect for young chess enthusiasts who:

• Are comfortable with basic moves and rules (check, stalemate, checkmate, castling)

• Understand basic chess principles

• Want to challenge themselves with advanced concepts and strategies

Returning students from the past school year are warmly welcomed!

 http://www.alphamindsacademy.com/

LEGO Engineering with Bricks 4 Kidz (Grades PreK4 - 3rd)

Bricks 4 Kidz:

Bricks 4 Kidz Lego Engineering classes explore architecture, engineering, and technology. Students build a new project each week using LEGO® bricks and elements. This STEM-focused program gives children the opportunity to combine scientific discovery and team building in a fun, hands on learning experience.

Benefits of our afterschool program include:

• Applied STEM concepts: Children apply what they are learning to create their own tangible models. This brings classroom learning to life.

• See the world in new ways: Children watch the concepts of torque and friction playing out in real-time, and begin to understand the push and pull of how things work.

• Grow in self-confidence: Our programs encourage students to try new things and apply complex concepts to the LEGO® Bricks in front of them. Accomplishing their goals and figuring out how to solve problems leads to a boost in self-esteem.

• Build teamwork skills: Children work in teams! This gives them a chance to communicate clearly, ask for help and learn the dynamics of teamwork and sharing.

• Imagine bigger: From model building to free-play time, children are encouraged to dream, create, design and imagine anything they wan

Visit us at https://www.bricks4kidz.com/

Global Soccer Academy (Grades PreK4 - 5th)

Our goal at Global Soccer Academy is to provide a safe and fun environment for our students to learn and enjoy the beautiful sport we love - Soccer. The emphasis throughout the program is on continuous player development, enjoyment, and fostering a love for the game. Our priority is always to ensure safe and positive learning environment for our students. Below is an outline of what a class at GSA will look like. We detail our method and approach, highlighting key aspects of our training philosophy.

1. Activation: SAQ (Speed, Agility & Quickness) Training

Objective: Wake up the body, elevate heart rate, and prepare mentally and physically for the session ahead.

2. Fundamental Fun Games

Objective: Develop essential soccer skills while ensuring players are engaged and having fun.

3. Game Play Scenarios

Objective: Introduce and practice game situations to develop decision-making, spatial

4. Ball-Always Philosophy

Objective: Maximize ball contact time, reinforce skills, and develop a natural feel and control of the ball.

5. Cool Downs

Objective: Assist in recovery and build long lasting habits

https://globalsocceracademy.com/

Bollywood Dancing with Megha's Dance Academy (Grades PreK4 - 1st)

Megha’s Dance Academy is based in Jersey city  and has been offering Bollywood and Bharatnatyam dance classes for over 10 years and has taught more the 1000 students. 

At MDA we believe that if a child is introduced to dance at an early age, they will develop a love for the art and a passion for rhythm and movement. Dance enhances flexibility and develops strong muscles and technique. It is a wonderful activity for kids, capable of fostering a positive self image in both girls and boys. Dance lessons can teach a child self confidence, self discipline, poise and grace. Most importantly, dancing is a lot of fun!!!

Public Speaking - Emerging Orators with Edge Up! (Grades 2nd - 5th)

Confidence on stage starts with confidence in self. This class is designed to help young learners discover the power of their own voices in a fun and nurturing environment. Students will explore storytelling, poetry, and short presentations, using age-appropriate games and activities that make speaking in front of others feel joyful instead of intimidating.

Each week, children practice:

• Voice projection & clarity – learning how to speak so everyone can hear them.

• Body language & expressions – discovering how gestures, posture, and facial expressions can add meaning to their words.

• Confidence-building games – silly tongue twisters, impromptu speaking, and role-plays that break the ice.

• Audience connection – learning eye contact, listening, and how to share ideas with others.

By the end of the semester, students will have the courage to step up, speak out, and shine—whether they’re giving a short talk in class, telling a story at home, or standing on stage during the recital.

https://www.edgeupjc.com/

Debate Duels with Edge Up! (Grades 2nd - 5th)

Every opinion matters—but learning how to share it respectfully and persuasively is the real superpower! Debate Duels introduces kids to the art of structured argument in a way that feels like a game. Using fun, kid-friendly topics (“Should homework be banned?” “Is pizza better than tacos?”), students practice building their case, listening to others, and responding with confidence.

What students learn through Debate Duels:

• Organizing ideas – breaking down thoughts into clear “claim, reason, and example.”

• Active listening – learning to pay attention to what others say and respond thoughtfully.

• Respectful disagreement – practicing how to challenge ideas, not people.

• Quick-fire duels – mini rounds of debate that build energy, confidence, and speed of thinking.

• Team collaboration – working together to brainstorm, strategize, and support each other’s arguments.

By the end of the course, students become more confident critical thinkers—able to form opinions, defend them with logic, and appreciate other perspectives. It’s lively, engaging, and sets the stage for leadership and success in and out of the classroom.

https://www.edgeupjc.com/