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After School Programs

See below for our 2026 Fall After School and Summer programs

Bridges offers a variety of after-school enrichment and talent development courses. They are run by members of the Bridges faculty and staff and also by vetted partner organizations.

 

Our After School & Summer Programs Manager curates a rich and high quality offering of programs for 2e students. Our combined After School and Summer programs deliver better alignment with a commitment to three key principles:

Talent Development Opportunities across the domains of giftedness (Intellectual, Creative, Physical, Social and Emotional).

A tiered pricing model that represents clear value and reflects a quality assured program offering for 2e students.

Partnerships with community groups, National Sporting Organizations and similar groups to enhance awareness and opportunities for gifted, 2e students.

CONNECT, BE IN THE MOMENT, HAVE FUN! – Oct. 5 – Nov. 11 (6 Session)

Description: The goal of this six-week program is to introduce students to the foundations of acting: truth under imaginary circumstances, connection, vocal and physical expression, improvisation, script analysis, character, story, and ensemble work. By the end of the program, students will have created and rehearsed a character, explored both improvised and scripted material, made specific acting choices, and developed greater confidence expressing themselves in front of others. The program culminates in a relaxed open-class showcase for invited family and friends, with an emphasis on confidence, process, creative growth, and celebrating each student’s work.

 

Dates: 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9 (6 Sessions)

THE UNDERNEATH: A CREATIVE WORLD-BUILDING ADVENTURE (Online) – Thursday – Oct. 1 – Oct. 22 (4 Sessions)

Description: The Underneath is an interactive online creative arts and storytelling class where students collaboratively invent a hidden world beneath the surface and bring it to life through art and storytelling. Students create maps, creatures, cultures, artifacts, characters, and stories while solving an unfolding mystery together. The course emphasizes imagination, world-building, visual art, storytelling, collaboration, flexible thinking, and problem-solving.

 

Dates: 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22 (4 Sessions)

NEXPLORE 3D PRINTING – THURSDAYS – OCT. 8 – NOV. 11 (6 SESSIONS)

Students embark on a 3D educational journey, fueled by the power of 3Doodler! Using 3D printing pens, students break down complex science and math topics into hands-on, approachable tasks, bringing STEAM and design concepts to life. 3Doodler engages all students to promote teamwork, creative thinking, self-expression, and focus. After experimenting with 3D printing pens, students will become engineers, designers, and scientists wherever they go.


Dates: 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12 (6 Sessions)

CREATURE LAB: SCULPTING, MASKS & FANTASY WORLDS – TUESDAYS – Oct. 6 – Nov. 27 – (4 sessions)

Creature Lab is a creative maker class where students design and build original creatures, animals, monsters, dragons, cryptids, hybrids, or fantasy characters. Projects may include sculpture, masks, miniatures, dioramas, mixed media, character backstories, and worldbuilding, with room for students to follow their individual interests. Students can explore techniques such as sculpting and airbrushing while receiving support and guidance to bring their ideas to life. The focus is on creative experimentation, skill-building, and having fun making alongside others.

 

Dates: 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 (4 Sessions)

ROOKLY CHESS: OPENING TACTICS AND CHECKMATES – HOW TO SEIZE MOMENTUM AND WIN IN CHESS (Online) – Mondays – OCT. 5 – NOV. 11- (6 Sessions)

Rookly provides engaging, structured chess instruction for students of all experience levels. Through its online platform, students receive live instruction, practice skills through guided lessons and puzzles, and develop their chess abilities through hands-on play. In this six-week course, students will focus on opening tactics, checkmating patterns, and how to seize momentum during a game. Students will compete in at least one Rookly League match at the end of the course.

 

Dates: 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9 (6 Sessions)

FALL SESSION JMG MULTI-SPORTS (SOCCER, HOCKEY, DODGEBALL, KICKBALL & FLAG FOOTBALL) – Fridays – Sept. 4 – Nov. 20 (11 sessions)

JMG SportsWise presents: Soccer & More… Introduce your kids to the foundation of sports and team play (Soccer, Hockey, Dodgeball, Kickball, Basketball) in this multi-sport program. We will work on balance and hand-eye coordination with a ball at their feet and in their hands. Games will be taught emphasising listening, memory, numbers, colors, and following directions. We aim to increase players’ skill levels, confidence, and grit on and off the court. JMG coaches have years of experience playing and coaching at the high school, college, and pro levels. The pace of our program enables repetition in a great learning environment. Our trainers take the time to explain the “when” and the “why” of each move to increase your child’s sports IQ! JMG Coaches have played at the Pro, Semi-Pro, Collegiate, or Club Team Levels, and many have a background in Childhood Development and Education. Through role modelling, communication, and fun, they reinforce character-building skills already being taught at your home & school.

Dates: 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4 (11 Sessions)

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS WITH THE HERO WORKSHOP! (SESSION 1) – fridays – sept. 4 – dec. 11 – (13 sessions)

Exciting news, heroes! The Hero Workshop is bringing BACK our afterschool tabletop adventures to Bridges Academy! Starting this fall, we’ll be running games every Friday from 1:30-3:00 PM, giving student heroes the chance to embark on thrilling quests, solve mysteries, and tell fantastical stories together. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or brand new to tabletop gaming, our expert Game Masters will guide you through an epic campaign full of action, creativity, and fun. Spots are limited, so sign up today and join the adventure!

Dates: 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11 (13 Sessions)

Hero Workshop

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING SKILLS WORKSHOP WITH JUST START LA! – fridays – sept. 25 – nov. 6 (6 sessions)

Give your student the tools to thrive this school year! Just Start LA is bringing an Executive Functioning Skills Workshop to Bridges Academy this fall, running every Friday from 1:30-2:30 PM. Over six consecutive sessions, students will build practical skills in planning, organization, time management, and self-regulation – the foundational skills that support success across every subject and every area of life. Our coaches keep groups small and intentional, so every student gets the attention they need to grow. Families can also opt into our Parent Package for $200, which includes an intake call to hear more about your student, a mid-program check-in, and a closing wrap-up call to keep you connected to your student’s progress. Spots are limited, so register today and let’s get started! (More – https://www.juststartla.com/)

Dates: 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6 (6 Sessions)

Optional Parent Package:
Week of 9/14: Intake Call
Week of 10/12: Mid-Program Check-In Call
Week of 11/9: Closing Wrap-Up Call

SECTION 1:
QIGONG: FLOW, FOCUS & THE FORCE – GRADES 4th-6th – Wednesdays – sept. 2 – dec. 9 – (13 sessions)

Train your body and mind like a modern-day ninja in this dynamic Qigong class that blends flow, power, and control. Inspired by martial arts, the feeling of “The Force” from Star Wars, and the elemental movement styles of Avatar: The Last Airbender—which are rooted in practices like Tai Chi—this class helps you tap into your energy in a way that’s both fun and powerful. This isn’t just slow movement—we mix flowing sequences with kicks, punches, balance work, coordination drills, and even playful elements like rolls and reflex training. You’ll build strength, agility, and control while also learning how to slow down, regulate your energy, and reset your mind through breathwork, reflexology, and meditation. No experience needed—just come ready to move and level up!

Dates: 10/7, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/11, 11/18, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16 (9 Sessions)

SECTION 2:
QIGONG: FLOW, FOCUS & THE FORCE – GRADES 7th-9th – wednesdays – sept. 2 – dec. 9 (13 sessions)

Train your body and mind like a modern-day ninja in this dynamic Qigong class that blends flow, power, and control. Inspired by martial arts, the feeling of “The Force” from Star Wars, and the elemental movement styles of Avatar: The Last Airbender—which are rooted in practices like Tai Chi—this class helps you tap into your energy in a way that’s both fun and powerful. This isn’t just slow movement—we mix flowing sequences with kicks, punches, balance work, coordination drills, and even playful elements like rolls and reflex training. You’ll build strength, agility, and control while also learning how to slow down, regulate your energy, and reset your mind through breathwork, reflexology, and meditation. No experience needed—just come ready to move and level up!

Dates: 10/7, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/11, 11/18, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16 (9 Sessions)

JMG SOCCER – Fridays – Jan.  8 – may 21 (13 sessions)

JMG SportsWise presents: Soccer & More… Introduce your kids to the foundation of sports and team play (Soccer, Hockey, Dodgeball, Kickball, Basketball) in this multi-sport program. We will work on balance and hand-eye coordination with a ball at their feet and in their hands. Games will be taught emphasising listening, memory, numbers, colours, and following directions. We aim to increase players’ skill levels, confidence, and grit on and off the court. JMG coaches have years of experience playing and coaching at the high school, college, and pro levels. The pace of our program enables repetition in a great learning environment. Our trainers take the time to explain the “when” and the “why” of each move to increase your child’s sports IQ! JMG Coaches have played at the Pro, Semi-Pro, Collegiate, or Club Team Levels, and many have a background in Childhood Development and Education. Through role modeling, communication, and fun, they reinforce character-building skills already being taught at your home & school.

Class Dates: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/12, 4/9, 4/23, 4/30, 5/14, 5/21 (13 Sessions)

WINTER SESSION JMG SOCCER – Fridays – jan. 8 – mar. 12 – (8 sessions)

JMG SportsWise presents: Soccer & More… Introduce your kids to the foundation of sports and team play (Soccer, Hockey, Dodgeball, Kickball, Basketball) in this multi-sport program. We will work on balance and hand-eye coordination with a ball at their feet and in their hands. Games will be taught emphasising listening, memory, numbers, colours, and following directions. We aim to increase players’ skill levels, confidence, and grit on and off the court. JMG coaches have years of experience playing and coaching at the high school, college, and pro levels. The pace of our program enables repetition in a great learning environment. Our trainers take the time to explain the “when” and the “why” of each move to increase your child’s sports IQ! JMG Coaches have played at the Pro, Semi-Pro, Collegiate, or Club Team Levels, and many have a background in Childhood Development and Education. Through role modelling, communication, and fun, they reinforce character-building skills already being taught at your home & school.

Dates: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/12 (8 Sessions)

SPRING SESSION JMG SOCCER – Fridays – apr. 9 – may 21 – (5 sessions)

JMG SportsWise presents: Soccer & More… Introduce your kids to the foundation of sports and team play (Soccer, Hockey, Dodgeball, Kickball, Basketball) in this multi-sport program. We will work on balance and hand-eye coordination with a ball at their feet and in their hands. Games will be taught emphasising listening, memory, numbers, colours, and following directions. We aim to increase players’ skill levels, confidence, and grit on and off the court. JMG coaches have years of experience playing and coaching at the high school, college, and pro levels. The pace of our program enables repetition in a great learning environment. Our trainers take the time to explain the “when” and the “why” of each move to increase your child’s sports IQ! JMG Coaches have played at the Pro, Semi-Pro, Collegiate, or Club Team Levels, and many have a background in Childhood Development and Education. Through role modelling, communication, and fun, they reinforce character-building skills already being taught at your home & school.

Dates: 4/9, 4/23, 4/30, 5/14, 5/21 (5 Sessions)

Soccer ball

PAINT LIKE A PRO (SESSION 2) – TUESDAYS – FEB. 17, FEB. 24, MAR. 3, MAR. 10

Get your brushes ready and join Beth Colla—former pro toy designer and painter for Mattel, Marvel, Barbie, TMNT, and more—for a colorful, creativity-packed 4-week after-school program at Bridges Academy! In Paint Like a Pro, kids will learn insider tips and tricks of the toy world, including how to airbrush and hand-paint real toy prototype samples. Ever wonder who paints Barbie’s perfect face or gives the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles their attitude? Now you’ll find out—because Beth did that for over 20 years! From Happy Meal toys to Star Wars, Beth brings industry magic straight to your brush. Spots are limited, so grab your smock and unleash your inner toy artist!

Class Dates: 02/17, 02/24, 03/3, 03/10

Basketball w/JMG- Wednesdays – Dec. 4 – March 12

JMG believes in a growth mindset philosophy. All children learn and grow differently with different timing. We give personal attention to both child and parent on how to get through those times where it seems that your child is not engaged or emotions are running high.

All children go through this and it is up to us to recognize and understand what is happening to them every step of the way. We believe that perseverance, grit, and communication are the most important things for a child to learn at a young age for healthy development!

Have your little ones start learning the basic skills for the fast-paced game of basketball. We’ll work on hand-eye coordination, proper form, and rules of the game. All this while teaching proper sportsmanship and teamwork!

Whether it’s school tryouts or travel ball, we aim to increase players’ skill levels, confidence, and grit on and off the court. JMG’s basketball staff has years of experience playing and coaching at the high school, college, and pro level. The pace of our workouts guarantees the maximum amount of repetition in a great learning environment. Our trainers take the time to explain the “when” and the “why” of each move to increase your child’s Basketball IQ!

SRC members are expected to set and uphold a high standard of behavior and academic performance.

JMG Coaches have played at the pro, semi pro, collegiate, or club team levels and many have a background in childhood development and education. Through role modeling, communication, and FUN, they reinforce character building skills already being taught at your home & school.

JMG MULTI-SPORT CLASS – WEDNESDAYS – Sep. 3 – Dec 10 (14 sessions)

Introduce your kids to the foundation of sports and team play (Basketball, Flag Football, Volleyball, Baseball…) in this multi-sport program. We will work on balance, hand-eye coordination with a ball at their feet and in their hands. Games will be taught emphasizing listening, memory, numbers, colors, and following directions.

 

We aim to increase players’ skill levels, confidence and grit on and off the court. JMG coaches have years of experience playing and coaching at the high school, college and pro level. The pace of our program enables repetition in a great learning environment. Our trainers take the time to explain the “when” and the “why” of each move to increase your child’s sports IQ!

 

JMG Coaches have played at the Pro, Semi Pro, Collegiate or Club Team Levels and many have a background in Childhood Development and Education. Through role modeling, communication and a FUN they reinforce character building skills already being taught at your home & school.

Flag football

BLEND IT UP – TUESDAYS – Sep. 9 – NOV. 4 (8 sessions)

Does your child enjoy exploring new flavors and creating tasty treats? Our Blending Basics program introduces young enthusiasts to the art of making smoothies, dips, and more. Students will learn to blend a variety of nutritious and delicious recipes from around the globe, including Mediterranean Hummus, Mexican Guacamole, and American Smoothies. Our sessions are packed with fun, offering kids the chance to learn blending techniques, understand safety protocols, and enhance their culinary vocabulary.

 

Join us for a blending adventure where your child will discover how simple ingredients can be transformed into exciting and healthy creations!

 

Class Dates: 09/09,09/16,09/30,10/07,10/14,10/21,10/28,11/04

Smoothie

TABLETOP TINKERERS CLASS – MONDAYS – Sep. 8 – OCT. 27 (8 sessions)

Step into a world of strategy, creativity, and fun! In this engaging enrichment course, students explore classic and modern board games while developing critical thinking, social skills, and mathematical reasoning. Each session combines structured gameplay with thoughtful reflection, helping students understand game mechanics, practice good sportsmanship, and build lasting friendships. Students will: Learn and play age-appropriate games ranging from classics; Develop strategic thinking and planning skills through guided gameplay; Practice social skills including turn-taking, graceful winning and losing, and clear communication; Apply mathematical concepts through scoring, probability, and resource management; Possibly create their own simple board game by the end of the course.

 

Perfect for both new and experienced young gamers, this course provides a supportive environment where every student can discover the joy of tabletop gaming while building important life skills. Games are carefully selected to match students’ ages and abilities, ensuring everyone can participate and succeed. Join us for an adventure where learning feels like play!

 

Class Dates: 09/08,09/15,09/22,09/29,10/06,10/13,10/20,10/27

Board games

GAME DESIGN – FRIDAYS – Sep. 5 – OCT. 24 (8 sessions)

Have you ever dreamed of creating a video game? In this course, we’ll dive into game development. Students will learn the fundamentals of game design, starting with HTML programming.

 

During the course, we will use AI technology for storytelling and image creation, infusing unlimited options into game creation. We’ll also work on enhancing writing skills by coding trivia challenges and immersive choose-your-own-adventure games. Learners will have the opportunity to collaborate on a group game. Together, you’ll practice the techniques learned throughout the course to craft a game that can be shared with friends and family. You don’t need any previous experience or special software; you’ll only need your creativity and a laptop!

 

Class Dates: 09/05,09/12,09/19,09/26,10/03,10/10,10/17,10/24

Computer programming

CODING CLASS – THURSDAYS – Sep. 4 – OCT. 30 (8 sessions)

Have you ever wanted to make your own websites and apps? In this hands-on coding and tech club, you’ll learn the skills of a coder and the mindset of an entrepreneur through building apps – your own app and also an app for local nonprofits. You’ll build apps and games weekly in the course and work on real web apps.

 

Previous students have been covered in multiple local news outlets for apps they’ve built for homeless shelters, veterinarians, and local climate nonprofits!

 

Class Dates: 09/04,09/11,09/18,09/25,10/09,10/16,10/23,10/30

CREATIVE WRITING – WEDNESDAYS – Sep. 3 – OCT. 22 (8 sessions)

Do you have a story to tell? Want to learn how to express yourself through writing? Join our Creative Writing class! This course helps students who love stories express themselves through writing, develop their verbal skills, and learn how to craft compelling characters to build immersive worlds. Through guided exercises and personalized feedback, students will learn how to bring their ideas to life and create stories that will captivate readers.

Younger learners will work on creating and illustrating their own cool chapter books. Regardless of age, all you need is a pen and paper, and you’re ready to start writing!

Class Dates: 09/03,09/10,09/17,09/24,10/01,10/08,10/15,10/22

Pen and paper

LEGO Architecture – Tuesdays – SEP. 9 – DEC. 16 (12 SESSIONS)

LEGO ARCHITECTURE: Design the Cities of Tomorrow

 

In this immersive, hands-on design lab, students will take on the role of architects and engineers to build functional and imaginative structures using LEGO bricks. They’ll explore real-world concepts in civil engineering, city planning, and environmental design while solving design challenges with creativity and precision.

 

What students will do:

  • Recreate iconic architectural landmarks (like the Eiffel Tower or Golden Gate Bridge)
  • Build and test earthquake-resistant skyscrapers
  • Design sustainable green spaces and rooftop gardens
  • Create their own futuristic LEGO city from blueprint to build

Students will apply design thinking, structural engineering, and artistic vision as they bring their builds to life. Final projects will be showcased in a student-led design expo.

 

Class Dates: 9/9, 9/16, 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/18, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16

Survival Science Lab – Thursdays – SEP. 4 – DEC. 4 (12 SESSIONS)

SURVIVAL SCIENCE LAB: Build to Survive

 

This high-adventure science and engineering program teaches students how to think critically under pressure, solve real-world problems, and apply STEM in life-saving ways. Each session presents a new survival challenge drawn from environmental science, physics, and engineering.

 

What students will do:

  • Engineer water filtration systems using natural and lab-based materials
  • Build solar ovens and wind-powered devices
  • Construct floating rafts and earthquake-safe shelters
  • Test renewable energy prototypes and explore emergency science

Students will work in teams, test their builds in simulated conditions, and reflect on how science is used to tackle global challenges. The course ends with a Survival Innovation Showcase for families.

 

Class Dates: 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4

Dungeons & Dragons Mini Adventures with Steve Townshend – Thursdays – Sep. 11 – Oct. 23 (6 Sessions)

This course focuses on mini-adventures within the Dungeons & Dragons universe, building skills in collaborative storytelling, tactical strategy, and creative problem-solving. Highly recommended for fantasy readers, aspiring writers, and lovers of cooperative games.

 

Class Dates: 09/11, 09/18, 09/25, 10/02, 10/16, 10/23

D&D dice

COMEDY SKETCH WRITING & PERFORMING – THURSDAYS – OCT. 16 – DEC. 18 (8 SESSIONS)

Laura is an alumnus of the award-winning Second City Theater Company – North America’s preeminent sketch & improv theater! Learn how to write a sketch, a blackout, a song, and other forms of satirical comedy. Perform your work! Come and discover your own brand of humor in a fun and supportive setting!!!

Class Dates: 10/16, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18

Student and teacher in hallway

Young Scholars Academy Partnership

Bridges Academy has partnered with Young Scholars Academy, a strength-based virtual enrichment program for 2e learners, to offer additional after-school enrichment. Students can engage in meaningful courses after school at Bridges while forging new relationships, exploring new material, and growing under new mentors.

 

Bridges after-school staff will be on-site to supervise students as they take these courses. Currently available courses are listed below.

Dungeons & Dragons

Ages 8-12 | Tuesdays at 4 p.m. PT

1/7/2025 – 5/20/2025 

Young & Thriving Beginners

Ages 9-12 | Tuesdays at 4 p.m. PT

1/7/2025 – 5/20/2025

Roblox In-Server Gameplay & Social Skills

Ages 7-11 | Wednesdays at 4 p.m. PT

1/8/2025 – 5/21/2025 

Digital Art

Ages 12-18 | Thursdays at 4 p.m. PT

1/9/2025 – 5/222025 

ONLINE: WORLD-BUILDING 101 WITH STEVE TOWNSHEND- MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS – FEB. 3 – MARCH 17

In this course, students will collaboratively create worlds and the people who inhabit them, exploring geography, cultures, and timelines. It’s an excellent opportunity for those interested in storytelling and creative exploration.

 

This is an online course conducted over Zoom.

Fantasy photo - canoe and island

ONLINE: dungeons & dragons mini adventures WITH STEVE TOWNSHEND- TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS – FEB. 4 – MARCH 13

This course focuses on mini adventures within the Dungeons & Dragons universe, building skills in collaborative storytelling, tactical strategy, and creative problem-solving. Highly recommended for fantasy readers, aspiring writers, and lovers of cooperative games.

 

Dungeons and Dragons dice

Tae Kwon Do with Officer Tom – Tuesdays and Thursdays – April 22 – May 15

Bridges’ very own security guard, Officer Tom, was inducted into the Master’s Hall of Fame in 2016 after spending over forty years practicing and teaching martial arts. Officer Tom specializes in Tae Kwon Do, the art of self-discipline and self-defense, and holds a Seventh Degree Black Belt, and is a three-time U.S. National Champion and a Pan-American Gold Medalist. Officer Tom has spent most of his life practicing and training men, women, and children in self-defense, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and respect. Officer Tom develops martial arts programs based on students’ specific discipline and coordination levels. Practicing martial arts has been proven to sharpen the mind and body while having a fun and exciting experience.

COMIC BOOK PRODUCTION SESSION 2 WITH RACHEL JACKSON – WEDNESDAYS OR FRIDAYS, JAN. 22 – MAY 16

Students will learn how to write, draw, format, and print a zine of the comic books they created. The goal will be to produce two zines every semester and the course is open to Phoenix through high school. A lot of emphasis will be placed on the storytelling and formatting phase to ensure a quality zine.

Learn the art of printing making with Gelli Plates. Craft beautiful art using magazine images or photos you’ve taken! So many options with this cool technique!

Dates: 02/19, 02/26, 03/5, 03/19