Summer Exploration
2026 THEME:
Science Is Magic
The Mater Amoris Summer Exploration Program is dedicated to supporting our children and youth in:
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Developing an appreciation and respect for our natural environment
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Expressing themselves through hands-on arts and crafts, science, cultural studies, language-based activities, music, and performance
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Building confidence in themselves and their abilities
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Learning to be contributing members of the community
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Practicing cooperation and team-building skills
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Learning positive and peaceful methods to resolve differences
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Practicing the Montessori values of peace, honesty, justice, equality, compassion, and independence
Summer Exploration runs June 22 to August 7, 2026.
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Open to Mater Amoris families.
Tiny Explorers
Ages 2-3 years​
Our youngest explorers will participate in a summer experience closely aligned with the structure, format, and expectations of the school year Montessori program. This 7-week full day program will reinforce the school year emphasis on building independence, promoting curiosity, and supporting social-emotional development. Weekly "Science is Magic" themes will guide the morning activities, and afternoons will include nap time, snack, and outdoor play. ​
Curiosity Crew
Ages 4-6 years
​Our young explorers will participate in a summer adventure based on weekly "Science is Magic" themes. Our projects and activities will be Montessori-aligned and aimed at fostering personal growth, developing social skills, and gaining a broader understanding of our environment.
Ages 6-12 years​​
​The elementary years are an important time for children to delve deeply into their own interests and experience the world beyond our campus. To promote ongoing development of our elementary students and complement the Montessori school year program, we will offer a non-traditional summer exploration experience for these students. The program will include opportunities for on-campus connections and off-campus excursions that complement the "Science is Magic" theme. ​​
Heron Summer Exploration
Ages 11-15 years​​
​Open to current (including those graduating in 2026) and incoming adolescent students, Heron Summer Exploration will include a two week on-campus program and a one week off-campus experience.​
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Tabletop Gaming
June 16-25, 2026
This two-week Summer Exploration invites students to dive into the creative and strategic world of tabletop gaming. Students will learn the art of game design, explore the mechanics behind popular board and role-playing games, and collaborate to create and play their own original games. Through storytelling, critical thinking, and teamwork, this exploration encourages imagination and problem-solving in a fun, hands-on environment that celebrates both play and creativity.
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Yellowstone Trip
June 26 - July 2, 2026
The Heron Community has an opportunity to embark on an unforgettable learning expedition to Yellowstone National Park through Ecology Project International. Immersed in one of the world's most iconic ecosystems, students will work alongside scientists and field educators to study wildlife, geothermal features, and the complex relationships that sustain the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Through hands-on field research, hiking, data collection, and daily reflection, students will deepen their understanding of ecology, conservation, and their own role as responsible stewards of the natural world. This experience will challenge the Heron students to grow in independence, collaboration, and curiosity while connecting classroom learning to real-world environmental science in a powerful and lasting way. See the program brochure for additional information.
Additional Offerings
Academic Tutoring
This summer, we are excited to offer a variety of tutoring services to help students continue their learning journey! Our summer tutoring program offers a personalized approach to meet student needs while support academic growth and confidence building.
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Enrollment for tutoring opens in April.
Swimming and Pool Usage
We have many great opportunities for usage of our newly renovated pool!
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Sign up for private or semi-private swim lessons.
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Participate in open swim.
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Book a rental by filling out this form.
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For questions about opportunities related to the pool, contact Ms. Emma.