DECATS Courses

The Summer Stitch Squad

(Grade 4, 5, and 6)
Join the Summer Stitch Squad and stitch your way through a summer of creativity! This fun, hands-on course introduces scholars to the art of stitching, embroidery, and crocheting in a supportive and collaborative environment. Whether you’re brand new to stitching or looking to sharpen your skills, this class is the perfect place to learn, create, and connect.

In addition to building practical sewing skills, scholars will develop patience, problem-solving abilities, and creative confidence.

The Cutting Edge

Get ready to put on your lab coats and step into the world of real-life science investigation! In this exciting hands‑on course, scholars will become Dissection Detectives—explorers who uncover the amazing secrets hidden inside living organisms.

Have you ever wondered how an earthworm moves without bones or whether a crawfish has a brain? Are you interested in seeing a frog’s muscles up close? Together, we’ll learn how to safely and confidently use professional dissection tools while discovering the structures and systems that help animals survive. From tiny earthworms to frogs, fetal pigs, cow eyeballs and hearts, you’ll get a front‑row seat to the incredible world of anatomy.

By the end of the course, you’ll think like a scientist, observe like a biologist, and investigate like a true detective of the natural world.

If you’re curious, brave, and excited to explore what’s beneath the surface—this is the course for you!

ALLERGY WARNING:  This course does include dissection and is best for scholars with strong stomachs. This course involves exposure to specimen preservatives. Scholars will dissect shellfish.

Marble Madness

(Grades 3 and 4)
Roller coasters! Race tracks! Mazes! In Marble Madness scholars will embark on an exciting journey exploring physics, engineering, and creativity through the world of marbles! Scholars will learn about concepts such as gravity, motion, and momentum while designing and constructing a variety of elaborate marble runs and mazes using various materials. Through hands-on activities, teamwork, and problem solving challenges, they will enhance their critical thinking skills and learn to collaborate all while having fun!

Super Slime

(Grades 3 and 4)
If it fizzes, oozes, or globs, it is on the menu.  Make “gastric foam, milk maggots and monster snot” and then devise some clever ideas to amuse and amaze your friends. We even make slime on Fridays!! Calling all Mad Scientists!!

Math + Art = Fun

In this hands-on, creative course, students will explore how color, lines, symmetry, and geometry come together to create amazing works of art. Blending imagination with problem-solving in a fun, active studio environment, students will see firsthand that math and art truly belong together. Using real math tools, they will design and build original pieces filled with bold patterns and vibrant color. Through guided projects and creative challenges, students will discover how shapes and structure can transform simple ideas into eye-catching designs. Perfect for scholars who love to create, explore, and think in new ways—get ready to imagine boldly, design confidently, and create masterpieces where math makes the magic happen!

Business Academy

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)

Learn how to start your own small business from scratch! This course is designed to mentor, support, and equip scholars with the necessary success skills to set them on the path of becoming our future entrepreneurs. Scholars will learn what it takes to succeed in our global economy, equip them with the success skills they need, and set them in the right direction for understanding entrepreneurship at a young age… oh and did we mention it’s fun?!

NOTE: A few assigned days scholars will need to bring an electronic device (iPad or cell phone) for promotional video filming.

Marble Madness

(Grades 3, and 4)
Roller coasters! Race tracks! Mazes! In Marble Madness scholars will embark on an exciting journey exploring physics, engineering, and creativity through the world of marbles! Scholars will learn about concepts such as gravity, motion, and momentum while designing and constructing a variety of elaborate marble runs and mazes using various materials. Through hands-on activities, teamwork, and problem solving challenges, they will enhance their critical thinking skills and learn to collaborate all while having fun!

Business Academy

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Learn how to start your own small business from scratch! This course is designed to mentor, support, and equip scholars with the necessary success skills to set them on the path of becoming our future entrepreneurs. Scholars will learn what it takes to succeed in our global economy, equip them with the success skills they need, and set them in the right direction for understanding entrepreneurship at a young age… oh and did we mention it’s fun?!

NOTE: A few assigned days scholars will need to bring an electronic device (iPad or cell phone) for promotional video filming.

Creative Streak

Have you made art with yarn?  Come join the fun in Creative StreakI!  We will be using our art and crafting talent to create wonderful take home projects.  You’ll be amazed at the art you can create with yarn.  So, get ready to get your creative streak going!

From Story to Stage

(Grades 3 and 4)
Every story is a brand-new adventure waiting to begin! In this fun course, you’ll get to share a story in your very own creative way… through performing, with puppets, through colorful illustrations, with amazing artwork, and more! Let your imagination lead the way as you turn beloved stories into magical moments that come to life. The possibilities are endless, and the adventure is all yours!

Holiday Extravaganza

Get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Extravaganza is a festive, hands-on course designed to spark creativity, joy, and seasonal spirit. Scholars will explore a variety of holiday traditions through art, crafts, music, baking, games, and themed activities inspired by celebrations around the world.

Perfect for scholars of all skill levels, this class encourages creativity, teamwork, and holiday cheer. By the end of the course, scholars will have a collection of festive creations and unforgettable memories to take home.

Play-Write!

Do you like to write stories?  Do you often create characters and act them out with your friends?  Well, here is your chance to learn how to write plays, monologues, dialogues with characters and stories you create yourself!  We will learn how to write comedies, mysteries, and dramas, etc. We will also be writing scenes for the Let’s Put on a Show course musical, so we will get to see our writing works performed!  So if you like creative writing with interesting characters, it’s your turn to Play-Write!

Sew What?

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Do you love creating something from nothing? Do you want to learn the basics of sewing; both with a machine and hand sewing?  Curious about how fabric is made?  Join us in Sew What!  We are going to master sewing in a straight line by making a pillow case with coordinating fabrics.  We will then combine our new skills to make a carry-all zipper pouch!

Style Your Space

In this hands-on design studio, students explore how color, texture, layout, and materials work together to shape a space. Through mood boards, material samples, and room models, students will plan and create their own original room design. This course blends creativity with thoughtful design choices, helping students see how art and function come together in real spaces.

St. Joseph’s Carpenters

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Houses, furniture, fences, decks, sheds, and benches… What do all these things have in common? WOOD! Working with wood is something that people have been doing for centuries. Have you ever wanted to build something on your own, using your hands and your imagination? Woodworking is the perfect place to explore that curiosity! This unique course will drive you to understand the materials, tools, safety, prep work, labor, and final touches that make each piece special and different! Come experience this one-of-a-kind course!

Walk Like an Egyptian

Travel through the history of Egypt and discover the secrets of the ancients as you learn about notable gods and goddesses, grand sculptures, and unique art. Explore interesting cultural facts and historic contributions, and even design and build your very own 3-D sarcophagus! Come explore with me in this alluring ancient world with King Tut and friends!

Mission Possible

Would you like to improve your coordination, strengthen your core, learn fun and unique exercises? Then let’s make your mission possible! The greatest wealth you’ll ever get is your health. Treat yourself to a fitness experience and see the positive difference. We will set personal goals to achieve good physical and mental health. Declutter your mind of all negative thoughts and embrace a journey filled with joy and positivity. Ultimately, you will discover a more mentally and physically stronger version of yourself.

Cocoa Motion

Sweeten your day with Cocoa Motion! Get ready to have some delicious fun with chocolate! Take a virtual tour of a Chocolate Factory, explore the ancient world to see how they discovered chocolate, explore baking science, and more! Your taste buds will thank you for this unforgettable experience!

ALLERGY WARNING:  This course involves the handling and consuming of foods. Scholars with dietary restrictions or allergies should not select this course.

What’s Cooking DECATS?

(Grades 5 and 6)
Are you ready for a cook off challenge? The kitchen will be filled with opponents ready for battle as they face off to score the highest points in taste, presentation, and originality. Scholars will learn kitchen basics, including safety, food cleanliness, the art of spices, and recipe studies. Team players with a strong stomach, wild imagination, and a healthy appetite for friendly competition should apply.

ALLERGY WARNING:  This course involves the handling and consuming of foods. Scholars with dietary restrictions or allergies should not select this course.

Walk Like an Egyptian

Travel through the history of Egypt and discover the secrets of the ancients as you learn about notable gods and goddesses, grand sculptures, and unique art. Explore interesting cultural facts and historic contributions, and even design and build your very own 3-D sarcophagus! Come explore with me in this alluring ancient world with King Tut and friends!

Where in the World?

Travel the globe without leaving the classroom!  In this exciting course, scholars will explore six different countries from around the world.  Scholars will dive into a new destination, learning about its culture, geography, traditions, food, music, language, and daily life.  Through interactive games, maps, stories, and hands-on projects, scholars will compare and contrast how people live across the world and discover what makes each country unique.  This course encourages curiosity, global awareness, and appreciation for different cultures while making learning fun and engaging.

Disaster Lab

Disasters are powerful.
Engineers are smarter.
What happens when the ground shakes?
When winds hit 100 mph?
When water rises and refuses to stop?

In Disaster Lab, you won’t just learn about natural disasters; you’ll become the engineer responsible for surviving them. You’ll build structures that survive earthquakes, design houses that can withstand hurricane-force winds, test your creations against flood simulations, fail, redesign, and improve like real engineers.

History’s Mysteries

Become a historical detective and uncover the secrets of the past! From ancient disappearances to unsolved riddles in history, Scholars will examine real-world mysteries, analyze evidence, and present their theories. The first half of the course offers a new case each day, and by the end, each Scholar will present a polished historical theory in a ‘History Channel’-style presentation.

Holiday Extravaganza

Get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Extravaganza is a festive, hands-on course designed to spark creativity, joy, and seasonal spirit. Scholars will explore a variety of holiday traditions through art, crafts, music, baking, games, and themed activities inspired by celebrations around the world.

Perfect for scholars of all skill levels, this class encourages creativity, teamwork, and holiday cheer. By the end of the course, scholars will have a collection of festive creations and unforgettable memories to take home.

Walk Like an Egyptian

Travel through the history of Egypt and discover the secrets of the ancients as you learn about notable gods and goddesses, grand sculptures, and unique art. Explore interesting cultural facts and historic contributions, and even design and build your very own 3-D sarcophagus! Come explore with me in this alluring ancient world with King Tut and friends!

WWII: Build the War

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Travel through time to one of the most important moments in modern history, World War II, and discover the people, ideas, and events that shaped our world. As they learn, scholars will research fascinating topics and design their own mini museum exhibits, featuring items like model tanks, propaganda posters, maps, and coded messages. Join us as we bring history to life and become WWII historians, creators, and curators!

Where in the World?

Travel the globe without leaving the classroom!  In this exciting course, scholars will explore six different countries from around the world.  Scholars will dive into a new destination, learning about its culture, geography, traditions, food, music, language, and daily life.  Through interactive games, maps, stories, and hands-on projects, scholars will compare and contrast how people live across the world and discover what makes each country unique.  This course encourages curiosity, global awareness, and appreciation for different cultures while making learning fun and engaging.

Play-Write!

Do you like to write stories? Do you often create characters and act them out with your friends? Well, here is your chance to learn how to write plays, monologues, dialogues with characters and stories you create yourself! We will learn how to write comedies, mysteries, and dramas, etc. We will also be writing scenes for the Let’s Put on a Show course musical, so we will get to see our writing works performed! So if you like creative writing with interesting characters, it’s your turn to Play-Write!

From Story to Stage

(Grades 3 and 4)
Every story is a brand-new adventure waiting to begin! In this fun course, you’ll get to share a story in your very own creative way… through performing, with puppets, through colorful illustrations, with amazing artwork, and more! Let your imagination lead the way as you turn beloved stories into magical moments that come to life. The possibilities are endless, and the adventure is all yours!

Hogwarts Academy

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Calling all Muggles who are certain their Hogwarts Letter got lost in the mail! This is your chance to enroll in Hogwarts Academy. We will polish up our potions knowledge, and test our wizardly knowledge to earn the House Cup! Attend Herbology, Astronomy, Transfigurations & more this summer through DECATS!

Once Upon a S.T.E.M.

(Grades 3 and 4)
Can you build a parachute for Jack to escape the Giant? Or design a zip line for Little Red Riding Hood to bypass the wolf on the way to Grandma’s house? Use everyday objects to challenge yourself to complete the Science Technology Engineering Math tasks and rescue your favorite fairy tale characters!

Siege Warfare

History and science combine in the study of the weapons and defenses of castle and siege warfare. Use your knowledge to build model castles and weaponry and participate in an all out battle between attackers and defenders to see which technology will triumph! You will study the physics of weaponry to build model catapults, trebuchets, crossbows and more! Three teams will be established from the group of scholars to build catapults, battering rams, and an impenetrable castle. Will your team win the war? This is a challenging course that requires attention to detail, and patience. Task commitment is a must

Strategy Masters

Strategy Masters is a fun and exciting course where strategy is the key to winning! In this course, you will dive into a variety of games-from board games to team challenges and learn how to think critically, plan ahead, and outsmart your opponents. Whether you’re into classic games or new favorites, each day will test your decision-making skills, and encourage creative problem solving. Get ready to have a blast playing games while sharpening your strategic mind!

I’ve Got Your Number

(Grades 3, 4, and 5)
I’ve Got Your Number is the ultimate course tailored to math enthusiasts who thrive on game-based learning. Dive into a summer of mathematical exploration where dice games, cards, board games like Beat the Teach, Don’t Go Low, Farkle, Genius Square, MasterMind, Mancala, and Dara, along with logic puzzles. Challenge yourself to keep your math skills sharp while having a blast with strategic gameplay, problem-solving challenges, and mind-bending puzzles. Join us for an unforgettable journey where numbers meet fun, logic reigns supreme, creativity flourishes, and learning is as enjoyable as it is rewarding!

Math + Art = Fun

In this hands-on, creative course, students will explore how color, lines, symmetry, and geometry come together to create amazing works of art. Blending imagination with problem-solving in a fun, active studio environment, students will see firsthand that math and art truly belong together. Using real math tools, they will design and build original pieces filled with bold patterns and vibrant color. Through guided projects and creative challenges, students will discover how shapes and structure can transform simple ideas into eye-catching designs. Perfect for scholars who love to create, explore, and think in new ways—get ready to imagine boldly, design confidently, and create masterpieces where math makes the magic happen!

Disaster Lab

Disasters are powerful.
Engineers are smarter.
What happens when the ground shakes?
When winds hit 100 mph?
When water rises and refuses to stop?

In Disaster Lab, you won’t just learn about natural disasters; you’ll become the engineer responsible for surviving them. You’ll build structures that survive earthquakes, design houses that can withstand hurricane-force winds, test your creations against flood simulations, fail, redesign, and improve like real engineers.

In Our Poetry Era

Do you enjoy modern music? Do you enjoy seeking out the meaning of music & what the artist is trying to tell you? Then join us In Our Poetry Era! We will analyze modern songs & artists, and work to write our own songs! We will discover the miles of figurative language that artists use & analyze their meaning. You will leave this course with a binder full of inspiration!

I Will Survive

In this course scholars will explore the outdoors and learn the skills to survive! Scholars will learn how to use a compass and hunt treasures, use a bow drill to make ambers for fire, learn to fish, first aid skills from EMTs, and how soldiers survive in the wild. We’ll also learn about dangerous snakes and spiders in Texas and how to be prepared when camping and hiking. If you love the great outdoors, this is the course for you!

Mission Possible

Would you like to improve your coordination, strengthen your core, learn fun and unique exercises? Then let’s make your mission possible! The greatest wealth you’ll ever get is your health. Treat yourself to a fitness experience and see the positive difference. We will set personal goals to achieve good physical and mental health. Declutter your mind of all negative thoughts and embrace a journey filled with joy and positivity. Ultimately, you will discover a more mentally and physically stronger version of yourself.

Dance Through the Decades

Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to dance your way through the decades! We’ll explore pop culture and fads through time and learn all the popular dance styles. So let’s hop aboard our time machine and bust a move as we dance through the decades.

Let’s Put on a Show!

Lights, Camera, Action! Do you love to be on stage? Do you sing and dance throughout your day? Is acting your “scene”? Then, let’s put on a show! You will learn to perfect your craft and sharpen your talents while learning how to put a show together and perform for an audience. By using our talents, we will create a show stopping musical revue!

Scholars MUST be present for the entire session of DECATS – We perform at the end of DECATS.

Take Your Best Shot

Do you have a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) camera that you’ve wanted to learn how to use? Well then, this course is for you! We’ll take a deep dive into the world of digital photography! We’ll cover the basics starting with how to use a DSLR camera, to how to compose pictures focusing on aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Learn about taking portraits, action shots, the rule of thirds; and, throughout our three weeks together, your photo may even end up in the DECATS newsletter!

Note: Scholars must provide their own DSLR camera and must bring it every day to campus. (No cameras will be provided). Cameras will be stored safely in the classroom and taken home at the end of each day.

2-4-6-8…Cheer is Great

This is a beginner’s course into the wonderful world of cheer! Each scholar will learn how to perform cheers, some choreography to instill into a cheer routine and basic tumbling skills and jump sequences. We could possibly learn basic stunts also! We will have a great time and enjoy the sport of cheerleading!

Activate Outdoors

Do you enjoy being outside and being active?  If so, this is the course for you! We will begin our day by running laps as a warm-up.  Then, we will operate two separate fields of soccer and kickball.  Some days we may all play kickball, some days we may all play soccer, but most days you can choose which one you want to play. Water coolers will be available and frequent breaks will be encouraged in the heat.  Please bring another shirt to change into and/or deodorant for when our class is over.  Let’s get healthy, have some fun, and ACTIVATE OUTDOORS!

Healthy Body, Mind, and Soul

Let’s get our minds, bodies, and souls active in this fun, free-spirited class! In this course, kids will learn beginner yoga poses that challenge individuals both physically and mentally. Incorporate good strength training and yoga to benefit your body and mind while practicing Catholic meditation.

We recommend you to bring in your own yoga mat.

Dance Through the Decades

Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to dance your way through the decades! We’ll explore pop culture and fads through time and learn all the popular dance styles. So let’s hop aboard our time machine and bust a move as we dance through the decades.

Mission Possible

Would you like to improve your coordination, strengthen your core, learn fun and unique exercises?  Then let’s make your mission possible! The greatest wealth you’ll ever get is your health.  Treat yourself to a fitness experience and see the positive difference.  We will set personal goals to achieve good physical and mental health.  Declutter your mind of all negative thoughts and embrace a journey filled with joy and positivity. Ultimately, you will discover a more mentally and physically stronger version of yourself.

Sportsapalooza

Ever wish gym class could be every day?  Well, you’re in luck! Join your friends and fellow scholars playing some of the most fun games you play in gym class. From relay races to mat ball, spend an hour being active and having fun!

Business Academy

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)

Learn how to start your own small business from scratch! This course is designed to mentor, support, and equip scholars with the necessary success skills to set them on the path of becoming our future entrepreneurs. Scholars will learn what it takes to succeed in our global economy, equip them with the success skills they need, and set them in the right direction for understanding entrepreneurship at a young age… oh and did we mention it’s fun?!

NOTE: A few assigned days scholars will need to bring an electronic device (iPad or cell phone) for promotional video filming.

DECATS Detectives: Focus on Forensics

(Grades 3 and 4)
Did you ever wonder how detectives collect and analyze evidence to solve crimes and mysteries? In DECATS Detectives: Focus on Forensics we will explore procedures and processes for finding, collecting and analyzing physical evidence such as fingerprints, hair and cloth fibers, footprints and more! We will also be examining eye-witness statements to verify their accuracy. Scholars will use the forensic evidence they collect to include or exclude suspects in our own mini mysteries. One thing is for certain, Scholars will learn to look beyond their assumptions to see if the physical evidence supports their hypothesis!

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead

(Grades 5 and 6)
Are you ready to take the helm of your four C’s? That’s Creativity, Communication, Collaboration, and Critical Thinking. In this course, teams of students will compete to build contraptions, machines, devices, tools, gadgets, and gizmos. Each day, a task will be put forth.  Teams will create and complete using set parameters and materials. Which inventions will meet the challenge? Timid thinkers need not apply!

History’s Mysteries

Become a historical detective and uncover the secrets of the past! From ancient disappearances to unsolved riddles in history, Scholars will examine real-world mysteries, analyze evidence, and present their theories. The first half of the course offers a new case each day, and by the end, each Scholar will present a polished historical theory in a ‘History Channel’-style presentation.

I’ve Got Your Number

(Grades 3, 4, and 5)
I’ve Got Your Number is the ultimate course tailored to math enthusiasts who thrive on game-based learning.  Dive into a summer of mathematical exploration where dice games, cards, board games like Beat the Teach, Don’t Go Low, Farkle, Genius Square, MasterMind, Mancala, and Dara, along with logic puzzles. Challenge yourself to keep your math skills sharp while having a blast with strategic gameplay, problem-solving challenges, and mind-bending puzzles. Join us for an unforgettable journey where numbers meet fun, logic reigns supreme, creativity flourishes, and learning is as enjoyable as it is rewarding!

LEGOmania!

Are you a Lego maniac? Do you like to have fun designing different structures with Legos and participating in challenges? If so…this is the course for you! Build a marble maze, create a Lego zoo, participate in a Lego car race and so much more! For creative minds, everything is awesome in LEGOmania!

Once Upon a S.T.E.M.

(Grades 3 and 4)
Can you build a parachute for Jack to escape the Giant?  Or design a zip line for Little Red Riding Hood to bypass the wolf on the way to Grandma’s house?  Use everyday objects to challenge yourself to complete the Science Technology Engineering Math tasks and rescue your favorite fairy tale characters!

Robotics

Have you ever wanted to build and code a robot? If so, this course is for you!!! This course is an introduction to building and programming robots using LEGO SPIKE Prime. In pairs, scholars will use Lego bricks to build mini-figures then program the mini-figures to do tasks such as picking up objects, driving, break dancing, and playing mini golf. Scholars will practice construction and programming using distance, force, and color sensors and motors. This course is good practice for scholars interested in STEM and robotics competitions.

Strategy Masters

Strategy Masters is a fun and exciting course where strategy is the key to winning! In this course, you will dive into a variety of games-from board games to team challenges and learn how to think critically, plan ahead, and outsmart your opponents.  Whether you’re into classic games or new favorites, each day will test your decision-making skills, and encourage creative problem solving.  Get ready to have a blast playing games while sharpening your strategic mind!

DECATS Detectives: Focus on Forensics

(Grades 3 and 4)
Did you ever wonder how detectives collect and analyze evidence to solve crimes and mysteries? In DECATS Detectives: Focus on Forensics we will explore procedures and processes for finding, collecting and analyzing physical evidence such as fingerprints, hair and cloth fibers, footprints and more! We will also be examining eye-witness statements to verify their accuracy. Scholars will use the forensic evidence they collect to include or exclude suspects in our own mini mysteries. One thing is for certain, Scholars will learn to look beyond their assumptions to see if the physical evidence supports their hypothesis!

Disaster Lab

Disasters are powerful.
Engineers are smarter.
What happens when the ground shakes?
When winds hit 100 mph?
When water rises and refuses to stop?

In Disaster Lab, you won’t just learn about natural disasters; you’ll become the engineer responsible for surviving them. You’ll build structures that survive earthquakes, design houses that can withstand hurricane-force winds, test your creations against flood simulations, fail, redesign, and improve like real engineers.

Science Secrets

(Grades 3 and 4)
If you like to discover things for yourself, then this is the course for you! WARNING: It might be messy and even explosive!! You’ll have a great time exploring many sciences including physics, chemistry, earth science, and botany. We’ll make super bouncy balls and really cool hovercrafts! You’ll even be able to eat an experiment or two…yum!!

Super Slime

(Grades 3 and 4)
If it fizzes, oozes, or globs, it is on the menu.  Make “gastric foam, milk maggots and monster snot” and then devise some clever ideas to amuse and amaze your friends. We even make slime on Fridays!! Calling all Mad Scientists!!

The Cutting Edge

Get ready to put on your lab coats and step into the world of real-life science investigation! In this exciting hands‑on course, scholars will become Dissection Detectives—explorers who uncover the amazing secrets hidden inside living organisms.

Have you ever wondered how an earthworm moves without bones or whether a crawfish has a brain? Are you interested in seeing a frog’s muscles up close? Together, we’ll learn how to safely and confidently use professional dissection tools while discovering the structures and systems that help animals survive. From tiny earthworms to frogs, fetal pigs, cow eyeballs and hearts, you’ll get a front‑row seat to the incredible world of anatomy.

By the end of the course, you’ll think like a scientist, observe like a biologist, and investigate like a true detective of the natural world.

If you’re curious, brave, and excited to explore what’s beneath the surface—this is the course for you!

ALLERGY WARNING:  This course does include dissection and is best for scholars with strong stomachs. This course involves exposure to specimen preservatives. Scholars will dissect shellfish.

Holiday Extravaganza

Get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Extravaganza is a festive, hands-on course designed to spark creativity, joy, and seasonal spirit. Scholars will explore a variety of holiday traditions through art, crafts, music, baking, games, and themed activities inspired by celebrations around the world.

Perfect for scholars of all skill levels, this class encourages creativity, teamwork, and holiday cheer. By the end of the course, scholars will have a collection of festive creations and unforgettable memories to take home.

Business Academy

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Learn how to start your own small business from scratch! This course is designed to mentor, support, and equip scholars with the necessary success skills to set them on the path of becoming our future entrepreneurs. Scholars will learn what it takes to succeed in our global economy, equip them with the success skills they need, and set them in the right direction for understanding entrepreneurship at a young age… oh and did we mention it’s fun?!

NOTE: A few assigned days scholars will need to bring an electronic device (iPad or cell phone) for promotional video filming.

Once Upon a S.T.E.M.

(Grades 3 and 4)
Can you build a parachute for Jack to escape the Giant?  Or design a zip line for Little Red Riding Hood to bypass the wolf on the way to Grandma’s house?  Use everyday objects to challenge yourself to complete the Science Technology Engineering Math tasks and rescue your favorite fairy tale characters!

Siege Warfare

History and science combine in the study of the weapons and defenses of castle and siege warfare. Use your knowledge to build model castles and weaponry and participate in an all out battle between attackers and defenders to see which technology will triumph!  You will study the physics of weaponry to build model catapults, trebuchets, crossbows and more! Three teams will be established from the group of scholars to build catapults, battering rams, and an impenetrable castle. Will your team win the war? This is a challenging course that requires attention to detail, and patience. Task commitment is a must.

Strategy Masters

Strategy Masters is a fun and exciting course where strategy is the key to winning! In this course, you will dive into a variety of games-from board games to team challenges and learn how to think critically, plan ahead, and outsmart your opponents. Whether you’re into classic games or new favorites, each day will test your decision-making skills, and encourage creative problem solving. Get ready to have a blast playing games while sharpening your strategic mind!

What’s Cooking DECATS?

(Grades 5 and 6)
Are you ready for a cook off challenge? The kitchen will be filled with opponents ready for battle as they face off to score the highest points in taste, presentation, and originality. Scholars will learn kitchen basics, including safety, food cleanliness, the art of spices, and recipe studies. Team players with a strong stomach, wild imagination, and a healthy appetite for friendly competition should apply.

ALLERGY WARNING:  This course involves the handling and consuming of foods. Scholars with dietary restrictions or allergies should not select this course.

2-4-6-8…Cheer is Great

This is a beginner’s course into the wonderful world of cheer! Each scholar will learn how to perform cheers, some choreography to instill into a cheer routine and basic tumbling skills and jump sequences. We could possibly learn basic stunts also! We will have a great time and enjoy the sport of cheerleading!

Cocoa Motion

Sweeten your day with Cocoa Motion! Get ready to have some delicious fun with chocolate! Take a virtual tour of a Chocolate Factory, explore the ancient world to see how they discovered chocolate, explore baking science, and more! Your taste buds will thank you for this unforgettable experience!

ALLERGY WARNING:  This course involves the handling and consuming of foods. Scholars with dietary restrictions or allergies should not select this course.

From Story to Stage

(Grades 3 and 4)
Every story is a brand-new adventure waiting to begin! In this fun course, you’ll get to share a story in your very own creative way… through performing, with puppets, through colorful illustrations, with amazing artwork, and more! Let your imagination lead the way as you turn beloved stories into magical moments that come to life. The possibilities are endless, and the adventure is all yours!

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead

(Grades 5 and 6)
Are you ready to take the helm of your four C’s? That’s Creativity, Communication, Collaboration, and Critical Thinking. In this course, teams of students will compete to build contraptions, machines, devices, tools, gadgets, and gizmos. Each day, a task will be put forth.  Teams will create and complete using set parameters and materials. Which inventions will meet the challenge? Timid thinkers need not apply!

LEGOmania!

Are you a Lego maniac? Do you like to have fun designing different structures with Legos and participating in challenges? If so…this is the course for you! Build a marble maze, create a Lego zoo, participate in a Lego car race and so much more! For creative minds, everything is awesome in LEGOmania!

Let’s Put on a Show!

Lights, Camera, Action! Do you love to be on stage? Do you sing and dance throughout your day? Is acting your “scene”? Then, let’s put on a show! You will learn to perfect your craft and sharpen your talents while learning how to put a show together and perform for an audience. By using our talents, we will create a show stopping musical revue! Scholars MUST be present for the entire session of DECATS – We perform at the end of DECATS.

Once Upon a S.T.E.M.

(Grades 3 and 4)
Can you build a parachute for Jack to escape the Giant?  Or design a zip line for Little Red Riding Hood to bypass the wolf on the way to Grandma’s house?  Use everyday objects to challenge yourself to complete the Science Technology Engineering Math tasks and rescue your favorite fairy tale characters!

Play-Write!

Do you like to write stories? Do you often create characters and act them out with your friends? Well, here is your chance to learn how to write plays, monologues, dialogues with characters and stories you create yourself! We will learn how to write comedies, mysteries, and dramas, etc. We will also be writing scenes for the Let’s Put on a Show course musical, so we will get to see our writing works performed! So if you like creative writing with interesting characters, it’s your turn to Play-Write!

Sportsapalooza

Ever wish gym class could be every day? Well, you’re in luck! Join your friends and fellow scholars playing some of the most fun games you play in gym class. From relay races to mat ball, spend an hour being active and having fun!

St. Joseph’s Carpenters

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Houses, furniture, fences, decks, sheds, and benches… What do all these things have in common? WOOD! Working with wood is something that people have been doing for centuries. Have you ever wanted to build something on your own, using your hands and your imagination? Woodworking is the perfect place to explore that curiosity! This unique course will drive you to understand the materials, tools, safety, prep work, labor, and final touches that make each piece special and different! Come experience this one-of-a-kind course!

What’s Cooking DECATS?

Are you ready for a cook off challenge? The kitchen will be filled with opponents ready for battle as they face off to score the highest points in taste, presentation, and originality. Scholars will learn kitchen basics, including safety, food cleanliness, the art of spices, and recipe studies. Team players with a strong stomach, wild imagination, and a healthy appetite for friendly competition should apply.

ALLERGY WARNING:  This course involves the handling and consuming of foods. Scholars with dietary restrictions or allergies should not select this course.

WWII: Build the War

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Travel through time to one of the most important moments in modern history, World War II, and discover the people, ideas, and events that shaped our world. As they learn, scholars will research fascinating topics and design their own mini museum exhibits, featuring items like model tanks, propaganda posters, maps, and coded messages. Join us as we bring history to life and become WWII historians, creators, and curators!

Robotics

Have you ever wanted to build and code a robot? If so, this course is for you!!! This course is an introduction to building and programming robots using LEGO SPIKE Prime. In pairs, scholars will use Lego bricks to build mini-figures then program the mini-figures to do tasks such as picking up objects, driving, break dancing, and playing mini golf. Scholars will practice construction and programming using distance, force, and color sensors and motors. This course is good practice for scholars interested in STEM and robotics competitions.

Tinkercad

Tinkercad is an easy-to-use tool for creating digital designs that are ready to be 3D printed into super-cool physical objects.  You will be guided through the 3D design process via hands-on lessons that teach you the basics of Tinkercad.

Strong computer skills are highly recommended.

WWII: Build the War

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Travel through time to one of the most important moments in modern history, World War II, and discover the people, ideas, and events that shaped our world. As they learn, scholars will research fascinating topics and design their own mini museum exhibits, featuring items like model tanks, propaganda posters, maps, and coded messages. Join us as we bring history to life and become WWII historians, creators, and curators!

In Our Poetry Era

Do you enjoy modern music? Do you enjoy seeking out the meaning of music & what the artist is trying to tell you? Then join us In Our Poetry Era! We will analyze modern songs & artists, and work to write our own songs! We will discover the miles of figurative language that artists use & analyze their meaning. You will leave this course with a binder full of inspiration!

The Newsroom

(Grades 4, 5, and 6)
The world runs on information.
Who controls it?
Journalists.

In The Newsroom, you’ll learn how stories are written, edited, designed, and published. You’ll uncover what’s happening behind the scenes at DECATS and decide what deserves to make the front page.

This isn’t just a writing class. It’s investigating, interviewing, fact-checking, publishing, and leading. If you’re curious, thoughtful, creative, or opinionated, this course gives you the tools to make your voice matter.

Play-Write!

Do you like to write stories? Do you often create characters and act them out with your friends? Well, here is your chance to learn how to write plays, monologues, dialogues with characters and stories you create yourself! We will learn how to write comedies, mysteries, and dramas, etc. We will also be writing scenes for the Let’s Put on a Show course musical, so we will get to see our writing works performed! So if you like creative writing with interesting characters, it’s your turn to Play-Write!