Learning Lab

Short-Term Programs Home: Short Courses | Learning Lab | Summer Academies

Our Learning Lab is committed to fostering growth through a wide range of educational opportunities. Our offerings include professional development sessions designed to enhance career skills and knowledge, practical parent workshops that provide effective parenting strategies and family engagement approaches, online courses for distant access to our resources, and dynamic single-day camps that offer enriching experiences for children and teens. While one can enroll in a single offering, participants are welcome to enroll in multiple programs. There are no associated fees with our resources.

Please complete our brief interest form Short Courses 2025-2026 Interest Form (Google Form) if you or someone you know may be interested in our courses.

Please reach out to our Short Courses team with any questions at csb.shortcourses@csb-cde.ca.gov, looking forward to hearing from you.

2025-2026 Online Course Offerings

Smart Start: Organization and Success Strategies for Starting School Strong

Join Us On Zoom: Thursdays, September 18 and 25, 2025; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; Ages 14+

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by September 12, 2025

This course goes beyond basic organization, helping students develop personalized systems for managing assignments, keeping track of deadlines, organizing digital and physical materials, and setting themselves up for academic success. We'll cover accessible apps, time management strategies, and self-advocacy skills to help students take charge of their learning. By the end of the course, students will have a customized toolkit to stay organized and confident throughout the school year!

Kitchen Confidence: Essential Cooking Skills

Join Us On Zoom: November 11, 13, 18, and 20, 2025; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; All Ages

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by November 6, 2025

Cooking is an essential life skill, and this online course is designed to empower students to navigate the kitchen safely and independently. Over four interactive sessions, participants will learn key techniques for preparing meals with confidence. Each class will focus on a specific skill, such as safe cutting techniques, measuring and mixing, stovetop and oven safety, and meal planning for efficiency. With hands-on practice, guided instruction, and adaptive strategies, students will build their confidence in the kitchen and discover the joy of cooking. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this course will help you create delicious meals with independence!

Note: Come to one session, or come to all! Students are welcome to join for any number of sessions or skills.

Roll for Self Determination: Building Communication and Problem-Solving Skills Through Dungeons and Dragons

Join Us On Zoom: December 3 and 17, 2025, January 7 and 21, 2026; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; Ages 14+

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by December 1, 2025

Before embarking on an adventure, it's time to gather your party and prepare for the journey ahead! This online component of Roll for Self-Determination introduces players to the basics of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), including character creation, game mechanics, and the art of storytelling. Through interactive discussions and fun icebreakers, participants will build connections with their fellow adventurers, explore their unique strengths, and develop the foundation for effective teamwork. By the end of

Note: This three-part course is offered in October, February, and May of this school year. Each week different skills are highlighted. Students are welcome to come to all, or just one of these courses. Students will receive a certificate of completion to add to their portfolio with each course attended.

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