We are offering FUN and ENGAGING opportunities for middle and high school students this summer! Check out all of our Summer 2025 listings below!
Arts & Crafts
For more information on the following classes please contact: Jeff Marley, Director of Personal Enrichment & Heritage Arts at 828.366.2005 or j_marley@SouthwesternCC.edu
Register online HERE, or in person at the Workforce Continuing Education Office in Founders Hall on the Jackson Campus or at the SCC Swain Center
Looking for adult classes? Here is a current listing of Heritage Arts and Personal Enrichment classes.
CAMPS
| Kids Craft Camp |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 35 |
| Cost: $250/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 102 |
| Dates/Times: MTWTh • June 15 - 18 • 10A – 4P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger, N. Petersohn, J. Marley |
| For ages 9 to 18. Get hands-on experience in our arts and crafts studios at SCC! Each day will start off with textiles in the morning, two-dimensional art after lunch, and conclude with ceramics in the late afternoon. Participants should bring a water bottle, lunch, and some snacks. Cost of materials included. |
PRINTMAKING & BOOK ARTS
| Cherokee Language Printing |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 2 |
| Cost: $35/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 110 |
| Dates/Times: T • Aug. 11 • 10A - 12P |
| Instructor: J. Marley |
| This class will explore the history of printing in the Cherokee language. Students will get an overview of the development of the Cherokee syllabary and learn how to use the letterpress and print using syllabary. Prereq: None |
PAINTING & DRAWING
| Quick Sketch |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 2 |
| Cost: $26/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 109 |
| Dates/Times: T • June 9 OR July 14 • 9:30 -11:30A |
| Instructor: J. Marley |
| Learn techniques to quickly sketch a variety of subjects found in nature. Great for individuals with beginning drawing skills. Students should bring a sketchbook, pencils, pens, and any other drawing materials they would like to use. Prereq: None |
| Drawing with Markers |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 2 |
| Cost: $26/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 109 |
| Dates/Times: T • June 16 OR July 21 • 9:30 - 11:30A |
| Instructor: J. Marley |
| Markers are a fun way to capture a moment of feeling in bold colors and marks. We’ll cover several ways to utilize both brush and chisel tip marks, and how to layer and blend for amazing color. Great for individuals with beginning to intermediate drawing skills. Students should bring a sketchbook and any markers they would like to use. Prereq: Previous drawing experience |
| Drawing with Quills |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 2 |
| Cost: $26/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 109 |
| Dates/Times: Th • June 11 OR July 16 • 9:30 - 11:30A |
| Instructor: J. Marley |
| Discover the timeless art of drawing with a crow quill pen in this introductory class. Learn how to control line weight, create expressive textures, and use ink effectively. Perfect for beginners, this class covers essential techniques for sketching and illustration. This class does not cover calligraphy Students should bring a sketchbook for ink, basic quill set, jar of ink and a 4H pencil. Prereq: Some previous drawing experience |
| Beginning Watercolors |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 8 |
| Cost: $60/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 109 |
| Dates/Times: T • June 2 - 23 • 5:30 - 8:30P |
| Instructor: E. Waller |
| This beginning watercolor class introduces basic techniques like washes, layering, and color mixing in a relaxing, step-by- step environment. Participants learn to control water-to-pigment ratios, master essential supplies, and create beautiful, luminous paintings, even with no prior experience. Each student will need to bring watercolor set, brushes, and a 9x12 watercolor pad. Prereq: None |
| Beginning Drawing |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 8 |
| Cost: $60/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 109 |
| Dates/Times: Th • June 4 - 25 • 5:30 - 8:30P |
| Instructor: E. Waller |
| Explore four different and fun techniques to become better at drawing through observation, shadows, perspective and reduction. Students will need to bring a large newsprint pad or large drawing pad, and pencils. Optional materials: H-2-B pencil drawing set, vine charcoal, compressed charcoal. Prereq: None |
OUTDOOR SKILLS
| Wilderness Survival for Kids |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 6 |
| Cost: $75/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 103 & Outside |
| Dates/Times: Th • Aug. 6 • 10A - 4P |
| Instructor: J. Gottlieb |
| Learn the basics skills needed for Wilderness Survival! We’ll cover everything from how to start a fire to creating a basic shelter. Come dressed to be outside for the day and bring your lunch. Prereg: None |
FIBER & WEAVING
| Basic Baskets for Kids |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 3 |
| Cost: $37/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 103 & Outside |
| Dates/Times: Th • July 2 • 2 - 5P |
| Instructor: J. Gottlieb |
| For ages 6-16. Create a simple basket from start to finish! Parents are welcome to also register. All material supplied Prereq: None |
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
| Intro to Model Railroading |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 2 |
| Cost: $30 |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 101 |
| Dates/Times: W • July 14 • 1 - 3P |
| Instructor: J. Marley |
| Interested in model trains? We’ll discuss the basics of model railroading including scale, equipment, and what you need to get started. We’ll also check out two tiny layouts built by the instructor. Must be 16 years old. |
| Christmas in July |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 2 |
| Cost: $44 |
| Location: Swain Center, room 102 |
| Dates/Times: T • July 14 • 3 - 5P |
| Instructor: S. Winchester |
| Get a jump start on holiday ornament making with this fun class that incorporates the native Job's Tears (Corn beads) beads with commercial beads, including spacer beads. Participants will learn the history of the beads and make at least two snowflake-shaped ornaments. Supplies are included, but you are welcome to bring your own beads. |
CERAMICS & POTTERY
| Intro to Clay |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 1.5 |
| Cost: $30/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 125 |
| Dates/Times: M • June 8 OR July 13 • 10 - 11:30A |
| Instructor: J. Marley |
| Play in the clay and get your hands dirty! We will hand build a pinch pot cup and form a bowl from slabs. Students will select their glazes for firing after class. Pottery will be ready to pick up within two weeks. Great for beginners! Prereq: None |
SEWING
| Hand Sewing Stuffed Animals 8-14 yrs |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 5 |
| Cost: $65/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 105 |
| Dates/Times: MT • June 8-9 OR MW • June 29-July 1 • 10A - 12:30P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 8-14. Join this 2-day workshop and learn the basics of machine sewing while creating fun stuffed animal projects. Bring a snack and water for our mid-class break. This is a drop-off class, please make sure children are comfortable separating from their adult. All supplies will be provided. No experience required. |
| Bags, Bags, and More Bags |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 7 |
| Cost: $87/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 105 |
| Dates/Times: MT • June 8-9 • 1 - 4:30P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 13-17. Learn how to use a sewing machine while making a drawstring bag, a tote bag, and zipper pouches! Students with experience, or those who enroll in both sessions, can choose from more advanced bag projects. Materials provided. No experience needed. |
| Teen Machine Sewing |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 15 |
| Cost: $166/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 113 |
| Dates/Times: TTH • June 16 - july 2 • 5:30 - 8P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 13 to 18. Level 1 students will complete a pillowcase, tote bag, and pj bottoms. Level 2 students will make a messenger bag and then choose from multiple garment projects. More advanced students should contact the instructor at least 1 week before class. Materials provided. No experience required. |
| Fashion Design/Makeover |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 10 |
| Cost: $120/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 105 |
| Dates/Times: MW • June 29 - July 8 • 10A - 12:30P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 10-16. Sew a Zoo! Hand sewing for the youngest crafty set! Students in this class will learn the basics of fashion design and construct a garment with their own unique design elements included. We will also complete a makeover project using an existing garment. Students should have completed a camp or workshop at SCC or have basic knowledge of using a sewing machine independently, including understanding seam allowance. |
| Sleepover Sewing |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 6 |
| Cost: $76/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 105 |
| Dates/Times: MW • June 30 - July 2 • 1 - 4P OR TTH • July 7 - 9 • 10A - 1P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 8-14. Learn the basics of machine sewing while making a pillowcase, a sleep mask, and pj bottoms. This is a drop-off class, please make sure children are comfortable separating from their adult. Bring a snack and water for our mid-class break. All supplies will be provided. No experience required. |
| Hand Sewing Stuffed Animals 5-10 yrs |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 5 |
| Cost: $65/Cost of materials not included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 105 |
| Dates/Times: MW • July 6-8 • 10A - 12:30P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 5-10. Sew a Zoo! Hand sewing for the youngest crafty set! Join this 2 day workshop and learn the basic stitches while creating fun stuffed animal projects. Bring a snack and water for our mid-class break. This is a drop-off class, please make sure children are comfortable separating from their adult. All supplies will be provided. |
| Skirts or Shorts |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 14 |
| Cost: $93/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 113 |
| Dates/Times: MW • July 13-15 • 12:30 - 4:30P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 13 to 17. Make your choice of a skirt or shorts. This class will include a design element for customizing your garment. Machine Experience Required - students should have taken a camp or workshop at SCC, or have similar formal instruction experience and should be comfortable operating a sewing machine independently. |
| Teen Machine Sewing |
| Course Code: CSP 4000 |
| Course Hours: 14 |
| Cost: $155/Cost of materials included |
| Location: Swain Center, Room 113 |
| Dates/Times: TTh • July 14-16 • 11A - 5P |
| Instructor: C. Sperger |
| For ages 13 to 17. Level 1 students will complete a pillowcase, tote bag, and pj bottoms. Level 2 students will make a messenger bag and then choose from multiple garment projects. More advanced students should contact the instructor at least 1 week before class. Materials provided. No experience required. |
Small Business Center
Spots will go fast so call or email now! The fee for the camp is $50 per camper and we will accept the first 20 students to register.
Please contact the SBC at 828.339.4426 or email s_yates@southwesterncc.
Registration ends July 7.
| Be a Trep! Youth Entrepreneurship Camp |
| For any rising 6th - 9th grade students |
| Dates/Times: July 21 - 24 • 9A - 3P |
| Location: Southwestern Community College, Jackson Campus |
Be a Trep! Youth Entrepreneurship Camp is back! This summer join your local Small Business Center for a week-long youth entrepreneurship camp.
Student objectives: ~Gain insight into the entrepreneurship and business fields ~Learn what it takes to turn an idea or passion into a product or career ~Meet and learn from real entrepreneurs ~Create and develop business ideas in a fun environment ~Pitch a business idea to a panel of judges ~Make new friends The purpose of this camp is to teach entrepreneurship as a viable career option, teach business skills, and give students the opportunity to explore the world of entrepreneurship. Through fun games, activities, group projects, and a business simulation, students will learn business and marketing strategy, teamwork, and essential problem-solving and leadership skills. Every day is filled with interesting and challenging activities to help students learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and creating a startup business. Each student develops an idea for a business that he or she can start individually or as a group, and on the final day will pitch the idea in front of a panel of judges in the form of a contest. |
NASA STEM CAMPS
| Robotics Camp |
| Dates/Times: June 2 - 6 • 8:30 - 11:30A |
| Cost: $50 |
| Location: Balsam Center, room 253 |
| Led by Smoky Mountain High School’s First Lego team. Open to middle school students. |
| AstroCamp |
| Dates/Times: June 2 - 13 • 8A - 1P |
| Cost: FREE |
| Location: Smokey Mountain Elementary School |
Open to middle school students. Students will do a variety of activities and challenges, including NASA engineering problems and a dissection. Students will work in teams to earn badges while learning fun, new skills. Includes breakfast and lunch. |
PARI Camps
Teacher recommendation is required for acceptance into the PARI Camps.
| Above & Beyond |
| Dates/Times: July 7 - 18 |
| Cost: $50 registration fee + transportation to camp |
| Location: Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute’s campus in Rosman |
Open to high school students in public, charter, private and home schools in Jackson, Macon, Swain Counties and the Qualla Boundary. Above and Beyond is PARI’s signature camping experience designed to immerse high school students in the world of space science and research while building confidence and critical thinking skills. The process followed by scientists and researchers who’ve made space science their career is modeled to show how new discoveries are made about the universe. Campers are provided the tools and guided through the process by professionals who have made space their life’s work. From determining the expansion speed of a supernova remnant, to characterizing an exo-planet or finding evidence of dark matter; your data will reveal and your conclusions will add to humanity’s knowledge of the universe! |
Healthcare
For more information on the following class please contact Pamela Judson at 828.339.4198 or pjudson@SouthwesternCC.edu
To sign-up please complete the following link.
| Sylva Healthcare Careers |
| The following camp is only available to students in Jackson County Public Schools |
| Dates/Times: July 7 - 11 • M - Th: 9A - 4P, F: 9A - 12:30P |
| Location: Don Tomas Health Sciences Center |
For rising 9th and 12th grade students. Sponsored in partnership with SCC and Jackson County Public Schools, explore health science careers in an immersive hands-on experience with a focus on patient simulation activities. This camp will follow four patient scenarios from diagnosis through the entire health team through emergency medical science, medical assisting, sonography, nursing, physical therapy, respiratory therapy and others! Learn from real SCC instructors about treating simulated patients in healthcare! * Lunch will be provided *Parents will be responsible for providing transportation |
