The Robotics Program at the Campus School uses the newest LEGO Mindstorms EV3 hardware & software. The program requires students to build, engineer & program autonomous robots. Students solve problems, work in teams, reasearch, and troubleshoot in order to accomplish tasks like following a line, delivering objects, and completing a theme-based research project. 6th - 8th graders in the Robotics Club compete in the annual FIRST LEGO League competition sponsored by Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Academy. The Campus School has been very successful in their 18 years of competitions, bringing home several trophies and certificates for their achievements.

The Southwestern Pennsylvania Forensics League (S.P.F.L) promotes the development of a child's ability to speak in front of a group. Students may compete in one of five categories of oral interpretation:  poetry, prose, declamation, drama, and multiple reading.  Students must commit to participating in several Saturday competitions throughout the year.  During this elective, students choose a selection, practice their piece, receive feedback from peers and moderators, and prepare for the competition.  Preference for competition participation is given to students with prior experience, and eighth grade students.

Each year thousands of schools in the United States participate in the National Geographic Bee using materials prepared by the National Geographic Society. The contest is designed to encourage geography understanding, spark student interest in the subject, and increase public awareness about geography.  Students will use maps, globes, games, past GeoBee challenges, and other resources to prepare for the school level GeoBee challenge, held in December.

During English Festival, students read six books throughout the school year in order to compete in a competition at the end of the school year. The English Festival is hosted by the Western Pennsylvania Council for Teachers of English, and the competition takes place at Duquesne University.  Students compete in Trivia, Super Trivia, Insights, and Talk Show categories at the competition.

Students are brought to the maker space and given a challenge.  They are paired with 1-3 other students, depending on the challenge, to work together to create something for the challenge.  For example, students were asked to create the tallest structure using any material, but could only use tape or staples to connect pieces. 

Learn about and participate in meditation experiences, including Christian meditation, tai chi chih, mindfulness meditation, contemplation meditation, and mantra meditation.

Explore films of historical content and cultural significance.  Students will watch excerpts from major films related to social studies.  During each elective period, we will explore one film.  Some films may include sophisticated content, both intellectually and socially, so students will need to have permission to participate. An overview of the film by the teacher, or independent and group research may precede or accompany the excerpt in order to place the film in context.  What films will we watch?  Trust me, they are EXCELLENT!

The Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science elective. It is open to 7^th and 8^th grade students. The goal of this elective is to promote greater participation in science and mathematics activities among the youth of Pennsylvania by encouraging students to participate in research and develop original ideas emphasizing presentation skills. PJAS is a great way to develop an understanding of the scientific community through close association with leaders in the sciences. Each year, approximately 1,000 students from more than 100 schools participate. Students present their projects in the regional competition at Duquesne in February, and if they receive a first place they get to present their projects at Penn State in May!