Specialty Classes

STEAM Adventures
Each week we will read a different book that incorporates sensory-rich activities and hands-on activities that promote fun and learning. We'll read stories like "How a Seed Grows" and then learn plant seeds or "Iggy, Peck, Architect" and build a structure out of materials.
Instructor: Walton Webster
Grades: PreK - SK
Schedule: Thursdays, January 23 - February 27
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m.  
Cost: $185

Young Scientists and Explorers
We are calling All Young Scientists and Explorers! Join in the fun as we hunt for dinosaurs, explore our five senses, and create magic potions! We will make discoveries together.
Instructor: Allison Coates
Grades: SMP - PreK
Schedule: Mondays, January 27 - March 3 (no class February 17) 
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m. 
Cost: $185

Ocean Voyagers
Join us as we read stories about all the adventures under the sea! Girls will engage in multi-sensory activities to improve fine motor, early literacy, and math skills as we learn, craft, and go on a voyage in the ocean! 
Instructor: Edie Efron
Grades: PreK - SK
Schedule: Tuesdays, March 18 - April 22
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $185

Bugs & Insects
Explore the amazing world of insects and bugs! Through scientific investigation and fun crafts, participants will learn all about bugs! Where do they live? What do they eat? What makes them unique? 
Instructor: Walton Webster
Grades: PreK - SK
Schedule: Thursdays, March 20 - April 24
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m. 
Cost: $185

Math Academy
This class is currently full. Please email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
In Math Academy, we will have differentiated groups that focus on ordinal operations, place value, and fact fluency. The class can and will be flexible to accommodate the needs of the students; there is room for variation and small group collaboration. 
Instructor: Kaitlin Gay
Grades: 1st - 3rd
Schedule: Thursdays, March 20 - April 24
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $185

Turkeys in Training: Theatre
This class is currently full. Please email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
Join Jenny Madden and Taylor Ragan as they introduce students to the world of theatre. Students will work on stage presence, creating a character, and telling a story with their voice and body. “There’s No Business Like Show Business” is the theme of this drama offering which culminates with a performance on the Buckman Stage, on Saturday, March 22 at 2:00 p.m.
Instructor: Jenny Madden and Taylor Ragan
Grades: SK - 3rd
Schedule: Tuesdays, January 21 - March 18 occasional Saturdays (no class March 11) 
Time: 4:00 - 4:45 p.m.
Cost: $250

Creative Art Factory
Do you like to design, create, and use your imagination? Well, grab your paintbrush and join us for the most creative after school class in town. Students will tap into their imaginations while exploring a variety of mediums to develop their artistic skills, such as, drawing, designing, painting, watercolors, and more! Each of our art sessions have new and exciting lessons and projects that are never repeated. The world needs more artists, sign up today and let’s get artsy!
Instructor: Creative Education
Grades: SK - 2nd
Schedule: Wednesdays, January 22 - April 16 (no class March 12) 
Time: 4:15 - 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $260

Story Time & Art
In this class, we'll use stories and books to inspire our art.  Each week we'll read a book and then create a project inspired by the book. We'll also explore lots of different mediums of art and different techniques - watercolors, drawing, sculpture, color mixing, collage, and more!
Instructor: Art Project
Grades: PreK - SK
Schedule: Thursdays, January 23 - March 27 (no class March 6 and March 13)
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m. 
Cost: $185

Pottery and More
Learn to hand-make pottery with Mr. Adam and his team of artists from Seize the Clay! In this series of fun classes, kids will learn all of the cool tips and tricks to sculpt unique pottery pieces. Kids will sculpt two pieces of pottery in classes 1 and 2 then paint their creations in classes 3 and 4. Art is spontaneous and what we will make will depend on the kid's interests. Past projects include flower pots, ice cream bowls, Picasso-inspired silly portrait plates, animal figurines, and much more. Making pottery is messy but all of the materials we will use in class are washable! Space is limited so don't miss out.
Instructor: Seize the Clay
Schedule: Mondays, January 27 - February 24
JK - SK Session: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m.
Lower School Session: 4:00 - 4:45 p.m. 
Cost: $250

Little Songbirds: Princess Edition
Learn to sing and dance like a real Disney princess! Drawing from her experience as a musical theater actor and ballerina, Emily Cantrell of Bloom Studios leads this performing arts class sure to enchant your little princess. 
Instructor: Bloom Studios
Grades: SK - 1st
Schedule: Wednesday, March 19 - April 23 
Time: 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
Cost: $215

Ballet 1
This class is full. Please visit the Buckman website for additional offerings and email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
Ballet 1 is a foundational class inviting young dancers to step up to the barre for the first time! Students will learn the fundamental positions, movements, and terminology essential to dance with a focus on posture, balance, strength, and flexibility. The week of May 5 will include rehearsals at the Buckman Arts Center, with our Spring performances on May 9, 10, and 11. 
Instructor: Buckman Dance Conservatory
Grade: 1st
Schedule: Mondays, January 27 - April 28 (no class March 10 and April 21)
Time: 3:15 - 4:15 p.m.
Cost: $375

Musical Theatre & Hip Hop
Buckman Dance Conservatory is pleased to offer Musical Theatre and Hip Hop! Steven Prince-Tate leads dancers through imaginative and fun choreography for students looking to expand their repertoire and explore new genres.  
Instructor: Buckman Dance Conservatory
Grades: Lower School
Schedule: Mondays, January 27  - April 28  (no class March 10 and April 21)
Time:  4:15 - 5:15 p.m.
Cost: $325

Creative Movement II
Both sessions are full. Please visit the Buckman website for additional offerings and email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
Exploration is the primary focus while adding the component of improvisation. Dancers at this age will learn respect and cooperation in peer interactions, as well as how to execute simple choreography. The week of May 5 will include rehearsals at the Buckman Arts Center, with our Spring performances on May 9, 10, and 11. 
Instructor: Buckman Dance Conservatory
Grades: PreK - JK
Schedule: Tuesdays, January 28 - April 29 (no class March 11)
Session 1: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m. 
Session 2: 4:00 - 4:45 p.m.
Cost: $375 

Creative Movement I
This class is full. Please visit the Buckman website for additional offerings and email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
With an emphasis on freedom of discovery and self-expression, dancers explore how their own bodies move and manipulate the space around them while forming a sense of self-confidence in performing. The week of May 5 will include rehearsals at the Buckman Arts Center, with our Spring performances on May 9, 10, and 11. 
Instructor: Buckman Dance Conservatory
Grades: SMP - PreK
Schedule: Wednesdays, January 29 - April 30 (no class March 12) 
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m.  
Cost: $375 

Pre-Ballet
As developing dancers continue to experiment with movement and coordination, the basics of ballet are integrated into class. Students will be introduced to the barre, start using fundamental terminology, and begin foundational exercises with a focus on class etiquette. The week of May 5 will include rehearsals at the Buckman Arts Center, with our Spring performances on May 9, 10, and 11. 
Instructor: Buckman Dance Conservatory
Grades: SK
Schedule: Wednesdays, January 29 - April 30 (no class March 12) 
Time: 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. 
Cost: $375

Little Dribblers: Basketball and Soccer 
2 SPORTS..12 AWESOME WEEKS! Little Dribblers will have a blast experiencing the fun of both basketball and soccer in a fun and nurturing environment. Our program works with the basics of soccer and basketball, including, but not limited to, hand-eye coordination, ball handling, footwork, dribbling, shooting, passing, and scoring a goal. We also include songs, drills, and games to incorporate numeracy and language skills each day. Most importantly, we keep it fun and exciting for the kids while promoting self-esteem, sports etiquette, and the benefits of exercise.
Instructor: Creative Education
Grades: SK - 2nd
Schedule: Tuesdays,  January 21 - April 15 (no class March 11) 
Time: 4:15 - 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $260

Gymnastics Fun
This class is currently full. Please email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
COME JOIN THE FUN! Wings Gymnastics offers a warm and encouraging environment while helping develop body awareness, motor coordination, and confidence. Students learn age-appropriate curricula on all 4 events, (Vault, Bars, Beam, and Floor), along with aerobic dance and stretching. Awards and Parent Observation will be held on our last day of class.
Instructor: WINGS Gymnastics
Grades: SMP - PreK
Schedule: Thursdays, January 23 - April 17 (no class March 13)
Time: 3:10 - 3:50 p.m.
Cost: $255

Gymnastics Fundamentals
This class is currently full. Please email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
COME JOIN THE FUN! Learn basic skills on Floor, Bars, Balance Beam, & Vault (Mini-Tramp) along with stretching. Gymnasts develop flexibility, strength, coordination, and confidence which promote physical & mental organization, focus, and healthy habits for the future.  Awards & Parent Observation will be held on our last day of class.
Instructor: WINGS Gymnastics
Grades: JK - SK
Schedule: Thursdays, January 23 - April 17 (no class March 13)
Times: 3:55 - 4:40 p.m. 
Cost: $255

Intermediate Gymnastics and Tumbling
This class is NEXT-LEVEL FUN! Whether this is your first class, or you’ve been a gymnast for a while, our students will enjoy building their skills on Floor, Bars, Balance Beam, and Vault through more independent practice in groups that suit their skill level. For gymnasts who are ready, we will move on from the beginning curriculum, focusing on balance beam tumbling skills, tying together bar skills into routines, and developing floor skills up to powerful round-offs, front and back walkovers, and back handsprings. We will show off for families in an award ceremony on the last day of class!
Instructor: WINGS Gymnastics
Grades: 1st - 4th 
Schedule: Thursdays, January 23 - April 17 (no class March 13)
Time: 4:45 - 5:25 p.m. 
Cost: $255

Girls on the Run
Girls on the Run empowers girls to build confidence, increase their level of physical activity, and learn essential life skills such as managing emotions, resolving conflicts, and forming friendships. Girls discover their inner Superstar in each lesson through innovative integration of fun physical activities, life-skill building, and impactful community projects. Our coaches are nationally trained, and our evidence-based curriculum is endorsed by the US Surgeon General. Get two days of fun and development with this program that promotes mental, physical, and emotional well-being and ends with a celebratory 5K extravaganza. Join Mrs. Pai's team today! 
Instructor: Karen Ullman Pai
Grades: 3rd - 5th
Schedule: Thursdays and Saturdays, February 20 - May 3 (no class March 13)
Time: 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. (Thursdays) 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. (Saturdays)
Cost: $250

Turkeys in Training: Volleyball 
The Turkeys in Training program introduces Lower School girls to the wonderful world of athletics! We will focus on passing, serving, and hitting. We will spend our first 35 minutes learning volleyball fundamentals and skills. In the last 25 minutes, we will break up into teams and play! 
Instructors: Allison Wallace and Kari Duncan
Grades: 3rd - 5th
Schedule: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, February 11 - February 26
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.  
Cost: $185

Building Blocks Soccer
This class is currently full. Please email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
Building Blocks Soccer is a adventurously fun youth intro to sports program that seamlessly integrates the building blocks of child development with early learning principles, while aligning with school curricula teachings. We aim to nurture and empower preschool aged children through the joy of soccer at St. Mary’s. 
Instructor: Building Blocks Soccer
Grades: PreK - JK
Schedule: Mondays, March 24 - May 5 (no class April 21)
Time: 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.  
Cost: $225

Turkeys in Training: Lacrosse
This program is designed to introduce our youngest girls to the wonderful world of lacrosse! During this six-week clinic, we will focus on stickwork fundamentals:  scooping, cradling, passing, and shooting. All players will need a mouthguard, girl's lacrosse stick, goggles, and water every day. 
Instructor: Caryn Welsh
Grades: SK - 2nd
Schedule: Mondays, March 24 - May 5 (no class April 21)
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. 
Cost: $200

Cheerleading 101
Cheerleading is one of the most popular sports among young girls. Cheering is an excellent opportunity to get out and be active. Students in the class will learn proper hand and body movements along with jumping techniques. There will be a parent demonstration on the last day of class.
Instructor: Mary Clayton Garavelli
Grades: 1st - 3rd
Schedule: Tuesdays, March 25 - April 29 
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. 
Cost: $185

Turkeys in Training: Track 
This conditioning and introduction to running class will help shake out the cobwebs of winter. The goal of the course is to improve fitness levels by emphasizing running/walking as a fun activity that can be enjoyed now and throughout life. Pick-up from this class will be at Southard Track and Field on South Campus.
Instructor: Holly Hensarling
Grades: 3rd - 5th
Schedule: Wednesdays, March 19 - April 23
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. 
Cost: $185

Mini Mahjong 101
Join us for an exciting adventure into the wonderful world of Mahjong, a traditional Chinese game of strategy and skill. Through creative activities, group play, and crafts, girls will learn the basic rules and techniques of American Mahjong. Come join in on the fun!
Instructor: Bri Morrow
Grades: Lower School
Schedule: Fridays- January 17, 24, & 31
Time: 3:30 - 4:45 p.m.
Cost: $150

Jewelry Design Studio
Create one of kind works of art in this special jewelry design class with Bloom Studios. Explore famous eras such as Belle Epoque, Art Deco, and beyond with crystals, pearls, and up-cycled vintage collections at your fingertips. Classes conclude with an exhibition of your very own Jewelry line!
Instructor: Bloom Studios
Grades: SK - 3rd 
Schedule: Wednesday, January 22 - February 26 
Time: 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
Cost: $215

Group Guitar Lessons
Learn to play the guitar! This class will get you “launched” into a lifetime of playing guitar for your own enjoyment as well as the enjoyment of others. Students will learn correct posture, note reading, aural skills, flat-picking, chord study, and more. Students are responsible for bringing their own guitar and pick to participate in this class.  
Instructor: Adam Levine
Grades: Lower School
Schedule: Wednesdays, March 19 - April 30
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m. 
Cost: $250

Voice Group Lessons 
Do you want to improve your vocals and confidence while learning alongside friends in a weekly class? Experience all the benefits of individualized private lessons with the additional perk of taking lessons with a friend (or 3). 
Instructor: Terri Theil
Schedule: Mondays, March 24 - May 4 (no class April 21)
Grades: 2nd - 3rd: 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Grades: 4th - 5th: 4:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $250

Private Music Lessons - Guitar, Electric Bass, Beginner to Intermediate Piano, and Drums
Want one-on-one instruction while learning to play an instrument?  This ten-week option will get you more individualized attention, and set you on the path to accomplishing curated personal short-term and long-term goals.  Beginner to advanced Guitar and Electric Bass, Beginner to Intermediate Piano, and Drums. Lessons are available first come, first serve through registration on UltraCamp.
Instructor: Gene Micofsky
Grades: Lower School
Schedule: One 30-minute Lesson/Week, January 27 - April 16
Cost: $400
About Gene Micofsky:
Gene has a Bachelor’s degree in jazz composition from the University of the Arts and a Master’s degree in classical composition from Temple University.  He has written music for Nike, Beats, Comcast, Comedy Central, and many others.  He has shared the stage with artists such as Little Big Town, Charlie Daniels Band, John Mayer, and more.  Between 2018-2020, he toured worldwide in support of his debut Amusia. In 2020, he began a partnership with Dan Konpoka of the rock band OKGo.  Under the guise of Siren Sound, together they produce records for indie artists around the globe.

Safe @ Home
Safe@Home is an introduction to safety skills and first aid necessary to prepare students for the responsibility of staying safe when unsupervised. St. Mary's advises parents to assess their child's age and maturity level before making the decision to leave them unsupervised. There is no age that students are automatically ready to stay home alone. Staying home alone is a big responsibility, and all preteens need maturity and confidence to take on that responsibility and need to be comfortable with the idea of being home unsupervised. 
Instructor: Mary Nease
Grades: 3rd - 5th 
Schedule: Friday, January 31
Time: 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $75 (Price includes the Safe @ Home instructional book.)

Junior Chefs
Session 1 is currently full. Please email Jenny Madden to be placed on the waitlist. 
Our Early Childhood girls will want to join us for a few "hands-on" cooking adventures. We will be whipping up sweet and delicious holiday treats!
Instructor: Allison Coates
Grades: Early Childhood
Session 1: Friday, January 31
Session 2: Friday, April 4
Time: 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
Cost: $45

Mini Mahjong 102 
Themed Mahjong! What could be better? We will play a couple of games, have a themed activity, and treat. These classes are for girls who know how to play Mahjong.  
Swiftie Mini Mahjong - Friday, February 28
Pajama Mini Mahjong - Friday, April 11
Price: $45 
Grades: Lower School
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 pm

Tasty Treats
A cup of fun, a tablespoon of surprise, and a dash of creativity are all you need to make delicious treats in these always-popular classes. The girls will whip up yummy-themed treats to share and enjoy!
Instructors: Mary Clayton Garavelli and Elizabeth Ray 
Grades: Lower School
Session 1: Friday, January 31
Session 2: Friday, April 4
Time: 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
Cost: $45

American Girl Doll: Valentine’s Party Dresses
Bring your American Girl Doll and wear your favorite Party Dress as we celebrate the season of love.
Instructor: Bloom Studios
Grades: 1st - 4th 
Schedule: Thursday, February 13
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $60

Indian Culture: Dancing
Indian classical dance is about 2000 years old and originated from India. There are three Northern classical dances and four Southern dances. Three basic elements of Indian dance are hand gestures, facial expressions and postures. These movements will be taught during class.
Instructor: Jay Kumar
Grades: Lower School
Schedule: Friday, February 28
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $45

Little Miss Manners
You are cordially invited to attend our holiday-themed Little Miss Manners at St. Mary’s. Girls in this class will learn party and table manners as well as appropriate manners for interacting with peers and adults.
Instructor: Reed Vergos
SMP/PreK Session: Tuesday, April 8
JK/SK Session: Thursday, April 11
Time: 3:15 - 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $45

American Girl: Derby Day Hats and Fascinators for Dolls and Students
Design and create a special hat for your doll to enjoy for Derby Day. Students will love this unique class from spring to flowers and plenty of sparkle! 
Instructor: Bloom Studios
Grades: 1st - 4th 
Schedule: Friday, April 25
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $60

Indian Culture: Spices & Foods from India
Several spices are used in Indian cooking. Many of them have medicinal values in them. For example, turmeric (also a coloring agent) is considered to be an anti-inflammatory product. Both cloves and ginger are supposed to aid in digestion. Any dairy product (particularly plain yogurt) is considered pro-biotic.
Instructor: Jay Kumar
Grades: Lower School
Schedule: Friday, March 28
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $45

Auxiliary Programs is thrilled to offer noon specialty classes for our girls in Pre-K and JK. Girls will have lunch as a class at 12:00 p.m. each day and classes are from 12:30 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. Girls that attend a full day of school will return to their classrooms. Girls that typically leave at 12:00 p.m. will have a special 1:15 p.m. carpool on the Marlene R. Shaw Early Childhood Center porch. Girls must attend school on the day that they attend a Specialty Class. 

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Obstacle Mania!
Jump! Duck! Roll! Crawl! Climb! Swing! Each of our obstacle courses will focus on different muscles and skill groups like rolling, jumping, upper-body strength, balance, and body awareness. This  fun class focuses on physical and mental organization along with practical problem solving. The kids will stay up & be busy as they conquer the obstacles!
Instructor: WINGS Gymnastics
Grades: PreK - JK
Schedule: Wednesday, January 22 - April 16 (no class March 12)
Times: 12:30 - 1:15 p.m.
Cost: $255

Junior Creative Art Factory
Do you like to design, create, and use your imagination? Well, grab your paintbrush and join us for the most creative after school class in town. Students will tap into their imaginations while exploring a variety of mediums to develop their artistic skills, such as, drawing, designing, painting, watercolors, and more! Each of our art sessions have new and exciting lessons and projects that are never repeated. The world needs more artists, sign up today and let’s get artsy!
Instructor: Creative Education
Grades: PreK - JK
Schedule: Thursdays, January 23 - April 17 (no class March 13)
Time: 12:30 - 1:15 p.m.
Cost: $260

Girls who are in PreK - 5th Grade can join us once a month for a themed Friday Fling from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m., as we create crafts, treats, and so much more. Friday Flings cost $45. Your daughter is welcome to drop-in After3 before Friday Flings for $10. Dinner and snacks are provided. 

Friday Fling: Slumber Nights!
Grades: PreK - 5th
Schedule: Friday, January 24
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Friday Fling: Dance Party
Grades: PreK - 5th
Schedule: Friday, February 28
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Friday Fling: It's Spring!
Grades: PreK - 5th
Schedule: Friday, March 28
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Friday Fling: PJs and a Movie
Grades: PreK - 5th
Schedule: Friday, April 25
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Friday Fling: Summer's Coming!
Grades: PreK - 5th
Schedule: Friday, May 9
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Applying Study Skills
Students will learn and apply study skills essential to success in middle school. Students will also learn how to make a plan to complete written homework, prepare for tests/quizzes, and incorporate nightly review. Time management, organization of materials, and using an assignment book will be key focus points as well.
Instructor: Crystal Spillyards
Grades: Middle School
Schedule: Mondays and Thursday from 3:30  - 4:30 p.m.
January: January 9 - January 30 (6 Classes) - $150
February: February 3 - February 27 (6 Classes) - $150
March: March 3 - March 31 (7 Classes) - $175
April: April 3 - April 28  (7 Classes) - $175
May: May 1 - May 15 (5 Classes) - $125
Semester: January 9 - May 15 (31 Classes) - $700

Chamber Strings
Enjoy performing with other string players in chamber music and as a string orchestra. This course is open to middle through high school students who have 2-3 years of prior experience on their instrument. Students will work on music specific to strings in chamber music and/ or for string orchestra. The repertoire for this course will be set based on enrollment. The goal of the course will be to culminate with a semester performance/ recital. About Dr. Alisha Rufty: Dr. Rufty is currently the applied cello professor and chamber coach at Rhodes College and was previously the high school director for both Houston and Collierville High Schools.
Instructor: Dr. Alisha Rufty
Grades: 6th - 12th
Schedule: One 60 min weekly rehearsal after school TBD once students enroll
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $300

Safesitter with CPR
Babysitter lessons and safety training is an important program for potential babysitters providing extensive training in pediatric first aid, household safety, and the fundamentals of childcare. Students will learn how to handle choking and first aid basics for emergency response. At the end of this interactive two-day class, students will leave with a certificate of completion and certification card as well as certified CPR training. 
Instructor: Mary Nease
Grades: 5th - 12th 
Schedule: Saturdays, January 25 and February 1
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $150

ACT Prep Workshop
This class provides comprehensive reviews of math, science, and verbal skills necessary for taking the ACT. Students also learn test-taking strategies and complete practice tests during class. Students should bring calculators, writing utensils, lunch, and/or a snack. All other materials will be provided. 
Instructors: Judy Brundige, Lynda Lyttle, and Marilou Mulrooney
Grades: 10th - 12th
March Session: Saturdays, March 22 and March 29
May Session: Saturdays, May 3 and May 10
Time: 8:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Cost: $360