XCEL

The Xaverian Community of Emerging Leaders

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XCEL

The 2026 XCEL application is now open!

XCEL is a summer enrichment program that integrates educational, spiritual, and leadership development for young women and men entering the eighth grade in September. In the Xaverian tradition, we seek students who possess zeal in the classroom and humility in their leadership.

The program will run from June 29th to July 30th, Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am - 2:00 pm. There is no XCEL on Fridays or on July 4th.

The daily morning schedule includes TACHS prep classes, as well as elective course options in robotics, film production, forensics, microbit and drone programming, journalism, and the history of Bay Ridge, followed by a variety of recreational activities in the afternoon. Our location across the street from Shore Road Park allows for outdoor extracurricular activities as well. XCEL integrates its classroom curriculum with hands-on learning experiences.

Academic enrichment is a major component of the program; equally important is a focus on the students’ spiritual and leadership development. Along with leadership seminars and team-building programs, students also participate in a service project to directly impact their community.

While participating in XCEL is undoubtedly enriching and valuable for personal growth, it's important to note that general high school admissions decisions are primarily based on a holistic review of various factors, including academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and teacher/principal recommendations. While participation in XCEL can demonstrate your initiative and passion for learning, it's not a determining factor in the high school admissions process.

Interested in applying to the XCEL Program?
Mark your calendar with these key dates:
Starts: June 29th
Ends: July 30th

Applications will open on February 2nd
Application MUST be complete by April 13th
We will close the application on April 17th. Supplemental Material (Report Card and Recommendations) is due by this time.
Decisions will go out on May 6th
RSVP May 20th

Please Note:

Bus service is available to and from Rockaway and Staten Island. These are the only stops for XCEL (Bus service is free):

Staten Island Fun Park

215 Schmidts Lane

Pick-up time: 7:50 AM

Afternoon: leaving Xaverian at 2 PM

Rockaways: 7:50 AM

Mornings: St Francis de Sales Church

Pick-up time: 7:50 AM

Afternoon: leaving Xaverian at 2 PM

Two stops in the afternoon:
Breezy Shopping Center and St. Francis de Sales Church.

Seats are limited.

Cafeteria accounts will also be available.

Elective Descriptions

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Art

In this elective, students will explore a variety of creative art techniques, including drawing, painting, doodling, sculpting, collaging, and more. This course provides a space for self-expression, creativity, and collaboration while students socialize and build friendships. At the conclusion of the XCEL program, students will display their artwork.

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Biomedical

In this elective, students will learn how to take and interpret vital signs while gaining an understanding of treatment and prevention methods for commonly diagnosed diseases and disorders. In a hands-on, learner-centered environment, students will explore real-life case studies and visualize the human body using a 3D virtual dissection table. At the conclusion of the XCEL program, students will give a small presentation.

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Film Production

In this elective, students will capture daily activities throughout the program and work collaboratively to create a video highlighting their experience. The completed film will be shown at the conclusion of the XCEL program.

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Robotics

In this elective, students will work collaboratively on a group project to prepare for competition by planning, designing, prototyping, testing, building, wiring, and programming a LEGO robot. On the final day of the program, student teams will compete using their completed robots.

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Speech and Debate

In this elective, students will explore the art of public speaking in a structured and engaging environment. Over the five-week program, students will develop research, writing, and speaking skills while learning the fundamentals of argumentation and presentation. Activities will introduce a variety of formats, including dramatics, performance, political speaking, and formal debate, with instruction designed to support all skill levels. At the conclusion of the XCEL program, students will participate in a small debate showcasing the skills they have developed.

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Sports History, Sports Trivia, Sports Literature & Creative Writing

In this elective, students will explore sports history and trivia while engaging in creative and imaginative writing activities. Students will use innovative thinking to express ideas through writing inspired by sports-related topics. At the conclusion of the XCEL program, students will give a small presentation.

XCEL is a donation-only program. While Xaverian takes tremendous care to ensure that the cost is covered for all our campers, we do look to our families to help aid in covering this program. In response to the spirit of the Xaverian Brothers' ministry of education, XCEL does not charge tuition. Once accepted to the program, donations of $300 are recommended but not required. We ask families to give what is within their means.