Berkshire School Viewbook 2018

BERKSHIRE

FOR SCHOOL. FOR LIFE. Your path to opportunity starts here.

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“

Once we’re here, we’re all from the same place.”

A daily morning tradition, Head of School Pieter Mulder greets students as they begin their academic day.

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MEET OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL It is my great honor and privilege to lead Berkshire School, and I could not be prouder of the community and culture our students and faculty create together here. At Berkshire, we strive to instill the values, critical skills, initiative, and confidence that will ensure our students’ success in school and beyond.

In the following pages, we will introduce you to Berkshire’s unique opportunities and signature programs, which encourage our students to continually reimagine their horizons, to take risks, to discover and pursue lifelong passions, to lead and serve others, and to distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive college process.

Students and families choose a Berkshire education for an exceptional academic experience that is authentic, relevant, and forward-thinking; for a commitment to character development that is embedded in all aspects of student life; for our strong college and university outcomes; and because we intentionally prepare students for success. Students are encouraged to learn in the words of our School motto: Pro Vita Non Pro Schola Discimus, “Learning—not just for school but for life.”

At the core of our work with young people is knowing them well. We take great pride in knowing each student and his or her journey from their first days on campus to their walk across the commencement stage. Our talented and dedicated faculty serve as teachers, coaches, and advisors, understanding students through each of these lenses, and inspiring their curiosity, their character, and their commitment to reaching their full potential every day.

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LIFELONG EXPERIENCE Pieter lives on campus with his wife, Lucia, a graduate of Yale University. Lucia works in the Office of Communications and Marketing and serves as the All-School Read committee chair.

They have two children, Phoebe and William.

Head of School since 2013, Pieter Mulder grew up in Williamstown, Mass., and earned his B.A. from Williams College in American studies with minors in architecture and environmental science, and his M.A.L.S. from Wesleyan University in mathematics

Upon leaving Berkshire, our graduates are

with a concentration in creative writing.

agile and creative problem solvers, able to

He has taught at The American School in

communicate effectively and persuasively, think

Switzerland; Westminster School, where he

and reason critically, collaborate with others,

also served as assistant dean of faculty; and

and understand the importance of making safe,

the Met Center High School in Providence,

mature decisions. They join a loyal network

R.I., an innovative Big Picture public high

of nearly 6,000 alumni from more than 55

school funded by the Gates Foundation.

countries and 50 states, who are leaders in their

He began his Berkshire career as the dean

professional and personal communities. They

of academic affairs in 2005 and has served

are, and will be, Bears forever, with a powerful

as a member of the senior administrative

connection to fellow alumni all over the world.

team since then. In 2010, he was appointed

I invite you to visit our campus to see firsthand the extraordinary learning environment, to experience the power of our school culture, and to meet the people who make up this community we all call home.

Yours for Berkshire,

director of college counseling, overseeing a college counseling program in which the percentage of Berkshire graduates earning acceptances to the most selective colleges and universities increased to nearly 90%. He can often be found running the Appalachian Trail just above Berkshire’s campus and welcomes all students for a game of chess in his office.

Pieter M. Mulder Head of School

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400 STUDENTS FROM 5 CONTINENTS • 32 COUNTRIES • 33 STATES

25%

91%

17 %

STUDENTS OF COLOR

BOARDING 9% DAY

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

88 FACULTY 57 % HOLD ADVANCED DEGREES 78% LIVE ON C AMPUS

4:1 STUDENT/

FACULT Y R ATIO

30 CLUBS ON CAMPUS

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AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

10 PROGR AMS 139 COURSES

SIGNATURE

17 AP COURSES • 36 ADVANCED COURSES • 4 L ANGUAGES OFFERED berkshireschool.org/At-A-Glance

1,211 APPLICANTS 142 ENROLLED 30 %

$5.1M FINANCIAL AID AVAIL ABLE $134M ENDOWMENT AS OF JUNE 30, 2018

AWARDED FINANCIAL AID

5,810 ALUMNI IN

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COUNTRIES AND GROWING!

1,200+ INTER ACTING

WITH BERKSHIRE CONNECT AN INSPIRED SETTING

Berkshire School is located at the base of Mount Everett (2,624 ft.) in Sheffield, Mass., in the heart of the Berkshire Hills. The area is a popular tourist destination for world-renowned arts and culture and its spectacular setting, including the Appalachian Trail, which is a short hike from campus.

ME

VT NY

IN THE HEART OF THE BERKSHIRES Approximately 2 ½ hours from Boston

NH

and New York City and 1 ½ hours from Albany and Hartford, Berkshire is centrally located. Nearby Great

MA

Discover more!

Sheffield

CT

Barrington (named the 2012 “Best RI

Small Town in America” by Smithsonian magazine), Lenox, and Salisbury, Conn., are frequent destinations for visiting restaurants, shops, and movie theaters.

Data from 2017-18 school year.

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Berkshire Hall Bellas/Dixon Math & Science Center Geier Library Dixon Observatory

ARTS 6 7 8 9

Kennard Visual Arts Center Allen Theater Music Center Dance Studio

AT H L E T I C S 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Soffer Athletic Center Jackman L. Stewart Athletic Center Ritt Kellogg Mountain Center Ed Chase ’69 Ski Room Stewart Pitch Thomas H. Young Field Schappert Field Beattie Fields 12 Tennis Courts

RESIDENTIAL 19 Rovensky Student Center 20 Benson Commons (dining hall) 21 Student Health Services OTHER 22 23 24 25 26

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Buck Valley (lawn) Arthur C. Chase Sugar House James C. Kellogg ’33 Alumni Center Undermountain Child Care Eight-Acre Solar Field (across the street) Mount Everett

DORMS Allen, Buck, Crispin-Gordon-Rose, de Windt, Eipper, Godman, MacMillan, Senior House, Spurr, and Stanley

BE L L AS/DI XON M AT H & SCI E NCE CE NT E R

ACADEMICS

9 2

6 8

7 KENNARD VISUAL ARTS CENTER

1 Chase House

JACKMAN L. STEWART ATHLETIC CENTER

ADMISSION

BENSON COMMONS

STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES

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19 20

13 12 4

22 3

Start here 1

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400

A look at what’s happening inside (and around) our campus: THE PLAY’S THE THING

acre campus

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Founded in 1907

LEAD THE WAY

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1

Being a Green Key Leader is just one of the many leadership opportunities for our students. They provide campus tours to our prospective families and visitors, and they look forward to welcoming you to campus!

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LOCAL INSPIRATION 16

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As a rite of passage during English class, all seniors stage a production of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, contemporary style. Recent themed renditions have been inspired by The Office, Zoolander, and Monty Python.

BUILD IT

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Living in one of the most culturally vibrant regions in the country, Berkshire students have the unique opportunity to work sideby-side with local artists, both inside and outside the classroom. Below, local potter Ben Evans shared techniques on the pottery wheel with our ceramics students.

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PINK OUT

PRO VITA WINTER SESSION

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Each year, the boys varsity hockey teams from Berkshire and Taft School face off in the annual Lucille D’Arco Memorial Cup—a fundraiser to support a cause dear to both school communities.

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February’s weeklong, immersion session allows students to explore new or developing passions taught by faculty, alumni, parents, and friends.

Recent courses include: Cast Iron Chef, Music and Politics, Writing for the Silver Screen, and Lighting Design.

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WINTER CARNIVAL

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Equipped with Arduino boards, electronics, 3-D printers, LEDs, woodworking tools, and more, Berkshire’s Makerspace allows students to create, invent, and discover using new technologies and innovative processes.

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The entire school eagerly anticipates Winter Carnival which takes place each January. The dorms and day students compete against each other for points in group skits, broomball, figure skating, Trivia Night, and much more.

SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION 26

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

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Berkshire’s astronomy class learned to apply multiple, real-world applications of geometry and algebra by building and launching a weather balloon 102,000 feet above Earth. Together, the class then collected and analyzed the live data from the balloon’s flight computer.

Berkshire’s sustainability course has been the driver for student-led initiatives such as bringing both an electric car charging station and an eight-acre solar field—one of the largest of any school or college in New England—to campus.

KNOW & BE KNOWN “

By design, every student makes an impact at Berkshire. No student is anonymous. Everyone knows everyone—from faculty and staff to new students and graduating seniors.”

—Kelley Bogardus, English Department Advanced English Teacher, College Counselor, Coach, and Advisor

Our enrollment of 400 students is a sweet spot for Berkshire’s model and culture, allowing us to cultivate an exceptionally affirming and close-knit residential community. From the foundation of being known well, our students build confidence, which enables them to strive, take risks, and reimagine their potential in all areas of their development.

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4:1 S T UD E NT/FA CU LTY R ATI O

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Core Value Inspiring Teachers, Coaches, and Mentors

are fully committed to expanding opportunities for our students and furthering their education both in and out of the classroom. They are passionate about aligning their work to reflect new understandings of how students learn best and preparing them for a world driven by exponential change.

Nearly 80% of Berkshire faculty members live in campus housing. Beyond teaching, most faculty members serve as an advisor, coach a sport, help with clubs and activities, and often take on other supervisory roles, which means students interact with faculty multiple times each day in a variety of contexts.

The frequent interaction between students and faculty is one of the hallmarks of our School. Faculty members want to help students succeed, and students are driven to seek out faculty to make that possible. It’s because of this distinctive culture that students develop strong relationships with faculty, which often extend beyond their years at Berkshire.

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There is an incredible investment in each other at all levels at Berkshire. The faculty is fully invested in the kids and the kids are invested in the faculty. Our students genuinely care about each other. There is a great sense of pride in seeing others do well here. It is a distinguishing element that creates a healthy culture that balances ambition and humility.”

To understand and learn from differences, to welcome the open exchange of ideas, and to create safe and affirming communities that value every person

Our faculty members intentionally choose Berkshire because they recognize we

INCLUSION

TEACHING FOR THE FUTURE

—Jean Woodward Maher, Associate Head of School and Dean of Faculty Spanish Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

berkshireschool.org/MeetOurFaculty 11

Advisor Program

A MEANINGFUL CONNECTION Berkshire’s Advisor Program is integral to our entire educational experience—both academic and personal. The foundation of the program focuses on the importance of character, accountability, and effective communication. The program is intentional and based on years of experience and research in helping students make the most of their time in high school, specifically at Berkshire.

The purpose of the program is for students to be enriched by their relationship with an adult mentor who is focused on the student’s overall experience at Berkshire. A student’s meaningful connection with his or her advisor is just one of many lasting relationships that are formed with various teachers, coaches, and other adults across campus.

Advisee groups are kept small, and each group includes a cross section of students from different grades with various academic experiences and interests. This program allows students to go beyond their natural social

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networks and learn from each other, which in turn strengthens the fabric of

Our faculty advisors are

our campus culture.

committed to being available to students from

Great schools are built upon great teachers and ultimately known not for the grandeur of their buildings, but for the character and dedication of their faculty, staff, and students, and the depth of learning that takes place between them.”

—Pieter Mulder, Head of School and Advisor

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A N Y TI M E, A N Y WH E RE

their first day at Berkshire to graduation and beyond.

They meet with students regularly for dinners and weekly for advisee lunches.

In addition, students and advisors have a scheduled weekly meeting, which is built into their academic day.

6:1 A DVI SEE/A DVI SOR R ATI O

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College Counseling

A DISTINCT ADVANTAGE The College Counseling Office at Berkshire has tremendous success finding colleges and universities that best match each student’s talents, interests, and aspirations. College counselors are intently focused on knowing their students well and placing them in a position of strength to choose the school that is the best fit for them.

College counseling at Berkshire is rooted in an effective partnership between each student, his or her parents, and the college counselor.

Berkshire provides a level of expertise and service in the college process far surpassing schools of similar and larger size. Each college counselor works with an average of 22 students, giving Berkshire’s students a distinct competitive edge in the college process. This effective ratio allows our students to spend more time with their college counselors providing them with greater guidance and resources to prepare them for their college application and selection process.

70% B ER K SHI R E STU DEN TS A PPLY EA R LY A CTI ON OR EA R LY DECI SI ON

22:1 AVER A GE STU DENT/ COU N SELOR R ATI O

L EAV I N G B E R K S H I R E F O R . . .

Bates College, Baylor University, Boston College, Bowdoin College, Carnegie Mellon University, Colgate University, University of Colorado at Boulder, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Davidson College, Duke University, University of Edinburgh (UK), Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Emory University, Georgetown University, Harvard University, University of Michigan (Ann Arbor), Middlebury College, University of Notre Dame, Oberlin College, University of Pennsylvania, Pitzer College, University of Richmond, Sewanee: The University of the South, St. Lawrence University, Stanford University, Trinity College, Tulane University, U.S. Naval Academy, Williams College, Yale University, and more.

Every year since 2013, nearly 90% of the senior class earned acceptances to Barron’s Profile of American Colleges’ “Most Competitive” and “Highly Competitive” colleges and universities. berkshireschool.org/MatriculationByYear

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110+

CO L L EG E REP R E S EN TAT IVE S VI S IT B ER KS HIR E E A CH Y EA R

WINDOW ON BERKSHIRE is a unique

FIFTH-FORM COLLEGE PROGRAM is a two-day

event inviting admission officers from

winter event designed to help juniors and their parents

different colleges and universities to meet

better understand the college process.

with students and faculty for an in-depth campus visit.

The Mock Application Review is an invaluable part of the program, during which visiting college admission

College admission representatives

representatives assess mock applications from Berkshire.

have the opportunity to hear student

Parents learn first-hand how college application

presentations, attend classes, and

decisions are made, giving them an advantage during

question a panel of students about their

the lengthy, competitive process. Connecticut College,

experiences at Berkshire. Brown, Cornell,

Davidson, UCLA, University of Michigan (Ann Arbor),

Claremont McKenna, Johns Hopkins,

University of Notre Dame, University of Richmond,

Northwestern, Rice, and Yale are among

Sewanee, Skidmore, and Trinity have been among the

the list of colleges and universities that

recent college admission panelists.

have visited the campus recently.

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It was a profoundly transformative experience to have this kind of insight into a school, and to talk with faculty about their incredible offerings and special initiatives. Speaking with Berkshire students made the strength and the uniqueness of the Berkshire program come alive.”

—Peter V. Johnson, Director of Enrollment Group Special Projects, Columbia University 2016 Window on Berkshire Event

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ENGAGE IN AUTHENTIC LEARNING At Berkshire, there is no academic ceiling. The learning environment cultivates a desire for students to challenge themselves, take risks, and reach new heights. Built upon this strong foundation, our curriculum affords students the opportunity to explore an intellectual passion or nurture a new interest within our broad course offerings. Our goal is to ensure that all students have a unique learning experience providing them with the opportunities to go beyond the classroom to expand their knowledge.

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Academics

CURIOSITY

PURSUE LIFELONG LEARNING

Core Value

At the heart of Berkshire’s academic program is an thinking, agile problem solving, collaboration, and curiosity across all disciplines. Our academic program is distinguished by its forward-thinking approach through a curriculum designed to be relevant and dynamic, preparing students for an ever-changing global world.

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Our teachers understand that the ‘content’ that they impart is but the tiniest aspect of their work with students. The longer lasting benefit is the approach to relevant learning: it’s the skills that we highlight and encourage our students to practice; it’s the passion for learning that we hope to inspire; and it’s the development of interests that extend far beyond the Berkshire years. All of this is ‘for life,’ and we do it every single day, in the many teachable moments we experience together.”

To question, to explore, to discover, to learn about oneself and others, and to embrace new experiences, not just for school but for life

exceptional college preparatory curriculum that fosters critical

—Clay Splawn, Dean of Academics Ethics Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

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Women’s Studies Aviation Science Islam, Christianity & Judaism Linear Algebra Chinese The War On Terror Jazz Ensemble The Mountain and Me Physics C: Mechanics Sustainability Harlem Renaissance Biology French Improvisation College Writing Introduction to Film Statistics Studio Art Engineering

EXPLORE YOUR CHOICES

Global Leadership Studies

Latin Economics and Philanthropy Slave Narratives Discrete Mathematics Sculpture and 3D Design Creative Writing Digital Music Spanish No Single Voice Photography Chemistry Dystopian Fiction Calculus Psychology Modern World History Advanced Ceramics Geometry Environmental Science Advanced Humanities Research Ethics

berkshireschool.org/Curriculum 20

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Science

TEST THE WATERS Berkshire’s science curriculum teaches students the skills of logical and critical thinking, problem solving, research, and clear communication, and prepares students to find patterns underlying collections of facts. Students learn how to use an array of instruments, to collect and analyze data, and to present their results in professional scientific formats.

All chemistry students participate in Chemistry Mountain Day, an annual event designed to bring chemistry into the context of the real world and to introduce or reacquaint students with the iconic Appalachian Trail that runs along the ridge behind Berkshire’s campus. Chemistry Mountain Day was developed by chemistry teachers at the Trail To Every Classroom program, a series of workshops sponsored by the National Park Service.

Students learn to test different sections of water along the trail, observing how the groundwater changes chemically as it travels from the mountain through the Sheffield valley and into the Housatonic River. Next, students compile their findings in a database to track year-to-year comparisons, allowing for research by both students and scientists outside the community. Additionally, the classes examine the effectiveness of various methods hikers use to remove bacteria from water.

This place-based activity intentionally incorporates the spectacular mountain in our own backyard and our natural surroundings into the curriculum.

berkshireschool.org/ChemistryMountainDay

NOTABLE AL U M

Dr. William Knowles ‘34 won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work in chiral chemistry in 2001. He shares the prize with Ryoji Noyori of Nagoya University in Japan and K. Barry Sharpless of the Scripps Research Institute in San Diego.

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Learning something tough, like chemistry, teaches students that they can tackle difficult tasks and be successful. Like much of science, it’s not about doing a task in a prescribed way, but rather about critical thinking and creative approaches that help reveal to the student how they learn best.”

—Amanda Morgan, Science Department Senior Master, Chemistry Teacher, and Advisor

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English

DESIGN THINKING IN A GLOBAL WORLD The English curriculum teaches students to read

Based on thematic ideas from literature, students

carefully and appreciatively and to write clearly

form groups and design a product or service

and expressively, emphasizing critical thinking

based on their research and thesis to solve a

and problem solving. Paying attention to the

problem. Built on the principles of Change by

traditional building blocks of communication

Design by Tim Brown, students use empathy and

while engaging students in web research and

understanding to communicate their product

interactive presentations prepares them for

or service and present how it will work for their

the varied demands of college and life. The

intended market. SEAVER provides students the

fundamental assumption is that by working with

opportunity to be innovators, critical thinkers,

language, literature, and ideas in a dynamic

problem solvers, and collaborators in an ever-

fashion, students develop their abilities not only

changing global society.

to communicate but also to think and reason critically, making them more aware of the multiple aspects of communication in a complex world.

All sophomore English students participate in a month-long project called “SEAVER,” an acronym for Synergy, Educate, Analysis, InVent, Evaluate, and Reveal. This design-thinking project prepares students to be global citizens and to understand and have empathy for other people and societies.

R ECEN T SEAVER PR OJECTS A Path to Citizenship: A program to help integrate Haitian refugees in San Diego into American society.

Housing the Hausa People: A program that builds temporary homes for the Hausa families of Nigeria who have been

1907 HEA DM A S TE R S E AVE R B UC K FO U N DED B E R K S H I R E S C H O O L

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displaced by Boko Haram.

Drug Prevention Association: A program to address illegal drug use through education by creating a speakers’ program and traveling art exhibit targeted to middle schools.

PRO B L EM S O LV E R S Students present their project, “The Voices Not Heard: Building an education program in the remote, clifftop villages of Sichuan, China,” to their peers and a panel of teachers.

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Through writing, be it creative, persuasive, or analytical, students develop their abilities not only to communicate but also to think and reason critically, making them more aware of the multiple aspects of communication in a complex world. In that process, students go beyond the analytical to explore voice, purpose, and audience from within the assignments, rather than as observers.”

—Stuart Miller ’97, English Department Chair AP English Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

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Mathematics

BUILD YOUR FOUNDATION The mathematics curriculum is designed to help students appreciate the nature, beauty, and scope of mathematics and to understand its potential in dealing with the world’s increasing technological complexities.

Students develop collaboration and logical analysis skills by exploring mathematical modeling of real-world scenarios and incorporating problem-based learning.

From Algebra I to Multivariable Calculus to Linear Algebra, all courses provide a deep foundation in mathematics to prepare students for college.

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Math at Berkshire is not just about the answer. By exploring real life scenarios, students learn to think about necessary questions and explore different possible methods. As they persevere through challenging problems, students grow as mathematicians and as critical thinkers. It’s rewarding to see their mindset about math change.”

—Sylvia Gappa, Math Department Advanced Algebra II/Trigonometry Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

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3 D B R I D GE P R O J E C T The Makerspace provides students with hands-on opportunities to see mathematics as a tangible subject.

The Advanced Geometry and Multivariable Calculus classes collaborated on a suspension bridge project—designing and printing their own components using 3D printers.

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All-School Read

START A CONVERSATION Berkshire’s All-School Read (ASR) is designed to engage the entire school community through a single book to promote critical thinking and create conversations. It’s a chance for students to interact with talented authors and thinkers, while examining a given topic in a real-world context. The ASR program kicks off in the fall and the chosen theme is examined within the curriculum and through special events throughout the year.

berkshireschool.org/ASR

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R E CEN T A SR S E L E C T I O N S

Between the World and Me

Oil and Honey: The Education of an

by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Unlikely Activist by Bill McKibben

Coates is a national correspondent for The

McKibben is a bestselling author,

Atlantic, where he writes about social issues

environmental activist, and founder of

and politics and is perhaps best known for his

350.org. His address on campus covered

influential writing on race in America. The ASR

the threat of rising global temperatures

curriculum also included two performances

and climate change and was followed by

on campus: Emmy-nominated comedian W.

class visits, a panel, and Q&A with alumni

Kamau Bell and the play Defamation, both

in sustainability fields.

addressing race, gender, and class.

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I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for

Strength in What Remains: A Journey

Education and Was Shot by the Taliban

of Remembrance and Forgiveness

by Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb

by Tracy Kidder

Shiza Shahid, CEO and co-founder of the

The story of Deo Niyizonkiza shares the

Malala Fund—an organization that works to

horrors of civil war in his native Burundi to his

empower girls through education—spoke

life of healing. Niyizonkiza left an indelible

about entrepreneurship and social innovation

impression on all who met him. His two-day

while alumni with ties to SOLA (School of

visit allowed students to get to know the man

Leadership, Afghanistan) shared thoughts

behind the tale of this remarkable journey,

about the wide-reaching ramifications of

from refugee to physician, a story about

Malala’s story in class break-out sessions.

second chances and the value of community.

I was deeply moved by the thought-provoking questions students asked me. It was clear to me that they were asking questions not just to learn, but also to be part of the solutions to the problems that Burundi has been suffering from. Berkshire is educating a very special community of young people who are going to change the world. I have no shadow of a doubt about that.”

—Deo Niyizonkiza, ASR Guest Speaker The subject of Strength in What Remains by Tracy Kidder

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MEET OUR SCHOL ARS

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Learning a language has many real-world applications, particularly today. Students learn to draw connections between language, culture, history, and current events.

The connections help students develop an appreciation for people from different walks of life. This proves especially important as the communities our students will live and work in continue to globalize.�

JUSTINE LENTER Language Department French Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

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HUDSON TUCKERMAN ’20 Home: Montana Interests: STEAM, Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program, Green Key (tour guide) Leader Engineering “Engineering at Berkshire allows students not only to learn through planned lessons with your teacher but you’re also given time to work independently on a project of your choice. After learning about circuits and coding an Arduino board, I was able to build a fingerprint scanner that opens my dorm room. As complicated as it sounds, in just one semester, I was able to make it work and learned anything is possible.”

ASHANTI BRUCE ’20 Home: New York Interests: Women’s Empowerment Club, Dance, J.V. Volleyball (Captain) Advanced Spanish III “I enjoy Advanced Spanish III because the class is very interactive and community oriented—we learn through presentations, videos, novels, and conversations.

The first thing we do each class is talk about how our day is going, in Spanish of course. My teacher always manages to connect our daily lives to the topics we are discussing, which creates a comfortable and fun environment for student discussions. I love how there are opportunities in the classroom for students to both teach one another and to learn from the teacher.”

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My teacher’s passion for music inspires me to grow as an artist.

In my Digital Music class, we learn more than just writing our own piece of music; we learn how music is created.” —Luke Nguyen ’21, Vietnam

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ANNIE MCGILL ’19 Home: Pennsylvania Interests: Advanced Math/Science Research, Marine Ecology at the Island School (Pro Vita Trip), J.V. Tennis Physics “At Berkshire, the different hands-on experiments make learning physics fun and interesting. No single class is the same; my teacher is engaging and uses a unique teaching style that allows for experimentation and discovery. The best part is, you’re able to apply what you learn in class in the real world and understand, scientifically, how the world actually works.”

MARTIN DIMO ’19 Home: Austria Interests: A cappella, Track & Field, All-School Co-President English IV “At Berkshire, English class doesn’t revolve around the teacher; it revolves around the students and their ideas. The teachers are super enthusiastic and truly try to make class fun while helping you excel as a writer.

I’ll always remember the time when I was running out of time to complete a writing assignment, but my teacher was supportive and helped me find a solution that worked for both of us.”

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My U.S. History class has given me the opportunity to interact with individuals from all across the world with completely different backgrounds. This diversity gives me the privilege of being able to form opinions not only with one perspective but through sixteen.” —Adriana Jovsic ’18, Serbia

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Studying history at Berkshire challenges and prepares students to understand issues from a variety of perspectives within a changing global context. Students develop a broad perspective on the past and the present by increasing cultural literacy and sensitivity. I most enjoy engaging in dialogue that explores differences and commonalities, helping students to understand that they are part of something bigger than themselves.�

KEVAN BOWLER History Department World History Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

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EXPAND YOUR EXPERIENCE Berkshire’s 10 Signature Programs—Advanced Math/Science Research, Advanced Humanities Research, STEAM, the Sabin Entrepreneurial Prize, Pro Vita Winter Session, Independent Study, Aviation Science, Sustainability, Black Rock Scholars, and the Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program—are all designed to expand minds, provide real-world experiences, and distinguish our students in an increasingly competitive college process. berkshireschool.org/SignaturePrograms

Berkshire’s Makerspace provides a place for innovation and exploration.

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Advanced Math/Science Research

REAL-WORLD RESEARCH Advanced Math/Science Research (AMSR) is a yearlong course that offers students an authentic independent laboratory experience to design and execute an original research project of their choice in the biological, physical, or social sciences. What sets Berkshire’s course apart is the program’s design: students intern with a professional scientist to conduct real-world research in world-class facilities. The course culminates with a critical review paper and a research paper, both in scientific format.

Students present the results to members of the math and science departments and the Berkshire community. Based on their research interests, students have collaborated with mentors at the College of Nanoscale Science & Engineering SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany Medical Center, Wadsworth Medical Center, Union College, UMass Amherst, Bucknell, Williams, and other institutions.

R ECEN T A M SR PR OJECTS Localization Protein on Human Papilloma Virus Ann Phan ‘16 Mentors: Dr. Susan Hafenstein, Penn State College of Medicine and Dr. April Burch, Berkshire School Structure-Function Analysis of

fX174 Pilot Protein

Andrew Pitcher ‘17 Mentor: Dr. Bentley Fane, University of Arizona at Tucson Study of CRTS Binary Eclipsing Stars Jason Tao ‘16 Mentor: Dr. Julie Skinner,

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Boston University

The Berkshire School Science Research program offers an outstanding opportunity for high school students to think like scientists.

I was thrilled to be a mentor!”

—Annalisa Scimemi, Ph.D., Department of Biology University at Albany-SUNY

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The Immunology of White Nose Syndrome: The Presence of Dendric Cell Marker IL-6 in Myotis lucifigus cDNA Gwynne Domashinski ‘16 Mentor: Dr. DeeAnn Reeder, Bucknell University

Core Value

INTEGRITY

CO L L E G E S AN D UN I VE R S I T I E S : Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Johns Hopkins, MIT, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton, Reed College, Stanford, Tufts, and Yale

A M S R S T U D E NT AC C E P TAN C E S T O SU M M ER PR OGR A M S:

To be honest and accountable to oneself and to others, to trust and be trusted, to be disciplined and responsible, in all academic pursuits and in all relationships

A M S R S T U D E NT S H AVE MAT R I C UL ATED AT THESE A N D OTHER LEA DI N G

Discovery to Cure High School Internship, Yale University; Jerome Fisher Management and Technology Summer Institute, University of Pennsylvania; Summer Science & Engineering Program, Smith College; Research Apprenticeship in Biological Sciences (RABS), Cornell University; and Stanford Summer College Program, Stanford University

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LEED Gold Certified Bellas/Dixon Math and Science Center

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9

R EGEN ER ON SEM I F I N A LI STS

Over the past nine years, nine AMSR students were named Regeneron (formerly named Intel) Science Talent Search semifinalists, a distinction earned by only 300 students in the country each year.

“

AMSR students learn the fundamentals of critical thinking and scientific method, in a safe environment with state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, utilizing advanced techniques such as realtime polymerase chain reaction, fluorescence microscopy, and Western Blotting. Research is tailored to the interests of each student, conducted at the graduate level and completely student driven.”

—Dr. April Burch, Science Department Chair Director of Advanced Math/Science Research and Advisor

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Advanced Humanities Research

THINK CRITICALLY Advanced Humanities Research (AHR) is a yearlong course offered to students with a deep interest in the humanities—languages, literature, history, philosophy and the arts—who want to build on the knowledge acquired in the humanities curriculum. AHR is designed for students to move beyond the Advanced Placement program, and in many ways, approximate the experience of undergraduates in top liberal arts schools.

After an introductory unit that exposes students to research methods in the various humanities disciplines, students use Berkshire’s resources to define a field of inquiry and formulate a question. They next prepare a comprehensive literature review in which they summarize and critique contemporary scholarship relevant to their topic. Finally, working with guidance from their instructor and a college professor who specializes in their field, the students compose and revise a full-length paper that they present to the school.

“

I am struck by AHR’s commitment to asking interesting and important questions about culture over time and place. It shows that the School values intellectual development and thought, even as it models a very real engagement with the world.”

—Jonathan Silverman, UMass Lowell, AHR Mentor Associate Professor of English and Co-Director of American Studies

A HR S T U DE NT S H AVE MAT R I C UL AT E D AT THESE A N D OTHER LEA DI N G COLLEGES A N D U N IV E R S I T I E S : Bates, Boston College, Boston University, Bowdoin, Bucknell, Claremont McKenna, Colby, Colgate, Columbia, Cornell, Davidson, Dickinson, Hamilton, King’s CollegeLondon, Middlebury, NYU, Pomona College, Princeton, St. John’s University, Sewanee, SMU, UMass-Amherst, and U.S. Military Academy

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“

The most important aspect of my teaching is the ability to facilitate and encourage students to think critically. I continually pose problems for the students to solve by encouraging them to examine possible approaches, choose the most promising one, and evaluate the success of that provisional ‘answer.’ If it all blows up, they get to try again and again. Once students develop comfort with this kind of approach, they are ready for just about anything school or life can throw at them.”

—Dr. A.J. Kohlhepp, English Department AP English & Creative Writing Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

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Advanced Economics

THE SPIRIT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP The Sabin Entrepreneurial Prize is designed to introduce Advanced Economics students to the essentials of writing a business plan; provide a real-world platform to practice public speaking and presenting; promote the entrepreneurial spirit; stimulate creativity and critical thinking as it applies to the area of sustainable living; and reward effective collaboration in the construction and promotion of a coherent and sustainable business plan. The Sabin Entrepreneurial Prize, created and supported by the Andrew Sabin Family Foundation, is modeled after Yale’s “Sabin Sustainable Venture Prize.”

“

After 21 years in the financial industry, I came to Berkshire because of the School’s commitment to providing a relevant educational experience for each student. This commitment allows me to encourage students to take risks and extend their learning well beyond the classroom.”

—Chris Perkins, History Department Advanced Economics Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

R ECEN T S A B I N E NT R E P R E NE UR I AL P RI ZE WI N N ER S FMS, Food Management System™ is a novel, analytical system that fits inside refrigerators and dry storage that allows food service providers to minimize waste by increasing inventory efficiencies.

EZ Park is a parking meter technology to help cities reduce traffic and cut pollutants released when searching for a parking space. The app allows drivers to locate open parking meters and reserve parking spaces in advance. Its innovative security feature protects your vehicle by notifying the user when the vehicle has left the parking meter.

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Each spring, the Sabin Entrepreneurial Prize is awarded to the best business plan for a financially feasible product,

WOR LD- CHA N GI N G I DEA S

service, project, or program that contributes to living in a

In the spring, Advanced

sustainable community. Berkshire students collaborate with professionals from the business and environmental worlds, as well as the Center for Business and the Environment at Yale (CBEY), before presenting their business plans to a panel of judges prominent in their field. Through collaboration with the CBEY, the Advanced Economics

Economics students attend the “Sabin Sustainable Venture Prize” presentation by the Yale Center for Business and the Environment.

class has the opportunity to meet with Yale’s competing students for the “Sabin Sustainable Venture Prize” and to attend lectures and workshops related to the world of nonprofits and environmentally sustainable businesses.

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Pro Vita

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX For one week every winter, all Berkshire students participate in two unique, intensive courses of their choosing, taught by faculty, staff, parents, alumni, friends, and other students. The program is focused on the “Make.

Perform. Do. Solve. Serve.” model, in which students

50+ R ECEN T PR O VI TA COU R SES

explore courses within the areas of art and design, sustainability, philanthropy, diversity, and sense of place.

Mock Trial Sheffield Shark Tank

The goal of this program is for students to have the

Risk Management and Toxicology

opportunity to explore the larger world around them and

American Music Documentary: World War II

to embrace the School motto: Pro Vita Non Pro Schola

Ripple Effect—Random Acts of Kindness

Discimus, “Learning—not just for school but for life.”

Sustainable Food & Farming

Pro Vita offers more than 50 courses, a lunchtime workshop

Cast Iron Chef

series, several site-based excursions, and various guest

Meditation for Beginners

speakers, which allow students to uncover new talents and

Some Like It Hot: Glass Fusion 101

discover lifelong pursuits.

Pitch Perfect A Cappella Making, Branding, and the Science berkshireschool.org/ProVita

“

Pro Vita is about giving students the opportunity to think differently, consider new ideas, and develop skills. It’s an immersion week where you can learn to construct a solar-powered flashlight out of an Altoids box, design your own app, and attend a writing workshop with a New York Times bestselling author. All in the same day!”

—Donald Anselmi, Director of Pro Vita Spanish Teacher, Coach, and Advisor

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behind Mineral Cosmetics

6

R ECEN T PR O VI TA TR I PS

Iceland: Creating Sustainable Communities Bahamas: Marine Ecology at the Island School Spain: A Walk Along the Camino de Santiago Minnesota: Dog Sledding and Leadership Adventures Arizona: The Navajo Nation Seattle: Discovering the Stage Scene #ProVita

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STEAM

PROBLEM SOLVERS Berkshire’s STEAM (Science, Technology,

Berkshire’s Makerspace is equipped with

Engineering, Art, and Math) program allows

Arduino boards, electronics, 3D printers,

students to have the opportunity to be

laser cutters, LEDs, woodworking tools, and

designers, creators, innovators, risk-takers,

much more. In collaboration, students can

and entrepreneurs. Students identify and

create, invent, tinker, explore, and discover

tackle authentic problems in context. They

through practical, hands-on experience with

then design solution-based prototypes using

new technologies and innovative processes

interdisciplinary approaches bridging science,

as they design and build projects. Recent

technology, engineering, math, and the arts.

projects have included suspension bridges, mathematical sculptures, robots, and more.

Independent Study

CREATE A CLASS In an independent study, students work with a faculty mentor to design a course that allows them to pursue an academic interest beyond the electives offered in the curriculum. Independent study courses may be designed for one semester or for the entire year. Students, primarily juniors and seniors, present written proposals to a panel of faculty members for approval, meet with mentors weekly, and are assessed through written materials, critiques, projects, or compositions. Each independent study culminates in a final presentation before the school.

R E CEN T IN D E P E N D E N T S T UD Y P R OJECTS

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Filmmaking

Language Development and a Child’s Brain

Biodiesel Fuel Engineering

Creating a Business Plan: Floating Dive Center/Great Barrier Reef

Design Thinking: Youth Mentorship

Financial Crisis ’08: Causes and After Effects in the U.S. & China

Four-Variable Predictive Modeling

Epidemiology: The Zika Virus

Playwriting

Cystic Fibrosis & Pharmaceutical Efficacy

Aviation Science

GO BEYOND Aviation Science is a semester-long course that prepares students to pass the FAA Ground School Certification Exam, an initial requirement for earning a private pilot’s license. As part of Pro Vita week, students have the opportunity to travel to Florida for flight training.

“

Flying gives kids a tremendous sense of accomplishment and makes them better decision makers. They realize that flying a plane is the ultimate freedom and the ultimate responsibility at the same time.

And then they start applying that principle to the rest of their lives.”

—Michael Lee, Science Department Aviation Science Teacher

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Sustainability

BE GREEN Berkshire is a leader among independent schools in advancing the principles of sustainability, with a culture of conservation and environmental responsibility ingrained across campus and throughout all programs.

100% R EN EWA B LE EN ER GY (ELECTR I C)

The most noteworthy aspect of Berkshire’s greening is that it’s the students who are leading the initiatives. Students in the Sustainability class have been the drivers—and the facilitators—of nearly all new sustainability programs on campus. They conduct background

AWA R DS A N D GR A N TS 2015 Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Investment Program Grant, recipient for an electric car charging station

research, perform risk analysis, develop

2013 Named a Green Ribbon School by the

proposals, and present their findings and

U.S. Department of Education (One of just 64

ideas to the faculty. One student initiative: the

schools to receive this distinction)

eight-acre, two-megawatt solar field with 8,332

2011 The Sustainable Endowments Institute

photovoltaic solar panels is one of the largest

Billion Dollar Green Challenge, participant

solar fields of any school or college in New

(Berkshire School was the only secondary

England. In the summer of 2016, Berkshire made

school participant in the country.)

a significant long-term financial commitment to a new solar field in Bolton, Mass. With this further investment in renewable energy, it allows

2011 Keep America Beautiful Recycle Bowl, Massachusetts champion

the School to reach 100% of its electric energy

2010 DoSomething.org Community Garden

needs through renewable sources.

Grant, recipient

Our students’ commitment to creating new ideas for sustainability initiatives positions Berkshire School as a leader in science and technology education.

2010 Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation Green Your Pastures Fund Grant, recipient 2009 DoSomething.org Increase Your Green Competition, winner 2008 Green Cup Challenge, 1st place winner

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Black Rock Scholars

BECOME AN EXEMPLARY CITIZEN

B U B B LE R U N A Black Rock Scholar student led the first-ever Berkshire Bubble Run in an effort to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Syria. The goal was to “break the bubble” we live in, to lend a helping hand, and to work together to support the refugees fleeing their war-torn country. The event raised over

The Black Rock Scholars Program encourages students to participate in experiences, both in and out of the classroom, that prepare them to be exemplary citizens of the global community. Black Rock Scholars engage in five core areas related to Berkshire’s mission: Sustainability, Diversity and Inclusion, Community

$7,000 and the student sent the donations to two organizations called Small Projects Istanbul and Hand in Hand for Syria. berkshireschool.org/Leadership

Service and Philanthropy, Sense of Place, and Global Awareness. Students complete a culminating project that they design and execute, and they lead an initiative that serves a local or global community.

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STAY ON COURSE At Berkshire, we provide academic resources designed to meet students’ individual learning needs and to help them achieve academic success.

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24/7

A CCESS TO PR I N T AND DI GI TA L R ESOU R CE S

Core Value

The Writing Center supports students at all stages of the writing process, empowering them to develop their own authentic voices as they learn the most effective ways to communicate. Students can work on all aspects of their craft, from thinking critically to formulating evidence-based arguments to expressing

RESILIENCE

Academic Resources

themselves clearly and creatively. Our peer tutors provide assistance with class growth as writers and scholars.

The Math Resource Center assists students in meeting the challenges of math assignments while helping to further develop their quantitative skills. The center supports a student’s thought process, provides immediate feedback, and helps students to gain an understanding of a concept. Our goal is to help students obtain the necessary skills and confidence that empowers them to master the materials.

The Barbara Kenefick Center for Learning (KCL) is a distinctive program that supports students who meet Berkshire’s academic standards and will benefit from additional support to develop the learning competencies that the curriculum demands. The KCL is fully integrated into the life of the school and offers resources such as study skills, time-management skills, and subject-specific tutoring.

Virtual High School (VHS) expands students’ curricular opportunities by offering classes online. Recent courses include Peacemaking, Anatomy and Physiology, CAD: Computer Aided Design, Genes and Disease, and AP Computer Science.

The Geier Library supports the School’s mission by teaching students the research skills necessary to thrive in today’s complex, interconnected world. A collection of print and digital resources supports the academic goals of the entire community.

It’s a warm, welcoming destination—a space for academic studies, relaxation, and leisure reading. Our professional librarian and library technical services staff offer individualized support for projects or research assignments.

berkshireschool.org/AcademicResources

To set a new direction in response to changing circumstances, to manage and adapt to adversity, and to bounce back and regain one’s footing with confidence and purpose

assignments, college essays, and other writing projects while encouraging students’

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EXPLORE YOUR CREATIVITY “

Whether students are passionate artists or cautious novices, they will develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts, as well as an ability to problem-solve creatively and express themselves confidently and effectively.”

—Paul Banevicius, Art Department Chair Photography and AP Studio Art Teacher and Advisor

Berkshire offers a broad selection of visual and performing arts opportunities including: Studio Art, Ceramics, Photography, Digital Art, Sculpture & 3D Design, music, dance, and theater. Introductory to advanced options are available, allowing students to explore new mediums or cultivate an existing talent.

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Visual Arts

CULTIVATE A TALENT

3D Printer Sculpture

Visual arts students may study a particular medium in depth or sample several courses across the curriculum. While a strong technical foundation is stressed, equal emphasis is placed upon creative self-expression and developing the artist’s unique style.

Living in one of the most culturally vibrant regions in the country, Berkshire students have the unique opportunity to work side-byside with local artists and travel to some of the most renowned art museums in the region, including the Clark Art Institute, the Norman Rockwell Museum, and Mass MoCA.

berkshireschool.org/VisualArts

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TH E B U S T L E O F T H E S T UD I O The studio experience is at the core of art explorations. Projects are enhanced through the study of fine arts history in relation to students’ works. Advanced studies include a strong emphasis on critical and creative thinking as well as portfolio preparation.

25+

VI SU A L A N D PERFORMING ARTS COU R SES

ON THE WA LLS The Warren Family Gallery showcases a wide range of artwork representing all fields of study offered at Berkshire. Each year, there are five annual exhibits featuring artwork from students, alumni, and professional artists.

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3

Performing Arts

WHAT MOVES YOU?

THEATER , I M PR OV, A N D DA N CE PER F OR M A N CES EA CH Y EA R

Berkshire Theater is unique in being a totally hands-on, all-voices-heard, ensemble-first experience. While many students are eager for the opportunity to perform, the program also allows for students to explore other theater-related interests, including directing, stage management, set building, costume design, and lighting.

Recent performances have included Spamalot, Romeo & Juliet, Grease, In the Heights, Metamorphoses, Into The Woods, and The Crucible.

The Theater Department, which co-founded the Annual High School Improv Festival, also offers academic classes in improvisation, which culminate in the BIMP (Berkshire Improv) showcase each semester.

Berkshire offers an eclectic variety of dance styles, including contemporary, modern, jazz, hip hop, ballet, and tap. Students explore dance as a powerful tool for expression, creativity, and discussion and take part in the creative process of putting on three main stage dance concerts each year. As part of our commitment to community service, students perform locally for the Claire Teague Senior Center in Great Barrington. berkshireschool.org/Dance

S T U DEN T- L E D S H O W C AS E Each spring, theater and dance come together for a unique Student Performing Arts Showcase, giving seniors a capstone experience to direct and/or write a short play and choreograph a dance piece. The seniors are then provided with student auditioners, technical and logistical support, and a budget to bring their short original works to life. berkshireschool.org/Dance 56

“

The expectations and standards are high. I’m continually impressed with the level of ownership each student takes in the productions. This is the reverb of full participation.”

—Jesse Howard, Theater Director Improvisation Teacher and Advisor berkshireschool.org/Theater

Winter Musical, In the Heights

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13

L IVE M U S ICA L PE R FO R M A N CE S PE R Y EA R

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ACCOMPLISHED ARTISTS PA S T 3 Y E A R S

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SCHOL ASTIC ART AND W R I T I N G AWA R D S

sponsored by The Boston Globe and

W E ’ VE GO T R HY THM Berkshire offers a variety of music offerings, including jazz ensemble,

the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers for excellence in studio art, ceramics, photography, digital art, and writing.

14 G O L D K E Y W I N N E R S 2 2 S I LV E R K E Y W I N N E R S 14 H O N O R A B L E M E N T I O N S

a cappella, chorus, digital music, music theory, chamber music ensemble, and independent study in numerous areas.

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BERKSHIRE MUSICIANS

participated in the Massachusetts Music Educators Association Western District Festival, one participated in the AllEastern Honors Festival, and six were selected to perform at the all-state conference. Berkshire has entered finalists in the 2016 MostArt Festival “Young Pianist Competition” and the 2018 National Endowment for the Arts “Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge.” berkshireschool.org/Music

59

MEET OUR ARTISTS

“

Learning music requires building discipline, keeping an open mind, using creative thinking, and communicating with others effectively. These are just a few of the things we learn during the process of making music, and I find that they are also great principles to apply to all areas in a student’s daily life.”

DR. TASIA CHENG-CHIA WU Music Teacher and Advisor

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ALEX BARNOSKY ’19 Home: Connecticut Interests: Football (Captain), Green Key (tour guide) Leader, and Prefect Advanced Photography and AP Studio Art “Photography at Berkshire is incredible. You’re given the freedom to complete each assignment in your own way, and it’s amazing to grow and create your own style.

There are numerous opportunities to show my work and that keeps me motivated. I had never taken photography before Berkshire, but now I’d like to make a career of it.”

Alex displayed his first solo exhibit entitled Finding the Light: Landscape Photography at Berkshire, which contained nine large-scale prints. “In each of these landscapes, I have tried to capture the best light possible.

After all, the word “photo” does mean “light” in Latin.

ANDREA CASS ‘17

Fall Music Concert, a cappella

College: Northeastern University Student at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy (Study Abroad Program) Music and Theater “I will always feel immensely grateful for the Berkshire performing arts faculty, as they have helped shape the performer, on and off stage, that I want to become.

The program gave me the opportunity to lead my peers, which helped me discover what I love most about music and theater. Berkshire taught me to never stop pushing myself. This encouraged curiosity and exploring new experiences that empowered me to find my personal truth in art.”

NO TA BLE ALUMN I

Lincoln Kirstein ’26, Co-founder New York City Ballet, Author, and Cultural Figure; Pedro S. de Movellán ‘85, Kinetic Sculptor (Maxwell Davidson Gallery, NY; John Berggruen Gallery, SF); E.V. Day ‘86, Installation Artist and Sculptor (permanent collections in Whitney Museum and MoMA, NY; Saatchi Gallery, London); Kristin Baker ‘93, Painter (exhibitor in Guggenheim Museum, NY; Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; Centre Pompidou, Paris) 61

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WORK TOGETHER “

Our afternoon program could be the place where kids learn the most about themselves. They learn to set goals, to be a good teammate, and to overcome adversity.

Importantly, they learn how to win, as well as respond to failure, appropriately. These are the lessons that allow for further success, not just in athletics, but in life.”

—Dan Driscoll, Director of Athletics College Counselor, Coach, and Advisor

Berkshire’s Afternoon Program is an important extension of our academic day. It is designed to empower our students to explore and cultivate their talents, passions, and interests outside the classroom. Berkshire provides a wide range of opportunities, including athletics, strength and conditioning, the Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program, STEAM, theater, dance, art, and music.

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48 AT H LETI C TEA M S

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Core Value

Athletics

Berkshire student-athletes proudly wear our Green & Gray. With 16 sports and 48 athletic teams, there’s an opportunity for every student to be involved.

PERSEVERANCE

FEEL EMPOWERED THROUGH TEAMWORK Students often discover new interests and talents by trying a sport they may or exploring something new, they spend invaluable time with teammates to experience camaraderie, new friendships, and create lifelong memories.

Our athletic program’s goal is to foster leadership skills, self-confidence, and commitment to others. Through practice, training, and competition, our students gain a strong appreciation for teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance—traits that are transferable to every aspect of their lives.

Berkshire competes in the highly competitive New England Preparatory School Athletic Council which includes Choate, Hotchkiss, Taft, Loomis, Deerfield, Salisbury, Kent, Avon, and Westminster, among others. Athletic contests take place Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The excellence of our athletic program is evident by the number of Berkshire student-athletes who have gone on to play at Division I and Division III colleges and universities. In the past three years, over 100 athletes have left Berkshire to continue to compete at the next level.

16 S PO RT S

FAL L

W IN TER

SPR I N G

Crew

Alpine Skiing

Baseball

Cross Country

Basketbal|

Crew

Field Hockey

Hockey

Golf

Football

Nordic Skiing

Lacrosse

Soccer

Squash

Tennis

Volleyball

To be steadfast in the face of challenge or obstacle, to rise above mistakes and failures, and to see things through to completion

have never played before. Whether students are competing at the highest level

Track & Field

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Athletic Facilities

HOME ADVANTAGE 12 Tennis Courts

Dance Studio

10 Squash Courts

Fitness Center

3 Baseball Fields

Full Athletic Training Suite

2 Basketball Courts

Locker Rooms

2 Hockey Rinks (Olympic & NHL)

Norman White Boathouse, CT (crew)

2 Turf Fields

Catamount, NY (skiing)

2 Volleyball Courts

Stadium Field with Lights

400-Meter Track

Strength & Conditioning Area

25-Foot Climbing Wall

Wyantenuck Country Club, MA (golf)

berkshireschool.org/AthleticFacilities

Beattie Fields (two brand new turf fields on campus) 66

2

HOCK EY R I NKS (OLY M PI C & NHL)

Jackman L. Stewart Athletic Center

“

When you’re on a team at Berkshire, you don’t just make friends, you become a family.”

—Rawson Clough ‘17, New York

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MEET OUR ATHLETES

“

One of my favorite parts of coaching is watching a group of individuals come together.

Seeing that dedication and eagerness to improve, for the benefit of the team. Players understand they are working for something larger than themselves, and that can lead to great moments, not just on the field, but in their lives.�

KATHERINE SIMMONS Assistant Director of Admission Head Coach, Girls Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach, Strength & Conditioning Dorm Parent and Advisor

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CATHERINE APPLEYARD ’20 Home: New York Interest: Advanced French, Advanced Physics, and Advanced English Varsity Field Hockey, Ice Hockey, and Lacrosse “I was looking for a school that would challenge me intellectually and push me to become a better student, but I was also looking for a school with competitive sports so I could grow as an athlete. Berkshire is preparing me for the next level of playing sports in college—teaching me how to be competitive, resilient, but most importantly, a good team player. Berkshire has given me an incredible opportunity to become a stronger student-athlete while still allowing time to hang out with my friends. Here, I feel like I’m able to do it all!”

JUSTIN DONAWA ’15 College: Dartmouth Member of the Bermuda Men’s Soccer National Team Soccer, Midfielder; Track & Field, Triple Jump “Berkshire helped me acclimate to the ‘student-athlete’ lifestyle. We played high-level, competitive sports while also being challenged academically in the classroom. This allowed me, and many of my peers, to experience and balance the demands of performing at a high level both academically and athletically. When I made the transition to Dartmouth, I was ready for the tasks at hand both on and off the field. I cherished every minute when I was competing, whether it was out on a soccer field, basketball court, or track. I miss Berkshire more and more every day.”

NO TA BLE ALUMN I

Jeff McLaughlin ‘84, Olympic Bronze & Silver Medalist, Rowing; Conal Groom ‘91, Olympian, Rowing; Kacey Bellamy ’05, Olympic Gold & Silver (2) Medalist, Ice Hockey; Kevan Miller ‘07, NHL Boston Bruins Hockey Player; Kendall Coyne ‘11, Olympic Gold & Silver Medalist, Ice Hockey; Kevin Rooney ‘12, NJ Devils Org. Hockey Player; Jill Saulnier ’12, Olympic Silver Medalist, Ice Hockey; Zeiko Lewis ’13, MLS NY Red Bulls Soccer Player; Jack Harrison ‘15, Premier League Manchester City Soccer Player

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Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program

JOURNEY FURTHER

15+ RKMP A CTI VI TI ES

Students looking for something beyond traditional team sports have the opportunity to take part in the Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program (RKMP).

This program uses Berkshire’s natural surroundings to promote academic growth, challenge students physically, teach leadership, build character, and foster environmental passion and responsibility. RKMP activities include canoeing, hiking, Nordic and backcountry skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more.

berkshireschool.org/RKMP

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L EADER S HIP AWAR D Each year, Berkshire awards two students the Leadership Award, which recognizes those who have demonstrated genuine leadership potential. Leadership Award recipients receive a scholarship to attend the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School in Maine.

This summer program offers rigorous hands-on learning through outdoor adventure, including

“

There were a few things that helped me discover my passions at Berkshire.

The first of which was when I joined the RKMP during the spring and my eyes were opened to the beauty and life waiting just beyond Berkshire’s academic buildings on the Mountain.”

sailing, sea kayaking, and rock climbing programs.

—Brooks Hamilton ‘16 2015 Leadership Award Recipient 71

DEFINE YOUR BALANCE “

Berkshire embraces and encourages each student to have a voice, providing leadership roles in student activities and other areas of school life. This allows students to become deeply involved in programming and maintaining a healthy school culture.� —Peter Quilty, Assistant Head of School Dean of Students, Coach, and Advisor

Berkshire inspires students to lead healthy, balanced lives, to work collaboratively to achieve common goals, and to find strength and support from all members of our community. Numerous opportunities exist outside of the academic schedule, allowing for a balanced Berkshire experience with activities, clubs, and events designed to bring students together in small groups and as an entire community. Berkshire has deep-rooted traditions that help define the Berkshire experience, including Mountain Day, Winter Carnival, and Senior Dinner. But what makes Berkshire unique is that students do not simply uphold traditions and show up to events; instead, they build traditions and new programs, and as a result they are involved, invested, and connected. berkshireschool.org/StudentLife

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F ESTI VA L OF COLOR S An international student introduced Berkshire to its first-ever Holi celebration, an ancient Hindu religious festival celebrated at the approach of the vernal equinox. Today, this festival of colors is a community tradition.

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Core Value Residential Life

responsibility, self-sufficiency, and connectedness unique to boarding school experience. Students at Berkshire enjoy living in a nurturing and safe environment.

Dorm parents—faculty members who live in the dorms with students—take on a parent-like role or “in loco parentis” giving each dorm a true family feeling. From helping with homework, giving advice, to hosting movie nights in the common room, dorm parents build strong relationships with the students.

Dorms are organized by “vertical housing,” which means that every dorm has students from each grade, allowing upperclassmen to serve as role models. This model ensures that new students are successfully integrated into the community. Faculty apartments adjoin each hall and two senior prefects provide leadership in everything from monitoring study hall to serving as mentors to organizing weekend activities.

Berkshire’s boarding community is composed of students from across the United States and over 30 countries. As part of a Berkshire tradition, the School celebrates its global community daily by displaying flags in the dining hall to represent all our students’ home countries. Berkshire’s diverse and inclusive community helps our students learn to respect, understand, and work effectively with people who have different perspectives and experiences.

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M I N U T ES T O S H O P S , RES TA U R A N T S , AN D A M O V IE T HEAT E R

“

We are learning every day from each other. At Berkshire, we treat everyone with respect. We encourage each student to listen to others and to develop his or her own voice.”

To respect oneself and others, one’s place and surroundings, to consider intent and impact, and to act in ways that demonstrate empathy and understanding

Residential life at Berkshire is designed to help students develop a sense of

RESPECT

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

—LeRhonda Greats, Dean of Diversity and Inclusion African American Studies & Women’s Studies Teacher, Dorm Parent, and Advisor 75

Wellness and Growth

ENGAGED LIVES INFORMED MINDS Berkshire School’s Wellness and Growth Program is designed to develop the habits of mind and character in our students that prepare them equally for success in their academic futures and in their personal and professional lives.

The curriculum and programming are focused on character development, citizenship, identity, decision making, inclusion, leadership, and college transition during all four years of a student’s education at Berkshire.

Through intentional and developmentally appropriate topics, workshops, speakers, and classroom curricula, Berkshire’s young minds are given science-based and relevant tools for navigating adolescence and emerging adulthood. berkshireschool.org/Wellness&Growth

R ECEN T W O R K S H O P S AND S P E AK E R S Love Your Brain Foundation

Healthy Relationships

Motivational and Educational Speaker

Cindy Pierce, Author, Speaker, and Comic Storyteller

Kevin Pearce, Co-founder

Dirt: A one-man show of substance abuse and choices

Active Minds

John Morello, Actor, Comedian, Speaker, and Author

Perfectionism and Body Image

Nametags™ Educational Program

Maggie Bertram, MA, Associate Director of Training and Education

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Personal Productivity and Motivation Chris Waddell, Co-creator

Wellness and Growth Program topics address specific

CON N ECTI N G

themes identified by grade to include:

Berkshire helps students to connect with one another through different

Third Form (9th)

Fifth Form (11th)

Arriving, Adjusting,

Leadership, Individuality,

and Connecting

and Inclusion

The ninth grade, for example, travels

Fourth Form (10th)

Sixth Form (12th & PG)

Conn., to participate in a two-day

Decisions, Identity,

Completion, Transitions,

and Development

and College Life

activities both on and off campus. to Camp Sloane YMCA in Lakeville, leadership retreat.

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Fan Buses to Rival Schools Town Trips Interschool Dances Wiffle Ball Tournaments Trivia Night Hiking Pep Rallies Apple Picking at Nearby Orchards Ski Trips to Catamount & Mount Snow Coffee House & Karaoke Night Four Square and Knock Out Talent Shows Rock Climbing Spring Carnival Mountain Day Green & Gray Game Night Dodgeball World Cup Soccer WeWeek

AC T I V I T I E S A N D C L U B S

Winter Carnival

1907 Society Entrepreneurs Club Philanthropy Club Meditation Club Poetry Out Loud Fly Fishing Club The Green and Gray (newspaper) Afro-Latino Society Gender & Sexuality Alliance Kids 4 Kids (elementary school tutoring) Maple Syrup Corporation WBSL Radio 91.7 FM Green & Silver (a cappella) Yearbook Green Key (tour guides) Investment Club Model United Nations Quiz Bowl Jewish Student Union Chess Club

berkshireschool.org/StudentActivities

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ADVICE “ FROM SENIORS “

Branching out and getting to know the stories of all the amazing people around you is so worthwhile! ”—Emily

“

—Nathaniel

something “ Try new your first

Make a new Berkshire Bucket List every year.”

—Ivey

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Do not be afraid to be yourself.

Berkshire will let you blossom and become your best.”

“

Find your spot on the Mountain. The view might change, but the feelings will always remain.” —Andrea

“

Be open minded.

There is so much diversity of thought here.” —Morgan

year; you’ll have time to become really good at it before you leave.”

—Eliza

out of your way to get to “ Go know people who are different than you. Building friendships with people you think you don’t have a lot in common with will help you grow as a person.” —Jules

“

Berkshire encourages you to make your presence here matter.” —Corey

to every school “ Go event possible! Be as involved as you can because you never know, you could learn something new about yourself or meet one of your best friends.

High school is all about experiences, so experience as much as you can.” —Maggie

going to meet people “ You’re who will be a part of your life way beyond Berkshire.

Take advantage of that—build friendships that you will value for a lifetime.” —Silvana

that you are going to find “ Know your place here. You will make friends, work with teachers who will inspire you, and discover unknown talents.” —Dan

day on this “ Every campus is special— don’t take a single moment for granted.”

—Rawson

out of your comfort zone. “ Get You’ll learn something new about yourself in this place you call home.” —Matt

Berkshire give “ Let you time and space to explore, grow, and define yourself. ” —Yuze

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BERKSHIRE GRADUATES ARE LEADERS They work collaboratively, compassionately, and persistently to enlist and inspire the commitment of others. They respect themselves and others, and contribute to creating welcoming and inclusive communities. They understand the importance of making safe, mature decisions and of leading a healthy, balanced life. They know the importance of gratitude and humility, they embrace fun and humor, and they understand that they are a part of something larger than themselves.

BERKSHIRE GRADUATES EXPLORE THEIR PASSIONS They learn to think critically and creatively, and to solve problems with innovative perspectives and approaches.

They communicate effectively and persuasively, in speaking, writing, and presentation. Their dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainability is distinctive. And in their commitment to excellence, in all areas of school life, they demonstrate that risk taking, perseverance, and resilience are the ultimate foundations of success.

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GL OBAL N E T W O R K Berkshire graduates can be found all over the world. Our network includes nearly 6,000 alumni, spanning 55 countries and 50 states and growing.

BE CONNECTED Berkshire Connect is just one of the many ways our alumni actively connect with each other and to the School. From college students searching for summer internships to professionals considering the next career move, the vast network of Berkshire alumni provides support through our networking site. Each year, Berkshire alumni are invited to over 20 national and international events hosted by the School, alumni, parents, and friends. berkshireschool.org/Events 83

READY FOR LIFE Alumni share their Berkshire experiences . . .

Berkshire I became a writer, “ At learning an invaluable skill that will serve me for the rest of my life.”

—Corey Gary ‘13, Indiana University Junior Associate, 360i

time at Berkshire still influences “ My how I work and communicate today— navigating a fast-paced and diverse business setting.”

—Brian Park Ferrell ‘12, Hamilton College

(Digital Marketing Agency)

Financial Management Program (General Electric)

time at Berkshire showed me the importance of being “ My well rounded and applying myself in everything I do—from academics to athletics to other activities beyond the classroom.”

—Dennis Medeiros ‘14, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Isenberg School of Management

experience in the Advanced “ My Math/Science Research Program gave me the invaluable opportunity to develop research skills as well as tremendous joy exploring my interest in science.”

will never forget “ ICollege Writing. That class

—Peiyun (Penny) Ni ’12, Harvard University Medical student, Harvard Medical School

allowed me to take my writing to another level and I will always be indebted to my teacher and the School.”

—Radclyffe Savage ‘15, Kenyon College

intentional nature of the Berkshire community is hard to understand until “ The you are a student. Honestly, nothing is better. To this day, I treasure the close relationships I still have with my teachers, mentors, and friends from Berkshire.”

—Elizabeth Benedict ’12, Colorado College Admission Office, Sarah Lawrence College, New York

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community is by far its biggest asset. The diverse faculty, coaches, “ Berkshire’s and students are what make the institution so renowned. This made a strong impact in the way I interact with my peers and adapt to new environments.”

—Akash Ashok Bharwani ’12, Syracuse University MBA student, University of Rochester and Business Manager & Market Research Analyst at a Civil Engineering Firm

a certain level “There’s of comfort a Berkshire

School prepared me for “ Berkshire life after high school by holding me

student feels on campus that allows you to thrive.”

to a high standard. My four years at Berkshire made me into someone who aims high and works hard to get where I want to go.”

—Kyla Ashley Rabb ‘13, Bates College

—Alexandra Blanchard ‘11, Pace University-NYC Freelance Production Artist, NYC Advertising Company

Sales, General Mills

Berkshire I learned how to be a leader and to never “ At be afraid to try something new, even if you may fail.”

—Margaret (Maggie) Fiertz ‘11, Dartmouth College Communications

the transition “ Itofound college a lot more comfortable than many of my peers, because I knew exactly how to prioritize and manage my time.”

started at Berkshire! I found “ Itmyallpassion for graphic design and realized what career path I would pursue after college.”

—Chelsea Preston ’12, Connecticut College

—Arwen Neski ‘15, Yale University

Graphic Designer, Marketing (Real Estate Company)

experience at Berkshire was amazing! How many times have you heard “ My someone say that they wish that they had more time in high school?”

—Pratima Singh ’14, University of Connecticut

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“

The opportunity to do something special, something transformational, is right in front of you.�

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The Admission Process

A GUIDE TO APPLYING S EPT EM B E R – J ANUARY

JANUARY

chedule a Visit S Please plan to spend two hours at Berkshire in order to allow time for a campus tour and interview for both student and parents. To schedule a tour (available Monday through Saturday), please contact the Admission Office at 413-229-1003 or email admission@berkshireschool.org.

Submit Completed Application E nsure that you have completed all required components of the application and submit your materials by January 15.

Register for Standardized Tests S tudents should register for standardized tests.

Grades 9 and 10 require SSAT (school code: 1612), while grade 11 requires PSAT or SAT. Grade 12 and postgraduates require ACT or SAT. International students are required to take the TOEFL in addition to SSAT, PSAT, or SAT (international school code: 3252).

N O V EM B E R – D E C E M B E R Begin Application & Questionnaire Through your chosen application platform, either the SSAT’s Standard Application Online (SAO) or Gateway to Prep Schools, request your transcript and recommendation from your school principal or counselor, as well as recommendations from your English and math teachers. You are always welcome to submit a supplemental personal reference, though this additional recommendation is not required.

Applications to Berkshire School can be submitted using Gateway to Prep Schools or the SSAT Standard Application Online. berkshireschool.org/SubmitInquiry

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If you are applying for financial aid, please visit sss.nais.org to complete required financial aid forms and directly submit all necessary tax documents by the January 15 deadline. For assistance in submitting these materials, please contact SSS at 800-344-8328. For questions relating to Berkshire’s financial aid policies and practices, please contact Director of Financial Aid Mark Saunders at msaunders@berkshireschool.org.

MARCH Decisions Released All applicants will be notified of their admission decisions via their online admission portal on March 10.

APRIL Response Deadline Students are required to formally accept their offer of admission and return the signed contract and deposit to Berkshire School by April 10. In early April, accepted students may return to campus for our revisit program, “A Day at Berkshire.”

Guided By Our Mission Rooted in an inspiring natural setting, Berkshire School instills the highest standards of character and citizenship and a commitment to academic, artistic, and athletic excellence. Our community fosters diversity, a dedication to environmental stewardship, and an enduring love for learning.

Credits Design by Hammill Design Written by Berkshire’s Communications and Marketing Department Consulted by Alyson Henning Walker, Henning & Partners Principal Photography: Gregory Cherin Photography and Chip Riegel Photography Additional Photography: Randy Appleyard P’18,’20,’21, Risley Sports Photography, Jessica Scranton Photography and members of the Berkshire community.

With special thanks to our entire Berkshire community, the Viewbook Committee, and Berkshire Trustee Ann Brackbill McKee P’15,’19 for their time and contributions to this publication.

Berkshire School admits students of any race, color, religious affiliation, national and ethnic origin and qualified handicapped students to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students.

We do not discriminate in violation of any law or statute in the administration of our educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan program, and athletic or other school-administered programs.

Pro Vita Non Pro Schola Discimus “Learning—not just for school but for life.”

245 North Undermountain Road, Sheffield, Massachusetts 01257 www.berkshireschool.org