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Pro Vita Winter Session Course Catalog 2026

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C Period Offerings:

C Period classes take up both periods. Most are field trip-based or offer deeper dives into the topic while on campus.

1. Berkshire Books: A Regional Literary Tour

2. Berkshire Mixed Martial Arts

3. The Evolution & Future of Snowsports

4. Great Berkshire Bake Off!

5. Landscape Photography: Berkshire Peaks & Perspectives

6. Starting & Running a Foundation: A Study with Penny’s Flight

7. So You Want to be an Entrepreneur?

A Period Offerings:

1. Are We Alone? Astrobiology and the Science of Alien Life

2. The Art of Tea Making

3. Behind the Scenes at the Jack: A Study of Systems, Operations & Logistics

4. Building the Future: An Introduction to the Structural Engineering of Bridges

5. Coaching the Human Game

6. Cooking for Connection: Nourishing the Mind and Body

7. Community Service: The Greenagers Woodbank

8. Community Service through Partnership & Philanthropy

9. Design for the Mind: Crafting Your Safe Space

10. Fitness for Life

11. Fly Fishing, Fly Tying & Culture

12. From Page to Stage: Speech & Debate

13. The Healing Arts: Meditation, Sound Bath & Yoga

14. How the Dead Survive

15. Introduction to Needlepoint

16. Introduction to Stained Glass

17. Knitting & Crochet: An Experiential Arts Study

18. Living Archives: African American History Through the Oral Tradition

19. Pickleball: A Study of the Game

20. Senior Selfie Support Crew

21. Sports Media Productions: A Study With Bluegill Media

22. Tree to Table: The Art of Maple Sugaring

23. The Veterans Voice Project

24. Viva La Culture: Experiencing Francophone Worlds

25. Work Crew: Handy Skills

26. Yes, Chef!

B Period Offerings:

1. The Art of Felting and Friendship

2. The Art of Tarot: Symbols, Story, and Self

3. Artificial Intelligence: A Critical Inquiry

4. Bears on Ice

5. Becoming a Peer Listener: Fourth and Fifth Form Training and Psychoeducation

6. Chess: Tactics, Strategy, and Tournament Competition

7. Culinary Exploration of the Philippines

8. Essential Tools for Drafting & Design

9. Film Studies: Food in Movies

10. Fragrance: A Sensory Exploration of Art and Economics

11. Harmonica: History & Music

12. Introduction to Podcasting

13. Jogo Bonito: History, Culture, and Style

14. Mechanical Design: The Rube Goldberg Project

15. Mindfulness: Exploring the Psychology Behind Hands-on Practices

16. Meditation: Inner Practice, Outer Impact

17. Muhammad Ali

18. Motivational Speeches: Lessons for Life from Coaches and Teams

19. Nutrition for Health & Performance

20. Paddle Tennis: A Study of the Game

21. The Physics of Golf and Swing Science

22. The Repurpose Project: Art & Collaboration

23. Tap Dance: History, Culture, Practice

24. TEDx Berkshire School

25. 3D Printing & Modeling of Fishing Lures

C Period - Single Class Options

Berkshire Books: A Regional Literary Tour

Glinda Hall

Get ready to embark on a local tour exploring some of our region's literary giants. The tour will begin with biographical information regarding each writer We will read select works that will include short stories and poems. We’ll then travel to tour each writer’s home: Edith Wharton’s The Mount in Lenox, Mass., Emily Dickinson’s home and museum in Amherst, Mass., and the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford, Conn.

Berkshire MMA Season III

Tony Amolo ’13, Edwin Castro

This class will expose students to the basic and intermediate skills of mixed martial arts. We will spend the week working with Muay Thai instructor Edwin Castro and other staff members at Southeast Kettlebell in Pittsfield. This full-body fitness class will help students learn the art of self-control, discipline, and self-care through Thai boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, and boxing. Students will be charged a fee of around $200 that will cover boxing gloves and shin pads. Hand wraps will be provided for students to keep.

The Evolution & Future of Snowsports

Sam Wang ’27, Marcus Lacy ’27, Nancy Lyon, Rob Rose

In this course, we will explore the logistics of ski resorts: how they make snow, conquer the challenges of climate change, and adapt to unforeseeable elements. To accomplish this, we will be visiting ski areas in the Berkshires and Southern Vermont to meet with managers and owners. Additionally, we will be on the snow to enjoy a full immersive experience. This course is for those interested in snowsports, and it is best if you have prior experience on the snow. Students will be charged a fee to cover a portion of the lift tickets for the days the class goes skiing.

Great Berkshire Bake Off!

Sarah Pitcher-Hoffman, Tess Hardcastle ’06

Get inspired by The Great British Bake Off and bake simple recipes such as scones, quick breads, and cookies. Each day, students will make a new recipe that will be judged by guests of the class. Students will also learn some best baking practices (weigh your flour!) that can help with any recipe and experiment with some baking “hacks” to see if they actually help. In addition to time in Berkshire’s kitchen, the class

will spend a day at The Lost Lamb patisserie in Stockbridge, Mass., with owner Claire Raposo, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu. During the visit, students will sample some of her specialties and learn about Raposo’s culinary career. This course is for “star bakers” and novices alike, so even if you’ve never wielded a whisk or cracked an egg, there’s a spot in the tent for you!

Landscape Photography: Berkshire Peaks & Perspectives

Alex Barnosky ’19

Step into the beauty of the Berkshire Mountains and learn how to capture its magic through your own lens. In this hands-on landscape photography workshop, students will head outdoors to hike, explore, and photograph everything from the sweeping vistas of the Berkshires to hidden streams and intimate scenes in nature. After photographing what nature has to offer, students will refine their favorite images using Photoshop, turning them into photographs to be proud of.

Starting & Running a Foundation: A Study with Penny’s Flight Gemma Fox ’26, Kate Doerge P’29, Kevin Soja

Kate Doerge will introduce students to the Penny’s Flight Foundation, a non-profit organization raising awareness of neurofibromatosis and related disorders. Gemma Fox will join Ms. Doerge to teach students how to start, promote, and facilitate a non-profit. Students will learn skills and mindsets that lead to successful communication, marketing, and professional partnerships. Along the way, students will learn how one family turned pain into purpose in a positive way

So You Want to be an Entrepreneur?

Matt Murray P’29, Michael Cohen, Mike Hall

Entrepreneurship is about spotting opportunities and turning ideas into action. In this high-energy, hands-on course, students will move from identifying a problem to creating a business case and delivering a pitch––all in just a few days. Along the way, they’ll explore what makes a strong idea, how to test its potential, and how to communicate it persuasively. Students will leave with practical skills in creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, plus the excitement of bringing an idea to life.

A Period

Are We Alone? Astrobiology and the Science of Alien Life

From the vastness of space, viewed through the Dixon Observatory's telescope, to the microscopic world of alien-like creatures under our electron microscope, this astrobiology course will ignite your curiosity Students will analyze real NASA data to hunt for habitable worlds, meet one of Earth's toughest organisms, the nearly indestructible tardigrade, and grapple with humanity's biggest question: Are we alone? Using cutting-edge research and hands-on investigations, you'll develop scientific inquiry skills while contemplating the mind-bending possibility of life beyond Earth. Warning: your view of the universe may never be the same!

The Art of Tea Making

This introductory class is designed for tea enthusiasts who want to deepen their appreciation and understanding of the art of tea. Participants will learn about the history, flavors, and proper brewing techniques for a variety of teas, including white, green, oolong, pu'er, matcha, black, and herbal teas. The class will explore traditional brewing methods such as the Chinese Kong Fu Cha, Japanese tea ceremony, English High Tea, and East Frisian tea, providing a hands-on experience to master the nuances of each. The class will visit the local Harney & Sons tea factory, where students will gain insight into modern tea production processes. Whether you're new to tea or a seasoned drinker, this class offers an immersive way to discover the world of tea.

Behind the Scenes at the Jack: A Study of Systems, Operations & Logistics

Discover the inner workings of the Jackman L. Stewart Athletic Center Students will tour the facility’s mechanical rooms while learning how the ice is made, maintained, and removed. For anyone who’s ever said, "I want to ride the Zamboni!" you’ll get to experience that thrill as well. Plus, learn the secrets to sharpening skates! Keeping the themes of systems, operations, and logistics, the class will also experience a behind-the-scenes tour of the equipment, athletic training, mail, and bookstore spaces.

Building

the Future:

An Introduction to the Structural Engineering of Bridges

This class will introduce students to the basics of structural engineering through hands-on design challenges. Students build bridges, towers, and models to explore how tension, compression, and load distribution work. Guided by Aidan Milone and Ford Taube, the class focuses on creativity, teamwork, and testing designs. The week ends with a fun “Bridge-Off” challenge to see which structures hold up best.

Coaching the Human Game

From the playing field to the classroom to the stage, pressure fundamentally impacts how we think, speak, and act. This course invites students to analyze the patterns behind decision-making, exploring the critical difference between impulsive reactions to more reflective responses. Through real-world examples and personal reflection, you will build self-awareness and practical habits to stay grounded and communicate clearly when it matters most. No psychology background required. No pressure to “have it all figured out.” Just space to reflect, discuss, and practice skills that matter across school, teams, relationships, and life.

Cooking for Connection: Nourishing the Mind and Body

In a world where technology, particularly artificial intelligence, is rapidly replacing process, deep thinking, and human connection, one thing remains constant: human relationships and food are essential to well-being and physical, spiritual, and cognitive growth. This class will begin with each student bringing a recipe or meal that has either a foundational place in their family history or memories, or comforts them and holds any kind of significant meaning. Students will share the story around that meal, who has influenced them and why, and what the meal means to them. The class will then vote on the menu they want to create from start to finish, working in teams on various aspects. Throughout the process, students will learn about each other, take risks in their vulnerability in the kitchen, lean into creativity and what it means to create a meal from start to finish, then enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Community Service: The Greenager Woodbank

In Berkshire County, there are some families that cannot afford to heat their homes regularly through the cold months. Greenagers, a non-profit organization located less than two miles up the road from Berkshire, is working to address this problem head-on through their “Woodbank.” Volunteers collect, split, stack, and deliver cords of firewood to families who would benefit from this community aid and outreach program. Participants will travel to Greenagers each afternoon to work at the Woodbank and contribute to this local initiative.

Community Service through Partnership & Philanthropy

Students will engage in meaningful activities to support women survivors of violence and homelessness in Massachusetts through “beaUtybundles.” Over four days, participants will learn about the importance of advocacy, write letters of encouragement, and create care bundles filled with essential supplies. The course will help foster connections with local organizations and encourage reflection about their impact on our greater community

Design for the Mind: Crafting Your Safe Space

St. Clair ’27, Whitney Saunders

This course focuses on how our environment influences our mental health. Students will learn the psychological connection between environmental design and apply what they learned to creating their own “safe space." Through discussion, design projects, and field trips to meet with local designers, students will gain knowledge on how lighting, colors, furniture, and decor can help create a space that promotes well-being and positive environments.

Fitness for Life

Students will engage in a hands-on workout, learning how to incorporate lifting weights, tabata cardio, yoga, and nutrition into a fitness program. We will explore the importance of warm-ups, cool-downs, and proper lift techniques. This will culminate in a full-body workout that students will customize and can take with them into the future. This course is designed for all fitness levels.

Fly Fishing, Fly Tying & Culture

This course will tackle some of the most interesting aspects of fly fishing. Students will be given an introduction to fly tying and casting with a fly rod, as well as the biology and entomology of fly fishing. The class will also explore the environmental and cultural implications of fly fishing. Depending on the weather, we hope to do at least one day trip to the local streams and rivers so that students can experience fly fishing for themselves. The class will work with Will Lillard from Lillard Fly Fishing, who will provide a deep understanding of the many fascinating aspects of fly fishing in New England and the rest of the world.

From Page to Stage: Speech & Debate

’15

Ever wondered how one person can play five different characters in ten minutes? Welcome to the world of Dramatic Interpretation and Humorous Interpretation. This fast-paced class introduces students to the "acting" events of the National Speech & Debate Association (formerly NFL). Students will learn how to take a piece of published literature—be it a play, a screenplay, or a novel—and transform it into a compelling solo performance. Whether you want to make an audience weep or leave them breathless with laughter, this course provides the foundational toolkit for competitive performance. You'll learn how to trim a long story into a cohesive 10-minute performance arc, use posture/pitch/pacing to make every character distinct, and utilize pantomime to create a physical world on an empty stage. At the end of the week, there will be an opportunity to share pieces in progress!

The Healing Arts: Meditation, Sound Bath & Yoga

Jen Gaenzle Smith

All individuals benefit from self-reflection, self-knowledge, and developing skills to reduce stress, increase relaxation, and foster greater connection with the self. Students will be introduced to the practices of meditation, sound bath, and yoga by trained professionals. Exploring these forms of ancient healing will help students find a method they can further explore and develop that serves them best.

How the Dead Survive

From the 1960s until the 1995 death of guitarist and band founder Jerry Garcia, the Grateful Dead played roughly 2,300 concerts. Even Garcia’s death could not stop the band from touring and its legendary “Deadheads” from following their favorite music. This course will explore the history, music, and culture that surrounded the Grateful Dead. Special attention will be given to the effects that the band had on the cultural scene of the United States and how their music influenced and evolved rock and roll, country, blues, and folk music. The class will also study what has enabled the Dead to be such a lasting force, even today.

Introduction to Stained Glass

April Burch

In this beginner-friendly course, students will learn the fundamentals of stained glass: designing a simple pattern, cutting and shaping colored glass, and assembling their piece using copper foil and soldering techniques. Through hands-on practice, students will explore how color, light, and material interact to create expressive works of art. No prior experience is required; students will be guided step-by-step in a supportive studio environment. By the end of the week, each student will complete a small stained glass piece to display and take home.

Introduction to Needlepoint

Emily Reynolds P’26, Andrea Bowler

Discover the art of needlepoint in this hands-on, beginner-friendly course. During the week, you’ll learn the fundamentals of this classic stitching technique, including how to prepare a canvas, choose fibers, and master essential stitches. You’ll explore color, texture, and design while creating your own small project to take home. Whether you love art, enjoy crafts, or want a relaxing creative outlet, this course offers a fun introduction to textile arts. No prior experience is needed, just curiosity, patience, and a willingness to try something new.

Knitting & Crochet: An Experiential Arts Study

Pat Bush, Martha Williamson, Mandy Morgan

Join us to learn a lifelong skill that can be practiced anywhere and anytime: knitting and crocheting. When you practice these hobbies, they reward you with a tangible thing that you can wear, use, or gift to a friend or to someone in need. We'll teach basic cast-on

and knit stitch, or single crochet stitch. Even with just these basic stitches, you can learn how to produce a warm scarf for the chilly Berkshire winter.

Living Archives: African American History Through the Oral Tradition

Tingling

Oral history doesn't just fill in the gaps of the written record; it preserves the emotional truth, dialect, and personal agency of individuals whose stories were often systematically excluded from traditional archives. Over four days, we will explore the benefits and limitations of oral history through primary sources and personal accounts. We will touch on the Gullah community of South Carolina, the African Methodist Episcopal Church and its impact in Massachusetts, and wrap up with the legacy of Black artistry Through these vignettes, we will discuss the far-reaching impact of oral tradition, particularly as it relates to historically marginalized communities.

Pickleball: A Study of the Game

Petie Szakats ’26, Harrison McLlean ’26, Jesús Ibáñez

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. It is a fast-paced, social sport that is easy to learn and suitable for all ages. Pickleball relies on strategy and cooperation between you and your partner This class will explore the roots and the future of the sport: What is the history behind the game? Where is it most popular today? What are the most important skills in the modern game? What tournaments and leagues are out there? And of course, we will learn and play the game each day!

Senior Selfie Support Crew

Glenn Seelenbrandt

A small group of interested students will be selected to assist Mr. Seelenbrandt with the Senior Selfie Exhibit. Students will assist with editing, printing, and designing the gallery layout for this annual celebration of the senior class. Enrollment requires completing a brief application.

Sports Media Productions: A Study With Bluegill Media

Chris Lawhorn, Matt Bode, Dave Collopy

Students will work with Bluegill Media Productions, Berkshire’s livestream partner, to engage in the full breadth of sports media. Bluegill Productions is a full-service production company specializing in sports and event video production and live streaming. Students will learn specific skills and techniques, while collaboratively

contributing to a media project on campus. Chris Lawhorn and Matt Bode are the owners and co-founders of Bluegill Media Productions.

Tree to Table: The Art of Maple Sugaring

Kelley Bogardus, Dom Sayler

Do you know which types of maple trees are tapped to make maple syrup? Do you know the prime temperatures for sap to run? Have you ever wondered about the process sap goes through to become the liquid gold poured over your pancakes? Over the course of this Pro Vita class, you will tour Berkshire's Sugar House, walk the sap lines around campus, learn how to tap a tree, tour a local maple syrup farm, and taste a variety of syrups, including Berkshire's own. The week will culminate in serving pancakes to the community and offering sample taste-testing from local farms.

The Veterans Voice Project

Jim Fiedler ’64, Jason Gappa, Bebe Bullock ’86

Become a digital historian for a week and join the Berkshire School Veterans Project. In this hands-on Pro Vita course, you’ll connect directly with alumni who served in the U.S. military and take an active role in preserving their voices by contributing their stories to a new digital oral history archive. You won’t just learn history; you’ll help build and launch a digital oral history archive, ensuring these stories are never forgotten. You will develop unique skills as a researcher and storyteller to honor the sacrifices of those who walked these same halls before you.

Vive La Culture: Experiencing Francophone Worlds

Odjo

Students will explore the everyday life and culture of various Francophone countries through both hands-on experiences and discussions involving deep critical thinking and reflection. We'll cook traditional dishes beyond the stereotypical French meals like crêpes or boeuf bourguignons, such as poulet yassa (from Senegal) or chakchouka (from Algeria). We will also engage in short films and videos to talk about rich histories and contemporary trends. Additionally, students might create their own "day in the life" videos as if they're a student in a Francophone country and operate a French-style café one day in the Campus Center

Work Crew: Handy Skills

Chris Rokous and “Mentors” from Buildings and Grounds

This class invites students to partner with Buildings & Grounds mentors to take on real campus projects—from painting and masonry repairs to landscaping, flooring refinishing, and other hands-on improvements. Working as a guided crew, students will learn practical skills such as scraping, priming, repointing, shaping plantings, and safely using tools while developing the ability to recognize and respond to physical problems. This experiential, service-driven course emphasizes collaboration, curiosity, and pride of place as students make meaningful enhancements to the Berkshire campus.

Yes, Chef!

Sam Schafer ’27, Shawn Burdick, Chris Perkins, Heidi Woodworth

Partner with Flik’s Director of Dining Services Shawn Burdick and Sam Schafer to master the fundamental cooking techniques and recipes that will serve you well in Benson and beyond! This hands-on course focuses on building confidence in the kitchen through practical, everyday cooking. Learn to prepare versatile staples—from the perfectly cooked grilled cheese to exceptional omelets. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to expand your repertoire, you'll leave with a foundation of reliable recipes and techniques that make cooking accessible and enjoyable!

B Period

The Art of Felting and Friendship

Tamana H. ’26 and Brandi Dahari

Discover the joy of felting in this hands-on art class! Needle felting is a craft that uses specially designed notched needles to sculpt wool into shapes and designs. Students will use soft, colorful wool to create animals, flowers, and other fun projects. We’ll enjoy music, snacks, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere while sharing ideas and helping each other This class is perfect for anyone who wants to learn a new skill, be creative, relax, and have fun making something unique with friends.

The Art of Tarot: Symbols, Story, and Self

Laura Smith

The Art of Tarot: Symbols, Story, and Self is a dynamic four-day immersive course designed for students curious about the mystical arts of tarot. Through an engaging

blend of art history, mythological exploration, and hands-on practice, students will dive deep into the symbolic world of tarot cards, learning to interpret their rich imagery and understand their cultural significance. The program includes a field trip to Crystal Essence to purchase personal tarot decks, a day dedicated to creating personal tarot cards, and interactive sessions that teach practical reading techniques, allowing students to develop skills in personal reflection and intuitive interpretation.

Artificial Intelligence: A Critical Inquiry

Blythe Beran ’28, Allison Letourneau ’07, Chris Meehan

Artificial Intelligence is everywhere—but what does it really mean for us? In this course, students will meet experts from a wide range of fields and explore the big questions behind AI’s rise, from ethics and privacy to creativity and human identity This will not be a technical “how-to” course, but an opportunity to slow down, ask thoughtful questions, and make sense of a rapidly changing world. Through conversation, reflection, and curiosity, we’ll imagine the future we want to help shape.

Bears on Ice

Victoria Tesoro ’26, Sophia Busa ’26, James Reilly ’26, Dom Somma ’26, Sylvia Gappa

Learn to skate (or perfect your skills) during Pro Vita with a student-led, intensive week of skating, designed to help you gain confidence on the ice. This class will engage in skating safety, skating history (Where did skating originate? How did skating develop into sports like hockey and figure skating?), and techniques for learning how to skate more confidently There will be a low student-to-teacher ratio, with individual sessions throughout the week. Students will build confidence in exploring this new experience and bond with their classmates who are also building that confidence. Overall, students will leave their comfort zones and learn how to skate. Skates will be provided.

Becoming a Peer Listener: Fourth and Fifth Form Required Training and Psychoeducation

Alexis Johnson, Nick Pohl

Calling all Fourth and Fifth Form students who might be interested in joining the Peer Listener team: This is your chance to become a Peer Listener and learn the framework that serves this leadership role at Berkshire School. Led by Mrs. Johnson and Mr. Pohl, you will spend the week deepening your understanding of therapeutic techniques, skills, and resources that help you be a true support on campus. This course is a requirement for students interested in becoming a Peer Listener. Enrollment requires completing a brief application.

Chess: Tactics, Strategy, and Tournament Competition

The game of chess challenges the mind, connects people of all ages, and is hugely popular in every country of the world. This course will give students the chance to better understand the history, tactics, openings, and strategy of the game, while also providing an opportunity for individual and team tournaments during each class. Whether you are an experienced player with a passionate love for chess, or a beginner interested in learning how to play, you are sure to enjoy exercising your brain and learning more about this great game!

Culinary Exploration of the Philippines

Discover the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Philippines in this hands-on cooking class. From adobo to lumpia to pancit, students will learn to prepare dishes that make Filipino cuisine so special. As you cook, you’ll learn more about Filipino history, including the impact of Spanish colonization and the beginning of Filipino migration to the U.S. Through preparing these Filipino dishes, you’ll gain necessary cooking skills like chopping, frying, flavor balancing, and more! Whether you’re an experienced cook or have never held a knife, this class will expand your knowledge and confidence in the kitchen.

Essential Tools for Drafting & Design

Ashok Pillai and Rommel Fiori

Forget paper and pencils, this is where design meets high-tech. In this course, you’ll transition from being a fan of cool buildings or structures to a creator of them. You’ll master CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and BIM (Building Information Modeling), the superpower software behind every stadium, skyscraper, and modern home. Students will have the opportunity to learn skills, experiment with different software programs, and make their own designs.

Film Studies: Food in Movies

Jack Giles ’26, Winnie Freund ’26, Katie Soper ’15

This class will engage in film analysis, interpretation, and the role that food plays in the movies we love. We will discuss cinematic techniques, character development, themes, symbolism, and how movies reflect social and cultural issues. We’ll explore questions like: What are the underlying themes? How are time periods reflected? What makes the film powerful or thought-provoking? And finally, what role does food play in the film? Students will share their perspectives and dive deeper into the mechanics of how movies are made.

Fragrance: A Sensory Exploration of Art and Economics

Addie Whitman ’26, Cutler Whitman P’26, Katie Rose ’02

This course will be led by Cutler Whitman, who works for Takasago, an international fragrance company Mr Whitman will introduce topics such as environmental safety within the fragrance industry, quality of fragrances, and marketing. By the end of the course, students will have the opportunity to create their own signature fragrance.

Harmonica: History & Music

Sarah Genovese ’27, Lucy Woodhouse ’27, Michael Bjurlin

Students will be guided through an exciting journey into the world of harmonica playing. The harmonica was invented around 1825, and its beautiful and distinctive sound has united people worldwide. You’ll learn about the history of this small yet powerful instrument, engage in group discussions, and learn to play. We are excited to dive into our creativity and make beautiful music together!

Introduction to Podcasting

Thomas Berg ’27, Rohan Rost ’27, Jesse Howard

During this class, students will create their own podcast from start to finish. They will consider what makes a show engaging, how to plan and structure an episode, and what tools and techniques are needed for recording and editing a show. Students will also engage with techniques for capturing and holding an audience’s attention and for sharing their story with a wider community beyond Berkshire School.

Jogo Bonito: History, Culture, and Style

Winnie Wood Prince ’26, Yefferson Julio Auza

Students will work on their pace and skill to increase their speed and effectiveness of decision-making in this beautiful style of soccer, Jogo Bonito. Students will explore creative two-touch play, inspired by Brazil’s flair and rhythm, while competing in small-sided games of 2v2, 3v3, and other soccer-oriented games. Players will sharpen their touch, movement, and teamwork through challenges designed to build confidence and creativity on the ball, all while learning about the historical roots and cultural significance of this popular form.

Mechanical Design: The Rube Goldberg Project

Edison Shergalis ’27, Max Blumenthal ’27, Dan Cooper

This course explores how mechanical engineers design and create a Rube Goldberg machine, a chain-reaction device that performs a simple task in an overly complicated and unnecessary way Students will work in teams to build their own Rube Goldberg machine and along the way, they’ll learn about energy transfer, motion, and design testing, and use 3D printing to make custom parts for their builds. The final classes will end by combining all of the teams' machines into one large, class-wide Rube Goldberg machine.

Meditation: Inner Practice, Outer Impact

Amaru Cordova-Fiori ’27, Scott Kelly, Diana Fiori

This workshop offers an introduction to meditation, blending hands-on practice with a look at where different traditions come from and why they matter today. In each session, students will experiment with a variety of techniques and discuss the history behind them. Guest presenters will visit to talk about meditation and ways to take care of the self. By the end of the workshop, students will have practical tools for their own lives and a broader sense of meditation’s role in the world.

Mindfulness: Exploring the Psychology Behind Hands-on Practices

Nuala Chee ’27, Lulu Harris ’27, Davis Zarou ’27, Kristina Luce

This class will explore different ways to care for one's mental health and well-being. Students will be introduced to different mindfulness techniques and reflect on how these help reduce stress and improve mood. The class will learn about the introductory psychology concepts behind the practices, such as sensory, grounding, and emotional regulation, through hands-on activities and relaxation exercises.

Muhammad Ali: The One & Only Greatest of All Time

Muhammad Ali is one of the most fascinating and important figures of the last 100 years. This course will explore his extraordinary life both inside and outside the ring, from his rise as an Olympic Gold Medal winner and three-time World Heavyweight Champion to his controversial conversion to the Nation of Islam, his outspoken stance against the Vietnam War, and his tireless work for Civil Rights and international peace. Students will examine Ali as a complete human being: his poetry and wit, his missteps and growth, his move to Sunni Islam, and his courageous decades-long public battle with Parkinson's disease. Through it all, we'll discover why Ali remains "The Greatest," not just as an athlete, but as a cultural icon who changed the world. Dr. Odjo will be joined by former colleague and Canterbury School Athletic Director Robert Morris.

Motivational Speeches: Lessons for Life from Coaches and Teams

Carter Johnson ’26, Ken Gammill P’16,’19,’20,’22,'27, Mike McCabe

This course will explore famous speeches that coaches have delivered to teams in moments of challenge and adversity Some of the questions the class will explore include: What caused specific speeches in history? What were the results? How did language, tone, and delivery resonate with players before, during, and after the event? Why do we still talk about them today? Students will then work together to think through what has influenced them, what might influence others, and how to deliver their own motivational speeches to their classmates.

Nutrition for Health & Performance

Ridgely Dunne ’26, Blythe Bradshaw ’26, Emily Reynolds P’26, Megan Olszewski, Taylor Rathbun

This course will explore how nutrition, meal planning, and cooking skills support an individual's health and performance. Students will learn the fundamentals of a balanced diet, experiment with hands-on meal prep, and cook recipes designed to fuel performance of all kinds and recovery. Through research, practical activities, and guided discussions, students will discover how food choices impact energy, strength, and long-term well-being. By the end of the week, each student will design personalized, performance-fueling, easy-to-prepare meals.

Paddle Tennis: A Study of the Game

Paddle is a racket sport that can best be described as a cross between tennis and squash. It is a fast-paced, social sport that is easy to learn and suitable for all ages. Paddle is more about strategy and cooperation between you and your partner, than just power. Join us to learn the history of the game and how to play this fast-moving sport. No experience is necessary. Games will be played on Berkshire’s Shaw Family Paddle Tennis courts.

The Physics of Golf and Swing Science

Eli Boren ’26, Will Mulder ’26, John Palmer

Learn the game of golf through advanced technology with Berkshire's brand-new golf simulator Whether a seasoned veteran or a beginner, take a chance and learn the fundamentals, perfect your swing, and explore the physics involved in this popular sport. Students will learn about launch angle, spin rate, rotational power, and other concepts that are essential to properly executing a golf swing.

The Repurpose Project: Art & Collaboration

Zelina Blagden

This course will explore the ways different artists are repurposing packaging materials before they go into the waste stream. Students will transform what is considered trash into art, furniture, and textiles, collaboratively building a functioning object within our community. The class will explore and collect available materials, collaborate on a design, and then engage in a building process to create multiple projects.

Tap Dance: History, Culture, Practice

This class will explore the rich culture behind tap dancing, particularly how the art form has been used for cultural expression through times of oppression. Students will learn basic tap skills while also gaining a stronger sense of musicality. Whether you have danced before or this is a brand new experience, this class is a space for you to find confidence in movement and rhythm. The course will culminate in students performing a short routine showcasing the different steps they have learned.

TEDx Berkshire School

Students selected to be a part of Berkshire’s TEDx event this spring will utilize the Pro Vita B Period to work together as a team. They will collaborate on the planning, workshopping, and logistics of the event, while also spending time learning what it takes to execute a live, public performance, such as TEDx Berkshire School.

3D Printing & Modeling of Fishing Lures

Tyler Schoudel ’26, Gus Chong ’26, Jason Epstein

In this course, students will explore the intersection of design, technology, and the outdoors by creating custom 3D-printed fishing lures. Participants will learn basic 3D modeling, print their designs, and paint them to bring their creations to life. Students will have the chance to explore the art and design of some of the top lures out there today for inspiration.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook