I’m excited to share more about a new and enriching addition to our Upper School programming: M-Term, an experiential learning intersession that takes place between our third and fourth quarters from March 30 to April 2, 2026. This week-long program is designed to expand how and where students learn by immersing them in hands-on, real-world learning experiences rooted in our wider community.
M-Term courses are credit-only, which means students earn credit without receiving a letter grade. This structure is intentional as it gives students the freedom to take on new challenges, pursue unfamiliar interests, and engage deeply without worrying about how an assignment might affect their GPA.
Beyond academic content, M-Term strengthens skills essential for success in college, careers, and life. Students build independence, practice teamwork, develop resilience, and refine their communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. These benefits are long-lasting: when students step out of the traditional classroom, they often discover new interests, uncover hidden strengths, and return with a renewed sense of purpose.
This is multisensory learning at its best! Students engage with all their senses: seeing, doing, listening, touching, and reflecting; creating those powerful ‘aha!’ moments that stick with them long after the experience ends. This experience engages multiple learning modalities and establishes powerful memory pathways that foster a deeper understanding.
For example:
• Stellar Cartography will challenge students to navigate and map our neighborhoods—whether in this world or in the stars. Students will experience the world as true explorers—building maps and understanding the power of cartography to navigate new and unknown spaces.
• In The Architecture of Worship, students will visit diverse places of worship and gain an understanding of how these spaces are designed to provide insights into specific communities and the plurality of the Cleveland community.
• Cold Plunge into the Ice Age, where students go to the unique ecosystems and geological wonders of glacier groves, with hiking trips to some of Ohio’s most stunning natural features.
• Other courses explore local museums, historic sites, sport venues (Top Golf, anyone?), food systems, create and critique films. Each course will provide a vibrant and authentic context for learning.
We are proud to offer M-Term as part of our commitment to dynamic, student-centered education. It’s more than a break from routine—it’s a launchpad for deeper thinking and meaningful engagement. We look forward to seeing the ways in which your students grow through this exciting opportunity.
We’ll send reminders as the December 19, 2025 selection deadline approaches.
Warmly,
Rama Janamanchi
Academic Dean
Lawrence Upper School
Empire Building
Mr. LaRiccia
Course Description
Blending real-world history with pop culture, this course offers a thrilling look at the timeless forces of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal that shape civilizations and stories alike. Whether you’re a history buff or a movie fan, you’ll leave with a new understanding of what it takes to build an empire—and what causes them to fall.
Course Objectives
Students should finish the course with a general knowledge of some of the notable empires across history, how they rose to power, why they were so successful, and what factors caused their demise. They will identify with 90% accuracy a set of major world empires and place them in chronological order. They will describe at least 3 defining characteristics of selected empires (economic systems, military strategies, etc) with 80% accuracy. They will compare two empires, identifying at least 2 similarities and differences, using historical evidence.
VIDEO LINK
High
School
On Campus
Class Size: 8
Full Day
The Architecture of Worship
Mr. Kubinski
Course Description
This immersive M-Term course invites students to explore the rich history, architecture, art, and cultural significance of houses of worship across a variety of world religions. From cathedrals and mosques to synagogues and temples, students will investigate how these sacred spaces reflect the beliefs, practices, and values of the communities they serve.
The course centers on the convergence of religion, art, architecture, and community. Through guided study and on-site visits, students will gain a deeper understanding of how sacred spaces are designed, how they function, and how they influence and are influenced by the broader cultural context in which they exist.
Every day will follow a similar (perhaps an identical) format: classroom instruction/discussion, then a visit and tour of a sacred building, followed by work time in the classroom.
Course Objectives
To introduce students to the core beliefs and practices of major world religions through the lens of their sacred spaces
To analyze religious art and architecture as expressions of faith and culture
To foster respectful engagement with diverse religious communities
To develop observational, critical thinking, and reflective skills
High School
On & Off Campus
Class Size: 8
Full Day
Unscripted: The Art of Improv
Mrs. Galambos
Course Description
Unscripted: The Art of Improv is a dynamic, hands-on course designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of improvisational theater. Through interactive exercises and scene work, students will develop confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills— all in a supportive, high-energy environment.
Primary Focus:
Learning the core principles of improv, including “Yes, And,” active listening, and quick thinking
Building spontaneity, adaptability, and stage presence
Enhancing teamwork and communication through group exercises
Creating original scenes without scripts or rehearsal
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will: Develop the ability to think on their feet and embrace uncertainty
Improve their public speaking and storytelling skills
Gain self-confidence in performance and daily interactions
Understand the importance of collaboration and trust in improv scenes
VIDEO LINK
High School
Off Campus
Class Size: 7
Full Day
Cold Plunge into the Ice Age
Ms. Yelitza Nieves-Caraballo
Course Description
This 4-day course introduces students to the unique ecosystems and geological wonders of glacier groves, with off trail hiking trips to some of Ohio’s most stunning natural features.
It is designed for students who are ready to push themselves physically and explore the beauty and challenges of nature through adventurous outdoor excursions. Each hike will include physical exertion, such as elevation gains and traversing different landscapes and terrains.
The course emphasizes off trail hiking safety, environmental awareness, and the experience of polar plunging in safe, controlled environments.
Course Objectives
Introduce students to Ohio’s natural landscapes shaped by glaciers.
Teach off trail hiking safety
Engage students in physical challenges, such as polar plunging, to deepen their connection to nature.
Foster environmental awareness and the importance of preserving natural areas.
VIDEO LINK
High School
Off Campus
Class Size: 10
Full Day
Writing Down Your Story: Creative Writing & Publishing
Mrs. Merk
Course Description
This is a creative writing intensive focusing on helping students develop and amplify their writing voice. In this four-day workshop, students will generate new writing in the areas of creative nonfiction (personal essay) and fiction. Under the mentorship of experienced writers, students will learn to craft their work for publication and have an opportunity to self-publish for an online and in-person audience
Course Objectives
Generate new writing in the genres of fiction (short story) and creative nonfiction (short personal essay)
Read and discuss a wide range of published works
Learn to appropriately discuss and critique peer writing in roundtable discussions
Explore and develop each one’s unique writing voice
Publish a completed work in a class Substack (online longform content platform) for public viewing
Create a class “zine” (self-published collection of student work to distribute)
Meet with published authors and learn about the writing/publishing journey
VIDEO LINK
High School
On Campus
Class Size: 6
Full Day
Vibe Check Studio: A Collaborative Songwriting & Recording Experience
Mr. Herlein
Course Description
Vibe Check Studio will immerse students in the exciting process of modern music creation, from the initial spark of inspiration to the process of songwriting, recording, and producing a polished, shareable track. Working in groups of 2-3, students will collaborate on their song and gain handson experience with a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). Through practical writing, recording, and mixing activities, and an insightful visit to a working music studio, students will rapidly develop tangible skills in crafting their own original music.
Course Objectives
Throughout the song creation process, students will collaborate by actively valuing and integrating diverse ideas to produce a unified musical work.
Identify and describe the elements of song structure in popular music (e.g., verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus).
Write an original song using the ABABCB format.
Compose a basic melody that complements their lyrics and incorporates a hook.
Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental operations of a digital audio workstation (DAW).
Create a basic arrangement of their song using basic recording techniques.
Understand the principles of audio effects and how to apply them to their tracks.
Demonstrate an understanding of mixing principles (level balancing and panning) within the context of a pop song.
Gain an introductory understanding of the mastering process.
Export their song project from a DAW in a common audio format (e.g., MP3).
Describe the typical layout and workflow of a professional recording studio.
Provide and receive constructive feedback on their own and others’ creative work.
VIDEO LINK
High School
On & Off Campus
Class Size: 10
Full Day
City Walk the Land
Ms. Brown, Mrs. Weiss
Course Description
City Walk the Land is designed to immerse students in the culture of Cleveland. The primary focus will be exploring and appreciating a few areas of Cleveland, such as Downtown, Ohio City, Playhouse Square Theater District, and University Circle. Explore the famous Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, catch a play at Playhouse Square, set a new high score at Pins Mechanical Co., experience delicious food, create art, and bring it home with you! The course integrates hands-on experiences with pre-visit preparation and post-visit reflections to ensure students are not only experiencing these locations but deeply engaging with their educational value.
Course Objectives
Expose students to new cultural, artistic, and historical experiences.
Foster appreciation for the history and diversity of Cleveland.
Develop students’ skills in reflection, observation, and cultural analysis.
Encourage independence, teamwork, and responsible travel practices.
Connect real-world locations to broader academic concepts in history, science, and the arts.
VIDEO LINK
High School
Off Campus
Class Size: 10
Full Day
Slay with Clay
Ms. Pavlik, Mrs. Wilson
Course Description
Slay with Clay is a week-long, hands-on experience where you’ll dive into the ancient, empowering art of pottery, transforming simple earth into stunning, meaningful creations. You’ll get your hands dirty learning hand-building pottery techniques, feel the thrill of the pottery wheel in a professional studio, and draw inspiration from historical artifacts during exciting field trips to the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. You will also discover Kintsugi, the powerful Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, as you create your own unique pieces from broken ceramics, learning a valuable lesson in finding beauty and strength in imperfection. By the end of this course, you’ll have a collection of your own finished ceramic work and a deeper understanding of how art connects us across history and culture, leaving you feeling connected, creative, and ready to slay!
Course Objectives
Learn hand-building and wheel-throwing pottery techniques
Understand the historical and cultural role of ceramics across civilizations
Practice the Japanese art of Kintsugi, embracing imperfection as beauty
Reflect on personal growth through artistic expression
VIDEO LINK
High School
On & Off Campus
Class Size: 10
Full Day
Naturally Inspired
Mrs. Hall
Course Description
This course explores the intersection of art and the natural world. Students will engage in hands-on activities, fieldwork and reflective practices to discover how nature can inspire and become a medium for creative expression. Emphasis will be placed on observation, sustainable art-making and connecting with the environment through artistic lenses.
Course Objectives
Develop an understanding of how natural elements inspire artistic expression.
Create original works using found objects and materials.
Practice observational drawing, photography and journaling in nature settings.
Explore land art, nature mandalas and ephemeral art techniques.
Create a portfolio of photographed elements of art in nature and any nature based art projects.
VIDEO LINK
High School
On Campus
Class Size: 5
Full Day
Event-ure Awaits: Event Planning
Mrs. Watson, Mrs. Lyle
Course Description
Event planning would include the planning, decorating, baking or cooking of events like a brunch, backyard BBQ or Movie Night Menu. On the last day, students will invite a family member to attend and participate in our final event.
Course Objectives
Students will be able to plan an event, start to finish.
Students will gain experience cooking and baking.
Students will read recipes, adjust measurements and adapt for dietary restrictions.
Students will create event decor including centerpieces, backdrops and signage.
Students will execute an event for a family member.
VIDEO LINK
High School
On Campus
Class Size: 16
Full Day
Talking to the Dead:
Stories from Cleveland’s Historic Cemeteries
Mr. Rotman
Course Description
Students will explore two of Cleveland’s most historic cemeteries and conduct research to tell a story about one of its residents. We’ll first take walking tours of Lake View Cemetery and Erie Street cemetery, then we’ll return to the classroom to use archival research databases so that students can create a presentation detailing the life and achievements of a Clevelander they “met” on their tour.
Course Objectives
Students will understand the history and purpose of cemeteries
Students will analyze the physical and written aspects of individual gravesites to make inferences about the person(s) buried there
Students will conduct archival research to collect information about a Clevelander buried in the cemetery
Students will create and present a story describing the life of a person buried in the cemetery
VIDEO LINK
Middle School
Off Campus
Class Size: 8
Full Day
The Haunted History of Ohio
Mrs. Glontz, Mrs. Maust
Course Description
This course will explore the spooky and haunted history of various Ohio locations through literature, television shows, field trips to spooky places, and more.
Course Objectives
Students will gain an understanding of the historical context of their home state of Ohio.
Students will explore various spooky or haunted locations around Northeast Ohio to deepen their understanding of the subject.
Students will read and write about the history of the state of Ohio.
Middle School
On & Off Campus
Class Size: 18
Full Day
Lights, Camera, Action
Mr. Graham
Course Description
The primary focus of this course will be to explore the technical aspects of the production phase in filmmaking. Topics will include basic cinematography, sound design, lighting, and other aspects of visual storytelling. Students will work collaboratively to produce a short film of their own, and explore postproduction and festival submissions.
Course Objectives
Outline the basic steps, materials, and skills involved in the production of a film
Analyze elements of visual storytelling through watching films.
Discuss the application of defined skills in the construction of a film from a screenplay (storyboarding).
Create films using established roles, skills, and storyboard.
VIDEO LINK
Middle School
On Campus
Class Size: 8
Full Day
Courtroom Combat: The Mock Trial Experience
Mr. Richter
Course Description
Courtroom Combat: The Mock Trial Experience is a multi-day lesson in which students are immersed in a courtroom demonstration. Students will get to practice skills such as jury selection, opening/closing statements, utilizing evidence, etc. Whether you are participating as a lawyer, suspect, victim, or even bailiff, you will be involved in the legal process of forming an argument.
Course Objectives
The trial will take three days to complete. Students should be confident enough in their skills to run the last day of the trial without my guidance.
High School
On & Off Campus
Class Size: 12
Half Day
Dance 101
Mrs. Hotz
Course Description
This M-Term opportunity will provide the chance for students to be physically active while also learning the background of both hip hop and contemporary dance along with learning a small performance piece.
Course Objectives
By the end of this 4-day course, students will explore the cultural and historical backgrounds of both hip hop and contemporary dance, gain foundational knowledge of key movement styles in each genre, and develop the ability to perform a short routine in both styles. Through discussion, observation, and active participation, students will build an appreciation for the roots and evolution of each dance form while applying learned techniques in a culminating performance that showcases their understanding and creativity.
High School
Off Campus
Class Size: 7
Half Day
From Seeds to Table: Starting a Garden & Growing Tips
Mr. Starner
Course Description
This course is all about how to start a garden, including creating a soil mix, planting seeds, setting up grow lights, soil testing, building a planter box, reading planting maps, making compost tea and taking cuttings of plants to start a new plant with roots.
Course Objectives
Students will prep and plant lettuce seeds that should grow sprouts within 48 hours of planting
Students will set up a grow lighting system and hook up a seed warming mat
Students will perform and read a soil sample test
Students will build a planter box
Students will complete the steps of creating compost tea
Students will take plant cuttings and use root stimulant powder to create a new plant from an existing plant.
VIDEO LINK
High School & Middle School
On Campus
Class Size: 8
Half Day
The Joy of Reading for Recreation!
Ms. Garza
Course Description
Students will be reading for recreation (non-class related reading) ½ day for 4 days. This will give students an opportunity to have the time to immerse themselves into a book they want to read but don’t always have the time to actually sit down and read. This class will provide the luxury of time to get lost in a book and read with the only goal being enjoyment!
Students will be able to select a book of their choosing (with teacher’s approval) and we will provide the book physically, digitally for ebook readers, or audibly via Audible or Learning Ally. Students will be provided a super comfy environment (bean bag chairs and pillows to hold books up), gentle music in the background, and of course snacks for students to enjoy while they are reading. Each day will include a discussion of everyone’s books.
This course will be great for anyone who loves to read, hasn’t had the time to read for pleasure, or who likes reading and needs some gentle calming time during M-Term week.
Course Objectives
Students will select a book (with teacher approval) to read during M-Term
Students will read their book during their M-Term time.
Students will participate in daily discussions of their book
Students will end the week by giving an honest opinion of their book and either recommend or not recommend the book for others to enjoy.
Students will learn how to enjoy reading for recreation by picking the right book for them and setting up time and an environment that promotes pleasure reading.
VIDEO LINK
Middle School
On Campus
Class Size: 12
Half Day
Screenwriting
Mr. Coy
Course Description
In this hands-on screenwriting workshop, you’ll learn the art of crafting compelling stories that captivate both audiences and industry professionals. Through guided exercises, peer feedback, and in-depth discussions, you’ll explore key elements of screenwriting, including character development, structure, dialogue, and plot. This course will develop critical thinking skills in analyzing and revising scripts, with emphasis on storytelling clarity and emotional resonance. Students will also receive actionable feedback from peers and instructors to refine and elevate individual projects. With a hands-on introduction to writing a movie, students will be introduced to a potential career path or college electives that they may not have thought of previously.
Course Objectives
Develop Personal Storytelling Skills: A lot of writing is self reflection, so being able to dive into yourself and find a story to tell is half the battle. This will give students a sense of identity, and give them tools to reflect on their life to this point. Their story might be a comedy, but it still shows a part of who they are.
Encourage Creative Problem Solving: With writing in a workshop scenario like this one, you will not always get exactly what you want from the story. However, you can blend ideas with others and create a new possibility neither one of you might have thought of. This might be an outlandish idea or a glaringly obvious one that fits the plot and theme of your piece, but being able to think that process through is important.
Collaboration and Peer Feedback: As mentioned above, blending ideas in a workshop scenario is important. You not only give your perspective, but you also see how another student could view the exact same scene as you. Receiving and giving constructive feedback is also a key component in a workshop that will be enhanced. Trying to find positives that work, and also handling aspects that do not quite work with the same attitude and providing feedback that is not overwhelming and can be helpful for your peers.
Utilize Assistive Technology and Resources: With using Celtx students are introduced to a whole new writing software they have never seen before. This will provide them a challenge when it comes to finding the different keybinds for things, but with those challenges it might unlock a new format that they love. Screenwriting is different from writing a novel because it is reliant heavily on dialogue between characters and the visual aspects. In a novel you most often have some insider information that clues you in on relationships, backstories, or personal feelings. Here they are challenged with making those things present, but not expository.
VIDEO LINK
High School
On Campus
Class Size: 7
Half Day
Birdie Brothers
Mr. Thompson, Mr. Thompson
Course Description
Birdie Brothers is a course for beginners and experienced golfers who are interested in learning, playing and enjoying the game of golf. The course provides a supportive environment where students can develop their golf skills, learn course etiquette, and explore the rules and strategies of the game.
Members will participate in practice sessions, on campus activities, and off campus outings to local driving ranges and golf courses when possible. The course emphasizes sportsmanship, personal growth, and teamwork, while encouraging a lifelong appreciation for the sport. No prior experience is necessary—just a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Course Objectives
Develop fundamental golf skills
Understanding rules and etiquette
Promote sportsmanship and integrity
Improve physical and mental fitness
Track and evaluate your personal progress
VIDEO LINK
High School
Off Campus
Class Size: 8
Half Day
Cosmic Coordinates
Ms. Banziger
Course Description
“Cosmic Coordinates” will introduce students to the fascinating intersection of cartography and astronomy. Through hands-on practices, students will learn about the art and science of reading and creating maps of our world and the stars. Students will explore these concepts by investigating current and ancient maps, using maps to navigate our campus, creating maps with contemporary mapping tools, and designing a map of our stars.
Course Objectives
To learn that maps are diagrams that represent an area of land, sea, or space and how they show the relationships between the geography and wildlife/ human life.
Use correct color and contrast when creating topographic maps. To learn the basic observable phenomena of astronomy.
To explore how discoveries in astronomy have implications for how we have come to view our place in the Universe
To apply skills of creating maps and what we learned about our stars to accurately chart constellations in our hemisphere.
VIDEO LINK
High School
On Campus
Class Size: 10
Half Day
You Make It! You Take It!
Mrs. Sternad, Ms. Garza
Course Description
Students will take a hands-on approach to learn to make things by using power tools, engravers, Cricut tools, and various other tools and equipment to create unique and individualized projects during this ½ day/4 day experience.
Course Objectives
Students will learn about DIY Tools and Equipment Safety by participating in an in-house safety course.
Students will create custom cutting boards using precut wood pieces and use miter saws, planers, and laser engraving techniques to customize their boards.
Students will create custom t-shirt designs by using Cricut cutting machines and iron-on vinyl as well as a heat press.
Students will create an etched stainless steel tumbler by using a combination of stripping chemicals and Cricut vinyl.
VIDEO LINK
High School
On Campus
Class Size: 8
Half Day
Introspective Films
Mr. Coy
Course Description
In Introspective Films, students will explore how cinema serves as a powerful medium for selfdiscovery. Through the lens of four distinctive films—I Saw the TV Glow, La La Land, Spirited Away, and more—we will examine the journeys of individuals as they navigate the challenges of personal growth, societal expectations, and internal conflict.
Each film offers a unique perspective on the universal process of self-exploration, from the turbulent transition of adolescence to the deep introspection and reconciliation of past trauma. We will analyze how these films represent themes of identity, belonging, and transformation, and how the characters’ quests for self-knowledge mirror broader societal struggles.
The key objectives for the course would be critical thinking and analyzing the different characters in each film, connecting these films to larger societal topics, and providing introspection for students in their own lives. These are key things for juniors and seniors going into the next stage of their life where changes are constant and vast. Learning to navigate these changes through a familiar medium will provide real connections and ways for them to handle these moments.
Course Objectives
Critical Thinking and Analyzing: Through in-depth discussions of characters motivations and goals students can see reflections of themselves potentially in each film. This will also include diving into the symbolism, cinematography, and subtle nuances of each film. These films also connect to other societal issues as well, so students can make those connections as well.
Developing Personal Growth Strategies: Through a movie like Good Will Hunting, students are confronted with how past traumas develop who we are as an adult. This movie shows strategies for them to not let their traumas shape their whole identity as an adult, and how they can change for the better.
VIDEO LINK
High School
On Campus
Class Size: 6
Half Day
Taste Buds
Mr. Thompson, Mr. Thompson
Course Description
Unlock the secrets of exceptional dining in Taste Buds, a course dedicated to the art and science of food critiquing. Students will explore the fundamentals of taste, texture, presentation, and culinary techniques while developing a sophisticated palate and critical eye. Through hands-on tastings, restaurant visits, food writing assignments, and guest lectures from industry professionals, students will learn how to evaluate food thoughtfully and articulate their experiences with clarity and creativity. Whether aspiring food critics, chefs, or simply passionate food lovers, students will leave this course with a deeper appreciation for cuisine and the skills to express it.
Course Objectives
Evaluate food based on taste, texture, aroma, appearance, and presentation.
Understand and apply basic culinary terminology and food preparation techniques to provide more informed critiques.
Construct well-organized food critiques that are descriptive, insightful, and engaging.
Analyze restaurant experiences considering service, atmosphere, menu design, and overall value.
Recognize cultural and regional influences on flavor profiles and dining practices.
VIDEO LINK
High School
Off Campus
Class Size: 8
Half Day
Par-fect Challenge
Ms. Polaski
Course Description
This 4-day mini golf course is a fun, interactive experience designed for middle school students to explore the sport of mini golf through hands-on play, skillbuilding, and creativity. The primary focus is on developing fundamental putting techniques, understanding game rules and etiquette, and fostering teamwork and sportsmanship.
Throughout the course, students will not only learn how to play but will also take on the exciting challenge of designing and building their own custom mini golf holes using everyday materials. By the final day, students will showcase their creations in a full-class tournament, blending friendly competition with imaginative course design.
Course Objectives
Learn and apply basic mini golf skills: grip, stance, alignment, and shot control.
Develop sportsmanship, communication, and scorekeeping abilities.
Collaborate in teams to design and construct creative mini golf holes.
Compete in a full mini golf tournament using student-created holes.
