J-Term 2025

-term 2025

c o u r s e

s e l e c t i o n

g u i d e

Dear Upper School Families, We are excited to present this year’s J-term program that is part of every Upper School student’s experience. For 2025, the seven school days following winter break will be this year’s J-Term: Monday, January 6 through Tuesday, January 14. Some international travel dates could begin prior to January 6, and the travel dates specific to each course are noted in the course descriptions. There will be no Upper School classes held on Wednesday, January 15 and the second semester classes will begin on Thursday, January 16.

The goal of J-Term is manifold: • Expose students to a kaleidoscope of topics that we cannot offer in the regular curriculum and that they might not otherwise explore • Allow faculty and other experts to share their special interests and passions • Provide authentic, hands-on learning experiences with deep-dive focus • Spark new interests, tap into aptitudes students may not know they have, develop different skill sets, and broaden perspectives • Create alternative contexts to develop leadership and problem-solving skills • Collaborate across disciplines and grade levels • Provide an opportunity for faculty and students to build meaningful relationships in new ways • Take an alternative learning break between traditional semesters • Create “different weather” at a time of year when days and weeks feel long and dreary In short, J-Term provides one more way to fulfill Prairie’s mission to nurture the creativity, interests, and abilities of every student and to inspire students to explore, thrive, and add value individually and in collaboration with others.

Participation in J-Term is a graduation requirement and appears each year on the transcript with a grade. Courses include individual and collaborative work, reflections, presentations, and other student work products, and final grades will be recorded as High Pass, Pass, Low Pass, or Fail.

Enrollment will begin with students’ course selections and every effort will be made to place students in one of their four choices. For oversubscribed courses, a lottery

system may be used. Enrollment will intentionally blend grade levels. Serious disciplinary incidents prior to or during J-Term may result in forfeiture of certain J-Term courses, including fees already paid, and course reassignment.

Some courses, especially those that include travel, require a high level of maturity and responsibility. Parents, please consider your student’s readiness for these experiences.

While all other courses are open to students of all grade levels and aim to mix grade levels, international travel courses are only open to 10th -12th graders. Students with special needs should select courses in which they can participate fully without compromising their wellbeing. Winter-season varsity athletes should consult their coaches now about any conflicts with J-Term travel or other course activities and select courses accordingly. Students considering travel courses should be aware that hotel stays may book up to 4 students per room (single sex). Travel, food and lodging are included for all trips unless specifically noted in the course selection guide.

J-Term course fees are not part of the school’s Inclusive Fee because costs vary widely.

Families who receive more than 50% financial aid are eligible for J-Term aid. Only courses whose estimated cost exceeds $500 are eligible for financial aid grants. Up to 50% of the estimated cost may be awarded. Please note that the J-Term aid budget will be weighted towards juniors and seniors. Because funds are limited and aid is not guaranteed, students must be able to pay in full for at least two of their four selected courses. We strongly encourage students to invest in J-Term by getting summer jobs and embracing other opportunities to fund J-Term experiences.

Families will be notified about payment for on-campus J-term courses through the FACTS online billing system. The amount due will be posted in FACTS at the beginning of October and the payment will be due at the end of October.

Payment deadlines for all travel courses will be communicated by the faculty trip leaders.

We hope you share our excitement about J-Term 2025 and look forward to the enriching experiences represented in these pages.

Mari Grobschmidt Head of Upper School

Tactics, Strategy, & Planetary Annihilation Building A Board Game Empire Examine how fleets, armies, and empires conquer and sustain themselves in history by playing some of the world’s most complicated and historically-accurate board games. We will examine scenarios such as WWII fighter combat, the Roman Empire, the American Civil War, and a fictional contest for galactic supremacy in order to better understand some of the timeless questions of historical analysis. Why do the winners win?

Why do the losers lose? How much does a single battle really affect the course of history? We will also discuss game design and try out some of our own ideas.

Cost: $0 Instructor: Mr. Huggins

Design as Art Explore the world of graphic design as we investigate what it means to create beautiful and functional digital art. We will learn the ins and outs of Adobe InDesign and Photoshop as we design posters, album and book covers, zines, advertisements, and art pieces.

In addition to designing, we will learn about design history, typography, color theory, the Bauhaus, the Swiss International Style, and other important concepts and techniques. During this intensive class, we will visit the Rev Pop design firm in Milwaukee as well as the Bay View Printing Co. For our final project, we will create a physical monograph/portfolio of our work.

Cost: $100 - $175 Instructor: Mr. Breiwick

Theatre in London & Dublin Spend a week across the pond for an immersive theatre experience in London and Dublin. Our European adventure will include performances at the West End and the National Theatre as well as two West End theatre workshops that could cover topics such as stage combat, acting for film, set design, stage makeup, improvisation, and more! A walking tour will provide stories from 400 years of London’s illustrious theatre history, including a visit to Shakespeare’s Globe.

The adventure continues in Dublin with a performance and workshop at the Abbey Theatre and a Celtic Nights experience with world-champion Irish dancers and musicians. This trip has been carefully crafted to be enjoyed by theatre people of all levels: experts, appreciators, novices, and those who just want to try something new.

Cost: $3,966 - $4,400 (lunches not included) Instructors: Mrs. Roncone and Mr. Paulsen Maximum Enrollment: 20 Travel Dates: 1/4/2025 – 1/12/2025

The Hidden & Haunted Exploring Door County Join us as we unearth forgotten stories, explore hidden gems, and delve into the natural and artistic history of Door County, Wisconsin! We will mix on-campus learning with a four-day trip to Door County for expert tutorials and hands-on experiences in Wisconsin’s best-known vacation spot. Explore the Ridges Sanctuary and meet local historians. Care for a lighthouse and trod forgotten paths. Test your bravery at the area’s most haunted mansion, and visit the state’s only designated Dark Sky Park. Learn from local glass artisans and create your own art inspired by our adventures! Sound exciting?

Then strap on your snowshoes, grab your hot chocolate, and get ready for a one-of-a-kind, behind-the-scenes Door County experience.

Cost: $475 – $550 Instructors: Sra. Lane and Ms. Davis Travel Dates: 1/7/2025 – 1/10/2025 (on campus 1/6, 1/13, and 1/14)

The Woodworking and Whittling Workshop Explore the rewarding intersection of creativity and craftsmanship in this exciting introduction to woodworking. This course is a beginner’s exploration, focusing on safety, tool proficiency, and techniques.

With hands-on training, guest woodworker demonstrations, and ample independent practice, students will use both power and hand tools to create personal designs. Each participant will contribute to a collective project while honing skills that will translate seamlessly into their individual work. These unique creations will not only become cherished keepsakes once our class has concluded, but will also serve as representations of students’ newfound abilities in woodcraft. Join us to sculpt your imagination into reality and build a lasting connection with your peers and the world of woodworking!

Cost: $300 – $400 Instructors: Mr. Bayer and Mr. Perez Maximum Enrollment: 10 students

Prairie Project Runway Learn to Design and Sew Your Own Clothing Do you have a passion for fashion? Do you want to express your individuality and reduce your carbon footprint? The benefits of mending, upcycling used garments, and making your own clothing are endless!

In this workshop, students will learn a variety of sewing basics from reattaching buttons, hemming pants, and mending holes to cutting patterns, using a sewing machine, and adding embellishments and embroidery.

Students will initially complete small projects (scrunchies, headbands, pencil cases, and/or drawstring backpacks), followed by sewing cozy pajama pants before selecting their own clothing pattern to cut and construct. Students will also deconstruct, reconstruct, and redesign clothing items from home and local thrift stores. This workshop will culminate in a showcase where students will each display three unique designs.

Cost: $200 – $250 Instructor: Mrs. Gilbertson

Discover China A Cultural Immersion Journey in Beijing, Chengdu, and Shanghai Embark on an immersive journey through China, delving deep into its culture, language, and heritage.

From Beijing’s bustling streets to Chengdu’s serene landscapes and Shanghai’s vibrant metropolis, experience a blend of tradition and innovation. Explore iconic landmarks like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall. Engage in cultural classes, calligraphy, and Tai Chi. Volunteer as a Panda Ranger in Chengdu, savor Sichuan cuisine, and marvel at the Sichuan Opera. Join us as we unravel China’s mysteries – register now for the adventure of a lifetime!

Cost: $4,980 Instructors: Dr. Gao Lourigan and Ms. Wojahn Maximum Enrollment: 18 students; 8 students minimum Travel Dates: 1/3/2025 – 1/13/2025

Scientific Illustration Where Science and Art Meet!

Explore the intersection of information and imagination!

Scientific illustration blends the beauty of art with the wonders of science as we practice bringing complex scientific concepts to visual life. Sketch the outlines of natural history, capture the intricacies of human anatomy, and reconstruct extinct species. Students will create their own unique bodies of work, ranging from the detailed illustrations found in scientific publications to comics, cartoons, and children’s books. Aspiring illustrators, beginning scientists, and everyone in between can learn to communicate about our natural world through the lens of art while exploring this unique and creative career path!

Cost: $0 Instructor: Dr. Matz ’06

ASL For Our World A Beginner’s American Sign Language Class Come join fellow Prairie students as we learn the language that requires NO SPEAKING: American Sign Language! Over 2 million people sign ASL in the United States, and deaf people consist of about 4% of the U.S. population; that’s over 11 million people! We will learn how to fingerspell, how to have basic conversations with deaf and hard-of-hearing people, and will acquire over 100 new vocabulary words. We’ll take field trips to local ASL programs and meet and interact with new deaf friends. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to learn something totally fun and completely new!

Cost: $0 Instructor: Sr. Oliveras

From Disc Jockey to Entertainer Have you ever seen a live event with a DJ and wondered, “Wow, how did they get there??” Well, this course is the answer to your question! We will discuss the history of disc jockeys, the development of technology and equipment, and the skills that are used to mix music live. This experience is a fantastic fit for someone who is interested in music and excited to look at it through a different lens. By participating in this course, you will acquire your very own DJ deck and have the opportunity to help DJ the Winter Formal dance.

Cost: $200 – $250 Instructor: Mr. Friedman Maximum Enrollment: 10

Zoology & Ethics Have you ever walked around a zoo, aquarium, or nature sanctuary and wondered how the caretakers ensure the animals are healthy and happy? This course will explore these ethical questions as we look at animals in various facilities and analyze how they are cared for both physically and emotionally. Through visits to the Racine and Milwaukee Zoos, the Shedd Aquarium, and other animal care centers, students will take a deeper look at how some of these animals may live in their natural habitat. This course will require some time outdoors.

Cost: $250 – $300 Instructor: Mrs. Schafer

Philadelphia Exploring America’s Past, Reflecting on the Present Philadelphia, steeped in social and cultural history, provides insight into the people and events that have impacted American history. The goal of this course is for students to gain an understanding of some of the more culturally-significant places and events that have shaped our shared American experience. Our first week will be spent in Philadelphia, staying in the Old City/ Society Hill area, and exploring its history and culture.

The final day will be spent at Prairie, devoted to building a travel journal. We will explore the Penn Plan, American Independence, Reading Terminal Market, the Walnut Street Theater, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra. We will also tour Franklin University and take an excursion to Eastern State Penitentiary – the world’s first true penitentiary.

Cost: $1,700 – $1,800 (meals not included) Instructors: Mr. Geary and Ms. Robinson Maximum Enrollment: 10 Travel Dates: 1/6/2025 - 1/11/2025 (on campus 1/14)

Fiber Arts Creative Workshop Working with fibers preserves rich traditional art, heritage, and culture, helping pass on skills and talents that are associated with people’s lifestyles and histories.

In this course, participants will explore the place of creative crafts within the world of traditional art by working with a variety of fiber and textile materials.

Introductory lessons will offer students an opportunity to practice basic skills and techniques in working with wool, fabric, and thread. A closer look at contemporary fiber artists will be used as inspiration for individual creative works to be executed in the final days of the course. Workshop components may include but will not be limited to needle felting, geometric string art, fabric collage, rope bowls, and contemporary stitching.

Cost: $0 Instructors: Ms. Schmitz and Dr. Weaver

The Heat is On! Blown Glass & Welded Metal Sculpture Experience a slice of what makes Prairie arts so unique while staying warm in the Wisconsin winter! Learn the art of glassblowing, beadmaking, and fusing in the Dave Drewek Glass Studio with Ms. Wolf-Mattick. Pair this experience with metal welding techniques taught

by Prairie’s Artist-in-Residence, Mr. Reid ’73. Students will combine these two mediums in a final one-of-akind sculpture, adding handmade glass components to welded steel wire structures. Time to turn up the heat and get creative!

Cost: $150-$200 Instructors: Ms. Wolf-Mattick and Mr. Reid ’73 Maximum Enrollment: 12 students

Southwest Trip Desert Nature & Culture Calling all outdoor adventurers! Are you ready to fall asleep under more stars than you’ve ever imagined after singing and telling stories around a campfire? Does waking up to a delicious camp breakfast then hiking in the Arizona desert or “sky islands” sound like your jam?

How about learning about the past and future of the people, plants, animals, and geology of this unique region? Then check out the J-Term Southwest Trip for a life-changing outdoor education experience.

Please note: • This is a phone-free trip.

• You will be sleeping outdoors or in a tent in temperatures that may dip below freezing.

Appropriate gear will be provided, including tents and a zero degree-rated sleeping bag.

Cost: $1,850 – $2,200 Instructors: Dr. Wheeler and Mrs. Jensen Travel Dates: 1/7/2025 – 1/13/2025 (on campus 1/6/2025)

Laughing Together The Art of Improv!

Ever forgotten to do your homework? Ever seen someone choking and you panicked? Then this improv course is for you! We will work with MKE’s premier improv troupe, ComedySportz – training on their stage in MKE during the day, attending a ComedySportz show on Friday night, improv-ing our skills with their pros in the John Mitchell Theatre, and putting on our own show!

Over 24 hours of direct instruction, improv games, and total hilarity. If you want to have fun and learn how to make people laugh, then get your FRIENDS and sign up for improv!

Cost: $375 – $450 Instructor: Mr. Peterson Maximum Enrollment: 14 students; 12 students minimum

K-Pop to Kimchi Adventures in Korean Culture & Cuisine Experience Korea without leaving the Midwest! Join us in this exciting adventure through Korean cuisine and K-culture! Visit a Super H Mart, the largest Korean grocery store in the Midwest, with a food court that features traditional standards but also Korean fast food chains (check out Kong Dogs – Korean corn dogs!).

Save room for dessert at the Village Creamery and its selection of Asian ice cream flavors and treats such as Halo Halo. Then it’s time to cook banchan, bulgogi, and buchimgae with our groceries from H Mart. Field trips will also include the Korean Cultural Center in Wheeling, where we will take a K-pop dance class and participate in a Korean barbeque. Additionally, our project will feature a Korean movie day, with a sampling of some of the critically-acclaimed films that have come out of Korea in the last 10 years. Squid Games anyone?

Cost: $300 – $350 Instructor: Mrs. Berkey

California Dreamin’ This J-Term class is designed to study the unique culture of Southern California. Why have so many people been drawn to SoCal? Why are there so many songs about it? Other than the beautiful weather, what makes Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego uniquely American and uniquely Californian? This course will include a week of travel as we head to Southern California to visit important cultural and historical hallmarks as well as college campuses. Highlights include: Joshua Tree National Park, Universal Studios, The Getty Museum, Catalina Island, and SeaWorld.

Students must be comfortable traveling on small boats and hiking various terrains.

Cost: $3,750 Instructors: Dr. Coffman and Mrs. Lofquist Johnson Travel Dates: one week of travel beginning 1/4/2025 (travel dates may shift to 1/5 or 1/6 based on flight availability and cost); on-campus 1/13/2025 – 1/14/2025 Maximum Enrollment: 20 students

COMICS! COMIX!!

COMMICKS!!!

Put one picture next to another, you have comics! Link words to images, you have comics! Create pages that connect space and time – all in an arrangement of static frames – and you really have comics! Our class will examine this global art form, breaking it down into its basic pieces and then putting it back together as we create our own graphic storytelling. We will create comics from image editing software, silk screens and multimedia, Risograph printing technologies, and good old pen and ink, all under the guidance of professional cartoonists and printers. We will also look at how some of the best comic artists of the past century have invented and changed this medium.

Cost: $200 Instructor: Dr. Sattler

Financial Fluency Should you use a debit or credit card? Is it better to buy or lease your first car? Rent or buy your first home? What is the best age to start investing? These are questions that many TPS alumni have said they wish they had learned before graduating, and this is your chance to explore these important topics! This course will look into insurance, financial planning, bill paying, taxes, mortgages, investments, shopping on a budget, and more. Students will head into the community to explore these real-life decisions.

Cost: $0 Instructors: Mrs. Santalucia and Mr. Johnson