Classroom Spotlight
Chinese I Students Tour Harney & Sons
Ms. Beattie's Chinese I students traveled to nearby Millerton, NY, where they enjoyed a tour of the Harney & Sons Fine Tea international headquarters given by Vice President Mike Harney. Later, students deepened their appreciation and understanding of Chinese teas through a tasting of 15 teas organized by Mr. Harney.
Students marveled at the sheer mass of teas and fine ingredients throughout the warehouses; they saw (and enjoyed smelling) where teas were being blended; and they were transfixed by the complex packaging machinery.”–Susie Beattie
“The most interesting aspect of the visit was the opportunity to observe the tea-making process at Harney & Sons and every bit of detail that goes into creating their blends. We also had the opportunity to have a close look at their ingredients originating from China and East Asia.
The tea that caught my eye was their 'Golden Monkey,’ a Chinese black tea from Fujian province featuring large black tea leaves with golden tips. This tea interested me as it was similar to an incredibly rare Chinese tea called Jinjunmei (金駿眉), also from Fujian province.
I have a newfound knowledge of China's extreme impact on the tea industry. As the world's largest tea-producing country, China's exports play a pivotal role in modern blends throughout the world to this day.”–Luka Davis ’27
The Fall Dance Concert showcased a variety of dance styles including hip-hop, jazz, Chinese Classical Dance, ballet, K-pop, and tap.
This season’s routines are full of energy, strength, and technical skills that highlight our dancers' versatility. The team is committed to growth, disciplined in their approach, and consistently rises to each challenge. They are supportive of each other and always stay focused on their common goal of improving as a team.”–Madison Bagby, Dance Program Director
A recording of the performance will be available here after Thanksgiving break.
Pro Vita Programming
Pro Vita programming happens throughout the year and underscores our school motto—Learning—not just for school but for life. These events and visiting speakers provide students with opportunities to explore the compelling issues of our time and to become more skilled, empathetic, inclusive, curious, and confident learners and community members.
Solidarity & Coalition Building Seminars: October
Students worked in small groups led by a pair of student leaders and a faculty member to discuss the idea of community and complete activities inspired by the National Student Diversity and Leadership Conference.
Each pair of student leaders reported what their group had taken away from the discussion at a subsequent school meeting. Here’s what the Bears said:
Guest Speaker Justin Brice: November
Justin Brice is a visual artist known for his work on ecological issues. Brice spent 20 years as a photojournalist with National Geographic, has flown several missions with NASA scientists, and frequently collaborates with the United Nations. He shared a compelling presentation on the human impact on the planet within the context of the current ecological crisis.
Brice’s work, WE ARE THE ASTEROID has been displayed across the U.S. and abroad, and came to campus earlier this week to coincide with his talk, sponsored in collaboration with the Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program. Brice encouraged students to channel anxiety into art and action and to join in with others as environmental stewards. After his talk, he had lunch with students in AP Environmental Science and discussed ways to make a positive impact.
Next up in December: "Drop Everything and Discover Your Joy!"
New Date for Class Rings
Friday, December 1st
Samuel Shapiro ‘08 will be on campus to share class ring samples and sizing. Stop by his table in the Jack on Friday, December 1, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. to order.
Password: gobears!
Questions? Contact Samuel Shapiro at hello@trustinsam.com or call 914.200.4584.
You'll often find Bears walking along Berkshire's Campus Loop, a one-mile stretch around campus. Join Jeff Depelteau for a walk along the Campus Loop to meet some of the people (and learn about the places and programs) that make Berkshire such a special place. Mr. Depelteau and physics teacher Mike Dalton, go for a walk along the Campus Loop.