Back to School Night

List of 19 items.

• The Blueprint - Dalia Aidoo

  Come explore DNA, the molecule known as the "blueprint of life," along with genes and their expression. We'll explore how CRISPR technology is being used to edit genes and revolutionize medicine, alongside gene therapy and other advancements shaping the future of genetics. No prior biology knowledge required!
  
  With Dalia Aidoo, Head of Science Department and Upper School Science Teacher

• From Callimachus to Cavafy: 2000 Years of Greek Poetry - Andy Aronson

  Ever wonder how the Latin alphabet got its start? Or how ancient Roman poets were inspired by their Greek predecessors? We’ll dive into that story together—no prior knowledge needed! You'll learn just enough of the Greek alphabet to explore short excerpts from two influential poets: Callimachus, who shaped Roman poetry, and Constantine Cavafy, whose work echoed through Alexandria nearly two thousand years later. Together, we’ll discover the lasting impact of these Greek poets on both ancient Rome and the modern world.
  
  With Andy Aronson, Upper School Latin Teacher

• Shakespeare - Sara Beasley

  The name “Shakespeare” encompasses a family name, powerful language, fascinating implications, a trove of scholarship, a set of values, and a long and varied history of performance. Still, there is more to be said and more to be considered. During our back to school evening, we will explore a selection of Shakespeare's sonnets and a couple of lively scenes from one of his plays, taking care to read deeply and to speak cogently in response to our observations. We will also do a bit of light acting, leading with humor and a sense of fun!
  
  With Sara Beasley, Head of the English and World Literature Department and Upper School English Teacher

• Were the "Dark Ages" Really Dark? - Julia Brice

  Was the time period between 400 CE and 1400 CE a time of "cultural decay" and decline? Who gets to define what is a “Dark Age?” In this lesson, historians will analyze primary and secondary sources to explore the validity of the term “Dark Ages” to describe Europe from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Renaissance.
  
  With Julia Brice, Middle School History Teacher

• Data-Driven Motion: Predict the Path! - Aruna Chavali

  Learn the fundamentals of using motion sensors to predict and analyze graphs of motion. You will explore how motion sensors capture real-time data on velocity, acceleration, and displacement. Through hands-on experiments, you’ll learn to interpret sensor data, plot it on graphs, and understand the relationships between different motion parameters. By predicting motion outcomes and comparing them with sensor data, you’ll deepen your understanding of kinematic principles. The class aims to build analytical skills and foster a strong grasp of the physics behind everyday movements!
  
  With Aruna Chavali, Upper School Science Teacher

• Wonders of the Pascal Triangle - Kaushiki Dunusinghe

  The history of Pascal's triangle dates back far before Pascal’s time. Come explore the hidden wonders of this seemingly simple, yet so mathematically rich triangle of numbers and learn how it shows up in surprising ways across the math curriculum.
  
  With Kaushiki Dunusinghe, Head of the Math Department and Math Teacher

• Enlightened Discussions - Rachael Flores

  Writers, thinkers, and philosophers in 18th century Europe often met to discuss the most provocative questions about life and liberty of their day - so you can too! This class will explore selected readings from 18th century Enlightenment thinkers and engage in a structured discussion to tackle the intellectual and ethical dilemmas that shaped the modern world. No prior knowledge of the Enlightenment is needed to participate.
  
  With Rachael Flores, Head of Upper School and Upper School History Teacher

• Advanced Physics: Our Entangled Universe - Scott Godsen

  In the 1930’s physicists discovered the strange state of elementary particles that allows them to be connected to each other somehow across vast reaches of space. Einstein famously referred to it as “spooky action at a distance,” now known as entanglement. In the years since, scientists have discovered wild examples of it in nature, including bird migration, as well as developed applications, such as quantum cryptography. Come and get tied up in this bizarre world of elementary particles!
  
  With Scott Godsen, Upper School Science Teacher

• Can 10 Be Prime? A Prime Investigation - Michael Gold

  Join us as we explore the intriguing world of prime numbers. We’ll dive into an idea called the Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, which reveals how every whole number can be broken down in a unique way. We’ll also venture into other number systems to discover what being "prime" means in different contexts. This class is for anyone curious about the hidden patterns in numbers—no advanced math skills needed!
  
  With Michael Gold, Upper School Math Teacher

• Unlocking your Hidden Musician - Esther Harris

  Discover the joy of music in a fun, interactive workshop designed for everyone—no experience required! Together, we'll explore how our voice, body, and simple instruments can create music. We'll tap into your creativity, spark critical thinking, and learn from one another in a relaxed and supportive environment. Come with an open mind and leave with a new appreciation for your hidden musical talents!
  
  With Esther Harris, Choral Director

• Be Illuminated by Improv - Sean Harris

  This class will introduce you to the fundamental concept of “Yes, And” in improvisation. Through group exercises and games, we will explore impulse and spontaneity, active listening, being present in the moment, taking risks, finding agreement (making and accepting offers) and other basic building blocks of improvisation, while in a supportive environment that embraces the idea of trusting yourself and failing with joy.
  
  With Sean Harris, Middle School Drama Teacher

• Ukulele 4 All! - Paul Hennessee and Susan Mislove

  The ukulele, often called “the happiest instrument in the world!” Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, this class is designed to enhance your musical skills and confidence. Discover the joy of playing this portable, versatile and easy to learn 4-string instrument in a friendly and supportive environment. Instruments and materials will be provided. Come and jam with us!
  
  With Paul Hennessee and Susan Mislove, Lower School Music Teachers

• P vs. NP: The Most Important Unsolved Problem in Computer Science - Justin Iwerks

  At the heart of computer science lies a seemingly innocent question: Can problems with solutions that are quickly verifiable also be quickly solved? Surprisingly, no one knows the answer! Come explore a fascinating problem that has transformed our understanding of computation and possesses far-reaching implications to our daily lives.
  
  With Justin Iwerks, Head of the Computer Science Department and Upper School Computer Science Teacher

• Taxicab Geometry - Michele Murphy

  It's Saturday and you need to run several errands around your neighborhood. When you have a number of different stops to make, do you consider the most efficient path to take? What factors do you consider? As you approach the corner, do you consider whether it will be more efficient to go straight, then right, or right, then straight? This class will introduce you to Taxicab Geometry, which will help us think and talk about the answers to these questions. And then, perhaps those answers will suggest new questions. See you there (and until then, think about how many ways you might get from point A to B as you walk Manhattan's grid).
  
  With Michele Murphy, Director of Curriculum and Math Teacher

• The World We Inherit, the World We Create, the World We Imagine - Camar Robinson

  At the root of our study of literature, we will use the following question as a guide to our learning: “How does fiction provoke readers to examine the tension among perspective, position, and power?” In other words, we will investigate how the point of view, priorities, and purpose implied within an author’s work support us in being responsible and responsive to the world around us. We will consider how authors of the word inspire us to be authors and readers of our world.
  
  With Camar Robinson, Middle School English Teacher

• Deconstructing the Visual: A Deep Dive into Artistic Meaning - Marcos Rosales

  In this class, we will embark on a journey to uncover the hidden meanings behind visual artworks. By examining a variety of works from different eras and styles, we will explore how artists use visual language to convey complex ideas, emotions, and social commentary.
  
  With Marcos Rosales, Head of Visual Arts Department and Upper School Visual Arts Teacher

• Gettin' Gelli with It - Melissa Tolve

  Discover the art of Gelli plate printing in this hands-on workshop. Using a Gelli plate—a flexible, reusable printing surface—you'll explore various techniques to create distinctive prints on paper. Learn to experiment with colors, textures, and patterns as you create unique prints on paper. Results are immediate and addictive! Learn how to cut stencils, ink the plate, add and subtract visual layers, and produce finished prints. No prior experience is necessary; just bring your curiosity and willingness to experiment. By the end, you'll have a series of unique prints and the confidence to continue exploring printmaking on your own.
  
  With Melissa Tolve, Lower School Art Teacher

• Interior and Exterior Windows - Felicia Wilks

  In this class, we will explore the ways fiction challenges us to reflect on our own lives and perspectives. By reading a short narrative together, we will investigate how authors use their craft to influence our understanding of both ourselves and others. Participants will be encouraged to connect the author’s storytelling techniques to their personal journeys and to consider how fiction can prompt us to think critically about human experiences. By the end, you’ll discover how stories can open unexpected windows into both yourself and the world around you.
  
  With Felicia Wilks, Head of School and Upper School English Teacher

• Dots and Lines - Eric Zahler

  Ever wonder how Google Maps comes up with directions to get you from point A to point B? Or how you might save gas on a roadtrip to the 50 U.S. state capitals? Come learn how an 18th century question led to the creation of a mathematical field that models some of the most important problems of the 21st century.
  
  With Eric Zahler, Director of Teaching and Learning and Upper School Math Teacher