As the Gill St. Bernard’s motto states, “The world is our classroom.”
The Spring Unit Global & Experiential Learning Program is one of Gill St. Bernard’s signature programs. Serving as a cornerstone of our curriculum and educational philosophy, it crosses disciplinary boundaries and challenges students to think critically and practically, serve others, embrace experiential learning, and consider their place in the world. We are excited to announce the 2021 Spring Unit Program will return this year from June 1 – June 4. This year’s courses will provide students with a variety of hands-on educational opportunities focused on service learning, cultural immersion, experiential engagement, and environmental sustainability.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s Spring Unit will take place entirely on our expansive 208-acre campus. Options are available for students to participate both in-person and remotely, as indicated in each course description.
All pandemic precautions are strictly followed at GSB, and all participants will be required to wear masks and follow social distancing protocols during our Spring Unit. Please note that some photos displayed on the following pages were taken pre-pandemic.
In This Section
Environmental Sustainability
Experiential learning in animal husbandry, sustainability, farmland preservation, and environmental stewardship provides students with authentic, hands-on real-life experiences. Students will engage in activities that will challenge them to think critically about the environment and our relationship with the world around us.
Students will learn various activities and skills through active participation. This involves students working directly with experts in any given field to learn and develop specialized skill sets. These hands-on experiences will provide students with a unique opportunity to apply concepts learned in the classroom to a practical setting.
Students will have a unique opportunity to explore the diversity of lived experiences. Though these experiences may take them to locations locally, nationally, and internationally, the goal is to develop the knowledge, skills, and empathic orientation required to understand multiple perspectives and to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Community service has long been a tradition at our school providing students with opportunities to gain a deeper appreciation for organizations and causes that assist those in need. Students in these programs will participate in immersive service learning projects that support our broader community.
No class in the recent history of Gill St. Bernard’s has had to persevere more than the class of 2021. Navigating the high school years during a global pandemic challenged the class in ways unimagined. There is no doubt that the Class of 2021 will forever be remembered for their resiliency during such trying times.
For a group that has been socially distanced for much of the year, the 2021 Spring Unit will seek to bring our seniors together one final time.
Over the course of four days, all members of the Class of 2021 will enjoy a shared experience – The Senior Experience!