Boarding Schools  Berkshire School

Berkshire School www.berkshireschool.org

Berkshire School was founded in 1907 beneath the “dome” of Mt. Everett by Seaver Burton Buck. The 1970s and 1980s brought radical change to institutions across the country, and Berkshire was no exception. In addition to integrating girls into all aspects of campus life, the school restructured its scholastic mission to welcome new disciplines—computer science, ethics, health and environmental science—and a formal counseling program.

Rooted in an inspiring natural setting, Berkshire School instills the highest standards of character and citizenship and a commitment to academic, artistic, and athletic excellence. Our community fosters diversity, a dedication to environmental stewardship, and an enduring love for learning.

 Academics

The recently renovated and updated Berkshire Hall, the School’s central academic building, sits atop Buck Valley as the symbol of Berkshire’s academic program. Its state-of-the-art classrooms and thoughtfully designed spaces aid our faculty in preparing Berkshire’s students for the challenges of the 21st century. Students need to be agile thinkers with an ability to tackle new, unforeseen problems from a number of creative angles. Berkshire’s curriculum is designed to help students become just such thinkers and to challenge them to reach new intellectual and creative heights.

 Special Highlights

Visual Arts and Performing Arts. The studio experience at the core of these explorations is enhanced through the study of the history of the fine arts in relation to students’ works. Courses of study are available for every level of student, from the beginner to the most advanced artist, in music, theater and film, and dance. The programs emphasize technical proficiency, creative expression and stage presence, with the opportunity to perform in a variety of concerts, recitals and performances throughout the year.

Athletics. The interscholastic athletic program at Berkshire School embodies the schoo’s core mission: “Not just for school but for life.” Our program, grounded in integrity, promotes character development and collaboration. We believe that athletic competition is a powerful teacher. Physical and mental challenges in a team context offer athletes the opportunity to develop leadership skills, self-confidence and a commitment to others that will inspire them to lead productive and active lives.

 Top colleges attended by students

Boston University, Bowdoin College, California Institute of Technology, Connecticut College, Cornell, Lehigh University, New York University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, St. Lawrence University, Williams College

 What the school looks for in students…

“We seek students who are motivated and able to thrive in a rigorous academic curriculum without losing sight of the world around them. Beyond the classroom, we look for a group of students who will contribute a diverse range of talents and perspectives.”