Discovery and Innovation in Action: Spring Projects at Holton-Arms

 

As the 2024-25 school year draws to a close, we celebrate a few of the hands-on, interdisciplinary learning experiences that set a Holton-Arms education apart. Here, learning is not confined to the classroom; it’s driven by curiosity, guided by passionate educators, and fueled by a belief in each student’s limitless potential. 

From our youngest learners to graduating seniors, Holton girls are encouraged to take intellectual risks, explore big ideas, and turn inspiration into action. Our mission—to educate not only the mind, but the soul and spirit—comes to life through projects that challenge, empower, and transform.

LOWER SCHOOL

Building Mongolian Gers

In third grade, students engage in a dynamic cross-functional project that integrates Design Tech, Social Studies, and Language Arts. By studying how environment and culture shape communities and human shelter, students explore geography, climate, vegetation, engineering, and family structures and traditions. The unit culminates in the hands-on construction of Mongolian Gers, complete with hand-decorated tapestries and traditional dumplings, and hosting a tea for families. 

This project helps students develop empathy and global awareness while using critical thinking and design skills. It’s a perfect example of experiential learning. 

—Linda Baily, Design Technology Teacher & Lower School Science Teacher

Greek Day Celebration

Holton sixth graders wrap up their study of ancient civilizations with the beloved tradition of Greek Day. Students researched and performed skits on Greek legacies such as theater and democracy. Embodying members of Greek city-states, students carried torches high as they competed in Olympic-inspired events that challenged their minds, souls, and spirits. The day concluded with a festive Greek feast, celebrating their deep dive into Hellenic culture.

Greek Day showcases the collaborative growth, confidence, and teamwork our sixth-grade students have developed this year.

— Alyce Dillon, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Minimester

For three days, Middle School students stepped beyond the traditional classroom and into a world of discovery during Minimester, an immersive experience designed to spark curiosity and inspire new passions. Through hands-on learning, field trips, and engaging sessions with guest speakers, students explored innovative courses that connected disciplines and encouraged creative problem-solving. From writing and staging plays to “starting” their own restaurant to solving a crime, they embraced new ideas with energy and purpose. Minimester reflects Holton’s commitment to cultivating bold thinkers, empathetic leaders, and engaged global citizens.

Minimester empowers students to step outside their routines, to discover and create through curiosity, resilience, and meaningful learning. 

— Roz Byrne, Assistant Head of Middle School

AAPI Tea Tasting

In celebration of the Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage at Holton, students hosted an AAPI Tea Tasting event that highlighted the rich diversity of cultures and traditions within the AAPI community. Students proudly shared their backgrounds through beautifully curated tables featuring traditional foods, teas, and personal stories. Guests sampled a variety of teas from across Asia and the Pacific Islands while learning about the cultural significance behind each one. A henna station added to the festive atmosphere, inviting attendees to experience another meaningful tradition. The event was a vibrant, student-led celebration of identity and community.

I'm so proud of the students who put the time, effort, and heart into exploring their complex identities and family histories and preparing something to share with their peers and teachers. We are also grateful to the parents who supported the students' efforts. Meaningful and engaging events like this are essential for creating and strengthening our sense of community at Holton.

— Sahar Siddiqui, Upper and Middle School English Teacher

UPPER SCHOOL

Engineering Cardboard Boats

Each spring, the Introduction to Engineering class takes on the spirited challenge of designing, building, and racing cardboard boats across the Holton pool. This hands-on engineering project emphasizes problem-solving, physics, and teamwork. The final race takes place during Alumnae weekend and never fails to draw enthusiastic cheers from students, faculty, and esteemed guests.

“The boat challenge captures the essence of Holton’s approach: innovative, joyful, and anchored in real-world problem solving. As an engineer, it's important to learn that theoretical knowledge is only a starting point, we have to follow that up with practical application. The cardboard boat project allows us to invite the rest of the school to appreciate the students' hard work

— Lindsey McKan,’05, Middle and Upper School Computer Science Teacher

Senior Projects: Independent Exploration and Leadership

As a culminating experience, Holton seniors design and complete independent projects that reflect their passions, values and readiness to lead beyond Holton. With faculty mentorship and full ownership of their process, students explore a range of topics from scientific research to social entrepreneurship, technology implementation to reviving traditional family recipes. Following the Upper School Awards ceremony, seniors present their projects to teachers, members of the junior class, and guests. 

Senior projects prepare students for the kind of self-directed learning and leadership they’ll need in college and beyond. It’s a powerful reflection of their growth and an exciting window into their future

— Shay Squeglia, English Department Chair and Grade 12 Class Dean

Empowering Learners for Life

At every level, Holton students are engaged in experiences that stretch their thinking, deepen their understanding, and ignite their passions. These spring projects are just a glimpse of how we prepare girls to lead lives of purpose, impact, and joy.