Jestermester

When we say Jestermester, here’s what we mean: One week. No classes. No grades. Only exploration! This year’s Jestermester theme of “exploration” has given rise to an outpouring of new Jestermester experiences, both at home and abroad.

With opportunities to dive deeply into subjects outside the regular classroom setting, Emma Willard makes anything possible through Jestermester!

Kicking off our One of 360 series in the new year is Helena C.S. ’25, a senior boarding student with a passion for woodworking, art, anthropology, and more! Read more about Helena’s experience in her own words.

In March, Emma Willard School embarked on the first ‘Jestermester,’ a minimester during which students and faculty engage in unique learning opportunities. While there will be more in-depth coverage coming later this spring, we’re taking a look at what the community was up to during this inaugural experiential week!

Friday the fifteenth of September was an exciting day. Director of Curriculum and Innovation Caroline Boyajian, Experiential Learning Department Chair Jon Calos, and Director of Student & Community Life Emily Carton stood before the school community during Morning Reports to announce the launch of Jestermester to our students. The moment was a significant milestone during an extensive process stretching back to  Emma Willard Schools strategic planning meetings in 2020.

Emma Willard School’s AWAY trips give students opportunities to connect with communities and learning opportunities outside of Emma. This year’s trips have returned from their excursions (a Northeast College Tour, a trip to Washington DC for an exploration of human rights, to California for a look at public lands in the American west, and a civil rights tour of the American south) with great stories and photos to share.