Science Olympiad

Do you find yourself wanting to dive deeper into the world of science? Do you enjoy working with others and competing where you get to be the expert in your topic? If so, then you can do all of that and more as a part of the Beaver Science Olympiad Team. As a member, you will work with a team of students to compete against other schools in topics ranging from Anatomy and Physiology and Entomology to Materials Science and Robotics. With 23 different events, there is an event that is sure to interest any student who is enthusiastic about science and engineering. Each student will likely have 3-4 categories that they will specialize in and prepare for. Some of the events will involve preparing for tests and lab practicals, whereas others will involve building things ahead of time, like robots or hovercraft at school to bring to the event. Fall sessions will run as a club and competition prep sessions will run through the Winter Afterschool Activities period, and will be Monday through Thursday, 3:45 - 5:30. Competitions will be held in the Boston area for regionals, and all students who sign up will be expected to compete.

Catalyst Lab

BVR Catalyst Lab is a hands-on, innovation, and design process centered course that meets on campus for two blocks during the term and guides students to turn ideas into impact. Creative students gain structure and tools to organize their ideas, while analytical students stretch their creative muscles in a dynamic, feedback-rich environment. During the first half of the term, students collaborate with an external community partner to develop ideas that address an authentic, human-centered challenge. This shared project builds core skills in the design thinking process, project management, research, stakeholder engagement, and iterative prototyping. In the second half of the term, students apply those skills more independently to an idea of their choice grounded in a unifying theme and present their work publicly. Co-taught by an R+D team member and a rotating faculty partner—and enriched by outside mentors, speakers, and field trips—the course is intentionally structured to support students who are new to the design process while also challenging more advanced innovators to deepen their craft. There will be a follow-up application process for interested students and it is available for honors credit.

Digital Art

Step into the world where creativity meets technology—where your imagination can run wild and your ideas come to life with the click of a button. Whether you're already comfortable behind the screen or new to digital media, you will learn a variety of digital tools, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and Procreate while also experimenting with the capabilities of AI image generators. These tools will empower you to experiment, innovate, and express your artistic voice in ways that are only possible in the digital realm. Whether your focus is illustration, animation, or experimental techniques, this class offers the flexibility to explore a range of artistic expressions while mastering the digital tools of the future. Prerequisites: Photography, 2D, or by the recommendation from the Visual Arts Department Head.

Advanced Photo and New Media

Level up your photography, video making, and digital art skills and ideas in this dynamic new media course. Students will mesh DSLR cameras with Photoshop, Illustrator,  Capcut, and iMovie. Look to elevate your visuals with large-format printing, digital projectors, and alternative processes that combine objects and the virtual world. Researching contemporary artists will support your self-directed process and help you explore how to exhibit your work. Prerequisites: Photography, 2D, or by recommendation from the Visual Arts Department Head.

Financial Algebra

Ever wondered, "How do I create a budget?" or "What's the secret to mastering debt?" Want to unravel the mysteries of taxes and insurance, and discover the keys to paving your way through college expenses? In this course, you will be using skills you have previously learned in Integrated Math 3 (or Algebra II) to deepen your knowledge on personal finances. Get ready to transform your understanding of money, making it not just about equations but about owning your financial future with confidence! Students can opt to take this class at the Honors level Prerequisites: Integrated Math 2 or Algebra 1

13.1 Project

13.1 Project meets everyday to train for half marathons, incorporating fitness, strength training and yoga. Throughout the course of the term, students will participate in 3 races, culminating with the Hyannis Half Marathon. Offered in the winter term. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Running Team

Spring Running is an all-abilities running team. We train after school from 3:45pm - 5pm, on running trails and in the neighborhoods around Beaver. We also participate in local trail and road races of varying distances throughout the season. Running is fun and even more fun with friends! This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Spring Volleyball

All Gender. Practice and train to become a better volleyball player! Practices will include individual and team skill development, positioning and learning the most important aspects of volleyball. If possible, some matches may be scheduled. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Yoga

 Join us for a combination of yoga, self defense and mindfulness class! Find deep focus and relaxation. Learn strikes and combinations, grapple releases, mindfulness based situational awareness, and humanitarian focused conflict negotiation. We all deserve to both feel, and be, safe on a daily basis. Offered in the fall, winter, and spring terms. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Meets 3 days/week, 12:05pm-12:50pm

Sports Performance and Fitness

Program runs in the afternoon, 3 days/week Mon-Thurs 3:45-5:30. Sports Performance and Fitness focuses on strengthening and improving endurance in the body, while incorporating balance, stability, strength and cardiovascular training. They will have access to the weight room, gym spaces and the turf. Athletes will use barbells, kettlebells, dumbbells, bands, and will learn how to use bodyweight exercises to move safely and effectively whether it is to improve athletic performance or just maintain general health. We also teach recovery strategies such as foam rolling techniques and active mobility work. Offered in the fall, winter, and spring terms. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Spin Class

Spin class meets 2x/week, from 3:45-5:00. Depending on numbers, students may be split into early and late sessions. Offered in the fall, winter, and spring terms. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Rock Climbing

This program will meet 3x/week in the afternoon and will travel offsite to a rock climbing gym. There will be a mix of bouldering, rope climbing, lead climbing, and auto belays. Offered in the fall, winter, and spring terms. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.