May 20-23, 2025
Whitewater Rafting and Maine Moose Watching
PERSONAL CHALLENGE | SPECIALIZED SKILL
Join Northeast Whitewater for a camping adventure in the North Maine Woods! Four days and 3 nights of fun, and exciting outdoor adventures! Spend your days on excursions like whitewater rafting, hiking to waterfalls, a moose canoe safari, and more!
Registration for this course requires completion of the form found here, and a 50% deposit by February 1st. This course has a maximum of 12 students and will be filled as registration forms are completed, grades 9-PG equally.
Anticipated Cost: $750.00-$800.00
EF Educational Tour
CULTURAL IMMERSION | PERSONAL CHALLENGE
EF, Education First, believes that the world is better when people try to understand one another. Science 1965, EF has helped millions of people see new places, experience new cultures, and learn new things about the world and about themselves.
The EF vision supports the Marianapolis Mission as well as our LEAP (LiveExperience - Advance - Prepare) Program. LEAP Week prioritizes learning in the concrete and physical world of action as a complement to learning in the vicarious and conceptual world of most classrooms. Students are encouraged to step beyond customary learning situations and begin a lifelong process of challenging themselves to exceed comfortable boundaries. The Travel Abroad Program strives to build character through enriching educational tours that promote cultural discovery and foster responsible global citizenship. These tours challenge students to build independence and develop intercultural competence as they engage with distinct cultures from around the world, encouraging students to critically think about their own experiences and compassionately consider the experiences of others. What better way to LEAP than through our Travel Abroad in March.
If you are currently registered for the March 2025 trip to Italy, this can be your LEAP experience as well. Enrollment in an additional LEAP course will not be required, but rather, it is optional. There will be an additional educational and presentation requirement if you choose your Italy Travel as your LEAP experience. This will be posted to the Italy KH page by the end of February.
Day Trips & On-Campus Courses
Conservation of Wildlife and Wild Places
FIELD STUDY | SPECIALIZED SKILL
Do you LOVE animals? Are you fascinated by the workings of zoos and the role they play in the sustainability of endangered species? In this course, held daily at The Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence Rhode Island, budding zoologists will explore the role of modern-day zoos and aquariums in saving wildlife and wild places and in maintaining the well-being of all animals. Students will engage in educator-led tours of the Zoo, daily meet & greets with the Zoo’s animal ambassadors and a lecture and Q&A with the Zoo’s Conservation Director. Students will have the opportunity to observe and engage in the Zoo’s American burying recovery program by helping to survey the local beetle population.
Anticipated Cost: $290.00-320.00
NESS Stonington Field Expedition
SPECIALIZED SKILL | PERSONAL CHALLENGE
The mission of the New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) is to empower students with a love of learning through ocean-based experiential programs. NESS is the first and only program of its kind to be accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Their goal is to advance academic opportunities for all students, through unique educational models that empower students with leadership, teamwork, confidence, and problem-solving skills. Their STEM-based curriculum uses marine science, sailing, powerboating, and adventure sports as learning platforms. Students enrolled in this course will be engaged in the following four opportunities.
Sonar Sailing: Climb aboard a Sonar keelboat and identify the simple machines and technology of a sailboat. Work as a team to steer the boat, trim the sails and navigate the waters of Stonington Harbor with a knowledgeable and safe sailing captain.
ROV and Tidepool: Explore the deep as you work as a team to draft, design, and engineer an underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Test your ROV in a “simulation tank” and its ability to operate with the challenges of buoyancy, pressure,
NESS Stonington Field Expedition
SPECIALIZED SKILL | PERSONAL CHALLENGE
and hydrodynamic shapes and sizes. Then rise to the surface and discover the amazing life in the ocean’s tide pools and the crowded animal communities living right around rocky shorelines and our docks. Peer into tide pools while learning about crabs, snails, algae and more. Things cling, stick and slide in these rocky habitats.
Kayaking and Plankton: Get a taste of kayaking in this adventurous program. Learn the basics of how to hold a paddle, how to steer, and how the wind and the waves can affect movement of the boat. Practice paddling within the safety of Stonington Harbor as you explore the watershed. Then collect samples and check out planktonic life found locally using microscopes and find out how they provide the basis of the food web to our oceans. Identify why these creatures are so important to all life on Earth.
Fishing on NESSie and Fish Dissection: Climb aboard a powerboat with an experienced captain and go fishing! Experiment with different types of rods, reels, and lures as you learn the techniques to bring in the catch of the day. Observe local species to learn about external anatomy and the adaptations fish use to best survive in their environment. Dissect a fish to explore the internal functions that aid in survival. Note: dissected organisms are returned to the energy cycle.
Cost: $522
Everybody's a Critic
THE ARTS | SPECIALIZED SKILL
Students learn the basics of film technique and analysis, pairing a developing understanding of sound design, mise-en-scene, and cinematography with existing knowledge of close textual analysis. They then watch a trio of films together, with each student writing a critical review (article) of each. Students then come together as a panel to decide upon the most fitting original "awards" to bestow upon each film.
Anticipated Cost: $25-30
American Sign Language
SPECIALIZED SKILL | PERSONAL CHALLENGE
Did you know that American Sign Language is the fourth most used language in the United States? In 1984, a 13-year-old foster child who was deaf was placed with Manuel Martin and his wife. During their year together, when Manuel tried and failed to find a class to learn sign language, he turned his disappointment into inspiration. He eventually became a full time interpreter and founded the American Sign Language (ASL) Academy. During this LEAP experience, participants will travel daily to the ASL Academy to learn the history and culture of the Deaf community, while mastering Level 1 and part of Level 2 American Sign Language.
Anticipated Cost: $280.00-320.00
Marine Science and Conservation
SPECIALIZED SKILL | FIELD STUDY
Get up close with African penguins, beluga whales, harbor seals and more. In addition to providing hands-on learning of materials taught in class, this experiential learning course is designed to continue the development of skills in scientific inquiry, laboratory, and field techniques. This is an ideal class for anyone interested in getting immersed in careers focused on marine biology and environmental conservation.
Anticipated Cost: $590-600
Marine Animal Health & Veterinary Science
SPECIALIZED SKILL | FIELD STUDY
This program will immerse participants in the marine world to learn how Mystic Aquarium staff care for thousands of animals each day. Throughout this program students will be interacting with aquarium animals, aquarium research scientists, veterinarians, animal trainers and animal rescue professionals to understand the science behind their work.
Anticipated Cost: $590-600
Behind the Scenes
SPECIALIZED SKILL | THE ARTS
Join us for a week at The Hanover Theatre Conservatory! Learn how different departments like drama, acting, dance, technical theatre, and management work together to make magic happen on stage! Each morning there will be a handson STEAM or arts-integration workshop, which combines science, technology, engineering, art, math, ELA, and/or history with dance, technical theatre, or drama. This is a great opportunity to learn what a theatre professional uses from school to excel in the industry! After lunch, workshops will focus on the different artforms to give you a look into how a theatre artist trains or what is needed to break into the theatre business. Possible afternoon workshops include Stage Combat, Comedy Lab, Musical Theatre Dance, a tour of the theatre, Q&A session, observing a day in the life of a theatre technician, and script writing. We look forward to working with you!
Anticipated Cost: $600.00-650.00
Woodworking SPECIALIZED
SKILL | PERSONAL CHALLENGE
Join local woodworker Tim Rainville in his shop, The Looking Glass, in Woodstock, CT. Tim handcrafts custom furniture with painstaking attention to detail, using beautifully figured hardwoods. As a one-person shop, Tim develops designs with clients and builds pieces from start to finish. In addition to woodworking, learn about shop safety and electricity. By the end of the week, you will even have created your own lamp!
Anticipated Cost: $480.00-550.00
Early Childhood Education Assistant
COMMUNITY SERVICE | SPECIALIZED SKILL
Do you like working with children? Do you see a future in early childhood education? Would you like to spend the week volunteering at one of our local Elementary Schools? Volunteering presents a tangible way for you to make a positive impact in their community and help the school realize their mission. You will work one-onone with the teachers and will assist in a variety of ways, as a tutor, reading mentor, classroom or library assistant, monitoring the playground or lunchroom, sharing your area of expertise or fun experiences. Interacting, playing, and engaging with the children, participation in classroom activities, will be a rewarding experience for you and will be an exciting experience for the children - all while helping our fellow educators.
Anticipated Cost: $25 (transportation to and from school)
Treat Talk: Neighborhood Life Lessons
COMMUNITY SERVICE
This LEAP program is designed to incorporate community service through supporting our elderly community, while learning about their favorite cultural foods. It is a powerful sight to watch the amount of joy exerted from just listening and doing something for an older community member. It is a meaningful opportunity to stop, meet someone new, and let them show you the lessons they have learned. Day one, students will get matched with a member of an elder residing in a community home. You will spend some time getting to know each other. Day two is about connecting and learning about their favorite recipe and their story. The recipe’s significance and history is shared. It is a chance to learn about their culture, how much it means to them, and the way that just talking to someone who cares to listen, brings back special memories. On day three, the students will come back to school to cook together and share with each other a bit about their elder partner. On the final day, the students will share their prepared food and conversation. Our senior community has so much to share and wonderful advice to give.
Cost: Students will incur all costs of items needed to prepare the chosen recipe as well as trasnsportation fees.
Community Outreach
COMMUNITY SERVICE
If you are looking for an opportunity to help out the ones in need by improving our surrounding community, while acquiring new knowledge and skills at the same time, consider joining our Community Outreach LEAP Experience.
How does volunteering benefit the community and you? Volunteering provides you with a perfect opportunity to become closer to the community we live in. Community service broadens your horizons by helping you understand the needs of the society and the population you are trying to help through the project you will engage in. Reading or hearing about issues is not quite the same as getting personally involved. It brings you closer to families and individuals in need, gives you firsthand experience and understanding of the conditions they are in, and provides a service that our community needs. Through this course you will work with organizations like TEEG, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, United Way, and/or Venture Community Service. These opportunities will be solidified over the next few months.
Anticipated Cost: $50 (Transportation to and from the locations)
Art & Nature Wellness
THE ARTS | SPECIALIZED SKILL | CULTURAL AWARENESS
Nature offers us a sanctuary, a place where we can find peace, wonder, and inspiration, while the arts teach us that there are multiple ways to see the world and express ourselves. Spend your week exploring the gardens and grounds of New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill and connect with nature through various art mediums. Learn how horticulturists use color, shape, and form to design our garden spaces and practice basic watercolor techniques in the gardens, explore natural dyes and create your own eco prints, get introduced to the basics of plant care and create a kokedama display and miniature terrarium to bring the benefits of plants indoors, and end your week by connecting with nature through observation, journaling, and yoga in the garden. All classes are taught at an introductory level, no previous art, science, or horticulture background necessary!
Anticipated Cost: $390-400
Training & Certification
SPECIALIZED SKILL
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid (FA), and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) courses are designed to equip individuals with essential lifesaving skills in emergency situations. This course is specifically focused on providing the students with the knowledge and skills to effectively respond and provide aid to individuals in physical need. CPR is a crucial skill aimed at preserving or restoring a person's breathing and circulation in cases of cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. The FA portion of this course will teach participants how to provide immediate care to an injured or ill person. This portion will cover: Injury Assessment, Basic Wound Care, Burn Treatment, Fracture and Sprain Management, and additional medical emergencies like allergic reactions, choking, and seizures. Training in the use of AEDs is often included in any CPR courses, providing individuals with the knowledge and confidence to effectively use this life-saving device in emergency situations. An AED is a portable electronic device designed to automatically diagnose and treat lifethreatening cardiac arrhythmias, specifically ventricular fibrillation. It delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm.
Do not be intimidated by the medical language. Taught by Mr. Thomas Halley, MS, ATC, an Athletic Trainer and Certified Instructor, this course will empower its
Training & Certification
SPECIALIZED SKILL
participants to confidently respond to those in need and is for anyone who would like to be better equipped to support the injured individual until medical professionals arrive at the scene or the patient can be safely transported for assessment by a medical professional. This course is designed for the high-school students, is user-friendly, and focuses on providing practical skills that can make a significant difference in saving lives. Whether you be a future life guard, camp counselor, or helpful citizen, this course is for you.
Anticipated Cost: $100-150
Empowerment & Safety
The Skill of Self-Protection
SPECIALIZED SKILL
A self-defense course is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to protect themselves in various situations. This course focuses on teaching practical techniques for personal safety and is tailored to address different levels of physical fitness. Open to students of all ages and fitness levels, students will be empowered to be proactive in their personal safety and build confidence in their ability to protect themselves when needed. This course will cover: Awareness and Prevention, Basic Self-Defence Techniques, Ground Defense, Escape and Evasion, Verbal and Non-Physical Tactics, Psychological Aspects of Self-Defense, Legal and Ethical Considerations, Realistic Scenarios and Simulations, Fitness and Conditioning, Continued Practice and Conditioning. In addition, we will expand beyond self-defense with Yoga, serving as warm-up and core exercise, Tai Chi martial arts and soft movement meditation, and Karate.
Master Daryl Laperle, owner and teacher at the Danielson Martial Arts Academy, will be the primary instructor. Learn more about Master Laperle and his extensive experience by visiting their website at https://www.danielsonmartialarts.com.
Anticipated Cost: $120-180
Sports in Film SPECIALIZED
SKILL
Films are a form of entertainment that fulfill an audience's desire to make emotional connections with characters and learn more about the world. A sports film is a production in which a sport or a sports-related topic is prominently featured or is a focus of the plot. Despite this, sport is ultimately rarely the central concern of such films and sport performs primarily an allegorical role. Sports films date back to the early 20th century. Thematically, the story of these films is often one of redemption, us versus them, or the underdog overcoming adversity. Cinematographers have utilized both true stories and fiction in this genre to highlight determination, perseverance, and the very best of humanity. In this LEAP course, you will have the opportunity to further study the art of film, specifically films about athletes and their stories. We will screen a diverse selection of sports films from different eras. The culmination of this course will be a project highlighting the importance of this genre of film and what it can teach us about storytelling and the human experience.
Anticipated Cost: $10
Money, Money, Money!
Discovering the Rarity & Beauty of US Coins
SPECIALIZED SKILL
Ever wonder what makes money valuable or what those old coins that grandpa left you really are worth? Ever seen dollar bills that don’t look like anything you have in your wallet? Then this course is for you!
You will learn the basics of numismatics (the study of coins) and how to build your own collections. You will discover the seventy point Sheldon scale, used by collectors and dealers alike to grade coins and help to determine their rarity and worth. You will learn some of the “lingo” used by numismatists and also develop an appreciation for the unique history and beauty found in our coinage and currency, past and present. This is a “hands-on” course which will help students discover the fun and excitement of coin collecting as a hobby. Students will examine different denominations of US and foreign coins, both historic and more recent. Each day, students will be introduced to the methods of “grading” coins and use the tools that numismatists (people who study and collect coins) use. You will actually get to work with and examine coins that circulated in the United States over 100 to 150 years ago! Your instructors have many unique specimens to share and amazing stories to tell. Participants are encouraged to bring their own old coins to class for examination and grading. Each student in this course will receive a book on US coins which will assist
Money, Money, Money!
Discovering the Rarity & Beauty of US Coins
SPECIALIZED SKILL
them in their study. By the end of the course, students will be able to relate much of the history of specific US coins, and be able to evaluate several different types, distinguishing the common from those with great value.
Faculty member Bob Hess will team up with several friends who are members of the Worcester County Numismatic Society, and long-time collectors. Each is eager to teach you what they know and bring their expertise and enthusiasm for coins and coin collecting to Marianapolis!
Anticipated Cost: $10
The Art of Animation
THE ARTS | SPECIALIZED SKILL
Animated films are a wonderful way to tell a story to an audience through expressive animation and magical visual effects. This LEAP course is for students interested in learning about art and the ways animated films can tell a story. Animated films have emotional depth with relatable topics. Animated films have just as much cinematography, heart, and emotion if not more than any other films. In this LEAP course you will have the opportunity to study animation from different genres and through the work of different studios (Disney, Dreamworks, Ghibli etc). Students will learn how to tell a story themselves and will take part in storyboarding an animation short of their very own. This course will highlight the importance of animated movies and the impact they can have on people of all ages.
Anticipated Cost: $50
Can You Escape?
THE ARTS | SPECIALIZED SKILL | PERSONAL CHALLENGE
Get ready for an exciting challenge that combines creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork! An escape room experience is an immersive, interactive adventure that challenges participants to work together to solve puzzles, uncover hidden clues, and complete a series of tasks within a set time limit. As a team, you will be "locked" in a themed room, often with a storyline or mystery to unravel, and will be challenged to use their problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills to escape before time runs out. The goal is to foster a fun and engaging atmosphere where creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration are key to success. Whether navigating a haunted house, solving a heist, or escaping a time machine, each experience offers a unique, thrilling challenge that brings people together to test their wits and enjoy the thrill of victory or the suspense of defeat. Students participating in this LEAP experience will travel daily to a variety of Escape experiences, two or three rooms a day, possibly 5 rooms over the course of three days. Be prepared to think outside the box and possibly design your own escape room back on campus.
Anticipated Cost: $200 - $250
Through the Lens: Capturing the Spirit of New England
SPECIALIZED SKILL
This course offers an immersive exploration of New England's diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture through the lens of photography. Students will learn how to capture the essence of this captivating region, from the rugged coastlines to the charming small towns, the bustling streets and the serene beauty of the New England landscape. Through a combination of field trips, guided photo walks, and technical instruction, participants will develop their photographic skills while discovering the unique sights, colors, and stories that define New England. The course will cover essential photography techniques, such as composition, lighting, and framing, while encouraging creative expression and storytelling through images. Students will also explore the historical and cultural significance of their subjects, learning how to convey a sense of place in their work. By the end of the course, participants will have a portfolio of photographs that reflect their personal journey through New England. Your own digital camera, not a phone, is required for this course.
Anticipated cost: $100
Culinary Creations: Mastering the Art of Cooking
SPECIALIZED SKILL
Whether you are a beginner eager to learn the basics or an experienced home cook looking to refine your skills, this hands-on cooking class will help you become more confident in the kitchen. In this course, you will explore a variety of cooking techniques, from knife skills and meal prep to creating flavorful dishes from scratch. Our expert chefs will guide you through each step of the cooking process, offering tips on ingredient selection, cooking methods, and presentation.
Throughout the course, you'll learn how to prepare three distinct dishes, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. By the end of the class, you will not only know how to cook with precision and creativity but also have the knowledge to recreate the dishes at home for your friends and family.
Anticipated Cost: $100-$150
Discover New England: A Historical Journey through Time
FIELD STUDY | CULTURAL IMMERSION
Step back in time and explore the rich, captivating history of New England, a region known for its pivotal role in America's past. This immersive history tour will guide you through the iconic landmarks, charming towns, and historical sites that shaped the early American experience. From colonial settlements and revolutionary battlefields to maritime heritage and cultural landmarks, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the region’s diverse and transformative history.
Each stop on the tour will provide insight into the stories of Native American heritage, the Revolutionary War, the rise of industry, and the cultural evolution of New England over centuries. You’ll visit historic cities such as Boston, Salem, and Plymouth, with highlights including the Freedom Trail, the site of the Boston Tea Party, the Mayflower, and the homes of famous literary figures like Nathaniel Hawthorne and Herman Melville.
Anticipated Cost: $100-$150
Become a Creative Maker
THE ARTS | SPECIALIZED SKILL
Learn the fundamentals of art forms that have remained unchanged for centuries. Whether it be ceramics, stained glass, glass fusion, enameling, mosaic, or metals, the Worcester Center for Crafts Instructors are all professional artists with teaching experience who can guide and direct you in learning and exploring the various mediums of art. Hands-on instruction and individual assistance will support your process. After learning the safety and studio etiquette rules, students will gain practical skills in two specific areas while completing projects that will become their own. No experience necessary!
Anticipated Cost: $940-$960
Athletics over Time
FIELD STUDY
This immersive course explores the rich history of athletics through in-depth visits to a variety of Hall of Fame locations. Students will embark on a historical journey, discovering the evolution of athletic achievement, iconic figures, and transformative moments that have shaped the world of sports. Through on-site visits, guided tours, and interactive discussions, students will gain a deep understanding of the cultural, social, and technological influences that have impacted athletics over the years.
Over this three day time period, key sites visited may include the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and the International Volleyball Hall of Fame. At each location, students will examine the legacies of pioneering athletes, coaches, and teams, gaining insights into their achievements and contributions to the development of their respective sports.Through a combination of field trips, readings, and discussions, students will critically analyze the role of sports in society, the changing dynamics of athletic performance, and the cultural impact of Hall of Fame legends.
By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the historical significance of athletics, enhanced by a personal connection to the physical spaces that celebrate these achievements. This unique learning experience will
Athletics over Time
FIELD STUDY
provide both historical context and contemporary relevance to the world of athletics and sports culture.
Anticipated Cost: $200-$250
Independent Study
Do you have the passion and dedication to develop your own LEAP experience? Speak with Mrs. Tata to share your Independent Study Proposal prior to the closing of the registration period. All proposals will require formal submission and approval.
Cost: Individual incurs all costs and provides all arrangements
Centers of Excellence Internship
This week is an opportunity for all Class of 2025 COE students to complete their internship requirement. While the internship can be completed at any time of the year, spring and summer are the most popular times. If your internship is coordinated for this spring and you would like to take advantage of this time to expand your experience, speak with Dr. Sembor prior to the closing of LEAP registration.
Cost: Individual incurs all cost and provides all arrangements