B.E.S.T. Summer Scholars 2024


August 1, 2024

This summer, our newly enrolled rising middle and upper school students took a significant step forward in their independent school journey by participating in our Summer Scholars program. Guided by the theme “Ready? Set. Sustain!” and under the leadership of Ms. LaShanda Lawrence, Director of the Summer Scholars program and St. Paul’s Schools faculty member, students delved into enriching coursework in STEM, mathematics, English, History, Language Arts, French, and Art. Alongside their academic growth, they engaged in thoughtful discussions about transitioning to their new Member School and enjoyed a variety of fun weekly field trips.

Please enjoy some highlights from this summer’s program!

Skateland

Scholars had a great time at Skateland, where they enjoyed skating and had the chance to request their favorite songs.

Transition Workshops with Farah Evans and Donell Thompson

Farah Evans, Director of Student Support Services and Upper School Counselor at the Bryn Mawr School, led an inspiring leadership chat with our scholars. As a proud B.E.S.T. and Bryn Mawr alumna, she shared her personal experiences and offered invaluable advice on thriving in independent schools. Additionally, Mr. Donell Thompson, Director of Secondary School Admissions at Gilman School, engaged the Scholars in a networking activity where they wrote letters to the Heads of their new schools. He graciously handled mailing these letters, helping the newest B.E.S.T. Scholars establish connections and build their networks as they transition to their new educational environments.

Camp Hippodrome

The Scholars took on an exciting challenge at Camp Hippodrome, where they mastered choreography and vocals for the Chicago hit “Razzle Dazzle.” The day-long workshop culminated in a thrilling performance on the main stage, which has previously hosted iconic shows like Hamilton and, more recently, The Wiz.

Outward Bound

Scholars pushed themselves outside of their comfort zone on their field trip to Outward Bound. During their visit to Leakin Park, Scholars engaged in activities designed to build community and trust among the group. From high ropes experiences to team-building exercises, Scholars continued to forge friendships and support each other through new and challenging experiences.

Storytelling Workshop with Dr. David Fakunle ’05

Scholars had the privilege of engaging with B.E.S.T. and Friends School Alumnus Dr. David Fakunle, PhD ’05, in a dynamic storytelling workshop. Dr. Fakunle, a self-described “mercenary for change,” is dedicated to empowering people of African descent and those seeking to reconnect with their true selves. With a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a B.A. in Psychology and Criminology & Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park, he is the co-founder and CEO of DiscoverME/RecoverME. This organization uses African oral traditions to help individuals and organizations reclaim their narratives for growth. During the workshop, Dr. Fakunle emphasized the transformative power of sharing personal stories. Through hands-on exercises and writing prompts, Scholars reflected on their own journeys and explored the significance of sustaining their personal narrative.

First Fruits Farm

Scholars ventured to First Fruits Farm to assist with their cabbage harvest. The work was tough, but our Scholars contributed to a meaningful cause. First Fruits Farm donates all its produce to organizations that distribute it to families at no cost.

Closing Ceremony

The culminating event of our five-week program was the Closing Ceremony Celebration, a heartfelt tribute to the academic achievements and new friendships forged by our Scholars over the summer. The event began with an Exhibition of Learning, where families explored the Scholars’ artwork, reflections on novels, and sustainable agriculture projects created in their STEM class – including plants that the Scholars started from seed at the beginning of the summer. Student speakers shared their reflections on their experience in Summer Scholars, noting the growth both academically and personally they experienced and will carry with them into the new school year. Each student was awarded a certificate of completion, gift card and a lacrosse stick, thanks to a generous donation from STX.

The ceremony also featured Aniya Martin ’18, a B.E.S.T. and Bryn Mawr School alumna who is now a Financial Analyst for Exelon and a recent Master’s graduate from Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business. Aniya shared her insights, encouraging the Scholars to embrace new experiences, form genuine friendships, and remain true to themselves. She highlighted the importance of learning from failure and stepping out of their comfort zones, urging Scholars, “don’t be afraid to show your greatness and put your greatness on display.” Aniya also expressed her pride and excitement for their future endeavors.

To conclude the morning, B.E.S.T. Board President Karlo Young reflected on his own upbringing in Baltimore, celebrated their accomplishments, and encouraged them to build their confidence through their existing competence, discipline and hard work. As the program came to a close, scholars, their families, and the Summer Scholars faculty and interns celebrated the success of a fantastic Summer Scholars program with a sweet treat from the Taharka Bros. Ice Cream truck.

 

Many Thanks to our Talented Faculty and Interns!

The Summer Scholars program wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and talent of our faculty and staff! This summer, our team, including our Alumnae interns, played a crucial role in making the experience engaging and impactful, providing a space for our students to learn, grow, and connect. Thank you for supporting our newly enrolled students and equipping them with the tools they need for a smooth transition to their new schools. We’re confident that, thanks to each of you, our students will thrive as they begin their independent school journeys!

LaShanda Lawrence, Summer Scholars Director, Transitions  
Andrew Avallone, History and ELA/English
Fitz Hardcastle, Math
Antoinette Haegrich, Art
Erikka Jones, STEM
Will Nicklas, Language & Culture and Athletics
Kendall Brown ’23, Intern
Mackenzie Cooper ’24, Intern

Thank you to our Funder!

We extend our sincere gratitude to our generous Summer Scholars Program funder, The Thomas Wilson Foundation, for their vital support, which made this enriching experience possible for our students.

To Our Remarkable Students:

The key focus of the Summer Scholars program is to ensure that, as the newest members of the B.E.S.T. community, you are well-prepared and enthusiastic about your transition to your new school this fall. Congratulations on your achievements this summer inside and outside of the classroom and in your interactions with fellow students and faculty. Our Member Schools are fortunate to welcome each of you into their communities, and we are incredibly proud to have you as part of B.E.S.T.!