Open to Pittsfield Public Schools RETURNING or NEW/RECOMMENDED Rising 4th Grade Students (Must have received link and be recommended for INSECTS)

STEAM 2024 Location: Berkshire Community College, Pittsfield

This summer in STEAM Team: INSECTS, returning or new/recommended rising 4th grade students explore the wonderful world of insects and learn the importance of themany local insects we encounter each day. Students learn about Lepidoptera (i.e. butterflies and moths), from their life cycle (from egg, to larvae, to pupa) to the intricacy and functionality of their wings. Students design and construct their own wearable wings and continuously practice problem solving to ensure they are both aesthetically pleasing and well-balanced for wear in their final dance performance. Students learn about caddisflies and the uniquely beautiful and functional cases these insects build to protect their larvae using found materials in the environment. Then, inspired by the work of artist Hubert Duprat (who collaborated with caddisflies to create gold-encrusted cases), students create their own found-object keepsake boxes.

STEAM 2024 Dates

• August 5th to 9th: INSECTS Program for RETURNING or NEW/RECOMMENDED PPS Rising 4th Grade Students

Health Forms

Each student is required to have a current Health and Emergency Contact Form on file with Berkshire Art Center. Please fill out this form for each student that will be attending the STEAM program. Health Forms are due as soon as possible at the time of registration and no later than one week before the program begins. Please also ensure you have your child’s insurance information ready when filling out the form.

What to Bring to the Summer STEAM Team Program

Throughout the program we will take nature walks, make art, dance, and engage in environmental learning as we explore the outdoor landscape surrounding Berkshire Community College.

• Clothes that can get messy

• A backpack or tote bag

• Sneakers, comfortable shoes — no open toed shoes

• Swimsuit and towel (for those who wish to swim)

• Sunscreen 30 or higher, lip balm, and any other sun protection deemed necessary. Please instruct your child as to the proper application and usage of these items.

• All personal items should be clearly labeled with your child’s name. This is very important if we are to return misplaced items to their owners. STEAM is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

• Jewelry, electronics, and other valuables should remain at home

• Breakfast, snack and lunch will be provided so students are not required to bring their own food.

Please contact us should you have any questions/concerns. We are looking forward to seeing you this summer!