Winterim
For one week each winter, the St. Andrew's-Sewanee community shifts its attention from the regular academic routine to intensive courses of study dedicated to experimental and experiential learning. Winterim gives faculty members and students an opportunity to collaboratively explore and discover their passions.
2023 Courses
Arts Workshops
Gourmet Genres
Grades 6-12, Morning, Arts
Bowie
In this course, we will look at a different genre of art each day and create a piece of art related to that genre while enjoying some tasty “gourmet” treats.
Read and Watch the Roman emperor Nero
Grades 6-12, Morning, Arts
Seavey
Seavey
This course will both read the novel and watch the film Quo Vadis in five successive days. Quo Vadis deals with a quasi-historical character operating in the court of the Roman emperor Nero--a favorite anti-hero. The film was a huge box office hit in 1951, nominated for 8 Academy Awards; the novel was originally published in 1896 in Poland and quickly reached international star status, with its author winning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1905. Both novel and film are products of their day, which make them historically fascinating, and both were very popular, which makes their content fun and interesting. We will add to those appeals the quality of observing similarities and differences between the two media of writing and film. Each day we'll devote about an hour to reading from the novel, then watching a correlative part of the film. It should be fun, interesting, and accidentally educational.
May the Verse Be With You
Grades 8-12, Morning, Arts
Padro and Wheeler
"In time so long ago began our play, In a war-torn galaxy far, far away..." We will read and perform excerpts from Star Wars' most famous scenes, Shakespeare style! Scenes will be chosen from The Empire Striketh Back and The Jedi Doth Return, a Star Wars spin-off series by Ian Doescher. Scenes will be done in groups or as a soliloquy, and students will present their work at the end of the week, through a filmed or live performance.
Trippy Art, Dance, and Film
Grades 9-12, Morning, Arts
Carlos
What is reality? What is really going on in the human mind? Who are you: your thoughts, feelings, memories...or more? Whoa, dude, you’re trippin’ me out! This course will explore the many ways in which visual and performing artists have pushed the boundaries of creative expression in order to explore the nature and perception of reality, the mind, and consciousness. We will examine art and film movements, such as surrealism and Dadaism, as well as experience expressionist music and dance performances. We will also experiment with our own understanding of reality, exploring our psyches through creative expression each day, from surrealist photography and filmmaking to expressionist music and Butoh dance! Get ready to spend time with your muse and delve into your mind!
Experimental Painting
Grades 9-12, Morning, Arts
Lomeli
This workshop concentrates on experimental painting techniques. Students will perform playful exercises based on experimentation that gives greater importance to the artistic process than to the final product. We will focus on experimenting with unconventional processes in painting that allow us to approach the contemporary logic of the pictorial influenced by various explorations that have taken place in this field since the mid-20th century. Art exercises will take place in the classroom and outdoors.
Picnics and Painting at Piney Point
Grades 6-12, Afternoon, Arts
Malde
Celebrate our beautiful place through food and painting! In this Winterim course, we will prepare a picnic each day and hike to Piney Point to draw, paint, and share delicious food and company. We will explore a variety of painting mediums, including watercolor, gouache, pen & ink, and acrylic. We’ll also explore a variety of cuisines and experience the art of preparing food for others.
Some of History's Unsolved Mysteries
Grades 8-12, Afternoon, Arts
Dillon
This Winterim course is designed to pique the curiosity of history buffs. We will explore legends, unknowns, and things that make us scratch our heads. We will try to answer questions like: Who was Jack the Ripper? Who really discovered the New World first? Are Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster real? What did Jesus eat and look like? What are the Lost Gospels? Where is Cleopatra buried? This and much more will be discussed and explored in this Winterim!
Knitting Basics
Grades 8-12, Afternoon, Arts
Asmus with Amelia Pond
In this workshop, we will explore the basic techniques for knitting: casting on and binding off, knitting, purling, and garter and stockinette stitches. We will also learn how to choose needles and yarn and to read patterns. At the end of the week, participants will take with them the basic knowledge to create a scarf and additional simple knitting masterpieces!
Documentary Film & Social Change
Grades 10-12, Afternoon, Arts
Ercole
Each day, students will watch and discuss a different feature documentary (foreign and domestic) that explores an individual case study in the quest for human rights, social equality, and political representation in the contemporary era. Subjects will include U.S. civil rights movement; genocide in Southeast Asia; gender equality in the Middle East; religious violence in South America; and apartheid in South Africa.
Outdoor Adventure/Education
A Walk on the Wild Side
Grades 6-12, Morning, Outdoor Adventure/Education
M. Burns
You have heard about the Perimeter Trail and have seen the signs. Now it's time to lace up your boots and follow those blue blazes. During this week-long course, students will take a walk on Sewanee's wild side by hiking the 20+ mile Perimeter Trail in five days. Each day, students will explore a different section of the trail, visiting some well-known areas such as Shakerag Hollow, the Forestry Cabin, Proctor's Hall, and the Memorial Cross, but also some lesser known spots such as Dotson Point, King's Farm, Audubon Lake, and Elliot Point. The winter landscape will provide us with wide-open views of the valleys and coves, and we'll take in lakes, streams, waterfalls, and lots of interesting geological features. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Outdoor Climbing and Exploration
Grades 9-12, all day, Outdoor Adventure/Education
Christopher
We will do full-day climbing trips to locations that are normally too far away for the climbing team to reach. Depending on student ability and interest, we will either boulder or sport climb. Some possible areas include Castle Rock, Denny Cove, Foster Falls, Zahnd, Stone Fort, Rocktown, and Dayton Pocket. Depending on the weather, at least one day in the middle of the week will be dedicated to exploring and developing. We will look on Google Earth and attempt to identify areas we might want to explore, then split into teams and try to find and clean some boulders. **A $10 fee will be charged to the student account to be applied toward the entry fee at the climbing gym. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Wilderness Backpacking in Winter
Grades 9-12, overnight, Outdoor Adventure/Education
Short and Phillips
Students will learn how to prepare for a cold weather backpacking trip before heading to North Carolina for a 4 day / 3 night trip in a wilderness area. All experience levels are welcome, though the conditions and terrain will make it both difficult and rewarding. An emphasis will be placed on group cooperation and support. **A $30 fee will be charged to the student account to cover meals. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Off Trail Exploring
Grades 6-8, Afternoon, Outdoor Adventure/Education
D. Burns
Leave our campus trails to explore the woods, streams, and rocks on and around campus with a
definite emphasis on OFF-TRAIL!! Be ready to get dirty, wet, cold, scratched up, tired, and sore. Dress appropriately and consider bringing a change of clothes for your afternoon program. This is a no-phone activity (we'll have a safe place for your phone during the session). We'll start each day in Simmonds Room 27. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Survivor: SAS Edition
Grades 9-12, Afternoon, Outdoor Adventure/Education
Konradi and Chelsvig
On the hit show Survivor, a group of castaways compete against each other in a series of challenges, all while providing food, fire, and shelter for themselves. During Survivor: SAS Edition, students will learn survivalist skills while competing in a series of challenges ranging from scavenger hunts, fire-building races, obstacle courses, and more. The week will culminate with shelter building and an on-campus camping excursion. The winner of SAS' Survivor won't win a million dollars, but they'll get honor, glory, and a token from the week's adventures. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Outdoor Climbing and Exploration
Grades 9-12, all day, Outdoor Adventure/Education
Christopher
We will do full-day climbing trips to locations that are normally too far away for the climbing team to reach. Depending on student ability and interest we will either boulder or sport climb. Some possible areas include Castle Rock, Denny Cove, Foster Falls, Zahnd, Stone Fort, Rocktown, and Dayton Pocket. Depending on the weather at least one day in the middle of the week will be dedicated to exploring and developing. We will look on Google Earth and attempt to identify areas we might want to explore, then split into teams and try to find and clean some boulders. **A $10 fee will be charged to the student account to be applied toward the entry fee at the climbing gym. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Wilderness Backpacking in Winter
Grades 9-12, overnight, Outdoor Adventure/Education
Short and Phillips
Students will learn how to prepare for a cold weather backpacking trip before heading to North Carolina for a 4 day / 3 night trip in a wilderness area. All experience levels are welcome, though the conditions and terrain will make it both difficult and rewarding. An emphasis will be placed on group cooperation and support. **A $30 fee will be charged to the student account to cover meals. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Place-Based Learning
Foodways of the South
Grades 6-12, Morning, Place-Based Learning
Helvey and Sjolund
Join us as we learn all about the foodways of the South. This is a place-based course with a mission to experience the best and most unique food in this area. Each day we will travel to a new location to learn about the culture, economy, and cuisine of this wonderful region we all call home. **A $30 fee will be charged to the student account to be applied toward the cost of meals. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Marine Biology
Grades 8-12, Morning, Place-Based Learning
Black
This course introduces students to the study of the physical and biological components of the world’s oceans. Students will explore the diversity of marine organisms with an emphasis on their behavior and interactions with the environment. The course will also consider human impact on ocean ecosystems, including climate change. In addition to laboratory investigations, videos, and discussions, students will learn about current marine research being conducted. The course will culminate with a visit to the Chattanooga Aquarium for an Ocean Journey tour. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Exploring the Geology, Ecology, and Human History of the Cumberland Plateau
Grades 6-12, Afternoon, Place-Based Learning
Knoll
During this 1⁄2 day exploration-based Winterim class, students will explore sites on and near to the SAS campus that introduces students to the geology, ecology, and human history of the Cumberland Plateau. Students will develop a basic understanding of local geology as well as an understanding of how the underlying geology either controlled or impacted events in human history. Students will also develop an understanding of some unique ecological components of the Cumberland Plateau such as “relic forests” from the Last Great Ice Age. A sample itinerary would include but not be limited to: hiking the trails and investigating old home sites on the SAS campus, exploring prehistoric rock shelters on the SAS campus, visiting known and lesser known springs and water sources on the Domain of the University of the South, hiking through the “relic forests” in Fiery Gizzard and visiting the Lone Rock Coke Ovens, both in Grundy County. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Grundy Greats
Grades 8-12, Afternoon, Place-Based Learning
B. MacLellan
Explore the historic, cultural, and natural wonders of Grundy County. Visits to the South Cumberland Welcome Center, The Caverns, the Grundy County Heritage Museum, Grundy Lakes and the Coke Ovens, Highlander Folk School, Beersheba Springs, Natural Bridge, Dutch Maid Bakery, will be included in these daily tours. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement.
Well-Being
Equine Rescue: Following Passions in Community Service
Grades 9-12, Morning, Wellbeing
Lowe and McDonald
"Where your passion meets the world's problems, that is where you find faith". In this Winterim, students will have the ability to give back to their community by doing community service for Bits and Pieces Equine Rescue, a 501c3. Through this, students will be able to learn about non-profit work, agriculture, equine health and medicine, and leadership. This Winterim will also include the ability to interact with rescue animals in their healing process to be able to better understand ourselves, our environment, and the impact we are able to have on our community. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement. *Students earn 11 community service hours.
Financial Literacy
Grades 6-12, Morning, Wellbeing
Mazur
Learn about important financial topics such as budgeting, interest, loans, credit cards vs. debit cards, credit scores, buying a car, buying a house, student loans, scholarships, mortgage vs. renting, investing vs. speculating, retirement, savings, avoiding scams, predatory lending, gambling/lotteries/casinos, and cryptocurrency.
Table Games
Grades 6-9, Morning, Wellbeing
Terry with Martin Brodsky
Explore a variety of board games and card games including Settlers of Catan, Tsuro, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, and Bang! from the warmth of the Chemistry classroom. Design your own game to play with friends. Win a Cards Against Humanity (family edition) throwdown on Friday.
I've Got Game
Grades 9-12, Morning, Wellbeing
Mr. Sparacio, Ethan Allen, and Kyler Cantrell
Have you ever wanted to learn the rules and fundamentals of sports commonly talked about or played in the United States? This course will provide you with the basic skills and knowledge to understand and play football, baseball/softball, volleyball, basketball, and soccer. Each day we will focus on one sport starting with a review of the elementary rules and regulations of each game. You will then be taught the fundamentals of the sport by participating in various warm-up drills and scrimmaging. Examples of warm-up activities include shooting layups, passing a football, hitting a baseball off of a tee, etc. After the students have a grasp of the basics and feel comfortable with how the game is played, they will simulate a game with their fellow classmates through a scrimmage. You will be able to demonstrate your athletic ability in a fun and relaxed environment while learning new skills.
The Art of Philosophic Conversation
Grades 9-12, Morning, Wellbeing
Mr. Polansky
What kind of conversation will you have at the end of the happiest day of your life? ...in the wilderness under a starry sky? ...in a foreign land sat across the table from a stranger? What sort of questions do you ask, folded up in time, of your future self? ...of a magnificent extraterrestrial being? ...of a person who has helped you very much or hurt you deeply? When the conversation really counts, what if anything needs to be said? ...who should say it? ...how should it be put? ...what should happen with all those words? In this course we will do whatever we can to help each other prepare for conversations like these -- they may strike without warning! -- the better to spot them, participate in them, and the better to enjoy them. How are we going to help each other prepare? That's something maybe we should talk about together.
Walkin', Talkin', and Eatin'
Grades 6-8, Afternoon, Wellbeing
P. + J.R Ankney
We are making connections through shared exercise, conversation, and food. Clear your mind, chat with friends, and cleanse your palate. On Monday and Friday, we will hike the SAS campus trails. Mid-week, we will meet at noon to walk on the Mountain Goat trail to locations where we will grab a bite to eat. Probable destinations include the Blue Chair Cafe, Shenanigans, and Mi Casa. We will walk rain or shine! Students should dress appropriately for the weather: hiking clothes, comfortable shoes, hats and gloves, and rain gear if necessary. Students should bring a water bottle. *Students will be provided $5 for each restaurant visit but should plan to bring additional money if they want to spend more.
Best Four Letter Words: Read, Bake, & Hike
Grades 6-12, Afternoon, Wellbeing
Archambault and Randolph
Join us for a week of all things books! We'll start each day by working together to bake something delicious. While we're waiting for it to come out of the oven, we'll read! To burn those calories, we'll work on as many hikes, build fires to read alongside, and do book-related crafts. Join us as we spend time inside and outside, enjoying tasty treats while indulging in good books and the beauty of nature.
Have Adventures! Battle Evil! Play D & D! (Arts)
Grades 6-12, Afternoon, Wellbeing
Reynolds with Finn Hart and Theo Michaels
Want to play a cool role-playing game where you are part of the story? Learn and play Dungeons & Dragons! The first days will focus on character-building, engaging with story-telling, and interacting with other adventurers. Then, experienced student Dungeon Masters will lead a short campaign to provide experience with dungeon crawling and, of course, a boss fight. Never played before? No problem! No dice? No problem! This course is open to all.
Service = Action
Grades 6-12, Afternoon, Wellbeing
K. Perkins
Do you want to make a difference in the lives of those around you? There are many people in our community that need YOUR help! In this Winterim course, we will travel each day to local organizations, roll up our sleeves, and serve individuals in our greater community. Service is an excellent way to gain perspective, show kindness to others, and ultimately impact someone more than you can even imagine. You may be surprised to know that serving others will also benefit you. It feels good to help others! Not only that, you will be cultivating connections and belonging as you step out beyond yourself. Have you heard that it is better to give than to receive? If you want to test out that theory, join this Winterim course and be a giver! A side note: Details of the exact organizations we will serve are TBD: Some options are: Folks at Home, Appalachian Women's Guild, Isaiah 117 House, Community Action Committee, and a local nursing home. *This course satisfies a Cumberland Scholars requirement. *Students earn 11 community service hours.
Firewood and Chainsaw Maintenance
Grades 9-12, Afternoon, Wellbeing
Zeitler
Students will learn how to split firewood and stack it and maintain a chainsaw. We will resupply the firewood at the student union and donate firewood to serve a mountain area need. *Students earn 11 community service hours.
I just wanted to let you know how great Winterim was for my daughter. I was especially excited that she got to spend a week doing songwriting with Linda Heck. Linda is a remarkably unique talent, one that stuffier academic environments would be unable to appreciate. Hats off once again to SAS!
Adam Randolph, parent
What an absolute joy it has been to hear about our daughter's days this week. The meditation exercises, the positive thinking messages, the being attentive tips are feeding her soul. I know it takes time and effort to put this entire program together. Thank you for giving so much.
Kathryn Bruce, parent
SAS Winterim Schedule 2023
Monday, February 13
8:45 a.m. Winterim Speaker Kevin Wilson
10:00 a.m. Morning Course
NOON Lunch
1:00 p.m. Afternoon Course
3:40 p.m. Afternoon Programs
Evening Activity: TBA
Tuesday, February 14
9:00 a.m. Morning Course
11:30 a.m. Lunch
12:30 p.m. Afternoon Course
3:40 p.m. Afternoon Programs
Evening Activity: TBA
Wednesday, February 15
9:00 a.m. Morning Course
11:30 a.m. Lunch
12:30 p.m. Afternoon Course
Evening Activity: Boarder Breakout
Thursday, February 16
9:00 a.m. Morning Course
11:30 a.m. Lunch
12:30 p.m. Afternoon Course
3:40 p.m. Afternoon Programs
Evening Activity: TBA
Friday, February 17
9:00 a.m. Morning Course
10:30 a.m Break
10:45 a.m Afternoon Course
12:15 p.m. Lunch
1:30 p.m. -3:00 p.m. Winterim Celebration (Slideshow, Creative Expression & Tri-Tree Tournament)
3:40 p.m. Afternoon Programs
Afternoon Programs meet each day from 3:40 - 5:30 p.m, except for Wednesday.
Day students are invited to Evening Activities.