Upper School Activities and Organizations

In seeking an activity to balance their academic work, Brearley students may choose from among more than thirty clubs and committees. There are options ranging from groups whose focus is worldwide—community service, environmental issues or human rights, for example—to committees that explore diversity and ethnicity in the School or local community.  Students may opt for more artistic activities in the areas of photography, music, film, dramatic productions and studio art. If they are interested in public policy and government, they may choose to participate in Model U.N. and Model Congress programs; those interested in quantitative reasoning or science and engineering may join clubs devoted to math, cryptography or robotics.
Upper School students can choose to participate in a wide variety of both School and student-led initiatives.

BREARLEY UPPER SCHOOL ACTIVITY GUIDE 2022-2023


Club shopping period is from September 13-September 19  (Day 4 to Day 2). Students email club heads to sign up. 

There are no sign-ups at the Club Fair. Each student will email the club head if she is interested in joining the club.

 
Club/
Organization
Description
Advisor
Meeting Time
Actor’s Collective
(drop-in and open to all US students)
The Actor’s Collective is an initiative by the Brearley Drama Department to create a more cohesive community of actors on B-Deck. It will give active members of B-Deck (who focus on acting rather than tech) a place to share ideas and hold leadership. The co-heads will work with the Tech Heads to strengthen B-Deck as a community of people working on shows together.  
Ms. Ball
Meetings as assigned
Asian Awareness
Asian Awareness is a safe space to reach a greater understanding of and learn more about the AAPI identity and its position in contemporary conversations. We discuss issues and phenomena relevant to the AAPI community and educate ourselves on Asian culture and customs through the celebration of traditional holidays. Asian Awareness is a welcoming community for students to discuss and bond over ideas and experiences.
Ms. Marcus
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Athletic Association
 (elected position)
The Athletic Association works closely with members of the Physical Education Department to organize school-wide events (Homecoming, Mountain Day, Winter Carnival, Spring Fling and Field Day) as well as the intramural games between the two school teams, Reds and Whites. In addition, the AA may help to plan other athletic events, depending on the interests of the student body. 
Ms. King, 
Ms. Heyl
As needed
BEAC
(School Sponsored)
The Brearley Environmental Action Committee (BEAC) is a club dedicated to examining and raising awareness around the underlying issues in our community and the broader world through the lens of environmentalism. BEAC seeks to spark conversation and action surrounding environmental justice and intersectionality to foster a more holistic understanding of the climate crisis. 
Dr. Seminara
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2
Beaver
(School Sponsored)
 
 
Students in Class XI edit and staff the school literary magazine, published twice a year. Stories, poems, drawings and photographs are submitted to the staff by students in Classes V–XII; the staff selects submissions to be published, edits them as necessary and lays out the copy using desktop publishing software. 
Mr. Koh
Mr. Vernon Jones
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2 
Big Sister, Little Sister
(School sponsored activity)
Big Sister, Little Sister is a student-led mentorship program for students of color at Brearley. Upper School mentors meet regularly with Middle School and Lower School students of color to have discussions, give advice and form meaningful bonds. Our goal is to maintain an affirming and supportive environment for students of color that extends outside of scheduled meetings.
Ms. Prescod
TBA
B-Nats
(audition only)
The B-Naturals are Brearley's Upper School a cappella group. They perform and represent the school over 20 times a year both at school events and around the city. Students develop their musical knowledge and their range while learning to read music and harmonize with peers in small and full group rehearsals. Each year, students get the opportunity to record albums, which are subsequently released on streaming platforms— find us on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and more!
Ms. Joaquino
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2 
BSDLC
Brearley Student Diversity Leadership Council
(Elected position)
BSDLC represents the needs of historically marginalized students by creating spaces for healing, celebration, and affinity; holding people and organizations to their statements of beliefs; providing accurate representation and aid; and acting as a liaison between students, educators, and administrators to bridge the information gap. 
Ms. Hosein and Mr. Daley
As assigned
Beavernacular
(Creative Writing)
First, a limerick:
"Fun-loving birds of a feather,
Creative Writing’s got it together!
We learn and we play
As the days while away,
Creating no matter the weather"
Creative writing club is a tight-knit community of students interested in improving their writing skills through thoughtful games, exercises, author visits, and collaboration with other clubs!
Mr. Koh 
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Business and Financial Awareness
The Business and Financial Awareness Club increases awareness of business and financial topics in the Brearley community through fun, informative activities and discussions. Activities differ from year to year, depending on the interests of club members. We explore traditional business and finance topics, as well as their intersection with social, environmental and political issues. Some past projects have included Beaver Tank (with Shark Tank-style business plan development), fundraising for female entrepreneurs in developing countries through Kiva, an interschool stock market game, and several speakers on various topics. There is no previous knowledge of business or finance needed, only an enthusiasm to learn and try new things!
Ms. Gordon 
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Catalyst
Catalyst is Brearley’s first STEM publication, dedicated to making STEM accessible to the greater Brearley community and empowering young women interested in STEM. Catalyst will showcase the scientific writing of students who are passionate about science and technology and will promote STEM throughout the Brearley community in the form of a student publication. Catalyst will accept articles written by Upper School students, as well as the work of staff writers.
Ms. Chung-a-Hing
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2 
Chorus
(School sponsored activity)
 
Upper School Chorus, open to all students in Classes IX–XII without audition, meets twice weekly to prepare a varied repertoire and performs at school concerts and assemblies, as well as in joint concerts with boys’ schools.
Mr. Brady
Meet Day 5 10:45-11:25 and Thursdays from 3:15 to 5:15
Classics
Classics Club encourages students to pursue an interest in the complex and diverse culture, mythology and modern reception of the ancient world. In typical meetings, we discuss literature, articles and current advancements in the field of Classics. We participate in several certamina (Latin Jeopardy) with other schools in the city and we host our own certamen. We also organize club events like  museum outings and lectures. In our meetings we practice for Certamina, and members present on myths or historical events that interest them. Meetings are held every week during the school day, but special events may take place on the weekends. We welcome all members of the Brearley community regardless of previous experience with ancient languages or knowledge of the ancient world. 
Dr. Lannom
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Comedy Club
Take a break from your academics once a cycle and play fun improv games, learn how to write stand-up, and help write and perform a Saturday Night Live-style show right here at Brearley. Whether you want to learn about comedy or just want to have a goof, join Comedy Club!
Ms. Ball 
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Computer Science
Computer Science Club offers the opportunity for novice and experienced coders to acquire and practice new skills. Meetings will alternate between fundamental lessons for beginner members, fun collaborative activities for intermediate members, and open group discussions about the social aspects of technology and the applications of computer science. CS Club strives to have a fun and open environment for both experienced coders as well as beginners who are looking for basic exposure.
Ms. Donovan
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Debate
Debate Team competes in the New York Parliamentary Debate League in the Parliamentary style. We debate both historically contested topics as well as current controversial issues. We encourage all students, regardless of past experience, to join. 
 Mr. Brown
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Diversity Club
 
Diversity Club encourages open, non-judgmental dialogue about social justice, identity and intersectionality in the Brearley community and the world at large. Every meeting is open to all Brearley Upper Schoolers, regardless of club membership, to continue building a community where everyone feels they belong. 
Advisor: 
Mr. Sanchez
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
East and South East Asian Affinity
ESEA Affinity is a space for East and Southeast Asian or East/Southeast Asian Pacific Islander-identifying students to discuss shared experiences and relevant topics to their culture and heritage. 
Advisor: 
Ms. Muñoz and Ms. London
(10:15-10:50)
Day 6
Film CIO
In Film CIO, we will explore various aspects of the film industry and filmmaking through watching, discussing, and hands-on learning. By engaging in genre explorations, director spotlights, and cinematic technique observations, members will learn how to analyze and appreciate a diverse array of films. Film CIO strives to be a relaxed and creative space for members to review, recommend, and talk about a variety of movies with fellow film-lovers!
Advisor:
Mr. Taylor
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2 
French CIO
French CIO explores French culture, including pop music, games, radio, TV, films, magazines and debates, and improves conversational skills, accents, reading and writing. We are committed to exploring nonwhite francophone identities and cultures and discussing racism, inequity and bias through different cultural lenses. French CIO welcomes both French speakers and non-French speakers (we alternate between meetings focused on French language and those focused on French culture). We are able to work on and improve our knowledge of French language and culture by participating in fun activities like baking traditional French goods, watching French media, and more!
Advisor: 
Mme. Lucile
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Global Girls
Global Girls is a club devoted to promoting global gender equality through discussions, fundraising and internationally micro-financing women's business and education endeavors. We discuss modern feminism and sexism and engage in activism to benefit women worldwide. 
Advisor: 
Mme. Lucile
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Hablemos
Members of Habelmos are committed to celebrating and learning about Spanish and Latinx cultures within the Brearley community. Hablemos’s mission is to explore through conversation and education the various Latinx and Hispanic experiences in New York City, the United States and globally. We are committed to being well-educated citizens and allies to all underrepresented and unheard voices. In our meetings, we discuss politics, media representation, holiday festivities and traditions from the often unheard Latinx cultural perspectives.
Advisor: 
Ms. Sabater 
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4

Bonim
(Jewish Affinity Group)
Bonim (Jewish Affinity Group) exists to create a safe and welcoming environment for all Brearley students who identify as Jewish to gather together and discuss our experiences being Jewish in today’s world, as well as current events that concern the Jewish community. We aim to create a tight-knit community for all Jewish Brearley students of any race, gender, or sexual orientation. We include all students who identify as Jewish, no matter their beliefs or manners of practicing religion.
Advisor:
Dr. Ezra
(10:15-10:50)
Day 6
LUNA
(Latin X Affinity Group)
The LatinX Affinity space aims to establish a safe space for students of all ages and grades in the Brearley Upper School who identify as Latinx, including all the races which make up the ethnicity. We hope to speak about our experiences both in and outside the walls of Brearley and to establish a stronger Latinx community within the school. We are aiming to do this by discussing current events and having thoughtful and introspective conversations about the implications and experiences of being Latinx in this day.
Advisor:
Ms. Rivera-Rivera and Ms. Echeverria
(10:15-10:50)
Day 6
Math Team
 
 
Math Team’s mission is to expand our mathematical horizons beyond the classroom for anyone interested, regardless of previous experience. Our team members bond over our love and appreciation for mathematics through creative problem solving and friendly competition, and we hope you’ll join us for the ride!
Advisor: 
Ms. Glick, Mr. Altschul
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2 
Medical Science 
In Medical Science we aim to educate our members on human anatomy and medicine through presentations, games and videos. We invite guest speakers from the medical field to come in and share their experience as well as teach practical skills.
Advisor: 
Ms. Nedbal
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Middle Eastern Culture and Current Affairs 
Club
MECCA (Middle Eastern Culture and Current Affairs) is dedicated to discussing Middle Eastern current affairs and learning more about the many cultures of the Middle East. MECCA is a fun way to learn about a fascinating and complex region of the world, and to engage in dialogue about important Middle Eastern issues. No prior knowledge is required, and we invite anyone interested in foreign affairs, politics, food, or just the Middle East in general to join us!
Advisor: 
Ms. Gray
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Middle Eastern and North African  Affinity
(MENA)
As our short term goal we would like to encourage discussion and sisterhood among the Middle Eastern student body. In the long term, we hope to gain feedback that we can relay back to administration in order to ensure that all voices are heard.
Advisor:
Ms. Cassis
(10:15-10:50)
Day 2
Mock Trial
Mock Trial aims to simulate real trials for civil and criminal cases. Students will learn about the legal system and criminal justice through competition with peers, inter-school scrimmages, and club discussions. Mock Trial is a space for students to hone their public speaking skills, learn how to build effective arguments, and develop strong logical thinking skills. Mock Trial hopes to instill in its members a passion for justice and the American legal system.
 
Advisor: 
Ms. Zelbo
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Model Congress
(application only)
 
 
Brearley Model Congress dedicates itself to providing an enjoyable and instructive atmosphere in which students can develop their interests in American government while also learning to be active citizens. In Model Congress, students debate a wide range of issues from different viewpoints and explore policy areas they are passionate about as they write bills to debate both across NYC and a four-day national conference in Washington, DC. Participants immerse themselves in legislation and politics while practicing public speaking skills in mock congressional committees that focus on topics such as education, technology, health, foreign relations, and the military. We empower students with the ability to create legislation that makes a difference in their communities and beyond.  
Advisor: 
Mr. Hertz, Dr. Swett
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2 
Model UN
(application only)
 
 
Model UN simulates the United Nations in discussions and debates on the most pressing international relations issues facing today’s world, ranging from climate change to nuclear non-proliferation to the crisis in Syria. At conferences, you’ll represent your nation’s interests and work to reach agreements with other countries to tackle these global concerns.
Advisor: 
Dr. Wright & Ms. Gordon
 
(10:50-11:25)
Day 2 
Music Mentorship CIO
Music Mentorship CIO aims to foster sisterhood in the Brearley community and strengthen cross-divisional relationships. Through music mentorship, Upper School students can develop their leadership skills during weekly meetings with Lower Schoolers. During Upper School club periods, meetings will consist of planning for weekly mentoring sessions, preparation and practice for long-term projects, and discussions about music education. No experience is necessary, just an appreciation for music!
Advisor: 
Mr. Katz 
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Muslim Affinity
As our short term goal we would like to encourage discussion and sisterhood among the Muslim student body. In the long term, we hope to gain feedback that we can relay back to administration in order to ensure that all voices are heard.
Advisor:
Mr. Najm
(10:15-10:50)
Day 2
Multiracial Affinity Group
The multiracial affinity club is an affinity space dedicated to fostering connection among students of mixed racial and ethnic backgrounds. In community we discuss issues related to our mixed backgrounds and experiences, process contemporary events, and hold joy with each other.
Advisor:
Mr. Sanchez
(10:15-10:50)
Day 2
NECK (Needlework, Embroidery, Crochet, Knitting)
A student-led CIO in which members can relax from school stress by participating in needlework style activities. As a community, we participate in fiber arts centered charities, we have pattern, thread, and yarn bins for those who like working independently as well as a teaching corner for those who are learning. We will also host fun holiday activities.
Advisor: 
Ms. Kramer
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Neurodivergent
 Affinity
Neurodivergent Affinity seeks to provide a safe space for students with learning disabilities to discuss their experiences and make Brearley a more inclusive and welcoming space for students with learning disabilities.
Advisor: 
Coach Heyl
Ms. Leo
(10:15-10:50)
Day 2
Orchestra
(School Sponsored)
 
Instrumentalists may participate in the Upper School Orchestra, which rehearses twice weekly and performs in concerts at the School throughout the year. 
Advisor: 
Ms. Youngstein
Day 5 10:45-11:25 and Thursdays from 3:15 to 5:15.)
 
Panoramic
A creative magazine that is meant to educate, empower and embody Brearley's values of diversity, equity and inclusion as well as cultivate a closer-knit school community by promoting individual self-care and embracing the intersectionality of all identities that exist within “One Brearley.”
Advisor: 
Mr. Sanchez,
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Students in Politics
Students in Politics aims to bring a diverse group of students together to openly discuss and learn about current political news, elections, and the broader political spectrum with an accepting, bipartisan approach. In the club, we strive to combine local, national, and international topics in order to give students a holistic sense of current politics. We seek to create an open forum where students feel they can share their opinions and bring up topics that are important to them.
Advisor: 
Dr. Isaacson  Ms. Matthews
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Public Health CIO
Public Health CIO strives to create a forum in which Upper School students can learn about healthcare as it relates to the past, present, and future. Discussions and debates pertain to racial and social inequity, scientific research, public policy, and more. Our aim is to educate students about public health issues within our local and global communities and empower them to take action to alleviate these crises. 
Advisor:  
Dr. Saunders  
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Quiz Bowl CIO
QuizBowl rewards and encourages learning while providing meaningful experiences with teamwork and preparation. The skills students gain in acquiring information and working together prepare them well for their futures not only throughout their remaining academic years but also throughout life as professionals and citizens.


Advisory: 
Mr. Altschul
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Queer and Allies (Q&A)
Queer and Allies (Q&A) is an affinity/alliance space dedicated to the dicussion of intersectional LGBTQ+ topics and the broadening of community through collaborations, projects and engagement. *Though Q&A is not an affinity space, the group does have one representative on BSDLC,
Advisor: 
Ms. Bateman
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Riley's Way Chapter Meeting
Brearley’s Riley’s Way Chapter works to provide Brearley students with skills in leadership, empathy, and kindness, to drive positive change throughout our community. The Chapter is youth-led putting a strong emphasis on student leadership, community connection, and hands-on service learning. As a Chapter, we meet bi-weekly to strengthen leadership skills, engage in discussions, and develop projects to support our community in and out of school. 
Advisor: 
Mr. Chu
Thursday 3:30-4:30 
Robotics
 
 
Robotics designs, builds and codes a robot to partake in the FIRST Tech Competition (FTC). We design our robot for the annual FTC robotics challenge and compete with other teams in FIRST competitions. Students can work on the construction and/or coding of the robot, as well as our team’s outreach through social media and graphic design. We are a welcoming, tight-knit team and no prior experience is necessary to join! More information can be found on our website (designed by a team member!) at https://brearleydoublex.wixsite.com/
Advisors: 
Mr. Karb, Ms. Hervieux
Tuesday & Thursday
Wednesday closer to tournament 
3:30-5:00 pm
Science Club
The Science Club aims to promote and develop curiosity and a passion for science in the Brearley community through labs, activities, presentations and discussions on a wide variety of scientific topics, especially those not focused on in our standard curriculum.
Advisor: 
Dr. Saunders
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
Service Committee
Upper School Service Club provides opportunities for Brearley students to participate in service work and discussions. We seek to educate and raise awareness about important issues through discussions regarding equity and social justice as well as collaborations with other clubs and organizations. As a club, we engage in physical service projects both within and outside of the Brearley community and use our resources to support causes that align with our community values.
Advisor:
 Ms. Vorenberg/Ms. Hosein
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Self-
Government
(elected position)
 
This Association aims to develop in each individual a sense of responsibility for herself and a sense of fellowship and cooperation with others. It represents the interests of the student body in discussions with the faculty and administration about many matters of school life.
Advisors: 
Dr. Noel-Pierre, Ms. Kramer
Varies

Slide Show
The Slide Show is a compilation of photographs and video documenting the Upper School athletic program, including teams and major school functions like Mountain Day and Field Day. The show is produced as a gift to the graduating seniors and is presented at the Athletic Association Banquet and Assembly.
Student Ambassador Program
(School Sponsored)
 
 
Brearley Student Ambassadors from Classes X to XII work closely with the Office of Admission, playing a key role in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for prospective families. By conducting campus tours, student ambassadors have the opportunity to represent Brearley and share their stories with Middle and Upper School applicant families.
Advisors: 
Ms. Cassis
Tours
South Asian Affinity Group
The South Asian Affinity Group aims to provide a safe and welcoming space for students in the Upper School who identify as South Asian to discuss topics such as current events, culture and identity. We hope to use these discussions to foster an environment of inclusivity that allows students to speak openly and connect with their South Asian heritage.
Advisors:
Ms. Quentin 
(10:15-10:50)
Day 6
Student Events Association
(School Sponsored)

A committee of student leaders dedicated to supporting and informing all initiatives related to Student Life. We seek students who would like to  plan school-wide events and develop strong leadership skills and the ability to advocate on behalf of the student body.
Advisor: 
Ms. Kramer 
As assigned
Summer Heart
Summer Heart raises money through bake sales hosted by our members to send children from the East Harlem School at Exodus House, a middle school committed to serving low-income families, to Brearley’s day camp, Summer @590. The Club also works to build community between the two schools.
Advisor:
 Ms. Lyons
Sponsors bake sales throughout the year.: No meeting times.
Tech 
Drama
 
 
The Tech Club is composed of students who do all of the technical work for Brearley’s staged productions. Tech work includes stage managing, building sets, running lights and sound, organizing props and making costumes.
Advisor: 
Mr. Duke
Meeting for the Fall Show on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons
3:30 to 6:00
Technology 
To increase awareness around technology and create a space where students are exposed to and learn about various topics while being able to ask questions and express their opinions.
Advisor: 
Ms. Blumberg
(10:15-10:50)
Day 4 
Umoja
(Black Affinity)
Umoja is a safe space for Black students to discuss Black culture, Black excellence, the Black diaspora and the issues within and outside of the Black community.
Advisor:
Ms. King and Ms. Carattini-Hatcher
(10:15-10:50)
Day 6
Yearbook
(School Sponsored)
Organized around a theme chosen by Class XII, the yearbook has sections devoted to every major division and activity of the School but focuses on the senior class. It contains some written features, many photographs and much artwork, all of which are produced and laid out by the staff.
Advisor: 
Mr. Byrnes
Friday, 3:30 pm
Zephyr
 (School Sponsored)
 
The Zephyr is the voice of the Brearley community. The paper is edited and staffed by students in classes X, XI, and XII, and published at least five or six times a year. During the school year, any student - especially IXs can contribute to the paper and learn about writing and editing journalistic articles. The Zephyr is committed to amplifying and including all student voices, and represent all the members of the Brearley community while reporting on the Brearley community, and the world beyond it. The Zephyr aims to bring together the Brearley community by including all voices and covering topics that are important to the students. 
Advisor: 
Ms. Stewart
(10:50-11:25)
Day 4
 

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