WHEN BCD PARENTS TIMOTHY AND KARYN GUNNET-SHOVAL

toured the sunny second floor of BCD’s Oakes Hall, they could envision it bustling with students working on projects integrating technology, art, and engineering. Their subsequent gift to the School supports The Gunnet-Shoval Family Imagination Lab, scheduled to open in Fall 2023. BCD students in Preschool, Lower School, and Middle School divisions will have the opportunity to dive into projects using 3-D printers, laser cutters, woodworking, and other craft-making.

“At BCD, more than anything else, we are student-focused, “ says Head of School, Mary Warner. Along with this initiative, BCD is also rolling out signature programs in Social-Emotional Learning, Civics Action, and Outdoor Learning to support its inquiry-based educational model and commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability. “Karyn and Tim’s amazing gift to the School will have an immediate impact for our students, and aligns with our values as a school.”The Gunnet-Shoval Imagination Lab is a natural extension of BCD’s curriculum and educational philosophy.

This year, Middle School students are engaged in hydroponic farming while Preschool students look forward to a partnership with Berkshire Botanical Garden in the spring. Lower School students will be able to build robots for both purpose and fun. Options include a break-dancing robot and a wind-detecting robot. “It is the intersection of what we do here at BCD, informing and inspiring imagination,” adds Warner.

Veteran Middle School Science teacher Tim Gore and Art Instructor and local artist Ben Evans were both involved in the conceptualization of the space which combines elements of science, art, and technology. Other faculty are excited to integrate new concepts into their curricula that can be actuated in The Imagination Lab. “I use a 3D printer in my home studio so I am very excited for our students to have this opportunity here,” says Evans. “Just wait for fall.”