Josephine Kozaka is deeply curious about medicine, healthcare, and the human condition—and she is eager to pay it forward. A communications internship with Charley’s Fund (a local nonprofit working to accelerate the development of life-saving treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy) has given the aspiring pre-med student a unique perspective on medicine: Namely, how ground-breaking advancements can emerge from community-based establishments. “My internship has given me real-world experience with health studies and research that will benefit my future and lead to opportunities,” says Kozaka, who plans to pursue Latin American studies and the Spanish language after graduating from high school a year early. On the job, she is gaining valuable life skills from balancing tasks and prioritizing responsibilities to meeting deadlines. The experience has also piqued Kozaka’s interest in patient advocacy, including helping individuals navigate complex healthcare systems through empathy and action. “Internships are a great way to build professional relationships outside of school,” says Kozaka who admits doing so can require stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. “Both have been important parts of my learning.” 

Sleds, snowpants, and smiles were on full display as fourth grade students and staff from Muddy Brook Elementary recently blew off some mid-winter steam on the middle school sledding hill. About 45 students enjoyed the fresh air and a chance to check out what will be their regular recess digs come September. In other elementary school news, Monday, February 9th marked the 100th Day of Kindergarten—a popular, math-focused milestone students celebrated with clever collections of 100 things, spanning Cheerios and Legos to seashells and pennies. Only 80 days (minus a few) left to go…

While brand new to the high school, Tristana Núñez brings two decades as an educator to her role teaching Spanish. As to what fuels her passion for the profession? “I am motivated to help students connect in a living way and to speak their truth,” says Profe, as she’s known in the building. A reputation for caring about young people, learning, growth and diversity drew Núñez to the BHRSD school community after stints at Lenox and Housatonic Valley. Drop by her classroom on any given day and you might catch Profe sharing a quirky skill she’s gleaned along the way: Drawing vocabulary words—which she not only enjoys but has also learned students like, too. After twenty years of teaching, Núñez shares the best advice she’s received along the way: Work smarter, not harder!