The Berkshire Local School District is partnering with the Geauga County Department of Aging to offer intergenerational learning experiences and opportunities for senior citizens, officials recently announced. “It is critical that school-age children learn humility and respect for our community elders, in order to honor senior citizens’ contributions,” said Berkshire Director of Professional Learning and Community Outreach Vanessa Karwan. “As part of our PK-12 Positive Behavior Intervention and Support Curriculum, we are teaching students how to be their best, and we encourage kindness,” she added. “This collaboration is mutually beneficial for both seniors and students.” Geauga County Senior Centers’ Supervisor Sandy McLeod noted that the department is “very excited” to provide residents with the opportunity to participate. “The seniors love interacting with the students and showing their support in the arts by being the audience for the dress rehearsals, for example,” she said. “Book discussions, too, provide the opportunity to share wisdom and life experiences with students, while learning from the students a new perspective and sharing in their enthusiasm and energy….this is a win-win for all.” In addition to arts programming and book studies, Berkshire and the department plan to offer a spring dinner-dance event for seniors. The program will be facilitated by student leaders from Berkshire Jazz Band and Choir, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, cheerleading squad, ROX Girls Club and student council. The district is also “appreciative” of its partnership with Fairmount Center for the Arts, which will be providing some “line-dancing fun” with seniors and students. “I want to extend my deepest appreciation to the Geauga County Department of Aging for their invaluable partnership,” said Berkshire Superintendent John Stoddard. “This collaboration is an extraordinary opportunity for both generations to learn, grow, and share in the richness of our community. “Together, we are creating a vibrant bond that will leave a lasting impact on our students and seniors alike, and we are excited to watch this partnership flourish and strengthen the fabric of our community.” The collaboration officially kicks off Nov. 22 with the Fall Theater Performance, one of eight scheduled events. All events are of no cost to seniors, officials noted. For more information, contact Vanessa Karwan at [email protected].