BASIS Independent Silicon Valley

The Vietnam Term Project trip took students on an incredible journey through the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the streets and markets of Hanoi, visiting historic sites, and trying local cuisine to cruising through Ha Long Bay and experiencing daily life in Vietnam, students learned through meaningful hands-on experiences.

It was an unforgettable opportunity to explore a new culture, gain new perspectives, and create lasting memories together.

The Alaska Research Term Project trip with Dr. Allendoerfer took students on an unforgettable journey through glaciers, wildlife, and coastal ecosystems. From conducting field research and exploring the effects of changing glaciers to spotting marine life and hiking through breathtaking landscapes, students gained hands-on experience studying the natural world beyond the classroom.

One of the most meaningful Term Project opportunities each year is seeing our high school students spend the week volunteering at the Lower School campus. Throughout the week, they supported a wide variety of projects, assisted in classrooms, and served as playground buddies for our younger students.

There is nothing more rewarding than watching our older students guide, mentor, and build connections with the next generation of Bobcats. The friendships, leadership, and sense of belonging fostered during this experience are a reflection of what makes the BASIS Independent Silicon Valley community so special. From classroom helpers to role models, our students showed that learning and growth happen at every age, and that we are stronger when we support one another.

One of our students’ favorite Term Projects this year was Hobby Horses and Equine Sports (Grades 1–3)! Throughout the week, students saddled up for a fun-filled adventure as they explored equine sports such as dressage, show jumping, and western games on their very own hobby horses.

Along the way, they learned about horse care, anatomy, behavior, and different breeds before showcasing everything they had learned in a Hobby Horse show for their parents at the end of the week. It was a week full of creativity, learning, and plenty of horsing around! Swipe for videos!

During Term Project Week, students in The 4th Annual BISV Egg Drop Challenge (Grades 6–11) put their physics and engineering skills to the test by designing and building devices to protect an egg from impact. They first tested their designs by dropping them from a ladder before taking on the final challenge of dropping them from the roof of the school. It’s always such a fun and memorable project for our students, combining creativity, teamwork, and a little bit of suspense along the way!

The Journey of Fun & Exploration Term Project gave Grade 5 students the opportunity to learn, create, and explore through a variety of exciting experiences. Throughout all last week, they visited Raynor Park, learned how to cook at Cucina Bambini, discovered hands-on exhibits at the Exploratorium, and explored wildlife from around the world at the Oakland Zoo. It was a memorable week filled with fun, discovery, and lasting memories with classmates.

The Term Project Glass Blowing & Fusing gave students in Grades 9–11 the chance to explore the art of working with glass through hands-on experiences both on and off campus.

During visits to the Bay Area Glass Institute, students learned the basics of glass blowing and created their own glass orbs. Back on campus, they experimented with glass fusion, creating jewelry, landscapes, and other unique pieces in the kiln.

The week wrapped up with a Glass Showcase, where students displayed their finished work and celebrated a week of creativity, craftsmanship, and learning.

Check out our blog to learn more about their Term Project experience.

https://basisindependent.com/schools/ca/silicon-valley/about/blog/

Term Project Trips are underway! This year, our students are traveling to Italy, Japan and South Korea, Vietnam, Alaska, and Santa Barbara for unforgettable experiences filled with adventure, learning, and fun. Along the way, they’ll explore new places, experience different cultures, try new things, and make memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to follow their journeys and share highlights from each trip throughout the week. Have fun Bobcats!

The end of the school year is always such a fun time for all of our students! It’s Term Project Week, and students select a project to take during the last week of school. Projects span both our Lower and Upper School campuses and focus on a wide range of interests, from cooking and bicycling to arts and crafts, games, and more. These unique experiences give students the opportunity to explore new interests, build skills, and have fun with their classmates. Stay tuned for more features throughout the week as we showcase some of the exciting projects taking place across campus!

Last Friday night, the Class of 2026 came together for one of their final celebrations before heading off to summer break and beginning their next chapter at colleges across the country and around the world. It was wonderful to see them make memories, enjoy time with friends, and celebrate their journey together at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for Grad Night.