Sixth grade civics teacher Mr. Staten was nominated for Gilder Lehrman National History Teacher of the Year. You may often not recognize him, as sometimes he is dressed like King Tut, and other times like a Revolutionary War hero. He brings history to life in our campus! Mr. Staten has inspired us with stories about patriotism and citizenship, and asked students to consider what their roles are in making America a functional democracy.
The classrooms were abuzz with excitement again this week, as hybrid school began. Students were enthusiastic to catch up on the latest news on the bus, try out the new outdoor tent classrooms, and play with their podmates on the field. Mr. Lyon and Mr. Derricot worked hard to troubleshoot the new technology and added WiFi usage at school. Meanwhile, Ms. Fleming kept everything in the building up to date. In many ways, it feels like we never left, as the campus buzzed back to life after what felt like a short slumber. It was thrilling to see so many (double-masked) faces and hear the voices and laughter reliven the building.
There is no school on Friday in commemoration of Emancipation Day in 1862. On this date, the city of Washington, D.C. commemorates the signing of the Emancipation Act, which President Lincoln signed on April 16. There will be no hybrid or virtual school! Enjoy the day as a chance to reflect on history and the sacrifices of others, and consider how the past affects and inspires our actions today.
Ms. Dobler’s sixth graders jumped back into hybrid learning with a bang! Students were bursting with excitement to be back in the building, and to celebrate they worked in the courtyard making different types of volcanic eruptions using various chemicals. Students were so excited to have the chance to work with lab partners and put their knowledge into action.
While hybrid classes will focus primarily on grades 5-9, the upper school will continue to hold Academic Support on campus for students in grades 10-12 while hoping to add more sections for sophomores through seniors of classes with in-person learning options in the coming weeks. Chemistry labs and Honors Humanities will continue to offer the in-person option and Ms. Oran’s biology classes will continue to hold outdoor labs on Wednesday, and Ms. VerCammen’s jazz band will continue to fill the courtyard with music. Students in Advanced Placement courses will be starting to take practice exams for their May tests in the next few weeks.
