Students in Ms. Foley’s AP Language and Composition class had a guest speaker this week on Thursday who touched on the topic of incarceration. Laura Sullivan, a journalist for NPR, investigated the Angola Prison in Louisiana, where two men were put in solitary confinement for 36 years for a crime they didn’t commit. Sullivan is an investigative reporter who covers crime and punishment for Morning Edition, All Things Considered, and other NPR programs. She discussed her journalism career, how to complete an unbiased interview, and some of the ethical dilemmas of journalism.  Students reflected on how readers responded to her interviews, what reform attempts have occurred as the result of her reporting, and how she has handled the emotional toll of reporting.

Next Wednesday February 17, instead of asynchronous work, students will have the chance once again to sign up for Wellness Workshops. Topics include Conflict Resolution, Backyard Birding, Baking Club, Boys Discussion Group, High Intensity Training, Craft Circles, Self-Portrait Poetry, Weaving, Storytime, and Extreme Bocci Ball. Wellness Days give students a chance to unplug from the academic load and find activities that are pleasurable and help them recharge their emotional and physical batteries. 

This week was Upper School Spirit Week and the students celebrated in style! On Monday, students represented their class colors, with seniors in black, juniors in blue, sophomores in green, and freshmen in yellow and orange. Tuesday was a tropical day, filled with Hawaiian shirts and shorts.  On Thursday students dressed as a famous person or character from literature or movies. Friday students honored love with romantic outfits in red or pink for Valentine’s Day. For each day, a winner was selected and awarded a $10 gift card of their choice of ensemble.