Headmaster Tad Roach received the following note on Wednesday night from a member of the Class of 2014. There are many voices articulating the St. Andrew’s experience and we thought we’d share this one with you.
Dear Mr. Roach,
Today’s events inspired me to craft this email to you to share some reflections. My classmates’ presentations and performances in our Humanities class was an early highlight of the day. Ms. Pressman and Mrs. Roach’s assignment on “Angels in America” encouraged us to think creatively, to create art, to perform, and to engage the text with larger conversations around controversial topics. The results highlighted my peers’ vibrant imagination and intellectual curiosity. Bridget’s inspired photo project and Megan, Lucy, Charlotte, Eunice, and Josue’s thoughtful and emotional performances beautifully encapsulated the play’s themes. Jamie and Louise’s original song inspired by the complex relationship between “Joe” and “Harper” brought me to tears.
Later, I walked across the Front Lawn with Anand when he shared that he was actually walking past his class and would have to turn around once he entered Founders. I loved that he went out of his way to appreciate our campus.
During dinner I found myself discussing the relativity of the speed of light with Sam. Everyone at the table was perplexed by his explanation of different scenarios and theories, but I was delighted by his passion and excitement.
I was also grateful and humbled to have had the opportunity to hear Ms. Kern’s chapel talk on moments of surprise in her life. She eloquently emphasized our ability to demonstrate resilience when faced with adversity and how our decisions to do so ultimately shape and define us. I found her perspective particularly refreshing and will never forget the lessons she shared.
Lastly, I wanted to discuss tonight’s Honor Committee meeting. I love participating in the honest, constructive, and transformational discussions that take place during these meetings. There is something special about St. Andrew’s in its ability to transform moments of error and imperfection into moments of compassion and growth. Students posed thought-provoking questions that challenged all of us to look beyond the external motives of our work and highlighted the sense of pride that comes with doing our own work as we develop important critical thinking skills and sound habits of mind. I admire the learning that takes place during these meetings and I always find that they teach me many valuable and important lessons.
I guess I simply wanted to write about how amazing this school is because the proximity of graduation has inspired me to think and reflect. And while I am terrified of leaving, Ms. Kern’s chapel talk reminded me that the St. Andrew’s community is an incredible family that will support you long after you graduate.
Sincerely,
A Proud Member of the St. Andrew’s Class of 2014
