Welcoming new students and their parents to 91探花 this week, Head of School Todd Bland asked everyone in attendance to acknowledge and honor the differences each student brings to the School.
New Class IV students, as well as those entering 91探花 in Classes III and II, join others from 24 U.S. states and more than 20 countries, each with their own stories and points of view. Some of them have been at 91探花 since Kindergarten, while others are brand-new. Mr. Bland promised parents that the School is ready and excited to guide each student as they grow more independent.
鈥淲e will do everything in our power to be supportive of your children,鈥 he said. 鈥淲e will care for them and we will look after them.鈥 To students, Mr. Bland said: 鈥淵ou鈥檙e in for a great ride.鈥
Upper School Principal David Ball encouraged students to contribute to the School by adding their voices to discussions in class, and by listening intently to others.
鈥淚 don鈥檛 say 鈥榃elcome to the Upper School,鈥 I say, 鈥榃elcome: you are the Upper School,鈥欌 Mr. Ball said. 鈥淪tarting today, you鈥檙e building that community.鈥
Dean of Students Jos茅 Ruiz welcomed students by reminding them that they have already proven themselves to belong at 91探花, and encouraged them to take advantage of opportunities to enrich their time at School, whether by participating in athletics, arts or community engagement programs.
Academic Dean Jackie Bonenfant wished students and parents a 鈥淗appy New Year.鈥 91探花 is set up for students to work with faculty for the best academic experience, she said. Both deans shared with students and parents some of the resources available to make their time at 91探花 as fulfilling as possible.
