9/23/2009

The 49th Opening Day of school on September 8th offered families new and returning the opportunity to meet teachers, administration and each other. The advent of the Parents Association with current mother, Cheryl Kelly, as its president also provided families with yet another connection to partner with the school. The boys settled in well the first week enjoying bike rides, fishing, miniature golf, hiking, and other activities when not in their testing sessions.

Their first weekend trip took them to Mr. McDaniel's house in Wellfleet, MA on Cape Cod. The boys assisted in pitching tents and preparing meals. Rainy weather dampened the activities but not the spirit of the boys. A marsh walk and some time swimming in the ocean gave the children a wonderful sense of New England's shores. All but the freshmen boys returned home on Saturday due to rain. The freshmen boys held in there and reaped the reward having excellent weather for their ocean fishing trip with Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Lignori, Mrs. Darling and Mr. Sanieski. The largest fish caught being the one Mrs. Darling brought in! The weekend offered insight to the entire community into each other's likes, dislikes, personalities and roles in the community.

All classes began in week two of school and the boys enjoyed their coat and tie, feeling very businesslike in their approach to their own learning. Lunch included fresh fish from the freshman fishing trip. Soccer practice began and so did study hall. This week culminated in camping trips for each dorm to Mr. LaPointe's house in Shelburne Falls, MA. Another lovely venue, this second weekend bolstered camaraderie between dorm mates.

Now we begin week three and while growth and new experiences will occur daily, the routine will start to work its magic supporting the boys more as they settle in! So far the start has been a fantastic one exemplifying our school theme of Heroes and proving to the boys that heroes come in all shapes and sizes, there might even be one in your classroom!