Dear Upper School Parents & Students, 

Time is flying by in the Upper School! We are halfway through September and–with Picture Day in the rearview–we have completed all of the traditional “Start of School” tasks! I’m delighted to share that Griffin Grounds has officially celebrated their Grand Opening–congratulations to the students who have worked so hard to make this dream a reality! Great job, Griffins!

This week, our students spent time working on their active listening skills in Advisory. As pairs, students had to take turns speaking and listening for two minutes–the speaker filled the time, and the listener wasn’t allowed to interject. After the two minutes had lapsed, the listener was allowed to ask questions, etc. before the roles switched. This exercise was challenging, and highlighted the importance of respecting each other through listening. 

In addition to listening to each other, I noticed Griffins working to bring cheer to others through thoughtful gestures such as adding foam hearts to Griffin Grounds lattes and special deliveries of homemade treats from class! The Day School community is truly a special one!

All in all, it was another fantastic week for our Upper Schoolers. Looking forward, here’s what’s on the horizon for the division:

• Saturday, September 20
  • Senior Park & Paint from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
• Sunday, September 21
  • SAT Prep from 1:00 - 3:00 PM in the Seminar Room
• Thursday, September 25
  • College Application Night from 5:00 - 7:00 PM in the Seminar Room
• Friday, September 26
  • Empty Bowls Community Bowl Making from 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM in Dent Gallery
• Saturday, September 27
  • Empty Bowls Community Bowl Making from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM in Dent Gallery
• Sunday, September 28
  • SAT Prep from 1:00 - 3:00 PM in the Seminar Room
  • Parents’ Community Fall Festival from 3:00 - 5:30 PM at Pennell Field
• Thursday, October 2
  • Upper School Movie Night from 7:00 - 9:00 PM in Dorrance Plaza

As always, the athletic team calendars are busy, so check them for the most up-to-date information. I’m excited to share that we will have lots (nine, currently!) of college representatives on campus next week! As I’ve mentioned, demonstrated interest is an important metric in the collegiate admissions process, so students should be sure to connect with representatives of interest when possible. 

Finally, progress reports are now available for viewing in FACTS. Progress reports were written for new students, students who currently have below a B- in a class, and/or students who are missing work or have fallen behind. Importantly, this means that not all students will receive a progress report at this time. If you have any questions surrounding a grade, please reach out to your student’s teacher. 

I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend! Go Griffins!

Warmly, 

Jenny Glenn
Head of Upper School