Caring For Our Community

Some of the most profound moments of the past few months came directly following the assemblies announcing the passing of Jordan Park ’25 and Jonah Anschell ’23. Upon hearing Ms. Slattery’s words of grief and instructions for the day, groups of friends took to the field, sat in big open circles and chatted together — not necessarily about their lost loved ones or the complete grieving process but about anything and everything that described their current feelings. With students’ minds totally flooded with every single conceivable emotion, they found solace in each other to help them in processing their grief. They were able to step up for their friends, for themselves and for those who needed support. What’s more, these moments came organically from students — it wasn’t expected they go to class that day, but neither were they told to sit on the field and engage in these conversations.

The administration has done its part: After Jordan’s death, classes and assessments were made optional for the two weeks before Spring Break, and counselors were added to the regular school team. After Jonah’s, the administration took similar steps, additionally instituting a grade floor for the fourth quarter and making most final exams optional. Students still face the consequence of an “incomplete” on their transcript if they do not complete coursework, but teachers have been lenient, and many have lessened their number of assignments. Other actions directly linked to our mental health include a Field Day with different activities each Friday and speakers for certain affinity groups.

Teachers have also made time for conversation about emotions, and class meetings have involved meditation and