Hornet's Nest | May 11, 2021 | Vol. 6 | Issue 4

HORNET’S NEST Proctor Academy | May 11, 2021| Vol. 6 | Issue 4

Outdoor Spotlight: April Edition

By Patrick Duffy Calling all Proctor outdoor enthusiasts! Are you looking to get some fresh air this spring? Do you want to cure your quarantine blues? Proctor Academy has a rich history of embracing the beautiful outdoors that surrounds our campus and taking full advantage of riding, hiking, and camping.

Thankfully, with earth week as well as warmer weather, students will have more opportunities to enjoy what Proctor has to offer away from the computer screen. Despite restrictions placed on the community to stay safe and slow the spread of coronavirus, I have participated in a few outdoor events this year. At the beginning of the fall term, I lead an orientation group with Craig Leaman and Spencer Corkran for a night to Elbow Pond. While it was short compared to orientations in the past, we still had a fun time playing cards, telling riddles, and sharing stories.

Proctor Flickr Over the winter, I went on a camping trip with a bunch of friends led by Wamaru up to the cabin. For anyone who doesn’t

know him, Wamaru (A.K.A Will Wamaru) is the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator at Proctor who also has an impressive amount of experience in the outdoors.

Because we couldn’t actually sleep in the cabin, Wamaru helped us set up a tarp that had airflow but also provided warmth. My favorite part of the campout was when Wamaru pulled a massive chunk of meat out of his bag and started roasting it on a stick over the fire! That was some of the best meat I ever ate. On top of the food and lodging, I was taught to keep my feet warm on pieces of wood, what foods are the best to eat to stay warm, and how to clean cooking ware with charcoal. I can’t wait to learn more from Wamaru and others with outdoor experience as I continue to participate in these awesome trips.

Wamaru listed a few of this year’s outdoor trips such as a, “Hike into the Proctor woods during orientation week and overnight at the cabin… [a] campfire and stargazing at Elbow lake and hiking back to Proctor in the dark.” Wamaru enjoys the outdoors as he has “been

Students at campfire (photo by Will Wamaru)

able to teach some skills to students as outdoor adventure and education is my background. Students walk away with a sense of adventure but also a bit of confidence and interest in spending more time outside.” An average of six to eight students attend them, with only two students going on his most recent trip.

In my opinion, there are students that would like to do more outdoor activities but chose not to either because of a lack of communication or knowledge of the events. To combat these issues, Wamaru suggested that we, “Communicate plans earlier in the term… Offer outdoor activities as part of afternoon activities… and [take] more classes outside to build interest and familiarity in outdoor excursions.” In a recent survey sent out to the student body, seventeen people said that they would be interested in doing more outdoor activities; it’s a small number, but it’s a start. Some suggestions from students included fishing, kayaking, swimming and hiking. With Earth Day here and a new group of faculty members who are interested in the outdoors, Proctor will have more opportunities to go outside just like the good old days.

The Psychological Benefits of Poetry

By River Turnbull

We can all agree that social media is beyond intriguing, but scrolling through our feeds can become harmful to our well-being when we do it too often.

There are a variety of ways to spend your free time separated from your device, but one you probably haven’t considered is poetry.

There is an abundance of evidence to suggest that poetry can seriously benefit young people as we progress into adulthood. Reading and writing poetry can help adolescents build the skills necessary to express themselves more freely and effectively. According to an article published by Synnika Lofton of the Chesapeake Bay Academy, “Introducing poetry is an effective method of communication. Through its innovative structure, young people or teenagers are able to understand their own emotions.”

Expressing yourself and your feelings out

loud or on paper can often reveal something about yourself that you hadn’t previously noticed or understood, and poetry is the perfect medium for this.

With free expression comes another important skill: empathy. Empathy is our ability to understand and share the feelings of another, and it’s not only an important trait to possess in life, but it is crucial when it comes to reading, writing, and understanding poetry. “Poems expand our world of feeling and meaning,” says Dean Gianakos, Chief Medical Officer at the American Association for Physician Leadership. “They strengthen our empathic muscles. Just as it takes empathy to understand a patient or a colleague’s perspective, it requires empathy, or imagination, to understand what a poet is trying to convey.” As Gianakos describes, empathy is essential in fully interpreting and understanding poems as well as the feelings and emotions of one’s peers. Without a sense of empathy, people tend to find it difficult to emotionally connect with the people, stories, and experiences around them. The need to connect with our peers has always been important, but life during COVID has made it an essential skill as we all try to stay happy and healthy together.

said John through a WebEx call. “I feel there are poems that bring you acceptance and remind you that you’re not alone, that somebody else has had a similar experience.”

Reading and writing poetry is both an introspective experience and one that brings people together, and it should not be undervalued. Perhaps Proctor may introduce a program similar to the Hays Speaking Prize where students are encouraged to write their own poetry and share it with the school. Nevertheless, it is undeniably an important art form, and will likely become more abundant in our classrooms going forward as students and teachers begin to appreciate its genuine value.

Artwork by Aalaa Albastaki - Instagram:@lalaa_albastaki

Mental Health During Quarantine

By Lucy Powdermaker

John Bouton

John Bouton, an English teacher at Proctor and advocate of the benefits of poems, reinforced this notion. As John described to me, he first discovered his interest in poetry in high school and has been reading, writing, and teaching poetry for the majority of his life. Not only has John read the works of a seemingly endless list of poets, he understands the role that poetry plays in developing empathy. “I think there are lots of times when poetry can really salve our souls,”

It’s been six days since she has been in close proximity to another person.

Trapped in quarantine, she has only seen people through a computer screen, and hasn’t eaten hot food since she started this ordeal. While it is important to quarantine when a contact is traced here on campus, what is quarantine doing to everyone’s mental health?

While society can sometimes pretend that mental health does not exist, it does and everyone is affected by it. It was made clear when the world went into lockdown over a year ago to keep their physical health safe. People became isolated and according to the the Kaiser Family Foundation, “During the pandemic, about 4 in 10 adults in the U.S. have reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder, a share that has been largely consistent, up from one in ten adults who reported these symptoms

from January to June 2019.”

So how is the Proctor community doing?

The Proctor health team along with the administration has been working hard since the beginning of the pandemic to keep us in school. For the most part, the Proctor community has been able to maintain in-person classes and have a fun school year.

But what happens when students go into quarantine? For many of the students, having social interactions, even if it is just on your dorm porch, is important to stay focused on school work. When interviewing a Proctor junior I asked them to rate their mental health on a scale of 1-10 in contact traced quarantine, 1 being in good health and 10 being 100% different than normal, she said, “an 8” and then continued, “You’re basically starved in there for like a week. All they give you is ... leftovers and it is so appetizing.” Being in quarantine is taking a large toll on students’ mental and physical health.

However, students don’t always mind going into Proctor’s Phase 1a for a couple of days because it can be a nice break.

A junior at Proctor said, “I am usually ahead of the game, so I don’t have to do work when we are online.” That all changed when, in contact trace quarantine with minimal human contact for ten plus days, she said, “I got my work done, but did not study, so I failed all my quizzes and tests.” Mental health does not just affect a person’s feelings but can affect physical health and prevent a person from being able to stay motivated to succeed in school.

The Proctor Administration has recognized that students struggle with being alone in quarantine and have been trying to find solutions to lessen the stress.

Assistant Head of School Karin Clough said, “We have been really flexible with letting kids go home knowing ... that’s for a lot of kids… more comfortable” than quarantining alone.

Then, in response to asking her about improvements for students in quarantine, she said, “We talk about it all the time; I don’t know if we are changing any

of our rules around it.” She made it clear that they are continuing to look into how they contact trace. Karin continued, “Being outside, even if you are together at a lacrosse practice, there is a lower level... of your chance at getting Covid.” They continue to ask the question, “Where are the admissions happening?” in hopes of decreasing the number of people put into quarantine.

Karin Clough

Karin along with the rest of the administration are working hard to try and improve everyone’s experience at Proctor and decrease contact tracing. They understand the mental health impact of spending ten days alone in quarantine.

Throughout the interview, Karin was honest, really interested in my opinion, and open to suggestions because she wanted to help.

Although contact trace quarantine will continue to isolate to prevent the spread of Covid -19, there is hope that with more research, less of the Proctor community will be traced. Hopefully, with warmer weather, students in quarantine will be able to go on socially-distanced walks with other people and spend more time outside instead of alone in a room.

The Tiny Ski Hill Down The Road

By Blake Licata

At 5:30am at the Proctor Ski Hill, Garry George had already made sure the hill was safe for the athletes at an early morning April training. It was an unpredictable year, unlike any other, but for the Proctor Ski Area, it was one of the most successful seasons yet.

The travel restrictions and covid guidelines were a challenge at first, as we could

only race within our state, but it ended up being a huge advantage for Proctor athletes. This season, our small ski hill held more races than we have any other season, which included 14 FIS races, 6 USSA races, as well as 4 EISA College Carnival races. Before this year, the ski hill had never hosted high level skiing (like a college carnival) so it was really fun to watch it grow into a well known racing venue in the East.

Every race was well prepared and organized. Coach Craig Leaman reflected, “The team behind the operation was the most important part. Having a solid group of parents and staff to work the races was crucial in order to successfully pull off the events.”

From an athlete’s perspective, the season was just as much of a win as it was for parents and spectators. Senior Sage Curtis observed, “This season has been really weird in many different ways. The main one being that we weren’t allowed to travel outside of New England, or really even New Hampshire. Last year we spent the majority of our season on the road, racing out of the region and having a lot of fun with the team, and it was weird not having that this season. But one of the main benefits to this restricted season was the ability to compete at our home hill [where] we are very comfortable skiing.”

I think all of us can agree that despite the craziness that Covid brought, lots of good came out of it. “One thing we learned this season was to stay positive throughout this hard time. Our team got really close this season which definitely helped us stay happy and positive...”

As the winter comes to a close, it gives us a chance to really appreciate the Proctor Ski Area and all they offer to the ski team. Thank you to Garry and the ski hill staff for pulling off such an amazing winter during these unpredictable times.

Gap Year Chronicles

By Stewart Kane

Michael B. Horn recently wrote in EdSurge, a popular education column, “In ordinary times, Harvard University has made a practice of encouraging its admitted students to consider deferring admission and taking a gap year. Twenty percent of its first-year students have now taken them up on that offer—roughly three times the number that usually defer.” I talked to two Proctor Graduates about why they decided to take a gap year and how prepared they felt leaving Proctor.

Jake Bicknell ‘20 (left)

I had another conversation with Jake Bicknell, another 2020 Proctor graduate, who spent some time last fall at a machining business where he learned lots about the manufacturing process.

We talked about some skills he gained from Proctor that transferred well into his gap year. ”Mainly the communication thing, because that’s really important in any scenario whether its school or work, there’re always people that are gonna [sic] need to know what’s going on and that you’re gonna [sic] need to communicate with. You know, being a successful communicator is one of the best ways to be successful in anything.”

I asked Steve about some of his biggest lessons and most impactful moments at Proctor. “I would definitely say going to Ocean Classroom was probably one of the most impactful experiences for me.

Learning to work under pressure, and working as a team was definitely invaluable....” With a smile on his face, he went on to say, “Proctor set me up to develop a huge work ethic... I kind of depend a lot on that.”

Steve Jenson ‘20

I asked Steve Jenson ‘20, what he had done since leaving Proctor. “I took an internship for a political campaign in the fall of last year. I am currently working a job at a lamp store… I interviewed yesterday for a vertical farming company.”

Steve has been busy since leaving Proctor and he plans to attend Northeastern University in Boston this coming year.

Coming out of Proctor graduates have many opportunities, they can go straight into college, take a gap year, or even attend a less traditional program such as trade school. Think about what makes the most sense for you. Do you feel like you will benefit most from going straight into college? Or, do you feel like you will have the most to gain from a gap year of work and life experiences?

Thriving Through Relationships

By Hayse Broome

For decades, Proctor’s community has thrived on the ability to form meaningful connections. After interviewing my advisor and Dean of Faculty Karl Methven, I learned that the powerful force that shapes Proctor is strong relationships.

We all benefit from having someone to learn from and share our thoughts with, whether it’s an advisor, teacher, coach, or friend. When I asked Karl what has remained the same at Proctor for his time here of almost forty years, he answered, “The school is about relationships between students ... and other meaningful adults in kids’ lives, so that’s the same.

We’re not boastful...we’re not coat and tie, we’re relaxed about who we are, and I think more secure in who we are.” These caring and meaningful relationships that Karl talks about play a significant role in our well-being. We thrive most when we are in a place where we can connect with people who energize us, value us, and understand us.

As we all know, Proctor is occasionally hard! We need lots of support in coping with stress, loads of homework, or hours of practice. Friends of all ages can inspire us to be brave, try new things, and discover who we’re capable of becoming.

When my conversation with Karl pivoted to discussing the growth of Proctor, I learned that students’ successes have

elevated the academic curriculum. Karl noted, “The school has continued to grow and become more effective and more rigorous, and students are flourishing in that environment.”

may have found as well? Proctor is a close knit community that prides itself on personal and hands on teaching. Would you say the pandemic has affected this or the culture of Proctor as a whole?”

As a first-year student, I’ve noticed such a difference in how much everyone at Proctor cares about each other’s successes. Not only are students doing well as connections are constantly formed, but they are gaining a greater sense of self awareness. Students are challenging themselves, putting themselves in uncomfortable situations, and evolving, growing, and learning from all of it. As Karl concluded,, “don’t define yourself just who you’ve been. Try new things, be bold…..meet new people….develop new skills…..don’t limit yourself to being who you are today.”

When asked what affected teachers the most, a common response was learning to be flexible and ready at the possibility of having to go remote at any given time.

History teacher, dorm parent, and coach Kyle Connelly explained, “Teaching has felt a bit on hold as I have been on the roller coaster ride of in-person and online classes.” Athletic trainer and sports medicine teacher Kelly Griffin-Brown stated, “I teach to students in multiple places at once and use technology in new ways.”

It’s hard to imagine how teachers must have felt first adjusting to such an abrupt change and unknown circumstances; I admire how they stayed focused and positive during classes.

Jill Jones Grotnes

How did advisors keep in touch with their students when we were remote? I was surprised and impressed with the creative and personal strategies. Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives Scott Allenby coped by “Delivering breakfast sandwiches to dorms during quarantine times.” I’m sure his students appreciated this during a stressful time.

Science teacher Lynne Bartlett found a way to make the holiday season during a pandemic still feel special. “We have

Trials of Breakfast Sandwiches and Puzzles: PA Faculty & the Pandemic

By Madeleine Balser

We’ve heard how Covid has changed student lives, but how has the pandemic impacted Proctor teachers?

I sent out a survey with questions about teaching during a pandemic. I wondered about the trials, the negatives of online, as well as any possible positives.

“How would you say COVID 19 has changed teaching the most for you? For advisors: can you give a specific example of how you stayed connected with advisees during this difficult time? Although there have been many negative aspects of online classes are there any positives you

Scott Allenby

played some online games, done some picnic table hangouts, we did a secret santa and opened presents together. It’s brought us close in many ways too.”

Lindsay Brown, math teacher, dorm parent, and coach, made a number of attempts to keep her students comfort-

Lindsay Brown

able and content during this confusing time. “We try to play games over Webex.

I try to deliver food. I try to go for walks after dinner. I try to text gifs that make me laugh and think of them. We try to do 3-4 special advisory meals per term.”

This all reminded me of how special Proctor is. How teachers and faculty really engage with students and care about their well being. Faculty help make us a close knit community that strives to be a family, not just a school.

I was curious as to whether there could be any positives found in the chaos of the pandemic. Many communicated that it was nice in a sense to have the opportunity to learn to use new technologies such as Loom and Webex. Some got to see and meet students’ families on a more personal level. Lindsay Brown also enjoyed the time for her own family and the opportunity to have more time at home. “Convenience for my family and childcare. Nice to be home sometimes. Can flip a classroom easily.

Can teach remotely if need be. We have stayed healthy (less colds). I have had less coaching responsibilities and less away travel games so I was able to be home for more family time. MORE FAMILY TIME.” Math Department Chair and dorm parent William O’Brien found an advantage in these confusing times stating, “ I have had some closer connections with students over math help than in the past with Webex.” Lynne Bartlett also found that she got to see students positivity and connection shine through, “I’ve gotten to know students’ pets, and family members and the students have been really kind and patient with each other.” I was glad to see that teachers as well as students could find some light at the end of this long isolated tunnel.

Lindsay Brown

Lynne Bartlett

Proctor faculty struggle like we do through these confusing times, something I had failed to notice and acknowledge. Advisors really go out of their way to keep in contact with students in creative ways that may hopefully put a smile on students faces.

I find I have a greater appreciation for advisors because of this.

We still have a very special and truly wonderful community to lean on. No matter how long it may take or what may happen in the future, we won’t lose that. Even with everything going on we found new positive ways to create a version of Proctor that can withstand all unknown circumstances. That’s something to truly be proud of.

FICTIONAL PHOTO ESSAYS The Moon

By Carly Sipp The moon. The moon can be seen from anywhere on earth. When you look at the moon, you are guaranteed to not be the only one looking. Once night time hits, the moon is revealed. Whether it is full or in a crescent, it can still be seen just by looking up at the night sky and I did exactly that. Every night I climbed onto the rooftop of my apartment building from the stairs just to look at the moon. It was the only time during the day that I didn’t feel alone.

I always knew that someone else had to be looking at the moon the same time as me even if it was just for a couple of seconds, that was enough. I’ve been living on my own for a while now, being 25 and unemployed is hard especially when your family’s poor. I live just 20 minutes from my parents house in an old apartment building outside of the city. I used to have a computer programming job where I would just sit in my apartment all day staring at my computer screen. I was getting paid, but I hated it. I hated spending so much time alone, so I quit. Ever since I quit my job, I’ve been searching for another one where I get to interact with other people, but I haven’t found one yet. My parents haven’t been that supportive especially financially. I’m running out of time to keep paying rent and I’m scared I will have to move back in with parents. I’m an only child and both of my parents work, so I know what it’s like to be alone. That doesn’t mean I like it. The only way I cope is reminding myself that I’m not alone. The moon. Every night when I look at the moon and think about my problems, I know some else out there in the world is looking at the moon too. I remember I have a family and other people around me who love me but I forget that sometimes so I look at the moon to remind myself I am not alone.

Ponies

By Hayse Broome It’s a Saturday in early October of 2010. The leaves are just changing color, and the autumn breeze chills the fall air. Maggie and Hayse spoon warm caramel sauce on top of their freshly picked macintosh apples and sprinkle candies on top while mom isn’t looking. Coconut flakes, candy corn, MnM’s, you name it. They need to fuel their bodies for the long journey that lies ahead of them.

The two ponies plan to haul their younger siblings through the field of grass and up the hill to the playhouse where the other horses are grazing on hay. But first, strong horses need candy apples. Maggie eyes her little brother Will playing with a labrador named Rosie in the garden. She secretly plots how she will lure him into the wagon along with Hayse’s sister Whistler. The Clydesdale ponies are powerful and need passengers for their trip to the horse show. As they chomp on the apples, Hayse and Maggie realize that their stomachs are too small to finish their sweet treat, and off the sweetened apples go to the lucky yellow labrador.

To their surprise, Will and Whistler are psyched to ride along in the wheelbarrow. Whistler relaxes in the cushion of vibrant maple leaves, and Will perches on the edge of his seat, eager to explore where the Clydesdales are taking them. Maggie practices her gallop, her little legs flying. Upon their arrival at the playhouse, they hear mom’s voice… “It’s time to leave, my precious ponies.”