Proctor Academy - Breather!

Last year at this time, as it became obvious that the annual "Head's Day" was upon us, I loaned my camera to a student to document his day. The product was a post entitled Ferris Berlow's Day Off. Wednesday, with the calendar suggesting another "surprise" holiday was near, we repeated the camera exchange. So today's page features images shot by Elijah and some of his friends Thursday. This time, he has contributed some text, which will appear in quotes.

"The story is short and sweet. One day a year, in the gloom of winter, the Head of School declares 'Heads Day.' It's a day of rest and reflection for the entire school. That is the premise and notion of this glorious holiday. However, in between the lines of this story is something felt and known by the entire school. I’m not going to sugar coat Winter Term here at Proctor. It can be very rough."

He continues, "Short, dark days, filled to the brim with schoolwork, practices, meetings, extra helps and other such regular going ons. This can just get overwhelming sometimes in the long haul that is Winter Term. It’s rough... I mean without much sunlight or running around outside, swimming in the river, things can get incredibly routine and just a grind. Thats why 'Heads Day' can be just the cure to get people out of the pits of their dorms and enjoy a day of recharging, reflection and just to take a breath."

"Some people take advantage of the activities offered by teachers on this day off. This group is hiking to the Proctor Cabin to take a nice breath of mountain air in the morning with Adam Jones."

At the Cabin, Zoltan builds a fire to heat water for tea.

"A break at boarding school is no small thing. Here, you hear, see, feel, smell, and taste school. It creates community, yes, however it can get pretty challenging sometimes, especially in winter. It might have to do with the lack of sunshine or strange weather patterns we have in the valley, but every winter is a challenge to stay positive, social and to be a part of the community."

Back at the Forestry Shed, Jeremy seems to appreciate a breather.

"What I’m continually impressed by in this community is how resilient and strong we are. Everyone has bad days; they are inevitable wherever you go. Here, one simple act or something funny, can make your day a whole lot better. Hearing that it was 'Heads Day' Wednesday night, probably made my entire week. I’m sure a very large majority of teachers and students can say the same."