When one considers the competition for admission (despite tuition costs) it is appropriate to note the quality and size of the teaching faculty. Here the rubber meets the road. Seventy-five teachers are a lot, but let us now consider the one hundred-plus staff whose work is the infrastructure that makes the Proctor experience possible for all students and teachers. A physical plant (with an estimated value exceeding thirty-four million dollars) needs daily cleaning and maintenance, and the professionalism and pride of those responsible is--ultimately--evident to all. Below, the Housekeeping staff extends its holiday wishes.
Twenty dormitories, three academic facilities, scattered arts buildings, shops, the fieldhouse, the rink, a sprawling steam plant....the task facing Maintenance is daunting.
The population on campus at any moment is close to 300 students and almost 200 adults. They all need to be fed, and the Kitchen staff has trained us to expect multiple hot entrees, salad bar, sandwich and panini bar, desserts, make-your-own smoothies and a choice of two dozen beverages. A visitor from a neighboring prep school told me recently, "Proctor's food service is legendary." Here are Barbara and Elfrieda prepping winter squash:
Elaine, in Housekeeping, suggested that I photograph the tree decorated by the boys in Summerfield. We're looking at soda bottles, bicycle sprockets, a hideous tie, camping gear....
Disney World is famous for its behind-the-scenes infrastructure. The difference is that Disney World is about illusion and make-believe. Education is real.
________________________________________