This past weekend was--among other things--Trustee Weekend. Aware of how busy we all are, I am always amazed that dozens of smart, successful adults have the will to dedicate so much time to ensuring the well-being of this little school. But the truth is that their lives have been transformed by Proctor, whether as students or parents or friends of alumni. They are truly dedicated, and their love will pay dividends for decades.
And I'm not talking about their philanthropy, although that will be just as critical; I am speaking of their vision, energy and involvement, because that is what will define the school that will be Proctor Academy in thirty years. Board Chair Mark Loehr speaks of the
passion that drives Proctor, and I am haunted by the observation of a trustee (who graduated in 1957) when--witnessing a spontaneous tug-of-war competition after Friday's assembly--said, "I've never see such spirit!"
The reason I am haunted by his remark is that the concept of "school spirit" has changed so much since I arrived here. Alumni from the late '70s will remember when--each fall--we chose one student to be the "Keeper of the Spirit". He was chosen for his success at drumming up participation in cheers that everyone learned by heart. In retrospect, we forgive the masculine nature of "school spirit" that was all about rallying the community for athletic victories. Ironically, we are stronger--in every way--today, but school spirit means something else, now. I think of it as students throwing themselves into things. Like leadership, volunteer work, or a spontaneous tug of war.
Today's "school spirit" is more of a community pride than a competitive edge for athletics, although I am sure it manifests itself very well on playing fields. But consider the notion of throwing yourself into an activity...of becoming the best at something... That's school spirit (for me, at least) today. The other day, Caleigh--with Brian on trumpet and Thomas on guitar--belted out this rendition of
Hallelujah. Listen to it, and you'll know what I am saying.
School Spirit was evident at an annual Saturday night tradition called Mr. PA, at which boys strut their stuff and compete in predictable catagories. Some guys enter as contestants. Others--in a very packed student center--seem to be viable candidates on their own....
.
Kids throw themselves into the event.
At some point, the students who were inducted into the National Honor Society today threw themselves into something: achievement, service and citizenship. It probably was not a conscious decision. It was just the right thing to do.
