First things first. Six Proctor students have entered a video contest sponsored by AdmissionsQuest. Two cash prizes will be awarded. Each prize will be split by the winning student and the student's school's annual fund. A panel of judges will consider a popular vote, and voting is underway until Dec. 4. Click on this link, VIDEO CONTEST and vote now!

Fall trimester ended Thursday at midday, and faculty gathered for a marathon meeting that afternoon. At the start, Mike offered a thought-provoking observation: in some respects, this has been a tough term. Perhaps the large number of young kids is a factor, but we've had to grapple with interpersonal stress in some dormitories, the age-old frustration with borrowed/stolen bicycles and--recently--influenza. This is a late term geometry class:

The timing of the flu outbreak--immediately before and during final exams--created a situation with no perfect solution. Sick kids had to go home. Healthy kids (comprising the great majority) had to take exams. With grades due before the holiday, it was impossible to require make-up exams. We had to settle for what was attainable.

Here's Gardner working on his skiff in the boatshop:

 

The matter fueled a spirited, protracted exchange on NEWS, our electronic bulletin board. Some participants in the debate articulated highly mature, sensible perspectives, appreciating the complexity of the situation, and identifying exams as culminating performances rather than painful requirements.

 

Mike balanced his introductory admission by insisting that we recognize the stunning accomplishments of Proctor students this term, citing specific examples from the arts, athletics and classrooms.

 

He finished these remarks with a simple assertion that the students at this school are achieving at remarkably high levels. As we pause, exhausted, for the Thanksgiving Break, it is important to consider the legitimacy of Mike's words. 

 




At the top, I mentioned a contest. Let's have one of our own! Who can name the activity undertaken by these (seemingly hardworking) students in the Wise?



Hint: Whatever it is, they are all doing it. They are interacting.

 

I'll tell you what the students below are doing. They are playing Scrabble on a home-made board, with home-made pieces.

 

Here's another surprise: Cribbage!

 

Ben's ready for finals (and a little vacation!)