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How are you doing?
It is hard to believe we are well into the month of February, the shortest month, but the month that can somehow feel the longest every year. While there is much to put us in a positive frame of mind – the longer days, the warming weather, signs of spring – it is also a good reminder as we finish out a long winter that we should check in with ourselves and each other. I remain enthused by the fantastic things happening on and off campus that show how our students are thriving and connecting.
- In one of our most popular events, Form 5 students had a chance to see what life will be like as they enter Middle School next year during our Form 5 Step-Up event.
- Our Sports Council and Cheerleaders held their first Virtual Pep Rally of the year. Take a look at all the fun and spirit by watching this brief video.
- Eight seniors officially signed commitments to play collegiately during our Senior Athlete Signing Day. The Sports Council hosted a Watch Party, where students and faculty moved between Lewis Field and the Zeller Theater to watch varsity men's and women's soccer and men's varsity and junior varsity basketball games.
- Lower, Middle, and Upper School students and faculty celebrated Spirit Week with Capers and Elliott Day, Barons' Sports Day, Dress Like a Teacher/Coach Day, Meme Day, and Dress to Impress Day.
- SMH alumna Bettie Ward '65 joined the Senior Studio Practice Sculpture and Design students on Zoom from her home in Santa Fe, New Mexico to discuss her journey as an artist.
- College-age alumni spoke with Form 8 students about the impact SMH teachers and coaches had in preparing them for college and the future. View a quick video of their Zoom together.
- Fine Arts made a guest appearance in Morning Moments last week, sharing the Fine Arts Sizzle Reel, highlighting many of our Lower, Middle, and Upper School SMH artists' work during Fall 2020.
- Sixteen Middle School Latin students participated in the National Classical Etymology Exam and won Bronze, Silver, and Gold medals.
Recently, Health Educator Ami Teodosio asked her Forms 6 - 9 and 11 students to give feedback on their health class. Students provided feedback on how teachers support their wellness and how Saint Mary's Hall can continue to do more. The students shared many great thoughts, and Mrs. Teodosio was generous to share the feedback with me. I was struck by one of the most straightforward ideas, which was repeated several times. Students noted what a difference it makes when teachers and coaches ask students, "How are you doing?" When we start a conversation this way or begin a class in this manner, our students feel more supported and loved.
"How are you doing" are four simple words that are essential for human connection and put love and service to others as primary for a life well-lived. If our school mission is to prepare students for college and fulfillment in life, it's the second part of our mission that is more aspirational. Before we can be aspirational, we need to understand people and how we encourage our interactions together.
Beginning our conversations with "How are you doing?" is a great place to start. I like to end any meeting with students with, "Take care of each other." I challenge us all to provide care for each other, ask how others are doing, and, truly, take the time to listen.