I hope this finds you well and rested from a nice, long summer break. Here at Darlington School, the team has been hard at work getting ready for another great year. I am excited to share several exciting developments at the Upper School and bring your attention to some policy changes as well.
The biggest hit of the year (besides our outstanding faculty and staff) might just be the remodel of the Dodd Dining Hall and our new food services provider, Flik. I can’t wait for you to see the great work that has been done. Flik specializes in independent school food services and they are known for their nutritious and fresh menus with great variety, outstanding recipes, and educational outreach. I am hungry just thinking about it!
You will also be hearing about a new dorm on campus. That’s right -- we're finishing up a remodel of the top floor of Sydnenham Hall to feature five private boys' dorm rooms and a faculty apartment. Now, the Business, Advancement and Admission offices will have teenage neighbors! We are pleased to announce that Soccer Academy coach Jeff Haigler will serve as the head of this new hall.
Students have been given choices in selecting their advisors this year. We hope that those connections will prove more close and helpful than ever! Additionally, advisors will now be led in grade-level groups by Grade Level Advisory Chairs.
We’ve hired several outstanding
new Upper School team members. Please give a warm welcome to:
Al Shorey - Mathematics
Hannah Decatur - History
Rebecca Duren - Chorus
Katie Knight - Science
Anna Yarborough - Learning Center
Madison Willoughby - Spanish
Lauren Peal - Head of House
This year, we will continue our 21st Century classroom initiatives including flipped classrooms, project-based learning and technology integration. Also expect to see more electronic texts than ever. Remember that each subject is unique and each teacher brings his or her own experience and perspective, but we stand united in our commitment to college-preparatory excellence and innovation.
Finally, the
Parent and Student Handbook has seen several policy updates. It’s not all bad news (I promise!) We have relaxed or streamlined some policies and clarified others. Please look for a letter from Mr. Peer in the coming weeks with links to the specific policies that have been tweaked for the coming year.
As you can see, we have been hard at work. As we count down the last few days until the first bells of the school year ring, I just want to thank you for entrusting your child's educational journey to us here at Darlington. See you soon!
