Mid-Year Academy Update
Head’s Weekly Letter – February 3, 2012
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Dear Academy Families,
At this time of year, in addition to enjoying the unseasonably mild weather of this particular winter and the President’s State of the Union (as well as the Mayor’s and the Governor’s), we have a variety of annual “touch points” to help us assess our own “State of the Academy,” all of which, I am happy to report, are doing well:
- Michelle Cannon and I meet with every teacher to discuss both this year’s progress and next year’s duties (since we begin to build next year’s teaching schedule in February), as well as to invite any insights into the current school year; these individual meetings are uniformly productive, and this winter there has been a consistently strong theme of “It’s a great year!” from a wide range of perspectives – the freshmen are settling with strength, the seniors are doing well, and the sophomores and juniors are making their own transitions in good form. When the faculty feels positive, this means a lot!
- I meet with my administrative team to review our individual and team goals. We revise and adjust as needed, and I ask how I can be more supportive. Again, the work is on track, another important indicator.
- We speak with any families who might be considering not returning, whether for personal, academic or financial reasons. Be on the lookout for your re-enrollment letters next week.
- Admission applications are healthy, both in quantity and quality, and the “vibes” from our prospective families have been affirming – thanks especially to our student tour guides and family contacts at events like Open House and parent receptions.
- Seniors had a healthy round of early college replies, and are in good shape for the rest of the college application cycle.
- Our capital campaign and building plans are moving forward (though perhaps not with a one-summer-wonder for construction as previously hoped – but this is typical for building projects). More on the annual fund is coming by separate letter.
As you can tell from the above items, many good things are happening at the Academy this year, and the results – we hope – show up in the growth and learning of each student. Always let us know if you see things differently, as we are happy to work with families to help each student to thrive, and we value constructive criticism as a necessary part of learning.
So enjoy the mild weather as well as the varied and happy indicators that the year is progressing well for the Academy.
Warm regards,
James S. Berkman
Head of School
