5/27/22

 

5/27/22

Good Morning and Happy Friday from Smith Academy! 

Congratulations to our seniors! Today was their last day of typical classes before their graduation practice and graduation next Friday, June 3rd. 

As we head into this Memorial Day weekend, I hope everyone takes some time to appreciate the significance of the holiday, and to remember the fallen men and women of our armed forces. This weekend, if you are so inclined, consider discussing with your child the responsibilities that accompany the freedoms that we so value in this country- freedoms that are protected by the members of our military who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice in service of our country. 

This afternoon, we held (or will hold, depending on when you read this) a moment of silence in honor of Memorial Day. Tragically, it was our second moment of silence of the week, following the horrors in Uvalde, Texas. My heart broke, as I know yours did as well, to hear the news. As the events are processed, we will continue to support students in managing their stress and emotions. Should you need, here are some references you and your family may find helpful: 

  1. Managing Your Stress in the Aftermath of a Shooting (APA)

  2. National Parent Helpline

  3. How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings (Common Sense Media)

This week, the 10th grade held their Declamation Contest. Tonight at 7:00, the finalists will be presenting their declamations to the public. The event is open to all, and will be held in the Smith Academy Library (to the right as you enter the front door). The winner and runner up of tonight’s event will get the honor of speaking at Hatfield’s Memorial Day Ceremony this weekend. Our band will also be marching in the parade. 

This week, HEADS up screened the film “RACE to be Human,” which is about racism’s impact on mental health. Following the screening, a panel discussion which included a Smith Academy student representative from the Social Equity Alliance provided viewers with an opportunity to ask questions and open a dialogue. The event was a success. Thank you to HEADS Up and the Hatfield Equity Alliance for putting it on. We’re fortunate to have access to the film and educational resources to utilize during CREW as well. 

HEADS up also sponsored an art contest for students making posters for mental health awareness. Two Smith Academy students won the contest. Please see the Gazette article featuring them here. 

A huge congrats to our Band and Smith Academy artists who held their spring Art Show and Concert on Tuesday. The artwork was beautiful, and the band's performance showcased exactly why they received the gold and platinum awards last week. 

 

Important Dates: 

5/27- Marks Close for Seniors. Last Day for Seniors

5/27- Declamations (7:00 in SA Library)

5/30- No School, Memorial Day

6/1- Class Day (seniors) 9:00 AM. 

6/2- Seniors walk through HES- 10:30

6/3- Graduation (seniors) 7:00 PM. 

 

Have a wonderful weekend. 

 

Conor Driscoll, Ed.D.

Principal, Smith Academy