The School’s Winter Traditions During the Pandemic

In the face of coronavirus, students and faculty alike have learned to adapt and get creative about working around obstacles. But how will social distancing requirements affect the School’s beloved winter traditions like the Holiday Program and Winter Ball?

Like other events this year, the Holiday Program has switched to an online format. Dr. Phillip Harris, the vocal music director, says that the Holiday Program is already “recorded and will be released on December 18.” Crystal Land, the Head of School, also expressed her excitement for the School’s “first ever virtual Holiday Program” saying, “It should be lovely!”

The Holiday Program itself is fairly similar to previous years, with K-12 fine arts performances. However, Dr. Harris mentioned that there will be an additional Vocal Department Winter Showcase, featuring primarily Upper School students, also to be released as a video. 

Sadly, virtual platforms have their limits. Naoko Akiyama, the Dean of Students, says that although some holiday surprises are planned for after Winter Break, “[the School] won’t be able to have the Winter Ball as usual in January.” Akiyama noted the loss of other annual traditions this year, like the Welcome Back to School dance, the K-12 Clock Ceremony, and Fallout. 

However, Akiyama was enthusiastic about the determination of students to stay connected with each other and the community. She remarked that Spirit Masters Sophie Coutu and Loucas Xenakis in particular have “remained undaunted in their efforts to bring joy and elevate spirits this year.” 

Despite the loss of some cherished traditions, students and faculty remain as spirited and festive as ever. Akiyama adds that this year “we might even be creating some new traditions that we’d like to hold onto… when we return to in-person living and gathering.”