An Afternoon Apart But Spent Together

An Afternoon Apart But Spent Together
An Afternoon Apart But Spent Together

Camilla ’32 hula-hooped. Zander ’28 skateboarded. Jasper ’29 played the violin. After all, the show must go on.

The show was the Sidwell Friends virtual talent show in celebration of Founder’s Day. It wasn’t the only event that marked the traditional recognition of Thomas Sidwell’s birthday. Students, faculty, and staff gathered together virtually to share a variety of activities and experiences.

After the Upper School participated in the yearly Let Your Life Speak event, students of all ages spent the rest of the morning reading, playing games, taking special classes, and much more. Upper School teacher Shaakira Raheem taught a yoga class for beginners. Whitney Ennis, the assistant director of Auxiliary Programs, led an energetic games session, including a highly competitive game of Simon Says. Upper School students read stories that, in celebration of Earth Day, focused on the environment, and Lower School music teacher Matthew Stensrud led a high-spirited dance party full of students (and some parents, judging by Zoom images) tapping and twirling. The Meditation and Mindfulness club provided three sessions of guided meditation, and the all-school Friends Environmental Action Team made a video full of ideas for celebrating the 50th anniversary of Earth Day—from avoiding disposable utensils to having clothing exchanges. There were even two art shows, one of which focused on recycled art. The action even extended to the larger community. The special “Founder’s Day Choir” performed “This Little Light of Mine,” and the Community Action Club inspired students of all levels to join in a video thanking healthcare workers.

All in all, even though Sidwell Friends students, faculty, and staff still found themselves separated by miles, they were all together in celebrating the joy of a special community.

More School News

Not-So-Secret Histories

Journalist Ian Johnson explored the tension between China’s past and its present in his Zeidman Memorial Lecture.

Enter the Dragon!

This Lunar New Year—the year of the dragon—launched with a Lower School assembly filled with red ribbons, music, poetry, and dance.

Natural Bonds

The Black Girls’ Society reaches across School divisions to create community and pride.

Be a Signal in the Noise

Conversation With Friends welcomes Meredith Fineman ’05 to discuss her book, Brag Better.