Bravo! Out of 107 participating plays, D-E Performing Arts’ production of A MONSTER CALLS earlier this year received the top honor of a “High Superior” rating at the Theatre Night Awards ceremony in May. “We were one of 16 plays credited with this honor, placing us in the Top 15% of participating schools,” remarked Mr. Jeff Hogan, Upper School Theatre Teacher and Director. Individually, Jian Harrell ’26 won for his performance as Billy Nolan in our production of CARRIE, and Emma Yuan ’29 won for her work as Assistant Student Director. During the ceremony, Caroline Chu ’27, Caroline Sung ’27, and Logan Passe ’28 performed a 90-second scene from A MONSTER CALLS in addition to participating in the opening number with Blasina Olowe ’26 and other nominated performers. Meanwhile, the following students received Metro Award nominations for their work on CARRIE: Jian for Outstanding Dance Performance, Maleah Liao ’27 for Outstanding Achievement in Graphic Design, and Bennett Sachs ’29 for Outstanding Achievement by a Stage Manager. With these additional nominations, D-E Theatre has received 26 total nominations this year. “It’s wonderful to receive this recognition,” said Adam Slee, Dean of the Performing Arts. “Having our students’ and their advisors’ exceptional work celebrated by peers and honored in this way is both a testament to and validation of their dedication… We look forward to continuing to grow and provide these opportunities for and within our community.” Congratulations to the entire cast and crew of this year’s theatrical productions!

The Class of 2030 is moving on up! During a ceremony in Schenck Auditorium, 93 8th graders celebrated the transition to high school with a ceremony filled with warm memories of their Middle School experiences and words of advice to guide them into their next chapter. Following opening remarks from Middle School Principal Mr. Jonathan Davis P’24, Mr. Alex Kuchar, P’34, ’37, 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher and Coach, spoke about the impact of enjoying this time with friends and family, and looking ahead to their next steps with anticipation and a greater sense of independence. Several student speakers then reflected on unforgettable moments, and Ella Gorcie ’30 and Gigi Nwankpah ’30 sang “For Good” from the Broadway musical WICKED. During the presentation of certificates, 8th Grade Dean Ms. Ali Miller P’28 told 8th graders that, “You’ve grown a lot… You’ve been loud… We are proud of you, and we’re going to miss you.” Head of School Dr. James Calleroz White P’27, ’28, ’33 closed the ceremony by recalling sage advice he received from one of his college mentors and encouraging the rising 9th graders to similarly “own” their experiences in the Upper School. “If you take ownership, you’ll have no regrets,” he said. Congratulations, Class of 2030!

D-E’s 5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony for the Class of 2033 was significant not only because it marked the transition from Lower School to Middle School for 47 of our students, but also because it was the first Moving Up with Mr. James Choi as the LS Principal and Ms. Madeleine Lopez and Ms. Jessica Massei as Assistant Principals. In joint welcome remarks, Ms. Massei and Ms. Lopez noted that student speakers from each of the three 5th grade classes would be describing their student journeys from the perspectives of looking back (from wearing masks in Kindergarten during the Covid-19 pandemic to service learning as part of Third Graders Making a Difference), recalling the current school year (including projects, field trips, and trends like the viral 6-7 meme), and anticipating the future, where more “freedom and independence” awaits them. Following the 5th graders performing their class song, “Wherever I Go,” by Andrew Dodd and Adam Watts, Mr. Choi gave remarks that referenced the memorable lyrics of “Seasons of Love” from the Broadway musical “Rent.” He relayed that among the best ways for students to measure their MS success would be in moments of courage when they are facing new challenges and by expanding their horizons. MS Principal Mr. Jonathan Davis then spoke directly to the students to welcome and advise them that the two most important rules they should keep in mind is to “be kind and do the right thing.” During the presentation of the rising 6th graders by Ms. Molly Davis, Ms. Jessica Pomeroy, and Mr. Michael Rodenbush, students were given a box containing a butterfly to be released in the presence of their families, as a symbol of transformation. Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished, Class of 2033!