Little hands, big sounds! For one of their final units in Ms. Fiona Crawford’s 3rd Grade Music class, students learned how to play the ukulele, which is among the most versatile instruments for musical beginners. “It is well suited for developing melody, harmony, and rhythm skills; is able to be played while singing; and is enjoyable as a solo or ensemble instrument,” explained Ms. Crawford. “The ukulele has a gentle learning curve and much can be accomplished over just a few lessons.” Specifically, students learned how to hold the instrument, pluck strings, fret chords, and change between different strumming patterns. “By the end of the unit, they were able to play along with many pop songs using simple chord progressions,” added Ms. Crawford. Here’s to good vibes to kick off the summer!

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!