April 2020 Newsletter
Dear Bancroft Friends,
Shifting to our alternative learning platform has asked us to tap reserves of flexibility and understanding from each of us as we learn new skills and operate in new ways. Just several weeks into our journey, our community members are showing the true Bancroft spirit no matter where they are. Throughout this experience we have held true to our mission to provide an outstanding experience to each person and emphasized our community values to care for each other. This is a moment of pride—to see us coming together even as we are apart.
Despite the many disruptions that surround us these days, I find myself dreaming big and imagining the new possibilities that could emerge from the changes we are experiencing. Across the school, students and faculty are coming up with ways to put empathy into action and to inspire us to think creatively. I had a virtual lunch with a group of seniors this week who, while upset to be missing their end of year milestones, were energized by the new things they were learning and the activities they have pursued during their time away from campus. They have embraced the moment and are taking "Own Your Learning" to a whole new level.
Speaking of new levels...As some of you know, my cousin, Astronaut Chris Cassidy, is taking social distancing to a whole new level. Last week, he soared into space aboard a Soyuz capsule and will circle the earth on the International Space Station for the next six months. We have been working to connect Chris with our students while he is in space. In the meantime, I hope you will think of him when you glance up to the sky and give him a 220-mile-above-earth wave.
Here at Bancroft, we are fortunate to be part of a remarkably resilient and caring community. Our students have continued to work hard, our parents have been incredible partners, and our faculty have doubled down in their effort to provide quality education on a platform they're simultaneously learning. Let's all continue to draw on that strength and hope as we navigate the realities of our changed world. We are here with you, and we look forward to seeing you all as soon as we can. In the meantime, enjoy these examples of Bancroft students doing what they do best—owning their learning.
Best,
Trey Cassidy
Head of School
| |
SHARING KINDNESS
During this time of physical distancing, Lower School teacher Ali Chappell was looking for ways to put into practice the kindness Bancroft students are always talking about. Her lightbulb moment? Why not have Lower School students make uplifting cards for residents in senior homes who could no longer have visitors?
The students loved the idea, so Chappell asked the Salmon family—who operate a series of senior homes—if they'd be interested in receiving cards for their residents. The answer, of course, was a resounding yes. Alongside Chappell, students Aubrie, Grade 3 and Avery, Grade 5, took to the charge of inspiring other students to participate.
Students pulled out markers, colored pencils, and craft paper and got right to work. Chappell collected a photo of each card—she plans to send the cards virtually to eliminate any possible contamination. To date, over half the Lower School has shared their words of encouragement and cheer, with more on the way.
"I think we can really empower our youngest kids to see that spreading kindness truly matters, now more than ever," said Chappell.
| |
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Performing Arts Teacher and Department Chair Paul Belanger wasn't sure how to translate the work in his Middle School theater tech class to an online format. It's hard to design, build, paint, and install a set from home, after all.
Belanger met with his students and asked them what they really wanted to learn from the class. Was it painting? Or learning to use tools? After hearing the feedback, Belanger realized it would be the perfect time to tap into the network of alums working in the industry.
So Chris Conti '94, a lighting technician who has worked at some of the world's most important events (like the Olympics and the Super Bowl), joined Belanger's Zoom class. Conti talked to the students about the path that has led him to this point in his career, sharing behind-the-curtain footage from around the globe.
Talk about a showstopper!
| |
RECREATING COMMUNITY
When Bancroft shifted to an alternative learning platform, Upper Schoolers really missed hallway interactions—the quick hellos and passing high-fives.
Page Cassidy '20, along with a small group of other Upper Schoolers, put their brains together and came up with a solution: an Instagram page exclusively for Upper School students and faculty that could mimic hallway interactions. Thus, @BancroftAtHome was born.
"Many of us rely on seeing our friends in person, and you obviously can't do that now," said Brent Stefani '22, who manages the content going on the account. "With BancroftAtHome, I regularly see students and faculty encouraging each other and appreciating the content made for the account."
Robin Silverman, Upper School Dean of Students, agrees. "In the midst of our current remote situation, this group has managed to shine a light on so many positives in our community," she said. "While we can't be together right now, these students are doing what Bancroft students do best—stepping forward to own their experience and creatively find ways to connect us."
Page Cassidy '20, along with a small group of other Upper Schoolers, put their brains together and came up with a solution: an Instagram page exclusively for Upper School students and faculty that could mimic hallway interactions. Thus, @BancroftAtHome was born.
"Many of us rely on seeing our friends in person, and you obviously can't do that now," said Brent Stefani '22, who manages the content going on the account. "With BancroftAtHome, I regularly see students and faculty encouraging each other and appreciating the content made for the account."
Robin Silverman, Upper School Dean of Students, agrees. "In the midst of our current remote situation, this group has managed to shine a light on so many positives in our community," she said. "While we can't be together right now, these students are doing what Bancroft students do best—stepping forward to own their experience and creatively find ways to connect us."
| |
A SLAM-DUNK VISIT
Basketball practice looked a little different than usual on February 24 as Taj McWilliams-Franklin, a six-time WNBA All-Star and two-time WNBA champion, took to the gym after sharing her story and advice in an assembly in Harrington Theatre.
"The words, wisdom, and experiences she shared with our community was such a motivating experience," said Jane Gerhardt, Chair of the Physical Education Department and Head Coach of the Girls Varsity Basketball team.
After the assembly, McWilliams-Franklin threw on her sneakers and joined the Girls and Boys Varsity, JV Boys, and Middle School Girls and Boys Basketball teams in the gym.
"She ran drills with the team, and shared stories of how basketball helped open doors for her," Gerhardt said. "What was especially cool was seeing other student athletes, boys and girls alike, just so eager to listen to Taj, many staying after practice or just trying to observe and take it all in!"
| |
Shorelines is produced by the Marketing and Communications Office at Bancroft. If you have questions or story ideas please contact jcarlton@bancroftschool.org.
|
Bancroft School
110 Shore Drive • Worcester, MA 01605 • (508) 853-2640