Campus Is Abuzz With Back-to-School Festivities

Crossroads kicked off its 45th school year this week, and the 21st Street Campus looked a little different for returning Middle and Upper School students, who finally got to see the completed Science Education & Research Facility, an unmistakable presence in the Alley.

 

Meanwhile, on the Norton Campus, Elementary School students, parents, faculty and staff met on Friday morning for the first Gathering of the school year. Attendees were treated to a flash mob of teachers and staff members dancing and singing to a remixed version of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off,” with reworked lyrics about getting ready for a new school year.

 

Moments prior, Elementary School Director Joanie Martin shared some remarks and students lit the traditional candelabra—the same one from the School’s original home at Saint Augustine by-the-Sea.

 

Later that morning, Middle- and Upper-Schoolers attended the annual Convocation, where newcomers to the Crossroads community were welcomed, and all present got a dose of enthusiasm and encouragement from two powerful speeches.

 

Student Body President Jack Schoenfeld gave a rousing speech, reminding his classmates that each of their voices is valuable. “Bro! Bro! Listen to the kids,” he exclaimed, quoting rapper Kanye West.

 

“Every teacher, administrator, bus driver, coach, security staff member—every single one of them believes in the wisdom and creativity of kids—of us,” Jack continued. “Whether you’re a sixth-grader or a senior, a new student or a lifer, you have the special opportunity to be heard—you just have to speak up.”

 

Head of School Bob Riddle shared a personal story about the difficulties he faced growing up and how the privileges he had—and the ones he didn’t—shaped his life. He challenged students to step out of their comfort zones this year and have those sometimes uncomfortable conversations.

 

“Whether we like it or not, privilege is very real and playing out in our own community, right here in the Alley,” he said. “And while on one level it may feel difficult to acknowledge, at the same time by opening up the dialogue, by having the conversation, by recognizing how privilege plays a role in our lives, we will go a long way in building a stronger community here at Crossroads, and making sure that everyone is supported, nurtured, valued and seen.”