Reflection and Celebration

As we conclude the 2022-2023 school year, there are so many moments that stand out. It has been a year of looking back at 100 years of our school's past while also looking forward to imagine the Shorecrest of the future. We have watched our 12th graders lead the School with grace and school spirit and we have seen our youngest 3-year-old Alphas mature and grow, both physically and in their accomplishments. And all the students in between! Our Shorecrest Chargers have spent this past year learning and inquiring -- trying new things, exploring their passions, learning from setbacks, developing new skills, overcoming obstacles, succeeding beyond their wildest imaginations, discovering who they are, and realizing how they make a difference in this world.  

This has been a week of transition, traditions and rituals. At last Saturday's Commencement, many of the student speakers reflected on how the Shorecrest community influenced their lives and helped them to become successful young adults. The seniors spoke about the impact that teachers had on them and how friendships were a central part of their Shorecrest life. At this week’s eighth grade Moving Up Breakfast, students spoke about the meaning of their Middle School experience and how they developed and matured during those four years. Then the eighth graders walked to Landy Hall, where they were welcomed by Head of Upper School, Mr. Schneider, into the Upper School with their class t-shirts and yearbooks. 

Head of Lower School, Dr. Bianco, spoke at the fourth grade Moving Up Ceremony to encourage the fourth graders to have fun exploring and discovering new things as they enter Middle School. She said, “My greatest wish for you in Middle School is that you will be you and that you will let the best of you shine through.” And our newest tradition, JK Bridge Day, was a celebration of Junior Kindergarteners’ growth and learning throughout the year. At the corner of the campus in our brand new beautiful Lower School Outdoor Classroom & Garden, JK students crossed over the wooden bridge and were greeted by the Kindergarten teachers, welcoming them into Lower School.   

Each of these milestone events - and all the accomplishments and growth that happen in between - are worthy of reflection and celebration. As a college preparatory school we look to our seniors each year to truly embody the value of a Shorecrest education. I am so very proud of our senior class and excited for what comes next for them. We are proud not just because 100% of our seniors were accepted into college, many into highly selective colleges and universities, but because their Shorecrest education helped provide students with an incredible variety and choice of college options. Along the way, they earned $9.5 million of scholarship funds, which speaks to the talent of this impressive Shorecrest Centennial Class of 2023. We will miss their leadership and wish them well on their next chapter of their educational journey. 

I hope that all of you have a wonderful summer vacation. These summer months are important times to read, reflect and enjoy time spent alone and with family and friends. We look forward to your return in August!

All the best,
Nancy