Head of Upper School Dr. Schaffer and Form III Dean of Students Dr. O’Brien recently welcomed the Class of 2026 to Freshman Orientation. New to the back-to-school schedule this year, the day was designed to orient freshmen to life in the Upper School, so they could get off to a good start for the school year. Students met with their advisory groups to spend time getting to know each other better, as their advisors are at the frontline of faculty guiding them during this year of transition. After a few team building activities at various locations around campus, Form III students heard from various faculty and student leaders about what life will look like in the Upper School.

Dr. O’Brien spoke about academic life in the Upper School, and with the help of Pierre Attiogbe ’23, Aidan Chalk ’23, and Theo Johnson ’23, used role playing to demonstrate how to approach advisors and teachers with issues you may be having, discuss a bad test grade, and work collaboratively with other students without violating the Honor Code. Mr. Segal ’00 touched on the academic support available to them as they navigate the academic rigor of the Upper School, sharing study resources available to all students in our school community, while Dr. Friend introduced them to our beloved school dog, Bert, and shared the counseling resources that are available to support them through the year.

The Rev. Elliott and affinity group leaders Aurian Azghandi ’23, Aidan Chalk ’23, Theo Johnson ’23, Ryan Matin ’23, and Kendall Weaver ’23 talked about the various identity-based affinity groups offered to students and the different events and assemblies they host throughout the year to build within their own communities and to share with the wider school community. Dr. Schaffer then invited Head Prefect Eli Quarles ’23, Senior Class President Theo Johnson ’23, Senior Class Vice President Jack Kaplan ’23, and Senior Prefects Pierre Attiogbe ’23 and Steele Bohigian ’23 to share helpful information with the freshmen about shaping their own St. Albans experience through their involvement in various aspects of school life. BEEF Club leaders Ike Lohnes ’23 and Clark Mocek ’23 gave them a glimpse into school spirit and how they can support their classmates at sporting events, and Athletic Director Coach Ryan introduced some coaches and athletic staff and set the expectations for sportsmanship for the year.

Form III students then transitioned to the Little Sanctuary where the Rev. Hundley and the Rev. Hollerith discussed the spiritual aspect of school life and our Episcopal traditions, ensuring them that regardless of their faith tradition, chapel is a sacred space for all to share and learn. Dr. Viola and Coach Johnsen briefly met with students new to the school to welcomed them to the school community once more. The day culminated with games on the Little Field and Carmen’s Italian Ice, which was enjoyed by all on the hot summer day! Enjoy more scenes from the day on Flickr!