Lise's Lens: February 8, 2024
I recently read the novel The Berry Pickers, watched a video in honor of Black History Month, and proudly observed student leaders present to faculty and staff on an important topic.
WHAT I’M READING
- I have just started the novel The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters, who was born in Nova Scotia, Canada, and identifies as mixed-race of Mi’kmaq and European ancestry. Though her debut novel is not based on a specific true event, it is certainly inspired by real life events. I really didn’t know much about the novel, it was just recommended to me. Before starting to read it, I decided not to look at any press about it and just to jump in with two feet. Each chapter has been from another voice, another character, each around the same event and main character, a four-year-old named Ruthie. Typically, I don’t read mysteries, but I suspect this is one that I’ll be happy I picked up. I won’t share too much more in case you want to give it a try. So far, it has been a pleasure both from the quality of the writing and the storytelling.
WHAT I’M THINKING/TALKING ABOUT
- I have been thinking about all the hard work our A Board (Advisory Board) students have been doing. Earlier this year, the group surveyed faculty and staff to craft what items the community wanted to reflect on and work on. One such topic was dress — what we wear and how we express ourselves through clothing and accessories. I will admit, it is a daunting topic, and one that I suspect will evolve into a conversation about so much more than clothing alone. It raises the question: How do we balance the individual desires for self expression and comfort with others' desire for the same when at times those can be in conflict? It has already been an interesting case study into A Board’s process for examining and updating school policy.Yesterday, student leaders presented preliminary work to faculty and staff. They were organized, poised, and clear in their delivery — all skills they have practiced in classes, affinity groups, and ambassadorships. So a big thank you goes to our faculty and staff for helping to foster these skills. Next, the students will lead an all-community discussion assembly, followed by advisory discussions, and potentially a formal “town meeting.”
WHAT I'M WATCHING/LISTENING TO
- After a Black History Month presentation from our Black Student Union students at assembly this week, the community broke into advisory groups to watch and discuss a pair of videos, including this one from CBS news, highlighting the influence Black athletes have had on competitive sports and athletics throughout the ages. It was important for students to have this opportunity to reflect on how the world of athletics has, and sadly, has not changed for Black athletes over the course of history.
WHAT CAUGHT MY EYE
We were excited to host parents and guardians for a social gathering in the dining hall over the weekend. Thank you to everyone who was able to join us for a fun and festive evening!
The Cambridge School of Weston is a progressive high school for day and boarding students in grades 9–12 and PG. CSW's mission is to provide a progressive education that emphasizes deep learning, meaningful relationships, and a dynamic program that inspires students to discover who they are and what their contribution is to their school, their community and the world.