Ninth Graders Visit Upper School on Flex Day

The Class of 2028 visited the Upper School from 10 a.m. to noon on May 7 during a schoolwide Flex Day. The visit allowed students to ask questions during panel discussions with Upper School prefects, student leaders, and deans as they begin their transition to the Upper School.

“I thought the panel was very informational and helpful,” Joshua Chien ’28 said. “Talking to students in positions of leadership was a better way to learn about the Upper School compared to teachers and deans because they were able to give us a broader understanding of Upper School life.”

In preparation for their sophomore year, more than 75 percent of ninth grade students attended the visit, despite the upcoming mandatory Sophomore Orientation in the summer.

“I’m hoping by familiarizing the ninth graders with the Upper School, it will smooth over the transition,” Ninth Grade Dean Matt Cutler said. “I think they will get fitter [at the Upper School] because of all the steps and enjoy the mixing of grades in classes.”

Approximately 60 of the attendees were new ninth graders this year. Many of them anticipate that the transition to the Upper School will bring a significant increase in workload, but they are still excited to meet older students.

“This campus isn’t as nice as the Middle School campus because there are so many stairs, but it will be nice to have more of a high school experience,” Jackson Baril ’28 said.

Students attended a student-led panel, toured the campus with Upper School guides, enjoyed lunch from Raising Cane’s and played Spikeball on the field.

“I really enjoyed seeing the full campus since we aren’t normally given that many opportunities for formal tours,” Ashley Sakonju ’28 said. “Volleyball, for example, we stick near the gym for practice so I don’t normally see any of the classrooms.”

The Raising Cane’s lunch was a highlight for many, though some students mentioned it was soggy.