Family Weekend is an annual tradition at Concord Academy when students’ families have the opportunity to visit campus and experience a typical school day, complete with classes and after-school activities. This year, Family Weekend took place on Friday, October 25, with a few minor events on Saturday as well. Much like last year’s format, students led their families through their classes, following a special schedule that included 25 minutes of each block. Families also received their own schedules, filled with fun, entertaining events to keep them occupied throughout the entire weekend.
Family Weekend started bright and early on Friday morning as families checked in and headed to the Chapel to hear welcoming remarks from Head of School Henry Fairfax. Meanwhile, students filed into the PAC for announcements. Once both opening events had concluded, students found their families by the Chapel and brought them to their first class. In some classes, teachers continued their lessons as usual, allowing families to observe a normal day of learning. In others, teachers planned activities specifically designed to include families and encouraged participation from visitors. In one Spanish 3 class, for example, teacher Ana Flores presented an entertaining short film and invited families to share their thoughts on it. Regardless of how interactive the class was, families were able to gain a better understanding of the format and content of every class they sat in on.
About halfway through the day, CA students and their families attended a buffet lunch with a huge variety of options including sandwiches, salads, noodles, and several other types of food. Many families enjoyed their lunch outside, sitting on the quad or near the Chapel. After lunch, classes continued for another few hours, with afternoon activities beginning shortly after. Music ensembles, including Chorus, Jazz, and Orchestra, all gave short performances for their families, exhibiting their hard work over the past two months. Boarders were also able to invite their families to visit CA’s houses, leading them through their dorms and common rooms.
Additionally, visitors were able to tour the new Centennial Arts Center, a building that most CA students have yet to set foot in. There were also several informational sessions, including an overview of senior year and a discussion about CA’s academic experience. Starting in the late afternoon, families could watch CA athletes in action with soccer and field hockey games at Moriarty Athletic Campus and both volleyball teams playing in the SHAC. In the evening, families could also watch a performance of Radium Girls, the fall play.
Overall, Family Weekend was a highly successful event that provided families with the opportunity to experience a day at CA!