Upper School Division News: April 17, 2025

By Mr. Chris Ames, Upper School Division Head

Dear Winston Family,

The word “maelstrom” literally means a powerful whirlpool or a state of confused motion in a sea or river. That’s how I often describe this time of year for the Upper School—it feels like we’ve entered a maelstrom as we rush toward the end of the academic year and graduation. With everything swirling around us—state tennis and golf championships, ACT testing, NHS inductions, Boosterthon assemblies, field trips, exam prep, and Senior Project presentations—it’s easy to feel swept up in the motion. But amidst the whirlwind, I encourage everyone, especially our seniors, to pause and savor these final moments. They’re fleeting, but deeply meaningful.

Looking ahead, the next two weeks are packed with activity. We recently celebrated student inductions into the Junior National Honor Society, the National Honor Society, and the Art and Thespian Honor Societies. The Boosterthon Pep Rally kicked off our annual athletics fundraiser, which will wrap up with the Color Run on Friday, April 25.

Due to the four-day school weeks surrounding Easter break, Flex Time will resume the week of April 28. Freshmen will also begin the Academy application process in May—more details will be shared soon.

Seniors and parents: Please join us for a meeting in the Winston Boardroom at 5:00 PM on April 24 to discuss Baccalaureate and Graduation logistics. A virtual option will be available via Google Meet: Senior and Parent Meeting Video Link.

If you’d like to begin planning around finals, you can view the Senior Exam schedule and exam blocks for grades 9–11 here.

Students who have not yet fulfilled their Health or Speech requirements may sign up for summer school courses. Those needing credit recovery should reach out to me at [email protected] or Will Jennings at [email protected] for more details. Summer sessions begin June 2 and run through July 3.

To register and pay for a summer course, please click here. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Looking forward to seeing everyone on campus this spring!

From the Upstairs,

Chris Ames