Congratulations to the WHS Band, who last night played a rousing rendition of the National Anthem at the TD Garden before the Celtics beat the Sacramento Kings! Performing on the parquet floor at center court, feet away from their favorite players, was a memory our students (and this principal) will never forget! Special thanks to Band teacher Joseph Oneschuk, Jr., for all of his organizational mettle that made this experience possible, as well as the staff and parent volunteers for joining us!

Despite losing one day of Winter Week to Monday’s snow day, the week offered a fun and interesting array of performances, speakers, and events. One highlight was hearing Doug Anderson (WHS ‘03), one of the directors of “Comparsa,” reflect with our students on his experiences at WHS and his subsequent professional journey. Originally thinking he would study physics in college, he instead ended up on a path that led to the world of public radio and documentary movie making. I think it is so valuable when our students learn how their own high school interests and experiences can lead them in fascinating directions.

Thank you to advisors Charlie Keene and Hannah Rubio, as well as President Sofia DiCarlo, Vice President Ryan Chase, and the entire Student Council for their extensive planning and organization of Winter Week this year. Thanks also to our staff, who rolled with some unexpected schedule shifts and joined in the spirit of the week!

I want to draw attention to this special four-session program that begins February 10 at the First Parish. Facilitated by educator and Freedom Team architect jamele adams, this series will “build your skills for engaging in conversations across differences.” I can attest to jamele’s powerful and inclusive approach to building connections among people and know that these sessions will be impactful. Please click here for more information and to register.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

~ Allyson Mizoguchi, Principal