By Rose Posternak
Over the pandemic, life at Fieldston changed drastically. From being in school, laughing with friends, and juggling classes to sitting at a computer all day trying to work Google Meet. It was not an easy transition. Each year, more things changed, students were in school two days, then a week, then full time. Everyone was so focused on how to have a functional school experience. Students and faculty are just settling into school as it should be. As the Coronavirus’s threat lessens, Fieldston is starting to become like it was before.
Fieldston has many traditions, events, and more. From dressing up on Halloween to Monday Funday, the school is eager to participate. All of these wacky, tacky, days are what give it life. Take picture day, where the whole Middle School gathers near the playground to take a photo. This day is so important that the pictures are hung up on the stairwell at the entrance to the building. Walking up to classrooms, every student sees these pictures. And because of the pandemic, this event was put off. Only this year has the tradition returned. Students assemble, then wave as faculty members stand on the roof, taking pictures. The pure joy cannot be contained.
Another event that has been restored this year is Spirit Week. Each day is a different theme, such as pajama day or this year’s new addition: eclectic accessory day. Neon colors and oversized glasses flocked the halls. Squid hats, necklaces, and funny t-shirts were some of the most common. “I loved dressing up, and the bialys afterwards were scrumptious!” a student said after the week ended. Similar events have occurred over the past two years, and it never fails to delight.
A new event that has been added to Fieldston’s collection came right after the Middle School photo. The eighth grade, who had been working on letters of recommendation prior to the event, was treated to a tasting of bialys. The food came from the subject of one of the model essays from the New York Times, which was centered around the food. The abundance of traditions, both new and old, shows good signs for the future of Fieldston.
