It's An Exciting Start To A New School Year At MKA's Annual All-School Gathering
Montclair Kimberley Academy's annual All-School Gathering epitomized everything that makes MKA special, a community that is as diverse as it is united.
Headmaster Thomas W. Nammack welcomed over 1000 students (172 of them being new to the school this year), 200 faculty and staff members and special parent, Trustee and alumni guests saying that, "MKA is one school when it comes to our mission and values. Today is a day to be grateful for all that we have and all that we share."
Student talent was exhibited by exemplary performances from the Primary School Bellringers, the Middle and Upper School Jazz Ensembles, MKA's Choreography Workshop, the Unaccompanied Minors who performed an unbelievable rendition of "Shut Up and Dance," the Combined Middle and Upper School Jazz Bands, the Chamber Singers who sang a special tribute of "My Way" to MKA Assistant Headmaster, Richard Sunshine, who is retiring in June after 27 years at the school and finally, a truly moving performance from Casey Borella, Caitlin Ladda and Rob D'Alessandro who performed "Sky Full of Stars and Clocks."
MKA's flourishing athletics program was celebrated with the hanging of new banners to celebrate last year's team championships, the announcement of deserved athletic awards to student athletes, as well as by rousing performances from the MKA Cheerleader and Step Teams.
Academic endeavors were honored with the presentation of MKA sweaters to meriting students (also given for Fine & Performing Arts and Athletic achievements).
The school's renowned faculty was recognized in the presentation of a 30-year service award to Carol Ippisch, assistant to the headmaster. Alumni Council President Jaclyn Spedaliere '00 also presented the Founders' Cup for Teaching Excellence to Middle School Physical Education teacher Mr. Ken Smith. Upper School Student Government President Charles Rilli '16 said, "Looking back on my experience, it's been the teachers who make MKA such a special place."
From the sea of MKA spirit clothing, to the cheers for Kindergartners receiving MKA Cougars from members of the senior class, school spirit was high and the morning concluded with the youngest member of the Class of 2028 (and grand-daughter to MKA Boys' Lacrosse Coach Paul Edwards), Julianna Edwards, helping Headmaster Nammack officially ring in the start of the 128th school year.
Click HERE to see pictures from the day.