MKA Officially Kicks off the 2017-2018 School Year at the Annual All-School Gathering
Headmaster Thomas W. Nammack welcomed over 1,034 students, 200 faculty and staff members and special parents, Trustees and alumni guests to the school's 24th All-School Gathering saying that, "Our school is now in its 134th year, and has endured for such a long time because it has the courage to change and evolve and to reexamine the questions that relate to what is best for our students. That's what keeps us on our toes and keeps this place getting better every year."
Student talent was exhibited by exemplary performances from the Primary School Bellringers who sang "America the Beautiful", the Middle and Upper School Jazz Ensembles, Middle and Upper School Strings Ensemble, the Middle School Dance Ensemble, the Upper School Choreography Workshop, and the newly rebranded Upper School a cappella group Remix,, who performed an unbelievable rendition of "What Now" as originally performed by Rhianna, featuring soloist Lizzie Appel-Caracciolo '20."
MKA's flourishing athletics program was celebrated with 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 by Alumni Council President Jaclyn Spedaliere '00 who presented the Founders' Cup for Teaching Excellence to The Fleming 15 - Tom's 4th grade class of last year, in honor of the late Tom Fleming who passed away suddenly last year. Andrew Roselund '19 played a beautiful, and moving violin performance to honor his beloved, former teacher.
Middle School 8th Grade Student Government President Ava DiLorenzo '22 made remarks to the audience saying, "MKA is a family and I'm proud to be a part of it, especially during these crazy times that we're living in - earthquakes, wild fires, hurricanes and the turbulent times in Washington, DC."
Upper School Senior Class President Keenan McAuliffe '18 lead one of the celebration's most special moments as he read the name of each Kindergartener as they crossed over a small bridge to be welcomed by seniors and presented with a toy cougar.
Finally, Upper School Student Council President Kerrie McGuire '18 remarked, "I'd like to think my time at MKA has made me a better student and, more importantly, allowed me to become a better person. ...The atmosphere, at MKA, allows you to embrace who you are while gaining valuable perspectives about societal issues."
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 2030, Abby Hegarty, helping Headmaster Nammack officially ring in the start of the 134th school year.
Click HERE to see pictures from the day.
* Photos courtesy of Derek Morf and Steve Clayton