The Value of Traditions: Building Continuity and Change
Traditions at Country School offer a grounding sense of continuity while creating space for growth and change. This week marked the start of our 109th school year, a moment filled with familiar rituals that reset and renew our community.
On Monday, we gathered for our first All-School Assembly—raising the flag, a symbol of unity and history—alongside student representatives from the Early Childhood, Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools. I extended a warm welcome to both new and returning students as we reflected on our shared hopes and dreams for the year ahead.
This assembly was followed by our all-school photo, a tradition that holds deeper meaning as students see themselves not only in the photograph but within the larger fabric of our community. Displayed proudly in Carver Commons, the photo reminds every child of their place in the school’s legacy, sparking daily pride and recognition as they pass by, pointing to themselves and exclaiming, “There I am!”
During these opening days, students of every grade level and in every classroom, art studio, and athletic field continued another important Country School tradition: forming classroom and community agreements, hopes, and dreams—rituals that promote both personal reflection and collective momentum. These moments cultivated a sense of purpose while reinforcing the values that define us.
Our ninth graders, having just returned from their Outdoor Action Trip (fondly referred to as “OAT”) in Kent, Connecticut, served as another example of growth through tradition. They took on challenges that strengthened their bond as a class, guided by teachers and advisors who see and support them as whole individuals.
Traditions at NCCS do not remain static. They provide consistency while also allowing for the personal development, leadership, and individual potential of each student to flourish. These traditions build the foundation for growth, reminding us all of our enduring values while embracing the new possibilities each year brings.
New Canaan Country School
New Canaan Country School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin and are afforded all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry, or disability in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid policies or any other school-administered programs.
