Cathedral Blossoms with Life as Students Return to Campus

“Today, we can truly call our oasis in the middle of Manhattan a vibrant community again, as we welcome our first students of the year back on campus for New Student and 5th Grade Orientation,” said Marsha Nelson, Head of School. “The day was a tribute to the passion and resilience of our wonderful students and families.”

Though The Cathedral School campus closed last spring, it experienced a spring renaissance today as new students were welcomed and 5th Graders participated in a grade-wide orientation.

Many of our school values were visible today—including kindness, respect, responsibility, and courage—but the biggest emotion on display today was joy. Masks of many colors only temporarily disguised smiles that were quickly reflected through twinkling eyes and excited gestures. Students met their new teachers, reunited with friends, and experienced what socially distanced in-person learning looks like.

To facilitate a fun and safe start to 5th Grade Orientation and to later serve as an aid in recess and physical education, the large playground was decked out with spray-painted safety boxes and our rising Upper School students used the traced grid system to maintain a safe distance from their peers. Faculty members distributed “handy” sticks, which students used to simulate personal contact and give each other high fives while maintaining safe proximity.

Anisa C. '24 shared, "It feels really good to be back. I'm excited to see my friends. I feel anxious but confident about starting Upper School".

New students in other grade levels were also oriented to the campus, learned their established entry points, met their teachers, and toured the Close. 

Kindergarten Orientation took place virtually by cohort to allow the team of teachers to meet together with the children and parents via Zoom and show them the classroom where each cohort will learn and work together. 

The campus will continue to blossom with student energy throughout the week, as other students in the Cathedral community join us for in-person Introductory Days. 

 

On Wednesday, September 9, all students in Grades 1-8 will pick up supplies and participate in brief introductory sessions on campus, rotating throughout the day. View the schedule by clicking here.

On Thursday, September 10, Kindergarten students will pick up supplies and participate in brief introductory sessions on campus, rotating throughout the day. View the schedule by clicking here.

Welcome back, Cathedral students!