Happy Friday! As the first day of spring is just a little more than a month away and students begin to feel the temptation to relax their approach, it is important to address the issue of tardies and absences. We have seen a substantial uptick in students arriving late to school or missing classes for reasons other than illness. We firmly believe there is no substitute for class attendance and that all students should be at school and in class every day on time to maximize learning potential and a sense of belonging within the Upper School community. Absenteeism generally results in poorer academic performance and lower subject grades due to diminished understanding and missed interaction and information sharing. Being late to class or assembly disrupts the learning environment for students and their classmates, negatively impacting their academic performance and overall well-being. Arriving on time signifies respect and conveys that students value their Day School education. Please have a conversation with your student to remind them of the importance of punctuality and personal investment in their educational experience. We aim to support students in developing good habits and becoming responsible and accountable community members. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. We appreciate your support in this matter.

Pictured above: Jenny Garrity's Communications students had the opportunity to visit two programs off campus to see firsthand the importance of communication in the workplace. Students visited the Spartanburg County Emergency 911 Center to learn about center operations and how they serve local businesses, public spaces, and the citizens of Spartanburg County. The student group also visited Wofford College to meet with Mr. Calhoun Kennedy, Wofford College Vice President heading the Office of Philanthropy and Engagement. SDS students gained valuable insight from Mr. Kennedy as he discussed his background and experiences related to the field of communications. We are so thankful to our community members who continue to support our SDS programs and invest their time with our students. Thank you, Jenny, for sharing this blurb and organizing these opportunities for students.

Special Studies week is quickly approaching. This time-honored tradition has been a part of the Upper School culture since 1996. Since its start, students have had the opportunity to build rockets, volunteer their time with Habitat for Humanity, and experience service opportunities, art, and culture both in the US and abroad while traveling to destinations like Santa Fe, Cuba, Italy, and Nicaragua. This signature program has offered countless meaningful experiences to Upper School students for the past twenty-eight years. Among others, this year's offerings include astronaut training at the Huntsville, AL Space Academy, a look behind the Scenes of College Athletics, a dive into American history, civil rights, music, and culture in Memphis, TN, a local Arts Exploration with Sam Mitchell, an opportunity to invest in a week-long internship, and a chance to hike and learn about surrounding ecosystems and how students can reduce their environmental footprint. We also have a large group traveling to London for a cross-curricular experience that touches history, art, English, culture, and drama. There's something for every interest. These student experiences speak to the heart of our mission, and we are excited to offer these valuable learning opportunities outside of the traditional classroom.

As we look forward to a short week, there are a few important reminders to share. Thursday brings an early dismissal (12:05). Friday and Monday are student holidays. 

Please support the basketball teams tonight as they face Greenwood Christian. It's Senior Night and a whiteout. Face painting will be available in the lobby. Throw on your white tracksuit and join us if you can!

Best wishes for a fantastic weekend! See you at the games.

Paige