Private school traditions
The following are traditions that are handed down from class to class at some of the private schools around the country.
From Woodberry Forest School, Woodberry Forest, Virginia
Honor System - “When you first visit Woodberry, you may be surprised to find books, jackets, and scooters left around campus while their owners take care of other business. When the boys return, their items will still be there. That is because of our legendary honor system, which prohibits lying, cheating, and stealing. The honor system is not an empty pledge at Woodberry. It is a way of life and a means for educating students about what it means to be honorable men.”
From McCallie School, Chattanooga, Tennessee
The Origin of the Senior Leadership Name - “In 1907, following the trend of other prep schools, McCallie students and faculty created a number of nonsensical cheers. The most popular was: Keo, Kio, Sis, Boom Zee; Meo, Mio, Rah, Rah, Rea; Zipity, Zapaty, Zee, Zum, Zee; McCallie, McCallie, McCall-ee. This cheer was the inspiration behind the naming of the senior leadership organization Keo-Kio.”
From Convent of the Sacred Heart, Greenwich, Connecticut
Community Service - “Community service is also an integral part of Convent of the Sacred Heart’s academic program. Under the supervision of the director of community service, each student selects and arranges to do a service project accessible from Convent of the Sacred Heart or her home. A yearly plan and an annual minimum of 25 hours are required.”
From Saint Mary’s School, Raleigh, North Carolina
Wednesday Community Night - “Every Wednesday night at Saint Mary’s School the on-campus residents get together for evening activities. Day students, faculty, and staff who want to attend are also invited for the festivities. This is often a seated meal with rotational assigned seating. Student leaders open the dinner with a prayer, read a selected message, and oversee announcements. Boarding students, on a rotational basis, work with the dining staff and act as servers.”
From First Baptist Academy, Houston, Texas
Talent Show - “Each spring students are given an opportunity to be in the spotlight in a variety show that includes dancing, singing, piano, juggling, and more.”
