On Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023, Form I explored Belmont Hill’s unique symbols and traditions and discussed their connections to the school’s mission statement. This special event, “Welcome to Belmont Hill: A Tour of Traditions,” helped newly enrolled seventh-graders deeply understand Belmont Hill’s rich heritage and values.
First Formers started the morning by discovering beloved Belmont Hill traditions passed down for decades. Mr. Schneider discussed the significance of the sextant as our school’s symbol. He emphasized that sextant symbolizes how Belmont Hill helps guide and navigate students through their educational journey, preparing them for success in the future. After his speech, the students visited the art building to admire the panels, intricately carved artworks made by seniors every year. Mr. Kaplan elaborated on the different categories of these wooden carvings and the importance of leaving a lasting legacy at this school. Students’ panels aren’t merely decorative objects; they also convey their creators’ unique life stories and community contributions.
Following a short intermission with Milk and Cookies, the second part of the day explored the various dedications around campus. First Formers gathered around the war memorial in the Academic Quad, where Mr. Bradley shared the touching stories of thirteen alumni who sacrificed their lives serving and protecting the country. Subsequently, the students proceeded to the benches dedicated to the late Henry B. Sawyer, Jr. ’32 and G. Clifford Goodband, Jr. According to the interviews of three First Formers, this part of the day was the most fascinating. Finn Davis, ’29, described the stories as “incredible” as he realized the meaning of these benches on our campus. This inspiring journey concluded with a talk by Mr. Martin ’65 about the history of Hamilton Chapel, providing the students with a deep understanding of the Chapel’s legacy within the school community.
To wrap up the morning, the seventh-graders learned about the recent efforts made by faculty and students to make the campus more inclusive and welcoming for students of diverse backgrounds. Mr. Collins ’93 addressed the students about how a student initiative led to the installation of large banners reading “You Matter” in both the Jordan Athletic Center and the Library Corridor. Ms. Zener and alumnus Bryce Anderson ’19 spoke about the removal of the bell and its historical significance, which led to its relocation to a museum in Concord. After a short lunch break, the students rode buses to the Robbins House in Concord, where the bell had been transported a few years ago, and they learned about the importance of student initiative and research in enhancing the lives of future classmates.
When asked about his reflections on the day, Ben Jones, ’29, said it was an overall great “experience where we learned all about the school,” with all aspects of campus life touched, from traditions to student leadership. Kai Fuse ’29 found the story behind the bell particularly intriguing and expressed a desire to participate in student initiatives similar to the “You Matter” banners and removal of the bell.
Form I Tradition Day was deemed a great success by both the teachers who planned and organized it and the students who participated in the exploration around the school. Mrs. Hamilton and the Head of School, Mr. Schneider, worked extensively during the summer months to roll out this particular day during the School Year for the Class of 2029.
Mr. Sullivan, the Director of the Middle School, said that he hopes that “(The first formers) have a real sense of the incredible history here and heard some of the important names that were integral in the school’s culture.” When asked about the possibility of hosting a similar event for older students, he replied that although there have yet to be concrete plans, the organizers behind the event have suggested the possibility of one in the future.
