A Joyful Start to Kent Place’s 131st Academic Year

Campus was buzzing with energy on Wednesday, September 3, as students, faculty, and staff returned to Kent Place for the beginning of its 131st academic year. The Class of 2026 lined the walkways with colorful posters in hand, cheering as they welcomed the community back to school. Chumley the Dragon joined in on the fun, dancing, waving, and high-fiving students as they arrived.

Opening Convocation was then held in the Field House. During this special tradition, the entire school gathers to experience the spirit of community and welcome the new academic year. 

“As we begin this school year and get acclimated to new routines and schedules, let’s all step back and think about — and appreciate — the opportunities that being part of a community gives us,” Head of School Jennifer Galambos began her remarks. “Do your part. Lend a hand. Smile at a stranger. Listen when you’re in a conversation. What makes Kent Place who we are is the people who make up our community.”

Dr. Galambos then introduced three student speakers, one from each division — Kareena Bakhru ’33, for the Primary School; Izzie Reichman ’30, for the Middle School; and senior and Senate President Kaitlin Andersen for the Upper School.

“I hope our class gets to be the best role models we can be for the younger ones who look up to us, like we look up to our Middle and Upper School role models,” said Kareena. “Kent Place teaches us to be brave and brilliant, reminding us that every challenge is another chance to grow and become stronger.”

Said Izzie, “Raise your hand, get involved with a club, join a team, socialize with everyone, and most important, be yourself. I know I can always be myself when I’m surrounded by so many friendly faces. Kent Place is such a warm and welcoming community.”

This year’s President’s Council was tasked with choosing a theme. “The motto we decided on was ‘Embrace the NEW,’” said Kaitlin. “Be brave in the face of change, be courageous in taking on new challenges, be intentional in seeking out new opportunities, and when things are hard, lean on those around you to encourage you to keep going.”

A longstanding tradition at Convocation is a ceremony that embodies the school’s maxim, “With Wisdom She Lights the Way.” Dr. Galambos began by lighting the first of four candles, then each of the student speakers lit one. The ceremony included a moment of silence to reflect on the year ahead. The Chamber Singers brought the event to a close by leading the community in the Alma Mater.

As Convocation ended, “lifers” — girls who have been at Kent Place since Preschool, Kindergarten, or first grade — distributed daisies, the school flower, to their fellow students.

The 2025–2026 academic year is officially under way!