A Spirited Start to Kent Place’s 132nd Academic Year

Gray skies were no match for the green-and-gold spirit on Wednesday, September 2, when Kent Place kicked off the 2026–2027 school year — its 132nd!

As students began to arrive on campus, the Class of 2027 set an enthusiastic tone for what’s in store, lining the walkways with colorful signs, cheers, and plenty of energy to welcome them. Chumley the Dragon was, of course, in the middle of the action, greeting the girls with waves, high-fives, and signature dance moves.

Students, faculty, and staff then made their way to the Field House for Opening Convocation, an annual tradition.

Head of School Jennifer Galambos addressed the gathering: “Returning students, we can all remember what it feels like to be in a new place, whether at home or at school,” she said. “It feels better to be asked to join the lunch table, the conversation, or the activity on the playground. As you move through your day-to-day and in the weeks to come, reach out, embrace new friends, and know that including others is a hallmark of outstanding leadership.”

Following her opening remarks, Dr. Galambos introduced three student speakers, one representing each division — Sarina McCreary ’34, from the Primary School; Brie Peterfreund ’31, from the Middle School; and senior and Senate President Mira Lalani, from the Upper School.

“I know that starting a new school, a new school year, with new teachers and students can be a little scary, but not so much in the Primary School,” Sarina said. “Ms. Walker [Director of the Primary School] and all of the teachers are kind and helpful, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and try new things. I’ve learned so many things while at Kent Place that have made me into the person I am today, and I’ll carry all of these experiences with me.”

Brie spoke to her fellow Middle Schoolers: “The biggest lesson I’ve learned at Kent Place is to not only celebrate the big wins, but to appreciate the small moments and wins along the way as well. Sometimes progress is quiet. And more often than not, it’s the small wins and moments that actually build us, form us, and change us for the better.”

“No matter what we need,” said Mira, addressing her “sisters” in the Upper School, “whether it’s celebration, sympathy, or simply a little more sleep, we’re all going through this crazy, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming process together. There’s something pretty special about knowing that no matter what this year brings, we’ll always have each other to lean on.”

In keeping with tradition, Convocation featured the lighting of four candles, a ceremony that embodies Kent Place’s maxim: “With Wisdom She Lights the Way.” Dr. Galambos lit the first candle; the three student speakers then each lit one. Next, the community took a quiet moment to reflect on the possibilities of the year ahead, and the Chamber Singers brought Convocation to a close with the Alma Mater.

As everyone departed the Field House, “lifers” — seniors who have been part of the community since Preschool, Kindergarten, or first grade — handed out daisies, the school flower, to their fellow students.

The 2026–2027 academic year has officially begun!