Students made their way to Worcester Academy this week, some for the first time, others settling into familiar schedules or dormitories, all poised to take advantage of unique opportunities that define the Worcester Academy experience.

Typical for the start-of-school, the New England weather proved perfect for moving in or taking a walk around the historic quad.

True it its diverse reputation, students came from as close as the neighborhood that surrounds Worcester Academy, and from as far away as China, Switzerland, the Kazakh steppe, and Africa.

Registrations for new students followed international summer program classes and student leadership training in mindfulness, as well as orientation for new faculty for the 2009-2010 School Year.

Head of School Dexter P. Morse shared enthusiasm for the coming year as he welcomed parents, students, and staff back to campus.

"I am as excited about starting the new academic year as I can ever remember being," said Mr. Morse.

He noted that Worcester Academy has weathered the country’s economic downturn well, even as it continues to improve its position as a "leader in providing an innovative, twenty-first century independent school curriculum."

Mr. Morse said institutional goals this year include working to implement a new strategic plan, doing a thorough facility needs plan, and gearing up for the New England Association of Schools and Colleges ten-year reaccreditation.

Full remarks by Mr. Morse can be found in the first issue of the Parents Newsletter.

Additional happenings this first week of school include customary opening assemblies, picture-taking, and a special Summer Reading Day in the Upper School.

In the Middle School, students will begin the year with a number of off-campus trips in keeping with the Academy's Open Gates Program philosophy. The Open Gates Program promotes learning outside the classroom.

Grade 6 will visit Camp Harrington for a class bonding and learning experience. Grade 7 will visit Nature's Classroom – a five-day, four-night experience. Grade 8 will climb Mt. Monadnock.

Worcester Academy is a co-ed day and boarding school for grades 6 to 12 and postgraduates. Our urban setting, diverse community, and challenging curriculum provide students with a solid, real-world education. Information at www.worcesteracademy.org.