Dear Parents and Caregivers,
As we enter November, I find myself reflecting on the journey of the Class of 2025, a group of young people who have worked hard, taken on challenges, and grown in ways that inspire us. When they started as 9th graders, many were just beginning to grasp the challenges and demands of a Wellington education. Now, they stand on the brink of graduation, shaped by years of academic commitment and resilience.
For our seniors, the college application season highlights how much they’ve invested in their academic journey. Every late night spent studying, every essay written, and every problem solved has led to this moment. The college process asks them not only to be vulnerable but also to stand by the effort and progress they’ve made as students. And while they may feel the pressure, it’s also a testament to their ability to take on real academic challenges. I am in awe of their hard work, determination to stretch themselves, and ability to manage the weight of academics alongside all they do outside the classroom.
For families with students in 9th through 11th grade, I want to emphasize that academic success is not achieved overnight. It requires time, focus, and commitment — and it often means pushing through moments of doubt or frustration. I encourage you to support your child in setting high standards and learning the habits that will serve them well in the years ahead. Whether they’re tackling a challenging assignment, preparing for tests, or honing their writing and critical thinking skills, every step they take in their academic journey is building the foundation for their future.
At Wellington, our teachers are here to support your child every step of the way. They work to create spaces of high challenge and high support, knowing that a balance of both is what truly helps students grow. Our partnership with families is essential to this journey, and together, we are committed to helping each student build the skills and confidence to succeed. This collaboration—between teachers, students, and families—is what makes us strong and what allows our students to thrive.
We strive to teach our students not just to perform well but to approach academics with a sense of responsibility, curiosity, and grit. Learning to engage deeply in their studies, overcome setbacks, and truly understand what they’re learning will prepare them for college and a lifetime of opportunities. We believe that developing the habits of self-advocacy, time management, and intellectual curiosity will empower them no matter where they go.
As our seniors move closer to graduation, we are excited to celebrate their accomplishments, and we’re proud of the example they set for every student in our school. For all our families, thank you for the support you provide each day in encouraging your child to engage, grow, and take pride in the hard work that comes with an excellent education.
Best,
Rishi
Rishi Raghunathan
Head of Upper School
Upcoming Dates
Saturday-Wednesday, November 16-20:
- US Tech Week
Sunday, November 17:
- Experience Wellington (1 p.m.)
Wednesday, November 20:
- WISE Junior Parents Orientation Meeting (6:30 p.m.)
Thursday-Saturday, November 21-23:
- The Play That Goes Wrong (7 p.m.)
Friday, November 22:
- US Trimester 1 Grades Post
Monday, November 25:
- US Special Z Day Schedule
- Parent/Caregiver Conferences (4-8 p.m.)
Tuesday, November 26:
- Parent/Caregiver Conferences (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Tuesday-Friday, November 26-November 29:
- No School, Thanksgiving Break
Monday, December 2:
- Classes Resume - Regular Schedule
Wednesday, December 4:
- US Choir Concert (6:30 p.m.)
Friday, December 6:
- Jaguar Invitational
- Jag Friday Dress Down
- Leap Day
Monday, December 9:
- US Family College Night (6 p.m.)