Grade 8 Visit

Anand Bery

On Wednesday, January 13, 2010, Lawrence Park carried on its tradition of hosting future LP students (current Grade 8s from Glenview and other local middle schools), to showcase its strengths in electives (drama, music, art, computer/info. tech., physical education, and foreign and classical languages), as well as extracurricular activities. The event was organized by guidance and the administration, and run by the Buddies, who picked up the Grade 8s bright and early, from Glenview and led them all around LP. The Buddies helped bring a student’s perspective of life at Lawrence Park.

It was a morning of excitement and learning.

“All the teachers and students got so involved and enthusiastic it was incredible,” commented Kat de Leon. “The Grade 8s really got to see Lawrence Park at its best!”

In workshops, teachers showed off their subject areas. Students learned simple Latin and German words and phrases, heard the sounds of LP’s Triple Trio choir ensemble and other music groups, played drama games, and saw some of LP artists’ work, among other activities. They also chatted with the Buddies throughout the event and visited both Co-op and Club carousels. As a whole, the day helped Grade 8s determine whether LP was the place for them.

For Lawrence Park Buddies, council and club members, musical and drama performers, the day reinforced the immense pride we all have in our school. Everyone worked together, in their own areas of strength, towards the common goal of selling our school as an academically diverse high school, but at the same time an incredibly fun place to be. We proved that a strong and enthusiastic community is the key to success.

As Ms. Bartley so aptly noted in one of her very last assemblies at Lawrence Park, we should all be immensely proud of and grateful for the supportive and caring staff we have at LP. Few schools in the city have teachers who care more or an administration who works harder. Don’t forget, teachers give up their own time for extracurricular activities and to plan events such as this one!