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What makes a tradition?


            Today happens to be one of my favorite Berwick traditions: Woofstock. It is the one day a year when I strive for my best impersonation of Jim Morrison, Bono, or Jimmy Page (today it will be Eric Clapton, if you were wondering). While the reality is always shockingly anti-climactic and underwhelming, for a brief moment today - we all get to be rock stars. More importantly, the entire Berwick community throws out some blankets, enjoys some food, and celebrates another remarkable year on the Hilltop.

But how did something like this begin? Now in its 15th year, Woofstock was the brainchild of Anna Jackson, class of 2001. Presumably the idea was some kind Berwickian attempt to replicate Woodstock through a combination of music and celebration of peace. But there are lots of student ideas out there – what makes them become lasting traditions?




            When we think about traditions at this school – community circles, the pep rally, Earth Day, Woofstock – they often seem to focus on community and bringing people together. While they evolve over time, their fundamental power is the ability to connect people – students, families, and generations of Berwick Academy alumni. Sometimes, as Administrators, we dream up ideas for “new” traditions – a classic administrative oxymoron of sorts. While we often love our own ideas, one can’t escape the reality that these traditions need to be organic. Some triggering event generates an idea, and a meaningful social need is filled.

            Today strikes me as unique in a number of ways. Certainly it supports our core value of stretching, as we will see a number of performers waltz out of their comfort zone, including yours truly. It is also noteworthy that it occurs actually on the Friday before Upper School exams – perhaps supporting our concept of balance. Somehow it reminds our students that, even though there is some major work ahead of you, this is a moment to slow down and enjoy this sense of community one last time. It is the last moment when our seniors are truly “together” with the entire student community. What a nice way for them to close out their time here.







            My first year at Woofstock, we concocted a raucous faculty band to present When the Levee Breaks by Led Zeppelin. Sadly, it poured. We found ourselves in the gym. There was virtually no one there, but I still maintain that it might have been our greatest performance. We’ll see what the Woofstock stage brings us today. Staring out my window just now the weather nothing short of perfection. Bring your blanket and lean into one of the great Berwick traditions with us today. Watch us all try to be rock stars.

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