Dear Flint Hill School Families,

I hope everyone had a very positive, relaxing and constructive Spring Break. I think it came just in the nick of time. We all needed to regenerate over the break and return ready for a final charge.

This time period, April and May, is actually the longest stretch without a holiday. Our next formal break is Memorial Day. Hopefully, with the help of good weather and the opportunity to be outside more, we should all be able to handle it without any added stress. You will also notice that the pace of school begins to pick up with a variety of activities, games and events and that your calendars are starting to fill in. Spring is always a jam-packed, exciting time.

Spring sports are well underway and many of the teams had very successful spring trips and/or tournaments; teams are ready for their season. In addition, there are several events coming up that I encourage families with children of all ages to consider watching or participating in.

This week, there are two special events occurring. Tomorrow night, Grade 10 will have their Community of Concern night, where we focus on the dangers and issues of drugs and alcohol and the importance of being as open, honest and direct as possible with each other. And on the same topic, next Wednesday, April 6, Grade 8 will also have their annual Community of Concern to talk about a variety of things, particularly in light of their upcoming transition to high school.  These two nights are key for our sense of partnership and collaboration. Together, we truly can make a difference in an area of life that too long has been an ongoing struggle in our country for young people.

On Saturday, April 2, at 1:00 pm, in the Upper School Commons, we will be hosting the TEDx Youth Day. This event was moved from its original winter date. We have a number of Middle and Upper School students who will be presenting a range of topics on the theme, “Made in the Future: 2035.”. Please think about joining us on that day to watch this outstanding annual event.

On Wednesday, April 13, at 7:30 p.m., at George Mason University’s beautiful Arts facility, we will have our Annual Arts Jam Concert. All of our major Upper School performing groups — choir, band, orchestra, percussion, dance, and the Major Minors (our nationally recognized a cappella group) — will participate. This concert will give you a chance to hear them on a big stage with exactly the right acoustics that this wonderful venue provides. It is absolutely one of the highlights of our year. If you attended any of our concerts in the past, I am sure you will clearly see what our program has accomplished over time. The evening highlights our incredible students in a manner that truly celebrates their talent, determination and “Driving Spirit.”

Looking ahead, on Saturday, April 16, we have our annual Springfest.. Please join us for this fun-filled day that includes a 5K and Kids Fun Run, activities and games. www.flinthill.org/springfest/

There is so much happening on campus — come celebrate the talent, passion and confidence that our students possess and that is such a part or our school as they continue on their educational journey. And keep reading the newsletter or checking the website for other events that are ahead.

I look forward to seeing you at many of these events.

Best wishes to you!

Sincerely

John M. Thomas
Headmaster