tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62215323993612147752012-02-02T15:00:09.125-05:00Headmaster's BlogDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.comBlogger1871100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-68815436414349026352012-02-02T07:43:00.002-05:002012-02-02T12:15:17.241-05:00February at FieldstonFor the first of February it is a remarkably beautiful, balmy day -- almost unbelievable! Hats and sunglasses would have come in handy on our trip into the hills of Riverdale today. Three Saint David's alums currently attend Fieldston: Shakeel '08, Sam '09, and Henry '10. Mr. Imbelli and I had the pleasure of meeting all three for a roundtable conversation.
Sitting around a harkness table, David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-5584514776795308762012-01-31T16:22:00.002-05:002012-02-01T10:47:47.593-05:00Saint David's v St. Bernard's
In the third quarter, Saint David's Red is fighting hard to close a 9 point St. Bernard's lead at their home court.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-89252618441631221962012-01-25T13:55:00.038-05:002012-01-27T14:48:44.905-05:00Winter Festival of Art and MusicIf you're feeling a little gloomy outside this mid-winter, come on inside. The Saint David's Winter Festival of Art and Music is in full swing and our halls are ablaze with vibrant color, music and song. Below are a few highlights from the 5th Grade Musicale last night and a few pieces of artwork that I managed to take a snapshot of today while moving through the halls. Tomorrow morning we David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-32787095796208075902012-01-24T13:10:00.001-05:002012-01-25T13:46:25.221-05:00The Timeless Boy: Saint David's at 60This coming February 5th will mark the conclusion of the school's 60th year. In addition to all the community gatherings to celebrate the 60th anniversary we enjoyed this year, our successfully concluding the largest campaign in the school's history, the boys' commitment to help build a school in Ethiopia, the launch of a new Horizon Summer Program for low-income boys, and a stellar year of David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-3682580471483900252012-01-17T11:56:00.004-05:002012-01-25T13:54:33.405-05:00The Second-Goal ParentThursday evening, January 12, 2012, Eric Eisendrath, the Positive Coaching Alliance's (PCA) Lead Trainer for the East Coast spoke with Saint David's parents in Hyman Hall about the Second-Goal Parent.
PCA argues that the second goal of sports parenting--the Second-Goal Parent--is to focus relentlessly on the "big picture." The first goal, striving to win, should be left to the coaches and the David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-77277656623724897202012-01-09T10:24:00.003-05:002012-01-09T15:59:21.450-05:00Ethiopia: Year Two Launched
Jack and I Launching Year 2 in the Chapel Friday Morning
Saint David's boys, in recognition of the school's 60th anniversary, resolved to emulate the actions of our founders in supporting the efforts necessary to get Saint David's School off the ground sixty years ago. This past Friday morning in Chapel, Jack M., Student Council President, and I kicked off the second year of this major David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-91217087046001771252012-01-08T09:39:00.002-05:002012-01-09T16:03:01.084-05:00Safe and Healthy ChoicesI mentioned in my opening letter of the school-year that Saint David's, as a result of our on-going comprehensive curriculum initiative, has further defined our DASH (Drug, Alcohol, Sex and Health) program in the 6th and 8th grades. In addition to a variety of curricular channels, including homeroom discussions, responsive classroom, daily chapel, religion and DASH classes, we are partnering David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-13913265457562138072012-01-04T21:03:00.003-05:002012-01-05T20:38:22.979-05:00A Reflection at the Conclusion of our 60th
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mso-font-signature:16777216 David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-83967282349228906142011-11-23T10:02:00.000-05:002011-11-23T10:02:45.263-05:00Happy ThanksgivingOmega visited me in my office today and shared a choral recitation of a Thanksgiving poem, so I thought I'd share it with you. It will surely put you in a Thanksgiving mood. Happy Thanksgiving.
David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-33232000380480715532011-11-22T14:02:00.003-05:002011-11-22T15:48:17.650-05:00Taft, Hotchkiss, and AndoverTaft, Hotchkiss, and Andover were all well represented yesterday at Saint David's. Brophy, '10 from Hotchkiss, Mark, '08, Danillo, '10, and Hugh, '08 all from Taft and Chris, '11, from Andover (second photo) all stopped by to catch up. Attending boarding school comes with some advantages, one of which is often longer holidays at times like this. The boys' schools are closed for Thanksgiving.
David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-84389833224717206892011-11-18T16:42:00.000-05:002011-11-18T16:42:02.105-05:00Life is No Less BeautifulIt's even closer to Thanksgiving! I know, not because of the date, but because of our work at TCC. Together with our 6th grade volunteers, we spent this past Tuesday night at Terence Cardinal Cooke nursing home serving residents and their families Thanksgiving Dinner.
As always, the boys exercised their duties with enthusiasm, sensitivity and care--emblematic of "good men" in action.
As the David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-37012096197903496592011-11-18T16:17:00.001-05:002011-11-18T16:17:58.886-05:00
This coming Saturday night at 6:30, Corby, '12 and his band, The Lead Heads will be performing at The Bitter End in Greenwich Village. Click on the link above for more information, including tickets. If you like The Dead, The Lead Heads will be right up your alley.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-23420221596957475452011-11-18T12:07:00.002-05:002011-11-18T15:59:41.421-05:00Coffee ConcertOur morning began today with a Saint David's Ensemble open rehearsal in Hyman Hall at 7:45 AM. Many weary eyed parents filled the hall and enjoyed the boys playing Reinhold Glière's The Russian Sailors' Dance from his 1927 The Red Poppy ballet.
The dance was followed by a little Mozart and finally Henry Mancini's Pink Panther. The boys were impressive given the fact that the seasoned core of David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-56132546477938819012011-11-16T06:00:00.000-05:002011-11-16T07:51:28.452-05:00A Visit to BrowningWe visited alums at Browning on Remembrance/Veteran's Day. Saint David's currently has four alums at Browning, DQ, '09, RH, '10, MD, '10, and BB, '11--a freshman, two sophomores, and a junior. Since 1971 we have had 120 alums matriculate to Browning.
Just last week, Browning opened their renovated lower gym. It looks spectacular. The boys were clearly proud of the changes. The Saint David'sDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-51346753247372821192011-11-15T19:52:00.001-05:002011-11-15T19:53:06.861-05:00Events That Changed the Course of HistoryRecently in the Atlantic Monthly, I came across The World Was Never the Same: Events That Changed History by Harvard educated professor Rufus Fears, published by The Great Courses. In his course, Fears presents the 36 events he believes changed the course of history. They are intriguing to contemplate: The list follows:Hammurabi issues a code of law (1750 B.C.)Moses and monotheism (1220 David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-32940715016695080092011-11-14T16:21:00.001-05:002011-11-16T15:27:23.939-05:00It must be that time of year ...... because we are all talking turkey! Today it was all about the 2nd Grade and their Turkey Run. On an absolutely beautiful fall Monday, the traditional 2nd Grade Turkey Run did not disappoint. All 47 boys finished the 500 meter course with many of them achieving their personal best times. The boys have been preparing and training for this big day with their coaches since the beginning of David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-51090371407500015412011-11-10T17:38:00.000-05:002011-11-10T17:38:51.655-05:00A Little Jazz ...... to lighten the day. The Lionel Hampton Band dropped by the school today to perform for the boys and answer their questions about jazz, their instruments, how they got started in music, and what it has meant to them in their lives. Here, a third grade class listens to a great Dizzy Gillespie number by the band. The boys were most intrigued by the drummer and his quite incredible facial David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-73667753261991763052011-11-07T13:48:00.001-05:002011-11-07T13:50:52.259-05:00With the Power Out ...... in several Connecticut boarding schools this past week, several alums found their way to Saint David's and my office. Robert A. '11 from Kent visited Monday. Loving high school, RA is excited about the possibilities of crew, feels well-prepared, but misses his Alma mater. On Tuesday, John D. '11, also dropped by. Enjoying playing starting center for the 9th grade football at Kent, JD has David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-44297865175856216872011-11-05T15:44:00.000-04:002011-11-05T15:44:31.814-04:00The Music Paradigm--LeadershipOn Mohonk Mountain in New Paltz, New York this past week, I participated in a session on leadership literally conducted by Roger Nierenburg. Along with fellow heads of school from Connecticut, New Jersey and New York, I sat "within" an orchestra conducted by Nierenburg and experienced first hand the impact of his leadership styles--for he presented many--on his organization.
Using conducting David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-37238965723436432022011-10-26T12:00:00.001-04:002011-10-27T17:00:55.458-04:00Cape Cod Trip--Special Program by the Woods Hole Oceanographic InstitutionSeventh grade boys and their teachers have safely returned from their week-long adventure on Cape Cod. This year was particularly special as the boys were treated to a Science program at Cape Cod Sea Camps led by two scientists from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Dr. Heather Benway presented comprehensive research that she and her colleagues have been working on regarding ocean David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-29235646159343801452011-10-26T09:21:00.002-04:002011-10-26T13:50:46.542-04:00An Early Start: Mentee Round TableThis morning, before any boys arrived, the day for 17 Saint David's teachers began very early with a Mentee Round Table in the Smith Room. It was the second session in a multi-session series of early morning meetings of all teachers new to Saint David's. Begun three years ago as part of the Faculty Initiative, the mentorship program is one of the core components of our professional development David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-89723016782078308262011-10-25T16:57:00.003-04:002011-10-25T17:19:12.378-04:00Six Goals; Two GamesAnd so our beautiful afternoon on Randall's ends with Red holding Dalton to 2 goals with a final score of 2-0, and White convincingly defeating Dalton 4-0.
Red fought hard to the final whistle with a stellar game played by Red Keeper HT. White's goals were scored by AH off a great cross, DD off his left foot wide, PDC on a free kick 25 yards out, and HE chipped one in during the first half.
David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-56618132777160144942011-10-25T15:52:00.002-04:002011-10-25T17:17:50.826-04:00At the HalfIt's the half at Randall's Island where Saint David's Red is working hard to hold Dalton in check. Score at the half is 1-0 Dalton. White, more dominant in their game, leads Dalton at the half 1-0.
David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-31608530163351015712011-10-24T10:01:00.001-04:002011-10-24T10:03:27.174-04:00A Quick VisitTC, '11 dropped by today to visit. Parents' Weekend at St. Paul's in Concord, NH allowed for an extra day off school, so TC decided to visit his Alma mater. BP, '08 is TC's senior advisor and WH, '10 round out the Saint David's Alums up at St. Paul's. His transition has been great. He's enjoying JV Soccer, his classes and lots of new friends. His most challenging assignment to date is being David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-78209261148914884802011-10-20T05:02:00.005-04:002011-10-20T13:23:57.478-04:00A New Horizon ... For Saint David's SchoolThe promise of a brighter future eludes many New York City children, especially those from low-income families. Recognizing this and empowered by our mission and strategic goals, Saint David's School is finalizing plans to begin a new program that draws boys from neighborhood schools to Saint David's for 6 weeks in the summer. Designed to encourage students from a diverse low-income population David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-15352035540506337722011-10-19T09:31:00.000-04:002011-10-19T09:31:23.191-04:00TCC, BINGO and BoysToday after school, twelve 6th grade volunteers walked north on 5th to 105th to spend their early evening with residents of Terence Cardinal Cooke's 6th floor. After introducing themselves, the boys organized a game of BINGO with the residents, calling the numbers and helping the residents participate and enjoy their shared time together.
For many of the boys it was a new experience and David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-23940227651084927532011-10-17T13:46:00.006-04:002011-10-17T13:48:28.566-04:00Seventh and the CapeSeventh graders accompanied by their brave teachers departed on-time this morning for a week's excursion on the Cape. It is a crystal clear day here on 89th Street with temperatures hovering in the low 60s--a great day to travel! One could almost get the feeling that the boys were heading off to Bermuda or the Keys, if you only looked at GM's colorful board shorts, and not Cape Cod, David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-51823414394759993102011-10-12T16:31:00.065-04:002011-10-17T15:37:31.098-04:00Riverdale Country SchoolSecondary School Counselor Mike Imbelli and I visited Saint David's alums at Riverdale this morning. My ongoing goal is to visit every Saint David's alum at their high school before they graduate--collecting valuable anecdotal data about their experiences transitioning to secondary school and eliciting critical reflections on their time at Saint David's. Along the way, I also learn about what'sDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-25632723983028367652011-10-12T15:11:00.002-04:002011-10-12T21:49:42.807-04:00Rigor Redefined
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We are exploring "rigorous pursuit" at Saint David's this year. In a 2008 David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-9483162097027017622011-10-03T12:53:00.000-04:002011-10-03T12:53:59.019-04:00Childrens' On-line BehaviorChildrenOnline is a group we have frequently invited to Saint David's. Here is some of their latest research on the activities of children on-line. It may be of interest to you.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-65744999542269039012011-10-03T11:16:00.077-04:002011-10-03T12:25:55.688-04:00Alums Return for a Quick Hello
The recent Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah provided many Saint David's alums an opportunity to visit their Alma mater. I was able to catch just a few with my camera as they checked in with friends and teachers throughout the building this Thursday last. Lucas, '09, pictured left, currently at Riverdale, wants to pursue architecture and is now looking at colleges. Marco from Dalton, Patrick David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-6195723364916566552011-09-13T16:53:00.002-04:002011-09-13T18:43:02.206-04:00A CorrectionWriting my opening letter of the school year, I quoted from Mark Twain's early piece Old Times on the Mississippi that originally appeared in, I think, The Atlantic Monthly. In reflecting on a reading of it long ago, I associated Twain's main character in Old Times with Tom Sawyer. However, I realize upon further reflection and research that it was in fact more autobiographical. The main David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-44996418252156009912011-09-13T08:58:00.006-04:002011-09-14T09:33:35.976-04:00Opening Chapel Talk
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David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-21404976866431822952011-09-10T13:02:00.003-04:002011-09-14T09:34:41.861-04:00The Book: It Can't DieI read and hear with greater frequency "the book is dying." We live in a time where instant information often drowns reason, gossip trumps news, and knowledge of the immediate defeats rigorous analysis, critical reflection, and eloquent debate; where the infotainment scoop often supersedes journalistic integrity. There have, without doubt, been many new conveniences and welcomed advantages withDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-70757872531180562262011-09-07T15:00:00.001-04:002011-09-07T15:00:04.968-04:00A Schoolhouse's Light
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High atop a hill David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-69938564813584772582011-09-04T10:31:00.149-04:002011-09-10T12:47:26.453-04:00A RaceOn a racetrack in the mountains of northern Westchester on Thursday, September 1st, 2011, the senior administrative team of Saint David's School, pursued a common goal. Working in teams of three, they learned the challenges of a NASCAR pit crew and the skill and endurance required of a race car driver. To successfully achieve the goals they established required, in addition to deliberate David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-65633585548790998292011-09-02T15:34:00.000-04:002011-09-02T15:34:09.283-04:00Rigorous Pursuit
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font-family: "David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-65137720446185312422011-08-10T08:33:00.000-04:002011-08-10T08:33:11.297-04:00Slow Dance
Yesterday, attending the wake and funeral of a beautiful child, I remembered this poem entitled "Slow Dance" by David L. Weatherford. It speaks for itself.
Have you ever watched kids on a merry-go-round
Or listened to rain slapping on the ground?
Ever followed a butterfly’s erratic flight
Or gazed at the sun fading into the night?
You better slow down, don’t dance so fast,
Time is short, theDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-58315843603930374662011-06-27T15:27:00.390-04:002011-06-30T18:34:01.111-04:00St. Louis, MissouriWashington University in St. Louis played host to the 1904 World's Fair and Brookings Hall, pictured at left, served as its administrative center. Just behind Brookings is Holmes Lounge, where last week the university played host to an annual conference of headmasters.
In 1904 Holmes housed the Convocation of Arts and Sciences for the World's Fair. It was said at the time that all the David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-49739856705501125542011-06-20T14:59:00.000-04:002011-06-20T14:59:46.203-04:00The Latest from Salamanca
Town Hall at Plaza Mayor
The boys and teachers continue to enjoy great weather and stimulating experiences in Salamanca, Spain. Below is a recent update on their adventures from trip co-leader, Dr. Gilbert:
Segovia Alcazar
"Wow! What a weekend it has been--first a jaunt to the medieval city of Segovia where the boys were amazed at the engineering skill of the Romans. They climbed the David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-35006679928880889852011-06-15T17:33:00.001-04:002011-06-15T20:18:18.828-04:00SalamancaIn the school's continuing efforts to broaden the minds and experiences of our boys, we have for the first time, a group of rising 8th grade boys in Salamanca, Spain for a two week immersion Spanish language program. They left on Saturday, June 11 and will return next week. Joining the boys are four faculty members each of whom is also immersing him/herself in the language and culture. It is David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-40763352048655554632011-05-31T17:20:00.032-04:002011-06-01T17:33:31.823-04:00TrinityMay 17th saw a visit with Saint David's alums on the West Side. We have 7 boys from the class of '09 at Trinity, Jeffrey, William, Daniel, Serge, Christopher, John and Garrett; 4 from the class of '10, Jonathan, Jorge, Ryan, and Jon; and one, Nicholas, graduating Trinity this year from the class of '07. It was an enjoyable and productive visit with the boys. They are doing well, and happy.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-19504208529786707272011-05-13T22:16:00.005-04:002011-05-13T22:27:00.984-04:00A Farewell to the ChaplainSpring, 2011
Dear Saint David’s School Community:
Traveling widely and moving often, St. Ignatius Loyola had no real definitive plans when he left the castle home of his family, Loyola, in 1522. In keeping with the founder of his order, our beloved Chaplain, Father Steve Katsouros is leaving us, but unlike Ignatius, he has a plan. The Jesuit superiors and Father Katsouros have discerned and David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-61825600147776591342011-05-12T23:55:00.000-04:002011-05-15T12:36:29.258-04:00Senatus Populusque Romanus: A Special AccomplishmentSPQR, The Senate and People of Rome, referred originally to the government of the ancient Roman Republic. It appeared on coins, at the end of official public documents, in dedications of monuments and public works, and it was emblazoned on the standards of the Roman legions. In a letter I received this week from Mary Washington University in Virginia, this ancient initial appeared blazoned David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-82040107356688392222011-05-09T21:50:00.001-04:002011-05-09T21:50:00.488-04:00Loyola
We visited Loyola today to catch up with Saint David's alums. We have seven alums currently attending Loyola--seniors: Christopher, John, Joseph, David and Andrew; sophomore Hunter, and freshman Max.
After Mr. Imbelli and I spent some time meeting with the boys regarding their transition from Saint David's to high school and critiquing their experiences, we shared stories and memories. David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-6519737405030802262011-05-09T20:36:00.064-04:002011-05-09T21:02:57.851-04:00"Nightingales"Although not found naturally in the Americas, Nightingales were both present and visible throughout first grade classrooms at Saint David's School Friday. Reciprocating the boys' visit to their classrooms earlier in the year, the first grade girls of Nightingale-Bamford visited the boys on the boys' home turf. Connecting with and developing close bonds and relationships with neighbors is an David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-55798202960266219942011-05-04T21:49:00.002-04:002011-05-04T21:52:43.744-04:00Taft, Choate & PomfretThe sweet smells of spring filled the Connecticut air Tuesday, May 3 as I drove north to visit alums at three New England boarding schools. An early arrival at Watertown found me quickly catching up with Willy McMullin, Headmaster, on Saint David's boys at Taft. In all, there are 11 boys currently attending Taft represented at all four grade levels. It's a much bigger school than Saint David'sDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-25390098488889422482011-05-02T21:17:00.001-04:002011-05-02T21:18:55.258-04:00Classical Music: Alive and KickingFriday morning April 29th saw the girls of the Nightingale-Bamford School join the boys of Saint David's School for an open rehearsal "Coffee Concert" in Hyman Hall. A tradition now, parents from both schools gathered again to enjoy this early morning combined activity. The two schools played together Antonín Dvořák's 1893 Largo from New World Symphony, after a beautiful introductory piece by David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-38018030043478026712011-05-01T17:31:00.001-04:002011-05-02T13:56:36.609-04:00George F. Baker HousesThis past Wednesday, April 27, Saint David's Alumni Parents Council organized a stunning spring social at the New York home of Richard H. Jenrette. Designed in 1917 by Delano & Aldrich, the same architects that designed all three townhouses that now comprise the main buildings of the Saint David's School (12 through 16 East 89th Street), the Baker houses represent stunning examples of brick David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-34924255418126723512011-04-21T12:52:00.002-04:002011-04-21T16:35:51.915-04:00Dollars for Scholars
On Wednesday Upper School boys participated in a Student Council organized fun run for the Ethiopia Project--Dollars for Scholars. In the short video above, we see lower school boys cheering on the upper school boys as they make their way to Central Park. Upon their return, Lower School boys presented the runners with goodie bags containing water, pretzels, a sugar treat and a hand written David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-37746399270399728862011-04-20T17:39:00.001-04:002011-04-21T09:39:25.176-04:00The EarthLots has been happening at Saint David's in preparation for Earth Day. The EAAC (Environmental Awareness and Action Committee) has been hard at work. In addition to the school's year long commitment to recycling bottle caps, see link for a CBS 5PM News story on the boys' cap collecting efforts to date,
we also held an "oven free" lunch today and presented a special slide show to the boys onDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-71010853524549611382011-04-20T16:49:00.005-04:002011-04-20T17:19:32.331-04:00GrandparentsThis past Friday, Saint David's celebrated Grandparents Day for the PK, K and Omega grades. Our school was filled with that special sense of excitement that accompanies grandparents wherever they are and wherever they go. In my welcome to grandparents, I made reference to how much the mission of Saint David's values and celebrates family--immediate family and extended family.
The lives of David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-91176571992756591692011-03-17T19:40:00.001-04:002011-03-17T19:40:10.113-04:00Arrived New YorkAll safe. At the gate now.Dr. David O'HalloranHeadmasterSaint David's School12 East 89th StreetNew York, NY 10128T (212) 369-0058email: dohalloran@saintdavids.orgblog: pdavidohalloran.blogspot.comDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-39266254063755841492011-03-17T07:30:00.001-04:002011-03-17T07:30:17.913-04:00RomaArrived safe and on-time.Dr. David O'HalloranHeadmasterSaint David's School12 East 89th StreetNew York, NY 10128T (212) 369-0058email: dohalloran@saintdavids.orgblog: pdavidohalloran.blogspot.comDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-62384791437713735562011-03-17T06:26:00.001-04:002011-03-17T06:26:40.092-04:00We're off!David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-33841464227873916322011-03-17T05:55:00.001-04:002011-03-17T05:55:26.999-04:00Giovedi 17 MarzoDeparture from the Kraft was smooth and event free. It is an absolutely beautiful day in Firenze. Perfect for travel. After Chapel in the median of Via Solferino, we boarded the bus for the airport. The boys are all through security and we are awaiting the boarding call for our flight to Rome. Spirits are high. Nicholas M. Reports he really enjoyed the trip, "Because I could learn outside of a David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-31366478210276329922011-03-16T18:02:00.001-04:002011-03-16T22:28:55.284-04:00Mercoledi Marzo 16
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As the Palazza della Signoria was being prepared for the big celebration tomorrow——the 150 anniversary of the David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-3572079337636081602011-03-15T14:31:00.093-04:002011-03-16T15:06:07.325-04:00Martedi, 15 MarzoRain threatened again today; but again it held off until late in the afternoon. Day otto found the boys waking early, eating breakfast and after chapel making their way to The Accademia and The Bargello. The afternoon was spent playing sports--football, soccer and catch--in the drizzle. It was a little muddy, but that's okay.
Above we see a photograph of the boys observing Donatello's David David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-60278829708412006132011-03-14T18:48:00.004-04:002011-03-15T01:34:08.266-04:00Lunedi, 14 Marzo
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Even though the weatherman called for showers today, the rain was kept at bay by the gods until 6 PM. The David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-73353139090125550452011-03-13T18:16:00.001-04:002011-03-13T18:35:39.918-04:00Atop the Campanile
Try as it may, the rain today did not dampen the spirits of the boys. High atop Giotto's Tower this afternoon, we see the boys enjoying the view of Firenze afforded those who make the 414 step climb.
Our drizzly Sunday began with a traditional mass at the Church of Ognissanti, on the banks of the Arno. Although all in Italian, the boys gained a greater appreciation for the universality ofDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-24882380165155866372011-03-12T17:03:00.000-05:002011-03-12T17:03:46.063-05:00Firenze South of the ArnoSome slides of the boys' first views of Firenze.
The day is done and all have returned to their rooms. All are healthy, a little tired, but healthy.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-79075327873277332202011-03-12T16:23:00.003-05:002011-03-14T17:49:19.296-04:00Their First Look ...... at Ghiberti's Baptistery Doors. Bigger then they thought. Danny J reflecting on his experience "The narrative was so clear. We studied them, I know; but up close the story is so clear."David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-23893591949071462452011-03-12T11:23:00.002-05:002011-03-14T17:49:51.170-04:00Piazzale MichelangeloAt around 5 PM we arrived in Florence--made great time from Assisi. Above is a view from Piazzale Michelangelo with its spectacular view of Florence from under a life-size copy of Michelangelo's David. We are on the south side of the Arno and will shortly make our way down into the town's historic center, via the Ponte Vecchio. Many caught some shut eye on the bus. Refreshed, they are ready for aDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-56156293551786741122011-03-12T06:36:00.001-05:002011-03-12T06:36:11.624-05:00The Climb ...... up the hill via San Francesco to the Basilica di San Francesco after chapel was a tough one. The boys then went inside to present their Assisi reports on Giotto's fresco sequence in the Upper Basilica. After a visit to the Lower Basilica, it was off the lunch at San Pietro. It's 12:30, Sabato.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-86048510648568934542011-03-12T06:13:00.002-05:002011-03-12T17:05:06.257-05:00AssisiAn early departure from Rome this morning placed us in Assisi by mid-morning. Here the boys attend chapel looking out over Umbria from atop the mount. Sunny, cool, clear day.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-60876918243250211082011-03-11T08:28:00.001-05:002011-03-11T08:28:20.908-05:00Vicino VaticanoAfter crossing the Tiber at Castel San Angelo and visiting St. Peter's Square, the boys settled down to lunch at L'isola della Pizza on via degli Scipioni, vicino Vaticano.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-56871741285915232702011-03-11T07:07:00.002-05:002011-03-12T17:05:35.634-05:00VaticanoWe are en route to the Vatican. As is sometimes the case in Rome, the transporters workers union decided to call a strike this morning. The city is a mess, but we are effectively navigating the back streets of the Eternal City. All the boys are happy and well. This morning we visited San Pietro in Vincoli to see Michelangelo's Moses. Christopher W. reflecting on the Moses says "It was amazing andDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-41736906529975038952011-03-09T21:37:00.004-05:002011-03-09T21:41:01.649-05:00Day Two in Rome ...... was fabulous. It began with the boys visiting Santa Maria Maggiore to view up close and personal the 5th century mosaics on either side of the nave that depict scenes from the Old Testament. The left-hand side displayed scenes of Abraham, Jacob and Isaac; the right-hand side, scenes of Moses and Joshua. Many of the boys, completely astonished, thought the mosaics were paintings. They also David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-26101707346851997532011-03-08T13:35:00.003-05:002011-03-08T14:53:25.627-05:00San Luigi dei FrancesiAs I write this entry, the boys are sitting down to their first course of pasta in Italy. One of the boys, not keen for red sauce, has discovered the true beauty of fresh olive oil. His life has changed.
After a smooth, event free flight across the Atlantic, the boys arrived in a sunny Rome. There was no time for relaxing though. The Study Tour began immediately with visits to the Pantheon, David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-77491384107617926602011-03-07T15:05:00.001-05:002011-03-07T21:49:56.336-05:00And They're Off ...... to Italy. The Class of 2011 left Saint David's this afternoon for Roma. The boys were in high spirits, a little nervous and anxious, but excited. The teachers' faces too, reflected the anticipatory angst of the boys. The weather is perfect for flight and it looks like the weatherman is promising fine conditions throughout the trip. Florence will be a little cooler than Rome, but all David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-49030228748375310732011-03-02T09:09:00.002-05:002011-03-09T20:39:52.665-05:00Doors to Beauty: The Aesthetic and Saint David’sIn his 1911 short story, The Door in the Wall, H. G. Wells, through the eyes of a man close to the end of his natural life, reflects on a door he discovered accidentally in the earliest years of his childhood. The door led him to a garden of incredible beauty—a place of awe-inspiring wonder where even the air “exhilarated,” “gave one a sense of lightness and good happening and well being,” a placeDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-785627302445636802011-03-01T20:24:00.048-05:002011-03-01T20:49:51.878-05:00The Residents ...... of Cardinal Cooke enjoy their time with the Saint David's Sixth Grade volunteers so much that tonight they invited their friends from other floors to join in our session. Typically, we visit with the 8th floor of the nursing home comfortably filling their common room. However, tonight, the room was jam packed as the boys led the residents in one of their favorite activities: BINGO. David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-56101143064372447722011-02-25T22:01:00.013-05:002011-03-01T21:07:31.105-05:00Trading, Negotiating on the RoadIn an unusual turn of events, I found myself trading with a variety of foreign travelers today. Representing the Eternal City, my office was a stop for ancient travelers on the Silk Road. In conjunction with their study of ancient China, fourth grade boys spent several weeks researching and creating a character to “travel” along their own Saint David's Silk Road. To prepare their character, David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-18543189508364959242011-02-22T10:06:00.001-05:002011-02-22T10:08:54.225-05:00A New Model for Professional Development
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Six years ago, the school initiated a new professional development program that goes beyond attendance at conferences or David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-57890503643114856052011-02-20T10:35:00.000-05:002011-02-20T10:35:26.379-05:00AgamemnonThanks to Aeschylus, 7Pi reminded us last Thursday that Greek tragedies are just that--tragedies. After returning from Troy victorious, a convincing Agamemnon (Felix S.) meets conniving treachery and death by those closest to him (Clytemnestra, played by Fred R. and Aegisthus, played by John C.). Cameron D., playing the cursed Cassandra--Agamemnon's war prize--was so powerful on stage that allDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-17639682386953043982011-02-19T13:30:00.001-05:002011-02-19T21:42:45.997-05:00St. Ignatius Loyola; Saint David's 60th Anniversary CelebrationFriday, February 11, 2011, was a day the School's mission shined brightly from the eyes of Saint David's boys, and was deeply reflected in the powerful emotion portrayed on the faces of their parents, Saint David's alums, and their parents. It was a memorable day that marked an important milestone moment for Saint David's School.
I'm not sure the Sixtieth Anniversary Mass could have been more David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-25704390121603347132011-02-11T22:45:00.005-05:002011-02-24T20:17:10.403-05:00The Trial of SocratesSocrates was widely recognized as the first martyr for free speech. Yesterday morning, 7th grade boys performed convincingly the 399 BC Trail of Socrates. In classical Greek form, the play reminds us of several important notions central to democracy. Given the activity in North Africa and the Middle East, it's an apt play for the 7th grade and their audience.
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font-family: "CambriaDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-37586605184576495072011-02-08T20:26:00.001-05:002011-02-08T20:28:47.599-05:00Founders' Week: 60th Slide ShowWhile enjoying culinary delights today during lunch, the second day of Founders' Week, Saint David's boys also enjoyed watching a slide show on the big screen of images from Saint David's archives. Prepared by the 60th anniversary committee chaired by John Dearie, the show captures some memorable images from the past--50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. I've included excerpts from the show here. David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-59985676839747112792011-02-08T17:44:00.086-05:002011-02-08T19:20:19.603-05:00Saint David's v BuckleyIn this afternoon's home game against Buckley, our formidable visitors at the close of 3rd quarter were down 20 points. The score was 37-17. Saint David's broke for the quarter feeling confident, but not too comfortable. A few quick Buckley baskets in the first 2 minutes of the fourth quarter put the first real pressure on Red Basketball. Buckley managed to come within 5 points of Saint David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-72691168371161753892011-02-07T17:29:00.001-05:002011-02-11T16:22:49.939-05:00It's Official: We're 60!This past Saturday, February 5th, Saint David's School officially turned 60. To kick off "Founder's Week" today, the Student Council President and I cut the ceremonial cake at 7th and 8th Grade Lunch to the rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday." The cake was then distributed throughout the school for all the boys to enjoy. Each day this week, we will celebrate Founder's Week with the boys, David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-64459993503092968862011-02-07T04:17:00.000-05:002011-02-07T17:46:47.642-05:00Carnegie Hall and Super Bowl SundayThere were two championships played yesterday--one musical and one not! The Saint David's Philharmonic Ensemble, under the direction of Phil Hough, performed on stage at Carnegie Hall at 2 PM to a packed, enthusiastic house. Saint David's was the smallest orchestra in size to take the stage Sunday, but without doubt, the greatest in determination and heart.
It was an ambitious, classically David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-42039815388922470212011-02-05T19:27:00.170-05:002011-02-05T20:55:44.155-05:00A Busy FridayIt's not every Friday that you find penguins running amuck throughout the school, atoms being consumed by 4th graders until their tummies burst, and third graders being placed in detainment after interrogatives from stone faced immigration officers, but so it was this Friday at Saint David's.
The unusual day began when I heard penguins entering the 4th floor in search of colorful, inanimate fishDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-91172717842737538462011-01-27T18:46:00.007-05:002011-05-14T14:49:22.074-04:00Saint David's: Mission, Milestone and EthiopiaIn addition to celebrating milestones and achievements, anniversaries are most importantly times to stop and reflect on one's purpose for being. Given that this is Saint David's 60th year, the school has a unique opportunity to do just that. In an effort to not only celebrate this milestone in the school's history, we have made it a priority to give back--to contribute to the greater good in a David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-86424921792987850812011-01-27T15:51:00.002-05:002011-01-27T15:55:39.314-05:0089th in the SnowThis is what 15 inches looks like on 89th Street early in the morning. Happy Snow Day.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-52548264871883538812011-01-24T22:53:00.061-05:002011-01-26T14:30:29.063-05:00Art Show
Saint David's Winter Festival of Art and Music is well under way. Given our school-wide theme this year, The Aesthetic, the festival takes on an extra special meaning. In addition to many musical and performance events, the festival also celebrates boys creativity in the visual arts. Hung throughout and around the school, boys work is on display.
Walking though the school today I snapped a David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-3224105121543045192011-01-24T09:24:00.000-05:002011-01-24T09:24:25.461-05:00A Nation of WimpsSpeaking to Saint David's parents on Thursday night, January 20, 2011, Hara Marano, author of A Nation of Wimps asked those present a central parenting question: "All parents want their kids to do well in school. But is that all you want? Success in life has a lot to do with curiosity, empathy, and confidence. Just because kids register competence on SATS doesn't mean they feel competent. Just David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-25262531543747005972011-01-13T21:28:00.001-05:002011-01-20T17:09:48.968-05:00The Boys are BackThe boys have been purposefully moving about the building happy to be back at school. I know that may sound a little strange; but they really do look happy. Teachers too, are right back at work, preparing lessons, imparting knowledge and wisdom, helping our sons find their voice, their strengths, their passions.
Monday last, while the boys were enjoying the last day of their vacation, our David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-72451662796619027682010-12-14T09:32:00.002-05:002011-01-13T22:09:33.809-05:00ElvesThe ringing of sleigh bells announced their impending arrival, and then there they were, "invisible," but clearly present in my office.
The stairs, halls and classrooms of Saint David's were bustling with little green and red creatures this morning, moving quickly and silently about the school--surprising and exciting all those in their path. Pre-kindergarten elves, a long standing tradition,David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-90333843507397440502010-12-02T18:04:00.065-05:002010-12-06T10:39:06.275-05:00Sometimes ...... living in the western most borough of the great City of New York, one can often neglect to think about one's friends to the east. This week, Mr. Imbelli and I ventured to the farthest reaches of the borough of Brooklyn to visit with alums on the beautiful, sprawling campus of Poly Prep, as well as alums a little closer to home at Packer Collegiate in historic downtown Brooklyn . These David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-53026789418511196752010-11-29T18:16:00.004-05:002010-12-07T09:27:05.258-05:00Are our Brains Being Rewired?"Dazzled by the Net’s treasures, we are blind to the damage we may be doing to our intellectual lives and even our culture" Nicholas Carr writes in his latest piece in Wired Magazine on the impact of evolving technologies on our learning, lives and culture. "What we’re experiencing is, in a metaphorical sense, a reversal of the early trajectory of civilization: We are evolving from cultivators David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-52343715885503087642010-11-23T20:30:00.089-05:002010-11-29T10:51:50.609-05:00Young Alums ReturnIt's about 6:45 pm Tuesday and I'm enjoying the company of some 120 young alums in Hyman Hall, many of their teachers and the Class of 2011. Pictured here is Fr. O'Shea of the Passionists updating the boys on how the $33 thousand the Class of 2010 raised for disaster relief in Haiti last year has helped the lives of so many Haitians--people who the boys will never meet; but whose lives they have David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-72766189329845600022010-11-23T17:39:00.002-05:002010-11-23T17:43:03.215-05:00A Prayer for Thanksgiving ...Thanksgiving festivities are in full swing at Saint David's. Late yesterday and early this morning some 8th graders were distributing pies to families in the Lobby while the rest were busy on the 4th floor packing some 200 boxes with cans and food stuffs collected from all the grades over the past several weeks, in preparation for delivery tomorrow, along with frozen turkeys, ham, and David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-53183650096910951212010-11-19T14:57:00.169-05:002010-11-19T21:58:59.364-05:00Duccio Following the Saint David's Pathway today at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Eighth grade boys found themselves standing before Duccio's c. 1300 AD painting of the Madonna and Child--a 2004 acquisition by the Met for a mere $45 million.
Holding her child gently in her left arm, Mary looks beyond her son with a palpable melancholy tenderness, while the baby reaches out his hand to brush the veilDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-5155325719035182342010-11-17T13:39:00.064-05:002010-11-17T14:11:19.449-05:00Thanksgiving Begins ...It shouldn't necessarily be this way, but the season for giving thanks has begun. I'd like to think we were forever thankful. However, this isn't a trait that comes easily to most of us, so a holiday season that encourages us to be thankful, for the blessings we enjoy, is the next best thing.
At Cardinal Cooke yesterday evening, Saint David's 6th Grade volunteers began the season by David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-32648125345964152262010-11-11T22:22:00.003-05:002010-11-15T13:39:31.641-05:00At the setting of the sun ...“They shall not grow old, As we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, Nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun And in the morning We will remember them.” – Laurence Binyon (1869-1943)
We recognize and thank current staff and faculty members Jack Sproule and Tom McLellan for their service in the Vietnam War and to all our alums who have served and are serving and to those David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-27523600471178402542010-11-11T22:06:00.001-05:002010-11-11T22:07:04.910-05:00Van Cortlandt and Verdi--Does it Get Any Better?
Saint David's Cross Country at Van Cortlandt Park is the photo at left. A growing sport of interest amongst the Seventh and Eighth Grade boys, eleven are here seen beginning their cross country run at the Manhattan Middle School League Championship meet late yesterday. After a grueling race, five Saint David's boys earned medals in this event: Blake K., Henry S., James W., Christopher W.,David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-70402523281076297542010-11-06T19:01:00.002-04:002010-11-06T19:33:57.722-04:00"The Blessings ...... of a B Minus," Wendy Mogel's newest book challenges parents to examine their true goals and aspirations for their children, especially their teenage children. Are our actions, our attempts to protect, support, and defend actually having the exact opposite desired effect? "We [parents]," Dr. Mogel says, "worship the idols of our childrens' happiness." We tend not to allow our children to David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-12941438595904808962010-11-01T20:58:00.000-04:002010-11-01T20:58:35.461-04:00Nearly NowSpace is a fascinating concept. I don't pretend to understand the full conceptualization of "space." What I do understand is that it is being redefined. Space for our children includes physical space, which we grew up with and are comfortable with, and a new virtual space, which for many of us is much less comfortable. This virtual dimension is as much a part of our childrens' worlds as the David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-35096616930421650042010-10-26T18:23:00.059-04:002010-10-28T12:12:30.944-04:00Cardinal Cooke, Boys and The Good
Ten sixth graders and an eighth grader joined me tonight in community service at Cardinal Cooke. The residents had a blast spending time with the boys, sharing stories and playing games. In the photos we see SMcC and JC calling BINGO numbers, a group working with residents during the game, and TE imitating a perfect "host" on prize patrol.
The residents were totally taken by the boys' charmDavid O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6221532399361214775.post-65340577204302308052010-10-26T09:55:00.001-04:002010-10-28T14:38:14.333-04:00Boys that ReadIn this interesting article, How to Raise Boys Who Read, Thomas Spence makes the case for limiting electronic media, especially video games in the home if you want boys to read. Providing boys attractive, powerfully stimulating "games" competes directly with books. Shelve or limit the games and fill the shelves at home with books.David O'Halloranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04329815310599963123noreply@blogger.com0