Parents arriving at the Rock Sound Airport

On Monday, we began our first week back all together at school since the past weeks had consisted of kayak and academic rotations. We started off the week with a 6-mile run and a one-mile swim for the swim track. To most of us that small run seemed like forever since we had not exercised for a while.

Preparing for research was a main focus amongst the students and faculty throughout this week. We first had to hand in a draft of our results section, and prepare a slide show that we would present first to be graded by research advisors. Later it would be revised and presented to parents on PARENTS WEEKEND. While not stressing over research we all pitched-in to transform the boys common room to an art gallery designed with natural material to give a nature atmosphere. It featured student’s land and environmental art as well as the Deep Creek Middle School’s artwork.          

A welcomed reunion

Thursday morning the runners had a eight mile run and the swimmers had a 2 mile swim. After much anticipation and preparation (SUPER CLEAN of entire campus L) the parents finally arrived Thursday afternoon! The evening was spent giving tours, browsing the art gallery, eating conch fritters, and catching up with family. For diner we enjoyed the fresh Cobia from the aquaculture cage That night we had a new addition of brothers and sisters in the dorm.

Morning circle getting ready for High Rock

Friday morning everyone woke up early to squeeze in last minute prep for the big research presentation. Despite our nerves, once we began everything went smoothly and the presentations all went wonderful. Afterwards, we were relieved of the stress and were able to relax with our families. That night the excitement was greater than anything The Island School has ever experienced. IT WAS…JUNKANOO. All the students rushed through another wonderful dinner (chicken which we never get) and sprinted to assemble their masterful costumes. It was out of control. The steel drums began and the students were taken over by the Junkanoo spirit, running into the middle of the circle. We began our parade and performed our dance taught by the very talented Mo. After that, the party continued on the dinning hall deck where everyone, including parents and teachers, let loose and danced wildly. The dancing ceased, and we all ran into the Boy’s Dorm beach to rinse off and cool down. Afterwards we congregated in the circle where the energy was high and we chanted many things including “Yingling!” for our good friend who left a week ago and is not returning to The Island School.

At 5am on Saturday, the students’ families woke and drove to The Island School to have a taste of what we do for exercise every morning. Running, biking, and driving we all made it out to high rock where everyone jumped into the beautiful water. Saturday afternoon consisted of various activities for the student’s families to participate in, such as kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing. That night we had our final dinner as a whole and this meal was followed by an amazing coffee house, hosted by Nathan dressed in his snazzy southern style for the occasion. Emery and Vlad opened up with a talented freestyle on the guitar and harmonica. Maggie surprised many with her Scottish dancing as well as Patrick with his guitar skills and John with his jokes. Kirsten, Jess, Ally, and her two sisters all showed off their marvelous voices.

The girls dorm had a select few that presented a skit mocking a faculty meeting. The coffee house ended with a duet by faculty Jenn O and Chris who performed These are the Days by 10,000 maniacs, which made everyone teary-eyed. The Coffee House was followed by two slideshows, the first one made of photos by Roger and Sam (a.k.a. Walter and Watson) and another one of pictures from Parent’s Weekend. Sunday was a free day that we all spent with our parents. People went to places all throughout the island and relaxed away from the school. That night we said our goodbyes and our parents headed back to the cold weather. The weekend was amazing and we all had a great time getting to know other families and catching up with our own.

SHOUTOUTS:

Kristin- What’s up B-more? I hope you’re keeping it real, it’s great here in the Bahamas. RHOCD going strong, can’t wait to see you all in two weeks I miss you a bunch

Hard work pays off-research presentations

Laura- Hey to everyone back home.  Hope you guys are having a great fall in the cold. The Island School has been amazing so far.

Jen- Hey guys! See you all in two weeks I miss you all so much BUT I DON’T WANT TO LEAVE! It’s so nice and warm here the sun is always shining. Happy Thanksgiving jump in some leaves for me!

Kelley- Hey family and friends, I just recieved about 20 magazines including where to retire, the old house, and 9 Teen People. Not sure what to do with "Where to Retire", but hey, it was a nice gesture Kevin, I appreciate it. Love everyone, coming home in 2 weeks!