What’s life like at St. Albans? Teachers and students answered that very question at this fall’s Upper and Lower School Open Houses.

In the Lower School, the panel described the support students give each other in class (“Everyone wants everyone to be the best they can,” said one eighth grader), bonds developed with teammates in sports, and favorite lunches (General Tso’s, pasta and burgers).

The Upper School panel described what it takes to be a successful student. Foreign Language Department Chair Kelly Castellanos Evans mentioned “open mindedness” and a “willingness to take risks.” Biology and chemistry teacher Mary Van Metre promoted boys who advocate for themselves by  “seeking help when you need it and talking to your teachers.” Noted Van Metre: “We’re always willing to work with [students] because we know how busy it can get here!”

Asked to describe a typical St. Albans student, French teacher Patrick Moneyang responded: “A boy that asks questions and is very curious! And a boy that listens.” Added Moneyang: “We are helping the boys develop and find a vocation in life. And part of finding a vocation is about being exposed to different things. In my French class I always tell my boys, look, education is about you becoming an interesting person in life. To be an interesting person, you need to know a lot of things. You need to know everything almost. That’s why we don’t want to limit their exposure to this or that!”

Form II science teacher David Belsky described the ideal senior as a boy who remains curious. “They really still enjoy the learning part of this school. They are well-rounded, they’re athletic, they’re artistic, they’re thoughtful … [and they’re] ready to leave,” said Belsky. “We feel good about sending every one of our seniors out into the world. They are continuing to grow!”