by Honor Taft, Head of School

These cold winter days make me want to stay indoors, maybe watch a movie or work on a puzzle and enjoy a cup of tea, but daily life doesn’t always offer those lazy days. Instead, I find myself contemplating the opportunities that these days offer us and how I might embrace the lessons that nature provides.

At Friends School, we believe that every season brings meaningful opportunities for growth, resilience, and connection. Winter invites us to be intentional with our time, appreciating both the warmth of community and the clarity that comes with a brisk walk, all bundled up, across snow-covered paths. Just as the natural world conserves energy and prepares for renewal, we too can use this time to deepen our curiosity, nurture our well-being, and strengthen the bonds that hold our community together.

Cold weather also reminds us of the value of adaptation and perseverance—qualities we cultivate in our students every day. When we step outside into the chill, we instinctively bundle up, adjust our routines, and find creative ways to stay active and engaged. These small, everyday acts mirror the resilience and problem-solving skills we encourage in our classrooms. At Friends, we teach our students to meet challenges with courage and curiosity, whether they are learning a new math concept, navigating social dynamics, or contemplating humanity and the social and political structures that we have built. Even in the coldest months, we embrace learning through play, outdoor exploration, and hands-on experiences that help students develop confidence, independence, and joy.

I believe winter offers us a profound opportunity to cultivate gratitude and compassion—two essential elements of a Friends School education. The contrast between the cold outside and the warmth inside reminds us to appreciate simple joys —a steaming mug of tea or a moment of shared laughter. I invite you to join me in thinking about these dark, cold months as a time to recognize the importance of community, to check in on one another, and to find joy in togetherness. By embracing the season rather than resisting it, we can teach our students—and ourselves—that every season, even the coldest ones, holds beauty and opportunities to grow as learners, leaders, and as friends.