Of the many guiding mantras that define our youth, “respect your elders” is perhaps the most resounding. From our infancy to our adolescence, we have been taught to always look up to those more advanced in years: parents, teachers, coaches, and so on. They are sources of the experience, leadership, and advice that all kids must receive to eventually step into the same position.

Interestingly enough, Newark Academy doesn’t necessarily promote this principle. Of course, we look up to those at the front of the classroom or in the administrative hallway, but the most specialized and important guidance that we receive actually comes from our peers. From classmates to captains, the diverse student body at the Academy provides a wealth of talent, enthusiasm, and knowledge, which promotes mutualistic growth on a daily basis. In short, Newark Academy’s student body has turned the conventional construct of leadership and learning on its head. We gain just as much from each other as we do from those double or triple our age.

This notion is built in our classrooms, where teachers favor student-driven conversation over traditional lectures. In this environment, we are encouraged to share and foster knowledge. Oftentimes, we learn just as much about subjects from the comments of our classmates, or from the discoveries we make as a result of debates and discussions. This passionate student discourse can be seen in the latest Minuteman debate over diversity at the Academy, which has brought up a number of fascinating issues that will lead to greater awareness and progress in the near future.

The importance of peer involvement and leadership is further embedded outside of the classroom. On the sports field, upperclassmen provide guidance for younger players, helping them to improve and fit in on their respective squads. In the arts, the enthusiasm of many students for their craft, spreads throughout an entire ensemble – inspiring newcomers and sharpening performances. Even here at The Minuteman itself, the direction and concerted efforts of a number of students constantly improves content. Everywhere you look, the leadership of students – not just elders – begets collaboration, learning, and results.

It seems especially fitting to reflect on this unique Newark Academy concept as the Class of 2012 leaves 91 South Orange Ave. For the past four years, they have served as vital pieces in a student body that is constantly evolving, intellectually and otherwise. As they grew into natural leadership roles in the past year, they were influential captains, ensemble leaders, artists, tutors, mentors, and friends – affecting every student at the Academy in some unique way.

It is a bittersweet time of year, especially for The Minuteman. This will be the paper’s last issue for the 2011-2012 year, yet it is our first issue with the new staff. We are grateful to our predecessors for everything they have taught us. Over the June Term and summer, we encourage you to reflect on how the environment here at the Academy has allowed your peers to impact you. May your summer be full of fun, sun, and reading. Enjoy the issue!

Sincerely,

Cody Reid-Dodick ’13, Rachel DeChiara ’13, and the Minuteman Editorial Board