Although it caused pain and suffering for many – and inconvenience for all – Hurricane Sandy ended up becoming a barometer for one of the Academy’s most treasured assets: a strong sense of community. Its aftermath of school and event cancellations, power outages, and gas shortages, tested our ability to come together to cope and heal. In this time of crisis, our community proved itself. Immediately came tangible reactions that spoke to our compassion. School became a day shelter for any and all Newark Academy families, offering heat, shelter, electricity, and company. The cancellation of school took unneeded pressure off of many families, and the flexibility of teachers provided much relief for those without power or internet. Meanwhile, countless students with power welcomed relatives, neighbors, or classmates into their homes. Others helped with cleanup in their neighborhood, or joined relief efforts.

It’s important to highlight what these reactions represent. Newark Academy is a school that prides itself on coming together – uniting behind not just causes, but common ideals. We consider kindness and empathy as virtues that we should display in all we do. The fact that each community member holds these qualities dear creates an environment where peers care for peers, and amity always trumps animosity. It is safe to say that these common ideals motivated our responses to Hurricane Sandy, and it’s imperative that we now realize the unique nature of our community.

It is that community that packed the black box for the fall drama, despite numerous scheduling problems. It didn’t matter that many were still without power, hundreds of people felt that supporting their peers and celebrating hard work trumped personal inconvenience. It is also that community that crowded the sidelines of soccer games, as both men’s and women’s teams played deep into their postseason tournaments. Despite extended schedules and away games, many (students and faculty alike) still got out to cheer on the culmination of the teams’ months of effort.

Beyond these obvious expressions of pride and support, our community is responsible for the networks of support – from student leaders, to understanding teachers, to a reasonable administration – that ensure no student struggles to thrive. It also allows for a culture of acceptance, where one can try new things and learn from mistakes.

As Sandy violently interrupted our lives this past month, it also illuminated the sense of community that makes the Academy so special. We must recognize the impressive nature of our community’s congeniality — not just during a tough time — but at all times.

Thoughtfully,

The Minuteman Staff