Moving!

Calvert has always been well-known for our focus on the fundamentals of education: reading, writing, mathematics, and public speaking. You may not know, however, that here at Calvert we pay a great deal of attention to physical education, fitness, and wellness. From Pilot Class through 8th grade, our students have an excellent physical education program as part of their academic schedule. Our 5th graders have the option of participating in after-school intramurals, such as basketball (I am one of the coaches) and winter soccer. In grades 6 through 8, over 90 percent of the students play on one of our 14 interscholastic teams. Furthermore, several Middle School clubs (offered the final period on Friday) are sports-related, such as field hockey and flag football for the 6th graders. Most grades have two recesses a day, and we now have 50-60 Middle School students a day taking advantage of our 7:30-8:00 AM before-school recess in the gym. Add all of this up, and we are, in the words of Middle School Head Matt Buck '87, "The Movement School." This movement promotes bone and muscle development and stimulates the brain as well! The maestra of this beehive of activity is Mary Alice Lears, our Director of Athletics and Physical Education. Last year, in recognition of her superlative work, Mrs. Lears won the Deborah Dorsey Albert Award at Graduation for "outstanding contributions to the life and mission of Calvert School." I encourage my readers to visit campus to (literally) see our boys and girls in action. I would be happy to provide a personalized tour of our athletic facilities and physical education classes.