Groton School welcomes families back to the Circle for 2023 Parents Weekend

The Circle was bustling with families and covered in fall foliage this past weekend, as Groton School hosted its annual Parents Weekend from October 26 to 29.

Students enjoyed reconnections with their parents (and oftentimes grandparents, siblings, and other relatives), and parents got to explore the Groton campus and all it has to offer, including academics, the arts, athletics, and fun.

Visiting parents had the opportunity to connect with Groton faculty and staff throughout the weekend, as nearly 2,300 meetings were held with teachers and advisors. 

There were open houses at the newly renovated Counseling and Wellness Center and with the Spiritual Life team, and College Counseling sessions for parents and students from several forms. 

Friday wrapped up with a pregame tailgate before the boys soccer team took on Tabor at the Field of Inclusion, winning 2–1 on a late-game goal. 

Following a Parent Fund meeting on Saturday, Headmaster Temba Maqubela gave his customary address in the Schoolhouse’s Sackett Forum, centering his remarks around love, gratitude, and purpose.

“Even though this is my fortieth year of teaching,” he said, “I continue to be in awe of my colleagues in the classroom, as coaches, advisors, and dorm parents.

“I trust that this weekend,” Mr. Maqubela continued, “all of you have had a glimpse of what goes on when you are not here because the teachers know each child so well. As I often remind the parents, we may not know you well. However, as their teachers, coaches, and advisors we will know your child well.  I hope the glimpse you have had this weekend proves this and shows the growth and trajectory toward a positive continuum.”

Mr. Maqubela explained the importance of practicing intentionality daily, even if it’s something as simple as leaving a cell phone at home during the school day.

“I have nothing against Apple stock,” he said, “just cell-phone use in class, at chapel, or generally in place of honing skills in being a conversationalist or staying connected with those around us.”

Saturday continued with an overview of Groton’s Global Education Opportunities (GEOs) and more sporting events before a reception at Sunset Farm and a performance spotlighting Groton’s young musicians at the Campbell Performing Arts Center (CPAC).

Sunday saw the weekend begin to wind down, with brunch and spiritual services in the morning and a student production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time in the CPAC’s McBaine Studio Theater in the afternoon.

More than 350 parents took part in this year’s event, including guests from Austria, Botswana, Canada, China, Czechoslovakia, France, Hong Kong, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.