<p>^^^Perfect!</p>
<p>Winterset, thank you for the links and help real life illuminate the matter. While this sub-thread of my original, more general posting was sparked by the premise of a more “religious” dimension at SPS than at Andover, it seems to me that today even SPS’ chapel is an opportunity to engage in introspection, a quiet time to reflect as well as regularly reconnect with the entire community (which I personally find laudable) more than than any formal adherence to formal spiritual teachings. Is my feeling right?</p>
<p>And in terms of the bringing students together, is the age-old distinction of more “individualistic” bent at the Academies (though Deerfield struck me as quite different) vs cultivation of community for social consciousness at the “Schools” (SPS, Groton) still valid today? Or perhaps in 2011 this is outdated, and the mere difference in sizes begets physical closeness, leading to a different feel? In other words, is forging community ties an intended, vigorous philosophy, or a mere remnant of fading traditions (and of geography)?</p>
<p>Inculcation of such community virtues (and observance by students and teachers) can add to the boarding experience a substantial extra, which may be one thing distinguishing Andover and SPS.</p>
<p>Classicalmama</p>
<p>Town meeting as in gathering of community. Just that - speakers, music, forums.</p>
<p>pa43531, part of the answer can be found by randomly picking one of the student chapel speeches (<a href=“https://www.sps.edu/podium/default.aspx?t=113809[/url]”>https://www.sps.edu/podium/default.aspx?t=113809</a>). Or maybe even look at the names. SPS does work hard to develop a “cultivation of community for social consciousness” but do not assume that that results in a subjugation of the individual. I cannot tell you how it happens or the combination of chapel, size, faculty, prefects or programs, but it does work. </p>
<p>[ul][<em>]This weekend I had at least 20 emails (too many) from SPS formmates (a long long time ago). [</em>]At Christmas three former formmates stayed at our house with my son. [<em>]At thanksgiving I received the call that two recent SPS graduates lived too far to get home and could they join us.
[</em>] or if you have time, go here: **<a href=“https://www.sps.edu/podium/default.aspx?t=52562&a=86468&play=1[/url][/b]”>https://www.sps.edu/podium/default.aspx?t=52562&a=86468&play=1**</a> I know many of these people. It is quite real. It will also show you the personality of SPS.[/ul]
Okay so true at all schools perhaps, but it warms my heart to see so so many instances of kids caring and reaching out to others. That is a community.</p>
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<p>Amazing, thank you. I am watching it right now. The SPS community spirit at times seems like magic.</p>