Each Thursday, the entire Upper School meets for Community Circle (CC), a 60 minute student-run show featuring informational skits, awards, student presentations, and guest speakers. Students in the school’s Community Circle Club meet weekly to create activities and write scripts for student anchors. CC is a fun, relaxed, and (at times) serious space. While the show generally includes comedic elements and lighthearted competitions, Community Circle is also where the school celebrates successes and has open and honest discussions about community challenges.
Perhaps most importantly, CC is the venue for the school’s sacred Senior Talks. Other consistent features of Community Circle include the Principal & Executive Director’s Corner, College Acceptances, Citizenship & Honor Roll Updates, Crew Competitions, and Giving of Kudos.
In 2009, a version of Codman’s Community Circle, which is loosely modeled on the Daily Show, was presented as the keynote address for the EL Education Network National Conference.
Senior Talks / Apologia
Every year, each senior takes the stage at one of Codman’s weekly Community Circles to deliver their Senior Talk to the entire school. Senior Talks, modeled on Socrates’ apologia (a defense of his life in Athens in 399 BC), allow students to reflect upon their values and find their voice as they present a defense of their life. The Greek adage to “Know Thyself” is taken deeply to heart as each senior wrestles with the purpose and intent of their life. Senior Talks at Codman are a sacred affair; it is not unusual for tears to be shed or for students to receive a standing ovation from their peers. All Senior Talks, which are are open to family and friends, are videotaped.
