As I
was musing on the philosophy and identity of The Shoshana S. Cardin School, (as
I continually do), I thought of related words that may express special meaning,
as I am also accustomed to do. This
quality of mindfulness regarding words and meaning is one that I encourage and
attempt to enhance in and out of the Latin classroom, for myself and for
students. I thought of the people that
are part of this community and the values that are important to us. I thought of our excellence in learning, our
inclusiveness, our creativity, and our care.
I thought of students walking through the school hallways wearing
cardinals on their sweatshirts, as the Cardinal is the mascot of the school.
One word that remained on my mind
was “cardinal”, which is derived from the Latin noun “cardo, cardinis”, meaning
“hinge” or “axis”. In English, as an
adjective, cardinal means “of fundamental or central importance” and could also
imply a red color, or the cardinal bird itself.
A cardinal circumstance or status is one of fundamental significance, a
hinge point for action and motion.
Cardin is always, but most especially in this special time of
transition, functioning as an axis, and in essence as a center of fundamental
and positive significance for the community, and is itself, at a hinge point
for motion into an exciting and promising future as the high school of the
Independent Jewish Academy of Baltimore.
Before
the closing of this academic year, in March, students will take part in the
National Latin Exam. This Exam will test
their skills at each of their respective levels, and provide an opportunity for
competition and positive affirmation. Despite
being named the National Latin Exam, the exam allows students to participate in
a worldwide competitive community that includes many countries. Students have performed very well in past
years, and will receive certificates of participation. Students will have the opportunity to earn
medals for excellent performance.
Students
will also have the opportunity for special interdisciplinary activities
highlighting Greek and Roman culture for “Exelauno Day” , which is on March 4th. In Ancient Greek, there is a verb “exelauno”
which means “I march forth”, thus we celebrate “Exelauno Day” on March 4th. March 4th falls at the beginning
of Interim Week at Cardin, which is an engaging, week long interdisciplinary
learning experience with a special focus.
I am
looking forward to the remainder of the 2012-2013 academic year, and I am
optimistic about all of the opportunities that The Shoshana S. Cardin School has
ahead for the future.
Sara Priebe,
Latin and Music Instructor
