A Cardinal Direction

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 4^th.  In Ancient Greek, there is a verb “exelauno” which means “I march forth”, thus we celebrate “Exelauno Day” on March 4^th.  March 4^th 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