Head of School for a Day

 

Hudson Heinemann ’22 has wanted to be the Head of School since he first learned it was possible in sixth grade. This fall he got his chance.

As Cardigan’s annual tradition dictates, Head of School Chris Day P’12,’13 and Hudson met in the Head of School’s office first thing Monday morning and exchanged schedules; Hudson took a seat behind Mr. Day’s desk and reviewed his plans for the day, while Mr. Day left for math class.

Hudson’s first order of business was to call home and check in with his family, and then he was off to meetings. With Director of Student Life Nick Nowak, he discussed student activities and had the opportunity to make recommendations for future on-campus events, and with Assistant Director of Communications Emily Magnus he helped determine the Instagram posts for the day--featuring his takeover of the Head’s Office, of course. 

I wanted to experience all the work that Mr. Day does, but I never realized I’d have to make so many decisions!

Hudson Heinemann

“I wanted to experience all the work that Mr. Day does,” said Hudson, “but I never realized I’d have to make so many decisions!” In the short time that he was head of school, Hudson had to pick out the color for next year’s laptop cover and review choices for the new carpets in the Chapel. He also helped School Store Manager Jamielynn Garland design a new t-shirt for the school store, and perhaps most importantly, he helped plan the morning snack–fresh cinnamon donuts and hot chocolate.

Meanwhile, Mr. Day went to Hudson’s classes. His first stop was math with Ms. Houseman where he had to take a quiz on calculating absolute value. As math was never his strength, Mr. Day was relieved when first period was over and he moved on to subjects that were more to his liking, English and French. His last class before lunch was Woodworking during which he had the chance to check out the new shop in Wallach, carving the letter C with a band saw and sanding it smooth with mechanical sanders. 

 

“Even though I’m afraid that Hudson might need to retake the Pre-Algebra quiz that I attempted,” Mr Day reflected, “I was so overjoyed to spend the day as a Cardigan student. Hudson’s classes were varied in their instruction, and incredibly engaging intellectually and academically. It’s a good reminder to me that the magic of Cardigan is in the human connections that are made between dedicated professional educators and curious, growing boys. I had a blast!”

While much of this exchange is supposed to be fun and light-hearted, it’s also an opportunity for faculty to hear from students. As the day progressed, Hudson’s initial goal “to just have fun” wasn’t the only thing he accomplished. As he attended meetings with everyone from Director of Development and International Relations Joe Burnett to Director of Spiritual Life Cheryl Borek, he provided important insights into the lives of his fellow students and shared their concerns with the adults with whom he spoke. Hudson also agreed to speak during a chapel service later in the year.

While both gentlemen have returned to their former roles, their short exchange may very well have a lasting impact on Cardigan and its programs.