Gavin L. ’31 Addresses Peers at Assembly

Gavin L. ’31 addressed his peers on the first day of the 2026-2027 school year at a Middle School assembly in Mary Eliot Chapel. Here are his remarks.

Good morning, everyone!

First, I’d like to welcome all of our new and returning students who are here with us. I am so excited to begin this new year with you all! Whether you are diving into your first year of middle school, finding your rhythm as a returning student, or sitting there realizing that this is the last lap before high school, just know that today is the start to a fresh year; a year to try new things, make mistakes, and leave your mark on this school before we move on to what’s next.

Being a new student isn’t all that bad, because you get to walk into the building with zero expectations from last year. You can explore every corner of the school and decide which sports, clubs, or crew you want to hang with. You can get a free pass on asking where your class is, plus you’re bringing a whole new vibe to everyone around you. You bring so many new stories that all of your classmates are waiting to hear, so essentially you’re not just joining the middle school; you are making a more fun environment for everyone else.

I love being a Ram because MICDS is more than just a school. It’s a community where you can embrace challenges and learn more about yourself. I know everyone will encounter a challenge at least once this year. Believe me, when I got an email from Mrs. Shuckman telling me I had to speak in front of the whole middle school on the very first day, I didn’t know what to think, but now I am here embracing it.

From the moment I became an MICDS Ram in JK to my first day of eighth grade, I have learned five key pieces of advice.

1. Using your flex time wisely is the most helpful thing you can do if you don’t want to fall behind on work.
2. Teachers are way more helpful than you think, so if you’re struggling, just ask for advice.
   When you go to the bookstore, just keep in mind that your parents can see every single purchase you made and how much money you spend there. So try not to buy every snack you want.
3. Never wear blue to any MICDS gameday event, so you don’t become mistaken for a Burroughs fan.
4. Be careful who you loan your pencils or any of your materials to, or else you might run out before your next class.

Now, to round it off, I just want to remind you that middle school goes by way faster than you think, so don’t just sit there and watch it fly by, try and make tons of memories that you will remember forever.

Thank you, and Go Rams!