Character-in-Action Takes Centre Stage at Crescent Town Hall

What sets a Crescent School education apart? Five Character-in-Action programs – Arts, Athletics, Business, Outreach and Robotics – that emphasize character development through student leadership, goal-setting, self-direction and experiential learning.

Character-in-Action was the focus of Crescent’s Town Hall on September 17, 2019. Over 200 members of the Crescent community attended the event, which was hosted by Headmaster Michael Fellin. It featured remarks by each of the Character-In-Action program directors: Godric Latimer-Kim (Arts), Fraser Bertram (Athletics), Gavin Muranaka (Business), Sheryl Murray (Outreach) and Don Morrison (Robotics).

Each Character-in-Action program offers students the chance to discover their passion outside the classroom. Many examples of character-building were shared at the Town Hall. The pursuit of excellence, commitment, drive and teamwork were common themes in all programs. “We push the boys to step outside their comfort zones,” said Latimer-Kim, noting that visual arts, drama and music offer ways for boys to explore their individuality.

“Our Character-in-Action programs are extensions of the classroom,” said Muranaka, giving students an opportunity to put theory into action, which often ignites their passion for a subject. The programs also help students find a place where they feel at home, he said. He shared what one recent graduate wrote about the Business Team on his university application: “while learning the basics of evaluating stock and key financial ratios, I built invaluable relationships with my peers.”

“More than just co-curricular activities, the Character-in-Action programs are a key part of Crescent’s strategic academic plan, known as The Crescent Way,” said Fellin. “These active and experiential extensions of the classroom curriculum are where character education at Crescent truly takes hold.

The Town Hall audience also heard from Grade 12 student Ted Ferris, the 2019-2020 Head Boy, who spoke about the student theme for the year, Find Your Calling. “There is so much on offer at a school like Crescent,” said Ferris. “Find Your Calling encourages all students to get as involved in the school community as possible.” He and the Prefects are working on many different activities to give boys in all grades an opportunity to try new things and explore their interests.

Jamie Coulter ’87, P’21, the new Chair of Crescent’s Board of Governors, also spoke at the Town Hall. He acknowledged the 17 volunteer governors who serve with him on the Board and spoke briefly about the Board’s priorities for the coming year. These include Crescent’s master campus plan and the development of the 2020-2025 strategic plan.

The Town Hall also provided an opportunity to reflect on Crescent’s recent achievements. These are documented in the 2018-2019 Crescent School Report Card, called It’s About The Boys, which was distributed at the event.

“The Town Hall is a signature event for Crescent School,” said Coulter. “It’s great to see so many parents coming out to support the tremendous things taking place at the school.”