News & Events

Norfolk Academy began its Year of Inquiry on Tuesday, August 26, as friends united on campus and met new teachers, and new Bulldogs in the Class of 2037 excitedly patted the bulldog before heading into class to start learning.

Buses began rolling in before 8 a.m., and handshakes, hugs, and high-fives came immediately. The excitement was infectious.

Once 8:15 a.m. arrived, the learning began. Middle School Chapel had a raucous atmosphere, as new teachers were introduced in the form of an athletics draft, filled with walks to the podium, interviews, and joy. At the same time, Upper School Chapel kicked off a year in which students are encouraged to ask lots of questions. Three students were called on stage, and they inquired to Director Sarah Goodson about what was in the small box she was holding.

After that it was time for an annual event loved by all. Each year opens with first graders patting the Bulldog for the first time, and shaking hands with the Lower School Director and Head of School before moving on to meet their teachers and classmates and beginning a new year of learning. The Class of 2037 was thrilled to take on this first task.

Head of School Travis Larrabee assured the young students that nerves are normal on the first day; even teachers and older students gets them. But, he said, they are in the good care of energetic, loving teachers, and surrounded by a Bulldog family that is both loving and large.

“Your teachers, Mrs. Alexander (Lower School Director Michelle Alexander) and her team, they're going to welcome you with open arms, and you're going to be part of this big Bulldog family. A family that you're going to lay claim to the rest of your lives."

With that, students flowed out to their classrooms begin the Year of Inquiry!

Enjoy this photo gallery!