Jack Martin
Class of 2021
- Hometown: Newburyport
- Time at Waring: I have been at Waring for five years now. I started in 6th grade.
- Favorite class: So far, I'd have to say my favorite class has been Biology with Rich. He is a wonderful teacher, who truly cares about what he is teaching. Runner-up has to be Graham's math class in 6th and 7th grade. He also has a deep passion for Math and made the class interesting and unique in countless ways.
- Favorite Waring experience: There are so many Waring experiences that I could write about–from the big trips like Montreal trip and the Angers exchange to Endterm experiences like mountain biking, hiking the Presidential range, or going to a Copa America soccer match, as well as everyday interactions with teachers–whether it's class out on the quad, or walks through the woods, or little excursions to museums and concerts.
- Why no grades: I love no grades because it means that I am not just a letter or number. Narrative evals show that the teacher truly understands your participation as a student and a learner. The discussions you contribute to, your engagement in the subject, the help you look for, or the help you give is seen and accounted for in a more meaningful way than just A through F.
- Favorite book: My favorite book to this date is probably the Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. Not only was the book fascinating, but the discussion around it was compelling and thorough.
- Why French: There are two main reasons why the school only offers French. The first harkens back to our roots in Rockport with our founders Philip and Josée Waring. Josée was born in France and wanted to share the love of France with the school. Secondly, and in my opinion more importantly, is that speaking one language unifies us. Everyone can understand each other in multiple languages. If you ask anyone "Comment ça va?" they will always know how to respond.
- After-school activities: Outside of school hours, I am a part of the Debate team, led by Tim Averill, who was once the third-ranked debater in the country, and will soon be going on a trip to China for a tournament; the Varsity Lacrosse team, which has dominated the league for years, winning the championships for the past decade; the Varsity Soccer team; and Theater, where I was able to play a lead role in the past musical, Marry Poppins. All of which (with the exception of soccer) I had never done before Waring.
- Our community: Every school will say that they have a welcoming community. Waring is no different, but the main difference is that at Waring, this statement is true. The people you meet here are all genuinely welcoming. They care about you and how you are doing, both student and faculty alike. I have met some of the most unusual and incredible people during my time here, all of whom I'd consider friends. We are what makes Waring the wonderful place it is.
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