The Upper School hosted a successful Blood Drive on Friday, Jan. 17, in the Main Gym, bringing together students ages 16 and up, faculty and staff to help address a critical national blood shortage. Donors stepped up to support Lifesouth Community Blood Centers and their efforts to supply local hospitals with the inventory needed for life-saving transfusions. Coordinated by Ellie Ver Eecke '26, the drive provided enough blood to save 96 lives. 

"Donating blood is so much more than a simple act–it's a lifeline, a way to give hope to those who need it most...even small efforts can save lives and make a profound impact," she said.

Thank you to all of the students, faculty and staff who donated or volunteered to support this meaningful cause!

The HIES chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) has completed a meaningful community service project, exemplifying the core NHS values of scholarship, leadership, service and character. On Thursday, Dec. 5 and Wednesday, Jan. 15, NHS students diligently packaged nearly 10,000 bagels for Bagel Rescue, a local nonprofit that supports hunger relief by distributing excess food to families in need. The project was facilitated by Cate Wassenaar '26, NHS member and a member of the Bagel Rescue Teen Board. We're so proud of these students for their hard work, positive attitude and servant-leadership! 

The second-grade class was delighted to welcome Carmen Agra Deedy, celebrated children's author, back to The 805 this week! A longtime friend of HIES and mother of Lauren Deedy '04, Ms. Deedy's visits are always full of vibrant storytelling and creative insight that enhances the reading experience for our younger students. On Tuesday, Jan. 14, Ms. Deedy led a workshop in each second-grade classroom where students practiced predicting outcomes of stories, enjoying Ms. Deedy's hilarious storytelling skills along the way. As the students continue their unit on fairy tales and folklore, they're excited to put their new skills to practice as they imagine and rewrite new endings for familiar tales.

On Thursday, Jan. 17, the HIES community officially celebrated the start of a new semester by gathering in the Main Gym for Winter Convocation and an All-School Eucharist service. This annual gathering honors the liturgical season of Epiphany and allows our students, faculty and staff the opportunity to enjoy fellowship and worship together as one. The sermon was given by The Rev. Dr. Bill Murray, rector of Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church, who reminded us that even our youngest Golden Bears serve as beacons of love and light to the world. The service featured lovely musical performances from the Upper School Chorus and Orchestra as well as scripture readings by Lower School and Middle School students. As always, we are grateful to the HIES chaplaincy, our faculty volunteers and our student volunteers and acolytes for helping create this meaningful experience for our entire community. To view photos from the service, click here.