The Webb School's 2025-26 academic year kicked off on Wednesday, Aug. 13. In her opening remarks before Middle and Upper School students, faculty and staff, Webb's new head of school, Dr. Polly Parker, proudly reinforced the importance of practicing the morals and values that have served as an integral component of our School's mission for 156 years.

Addressing the entire Webb community in the Barton Athletic Center, Dr. Parker spoke of the moral compass that guides each of us not only through tough times but also in our daily lives. When faced with difficult choices, she urged the community to pause and think about their true North. "Ask yourself: 'What do I stand for?' 'What values guide me?' and 'What kind of person do I want to be?'" she said. 

"As you step into the new school year, remember your moral compass. It will guide you through the years, [and] when you act with integrity and honor your values, you inspire others to do the same."

Leading the Webb student body this year will be four seniors: Student Council President Lien Phan, Vice President Isa Prater, Secretary Danica Crowley and Treasurer Rasmus Wolter. A cherished tradition, Webb's oldest group of student leaders – the members of the Class of 2026 – began their last "first day of school" with Senior Sunrise, symbolizing their potential to become a beacon of hope and inspiration for the younger students around them. Despite cloudy skies, the gentle morning rain blessed the seniors with a touch of good luck as they began their final chapter as students at Webb. 

Additional Webb traditions throughout the day included donuts and milk after Chapel and a Senior Dinner at Heffner House, as students set their sights on the year ahead, ready to navigate the journey together.