The Importance of Play

On Friday, the entire St. Luke’s community gathered for an outdoor chapel to dedicate and bless the new playground. The dedication of the new playground during all-school chapel served as another reminder of the deliberate, thoughtful approach to childhood at St. Luke’s. While the blessing acknowledged the joy and playfulness that would soon fill its space, it also underscored an important message: childhood is something to be cherished, not rushed. The playground symbolizes a space where students can explore, imagine, and grow at their own pace, with no pressure to leave behind their sense of wonder or playfulness. In many ways, it’s a reflection of St. Luke’s broader mission, as a PK3-8th grade school, to guide children through each developmental stage.

The St. Luke’s experience is carefully crafted to deliver these key milestones at the right time, providing students with opportunities to lead when they are ready and to remain fully engaged in their childhood for as long as possible. From leading during chapel to playing on the new playground, middle schoolers at St. Luke’s are given room to grow into their roles naturally, inspiring the younger students while being guided to enjoy their own journey at a pace just right for them.

To celebrate the new playground, which will be enjoyed by all St. Luke’s students, Monday, September 9th is an all-school Spirit Day. Students should wear their WeAreStLukes. spirit shirt (or other spirit shirt) and jeans or uniform bottoms. The playground, now officially opened with the blessing of the whole school, represents more than a place to run and climb—it symbolizes the importance of letting children be children.

In Partnership,

Mike Jenkins, Head of School