In the Spotlight—Annual 6th Grade Greek Olympics

Just before Spring Break the annual 6th Grade Greek Olympics took place in a series of exciting events to mark the culmination of their study of ancient Greece. Middle School Dean of Students, Math and History Teacher, Ed Bolman, started this tradition his first year here, 20 years ago with a fellow teacher, Joel Rickert. 

The Olympics begin with a torch lighting ceremony and then advisories compete representing their chosen city-states in a javelin throw, a sprint race, a “Chariot of Doom” (wheelbarrow) race, a race wearing armor, and a discus throw. Students end with a banquet of Greek foods to close out the celebration.

Each student also designs a shield based upon the Greek Hoplon shield used by the Greek Hoplite heavy infantry. The students build them at home, and paint a symbol or image on the front that they feel resonates with them from ancient Greece. This is also accompanied by a short presentation in class.

Mr. Bolman shares that, “The thing I love the most is seeing kids throw a javelin or discus for the first time. It is pretty unusual to have done something like that at this age. I always get excited that maybe they will try it later in life by participating in track and field.”

This year marks Mr. Bolman's last Olympics as he prepares to move with his family and leave Country Day this summer. This event has been such a joy for Country Day students for decades, and we are forever grateful to Mr. Boman for his vision and enthusiasm to bring history to life year after year.