Each year, the administration makes  changes  to  the  school’s community  life  guidelines,  the Almanac, before the start of classes. On  Wednesday,  August  27,  the changes  to  the  2025-26  Almanac were formally announced via email. The Communications Office wrote, “Constructive partnership between the  school,  students,  and  their families is essential to the success of  each  year.  Understanding  and abiding by policies laid out in the Almanac are essential aspects of this partnership.”

Going forward, Preps and Lower Mids will have study hall from 8-9 p.m. and free time outside of the dorm from 9-10 p.m. on Tuesdays instead of Wednesdays. Black Boxes and other nighttime programming will now take place on Tuesdays.

The  language  of  the  General Conduct Rule has been expanded in order to help specify the types of  behavior  that  are  considered problematic. For example, the section on  major  school  rule  violations clarifies that “disrespectful actions… are not limited to language, gestures, communications,   or   behaviors that demean, intimidate, or show contempt for others, regardless of the student’s stated intent” (pg.39). The section also makes it explicit that repeated instances of unacceptable behavior can be considered a major disciplinary issue.

The Health Center Policy has been rebranded the Seeking Sanctuary Policy,  and  the  Almanac  now includes revised language that helps to distinguish it from the Seeking Help Policy. The Seeking Help policy includes a new section clarifying that students may seek help for themselves or others for concerns that do not involve past violations of school rules.

The  school  has  also  revised the  attendance  policy.  Students will  serve  detention  after  three unexcused absences instead of two, receive a letter of concern at three unexcused absences instead of a letter of warning at four absences, and a letter of caution at 6 absences instead of a letter of censure at 8. Under  the  old  system,  students would be called to appear before the Discipline Committee after twelve absences; this year, that will occur after 9 absences. Detention has been moved to 9:00-9:55 p.m. on Tuesday nights  instead  of  Wednesday morning before classes.