Happy Opening Day!
We are off to a great start, officially welcoming 763 Falcons earlier this morning.
Opening of School Remarks
August 19, 2026
Welcome Home.
Welcome Home.
Welcome Home.
Two simple, yet powerful words, don’t you think? “Welcome, Home”.
What thoughts come to mind? What images or memories surface for you? Is ”Home” simply a place—maybe your own house, just “down the road” from here? Is it a physical space, a defined area or specific habitat in which you live?
My home in Nashville
Certainly, for those of you who went to the movie theater this Summer and caught “The Odyssey”, joining millions of others, I might add, “Home” is a particularly popular, prevalent, and very profitable topic these days.
How do YOU define “Home”? For today's purpose, allow me to take a few moments and share my thoughts on exactly what I mean—and I mean it most sincerely—when I say to you, “Welcome Home”.
Strictly by definition, “Home” denotes multiple meanings:
“Home”, Definition:
- One’s place of residence
- The social unit formed by a family living together
- A familiar or usual setting
- A congenial environment
- A place of origin
For me, all of these particular definitions fit quite well, and I had the unique opportunity this Summer to both experience and be reminded of all of these versions of “Home”.
Beginning in late June with my professional travel and significant time spent in Boston–a city fully invested in the 250th Celebration of the Declaration of Independence- I was reminded of the many stories, moments, and heroes of the American Revolution, and the early establishment of our Country of origin—my “Home”-- and its form of government. As we all know, as the official host of the World Cup, the United States of America—our “Home” —was on “full display” this Summer.
Perhaps Boston was the place to be, leading up to the 4th of July. A palpable sense of excitement, pride, and energy filled the air. Spending time on the Freedom Trail, walking through Boston Common, Quincy Market, and touring Faneuil Hall–The “Cradle of Liberty”--certainly did not disappoint.
Throughout that week in Boston, I was also reminded of my professional “Home”, or greater community...A community of fellow Heads of School, hailing from across the country, from nearly every state—all united in a sense of purpose, gratitude, commitment, and genuine friendship. Many of these successful educators have become trusted mentors and close colleagues. By the end of that week, I left Boston feeling renewed, energized, and truly proud of both the good work I am invested in and a bit more of that “patriotic spirit”.
Yes, the concept of “Home” is perhaps even more than just about place…Perhaps it’s even more complex than that…Maybe it’s a state of being; a feeling, or a sense of belonging; of existing within a greater Community…Being part of something “larger” than ourselves…Maybe it’s the connections—the bonds— made between family, friends, people, and individuals who care for and love us. In fact, as the late American Movie Director J.H. Payne notes,
A house is built by human hands, but a home is built by human hearts.
—J.H. Payne
A “home is built by human hearts”...Yes, “Home” is about connection…About bringing people together…About building, establishing, and nurturing relationships…About opening the heart…About love…
As summer progressed, I also enjoyed many moments of being “Home” with family and friends, traveling throughout North Florida, Coastal Georgia, and Middle Tennessee.
From soaking in and sharing the views of sunrises and sunsets on the beach, to walks along the water and simply spending time together in the Golden Isles of Georgia, and in my hometown of Nashville, I found “Home” among those beautiful and familiar places—and those beautiful and familiar faces!
I found “Home” in the smiles and laughs shared at dinner; in time spent just “hanging out” together; in the quiet times just sitting, side by side; in the late-night gatherings; in work on the farm; in the the sharing of “tall tales” of the past, and in the conversations making plans for the future…In just “being” together…Yes, I found “Home” in that good, and loving fellowship.
Yes, “Home” exists in such moments; in such “Community”; in such human –and canine–connection.
Throughout those travels up the Coast, all the way to Tennessee, I created new memories and deepened those bonds of friendship. And those times will be treasured and will be a lovely reminder to return.
After three weeks “on the road”, I made my way back to my daily “Home” here, in Palmetto Bay. My “School Home”...My “Palmer Trinity home”...And a “Home” of which I am deeply proud.
Our “School Home” resides on nearly 60 beautiful acres, with over 77 different species of trees and countless creatures who roam this natural habitat. Established 55 years ago and guided by a lofty Mission, our Palmer Trinity “Home” is one of proud tradition and a bold future. It is a place where I have the privilege of serving and working alongside an incredibly talented group of dedicated professionals…Individuals who care deeply about what they do and whom they serve.
You are surrounded by people ready to work for your greater success and who want only the best for you. While I know this “Home” is completely new and still very unfamiliar for many of you, know that you are truly welcome…You will be known, you will be cared for, and you have the power to make a difference. You have chosen well, and Palmer Trinity has chosen well.
And so, I beg the question one more time for each of you to ponder…How do YOU define “Home”?
And, maybe even more importantly, how do YOU plan to be that solid “Housemate”? That dependable family member? That trusted friend and worthy Falcon? How do you intend to create and build a lasting legacy? How will you take full advantage of the incredible opportunity given to you to be here, at this moment, at this School? How will you go forward to impact our “Home” in positive ways?
Noted author and civil rights leader, Grace Boggs, tells us that
We never know how our small activities will affect others through the invisible fabric of our connectedness. In this exquisitely connected world, it’s never a question of ‘critical mass’. It’s always about critical connections.
—Grace Boggs
“Critical connections...And, so, I encourage you to lend a hand when needed…To offer a sympathetic ear…To be ready to serve…And, as you’ll hear me say, quite often, when we gather, to
Lead with Love.
The harmony, peace, and prosperity of our “Home” depend upon it! Our greater success as an Institution—as a Community—as a World—depends on each of us doing our part. I am counting on you.
And so, my fellow Falcons, I humbly ask you to give each day your very best, and take the time to invest in one another and our greater Palmer Trinity Community.
Congratulations, in advance, on what I know will be a rewarding, exhilarating, and most successful school year. We have much to be grateful for, much to celebrate, and much good work ahead of us.
Welcome Home.
