2018-2019 Chapel Theme- "Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth or action."
Upper School Chapel
Monday, October 22 - Skylar Lingo '19
Senior Skylar Lingo shared her struggles with depression and anxiety with her Upper School classmates during Monday Chapel. Skylar's hope is that she will help others by sharing her story. "I hid my struggle. I didn't want anyone to know what I was going through," explained Skylar. "I feared how they may judge or label me." Through the help of a therapist and the support of her family, including her twin sister Kaila, Skylar has learned, "It is not something that is embarrassing. It is a fact of life. You have to believe you will get through it." Skylar encouraged fellow students to not lose hope. "Despite the stigma that surrounds mental health, it is a very prevalent issue that needs to be talked about," said Skylar. "Life does get better. It is okay to be sad."
Wednesday, October 23 - Ayinde Tate, Director of Diversity and Inclusion
EA's new Director of Diversity and Inclusion was the featured Chapel speaker on Wednesday. Mr. Tate recalled his childhood growing up in a small California city, East Palo Alto. "As much as I love my little city by the Bay, it wasn't the easiest place to grow up," said Mr. Tate. "At one point in my childhood, it held the notorious title of murder capital of the world and as you can imagine the schools in 'EPA' were not the most conducive learning environment." Mr. Tate credits his parents for launching him on an alternative education path that included an independent school education. "I had the privilege to attend one of the top independent schools in the Bay Area," explained Mr. Tate. "On this campus I was able to meet people from all walks of life and adjusted socially very quickly. But I spent more time focused on sports than I did on academics." His junior year, Mr. Tate's mother made him transfer to another independent school and his brother was incarcerated. "This news put me in a dark place, but JB told me that it's on me to make a name for the both of us now. So I proceeded and pushed forward to achieve what I set out for when I started high school." Ultimately, Mr. Tate learned that growing up- he was living a privileged life. He encouraged students to use privilege to help others. "I want you all to acknowledge the privilege you have of being able to attend such an amazing school [EA]. And instead of recoiling at the notion of privilege, use it for the betterment of others who aren't as fortunate." Watch here.
Middle School
Tuesday, October 23 - Chaplain Michelle Bullock
Chaplain Michelle Bullock addressed Middle School students on Tuesday about how communication with other people may reflect living out this year's Chapel theme to "love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action." Chaplain Bullock emphasized that many people put more emphasis on planning what they are going instead of listening to what the other person is saying. She explained that listening shows that a person is truly interested in a person and puts the needs others before his or her needs.
Thursday, October 25 - Ayinde Tate, Director of Diversity and Inclusion
Mr. Tate shared his thoughts about using privilege to help others with Middle School students on Thursday. Please see the description above in the Upper School synopsis for the details.
Lower School Chapel
Because of this week's schedule rotation, the Lower School did not meet for Chapel.