Each year, faculty and staff come together on the dance floor and break out their moves. After students leave campus for winter break, the Academy hosts the annual Jingle Mingle: an all-faculty event held in the dining hall as an end-of-year holiday celebration. Teachers and staff even participate in a raffle to win prizes. This year’s party happened on December 16, the day after students departed campus.
Coordinator of Student Activities Brian Barbato described the event as “something [that] parallels what we try to do for a student experience for the adults in the community.
This year’s festivities were centered around the theme of Hollywood and included an oyster bar, next level gaming, and a special “red carpet.” Although a 360 degree photo booth was also in the works, it was ultimately canceled.
Math Teacher Forest Reid said, “There was dancing, although I’m not a dancer, music, and really good food. It’s a place for the teachers to hang out.”
Mr. Reid further explained that the music was provided by some of Deerfield’s own teachers, from both inside and outside of the Performing Arts Department. The raffle prizes, along with the food, were funded through generous donations from the Deerfield Parents Network (DPN).
Another feature of the Jingle Mingle is that it encompasses the entirety of the Deerfield staff—not just the teachers.
Mr. Reid said, “It’s really nice and welcoming that all the staff are included.” The Jingle Mingle, through its inclusive invitation, strived to create a more open and encompassing experience for all adults who work on the Deerfield campus and bring them together in a festive season.