Gratitude Chapel: A Belmont Hill Legacy of Learning

In Chapel before break, 30-year-veteran faculty member Steve Kaplan ‘83 gave the Thanksgiving Address. "In my opinion, we're closing in on the best holiday of the year - Thanksgiving!" Mr. Kaplan began, setting the tone for a heartfelt address that celebrated Belmont Hill School through the stories of transformative educators.

Mr. Kaplan's journey began with his brother David Kaplan '81, who inspired his early connection to the school. He vividly remembered watching his brother's 7th-grade football game, knowing then he wanted to follow in his footsteps. His brother David, as well has his wife Suzanne (former faculty member), and daughter Abby were in attendance along with several classmates. 

He paid tribute to several legendary faculty members:

- Mr. Henry B. Sawyer Jr. ‘32, who served over 50 years, known for his "incredible, gentlemanly quality and calming presence"
- Mr. Charles Jenney Jr.,  who wrote the definitive Latin textbook and taught for more than 50 years
- Mr. Kenneth M. Martin III '65, who held students "to a high standard in the classroom, on the field, and throughout campus"
- Mr. Edward M. Gallagher III '66, who taught with intensity and coined phrases like "beat them to the greet"
- Mr. Richard "Whitey" Morange, who challenged students artistically, often asking, "Practice is worthy but is it worth keeping?"
- Mr. Daniel F. Bridges, who provided support and encouragement to Mr. Kaplan as a student and then later as a faculty colleague
- Mr. Michael T. Sherman, the early computer science pioneer, still at Belmont Hill after joining the mathematics faculty in 1972
- Mr. G. Clifford Goodband Jr., who balanced "tough love and an appropriate level of compassion"

A deeply personal moment came when Mr. Kaplan shared the story of losing his younger brother Tommy that summer before starting at Belmont Hill. Mr. Bridges provided crucial support during this difficult time and in the years to come. 

"I was lucky that the faculty really believes students can grow and change," Mr. Kaplan reflected, highlighting the School's transformative approach to education.

Returning to teach in 1994, he found himself working alongside 19 of his former teachers, creating a unique full-circle moment in his Belmont Hill journey.

His message to current students was heartfelt: "Right now I hope you boys are making your stories. The ones you will tell at your reunions. The ones you'll laugh about at the weddings of your classmates."

A recording of the remarks are provided in the video below. To see the slides Mr. Kaplan presented, click here.