Students at the OVS Lower Campus look forward to the day designated for fancy outfits, expensive “princess” cups, and fun performances. That day is known as High Tea.
Starting in 1990, the tradition was first created as a small event with only 50 guests. Today, High Tea is a pillar of OVS, embracing friendship, learning and celebrating each other’s successes.
On April 5, parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, teachers and students gathered in the GAC (Greenberg Activity Center) to celebrate High Tea and everything it does for the OVS community.
“Preparing for this event is a team effort,” said Darcie George, second-grade teacher and founder of this event, “the preparation involves rehearsals, baking, preparing linens, organizing the china, setting the tables and making tea and lemonade.” Many teachers, maintenance and kitchen staff are involved and responsible for the success of High Tea.
Pre-K through second-grade students have always been in attendance, whether that is through sitting and eating, serving or performing. Soon after, eighth-graders who previously served at the event were invited back.
It is a full circle moment when eighth-graders, now at the beginning of their high school careers, look back and see the Pre-K and second-graders living out the moments that led them to where they are now.
“The event’s purpose is to demonstrate our manners and show our parents the ability of our students to be composed and well-mannered during this event,” noted Mrs. George. Most of the responsibility falls upon the second-graders, who get to show what they have learned through the event by serving others.
Senior Donahi Soriano remembers her experiences with High Tea when she was a student at lower campus.
“Whether it was serving or participating,” Donahi said, “it taught me how to act and really engraved in my mind the respect and patience one should have towards others.”
Students learn the tact and politeness of how to serve and show off their newfound skills in front of the people who matter most: family. Second-graders walk away from the event with a sense of accomplishment and responsibility, something that will last forever.
High Tea allows students to learn new manners, have fun and interact with the OVS community in a new and challenging way. The tradition has made a lasting impact on past students, and rest assured, the legacy will continue.
“The Tea is a tradition that has lasted the test of time. This event will be here for parents, guardians and students to enjoy,” said Mrs. George.
Now that another year has passed, the tea has been drunk, the china is packed and the suits and dresses are neatly tucked away. That is, until next year when future Pre-K, second-grade, and eighth-grade students will make their mark in OVS history.