Trendwatch Part II
By MADDIE BARRET ‘27 and LYDIA KUHNERT ‘27
Mr. Langford’s Room
Usually, after trekking to the Academy Building at 8 a.m. in deep snow, in a state of profound fear over the fact that I am about to take a quiz I really should have studied a bit more for, the majority of kindness, whimsiness, and happiness has been leached from my heart. Luckily, my spirit is restored upon entering the gorgeously decorated classroom that is Mr. Langford’s. I begin to feel strangely at ease with the fact that I am about to bomb my Ludus 45 quiz, because I am too focused on trying to decipher what in the world all these posters are of — is that Delphi? Apollo and Daphne? A map of Korea? How could I be upset that I’ve written exercitus instead of exercitui, when I’ve done so on a chalkboard that makes me feel like it’s the 1930s? Nevermind the fact that my compos have more mistakes than my prep fall math homework — isn’t the book collection lovely!
Ms. Carbonell’s Room
On the blackboard of Room 013 in Phillips Hall, an interesting quote from Audre Lorde is written. “Your silence will not protect you.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the classroom of Ms. Mercy Carbonell, Instructor in English. From rubber ducks to call-to-action posters about serious world affairs, Ms. Carbonell’s room has it all.
Upon walking into the room, you’ll notice how the lighting is slightly warmer toned, creating an inviting, intimate scene. Books line the shelves, floors, tables, and everywhere in between. You’d have a better chance finding a book you need in this classroom than in the Class of 1945 Library. Take a few steps further inside and you will be amazed by how “used” the Harkness table is. Engravings of her students range from graduates of the late ‘90s to her prep advisees in the class of 2028. The table alone is a testament to how many students she’s connected with over the years, and the number continues to grow.
The walls are adorned with posters and tapestries in different shapes, a variety of color, and a plethora of languages. These show the true appreciation that Carbonell has for diversity; she truly has a passion for learning about other people and their cultures. “I hope there is something in the room that allows anyone to know they belong — I hope it is a space that invites,” remarked Carbonell.
Although Ms. Carbonell’s classroom is hidden away in a corner of Phillips Hall’s basement, it may be for good reason. If it was immediately visible to students passing through the halls, Room 013 would be the main attraction of the building. The classroom isn’t just a space to have Harkness discussions and write papers, but it’s an inviting space that nurtures diversity and learning.