Banner Day: A Beloved Baldwin Tradition Captures Spirit and Unity

March 19 was a joyful and memorable day in the Upper School as we celebrated Banner Day with the Class of 2029. Each year, the tradition of Banner Day is an occasion that beautifully captures the spirit, creativity, and unity that define the Baldwin experience.

 

At Baldwin, traditions are woven deeply into the fabric of student life. While our academic program is rich and inspiring, it is these shared moments full of meaning, pride, and connection that our students carry with them long after graduation. Banner Day stands as one of the most cherished of these traditions.

 

Each graduating class at Baldwin is associated with a class color, determined by the final digit of their graduation year:

These colors become a defining symbol of each class’s identity, proudly displayed not only on Banner Day but also during reunion celebrations each spring. When alumnae return to campus, the school is adorned with banners from decades past — each one telling a story, each one a piece of Baldwin history.

 

It is believed that Banner Day began in the 1980s, and over time, the banners have evolved from simple representations of campus life into imaginative, thematic works of art. Earlier designs often featured scenes of Baldwin students — gathered around a campfire, riding a school bus through the gates, or standing proudly in front of the Residence.

 

In recent years, however, banners have taken on a more creative and symbolic approach, inspired by each class color. From a Monet-inspired pond with green frogs to a soaring red dragon, a blue lighthouse, or a golden beach scene, each banner reflects both individuality and shared tradition.

 

This year, the Class of 2029 unveiled a stunning purple ocean scene filled with vibrant jellyfish, a beautiful addition to the legacy of Baldwin banners.

 

Yet no matter the theme, each banner shares two essential elements:

The creation of a class banner begins early in 9th grade and is a meaningful journey in itself. For many students, especially those who have been at Baldwin since Lower School, the process begins with long-held ideas and expectations. But as the class comes together, new perspectives emerge.

 

Through discussion, debate, and voting, students learn the value of compromise and collaboration. By fall, a shared vision takes shape. Winter becomes a season of creativity and commitment, as students work tirelessly to bring their design to life by cutting, sewing, and preparing for the big day.

 

There are always moments of uncertainty. Will it be finished in time? Will everyone love it? What if something goes wrong? And yet, year after year, the banner is completed. On Banner Day, the 9th grade stands proudly before the school community, beaming with accomplishment as they unveil their work and officially take their place in the Upper School.

 

Banner Day itself has grown and transformed over the years.

 

For years, it was an Upper School-only assembly, along with the 8th graders who were invited for a sneak peek into their own 9th grade experience. Banner Day was complete with a dramatic entrance from the 9th grade cheering and throwing candy to their classmates, and the unfurling of their banner hanging in the Assembly Room. However, the tradition shifted during the pandemic in necessary but unexpected ways. While practicing social distancing during the 2020-2021 school year, the Class of 2024 presented their banner virtually before gathering outdoors to view it together. But then something extraordinary happened … several Lower School classes happened to be walking down the driveway at that moment, and as often happens with our littlest bears, they had to stop and ask questions. So. Many. Questions. 

 

That spontaneous moment sparked something new, and Banner Day became a full school celebration, bringing together students from Pre-K through 12th grade, along with faculty and staff, on Middle Field. It is a powerful reflection of Baldwin’s unity as one community.

 

During the celebration, students gather by class color, with a special “class color of honor” highlighted each year. This year, purple took center stage, with 4th graders and Pre-K students standing alongside the Class of 2029.

 

To the sound of music and cheers, class officers from the senior, junior and sophomore classes paraded their banners around the field, followed by the 9th grade unveiling their banner for the very first time. Speeches from student leaders and school administrators highlight the meaning of the tradition and the significance of the class color.

 

The moment culminates in a joyful celebration, as younger students of the same class color join the 9th graders on the field to dance and cheer together, symbolizing the continuity of the tradition and the bonds that connect every Baldwin student.

 

Banner Day is more than a celebration: it’s a milestone. It marks the beginning of the Upper School journey for 9th graders and reminds us all of the strength found in community. It is a day filled with color, pride, creativity, and connection. A day when our youngest Upper School students feel truly seen and supported.

 

And most importantly, it is a day that our students will remember for years to come as one of the many traditions that make Baldwin feel like home.