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Gianni and Nico Feng Serve As Headmasters For A Day

On May 15, Gianni (’21) and Nico Feng (’24) [Manasquan] took on the duties of Head of School Dr. Lawrence S. Sykoff as the “Headmasters for A Day.” The brothers’ parents, Dr. David Feng and Mrs. Jennifer Santa Maria, were the lucky winners in the Headmaster-for-A-Day raffle, held at the 2013 RSPA Panther Ball in April.

In the morning, Dr. Sykoff surprised Mrs. Wilken’s fourth-grade class to appoint Gianni as Headmaster before paying a visit to Mrs. Foster’s first-grade class to pick up Nico, Gianni’s brother and co-headmaster. As they bid farewell to their classmates, the boys walked with Dr. Sykoff back to his office to explore their headquarters for the day and to open a few gifts, such as official Ranney School blazers, Headmaster ID badges and personalized business cards and stationery. Both boys had the opportunity to sit behind the Headmaster’s desk and learned what their responsibilities would be for the day.

“I think the most important part of being Headmaster is being responsible for the students,” explained Gianni. “The hardest part would be making sure everyone is safe and making the schedules.” Both boys agreed that it would be fun to be in charge of the entire school, but it would be challenging to balance the many events and activities throughout the school year.

Next, the boys toured the Upper and Middle Schools to meet teachers and administrators. They were able to see what school life is like in the other divisions and introduce themselves as the Headmasters for the day to faculty that they met along the way; handing out their new business cards was a unique experience for both! At the conclusion of the tour, the boys enjoyed snacks with senior students and Dr. Sykoff in the Dining Hall.

Before heading to lunch, the Headmasters had a chance to be interviewed by the Communications Department and discuss their morning. The boys explained that their favorite part of the day was settling into their office, but were looking forward to the afterschool pizza party with their classes along with a viewing of their favorite movie, “Monsters vs. Aliens.”

The boys also discussed their favorite things about Ranney School. Gianni enjoys computer class and gym and hopes to become a computer engineer someday. If he really were appointed Headmaster, he would allow a relaxed and comfortable dress code and would have students play tennis during recess. “The things I enjoy most about Ranney are the nice teachers and the development of the school,” said Gianni.

Nico’s favorite thing about Ranney is that he has the opportunity to swim during the school day. Nico also enjoys gym and art courses at Ranney and, according to his older brother, is a talented young artist. Nico sees a future as a professional artist, but would also consider pursuing a career as a cop, doctor or author and illustrator. “If I could do anything as Headmaster, I would add a rope climbing course at recess,” explained Nico.

Both boys agreed that Dr. Sykoff has been a wonderful Headmaster during their enrollment here at Ranney School. “We will miss when he comes to visit our classrooms,” they expressed. “We like that he is always around and friendly to everyone.”

At lunch, Lower School students were excited about the young Headmasters’ customized lunch menu, which consisted of tater tots, macaroni and cheese, and an ice-cream sundae bar for dessert. After returning to their classrooms for afternoon lessons, the boys were reunited with their parents and Dr. Sykoff back at his office. There, they opened a few more gifts, including a personalized photo album, Ranney School vests, plaques of recognition and windbreakers courtesy of the Athletic Department.

At the end of the day, the boys enjoyed their pizza party and movie and were excited to declare a sports-themed dress down day for the entire Lower School on May 24.
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Ranney School

235 Hope Road
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Tel. 732.542.4777
Our mission is to know and value every child, nurturing intellectual curiosity and confidence, and inspiring students to lead honorably, think creatively, and contribute meaningfully to society.