News for Collegiate School Families and Friends
Spring 2016
Junior Kindergarten Experience is About Hands-on Learning and Community
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n any morning at the Lower School you can find our youngest students busily playing in their three warm and colorful Junior Kindergarten classrooms. They’re building ramps with cardboard tubes (and discovering how gravity works) and making maps (and thinking about spatial correlation). In fact, what looks like play is actually part of a plan thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Those are essential components of a strong educational foundation that will serve JK students as they advance to Kindergarten and beyond. “Students entering the school years are learning how to live together, listen to one another, and learn from and build on what peers say,” says Lower School Head Debbie Miller. “Their learning is like a spider web; when you begin to pull on the literacy and language strand of learning to examine it more carefully, you notice that their social growth is connected. Learning at this age is interdependent.” A combination of routine and open options provide students with both predictable and independent moments throughout a typical day. Mornings start with a song and a group meeting once everyone has arrived. From 9-10:15 a.m., the students have “choice,” a time where they can select to participate in dramatic play, arts and science play or big blocks. Each of the three options is located in a different JK classroom so the children board a “train” led by a teacher to travel
Junior Kindergarten teacher Ann Woods Cutchins leads a group activity in her classroom.
to their desired destinations. The rest of the day is comprised of group activities, special subjects like art, music, library, movement and Spanish, and, appropriate for 4- and 5-year-olds, rest and book time. The JK day did not come together by happenstance. It was very carefully crafted last spring by a special design team of teachers whose work resulted in a blueprint followed by the JK faculty this year. The JK teachers have brought the structure to life with frequent curriculum meetings to discuss adjustments and new ideas. With assistance from consultant Cheryl Gahagan, who has extensive experience teaching this age level, they are
evaluating each lesson and continuously improving on the learning experience. A passion for learning, developing learning habits and an understanding of living in a community are desired outcomes. “In all curriculum areas, we talk a lot about ‘see, think, wonder’ as we go through the day,” says Mrs. Miller. Learning about one alphabet letter each week, taking nature walks at Robins Campus, pondering a question each day as a group, graphing the number of friends who like candy corn, constructing a “Collegiate town” with paper — these are just some of the activities engaging JK students. Project-based learning and continued on back cover
From the Head of School Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire. Dear Collegiate School Community, Several weeks ago, the Collegiate Board of Trustees welcomed Pat Bassett to our campus. Pat is the former president of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). The NAIS is considered to be the nation’s leading voice on independent school education. Pat has spent years traveling the globe, visiting many of the world’s finest secondary schools. During his two days on our campus, he shared with us his experiences and findings, especially on the topic he feels most passionately about: What are the skills and values the 21st century will demand and reward? In a nutshell, he believes (and many others do as well) that the Six Cs of critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, character and cross
cultural competency lie at the heart of the answer to this key question. Pat would be the first to acknowledge that his findings are not unique. He asserts in a recent publication: “While these Six Cs are not original to the 21st Century, what’s new is the recognition of the absence of their emphasis and the lack of evidence of their attainment. And therein lies the story of our challenge and the journey as we embed more consistently and deeply each of these skills and values.” As a result, he has been challenging schools to experiment with how project based learning, inquiry-based learning, expeditionary learning and STEM robotics can serve as “vessels for reengaging students in realworld problemsolving.” At Collegiate, we have a
– William Butler Yeats
long and demonstrated history of embracing the Six Cs. We will continue to do so. Our new JK program, which you can read more about in the cover story is the most recent example of that commitment. Many, many years ago, we believe Yeats got it right in his assessment about education. As we work together to shape Collegiate School’s future, you have my commitment that we will never stop striving to light the fire for every Collegiate student. As always, your continued support of Collegiate School is very much appreciated.
Steve Hickman Head of School
Art Walk 2016: STORY
April 11 • 4:30–7:30 p.m. • Locations campus-wide Come see the amazing stories created by Collegiate artists for this year’s JK-12 show!
Hello, Summer!
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n August 14, 2015, Collegiate Summer Quest wrapped up it’s 43rd summer. At the forefront of over 175 camps were more than 50 Collegiate teachers and coaches working to extend the school’s mission into the 10-week program. With academic, enrichment, sports and art themed camps, Summer Quest had offerings for ages 3 to adult. Summer Quest was designed to be a continuation of the school’s mission by providing new and exciting camps to help participants grow academically, artistically and athletically. In addition to morning, afternoon and full day camps, Summer Quest has morning, lunch and afternoon extended camp enabling campers and parents to customize their 2 | Paw Print
summer! One parent stated “[It was] a great experience. I feel my children are safe and well cared for when I drop them off in the morning. My children are always excited to tell me about their day when I pick them up.” Collegiate Summer Quest is well known around the community for its high quality camps and teachers. One of the most popular options is the enrichment camp Hooked on Books, directed by Collegiate Junior Kindergarten teacher, Eileen Beane. Mrs. Beane noted, “At Hooked on Books, the children’s reading and writing skills are strengthened through a variety of literacy enrichment experiences. Teachers strive to meet each child’s individual needs through small group instruction. The enthusiasm is contagious as we gather
each morning to become better readers and writers, to make new friends and to have fun!” With record enrollment numbers in 2015, Summer Quest is looking forward to another enriching summer in 2016. We have new camps for all ages covering many current topics including virtual reality, MineCraft, coding, engineering and art! The 2016 brochures were distributed at the beginning of the New Year and registration is already open and underway! To see the camp catalog and register, go to www.collegiate-va.org and click on Summer Quest under the programs tab.
Campus Conversation outstanding bot. It is capable of performing every task we designed it to do. I’m really excited to see it on the field.”
Cougar Music Faculty on Tour
Collegiate’s TORCH 5804 robotics team gathers behind their creation, a robot that will compete in the Medieval game of FIRST STRONGHOLD this month.
Robotics Team Readies for Competition
For the first time in nearly a decade Collegiate is participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition. Our original robotics team — FRC Team 1093, The Cougars — competed for five years from 2003 to 2007. Under the mentorship of Collegiate’s STEAM Coordinator, Daniel Bartels, and physics teacher, Greg Sesny, our new team, TORCH 5804, will compete in two District competitions this month, vying for a spot at the District Championship in College Park, MD held April 7-9 at the Xfinity Center. All participating teams had to cease work on their robots at 11:59 p.m., Feb. 23 (“Bag and Tag Day”). That moment marked the official end of the 2016 FIRST Robotics Competition build season, which kicked off Jan. 9. Twenty-five Upper School students
worked during free periods, study halls, after school and seven very long Saturdays (often until midnight) to design, fabricate, assemble, program and test their robot. Lead mentor Mr. Bartels says, “I’ve been involved with many rookie teams over the last 12 years. This team is, without a doubt, the best so far. They’ve really built an
For the first time in school history, four Collegiate music faculty members were selected to serve as guest conductors at Band, Strings and Choral weekend events in the same academic year. Our students are so lucky to be directed by such talented music faculty! Here is a list of the events: Helen Coulson conducted the Chesterfield All-County Orchestra, Oct. 30-31 Bryan Hooten conducted the Alabama All-State Bronze Jazz Band, Jan. 21-23 Dr. Lynn Atkins conducted the District III Workshop Chorus, Feb. 12-13 Christine Hoffman conducted the Dinwiddie All-City Chorus, Feb. 19-20 Please offer these fine teachers a welldeserved congratulations on a job well done! continued on page 6
Parents’ Association Officers Nominated On behalf of the 2016 Nominating Committee, I am pleased to present the following slate of officers to serve on the Parents’ Association Executive Committee during the 2016-2017 school year. This slate will be voted on at the PA Spring Meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, May 10, 2016 in McFall Hall at 8:15 a.m. All parents are invited and encouraged to attend this meeting of the Parents’ Association for an overview of the year and to welcome the new officers. Refreshments will be served. Proposed Slate of Officers Vice President/President-Elect (3-year term) – Meg Johnson Corresponding Secretary (1-year term) – Mary Frances Geho Recording Secretary (1-year term) – Cathy Mitchell Upper School Coordinator (2-year term) – Rita Ryan Middle School Coordinator (2-year term) – Kirmara Parker Lower School Coordinator (2-year term) – Beth Grinnan Treasurer (1-year term) – Teresa Eastep Officers Elected in May 2015 for Two-Year Terms Vice President/President-Elect (3-year term) – Stella Alexander Upper School Coordinator – Colette Diggs Middle School Coordinator – Caroline Stokes Lower School Coordinator – Melissa Daub In addition to the above officers, the current Vice President/President-Elect has appointed, to-date, the following Coordinators to serve one-year terms on the PA Executive Committee for the 2016-2017 school year: Village Green Fair Coordinators – Karen Berson, Bryn Smutz Special Events Coordinators – Vanessa D’Ambrosia, Jen Porter Fine Arts Coordinator – Yolanda Branch Campus Support Coordinator – Sally Partlow
Our new spring sport, mountain biking, has begun its first season with 15 boys and girls on the team that will compete with teams across Virginia.
I hope to see you on May 10. Kim Johnson Immediate Past President, Parents’ Association Nominating Committee Chair Spring 2016 | 3
Join us for the
Sweetest Days Ever on April 15 and 16
This year’s Village Green Fair will be the SWEETEST DAYS EVER!!! Village Green Fair got its start as a white elephant sale in 1965 and is now the largest fundraiser of the Collegiate School Parents’ Association. Our amazing and dedicated parent volunteers work together throughout the year to support our school community. All of the funds that are raised by the Parents’ Association are donated to Collegiate to help enrich the lives of our students. We appreciate everything that you do to support our school and to make VGF a success! THANK YOU! We hope that you will join us for all of the Fair’s traditions — from lunch and shopping at Friday Frolic, to the Fun Run, Cake Walk, rides, games and sweet treats! You will find two easy ways to place your VGF orders this year — a paper packet with an order form and our VGF website, www.collegiate-va.org/VGF. We look forward to celebrating with you on the SWEETEST DAYS EVER, April 15 & 16! – Cara Rogers and Stephanie Lansing
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Sweetest Days Ever 2016 Village Green Fair Packet Your packet — available in paper or online at www.collegiate-va.org/VGF — has all of the information that you and your family need. We hope you will take advantage of two convenient ways to order: mail in a check with your order form or place your order online! If you have any questions, please email Stephanie Lansing (stephanielansing@gmail.com) or Cara Rogers (cararogers@yahoo.com).
Spirit Night: Chipotle and Vineyard Vines team up for Collegiate Sunday, April 10 • 4-9 p.m. Head to Stony Point on April 10 from 4-9 p.m. Shop and save at Vineyard Vines where you will save 10% and the store will donate 10% to VGF. Then head over to Chipotle to grab dinner, and when you mention Collegiate, 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the school. Mark your calendars, April 10 is a FUN way to give back to Collegiate!
Order Your Village Green Fair T-Shirt and Visor NEW this year — green and gold tie-dye shirts AND visors! These tie-dye shirts are sure to be a hit for spirit wear for years to come! Also new this year, Collegiate visors available in 4 colors — a great accessory for students and parents alike. Shirts ($20) and visors ($15) can be purchased online at www.collegiate-va.org/VGF or in the Cougar Shop. VGF T-shirts can be worn to school the week of the fair!
Garden Shoppe and Plant Pre-orders Spring is just around the corner! Once again we will be offering a variety of fresh container gardens beautifully designed in timeless, high quality pots for our pre-sale! Visit www.collegiate-va.org/VGF/thegardenshoppe to place your order, and visit us at the fair on Friday and Saturday to purchase a beautiful selection of annuals, herbs, ground covers, and perennials.
Shop ’til You Drop … and Support VGF Join us on Friday and Saturday, April 15 & 16, in West Gym and Estes for Shops on the Green to find a variety of vendors selling a wide array of gift items, jewelry, clothing and more! Get there early to steal the best deals from The Cougar Market, which is filled with gently loved books, toys, and clothes!
Friday Frolic Fun No preorders necessary … Come enjoy food trucks outside of Centennial Hall while watching Lower School students perform from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Friday, April 15! While you’re there, check out the amazing VGF Raffle items including Stella & Dot jewelry, Pure Barre and Spirited Art classes, a day of paddle boarding on the James, and sweet experiences with your favorite Collegiate Lower School teachers! Tea Party at Mrs. Brown’s house, anyone? www.collegiate-va.org/VGF/raffle
Tickets for our NEW Inflatables and Games Order your tickets before April 8 and save 20%! Each ticket punch card is worth 20 tickets. You won’t want to miss all the new inflatables for VGF this year! www.collegiate-va.org/VGF/tickets
Honor Your Cougar Tell your favorite student, friend, teacher, or coach that you think they are SWEET with a VGF Honor Sign. Honor sign orders are due April 1 and make a great Collegiate keepsake! www.collegiate-va.org/VGF/honorsigns
VIP Parking Don’t want to worry about fighting the crowds for parking at VGF? Order your prime parking spot for the entire day (April 16) and come and go as you please. Space is limited to 27 spaces. Order now at www.collegiate-va.org/VGF/vipparking
Portico Delicious Gourmet Dinners to Go! Stock the freezer for that unexpected guest or have friends over without lifting a finger by ordering one or more of Portico’s signature favorites. Go online to order and for an entire list of choices! Orders due by April 8.
Fun Run Calling all Lower Schoolers, Middle Schoolers AND TEACHERS! New this year- Fun Run will kick off with a teacher relay race! Come early and watch your favorite teachers get VGF started at 8 a.m.! The first 250 registrants will receive a Swag Bag complete with a coveted homework pass!
Dodgeball Calling all 3rd-12th Graders! There will be four age appropriate divisions with teams consisting of eight players. Winning teams receive awesome prizes! Register online by April 8. www.collegiate-va.org/VGF/dodegeball
Collegiate’s Got Talent! Are you a master juggler, a side-splitting stand up comic, or do you want to do a fun lip sync number with your friends? This is the place for you! Space is limited, so sign up early and share your talent! Register online by April 8 at www.collegiate-va.org/VGF/collegiatesgottalent
2016 Important Dates Wednesday, Mar. 30 The Garden Shoppe Pre-Orders Due Friday, Apr. 1 Portico Gourmet Dinner Orders Due Honor Sign Orders Due Friday, Apr. 8 Pre-ordered Tickets, T-Shirts & Visors Due Collegiate’s Got Talent Registration Due Fun Run and Dodgeball Registration Due Sunday, Apr. 10 Spirit Night Chipotle and Vineyard Vines at Stony Point (4-9 p.m.)
VGF Bake Sale We need you! All parents are asked to contribute to the Bake Sale. Please check your packet or the VGF website for details on what we need you to contribute. Drop off is during morning carpool on Friday, April 15. Spring 2016 | 5
Campus Conversation (cont.) Cougar Sports Zone Sign Ups
Sign up now for VolleyPaws Volleyball Clinic for 3rd-6th Grade girls, April 9, 1:30-4:00 p.m., Collegiate School, Jacobs Gym, $65. Registration for Tallyho field hockey’s fall season starts on April 1. Sign up at tallyhofh.com. All info is at cougarsportszone.com.
Get Your Graduation Goods at the Cougar Shop
Tradition never graduates but our 4th, 8th and 12th Graders soon will! The Cougar Shop has everything you need to make the celebration memorable. New this year, we are offering personalized cakes from Ukrop’s Homestyle Foods and party supplies including napkins, plates and balloons. In response to the recent Cougar Shop survey, we are also excited to introduce graduation frames for 4th Grade and 8th Grade graduation certificates. Other great graduation gifts include Vineyard Vines ties in youth and adult sizes, bucket hats, pewter keepsakes made in Virginia, and our Traditions charm bracelet by Kambourian Jewelers. Thank you to everyone who participated in the Cougar Shop survey. We have already put many of your suggestions in motion including having a sale earlier. Our annual end-of-the-year sale will kick
The fall 2015 Match staff.
off at VGF. Don’t miss markdowns of up to 50% off select merchandise. The Cougar Shop will be open on April 16 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at VGF in addition to having a booth in the Lower School.
Read The Match
Founded in 1946, Collegiate’s student newspaper, The Match, is on fire this year with lots of interesting stories posted every week. Upper School teacher Vlastik Svab explains: “After going online in 2009, The Match struggled with producing timely content due to the fact that it was an extra-curricular activity. Kids were so busy with other things, we did not get regular articles. This year, having a class devoted to The Match’s content has completely changed the concept. As a part of the ‘Writing For Publication’ Upper School English elective, juniors and seniors are creating new articles and
content for the site every eight days. They choose the topics and peer edit their own stories. “I have been completely overwhelmed by the breadth, scope and quality of the work these two groups (fall and spring semesters). We have Collegiate, local, state and national news coverage, food reviews, movie and show reviews, sports, podcasts, photo essays, humor and profiles of members of our community. The students love having reactions to their work, and they thrive on being given the freedom to write about what they’re interested in. That, in turn, motivates them to work closely on their prose, making them better writers; not just for journalism, but for any scenario. As a teacher, I’ve never worked so hard or had so much fun.” Read The Match at http://www.matchcollegiate.org.
Spring Arts Events US Play: The Man Who Came to Dinner
US Guitar Concert
MS Guitar Concert
ArtWalk
Spring Dance Concert Grades 3-12
LS Spring Concert
MS/US Choral Concert
Spring Dance Concert Grades 8-12
MS/US Instrumental Concert
MS/US Jazz Concert
Thursday-Saturday, April 7-9, 7:30 p.m. Oates Theater
Monday, April 11, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Mooreland Road Campus
Thursday, April 14, 7:00 p.m. Oates Theater
Thursday, April 21, 7:00 p.m. Oates Theater 6 | Paw Print
Wednesday , April 27, 7:30 p.m. Hershey Center Recital Room
Saturday, April 30, 3:00 p.m. Oates Theater
Saturday, April 30, 7:00 p.m. Oates Theater
Monday, May 2, 7:00 p.m. Oates Theater
Wednesday, May 4, 7:00 p.m. Oates Theater
Thursday, May 12, 7:00 p.m. Oates Theater
From the Upper School
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fter the snow and cold of the first months of the year, I know we are looking forward to the beauty that is spring in Richmond. Spring activities from the stage to the playing fields to the community are in full form as we await the blooming of spring flowers. Our early returns from colleges and universities around the country have been very favorable as we prepare for the launch of the Class of 2016 into the larger community beyond Richmond. I hope you will take advantage of all the opportunities to see our students in action this spring, as they are a remarkable group of young people. During early February, the Class of 2019 immersed themselves in Community Engagement Week. During the week, they were serving with 19 different organizations throughout the Richmond community. These experiences, spearheaded by Andrea Miller, allow our students to invest their time in the community learning more about the organization and what goes into running a nonprofit or school. Additionally, our students were asked to journal about their experiences as we strive to help them enrich and internalize the learning experience through this meaningful service. Service Learning, a teaching strategy that integrates
meaningful service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, is a methodology we will continue to employ as we broaden our curricular connections to include additional community engagement. On Jan. 16, 10 Upper School students ranging from freshmen to seniors, along with Liz Bowling and Erica Coffey, traveled to St. Stephens & St. Agnes School to attend a student diversity conference sponsored by the Virginia Diversity Network. On a bus with fellow students from around Richmond (St. Catherine’s, St. Christopher’s and Trinity), students traveled to Alexandria. To begin the event, Rodney Glasgow, Institute Chair, Head of Middle School and Chief Diversity Officer at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School and a noted speaker, facilitator, trainer and activist in areas of diversity, equity and justice delivered a powerful talk about making a difference and looking towards the future. Following Mr. Glasgow’s talk, students attended a wide variety of student-led workshops ranging in topics from family structure, to current events. Collegiate’s very own Jess Speight and Elizabeth Murphy lead a session titled, “If you have a brain, you have bias.” The conference was a great way to bring together students from over
Conference attendees.
one dozen schools throughout Virginia for the common purpose of learning empathy and an appreciation for diversity and inclusion. Minds that seek, hearts that serve. It is more than a motto, it is the heartbeat of an institution that cares deeply about developing strong habits of mind, body, and heart. I look forward to seeing many of you out at an athletic event, enjoying an arts performance or show, and in the community as we engage in meaningful ways this spring. J.P. Watson Interim Upper School Head
Ceramics Chosen for Display at National Conference Ceramic vessels made by Rick O’Shea ’16 and Charlie Willard ’19 have been selected for display at a K-12 juried show at the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts conference, March 16-19, 2016 in Kansas City. They are both students of Upper School ceramics teacher Mary Arzt who will present Blue and White Pottery with Kids: History, Design and Innovation at the conference. The National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) engages and sustains a community for ceramic art, teaching and learning. In addition to deepening knowledge within the field, NCECA expands it by working to cultivate the next generation of ceramic artists and enthusiasts through programing that affects professional artists, K-12 schools, community centers, universities, museums, galleries, businesses, organizations,
collectors and enthusiasts of ceramic art. This is their 50th anniversary conference.
Congratulations, Rick, Charlie and Mrs. Arzt!
“Blue Boundary,” made by Rick O’Shea ’16, and “Nature’s Decline,” by Charlie Willard ’19 Spring 2016 | 7
From the Upper School (cont.) Senior Reminders! US Parent Education: Graduation and College Transition Thurs., March 24, 8:15 a.m. Craigie Board Room (Sharp)
Prom
Sat., April 17, 8:30-Midnight, location TBA
Senior Projects Begin Mon., May 16
US Graduation Rehearsal
Wed., June 8, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Middle School Lawn
Baccalaureate
Thurs., June 9, 5 p.m., All Saints Episcopal Church
Graduation
Fri., June 10, 9 a.m., Middle School Lawn Questions? Contact Missy Herod (mherod@ collegiate-va.org).
Roll the Night Away All Upper School students are invited to Skate Night, an annual event organized by SCA, on Saturday, April 2, 8-10 p.m. at Skate-A-Way, 3330 Speeks Drive, Midlothian, 23112. “Skate Night has been a very popular SCA event the past several years,” says Beth Kondorossy, advisor to SCA. “Kids dress in their finest ’80s attire and come skate the night away. Students can drive, get dropped off or take school provided transportation.”
Biology Class Addresses International Health Issue Shayna Cooke’s Bio II class has been working on a project that involves a basic human need that most Americans take for granted: access to sanitary toilets. Beginning with the question “How can we improve adequate access to sanitation practices for the 2.4 billion people that lack access, worldwide?” the class has researched the challenge and learned that without improved sanitation, women and children are particularly at risk of disease and malnutrition. The goal of the class project, says Mrs. Cooke, is to design a toilet that is inexpensive, light, easy to make, and intuitive so that they can help eliminate the oral-fecal diseases that lead to 1 million deaths of children each year. To empathize with the population in need, the class acknowledged World Toilet
Day by only using restrooms in Seal Athletic Center, simulating the inconvenience of needing a restroom but not having one nearby. Recently they watched a TED Talk by 22-year-old Jasmine Burton of Wish for Wash, who is designing toilets in third world countries. Mrs. Cooke then contacted her and she agreed to Skype with the class from Africa about her work. Using information provided by Ms. Burton, the class is now focusing on design of a lightweight, small, portable toilet that would not need electricity or water and that would be appropriate for use in urban India. “The students are super engaged and thinking critically about this process and the people we are trying to serve,” says Mrs. Cooke.
Guest Potters
Each month this year, Upper School ceramics teacher Mary Arzt has invited Richmond area potters to display their work in the Saunders Family Library. These are the remaining guests: March: Janice Arone www.thebarnswallow.com April/May: Scott Meredith www.fixyourkiln.com
Jeff Vick recently demonstrated his technique for ceramics students.
Upper School Events Java with J.P. All Upper School parents are invited to get to know our Interim Head of Upper School, J.P. Watson, and join a roundtable discussion on various topics on Tuesday, March 22, at 8:15 a.m. in the Craigie Board Room of the Sharp Academic Commons. Coffee is provided.
Graduation and College Prep Details: Learn What to Expect during the Final Days at Collegiate and Beyond On Thursday, March 24, at 8:15 a.m., all senior parents are encouraged to attend this information session. Get guidance on navigating the post-Collegiate world, as well as important details about graduation day. Chris Rimbault (above right), retired Collegiate French teacher and native of France, recently visited Val Siff’s AP French class to talk with students about how language and culture influence one’s identity. “Because Ms. Rimbault has lived in both France and the United States, she was able to explain the way she has formed two identities through the culture, language, and, most importantly, the people in both countries,” says senior Helen Roddey. “It was fascinating to hear such a personal insight into not only what we have been learning, but also into the life of someone who has experienced so many diverse cultures.” 8 | Paw Print
Java with J.P. All Upper School parents are invited to get to know our Interim Head of Upper School, J.P. Watson, and join a roundtable discussion on various topics on Friday, April 22, at 8:15 a.m. in the Craigie Board Room of the Sharp Academic Commons. Coffee is provided.
College Night For families of juniors and any interested sophomores families...
Richmond Area Independent Schools College Fair Tuesday, April 12, 2016 • 7-9 p.m. • Seal Athletic Center and Jacobs Gym In attendance: Over 170 colleges from across the country and around the globe!
In the Middle School
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fter 36 years working in a middle school, I know excitement when I see it, and there is plenty of it with our Cougar Enterprises. What started as the Entrepreneurs Club in 2012 with seven members has evolved to now include the Golden Cougar Savings Bank, an extension of the Lower School’s Cougar Savings Club, and 64 active Middle School students. Teachers Debbie Hailes and Chris Conquest have led the charge for the business club side while Laurie Goode provides oversight for the bank. The mission of Cougar Enterprises is to provide students with an economic experience focusing on basic financial literacy, entrepreneurship and the banking process. Students are given the opportunity to brainstorm about how to start their own businesses including how to recognize demand, develop their products and services and market their wares. Various businessmen and women from our parent and alumni bases as well as the greater Richmond community meet with the club to share their expertise and field trips are taken to see businesses in action. Members submit a business plan that once approved allows them to participate in the markets held four times each year. There is great enthusiasm as the students develop their ideas and try to
predict their profit margin. It escalates as they make their products and reaches a crescendo at each of the markets. Whether outside when it’s sunny or in Reed-Gumenick Library when the weather is less hospitable, the markets are absolutely alive. Virtually the entire Middle School student body and faculty along with a fair number of Upper School folks browse and partake of the offerings which include carnival-type games, homemade baked goods, monogrammed T-shirts, handmade wallets, CD cases, and jewelry and snow cones. The bank, staffed by student tellers, stands at the ready to provide capital and safeguard deposits. There is such joy on the faces of all in attendance, be they entrepreneurs or customers, and the business owners are visibly proud of their efforts. The learning is deep as basic economic principles are reinforced in these real market experiences which this year include elements of social entrepreneurship in a nod to our Responsible Citizenship efforts evidence that the club continues to evolve. Our budding change agents are helping to lead the way and having a great time doing it.
Charlie Blair Middle School Head
Middle School Events Parenting and Transition to Upper School Social Life
Digital Safety and Responsibility in the Middle School Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, group chats and other ways to connect are popular among Middle School students. Katie Greer (http://www.klgreer.com), a nationally recognized expert on digital safety and digital citizenship, will work with 6th Grade students and parents on Monday, March 21. During the day, Ms. Greer will present to 6th Grade students with follow-up in advisory groups, work with 6th Grade teachers, and meet with all Middle School faculty. That evening, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in Oates Theater, she will lead a required program for all parents of 6th Graders entitled “Become Part of the Parent Cyberlution.” Questions? Please contact Sally Chambers at schambers@collegiate-va.org.
Transition to Upper School
From April 18–21, Brenda Conlan (www.brendaconlan.com) will work with 7th and 8th Graders on making low risk choices and healthy decisions about using alcohol and other drugs. A special focus for 8th Grade will be on making a healthy transition to a high school social life. All 8th Grade parents are invited to meet with Ms. Conlan on Thursday, April 21 from 8:15-9:15 a.m. in Reeves Center 101 to learn more about supporting your 8th Grader in making a positive transition. Questions? Please contact Sally Chambers at schambers@ collegiate-va.org.
On Thursday, April 21, from 8:15-9:15 a.m. in the Reeves Center, all 8th Grade parents are invited to hear Brenda Conlan (www.brendaconlan. com) speak on how to guide your child’s transition from Middle School to Upper School social activities.
Cub Sports and Community Service Overview
On Wednesday, April 27, from 8:15-9:15 a.m., in the Reeves Center, all 6th Grade parents are invited to learn about the community service and Cub Sports programs that begin in 7th Grade.
5th Grade Time Out
On Friday, April 29, from 2:40-4 p.m., all 5th Graders are invited to join your classmates for fun, games, Mr. Softee and a DJ on the Middle School Lawn.
6th Grade Time Out
On Friday, May 6, from 2:40-4 p.m., all 6th Graders are invited to a fun-filled afternoon of treats and festivities on the Middle School lawn.
8th Graders performed the Roald Dahl-inspired James and the Giant Peach, Jr. in February. Spring 2016 | 9
In the Lower School
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“
hildren leading children” is a beautiful experience! Throughout the Collegiate community our students lead each other every day. These experiences may be planned parts of our curriculum or genuine acts of kindness. No matter the origin, the outcomes are similar: children make a huge impact on each other. In a recent Lower School Town Meeting our 4th Grade students created another example of “children leading children.” Students from Julie Bennett’s 4th Grade class were the leaders of the day as they shared thoughts and reflections on the theme of LOYALTY. The following acrostic was the poetic representation providing explanation of the theme: L – Love others O – Others appreciate you Y – You’re all awesome A – Appreciate others L – Leadership T – Together we can all be loyal Y – You’re all important
Also, during the Town Meeting our Lower School “Link It and Live It” Team was an example of “children leading children.” The team, sponsored by Heather Garnett, Katie Musick, Beth Tracy and Kathy Wrenn, presented a skit that tied into loyalty and love. A video entitled “Lower School Loving Hearts” shared the children’s messages of loving hearts and helping hands by providing examples of simple acts of kindness they each could offer. The warmth and love that this experience created was felt throughout the audience of children and adults alike! The impact of seeing their classmates or fellow cougars on the stage and screen in Estes could have been likened to seeing a star on the Broadway stage. The eyes of our smallest ones were fixed on the leaders of the Lower School who were leading by example in the purest sense. Additionally, the smiles on the faces of our 4th Grader leaders and Link It Team were outward expressions of the happiness and pride they felt in their important roles. Giving our students the opportunity to
Scenes from 2nd Grade States Fair
10 | Paw Print
lead in positive ways is one of the greatest gifts Collegiate has to offer. The leadership of and appreciation for our Campus Cubs is celebrated in each Town Meeting. Our children view the Campus Cub responsibility with such high regard. To illustrate – on the first day of school this year one of our new Campus Cubs told me, “Oh Mrs. Miller, I am so excited! I have waited for this day since I was in Kindergarten.” Her face beamed as she gave me a quick hug and then ran off to open a car door for a fellow Cougar. Children lead children in many ways large and small. This is an integral and important part of what we do at Collegiate in developing responsible citizens. Our Lower School students have opportunities to excel just like those students they look up to in the Middle School and Upper School. All of our children provide us a source of pride!
Debbie Miller Lower School Head
Condolences PAW PRINT extends condolences to Collegiate parents, faculty and staff who have recently experienced a loss in their families and have notified the school. Patricia Thornton, mother of Andy Thornton and grandmother of Lucy Thornton ’19, died Nov. 2, 2015. James Whiting, stepfather of Stanton Thalhimer ’82 and Barbara Thalhimer Wiltshire ’84, and grandfather of Claire ’18 and Will Thalhimer ’20, died Nov. 12, 2015. On Jan. 27, Kari Hosack, SPCA Manager of Humane Education, and her two SPCA adopted dogs, Ramona and Stella, visited the 1st Graders to explain the important work done by this organization and ways we could help — items were collected in February and donated to the SPCA. The 1st Grade at Collegiate has enjoyed an ongoing community service project with the SPCA since 2004. Each year, the students visit the facility for a behind-thescenes look. In addition, as part of the students’ economic unit of study in the spring, they become entrepreneurs with the goal of raising money for the SPCA.
White beat Green 56-46 on Feb. 29 at the Cougar Classic, an annual basketball game played by Collegiate faculty and staff in Jacobs Gym. “It was an entertaining game that featured a number of runs for both sides,” says organizer Shep Lewis. “Upper School Spanish teacher Hannah Curley took home MVP honors. Curley drained five 3-pointers on the night. Thanks so much to the Parents’ Association for another fantastic Cougar Classic. “
Homecoming 2016 Saturday, November 5 • 1 p.m. • We’re playing St. Christopher’s!
Lower School Music and Faison Partnership On the sixth day of every schedule rotation, four students from the Faison School for Autism join students in Molly Revere’s Kindergarten class for a unique partnership and model for inclusion and service-learning. Inside Christine Hoffman’s music classroom, a circle forms as they blend into one group: music connects them as learners and peers. This class, just like any Kindergarten music class at Collegiate, focuses on learning to sing melodies, improvise rhythms through movement, read music notation and allow small groups to play compositions written by the students in the class. In one activity, students sing a “Hello Song” and, at the end of the melody, one student plays the steady beat with any type of body percussion such as jumping, clapping, blinking or anything he or she suggests. The rest of the students immediately imitate that rhythm before going back into the melody. Everyone gets a chance to lead the group with his or her rhythmic movement. The
students support each other with cheers and joyful smiles as they complete each round of the melody and rhythm before going back into it all over again. With the additional support of visiting faculty from the Faison School and Collegiate teacher Aster Kidane, the short composition projects are rehearsed in small groups and then performed in front of the class. Each group is able to achieve the musical goal of keeping a steady pulse, playing notated rhythms and learning standard musical form. Providing opportunities for students to form connections across difference — differing abilities and schools — strengthens Collegiate’s students as they mature, as it strengthens their peers at Faison. These meaningful relationships develop through the work of committed teachers like Mrs. Hoffman, whose engaging and inclusive style make music education an opportunity for service learning. Learning about music alongside new peers ultimately serves us all.
Dr. John W. Morgan, father of Kelby Morgan ’91 and Molly Morgan ’92, and grandfather of Kelby ’24 and Madelyn Morgan ’26, died Nov. 16, 2015. Aurora Pubiliones de Cibrian, mother of Mayte Lerch, and grandmother of Nicollete ’11, Natalie ’13, and Jack Lerch ’19, died Nov. 22, 2015. Patsy Scott, sister of Director of Communications Stacy Adams and aunt of Sydney ’16 and Donald ’20 Adams, died Dec. 7, 2015. Louise Cochrane, grandmother of Anne Gail Jennings ’88, and great-grandmother of Justin Schruijer ’17, died Dec. 10, 2015. Joyce Scher, mother of Jon ’80 and Charley Scher ’83, and grandmother of Owen ’18 and Katie Scher ’20, died Dec. 16, 2015. Keaton Garber, mother Julie Nanavati, and grandmother of Charlie ’23 and Kate Nanavati ’25, died Dec. 18, 2015. Terrell Shoffner, husband of MS Spanish teacher, Mary Gayoso, died Dec. 29, 2015. Dr. Andrew John “Buddy” Metz, father of Mary Hickman, and father-in-law of Steve Hickman, died Jan. 16, 2016. Sabina “Sadie” Liantonio, grandmother of Susan Brizzolara, and great-grandmother of Mark ’15 and Lauren Brizzolara ’18, died Jan. 16, 2016. Jean Fleishman Siff, mother of Robert Siff ’73, and mother-in-law of US French teacher, Val Siff, died Jan. 23, 2016. Dorothy Ann “Dot” Jackson, mother of Recruiting & Professional Development Coordinator Amy Blackmer, and grandmother of Jane Blackmer ’14, died Feb. 7, 2016. Richard Makepeace, father of Walton Makepeace ’80, and grandfather of Chandler ’13, Austin ’13, and Daniel Makepeace ’16, died Feb. 16, 2016. Spring 2016 | 11
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Steve Hickman, Head of School Phyllis Palmiero, Vice President-Finance and Administration Amanda Little Surgner ’83, Vice President-Advancement J.P. Watson, Interim Head of Upper School Charles L. Blair, Jr., Head of Middle School Debbie Miller, Head of Lower School Susan Droke, Academic Dean Karen Doxey, Director of Athletics PAW PRINT is published multiple times throughout the year. Elizabeth Cogar ’77, editor phone : 741-9781 e-mail : ecogar@collegiate-va.org Beth Flippo Hutchins ’88 and Marguerite Bostic, Parents’ Association Correspondents PAW PRINT may be read online at www.collegiate-va.org Collegiate School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or national origin in the administration of its educational, admission, scholarship or employment policies, or any other programs administered by the school.
Junior Kindergarten (cont.) STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) may look like play at this level, but this is only the beginning of a curriculum that is woven throughout the Collegiate experience. “This year’s Junior Kindergarten is about creating, problem solving, and collaborating,” says teacher Wendy Wilson. “The children are learning to transition with confidence throughout the Collegiate campus. It has been a successful start as we watch these 4- and 5year olds become integrated into all areas of our community.”
Junior Kindergarten At A Glance Purposeful play is at the center of this year that integrates social and emotional development with core curriculums, resource classes and connections to the Collegiate community. Teachers: Eileen Beane, Rives Barksdale, Wendy Wilson, Nicole Jones, Anne Woods Cutchins, Tia Owen, Page Archer, Kim Turner Classes: 3 (Sycamores, Maples, Willows) Students: 48 Location: Luck Hall, Nunnally Hall