HIGHLAND
FALL 2014 ISSUE: TRADITIONS: OLD & NEW
AREYOU
BlueORGold? Experiential Learning a Highland Hallmark Celebrating Finley Broaddus‘ Life and Art by Cathy Campbell Experiencing Latin Immersion Firsthand by Celia Kelly
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HIGHLAND SCHOOL
HIGHLAND SCHOOL Board of Trustees Mr. Tim Dunn* Chairman Mrs. Olympia Moshos* Vice Chair Mr. David Young* Treasurer Mrs. Heather Iasso* Secretary
Mr. Ike Broaddus* Mr. Richard Chadwell* At Highland School, our mission is to provide a demanding academic and co-curricular program
Mrs. Karen Flikeid Mrs. Hilary Gerhardt
that develops the skills and character essential
Mrs. Samantha Gravett
for students to meet the challenges of college
Mrs. Anne Hall
and leadership in the twenty-first century.
Mr. David Hazel (8th, ‘79) Mr. Mark Melvin*
To carry out this mission, Highland School has assembled thoroughly modern facilities,
Mr. Randy Minter Mrs. Vaughan Myers
a large, diverse, and highly qualified staff,
Ms. Diana Norris
a student body ready to meet the challenges,
Mr. Lewis Pollard
and an academic philosophy and strategy that makes maximum use of these resources.
Mrs. Wendy Rodgers Mrs. Darlene Smith Mrs. Lesley Soltys Dr. Beejal Taylor Mr. David Turner Mr. Mark Van de Water* Mrs. Jody Warfield* Mrs. Laura Tremblay Parents Association President Mr. Marshall D. Doeller (8th, ‘67), Trustee Emeritus Mr. William A. Hazel Sr., Trustee Emeritus Mr. Paul Rice, Trustee Emeritus *Indicates member of the Executive Committee
Table of Contents
Fall 2014
Head of School Henry D. Berg Writers and Contributors Amy Babcox (8th, ‘76) Briar Bogin Cathy Campbell Megan Catalfamo Ann Collins ‘15 Celia Kelly Oliver Schwartz ‘15 Barbara Wilkes Graphic Design David Henrickson
Cathy Campbell remembers Finley Broaddus on page 28 On the cover: Carolyn Treuting ‘18 gets carried away, quite literally, by teammate Grace Barratt ‘18 at last year’s Barbara Wilkes Field Day. Field Day is the culmination of the year-long athletic and academic ‘Blue and Gold’ competition for students in grades three through eight. To learn more, go to page 22.
Letter from the Head of School
At Highland, our traditions, both old and new, connect us to our past and help to shape our future.
Welcome to Our New Faculty
Highland is proud to introduce our talented and dedicated new faculty and staff members for 2014/2015.
Latin: It’s Not Dead Yet!
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14
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The year-long Blue and Gold competition can define and connect Lower and Middle School students.
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Celebrating the Life and Spirit 28 of Finley Broaddus ‘14 Cathy Campbell celebrates the life and spirit of Finley Broaddus ‘14.
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In September, students in all divisions ventured out of the confines of the classroom to learn by doing.
Exploring the Galapagos Islands
Upper School students reflect on their recent visit to the Galapagos Islands.
Middle School Latin teacher Celia Kelly spent a week last summer speaking Latin at a retreat in West Virginia.
Are You Blue or Gold?
Experiential Learning Programs at Highland Take Many Forms
Photography David Henrickson Jon Kraut Copy Editor Lora Mackie Class Notes Coordinator Briar Bogin Director of Communications David Henrickson
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Departments
News from Around Campus
5
2014 Graduation Images
12
Class of 2014 College List
11
Senior/Kindergarten Buddies
32
Alumni News and Notes
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Director of Advancement Joy Willey Highland Magazine is produced by the Office of Communications for alumni, parents, and friends of Highland School. Letters and comments are welcome. Please send inquiries to: Director of Communications, Highland School, 597 Broadview Avenue, Warrenton, VA 20186, e-mail to dhenrickson@highlandschool.org, or telephone 540-878-2717
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Highland School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational, employment, or admission policies, its scholarship, athletic, and other school-administered programs.
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Letter from The Head of School
Rich Traditions, Both Old and New, Connect Our Past, Guide Our Future Inside this issue of Highland Magazine, we explore our traditions and recognize the generosity of our many donors in the Annual Report section.
Hank Berg, who has served as Highland’s Head of School since 2004, has overseen an expansion in both facilities and curriculum.
At Highland, traditions, both old and new, anchor us in rituals that remind us of our core values. They are the ceremonies designed to connect us to those who came before, experiences that all students have in common, and community customs that serve to bind Highland together across time.
experience attending a camp where only Latin was spoken; appreciate the unparalleled opportunity our students had to study ecology on the Galápagos Islands with Upper School Science teacher, Jon Kraut; and recognize the power of belonging to a team in the tradition of Blue/Gold.
It is remarkable to me that Highland’s founders, Lavinia Hamilton and Dorothy Rust, understood key elements in a great education that are still relevant more than 80 years later.
“Today, our challenge is to blend the best of our longest-running traditions that give us our bearings with new traditions that allow us to explore, change, and grow.”
Today, our challenge is to blend the best of our longest-running traditions that give us our bearings with new traditions that allow us to explore, change, and grow. Highland’s timeless traditions such as our Honor Code, the yearlong Blue/Gold competition and Field Day blend seamlessly with Latin, Spirit Week, the Famous People Assembly – even our tradition of offering hay as the first item at our annual Spring Auction – give us our sense of continuity and place. Some of our newest traditions have come as a result of programs that are young compared to our 85 years of history. I’m thinking of things like the Robotics Pep Rally and all the shirts, songs, quilts, videos, and stories that grow out of our Field Studies programs. Our Poetry Slam, Coffee Houses, Senior/Kindergarten Buddies, Dig Pink, and character themes are traditions that have grown organically out of our most recently shared experiences. By combining these time-honored ideas with innovation and creativity, we create the richest environment in which to grow for our students individually and the Highland community as a whole. I know you’ll enjoy reading about Middle School faculty member Celia Kelly’s extraordinary
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Also in this issue is a tribute to Finley Broaddus ’14 and her ongoing impact on our community. Finally, help us welcome the talented new faculty and staff who join a dedicated group of adults who challenge and support our students. As Highland approaches a century of serving this community, let us be thankful for all those who have built – and continue to build – these traditions of excellence. Sincerely,
Henry D. Berg Head of School
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News from Around Campus
Current Chairman of Highland School’s Board of Trustees Tim Dunn sits with newly appointed Trustees Emeriti Paul Rice and Marshall Doeller (8th, ‘67) at the 85th anniversary of Highland School in a special celebration held in October in The Rice Theater.
Two New Trustees Emeriti Announced at 85th Anniversary Celebration Event In October, the Highland community came together to celebrate its 85th anniversary and welcome two new Trustees Emeriti, Marshall D. Doeller (8th, ‘67) and Paul G. Rice. The Sunday evening event, held the same weekend as the International Gold Cup, included great memories, music, and the return of some familiar faces to the Highland Center for the Arts. Those in attendance, which included past board members, former faculty and staff, and alumni, heard opening remarks from Chairman of the Board Tim Dunn and Head of School Hank Berg and enjoyed a short film looking back at the school’s history. Mr. Dunn and Mr. Berg introduced Mr. Doeller and Mr. Rice. Marshall Doeller, who graduated from Highland School as an 8th grader in 1967, served on the Board of Trustees from 1992 until 2004. As Chairman of the Board from 1997 to 2004, Mr. Doeller was instrumental in implementing an ambitious 10-year Master Plan that included the construction of Highland’s Upper School,
which officially opened in 1996. This represented a time of unprecedented growth for Highland School. Mr. Rice served on the Board of Trustees from 2004 to 2012. He was Chairman of the Board from 2006 to 2012 and, along with his wife Gina, was instrumental in the design and construction of the Highland Center for the Arts and The Rice Theater. The Trustee Emeritus program at Highland School was formally revised in January of 2014. The first to receive the honor, which recognizes former Board of Trustees members for their service and generosity, was William A. Hazel. Mr. Dunn also took the opportunity to announce the contract extension of Highland’s Head of School Hank Berg until June 2018. Mr. Berg has guided the school through a massive expansion in both facilities and curriculum since taking the helm in 2004.
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News from Around Campus
In September, the Highland community honored former board member Jodi Johnson, shown here with Hank Berg, her husband, Dale, and Board Chair Tim Dunn, for her service and generosity.
Highland School Convocation Kicks Off the 2014-15 School Year
Head of School Hank Berg and Chairman Tim Dunn kick off the 2014/2015 academic year by recognizing the many contributions of former board member Jodi Johnson
Highland held its annual Convocation in September to mark the beginning of the 2014-15 academic year. The event, which brings together Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 students, faculty, staff, trustees, and parents, is meant to look for meaning in a new school year. “We bring almost everyone together so we can see the school as a whole, not just the portion of it we experience each day,” said Head of School Hank Berg. “We are reminded that we are part of a larger community, which is especially relevant with our character theme this year of ‘Citizenship.’” Chairman of the Board Tim Dunn was also on hand to welcome the community to the new school year. For the first time in many years, the Distinguished Service Award was presented. The award was not meant to be given every year, but only to the most extraordinary people whose contributions to the school are exemplary. Receiving
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the award this year was Highland parent and former trustee Jodi Johnson. Her generosity has taken innumerable forms; her service and leadership taking on countless others. “I use the word citizenship very deliberately raising my children – defining what makes a good and respectful citizen in our home, our family, and our community,” said Mrs. Johnson. “If the ways I’ve participated here at Highland over the years have made me a good citizen of the Highland community,” Mrs. Johnson continued. “Then I am so pleased and honored to accept this recognition on behalf of my family – all of whom respect Highland and what it stands for. Any contributions I may have made have been with their full support.” Senior Philip von Feilitzsch addressed the crowd, welcoming everyone to the start of the school year.
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News from Around Campus “Allow me to describe to you this school, as I see it,” said Philip. “To me, Highland is like a sandbox. It’s a place to play, to have fun, to build things, to learn, a place to make mistakes, and then be able to smooth them out with a rake and start over.” “There are also a lot of toys in the sandbox, things to help you build whatever you want; those opportunities such as clubs, internships, independent studies, and even community service that allow you to discover yourself; find out what you like and what you don’t like. Highland is a place that allows you and greatly encourages you to find your passion and pursue it.”
Concluding the event was the recessional of seniors with their Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten buddies, a Highland tradition for nearly a decade. “We believe you are responsible for the quality of the community in which you live, work, and learn,” Head of School Hank Berg reminded the audience. “Great communities do not happen by accident, they happen because the citizens give more than they take. People put in time, energy, and personal resources to improve the quality of their community. This is one of the most important things you will learn at Highland.”
Spotlight on Athletics
Boys Varsity Tennis Wins First State Title Seniors Thomas, Fenton, and Bartz lead team to victory over North Cross Highland School’s Boys Varsity Tennis team won its first VISAA Division II state championship title and our school’s 11th state title with a 5-4 victory over North Cross School from Roanoke. The state tournament was held at Collegiate School in Goochland. The team finished the season with a record of 11-1. The team was led by seniors Jack Thomas ‘14, Adam Fenton ‘14, and Tim Bartz ‘14. Bartz won a critical doubles match with partner Rich Gerhardt ‘16 to seal a hard-fought victory and title. “The match came down to the last doubles match and we ended up pulling out the win,” Boys Tennis Coach Paola Riccetti said. “It was a great season with a great bunch of guys who all truly deserve this win.” The boys rolled through the Delaney Athletic Conference for their fourth consecutive DAC title with wins over Fredericksburg Academy and Wakefield School, who they also beat in the first round of the VISAA state tournament. “I am so proud of the boys and all of their accomplishments this season,” Riccetti said. “We have three amazing top players and some really great overall athletes filling out the rest of the lineup.” In addition to Thomas, Fenton, and Bartz, the championship roster included Manolo Cortes ‘15, John Deal ‘16, Jonathan Finley ‘14, Nick Finley ‘16 Rich Gerhardt ‘16, Mac Hartley ‘17 James Jarvis ‘14, Eli Kidd ‘17, Hampton Massie ‘18, and Travis Stolterfoht ‘15. Varsity coaches are Paola Riccetti and Robert Hampton.
Jack Thomas ‘14, who is playing Division I tennis at Wofford College in South Carolina, helped lead the Highland Boys Varsity tennis team to their first VISAA Division II state title in May.
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News from Around Campus
Lego Expo Introduces Students to Engineering Robotics teams comprised of Lower and Middle School students practice their engineering, design, and presentation skills before attending regional competitions
Held in the Lower School in October, Highland’s Lego Expo was an exciting event for teams and families alike. With the challenge theme of “World Class Learning Unleashed,” students showed projects to judges and practiced their teamwork and presentation skills before their first regional competition of the year in November. Thanks to all the faculty and staff who gave these teams an awesome introduction to engineering and design thinking. Claire Mello organized the evening with teachers Betty LaPrade, Charity Duncan, Lindsey Dengel (8th, ‘89), Laurie Mayer, Michele Daniel-Shenk, Miriam Solms and Claire Mello as team coaches. Joe Cate, Diana Hewitt, Jay Hebert, Pat Hewitt, Frank Mello, Gary Light, Karen Doucet, and Dale Gillam offered their time as the judges. Andy Keahon presented a session with his bomb detecting robot partner, and Tony Edwards, from Ledo’s Pizza, donated delicious pizzas to round out the night. Thanks and congratulations to all! Spotlight on Athletics
Donations Drive Acquisition of New Baseball Scoreboard This Fall, Highland School held a sports memorabilia sale in the Arundel Gym. The auction-style sale of donated collectibles will help with the purchase of a new electronic scoreboard for the baseball field. “Thanks to a very generous donation from current Highland grandparent, Michael Higgins, we were able to sort and package up some fabulous collectibles from the 1980’s and 1990’s. Overall, the sale was a complete success,” said Athletic Director Gary Leake. In addition to Mr. Higgins, other contributors include Dodson Pest Control, Ben Gravett Enterprises and the Gimbel Family. Installation of the scoreboard will be completed prior to the start of the 2015 season!
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Spotlight on Academics
Class of 2014 Valedictorian Colby Newson (left) and Salutatorian Mimi Robinson (right) celebrated their graduations from Highland School in June.
Highland School Community Celebrates Graduating Class of 2014 In her address at graduation, Valedictorian Colby Newson ‘14 reminded classmates that “The hero’s journey is not the voyage from weakness to strength. The true hero’s journey is the voyage from strength to weakness.” In June, the Highland Community celebrated its 49 graduates with several days of events that culminated in the traditional formal graduation ceremony on Friday, June 13 in the Upper School Gym. The event started with an introduction by Head of School Hank Berg. In his remarks, Mr. Berg congratulated the members of the Class of 2014 for their resilience and character in the face of a challenging year that included the death of a classmate and the unexpected passing of two parents of members of the senior class.
“The legacy of this class rests broadly on two things: first is the way they treated each other and the example they set for the adults and underclassmen when we faced difficult things,” Mr. Berg remarked. “The other is the way they continued to engage their opportunities to experience Highland right to the end.” “Perhaps the best examples of this are students who played a sport for the first time in the spring of their senior year, Mr. Berg continued in his opening remarks. “This is the opposite of a ‘Senior Slump.’” (continued on page 10)
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Spotlight on Academics
Highland School Sends Off Class of 2014 (continued from page 9) Mr. Berg then introduced Mimi Robinson ‘14, Highland’s Salutatorian, who is attending the University of Virginia in Charlottesville this Fall.
Ms. Robinson then introduced Highland’s Valedictorian, Colby Newson ‘14, who is attending Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.
“Trying to define the Class of 2014 is impossible, but I believe we will be remembered for our fortitude and compassion,” Ms. Robinson reflected in her remarks. “This class has weathered more together than many people do in their entire lives. We have suffered unfathomable loss… loss of relatives, loss of parents, and most recently, the loss of Finley.” (more on the legacy of Finley Broaddus can be found on page 28)
After taking the obligatory “selfie” with her cell phone in front of the assembled students, families, faculty, and staff, Ms. Newson presented her own assessment of the Class of 2014 and her experiences at Highland School. “One of my favorite authors, John Green, reflected, the hero’s journey is not the voyage from weakness to strength,” said Ms. Newson. “The true hero’s journey is the voyage from strength to weakness, and I don’t think this could be truer for us, the Class of 2014.”
“In spite of and throughout the tumult of this year, we are making it through because, like Finley taught us, our time should be spent advocating for what we’re passionate about, while deeply caring for the lives we encounter.”
“Our journey through high school has been christened by adversity and heartbreak,” Ms. Newson concluded. “Now, we are delivered onto a future that only we hold the reins for.”
Highland’s Middle School Graduates Recognized
Thank You to Highland “Lifers” and Their Families!
Highland School would like to recognize those eighth grade students who earned Academic Honors for each semester of all four years they were in Highland’s Middle School. We are pleased to announce that Honor Certificates were awarded to the following students:
Highland School would like to thank all the families of our “lifers” or students who have attended Highland since Kindergarten or Pre-Kindergarten as of Spring 2014:
Logan Ancona Dean Bailey Blake Bogin Joseph Dyer Lizzie Ellis Chiara Hampton Alexander Iasso Lucas Johnson Reed Morris Buckley Norman Logan Van de Water Additionally, we would like to recognize those eighth grade students who earned High Academic Honors for each semester of all four years they were in Highland’s Middle School: Cameron Smith Abbey Wills
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8th Grade Lifers Kendall Al-Bashir Grace Barratt Blake Bogin Brandon Conlin Jenna Devanney Joseph Dyer Lizzie Ellis Caroline Flikeid Shayne Herrera Lucas Johnson Mitchell Kannon Justin Mayer Reed Morris Haley Partlow
Dillon Rose Georgia Scarborough Jacey Simpson Adam Smedley Logan Van de Water Abbey Wills 12th Grade Lifers Evan Finley Nicholas Kulick Donnie Mayer Gus Moshos Olivia Orme Brett Schmieder
Check out more recent Highland School stories and news at www.facebook.com/highlandschool
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Highland’s Class of 2014 College Listing Listed below are the members of the Class of 2014 and their college destinations: Name Destination Mallory Ackerson Furman University Timothy Bartz University of Virginia William Brandt Lord Fairfax Community College – Middletown Campus Jane Braswell Franklin and Marshall College Finley Broaddus College of William and Mary Edward Campell Washington University in St. Louis Lauran Corbin Radford University Jessica Crew Virginia Commonwealth University Dali Dong University of California, Santa Cruz Sarah Dunn University of Edinburgh (Scotland) Adam Fenton Elon University Evan Finley James Madison University Jonathon Finley Roanoke College Julia Gloudeman College of William and Mary Joseph Graham Baylor University Erin Herbst James Madison University Trung Nhat Huynh Northern Virginia Community College - Alexandria Campus James Jarvis Franklin and Marshall College Rahji Johnson Virginia Wesleyan College Matthew Kelly Marymount University Nicholas Kulick Worcester Polytechnic Institute Camille LaBranche Georgia State University Angela Langdon High Point University Gregory Lawson Washington and Lee University Joshua Lutz Radford University Donald Mayer Flagler College Morgan McGlothlin Hampshire College Michele Micciche High Point University Logan Miller Christopher Newport University Samantha Moseley James Madison University Gus Moshos James Madison University Colby Newson Duke University Andrew Norman University of Virginia Olivia Orme Wofford College Henry Pendleton St. Lawrence University Marissa Ray Virginia Tech Julia Robinson University of California, Santa Barbara Miriam Robinson University of Virginia Jacob Rogers University of Colorado Colorado Springs Christopher Ross Hampden-Sydney College Grant Salley Franklin and Marshall College Brett Schmieder Denison University Sidney Stone Washington College Yiwen Tao University of Redlands Jack Thomas Wofford College Shelby Thornhill University of South Carolina James Willey Swarthmore College Bisma Zaman Virginia Commonwealth University Jiayu Zhu Boston University
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In the Spotlight
Congratulations to the Graduates of Highland’s Class of 2014! In June, the Highland community came together to celebrate the graduation of Highland School’s Class of 2014. Taking their places in the Upper School gym and on the lawn at Winfree Commons, graduates shared stories, memories, and one final Highland experience before heading off on their next steps.
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In the Spotlight
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Spotlight on Faculty
Back Row: Michael Black, Eric Olson, Tom Harris, Patrick Morse, Sarah Tomsyck, Lyndsey Marcus, Pat Hewitt, Lise Hicklin, Jane Banse, Drew Miller, and Cathy Hartley. Front Row: Hank Berg, Erica Deane, Michelle Cruz, David Henrickson, and Matt Ormiston.
Highland Adds New Faculty, Staff for 2014/2015 Academic Year The faculty and staff of Highland School are proud to announce the addition of 14 new members to the Highland family. These talented educators and professionals bring a broad range of personal and professional experiences and interests to students across Highland’s three divisions. Jane Banse, Librarian Jane Banse joins Highland School as the Librarian. Most recently she was the Librarian/Media Specialist and English teacher at Middleburg Academy where she not only taught, but developed a new library website and a new circulation system. Mrs. Banse brings a wealth of experience linking technology and library activities, including laptop and iPad programs, cloud-based curriculum, and more. She earned a B.A. in Art History from Duke University and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh.
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Michael Black, Upper School Math Michael Black joins the Highland School faculty to teach Upper School Math. Mr. Black previously taught Math and History at Newman School in Boston. While there, Mr. Black was also the International Baccalaureate program advisor, college scholarship advisor, and boy’s varsity lacrosse coach. He spends his free time coaching both indoor and outdoor lacrosse leagues and plans to use his math background to play an active role in Highland’s Robotics program. Mr. Black earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology from the Wentworth Institute
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Spotlight on Faculty
of Technology in Boston and an MBA in Strategy and Leadership from Anna Maria College in Paxton, MA. Michelle Cruz, Middle School Math Michelle Cruz teaches Middle School Math. She comes to Highland from the Arden Anglican School in Sydney, Australia where she was a student teacher in Math for grades 7-10. Ms. Cruz earned a B.S. in Mathematics Education from Boston University. While in college she was also a member of Sigma Kappa, the Panhellenic Council, the Elementary Educators Club, and the Transitional Mentor Program. Erica Deane, Middle School Science Erica Deane joins the faculty to teach Middle School Science. Previously, she taught Math at Peter Muhlenberg Middle School in Shenandoah County, where she was also elected Middle School Teacher of the Year. During her tenure there, she was a key member of the Chromebook pilot program integration, organized mentor meetings and field trips, was a grant writer, and a trained member of the clinical staff. Ms. Deane holds a certification in Middle School Math and Chemistry (all grades). She earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Lynchburg College with a Minor in Mathematics. She was also a member of the Society of Westover Fellows, the Lynchburg College Honors program. Tom Harris, Middle School Social Studies Tom Harris joins the Middle School faculty to teach Grades 5-6 Social Studies. He previously worked with our students as part of the Wellness program, and will continue teaching Grade 7 Wellness this year. He is the Executive Director for the Fauquier Community Alliance for Drug Rehabilitation and Education. Mr. Harris is Founder and President of the Muddy Tracks Foundation, an organization to help youth develop leadership skills through outdoor teaching programs. Mr. Harris earned a B.S. from the University of Maine where he majored in Secondary Education/Social Studies. He also brings a wealth of volunteer experience from across Fauquier County. Cathy Hartley, Pre-Kindergarten 3/4 Cathy Hartley joins the Lower School faculty to teach PK 3/4. She comes to Highland from The Hill School where she was the lead teacher for Junior Kindergarten. While there, she developed and implemented a new program including classroom set-up and organization, curriculum development, and student evaluation. Mrs. Hartley also taught Kindergarten for nearly ten years while at The Hill School. She earned a B.A. from Randolph Macon College with a major in History and minor in Art History. Her son Mac is a member of Highland’s sophomore class.
David Henrickson, Director of Communications David Henrickson joins the staff as the Director of Communications bringing more than 20 years experience in marketing and advertising as both a writer and graphic designer. From 1999 to 2011, he ran his own advertising agency, located in Warrenton, serving a variety of local, regional and national clients. Mr. Henrickson earned a B.A. from the University of Mary Washington and has two children, Libby (Grade 6) and Andrew (Grade 4) who attend Highland. Patrick Hewitt, Upper School Physics Patrick Hewitt comes to Highland to teach Upper School Physics. For the past 20 years, he has been with Aerojet Corporation in Gainesville, where he maintains a variety of responsibilities including cost center management, engine programs, and multi-million dollar budgets. Dr. Hewitt earned a B.S., M.S., and a Ph.D., all in Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Tech. He attended the Defense Systems Management College and was part of the Sterling Institute Program Management Training Program. Dr. Hewitt was very involved in our Robotics program last year and is the lead Robotics mentor this year. Melanie Lillard (9th, ‘88), Middle School Language Arts and Upper School English Melanie Lillard (9th, ’88) joins the Highland faculty to teach Grade 8 Language Arts and English III in the Upper School. Most recently she co-founded the VA Farm Project and the Blue Ridge Titans field hockey club. Mrs. Lillard spent time as a member of the St. James’ Master Planning Committee and was a board member of the Mental Health Association of Fauquier County. From 2000-2004, she taught Upper School English at Highland and coached field hockey. She earned a B.S. in English Secondary Education from Appalachian State University in North Carolina. Lyndsey Marcus, Middle School Language Arts Lyndsey Marcus joins the faculty to teach Middle School Language Arts. She recently completed her M.A. in English at UVA. She earned her B.A. in English Cum Laude from James Madison University and received the JMU Departmental Award for Excellence in the Study of British Literature. Ms. Marcus recently was a teacher’s assistant at UVA in the Department of Media Studies and the M.A. representative on the Graduate English Student Association. Drew Miller, Upper School History Drew Miller teaches Upper School History and coaches Varsity Boys Basketball. He comes to Highland from Lanier High School in Austin, TX, where he taught World Geography. Prior to that, Mr. Miller was the Exercise &
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In August, new faculty and staff joined Highland’s Division Directors for a hike and orientation at Sky Meadow State Park in Delaplane.
Sport Science Instructor/Intramural Director at Hiram College in Ohio. He has coached both men’s and women’s basketball and tennis at the collegiate level. He earned a B.A. in Psychology from Kenyon College and an M.S. in Education: Sport Science/Coaching from the University of Akron. He was a four-year starter on the men’s basketball and baseball teams at Kenyon. Mr. Miller’s son Dylan is in Kindergarten and daughter Taylor is in PK3/4.
Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, Chemistry, AP Physics B, and Honors Physics. Prior to that Dr. Olson was an adjunct science professor at both Union College and Sage College in New York. He earned a B.S. in Chemistry from St. John’s University, an M.A. in Teaching from the University of Southern California, and a Ph.D. in Chemical Physics from the University of Minnesota. His daughter Claire joins Highland’s freshman class and his daughter Ana Leah is in PK4/5.
Patrick Morse, Upper School English Patrick Morse teaches Upper School English. He comes to Highland from Robert American College in Istanbul, Turkey, where he taught English Language Arts. While there, he implemented an ESL writing curriculum for students with a wide range of abilities from beginner to fluent speaker and also helped increase the use of technology-aided learning. Prior to that, Mr. Morse taught English at the TEVITOL School in Kocaeli, Turkey, a school serving gifted and talented students. He earned a B.A. in English and Secondary Education Cum Laude from Salem State University. He also coached the Robert American College girls soccer and boys rugby teams.
Sarah Tomsyck, Upper School English Sarah Tomsyck comes to Highland to teach Upper School English. Most recently she taught 9-12th grade English at the Loudoun School for the Gifted in Ashburn. Prior to that, she was an Associate Instructor and Adjunct Lecturer at Indiana University, teaching courses in Elementary Composition, Introduction to Fiction and Professional Writing. Ms. Tomsyck earned a B.A. Magna Cum Laude from Knox College and an M.A. from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. She also completed an additional 90 hours of coursework in English at Indiana University. For the past two years she has been an AP subject reader for the College Board’s AP English Language and Composition test.
Eric Olson, Upper School Chemistry Eric Olson joins the Upper School faculty to teach Chemistry. He comes to Highland from the Linden Hall School for Girls in Lititz, PA, where he taught AP
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Learn more about our faculty and staff online at highlandschool.org/faculty highlandschool.org
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Spotlight on Faculty
THE JOY OF SPEAKING
Article Written by Celia Kelly, Middle School Latin Teacher When I was a senior in high school, a friend of mine asked our Latin teacher if we could try speaking the language in class. He was struggling in Latin, and hoped that speaking would help him better grasp the grammar, as it had in Spanish. My teacher, though a wonderful and passionate educator, could not wrap his head around this request. Why would anyone want to spend time learning to speak Latin, when there are no ancient Romans around?
Mansion in Charles Town, West Virginia. The program is tailored for teachers like me, who know Latin on paper but have never tried to speak it in conversation, as well as veteran Latin speakers. For seven days we spoke nothing but Latin, as we attended classes on topics from food and clothing to the history of the mansion, played language games, discussed Latin readings, practiced and performed short plays, and prepared meals for the group.
A New Approach to Presenting Latin For the past four years, my approach to teaching Latin has in many ways mirrored the way I was taught. Though I’ve kept students engaged with games and fun lessons on Roman culture, the core of my instruction has been teaching students to memorize grammar and vocabulary and translate passages of Latin into English. Increasingly, however, Latin teachers are moving away from grammartranslation toward more active, communicative approaches to teaching Latin.
Even our free time was in Latin — we took nature walks, told stories on the porch, played Bananagrams and Texas Hold ‘Em, had a bonfire for July 4th, and more. Each night, I kept a journal in Latin, recording what we had done that day, what I had learned, and what teaching methods I had observed.
This summer, Highland granted me a faculty fellowship to participate in Rusticatio Virginiana, a spoken-Latin immersion program run by SALVI (Septentrionale Americanum Latinitatis Vivae Institutum), or the North American Institute for Living Latin. Held at the Claymont
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Spoken-Latin Offers Meaningful Contexts Why speak Latin when there are no ancient Romans around? As we say at Rusticatio, non discimus ut loquamur; loquimur ut discamus (we’re not learning to speak; we’re speaking to learn). Speaking gives you much more practice with the language than you get by just translating a Latin passage into English. Furthermore, speaking makes grammar and vocabulary stick better in your brain because you’re practicing them in meaningful contexts.
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Rusticatio was my first foray into spoken Latin, and I was amazed at how much I learned in just seven days. I could make flashcards to learn the Latin words for cake, flour, sugar, and blueberries, but I wouldn’t remember them half as well as I do now that I have had to make a blueberry cake from a recipe written in Latin.
Highland’s Faculty Fellowship Program Supports a Range of Initiatives for Faculty, Staff
Incorporating Spoken Latin in the Classroom Offers Students New Motivation Rusticatio has renewed my drive to improve how I teach Latin, and has inspired me to start incorporating spoken Latin into my classroom. If you come into my classroom this fall, you will see students responding to classroom instructions in Latin and asking “Quaeso, licetne mihi ad armarium ire?” (“Please, may I go to my locker?”).
Using iPads and Mobile Devices to Help Students with Disabilities The iPad has quickly become a platform for learning that is agile enough to meet the learning needs for any subject, any age and all abilities. Schools and teachers need to be prepared to effectively implement this valuable resource to meet the needs of our learning community.
“Why speak Latin when there
This summer, Michele Daniel-Shenk and Andrea McEvoy in Highland’s Lower School received faculty fellowship grants to take the required 36 classes to receive TCEA’s Mobile Devices for Children with Disabilities Certification. This series of classes will enable them to better direct other faculty members to resources for use with the iPads.
are no ancient Romans around? As we say at Rusticatio, non discimus ut loquamur; loquimur ut discamus – we’re not learning to speak; we’re speaking to learn.”
Dr. John Harmon Completes Two Fellowships with Middle School Focus For his faculty fellowships this summer, John Harmon worked on two curricular projects for the Middle School. Dr. Harmon’s first faculty fellowship focused on developing an eighth grade signature project. He researched culminating projects at other independent schools and read several interesting books on the subject.
‘Quomodo Dicitur Volleyball Latine’ or How Do You Say Volleyball in Latin? My seventh graders, who are all called by their chosen Roman names, greet me in Latin in the hallways, and love to ask questions like, “Quomodo dicitur volleyball Latine?” (“How do you say volleyball in Latin?”). (It’s follis volaticus, by the way.) My eighth graders are starting to discuss stories in Latin, and even learning some grammar concepts through spoken Latin.
“My hope is to create a project that involves reflection, technology and several academic disciplines. As the eighth grade Language Arts teacher this year, my students and I will be working on building this project together.”
It will be a challenge and a journey to move to a communicative approach to teaching Latin, but I am convinced that I am moving in the right direction. Already, I am seeing students more engaged than ever. Recently, I taught plural direct objects by instructing my eighth graders to eat first one Teddy Grahams, then two Teddy Grahams, to throw first one ball, then two balls. My students’ reaction says it all: “We should learn like this all the time.” n
“As adults, we know that developing a variety of social, academic, and developmental skills is important for our students’ long term success, Dr. Harmon said. “In February, we began as a faculty to identify the key skills or habits for each grade level in our middle school.”
The second part of Dr. Harmon’s fellowship focused on identifying and implementing key habits of learning for our middle school students.
In June, the faculty met and provided specific examples of these habits from their classes.
Highland’s Faculty Fellowship Program Supports a Range of Initiatives for Faculty, Staff “Matt Ormiston and I met during the summer to refine these lists and put them into a more tangible format for our teachers and students. We will meet with the teachers this Fall to begin implementing these habits in our academic classes as well.” Middle School Teachers Engage Students Using “Flipped Classroom” Teachers today are asking, “How can I create a class that encourages meaningful learning?” The ‘flipped classroom’ concept, in which teachers make lectures available by video to be viewed at home, creates the opportunity for class time to be focused around more active learning – things like project-based learning, inquiry activities, group discussion, peer-teaching scenarios, and video teaching. In addition to participating in a four-part webinar series discussing the flipped classroom concept and ways to incorporate it into one’s practice, Middle School Instructional Technology Coordinator Bryanne Peterson, Social Science Department Chair Scott Pragoff, and Math teacher Lindsay Ward took an online course offered by Capella University to earn a Flipped Class Certificate. In addition to this training, the group will collaborate to create video lessons for math and social studies that will launch our flipped classroom experience in the fall and prepare them to mentor other colleagues around the Highland campus in the upcoming years. “In order to make meaningful connections between our content material and our students, we seek to engage students in learner-based instruction, said Scott Pragoff. “We want to promote a genuine curiosity within each of our students and give him/her the kind of classroom environment where they feel free to explore topics and ask questions rather than solely being fed information.” Flipping the classroom has two intended results; first, it gives the student ownership of his/her learning, and second, it allows teachers to concentrate on higher-order thinking skills during class. Middle School students are just learning to take notes and filter out information in a lecture-style classroom, so having a library of video lessons where the student can pause, rewind, and re-watch lectures, allows these students to maximize their understanding of the lecture.
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Students in Middle School are learning how to hold themselves accountable for taking care of their responsibilities, and giving them the power on the video lessons does just this. Piloting the program in math, social studies, and technology departments will demonstrate the relevance and accessibility for all grade levels and content areas to fellow faculty. Identifying New Math Curriculum for Highland’s Lower School This summer, Miriam Solms’ faculty fellowship hours were spent researching current best practice approaches in teaching mathematics in the elementary grades in order to gather information to aid in the selection of a new math curriculum for the Lower School. Mrs. Solms researched the contents of the Common Core Standards, Virginia’s Standards of Learning, and the Standards of Learning outlined by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Four different math curriculums were reviewed and analyzed to see how closely they align with these standards. This information will be used to aid in the selection of the new math curriculum that will be chosen and purchased for the 2015-2016 school year. Upper School Faculty, Staff Test ePortfolios Each year, Upper School students create porfolios that reflect the work they have completed over the course of their time at Highland School. Last summer, a group of Upper School faculty and staff came together to study the possibility of moving these portfolios online. The team assembled for this faculty fellowship, which was led by Megan Catalfamo and Robert Hampton, looked at potential tools, design and content ideas, and tested the program with a select group of Upper School students. Based on the results of this study, the group, which also includes faculty members Cathy Campbell, Elaine Patry, Ronnie Ross, and staff member David Henrickson, will be rolling out a pilot ePortfolio program for a small group of ninth grade students for the 2014/2015 academic year.
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HIGHLAND AUCTION
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2015
Annual Highland Auction Saturday, April 11, 2015 Upper School Gym
Go online to highlandauction.org to order your tickets and VIP tables
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Last year’s Gold team captains anxiously await the final tally that would determine which team won the 2014 Barbara Wilkes Field Day in May.
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Feature Article
ARE YOU BLUE
GOLD? Blue/Gold. Blue and Gold. Blue or Gold. No matter how you look at it, they are just two colors, but for Highland’s Lower and Middle School students in Grades 3 through 8, it’s so much more than that. For Highland students, Blue and Gold is a year-long competition that pits classmates, friends, and even Highland’s faculty and staff against one another in a series of fun athletic and academic challenges that makes the two colors much more than they seem. At Highland, It’s More than a Question Every year for as long as anybody can remember, young leaders have emerged, school and team spirit is fostered, and friendly competitions bubble up throughout the Lower and Middle schools as daily sports games and academic accolades help students earn points for their respective teams. The competition wraps up each Spring with the Barbara Wilkes Field Day held around the Highland campus. (You can read Ms. Wilkes’ reflections on the history of Blue and Gold on page 27.) In the end, these two traditional Highland colors – Blue and Gold – take on a new meaning. Ultimately, they come to represent two teams locked in a heated year-long battle for the coveted championship title. That title is often remembered long after their Middle School years come to an end. “When I came to Highland 30 years ago, the Blue/Gold tradition was well in place,” said Lower School Director Lise Hicklin. “The enthusiasm for the competition has continued and gives students in grades three through eight a fun focus for their particular Blue or Gold team. It’s a great way to promote athletics and team spirit.”
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Students are Placed on a Team in 3rd Grade Highland students are placed on a color team in third grade, or whenever they begin at Highland School between third and eighth grades. The pep rally, held each Fall during Spirit Week in which colors are given, is an annual rite of passage. Color assignments are made by the Middle School coaching staff with the goal of creating as even a match up as possible between the two teams. Then, the assignments are revealed to new students through an elaborate, loud, and often, spirited ceremony. For this Fall’s Pep Rally, held in the Upper School gym in October, students received a small gold or blue teddy bear revealed to them by team captains on an elaborately decorated platter. Students grabbed their bears and were greeted by a long line of newfound teammates on either side of the gym. Smiles, hugs, laughter, and high-fives were abundant. Faculty Get in on the Action Faculty members in Grades three through eight are also assigned colors. For alumni, who are returning as Lower or Middle School teachers, some have the same color now as they did when they were students. “I always thought Blue/Gold was fun. It builds school spirit and breeds a little competitiveness,” said Melanie Lillard (9th, ‘88 and currently an English teacher at Highland). “I was a Gold from third grade through sometime in Middle School. Then, I was switched to a blue! This was unheard of and memorable. I was very proud to win the high point blue trophy at Field Day my ninth grade year. I think I still have it!” Blue/Gold is More Than Just Athletics The Blue/Gold competitions last all year and involve academic, athletic, and community service. The official scoring is posted weekly by Blue and Gold team captains outside the Middle School Athletic Office. The tally is carefully watched by parents, students, and faculty alike. “The Blue/Gold competition helps to foster a sense of community at Highland,” said Middle School Athletic Director and Highland alum Reynolds Oare ’03. “It provides friendly rivalries and competition among the students and faculty.” “As a student, Blue/Gold games and Field Day meant everything to me. Becoming a Captain in 8th grade was possibly the greatest honor I received as a Middle School student. I like how we have added in points for things like the Pep Rally, Student Awards, and ‘integrity moments’ to help round out the competition.
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Members of this year’s Blue team greet their new teammate at the Blue/Gold Pep Rally held this Fall during Spirit Week.
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New team members learned their colors by being shown a blue or gold stuffed bear.
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Blue Captain Ben Babcox ‘19 and Gold Captain Luke Rodgers ‘19 show that, although the competition can be fierce, they can still come together before the Pep Rally.
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Blue Gold By Barbara Wilkes, former Highland School Athletic Director and Physical Education teacher
When I started teaching at Highland School in 1974, the Blue/Gold Competition was run by Barbara Woolman. At that time, it was strictly an athletic competition. Fourth and fifth grade boys and girls played in soccer games in the fall, and sixth through eighth grade boys and girls competed in soccer and field hockey. In 1974, Blue/Gold was Athletics Only That Spring, the boys played a baseball game and the girls played soccer. The final Blue/Gold competition was field day. Field day events were the dash, shot put, softball throw, high jump, obstacle course, long jump, distance, and the relays. Ribbons were given out for first through fourth place. Also, a trophy was awarded to the Blue and Gold girl and boy earning the most points during the field day competitions.
event. The trophies for most points earned were handed out at the end of field day and the winning team was announced. Also, the high jump was dropped as an event. In the late 1990’s the pep rally was added and Andy Morgan started the Spirit of the Hawk award. The Blue/ Gold Competition stayed this way until 2003 when I started teaching computers. I believe it is pretty much the same now. Field Day was renamed Barbara Wilkes Field Day when I retired in 2007. n
At the end of the year, there was an awards banquet held at St. James Episcopal Church where ribbons for field day and the trophies for most points and academic awards were given. At the end of the banquet, the winning team for the year was announced. The Captain for each team was picked strictly by who had the highest grade point average and there was only one captain per team. Co-captains Added in the Late 1970’s In the late 1970’s, the faculty decided it would be best if there was a co-captain. The Captain was the student on each team that had the highest grade point average and the co-captain was the person of the opposite sex that had the highest grade point average. The other competitions stayed the same. In the 1980’s, the faculty added sportsmanship alongside high academics to be part of how the captain was chosen. As student numbers increased, the soccer throw was added to the list of Field Day events. In the late 1980’s, lacrosse was added as a Spring sport and that replaced baseball and girls soccer. As the school grew, the banquet wasn’t a possibility and we separated the Field Day Awards from the Academic Awards Night. We added two more places for each Field Day so first through sixth place were awarded and handed out at the end of each Former Highland Athletic Director Barbara Wilkes shares some quality time with the Hawk at last year’s field day
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In this photo, Finley Broaddus ‘14, center, is surrounded by her brother Coleman, standing at left, mother Julie, father Ike, and sister Callie ‘08, kneeling at right with their dog Riley, at home in Broad Run.
Elizabeth Finley Broaddus A tribute to Finley Broaddus by Cathy Campbell
Upper School English Teacher and Dean of Students
“Finley: the name called out by classmates in crowded school halls, and posted proudly by the paintings on the wall. Elizabeth is my first name, but most people know me as Finley.”
Finley Broaddus ’14, William and Mary application essay
On a Friday evening last November, Finley Broaddus sat on a couch in Highland’s College Counseling Office working on her William and Mary essay. She had been working on it off and on for weeks, but now at 6:00pm the Early Decision midnight deadline loomed large.
She wanted to get it right, to explain who she was, what motivated her, and why she wanted to study environmental science in college. When I stood up thirty minutes later to board the bus to DC, Finley remained on the couch, fingers moving over the keyboard, fully focused on the task at hand.
The building had mostly cleared out, except for a dozen or so students who were headed downtown to see “Romeo and Juliet” with members of the English faculty. While the theatergoers ate pizza in the student lounge, I sat down with Finley to discuss the latest draft of her supplemental essay.
“Within about ten minutes of meeting me, people register two things: 1) I have green eyes and 2) My greatest ambition is to do everything I can to protect the environment. As a child, I often wondered if my eyes were green because of the countless hours I spent gazing into the bottle-green water of the pond in my backyard.”
Finley’s heart was set on William and Mary, so this was high-stakes writing. A gifted writer, she was nevertheless struggling, like every senior before and since, with the daunting task of trying to squeeze the enormity of a life into a few hundred words. Beyond your impressive academic credentials and extracurricular accomplishments, the prompt instructed, what else makes you unique and colorful? Provide us with some suggestion of the type of person you are.
“Seventeen years (and a few biology classes) later, I’m aware that staring at something can’t magically change the color of your eyes. Nevertheless, my green eyes are my favorite feature; they remind me of who I am and what I want to accomplish. …Green means go; it is a call to action, and I am ready to respond.” (William and Mary essay excerpt)
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Finley launched her ‘Green Leap Forward’ Fund in March to support efforts that have a positive impact on the environment.
That December, Finley was accepted early decision into William and Mary’s class of 2018; in February, she became an in-patient at Hopkins battling a rare and incurable form of liver cancer. The youngest child of Ike and Julie Broaddus and sibling of Coleman and Callie ’08, Finley had attended Highland since the fifth grade. With the lithe body of a dancer and arms that moved when she spoke, she always struck one as an intuitively expressive person. To share a space with Finley was to understand the grace and beauty of her physical presence. Perhaps she loved butterflies so much because she was part one herself. Intensely smart and often funny, she had a way of pursing her lips and looking upward when considering a question, tapping the side of her cheek with her finger as though to emphasize that she was doing some very serious thinking.
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While she had several deep friendships, she also moved easily between groups; indeed, it was her inclusiveness and kindness that gave rise to one of her nicknames: Friendly. Her interests spanned the Upper School building, from the Science Hallway where she took AP Biology and spearheaded the recycling efforts of Green Team, to the Fine Arts Center where she performed at Coffee Houses and drama productions, and spent hours in the art studio. Outside, she played varsity tennis and interned at Piedmont Environmental Council. She adored animals. YYYY In the early months of 2014, Highland students and faculty pieced together a large quilt with messages of love and support to send to Hopkins. We knew that Finley didn’t want “stuff,” – she had been very clear when asked that what she really wanted was our help with the Earth.
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In response to my inquiry she texted: “If you guys could do something that is good for the environment, then that would lift my spirits sooo much. Reduce, reuse, recycle or plant something. ANYTHING that would help fight climate change!” From her hospital bed, she worked with family and friends to focus her vision, establishing the “Green Leap Forward” Fund to “support local and global efforts that have an impact on the environment.” By Earth Day, the fund had raised over $100,000 and under Finley’s direction awarded its first two grants of $5,000 each to The Green Belt Movement in Nairobi, Kenya and the Cacapon Institute in High View, West Virginia. As spring arrived, friends and classmates donated to her fund, wore green bracelets, planted trees and posted pictures of them on the Finley’s Fight Facebook page. On June 11, hundreds poured into the Airlie Center Pavilion and Gardens to celebrate Finley’s life and be received by the Broaddus family. Two days earlier, class officer Erin Herbst paid tribute to her friend and classmate at an emotional Senior-Parent Dinner:“Finley…had the innate gift of bringing conscious intent and passion to her actions and interactions with her classmates and the world around her.,” Herbst stated. “I believe that if we each continue to do the same, her spirit that graced and accompanied us will endure into the future and our happiness will flourish.” On June 13th, valedictorian Colby Newson addressed her classmates at Commencement and concluded: “I challenge you to find a way to incorporate Finley’s courage, optimism, passion and empathy in the way you live… My advice comes from knowing Finley: never forget to insert meaning into your life, dare to be someone bigger than you can, and strive to be someone worth believing in.” YYYY As a child, Finley’s green eyes reflected the deep water in her pond outside her house; as a young woman, she focused those eyes on the green world around her that she wished to nurture and sustain. Moving forward, we see our best selves reflected in her vision of hope and love for family, friends, and planet. We recognize the enormity of the gift she has given us. n
Highland Hosts “Through My Green Eyes” Exhibit to Honor Life, Vision of Finley Broaddus The Gallery at Highland School recently hosted an exhibit of artwork to celebrate the art and vision of Elizabeth Finley Broaddus ‘14 who succumbed to a rare form of liver cancer in June. A Highland student since fifth grade, Finley is remembered for her exuberance, passion, and kindness, in addition to her myriad accomplishments. Among other things, she played varsity tennis, acted in drama productions, and pursued a rigorous course of study, including AP Art. As a junior, she won the 5th Congressional District Art Contest with her colored pencil drawing “Church Steeple,” (shown above) based on a church near Vint Hill in Fauquier County. To learn more about Finley Broaddus, her art, and her Finley’s Green Leap Forward Fund, please visit www.facebook.com/FinleysGreenLeapForward.
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In the Spotlight
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In the Spotlight
Originally Launched in 2004, Seniors and Kindergarten Buddies Have Become a Beloved Highland School Tradition “Getting these kids together… and keeping them connected all year long is incredibly beneficial to both groups,” says Head of School Hank Berg. As traditions go, this one is relatively new. But it’s very powerful. It’s the PK/Kindergarten and Senior Buddy pairings which started ten years ago. “It’s our way of connecting the whole school,” said Head of School Hank Berg. “Getting these kids together at the beginning of each school year, and keeping them connected all year long, is incredibly beneficial to both age groups.” Students are paired for the first time prior to Convocation each year. They eat lunch together, attend all school gatherings, do holiday craft activities, and the seniors attend the class plays of their younger buddies. “We hope to continue to add meeting times,” said Lower School Director Lise Hicklin, “to give our youngest and oldest students the chance to get together more during the school year.” This year the athletic department will get in the mix and offer a “buddy game” to provide a chance for the little ones to attend a varsity home game and be recognized by their senior buddy. “It’s a great way to get our youngest Hawks involved in athletics, and provides a personal cheering section for our athletes,” said Athletic Director Gary Leake. Kitson Marr ‘06 Reflects on Her Kindergarten Buddy “Highland is a special place for many reasons, but one of the most important aspects is its sense of community,” said Kitson Marr ‘06, a Highland “Lifer” and Senior Buddy to Blake Bogin ‘18. “The Senior/Kindergarten buddy tradition was special as it brought together opposite ends of the Highland community – those nearing the end of their time at Highland, and those who were just beginning their own journey.”
winning our lacrosse game, of course! Blake and I spent time reading, doing arts and crafts, and getting to know each other. One of my favorite memories was making a reindeer ornament with popsicle sticks, glitter, a red pompom and lots of glue – the same ornament I made when I was in Kindergarten.” “After all these years, I still hang my reindeer ornament on the Christmas tree. I hope Blake’s ornament has become a holiday tradition for her as well!“ Blake Bogin ‘18 Remembers Her Time with Kitson “The Senior/Kindergarten buddy program is one I will always remember. Meeting Kitson and getting to spend time with her at school was so important to me, reflected Blake Bogin ‘18, who is now a Highland freshman. “She was a role model and someone I could look up to. She was a Highland lifer, and now, I plan to be as well.“ “I look forward to having my own Kindergarten buddy and providing her the same leadership and friendship that I enjoyed with Kitson so many years ago,” Blake continued. “It is such a great opportunity to gather both ends of the Highland community and share stories about those experiences. I hope it stays a tradition here for many more years to come.” “And I too, after all these years, have my reindeer ornament. When I see it during the holidays I remember all the fun we had putting it together in the old Chilton building!”
“As a lifer at Highland, the Senior/Kindergarten buddy tradition was extra special to me,” Kitson continued. “Visiting my old classroom to meet with my Kindergarten buddy, Blake, was a highlight of the week – that and
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In September, the senior class kicks off the field studies with a College Planning Night with parents. Then, the students head off to Front Royal to spend two days canoeing the south fork of the Shenandoah River and hiking in the Shenandoah National Park.
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Feature Article
A TRADITION OF
EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION AT HIGHLAND Combining traditional classroom learning with real world ‘experiential learning’ has long been the cornerstone of a Highland School education. Today, we look for ways to combine the concepts both on and off campus and across all divisions. Holding a blue crab straight from the water, while studying bay ecology on Freshman Field Studies. Palpating a cow during your Junior Internship in veterinary medicine. Debating the pros and cons of the foundation of Shenandoah National Park after back country camping and ascending Little Devil Stairs on Sophomore Field Studies. Taking your first all-class overnight trip to Jamestown to study a piece of Virginia’s history.
Experiential Learning Happens On Campus as Well as Off Campus Through experiential education programs, including service learning, field studies, trips, Junior Internships, Senior Projects, and hands-on learning, Highland strives to enhance learning, promote character and leadership development, and build connections both within and beyond the confines of our school community.
Reconstructing a Wright Brothers In the second week of school, Middle “I hear and I forget. I see airplane design during your Senior School students head for the famed Project. Conquering your fear and I remember. I do and ‘Camp Friendship’ near Richmond. of heights on the pamper pole at “Camp Friendship gives us the unique I understand.” opportunity to have our students truly Camp Friendship. Getting UN-lost on the Metro while investigating experience the lessons that we talk about -Confucius historical and cultural aspect of DC’s in the classrooms,” said Middle School urban community. Pulling all-nighters with your Robotics Director Matt Ormiston. “They realize that the loudest team members to perfect the lever mechanism on your voice often isn’t the one showing the most leadership. They competition robot. come to understand how much both the faculty and their classmates support them and want them to succeed.” The reality is that students at Highland may experience many of these things during just the first few weeks of “They see up close and personal how important it is to school each year. Highland School embraces the belief work together, to step outside their comfort zones, and that traditional classroom learning must function in to struggle with something that they find challenging,” partnership with innovative methodologies designed Ormiston continued. “My favorite moments of Camp to nurture the entire student. Friendship are almost always hearing a child say ‘I did it’
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At Camp Friendship, several teams worked together to move a rubber ball from one end of a volleyball court to the other side only a plastic ring and rope.
“Camp Friendship gives us the unique opportunity to have our students truly experience the lessons that we talk about in the classroom… They come to understand how much both the faculty and their classmates support them and want them to succeed.” -Matt Ormiston, Middle School Director after having heard them say repeatedly ‘I can’t’ as they stand before some new obstacle or challenge.” In the Upper School, Learning Combines with Building Strong Bonds Freshmen depart on the second day of school so they can begin to form a class identity instead of seeing each other as a collection of students from different middle schools. In remote cabins on the Chesapeake Bay, removed from the distractions of schedules and cell phones, they get to know their classmates and core freshman teachers. “Although the focus of the trip is environmental science, a primary goal is to introduce these first year students to the expectations of Upper School,” said Upper School Director Cassin Bertke. “Freshmen return from this trip feeling more comfortable with their classmates and thus better able to focus on their studies. More than one has commented: ‘I no longer remember who is new versus who
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went to school with me last year. We’re one class now.’” Sophomores and juniors have smaller experiences in the fall, in anticipation of larger field studies programs in the spring. Sophomores attend a Wellness Retreat in which they learn about healthy decision-making and the importance of building trust with classmates and teachers. Excursions Both Near and Far Juniors enjoy an urban excursion in Washington, D.C., exploring sights they will revisit in their study of American History during the course of the year. “Whereas freshmen are preparing to begin their high school journey, seniors are making plans for their next stage of life,” said Bertke. “We kick off Senior Field Studies with Senior College Planning Night in which Renee Norden, Highland’s College Counselor, describes the college search and application process to seniors and their parents.
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At Camp Friendship, Middle School students participate in ‘Color Wars’ which give the students a chance to tackle team challenges and, for the eighth graders, to try leadership roles.
As part of the Color Wars at Camp Friendship, these 8th grade Blue team captains review the day’s challenges.
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In October, the senior class went to Shenandoah National Park for two days of hiking and canoeing. In this photo, half the senior class prepare for their hike along a segment of the Appalachian Trail.
Lower School students got a wonderful opportunity for hands-on learning at The Lego Expo as part of our Robotics program.
Over the next two days, seniors enjoy a hike in Shenandoah Park and canoeing in the Shenandoah River. Seniors have opportunities to discuss their anxieties and to cement friendships that will help them navigate the joys and pitfalls of the year ahead. They return recognizing their role as leaders of Highland and thinking about the impact they want to make on Highland before they leave us at graduation.” “Field studies remind us that we learn best when we are willing to take risks and try new things, when we are in relationships with each other, and when we approach every opportunity with curiosity and an open mind,” Bertke continued. “There is plenty that can be learned in the classroom, but there is also much to be learned outside the walls of school.” In the Lower School, Students Take Field Trips and Find On-Campus Opportunities Lower School students can also expect to board a bus to travel to locations near and far to further their understanding of the community and world around them. Lower School Director Lise Hicklin offers, “Experiential education in practice are hands-on, authentic, and active learning experiences. Whether it’s Kindergarten’s trip to Rappahannock Park to study the changes of the seasons; First Grade agricultural experiences at Cox Farms; learning about tree growth and organic farming techniques at Oak Shade in Second Grade; visiting the birthplace of Robert E. Lee in Third Grade; or participating in a major rite of passage at Highland-the Fourth Grade overnight trip to Jamestown – students can expect to explore new places and add first-hand knowledge to classroom lessons.” Just a few steps from Lower School classrooms is the Village Garden and Outdoor Classroom. In this unique space, curricular and developmental goals direct the development
of hands-on activities including studying the life cycle of plants, definitions of habitat, and soil health. STEAM Night, Maker Space Offer Unique Experiences to Our Youngest Students Additionally, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities are incorporated into grade-level and co-curricular programs. Family STEAM nights, which are new this year, are designed to give parents a better understanding of this educational framework, to promote functional literacy in our students, to give families a fun way to interact with each other while learning something new, and to help build our Highland community. “The Maker Space provides opportunities for all students to hone their design, conceptualizing, building, and trouble-shooting skills,” added Hicklin. “Programs and places like the Garden and Maker Space classroom, provide ideal environments for students to share what they know, explore new concepts, and create what they imagine.” The emphasis on experiential learning at Highland helps provide opportunities to reach different kinds of learners, to challenge students and faculty to leave their comfort zones, and to create unforgettable learning moments. Stepping beyond the walls of Highland gives teachers and students unique opportunities to add real-world relevance to classroom learning, to see each other with new perspective, and to connect the school experience to life beyond Highland. This important and unique feature of the Highland program strives to facilitate self-awareness and personal growth, the creation of healthy, productive relationships, and meaningful experiences that challenge and broaden perspectives of school, local, national, and global communities. n
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n i c n e i r e p Ex t he Gal
Last summer, a group of students and faculty visited the Gala´pagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador as part of Highland’s Experiential Education program. They hiked, snorkeled, played with wildlife, and immersed themselves in island culture.
ng gos a p la Spotlight on Experiential Learning
Two Highland Students Offer Their Reflections on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity to Visit the Gala´pagos Part One By Ann Collins ‘15
Although our travel to the Galápagos Islands, which are located in the Pacific Ocean off the west of Ecuador, was one of the longest trips I’ve endured, knowing that we had finally arrived filled me with joy. Immediately, there was a very natural feeling. I do not mean in the generic way we use it today, but in the sense that we are much closer to the bare state of things, to true human nature. Totally Surrounded by Nature For breakfast, for example, we ate eggs that had been collected the day before and milk that was as fresh as that morning. Walking along the western side of the Andes mountains, I couldn’t help but catch my breath to see the clouds creeping slowly over the mountains, and the rivers racing them to the bottom. From our first immersion into the natural beauty of South America, we traveled by plane, bus, boat, and taxi to reach our hotel on Isla Isabela. To many, the amount of time spent traveling may seem like a burden, but it is irrelevant when you have the views to go alongside it. Feeling Right at Home in the Natural World Weaving in and out of the Galápagos Islands was truly an indescribable experience. Looking out at the horizon, I could easily see the remnants of the volcanoes that had created the amazing islands we would soon visit. Meanwhile, I could also look only a few feet away to see schools of fish glimmering just below the surface and dolphins showing off their jumps and spins not far beyond them.
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g n i c n s e i o r g e a Expt he Galap
Galapagos The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands. The islands are part of Ecuador and are both a national park and a biological marine reserve. Accordingly, all wildlife and the environment they live in are protected, which creates a unique opportunity to get close to nature.
Our writer, Ann Collins ‘15, poses with her brother Ivel Lee Collins ‘13 along a volcanic beach on Isabela Island looking out over the Pacific Ocean.
When we arrived at the hotel, I felt immediately at home, but once again in a natural sense. The open floor plan allowed for the warm air to flow freely and the sound of the ocean to echo softly down the halls. The owners were more than hospitable, making a buffet of fresh fruits and rolls every morning for breakfast. Everything about our housing was very intimate and welcoming, from the animal shaped towels on our beds to the fresh water set out every morning. Snorkeling Adds New Depth to Experience Now, of course, we did not fly halfway across the world, and experience every form of transportation, to spend time in the hotel. My most memorable experience was snorkeling in the inlet, just a mile or so from the town. Almost as soon as we entered the water, we were surrounded by fish of varying colors and sizes. The fish were curious to see the new creatures that had entered so suddenly into their habitat. Sea turtles were soon spotted gliding carelessly along the coral, seemingly indifferent to our approach. It was not the stunning plants or crystal clear waters that made this outing so memorable, however. Looking back toward the rest of the group, I immediately stopped swimming. To my surprise, a family of sea lions had taken Oliver and Ivel Lee in as their own. They swam in spirals, encircling the two, begging like small children for them to join in. This went on for several minutes as I watched in awe, culminating in one particularly friendly baby seal “bopping” (for lack of a better verb) Oliver on the face of his snorkeling mask. If a friendly nudge from a sea lion doesn’t fully express the closeness between humans and the other inhabitants of the islands, I don’t know what will. Truly at One with Nature That was likely the most surprising part of this trip. No animal, big or small, feared us. Both humans and creatures coexisted, feeding off of the same resources, in perfect harmony. It was very eye-opening to realize how different our relationship can be to the world around us, and I was somewhat ashamed of how it is back home. I know when I walk outside my door I will not find a family of lizards warming themselves on the rocks in my garden, but instead in a glass case at a zoo. Above all, I now want to protect this beautiful place and all those who inhabit it. For many, it is easy to not be
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g n i c n s e i o r g e a Expt he Galap interested in saving an environment so far away from where they call home. However, without such places like the Galápagos, we would be unable to experience some of the many organisms and breathtaking sceneries that we do today. As a result of my trip last summer, I want to protect the islands in the hopes that people after me can have the same unforgettable experience that I did, which I encourage you all to do if you ever get the opportunity. Part Two By Oliver Schwartz ‘15 I have been lucky enough to have gone on a few exciting overseas trips with the Highland community and to have gone on many overseas vacations with my family. However, I have never been on an adventure that was as incredible as this one to the Galápagos. On any vacation, there is usually one moment that stands out…whether it is a breathtaking view, a visit to a certain building or museum, or simply an amazing dinner. On this trip, every moment was a moment to remember forever.
“On any vacation, there is usually one moment that stands out… whether it is a breathtaking view, a visit to a certain building or museum, or simply an amazing dinner. On this trip, however, every moment was a moment to remember forever.“ Off to the Galápagos Archipelago After our short stay in Ecuador, we flew to the Galápagos Archipelago, then hopped on a boat and eventually found ourselves on a dock leading onto Isabela Island. While we loaded the trucks with our suitcases, we had our first encounter with the Galápagos wildlife. Laying there in the middle of the road was a beautiful, orange, massive iguana. Not far from him was a sea lion sunning himself next to some local fishermen. As the trip continued, wildlife was abundant at every turn. Whether we were climbing up volcanoes, walking on volcanic islands, or snorkeling, there were always
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marine iguanas, blue footed boobies, and sea lions to accompany us. Every night, a handful of us would venture out onto the beach in the dark and climb over the rocks with flashlights to look at the abundance of life that could be found in the tidal pools. To our delight, we found a plethora of crabs, octopi, and even an eel. Where Else Can You Play with Sea Lions? Our days were spent hiking, boating, and most exciting of all, snorkeling. I have never had an experience quite like swimming with sea lions before, and I can only hope that one day I have the opportunity to do it again. As we slowly swam out into the bay with our flippers and snorkels, we started to notice fleeting shadows dancing around us in the water. At first, I thought they were simply large fish, until a small furry face popped up out of nowhere just a few inches away from my mask. What happened next can only be described as cartoon-like…the sea lion “kissed” my mask. I was taken completely by surprise and my startled reaction scared the figurative pants off of that poor sea lion. After I realized what had happened, I immediately swam over to Ivel Lee Collins ‘13 who was almost as excited as I was about what had just happened. For the next hour, Ivel Lee and I swam with the sea lions in what I must say was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Wild and free, they glided effortlessly through the water, only to look back to make sure we were following them. Life in a Wildlife Sanctuary I never thought that a wild animal would act in such a playful way toward a human, but in that moment the true beauty of the Galápagos as a whole is easily seen. The entire archipelago is a sanctuary for all types of wildlife and because there is so much regulation and respect for the environment, animals aren’t afraid of people. The iguanas don’t run, the sea lions just want to play, and even the birds were too busy eating their fruits to be bothered by the proximity of humans. For anyone who is even remotely fascinated by wildlife (can you tell that I am?), there is no better place to view and interact with it than in the Galápagos and we were lucky enough that this trip gave us the opportunity to do just that. If you want a once in a lifetime chance to see a whole different world, this trip is for you and all I can say is I can’t wait to do it again next summer. n
highlandschool.org
Our writers Oliver Schwartz’15 and Ann Collins ‘15, at left, join Ivel Lee Collins ‘13, Parker Collins ‘15, Alie Brill ‘16, Robert Angelotti ‘16, Lewis Pollard, and Highland faculty member Jon Kraut for a photo.
Are you ready to experience island life for yorself? We will be returning to the Galápagos Islands in the summer of 2015. To learn more, please contact Leslie Ziegler via email to lziegler@highlandschool.org
News & Notes from Highland Alumni
Alumni News & Notes Laura Gargagliano Bartee, 8th ‘95 Laura graduated from Highland as an 8th grader in 1995. She later went on to attend Fauquier High School and then Virginia Tech. Laura graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in Architecture in 2004. She married Luke Bartee of Virginia Beach in 2009 and they had their first daughter Maddie Rose in 2012. Laura became a licensed Architect in 2012 and started her own firm, LLB Design (you can learn more at gargaglianobartee.com), that specializes in custom residential and small commercial projects in Northern Virginia. Luke and Laura recently bought a horse farm in Fauquier County and are restoring the 1920 farmhouse and stable. Victoria Hall ‘13 Victoria was recently accepted into a summer science program at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. In this program, Victoria received a stipend to do research and work on a project in the neuroscience department as part of the Yale Early Social Cognition Lab (YESCog). YESCog is a part of the Infant & Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic and the Yale Autism Program.
Grayson Louise Ayres Ross
Tyler Ross ‘98 “Here is a picture of Grayson Louise Ayres Ross, our little girl, who was born on September 8, 2014. Both Grayson and my wife, Sarah, are doing great and we’re enjoying our time with our new baby.” “I recently moved my company, Ross Real Estate, to an office in Old Town Warrenton. We are located on Culpeper Street and offer a full range of real estate services to residential and commercial buyers and sellers.” Nick White ‘07 Nick graduated from Highland School in 2007 and graduated from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill in 2012. He majored in Philosophy and minored in Business and now resides in Liberty, North Carolina where he is working with his father to start a cattle farming operation.
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Stay Up-to-Date with Classmates Want to stay up-to-date with classmates and friends? Send along your story and photos to bbogin@highlandschool.org and we’ll do our best to include it in an upcoming issue.
Connect with alumni and friends at
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Save the Date for the Alumni Reunion:
Saturday, May 30, 2015. Check out the Highland School website for more details! highlandschool.org
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Picture Puzzle
In October, students gathered in the Lise Hicklin Black Box Theater in the Center for the Arts for their monthly Coffee House performance. Can you find the 12 differences between these two images? The original image is on the top. The modified image is on the bottom. For the answers, visit www.highlandschool.org/picturepuzzle.
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Go Gold! At Highland School, Blue and Gold is a tradition that has carried on as long as anyone can remember. Part athletic and academic competition, part leadership opportunity, and all fun for students and faculty alike, Blue and Gold connects students from the Lower and Middle Schools like no other Highland tradition. In this picture, Gold team members showed their spirit in the Upper School Gym at the Spirit Week Pep Rally in October. Read more about Blue and Gold on page 22.