CLASSROOM One size doesn’t fit all
A publication of The Elisabeth Morrow School
APPLETREE
The Differentiated
Spring 2019
APPLETREE Spring 2019
APPLETREE is a publication of The Elisabeth Morrow School 435 Lydecker Street Englewood, NJ 07631 www.elisabethmorrow.org Articles, images, and other contributions from the extended Elisabeth Morrow community are welcome. Contact the communications office at kward@elisabethmorrow.org or 201.568.5566 x7185. All submissions are subject to review and submission does not guarantee publication.
MORROW MOMENT The humanities and STEAM combine as students explore what a community needs and how to build it from the grocery store to the infrastructure.
Editor Jan Abernathy Director of Marketing and Communications Design Erbach Communications Group Content Contributors Valeria Bonsarte Michele Bower Allison Egert, Ed.D. Trish Felix Judith R. Fox, Ed.D. Phyllis Kesslen Dara Picard Mary Ann Rota Keith Wiggs Photography and Photographic Contributors Nancy Dorrien Stephanie Massaro Stephanie Nebel Dara Picard Jeremy Smith Kelvin Ward
On the Cover Differentiation allows every student to get the education that they that they need to succeed and fosters strong teacherstudent bonds. Our Mission:
The Elisabeth Morrow School’s shared purpose is to provide exemplary academics and character development in a diverse and inclusive child-centered community, inspiring students to become curious scholars, ethical leaders, and global citizens.
Maybe concert for Chicks
in this issue 2
Appletree News
New leaders for Chilton House and Morrow House, Maker Day fun, academic competitions and other news
6
The Differentiated Classroom
EMS unlocks hidden potential in all students
10 Mrs. Eickelberg’s Next Chapter
Saying goodbye after 20 years
12 Beyond the Book Fair New offerings from the Parents Association promote family engagement
hello from Judy Looking Both Ways Typically, when I am working as an interim head of school, I am asked to identify areas for growth and improvement for future goal-setting. The Elisabeth Morrow School has to be approached differently. It was made clear from the very first, that EMS is committed to “the best of the old and the best of the new.” At this school, I must look both ways—to the past and to the future—in any assessment. So, what must be preserved at all costs? Much. I’ve never been at a school that more embodies the values of kindness and caring than this one. For a school to remain in one’s heart long after one leaves, it’s not what you learn that matters, it’s how the school makes you feel. On the topic of “what you learn,” EMS should preserve the high academic standards, examination of pedagogy, and assessment for student progress that already are in evidence and in place. It is axiomatic to all at EMS that the performing and visual arts programs are peerless. Something very special happens when our students present their work in concerts, in a gallery or, in conjunction with our STEAM activities, in the labs. Further, the value placed on diversity at EMS is unparalleled. It goes hand in hand with the dedication to making all feel welcome and is to be cherished and nurtured. If we should preserve all that, looking toward the future, what might some targets for growth be? The members of this community already have done exemplary work on a comprehensive and detailed strategic plan to guide our school over the coming years. From my perspective, there are two elements of growth that are forward-thinking and that will propel EMS to a position of unique stature in the world of education. One is the commitment to overall wellness and the other is understanding the importance of updated facilities to student learning. With respect to wellness, it is clear that today’s world of rapid change, academic demands, social media, and technology has added to the lives of children a kind of stress not familiar to older generations. The partnership between home and school must, therefore, attend to the physical, social, and emotional well-being of our youngsters. This is clearly identified as an important aspiration in the strategic plan and is being implemented even now. Finally, facilities. One study from Penn State University concludes that “...school facilities affect teacher recruitment, retention, commitment, and effort. With respect to students, school facilities affect health, behavior, engagement, learning, and growth in
14 Advancement An amazing Gala, Scavenger Hunt, Alumni Reunion, and Grandparents and Special Friends Day
18 Alumni and Class Notes In honor of Joan Van Alstyne Johnson ’34, news from our alumni
achievement.” The EMS community already has determined that the component of the campus master plan that involves the expansion and renovation of Morrow House is due. In my view, planning and funding this undertaking must be priority one. I have absolutely loved my year at The Elisabeth Morrow School and shall always hold you in my heart. My best, Judith R. Fox, Ed.D. Interim Head of School
APPLETREE 1
appletree news
Bright Ideas
MEET THE CANDIDATE!
G DAY SPARKS INQUIRY AND LEARNING by Michele Bower, Director of Curriculum and Secondary School Placement
Our community often describes EMS as having a “secret sauce.” The sauce was created by our founders and its base recipe is quite simple — our students learn by doing. G Day is the newest ingredient in that sauce — an all-school, student-led approach to pursuing education, driven by inquiry and choice. A recent G Day theme for the threes and fours was Exploration: Art and Nature; Build It - Imagine, Explore, Create; and Sensory Exploration. Mixedage groups in early childhood allowed four-year-olds to lead the three-yearolds and share their “expertise.” In Little School, students researched their areas of interest and attempted to realize their goals under the day’s deadline while sharing knowledge, dividing to collect resources, and reconvening to execute their visions. Finished (and sometimes unfinished) creations included architectural structures, simple machinery, a musical, artisan crafts, and videos. Morrow House students explored the concept of power for G Day. Some explored the element of power in the game Risk, others created artwork or a dance piece that illustrated power for them, some investigated how fictional characters embody power, and others experimented with electrical power generation. The day closed with all gathered for presentations, performances, and reflections.
Our eighth graders tour Washington D.C., every year, but they don’t always get to meet a Democratic presidential candidate! Seen here in a selfie with New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, the Class of 2019 learned about the American history they’ve been studying first hand on their trip to our nation’s capital.
Lauren Mactas to Lead Chilton House Lauren Mactas has been appointed our new Early Childhood Director. Lauren will join our community on July 1. A seasoned early childhood educator and leader, with advanced degrees from both Bank Street College of Education and Hunter College, she comes to EMS from Riverdale Presbyterian Church Nursery School in the Bronx, where she is currently the Executive Director. “What particularly struck me about the mission of The Elisabeth Morrow School is its focus on character development in partnership with academic achievement. When a school is able to balance the development of grit and resilience, the integration of kindness and compassion, and the drive to be a curious, empowered learner, it has achieved something powerful,” she says. Lauren says that she finds great fulfillment in all aspects of overseeing early childhood programs, most specifically, fostering productive relationships with staff, families, and children to see academic, social, and emotional growth in each child.
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News, facts, and events from The Elisabeth Morrow School
EMS Scholars Shine in National Language Exams by Valeria Bonsarte, Foreign Language
GAINING NEW COMMUNITY MEMBERS A mark of sustainability of any independent school is its ability to attract and retain new students. On that metric, EMS achieved great success this year.
Department Chair
Math Champions Advance to National Math League Competition by Mary Ann Rota, Lower School Math Chair In March, 66 third through sixth grade students participated in the Regional Math League Competition at Sacred Heart School in Lyndhurst. Our school won first place in the Division 6 category and 24 students advanced to the State Competition. These 24 students competed in the State Math League Competition at Kent Place School in Summit. Out of these 24 competing mathletes, six advanced to the National Elementary Math League Competition in June.
Once again, EMS’ foreign language students have received awards and recognition for their participation in the National Latin Exam and the National Spanish Exam. The exams, which are designed to measure proficiency and achievement in a particular language, are highly competitive and national or international in scope. More than 139,000 Latin students from all 50 states participated in the National Latin Exam this year, as did students from 20 other countries. Our Latin scholars earned many distinctions, including eight Purple Ribbon Certificates of Outstanding Achievement and nine Certificates of Achievement in seventh grade, along with five summa cum laude, five maxima cum laude, four magna cum laude, and one cum laude in eighth grade. Similarly, Elisabeth Morrow students attained national recognition in this year’s National Spanish Exam, which had over 146,000 participants nationwide. Seventh and eighth grade students earned a total of three gold, seven silver, and six bronze medals, along with 12 honorable mentions.
EMS STUDENT WINS NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC ART & WRITING AWARD IN POETRY Eighth grader Esmé Talenfeld’s poem, Thank You Mrs., has won a National Gold Medal
Current enrollment
432
a nine-year high
Applications at a
17-year high
Attrition at a
20-year low
91
new students in 2018-2019 school year, a 12-year high
in the 2019 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards competition, the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious scholarship and recognition program. Teens in grades 7–12 (ages 13 and up) submit work to the competition in 29 categories. In 2019, students submitted nearly 340,000 works of art and writing to the Scholastic Awards. About 2,700 teens receive national recognition. Sean Lee, Shira Mandelzis, and Toirasia Singleton won regional recognition in writing and Dream Champell-Aldrich, Phoebe Han, William Helm, Jaeyun (Emily) Kang, Michelle Kim, Keren Mandelzis, Shira Mandelzis, and Harmony Zhu won regional awards in photography.
Many grades now
at capacity APPLETREE 3
appletree news
PHILIP COX JOINS EMS AS MIDDLE SCHOOL HEAD Philip Cox has been appointed our new Middle
institutions. He was Director of Admissions at
School Head. Phil will join our community
the Rippowam Cisqua School in Bedford, NY,
on July 1. A seasoned educational leader and
and The Greenhill School in Dallas and has had
administrator, who holds a master’s degree
development roles in both higher education and
in East Asian studies from the University
independent schools.
of Virginia and an undergraduate degree from Bucknell University, Phil is currently a Managing Director at the Gowan Group, an educational consultancy, and a long-term leave replacement teaching history in the upper school at St. Luke’s School in New Canaan, CT. Phil served as Middle School Head at the Pingry School for 2004-2016 and has served in advancement roles in several
In describing what excited him about this opportunity at our school, Phil says: “I love teaching, but divisional leadership encompasses what I do best: working with colleagues, parents, and students to make school a place where children and adults are respected, challenged, supported, and where we all feel inspired by a sense of belonging, optimism, achievement, and purpose.”
Another Exciting Summer Awaits by Liza Hards, Director of Auxiliary Programs At EMS, we believe summers should be jam-packed with fun and exploration which is why at Summer Explorations, children explore a wide variety of activities to discover new passions. Our Early Childhood Program for students ages three through six features week-long activities, including art, movement, drama, Spanish, music, and outdoor play. Our older students choose morning and afternoon workshops led by teachers with professional experience in areas like computer coding, woodworking, fashion design, cartoon animation, drama, culinary, and chemistry. New this year, we are offering “Uke Can Do It!” for students interested in playing the ukulele, along with “Little Animation Studio” for young creatives interested in stop-motion animation. Students will also have the opportunity to learn valuable day-to-day financial skills through the workshop, “iPiggiBank Money Management.” The seventh through ninth grade students in our Counselor in Training (CIT) Program develop leadership skills and cooperative learning strategies while assisting with younger campers. Students learn first aid, CPR, and participate in a student-led community service project. The opportunities offered during Summer Explorations allow our students to experience new things, increase their confidence, and become fully immersed in joyful learning, no matter what time of year.
S MMER 2019 EXPLORATIONS
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News, facts, and events from The Elisabeth Morrow School
CLASS OF 2019 ADMITTED TO 33 SCHOOLS Although this year’s graduating class is a bit on the small side, it showed big results in secondary school placement. “Our students did wonderfully this year, gaining entry to 33 schools,” says Michele Bower, Director of Curriculum and Secondary School Placement. “It is very gratifying to be able to help talented students and their families find the right-fit school.” Our students were accepted to a variety of independent day and boarding schools, magnet schools, and public schools including Horace Mann, Dwight Englewood, Academy of the Holy Angels, Bergen Academies, Hotchkiss School, and Northern Valley Regional High School. A complete acceptance list is below. Chan Champell, whose daughter will be attending Ethical Culture Fieldston School in the fall, noted that although the process seemed overwhelming at first, the school’s guidance helped her keep things in perspective. “Countless applications to complete, recommendations to request, and interviews and school visits to schedule made my head spin in the beginning,” she says. “However, the support of EMS’ secondary school placement process (and remembering that being the parent of a 13-year-old trumps any terrifying experience life could throw at me) helped calm me down. I actually enjoyed the experience in the end.”
CLASS OF 2019 ACCEPTANCES Academy of the Holy Angels Avenues: The World School Bard Academy at Simon’s Rock Berkeley Carroll School Bergen Catholic High School Bergen County Academies Bergen County Technical High School-Teterboro Blair Academy Calhoun School Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School Dwight School Dwight-Englewood School Ethical Culture Fieldston School Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts Fordham Preparatory School Glen Rock High School
Grace Church School Hackley School High School of Art and Design Horace Mann School Hotchkiss School Immaculate Heart Academy Léman Manhattan Preparatory School Loomis Chaffee School Loyola School Masters School Northern Valley Regional High School Oakwood Friends School Riverdale Country School Saddle River Day School Tenafly High School Trevor Day School United Nations International School
Welcoming Our Community Onto Our Campus One of our most prominent public events of the year, the fourth annual Maker Day, brought more than 300 people to campus on Saturday, April 27. Children and adults had the opportunity to take part in a variety of creative endeavors and experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from making. This year, students made friendship bracelets and LEGO® car balloons. They also built a computer from scratch, participated in a virtual reality designing session and watched demonstrations of laser cutting and 3D printing. For the first time, the event included a recycling truck, fire truck, and police vehicle. The organizers of Maker Day, Kara Makohon-Moore (Lower School STEAM Chair and science teacher), Rurik Nackerud (Lower School Technology Integrator), and Mary Ann Rota (Lower School Math Chair), love creating experiences that inspire children to explore their natural curiosity. Ms. Makohon-Moore says, “There is much fun in exploring a project and not knowing what the outcome will be; it is the best kind of learning and each year is better than the last.”
APPLETREE 5
cover story
The Differentiated
CLASS
6 APPLETREE
ROOM
by Allison Egert, Ed.D., Director of Special Learning Services
Building a foundation of academic excellence is a bold goal for any school and even more so at EMS, which values diverse learning profiles among its students. When EMS admits a student, it is admitting an individual, one with many strengths, as well as some challenges which change over time as the child develops and matures. Because children are seen as individuals, our faculty members know that they must plan for logical outcomes and unintended consequences. The preschool student who shows no interest in numeracy may be a brilliant mathematician by middle school. Similarly, literacy challenges that may be undiscovered in early readers become more prominent when the curriculum turns from learning to read to reading to learn. We recognize that children quickly develop into their own selves and as specialists in educating children, it is our job to plan for the evolving child while providing the best instructional practices and methods. In our preschool program, all children come to school enthusiastic and cheerful; willing to learn and curious about everything. We want to maintain that attitude through graduation, creating, as our mission states, “curious scholars, ethical leaders, and global citizens.”
It All Starts with Language School is all about language—no matter what subject is being taught—at any grade level. From the earliest grades, EMS teachers have a pulse on the children who might not appear to be understanding or following oral directions or expressing themselves adequately. Sometimes, this can be as simple as watching students who are frustrated by interacting or playing with their peers because they can’t express their desires or follow the action. When this occurs, the family and school must partner to seek solutions and outside evaluation and intervention if needed. Academic functions such as reading and writing require direct instruction, meaning that these skills must be explicitly taught. Learning letter names and sounds are important indicators of literacy skill development and form the foundation of our literacy program. In kindergarten, the Fundations program, which provides a systematic approach in critical foundational skills, allows children to learn sound and letter recognition in a structured yet exploratory way. As students’ literacy skills evolve, teachers differentiate the instruction to meet the needs of those who require more repetition and review while supporting those who are grade levels ahead by introducing leveled readers. Accelerated students have opportunities to read in small groups with teachers and answer comprehension questions verbally and in writing. APPLETREE 7
cover story
Our literacy program is based on the framework suggested
selected students meet in a small group during their grade’s
by the National Reading Panel, which was formed with
blocked reading time. This ensures that all students stay on
the stated aim of assessing the effectiveness of different
course with gaining crucial literacy skills.
approaches used to teach children to read. The results of the Panel confirmed that an effective program should incorporate word reading, automaticity, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary building.
Fluid Math Groups As math is also dependent on excellent language skills, teachers assist some math groups with deciphering word problems as others work in accelerated groups. Math in
Students require different approaches to gain these skills.
FocusÂŽ, our newly adopted math curriculum for kindergarten
Our Step Ahead Program in Little School is a high-quality,
through sixth grade, provides training to help teachers
researched-based multisensory reading program taught by
meet students at their precise level of understanding.
certified Orton-Gillingham reading specialists. This systematic
Implementation of the program encourages teachers to
and sequential instruction is highly successful in teaching
create small learning groups based on student achievement.
students how to read effortlessly and effectively. Once
If students excel in a particular unit, they are given more
individual assessments are conducted at each grade level, the
challenging questions. If students show challenges in the unit,
8 APPLETREE
they are given parallel assignments to gain understanding. As
supports all learners. Small class sizes allow faculty to gain an
the course material changes so do the groupings of students.
excellent understanding of each student’s profile and to set
The goal of differentiated groups in lower school is meeting the
high expectations for the quality of work produced while at
learner at a pivotal point in their development and creating a
the same time clearly recognizing when a student hasn’t fully
transformative experience where they will meet with continued
grasped a concept or needs targeted help.
success in school. Whether by providing innovative ways
Executive function, or the mental skills required to organize,
to enrich the curriculum for accelerated learners or using
plan and complete tasks, is a common area in which emerging
specialized methodologies to meet challenges, each child
adolescents need extra support. In Morrow House, extra help
receives what they need in order to thrive in middle school.
with teachers is built into the daily schedule and guided study
Success without Tracking
allows some students a period to work on building these skills.
Recognizing students as individuals with some weaknesses in a sea of strengths enables us to plan for their successful
Students also can rely on their advisors to offer strategies on how to better organize their time in order to be successful in
experience in Morrow House. Differentiation through the upper
the rigorous middle school curriculum.
grades allows students to learn the same curriculum although
At EMS, we expect our graduates to continue to be lifelong
their needs vary. Some students in fifth and sixth grade extend
learners because we acknowledge that there are as many ways
their decoding and reading comprehension skills in our English
to teach concepts as there are ways for students to demonstrate
Plus class. Our learning specialists ensure full integration
mastery of those concepts. Rather than defining students by
of curricular objectives while at the same time introducing
their challenges, we value and build on their strengths so that
targeted strategies that allow these students to stay aligned with their peers.
any student can succeed in our rigorous curriculum. This allows students to push through momentary difficulties to
While accelerated students work in leveled groups in Spanish
experience the thrill of achievement, and creates the optimal
and math, classes in other subjects are designed in a way that
learning environment for each student.
APPLETREE 9
feature story
A New Chapter: Tricia Eickelberg How did you start working at EMS? I had been teaching for five years, first in daycare and then at an independent school in New York City, and I wanted to work closer to home. The director of special learning services in Leonia was my husband’s colleague and wrote me a recommendation letter for EMS. Emily Hewetson, former head of the lower school, which included the early childhood classes, called me in for an interview and I became an assistant teacher for the older fours in 1984. I later became a head teacher but stopped working when I was pregnant with my son, Tom, in 1988. So when did you decide to come back to EMS? They called me back after Tom was born to do monthly singalongs and I became a permanent substitute teacher right after September 11. In 2003, I came back to teach the threeyear-olds and later became the Chilton House supervisor for Summer Explorations. In 2012, I became both the Early Childhood Director and the Chilton House Librarian. In 20 years, what has changed at EMS? One thing that has never changed at EMS is the huge In her 20th year at The Elisabeth Morrow School, Tricia Eickelberg, Director of Early Childhood Programs and Chilton House Librarian, announced her retirement. Tricia, who was honored at our annual Gala, sat down
respect for children that everyone in our institution has. No matter where a child starts their journey, they are guided along a path that is right for them and faculty here are very supportive of that. We meet children where they are.
with Jan Abernathy to talk about her time at EMS, and
Parents today are very educated and involved, but they
what she will miss most.
are still grateful for the school’s support and expertise.
10 APPLETREE
Retires After 20 Years Collaboration among teachers is so much stronger now as
thriving is inspirational. Connections are huge for me. I love
they work as teams to analyze how to best teach different
old houses and antique things. When I first came here, there
children and different styles.
were dishes in the kitchens that had belonged to the Morrow
There’s now less downtime for children after the school day than 20 years ago, and sometimes that means less outdoor play at parks and other places where children have the opportunity to interact with others whom they may not already know. The social skills and physical development that occur in these open-ended experiences are important to allow children to have. What made you choose a career in education? I’ve always loved working with kids and that was my whole
family! History is all around us here. I’ve enjoyed hosting the Morrow cousins on their annual visits and solving little mysteries about items no one else can identify—some of which have even been featured in this magazine. And I must add a nod to my mother, who instilled in me the desire to learn more about the connections we all have to the past. I know you plan to travel with your husband Bill, and get some well-deserved downtime, but when you have a moment to think, what will you miss about EMS?
reason for becoming a teacher. My father was an art teacher
I will miss the children a great deal. They bring so much joy
at Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest and
to my day—singing, reading, and little conversations among
my mother was an English and history teacher, and later
children are so charming. I will miss the camaraderie of peers;
became a librarian, at Leonia High School. My family worked
I am in awe of them and I appreciate their collaboration with
at a summer camp for years when I was growing up and I
me and their willingness to work with me. I will miss the
was a counselor there. My husband’s a physical education
hallway chats. I will certainly miss hosting the cocoa parties,
teacher and both of my kids are college coaches. Teaching and
probably the most delightful experience any teacher could
supporting young people definitely runs in our family!
ever have!
You’re known as the campus historian. How did that
But most of all, I will really miss the “wonder,” which is the
come about?
most joyful part of teaching. There’s nothing like seeing the
I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of Connie Chilton
look in the eyes of a child who really understands a concept
and Elisabeth Morrow — I’ve met Connie Chilton myself.
for the first time. That’s what makes working with children
That these two young women could start a school that is still
so fulfilling.
APPLETREE 11
PA expansions athletics BOYS BASKETBALL The boys basketball team was a combined team of sixth, seventh, and eighth graders that played a mixed schedule of A and B games. All games were competitive and the team’s record was 12-4. The Eagles played their two best games against Tuxedo Park and Dwight Englewood, where all players contributed. The group excelled in boxing out and playing good defense and shot very well from the three-point line. The boys had great attitudes and spirit; next year should be a great year due to this strong foundation.
GIRLS BASKETBALL The girls basketball team was comprised of 14 determined, dedicated, and hard-working players. They brought energy and enthusiasm to all practices. The girls continually improved their skills and learned advanced offensive and defensive strategies. The entire squad treated each other with patience, respect, and kindness during practice and game situations. It will be hard to replace the leadership of the seven graduating eighth graders. They set a fine example for younger teammates to emulate. The team concluded the season with an impressive winning streak by defeating Tuxedo Park (twice) and Alpine. With seven returning sixth and seventh graders, Coach Love and Coach Rodriguez are looking forward to next season!
Beyond the Book Fair: PA Expands Offerings by Phyllis Kesslen, Director of Parent Relations
EMS Parents Association (PA) programming offers something for everyone. While over the past three years the PA has expanded its scope and depth of offerings, this year they have raised that bar even further, adding interactive workshops to the Book Fair & Storytelling Festival, and forming a Green Committee, a Health & Wellness Committee, and exploring parent affinity groups. The Green Committee, charged with promoting environmental sustainability at EMS, kicked off the year with a series of initiatives. After meeting with the administration, which agreed to “Go Green” in our purchases whenever possible, the Green Committee labeled trash bins for all the rooms in the school, which clearly delineate the difference between recyclable and non-recyclable materials. In addition, the committee now publishes a “Green Tip of the Week” in every Wednesday Envelope. It has implemented a recycling program for 3D printing material and initiated a battery recycling drive. The new Health & Wellness Committee teamed up with Englewood Hospital’s Graf Center for Integrative Medicine to host a wellness series for parents. The group also hosted a hugely successful Family Fitness Fun Day (see photos on next page) and a golf outing at Alpine Country Club. In response to parent requests, the PA is also exploring affinity groups, which are common in other schools and can form around identifiers such as race/ethnicity, family status (e.g., single parents), or learning challenges. “The PA is committed to aligning its programming with the need of our families,” says Melanie Weinraub, PA President. “We look forward to hearing more great ideas from our community, and creating deeper feelings of belonging in our school.”
The PA Speakers Series brings parenting experts to campus. 12 APPLETREE
FAMILY FITNESS FUN DAY
The first annual Family Fitness Fun Day, presented by the PA’s Health & Wellness Committee, was held on Sunday, April 14 and included a 5K run/walk, dog walk and fun and games for the whole family. Held at Overpeck County Park, it was one of several successful events sponsored by the newly formed committee. APPLETREE 13
advancement
2019 Disco Ball One Night Only! by Keith Wiggs, Director of Development On Saturday, May 11, at The Rockleigh, The Elisabeth Morrow School hosted the 2019 Disco Ball, our annual Auction Gala, to raise financial support for our students and teachers. The evening celebrated the 15th anniversary of the founding of the middle school and honored Tricia Eickelberg, Director of Early Childhood Programs, who is retiring in June. Guests enjoyed cocktails and a silent auction, followed by a sumptuous dinner, a live auction, and, of course, dancing. DJ Prince Hakim, son of Robert “Kool� Bell, founder of the legendary Kool & the Gang, was spinning disco classics all night long. Capping off the evening was a special late-night lounge.
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EMS Scavenger Hunt by Trish Felix, Capital Gifts Officer On Thursday, February 7, we welcomed Apple Tree Fund donors to our first-ever EMS Scavenger Hunt. Moderated by Watson Adventures, parents were assembled into teams, armed with clues and challenges, and then let loose in Morrow House for a fastpaced, energetic, and “slightly� competitive EMS-themed scavenger hunt. Tons of fun and lots of laughs were had by all.
Grandparents + Special Friends Day
by Trish Felix, Capital Gifts Officer
On Friday, April 12, Chilton House welcomed over 90 grandparents and special friends for a memorable morning filled with classroom visits, interactive activities, and a rousing sing-along. Students were extremely excited to have their special guests on campus. Thank you to all our visitors from near and far (New Mexico! Minnesota!) who made this such a fantastic event. APPLETREE 15
advancement
by Dara Picard, Development and Alumni Officer Three years ago, we began the tradition of EMS Success Stories, an annual series of vignettes that spotlights our youngest alumni. Featuring the most recent graduating class, we ask these alumni to reflect on their time at EMS to find out what they most valued about their experience here, and to let us know what they’re doing now and their hopes for the future. True to form, members of the Class of 2018 are challenging themselves academically at top secondary schools, are involved in all sorts of extracurricular activities, and are staying connected with their old friends from EMS. This year, we were pleased to share the stories of Ian, Shahe, Grace, Jonathan, and Paige.
“ I spent my formative years at EMS. Whoever and whatever I become, I owe a large part of it to my time on that island between Speer, Lydecker, and Next Day Hill.” Ian Maloney Bergen County Academies ’22
“ …I was allowed to ask any question I imagined — relating to the subject — without any boundaries or limits.”
“ Because of my preparation at EMS, I’m doing well at my new school and enjoying it at the same time.” Grace Lanava Convent of the Sacred Heart ’22
“ I am currently one of five freshmen in honors 10th grade math, thanks to EMS.” Shahe Jebejian Riverdale Country School ’22
Jonathan Jean Baptiste Phillips Exeter Academy ’22
“ I’ve always felt like my experiences at EMS made us — as a community — a family. Everyone knew that they could rely on each other.” Paige Lopez Riverdale Country School ’22
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THE LEGACY LIVES ON
As an adult, you occasionally reflect on the joys of childhood. You remember running across the playground at top speed after tagging your friend. You reflect on exploring the woods and discovering the wonder of nature. You remember that Cocoa Party where the story transported you to another world. Parents who graduated from EMS remember these moments. It is no surprise that they want their children to have the same experiences and we are grateful that we have become a family tradition for those students pictured here. Mr. Joseph Agresta, Jr. ’78. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Abigale ’24
Mr. Joseph Mauro and Mrs. Katherine Maria Schlatter ’86. . . . Maria ’21/Marco ’24
Mr. Victor Alvarez ’93 and Mrs. Gia Alvarez. . . . Gemma ’25/Greyson ’25/Asher ’29
Mr. Gerard Mekjian and Ms. Nadine Yavru-Sakuk ’89 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nairee ’23
Mr. Gregory J. Amerkanian and Dr. Natalie Capan Amerkanian ’84. . . . . . Saro ’27
Mr. William Osder and Mrs. Alison McGrath Osder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Liam ’20
Mr. Stephen Borg ’80 and Mrs. Monica Borg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . William ’21
Mr. Saumil Parikh ’86 and Mrs. Saloni Parikh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shanaya ’23
Mr. Michael Camarinos and Mrs. Lauren Camarinos ’96. . . Nicholas ’27/Anastasia ’29
Dr. Rajnik Raab ’78 and Dr. Jennifer Marcus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Benjamin ’22
Dr. Joseph Chikvashvili and Dr. Fara White ’94. . . . . . . . . . . . Samuel ’21/Arthur ’27
Dr. Anil S. Ranawat ’86 and Dr. Dana Ranawat. . . Cooper ’22/Viviana ’24/Selia ’29
Mr. Brian M. Cohen and Mrs. Elizabeth J. Thomas Cohen ’88. . . Aiden ’21/Lila ’24
Mr. Conrad Roncati and Ms. Alexandra Thayer Don ’97. . . . . . Portia ’26/Bond ’28
Mr. Daniel Gabbay and Mrs. Elizabeth Gabbay ’93. . . . Matthew ’27/Benjamin ’29
Mr. Jon Rustin ’93 and Mrs. Ivana Rustin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Isaac ’25/Conor ’27
Mr. Adriel Gonzalez ’94 and Mrs. Candace Gonzalez ’94. . . . . . . . . . . Camellia ’27
Mr. Andrew Steinberg and Dr. Lenis Gonzalez ’91. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gracyn ’28
Mr. Eli Hackel ’97 and Mrs. Alyssa Hackel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caleb ’28
Mr. Yoshimasa Tada and Mrs. Nancy Fujita ’86. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olivia ’22
Dr. Joshua Hyman ’75 and Ms. Elizabeth Corsini. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charlotte ’20
APPLETREE 17
class notes
HOW TO SUBMIT
CLASS NOTES
We welcome news and photos from alumni. Please email Dara Picard, Development and Alumni Officer, at alumni@elisabethmorrow.org. 1968 Richard Diehl checks in from California. He shares this class photo for all to see and also inquired about a class reunion. Please contact Dara Picard in the alumni office if you’d like the full-size digital file of this class photo.
1971 With a future EMS reunion on his mind, John Jacobsen writes: “Hello, fellow classmates. It’s been a while! I am writing to ask those of you who see this to offer your opinions about trying to hold a — GASP! — 50th reunion. I have been in contact with a few classmates recently and the responses I got were generally positive. For more information, please visit the EMS 1971 Facebook page. I encourage everyone to join the discussion and consider posting short bios and recent photos.” 1990 From nearby Dumont, Emily Glidden Cohen gives us this update: “After college my husband and I enjoyed three years in California together, then three years in Boston, MA, followed by three years in New York City, before settling down in Bergen County. We have a son and a daughter, and I enjoy connecting with EMS students, alumni, and parents in our nearby Englewood Field Club community.” Reshan Richards writes, “Hello! My writing partner and I have written a book about the intersection of teaching and business, and it will be published in May 2019 by Wiley Business. The title is Make Yourself Clear: How to Use a Teaching Mindset to Listen,
Understand, Explain Everything, and Be Understood. You can learn more about the book here: www.makeyourselfclear.xyz.” 2014 Ryan Zihenni graduated from Bergen Catholic High School in 2018 and is finishing up his freshman year at Purdue University, where he is studying engineering. 2018 Annabelle Winston writes, “I have been so busy. I am having an amazing time at the Bergen County Academies so far, even though (of course) I miss EMS. I know that it is definitely the right academy for me and feel right at home. All of my fellow students are so welcoming, friendly and kind and I have made many friends. I get to see fellow EMS alum Ian Maloney often and even though I have made many friends, it is so good to see someone who I have known (and attended school with) for 12 years. I miss all of my friends from EMS and keep in touch with them regularly — they are the kind of friends that you will never forget. Overall, I know I made the right choice coming to BCA and want to thank EMS for letting me share my experiences so far!”
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Over 21 Alumni Reunion by Dara Picard, Development and Alumni Officer On Wednesday, April 10, more than 30 alumni spanning four decades came to Axia Taverna in Tenafly to reconnect at the EMS Over 21 Alumni Reunion and Cocktail Party. This annual event — open to all over-21 EMS alumni — featured delicious Greek appetizers, adult beverages, and great conversation. EMS yearbooks from the past several decades were available for guests to view and proved to be one of the highlights of a fun evening as everyone gathered around them to find their old photos and share the laughter and memories of their time at The Elisabeth Morrow School.
Can you guess what this is for? Here’s a hint...it was the state of the art technology when it was installed in Morrow House. This mystery item was saved from an earlier renovation by EMS friend and local history buff, Bob Brutofsky, and lovingly preserved by his wife, Anna. Thanks to their efforts, we have a little better understanding of the life and times of the Morrow Family. Email your answer (or send any great trivia or questions about our campus) to Director of Major and Planned Gifts Keith Wiggs at x7222.
IN MEMORIAM
We are saddened to report the passing of the following EMS alumni: Amy Bertsch Burke ’77 (July 6, 2018) Joan Van Alstyne Johnson ’34 (March 30, 2019) Michael McFarland ’11 (March 5, 2019)
And we extend our condolences to the families and friends of Joann Maria Bres-DeArmas, former French teacher and advisory coordinator at EMS who died on April 22, 2019, and Alison Simms, sister of Morrow House Technology Integrator Samantha Morra, who passed away on April 25, 2019.
APPLETREE 19
class notes REMEMBERING JOAN VAN ALSTYNE JOHNSON ’34 Joan Van Alstyne Johnson ’34 passed away as she lived—with her makeup applied beautifully and flowers in her hair—on March 30, 2019. She was born in 1927. She is survived by her two sisters Keats Van Alstyne Smith ’39 and Ellen Van Alstyne Starratt ’46 (husband, Dick); her six children Sue, Keats, Kate, Kimball, David, and Sam; her many beloved nieces and nephews, and her 10 grandchildren. She was proud of all of her children, nieces, and nephews and especially enamored of her grandchildren. Joan survived two husbands: Edward Fuller Johnson, the father of her children, and founder of Johnson Redbook Service, who died in 1995, and Ronald Wittreich, who passed away in 2017. She was predeceased by her parents—David Van Alstyne, Jr. (New Jersey State Senator from 1943–1953 and shortly thereafter acting governor of New Jersey) and Janet Graham Van Alstyne (a scion of the community), as well as her cherished brother, David Van Alstyne III, who died in the Korean War in 1952. Joan spent her entire life in Englewood, where she was a life force in the community. Community service was the cornerstone of the Van Alstyne family, and from an early age, Joan took it to heart. At 13, she volunteered as a candy striper at Englewood Hospital. Two years later, she volunteered at Memorial House, formerly the Social Service Federation (co-founded by Susan and George Graham, Joan’s grandparents). Memorial House later merged into Bergen Family Center, which Joan helped to establish. Children and teenage volunteers were deeply involved in Memorial House, which, in the words of a veteran, was “a foundation for life.” Her mother, aunt, and daughter had all volunteered there as well. For the next 60 years, Joan continued to be involved in the social work of the Englewood community. Joan’s first real passion was early education at a time when it was receiving little attention. Her parents started The Little School (predecessor to The Elisabeth Morrow School) over 90 years ago. Joan was a trustee for 52 years. In those early years of The Little School, Joan’s passion was her work with three-year-olds. She would later serve on the board of Dwight School for 12 years, a school she had attended when it was known as the Dwight School for Girls. She has supported the present-day Dwight-Englewood School as a passionate alumna. For many years, Joan would visit elementary schools and read to the children. Joan loved nature and was proud of her role in helping raise money for Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, where she was a
20 APPLETREE
Above: Joan Van Alstyne Johnson with family and friends, 1986. Right: The first class of EMS students, Joan Van Alstyne Johnson, third from right
docent and guide for many years, enjoying teaching children about nature. She also served for a time as president of the Garden Club of Englewood. In politics, she campaigned vigorously for city, state, and national candidates, always intensely involved and passionate. She worked at the polls during election time, with her children in tow, teaching them about civic duty early on in their own lives. She met with congressmen in Washington on behalf of the Garden Club to address environmental causes and marched in D.C. on four different occasions, one of which was on behalf of a woman’s right to choose. Joan was a natural leader. When she saw a need in the community that was not being met, she took it upon herself to initiate organizations to address that need. To that end, she was instrumental in the founding of the American Anorexia-Bulimia Association. She helped to establish Leonard Day Nursery (now part of Bergen Family Center), and the County Blood Bank. She was also a trustee of the Social Service Federation for 25 years. She actively supported Englewood Hospital, Volunteer Bureau, Junior League of Bergen County, Community Chest of Englewood (her father was one of its founders), the League of Women Voters, and served as president of the American Red Cross of New Jersey. She served as president of The Women’s Club for many years and was chairwoman of its Conservation and Outreach committees, following in the footsteps of her mother, Janet. A frequent attendee at EMS concerts and special events, she will be deeply missed.
GIVE YOUR VERY BEST You want the very best for your child. At EMS, that means a warm and nurturing environment, dedicated teachers, student-centered learning, a dynamic curriculum including STEAM, robust music and art, and so much more! Gifts to the Apple Tree Fund make it all possible. Thank you in advance for giving your best, so we can deliver our best, on behalf of your children.
Make Your Gift Today! Contact Director of Major and Planned Gifts Keith Wiggs at 201.568.5566 x7222 or visit our website: www.elisabethmorrow.org/give. We look forward to seeing you on campus and sharing with you all the ways your gifts help us to grow.
The Apple Tree Fund
www.elisabethmorrow.org/give
The Elisabeth Morrow School 435 Lydecker Street Englewood, NJ 07631
JUNE
AUGUST
TRIPLE A CAMP 2019
S MMER 2019 EXPLORATIONS
The Elisabeth Morrow School
The Elisabeth Morrow School
Summer String Festival 2019
June 17—21
June 24—August 9
August 12—16
NOVEMBER SAVE THE DATE
EMS Book Fair & Storytelling Festival Sunday–Tuesday November 10–12, 2019 Featuring three author visits, exciting interactive workshops, a young alumni reunion, and favorite EMS traditions
EMS Gives Back November 24 • 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
FREE FAMILY FUN!