Graland Today April - June 2017

CELEBRATING

40 YEARS IN EDUCATION

TODAY

APRIL - JUNE 2017

INVENTIONS RISE TO NEW LEVELS OF INNOVATION IN UPGRADED LAB

By Mimi McMann, Associate Director of Communications

When the new Gates Innovation Lab in the Corkins Center opened in October, Middle School inventors got right to work exploring the space and getting acquainted with the new tools and other equipment. For students in this year’s Gates Invention and Innovation Competition, their hard work paid off at the March expo.

A Year of Discovery Gates inventors spent the majority of the year developing and realizing their creative and practical ideas for inventions and innovations that will help someone.

Prior to the grand opening of the new lab, inventors in Grades 5/6 rotated through workshops on developmental design, empathy and the 3D printer program.

They also got an introduction to sewing and made personalized canvas storage continued on page 6

Graland’s Legacy: The Gift You Have Been Given, Give as Gift…

By Ronni McCaffrey, Head of School

I have long forgotten, or perhaps repressed, many of the exhortations or “words of wisdom” I encountered as a child, but one phrase echoes through the years. “The gift you have been given, give as gift.”

As this is my last letter to you, the Graland Community, I would like to share a few reflections as the school year rapidly draws to a close. While deep in my heart, I long to remain with this community and be part of its future, my share in this work is complete and the time is ripe for new leadership. I also am eagerly anticipating my own next chapter as I register for classes, make plane reservations and plan activities with family and friends who have waited far too long for me to spend more time with them.

My heart is light as I transition the leadership of this beloved school to the incomparable Josh Cobb and his administrative team as well as a very dedicated

▶ Inside this Issue:

continued on page 12

ECLC Page 4

Alumni Page 8

Golf 10 ASCEND 11 GPA 14

GOGRALAND

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“Ronni’s warmth, insight, wisdom

and knowledge is a rarity... we will miss her dearly.”

-Lisa Flannery, see story page 4

At Graland Country Day School it is our mission to: Achieve intellectual excellence, build strong character, enrich learning through the arts and athletics, and prepare our students to be engaged citizens and thoughtful leaders.

Ascende Omnem Montem GRALAND’S GUIDING PRINCIPLES Pursue Excellence Guide Critical Thinking Instill Integrity Inspire Leadership Promote Independence Stimulate Innovation Honor Individuality Cultivate Compassion Embrace Experiences Celebrate Perseverance Value Tradition Build Community

Graland Today is a monthly publication of Graland Country Day School Volume 5, Issue 4 Send correspondence to: Associate Director of Communications Graland Country Day School 55 Clermont Street Denver, CO 80220 communications@graland.org graland.org

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SUMMER FUN AT GRALAND! JUNE 19-23

GRALAND SESSION 1 Movement & Creative Art (PK-2) Reading Under the Stars (1-2) Unconventional Painting (1-3) Inspired Engineering (3-5) Creative Crafting with Fabric (3-8) French Cooking for Young Chefs (4-8) Denver Skateboarding Camp (4-8) Babysitting Bootcamp (6-9)

JUNE 26-30

GRALAND SESSION 2 Movement & Creative Art (PK-2) Awesome Art & Animals (K-2) Fun Fine Motor Skills (1-2) Around the World in 5 Days (1-3) Future Engineers’ Club (3-4) Innovative Language (3-4) Design Thinking Immersion (5-7) Russian Language and Culture for Beginners (6-9)

AUGUST 7-11

GRALAND SESSION 3 Movement & Creative Art (PK-2) Young Authors Imagination Camp (K-1) Reading Under the Stars (1-2) Math Fun with Board Games (3-4) Music Makers (4-8) Creativity with Spray Art (4-7) Design Thinking Immersion (6-8)

de s gra ’ d l i r ch 017 r you g Fall 2 o f s n p nteri cam see ill be e e s Plea t they w tha

YOU’RE INVITED

JOIN US ON THE GRALAND CAMPUS THIS SUMMER

HAPPY TRAILS A CELEBRATION OF

SATURDAY, MAY 20 • 7-10 P.M. GRALAND FIELDHOUSE Libations, hors d’oeuvres and program in the Hamilton Gymnasium Dinner and drinks on Preisser Field

ALSO AT GRALAND: CHALLENGER BRITISH SOCCER CAMP June 12-16 August 7-11

After 40 years in education, Ronni McCaffrey is hanging up her spurs and riding off into the sunset. Please join us to thank her for living Graland’s mission. We likewise anticipate toasting the successful conclusion of the ASCEND campaign. All adults 21+ are welcome at this complimentary event. Urban western chic attire is suggested. Spurs optional!

PLEASE VISIT GRALAND.ORG/CELEBRATION FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER.

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER CAMPS Camp Shai Shai Sports Wolf Theatre & Art Academies June - July - August More dates and details of camps available at jccdenver.org.

TO HONOR RONNI Visit graland.org/summerfun for course details and online registration

In conjunction with this celebration, Ronni has asked that any gifts made in her honor be directed to the Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) endowment, a program she holds near and dear to her heart (see page 4).

Endowed gifts of $1,000 or more directed to the ECLC are eligible for the Colorado Childcare Contribution Tax Credit which provides a significant tax benefit to the donor. This is a special opportunity to directly impact Graland’s ability to attract and retain top-level employees by offering onsite subsidized child care.

TO MAKE A DONATION GO TO GRALAND.ORG/HONORRONNI Graland Today

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Lower School News

We’re All Learners

By Lisa Flannery, ECLC Teacher

With her emphasis on professional development and continued education, Ronni McCaffrey’s imprint on Graland’s Early Childhood Learning Center will remain long after we have all retired. Teachers in the ECLC have been exceptionally blessed with the chance to learn from the best.

For the past two years, we’ve had Dr. Lucy Jane Miller from the renowned STAR Institute speak to us in depth about sensory processing disorder.

She has trained us to recognize each of the subtypes and has offered many strategies for us to incorporate into our classrooms.

Drs. Douglas H. Clements and Carrie Germeroth from the University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education also gave us extensive training on the importance of math trajectories in the early years. The funding for both of these amazing learning experiences was generously donated by the Marsico Family Foundation.

As a role model to all teachers, Ronni possesses an inherent knowledge and clear understanding of the importance of being little. I especially remember one time when she sat with me and one of my students who was visibly upset because his best friend was being unkind. Ronni offered her love and acknowledged his strong feelings. She reassured him that he was doing the right thing by talking to trusted adults and emphasized that she too would feel sad if that happened to her. It made all the difference for that little boy to have his feelings validated.

Ronni’s warmth, insight, wisdom and knowledge is a rarity. I speak on behalf of all ECLC members when I share that we will miss her dearly and always feel indebted to her for the kindness and generosity she’s shown to us.

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ECLC Owes Success to

By Johnnie Romano, Director of Early Childhood Learning Center

When Graland’s Early Childhood Learning Center was being developed in 2010, there was one person whose drive and vision brought it to life: Ronni McCaffrey. Her idea to bring a faculty and staff (FAS) child care program to Graland came true in 2011 for the benefit, at the time, of five toddlers.

I am not sure words can express the beauty of this woman both inside and out.

After the program launched, Ronni continued to show the depth of her generosity.

Duplo blocks, toys, a fully furnished doll house and Thomas the Train books

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Early Childhood Learning Center Celebrates Ronni “Personally, my transition from maternity leave back into the classroom was much easier because of the ECLC program for faculty. It is so reassuring to drop off our daughter with such amazing teachers and caregivers each day. Josh and I thank Ronni so much for the efforts she has put towards creating this community for our youngest Graland students.” ~Beth Gaffga, history teacher

Ronni McCaffrey appeared out of nowhere to ensure these early learners had plenty of ways to spark their imaginations. Not only that, but Ronni has a keen knowledge of how to create the ideal learning environment for children and the importance of play in a child’s growth and development.

In order to continue meeting the needs of FAS children as they grew, we added a classroom in 2012 for ages 3-5. Two rooms in the Humphreys Building were renovated into colorful and cozy spaces with throw pillows, Italian motion tiles in the floor and lovely mobiles, thanks to Ronni. At this time she selflessly donated her personal collection of children’s literature to the program and the Little Turtle Library was born! To complete this idyllic learning center, Ronni developed and funded, along with her partner b Frank, a fantastic preschool playground with water features, climbing wall, a swing and play structure.

Build it and they will come! In the 2014-15 school year a second toddler classroom was needed for FAS children.

Ronni continued to anticipate the unique needs of early learners and ensured these spaces were well equipped for our youngest students. She also sponsored an annual trip for the teachers to The Bookies, a local bookstore where each teacher was able to select books for her classroom library.

In strategically growing the ECLC to include non-FAS students ages 1 to 4, we now have a family of 12 teachers and 61 bright and shiny-eyed children. Ronni continues to improve on the ECLC with plans for a revamped toddler outdoor play space and a gross motor room. Her kindness and generosity has become legendary in the ECLC. It’s Graland’s worst-kept secret that Ronni will sometimes “escape” the Head of School’s office and “hide” in the Early Childhood Learning Center. When she sits down, surrounded by children, and reads picture books to them, it’s not hard to imagine her as a young teacher 40 years ago when her love for education first began. I would like to thank Ronni from the bottom of my heart for her brilliance, unwavering support, compassion and her inspiration for excellence! She has truly been a role model for us all.

“I love that my son is on campus with me and gets to be a part of Graland.

Knowing that our Head of School has such an interest in even the littlest people on campus warms my heart and makes me even more proud to be a teacher at Graland.” ~Holly Hudson, preschool teacher “We are so lucky to have a leader like Ronni that truly values relationships and puts family first. My son Teddy smiles every time I drop him off in the morning. He is learning a great deal, and there is no greater gift than to know without a doubt that my little boy is safe and loved.” ~John Caldwell, history teacher “Ronni McCaffrey--a gift from heaven who has propelled Graland to even greater heights. Her record of vision, leadership, accomplishment and goodness leave an indelible mark on the Graland community. Ronni, thank you for making Graland a significant part of your illustrious career.” ~Arlene and Barry Hirschfeld, grandparents of Graland preschool and Lower School students

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Middle School News continued from page 1

Inventions Rise to New Levels of Innovation in Upgraded Lab

bags. By November, all inventors eagerly dove into the lab and The invention process involved more than hands-on put their brains to work identifying a problem to solve. Sixth tinkering. Inventors logged their journeys, noting their ideas, graders Gus Albright and Hudson Park, for example, decided to materials used, challenges and so forth. Fifth graders Charlotte help athletes and weight lifters with a solution to slippery hand Smith and Amelia Birner were detailed - and honest - in weights that can cause foot their record of creating The Blizzard Wizard, a injuries if dropped. snow shovel with an attached salt spreader: “We With a problem in encountered many problems on the road to success.

Grades 5/6 mind, students moved on One of them was the shovel. It took two classes to First: Michael Ryan, Safety Syringe to the research step. What build because the instructions were horrible and it Second: Mailin Thompson, Buckle in a Snap products currently on the didn’t come with the right nuts and bolts.”

Third: Alex Geldzahler and Maria Storch, market address the identified The invention phase eventually morphed into the Baker’s Buddy (patent nod) problem? Scouring the presentation phase. For the expo, each inventor or Grades 7/8 internet, Maria Storch and team must have a working prototype and a trade First: Sophia Birner and her partner Alex Geldzahler, show-style presentation. Students developed stylized Maria Romo-Nichols, Brush Better both fifth graders, could logos for their inventions and designed visually Second: Josiah Davis and Cameron Swaney, not find anything like their appealing, informational displays. They spent Star Life Slide idea for an all-in-one baker’s the last, frenzied days before the expo polishing helper to dispense dry their “elevator pitches” and preparing to answer Third: Elena Abarca, Meal Preserver ingredients. “There are a lot deeper questions from the of canisters and measuring competition judges. Judges cups and some products for liquid ingredients, but nothing determine the finalists and Our Newest Patent Holders like our idea,” Maria explains. ultimately the winners of the Congratulations to inventors Finally, inventors began experimenting with materials and contest and also single out Matthew Romo-Nichols and designs. Gates coach Dana Rankin is in charge of supplies; inventions that could pursue Chase Street, Class of 2014, who she’s tasked with sourcing whatever parts and pieces the a U.S. patent. received their patent certificates at inventors need to create their prototypes. Along the way, a Finally, expo day arrived the March assembly. The two were graveyard of random, rejected items - everything from velcro on March 9 and inventors eighth graders when they invented tape to shower heads to a box of assorted springs - testifies to spent two hours in front Lax ‘Em, an accessory to protect the the “try and fail and try again” process. When Elena Abarca of parents, peers and head of a lacrosse stick. mismeasured for her product, The Meal Preserver, she had judges demonstrating their to reorder a smaller size diameter PVC pipe. The bigger products over and over. pipe lolled on the Island of Misfit Supplies and waited for Several finalists were invited another inventor to see its potential. back the next day for a more Try, fail, try again. Seventh grader David Gebremedhin in-depth presentation for the panel of judges. At an all-school experimented with the 3D printer to make a clamp that helps assembly later that day, the winners were revealed, resulting in trumpeters with their instruments — the Stay Tite Mouthpiece. cheers and heartfelt hugs. Congratulations to all the inventors In the end, he used a product called Instamorph to mold the who poured heart, soul and imagination into this year’s clamp to the perfect shape. competition!

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Students Share Favorite Memories of Ms. McCaffrey “I remember in kindergarten Ms. McCaffrey knew everyone’s name including mine.

She would greet each kid individually when walking through the halls. No other head of school does that.” ~Milin Choksi, Grade 6 “On the first day of kindergarten I was lost and she helped me get to class.” ~Elliot Rutherford, Grade 6

DARING TO DREAM

Students take Alzheimer’s unit to national conference and inspire others with their service learning Four seventh-grade students and their teachers recently traveled to Southern California for the 28th annual Dare to Dream Service Learning Conference. They not only participated in the exchange of ideas to impact positive change in the world, they helped lead the discussion.

At the invitation of the National Youth Leadership Council, Anna Scott Arnold, Sophia Birner, Grace Dale and Hanna Drake presented Graland’s Grade 7 Alzheimer’s unit through hands-on activities, thought-provoking discussions and student-created projects.

“This service project speaks to me,” says Hanna. “Many people may be intimidated by the idea of intergenerational learning and that is why I was excited to share this experience at the conference.”

The group’s goal was to show other students how they can have an impact on Alzheimer’s in their community and to give teachers a framework for implementing this program at their schools. Since 2011, Graland’s Grade 7 service learning program has focused on issues facing an older population. After visiting seniors in a nearby assisted living facility, students became interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s disease and a new crossdepartment curriculum was developed.

The conference presentation, “Minds Matter - Engaging the Next Generation

with Alzheimer’s Awareness and Research,” described all aspects of the seventh graders’ service learning.

These include building relationships with older citizens and the classroom components to their Alzheimer’s unit.

Participants developed an understanding of a project-based service curriculum, basic neuroscience underlying Alzheimer’s disease and how to use an interdisciplinary approach to address this real-world problem.

“We were inspired by an opening speech from a descendant of Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington who said that everyone has power running through their veins,” says Grace. “Don’t be leaders of tomorrow. Be leaders of today.”

Anna Scott adds, “We were there with citizens from all over the world who have never met but have a powerful bond of serving their communities.”

In reflecting on the unit and service project, Sophia shares, “Alzheimer’s has left me thinking about what our future will be when kids my age get older. Will there be a cure? Already there are nearly 5 million Americans suffering from a disease that has erased all memory of their families, children and childhood. I am honored to help spread the word about our project so that other students can be as excited as I am to make a difference.”

“I remember vividly the time when the Sirens came and surprised her in her office to sing Alleluia. I remember passing her in the hallway and saying hi and thinking how lucky I am to go to this school.” ~Avery Farmer, Grade 7 “Whenever Ms. McCaffrey gives a speech at an assembly, you can always tell that it is heartfelt and that what she is saying really matters. When I think about Ms. McCaffrey, I think about the words kind and caring.

I have been at this school for eight years, and I have never once seen her treat people with anything but kindness.” ~Bo Turnage, Grade 7 “I remember that Ms. McCaffrey always seems to be filled with joy. Whenever she saw me she would ask how I was and always cared about how my day was or how school was going. She would always give me a hug, then proceed to have a delightful conversation with me. I hope she knows that she has left an amazing mark on all the people that have been to Graland. She will always be remembered.” ~Dietrich Miller, Grade 8 “Ms. McCaffrey has made a very strong impact on my education at Graland by bringing so much positivity and joy to our community. She always knew how to cheer people up which is something I admire her for.” ~Eleanor Hunt, Grade 8

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Alumni News

HONORING

GRALAND

GREATS IN 2017

MR. PHILIP HICKEY

MS. RONNI MCCAFFREY

SERVICE SINCE 1976

RUTH GORHAM ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT (2017)

HEAD OF SCHOOL - SERVICE FROM 2008-17 In her nine years at Graland, Ronni has crafted a legacy that will enable the school to thrive for generations to come. As Head of School, she inspired and united the faculty, administrators, students, parents and alumni as she modeled our mission and guiding principles. Although her accomplishments at Graland are too numerous to list, Ronni has a special place in her heart for the Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) and the faculty childcare program,* both of which she personally oversaw, developed and mentored. She was also a visionary behind the ASCEND campaign to create the Corkins Center and increase funding for our remarkable professional development and financial aid programs. Ronni is the essence of all that is great about Graland. *As a champion for Graland’s faculty and staff, Ms. McCaffrey has requested that gifts made in her honor be directed to the ECLC endowment.

Philip William Hickey did not move to Denver for 300 days of sunshine or so he could ski down the slopes of Vail. He came to teach and to learn from the best teachers in Colorado, like Mike Teitelman. Phil’s 40-year career in education has produced countless English, Latin and Greek mythology scholars. Many alumni say Mr. Hickey made an indelible mark on their lives, and they fondly recall his classroom antics. In recent years he has dedicated himself to managing the Graland archives* as he spends hours cataloguing photos, documents and memorabilia from the school’s treasured history. *As the archivist and history blogger at Graland, Mr. Hickey has requested that gifts made in his honor be directed to support the archives project.

COACH ROBERT ROMERO ‘69 SERVICE FROM 1978-2017 - NANCY NYE PRIEST ’39 ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT (2004) When we describe Robert Romero as a living legend, it only underscores our belief that this kind, humble and loving man has impacted countless lives in his 39 years as the quintessential coach, physical education teacher and advisor. Lower School children flock to this Pied Piper who taught them to hop, skip, jump and run all over Preisser Field. His athletes worship his expertise, sportsmanship, honesty and unflagging fervor for the game. For so many alumni, Coach Romero is Mr. Lacrosse. Moreover, as a Graland alumnus* Class of 1969, Robert has bridged the past with the present and kept alive the memories of Graland icons like Dave Rice, Chet Preisser and Pam Bent. *A financial aid recipient when he was a student at Graland, Coach Romero has requested that gifts made in his honor be directed to the financial aid endowment.

TO MAKE A DONATION IN HONOR OF RONNI MCCAFFREY, PHIL HICKEY OR COACH ROBERT ROMERO ‘69 VISIT GRALAND.ORG/HONOR

All Alumni are Invited!

ALUMNI REUNION WEEKEND MILESTONE CLASS YEARS FOR 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, 2007

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FRIDAY, JUNE 2

GRALAND CARNIVAL

3:10-5 p.m. on Preisser Field

COCKTAIL RECEPTIONS

celebrating the 50th reunion of Class of ‘67 and the 25th reunion of the Class of ‘92

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

SIGNATURE ALUMNI REUNION PARTY

5-8 p.m. Alumni 21 years and older, $20/person includes food and adult libations -Ruth Gorham Alumni Award presented to Phil Hickey -Celebration of retirees Robert Romero ‘69 and Ronni McCaffrey

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Alumni Celebrate Ronni “Ronni has an arsenal of incredible traits, but among them are three precious gifts which will forever benefit Graland. The first is her vision, which allowed her to capture hearts and minds; the second is measure, which allowed her to articulate bold ideas and convince skeptics; and the third is humility, which empowered those around her to own and execute on shared ideas.” ~Taylor Kirkpatrick ‘88, Alumni Association President

Five Reasons the Jacoby Family Loves Ronni

By Kimberly Fuller ‘86 Jacoby

1. Ronni takes the time to get to know every person’s name in each family and personalizes every interaction. It always amazes me that she can do this for over 700 students at our school.

2. Ronni takes the time to recognize student achievements at all grade levels. After our daughter, Ginna, read over 50 Newbery books in third grade, Ronni wrote a very personalized note and presented her with a book, which Ginna still cherishes two years later. This passion to grow our students’ love of learning is why we will miss Ronni!

3. Ronni makes the time to support the parents. She attends many parent events and encourages us to be better people and to climb every mountain. PEN and Ronni’s Book Club have enriched my life and consequently my children’s lives.

4. Ronni believes that a great school never sit still. And she is an amazing role model who never sits still! She embodies Georgia Nelson’s original mission.

5. Ronni reaches beyond our school and influences the lives of many in the Denver community. She leads by example and through her actions, she has been influential in creating compassion in our children.

SUNDAY, JUNE 5

KICKS AND COFFEE

10-11:30 a.m. All alumni, parents of alumni and the entire family cheer on classes of 2009-16 in a kickball game on Preisser Field.

“I was lucky enough to work with Ronni as a faculty member, a parent, and an alumna. As a faculty member, she brought my dreams to fruition. She always told me to ‘be patient’ and good things would come. She was right, and I hope that someday I can return to work in the amazing building Ronni helped facilitate. As a parent, Ronni made it possible to have my little girl at school with me. She provided the children a nurturing environment, and all the toys and tools they needed (and then some!). That was gift that every parent dreams of. And finally as an alumna, she listens and respect to all voices current and past! Ronni is leaving a legacy, and will be truly missed.” ~Bryann Ladd ‘99 Nourse “Ronni has made a great school even greater and helped build a strong foundation with a smooth transition for the future. She has actively involved the alumni community in the school and made them feel they are important ambassadors. Graland, with both its storied traditions and its cutting edge philosophies and practices, has been and will continue to be in exceptional hands!” ~Jim Arneill ‘66

Register at

GRALAND.ORG/REUNION

Questions please contact Kristin Eklund ‘88 Weber at 303-3983623 or kweber@graland.org. The Holiday Inn Denver-Cherry Creek has a special alumni weekend rate of $109/night; call 844-330-7212 and mention Graland Country Day School.

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8TH ANNUAL

EAGLE INVITATIONAL Join us for a day on the links and support the Graland Parent Association’s biggest fundraiser of the year!

GRALAND COMMUNITY EAGLE INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Friday, May 19, 8:30 a.m. Shotgun Start CommonGround Golf Course, Lowry

GRALAND STUDENTS JUNIOR EAGLE INVITATIONAL 9 Hole Par 3 Golf Tournament Thursday, May 18, 3:30-6:30 p.m.

CommonGround Golf Course, Lowry

EAGLE INVITATIONAL EAGLE SPONSOR

graland.org/golf 10

HOL PLAYE-IN-ONE TO -$10, WIN! -PEB 00

B 0 -1 YE LE BEACH AR GET -A CA R FRO GRALAND AWAY TU M SIL TERH ITION A R MO SIGN TORS UP TO DAY!

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Graland Community Celebrates Ronni

Momentum Continues as ASCEND Nears Completion

By Jessica Goski, Director of Development

I am thrilled to report that the ASCEND campaign is nearing its completion and is on track to reach our fundraising goal later this spring.

To date, the Graland community has committed gifts and pledges totaling $23.75 million (as of March 20, 2017). With $250,000 to go, momentum continues for both capital improvement projects as well as endowment funding for financial aid, faculty professional development and the onsite subsidized child care for faculty and staff in the Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC).

CAMPUS RENOVATIONS

This summer, the Graland campus will undergo a number of exciting renovations. Spaces vacated from moves to the Corkins Center have opened up incredible opportunities for other programs and services to flourish. These projects include: GEORGIA NELSON BUILDING • A new Lower School Student Support Team suite on the main floor • An expanded nurse’s office with private restroom • A new choir room HAMILTON WEST BUILDING • A new gross motor room for ECLC and Lower School students on the lower level • An updated outdoor toddler play space

FOR FULL SIZE BLUEPRINTS VISIT

graland.org/ASCEND HAMILTON REIMAN BUILDING • A new art classroom • A new Lower School Spanish classroom • Private practice rooms for music lessons • Music recording studio • A renovated classroom for our Middle School band program • Lighting and mid-stage curtaining improvements in the Fries Family Theater • A new dedicated space for the GPA Store We will also begin developing the outdoor play space to the south of the Corkins Center. As we seek to conclude the ASCEND campaign, additional funding for these backfill renovation projects are a high priority and naming opportunities are available for many of these spaces.

“Our family was fortunate to overlap with the entirety of Ronni McCaffrey’s service as Graland’s Head of School.

Her thoughtful, principled, and talented leadership has left Graland on firm footing to continue to educate students who will explore and change the world for the better. Through her impact on Graland and its community, Ronni also had a direct and profound impact on our daughters, Esther and Sophie, for which we will remain so grateful.” ~Vikki & Greg Goldberg ‘83, Trustee 2008-16 “One of my fondest memories of Ronni is her reading the Irish poem about ‘wind being always at your back’ at an eighth grade graduation. She quoted it so beautifully that all the happy parents and grandparents were in tears.” ~Mimi Chenoweth, Trustee 1974-80 “Graland has always been a great school, made even greater by Ronni McCaffrey’s generous leadership.

Thank you, my friend.” ~Ellie Caulkins, Lifetime Trustee “Attempting to summarize Ronni’s body of work into a sound bite is difficult, but the word that keeps jumping into my head is ‘confidence.’ Faculty had the confidence to follow Ronni down a path leading to successful curriculum changes and new programs like the Early Childhood Learning Center. The parent community’s confidence is very tangible -- over $20 million of campus improvements and $10 million invested in our endowments. And, most importantly, the enthusiasm and energy that students bring to Graland each day is a testament to their confidence in Ms. McCaffrey. Ronni, we are a better school and a stronger community because of you. You will be missed… every day.” ~John Gowen, President, Board of Trustees 2016-19

INTERESTED IN DISCUSSING A GIFT? HAVE A QUESTION? CONTACT JESSICA GOSKI AT JGOSKI@GRALAND.ORG OR 303-336-3705.

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continued from page 1

Graland’s Legacy: The Gift You Have Been Given, Give as Gift…

Board of Trustees under the leadership of John Gowen. Safe and sure hands, for certain. Under their guidance, Graland will continue to thrive and lead the field in American elementary education.

Nevertheless, as any leader would, I have several last-minute reminders and a few cautions to offer, as well as three important gifts to convey to you.

A legacy is a bequest or inheritance but more common usage recognizes that it is a corpus of memories, knowledge or values transmitted from predecessors to their successors. When I joined Graland in 2008, it was a period of upheaval in the world, and disruption in our school.

Nonetheless, Graland had a strong foundation and “good bones,” established for us by nine generations of teachers and families before us and it has endured and has prospered. This is Graland’s legacy, assets for your onward journey, values and traditions that will sustain, guide and comfort you.

The following is only a partial inventory of the treasures I discovered when I arrived at Graland, and that which I am entrusting to you for the future. Mission, Culture and Community are the sine qua non of the Graland legacy.

School Mission: A mission statement must be enduring; yet, how the school achieves its mission should evolve with the changing times. The Graland mission statement is the articulation of why the school exists and the values and ideals it is committed to foster. Honed and

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“In recent years, Graland has explored and deepened its understanding of the essence of the concepts, “intellectual excellence” and “strong character.” More than ever, Graland’s mission and guiding principles are germane to our 21st century world.” whetted over time, Graland’s mission and guiding principles have remained impressively consistent through the nearly 90 years since the School was founded.

The mission statement holds the School accountable to prepare students to achieve their fullest potential intellectually and ethically and to take their places in society as thoughtful leaders and engaged citizens.

In recent years, Graland has explored and deepened its understanding of the essence of the concepts, “intellectual excellence” and “strong character.” More than ever, Graland’s mission and guiding principles are germane to our 21st century world.

Educators must be futurists, always looking over the horizon to what students will need in their future. In his latest book, Thank You for Being Late, An Optimist’s Guide to Thriving in the Age of Accelerations, Thomas Friedman describes the destabilizing impact on society of the exponential acceleration of changes in technology, globalization and the environment. He calls this state of constant destabilization “dynamic stability” and suggests that we must prepare our children for this “if we want future generations to thrive and find their own equilibrium.”

How do you do this? Although it

seems counterintuitive, you must stay the course. Follow the mission. Ground the students in ethical and democratic values and nurture their empathy, their compassion and their audacity to live these values. Above all, in this age of misinformation and fake news, foster their curiosity and teach them to think critically, to analyze, to synthesize and to evaluate information so they will make wise decisions. Continually assess and revise the curriculum and pedagogy to ensure that these are actualizing the mission. Finally, teach students multiple approaches to communicate their ideas with passion and precision. Why must you do this? Their future, and ours, depends upon it.

School Culture: Graland’s history parallels the development of modern Denver and reflects the values of the American West. Alumni have shared their stories of riding to school on a horse or in a wagon and clearing the sage brush from the schoolhouse door. Our students measure their growth through traditions such as kindergarten rodeo, knighting, the trips program and graduation. Graland must honor its history by archiving these artifacts and stories, and cultivating and transmitting its rich traditions to future students.

Graland began humbly as a two-room school for young children, but three enduring values were evident from its inception: the spirit of innovation and the courage to risk failure; relationships as the heart of the Graland experience; and the history of collaboration in leadership between school and parents.

Laird, Braswell and Holcombe, Graland’s founding teachers, emphasized intellectual vitality and strong character development, while never relying solely on traditional educational practices to attain those ends.

Unlike the restrictive classroom settings and structured methodologies of the 1920s, Graland’s classrooms were alive with active and engaged students, teachers and a host of classroom pets. Absent the pets,

become a barrier, fostering an artificial, Graland’s classrooms are the same today, intellectually animated and interactive. On- hothouse environment within the school and making it appear from the outside going research and professional training, continual innovation and the collaborative as insular and unwelcoming. A healthy school vigorously monitors its culture design of authentic learning experiences and is constantly adjusting the delicate characterize the work of Graland teachers balance of that internal/external ecosystem and, consequently, are the hallmarks of a to moderate the wholesome exchange of Graland education. people and ideas.

The verb “to educate” is derived from the Latin educere, “to draw outward.” True School Community: Of the three gifts I education is a transformative experience impart to you, this is the one that is closest that emerges through relationships: to my heart. the student with his teacher, with Each year, I have greeted the parents classmates, with the wider community new to Graland with the statement, “Look and finally, with the environment. Born around you and meet the people with of empathy and nurtured through trust, whom you will be raising your child for this connection between the individual the next 10 years.” Paradoxically, one of student and the teacher is at the heart the challenges integral to building a school of a Graland education. The quality of community is that the community is everthe student-teacher bond is bolstered changing. By its very nature, it can never by the relationships teachers have with remain static since stasis is the absence of one another within growth. Children and the faculty as a families, teachers and “A healthy school vigorously learning community staff, arrive at the monitors its culture and is characterized by that Graland gate each same empathy and constantly adjusting the August and meld trust. All humans into the fabric of the delicate balance of that learn best through school, changing it relationship. internal/external ecosystem forever. Children Graland would not will grow up and to moderate the wholesome exist today were it not one June day, they for the collaboration exchange of people and ideas.” will bid farewell and between the School graduate. Families and the parents. Without the enduring will move. Teachers will retire. And so it commitment of that first generation of goes, year upon year. parents through the Depression, wars and Children are exceptionally intuitive demographic swings, Grace Laird and observers and learn their most enduring her colleagues would have been forced to life lessons by modeling their behavior shutter the school. Subsequent generations on how they see adults around them of parents built and re-built the campus, act and interact. The stronger the established governance and created the relationship between child and adult, infrastructure for financial sustainability. the more powerful its influence. In Today, the Graland Board of Trustees and essence, it is the Graland Community the Graland Parent Association as well as a that educates through the characteristics legion of individuals and groups of parents of the individuals, the perspectives they working on various projects and taskforces, bring, the quality of the interactions they carry on that crucial collaboration for the have, and the values they live. Whether benefit of the students. parent, grandparent, caregiver, teacher, Are there challenges inherent in this gift staff member, or administrator, we each of school culture? Certainly. Good schools play a role. The community we collectively are surrounded by an invisible, semicreate around these children today will permeable membrane. We often refer to be the exemplar of the community they ours as “the Graland Bubble.” It serves us will seek to create for themselves in the well most of the time, filtering many, but future. Historically, but especially in recent unfortunately not all, unwanted influences years, Graland has been intentional in from the outside world. Then again, it can building the community it hopes to be for also work the other way, by intercepting its children and its adults, characterized by stimuli which might induce positive continued on page 14 growth. The bubble could inadvertently

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Graland Community Celebrates Ronni

“It was my privilege to serve on the Board during Ronni’s tenure with Graland. Her passion for children and drive for excellence fueled a revitalization of facilities and program that has made Graland the best K-8 school in the city and the Jewel of Hilltop!” ~Mark Belfance, Trustee 2009-13 “After 51 years of being involved with Graland School, I feel that Ronni has been the very best of leaders and certainly the most caring, too.” ~Marcia Strickland, Trustee 1972-77 “I will never forget when Ronni approached me in 2013 outside of the Anschutz Commons after lunch – she gave me a big Ronni smile and said, ‘You are going to New York this summer.’ And I said, ‘Yes I am!’ Little did I know that this ‘5 guys go to New York’ trip would be the beginning of our exciting film program and the Digital Media Studio. Ronni imagines it, speaks it, and then delivers it. She demonstrated to me that leadership is a passionate and engaged calling.” ~Dan O’Neill, drama teacher “Firm and direct, yet kind and compassionate. Partner, mentor and friend. These are a few words that I associate with Ronni McCaffrey. Ronni’s vision of Graland combines state-of-theart facilities with an inclusive community where differences are respected and appreciated. She cares about Graland’s students and their families. She takes their well-being personally, knows everyone by name, and is always ready to listen and engage.” ~Bruce Rifkin, Past President, Board of Trustees 2009-12 “Few people possess the passion, dedication and love for education.

Ronni McCaffrey gave a true gift to Graland Country Day School and its community. It was a privilege and a pleasure to play a small part in Ronni’s grand vision to make Graland the school it is today. She is a leader, listener, collaborator, encourager, friend.” ~Christopher W. Hunt, Past President, Board of Trustees 2012-15 “Smart, inspirational, confident and confidence-inspiring, Ronni is a true leader – someone not afraid to lead the way.” ~Tad Kelly, Trustee, Trustee 2005-11

Graland Today

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continued from page 13

Graland’s Legacy: The Gift You Have Been Given, Give as Gift…

multiple perspectives in dynamic balance with the experience of belonging.

In her TED talk “The danger of a single story,” the author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie describes the drawbacks of a single perspective. “The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story.” Authentic intellectual growth happens through openminded, civil discourse, and this dialogue requires manifold, often conflicting, perspectives. The Graland community is enriched by its diversity of cultures, socio-economics, races, languages, learning styles, gender, religions, and political viewpoints. The ever-present challenge is finding the forum and the time for dialogue. I am exceedingly proud of all the opportunities, only a few of which I will mention here, that have emerged though the commitment of teachers, staff and parents working together to establish and lead the affinity groups, SEED, the student connections groups, a range of professional development activities including the Diversity and Inclusivity Cohort, and most recently, the School Climate Advisory Committee to the Head of School.

Maslow and other psychologists recognized that “a sense of belonging” was a core human need, superseded only by basic physiological and safety needs. This need to belong to other human beings and groups beyond the self is so strong that it precedes higher level needs such as esteem and self-actualization, as well as the motivation to learn. Therefore, creating that sense of belonging to a community,

GPA SPRING SCHEDULE NEW THIS YEAR! FIRST FRIDAY FAMILY YOGA Start your weekend with light stretching and mindfulness in the Fieldhouse at 7 a.m.: Friday, May 5

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that membership beyond the self, is central to realizing Graland’s mission. True education is relational.

Belonging encompasses the experience of affection and understanding from others, but goes further to a purpose, voice, and participation in the group process, a “place at the table.” However, one aspect of belonging is often overlooked. For want of a better term, let’s call it “essentiality,” the quality of being essential to the functioning of the group, the conviction that without each individual, the group would not be whole, and would be poorer for the absence. The anthropologist Margaret Mead once said, “One of the oldest human needs is having someone to wonder where you are when you don’t come home.” At Graland, everyone counts; everyone is needed; every child, every adult matters.

This is our community.

The Graland legacy of Mission, Culture and Community could be symbolized as a trefoil knot, often seen in visual designs as a cloverleaf pattern with no discernable beginning or end, and a constant flow among the loops. I pass it on to you in the confidence that you will respect and enjoy it, protect it, challenge and develop it, and finally, pass it on to the next Graland generation who will do the same.

The gift you have been given, give as gift.

It is written in the Torah that “Words emanating from the heart, penetrate the heart.” So, from my heart to yours, love and gratitude.

SHOP THE GRALAND STORE

GPA GENERAL MEETINGS

Online 24/7 at graland.org/store or Fridays on the following dates: May 5 at 2:30 p.m.

May 19 at 2:30 p.m.

June 2 at 3 p.m.

GRALAND CARNIVAL Friday, June 2, at 3:15 p.m.

Ronni McCaffrey Head of School, Emerita

Come one, come all! Learn about parent activities and upcoming events, and meet your GPA leaders in the Caulkins Boardroom at 8:15 a.m.: Friday, May 12

PARENT VOLUNTEER BREAKFAST All parents welcome in Anschutz Commons on Thursday, May 25, at 8:30 a.m.

FIVE QUESTIONS WITH THE NEW GPA PRESIDENT: KIM MONTGOMERY Outgoing president Liz Arnold sat down with her successor to give us the inside scoop on the new GPA leader for 2017-18.

Meet Kim Montgomery!

Q: Tell us about your previous roles and responsibilities with the GPA. What is one of your most valued GPA experiences?

A: When my children entered Graland in the Lower School, I became a room parent and volunteered in the library, lunchroom and publishing center and in the classroom with the Newbery Book Club.

Later I served as a Middle School advisory parent for the GPA and co-chaired the Graland Store for two years. I co-chaired the Birch Street Bash, Graland Gallop, Affinity Group Program, and Eagle Invitational Golf Tournament. On the Graland Council, I previously served as Secretary, Vice President of Community Enrichment, and finally President Elect.

I have enjoyed all of my experiences within the GPA, but the most fulfilling was co-chairing the Eagle Invitational because it was an opportunity to meet so many members of the Graland community while raising funds to support the financial assistance program.

Q: Your kids are Will in seventh grade and Henry in fourth. What have been some of the highlights of their years at Graland?

A: My husband, Matt, and I are so grateful to Graland for the educational opportunities our children have had and for inspiring them to become critical thinkers and to love learning. Graland has encouraged our boys to try new activities that have enriched their school experience, such as the Gates Invention Competition, the Middle School Geography Bee, Odyssey of the Mind and the musical in fourth grade.

Q: What do you look forward to most about being president of the GPA next school year?

A: I am truly honored to serve as GPA President next year. We have had many people express interest in becoming involved in the GPA Council, which is a testament to past presidents and the strength of the organization within the school community. There is something for everyone within the GPA, from volunteering in the car line, serving as a lunch or library volunteer, helping with

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Parents Celebrate Ronni “When we chose Graland, we knew we were choosing an amazing education for our children. But, what we didn’t account for was the mentoring and support we would receive as parents. Ronni is the epitome of what one expects and hopes for in a leader and educator for the next generation of compassionate and educated citizens. We are forever indebted and appreciative for her work and will miss her greatly.” ~Erin Autrey Neren “Since we have been at Graland we have seen students and teachers achieve notable recognitions. Graland and its faculty and students have been profiled in the newspaper, magazines, and on Colorado Public Radio. Never once has Ronni interjected herself into these stories.

She leads by setting the vision and then stepping back and letting others shine in the spotlight. The result as been a community that has been strengthened by all and not just one person. This to me is true leadership.” ~Kerrie Bentfield

committees, or serving as a VP. Every parent is a member of the GPA, and everyone is welcome.

As GPA President, I would like to continue to provide a variety of programs and events focused on promoting an inclusive community at Graland. I also look forward to working with Josh Cobb and the new administration during this time of transition.

Q: What other organizations do you support in the community?

A: Prior to moving to Denver, I was a partner with a law firm in Milwaukee and practiced corporate and real estate law for 10 years. I loved it and used my legal skills in a variety of volunteer endeavors after the move: Montview Community Preschool, Junior League of Denver, Children’s Museum of Denver and the Anchor Center for Blind Children.

“Ronni has been a true leader in ensuring Graland is more diverse, and embracing different backgrounds and cultures.

Whether it’s for students with learning differences, or with different cultural backgrounds, she wants every student at Graland to reach the best of their ability.” ~Dalia EL-Prince “We have been blessed and privileged to have Ronni’s outstanding leadership, tireless energy, positive presence and most of all her chutzpah. Under her purview, this school has grown more in the last 8 years than we possibly could have imagined. We will be so sad to see her move to the next chapter of her life with B, but eternally grateful for all of the wonderful accomplishments and gifts she brought to us collectively. Thank you, Ronni!” ~Kathryn Albright, parent and Trustee 2016-19

Q: What are some of your individual interests and interests as a family?

A: I enjoy skiing, exercising, playing tennis and golf, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. I have very active boys, so we are always watching one of their sporting events, which we love to do.

Our family also enjoys skiing together and spending time outside, camping or hiking, with our beloved dog, Summit.

Graland Today

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GRALAND ALUMNI SWEEP COLORADO MOCK TRIALS Congratulations to Graland alumni who recently won the Colorado Mock Trial State Championship and will go on to compete nationally May 11-13 in Hartford, Connecticut. As part of the Colorado Academy team, Jacqueline Patel ‘13, Ady Richards ‘14 and Lila Arnold ‘14 brought home the big win. In addition, Lila was honored with a Best Witness award and Isabelle Chandler ‘13, Sydney Turner ‘14 and Charlie Wallace ‘14 qualified as finalists on a different CA team. From other area high schools, Henry Brown ‘13 and Kate Frankmore ‘16 also received individual awards and Sophia Rase ‘14, Hallie Rhine ‘16 and Hannah Finke ‘15 qualified as finalists.

“Over and over, the Graland parents I talked to attributed their teen’s ability to compete at such a high level to the groundwork Graland provided with years of public speaking and presentation opportunities,” shares Liz Arnold.

Mock trial is an educational program sponsored locally by the Colorado Bar Association that gives students an opportunity to expand their speaking, writing, reading, and analytical skills while learning about the judicial system. We wish the CA team the best of luck at the National Mock Trial Tournament!

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Community Calendar

May 5 Sam Loewi Unified Neighborhood Games May 19 Eagle Invitational Golf Tournament (see page 10) May 20 Celebration of Ronni McCaffrey (see page 3) May 26 Noon Dismissal for Memorial Day Holiday June 2 Graland Carnival June 3 Alumni Reunion (see page 8) June 7 Graduation

STAY CONNECTED AND GOGRALAND!

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