15 minute read
A League of Her Own: The Dedication and Wisdom of Pam Coleman
By Nancy Gelston Fries
MRS. COLEMAN'S FACULTY PHOTO IN THE LATE 80S.
The year Pam Coleman joined Harbor Day School as a physical education teacher, Ronald Reagan was elected president, John McEnroe won the U.S. Open in tennis, and if you had to miss an episode of Dallas, you recorded it on your VCR. The year was 1980.
Like the rest of the world, Harbor Day’s PE program has changed dramatically since Mrs. Coleman arrived on campus. Head of School and alumna, Angi Evans’75 , describes PE prior to Mrs. Coleman’s tenure as “pretty ad hoc.” “A lot of PE was along the enjoyment of what the teacher liked,” she said. With the dawning of “The Coleman Era,” that quickly changed.
“I was always really interested in physical education and history,” said Mrs. Coleman. “I knew I wanted to be a teacher, but I wasn’t really sure what direction I wanted to go. Then Title IX passed in 1972, and that made me decide to go into physical education, because of the opportunities that opened up for girls.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
MRS. COLEMAN SPEAKS THROUGH A LOUD SPEAKER DURING THE BLUE-GOLD TRACK MEET IN 1982.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
As a new graduate of Springfield College in Massachusetts, Mrs. Coleman seized her own life-changing opportunity when she accepted a job offer from former headmaster John Marder. Raised in Connecticut, she had never been west of Pennsylvania. Two weeks later, she courageously headed to California, leaving behind her husband, Mike Coleman, who was still finishing school at Springfield.
Forty-two years later, it’s safe to say the job worked out.
Before long, Mr. Coleman moved to California, working at the Downey YMCA before landing his own job at Harbor Day in 1982. The Colemans became entrenched in the Harbor Day community and culture, had a son, Michael'04, and shaped the PE program into what it is today.
“I loved being able to teach yearround outside,” Mrs. Coleman said, “and the big plus for me was the freedom to develop my own curriculum.”
Taking full advantage of that freedom, Mrs. Coleman took Harbor Day PE from ad hoc to quite intentional. She aimed to cultivate both athletic and cognitive skills in girls and boys through programs like intramural and interscholastic athletics, dance, team handball, and even unicycle riding. Her creative approach to daily PE class tapped both current events and the curriculum for each grade, deftly weaving them into age-appropriate games, inspiring budding athletes while also building essential skills.
“She’s very intentional about the physical skills,” said Mrs. Evans. “Instead of just making a goofy relay, she’d attach it to what was going on in the greater world. When the Mars rover was landing, she put a whole bunch of things in the middle of the gym and created a relay where you get the things you would need to create a landing module.”
Courtney Zarrilli'92, one of several faculty/alumni, recalls how Mrs. Coleman made PE accessible and fun for everyone. “I was never a supercompetitive or sporty kid, but I enjoyed her classes and I enjoyed PE,” Ms. Zarrilli said. “I remember this one game where the floor was lava and you had to build a bridge with your team without anyone falling in. It was this huge team-building activity, and it was one of the best games we played, ever.”
“I think of her sort of as a trailblazer for having this kind of PE program in elementary school,” said fifth grade teacher Caren Kelly'88, who is both an alumna and a current parent. “It’s structured play. The way she would set up games and activities really helped facilitate that encouragement to be involved. You never wanted to sit out.”
A generation later, Mrs. Coleman’s approach to teaching PE has impacted Ms. Zarrilli’s approach to teaching the arts. “I really try to be inclusive for all the kids,” she said. “Even though I wasn’t super-athletic, I still had fun in PE, and just because everyone isn’t super-artistic doesn’t mean they can’t have fun in ceramics.”
Character development through PE has been as critical to Mrs. Coleman as developing students’ gross motor and athletic skills. She places importance on being inclusive, developing an appreciation for movement, learning when to play recreationally rather than competitively, and becoming an intelligent spectator. “There are a lot of lessons to be learned in sports,” she said. “And that doesn’t mean every person that plays sports is good at sports, but you have opportunities to practice those skills that you can use later on in life.”
Character development through PE has been as critical to Mrs. Coleman as developing students’ gross motor and athletic skills. She places importance on being inclusive, developing an appreciation for movement, learning when to play recreationally rather than competitively, and becoming an intelligent spectator. “ “
LEFT: MR. AND MRS. COLEMAN IN 2015. CENTER TOP: THE COLEMAN’S WITH PHYSICAL EDUCATION AWARD WINNERS GRIFFIN LEWIS, JENNA MCCONNAUGHEY, AND PRESCOTT COOK DURING GRADUATION IN 2017. CENTER BOTTOM: COACH JOSHUA PARKS AND MRS. COLEMEN WITH THEIR HDS FAMILY “THE CHAMPIONS” IN 2016. RIGHT: THE PE DEPARTMENT IN 2016 MRS. AND MR. COLEMAN AND CHRISTINA MAUSER.
A Lifelong Learner
Mrs. Coleman has kept her fresh approach to PE by being a lifelong learner, both formally and informally. “It’s always more fun when you have something new to teach and it’s not just the same old same old,” she said. Mrs. Evans marvels at Mrs. Coleman’s thirst for learning. “I asked her, ‘Where did you get that idea?’ and she was on Pinterest,” she recalls. “Still after 41 years she was doing all that.”
“One of the nice things about Harbor Day is that they really encourage professional development,” said Mr. Coleman, who shares his wife’s curiosity for learning. “There are state and national PE conferences you can go to, and they allowed us to go to those and learn new things.”
That sets an example for all Harbor Day faculty to grow in their careers. “PE doesn’t feel like it should be academic, but it kind of is, since it’s about the kids’ social, emotional, and physical development,” Mrs. Kelly said.
Establishing Athletic Excellence
The Coleman Era” will always be remembered for the establishment and success of Harbor Day’s interscholastic athletic program. Mrs. Coleman herself has coached volleyball, basketball, and track and field. Under her leadership, the girls’ volleyball team became a local powerhouse, producing countless high
school and NCAA athletes. Of note: At least one Harbor Day graduate has played in the women’s Division 1 NCAA volleyball championship each of the past 14 years. “That’s pretty amazing that this little school has that much potential,” said Mrs. Coleman, clearly not taking credit for the impressive streak. “Mrs. Coleman encouraged us to be our best athletic selves,” said Mrs. Kelly, who played volleyball at Harbor Day, in high school, and in college. “That was something that was big in my life.” She added that Mrs. Coleman influenced her not only as an athlete, but as a colleague today. “A lot of things that I learned from her classes changed how I approached sports as a team player, how I step in when people need help or encouragement, and how I work with colleagues,” Mrs. Kelly said. “Everything is a group effort, it’s shared, it’s working toward a common goal.” Even with 20 years of experience coaching basketball, PE teacher Joshua Parks has learned from Mrs. Coleman as well. “I’ve always had a strong work “ ethic, but she’s just next level,” said Mr. Parks, who joined Harbor Day in 2016. “This is her livelihood and her life. She absolutely pours her sweat and tears into the Harbor Day physical education program. Her dedication to her craft and preparation have really been instilled in me.”
End of an Era
So what’s next for Mrs. Coleman? As a founding member of the Corona Genealogical Society, she plans to continue pursuing her interest in history. She will also indulge her love for reading alongside other former faculty in a book club. She also plans to travel. While she won’t miss the commute from her home in Corona or writing report cards, she said she will miss what’s most important: the kids. “One of my favorite
things about my job teaching PE is that I have the opportunity to watch my students grow up from age 5 to 14. This is a joy for me. Most teachers have students for one year and they get passed on.”
Over the years, Mrs. Coleman has touched thousands of students spanning two full generations. She consistently
— ANGI EVANS'75
HEAD OF SCHOOL
MRS. COLEMAN (CENTER) GETTING A BIG HUG FROM ALUMNAE AT OUR ALUMNI PARENT SPRING FIESTA IN 2021.
THE PE DEPARTMENT TEAM IN 2021 (LEFT TO RIGHT): JOSHUA PARKS, PAM COLEMAN, JO PICKARD, AND KATIE CURCI.
TOP PHOTO: MRS. COLEMAN TEACHING PE IN 2015. BOTTOM PHOTO: MRS. COLEMAN (LEFT) WITH STUDENTS AFTER REFEREEING A FACULTY AND STUDENT VOLLEYBALL GAME IN 2019.
showed her dedication to the students through her involvement schoolwide, beyond athletics. “If you’re going to be an effective teacher you have to be a part of the community,” she said. She not only knew every student’s name, but she used to choreograph for the school musical and go on outdoor education trips. At fundraising events, “they’ll bring the tents and they’re passing out water,” Mrs. Kelly said of the Colemans. “She’s just such an amazing model of character and selflessness that goes beyond just teaching PE.”
She is also supportive and engaged with her colleagues. “She always goes to anything honoring anyone else,” Mrs. Evans said, noting her frequent changes of clothes for events like after-school baby showers. Mrs. Evans also trusted Mrs. Coleman’s input on various committees, including one implementing a character-building program and another for hiring the new Lower School Director.
Now, Mrs Coleman is the one being replaced. Asked if her departure will leave a gap, Mrs. Evans said, “She’s such a fabric of the school—I think we’re not even going to know until she’s gone. I worry there’s going to be a thread that’s pulled that leaves a giant hole somewhere because she’s just part of the air we breathe.” Mrs. Coleman handpicked her own successor, former kindergarten associate Katie Curci, and mentored her all last year, Mrs. Evans said. She also spent time showing her PE colleagues her meticulous recordkeeping system, through which she tracks and monitors every student’s assessments.
“This is her program,” said Mr. Parks, noting that he and the rest of the PE faculty will continue her innovative games and traditions. “She’s the heart and soul of Harbor Day PE.”
Mrs. Coleman’s legacy at Harbor Day will last long after she is gone, but in truth, the Coleman Era is not over. Mr. Coleman will continue as the Athletics and Facilities Director. He will also coach for the volleyball, basketball, and track and field teams. No word on whether the couple has a healthy competition to see who will have the longest Harbor Day tenure. For now, Mrs. Coleman takes the prize. n
Nancy Fries is a freelance writer, college essay advisor, and the mother of two grown sons.
What HDS has to say
“What can I NOT say about Pam! I have been at Harbor Day now for three years and work with her every day. She has been my mentor, my leader, my go-to for ideas, and most importantly—my FRIEND! Pam’s energy and her old school work ethic are second to none! Never a day went by where she was not only the first one at our office but the last one to leave. Pam has taught me how to be a better leader and work through problems by communication with my peers and administrators. I will truly miss our long conversations, not only about PE, but about life!
Pam, thank you for your motivation, endless patience, and persistence to help me become the teacher I am today! Remember, retirement is a time to look back with satisfaction, to look forward with anticipation, and to fill each day with enjoyment! It’s now time for YOU to relax and play. Look to the future with eagerness and live each moment to the fullest! Enjoy your retirement! YOU DESERVE IT!!!! “
— JO PICKARD | PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER Pam, you have been a part of my HDS tapestry since we became colleagues in “
1996. I especially remember with fondness our trip to Summercore in 1998, where we shared a room, learned a lot of technology, and enjoyed great food and camaraderie at the Nobles
School in Massachusetts. I wish you all the best in your retirement. Enjoy! “ — MEGGEN STOCKSTILL
MATH TEACHER You have left your mark on so many! Harbor Day has been “ fortunate to have you on the athletic field guiding our young athletes for so many years. You have been an inspiration to us all. Best of luck on your well-deserved retirement. All the best!“
— JEFF PETERS
FOURTH GRADE TEACHER
Pam ALWAYS supports the music program. She is the biggest cheerleader of the holiday programs, Grandparents’ Day “ performances, and the Eighth Grade Musical. She is a wonderful example of how to be a team player. I’m so grateful that I’ve had these last seven years to work with her and get to know her. Thank you for your example, Pam! “
— YUNGA WEBB | MUSIC TEACHER
Pam is a Legend at Harbor Day School! She wears so many hats and excels at all of them. She is a fantastic educator and leader. Her secret “ talent is her ability to find information. If you have ever been on a search committee with her, you know what I am talking about! She could CONGRATULATIONS, PAM! THE STUDENTS THAT HAVE SPANNED YOUR TENURE AT HDS ARE LUCKY TO HAVE LEARNED FROM THE BEST! ENJOY RETIREMENT! “ “ have had a job in intelligence for the FBI. She is kind and genuinely cares about her students. As a parent, I am so grateful my kids went through her program. They love Mrs. Coleman! Congrats on an amazing career, and cheers to the future. You will be so missed. — STACEY HAMMOND | ART TEACHER “ — GRAHAM GAUTHIER | MATH TEACHER
about PAM COLEMAN
Thank you for taking me in as a volleyball coach three years ago. It changed everything for me. I came to Harbor Day as a Kindergarten Associate and was quickly welcomed into the athletic program. I learned how much I loved coaching, “ and I thank you for allowing me to be a coach for middle school volleyball. I also want to thank you for believing in me and that I could become a PE teacher. I was honored that someone who created such an incredible program believed in me and that I could be a part of it and keep it moving forward. I have learned so much from you over the last year. Thank you for everything, and I wish you all the happiness, rest, and comfort in your retirement!“
— KATIE CURCI | PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER
What an amazing legacy you leave behind! I can only hope to leave the type of impact that you have in so “ Congratulations on your retirement! You will be very missed at HDS, but wishing “ Pam, you are the bedrock of Harbor Day. Your commitment to educating our kids is an many students’ lives. I hope you all the best, and lots of inspiration, and I’m constantly that retirement brings you all the rest and relaxation. Lord knows you deserve it!“ relaxation! Thank you for all your love, dedication, and commitment to Harbor Day!“ in awe of the amount of energy, enthusiasm, and thought you put into everything you do to — KATIE RITZ | ART TEACHER — AMY GRACE | MATH SPECIALIST make the PE program and our community the best it can be. Pam, you have been a wonderful colleague throughout the years! Thank you for welcoming me and for being such an inspiring educator. You will be missed! “ “ You are irreplaceable and will be incredibly missed. Best wishes for a well-deserved retirement. — ETHNEA PORTER — JOEL MAKI | MUSIC TEACHER SECOND GRADE TEACHER I had the pleasure of coaching middle school track almost 15 years ago and meeting Pam and Mike when they were managing a district track meet for HDS. My first impression is how kind she was to her athletes as well as how she and Mike were so incredibly organized in running that track meet. What a blessing for me to come to Harbor Day School in 2011 to work with her as a long-term “ substitute for Christina Mauser. [Pam] is as genuine and sincere as anyone I have ever met. The Colemans have set the standard here at Harbor Day for quality athletics. Pam’s patience is so admirable, and she works harder than most. I appreciate her longevity at one school and that so many traditions we have at HDS are because she started those over the years. I wish you the very best, Pam, in retirement. And I hope you will continue to enjoy your book clubs. Please keep in touch with your many fans!
— DIANE BJELLAND | FIRST GRADE ASSOCIATE
