‘
Cover Story
JAIME ALBERTO López Buenrostro ‘09
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JAIME LÓPEZ Urquiaga ‘80
Feature Story
HISTORY OF GIVING AT JFK JOHN F. KENNEDY · THE AMERICAN SCHOOL OF QUERÉTARO
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FALL 2009 VOL. 1 NO. 4
november 2009 Mirtha Stappung M.Ed., MA GENERAL DIRECTOR
Charles Weiss M.Ed., MA ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT
Denise Humphries MA PRE–SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Mark Dunn M.Ed., MA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Tara Fitzgerald Cruz Ed. Admin., MS MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Academic Corner
What is the SAT test? Why is it important to graduating students?
Adrian Leece MA, BSc, FRMtS HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Arturo Bustamante ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR
C.P. Josefina Morgan M. Admon. y Finanzas
&Teachers STAFF
CORNER
FINANCIAL DIRECTOR
Ing. Julián Urquiza, Arq. Rodolfo Vega, Lic. Roberto Loyola, Act. María del Mar Sánchez Rull, Ing. Ángel de Lope Friedeberg. BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Lic. Mónica Duarte Balcárcel
EDITOR IN CHIEF AND CHAIR OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD
Charles Weiss, Dorothy Gerhart, Adrian Leece, Felicia Lyons, Magdalena Chapa, Sarah DeVries, Karla Ríos EDITORIAL BOARD
Héctor Muñoz DESIGN
Karla Ríos, Víctor Ortega, Asbed Levi PHOTOGRAPHY
Mirtha Stappung, Charles Weiss, Erika Lastra, Karla Ríos, María José López Aguayo, Flor de María Rosas, Luza Arredondo, Graciela Ugalde, Mónica Duarte, Arturo Bustamante, Valeria Fagiolani, Carlos Gabriel Gaytán, Martin Leddy, Alda Mercado, Page Wilson, Mike Menegus.
Feature Story
isH to ry fiv o G g in t a JFK
WRITERS
Gabriela Prigmore, Graciela Fernández TRANSLATION
ALUMNI OFFICE
Valeria Fagiolani http://alumni.jfk.edu.mx ADVERTISING SALES
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Karla Ríos / Berenice Ledesma Tel. (442) 218 0075 ext. 1010 krios@jfk.edu.mx bledesma@jfk.edu.mx
REUNIONS & SNAPSHOTS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36
m Letter fro al The Gener Director
The JFK Spirit
Anniversary C el
ebrations!
Have something to say
Capital Campaign 2009–2014
Ja ime Ja im e L óp e z A lb er to U r qu ia g a L ópez Cover Story Bue n rost r o
Connecting with
Alumni
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Letter from the General Director ------------------Greetings from JFK! ------------------ity on campus This is a great year of festiv iversary. Each as we celebrate our 45th Ann remember our month we have activities to -together. We past and plan for our future t has developed are a mature institution tha ool with only Mirtha Stappu from its roots as a small sch ng t den stu a h M.Ed., MA a few students to today, wit hundred. GENERAL DIRE population of over fourteenCTOR emrem and pus cam to urn ret mni Many alu in front of ber the central meeting area h its image of our Library/Media Center wit r directions. the Aztec Calendar and the fou moved on in Thousands of our alumni have continue to those four directions. They ools in be recruited by the finest sch and graduate Mexico and around the world all fields. to go on to fine careers in o finds This 45th Anniversary year als ising dra us working actively on our Fun struction of Campaign to complete the con ng. Funds from our new Middle School buildi porarily shiftother programs have been tem k forward ed for this project and we loo our goals. to community support to meet JFK Times This is the fourth issue of celebrate. and that is also a reason to ___ with positive Many people have provided us == /= ===/ on. ,/ comments about this publicati \___ ____ // s der rea our of all to go ./ nks :, Our tha | \\ // e ;:; / and those many others who hav __|__|_// __ __ |_ ;;;/ contributed to its success. _\o _L____________ _______ ____________-/ C) CC CC CC CC CC ____(CCC 2
Academic Corner OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS BY OUR FACULTY OR STUDENTS
What is the SAT Test? Why is it Important to Graduating Students?
Sat is a trademark for the most commonly used standardized college admissions test, formally the Scholastic Aptitude Test and the Scholastic Assessment Test. Today it is simply referred to as the sat Reasoning Test. The sat measures knowledge and skills in three areas: Critical Reading, Math and Writing. A student can score anywhere from 200 to 800 points in each area; therefore, the maximum score possible is 2,400. However, before 2005, the sat only measured Critical Reading
The higher your SAT scores, the higher your chances are of getting into the schools of your choice
By Erika Lastra
and Math, allowing for a maximum score of 1600. While some colleges still only consider the critical reading and math scores, many colleges are now requesting all three sections. In order to correctly match your individual scores to a particular college, it is important to verify if the college is reporting on a 1,600 or a 2,400 base. Over two million students worldwide take this test every year. Statistics show that students who take the most challenging high 3
800 700
the overall world
500
the Mexican Ameri-
300 200
MATH
average and above can and Hispanic populations (which are the ethnic/racial groups with which they are placed)
WRITING
550
450 400 350
250 200
CRITICAL READING
MATH
The highest JFK SAT score in 2009 was 2210. This student is attending Stanford.
WRITING
550
450 400 350
CRITICAL READING
MATH
WRITING
school courses, specifically honors or ib, score the highest on the sat. Students who prepare for the sat and/or take the psat (sat practice test) also score higher. At the jfk we give our students a head start by having them take the psat in grade 10. We also offer sat preparation as an elective course. This helps our students get ready for the sat test which they take in December of their senior year. The tricky part for the students is to understand what score will help them get into what school. As a rule of thumb, a score of 1,300 to 1,600 will place you in the range of a good college, a score of 1,700 or above will place you in the range of a selective college, and anything over 2000 will place you in the range of an Ivy 4
Average SAT Scores 2009 JFK Mexican American Hispanic Overall
500
300
The highest JFK
250
was 2270. This
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SAT High Scores JFK JFK Mexican American Hispanic Overall
500
300
2008 2009
placing at or above
600
400
CRITICAL READING
JFK students are
SAT score in 2008 student is attending Dartmouth.
Average SAT Scores 2008
League or highly selective college. In Mexico, most universities use a version in Spanish of the sat known as the paa (Prueba de Aptitud AcadĂŠmica). It measures Critical Reading and Math, and the maximum score achievable is 1,600. Most prestigious schools in Mexico require, as a minimum, between 1000 and 1,350, depending on the school and/or the program. In a nutshell, the sat is important because it is a key element in the decision making of admissions officers. sat is not the only factor taken into account for college admissions, but it does weigh heavily. The higher your sat scores, the higher your chances are of getting into the schools of your choice.
As a rule of thumb, a score of 1,300 to 1,600 will place you in the range of a good college
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Building
Community
New Families Picnic The celebration began by welcoming new Mexican and foreign families that have become part of our community. We organized a picnic that combined fun, integration, and the tasting of different foods prepared by the families. A huge cake was cut for the occasion and we sang the Mañanitas (Happy Birthday) song. We celebrated 45 years of professionalism, dedication, and affection of the hundreds of people that have contributed to JFK’s success.
THE JFK SPIRIT
September 15 Cultural diversity is one of JFK’s characteristics. One part of the anniversary celebration is to share our traditions with international families. Our special guests witnessed a colorful parade and an emotional ceremony.
The JFK Spirit By: Karla Ríos
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Ground Breaking Ceremony The new Middle School building is being built during this school year. A Ground Breaking Ceremony was held in order to begin construction of the building. JFK authorities shared the importance of this project with students. It is an ambitious project that will have a satisfactory conclusion as to time and form thanks to your support.
Our Anniversary festivities have already begun. They have a special focus on our academic program. We are a great community and we will keep celebrating throughout the school year. Visit our website www.jfk.edu.mx where you will find photos and a calendar of events for the rest of the school year. Following is a summary of events that have already taken place:
Book Fair
Jaguar Day
One of the objectives of this school year is to boost our student’s joy of reading. This year the JFK Book Fair offered students a wide variety of books from different editorials. Several activities were incorporated to the Book Fair for the first time such as: reading workshops, a library on wheels, the participation of a storyteller, the presentation of the Separata magazine, and the presentation of the latest book written by the City Chronicler. We hope that this event will continue and that it will contribute to boost family integration through the good company of books.
Jaguar Day is the event with which sports activities begin at JFK. It is an event in which all students and teachers get together in a festive, respectful, and fun environment that is full of camaraderie. This year was special because a plaque was unveiled. Every year the names of the most outstanding sports students will be recorded on this plaque. Alumni were present at this event. A commemorative video was shown and trophies and exhibits were displayed which helped us remember the history of JFK in sports. It was a very emotional event. Go Jaguars! 7
Our
Students THEY HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY
My NHI Experience
JFK Students Join the National Hispanic Institute (NHI) The National Hispanic Institute (NHI) is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the future leadership needs of the global Hispanic community. It is associated with a well-known consortium of notable colleges and universities and works to recognize the talent of Hispanic and Latino youth and the potential they represent to the future of the Hispanic/Latino community and extended sectors of the American and global society. Based on this philosophy, NHI develops and conducts leadership experiences through which students may become intellectually, culturally, and socially engaged in the life of their communities. They invite highly qualified students with leadership potential to attend summer sessions and twenty-eight of our students received scholarships for work in the United States this last summer. Marijó López Aguayo was honored with an invitation to join and reports on her experiences.
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Marijó López Aguayo a JFK twelve grade student
The program is basically a small representation of the US Governmental System.
You might wonder, what is NHI?, well I asked myself that exact question one year ago when we received a letter saying we were nominated by the school to be part of that wonderful experience. The process was a little anxious at first, the feeling of not knowing if we got accepted or not was frustrating but once the envelope with the acceptance arrived everything changed. I personally attended the National LDZ program in Chicago where I met a lot of new people and made some amazing friendships. At first, I have to admit that we were kind of lost, but as the program proceeded we enjoyed it each time more, but also had more things to do and to work on. The program is basically a small representation of the US Governmental System, where we had a President (who is actually a student from JFK), a Vice-President, Justices, Attorneys, Senators and the House of Commons. First, we divided ourselves and created our own parties, which wasn’t easy since we had to integrate everyone’s ideas into 2 different political parties, decide who was actually running for president and vice president from
Basically we not only made unbreakable bonds with amazing friends ... We learned how to complete a good job no matter what the circumstances.
our own party and start political campaigns as well as have elections. We did the same process not only for President and Vice- president, but also for justices, attorneys and senators. Once the elections were over and all the necessary posts were filled we were ready to start working in our individual proposals to improve the Latino Community in many different aspects. These proposals went through the whole process of acceptance as it would in reality, being approved by all the houses and by the president. Every house had a lot of work to do and I have to tell, it wasn’t easy. We woke up at 5:30 a.m. because we had to be ready to start exercising at 5:50 a.m. After tha, we rushed back to the dorms to get ready because we always had to wear formal clothes, so take a shower,
choose your outfit, do your makeup and run in heels to the cafeteria in the opposite side of the campus and all before 8:00 a.m. It was definitely hard work, but somehow we managed to go through all of that and still work with our houses non-stop until 10:00 p.m sometimes even midnight. Basically we not only made unbreakable bonds with amazing friends, but we also learned how to work under pressure, execute a good job no matter the circumstances, different ways to help our community and make it prosper in the future, integrate everyone’s believes, get ready in speedy time and run in high-heels. It was in fact one of the most amazing experiences in my life and I would definitely do it again and recommend it to every Latino in the world. 9
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Teachers STAFF CORNER
A FOCUS ON OUR STAFF
It seems like yesterday when I came to meet you for the first time (1985), I never imagined that I was coming to stay, to discover who I was and what I was capable of doing, to learn and keep learning in this path to teaching that I had barely walked on because I had practically just graduated; but more importantly I found my second home. It was always very clear to me that I wanted to be a teacher, but when I met you dear John F. Kennedy School I could not help thinking “I belong here”, I had really found what I had been looking for. Here among your patios, classrooms and walls I have grown with you, I have matured, I have come to be who I am. In this place I feel fulfilled and as I said before, it is here that I feel at home because many years ago you stopped being my workplace to become an extension of my vital space, of my being. I have lived all kinds of things together with you, the lights and shadows that life offers but I have always felt that warm and protective embrace that comforts, that heals, and that pushes you to keep on going… I always remember all my dear students throughout the years that have allowed me to accompany them for a little while in that endless path that is their education. 10
It was always very clear to me that I wanted to be a teacher, but when I met you dear John F. Kennedy School I could not help thinking “I belong I feel privileged and very fortunate for having here”
this opportunity, the truth is that I don’t have words to render thanks for all that you have given me, my dear School; so now that you celebrate 45 glorious years I congratulate you with all the love that I am capable of giving and I hope that you will celebrate many, many more birthdays. Sincerely, Flor de María Rosas González elementary school teacher
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n O k Jf s n io t la u t a r g n o C ! y r sa er iv n n A h t 5 4 r u Yo This is not only our School; it is the School where my son studied. JFK par ticipated in his education of which today, as a mother, I feel very proud. For me JFK is a sch ool for life, I have grown here and I have bec ome a strong person in many aspects. JFK is a space that is full of life and opportunities, of diverse people from which I have learned many things. It is an honor for me to have JFK as my second home. Keeping our history in mind, JFK has always welcomed new ideas which ove r time strengthen our valuable educational pro ject. Congratulations to all of us who today form part of such a valuable team and especially to those that in these 45 years have added their part, through compromise and valuable vocatio n, to have the JFK that we enjoy today! Miss Luza social service
For me JFK is a school for life, I have grown here and I have become a strong person in many aspects.
“Proyectar “Proyectar yy Construir Construir con con Excelencia” Excelencia” INGENIERÍA Y DISEÑO URBANO S.A. DE C.V.
Construye
el nuevo Edificio de Middle School contribuyendo con la escuela John F. Kennedy en el futuro de sus alumnos
t a e r G A stitution In
this school sed to work at ea pl ry ve am I of my Hello, important part an en be s ha it because the pleasure of 45 and I have life. JFK turns ars, this has for almost 10 ye re he en be ng havi very well ow the system kn to t ge e m objectives. helped achieve JFK’s to se ea at k or to coland to w me to continue g in w lo al r fo Thank you ion! is great institut laborate with th
Escuela JFK
Escuela JFK
Kaeser Compresores
Casa Club El Campanario
Casa Club El Campanario
Grace Ugalde ion administrat
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Puente “Coyotillos”
www.indusa.com.mx
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JFK On The Move WHAT ARE WE UP TO?
Capital Campaign 2009–2014
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We begin our Capital Campaign with a focus upon funding our first project to construct our Middle School. There are many different ways to support the construction of the Middle School building. We will be pleased to work with prospective donors in determining how they may wish to make a gift.
Gifts in Kind If you have access to any of the following materials that you might be willing to donate or to provide with a significant discount, please contact us.
“Building our Future Together”
This September found us celebrating with a ground breaking ceremony inaugurating construction of our new Middle School building. Students, Board and Assembly members, and many others, helped to launch the project. Construction is now well underway. We need your help and support by joining us in our Capital Campaign. This campaign addresses important building project needs around the campus. The campaign includes three projects. Project “A” is the construction of the Middle School building. Funds assigned to other scheduled building projects have been allocated to this much needed construction. Our task as a community is to reimburse this fund to the amount of $34,000,000.00 pesos. We can then move on to Project “B”, which is a renovation of our Elementary School section. After completion of Project “B”, Project “C” will be construction of a new Administration Building housing all support services under one roof – with easy access for families.
PROJECT A
It takes a community effort to ensure the very best for our students
If you are interested in making a donation, please call the Office of Institutional Advancement T. 442 218 0075 Ext. 1006 or email Mónica Duarte mduarte@jfk.edu.mx
Gifts in Cash The success as a community depends not only on the amount of money given but also on the number of donors –alumni, parents and friends– who participate. Every person and every donation counts!
Tax-deductible receipts for gifts both in Mexico and the United States may be given upon request by the donor
Our great achievements over the past fortyfive years are the result of teamwork. Teamwork has helped in the past and we know that the community will continue to step forward to help in this shared effort. Just like each grain of sand comes together to make a beach, each of our contributions will help us to reach our Capital Campaign goals. 15
SPORTS PROVIDING SUPPORT FOR OUR MODEL OF EDUCATION
New Sponsorship Program The JFK Athletic Program is a very important element of our educational process. It contributes to the physical, social, emotional and academic well being of our students. It offers multiple opportunities to support character development, self control, teamwork and a healthy lifestyle. Arturo Bustamante, Director of our Integrated Physical Development Program and his team of Coaches, are committed to our students and to sports. They began a sponsorship program eight years ago. Throughout
SPONSORSHIP FACTS
the years, a number of parents and companies have participated as sponsors of the soccer teams in different categories. Today, JFK has several teams including soccer, basketball, volleyball, track and field, Tae Kwon Do, and cheerleading. We have designed a new sponsorship program. Becoming a sponsor of a JFK sports team, provides a great opportunity to support your child, to live the JFK mission, and to have the opportunity to promote your company among the JFK community.
The JFK Athletic Program... contributes to the physical, social, emotional and academic well being of our students.
SPONSOR
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`` More than 1400 students participate in sports activities in the mornings and afternoons. `` Students range in age from 4 to 18. `` 12 sports events are held during the school year.
For additional information contact: Prof. Raymundo Hernรกndez T. (442) 218 0075 Ext. 1201 Email: rhernandez@jfk.edu.mx Berenice Ledesma T. (442) 218 0075 Ext. 1006 Email: bledesma@jfk.edu.mx
`` Tournaments are held in each section at JFK. `` League tournaments are held with LIDEIP private schools. `` Asomex (Association of American Schools) tournaments are held with other American schools.
CATEGORY
TRADITIONAL
SILVER
GOLD
PLATINUM
$ 10,000
$ 15,000
$ 25,000
$ 35,000
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FEATURE STORY
By Mirtha Stappung
This year, our 45th anniversary, provides a great opportunity for us to remember our past, as we plan for our future. Our community values the special and unique nature of the school and works to support, through tuition and personal donations, efforts to maintain the school and its programs; they help us look to the future with optimism. The school was founded in 1964 by a group of businessmen, established in the Queretaro area, to serve the children of company personnel by offering them a bilingual education. These local and international businessmen had the vision, initiative and generosity of spirit to start this great educational project. They continued supporting the school as it struggled to survive and grow. When materials, funds and equipment were needed, donations were received from the community. This spirit of support has been maintained throughout the years and we want to continue this tradition. Local businesses and generous individuals have always seen the importance of the school and have given tremendous support. Tuitions and inscription fees alone would never have been able to build this school from its humble beginnings with thirty-two students to the school we have today with a student population of fourteen hundred. Our graduates attend the most prestigious colleges and universities both here in Mexico and around the world. All efforts of the founders of this school, and those who came after, have had one single focus in mind; support of our students. This continued 18
History of Giving at JFK
support and spirit of collaboration are characteristics of the JFK community. As the institution has matured it has become self-sufficient in daily operation; this is a cause for celebration. However, school enrollment and tuition fees have never covered the total costs of replacement of furnishings, repair of old buildings, and the construction of new facilities. Our school continues to need funds for development and implementation of the Infrastructure Master Plan. Our history of community support, and the high level of professional services that we offer, have enabled us to become the best educational option in the region for local and international families. Our position needs to be maintained. We are grateful for the help offered to the school and do administer resources in a careful and efficient way in order to optimize their use in the service of our students. Thanks to generous ongoing support and trust, the school has been able to maintain its commitment to making significant, positive, and lasting contributions to the education of all students who attend. After forty-five years of existence the school has come to deliver a strong program of high quality bicultural education and upholds a commitment to innovation. We remember so many examples of this ongoing community participation and honor past efforts. At the same time we encourage our present community to join those past participants with their own support. We must
When materials, funds and equipment were needed, donations were received from the community. This spirit of support has been maintained throughout the years...
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continue to remember that the education of our children is a shared responsibility that goes beyond the payment of tuition fees. All families, staff and other community members are encouraged to actively participate in an ongoing relationship of mutual support. Fundraising efforts for most of the history of the school were informal in nature. When a need arose, various members of committees would take it upon themselves to seek funds or materials for school improvement. An example of this can be found in the construction of the older two-story building. When the school solicited funds, local Fundraising business leaders and individuals stepped efforts for most of the history of forward with economic the school were support. The school has now informal in developed a more nature ... the formal way of identifyschool has now ing, prioritizing and developed a communicating needs more formal way through our Instituof identifying, tional Development prioritizing and Department. This communicating department works to needs through connect all members our Institutional of our community to Development this spirit of mutual Department. support for our students and the school. We have clear needs and have defined priorities for growth. We need our community to become familiar with our planning and share in the responsibilities of future financial campaigns. Our commitment, teamwork and generosity have taken JFK to its present place of respect within the community. Let us all join together to ensure that this wonderful spirit of support is maintained in order to build an even brighter future together. 20
www. plataforma. com. mx El carácter más innovador de la arquitectura reside en la capacidad de plantear y albergar los cambios en el estilo de vida.
Senda del Amanecer 151 Milenio III Querétaro, Qro. Tel./Fax (442) 294 80 50 contacto@plataforma.com.mx
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A lot of Jaime wonderful López Urquiaga memories come to mind when I think back to my times as a JFK student. Childhood friends...
Cover
CLASS OF '80
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Story
By Mónica Duarte, Editor
Several months ago I had the opportunity to attend our graduation ceremony of Class 2009. Students, directors, parents, teachers and friends shared very emotional moments.
It was a nice surprise to discover that the parent that was chosen to say a few words to the graduating class – to which his son belongs – is an alumni who was also President of the Board of Directors from 2002 – 2004 and is a current member of the School Assembly.
Jaime JFK is like Alberto López a second Buenrostro
home to me. I studied here from K1 to 12th grade, just like many of my friends... CLASS OF '09
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not have to present an entrance examination to Tec de Monterrey and I was able to waive one whole semester of studies because I took the IB Program (International Baccalaureate). JLU Taking the IB Program at JFK is well worth it. I invite all parents to learn more about the program and to motivate your children to take it. The academic and economic benefits are very important once your children go to University.
Lic. Jaime López Urquiaga ’80 (JLU), and his son Jaime Alberto López Buenrostro ’09 (JAL), agreed to sit down together and participate in this interview. What memories of JFK can you share? JLU JFK has been a part of my life since it was founded until now. I say since it was founded because my father worked at tremec for many years. tremec is a company that practically founded the School and backed it for many years. A lot of wonderful memories come to mind when I think back to my times as a JFK student. Childhood friends, the school in its first years with much simpler facilities than it has now. Going all the way from the Alamos neighborhood to Jurica was an adventure in itself. I am referring to 1968 or 1969. School transportation was a lot of fun for everybody who rode the bus. It was like a field trip every day. Once I got married I moved to Jurica with my wife and we practically lived right in front of the school. JFK was part of our daily life and, in a way, it continues to be so. How have you maintained your ties to JFK? JLU Over time, I have had the opportunity to participate and contribute in different ways: as a parent interested in the school environment of my children; as a member of the Assembly, committed to the mission and vision of the School; as President of the Board of Directors (2002–2004) assuming the responsibilities and commitments inherent to such a position. The truth is that I have a lot of ties to JFK as well as a lot of reasons to be proud. It has been very satisfying to watch my children’s path through the school. Jaime Alberto, you just graduated – what does JFK mean to you? JAL JFK is like a second home to me. I studied here from K1 to grade 12, just like many of 24
Damon Dickinson, Jaime López, Pepe Ávila, Manuel Herrera, Armando P. Arroyo, Timmy Lee
What do you consider to be top strengths that differentiate JFK from other schools? JAL One main differentiator is that JFK is a bicultural school. It is very enriching to
JLU I consider that English is also a strength. From a very young age, students study under native teachers and this facilitates their language acquisition. I have had the opportunity to work in the United States and both the preparation that I received at JFK, and mastering the English language, have been important factors. Something that has always been a source of great satisfaction is that my children have always been happy to go to school, just like me when I was a student. This is a reflection of a good environment and an adequate activities program. I think that there are a lot of things that make JFK a special school.
Going all the way from the Alamos neighborhood to Jurica was an adventure in itself. I am referring to 1968 or 1969. my friends. We shared a lot of experiences and practically grew up together. I don’t think that this happens so easily at most other schools. Something very important to me is that JFK teaches you to be a person with values, and ethics. There was always someone to provide support at JFK. If you had a problem you could always go to the teachers. The School provides a lot of support related to values. At JFK I learned to trust myself. Now that you are a university student, Jaime Alberto, what is your impression of the academic preparation that you received at JFK? JAL JFK prepares its students at high academic levels and it also teaches them to be well rounded human beings with values, who can achieve success in different aspects of life. I feel very well prepared in many aspects. I did
...a source of great satisfaction is that my children have always been happy to go to school, just like me when I was a student. get along with students and teachers from different parts of the world. I have noticed that when I travel it is very easy for me to relate to people of other nationalities – this is due to the contact that I had at JFK with people from diverse nationalities. I would like to add that when my family lived in San Antonio, Texas, I was placed at a higher grade because of the academic level that I had at JFK.
What does it mean to you to both have lived the JFK experience? JLU It is a shared success and we both have very fond memories. JFK is a community that is very close to us and forms part of our life. We have made great friends at JFK. JAL Something very interesting and wonderful is that my father gave speeches at both my Elementary and High School graduation 25
The work experiences that my father shared with me were a constant guide and I came to realize just how much I enjoyed technology.
I applied to seven universities and was accepted at six of them. ceremonies. My father gave his speech as the President of the Board of Directors at my Elementary graduation ceremony. He did not give a speech at my Middle School graduation ceremony because we lived in San Antonio at the time. When I graduated from High School my father was invited as a special guest speaker. Can you share something about your link to TREMEC and the role of this important company in the origins of JFK? JLU With tremec we go back even one more generation. My father, Jaime Alberto’s grandfather, worked at tremec for many years. This is the reason why first came to live to Querétaro. He also formed part of the JFK’s Board of Directors. We have been very close to the school for three generations and I hope that the tradition will continue. Tremecis the company that helped JFK and provided resources for its foundation. Many of tremec’s employees were foreigners and they needed a bicultural school for their children. tremec will always hold a unique and very special place in the history of JFK. What do you consider to be your greatest contribution to JFK? JLU It is hard to define this but my greatest contribution is probably related to my profession. I am a Systems Engineer and I have always pushed for investment in technology, especially during the time that I was President of the Board of Directors. I tried to create an 26
annual budget assigned to investment in technology. This technology budget is something that still exists. I was there when computers were first brought to the classrooms. I also participated in the conception of the Media Center – a space with technology and resources that is focused on education. I must mention that when I was President of the Board of Directors, Alfonso Lajud, the past Director of the JFK, informed us that he had
JFK is a community that is very close to us and forms part of our life. a job offer that he could not refuse; so we had the enormous responsibility of choosing the person that would replace him as the new Director of the school. In the process of choosing a new General Director, we interviewed directors of several important schools in Mexico City. We always saw Mirtha Stappung as the best option. After thinking about it for a few days, she accepted the position. This was one of the best and most satisfactory decisions that we made. Mirtha is a great leader and has done an extraordinary job. JFK is now celebrating its 45th year and is a very solid institution that is populated by people who are very committed, hard working and happy. This has been achieved through
hard work and is a reason for all of us that form part of the JFK community to be very proud of it. Jaime Alberto, how does JFK integrate technology with the educational process? JAL I went through JFK’s transition of switching from blackboards to using projectors inside the classrooms and to having classes with power point presentations – this made the classes much more effective. After that we got plasma screens connected to computers which allowed more interactivity. Nowadays, technology is a fundamental tool in education. There will always be more to be done because the development of new systems and computer equipment advances very quickly.
What do you think of current technology use in the lives of young people? Is it excessive? JAL What a coincidence that you should ask that. One of the questions in my English IB essay was related to this subject. Technology can immediately connect you to people all around the world and at the same time it can also isolate and distance you from those people that are physically close to you. It is important to find equilibrium. I see many more positive aspects to technology than negative aspects. Any idea that you have can be shared with people in any part of the world. As alumni, how would you like to continue to contribute to JFK? JLU I would like to support JFK initiatives. Mónica, since you have come to the school you have made a great effort to put alumni in touch with each other and that is very important.
How did you choose your field of study and university? JAL I would like to share that many of the students in my graduating class applied to, and were accepted by, the best universities in Mexico and around the world. I applied to seven universities and was accepted at six of them. I decided to study Electronic Technologies Engineering at Tecnológico de Monterrey (itesm). I have always liked gadgets and everything related to technology. I like to imagine what life will be like in the future. I would like to make my contribution to society with an invention or project related to technology that in some way could improve people’s quality of life. 27
I was there when computers were first brought to the classrooms. I also participated in the conception of the Media Center
The truth is that I believe we can pull more people into being involved in this community in a more active way – a lot of people are there but they do not participate in the way that we would like them to. Perhaps they have not been told how to participate or they have not been informed or they have not found out. I think that we need to be more proactive in this and ensure that we reach out to unite more people. We have to motivate everybody to become a part of the virtual community and we must try to establish an annual event to meet up. A reunion was held one year ago and it was very nice to see people that I had not seen in a long time; I even saw people that I did not know were JFK alumni because they studied at a different time than I did. We need to get motivated and make an effort to try to unite alumni and bring them closer to each other. JAL Mr. Adrian Leece, director of High School, had the initiative to start the time capsule project. This is something that will bring us together at JFK in five years – but we must propose other ways to be close to the school and to help out. Do you have anything to say bearing in mind JFK’s 45th Anniversary? JLU JFK is an institution in Querétaro. I hope that it continues like this for many years to come and that it will continue to form the future leaders of this country. Congratulations to all the JFK community for this shared achievement! JAL Congratulations! I am thankful for all that JFK gave me, especially for the great friends that I have. I hope that you will continue with the same concept and educational model. Students interested in studying technology can receive mentoring from the alumni we have interviewed. Hobbies: Jaime Alberto has a passion for gadgets and electronic games (Nintendo/Playstation type consoles). He plays tennis and is passionate about it. Jaime loves Enology and music. He has even made trips around these themes. Jaime also plays golf and likes soccer.
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RESTAURANTE HACIENDA LA LABORCILLA
Lunes a Sábado 18:00 a 3:00 hrs
Nuestra carta de bebidas disminuyó sus precios
Lunes y Domingo 13:30 a 17:30hrs Martes a Sábado 13:30 a 23:30 hrs
Los domingos contamos con menú para niños Disfruta ahora de unas ricas botanas Contamos con pasteles para llevar con 12hrs de anticipación
Jueves a Sábado 18:00 a 3:00 hrs
Nuevos DJ’S Música para todos los gustos
Prol. Corregidora Norte 911-Bis, Col. Parques Residenciales, Querétaro, Qro., México www.lalaborcilla.com reservaciones@lalaborcilla.com Tel. 01 (442) 245 1694 al 97
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Alumni CONNECTING WITH ALUMNI
Connecting With Alumni By Mónica Duarte & Valeria Fagiolani
JFK… Remembering Our Past – Building Our Future Together We continue to take steps towards the implementation of our strategic plan to consolidate our network of JFK Alumni. To achieve this plan we are working on the following activities: The publication of the JFK Times Magazine If you would like to be a part of the Editorial Committee of our magazine, please contact Mónica Duarte at mduarte@jfk.edu.mx. Your collaboration as alumni is welcome. The alumni Web page http://alumni.jfk.edu.mx The virtual community is growing. We can reinforce our connections with your help and participation; help us promote the site by inviting other alumni that are close to you, to register at the site and to create their personal page. We will all benefit from forming a network. 30
JFK on Facebook We have created a Facebook profile under the name Exalumnos Kennedy Querétaro. Enter and share photos, anecdotes, and memories. This is another tool that we are using to find alumni and form a network. Providing school tours for alumni You are always welcome to visit JFK; you will remember good times while you walk through the campus and you will be able to greet those who may have been your teachers and who continue their caring educational work. Inviting local alumni to become part of special alumni sports teams We would like to create alumni soccer, basketball, and volleyball teams. If you play any of these sports and would like to participate in this project, please contact Arturo Bustamante, Director of our Athletic Department, or email abustamante@jfk.edu.mx Organizing class reunions We are looking for representatives to organize class reunions at JFK. Register and be the leader of your class reunion! For more information contact us at alumni@jfk.edu.mx JFK 45th Anniversary In March 2010, there will be a Communitywide Picnic as well as Alumni Reunions so that we can celebrate JFK’s 45th Anniversary together. Look for your upcoming invitation and we hope that you will join us on this memorable day! 31
Class WHAT ARE WE DOING NOW?
Notes
‘?
HS
alda Mercado I don’t have any specific anecdote to tell, I just want to say that JFK was the most incredible school that I ever attended. I have the best Carlos Gabriel Medina Gaytán memories of it and of most of the teachers, esHi there. It’s lovely to hear from you. I have pecially of the Elementary teachers. I will never many many anecdotes of things that happened forget Miss Emma, Miss Susy, Miss Maricela, at JFK. I have lots of photos and yearbooks Miss Weinstein, Miss Cris, Miss Paty (the from when I was in Pre-School. I even kept music teacher)… Now that I am a Mom, I know my JFK sweater! It's an honor to lend you how complicated our children’s education can my stuff and enrich the amazing upcoming get and I am very grateful to my parents for the alumni event. vision they had and the great effort they made when they enrolled us at this school which is definitely the best! There is a reason why JFK is celebrating 45 years! Congratulations! HS
‘92
HS
‘78
Mike Menegus I have a lot of fond memories of JFK back in the day. It's hard to put them into context so that your current readers understand how special those days were. Back then I didn't really appreciate what we had by being the exception, how small the classroom size was. We almost had private tutoring. Our largest class had approximately 9 students and I believe that was Science. The average classroom size was 3 to 4 students. I had always struggled with learning at other American Schools but at JFK the almost personal class size allowed each and every one of us to learn. It's amazing that we all liked each other and hung out together every day. We all learned how to drive at right around the same time and in Jurica. It was all cobblestones so there was no speeding on the streets unless you wanted a new kidney. We all got in trouble together when we skipped school one day and only one day. I have a lot of good memories and will re-live them again when the old gang gets together again. So far, I have made contact with Debbie. Thank you and I wish you and JFK continued success. Best Regards. 32
Mike's JFK newsletter
‘?
HS
Page Willson I remember when my Coach tied my shoelaces, right before the State of Guanajuato track race. It made a BIG difference. I won the race and became the State champion in High Jump in 1970.
HS
‘04
Mariana Fernández I love this school for the simple fact that my best time was when I was there. The combination of education and entertainment was perfect. Congratulations for these 45 years.
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REUNIONS & SNAPSHOTS ‘85 Middle School Graduation
Jesús Ledezma
Upper row: Manuel Sánchez–Lara, Andrés Ibarra, Ana Cecilia Guerrero, Juan Carlos Martínez, Polla Torreslanda, Enrique Borbolla, Erika. Lower row: Maribel Carrera, Beatriz González, Ana Laura Castellanos, Jessica Pagola, Lorena Govela. Front row : Víctor Gómez Sent by Beatriz González
Past Director of our JFK Elementary visited the school.
‘05 Reunion ‘85
‘89
Walter Castellanos, Diana Estrada, Tony Herrera, Roberto García y Bianca Rentería. Sent by Tony Herrera.
Reunion August 2009 Manuel Crespo, Adriana Moreno, Juan Castillo, Hans Frei y Carlos Gabriel Medina Gaytán.
‘89
‘05
‘01 Visit
Miss Carol Brady ‘01
Rodrigo Ruiz de Teresa visited the school 34
Miss Carol Brady, who once worked In the school, pays us a visit. Photograph with Pilar González, alumni and now JFK teacher. 35
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