West mark 2014-15 Annual Report by ETCH Creative

the difference is brilliant

2014-2015 ANNUAL REPORT JULY 1, 2014â&#x20AC;&#x201D;JUNE 30, 2015

I can fly on my own at Westmark Mastering skills and ideas Building paths to places I’ve never seen

I am part of something bigger at Westmark Finding friends and mentors Creating family beyond my dreams

There’s nothing I can’t do at Westmark Gathering confidence and knowledge Paving the way for successes to come

There’s everything I want at Westmark Exploring interests and passions Soaking up all options under the sun

My future is bright at Westmark Accessing college and careers Showing me opportunities are rife

M y difference is brilliant at Westmark Honing talent and potential Preparing me to go far in my life

BOARD OF TRUSTEES A LEGACY FOR GOOD

Dear Westmark Community,

Westmark seniors were not the only ones graduating this year: 2015 also saw the retirement of Muir Meredith, our beloved head of school. From August 2008 through June 2015, Muir used his particular blend of warmth, humor, insight and intelligence to advance Westmark’s mission and build a truly wonderful community. Everyone whose lives he touched — students, teachers, parents and more — recognized what a tremendous asset Muir was to the school. Whether it was gaining prestigious CAIS accreditation, adding new programs or enhancing our physical campus, he focused on making Westmark a better place, and he succeeded beyond every measure.

Looking back at Westmark’s distinguished history as an independent school, it’s exciting to see that, while our central purpose and driving passion are unchanged, ours is a school in a constant state of dynamic evolution.

It is a true testament to the kind of person Muir is that his parting gift to the school was helping establish the Muir Meredith Head of School Scholarship Fund — offering critical financial aid to enable greater numbers of students to attend Westmark. We are so grateful to Muir for his generosity and big-hearted vision, which will make a meaningful difference to countless future students in years and decades to come.

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Our school’s North Star remains the same: Westmark is committed to educating, supporting and inspiring bright children challenged by language-based learning differences (LD). During Muir Meredith’s tenure as head of school, Westmark established itself as a premier destination for launching new beginnings for LD students, providing them with unmatched opportunities for growth and development. Indeed, during this time, Westmark became only the second school of its kind to gain CAIS accreditation. Muir led Westmark’s expansion into 2nd and 3rd grades and grew enrollment from 167 in 2008 to 235 in 2015, or approximately 40 percent. Westmark now touches more young lives than ever before. As steady as our mission has remained, the information and tools available to us are constantly evolving. Ongoing research and an explosive growth in assistive technologies have created a plethora of new educational programs and approaches. Westmark remains at the cutting edge of these

academic advancements, bringing the best of them to bear for our students. Of course, it is your ongoing support that makes this possible. As the educational landscape continues to change, there is no person more qualified to lead our community forward than our new head of school, Claudia Koochek. Claudia is a renowned figure in the global LD community and a recognized expert on dyslexia and learning differences. She is committed to ensuring that Westmark continues to identify and adopt the most effective teaching techniques, technologies and programs for our students. Under her guidance, we will harness the best of what the 21st century has to offer to help our students realize their full potential. Our success continues to depend upon your dedicated partnership. I am enormously proud of the ways in which we have come together to build a strong legacy for Westmark, and I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your care, concern and generosity. It means the world to our kids! With gratitude,

Rae Sanchini Tobey Chair Board of Trustees

Ongoing research and an explosive growth in assistive technologies have created a plethora of new educational programs and approaches. Westmark remains at the cutting edge of these academic advancements.

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At Westmark, we have much to celebrate. This is a place that inspires our students to grow, to dream and to reach new heights of accomplishment.

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HEAD OF SCHOOL Dear Family and Friends of Westmark, I am honored to be writing in these pages for the first time as Westmark’s head of school. It is indeed a privilege to find myself among the passionate and dedicated members of our community — parents, teachers, staff, board members and others — who work so tirelessly to help our students achieve and thrive. At Westmark, we have much to celebrate. This is a place that continues to transform and enrich young people’s lives. Our academic programs and extracurricular offerings are second to none, and they inspire our students to grow, to dream and to reach new heights of accomplishment. The Westmark approach to learning mirrors my own educational philosophy. I believe that all kids can learn; that every child learns differently; and that all kids can learn to use their minds well. I am a proponent of education that is designed to emphasize the whole child in order to ignite and cultivate each student’s unique potential and character. Customized education enables students to develop academically, socially and emotionally. Westmark is special because it empowers students to feel valued and respected in

a learning environment that is engaging, supportive, safe and innovative. This past year continued to showcase what makes the school so unique. Our students excelled by every measure, whether in the classroom, on the field or on the stage. And our extended community offered extraordinary support —staffing volunteer events, donating time and resources, getting involved in campus leadership and more.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2014–2015

We have a truly wonderful school in Westmark, yet there is still so much more we can do. I am tremendously excited to work with each of you to launch new programs and to keep raising the bar on cutting-edge LD education. New research in neuroscience, cognitive science and technology is revealing stunning details about how our brains work, and I am eager to capitalize on this information and integrate it into our nationally renowned curriculum.

Jolyon Gissell

Thank you for your collaboration, generosity and vision. I am eager to see where our partnership may take us, and I look forward to getting to know you in the months and years ahead.

Dave Stohl

Rae Sanchini Tobey, Chair Chip Robertson, Vice Chair Andrea Mack, Secretary Andrew Furgatch, Treasurer Dave Clark Dawn Cunnion Susanne Daniels Elizabeth English Jeff Goldstein Tanynya Hekymara Rob Hoyt Kathleen Kennedy Jim Kilcourse Deborah Liebling Laura Lizer Charles Nelson Jody Pritikin Michael Tollin EX-OFFICIO TRUSTEE MEMBERS Barry Kurtz, Counsel Muir Meredith, Head of School

Claudia Koochek Head of School

Heidi & Bill Brewington, WPA Co-Presidents James Montgomery, Trustee Emeritus David Cronenbold, Jr., Trustee Emeritus

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SHAPING POWERFUL BEGINNINGS Your child is unique. It is an essential truth that shapes the Westmark experience. Since our founding in 1983, Westmark has focused every resource at our command on enriching the cognitive, emotional and behavioral development of

deepen their comprehension and build homework management skills. Each student is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including an iPad with age-appropriate apps and SMART Boards that provide instant access to class-generated notes. We open

Westmark School inspires students with language-based learning differences who possess academic potential and personal promise to build on their strengths and prepare for a successful college experience. WESTMARKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MISSION STATEMENT our students. In grades two through 12, our signature approach to educating the whole child encourages students to value and explore their innate gifts. By honoring each individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abilities, needs and possibilities, we empower our students to achieve their highest potential. Westmark knows that conventional, formulaic approaches to education do not inspire children to excel. Instead, your child is empowered to partner with us in creating a personalized approach to academic achievement. We begin with a comprehensive assessment of each student; their passions and challenges are key to informing each individual course of study. Our commitment to the whole child impacts every facet of Westmark. Class sizes are small. Skilled academic counselors work with students to

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doors to a rich variety of opportunities in leadership and community service; the performing, visual and digital arts; and competitive athletics. Students at Westmark master the fundamentals that are integral to success in college and in life, including reading, writing, oral expression, study habits, decision-making and time management. We support your child in building confidence, developing leadership skills and learning to self-advocate â&#x20AC;&#x201D; qualities that will contribute to a fulfilling and rewarding life beyond Westmark. At Westmark, character and compassion are cherished. Differences (whether individual or cultural) are honored. And the special gifts your child will share with the world are nurtured, encouraged and enriched. Welcome to Westmark.

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A BRILLIANT YEAR Westmark has a distinguished history of success — a record of high achievement that continued during 2014-15. Working together, our students, faculty and parents created something truly special: a community of individuals dedicated to nurturing academic growth and fostering personal development. Our programs flourished this year, enabling members of the Westmark family to activate their learning in new and exciting ways. Among our accomplishments over the past academic year were: LEARNING BY DOING: Over spring break, juniors and seniors broadened their horizons with an eight-day Mediterranean adventure to Greece. The trip took them to Athens (where they visited the Acropolis, one of the cradles of civilization), Delphi (home to a legendary oracle) and the gorgeous island of Santorini. Eighth grade students traveled to Big Bear’s Cedar Lake Camp, taking advantage of hiking, painting, yoga, ropes courses and fishing. And our sixth and seventh graders spent three fun-filled days at Camp Hess Kramer in Malibu.

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EXCELLING ON THE FIELD: This year, our varsity football team completed the best season in school history, finishing with an 8-2 record and a coveted Omega League Championship. The Westmark varsity coed soccer team made an impressive showing against spirited competitors (going 5-4-1 in the Omega League), and the varsity boys basketball team received a playoff berth in the CIF Southern Section Playoffs, holding its own against powerhouses in the league. At the Middle School level, our basketball “A” and “B” teams proved their mettle and stepped up their game, earning the respect of players throughout their division, and Middle School girls basketball competed for the first time in Westmark history! GIVING BACK: Through their work in the community, Westmark students built leadership skills, fostered creative talents and developed an appreciation for the importance of helping others. The Eye-to-Eye program empowered 13 Westmark Upper School students to serve as mentors for nearby Encino Elementary lower school students with learning differences. As part of the Middle School advisory program, seventh and eighth grade

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At Westmark, I’ve learned how to overcome my learning challenges. I can organize my assignments. The teachers use different learning strategies that I will be able to use in the future and when I go to college and beyond. students dedicated an entire week to service, collecting books for an area nonprofit, making toys for the local shelter, donating and wrapping toys for the West Valley Food Pantry and more. 100% PARTICIPATION: For the second year in a row, parents, faculty, board members and staff achieved full participation in our Annual Fund, providing critical resources to sustain Westmark’s vibrant programs and curriculum. CELEBRATING DIVERSITY: For the first time, Westmark sent students to the national Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC) in Indianapolis. It was an emotional and inspiring journey for the students selected to attend, who will be serving as leaders of a new student diversity and inclusivity initiative open to all Upper School students. MASTERING TECHNOLOGY: In November, Westmark hosted the annual Computer Using Educators (CUE) conference — a professional development opportunity for teachers to learn the latest and greatest in the use of educational technology in the classroom. Over 100 participants came to

hear presenters including Westmark teachers and a guest speaker from Apple, Inc. CREATING CHARACTER: R.E.A.L. (Resilience, Empowerment, AntiBullying and Leadership), Westmark’s year-long, school-wide character development program, included activities, special guest speakers, awards, on-campus peer exercises and communication strategies to help students increase self-confidence and build upon their unique strengths. ADVANCEMENTS IN THE ARTS: December brought the debut of Our Town, Westmark’s fall play. Upper and Middle School students shared the stage for this collaboration between Westmark’s performing and visual arts departments. “It was,” notes one audience member, “a wonderful performance. I’m still wiping away tears!” The spring musical, Working, was similarly well received. At the Upper School, our Arts Night in March showcased students’ talent in the performing and visual arts — from digital arts, drawings and music to mixed media, sculpture and more.

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Our daughter is determined to excel at school, but only Westmark has the resources and expertise to challenge her to think according to her highest ability within the context of her learning differences. Thanks to Westmark, she can pursue her dream of graduating and going to college.

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OUR SIGNATURE SUCCESS What makes Westmark different is our commitment to comprehensive excellence â&#x20AC;&#x201D; dedication to academic and extracurricular programs and resources that consistently set the standard for LD schools nationwide. We are especially proud of our signature initiatives that continue to garner Westmark widespread acclaim for innovation, passion and clear-eyed strategic vision. ADVISORY AND ELECTIVES: Westmarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unparalleled advisory program brings small groups of students together with an advisor on a weekly basis. There, they explore identity, build self-esteem, develop leadership capacity and formulate strategies for long-term success. Through access to social emotional wellness support, students in the program learn vital self-advocacy and social thinking skills as they simultaneously develop an understanding of their unique learning difference. Electives at Westmark enable students to hone individual talents and broaden their horizons. Each semester, students have the opportunity to select from drama and visual arts; in addition, they participate in an elective of their choice on a weekly basis.

ARTS: At Westmark, students access unrivalled experiences in the performing, visual and digital arts. At the Lower and Middle School, we collaborate with established independent studios to offer a robust performing arts curriculum with courses taught by professional dancers and choreographers; at the Upper School, students delve into subjects such as advanced video production, advanced studio art and broadcast journalism (via Westmark News Network, a student-produced daily news broadcast). Whether they are participating in our dramatic and musical theater productions, shining in our annual Holiday Showcase or taking advantage of myriad other opportunities for individual expression, our students find a welcoming home for nurturing talent and interests and strengthening creative abilities. ATHLETICS: We provide everyone a fair chance to participate on a team. Westmark Athletics is a competitive, non-cut program that promotes sportsmanship, honesty, commitment, support, patience, hard work, integrity, loyalty and pride.

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Through their participation, students develop strength, coordination, flexibility, agility and endurance as members of teams including: Middle School: • “A” team basketball • “B” team basketball • Football • Girls’ basketball • Girls’ volleyball • Soccer

accommodations, preparing for college interviews and essays and learning to selfadvocate during the admissions process. Our skilled college advisor offers informative group sessions as well as individual meetings with students and parents to help identify and evaluate the broad range of opportunities available to successful Westmark graduates.

Upper School: • Varsity basketball • Varsity boys’ soccer • Varsity boys’ volleyball • Varsity cross country • Varsity football • Varsity girls’ volleyball • Varsity golf

ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS: After-school classes, clubs and other enrichment program offerings at Westmark enable students at each grade level to discover new passions and affinities, spend time with classmates and meet new friends. From woodworking and dance to sewing and robotics, Lower and Middle School students are exposed to a wide array of activities via rotating 10-week sessions. Our older students participate in a variety of clubs and electives including student council, Eye to Eye, Jewish Student Union and Science Fair Club.

COLLEGE PREP: Essential to the Westmark experience is hands-on counseling and support in navigating the road to college and post-secondary options after graduation. Through the College Center, students receive assistance with studying for standardized testing, identifying appropriate

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING: Some of the best learning at Westmark takes place outside the classroom walls. We expose students to the natural world and local ecosystems, reinforcing their academic curriculum and cultivating camaraderie, leadership and independence. At the beginning of each

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Almost two years ago, my daughter was diagnosed with ADHD (including dyslexia). From the outset, what was most important to me was creating a strong educational foundation for her, characterized by consistency and support. Without Westmark, I simply donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what we would have done.

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school year, grades five through 12 participate in an outdoor adventure trip. Additionally, eighth graders visit Washington, D.C. during their spring break to soak up the sights of our nation’s capital, and 11th and 12th grade students travel abroad to explore foreign cultures in countries like Ireland, Greece and Peru. We also offer WestLAB (Westmark Learning About Business), a program designed to introduce Upper School students to businesses and specialty schools across Los Angeles that can help shape their college, career or vocational choices.

SERVICE LEARNING: Westmark seeks to foster responsible members of society who contribute their time, energies and talents to improving the quality of life locally, regionally and beyond. Westmark’s commitment to service to others starts locally and extends across the globe, as students build the skills necessary to make a difference in our school, across our nation and around the world. We teach them to engage effectively with complex global problems — and to seek solutions through teamwork and thoughtful action.

INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION: At Westmark, individualized attention is fundamental to our educational philosophy. Students benefit from intensive reading and math instruction, and intimate content area courses in history, language arts and the sciences deepen the learning experience. Upon admission, students receive an intensive reading assessment to determine appropriate placement in the Westmark Reading Program; as they move through the program, their progress is continually monitored and adapted to their specific needs. In math, students across grades are grouped by ability; each class contains a maximum of eight individuals.

TECHNOLOGY: At the core of Westmark’s approach to teaching is a full embrace of emerging technology to enhance student learning, enabling them to produce academic work that reflects their strengths and potential. All Westmark students are equipped with personal iPads, connecting them to worlds of information beyond the physical walls of the school. SMART Boards in every classroom support a diverse range of learning styles. Upper School students utilize the Haiku Learning Management System to turn in assignments and to participate in online class discussion. At the high school level, the technology skills taught and required at Westmark are equivalent to what students will encounter in college.

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DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO OUR PHONATHON VOLUNTEERS Our Westmark community owes a special debt of gratitude to our extraordinary volunteers. Whether helping raise vital funds through our phonathon or assisting with the annual gala or other events, they provide the support needed for our programs to flourish. We are enormously grateful to our Board of Trustees and Eric Covert, parent chair of our Annual Fund, for their tireless efforts and expertise in soliciting donations to make our school stronger. ANNUAL FUND PHONATHON CALLERS Chris Brewster* Eric Covert David McNeill Lynn Norton Maureen Padilla Steffani Pugh Valerie Watiker BOARD OF TRUSTEES PHONATHON CALLERS Jolly Gissell* Chuck Nelson* Jody Pritikin* Chip Robertson* Dave Stohl* Rae Sanchini Tobey – Board Chair* *not shown in picture above

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What will your legacy be? That is a question I was asked a few years ago, and it really made me think. We oftentimes get caught up in the day-today activities of life and don’t take into account the impact we can have on those closest to us. Philanthropy is about more than giving money — it is about having a positive impact for a nonprofit that makes a difference in your life and your family’s life. Westmark has had a remarkable history of changing young people’s lives and encouraging them to feel confident about their ability to learn and contribute to the world. There isn’t a day that goes by that I do not hear a story about how people’s sons, daughters or grandchildren who are attending Westmark or have attended Westmark have transformed themselves into people who are excited about learning, effectively advocate for themselves and have developed a resiliency that bodes well for their future. Westmark provides new beginnings and new hope for young people who have had doors closed to them in the past. You have to ask yourself, what would have happened to all those countless students who have gone on to successful lives, if Westmark hadn’t been here for them?

Through your gifts to the school you have helped transform the lives of your children, grandchildren, and many others. You are also helping to continue the Westmark legacy by creating a hopeful future for many students. Westmark continues to have a positive impact because of gifts of time, expertise and resources provided by parents, past parents, grandparents and alumni. You have joined them in building upon that foundation. Once again, Westmark — for the second year in a row — has achieved 100 percent faculty, staff, current parent and board participation to the Annual Fund. This is an extraordinary accomplishment given that fewer than two percent of independent schools in the country have ever achieved this feat. This not only encourages others such as foundations to join us in our mission, but also honors those who gave selflessly in the past. Thank you to all of you who passionately see what is possible and help make that happen.

Nancy Nichols Director of Advancement/Development

There isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a day that goes by that I do not hear a story about how peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sons, daughters or grandchildren who are attending Westmark or have attended Westmark have transformed themselves into people who are excited about learning, effectively advocate for themselves and have developed a resiliency that bodes well for their future.

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YOU MAKE IT POSSIBLE Westmark transforms the lives of students, preparing them for exceptional futures and fulfilling careers. But we do not do it alone. Rather, it is in partnership with supporters and friends that we are able to sustain our unparalleled programs and launch exciting new initiatives. Their investment in our community – and their generous contributions to our Annual Fund — are essential to nearly every facet of our school programs and operations. Working in close collaboration, families of current students, alumni and their parents, employees, board of trustee members, corporations, foundations and others leverage the Annual Fund to enable the hiring of highly trained and experienced teachers; to maintain small class sizes and individualized instruction; to optimize the use of assistive technology; and to offer enrichment LEAGUE OF LIONS $25,000 and above Brad Lemons Foundation Dr. Sam Elias and Mr. David Clark Mr. and Mrs. Bradford F. Freer Christine and Jordan Kaplan Ms. Kathleen Kennedy and Mr. Frank Marshall Ms. Rae Sanchini Tobey and Mr. Bruce Tobey The Sharon D. Lund Foundation The Stohl Family Westmark Parent Association Windsong Trust LION’S BENEFACTOR $10,000 to $24,999 Mr. and Mrs. David Cronenbold The Furgatch Family Dr. Ellen A. Glaser Yolanda Foster and Mohamed Hadid The Hartono Family Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Hoyt III The Kilcourse Family

Mr. and Mrs. Bradley R. Krevoy Mr. and Mrs. James Montgomery Mr. and Mrs. Charles Nelson Chris and Dick Newman Rick and Lori Newman Bobbie and Jackie Preckwinkle Kathryn and Jim Stern Michael and Robbie Tollin Mr. Walter Werzowa & Mrs. Evelyne Tollman-Werzowa LION’S CIRCLE $5,000 to $9,999 Mr. Steven Batiste and Mr. Robert Sertner Mr. and Mrs. Jolyon Gissell Ms. Deborah Liebling and Mr. Alan Cohn Andrea and Chris Mack Amy and Greg Snyder LION’S PATRON $3,000 to $4,999 Mr. and Mrs. Scott L. Adair Dr. Karen Carson

in areas from athletics to the arts. The Annual Fund is also a key source of support for community building — increasing diversity on campus and reinforcing the strength of Westmark’s alumni network — financial aid, professional development for faculty and staff, and school safety and security. It is with tremendous gratitude that we thank contributors to the 2014-15 Annual Fund. Your pledge was a vote of confidence in an institution designed to transform educational possibilities and maximize opportunities for students in the LD community. As a direct result of your participation, our students are able to build confidence and acquire knowledge that will fuel meaningful achievements for years to come.

Ms. Maureen Padilla & Mr. Eric Covert Dawn and Bob Cunnion The Dintzer Family Melissa Ellin and Doug Ellin Dr. Ozlem K. Equils Ms. Liz Morehead & Mr. Martin Hilton Mr. Robert Jacobs and Ms. Ann Gentry Ms. Taylor Obre and Mr. Richard Beale Chip and Carrie Robertson Ms. Gloria Shatner Andrea and Tom Shay Dr. Ram Singh and Dr. Sushma Bhadauria LION’S DONOR $1,500 to $2,999 Anonymous (5) Mrs. Cynthia Ambuehl-Diamont and Mr. Donald Diamont Keith and Valerie Arem Christopher and Kelly Davis

Lana & Peter Eliot Ms. Jill Farwell Amy and John Feldmann Mr. Timothy Florian The Gandolfini Family Ms. Shari Genser and Dr. Valerie Watiker Larry and Dalia Goldberg Hadar and Jeff Goldstein Catherine Smythe Grasso/ Grasso Family Robert Gunsalus and Imke Schroeder Carrie and Max Haber Mr. and Mrs. Hakim Beth and Scott Harris Jim and Mary Iannarilli Ms. Rebecca A. Johnston Mr. Jason Kassin and Ms. Sasha Ruocco-Kassin The Knoller Family Kim Kralj and Dee Johnson Muir and Laurel Meredith The Minardos Family

Every effort is made to ensure that the information in the Annual Report is accurate and inclusive. If there is a mistake in the published information, please accept our apology and contact us at nnichols@westmarkschool.org so that we may correct it for future editions.

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Ms. Nancy L. Nichols Mr. and Mrs. John H. Perry David and Ilysia Pierce Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Romano The Rose Davis Family The Rudnick-Braverman Family David and Jann Sears Erwin and Caren Sokol The Taupier Family Ms. Maria Theologitis-Smith Peter and Tricia Valli Ms. Betty Valli Mr. Jess Wittenberg Ms. Lonnie Wittenberg Mr. James Yoder and Ms. Constance Lawton LION’S CLUB Up to $1,500 Anonymous (26) Mr. Daniel Abitboul Latif Abuneimeh Mr. and Mrs. Gary Adelson Ms. Lora Adler

Mr. and Mrs. Graham Alliance Mr. Jesus Amador Mr. and Mrs. Ames Ms. Jane Anderson and Ms. Tess Ayers The Antin Family The Barandes/Kaplan Family Dr. Robert Barker and Dr. Corinne Barker Ms. Patty Barrows Dr. Emad & Yesenia Bassali Nazy & Behrooz Behnam François and Jane Bergeron Jill and Alex Bombino Mr. Trevor Brazier and Ms. Kristen Bird Dr. and Mrs. Mark L. Brenner Mr. and Mrs. William Brewington James and Robyn Bridges The Brones Family Ms. Polly Brophy Ms. Stella S. Bulochnikov Andrew & Alicia & Alex Burnett Ms. Clotilde Carlisi Mr. Cris Carpenter Julie Hanan Carruthers Ms. Kitty Ceppi Ms. Dorothee Chadda Mr. Juan Chavez Ms. Penny Chitamitara Sandra and Alec Chorches Laura Coker Tim and Heidi Connor Mr. Donald Cook Ms. Noël Corbin Ms. Michelle Williams Court and Mr. Jamie Court Jeffrey and Beth Cowan Mr. Paul Curtis Susanne and Greg Daniels Ms. Monica M. Davis Mr. and Mrs. Matt Day Ms. Johanna Denis Ms. Marissa L. DeSiena Ruth and Mike Devine The Donald Family Mr. and Mrs. Andrew G. Donen

Mr. Manoli Dramitinos Scott Gamzon and Richard Draughon Noreen and Ian Drew Steve and Suzanne Eliot Christal & Chris Ellis Mr. Devin Engebretsen Elizabeth English and Leigh Williams Dave and Stephanie Escobar Ms. Rachel L. Escobar Ms. Amee Faggen Mr. and Mrs. Craig J. Faggen Ms. Sara Faulkner Abby & Jonathan Freund Jay Friedkin and Carolyn Woods Mr. Marcelo Frutos Mr. and Ms. David Fryden Elenor and Arman Gabay Mr. Adam W. Gallagher Gloriane and Stan Gamzon Jesse and Molly Ghalili Ms. Katharine Gibson Ms. Virginia M. Giritlian The Glass Family Mr. and Mrs. Michael Glazer Mr. Elmor Go Jill and Roy Goldstein Ms. Roberta Smith-Gram and Mr. Gary Gram Mr. and Mrs. Douglas E. Gravink Ms. Bobbie Gray John and Stefania Greco Mr. and Mrs. Joel Gretsch Mr. & Mrs. Martin Grossman Mr. Agustin Guerrero Mr. and Mrs. Thierry Guetta Ms. Leah Hali Ms. Jenna M. Halstead Ms. Sarah C. Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. Travis Hansen Jan Hatcher & Ira Wohl Tanynya Hekymara Ms. Yolanda Heller Mr. James Hensley and Dr. Vicente Son Ms. Cynthia S. Hersch Ms. Cheryl Hines and Mr. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Barry L. Hirsch Ms. Lindsay A. Hirsch Ms. Christine Holifield Mr. Jared Honig Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hopkins Gina and Michael Howe Vivian, Marc and Matthew Hurwitz Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Hutnicki Mr. Hugh Hutson III Mr. and Mrs. Tom Jacobs The Jensen Family Mr. Jeffrey Jimenez Dana and Adam Kaller Mr. Mitchel Katlin and Ms. Dayna Katlin Ms. Jodie Katofsky Mr. and Mrs. Bret Katz Arnie and Linda Klein Kelvin and Veronica Kon Mr. and Mrs. Tomash Kroo Terri G. Kuhlmann Mr. and Mrs. Barry Kurtz Ms. Jenna J. Lamica Kirsten Coe Melissa & Ira Lapides Dr. Catalina Lara Ms. Shamicka Lawrence Dan and Melly Lindsay Ms. Laura Lizer and Mr. Rob Word Mr. Jorge Lopez Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Lucky Ms. Mary Beth Ludden Ms. Jennifer Marenstein Tom and Bethany Martin Megan McConnell and Jan Stevens Mr. and Mrs. Justin McInnes Rhonda and David McNeill Leslie Miller and Ramon Navarro Ms. Thea Miller Ms. Jennifer Miranda-Rivera Ms. Claudia H. Mirkin Ms. Ann M. Mitchell Ms. Henriette Montgomery Roberta and Sam Montgomery Ms. Cindy Morales Ms. Kai Milla Morris

John and Pamela Moser Karen and Ned Nalle The Nathanson Family Mr. Keith Nauman Mr. Chuck Negron John Norris and Ellen Pint Mr. and Mrs. Butch Norton Ms. Kathryn O’Connor Dr. Mehran Okhovat and Ms. Zipora Kohanim Wendy and Rory Packer Ms. Jennifer J. Pavelka John and Alison Pearson Dr. Clarence Perkins, Jr. Ms. Kia Perry Ms. Sandra Pierce Kathleen Pierson Mr. and Mrs. Bradley C. Pilz Ms. Nydia M. Pineda Mrs. Gabriella Pollino Rodman and Mr. Terry Rodman Mr. and Mrs. Peter W. Postlmayr Jody Katz Pritikin Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Pugh Ms. Amy Reichbach Michel and Darcie Renault Carrie Rheinfrank and Chopper Bernet The Rinzler Family Ms. Karla M. Rivera Jeri Rochman Veronica and Richard Roth† Ms. Diane Becker Rothhammer Ms. Julie Roybal Ms. Shaina Rudolph Mr. Alec Rutledge Ms. Brigid Ryan Ms. Jaime Ryan Peter and Maria Saber Mr. and Mrs. Mikal Safiyullah Mr. Darrett Sanders Ms. Jacqueline Sarnecky Stuart and Regina Schonwetter Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. Schulman Ms. Jacqueline Schultz Carol Schwartz & Rob Ramsey Ms. Erin A. Schwarz

Ms. Diane Seaman Mr. and Mrs. Phil and Lori Shackel Ms. Erin Shapiro Tzipi and Keyvan Shirazi Dr. Carol Shubin Mr. David Siegel and Ms. Myra Clark-Siegel Mahroo and Hamid Simantob The Simington Family Mr. Perry Skaggs Ms. Cindi Slater Mr. Danny Slavens Ms. Rebecca L. Sokol Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Somers The Spar Family Mr. and Mrs. James and Jennifer Spellman Ms. Kathy Spielman James and Colleen Standish Ms. and Mr. Vanita B. Star Rick and Shana Stark Mr. and Mrs. Harry W. Steere Mr. and Mrs. Philip Stein Ms. Alison L. Stephenson Ms. Linda S. Stephenson Mr. and Mrs. Fred Stock Mindy Strauss Dr. Tony Strickland and Dr. Michele Strickland Ms. Karen Swerdlow Manasa Tangalin Margaret Stone and David Temianka Ms. Kerri Ann Thompson Ms. Breanna M. Thornton Alan Toplitzky Ms. Dayanara Torres Merry L. Traum Dr. David Trend and Dr. Patricia Lester Renee & Larry Twersky Kathryn and Ian Ulmer Mr. and Mrs. Diederik Van Rooijen Kate Vernon Melissa Wallace Jamie and Jonathan Ward Gayle and Evan Weiss Susan Weissman Julie and Jonathan Wershow

THE DIFFERENCE IS BRILLIANT 19

Dr. Robyn Westbrook Gayle M. Whittemore Genoveva and Paul Wilkins Mr. and Mrs. Adam N. Winer Matt and Amy Winston Gaia and Wade Winter Dr. David Wolff and Dr. Joel Kushner Mr. Arthur Yang Mr. Paul Young Kenneth and Shani Zuckerman FOUNDATIONS, CORPORATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS 7ATE9 Entertainment, Inc. The Amgen Foundation Anvis, Inc. Bang The Gavel Auction Services, Inc. Bank of America Matching Gifts Benassist Health Insurance Services Benevity Brad Lemons Foundation California Community Foundation Capital Group Companies Charitable Foundation Capital Group Companies Global Dish Communications, Inc. Disney Employee Matching Gifts Program Elbridge and Evelyn Stuart Foundation Elias Family Philanthropic Fund Family Medicine Associates of Northridge Fidelity Charitable Get it...pictures Martin and Sheila Grossman Charitable Fund Morgan Stanley Matching Gifts New Co Aviation LLC Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program Schwab Charitable Fund The Sharon D. Lund Foundation Shiraz Medical Group, Inc. Valerie L. Watiker MD, Inc. Westmark Parent Association William H. Tilley Family Foundation Windsong Trust

FACULTY AND STAFF LISTING Ms. Lora Adler Mr. Jesus Amador Ms. Patty Barrows Ms. Robyn Bridges Ms. Polly Brophy Ms. Clotilde Carlisi Mr. Cris Carpenter Ms. Dorothee Chadda Mr. Juan Chavez Ms. Penny Chitamitara Mr. Donald Cook Ms. Noël Corbin Mr. Paul Curtis Ms. Monica M. Davis Ms. Katharine Gibson Ms. Johanna Denis Ms. Marissa L. DeSiena Mr. Manoli Dramitinos Mr. Devin Engebretsen Ms. Rachel L. Escobar Ms. Sara Faulkner Mr. Marcelo Frutos Mr. Adam W. Gallagher Mr. Elmor Go Ms. Bobbie Gray Mr. Agustin Guerrero Ms. Jenna M. Halstead Ms. Sarah C. Hamilton Ms. Yolanda Heller Ms. Cynthia S. Hersch Mr. Jared Honig Mr. Jeffrey Jimenez Ms. Jodie Katofsky Ms. Jenna J. Lamica Dr. Catalina Lara Mr. Jorge Lopez Ms. Mary Beth Ludden Mrs. Elisabeth McInnes Mr. Justin McInnes Mr. Muir Meredith Ms. Thea Miller Ms. Jennifer Miranda-Rivera Ms. Cindy Morales Mr. Keith Nauman Ms. Nancy L. Nichols Ms. Kathryn O’Connor

Ms. Jennifer J. Pavelka Dr. Clarence Perkins, Jr. Ms. Kia Perry Ms. Nydia M. Pineda Ms. Karla M. Rivera Ms. Jeri Rochman Ms. Julie Roybal Ms. Shaina Rudolph Mr. Alec Rutledge Ms. Brigid Ryan Ms. Jaime Ryan Mr. Darrett Sanders Ms. Jacqueline Schultz Ms. Erin A. Schwarz Ms. Diane Seaman Ms. Lori Shackel Ms. Erin Shapiro Mr. Perry Skaggs Mr. Danny Slavens Ms. Jennifer Spellman Ms. Kathy Spielman Ms. Vanita B. Star Ms. Alison L. Stephenson Ms. Linda S. Stephenson Ms. Kerri Ann Thompson Ms. Breanna M. Thornton Ms. Tricia Valli Mr. Arthur Yang GRANDPARENTS DAY DONORS Mr. and Mrs. Michael Antin Mr. and Mrs. Steve and Suzanne Eliot Mr. and Mrs. Stan and Gloriane Gamzon Ms. Herawati Hartono Mr. and Mrs. Barry L. Hirsch Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hopkins Mr. and Mrs. Tom Jacobs Ms. Claudia H. Mirkin Ms. Henriette Montgomery Mr. and Mrs. Dick and Chris Newman Ms. Sandra Pierce Ms. Gloria Shatner Mr. and Mrs. Erwin and Caren Sokol Ms. Manasa Tangalin Ms. Betty Valli

20 2014-2015 WESTMARK ANNUAL REPORT

100%

PARTICIPATION FOR THE 2ND YEAR IN A ROW! 100% FACULTY

100% TRUSTEES

100% PARENTS

OUR 2014-2015 GOAL $1.125 MILLION AMOUNT RAISED $1.205 MILLION WHERE ANNUAL FUND DOLLARS GO

financial aid

safety and security

technology

faculty development

athletics

arts

ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2014-2015 OPERATING INCOME

OPERATING EXPENSES Salaries and Benefits

Tuition and Fees

$6,602,000

63.02%

Program Expenses

$845,000

8.07%

Summer Programs

Financial Aid

$760,000

7.25%

Development

Debt Service

$303,000

2.89%

Ancillary Income

G & A

$615,000

5.87%

TOTAL INCOME

Technology

$123,000

1.17%

Summer Programs

$616,000

5.88%

Facilities & Improvements

$613,000

5.85%

$10,477,000

100.00%

TOTAL EXPENSES

7.25% 5.87% 5.88% 5.85%

Financial Aid

10.88%

993,000

8.96

1,205,000

10.88%

320,000

2.89%

11,080,000

100.00%

Summer Programs

Development

Debt Service

2.89% 1.17%

8.96%

Program Expenses

8.07%

77.27%

76.57%Tuition & Fees

77.27%

Salaries and Benefits

63.02%

$8,562,000

G&A

2.89%

Ancillary Income

Technology Summer Programs Facilities & Improvements

THE DIFFERENCE IS BRILLIANT 21

EVERY CONTRIBUTION COUNTS Making a gift to Westmark means broadening horizons for worthy students as they explore, learn and grow. They come here ready to thrive — and, with your support, they spread their wings and stretch to reach their full potential. Every contribution counts at Westmark, strengthening our programs and operations, enhancing our gorgeous physical campus and expanding the range of opportunities available to the bright and talented young people who call our school home. We encourage you to join us in close collaboration. Westmark School accepts gifts made by cash, check (payable to “Westmark School”) or credit card. These gifts are tax deductible in the year the donation is given. OUTRIGHT OR PLEDGED ANNUAL FUND GIFTS: Gifts of cash, stock or securities may be made outright or pledged over the year. To ensure you are listed in our annual report, Annual Fund gifts and pledge payments are due by June 1st.

22 2014-2015 WESTMARK ANNUAL REPORT

GIFT MATCHING: Make your gift worth even more! Your employer may match charitable donations, enabling you to double or triple the value of your gift. Contact your company for eligibility information, and alert Director of Advancement/Development, Nancy Nichols. PLANNED GIFTS: Planned gifts can be an essential part of planning your estate. Consult your financial advisor to maximize your tax planning opportunities. Examples of planned gifts include bequests, endowments, charitable remainder trusts, life insurance and charitable lead trusts.

For more information, contact Nancy Nichols, Director of Advancement/Development, at (818) 986-5045 ext. 316, or via email at nnichols@westmarkschool.org.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE The Westmark community is sustained by a mutual commitment to reciprocal support. Our parents, faculty, staff and others offer us the critical resources to build an exceptional community — and, in turn, our community leverages those resources to invest in student success. Financial aid at Westmark is made possible through the generosity of foundations, corporations and individual donors, who partner with us to increase access to our awardwinning academic and extracurricular programs. At Westmark, “access” is more than an ideal. Enabling students from diverse economic, social and cultural backgrounds to study at Westmark builds a more vibrant school environment that raises the caliber of instruction and mirrors the dynamic energy of Los Angeles. Robust financial aid enables us to reflect this diversity on campus, ultimately enriching the educational experience for all our students and their families.

THE WINDSONG TURST A key collaborator in achieving this goal is the Windsong Trust, an independent foundation that seeks to advance children’s education nationwide. The Windsong Trust’s investment in Westmark has been extraordinary, and equally important has been its influence as a role model for other foundations and individuals who have followed its lead in contributing and matching funds to advance the school’s vital mission.

‘‘

Our son is thriving at Westmark, and with financial aid, he has the opportunity to remain in this supportive learning environment.

’’ ‘‘

Thank you for the wonderful financial aid. Our daughter has overcome so many obstacles, and the financial support from Westmark made it possible, providing her with the stability and support she needs to thrive during these formative school years.

’’ ‘‘

My husband and I are eternally grateful that a school like Westmark exists. It is absolutely essential that students have access to appropriate tools and instructions that allow them to achieve their full potential. Westmark is the right fit for our family — and the financial aid it provides is critical for us.

’’

THE DIFFERENCE IS BRILLIANT 23

AVENUES OF SUPPORT In 2014-15, Westmark School and its board of trustees established the Muir Meredith Head of School Scholarship Fund. Set up to honor the seven years of service of Muir Meredith, our beloved retiring head of school, this fund provides financial aid to students who would not otherwise be able to attend Westmark. The response from our Westmark community (current and past board members, parents, alumni, grandparents, past parents, former employees,

faculty and staff) was wonderful, raising nearly $240,000. With the support this fund provides, deserving students now and in the future will be able to avail themselves of Westmarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature educational excellence. A list of contributors to the fund (either through a direct gift to the Annual Fund in 2014-15 or through a donation at our gala in March 2015) is below.

HEAD OF SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND MUIR MEREDITH BENEFACTOR $25,000 and above Ms. Kathleen Kennedy and Mr. Frank Marshall Mr. and Mrs. Bradley R. Krevoy* Ms. Rae Sanchini Tobey and Mr. Bruce Tobey Westmark Parent Association MUIR MEREDITH FRIEND $15,000 to $24,999 Mr. and Mrs. David Cronenbold Dr. Sam Elias and Mr. David Clark Christine and Jordan Kaplan Mr. and Mrs. James Montgomery MUIR MEREDITH DONOR $10,000 to $14,999 Mr. and Mrs. Bradford F. Freer Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Hoyt III Michael and Robbie Tollin MUIR MEREDITH CONTRIBUTOR $5,000 to $9,999 The Kilcourse Family Mr. and Mrs. Charles Nelson The Stohl Family

MUIR MEREDITH SUPPORTER Up to $5,000 Anonymous (3) Mr. and Mrs. Scott L. Adair Ms. Jane Anderson and Ms. Tess Ayers Dr. Robert Barker and Dr. Corinne Barker Ms. Patty Barrows Dr. Emad & Yesenia Bassali Jill and Alex Bombino James and Robyn Bridges Ms. Clotilde Carlisi Ms. Michelle Williams Court and Mr. Jamie Court Jeffrey and Beth Cowan Dawn and Bob Cunnion Susanne and Greg Daniels Christopher and Kelly Davis Ms. Marissa L. DeSiena Ruth and Mike Devine The Donald Family Noreen and Ian Drew

Steve and Suzanne Eliot Christal & Chris Ellis Elizabeth English and Leigh Williams Mr. and Mrs. Craig J. Faggen Ms. Shari Genser and Dr. Valerie Watiker Jesse and Molly Ghalili Ms. Katharine Gibson Dr. Ellen A. Glaser The Glass Family Hadar and Jeff Goldstein Jill and Roy Goldstein Ms. Roberta Smith-Gram and Mr. Gary Gram Catherine Smythe Grasso/ Grasso Family Carrie and Max Haber Tanynya Hekymara Ms. Yolanda Heller Ms. Liz Morehead & Mr. Martin Hilton Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hopkins Vivian, Marc and Matthew Hurwitz Jim and Mary Iannarilli

Mr. Robert Jacobs and Ms. Ann Gentry Mr. and Mrs. Tom Jacobs The Knoller Family Terri G. Kuhlmann Melissa & Ira Lapides Ms. Deborah Liebling and Mr. Alan Cohn Ms. Mary Beth Ludden Andrea and Chris Mack Muir and Laurel Meredith Ms. Ann M. Mitchell The Nathanson Family Ms. Nancy L. Nichols Ms. Taylor Obre and Mr. Richard Beale Ms. Kristi Anderson Ornstein Ms. Jennifer J. Pavelka Dr. Clarence Perkins, Jr. David and Ilysia Pierce Ms. Sandra Pierce Mrs. Gabriella Pollino Rodman and Mr. Terry Rodman Bobbie and Jackie Preckwinkle

24 2014-2015 WESTMARK ANNUAL REPORT

Ms. Amy Reichbach Michel and Darcie Renault The Rose Davis Family Veronica and Richard Roth Ms. Julie Roybal The Rudnick-Braverman Family Ms. Brigid Ryan Carol Schwartz & Rob Ramsey Ms. Diane Seaman Mr. and Mrs. Phil and Lori Shackel Ms. Cindi Slater Amy and Greg Snyder Erwin and Caren Sokol Mr. and Mrs. Harry W. Steere Ms. Dayanara Torres Gayle and Evan Weiss Matt and Amy Winston Gaia and Wade Winter Ms. Lonnie Wittenberg Mr. James Yoder and Ms. Constance Lawton * Indicates a continuing multi-year pledge to this fund payable by June 30, 2017

I believe sending my daughter to Westmark was the best decision I have ever made for her. She has grown into a confident and self-sufficient young woman, and my family gives Westmark a lot of credit for that. She became a different person while attending Westmark, and I will forever be grateful for all that Westmark has done for her.

THE DIFFERENCE IS BRILLIANT 25

26 2014-2015 WESTMARK ANNUAL REPORT

PARENTS PAY IT FORWARD THE 2014-2015 WPA EXECUTIVE BOARD: • Co-Presidents: Bill and Heidi Brewington • Secretary: Darcie Renault • Treasurer: Gayle Whittemore • Advisors: Jill Crudup and Robin Mandell, (Past WPA Presidents & Alumni Parents) COMMITTEE CHAIRS: • Sunshine Committee: Mary Iannarilli • Homecoming: Bill & Heidi Brewington • Hospitality: Fredda Rose • Lost and Found / Spirit Wear: Lynn Norton • Volunteer at Large: Christal Ellis • Teacher Appreciation Luncheon: Merry Traum and Pamela Shafer Moser • US & MS Sports Banquets: Heidi & Bill Brewington and Ilysia Pierce • Student Volunteer Appreciation: Bill & Heidi Brewington • Annual Gala & Auction: Molly Ghalili & Amy Winston 2014-2015 GRADE LEVEL REPS: • 2nd / 3rd: Kelly Day, Lana Eliot, Gina Howe, Elizabeth Morehead • 4th: Maureen Padilla • 5th: Jill Bombino, Rick Draughon • 6th: Kristen Minardos • 7th: Ruth Devine, Sasha Ruocco Kassin • 8th: Molly Ghalili • 9th: Christal Ellis • 10th: Amy Grey • 11th: Julie Carruthers, Anat Hutnicki • 12th: Alisa Nathanson, Amy Somers

Throughout 2014-15, the Westmark Parents Association (WPA) served our students and their families with boundless commitment and teamwork. In a banner year for fundraising, the WPA’s grade level representatives (GLRs — parents who coordinate communications between other parents, administrators and teachers) and committee chairs partnered with the administration, teachers and the Westmark community to raise $180,000! This unprecedented achievement will enhance the education of every Westmark student. The GLRs and parent volunteers stepped up to deliver a wonderful array of events that brimmed with energy and enthusiasm, including our backto-school celebration, Homecoming and gala, Teacher & Staff Appreciation Day and volunteers luncheon. In October, parents helped celebrate Homecoming with a full day of fun kicked off by our parent-run BBQ and grill, carnival booth games, bake sale treats and Middle School and varsity football games.

made all the difference. Along with the WPA events, the gifted team of bakers on the Hospitality Committee provided refreshments for a host of Westmark happenings including parent education meetings, the school play, the talent show and the sports banquet. The Sunshine Committee made a very special contribution, informing our community of parents about Westmark families who were in need of temporary help during difficult emergencies. We offer our heartfelt gratitude to dynamic WPA Co-Presidents Heidi and Bill Brewington as they pass the torch of leadership, and we extend a very warm welcome to their able successors, Christal Ellis and Corine “Coco” Dirat. As we continue our tradition of support, WPA looks forward to organizing the parent alumni group and continuing to work with the recently launched Parents Education Network — Los Angeles. Above all, we renew our dedication to strengthening the bonds that sustain and nourish our exceptional Westmark community.

Again this year, our hard-working committees

THE DIFFERENCE IS BRILLIANT 27

A LEGACY OF GIVING At Westmark, donors of all ages and life stages come together to support a singular community. No matter how large or small the gift, their contributions play a pivotal role in enhancing the Westmark experience for all students, funding crucial events, programmatic opportunities and curricular offerings. Among our most valued and treasured partners are the grandparents of our students and alumni. They have the vision and experience to know what a difference a remarkable education can make, and they are savvy investors who recognize Westmark as an institution worthy of their philanthropic largesse. This year, grandparents turned out in force for Grandparents and Special Friends Day — a spring celebration of our school and of the people whose collaboration and generosity help make it one of the nation’s most prominent LD schools. Grandparents joined us for some good old-fashioned fun and games and for our exciting cakewalk in honor of May Day.

28 2014-2015 WESTMARK ANNUAL REPORT

AMONG THOSE GRANDPARENTS WHO SHOWED THEIR SUPPORT WERE: • Mr. and Mrs. Michael Antin • Mr. and Mrs. Steve and Suzanne Eliot • Mr. and Mrs. Stan and Gloriane Gamzon • Ms. Herawati Hartono • Mr. and Mrs. Barry L. Hirsch • Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hopkins • Mr. and Mrs. Tom Jacobs • Ms. Claudia H. Mirkin • Ms. Henriette Montgomery • Mr. and Mrs. Dick and Chris Newman • Ms. Sandra Pierce • Ms. Gloria Shatner • Mr. and Mrs. Erwin and Caren Sokol • Ms. Manasa Tangalin • Ms. Betty Valli

KEEPING CONNECTED When they leave campus, our graduates stay connected to the close-knit family they formed during their Westmark years. Through the Westmark Alumni Association (WAA), they are active in a nationwide community of distinguished men and women who network to enhance their lives and careers and whose accomplishments inspire current and future students. The WAA also enables alumni to give back by offering advice, guidance and perspective in areas such as college preparation strategies for LD students. This year, Westmark alumni returned to campus for Homecoming to join old friends and teachers in the festivities. Free VIP alumni access earned them complimentary food and an entry wristband along with opportunities to win fantastic prizes and to secure varsity football reserved seating. Alumni also continued to download EverTrue, our signature mobile app — available on

tablets and cellular devices — designed to keep alumni current on people and events in the Westmark orbit. With EverTrue, users can update contact information, find friends’ addresses, locate other alumni nearby and read profiles of fellow graduates. It is a fun and effective way to stay in touch on the go! Attention All Parents: Westmark School’s annual report is coordinated by the Development Office and shared with Westmark families, friends, and supporters. Please forward this publication and contact us at (818) 986-5045, x316 if your son or daughter no longer maintains a permanent address at your home. We appreciate your help in keeping us in touch with our alumni!

http://www.westmarkschool.org/community/alumni

www.facebook.com/westmarkschoolalumni

THE DIFFERENCE IS BRILLIANT 29

A CAMPUS TRANSFORMED: Capshaw-Spielberg Fine Arts and Special Classroom Building and Lowell Milken Family Classrooms Center Support Student Success

ADVANCEMENT TEAM NANCY NICHOLS Director of Advancement, Development 818.986.5045 x316 nnichols@westmarkschool.org LORI SHACKEL Director of Advancement, Marketing & Communications 818.986.5045 x346 lshackel@westmarkschool.org

As part of our Transformations capital campaign, which ended in June 2013, we were honored to receive support from the CAPSHAW-SPIELBERG FOUNDATION and the MILKEN FAMILY FOUNDATION. Their generous donations truly helped “transform” our school, underwriting the two new beautiful buildings that currently grace the Westmark campus. We are extremely grateful to these major donors for their remarkable gifts — and for the philanthropic vision that enabled them to imagine just how transformative the new facilities could be. We extend special thanks not only to these community-building foundations, but also to all the people whose hard work and commitment of time and resources made the Westmark capital campaign a resounding success.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT Westmark School admits students of any race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ancestry, or national and ethnic origin and provides them access to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, disability, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ancestry, or national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial access programs, or athletic or other schooladministered programs. PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARRETT SANDERS