Potomac, MD May 2019 by City Lifestyle

PotomacLifestyle.com

MAY 2019

FOR THE LOVE OF EDUCATION

ING M O C S LOOK WH GE A L L I V C A M O T TO PO Now Enrolling for Fall Infants ~ Toddlers ~ Preschool ~ School Age

Opening September 2019 Georgetown Hill Early School is proud to have had over 40,000 feet walk through our doors. We have been celebrating early childhood for over forty years with a research-based, time-tested curriculum and over 200 years of leadership experience. 9905 Counselman Road, Potomac, MD 20854

Call for details! 301-310-5105 georgetownhill.com

Georgetown Hill Early School at Bells Mill is more than a preschool, it is a community and truly an extension of our family. We love that the teachers and staff are warm, supportive, and they care about each child. Our three year old is always happy to go to school in the morning and he never wants to leave in the afternoon. He is learning, playing, discovering new things and loving it! As parents, there is nothing more reassuring that seeing your child happy and safe. We know that Georgetown Hill is the place where all things are happening every day. -The Reyes-Otto Family

lking a t S LOOK WH Hill n w o t e g r o e G about ! l o o h c S y l r a E hers c a e T y p p a H Where ren = Happy Child

After having three kids in multiple preschools, I can honestly say with full transparency, GHES at Bells Mill is the best! From the director Lil, who knows every child and family, to the individual teachers who WANT to be there, we are beyond pleased with our son’s experience. I couldnt recommend GHES Bells Mill highly enough! -Nikkizhi Herson Cohen

Since 2002, I am proud to call Georgetown Hill my second home. For seventeen years I have gone from being a teacher to a parent to a director. Georgetown Hill has supported and encouraged me every step of the way. In addition, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching my child grow up at GHES and seeing her smile everyday is the icing on the cake!” -Melanie Morillo “I love Georgetown Hill because everybody there loves me!” -Kenley

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2019 PUBLISHER

KC Cole | KC.Cole@Lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lauri Gross, Deanna Hartzman, Danielle Tepper CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jack Hartzman, Monica Vidal

EVERY YEAR WHEN MAY MAKES ITS WELCOMED RETURN TO OUR CALENDARS, WE CAN’T HELP BUT SING THE LINE FROM THE TEMPTATIONS’ “MY GIRL” THAT GOES, “WHEN IT’S COLD OUTSIDE, I’VE GOT THE MONTH OF MAY.” This month brings with it an abundance of joy—bright blue skies, a rainbow of flowers and, of course, the celebration of mothers on May 12. In this issue, we not only celebrate mothers but we would also highlight all the wonderful women in our community— educators, artists, advocators and the strength of all things women, to name a few. The following pages are filled with stories to inspire us all to appreciate the women in our lives and to strengthen the connection we have with our mothers, sisters, friends and daughters. We profile several Potomac women making a difference. The Women’s issue serves to recognize the powerful role women have in our community and beyond. (And don’t worry, gentlemen; you’ll have your moment—stay tuned.) Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “A woman is like a tea bag. You can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” For those times you find yourself in hot water, we’ve asked local experts for their best advice for playing it cool. And for those busy

CORPORATE TEAM

mornings when you’re running late but still need to look polished, we’ve formulated

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

the perfect beauty routine to get you out the door—stat!

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

So, to the women of Potomac: may you find a quiet moment (or two) to enjoy this issue we’ve lovingly dedicated to you. See you around! KC Cole Publisher

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Potomac Lifestyle takes great care in developing the material and content it publishes. To that end, there were a few statements that were printed

KC Cole, Publisher

inaccurately in the March 2019 issue that we would like to take this opportunity to clarify. On page 26 the Ask The Expert article features Jesse Kriesman

of Alco Products Inc. (not roofing and siding). Alco

Products Inc. prides itself on providing clients with top-rated products that mirror the latest technology when it comes to the formulation of materials and Kriesman’s corrected expert advise and pro tips can be found online at Issuu.com and

PotomacLifestyle.com. 4

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

PotomacLifestyle.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Potomac Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Potomac areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Potomac Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2019

FEATURES 10 One Room Three Ways Design by Sanctuary Interior Designs

23 For the Love of Education Meet the Montgomery County Board of Education, Dr. Claudia Warren-Taylor and Inja Stanic

28 A Trip Well-Planned Former Teacher and Mom Sends Clients Around the World in Search of Luxury and Adventure

10 30

30 Head for the Hill Georgetown Hill Early School Continues to Produce Joyful, Eager Learners

28 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Open House

Local Limelight

28 Inspired By 30 Giving Back 34 Lifestyle Calendar

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AROUND TOWN

POTOMAC AREA NEIGHBOR’S CLUB: "AN EVENING AT NORTON MANOR” The Potomac Area Neighbor’s Club is thrilled to

SEVEN MARYLAND BILLIONAIRES MAKE FORBES' LIST OF RICHEST AMERICANS

announce its Spring Gala on Friday, May 10, at 6:30

Forbes reports the 400 richest Americans. In

p.m. at Norton Manor in Potomac. “An Evening at

Maryland, seven Potomac residents were named

Norton Manor” will include appetizers, a full meal and

to the elite club.

adult beverages while enjoying the gardens and mag-

+ No. 136 Ted Lerner, 92, and family; net worth $4.9

nificent home of PANC member Debbie Driesman and her husband, Frank Islam. A portion of the $80 ticket price will be donated to the Interfaith Works Rockville Women’s Center. PANC is a local women’s social club that has a variety of activities and events and welcomes new members. To become a member of PANC, visit PANC.ClubExpress.com. Please contact co-presidents Alexa Kempel or Joanne Zinsmeister for more information: 240.678.4561 or 301.648.8324.

billion (real estate) + No. 168 Steven Bisciotti, 58; net worth $4.3 billion (staffing, Baltimore Ravens) + Nov. 200 Bernard Saul II, 86; net worth $3.8 billion (banking, real estate) + Nov. 207 Mitchell Rales, 62; net worth $3.7 billion (manufacturing, investments) + No. 280 Jim Davis, 58; net worth $2.9 billion (staffing and recruiting) + No. 280 David Rubenstein, 69; $2.9 billion (private equity) + No. 368 Dan Snyder, 53; $2.2 billion (Washington Redskins)

THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF POTOMAC RETURNS MAY 5 The Real Housewives of Potomac has officially been renewed for a fourth season. Join in your guilty pleasure with our favorite "neighbors" for another round of fun, entertainment and drama. The new season will premiere on Sunday, May 5 at 9 p.m. on Bravo.

MCPS BOARD OF EDUCATION TO NAME NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN CLARKSBURG

ANCIENT JEWELED PIECES: A MODERN TWIST IN MERRY-GO-ROUND FARM In Merry-Go-Round Farm, homeowner Maria Jordan created a sunroom studio overlooking the Potomac River. With inspiration from Renaissance portraits of women, she recreates ancient jeweled pieces with a modern twist,

The Montgomery County Public Schools Board

mainly for friends and family. Maria uses raw

of Education recently presented four name choices

and faceted topaz, sapphires, peridot, citrines,

for the new elementary school being built in

labradorites, African trade beads and Murano

Clarksburg. Three of the four names being consid-

glass. Fifteenth-century Italian paintings of aris-

ered are names of African-American women who

tocratic women are mysterious, formalized and

advocated for equality in the 20th century. The

were that culture's elevation of femininity, yet

school is scheduled to open this fall and will be able

they have a modern appeal. Look out for Maria's

to accommodate almost 750 students.

full story soon!

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

Freshen up your home with gorgeous new arrivals Luxury floor sample sale at reduced prices

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OPEN HOUSE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

DESIGN BY SANCTUARY INTERIOR DESIGNS

THERE IS A LOT TO CONSIDER WHEN REDESIGNING YOUR HOME. Lifestyle and personal taste are at the top of the list. Expert interior designers like Bethesda’s own Sanctuary Interior Designs understands there are multiple factors to consider when reimagining a room. We asked

One Room Three Ways

owner and principal designer Hillary Summerbell to design one space three completely different ways. She selected a small sitting room in a charming Washington-area home. “Everyone has their own individual style, and so all our projects vary widely. Our process helps us to understand how our clients want to feel and live within their homes,” she says. To show us how one room could take on three different moods, Hillary enlisted the skills of her Sketch Up team. “Sketch Up is a very powerful tool that provides our clients a virtual interpretation of their proposed design,” Hillary says.

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

Utilizing this powerful tool and the creative talents of her team, Sanctuary presented us with one room, three different ways. “It’s impossible to design without understanding our clients. We design for people, not walls. However, with the room in question, there are aspects to consider regardless of who will be living there.” Hillary points out that the room is small. The sitting room measures 12 by 19 feet with a number of traffic patterns to take into consideration. “There are multiple ways to enter the space. This needs to be accounted for not only for traffic flow but also thinking about the optics from all points of entry.”

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May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

OPEN HOUSE

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Hillary also stresses the importance of studying the existing lighting in the sitting room. “There is only one window, which limits the natural light in the room. This means we need to create light and play with it to build the mood of the room,” she says. Designers break down lighting into three categories: ambient, accent and task. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination for a room; task lighting is used to illuminate one area for a specific use such as reading; and accent lighting draws attention to a particular object, such as artwork. Color is another factor in defining the personality of a room. “We nail down color immediately with our clients. It is a good predictor of what the mood of the room will be.” Taking into consideration light, color, mood and the lifestyle of potentially three different clients with the same space, Sanctuary created a virtual look at how 230 square feet can take on three distinct personalities. The Cozy Club Room is used as an adult retreat—great for chatting with friends or enjoying a book by the fire. Sanctuary describes the mood of the first room as “warm and traditional with a quirky flair.” The look was achieved by covering the walls in a dark grasscloth adorned with brass nailheads and the addition of leather wing chairs. The navy blue velvet bench adds color and additional seating. Sanctuary tackled lighting by installing a picture light on the wall, a floor lamp in the corner and recessed lighting for the overall ambient light source. The Palm Beach Glam Room is for a client looking for a playful space to sit and chat with friends. Poppy, bright fabrics and fun wallpaper immediately set the stage for an upbeat, eclectic room. The large mirror helps fill the room with natural light that plays off the colors and keeps the mood bright. The Sophisticated Sitting Room is for a client seeking a light and fresh environment that appears larger than its existing footprint. It's conducive to entertaining and allows for easy traffic flow to all of the adjoining rooms. “To create the illusion of a larger space, furniture selection is crucial,” Hillary says. “We selected pieces that were low in profile and lighter in color.” Breaking up the seating to four separate club chairs creates a space plan that is easy for movement. The coffee table is low and long, and accent lighting focused on art that makes the fireplace wall stand out. A floor lamp creates warmth, and a mirror on the wall opposite the window adds charm while reflecting the natural light in the window. Ultimately, Sanctuary’s client went for the Sophisticated Sitting Room. As you can see, the final project did not disappoint. For more information, visit SanctuaryInteriorDesigns.com.

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

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Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT ARTICLE DANIELLE TEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY JACK HARTZMAN

Keeping the Care in Caregiving at Serenity Gardens

‘IT’S PERSONAL’ A FEW YEARS AGO, DR. CLAUDIA WARREN-TAYLOR PERSONALLY WITNESSED THE INADEQUATE APPROACH TO THE TREATMENT OF SENIOR CITIZENS. The loss of a loved one was made all the more painful by the substandard quality of health care as her grandmother suffered a stroke and then died alone in a hospital room—because the staff told her family to leave. As a medical professional herself, Dr. WarrenTaylor vowed to start making changes in her own way. “I just thought, I’ve never done that to a family member,” she says. “I invite them in to hold their hand. If a family member isn’t there, I go in myself and wipe their forehead. I stay with them.” Her varied experience working in larger facilities had similar disappointments; patients weren’t receiving enough attention and were socially isolated, operations weren’t organized, medications were being missed or forgotten. While the luxurious hotel-style assisted living spaces looked nice enough, she realized there should be an alternative option, something both smaller—and smarter—for families searching for a place their loved ones could call home for their final years. Serenity Gardens Assisted Living, of which Dr. Warren-Taylor is CEO/COO, became that very place in 2011. It offers a home in the truest sense of the word with a residential feel and personalized care. Now with five unique Susie Baer, daughter of resident Shirley Baer

communities from Potomac to Silver Spring, it’s Dr. WarrenTaylor’s crowning achievement.

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May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

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“When our patients arrive, they’re not so confused because they’re in a ‘home’ that actually looks like a home,” she says. “It’s nice and comfortable. There are no signs out front saying it’s a business. I want people’s reactions to be, ‘Oh, this is different.’” There are only two residents to every staff member at Serenity Gardens; at capacity, the communities house six to eight patients. The goal is familiarity over facility; patients are even invited to decorate their rooms to make them feel more at ease. Because of Dr. Warren-Taylor’s extensive medical background—she started as a nurse’s aide and rose through the ranks to obtain her doctorate. Read more on page 23—she’s attuned to her patients’ needs in a way that often prevents them from any unnecessary hospitalizations. She also prides herself on the programs they offer, from telemedicine to recreational activities like day trips and movie nights. To Dr. Warren-Taylor, that mental stimulation and social interaction is key when a loved one is reaching the end of their life. She hopes to reverse the challenging “nursing home” stigma by showing what assisted living could—and should—be. “I think people feel guilty or embarrassed; they feel like they’re putting their family members away or abandoning them,” she says. “Most people like to keep their family members home, but the guilt should come when you have to go to work and you leave them by themselves. Research shows that when you put a loved one in assisted living, they live longer because of the care they receive.”

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

In acknowledging the importance of family involvement, Serenity Gardens strives to bring loved ones back together often by hosting events and activities throughout the year. “We don’t take it lightly that people are spending Christmas here. It’s a family affair. That’s what keeps me going, the fact that these families can come and see that their loved ones are doing well, they’re cared for, they’re happy,” she says. “When they say thank you … that’s when you realize you’re doing the right thing.” To learn more about Serenity Gardens, visit SerenityGardensLiving.com. TESTIMONIALS “When it was time to move my mother from her home, we searched the entire D.C. metropolitan area and found Serenity Gardens in Potomac. It has been my mother's home for the past two years. My mother has Alzheimer'stype dementia and requires care with most of her ADLs [activities of daily living]. The role of caregiver is critical to my mother's life and our family life—though I am not personally and physically able to provide 24/7 care for my mother, I want the best possible care for her. My top priorities are that she is healthy, safe, happy, clean, well-fed and treated with kindness and compassion. Serenity Gardens has provided excellent care for my mother and exceeds my expectations every day.” —Susie Baer, daughter of two-year resident Shirley Baer (pictured) THE INGLESIS FAMILY

• Loves that Serenity Gardens is more individualized care with the at-home feeling • Feels like home vs. an institution

“When our patients arrive, they’re not so confused because they’re in a ‘home’ that actually looks like a home.” –Dr. Warren-Taylor Excersing at Serenity Gardens Potomac May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

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For the Love of

PHOTOGRAPHY JACK HARTZMAN

WRITTEN BY DEANNA HARTZMAN

Dr. Claudia Warren-Taylor DR. CLAUDIA WARREN-TAYLOR, DNP, FNP-BC IS A FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER WITH A STRONG BACKGROUND IN HEALTHCARE. She grew up in Jamaica and now has roots right here in Potomac where she has established herself as an active voice regarding senior caregiving through her ownership of five Serenity Gardens Assisted Living communities (read more on page 17). She is also the proud founder and CEO of House Call of America; serves as chair for the Olney Home for Life; offers her expertise as the subject matter expert on aging and disabilities for various panels; and conducts educational seminars for hospitals, rehabs and government agencies about the importance of improving long-term medical care policies. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO YOU TO BE AN ADVOCATE FOR SENIORS? All seniors are someone’s mother, father, grandparent, sibling, aunt, uncle, wife or husband, as well as contributors to our society who have made this community and country what it is, so they deserve a good life in their golden years. I see myself as a senior someday and would like to improve on the standards that help govern their care. WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? Besides being a soccer, tennis, swimming, basketball, track and field, and baseball mom, I am an avid gardener. I catch up with my colleagues and friends at dinners, brunches, movies or planning our girls’ getaway trips. WHAT IS ONE LESSON YOU WISH YOU COULD TEACH YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Enjoy life at its fullest. Travel more, understand cultural diversity at an earlier age and build a really good support structure that can help you weather the challenges and navigate a future professional life. WHAT LESSON HAVE YOU LEARNED THAT YOU THINK OTHER WOMEN IN POTOMAC COULD BENEFIT FROM? There are still barriers that exist in our society to professional and personal development and to community diversity that may represent the status quo—but, as women, we can educate a generation and in so doing, change or break down many of these barriers and enrich everyone’s lives. Women in Potomac must know that they have the power to change their community into one that is more inclusive and informative, which will translate into opening up a space for everyone.

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May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

FOR THE LOVE OF EDUCATION

(CON TI N U ED)

Montgomery County Board of Education Montgomery County Board of Education This year, for the first time since its inception in 1817, the Montgomery County Board of Education consists solely

WRITTEN BY DANIELLE TEPPER

of women. The board, which comprises elected citizens, reflects on female leadership, teamwork and the inspirations that have led them to this point. WHAT DO THINK IS THE MOST POSITIVE IMPACT OF HAVING AN ALL-FEMALE BOARD OF EDUCATION? President Shebra L. Evans: The image of women in leadership is powerful. For young girls to see [all members] being female, conducting business and making decisions sends a message that women belong in these roles. As importantly, it explodes the myth that women cannot work together in a constructive manner, having robust and sometimes contentious conversations without it being personal. WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO RUN FOR THE BOARD OF EDUCATION? Vice President Patricia O’Neill: I am a product of Montgomery County Public Schools, as are my two daughters. We all received a great educational experience. I spent 12 years as a Parent Teacher Association leader. Following a contentious boundary change, my friends in the PTA convinced me to run. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT WHEN YOU WERE IN SCHOOL? Jeanette E. Dixon: My favorite subject has always been U.S. history. Growing up, I read all the books on U.S. history and imagined myself doing great things like the subjects of those biographies. As a student at American University, I took the first Black Studies course offered. I live and breathe the history of women, African-Americans, immigrants, presidents, the Constitution and all of those who fought for social justice in our country. WHAT IS THE ONE LESSON YOU WISH YOU COULD TEACH TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Judith Docca: I did not always have the confidence in my abilities, and several opportunities passed me by because of this. My advice is this: If a person asks you to apply for something or to take leadership, do it! All experiences are learning experiences. From left to right: Jeanette E. Dixon (At-Large), Vice President Patricia O’Neill (District 3), Rebecca Smondrowski (District 2), center, President Shebra L. Evans (District 4), Pic tight to left: Judith Docca (District 1), Karla Silvestre (At-Large), Brenda Wolff (District 5) 24

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

My advice is this: If a person asks you to apply for something or to take leadership, do it! All experiences are learning experiences.

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH A FAMOUS OR IMPORTANT PERSON, PAST OR PRESENT, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Karla Silverstre: I would have dinner with Abigail Adams. We would talk about demanding equal rights for women in the Declaration of Independence. Women have come a long way in achieving equal rights under the law. WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU HAVE FOR A YOUNG WOMAN THAT YOU WISH SOMEONE HAD GIVEN YOU? Rebecca Smondrowski: Never underestimate [yourselves] and believe that you are capable. It is easy to doubt yourself and shy away from taking chances because you are afraid of failure. Regrets are worse than failure, [but] the payoffs can be greater than you imagine. WHAT DO YOU THINK THE MOST SIGNIFICANT BARRIER TO FEMALE LEADERSHIP IS? Brenda Wolff: Societal expectations, stereotyping and bias still operate as significant barriers to female leadership. Leadership qualities that are typically ascribed to women, such as collaboration and coaching, are often viewed as weaknesses in a leader. The goal must be societal acceptance of an effective leadership model that encompass a myriad of characteristics. WHAT IS ONE LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED THAT YOU THINK YOUR PEERS COULD BENEFIT FROM? Ananya Tadikonda: I have learned the importance of collaboration and teamwork with others who may not agree with all of your ideas. I have also seen and understood the importance of standing your moral ground and values when discussing issues or ideas. I understand the importance of maintaining focus on the larger purpose for which you are engaged in service, as this can help you continue moving forward through difficult issues or circumstances.

Student Member of Board: Ananya Tadikonda (photo courtesy Montgomery County Public Schools)

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May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

FOR THE LOVE OF EDUCATION

(CON TI N U ED)

Inja Stanic Inja Stanic,

Founder of the International School of Music WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC? My inspiration for opening a music school stems from wanting to share my experiences of wonderful and diverse music pedagogies that I was exposed to. I wanted to create a program that is for all students, regardless of their talents, goals and learning abilities. Music education brings so many positive benefits from learning how to express yourself to analytical thinking, focus, discipline. For adults, music helps with stress, PTSD, preventing arthritis, Alzheimer’s and more. Coming from a very old-school, rigorous education, I wanted to offer a more flexible education to the new generations, where students get to be matched with an instructor that fits their learning style, so they are more motivated and experience joy learning an instrument. WHERE DOES YOUR PASSION FOR MUSIC STEM FROM? I don’t come from a musical family; but ever since I was 4 years old, I wanted to play the piano. Music was always one of my biggest strengths, and I believe it continues to be. I love music because of the way it makes me feel and how it serves as a personal connection. Music can bring out the best in people and brings people together. Also, music is an international language which does not know borders, and it is a great vehicle for bringing all cultures, races, nations and generations together. WHAT IS THE ONE LESSON YOU WISH YOU COULD TEACH TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? To not be so hard on myself, to be patient with the process, and to appreciate the small victories and accomplishments.

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

WRITTEN BY DANIELLE TEPPER

May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

INSPIRED BY

ARTICLE LAURI GROSS | PHOTOGRAPHY MONICA VIDAL

AS A TEACHER, JAIME EDLOW ENGAGED HER STUDENTS IN THE WONDERS OF THE WORLD BY SHARING BOOKS SHE COLLECTED FROM EXOTIC TRAVELS. Now she engages clients in the wonders of the world as an independent travel adviser specializing in luxury vacations. “I bought a kids’ book from each trip and incorporated it into my lesson plans,” Jaime says. Jaime first discovered her love of travel when she visited eight countries with a tour group at age 21. While teaching, she visited many more. In 2015, while planning her honeymoon, Jaime brought her own itinerary to a travel agent who said that the effort Jaime put into that itinerary was similar to the work of professional travel agents. That compliment led Jaime to believe she could make a career in the travel industry. And so she did. Now a work-from-home mom, Jaime puts together clients’ dream vacations and business trips and presents them in turn-key packages with every detail arranged. Jaime’s clients find her through WorldTravelService.com and Virtuoso.com, a website known for connecting travelers to the world's best travel advisers. Although Jaime was already a seasoned traveler when she joined World Travel Service, she still had a lot to learn about her new job. Her acute attention to detail serves her well, and her teaching background laid a solid foundation for her career as a travel agent. “The communications skills and the methods I’ve used to present information to students can be easily applied to my work as a travel agent. I try to be as clear as possible when identifying my client’s interests and when providing them with potential itineraries," she says. "I also try to anticipate questions that may come up during the process and answer those at the outset—all skills that I used while teaching.” Through World Travel Service, Virtuoso and other travel partners,

A Trip WellPlanned FORMER TEACHER AND MOM NEXT DOOR SENDS CLIENTS AROUND THE WORLD IN SEARCH OF LUXURY AND ADVENTURE 28

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

Jaime studied online, in meetings with a mentor and with textbooks. Plus, tour groups and cruise lines keep her informed about the ever-changing travel world. Some of Jaime’s clients are local, but others come from across the country. “Clients can come to my home or contact me by phone and email. I am a working mom, and I love what I do and I want to share that,” she says. Some clients start with a clear idea of what they want in a trip. Others are less focused. “I take them on at any stage,” Jaime says. “I work with Classic Vacations and other companies. They help put a package together for clients. Clients get their itinerary from me, and that’s all they need on the trip. Jaime says she does miss teaching but is content with her choice of a second career. She keeps in touch with many of her former teaching colleagues and even plans trips for them. As for those travel books she read to her students, they are sure to have inspired the next generation of world travelers.

“I bought a kids’ book from each trip and incorporated it into my l e s s o n p l a n s .”

S o m e o f J a i m e’s Fa vo r i t e Tr i p s : ST. LUCIA This eastern Caribbean island nation is known as the Hawaii of the Caribbean. Its breathtaking landscapes are dotted with fantastic resorts and magical attractions. ICELAND Icelandair makes it easy to see this Nordic island nation en route to other European destinations. Visitors love its dramatic landscapes, volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields. SANTORINI One of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is simply gorgeous. Explore the small towns of Fira and Oia, watch sunsets and sail for the perfect romantic getaway. 201.394.2198 jaimee@worldtravelservice.com

May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

GIVING BACK

ARTICLE LAURI GROSS | PHOTOGRAPHY JACK HARTZMAN

Head for the Hill

40-Years Ago, Ellen Cromwell Founded Georgetown Hill Early School, and it Continues to Produce Joyful, Eager Learners 30

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

GEORGETOWN HILL EARLY SCHOOL IS A THRIVING NONPROFIT WITH 10 CAMPUSES AND MORE THAN 300 EMPLOYEES SERVING 750 FAMILIES AND MORE THAN 1,000 STUDENTS. Yet, to each individual student and each individual family, it feels like home. And that’s by design. The school was founded 40 years ago by Ellen Cromwell who was a pioneer in the then-new concept of preschool (as opposed to daycare or babysitting). Ellen taught and directed preschool programs where children thrived in an environment that offered developmentally appropriate early education and loving care like they would receive at home. Children blossomed and became eager learners excited about life and friendships, as Ellen encouraged and celebrated play as the

highest form of learning. In the program Ellen developed as a com-

Childhood Education, she solidified the curriculum that Georgetown

plement to the half-day public kindergarten program at Georgetown

Hill uses today, known as PLAN: Play. Learning. Arts. Nurturing.

Hill Elementary School (now known as the Ivymount School in Potomac), children thrived—and parents noticed. Ellen eventually secured state and private funding to build the first Georgetown Hill private preschool on Bells Mill Road in Potomac. Meanwhile, Ellen was also writing books. Her first, Feathers in My Cap: Early Reading through Experience, outlined her early literacy program and served as a first-of-its-kind practical guide for teachers of young children.

Georgetown Hill grew fast. In fact, it grew beyond Ellen’s desire to manage it as she always considered herself a teacher first. Ellen did keep teaching even as she opened additional Georgetown Hill locations one after another. She taught right up until she retired, about four years ago. “She started handing off the leadership end of things long before she retired,” says Kristen, the youngest of Ellen’s four children. Kristen was of preschool age when her mom founded Georgetown Hill, and she began her education there. As a high school student, Kristen

In Ellen’s next two books, Quality Child Care: A Comprehensive Guide

worked as a teacher assistant and camp counselor at Georgetown Hill.

for Administrators and Teachers, and Nurturing Readiness in Early

CONTINUED >

May 2019 | Potomac Lifestyle

GIVING BACK

(CON TI N U ED)

Kristen now serves as the school’s COO. Peter, Kristen’s brother and second-youngest of the Cromwell kids, is now the school’s CEO. Already 14 when the school first opened, Peter was too old to attend but found plenty of other ways to be involved. He played guitar as the school’s music specialist. He drove a bus. He shoveled snow. “We are a consensus-oriented organization, and we always have been. We were a partnership the whole time,” Peter says. “It just sort of developed that way.” Peter and Kristen’s own children attended Georgetown Hill. It’s that kind of place. “We have teachers here who attended here, too,” Kristen says. “It’s a full-circle family place.” Across its 10 campuses, Georgetown Hill now includes programs for infants and toddlers, preschool for 2- and 3-year-olds, a pre-K program and a transitional kindergarten program, as well as before- and aftercare for elementary-aged kids. And there are camps in summer and during winter and spring breaks. Programs vary by campus. Georgetown Hill teachers are just as devoted as the students and families. The average teacher turnover rate in the field is about 30 percent. At Georgetown Hill, it’s about 5 percent. “And a good chunk of that is due to retirement,” Peter says. More than half the Georgetown Hill faculty has been on board for more than 10 years. “This is crucial because our kids develop trusting relationships with teachers who will be there for them throughout their school year and beyond,” Kristen says. Even as the bedrock principles remain constant at Georgetown Hill, things do evolve, such as the physical environment. “All the campuses have completed the process of refreshing the interior,” Kristen says. “We’ve gone from more colorful to a more homelike and less school-feeling.” The classrooms now feature a neutral color palette and natural materials and textures to create feelings of calm and safeness. “The curriculum encourages children to celebrate and take care of each other and the natural world, so our teachers bring colors and elements of the outside in, whenever possible,” Kristen says. The school’s focus on the children’s social-emotional development is evident throughout, as is the importance of early literacy. For instance, the school is filled with quality books. “You might find architecture books in our block play area or cookbooks in our kitchen area,” Peter says. The school encourages writing for purpose and incorporates lots of singing to teach rhyme and rhythm. Like every lesson at Georgetown Hill, math happens in a playful, theme-based approach, and there is also a focus on physical education, foreign language instruction and so much more. “I have awfully good memories there. You don’t lose those. I am grateful that, at a school that I was instrumental in putting together, we still have some of the same teachers and specialists. It’s a love affair with anything you do where you can add a personal touch,” Ellen says. Ellen is currently extending her personal touch to a second career as a children’s book author. Her stories burst with the joyful and kind spirit of young children; no doubt, inspired by the generations of real-life children who have passed through Georgetown Hill. 32

Potomac Lifestyle | May 2019

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4–5 10TH ANNUAL NATIONAL WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL National Harbor Waterfront

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18 10TH ANNUAL GAITHERSBURG BOOK FESTIVAL Gaithersburg City Hall

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19 POTOMAC HUNT RACES Kiplinger Estate

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