Spring 2020 | The Lamplighter School
MR. SPENCER’S 4OTH ANNIVERSARY PEROT TECH TRUCK + UNITED TO LEARN ART OF GLASS: JONSSON GARDEN INSTALLATION CELEBRATING CLASS OF 2020
FULFILLING THE LAMPLIGHTER MISSION
UNSUNG HERO DWAYNE SPENCER
Our Mission Dedicated to igniting the potential of
Spring 2020 | The Lamplighter School
each child, Lamplighter engages children
in the joy of learning through intellectual discovery in a creative, inclusive, and collaborative environment.
Chief Advancement Officer Clayton Hollingsworth Art | Design Ana Bohanan, Creative Director Associate Editor Landy Fox, Communications Coordinator Contributors Cindy Connolly, Shelly Gammieri, Taylor Cornell Good ’92, Jennifer Heiss Contributing Photographers Larry Sengbush Photography Marynell Murphy Contact Us Send story ideas to Landy Fox lfox@thelamplighterschool.org Deadline for articles, photographs, and news for the Fall 2020 issue is October 1, 2020. Statement of Inclusion A community of varied voices will strengthen the education of Lamplighter students and enrich the lives of all of its members. Lamplighter will, therefore, strive for the lamps that we light to reflect the ever-changing community in which we reside. We value individuality and encourage all children to reach their potential, while respecting their similarities and differences. We are united in purpose and committed to working together to accomplish the mission of The Lamplighter School. Non-Discrimination Statement The Lamplighter School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or disability in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financial aid program, athletic and other schooladministered programs, or the employment of staff.
FEATURES
PARTNER PROFILE
Spring 2020
18
EARTH BALL 2020
page 18
SENIOR SALUTE
32 page 32
22 page 22
ALUMNI NOW
Head Lines
4
LPA Board
5
Distance Learning
6
Faculty & Staff Stories
8
Partner Profile
18
Barnyard Buzz
22
Senior Salute
32
Spirit Award
36
Alumni Now
38
In Memoriam
46
38 page 38
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HEADLINES
Lamplighter Spirit glows with love and light, Burning forever in children’s faces bright. Learning and growing, hearts aflame with joy, Lamplighter Spirit in every girl and boy.
Dear Members of the Lamplighter Community, Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning - Lower School, Ms. Vicki Raney, will retire at the end of this school year after sixteen years at Lamplighter. A native of Louisville, Kentucky, she has taught students, mentored teachers, and supported parents in three independent schools in Ohio and Texas for more than forty years. The students, faculty, and staff express our appreciation to a leader who makes it a priority to lift others with her words, a gesture, or a smile. Over many years, students have enjoyed her team-time chats and involvement in all areas of the Lower School. Ms. Raney plans to move to San Antonio in June to be closer to her family, but promises to visit often. On behalf of the community, I extend a heartfelt thank you to Ms. Raney for sharing her many gifts with the Lamplighter community. Independent schools are strongest when they are guided by a committed, forward-thinking Board of Trustees. In the case of Lamplighter, since its founding, the School has been incredibly fortunate to have individuals who think strategically about the future of the School. This month marks the end of the term for Board Chair Mrs. Linda Hodgson. We thank her for sharing her time and talents with our school for almost two decades. Mrs. Hodgson’s deliberate decision-making style and wisdom provided a focus for the future that will continue under the leadership of Mr. Doug MacMahon, who will be formally introduced as Board Chair in the fall. Mrs. Hodgson promises to continue her involvement at Lamplighter. It is undeniable that COVID-19 is having a profound effect on our lives. It will be several years before we truly can assess the impact of the novel coronavirus on our nation: physically, emotionally, and socially. However, in reading the pages of the spring issue of LampPost, it is clear that our Lamplighter community has so much to celebrate. During the shelter in place order, we have seen time and again how Lamplighter families reach out to others to provide support, lend a helping hand, a listening ear, and share a laugh. Our community experienced two major unexpected events this school year; the first one was the tornado. Just as families were 4
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rebounding from the fall weather event, we are now sheltered in place with teachers deftly pivoting and expertly delivering thoughtful, engaging lessons on a new platform. This could not happen without a deep and unwavering commitment to education on the part of our parents and hard work on the part of each student. As you review the pages of the Spring LampPost, you will see evidence of a school that lives its motto each and every day: “A student is not a vessel to be filled, but a lamp to be lighted.” The pictures illustrate the joy that is embedded in the ethos of the Lamplighter experience. The strong, solid community that is uniquely Lamplighter is chronicled in words and pictures. Although a return to campus before the end of the school year will not be possible, we want the members of the Class of 2020 to know that many of the special celebrations that are “Just for SENIORS” will be held either before fifth grade begins in late summer or in the fall. A graduation ceremony and Senior parade are being planned. We want to celebrate your time at your very first school. Early Childhood and Lower School students are eager to welcome you back to campus! As a reminder of our times together, the lyrics to the school song, Lamplighter Spirit are below: Lamplighter Spirit glows with love and light, Burning forever in children’s faces bright. Learning and growing, hearts aflame with joy, Lamplighter Spirit in every girl and boy. Best always,
Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill Catherine M. Rose Head of School
LPA PRESIDENT’S CORNER
Dear Lamplighter Families, I had NO idea — really none whatsoever — that I would come to love Lamplighter so much when my family joined this community eight years ago. And I never anticipated getting so involved in the Lamplighter Parents’ Association (LPA). Yet, each year I would dip my toe in a little more until I was hooked on serving this exceptional School in whatever way was needed. It has been such a rewarding experience mainly because I have truly enjoyed getting to know so many talented, unique, and fun parents who readily give their time, talents, and resources to this School we love. I am so grateful to the parents who have served on this year’s LPA Board (listed at right). I cannot thank them enough for putting countless hours and so much heart into their roles. It has been an awesome year of building community, supporting our faculty and staff, and raising money for the School. I especially want to highlight that many LPA Board members took on new initiatives to improve the work of the LPA. This year’s Board piloted an informal buddy program for new students entering Kindergarten through fourth grade; initiated a monthly Spirit Store Pop-Up Shop to keep Lamplighter Spirit flowing all year round; expanded opportunities for Lamplighter families to engage in community outreach with partner organizations such as Family Gateway and United to Learn; and worked with the School and parents to offer different ways to share cultural traditions that expand our children’s knowledge of the world. In addition, the Carnival team did an incredible job bringing us a school fair to rival the State Fair of Texas, while also reducing the cost of admission to families. And finally, the Auction team broke the mold this year by switching to an online platform, approaching underwriting in a new way with great success, and bringing our community together at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for an amazing Earth Ball 2020 celebration that exceeded our goals in raising money for our School. Of course, none of the work of the LPA would be possible without the support of Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill and the Lamplighter faculty, staff, and administration. Thank you for the magical school experience you create for our children and for letting us be so involved at a time in our children’s lives when they LOVE to see their parents on campus. I especially want to recognize Clayton Hollingsworth and his team for all of their help to make each event a success, and particularly to Taylor Cornell Good ’92, our Parent Relations Coordinator, who tirelessly and calmly supports every LPA activity with a warm smile and oodles of creativity. This year we have all faced some extraordinary events — the tornado that hit our immediate community and the COVID-19 virus that has impacted our entire world. We have been challenged to come together for the greater good, be patient and flexible, and appreciate the little things and what matters the most. I am touched by how the Lamplighter community pulls together during these times of crisis and responds with compassion. Sincerely,
Margaret Morse 2019-2020 LPA President
LAMPLIGHTER PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION 2019–2020 BOARD Executive President Margaret Morse President-Elect Amy Puig President Advisor Mary Nix Secretary Meredith Wrighton Treasurer Anne Alexander Treasurer-Elect Brooke Hopkins VP Communications Amy Weselka VP Volunteers Louise Vigeant VP Volunteers-Elect Shanna Steen VP Auction Chair Heather Deskins VPs Carnival Melanie Jabbour Allison Williams Standing and Special Committee Chairs Auction – Data David Guedry Auction – Event Julie Ahmed Auction – School Projects Susie Edwards Mary Catherine Unis Auction – Socials Bronwyn Levitan Auction – Solicitations Christy Brown Billie Jean Langham Auction – Underwriting Kristin Fay Community Outreach Liz Cullum Helfrich ’90 Natalie Johnson Cultural Awareness Lisa Alexander Susmita Chavala Dads’ Program Coordinators Jason Puig Scott Kennedy Faculty & Staff Appreciation Kate Dicker Melissa Lackey Justine Pokorski Cat Socha Fourth Grade Yearbook Elayna Erick Traci Lee Friday Lunch Stephanie Fine Katie Reese International Night Nicki Johnson Janina Washington Media Center Open House Elizabeth McNeil Kelley Parel New Family Coordinators Lauryn Bloom Lucy Morton Meg Nicholson Joe Urso Spirit Store Caroline Belanger Jennifer Gladstone Jennifer Huey Spirit Store Advisors Megan Reinhardt Jaime Walkowiak Technology Coordinator Dana Rumbauskas Grade Level Coordinators Fourth Grade Erin Calaway Amy Miller Third Grade Janel Perez Second Grade Catherine Lee First Grade Lilly Albritton ’91 T1 Caroline Wagner Kindergarten Kirsten Poynor Pre-K All Day Ashley Ruggeri Pre-K AM Suntrea Hammer Pre-K PM Carolyn Johnson
“ WE ARE SO DEEPLY APPRECIATIVE OF THE PARTNERSHIP THAT WE HAVE WITH OUR LAMPLIGHTER PARENTS.� Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill, Catherine M. Rose Head of School
TOGETHER A P A R T FULFILLING THE LAMPLIGHTER MISSION
with DISTANCE LEARNING When the COVID-19 virus became a global health emergency, forcing schools across the world to close their campuses for an extended period of time, life as we know it changed dramatically. And, for most families it seemed like this change happened abruptly and unexpectedly. Daily routines were shattered, and both parents and students were forced to adjust their approach to work, school, and life in general.
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D
espite the sudden change and unique circumstances, The Lamplighter School was prepared for this unusual scenario with a business continuity plan in place. Lamplighter staff members were able to carry out business operations remotely and faculty members immediately shifted to a distance learning program. Through this program, students continued to engage in the joy of learning using Seesaw, an online educational platform. This tool, used broadly among early childhood and elementary schools, allows teachers to connect with students and facilitate remote learning. Both parents and students in our community embraced the shift to Seesaw, and allowed our school to continue to live out its mission, dedicated to igniting the potential of each child. Although the campus closure made it difficult to fully replicate the Lamplighter experience virtually, our teachers continued to deliver robust, high quality lessons through the comprehensive distance learning program. In a given week, teachers provided broad curricula
DISTANCELEARNING
in integrated learning, with fundamentals in literacy and math, plus special area lessons in social studies, science, Environment Science, Spanish, Media Center, P.E., music, drama, woodworking, and art. The program incorporated morning meetings with daily lessons and videos, plus an array of enrichment activities such as a gratitude journal, a nature walk, puzzles, virtual museum tours, and story times. Judith Mullens, Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning – Early Childhood, noted, “Lamplighter is very lucky to have such nimble, caring, and professional educators, especially at this unprecedented time during a worldwide pandemic.” Through the new distance learning program, parents demonstrated openness and flexibility and developed a strong partnership with the Lamplighter faculty and staff, affirming their commitment to helping fulfill the Lamplighter mission. Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill, Catherine M. Rose Head of School remarked, “We are so deeply appreciative of the partnership that we have with our Lamplighter parents.” Once remote learning was underway, parents shared feedback and suggestions to teachers and to members of the Lamplighter Leadership Team about ways to adjust or enhance the learning experience. This feedback and open communication between parents, teachers, and the administration allowed the School to make changes and improvements along the way as distance
learning continued for several weeks. Through ideas, responses, and recommendations from parents, the program evolved so that students could experience the best possible remote learning opportunities. In addition to the academic lessons provided from teachers, Lamplighter strove to maintain a sense of community among our parents and students while our campus remained closed. The School recognized the importance of face-to-face contact and began classroom Zoom meetings, as well as webinars for parents to learn and discuss topics related to the global health crisis. Parents and students also engaged in Friday check-ins with teachers, while social media and fun daily challenges helped keep families connected to the School. Managing health and stability at home, while balancing the extra burden of distance learning, especially with very young children, can be a daunting task. Lamplighter is grateful for the hard work, dedication, and perseverance displayed by parents and all members of our community as we navigated a very unusual situation together. We are so proud of the way our Lamplighter community has supported our School during these trying times.
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DWAYNE SPENCER
1979
THE BIG 4-O
2020
THE LAMPLIGHTER COMMUNITY CONGRATULATES DWAYNE SPENCER ON 40 YEARS OF SERVICE TO OUR SCHOOL
Since 1979,
Mr. Dwayne Spencer has served as
Facilities Manager at The Lamplighter School. At the conclusion of the 2019-2020 school year, Mr. Spencer will have reached a 40-year service milestone, also serving as Lamplighter’s longest running employee. Year after year, Mr. Spencer works hard to serve our School, our students, and our animals. Mr. Spencer is on campus every weekend, taking care of the barn animals and keeping our campus safe and clean so that our students can experience the best possible learning environment.
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Mr. Spencer was hired by Pat Mattingly, former Lamplighter Head of School, when he was just 18 years old and a recent high school graduate. Mattingly was initially reluctant to hire Spencer given his young age and lack of experience. Spencer was convinced that Lamplighter was the place for him, so after his initial meeting with Mattingly, he returned to Lamplighter very early the next morning and waited for Mattingly to arrive to school for her work day. Upon her arrival, Mattingly was surprised to see Spencer at the front of the school, eager to prove his candidacy for the job. Spencer promised Mattingly that if she gave him a chance, he would be at Lamplighter forever! Fortunately, Mattingly did take a chance, and, 40 years later, Spencer is still at our School and has proven these words to be true!
FACULTY&STAFFSTORIES
Through the years, Dwayne Spencer has touched the lives of so many colleagues. Our faculty and staff are grateful for the impact he has made on their Lamplighter experience. Here’s what they had to say ...
“Dwayne
is one of the most thankful people I’ve ever met. He seems to exude gratitude every day, with a friendly smile or hello - just always so grateful for all the gifts he has. Even though he’s working so hard and sometimes really long days, he seems happy to be living in the present and contributing to his community.” – Shelly Gammieri, Advancement Specialist “Dwayne does everything selflessly and graciously, and always has a smile on his face. Dwayne has so many jobs that no one wants to do, and he exudes Lamplighter Spirit while doing them. He is always willing to step in and help make things better. Dwayne wears many hats in this building and never complains. He has such a sweet soul and a caring heart. I don’t know what we would do without him at Lamplighter.” – Reagan Tate, Alternate Teacher “I’m new this year, and he must do this to all new people or those new as the receptionist. Anyway, one day Dwayne gave me a box, and said, words to the effect that the box was for me ... or could I please hold it for him. I came to find out there was a fake rat inside – it scared me to death! He loved every second of it and laughed until the cows came home!” – Helen Skalniak, Administrative Assistant “We love when Mr. Spencer comes to change our light bulbs with his ladder. The children are so excited to see him and are in awe of him as he makes it bright again in our room!” – Pre-K All Day, Room #11 “Mr. Spencer brings smiles wherever he goes with his humor and uncomplaining attitude.” – Nick Leggatt, Third Grade Teacher “Dwayne lights up a room with his big smile. He is positive, hard-working, and always making me laugh.” – Lyndsey Welch, Academic Assistant “When I ask Dwayne to complete a task, he responds with, ‘I got you covered.’ Just hearing him say that makes me know that I have nothing to worry about.” – Marynell Murphy, Chief Operations Officer “Dwayne makes my job so much easier because he knows everything about this old building and all the issues that come with that. He also entertains me with stories and humorous tales of the past. When it comes to setting up for a big event, I think he could do it in his sleep. Lamplighter’s rich history and present fame is in no small part to Mr. Spencer. There will be some big shoes to fill when he retires.” – Dan Knudsen, Facilities Engineer
“I love Dwayne’s constant willingness to help and always with a smile on his face!” – Margaret Oden, Admission Coordinator “I had a university professor who told me that the best friend to any P.E. teacher is the Facilities Manager. Dwayne has been a confidant of mine since 1983. He always makes sure the Cook Gym is ready for my classes regardless of how many chairs and tables he has to put away or how much trash needs to be swept from the floor. I’m always grateful for his care and attention to what makes my work better. He cleans up the messes no one else wants to touch. And he does it all with a smile. Dwayne has a strong spiritual life. He’s kept me encouraged through the many ups and downs of life over these past decades.” – Kathy Ritz, P.E. Teacher “As we know, Dwayne sometimes has to do the ‘dirty’ work in our classrooms and I love that Dwayne is always so pleasant and has such a great attitude. When he comes to our classroom, he is always so sweet about it and never complains. His job is not always pleasant but he is certainly kind about it at all times.” – Cheryl Shulman, Pre-K Teacher “Every morning, before the sun comes up, Mr. Spencer is on campus taking care of the farm animals.” – Bill Burton, Science Teacher “I don’t think I could do justice for how wonderful Dwayne is. He is always eager and willing to help. He has the best oneliners. Dwayne can anticipate your needs before you even know what you need! He is kind and considerate and so good with faculty, staff, and our kiddos. I am so grateful that he is here at Lamplighter.” – Jill Schroeter, Office of Student Life “Dwayne is the BEST! When I come to school for the early care it’s wonderful to have him there with me and if there is any need, Dwayne is the helping hand.” – Sue McCullough, Early Childhood Teacher “He is always on time, enjoys getting our items done as quickly as possible, and is someone I can always count on to get the job done, no matter how odd my requests. Environmental Science has unusual requests sometimes!” – Linda Cauley, Environmental Science Teacher “I love Dwayne’s smile and the fact that he’s always happy. His spirit is contagious and his willingness and want to help everyone in the school always puts a smile on my face.” – June Landry, Reading Specialist
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“Mr. Spencer takes such great care of our animals! He is always ready to help third grade with the baby chicks, and he comes out on holidays and snow days to make sure all the animals are safe, healthy, and fed.” – Becky Walker, Admission Coordinator and former Third Grade Teacher “I love seeing Dwayne around. He is sweet and fun to chat with. He is also a complete gentleman. Dwayne did not allow me to do any heavy lifting last summer after my classroom furniture was moved around for carpet cleaning. Lamplighter is lucky to have him.” – Gabriela Parkes, Kindergarten Teacher “Anytime our class passes by Mr. Spencer in the hallway, he always pauses and looks at each student with a smile and responds to each of their hello’s and thank you’s. Our kids LOVE Mr. Spencer!” – Anita Orozco, Pre-K Teacher “Dwayne is absolutely the unsung hero of Lamplighter! I remember Mr. Spencer fondly from my time at Lamplighter as a student. He seemed to always be everywhere anyone needed him. My mom was the President of the LPA for one of those years and she always talks about how much help and support he provided her during her years working on the parent side of things. When I started teaching at Lamplighter, he instantly recognized me and asked how my mom was. Sixteen years later, he remembered us! As a teacher, I have realized just how much he does for all of us. Light is burned out? Dwayne is there to fix it! Student kicked a ball in the animal pen? Dwayne comes to get it! Car stalled in carpool line? Here comes Dwayne! He does more for this school than most of us realize and he has been such a treasured part of my Lamplighter experience from childhood through adulthood. Thank you, Dwayne, for all of your years of hard work, long hours, support, and smiles! Lamplighter wouldn’t be Lamplighter without you!”
– Katie Ruggeri Nelson ’94, Academic Technology Coordinator
“Dwayne and I are members of the mutual admiration society. We enjoy working on events together, and there is a trust between us developed over the six years we have worked together. I love the open and honest communication we have. He isn’t afraid to call me on something he doesn’t think is right, and I do the same with him. Dwayne is truly a blessing to Lamplighter and has been for 40 years! I wish Lamplighter could have him for 40 more years!” – Cindy Connolly, Associate Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations “Dwayne is always eager to take on any job we may have for him. He always comes to check with us to make sure everything is set up and perfect for us! All the kids love Mr. Spencer! He fixes our things in our classroom and he is patient and attentive to answer all of their MANY questions.” – Rachel Schumann, Pre-K Teacher
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“It is hard to put into words how much Dwayne does for our school ... not just our building - but for us, the kids, and the animals. His list of duties everyday are endless and he continues to smile and greet us and the kids as we walk by. It takes a special person to form a bond and love on those barn babies every year... he establishes trust with them and will do anything for them. In the past he has come to feed and checkin on the animals when school is closed due to weather. He still makes the trek in to make sure they are not forgotten. Every year, one of my favorite things is seeing the barn animals run up to him with joy when they see him. They know that he is a wonderful, loving, caring guy as well. He really is a gem and we at Lamplighter are so lucky to have him.” – Casey Stoltz, Alternate Teacher “Mr. Spencer is an angel in disguise. He took care of us when I was a student at Lamplighter, and now I have the unique opportunity to work with him as a colleague. He doesn’t like me to remind him of that! Mr. Spencer works tirelessly, often magically behind the scenes, and he gives me great confidence with his unwavering support and hard work. He is one of the most kind and humble people I know. It is an honor and a privilege to work with Mr. Spencer, and I feel blessed to call him my friend.” – Taylor Cornell Good ’92, Parent Relations Coordinator “I can’t imagine Lamplighter without Dwayne. I can count on him to make me laugh when I need it most and lend an ear when I need to talk. He is the quiet, behind-the-scenes person that helps keep everything running smoothly at Lamplighter ... and he does it with a smile and helpful spirit.” – Amy Brown ’78, Transitional First Grade Teacher “Having the chance to work with Dwayne through the years has been one of my favorite things about Lamplighter. His smile is contagious and he always makes me feel happy and grateful to be a part of this School. I love his stories and fun memories of Lamplighter through the years. After 40 years of service to our School, he is the true embodiment of perseverance. His dedication has helped Lamplighter live out its mission each and every day.” – Landy Fox, Communications Coordinator
4O 1.
THINGS
LAMPLIGHTER LOVES ABOUT MR. SPENCER! 21.
EXUDES LAMPLIGHTER SPIRIT
FRIENDLY AND COURTEOUS
2.
HARD WORKING
22.
SIGNIFICANT PART OF LAMPLIGHTER’S RICH HISTORY
3.
ALWAYS HAS A SMILE ON HIS FACE
23.
LOYAL
4.
TRUSTWORTHY
24.
SHARES FUN LAMPLIGHTER STORIES
5.
NEVER COMPLAINS
25.
LOOKS GREAT WEARING RED
6.
FUN SENSE OF HUMOR
26.
STRONG
7.
MINDFUL
27.
FANTASTIC MEMORY
8.
HELPS MAKE LAMPLIGHTER EVENTS EXTRAORDINARY
28.
RELIABLE AND DEPENDABLE
9.
RESPECTFUL
29.
KNOWS A LOT ABOUT FOOTBALL
30.
PHOTOGENIC
10. 11.
BRINGS HAPPINESS TO OUR STUDENTS GOOD LISTENER
12.
WONDERFUL TEAMMATE
13.
HELPS CARPOOL RUN SMOOTHLY
14.
WARM SMILE
15.
HUMBLE
16.
KEEPS OUR CAMPUS CLEAN AND SAFE
17.
GETS THE JOB DONE
18.
CONSIDERATE CO-WORKER
19.
TACKLES SOME OF THE MOST DIFFICULT JOBS ON CAMPUS
20.
KIND HEARTED
LAMPLIGHTER LAYERS, INC. The Class of 2020 decided to recognize Mr. Spencer in a unique and special way. The finance committee of Lamplighter Layers Corporation voted to pay a dividend to Spencer in appreciation for all of the work he does to care for the chickens – on the weekends, over the holidays, and in any off hours that require help and support. These students felt that Spencer was an integral part of the success of the Lamplighter Layers Corporation and wanted to recognize his contribution. Furthermore, during the unusual time of COVID-19 and our School’s extended campus closure, Spencer continued to provide daily support for our farm animals, making sure they were well fed and cared for.
31.
TAKES CARE OF HIS FAMILY
32.
REMEMBERS LAMPLIGHTER ALUMNI
33.
EFFICIENT
34.
WORKS BEHIND THE SCENES
35.
WORKS LONG HOURS, WEEKENDS, AND HOLIDAYS
36.
FLEXIBLE
37.
TAKES GOOD CARE OF OUR FARM ANIMALS
38.
MAKES US LAUGH
39.
NEVER MISSES A CHANCE TO GIVE A COMPLIMENT
40.
DEDICATED TO LAMPLIGHTER!
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TRIBUTE
VICKI RANEY
THE LAMPLIGHTER COMMUNITY CONGRATULATES VICKI RANEY ON HER EXTRAORDINARY CAREER AND 16 YEARS OF SERVICE TO OUR SCHOOL
“STAND TALL. KEEP YOUR CHIN UP. REACH FOR NEW HEIGHTS. DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT. TRY A NEW POINT OF VIEW. HAVE COURAGE TO STAND TALL FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN. STICK YOUR NECK OUT.
”
BE THE GIRAFFE.
Be the Giraffe.
Vicki Raney, Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning – Lower School, opened her 16th and final school year at Lamplighter with this theme and mantra. The phrase “Be the Giraffe” symbolizes reaching for new heights, striving to do something different, and having the courage to stand tall for what you believe in. This philosophy represents how Raney has approached her work and demonstrated superior leadership through her years at Lamplighter spanning two decades. “Be the Giraffe” also represents a challenge she posed to her team of 29 faculty members as a guiding principle for the 2019-2020 school year. Through weekly communications, division meetings, and personal interactions, Raney reinforced this approach to continue to push the Lamplighter student experience to new levels. Raney joined The Lamplighter School in 2004 after serving as Lower School Head at The John Cooper School in The Woodlands, Texas and Saint Mary’s Hall in San Antonio. Prior to these roles in academic administration, Raney was a classroom teacher at Columbus Academy and GroveportMadison Local Schools in Columbus, Ohio. She also served as an educational consultant for EMG Networks in Scottsdale, Arizona and New Horizons Agency in Lancaster, Ohio. Lamplighter was extremely fortunate to recruit someone of
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her caliber to lead our faculty and guide our students. Through the years, Raney has represented Lamplighter on a national stage, sharing the innovative and progressive work at our school. She has delivered numerous presentations at national conferences, including Educational Records Bureau (ERB), National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), American Association of Counseling and Development (AACD), Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS), and the Ohio Association of Gifted Children. But her experience and credentials are only part of what has made Raney so valuable to Lamplighter. Her ability to mentor and inspire teachers, combined with her strong character of dependability, friendship, perseverance, trust, and collaboration make her the thoughtful leader that our faculty and staff have come to admire and appreciate throughout her tenure at Lamplighter. Environmental Science Teacher Linda Cauley shares that, “Vicki has grown to be more than a supervisor to us, and more of a friend that we could count on to help us in any way she could. She believed in giving teachers the freedom to try new techniques and methods because she believed in us.”
FACULTY&STAFFSTORIES Beyond friendship and support, many teachers at Lamplighter also benefited from the powerful mentorship and guidance that Raney provided, having a deep and profound impact on the careers and professional development of our educators. Jill Schroeter, of the Lamplighter Office of Student Life, shares Raney’s qualities as a mentor within our community, noting, “She is patient, kind, supportive, and a great listener. Vicki has the ability to make students, families, faculty, and staff feel comfortable and heard. She has helped me to hone my strengths while also encourage me to push myself out of my comfort zone.” Moreover, Reading Specialist June Landry also shared the profound impact that Raney had on her career, explaining, “Vicki hired me almost 15 years ago straight out of college. She is not just my boss and supervisor, she is my advocate and biggest cheerleader. When I told her I was fine settling with being a classroom teacher, she urged me to go back and pursue my Master’s degree. Thank goodness I listened; that was one of the best decisions of my life which led me to my role as the Reading Specialist at Lamplighter. She is the only boss I’ve ever had and I can’t imagine my world at Lamplighter without her. Although this change brings me sadness, nothing makes happier than knowing that Vicki is living out her passions with her friends and family while soaking up all the joys of retirement.” As a leader in the School, Raney consistently displayed respect and collaboration with her colleagues, as well as a sense of camaraderie consistent with the Lamplighter experience. Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill, Catherine M. Rose Head of School, remarked, “One of my favorite memories of Ms. Raney is her attendance at Leadership Team meetings. She always comes prepared with good questions and a story or two about a member of the faculty or one of our students. Her commitment to education has not wavered. She always looks at even the largest problem as something that can be solved. In her words, ‘it is always more fun and the outcome is better when we work together’.” Raney’s extraordinary leadership has also made a significant impact on the lives of thousands of Lamplighter students through the years. In addition to developing and enhancing curriculum and day-to-day classroom activities, Raney truly embraced the special traditions at our School and exuded joy and fun with all students. She was responsible for starting the overnight Senior class trip to Austin, one of the culminating experiences for fourth graders. P.E. Teacher Kathy Ritz, who accompanied Raney on most of the Austin trips notes, “She was like a flight attendant on the bus and a tour guide once we arrived. She nursed sick kids, cut gum out of hair, scrubbed marker from pillows, called parents, comforted the homesick, and provided a cot in her room for those needing extra attention.” At the conclusion of the school year, Raney plans to begin the next chapter of her life in San Antonio with the opportunity to spend more time with her two sons and granddaughter. Alternate Teacher Debbie Cox shares, “She is going to begin a new journey in her life, a journey that is well deserved. I want for her all the best and years of joy and happiness.”
“Looking back on the 16 years spent working alongside Vicki, I realize our time together was short and sweet. They say all good things must come to an end, but I will hold the special memories we created near and dear to my heart forever. Vicki is well respected by her peers because she carefully listens, fully supports, and intuitively meets the needs of others. Words cannot express how grateful I am to have had a supervisor that gave me the room to grow, guidance to achieve, and confidence to shine. Lamplighter will miss her positive spirit and remember her as our one and only Confetti Fairy. We are beyond excited to see where her journey takes her next.” – Lyndsey Welch, Academic Assistant
FACULTY FOREVER LEARNERS MAKING AN IMPACT
Lamplighter faculty members continue to embody the concept of forever learners, modeling a mindset that we hope to instill in our students. Through professional development endeavors, such as presenting at local, state, and national conferences, networking with other educators, and building upon their talents and sense of community to help others, our faculty members demonstrate leadership well beyond the classroom. These efforts help establish Lamplighter as a thought leader in early childhood and elementary education and underscore the mission and core commitments of our School. Here are some of the ways our faculty made an impact on education and nonprofit organizations during this school year. 14
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Students working on Mars Mission project in Bill Burton’s science class
BILL BURTON JOINS ADVISORY BOARD for Science and Children
Earlier this school year, Science Teacher Bill Burton was
selected to serve on the Advisory Board for Science and
Children journal, a publication produced by the National
Science Teaching Association (NSTA). Through the years,
Burton has published articles in the journal including “Mars Mission Specialist” about a signature design challenge
and maker experience implemented in science classes at Lamplighter. As an author and Advisory Board member,
NSTA invited Burton to present at the Association’s annual
conference in Boston, Massachusetts this spring. Burton was
scheduled to join fellow Advisory Board members and authors in “Elementary Extravaganza,” leading an interactive session with more than 1,000 educators from across the nation.
Burton’s work with the journal continues to demonstrate Lamplighter’s thought leadership in creating innovative,
hands-on projects for our students. Unfortunately, the spring
2020 conference was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Burton looks forward to future opportunities to share his work with the NSTA community.
Katie Ruggeri Nelson ’94 and Debbie Herskovitz
TAKING THE MYSTERY OUT OF MAKERSPACES Lamplighter Faculty Present at State Technology Convention
Each February, thousands of educators and school technology professionals gather in Austin, Texas for an annual convention and exposition hosted by the Texas Computer Education
Association (TCEA). Lamplighter consistently sends faculty and staff members to this event to share the innovative technology programs created and implemented in our school. This year,
Academic Technology Coordinator Katie Ruggeri Nelson ’94 and Pre-K Teacher Debbie Herskovitz served as conference
presenters on the topic of developing makerspace curriculum. Their interactive and informative session, titled Stop,
Innovate, and Listen! Developing Makerspace Curriculum
That Will Excite Students, shared a revised Design Thinking model that has been used at Lamplighter to develop
makerspace and innovative curriculum for our students.
Session participants left energized by the tools and approach shared by Nelson and Herksovitz. Educators noted that
after attending this session, they “now know how to start in developing makerspace curriculum in their schools ... they took the mystery out of makerspaces!”
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TEAM PEDAL PUSHERS WE WERE SO EXCITED TO
REPRESENT LAMPLIGHTER AND OUR AMAZING
COMMUNITY IN RAISING MONEY FOR RARE
CANCER RESEARCH. – June Landry, Reading Specialist
Team Pedal Pushers top, L-R: Ana Owens, June Landry, Carrie Bays, Natalie Chavez, and Olivia Claiborn
Lamplighter Teachers Raise $63K for Rare Cancer Research For the fourth straight year, a group of Lamplighter faculty members joined together to participate in a cycling event to raise money for rare cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. This year, Pre-K Teacher Carrie Bays, Kindergarten Teacher Natalie Chavez, First Grade Teachers Olivia Claiborn and Ana Owens, and Reading Specialist June Landry, together with three other teammates, took part in a Dallas Cycle for Survival event on January 25. Cycle for Survival is a nonprofit organization that sponsors indoor team cycling events to raise money for rare cancer research. Since its inception, Cycle for Survival has raised more than $253 million to discover new and better treatment options which will help patients around the world. The Lamplighter team, known as the “Pedal Pushers,” cycled for four-hours straight in a Dallas-area cycling event and successfully raised more than $63,000 for rare cancer research in this year’s effort. One hundred percent of every dollar raised goes directly to fund research at Sloan Kettering within six months of the event. Lamplighter congratulations these faculty members and their team on their successful ride on January 25 and their impressive fundraising success!
BURTON TEACHES HIGHER EDUCATION
Bill Burton (center left) with SMU graduate students in the Eastin Family Innovation Lab
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Lamplighter’s strategic relationship with Southern Methodist University (SMU) was formed to ensure that our school is committed to implementing the current best practices in the field of education. Through this partnership, Lamplighter works with the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education & Human Development at SMU to offer professional development programs and opportunities for our faculty. This winter, Science Teacher Bill Burton was invited to teach a graduate level course in STEM education to SMU graduate students. Burton designed and led a class about robotics, serving as a guest lecturer for Professor Rob Rouse of the Simmons School of Education & Human Development. During the class, SMU graduate students participated in some of the same design challenges that our third and fourth grade students do during Lamplighter science classes. Burton shares that “it was a privilege to serve as a guest lecturer for SMU and showcase the robotics work that we do with our students in the Eastin Family Innovation Lab.”
FACULTY&STAFFSTORIES
L-R: Anne Yarbrough ’81, Jill Schroeter, and Liz Curlin
CREATING A MINDFUL SCHOOL COMMUNITY: The Power of Mindfulness in the School System
The Lausanne Learning Institute (LLI) hosts a series of
conferences for educators that focus on the excitement and joy teachers experience. This year’s LLI Southwest
professional development conference took place at Good
Shepherd Episcopal School in early February with the theme of “Creating a Culture of Belonging.” Three Lamplighter
faculty members, Pre-K Teacher Liz Curlin, Second Grade Teacher Anne Yarbrough ’81, and School Counselor Jill
Schroeter, M.Ed., LPC-S, RPT-S were selected to present at
this conference on the topic of Mindfulness, sharing the work that has been implemented at our school. The interactive session with fellow educators discussed the benefits of
mindfulness practices and how being mindful has positively
affected students, teachers, behavior, and academics. Their presentation shared Lamplighter’s journey to becoming a mindful school and offered suggestions to getting fellow
faculty members excited about the initiative. Lamplighter faculty concluded the session with mindful activities and practices shared with the group.
L-R: Jo Davenport, Kathey Tobey Beddow ’63, Vince Matsko, Nafisa Rahman, and Leslie Bledsoe
FAMILY MATH NIGHT
Pentomino Games with Vince Matsko On January 30, Lamplighter Math Teachers, Kathey Tobey Beddow ’63, Leslie Bledsoe, Jo Davenport, and Nafisa Rahman hosted Florida-based Puzzle Enthusiast Vince Matsko for the first-ever Family Math Night. Matsko is a pentomino expert, known throughout the U.S. and internationally, who loves puzzles, geometry, and art. He visited Lamplighter to present and guide an evening of math games with our third and fourth grade students and parents. Following a casual group dinner in Klyde Warren Auditorium, families worked together to solve fun and challenging pentomino games. The event offered a unique way for Lamplighter parents to connect with their student reminding us all that “Math is fun!” LAMPPOST
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T E C H TRUC K SCIENCE CLUB In collaboration with Perot Museum of Nature and Science and United to Learn
Now in its second year, Tech Truck Science Club provides The Lamplighter School with a means to further build upon its partnerships with United to Learn and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This unique learning opportunity, run by Perot Museum educators and coordinated by United to Learn, offers Lamplighter Seniors, together with students from Joe May, Preston Hollow, and Withers Elementary Schools, the chance to take part in hands-on science lessons and experiments outside of the regular school day. The group of approximately 35 students across four Dallas area schools comes together one Saturday a month to explore hands-on science lessons and experiments. The interactive sessions allow students to work together to solve science-themed challenges, while getting to know kids from area schools. Monthly science topics range from physics and structural design to hydraulics and coding.
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During each monthly meeting, the Tech Truck arrives at the host school full of exciting activities in store! The Saturday morning sessions are hosted at each of the participating schools on a rotating schedule, with one session at the Perot Museum during the spring. Lamplighter was proud to host two of the science club sessions in the Eastin Family Innovation Lab as a way to share our unique space with visitors from Joe May, Preston Hollow, and Withers. Each lesson was led by Perot educators, with assistance by intern Savannah Wren. Miss Wren is a junior at Ursuline Academy with an interest in pursuing biology, and is in her second year of supporting the Tech Truck Science Club with United to Learn.
PARTNERPROFILE
“I like how science can be surprising and fun. Each Saturday session teaches me new things and has lots of unexpected surprises!” – Zara Yunus ’20
The goal of the Tech Truck is to engage youth in hands-on, maker-based science, technology, engineering, art and math [STEAM] experiences that foster creativity and confidence.
“The Science Club has a bunch of really fun challenges that you get to experience with your friends while meeting kids from other schools.” – Blythe Beran ’20
“Family Science Night offers the best combination of experimenting with new materials and having fun with the family.” – Vicki Raney, Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning – Lower School
K-2
FAMILY SCIENCE NIGHT
Lamplighter Partners with Perot Museum, Dallas Arboretum, and Frontiers of Flight Museum to Host Annual Family Science Night
For the second consecutive year, Lamplighter hosted an evening of discovery and exploration with K-2 Family Science Night on campus. Family Science Night is an annual parentchild event for students in Kindergarten through second grade offering hands-on discovery through science-themed activity stations. The event is co-hosted by Lamplighter and the School’s strategic partners, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas Arboretum. Traditionally, Lamplighter’s Science Night had been held at the Perot Museum; the new on-campus format provides an opportunity to bring in additional partners, including the Dallas Arboretum, as well as this year’s inclusion of the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The 2020 Family Science Night, held on January 15, featured 20 unique activity stations, including a planetarium presented by the Frontiers of Flight Museum. Science stations were set
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up throughout the Eastin Family Innovation Lab and Cook Gym and included themes ranging from Moon Craters, Levitation, and Weather Power, to Edible Plant Parts, Invisibility, and Insect Mouthparts 101. Lamplighter science faculty, Mr. Bill Burton, Mrs. Eva McKee, and Mrs. Linda Cauley, teamed up with representatives from the Perot Museum, Dallas Arboretum, and Frontiers of Flight Museum to share engaging science lessons to families. Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill, Catherine M. Rose Head of School, noted, “Our strategic partners sent their best and most inspirational educators which added so much depth to the evening.” Leading up to the evening event, Ruthie’s Rolling Café and Super Sliders food trucks visited campus to offer an early dinner to our young explorers. Tasty grilled cheeses and sliders helped fuel the evening of discovery and fun!
PARTNERPROFILE
The Auction is an annual community event hosted by the Lamplighter Parents’ Association (LPA) and is the Association’s primary fundraising effort benefiting the School. This year’s event – Earth Ball 2020 – was held at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, commemorating our partnership in education. The theme celebrated the 50th anniversary of Earth Day by recognizing all the earth’s beauty and resources, and how Lamplighter’s culture embraces these ideas. Lamplighter parents Heather Deskins, Julie Ahmed, Christy Brown, Susie Edwards, Kristin Fay, David Guedry, Billie Jean Langham, Bronwyn Levitan, and Mary Catherine Unis, together with a team of volunteers, worked diligently all year long to create a unique, fun-filled event for our community. The event kicked off with the Fire + Ice VIP Cocktail Reception in the Lyda Hill Gems & Minerals Hall to honor all underwriters and sponsors of Earth Ball 2020. Guests also had the opportunity to explore four exciting floors of the Museum with topics ranging from engineering, dinosaurs, gems and minerals, weather, energy, and more – all while enjoying breathtaking views of downtown Dallas! The evening was filled with exciting entertainment including butterfly stilt walkers, a Heads or Tails game, a Live Auction featuring the Siren Sisters Auctioneer Duo, a raffle announcement, and dance celebration with DJ Lucy Wrubel ’78. The Live Auction was filled with a variety of thrilling packages and items including travel adventures, sports outings, exclusive food + wine parties, plus experiences unique to Lamplighter including a gelato-making experience with Paciugo, the signature Grade Level Adventure, Head of School for the Day, and a custom-made piece featuring student artwork titled, The Lamplighter Effect. A new feature in this year’s Auction was the online Silent Auction offering mobile bidding for one week leading up to the event, enabling many members of the Lamplighter community to participate, even if they were unable to attend the event. The Silent Auction was filled with many Lamplighter favorites including one-of-a-kind class projects, children’s baskets, class pets, faculty and staff offerings, plus several items and experiences across a broad range of categories. It was truly an unforgettable evening, all in celebration of our beloved School! Lamplighter extends a heartfelt thank you to our community for your generous support of Earth Ball 2020!
AUCTION 2020
BARNYARDBUZZ
WINNER OF THE
MANLY CUP! JOHN COKER
FLAMINGO BINGO
FEBRUARY 28, 2020
OCTOBER 17, 2019
AUCTION SOCIALS
SNOW DAY
CASINO NIGHT
Auction Socials provide opportunities for Lamplighter families to get to know each other in a variety of unique, fun, and entertaining ways, all while helping to support the Auction.
DECEMBER 14, 2019
FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE
MARCH 6, 2020
BARNYARDBUZZ
WE
GRANDPARENT VOLUNTEERS
THANK YOU TO OUR GRANDPARENT COMMUNITY! The Grandparent Activity Program (GAP) was created to offer grandparents the opportunity to be active on the beautiful campus their grandchildren love. Through the GAP, Lamplighter grandparents have the unique and special opportunity to contribute to the meaningful experiences of our students, including our Grandparent Readers program, volunteering in the Erik Jonsson Media Center, and contributing items for our Carnival Bake Sale. Thank you to the many grandparents who took part in these experiences throughout the year! Save the date for our next Grandest Friends’ Day: Friday, March 26, 2021! LAMPPOST
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LUNAR NEW YEAR
Welcome The Year of the Rat! On January 27, all Lamplighter students participated in a school-wide celebration of Lunar New Year. Students took part in a variety of activities including The Lamplighter School is a community of varied voices that strengthen the education of our students and enrich the lives of all our members. To build upon this philosophy, the Lamplighter Parents’ Association (LPA) partners with the School to host special assemblies, celebrations, and
calligraphy, origami, dumpling-making, a happy Lion Dance, and presentations to learn the culture and history of this celebration. Faculty and Staff were treated to a special Lunar New Year lunch and all students received fortune cookies during their grade level festivities.
hands-on activities for our students to enhance learning of cultures around the world. Throughout the 2019-2020 school year, students engaged in a variety of activities commemorating cultural traditions. A special thank you to LPA Cultural Awareness Committee Co-Chairs, Lisa Alexander and Susmita Chavala, and International Night Co-Chairs, Nicki Johnson and Janina Washington, for your support and dedication to bringing these unique learning experiences to Lamplighter students.
AFRICAN DRUM CIRCLES As a way to enhance studies of music from around the world, Lamplighter hosted a series of drum assemblies for Kindergarten through fourth grade students on January 17. The School partnered with David Cox of Rhythm Path to coordinate grade-level drum circles to learn about and appreciate the art of African drumming. Rhythm Path, a local organization that facilitates group music events, brought 85 drums to Lamplighter so that all students could participate together with their classmates in the lessons. Each drum was handmade with an ax and chisel, and featured a custom design.
BARNYARDBUZZ BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Lamplighter kicked off Black History Month with a special presentation for our Seniors about the “Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act” which has helped black landowners, and others in the U.S., preserve ownership of their land. Lamplighter also hosted an all-school assembly with a performance by the Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Ten talented young artists from the dance company shared “Reminisce,” a performance about hope, joy, friendship, and love with our community. This year’s dance assembly marks the fifth year the Dallas Black Dance Theatre has performed on Lamplighter’s campus. Throughout the month, early childhood students read inspiring stories together about Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman in space. Transitional First Grade (T1) students learned about jazz composer, John Coltrane, who revolutionized jazz music with Indian instruments and African percussion. Students in this class were also treated to a special visit by two female African-American Dallas County judges who shared what it takes to become a judge and led the class in taking an oath against bullying.
ARGENTINE CULTURE WITH ALCUIN FOLK DANCERS Lamplighter welcomed the Alcuin School Folk Dance
Group to campus on January 29 as part of cultural lessons of Lamplighter’s world language Spanish curriculum. Third and fourth grade students participated in an assembly, highlighting the music, dances, and culture of Argentina, hosted by performers from Alcuin School. Lamplighter alumna Isabelle Mendell ’19, a recent Lamplighter graduate who now attends Alcuin School, served as the presenter at the assembly. Isabelle introduced the folk dance group and shared facts about the country and culture of Argentina. Following the assembly, the Alcuin students were invited to join Lamplighter Seniors for a South American-themed lunch. Cook Gym was transformed into a “restaurant,” complete with servers accepting orders in Spanish as a means for students to practice their language skills.
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BARNYARDBUZZ CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL + MARDI GRAS On February 24, the eve of Fat Tuesday, Lamplighter second, third, and fourth graders gathered for an afternoon filled with music, dancing, and the limbo to celebrate Caribbean Carnival and Mardi Gras. Parent volunteers, together with special guests, hosted an assembly to share the history and traditions of Trinidadian Carnival and Mardi Gras. Students learned the origins of Calypso music and the famous Harry Belafonte, as well as the colors and symbolism associated with Mardi Gras parades, festivals, and masquerades. Festive steel pan and drum music filled the Klyde Warren Auditorium while students danced and limboed in the well!
WAGONS HO!
Second Grade Pioneer Journey The pioneers were only allowed to pack 2,000 BWUs in each of their wagons; therefore, they had to use math skills to properly plan their packed items. On the day of the journey, January 16, second graders arrived to school in pioneer attire, and engaged in activities commemorating life as pioneers, including games, songs, and literature. The journey Westward took place throughout the Lamplighter campus, with stops designating landmarks on the Oregon Trail. This special day concluded with a feast of homemade recipes made by the students, including corn bread, pickled vegetables, beef jerky, and dried fruit. This
Wagons Ho! In an annual grade-level tradition, second graders embarked on their journey westward as part of their signature Pioneer Day, a culmination of several weeks of integrated studies in math, literacy, science, and social studies. The journey allowed students to experience life on the Oregon Trail, circa 1855, complete with landmarks and hardships. To prepare for the journey, students engaged in a variety of lessons leading up to Pioneer Day, including reading pioneer stories, learning pioneer songs, drawing self-portraits, and making a map of the Oregon Trail. Students also studied the history and formation of important landmarks, milestone locations, and “rest stops� along the way. Math studies involved the concept of BWUs (Bulk Weight Units), representing a combination of the items size and weight packed in the wagon. 28
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signature event at Lamplighter has been a unique second grade tradition for more than 20 years!
The Lamplighter Green Team and the Community Outreach Committee of the Lamplighter Parents’ Association (LPA)
continued their partnership to best serve organizations in need and build upon Lamplighter’s commitment to green practices. This partnership supported several initiatives throughout the year with strong results!
GREEN TEAM INITIATIVES
4,901
Crayola ColorCycle | A yearlong program to collect and repurpose Crayola markers. Lamplighter collects used and old markers, and mails them to Crayola to recycle and reuse the materials.
MLK Day of Service | Monday, January 20, 2020 LPA Community Outreach Co-Chairs Liz Cullum Helfrich ’90 and Natalie Johnson organized two Day of Service volunteer activities for the Lamplighter community as a way to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Parents and students visited Family Gateway, a homeless shelter for families, and spent time making crafts and playing games with the residents of the shelter. Lamplighter volunteers also visited Oakglen Nursing Home in Carrollton to bring cheer to the residents. Thank you to all of the parent and student volunteers for your time and service to these organizations.
Number of markers Lamplighter has sent to the Crayola ColorCycle program
188
coats, blankets, scarves, mittens, socks donated to Project Warm Us
Project Warm Us | A 15-day drive during November to collect gently used coats, blankets, scarves, mittens, socks, and boots benefiting Project Warm Us, a local nonprofit that supports the homeless and shelterless during the winter. North Texas Food Bank | A two-week canned food drive during February and March benefiting the North Texas Food Bank to help provide meals for chronically hungry children, families, and seniors in need.
916
Number of food items donated
800+
lunch and snack bags delivered to Family Gateway homeless shelter for families
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FAMILY GATEWAY VISIT www.familygateway.org
Family Gateway | Lunch and Snack Bags Lamplighter continued its partnership with Family Gateway, a homeless shelter for families, by providing more than 800 lunch and snack bags to the organization this year. Third and fourth grade students arrived early to school to assemble meals and snack bags to support the residents in need. In advance of the assembly day, students spent an afternoon with Kendall Brown, Director of Marketing & Youth Engagement for Family Gateway, to learn about the organization’s mission and how it supports homeless families in Dallas. A special thank you to the many parent volunteers who donated food and drink items, assisted the students during assembly days, and delivered the completed bags to Family Gateway.
THE ART
OF GLASS CLASS OF 2020 GIFT TO LAMPLIGHTER IN COLLABORATION WITH GLASS ARTIST CARLYN RAY ’92
As third grade students at Lamplighter, members of the
Class of 2020 embarked on a unique artistic journey. Through a partnership with artist, studio owner, and Lamplighter alumna Carlyn Ray ’92, in collaboration with long-term Lamplighter Art Teacher Pam O’Krent, students worked
together to design an art project which would eventually become a permanent outdoor installation in Jonsson Garden on the Lamplighter campus.
During the 2018-2019 school year, O’Krent consulted with Ray to identify a glass art project that the students could design
and create together, then present as a gift to the School. Through campus visits and artistic discussions, O’Krent and Ray developed a concept of vertical glass panels. Once the
project was identified, O’Krent integrated lessons into her
art classes about different levels of viscosity – translucent, transparent, and opaque – to tie in with studies of glass
art. Students then worked together to create prototypes of the project using cellophane to illustrate the vertical glass
panels. The prototypes were completed last May, as the Class
of 2020 was concluding their third grade year at Lamplighter. The creative process continued during the Class of 2020’s senior year when Carlyn Ray ’92 returned to Lamplighter to
spend a day as an artist-in-residence. Ray led the students through a collaborative design process using glass pieces and studies of color. Ray’s sessions with the students involved a reflective component to help understand the significance of the project, as well as its impact on both current and future students at the School.
Following her day as an artist-in-residence, Lamplighter
Seniors were invited to observe the glass blowing process first hand. During a weekend in January, Seniors spent an
afternoon at Dallas Glass Art and had the opportunity to
create their own glass piece as a keepsake. The students
were joined by Lamplighter alumna Jordan Johnson ’19, a current fifth grader at The Episcopal School of Dallas, who has pursued glass blowing as an extra-curricular activity since
she was five years old. Johnson helped lead the session with the Class of 2020, sharing her passion for this art form and demonstrating her glass blowing skills. 30
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Jordan Johnson ’19 at Dallas Glass Art
BARNYARDBUZZ “This “This piece pieceisissoso specialbecause becauseitit special makesme mefeel feelthat that makes I Iwill willnever never truly truly leave leave Lamplighter Lamplighter and I will and Imade will have made have a mark.”
a mark.” — Josie Clifford ’20 — Josie Clifford ’20
“This project “This project isis exciting exciting because it will because it will be a part of of be a part Lamplighter Lamplighter forever.” forever.” — Max Robins ’20 — Max Robins
’20
“At Lamplighter wewe get so so many amazing “At Lamplighter get many amazing opportunities and this one waswas so special opportunities and this one so special because we something withwith a real because wecreated created something a glass artist.” — Maddie Vigeant ’20 real glass artist.” — Maddie Vigeant ’20
The gift that Lamplighter has taught me is the value of community and working with my imagination. – Carlyn Ray ’92
The artistic journey culminated with an intimate dedication
ceremony of the glass art installation in Jonsson Garden on
March 2. Lamplighter Seniors, faculty, and administrators,
together with artist Carlyn Ray ’92, gathered on the south side of Jonsson Garden to celebrate the permanent on-campus
display. Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill, Catherine M. Rose Head of
School, opened with remarks to the Class of 2020 by saying,
“Take a look at these beautiful panels; each of you had a part in creating this work of art and you have given Lamplighter a gift forever.” Ray followed up with her remarks to the Lamplighter
Seniors, reflecting on the artistic journey together, noting
“the imagination you had in developing these panels, and
working together as a community, creates a special gift.”
Ray further reflected on her time as a Lamplighter student, noting that “the gift that Lamplighter has taught me is the
value of community and working with my imagination.” She
further shared with the Seniors, “when you are my age, you can return to Lamplighter and see your art installation.” At
the conclusion of the dedication ceremony, Lamplighter Art
Teacher Lizzie Bumpas presented a thank you card created by the Lamplighter Seniors to Carlyn Ray ’92.
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CLASS OF 2020 SENIORS LOVE Charlie Aisner “…you make so many new friends every year and the teachers are so welcoming.” Rachel Calaway
“…all the experiences are like no other school, and that’s what makes Lamplighter special, like animals, chickens, and Hootenannies.”
Hudson Conroy “…I can have some chances to play with friends.”
Anna Dozier “…all of the fun events we get to do.”
George Gladstone
“…it’s so unique, not like any other school.”
Chance Hollman
“…everyone is friendly.”
Nikhil Joshi “…of all the love and light it shares.”
Sykes Lamensdorf “…it’s the most helpful school ever.”
Jack Bender “…it is so unique”
Terrence Cao “…it has so many unique qualities and friends to pick you up when you fall. ”
Benjamin Courtney “…it’s never lonely and there are lots of friends.”
Henry Erick “…of the nice teachers.”
Brock Herold “…everyone is kind and helpful.”
Liam Jackson “…all the fun teachers.”
Dillon Kennedy “…I get to play with my friends and learn in the same day.”
Isabel Lee “…of what I learn, where I learn it, and who I learn from.”
Blythe Beran “…it is so unique and different from all the other schools.”
Josie Clifford “…it inspires me to not be afraid to reach my goals.”
Hunter Dorrill “…it has wonderful teachers.”
Lucy Gammill “…I love getting to meet new friends.”
Chance Hickman “…it is a great community with lots of nice teachers and students.” Aashna Jain “…there are so many fun ways to learn and the teachers are the best.”
Alexandra Lackey “…all the kind and encouraging teachers.”
Max Melella “…the friends here are so helpful and supportive.”
SENIOR SALUTE
LAMPLIGHTER BECAUSE... Hayden Miller “…the teachers make learning so much fun.”
Soha Nayyar “…it has a barn, and I want to be a veterinarian.”
Avery Park “…it is so different from other schools. I will always remember everything about it.”
MaxiLu Pokorski “…every day when I get out of my car my teachers hug me.”
Neil Rao “…it is a fascinating school with a bigger playground than usual.”
Austin Sabel “…it is a lamp lighter society.”
Maddie Vigeant “…we get to run our own business and work with chickens.”
Ameenah Welch “…it’s unique from other schools!”
Kira Mitchell “…of all the fun things fourth graders get to do.”
Eloise Oudt “…we get to do so many fun activities and the teachers are SUPER nice.”
Ayaan Patel “…it’s a friendly community and all the people here are nice.”
Lila Puig “…it is different from other schools.”
Jack Roberson “…they plan lots of special events for us.”
Eddie Stehel “…there are so many animals and so many great classes.”
Ethan Walkowiak “…the wonderful memories.”
Zara Yunus “…of all the special events that no other school has.”
Saanvi Nayyar “…we get to take care of all the animals and we have such fun stuff to do in our Senior year, like Layers and Flash.” Jake Parel “…it’s a friendly environment that you really don’t see anywhere else.”
Jake Pinnell “…it makes learning fun.”
Cat Quadling “…all the fun things we get the chance to do.”
Max Robins “…everyone here is so kind and encouraging.”
Jetsun Tran “…I get to spend time with my friends while I learn.”
Addy Washington “…of my friends and teachers that I grew up with.”
LAMPLIGHTERLEGACY This year’s Senior class has many special connections to the history of Lamplighter. Four parents of students in the Class of 2020 also attended Lamplighter! These parent alumni reflect on their own Lamplighter experiences and what it’s like to see the next generation of “lamps to be lighted.”
FLAUREN BENDER ’90 WITH JACK BENDER ’20
“Some of my favorite Lamplighter memories are Hootenannies, Carnivals, and Lamplighter Layers, traditions that continue to contribute to the magic of the Lamplighter experience. The best part of Lamplighter though - when I was a student and today - is the incredible teachers who inspire a lifelong love of learning!”
MATT MILLER ’88
ELIZABETH BROWN ’83
“When we moved back to Dallas and needed to decide on a school for our kids there really wasn’t a choice. Lamplighter was such an amazing school experience for me that I knew I had to give that same opportunity to my children. Lamplighter has the same nurturing atmosphere that was present when I was at the school over 30 years ago. What’s different is the incorporation of new technology and the addition of incredible facilities like the Eastin Family Innovation Lab. We couldn’t be happier with our choice.”
“Lamplighter provided a foundation for my educational and intellectual development for which I am forever grateful and for which we were thrilled to be able to bestow on both of our children. I remember my time at Lamplighter as one of the fundamental joys of my childhood; there was an incredible sense of belonging and happiness at school. I felt cozy and comfortable, yet independent and free. It was at Lamplighter that I learned to love to read and to ask questions and these have been some of the greatest gifts in my life. I remember sitting in the well, playing on the tire swing and running through the bamboo forest. We chose Lamplighter for our boys because it exemplified, for me, a happy childhood full of curiosity, play, friendship, growth, and selfconfidence. We have been thrilled to witness all of these experiences in our children’s lives as well as they journey through Lamplighter. We have watched Benjamin blossom as he moved from Pre-K 3 to fourth grade. We love watching him confidently walk the halls of Lamplighter, chatting with all the teachers and saying hello to kids in all grades.”
WITH HAYDEN MILLER ’20
WITH BENJAMIN COURTNEY ’20
SHANNON MORSE ’80 WITH JOSIE CLIFFORD ’20
“Lamplighter was more than a foundational academic education for me. It was more than the place where I made many of my life-long friends. Lamplighter gave me the time and the teachers to discover who I am as a learner. Lamplighter challenged the development of the skills that came naturally and nurtured the growth of those that did not. At Lamplighter, I learned I could fearlessly explore with my mind in the classrooms and my muscles on the playground. Lamplighter gave me what I needed as a young learner. Likely this looked different than what my classmates needed; yet, Lamplighter was able to light the light in each of us. I am deeply grateful that my parents gave me the gift of Lamplighter, and thankful that I am able to share that gift with my own children.”
CLASS OF
2O2O
fun facts
47 SENIORS
SENIOR SALUTE
SENIOR PARENT REFLECTION by Melissa Dorrill
74% STARTED AT LAMPLIGHTER IN PRE-K
74% HAVE A SIBLING WHO ATTENDS or
ATTENDED LAMPLIGHTER
43% P I ZZ A F R I DAY
IS THEIR FAVORITE LUNCH SANDWICHES AND DESSERT ARE FAVORITES, TOO!
CARNIVAL, SENIOR JACKETS, AND HOOTENANNIES ARE THEIR THREE FAVORITE LAMPLIGHTER TRADITIONS
3
FAVORITE SUBJECTS
SCIENCE MATH LITERACY
5,786
SOCCER, SWINGS & TETHERBALL ARE FAVORITES ON THE LAMPLIGHTER PLAYGROUND
EGGS COLLECTED THIS YEAR *as of March 13
My love affair with Lamplighter started more than 20 years ago when I visited the School to interview for a teaching position. I felt like I had found a magical utopia of education. I was mesmerized by the open classrooms with large windows and wells for gathering. My heart sang watching children filled with joy as they learned and explored. I knew this was the place for me! After nearly 12 remarkable years working at Lamplighter, it was time for me to leave but also time for my son Hunter to begin. I remember the day I dropped off my shy, quiet boy at carpool and wondered if he would love the School like I did. I quickly discovered that as wonderful as it was for me, it was even better for him. Those early years were filled with running tirelessly on the best playground in the world and endless shoes full of sand from the sandbox. Hunter quickly blossomed with the help of loving and supportive teachers. Lamplighter fostered his enthusiastic love of learning, everything from writing haikus about the creek with Mrs. Cauley to making candy in the Eastin Family Innovation Lab with Mr. Burton. Each year he fell in love with his teachers and claimed it the best year ever. From fabulous field trips to the Dallas Zoo to exciting class projects like the Pioneer Journey, every grade had something new and exciting to offer. And of course I have to mention the chickens; where else can you live in a major city and run a chicken business! In our last year at Lamplighter, we have savored the School’s special traditions. I’m hoping I will be able to see through my tears as I drive around that beautiful Ring Road one last time. The founders Natalie and Sandy would be thrilled that their vision lives strong to this day. The faculty and staff are as committed as ever to making sure each student is not a vessel to be filled, but a lamp to be lighted. Our shy little boy has become a self-assured, compassionate, and inquisitive young man. While we are confident that Hunter is ready for his next school, we also know that his Lamplighter education was the best gift we could have ever given him. Lamplighter and its entire community will forever hold a huge place in our hearts.
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HONORING
LAMPLIGHTER SPIRIT
Lamplighter Alumni Association Presents Spirit Award to Jennifer Karol and Alex Sharma
“THE THINGS OUR KIDS LEARN AT LAMPLIGHTER CONTAIN MANY PROFOUND, ALMOST UNIVERSAL TRUTHS IN THIS AGE OF GREAT DISRUPTION: KINDNESS, BEING PRESENT IN THE MOMENT, CONNECTION TO THE NATURAL WORLD AROUND YOU, WORKING WITH INTENTION AND UNDERSTANDING PROCESS, AND TRUE INCLUSION.”
– Alex Sharma
The Lamplighter community honored Jennifer Karol and Alex Sharma with the Lamplighter Spirit Award during the Spirit Award Luncheon on February 21. The award, established in 2003 during the School’s 50th anniversary, is presented annually by the Lamplighter Alumni Association to individuals or groups who embody the spirit of Lamplighter. Recipients are dedicated to the mission of The Lamplighter School and have made a lasting impact on generations of Lamplighter students. The 2019-2020 recipients of the award, Jennifer Karol and Alex Sharma, have made extraordinary contributions to Lamplighter and the greater Dallas community. Jennifer Karol has served the Lamplighter community for more than 20 years as a parent, alumni parent, and a trustee. As Chair of the Igniting Young Minds Campaign, she helped raise more than $16 million to build the new LPA Barn and Eastin Family Innovation Lab. Her
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Jennifer Karol and Alex Sharma, 2020 Spirit Award recipients
work at Lamplighter, as well as several Dallas area nonprofits, including Deeds Not Words, Planned Parenthood, and The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center, has had a profound impact on organizations serving students and families. She is the parent of two Lamplighter alumni, Katie Payne ’06 and Whit Payne ’09. At the Spirit Award Luncheon, Jennifer Karol was introduced by Sandy Diamond, Lamplighter alumni parent to Coco Freling ’04 and Richard Freling ’04, and 2008 – 2018 Director of Advancement at the School. Diamond paid tribute to Karol by comparing her to Superman, with the unassuming qualities of Clark Kent, yet noting “we have a superhero here at Lamplighter!” The audience was dazzled by stories of Karol nonchalantly turning Lamplighter chickens upside down to calm them, impressing everyone – teachers, staff, students, and Mr. Spencer! Yet, Diamond shared that Karol’s tremendous impact on our
School and the broader community really comes from her ability to “inspire others to devote themselves to great causes.” Diamond went on to explain that Karol’s “true superpower is the love and passion that she exudes in everything she does, whether it’s tackling a major fundraising campaign, or helping a friend, she is an innovative and smart leader who gets things done.” Karol accepted the Spirit Award, presented by T.J. Frank ’93, 2019-2020 President of the Lamplighter Alumni Association, and opened her remarks by noting, “One of the of the lessons that I’ve learned at Lamplighter is that none of us are perfect, but all of us are valuable.” She recalled her first year at Lamplighter when her oldest child, Katie Payne ’06, was a Pre-K student at the School, and how this initial experience evolved into a long-term relationship spanning more than 20 years. Karol thoughtfully reflected on
SPIRITAWARD
“ONE OF THE LESSONS THAT I’VE LEARNED AT LAMPLIGHTER IS THAT NONE OF US ARE PERFECT, BUT ALL OF US ARE VALUABLE.” – Jennifer Karol
T.J. Frank ’93 (top), L-R bottom: Sandy Diamond, Tom Karol, Jennifer Karol, and Katie Payne ’06
Gowri Sharma, Kavita Sharma ’13 and Alex Sharma Richard Pollock, Karen Sheinberg Pollock ’76, Patty Miller and David Miller
Alex Sharma’s service to Lamplighter spans throughout the past 14 years and includes several major leadership roles. He served as Chair of the Board of Trustees from 2012-2014 and also chaired the Head of School Search Committee in 2010 which brought Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill to Lamplighter. His dedication to Lamplighter, along with other local nonprofit organizations including Family Gateway and KIPP DFW, has helped our students, as well as other Dallas area students and families tremendously. He and his wife Gowri Sharma, a current Lamplighter Trustee, are parents to Lamplighter alumna Kavita Sharma ’13.
and Matthew Pollock ’11, and 2010 – 2012 Board Chair during the launch of the Campaign for the Future, the campaign that funded the purchase of the School’s land. Pollock paid tribute to Sharma’s extraordinary work at Lamplighter, emphasizing his visionary leadership which brought Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill to our School. Pollock further celebrated Sharma’s contributions as a Trustee, as well as his intelligence, ability to connect with others, and growth mindset, noting, “Alex personifies the love of learning that we instill in our students every day at Lamplighter.” Sharma truly embodies the qualities of a lifelong learner and has made a lasting impact on generations of Lamplighter students. Pollock concluded her tribute to Sharma by stating, “Lamplighter is forever better for Alex’s leadership.”
Alex Sharma was introduced by Karen Sheinberg Pollock ’76, Lamplighter Life Trustee, alumna, alumni parent to Katherine Pollock ’10
Following Pollock’s introduction, T.J. Frank ’93 presented the Spirit Award to Alex Sharma on behalf of the Lamplighter Alumni Association.
these years, sharing, “Lamplighter was the best gift that we gave to our children. And really for the past 20 years, it’s proven to be the best gift to me also.”
In his acceptance of the award, Sharma reflected on his time as a Lamplighter parent and work as a Trustee, noting that the School has such a tremendous impact on both its students and its parents, stating, “Lamplighter prepares our children wonderfully for their next chapter. It is also a great proving ground for its parents; we learn how to be great servant volunteers.” Sharma also highlighted the virtues that he sees lived at Lamplighter every day, which he calls “universal truths in this age of disruption,” including “kindness, being present in the moment, connection to the natural world around you, working with intention and understanding process, and true inclusion.” The Lamplighter community congratulates Jennifer Karol and Alex Sharma on the 2019-2020 Spirit Award and extends immense gratitude to these individuals for their contributions to our School and to our local community.
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ALUMNI DAYS 2020
Alumni Days is an annual tradition that offers alumni the opportunity to return to campus and spend time with Lamplighter students. Alumni guests host a grade-level or classroom gathering to share their careers, life experiences, and special memories of Lamplighter. These interactive sessions are both educational and inspirational for current students and offer alumni the chance to engage with students at their first alma mater. This year’s Alumni Days were held in mid-February and included ten unique alumni presentations. Thank you to this year’s visitors for taking the time to connect with our students!
ELIZABETH BROWN ’83
Pediatric Nephrologist, UT Southwestern Pediatric Group, Children’s Medical Center Dr. Brown spoke to first graders about her medical specialty as a pediatric nephrologist… starting with “what is a nephrologist?”! She explained the function of the kidneys, their important job in keeping our bodies healthy, noting that kidneys can help us grow. She also shared ways she takes care of children whose kidneys don’t work. In addition to answering many medical questions asked by the students, Brown also shared some of her Lamplighter memories, noting that “the playground looked different during her school days, but the tunnel was the exact same!”
“You will remember the well in the auditorium forever!”
GARY COHEN ’80
Attorney/Startup Advisor, Wright Connatser PLLC Mr. Cohen kicked off his presentation to second graders by sharing the Speak & Spell, one of the first computers, which was tested at Lamplighter during his days as a student. In 1980, a pilot project co-sponsored by Texas Instruments and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, brought 50 Speak & Spell devices to Lamplighter as a test market. Cohen recalled that this project at Lamplighter introduced him to technology and inventions, a passion that he later pursued professionally. His interactive presentation got students excited about their own inventions and the process of setting up a company to support their innovative ideas.
“The Speak & Spell computer, which was tested at Lamplighter, was an example of how Lamplighter was cutting-edge back then ... and still is today.”
TAYLOR CORNELL GOOD ’92
Parent Relations Coordinator, The Lamplighter School | Singer/Songwriter | Former Vocal Coach and Costume Coordinator in the film industry Ms. Good visited Kindergarten and Transitional First Grade (T1) for an afternoon about “what Lamplighter means to me.” Good shared old class photos and some of her favorite Lamplighter memories such as the teachers, the barn, animals, planting in the greenhouse, and saving a baby bird. She also explained her current work in the Office of Advancement at Lamplighter, emphasizing the skills that she practiced during Kindergarten that she now uses today to do her job! Good also described her work as a vocal coach and costume coordinator in the film industry, which she did for many years prior to joining the Lamplighter staff. The visit culminated with all Kindergarten and T1 students helping Ms. Good to write a song about our beloved school, titled, “L-A-M-P-L-I-G-H-T-E-R”!
BRENT JACKSON ’84
Real Estate Developer and Investor, Oaxaca Interests, LLC Mr. Jackson spoke to first grade students about his work in developing Sylvan Thirty in the North Oak Cliff area of Dallas. During his presentation, he explained the concepts of infrastructure, civil engineering, and sustainability. Jackson emphasized the importance of making earth-friendly decisions in his development projects, through drainage considerations, paint selections, and adding lots of trees. He reflected on his Lamplighter days noting that a lot of what he learned at our school carries into what he does today – integrating math, science, art, and working with others.
“What I do for a living is much easier than what your teachers do. Please give them a round of applause!”
GRAY MALIN ’96
Photographer | Author, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Gray Malin Mr. Malin hosted a special assembly for all third and fourth grade students to share his works of art, creative process, and reflections of his influential time at Lamplighter. He began his presentation by recalling his role as a wizard in the Senior Opera, an experience which helped him get out of his comfort zone, noting that “it was moments like the Opera in fourth grade that helped me gain confidence going into middle school, high school, and college.” Malin shared that he discovered his passion for photography during high school, but wasn’t sure if it was something he could do as an adult. His passion developed through the years and he gained new perspectives and experiences that would lead him to a successful career as a professional photographer. During the presentation, the crowd at Lamplighter even learned that Malin’s signature aerial photographs, which helped him gain international recognition, were taken before drones existed. This unique approach led to beautiful works of art that were truly ahead of their time! During the assembly, Malin shared behind-the-scenes videos of a three-year photo project at the Parker Hotel in Los Angeles using live animals, as well as a photoshoot at the Salt Flats in Bolivia using llamas and balloons. Malin explained that he enjoys integrating animals into his work because “animals bring people joy, escapism, and love.” Most Lamplighter students can relate to this sentiment as we have the wonderful opportunity to enjoy animals on campus every day! Students enthusiastically asked questions both about Malin’s work and about his time at Lamplighter. He shared several anecdotes about his days as a student, including his childhood dream to become a professional baseball player, as well as memories of serving as Treasurer of Lamplighter Layers Corporation. Malin recalls that his favorite thing about Lamplighter was his classmates and fondly remembers using proceeds from Lamplighter Layers to make both a charitable donation and to fund a slip-n-slide party down the playground hill!
MATT MILLER ’88
Veterinary Specialist, VCA Animal Diagnostic Clinic Dr. Miller spoke to first grade students about what it’s like to be a veterinarian. Students were fascinated by the x-rays shared of all different types of animals and unique objects inside, including a snake that ate a light bulb! Miller also talked about the important characteristics required in this career, such as leadership, communication, compassion, customer service, and of course, a passion for animals ... all of which are taught and reinforced at Lamplighter!
“Being a vet is a really rewarding career because you get to help both animals and people.”
KATHRYN NELSON ’93
Interior Designer, Kathryn Nelson Designs Ms. Nelson spoke to second grade students about her career as an interior designer, sharing her passion for art and creativity. She kicked off the presentation by playing a game with students about how our brains interpret color. Each color evokes different emotions and sets the mood and tone for a design space. Nelson noted that she has been designing her whole life, and as a kid she changed her room seven times!
“Art was my favorite subject when I was a Lamplighter student. But science and math are also very important in my career as an interior designer.”
TONY RUGGERI ’92
Co-Chief Executive Officer, Republic Property Group Mr. Ruggeri spoke to third grade about his work with fellow Lamplighter dad, Jake Wagner, in building master planned communities. He reflected on his favorite things to do as a child – playing with LEGOS, building things, woodworking, electronics, and robots – and noted how all of these activities are influential in his job today. His work today offers him a chance to do all the things he enjoyed doing from an early age!
“My favorite thing about Lamplighter was loving coming to school every day. I loved the natural curiosity and the learning. And that you could always ask questions without being ashamed to ask questions.”
DAVID SMART ’01
Author, The Trail Provides and Blogger | Podcaster, Thinking with David Mr. Smart returned to Lamplighter, Senior jacket in hand, and shared his values, lifestyle, and adventures of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, a 2,650-mile continuous footpath from Mexico to Canada. Smart emphasized the importance of movement and play, as well as the value of being silent and reflective. Smart’s visit with Lamplighter Seniors culminated in a one-minute meditation session together.
JEN WALLACE ’94
Corporate Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer at WNG Capital LLC Ms. Wallace visited a Kindergarten classroom and asked students to pretend they work for “Lamplighter Airlines.” As an attorney in the aviation industry, Wallace took the students on an exciting journey of the steps and considerations that it takes to purchase an aircraft.
“There are three things you learn at Lamplighter everyday that will help you with any job you do: Kindness, Curiosity, and Confidence.”
Graduates on the go
1967
Dick Thiot ’67 is married to Robynn Birks Thiot and they are about to celebrate their 41st wedding anniversary. They have five children and 14 grandchildren. Dick graduated from Greenhill School in 1975. He owns Maverick Systems, a technology services company, in Plano, Texas. Risa Weinberger ’67 is working as a professional environmental engineer focusing on solid waste management and organic waste/commercial-scale composting in particular. She is President of Risa Weinberger & Associates, Inc. engineering firm in Dallas.
1974
Marie Holman Fitzgerald ’74 vacationed in Antarctica with her sons Ben and Mark Fitzgerald. Marie lives in Colleyville, Texas with her husband Doug.
1971
Julie Hyland Ambler ’71 with her husband, Price Ambler
Julie Hyland Ambler ’71 married her love of education discovered at Lamplighter and The Hockaday School with a career in business to become Head of School at The Woodlands Christian Academy fourteen years ago. Under Julie’s leadership, the school has grown from 290 students to more than 700 students from Pre-K – 12th grade on a beautiful 40-acre campus. Julie says they don’t have a barn yet, but it has been discussed! Julie and her husband Price are the parents of two grown children. Julia is 30, lives in Houston, and is the owner/operator of a Camp Bow Wow franchise and territory. J.P. is 27, also lives in Houston, and is a technical sales engineer in the shipping industry where he travels the world.
1975
Staci Cook Klemmer ’75 is a high school math teacher in Pennsylvania where she lives with her husband, Mark, and two sons Paul, 19, and James, 16. Her mother, Grace Cook, was a Kindergarten teacher at Lamplighter in the 1970s.
1977
Anne LaTaste Watters ’74 earned both a B.B.A. and an M.B.A. from the University of North Texas. She has had a 30-year career in corporate finance, currently working at McAfee LLC. Anne lived in Silicon Valley for ten years where she met her husband, Scott. They live in Plano, Texas and have two daughters, ages 21 and 18.
John Paul Yabraian ’84 works at the Johnson Space Center, where his focus is on astronaut training, teaching astronauts how to use the life support and thermal systems on the Space Station as well as how to respond to emergencies onboard. In his spare time, he is a member of the Gilbert & Sullivan Society of Houston where he serves as Vice President of Communications on the Board of Directors, and also sings baritone in their yearly operatic production. John Paul is married to Claire and they have two children, Oliver, 12, and Eleanor, 10.
1997
David Monnich, Griselda Monnich, David Monnich, Jr., Alison Gaylord Monnich ’74, and Warren Monnich
Alison Gaylord Monnich ’74 lives in San Antonio with her husband David. She is a special education teacher at Alamo Heights High School where she provides in-class (co-teaching) support in their Social Studies Department. Alison has two sons. David and his wife live in Los Angeles and Warren lives in San Antonio.
1984
Bandmates Russell Alerson ’77 and Rembert Block ’77
Russell Alerson ’77 and Rembert Block ’77, are bandmates in an original band Rembert & the Basic Goodness. They both live in Brooklyn, New York. In March, they debuted a new musical written by Rembert, called SELFIE! at the Vortex Theater in Austin. Visit rembertbasicgoodness.com for more information about their music.
Peter Koutsogeorgas ’97, center and Basil Koutsogeorgas ’99, left center pictured with their cousins
Peter Koutsogeorgas ’97 resides in Dallas and continues to write and direct independent films. His most recent project, The Dendrite, premiered at the Adirondack Film Festival in Glens Falls, NY. He is currently on the editing team of a feature in production starring Guy Pearce.
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1997
Colin Leatherbury ’97 works for Twitter in California. He enjoys skiing at Lake Tahoe and camping at Big Sur and around California.
2002
Basil Koutsogeorgas ’99 just moved back to Dallas after residing in Boston for several years where he began his career in architecture and in real estate development. Basil is currently a Director of Multifamily Development at Provident Realty Advisors. Basil also collaborates with his brother, Peter, most recently as an Executive Producer on his short film, The Dendrite.
Kelsey Kehlbeck Cunningham ’02 and husband Drew welcomed baby Louis on October 13, 2019. For more than five years, Kelsey worked as an HR Generalist for Chesapeake Energy but has decided to stay home with Louis for the time being. The Cunninghams live in Oklahoma City.
2003
Sarah Gibson ’03 graduated from Texas A&M with a master’s degree in public policy and then went to work in Washington D.C. for several years. Currently, Sarah is living in Dallas and pursuing a master’s degree in counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary. She is still close friends with fellow Lamplighter Class of 2003 alumna Holly Reilly ’03.
2005 Coralee Trigger ’99 released a book called Doodle Different. It’s a little book of places to start and a big celebration of creativity. She wanted to create something with more freedom than a coloring book, and less intimidation than a sketchbook.
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Katie Payne ’06, a graduate of Duke University, is working for Congressman Colin Allred in Washington, DC.
2009
2008
1999
Catherine Gibson ’99 is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and is a nurse practitioner. She has lived and worked in many countries around the world including Haiti, India, and currently Morocco.
2006
Jessica Westberry ’05 graduated summa cum laude from the University of Richmond. Throughout college, Jessica participated in the summer analyst program at Goldman Sachs, working for two summers in the Private Wealth Management business in Dallas. After graduation, she joined the Investment Management Division of Goldman Sachs in New York. She now works in the Office of the Chairman, supporting the firm’s President and Chief Operating Officer. Jessica’s favorite memories of Lamplighter include feeding the chickens and sporting her letter jacket in the fourth grade.
David Kerrigan ’08 is a senior at Sewanee: The University of the South and will graduate with a degree in physics this May. After spending the summer in Spain and Morocco, David will make Denver his home.
Charlotte Lutz ’09 is a junior at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she is part of the honors program in the business school. She has attended two study abroad opportunities, one at Oxford University and the other in Silicon Valley. Charlotte had internships at the Houston Astros and Hopdoddy after her freshman and sophomore years, respectively. Charlotte enjoys Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity, and volunteering to support the business school. Charlotte will work for Boston Consulting Group this summer in Dallas. Whit Payne ’09 is a junior at Vanderbilt University majoring in economics. He spent the past school year studying abroad in Sydney, Australia.
Margaret Siu ’08, a Plan II honors senior at The University of Texas at Austin, is the recipient of a 2020 British Marshall Scholarship. The Marshall Scholarship will fund her graduate education at the University of Oxford, where she will pursue a Master of Science in Contemporary Chinese Studies during her first year and a Master of Science in Global Governance and Diplomacy during her second year. According to Margaret, “Receiving the Marshall scholarship affirms my mission to gain a diplomatic understanding to navigate between clashing ideologies.”
Jared Steinhart ’09, is a junior at the University of Michigan in the Ross School of Business. He is currently studying abroad in Vienna, Austria.
2010
Marcelina Esquival ’10 is a sophomore at The University of Texas at Corpus Christi majoring in biology. Marcelina helped organize a campus march as part of the Global Climate Strike week-long call for action. Esquivel said, “We’re hoping to convey that there is power in our voice. That whatever we do, if we put our minds together, we can make a real difference. No
ALUMNINOW Will Steinhart ’12, is a senior at Highland Park High School where he is on the varsity baseball team. He will attend the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin in the fall.
Marcelina Esquival ’10 left
matter how small you think a difference makes, it makes a huge difference when it all adds up.” Source: Raul Alonzo Jr., Reporter, Island Waves.
Amber Syed ’12, a senior at Greenhill School and had her photography showcased as part of the Young American Talent exhibition. The Young American Talent is a regional exhibition that receives approximately 1,000 submissions in all aspects of visual arts.
2011
Patrick Kerrigan ’11 is a freshman at the University of Richmond and recently pledged Lambda Chi Fraternity.
2012
Kirsten Kirk ’12, a senior at The Hockaday School, was invited to sing with the Treble and Mixed All-Region choirs as part of the Texas Private School Music Educators Association (TPSMEA) All-Region and All-State festivals. Billy Lockhart ’12, a senior at St. Mark’s School of Texas, qualified as a semifinalist in the National Merit Scholarship Competition and has advanced to finalist standing. Kaiti Ness ’12 is a junior at Greenhill School and is a member of the girls basketball team that won the 2020 SPC Winter Championships.
CITYterm is a once in a lifetime opportunity for academically motivated students to spend 16 weeks fully engaged in learning about themselves and New York City. At CITYterm, students meet authors, Broadway directors, architects, artists, city officials, historians, and urban planners. James Carr ’13, a junior at St. Mark’s School of Texas, was part of a two-man team whose film titled A Life of Memories was accepted by the All-American High School Film Festival. Grant Gilker ’13, a junior at Parish Episcopal School, was part of a two-person team that organized Parish Family Performs, an annual Broadway revue that brings together faculty, staff, alumni, and parents.
Kaethe Thoma ’12 will be attending art school next year where she plans to study illustration. She has won numerous first place ribbons in digital art and drawing in regional, state, and national competitions via the Junior Classical League (National Latin Organization). Kaethe also plays the clarinet, saxophone, and guitar.
2013
Dulany Bloom ’13 in New York City
Dulany Bloom ’13 is a junior at Greenhill School and spent this semester taking part in CITYterm in New York.
Chamber of Commerce through the Plano Mayor’s Summer Internship Program. She also attended the National Student Leadership Conference at Yale University where she studied compassionate leadership, as well as law and advocacy. She participated in a mock trial tournament where she sat first chair on the defense and her team placed third. This summer she will study law, ethics, and democracy at Brown University through their rigorous PreCollege Program. Lydia is excited to go on a mission trip to Oaxaca, Mexico with her church in partnership with Buckner International.
2014 Hunter Holmes ’13, a junior at J.J. Pearce High School in Richardson, Texas, was recently awarded the Eagle Scout medal. For his Eagle Scout project, he constructed a wooden fence and installed landscaping at his former preschool. Eagle Scout is the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America. Aaryan Puri ’13, a junior at St. Mark’s School of Texas, was a member of the Model UN team that traveled to Boston for the 67th session of the Harvard Model United Nations. Lydia Williams ’13 is a junior at McMillan High School in Murphy, Texas. Last summer, she interned with the Plano
Mia Ness ’14 is a freshman at Greenhill School and is a member of the girls’ basketball team that won the 2020 SPC Winter Championships.
Sophia Yung ’14 center front with Hockabots teammates
Sophia Yung ’14 is a member of The Hockaday School Upper School Robotics Team that beat the former world champion team to place first in the First Tech Challenge competition in January.
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ALUMNINOW
2016
Quentin Balestri ’16, an eighth grader at Greenhill School was invited to play bass in the Texas Private School Music Educators Association (TPSMEA) AllRegion and All-State festivals. Students submitted a recording of four pieces in hopes of being selected to join the honors orchestra. Students from private schools all over Texas came together and participated in an all-day workshop with a guest conductor. The workshop culminated with a group performance on February 22. Michelle Phu ’16 and Tayce Thomas ’16, both eighth graders at Greenhill School participated in the Texas State Junior Classical League (TSJCL) Area C Convention. Michelle placed third in the Latin Literature category and Tayce placed third in the Classical Art category.
2018
Aadhya Yanamadala ’18, a sixth grader at The Hockaday School, was runner-up in the National Geographic GEO Bee.
Jordan Johnson ’19, a fifth grader at The Episcopal School of Dallas, received third place in the fifth grade category at the Private School Art Invitational at The Hockaday School in January.
L-R: Jillian Martin ’13, The Hockaday School; Evan Brown ’13, Parish Episcopal School; Emily Yancey ’14, The Episcopal School of Dallas; Caraday Martin ’15, The Hockaday School; Kate Eastin ’16, The Episcopal School of Dallas; Jacob Lobdell ’17, St. Mark’s School of Texas; Alex Eastin ’18, The Episcopal School of Dallas; Davis Knocke ’18, Greenhill School; with Vicki Raney, Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning - Lower School.
2008, 2011 & 2017
Isabelle Mendell ’19 with Lamplighter drama teacher Jeff Peck
Isabelle Mendell ’19 is a fifth grader at Alcuin School and is a member of the Alcuin Folk Dance Group. The Group came to Lamplighter and shared music and dances of Argentina with our students.
Noah Stern ’17, Ashton Hillman ’17, and Griffin Buss ’17 at Love Field last fall getting ready for the Parish Episcopal School annual seventh grade trip to Catalina Island.
Eight young alumni participated in an alumni panel at the Lamplighter Admission Preview on November 10.
2019
2017
Nicholas Dickason ’17, Amar Kakkar ’17, and Adithya Munshi ’17 helped St. Mark’s School of Texas Classic Club win the novice level at the second annual Lion Invitational Certamen. Freshman Akash Munshi ’15 was a member of the third place intermediate team.
ALUMNI PANEL 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018
L-R: Sloane Castleman ’08, Sarah Weinberg, Shea Castleman ’11, John Weinberg ’17, and Russell Weinberg
Sloane Castleman ’08 will graduate from The University of Texas at Austin in May and will begin working in Dallas for Boston Consulting Group in the fall. Sloane’s senior thesis is on disruptive innovation in education. Shea Castleman ’11, a freshman at The University of Texas at Austin, will intern at Peregrine Investments in Dallas this summer. John Weinberg ’17, a seventh grader at Cistercian Preparatory School, will be camping and hiking in the Northwest for three weeks this summer.
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ALUMNINOW
2012 CARRIE The Musical at Greenhill School
2015 & 2017 THAT’S A LOTTA PASTA!
L-R: Jackson Benners ’15, Griffin Benners ’12, Jeff Peck, Jack Bovard ’16, and Quinn Graves ’16.
2018 COME FLY WITH ME!
Griffin Benners ’12, recently appeared in Greenhill School’s production of CARRIE The Musical. Lamplighter drama teacher, Jeff Peck, had the opportunity to visit with four Lamplighter alumni at the show.
2013 & 2015 SOUTHWEST PREPARATORY CONFERENCE
The Steinhart family including Meg ’15 and Luke ’17 and the Kahtri family including Saira ’15 traveled together to Italy. Pictured are both families at a cooking class in Rome. All three alumni attend Parish Episcopal School.
2016 LET’S PLAY BALL!
Vicki Raney, Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning – Lower School, ran into eight Lamplighter alumni at Love Field. The young alumni are all sixth graders at The Hockaday School and were about to leave for the annual sixth grade trip to Williamsburg, VA and Washington, D.C. Piloting the plane was Lamplighter alumni parent, L-R: Birdie Anderson ’18, Captain Marc Captain Marc Oeschger. Oeschger, and Greta Solomon ’18
L-R: Michelle Phu ’16, Greenhill School, Gigi Enrico ’16, Greenhill School, Cate Pfaff ’16, The Episcopal School of Dallas, and Abeera Amer ’16, Greenhill School, cheering them on.
L-R: Kaitlyn Adams ’18, Chloe Oeschger ’18, Aadhya Yanamadala ’18, Captain Marc Oeschger, Vicki Raney, Gela Aguilar ’18, Anne Marie Helfrich ’18, and Allie Gerber ’18.
Winter Championship
Jackson Benners ’15, a freshman at Greenhill School, and M.J. Ward ’13, a junior at Greenhill School, participated in the swimming Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC) Winter Championship. They placed second as members of the 200yard freestyle relay and fifth in the 400-yard freestyle relay. M.J. also placed second in the 100-yard backstroke and fifth in the 100-yard butterfly.
LAMPPOST
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2014 & 2016 SUNSHINE TEAM
Kalli Ratan ’14, a sophomore at Ursuline Academy, and her sister Sterling Ratan ’16, an eighth grader at Highland Park Middle School, initiated an effort this spring to brighten the days of senior citizens in our community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Many senior citizens living in nursing homes and other assisted living facilities are not only confined to their buildings, but also cannot spend time with families, visitors, or even other residents. In an effort to brighten the days of these seniors, the girls began making cards which included drawings, jokes, and positive messages. “We have made it a daily craft activity at our house and thanks to help from their friends, we have dropped off batches to different senior living facilities in our area,” said mom Jen Ratan.
IN MEMORIAM Mrs. Jill Gallo Alcantara Mother of Janelle Alcantara, Grandmother of Sierra Fisher ’21 Dr. John Crates Former Lamplighter Trustee 2010 – 2016, Parent of Chandler Crates ’09, Cameron Crates ’10, and Campbell Crates ’12, husband of Angela Crates, 2008-2009 Lamplighter Parents’ Association President December 28, 2019 Mr. David Dolan Father of Lindsay Dolan ’00 November 23, 2019 Mr. Dane Goldstein ’04 Lamplighter alumnus, Class of 2004, Brother of Cooper Goldstein ’01 and Audrey Goldstein ’08 October 31, 2019 Mrs. Myra Rae Malacara Mother of Stephanie Fine and Christy Gammill, Grandmother of Jules Fine ’21, Ari Fine ’23, Lisel Fine ’25, and Lucy Gammill ’20 March 27, 2020
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Mr. Walter J. Minton Father of Katie Aisner, Grandfather of Charlie Aisner ’20, Miles Aisner ’21, and Anna Aisner ’24 November 20, 2019 Mrs. Maria Flytzani-Stephanopoulos Mother of Alec Stephanopoulos, Grandmother of Raphael Stephanopoulos ’24 October 28, 2020 Mr. Robert H. Thomas Father of Stewart Thomas, Father-in-Law of Michelle Neuhoff Thomas ’75, Grandfather of Connor Thomas ’03, Maggie Thomas ’05, Electra Thomas ’08, Frank Thomas ’09, and Hyer Thomas ’09 February 9, 2020 Mrs. Sally Rose Chiapetta Urso Mother of Joe Urso, Grandmother of Truly Urso ’23 January 27, 2020 Mrs. Martha T. Walla Mother of Christy Brown, Grandmother of Emerson Brown ’21 March 5, 2020 Ms. Carol Watkins Mother of Lindsey Beran; Grandmother of Blythe Beran ’20, Blair Beran ’22, and Winston Beran ’24 March 31, 2020
ALUMNINOW
Alumni Friendsgiving The second annual Alumni
Association Friendsgiving,
organized by the 2019-2020
Lamplighter Alumni Council,
was held on November 21, 2019 at Seasons 52 in NorthPark
Center. Lamplighter alumni,
teachers, and staff gathered for
an evening of fun and friendship with the chance to reconnect and reminisce.
Save the date for the next Alumni Friendsgiving:
Thursday, November 19, 2020 All Lamplighter graduates, former students, spouses, and guests welcome!
C L A S S
O F
ALUMNI
SPIRIT
YOUR ENGAGEMENT COUNTS!
R E U N I O N Relive the Spirit of Lamplighter graduates • former students • parents
GO!
GIVE!
LEAD!
Send an email to Advancement at advancement@thelamplighterschool.org
Sunday, August 16, 2020 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
by October 1, 2020 to submit entries for the Alumni Now section of the Fall 2020 LampPost. Contact us any time to schedule a School visit.
Visit your first alma mater and join us for a reception with former classmates, parents, and teachers. Office of Advancement Please contact Cindy Connolly, Associate Director of Annual Giving & Alumni Relations cconnolly@thelamplighterschool.org | 214.369.9201 ext. 318
Parents: If this issue is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent residence in your home, please send us the correct address to the school address above or email it to advancement@thelamplighterschool.org LAMPPOST
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