Donor Profiles

LEADERSHIP DONOR

When Scott Patterson was looking for a school for

Lucian, class of 2020, he wanted to find a place where his son would be known and would feel cared for. As Scott learned more about MP&MS, he identified it as a place where teachers and staff pay attention to individual students, allowing them to feel grounded and known. Scott knew that Lucian was not a standard thinker, and he wanted a place that would inspire a sense of creativity. In the three years since Lucian came to MP&MS, he has thrived beyond Scott’s expectations. The connections he has built, and the courage he has embodied, are a testament to the unique way MP&MS fosters an authentic learning journey. Because of Scott and Lucian’s generous philanthropic support, MP&MS will continue to enhance and strengthen its defining foundational programs. Additionally, their landmark gift to the Fund for Financial Aid will allow greater access for more students with financial need now and into the future.

As a parent, what stands out about Lucian’s experiences here? The teachers have inspired Lucian and have encouraged him to take on new things–the school just encourages his creativity, which I greatly appreciate as a parent. He is very excited to be in the school play. Every morning, I see Dave DeMartini, middle school director, greeting cars, and this is just one of the ways he builds relationships with the students. The same has been true for all of his teachers–there is a sense of connection within the school community. Through things like the student led parentteacher conferences and Google classrooms, students are learning to be responsible and to keep on top of their work. I love these aspects of the program.

How has Lucian changed since he first came to MP&MS? Lucian went from a kid who was a little introverted in some ways, to a kid who is confident, has many friendships, and is happier than he has ever been. He went from hating school to being inspired by it. He is engaged in his learning for the first time. You can’t ask for more than a kid who loves school – even homework!

What do you think Lucian will take away from his time at MP&MS? There has been immeasurable growth in terms of his personal agency. When Lucian arrived at MP&MS, he was somewhat adrift–but now he feels anchored as an individual. I think that taking personal responsibility for his work is one of the most important lessons he has learned, and that will serve him well as he moves on into high school. He will take away the idea that teachers can support you and be there for you. The connections and relationships he has built with the adults at school have been a grounding force.

Fund for Financial Aid

MP&MS is proud to be making a commitment to

share our outstanding school with students who

could not otherwise afford to attend. As we work

to prepare our students for success in school and

in life, we know that we must model the spectrum

of socio-economic diversity beyond our campus. In

concert with the school’s mission and values, this

fund will support our commitment to financial aid

and the resulting benefits it provides in perpetuity.

FAMILY DONOR

Jeremy and Amy Noblin and their two children have been deeply involved with the MP&MS community for twelve years. From the Parents Association Board to the Development committee to the auction, their dedication and support has been unwavering. They reflect on the impact of their MP&MS education and the importance of giving for their family.

How long has your family been at MP&MS? This is our twelfth year at the school! MP&MS has been an extension of our family for so many years. Ella graduated last year and is now a freshman at Convent High School. Henry started in Meadow and is now in sixth grade.

Why is it important to you to give back to MP&MS? We believe giving back to this community and institution is an important part of participating in our children’s education. I grew up in a house where my parents modeled the importance of giving back and being involved through our school, our organized activities, and our broader community. This is a value that we want to share with our children. Giving comes in many forms –whether through financial donations or volunteer hours, each help build and shape the future of the school for generations to come.

What do you think MP&MS offers to your children? We were looking for a school that balanced strong academics and character building. The school’s philosophy to “teach to reach children” and “teach children to reach” resonated with our family, appreciating that each child is unique. MP&MS fosters a creative educational environment that makes

education meaningful for our children and promotes their enthusiasm for learning. Beyond academics, our children have developed such strong empathy for the world around them and have been inspired to make a difference. MP&MS nurtures the whole child.

What do your children love about being at MP&MS? Our children love feeling that they are known and they are safe. These attributes are critical to fostering a love of learning and the confidence to pursue their passions. With an MP&MS graduate now thriving in high school, we have seen first-hand how this balanced education and level of self-awareness and self-advocacy are such strong building blocks for her future.

What makes you feel connected at MP&MS? We love the strong sense of community at MP&MS, the fact that our children are known and thriving, and the service projects, such as Horse Hill, which is one of our long-standing favorite traditions. Henry looks forward to spending his summers in mountain biking camp with his teachers Matt, JJ, and Whitney and is always putting his projects lab skills to work at home. Ella was inspired by her fifth grade teachers to community service, which has become an integral part of who she is and was something she prioritized in looking at high schools.

FACULTY DONOR

Claire Charbonneau has been a member of the Marin Primary & Middle School community since the school opened its doors in 1975. Now in her 42nd year of teaching, she has spent 23 of those years with our youngest students in the Meadow. Throughout the years, Claire has shared that it is the daily joy of spending time with her young students that keeps her connected to her work with them.

What makes you feel connected at MP&MS? I started as a high school student and have grown up in this community. While we have grown over nearly 45 years, our heart and soul have remained the same, and our commitment to treasuring childhood has stayed strong. MP&MS has always embodied connection, with an “extended family” feeling. I have always felt very supported, professionally and personally, by my colleagues and our wonderful families. What do you think MP&MS offers to the children and families it serves? Our preschool is a play-based program. We have always believed that children gain the building blocks of a more formal education through play. What our youngest students get is a safe, nurturing environment in which to learn. We have a lot of fun as we guide our students to success in education. To be a part of this process is a privilege.

Why is it important to you to give back to MP&MS? The reason I contribute to our Annual Fund is simple. I believe that if our entire community works toward the education and well being of all of our students, we can only get better at what we do. 100% participation is a clear message to our students and their families that we believe in them and in their future.

Is there anything else you’d like to say about the MP&MS community? I learn from my students the way I would like to live my life. They tell the truth; they express their true emotions; they quickly and easily forgive. Being their teacher brings me great joy. Being a part of this strong, supportive and special school is a great gift in my life.