Roots Fall 2013

FALL 2013

We Got Game!

Story on page 4

ALUMNI Alumni Coordinator Brooke Van Lear-Jones ‘97- ‘02 Dear Oakhill Alumni, I am amazed at what has happened in only 12 months. In just one year I have heard from 75 alumni, spoken with 200 alumni families, and we have moved from one to two issues of ROOTS. Starting this year we will be publishing both a fall and spring issue of ROOTS. Thank you, Panthers, for your support and dedication to our school. Several alumni attended the 2013 Annual Auction, the Alumni versus Faculty Basketball Game and the 8th Grade Graduation. I can’t wait to see more of you at these events this school year!

As always, keep the updates coming. I love hearing from you.

Go Panthers!

Brooke Van Lear-Jones

The Kalsu Society of Friends honors Oakhill alumni who make a gift to the annual fund.

Inclusion in the Society will be renewed each year you make a financial gift to Oakhill Day School.

Giving is easy!

Cash/Check Corporate Matching Gifts Online Pledge a Gift

oakhilldayschool.org/annual-giving.html

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

E D U C AT I N G THE

MIND & BODY

Education at Oakhill extends beyond academics. Our mission is to provide excellence in education by focusing on the “whole child” by addressing the importance of each students' intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development through our individualized curriculum and child-centered approach to teaching. We want to inspire and equi p young leaders for both today and tomorrow through challenging each student to reach their personal best in all areas of development.

Grade experience new ingredients and flavors while learning about healthy foods and cooking techniques during Chef Justin’s cooking class. Chef Brittani is new to Oakhill and leads our Middle School cooking elective which guides students on their own unique food adventure from week to week.

Physical Education @ Oakhill Physical development of children is equally as important as that of the intellectual, social and emotional. The physical education curriculum at Oakhill Day School includes movement and exercise, sports, nutrition and healthy living instruction. Students in Toddler through Prekindergarten attend Physical Education class 1 to 3 times a week depending on how many days they are enrolled at the school. Kindergarten through 4th Grade students spend 25 minutes, 5 days a week in Physical Education class while 5th through 8th Grade students attend five days a week for a 40 minute class period.

Farm 2 School @ Oakhill This is Oakhill’s 7th year providing Farm 2 School lunches in cooperation with Bistro Kids and Treat America. Partnering with local farmers and food purveyors improves the health of our students by introducing and reinforcing the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, grass fed meats and hormone-free milk in their school lunches.

Outdoor Classroom/Garden and Community Supported Agriculture @ Oakhill The CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Program is another addition to Oakhill’s healthy living initiatives.

This program is an alliance between Good Natured Family Farms and over 160 other local family farms. The bulk of the products provided through CSA are seasonal produce, though meats, milk, cheese, eggs and bread are occasionally included. The CSA program at Oakhill runs 18 weeks, beginning in May and concluding in late September.

In addition to CSA, Oakhill hosted its first Farmers Market this fall. The market provided an opportunity for all Oakhill families, not just those who participate in the CSA program, to conveniently access farm fresh produce with the aid of our resident chefs who helped answer questions and offer cooking tips to market patrons.

The dynamic science duo of Dena Cole and Maggie Newhouse oversees the school garden. (Dena Cole is the Science Specialist for grades 1st through 4th and Maggie Newhouse is the 6th Grade Advisor and Middle School Science teacher.) The school garden is an exciting, hands-on living classroom that teaches the students about nutrition, the life cycle of plants, how vegetables and fruit grow from the earth and not the grocery store, and how to care for a garden. Students also learn how to create and use compost!

Thanks to our wonderful Chef Justin, our entire student body participates in monthly cooking classes. Toddler through 8th

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2nd Alumni/Faculty Basketball Scores Big Thank you to all of our alumni and our current Oakhill families who supported the 2nd Annual Alumni versus Faculty Basketball Game in February 2013. The game was a huge success…and we had a ball! 23 Oakhill alumni returned to play basketball and it was wonderful to reconnect with parents and families. We are so proud of our alumni!

The final score was Alumni, 44, to Faculty, 31.

A special “shout out” to…

Coach Ziggy, winner of the half court challenge!

Ryan Roberts, the Alumni MVP! Steven Brady, the 2nd top Alumni scorer!

The Alumni versus Faculty Basketball game will take a different shape this year. There will still be a basketball game, but there will be some new and exciting additions…

High School Alumni, you are invited to participate in the ultimate alumni challenge…The Color Games!

When you RSVP, you will be assigned to one of two teams and will be given a specific team color. You must show up wearing your team color. Special spirit attire will be available to pre-order prior to the event if you choose.

The first team to win 3/5 games will be announced the winner of The Color Games.

Oakhill faculty will be there to cheer you on and participate in faculty challenges that will take place between the games.

If you would like input on what games will be played, visit: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SHS9LVC May the odds be ever in your favor.

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

Alumni Roster: Ben Becker - Alumni Coach Luke Becker Leah Booth Steven Brady Taylor Clevenger Alex Diaz Jacob Eisler Brianna Ely Gabby Ferro Mitchell Henderson Cole Koeniguer Max Laney Andy Lee Mitchell Manley Satchel Manley Perri Miller Louis Reinmiller Ryan Roberts Patrick Robey Alex Roney Bryce Wehling Jack Yosel Maddy Yosel Faculty Roster: Mrs. McCanles - Faculty Coach Mr. Feagles Mrs. Feaster Mr. Derrick Forbis Mr. Alex Hall Chef Justin Mrs. Manley Mrs. Newhouse Mrs. Robertson Coach Speer Mrs. Van Lear-Jones Coach Ziggy

MEET COACH

ZIGGY This is Coach Tim Ziegler’s 4th year working at Oakhill Day School and his second year as the Physical Education Specialist for the Toddler through Kindergarten students. In previous years, Coach Ziggy has coached volleyball and basketball at Oakhill. Coach Ziggy played soccer at both Liberty High School and Park University and shared that he has always loved sports, gym class and working with children. Coach Ziggy said that choosing to be a P.E. Coach was simple because all of his interests “meshed together” in this position. The word he uses to describe himself as a coach is “spunky,” and Coach Ziggy’s students and fellow teachers would have to agree…he is indeed spunky and energetic! He loves to play with his students and he enjoys that P.E. is a place where children can use their energy to move and express themselves. Coach Ziggy commented that he loves working with early childhood children because they are always “super excited and want to participate in all class activities.” When asked why he thinks P.E. and health are important, Coach Ziggy responded, “It’s important for kids to learn lifelong skills that will keep them healthy and active for the rest of their lives.”

What is your favorite part about coaching P.E? I played soccer.

I love to move around with the kids. I like that P.E. is a place where kids can use their energy and are free to Why do you think P.E. and health are important? express themselves.

It’s important for kids to learn lifelong skills that will keep them healthy for the rest of their lives.

What do you love most about working with the early childhood children?

They are always super excited and want to participate in everything we do in class.

What is one word to describe you as a coach?

Spunky!

How did you know you wanted to coach P.E.?

I grew up loving sports, loving P.E., and loving kids…so it all meshed together.

What sports did you play in high school and college?

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Oakhill Day School Class Representatives

By becoming a class representative, you agree to be the bridge between Oakhill and its alumni. Your job as class representative is very important. We hope that by accepting this duty, you will always be an advocate of Oakhill Day School to your fellow classmates/alumni, prospective families, and members of the community at large.

Representative responsibilities include: Updating contact information, such as mailing addresses, telephone number and email addresses, of fellow alumni upon notification of such changes. Notify Oakhill of changes Encouraging communication and participation in Oakhill Alumni events Gathering alumni data on a per class basis (including college acceptance, honors and awards, marriage, birth, illness, death, etc.)

Keeping Oakhill current on the needs of its alumni community, such as summer or after school work, volunteer opportunities and connections Assisting in future alumni fundraising and assist in various phases of planning for alumni events: ideas, planning and implementation Please contact Brooke Van Lear-Jones if you would like to be a class representative or if you would like more information. (brooke.jones@oakhilldayschool.org)

Upcoming Events Calendar We are pleased to announce that the 2014 Annual Auction will be held off campus for the first time in 10 years. The theme this year for the auction is Boots, Bids, and Bling! The 2014 Auction will be held at Embassy Suites hotel on Saturday, February 15th, 2014.

Oakhill’s annual holiday shopping experience, Holiday on the Hill, is on Sunday, November 10th, 2014 from 11:00-4:00pm. Holiday on the Hill will be held at The View by Visions KC, LLC in Briarcliff, located in the Courtyard Marriot Hotel. Admission is $7... children age 4 and under are free! Can't wait to see you there!

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

OAKHILL

FACES

Making a Difference:

On and Off the Field Nick Hennessy attended Oakhill Day School in 1986 when his family moved to Kansas City. He fondly remembers his time at Oakhill (1986-1990) when his Kindergarten classroom was located in the building Oakhill occupied on Englewood and North Oak. Nick recalls moving to the current Oakhill campus during his first grade year, where he had Mrs. Wills as his 1st and 2nd grade teacher and Mrs. Calvert for 3rd grade. Moving into Oakhill’s current building is one of Hennessy’s favorite Oakhill memories.

Nick reminisces that, “Moving to the new building was something I will always remember… it was such a big deal for us as kids.”

When asked about specific teachers who stand out in his memories, Hennessy named two: Mrs. James and Mrs. Wills. Mrs. Judy James taught Hennessy during his Kindergarten year at Oakhill and lived close to him in his neighborhood growing up. He remembers being quite sad when she passed, though he states, “the teacher that was the greatest effect on my learning being Mrs. Wills because of the tough love I received… she also truly helped me in my love of reading.” Although there were no “official” Oakhill sports teams during Hennessy’s time at the school, he certainly remembers his Oakhill P.E. Teacher Mrs. Hildebrand and her love for playing Neil Diamond music during gym class!

After his years at Oakhill Day School, Nick went on to graduate

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from The Pembroke Hill School in 1999 and Drake University in 2003. He shares that he loved playing sports in high school; he was on football, wrestling, and track teams. In college, Hennessy had the opportunity to play football. While it was a great experience, it did not last beyond his sophomore year.

Nick is now a Middle School Social Studies Teacher, Dean of Students, Head Middle School Football Coach and assistant for the Varsity Football Program at The Pembroke Hill School. Nick and his wife Cara have a 6 month old daughter named Eloise Madeline Hennessy.

Nick is no stranger to hard work on and off the field. Hennessy discovered that being upfront with expectations as a teacher and a coach gives children the opportunity to rise to any occasion.

He says, “being consistent with your message to each child and providing a warm environment makes it much easier to get out of them the kind of effort and production that even they are not sure they’re capable of.” To Hennessy, his goals as an educator and coach are twofold. First, his goal is to be a teacher that “helps identify and teach children the skills to be successful as they grow into young adults.” Secondly, Hennessy wants each child “to remember how they were treated and the experience they had as a positive one so they come back to see me.”

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CATCHING UP WITH COACH CARTER

Coach John Carter graduated with a BS in Physical Education, Health and Recreation from Southwestern College in Winfield, KS. He worked with the city of Kansas City in Parks & Recreation for 11 years before teaching at Oakhill Day School. Coach Carter currently teaches at Notre Dame de Sion.

Coach Carter was always a fan favorite to the students of Oakhill. Alumni have so many great memories of Coach Carter in P.E class; he always greeted us with a smile and challenged us to be our best. So imagine the excitement we had when awarded the opportunity to reconnect with Coach Carter!

Coach Carter, what years did you work at Oakhill Day School?

After leaving Kansas City Parks and Recreation, I worked at Oakhill Day School for 5 years, from I think 2000 to 2006.

In addition to being a P.E. instructor, what sports did you coach?

I coached Oakhill Day School’s first Volleyball and Basketball teams!

What are your favorite Oakhill memories?

Teaching P.E. and Health and interacting with the Oakhill parents.

Does any athlete in particular stick out to you from your Oakhill coaching days?

Kaitlyn Lewis was a great athlete. She gave her all in sports and she was a great student!

What are you doing now?

I am currently teaching at Notre Dame de Sion Lower School.

What’s your favorite thing about coaching PE? How much fun it is to interact with the children.

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

She's Got Speerit!

C oach Lauren Speer is the Athletic Coordinator at Oakhill and is the Physical Education teacher for grades 1-8. In addition to these positions, Coach Speer coaches Oakhill’s Cross Country, Basketball, and Track and Field teams. This is her seventh year working at Oakhill. Prior to working at Oakhill, Coach Speer coached the Varsity and Junior Varsity Field Hockey teams for four years at Notre Dame de Sion. In high school, Lauren played Field Hockey, Basketball, Soccer and Softball. She went on to play Division I Field Hockey in college at Miami of Ohio and was co-captain her senior year. Coach Speer is not only athletic…she is also quite the artist! In the past, Coach Speer worked at an art gallery and frame shop, as well as a selfemployed artist. She showed artwork at a few local art shows and sold commissions for her drawings.

What does physical fitness mean to you?

Physical fitness means to me that individuals are able to carry out a healthy and active lifestyle. Life-time fitness is my favorite term! I hope to educate and influence our students to have life-time fitness and to be able to go through their own lives having a solid background and knowledge of how to keep their bodies in shape. Whether that is going for walks, running a marathon, exercising at a gym, playing sports or even just choosing to take the stairs instead of an elevator.

How do you teach sportsmanship?

I am a big, big, big believer in good sportsmanship! I constantly challenge and remind the kids to display good sportsmanship at all times to their teammates, opponents, referees and fans. Sportsmanship encompasses many of our school’s life skills such as integrity, effort, responsibility and friendship. I challenge my athletes to always wear the Oakhill name with pride, while making the school proud to have them wear it. You can’t control what other people do – or as I call it the ‘uncontrollables’ – you can only control your own actions – the ‘controllables.’ Good sportsmanship will take any person far in life and people will remember you for it.

Are you excited about the new P.E. additions…the rock wall and new athletic field?

I am very excited. Every time the kids receive new equipment, jerseys or gym accessories, their excitement builds and they become more proud to be a Panther. Confidence can make any athlete ten times the player they are. When our kids see the athletic program and facilities grow with their success and their hard work and dedication, they gain more confidence and pride and that is priceless!

How do you instill a love for fitness and health in the lives of your students?

I try to lead by example. From my own personal experiences, I remember not appreciating my coaches when they would only tell me what to do and they would never be involved in the workouts or running that was expected of me. Therefore, I strive to participate as much as possible in class and athletic practices. If I expect my students to stay active, run and exercise, then I need to show them that I live by what I preach.

What do you love most about teaching P.E.?

Sports and athletics are one of my top loves in life! I get to do what I love every day. Team sports are some of my favorite things - the competition, teamwork and challenge to do your best.

I also love when I am a part of a child’s first experience! Their first time to run a mile without stopping, first time to sled, first time to score in a game…There is nothing better than seeing their joy and sense of accomplishment!

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Back Row (L to R): Grant Gravis, Anthony Giordano, Daniel Miller, Alex Lee, Max Gruschka Middle Row (L to R): Shannon Hule`, Kayla Roesner, Holly Hawkins, Molly Soltis Front Row (L to R): Bailey Ferrara, Suzanne Brown, Ellaina Sanders, Amy Gruschka

Congratulations to the Oakhill Day School Class of 2013!

Suzanne Lawton Brown - Park Hill South High School Bailey Noel Ferrara - Staley High School Anthony Peter Giordano - Staley High School Grant William Gravis - Kearney High School Amy Grace Gruschka - Oak Park High School Max Carl Gruschka - Oak Park High School Holly Marie Hawkins - Liberty North High School Shannon Elizabeth HulĂŠ - North Kansas City High School Alexander Brian Lee - Park Hill South High School Daniel Scott Miller - Park Hill South High School Kayla Morgan Roesner - Adlai E Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire, Illinois) Ellaina Rose Sanders - The Pembroke Hill School Molly Mai Christine Soltis - Platte City High School

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

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ANNUAL REPORT OF GIVING 2012-2013 Annual Report of Giving

he Board of Trustees joins me in thanking all school constituencies – current families, alumni, alumni families, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends – for their support of Oakhill this past 12/13 school year. Support comes in many forms: giving time and expertise, assisting in classrooms, chaperoning field trips, facilitating in the lunch room, serving on committees, submitting information and pictures for the ACORN, lending a green thumb to the gardens, planning school events, and donating to the Annual Fund and Fund raising efforts.

The Oakhill Annual Report is published each fall and serves two main purposes: to acknowledge those who have voluntarily participated in sustaining our mission and operations, as well as to report our financial wellbeing.

The 2012/2013 school year was distinguished by the following fund raising and advancement highlights: • Collective gifts of $83,411 to the Annual Fund - $22,409 more than the previous year • Average Annual Fund gift of $371 based on 81% of the parent population, 100% of the Board of Trustees, and 100% of the faculty and staff who participated in the campaign.

• Twenty-six (26) Annual Fund Leadership gifts of $1000 or more with three (2) being $5000 or more and one (1) gift of $10,000.

• Auction revenue of $161,535, which includes our new rock climbing wall in the gymnasium, and fund-a-need gifts for special projects totaling $9,268.

• Our second annual Panther Scamper 5K profited $3,256, up slightly from the previous year. We are looking forward to launching our very own Neon Rush 5K in May of this year – family oriented and fun for all.

year, profited $3,110.

• A new south building campus expansion including four classrooms, bathrooms, and two office spaces.

• New carpet and tile in six classrooms and four office spaces.

• Continued improvements in curb appeal made by Fuller Lawn and Landscaping.

• Playground additions and parking improvements made by Mike Morris of Musselman and Hall, as well as Frank Yager, of KG Striping.

• Countless hours given by parents and families as leaders and volunteers to sustain the integrity and connectedness of our school community.

• Total fundraising efforts equaling $306,273!

The generosity, philanthropy, and spirit of volunteerism across our entire school community inspire and drive our continued growth and progress. We all share the responsibility to be leaders through our involvement on committees and in our daily interaction with one another.

The students benefit from your investment in the school, establishing a pattern for them to emulate as they become the leaders of the future – making Oakhill a priority. I thank you for your generous contribution of time, talent, and resources which are critical components to provide an excellent educational experience to our children.

We hope to see 100% of the parent population giving to the Annual Fund this coming year! We have many exciting things to come!

Your support of Oakhill Day School is deeply appreciated!

• Community Partners brought in $20,146, up significantly from the prior year.

• The Golf Tournament profited $9,387, up $3,516 from the prior year.

Suzanne

• Our third annual Acorn Day Celebration held to help beautify areas of the campus brought in $5,250.

• Rebate programs including Box Tops, Scrip, Target Red Cards, etc… brought in $7,611, up $4,288 from the 11/12 school year.

• Holiday on the Hill, a brand new fundraiser for the 12/13 school

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Annual Report of Giving MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

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he 2013-2014 school year is off to a great start at Oakhill. Once again the halls are abuzz with energetic and smiling students- happy to be back with friends in familiar surroundings and under the care and guidance of trusted and dedicated faculty and staff. In short, they’re glad to be back home. It’s evident the faculty and staff are glad to be back as well. You hear it in their voices and see it in their actions. Excitement for the new year is everywhere you look. From my perspective it’s comforting to witness the contentment…the sense of belonging that is so prevalent in our school. It gives me the reassuring sense that ‘all is well.’

These are exciting times at Oakhill- so many changes and so much growth. Enrollment is up significantly which, while being a wonderful thing, brings challenges as well. Growth in the middle school necessitated additional restrooms which were constructed over the summer. Growth in lower grade class sizes necessitated additional classroom space which was also constructed this summer in cooperation with the City of Gladstone in the professional building to our south. Technology and security improvements have been made. Sustainability and ‘green initiatives’ such as the solar power generators have been installed. Much progress has been made to facilitate growth, improve facilities and improve the educational experience at Oakhill.

The Board of Trustees joins me in thanking you for your continued support. Without that support the continual progression of everything ‘Oakhill’ would not be possible. Last year your generosity resulted in record numbers for our annual auction, community partnerships, annual fund and many other fundraising events. The Oakhill community stepped up like never before. Again, we sincerely thank you for your generosity- your support means so much to our school.

As another year gets into full swing please consider a renewed commitment to help us keep the momentum going. The Board of Trustees establishes tuition rates consistent with the recommendations of The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). NAIS guidelines call for tuition to be set at roughly 85% of the actual cost to educate our students.

The remaining 15% is to be made up through fundraising efforts. This design allows for tuition rates to be kept as low as possible and also creates a sense of purpose and sense of community as we work together to fill ‘the gap.’ Currently ‘the gap’ (the 15%) amounts to roughly $1,500 per year per student. Of this amount roughly $1000 is needed to cover normal operating expenses. The remaining $500 is needed to help us plan and provide for the future of Oakhill. Just as you’ve seen with recent expansion and improvements, future expansions and improvements will be necessary to ensure a thriving Oakhill for generations to follow.

I again challenge the Oakhill community to support our various fundraisers and help us provide ‘Excellence in Education’ for our current students, as well as help our school continue to grow and progress for future students. Oakhill’s status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization provides tax deductibility in some cases. This is a great way to invest in your community as well as your child.

The Board of Trustees thanks you once again for your past support and future consideration of Oakhill Day School.

Michael E. Morris President, Board of Trustees

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

2012-2013 Board of Trustees Michael Morris- President Sean Schultz- Vice President Brian Grauer-Treasurer Renee Richardson- Secretary Melanie Carter Sean Eisler Jane Ann Gorsky Derek Potts

2012/2013 Fundraising Summary:*

$306,273 *This total includes the following: Acorn Day Annual Auction & Fund-a-Need Annual Giving Community Partnerships Golf Tournament Grants Holiday on the Hill Scarecrow Panther Scamper 5K Rebate Programs

Annual Report of Giving 2012-2013 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

INCOME Tuition & Fees 82% Fundraising 9% School Events >1% Other Programs 9% Miscellaneous >1%

ANNUAL FUND OVER 3 YEARS 2010-11

$56,697

2011-12

$61,001

2012-13

EXPENSES $83,411

Personnel 83% Curriculum 3% Facilities 5% Utilities 2% Administrative 4% Miscellaneous 3%

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Annual Report of Giving 2012-2013 LIST OF DONORS Kalsu Society of Friends Alumni Donors C Curriculum Family of Funds A Arts Family of Funds S Athletics Family of Funds F Campus Family of Fund •

Circle of Excellence The Cass Family Michael and Karen Morris John Ku•

Head of School Circle

Carter Family Partnership Robin Morris and Darrin Clawson Marcy Driskill Dustin and Shelby Durand Sean and Haley Eisler The Kansas City Chess Club The Grauer Family Ron Gregg and Dr. Michelle Dew Brent and Jenny Giles Todd and Cynthia Gugler Ben and Cinnemon Hilmes Benjamin and Susan Jones Tan Nguyen and An Le Thomas and Kari Lipscomb Kevin and Suzanne McCanles William and Lisa Meiners Marcus and Cara Painter Mr. and Mrs. Derek Potts Eric and Monica Puls The Roesner Family Sean and Robin Schultz Brett and Elaine Smith Jason and Micah Sonderman Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Van Duser Frank and Kristi Weatherford Mr. and Mrs. Brett Yantis

1947 Club

Ed and Jill Kirkpatrick Bounds Kendall and Leecil Culbertson Carl and Rebecca DiGerlamo David and Erica Ferrara Michael and Anna Gibson Family of Mackenzie King Joel and Ann Koeniguer Phil and Jennifer Latier Alex Lee Family Shannon Maples Art Umali and Kathy Miller Scott and Joy Miller Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Roche` C

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

Larry and Sara Shandy Bill and Robin Spooner C A S F Daphne Yang C

Teal and White

Vikas and Sonali Agarwal Stephen and Sarah Anderson Brad and Wendy Barth Robert and Stacey Becker• Tim and Courtney Bettington Kevin and Constance Brown Anonymous Quentin and Dena Cole David and Jackie Conkling Andrew Harkin and Stacie Cooley Brett and Tara Coughlin Christopher and Elizabeth Cuzner Amy Davis The Feaster Family Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Fitzpatrick Scott and Traci Fleming David and Kimberly George Steve and Mary Giordano Jane Ann Gorsky Bryce and Dana Grandberg Michael and Jana Guidry Robert and Lauren Hamby Ryan and Dina Hamilton Jeremiah and Anita Hauser Joel and Kristin Hennenfent Jay and Nataliya Hennings Mike and Janet Holloway Drs. Michael and Colleen Hupp Cam and Aimee Kirkpatrick Bill and Kathryn Lingerfelt Mr. Andrew Wert and Mrs. Michelle McDaniel Lance and Veronika McDonald Zachary and Lindsy Morton Bryan and Melissa Ness Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Kent Peterson Mr. and Mrs. Chris Phillips F Stephen and Angela Tatum-Smith Jim and Stephanie Soltis Vijay and Sarah Somasegaran Conrad and Shannon Stumpenhaus Mr. and Mrs. Dan Sturdevant Vincent and Kedra Vaccaro Mr. and Mrs. Barry Yantis

Friends of Oakhill

Gregory and Emily Abella Nicklas and Piper Abernathy American Vacuum

Joshua and Felicia Bean Cathy Bernholtz F Brenda Bock Scott and Angela Boedecker Calvin and Sandra Bond Apollo and Charlie Boyd A Susan Brown Matthew and Janese Brown Randal and Edie Brown John and Angela Brown Heath and Martha Burch Dennis and Jan Carter Georgia Carter Mrs. H.M. Cassity Charles Melloway and Monica Chandler Stephen and Tara Clark The Clevenger Family Michele and Jared Cole Michael and Janelle Crouse Lauren and Travis Cunningham Deborah Dillon Anonymous Jason and Carina Draut Marshall and Erin Ellington The Ely Family A S Robert and Emily Eshleman Oscar and Kayla Estrada Anonymous Lee Feagles C A S F Ms. Terri Ferris Bradley and Rebecca Fisher Aaron and Katie Fowler Ryan and Amie Francois Amy and Jeff Ganaden Andrew and Leah Gipe Vladislav Goodman and Inna Sirota Graham Family Anonymous Jane Gruschka Matthew and Haley Haar John and Janet Hagan Mr. Aaron Hall Thomas and Celia Hancock Michael and Renee Hannigan Hargiss Family Tyler and Shauna Hartman Michael and Mary Hawkins Jo Hill Lucina Holloway Adam and Shana Holmes Gregory and Colleen Horwitz Heidi Hule' Jennah Irsik Eric and Meghan Jansen Timothy and Chelsea Johnson Kim Jones Steve and Brooke Jones

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Mike and Lisa King Craig and Heather King Robert and Claudia Kisela Nicolaus Kuehn Stephanie Kuehn Anonymous Joshua and Tara Leighr Anonymous Marcus and Kayla Mackey GionCarlo Moreno-Mangum Lisa Manley Aaron and Hillary Marshall Drew and Rana Martin Brett and Carol Martin Russell and Jennifer McCullough Mr. Gage and Mrs. Alicia McGarry Ryan and Emily McNellis John and Stacy Miller John and Lenora Miller• Brad and Elizabeth Miquelon A Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth R. Moorman Anonymous The Murch Family Dean and Janet Nash Nancy Neutgens Peter and Maggie Newhouse Chad and Valerie Nichols Brian and Cyndie O'Bleness The Parrack Family Mickeal and Kelli Pennington Sharon Phillips Louis and Laura Pollina Justin and Shannon Quigley Ashley Ralph Phil and Cristan Rayl Anonymous Melinda Reynolds The Richardson Family The Riddle Family Dale and Amie Robertson Thomas and Susan Rolli Franklin and Alexandra Rosenblatt Jason and Julie Rule Joseph Sacco III and Sarah Sacco Bill and Janet Sanders Eddy and Jeanne Saylor Ross and Sara Scimeca Lisa Sexton Kylie Shaffer Kristen Sloan Gerrad and Lauren Speer S Lori Stallman Mary Steinle Robert Stevens• Kate Stinson Robert Biehl and Nicole Swartz Anonymous

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Micah and Sarah Tenner Ms. Kathy Trager Marc and Mandy Van Gorp Chris and Tonya Vaughn Leon and Heather Versfeld Cody WalkerHolmes James and Eva Webb Daniel Weeks Lawrence and Jennifer Weimhold Jacques and Melissa Wenenn Logan and Jennifer Wilkin Anonymous Benjamin and Amy Wright Brian and Starla Yarbrough The Yosel Family Sargis and Victoria Zadoyan Maria Zdvorak Anonymous

Corporations and Foundations

American Century Investments Foundation CARMAX Foundation DST Systems The Eli Lilly and Company Foundation Ericsson Matching Gift Program KSHB TV MeadWestvaco Foundation Union Pacific Funds

Gifts in Memoriam

The Cass Family in Memory of Brad Cass Lee Feagles in Memory of Gene Feagles Mr. and Mrs. Steve Giordano in Memory of Pete and Betty Giordano Mickeal and Kelli Pennington in Memory of Lucille Boyd Faulhaber Vincent and Kedra Vaccaro in Memory of the Parents and Sister of Kedra Vaccaro

Annual Fund Participation by Class Oakhill Day School Total Participation: 81% Ralph

65%

Parrack

79%

Ferris

81%

Bock

100%

Jones

75%

Boyd

100%

Trager

72%

Brown

100%

Crouse

86%

Wills

100%

Tenner

47%

Mackey

89%

Zdvorak

60%

Stripling

90%

Clevenger

82%

Robertson

77%

Driskill

91%

Newhouse

71%

Hulè

82%

Stinson

87%

Manley

71%

Feagles

100%

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Annual Report of Giving 2012-2013 FUND-A-NEED

The project chosen for fund-a-need during the 2012-2013 school year included hanging microphones, new stage curtain, and LED stage lighting.

The total amount of funds needed to complete this project was $12,000. Through the generosity of donors who attended the 2013 Cirque du Oakhill Auction, we were able to raise $6,750!

2013 Fund-A Need Contributors Dennis & Jan Carter Melanie Carter Monica Chandler & Chuck Melloway Christopher Cuzner Carl & Rebecca DiGerlamo Haley & Sean Eisler Alan & Melanie Fashion David & Erica Ferrara Steven & Gig Ferro Jeff & Amy Ganaden Steve & Mary Giordano Ron Gregg & Michelle Dew Joel & Kristin Hennenfent Trish Herzog Dr. Lori and Mr. Zachary Kramer Dr. Tracy Stevens and Mr. Brian Lee Scott & Joy Miller Karen & Michael Morris Larry & Debbie Osborn Marcus & Cara Painter Phillip & Cristan Rayl Sean & Robin Schultz Sharon Middleton Stephen Smith & Angie Tatum-Smith Micah & Jason Sonderman William & Robin Spooner

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Annual Report of Giving 2012-2013 LIST OF DONORS

Thank you to all of the generous donors that purchased a piece of the rock climbing wall at the Cirque du Oakhill Auction.

2013 Rock Wall List of Donors The Abernathy Family Angela Austin Dennis & Jan Carter Chandler Family Stephen & Tara Clark Joseph & Amy Clevenger David & Jackie Conkling Kendall & Leecil Culbertson Christopher & Elizabeth Cuzner Jason Dake Amy Davis Sean & Haley Eisler Brad & Claudia Feaster David & Erica Ferrara The Ferro Family Steve & Mary Giordano Michael Guo & Daphne Yang The Hennenfent Family Cameron & Amiee Kirkpatrick Robert & Claudia Kisela Stephanie Kuehn Bill & Kathryn Lingerfelt Kevin & Suzanne McCanles Scott & Joy Miller Michael & Karen Morris Brian & Melissa Ness Robin Nguyen Marcus & Cara Painter Chad & Kirsten Pickens Phillip & Cristan Rayl Melissa Reynolds Jason & Julie Rule Sean & Robin Schultz Stephen & Angie Smith William & Robin Spooner Vaccaro & Herzog at RE/MAX 1st Choice Charles & Sarah Van Duser The Versfeld Family Matthew & Jennifer Waldman Franklin & Kristi Weatherford Brett & Deborah Yantis

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

Annual Report of Giving 2012-2013 ACORN DAY

Acorn Day is a collaborative effort between Alumni, Faculty, Students, Parents, Grandparents, and Friends of Oakhill. Through song, student poetry, and a ceremonial planting, the Acorn Day Celebration serves as the first event celebrating the end of the Eighth Grade Class' educational journey at Oakhill, as they pass down their legacy to the preschool students just beginning their journey. Oakhill celebrated Acorn Day on April 19, 2013.

2013 Acorn Day List of Donors

John and Linda Younghanz The Saylor Family Lisa Meiners Sean and Robin Schultz The Culbertson Family The Smith Family- Stephen, Angie, and Tatum Mike and Lisa King Susan Tate Kisela Family Linda F. Wilson Conrad and Shannon Stumpenhaus Sonderman family Mike and Jana Guidry The Somasegaran Family The McCanles Family Lew Krausse Brett and Elaine Smith Chase Candy Company Susan and Bill Ellis The Conkling Family Dennis Carter Family Susan and Tom Rolli Frank, Kristi, and Isaac Weatherford The Dozier Family Brianna Ely- Class of 2011 Julie and Jason Rule Robin Nguyen Harper Rosenblatt Dr. and Mrs. Bob Peterson Brad and Becky Fisher John and Mary Jo Diefenbach The Vaughn Family Terry Abella Joel and Erin Frank The Bettington Family Kathy Trager Terri Ferris Morrissey Quigley The Draut Family The Van Duser Family Ben Yager Kate Yager Kathryn Valenti Mary Lee Sturdevant The Hancock Family The Roche Family Evelyn T. Mendes

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Adrian and Mary Jo Goettl Amy Potts Stephanie Kuehn Jan Carter Jenny Giles Veronika McDonald Becky DiGerlamo Kristen Sloan and Taylor Le Ernest and Darlene O’Dell Royce and Sara Jeffries Benches were underwritten in recognition of the following: In Memory of: Linda Marie Redfern from the Van Duser Family Frank L. Shaw from Jolene N. Shaw Wanda Lee Kalsu from the Board of Trustees Wanda Lee Kalsu from the Friends of Oakhill Day School In Honor of: The Reinmiller Family

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Annual Report of Giving 2012-2013 COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Thank you to all of our community businesses who financially supported Oakhill Day School through the 2012-2013 school year.

Community Partnership Levels for 2012-2013 Mighty Oak ($7,500 and above) Pride ($5,000) Spirit (3,500) Panther (2,000) Acorn ($1,000) Cub ($500) Musselman & Hall Contractors Mighty Oak BankLiberty Mighty Oak ROCA Vending Acorn Shoal Creek Valley Cub TREZO MARE Mighty Oak Dentistry for Children Panther Clayview County Club Cub

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

CLASS NOTES ALUMNI students in his school. He is also on the KC Dragons basketball team coached by Steve Newman. Taylor spent the summer playing in out of town tournaments. If he is not on the court in a gym, he is shooting in the backyard or playing at the lake. He is also practicing to take the wheel and get his license in December.

COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL

'99-'05

with honors with a Bachelor's Degree in Entrepreneurship and a minor in Leadership and plans to start law school in the fall of 2014. She recently studied abroad in Barcelona, Spain for a semester. She enjoys traveling, volunteering and being with family and friends.

'97-'02

Jess Van Lear attends Maple Woods Community College and works for Luke Draily Construction.

Jess’ hobbies include fishing, playing with his dog and eating Chipotle.

Jessica Michaelis graduated from Liberty North High School May 2013. For three years she competed Max Gruschka on the varsity track and varsity swim graduated from teams. Jessica was an active member Oakhill in 2013 and is now attending of marching band and got to perform Oak Park High School. As part of his with the Liberty North High School Tessa Williams Eagle Scout project, Max and Scouts Band in the Inaugural Parade in graduated in May from Troop 360 built a wooden gate Washington, DC this past January. and fence on the Early Childhood Jessica is attending UMKC for 2013 from Missouri Western State University with a degree in Sociology.

Playground. This was a very welcomed Physical Therapy.

She is attending UMKC for her addition for both Oakhill’s students Ray Saari became Masters in School Counseling. Tessa and early childhood teachers. an Oak Park High works at Oak Park High School as the Holly Hawkins School graduate in May 2013. Ray color guard coach for the marching graduated from received both academic and athletic band.

Oakhill’s 8th Grade May 2013. She scholarships at the University of Tulsa is a freshman at Liberty North High and is playing soccer there this fall.

School and is on the varsity tennis Taylor Spooner team. went to Oakhill from early learner through fourth and '09-'12 Taylor Clevenger is a grade. She graduated from Park sophomore at Kansas City Christian. Hill South in 2010 and currently is He played freshman and JV basketball finishing her senior year of college last year. Taylor volunteered this at Oklahoma State University in summer at a camp for the younger Stillwater, OK. She will graduate

GRADUATE SCHOOL

'00-'13

'94-'00

'98-'03

'00-'13

'94-'02

'03-'05 ROOTS

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POST GRADUATE

'97-'02

in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where she has taught 1st, 2nd, and 4th grade.

She also coaches cheerleading, and hopes to continue to coach cheer and to add soccer in the mix in the future once her family grows.

Kyla Henderson The expression “time flies” is an understatement Kaela Rae Schuetz when I reminisce about my years of is getting married education. From running through the fall 2014. She works for her family’s halls as a young first grader at Oakhill company, City Rent-A-Truck, doing Day School to graduating from sales and marketing.

Pittsburg State University last May; I have really learned to appreciate the instruction I have received along the way. I attended Oakhill from first through fifth grade and recently graduated college with a Bachelor Roots is published for the alumni, parent, past parent, of Science in Biology and minors in grandparent, faculty, staff, and friend community of Oakhill Chemistry and Physical Sciences.

Day School.

I plan to further my education by attending Dental Hygiene School next Head of School: Suzanne McCanles fall. While encountering many new Co-Editors: Brooke Van Lear-Jones and Michelle McDaniel chapters in my life, I am also planning Director of Development: Rebecca DiGerlamo a wedding! I recently said “yes” last March and we are excited for what the Letters and suggestions for future editions of Roots are next chapters will bring! welcomed and encouraged. Correspondence should be addressed to Brooke Van Lear-Jones, Alumni Coordinator at Taylor Leigh brooke.jones@oakhilldayschool.org.

Beamer(Freeman) attended Oakhill for first through Oakhill Day School admits students of any race, color, religion third grades and remembers her and national origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and teachers Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Wills, activities generally accorded or made available to students and Mrs. Calvert. Taylor went on to at Oakhill. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, play soccer in college for and graduate color, religion or national and ethnic origin in administration from Appalachian State University of our educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid with a degree in Elementary programs or other school-administered programs.

Education. Taylor Leigh met her husband of 8 years, Adam Beamer, in Please send all address changes and Notifications (Marriage, college and they are currently living birth, and death announcements) to the Development Office. in Ponte Vedra, Florida, with their 2 dogs (Cally-7yr old black and white Oakhill Day School lab mix, Cole- less than 1 yr black 7019 N Cherry Street lab) and 2 cats (Bella-3yr old golden Gladstone, MO 64118 tabby, Zoe-3yr old gray and white 816.436.6228 tuxedo tabby). She is in her 8th year www.oakhilldayschool.org as teacher for St. Johns County School District at Ocean Palms Elementary

'89-'92

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OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL

'94-'97

CHERRYSTREET

ON

Familiar faces can be spotted visiting 7019 N Cherry Street throughout the year...

Maybe next time it will be you!

Taylor Clevenger was spotted helping Oakhill Faculty move into the new South Building with current student, Brady McCanles, 8th Grade.

Max Gruschka was spotted updating the Early Childhood playground with Troop 360.

Shelby Dodson, Kaitlyn Lewis, Perri Miller, Madison Ferrara, Taylor Clevenger, Maddy Yosel, Mary Gravis, Brianna Ely, and Brooke Van-Lear Jones (L to R) came out to support the 2013 graduates on May 23, 2013.

High School and College age alumni came out in large numbers to support the second Alumni/Faculty Basketball Game on February 16, 2013.

Got Pics? Please send any photos of yourself and alumni friends to brooke.jones@oakhilldayschool.org to be featured in the next On Cherry Street!

ROOTS

FALL 2013

Noah Barth, Maddy Yosel, Leah Booth, Brianna Ely, Gabby Ferro, Mary Gravis, Taylor Clevenger, Steven Brady, Alex Roney, and Patrick Robey (L to R) meet with the 8th grade class to talk about their high school years at the Chat-n-Chew event.

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7019 N Cherry Street Gladstone, MO 64118

Oakhill Road Racers Preparing to Take Off!