SUMME R 2017
The Park Parent in this issue: HEAD’S LINES // 3
Reflections on Park’s Model United Nations By A L I S O N M E Y E R H O N G , Model UN Parent Coordinator
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FACULTY & STAFF TRANSITIONS // 4 SABBATICAL FOR ALICE LUCEY // 5 2016-17 REFLECTIONS FROM THE PA // 6
tunity to write about Park’s Model United
has for many other Park students. When my son attended his first MUN conference in fifth grade, his favorite part of the day was getting candy and soda from the vending machine. Yet, following this report-back, I encouraged him to try it again in the sixth grade. Gladly, after attending the MUN Conference at Northeastern, he ‘caught the bug.’ Now, I am delighted to both provide this update. Back in 2012, Park parents Russ and Gina Wilcox introduced the Model UN to Park, and when their youngest child graduated in 2014,
READING WITHOUT WALLS // 10 TRANSITIONING TO SUMMER // 12
ANNUAL FUND UPDATE // 13
to a close, I am pleased to have the oppor-
Nations (MUN), which became my son’s passion as it
NEXT SCHOOLS FOR GRADE VIII // 9
2017 GRADUATION SPEAKER: ELIZA THOMAS ’11 // 13
s my son Matthew’s nine years at Park come
continued on page 2
Park delegates at UN headquarters in New York.
A Conversation with Park’s Secondary School Counseling Team B y MARTHA GOLUB, Park Parent Editorial Board
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s The Park School prepares to say ‘farewell’ to the current eighth grade class, we are
pleased to offer a special ‘shout-out’
to members of the Secondary School Counseling team, all of whom were new to Park this year, yet managed to hit the ground running. vo l u me 49 nu mb e r 4 a pub lication of the park s c h o o l parent s’ assoc iation
This year’s successes are no surprise given the team’s extensive experience in secondary continued on page 8
The faces of Park’s Secondary School Counseling Team: Connie Yépez, Lisa DiAdamo, and Matt Kessler.
Model UN, continued from page 1 I volunteered to work alongside newly appointed MUN Faculty Advisor, Curt Miller, to manage the administrative side of the program. For the past two years, Curt and I have continued to grow the Model UN at Park. The structure of the Model UN Conference is that each event lasts a full weekend day or two. This year’s conferences were held at Suffolk Law School, Northeastern, Boston University Academy, and Brookline High. Prior to each conference, students are assigned a country and a related topic to research. In addition, each team writes and submits a position paper. As the Parent Coordinator, I attend these conferences and observe the students become fully engaged in their committees. Students hone their public speaking skills as they give their opening speeches, and their debating and negotiation skills as the day progresses. In addition, students enhance their writing and presentation skills. Most conferences conclude with awards given to as Honorable Mention, Best Position Paper, Best Negotiator, Best Public Speaker and the top award, Best Delegate. Thanks to their diligent work, our students are often recognized with awards. Last year, as a result of reflecting on my son’s trepidation as a fifth grader, we planned a special Sunday conference geared toward introducing fifth graders to the basics of Model UN. After a quick introductory simulation on preferences related to small versus large dogs, students participated in committees. They discussed the Syrian Refugee Crisis, as it related to immigration (the main topic of the fifth grade social studies curriculum). Experienced Model UN students chaired the committees and educated the younger students on proper ‘parliamentary procedure’ and ‘resolution writing.’ As a result of last year’s introductory conference, this year we were delighted to have sixty Upper Division students attend Model UN conferences. Two eighth grade students served as Secretary Generals, and a number of other eighth graders assisted at practices as needed. Students practiced for three consecutive Sunday afternoons prior to each conference. Melinda Stanford and Bill Grimes, parents to Will Grimes ’19, helped Curt at the practices by presenting sessions on public speaking and international relations. In addition, this year I organized a group of the most experienced Model UN eighth graders (who had attended at least six conferences) to travel with their parents to New York City to
The Park Parent // PAGE 2
participate in a two-day international Model UN conference. Close to 2000 students from around the world attended this largescale conference organized by the Lebanese American University and the United Nations Association of the United States. This experience challenged our students in new ways as the committees ranged from 100 to 220 students. Fortunately, our experienced delegates rose to the occasion and five students were recognized with awards in their committees. The event concluded with Closing Ceremonies at the United Nations General Assembly Hall, an experience the students certainly will not forget. The success of the program is made evident by the fact that many of our graduates continue in the Model UN at the secondary school level. Katherine Wilcox, Milton ’19, actively participates and will chair the Security Council at BB&N’s upcoming conference. Alex Tesson, Concord Academy ’19, helped run their school’s conference that Park students attended last year. Zach Taylor, Beaver ’18, is the President of the school’s team. Pierce Haley and Harry Golan, BB&N ’19, are actively involved and Jacob Barkan, Phillips Academy Andover ’20, is a member of his school’s PA Model UN. I look forward to seeing this year’s Park graduates continue their Model UN experiences at the high school level and beyond, as Carter Wilcox has at Harvard after beginning the Middle School MUN as a student at Milton. The future of Model UN at Park is strong. This year, to introduce the Model UN in a fun, accessible way, Curt is spending time in each of the fifth grade classrooms. I am hopeful that they will join next year alongside the many current sixth and seventh graders as they become our new leaders. I like to reiterate that for students, it is never too late to try Model UN either. Many of the eighth graders tried their first conference this year! While convincing your child to come to school on a Sunday afternoon, write a position paper or spend a weekend day (or two) inside at a Model UN conference may sound like a challenge, just have them ask a current Model UN’er. I can promise you that they’ll tell the story of a fun and rewarding experience, which may include, but will not certainly be limited to, what is in the vending machines! Finally, I’d like to offer a huge thank you to the Wilcox family for bringing Model United Nations (MUN) to Park!
HEAD’s LINES
Following the Yellow Brick Road B Y C Y NT HIA A. HARMON, Head of School
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children head down a path not necessarily believing that the skills they need to be successful lie within their grasp. In fact, it remains our job to teach them what they need and to help them navigate so that When Dorothy landed in Oz, she found herself thrust into a their learning builds upon what strange land feeling lost, alone, and uncertain. Glenda, the Good Witch, gave Dorothy simple instructions about how to find her way came before and becomes a home: “Follow the yellow brick road,” she said. But, Glenda left out stepping stone towards that many details about what it would take to actually follow that road. which is to come. For example, she did not tell Dorothy that she would need to have a As teachers craft units and growth mindset and an open heart. lessons that call upon critical However through her travels, Dorothy came to realize that she thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity, they understand the need for their students to have opportunities to practice was not really alone. Dorothy had all the tools that she needed to and apply each one of these skills, both discretely and in concert. find her way. Strangers became close friends, each seeking fulfillThroughout a Park education, knowledge, character, and skills ment and each with different lessons to learn, stories to tell, and are carefully interwoven to create a tapestry of meaningful learnfears to conquer. Many times this mismatched group journeyed ing. Guided by their teachers, students “ease on down” (though not away from the prescribed, yellow bricks to help each other, to always!) a metaphoric yellow brick road which is paved with experiexplore enticing adventures, and to quench their collective curiosity. Like the members of a class, the characters in The Wonderful Wizard ences that deepen their academic skills, allow them to forge friendships, explore novel interests, and tackle new personal challenges. of Oz figured out each other’s strengths and weaknesses and came uthor L. Frank Baum penned The Wonderful Wizard
of Oz and gave us unforgettable characters whose quest to meet the Wizard took them on adventures that helped them discover the power of what lies within. Similarly, a school year’s journey is largely meant to draw from and bring forth new learning that leads to intellectual, emotional, and physical growth.
to rely on their interdependence. There were unexpected twists and turns in the journey, but in the end, these moments of uncertainty only enhanced the journey and made it more interesting. Each deviation led the characters to gain important knowledge about themselves and each other.
Like the Tinman, whose search for a heart led to a better understanding of his strong emotions, our students seek out and discover how deeply heartfelt their friendships and relationships are with their peers and teachers. And like the Cowardly Lion, every student at Park knows what it means to stand brave and tall, and to Now, whether or not you are a fan of the story of The Wonderful display courage in the face of fear. There is perhaps nothing more Wizard of Oz or the musical, “The Wiz,” there are so many ways in courageous than saying, “I don’t know” and being willing to ask for help. This is the hallmark of the trusting relationships which what happens in a school year parallels the that teachers form with their students. And in immense learning and growing that happened his search for a brain, Scarecrow learns what is to the Tinman, the Scarecrow, the Lion, and already abundantly clear to his companions: his Dorothy. Each sought something different intellect was never lacking. However, in order (a heart, brains, courage, or a feeling of to tap into his wellspring of knowledge, being home), and none of the characters his self-confidence needed bolstering. His traveled without needing the support and newfound friends helped to shine a light on encouragement of the others. all that he knew and underscored his conEvery year, Park students travel tributions to their successes. With Dorothy’s together for approximately nine determination to get home as the initial months, delving into opportunities motivator, this quartet followed the yelthat challenge their minds, pique low brick road together, relying heavtheir curiosities, and call for taking ily on the power of their ingenuity risks. Guided by a talented faculty, continued on page 11
SUMMER 2017 // PAGE 3
Faculty and Staff Transitions B Y C YNT HIA A. HARMON, Head of School
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n the life cycle of a school, we take pride in welcoming new
Alli Smith (Grade III Teacher, 9 years of service) who has been
students and, on June 16th, we will be celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of our eighth-grade graduates. Just as we support this transition for our students, we are also attuned to the growth and development of our faculty and staff. Schools are places where people – both students and faculty – lay roots, flourish, and discover their wings. At Park we nurture and value relationships, traditions, and growth. Ours is a dynamic community that shares a collective commitment to providing a strong academic program for every child. While we enjoy the benefits of talented faculty here at our Park, we also celebrate their next steps. Please join me in sending good wishes to the following faculty and staff who will be moving into leadership roles, pursuing new opportunities, or teaching in new locations around the globe.
on medical leave this year, will continue to care for her young son, Spencer, who has Sanfilippo Syndrome, an incurable and fatal neurological disease. Andrea Sparks (Art Teacher, 16 years of service) has decided to pursue her dream of moving to El Morro, New Mexico (about two hours west of Albuquerque) to make more of her own artwork. Ethan Thomas (Grade IV Teacher, 4 years of service) is leaving to pursue his interests in education and social justice. Carly Westman (V Grade-Level Assistant, 2 years of service) is leaving Park to pursue new opportunities. Jean Wilmerding (Grade V Teacher, 5 years of service) is
Faculty & Staff moving into new leadership roles: Steven Goldman (Middle Division Math Specialist, 4 years
“graduating” from Park with her eighth-grade daughter, Lucy, and will explore a “second act” and the flexibility of having more time with her family.
of service) will be the Math Coordinator for Grades 5-8 at Buckingham Browne & Nichols School.
Faculty & Staff teaching in new locations: Kristin Hissong (Assistant Director, Summer at Park, 1 year of
Jen Lindstrom (Middle Division Literacy Specialist, 9 years of
service) left Park in March to become a Professor of Middle East
service) will be the Literacy Specialist at Bridge Boston Charter
Cultural Studies at the United States Air Force Academy.
School. Taylor Horan (Upper Division Math Teacher, 5 years of service) Shalini Rao (Grade V Teacher, 8 years of service) will be the
will be teaching middle school math at the American Community
Director of Teaching and Learning at The Fessenden School.
School near Uxbridge, which will allow her to happily join her longtime boyfriend, who lives in London.
Katie Reardon (Technology Coach & Upper Division Latin Teacher, 3 years of service) will be the Director of Academic Technology at Dedham Country Day School.
Faculty & Staff pursuing new opportunities: Carolyn Drucker (Kindergarten Associate, 12 years of service) is looking forward to having more time to enjoy travel, friends, and family. Tara Munro (III Grade-Level Assistant, 1 year of service) is
Marn Lau (Grade IV Teacher, 4 years of service) is moving to Melrose, Massachusetts, and is seeking a position closer to home. Sally Snickenberger (Grade I Maternity Coverage, 3 years of service) will be teaching Grade I at Shady Hill School. Shad Sommers (Upper Division English Teacher, 2 years of service) will be heading to southern Israel to teach English as a Second Language at a school located in an underserved community.
leaving Park to pursue new opportunities. Ted Wells (Grade IV Teacher, 15 years of service) is moving to his Alisha Saini (IV Grade-Level Assistant, 3 years of service) will be pursuing her interest in school counseling.
childhood home of Hopkinton, New Hampshire, to enjoy lots of hiking, skiing, and some farming with his family. He is seeking a teaching position in a Concord-area public school. continued on next page
The Park Parent // PAGE 4
FAREWELL
With Gratitude: Looking Back on Alice Lucey’s Leadership of the Upper Division BY ALISON CON N O L LY , Upper Division Math Teacher
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n every Upper Division classroom, there is a colorful poster celebrating Park’s “Habits of Scholarship and Citizenship:” Curiosity, Grit, Gratitude, Zest, and Personal Responsibility. These core values were introduced by Alice Lucey and are emblematic of her leadership over the last eight years, during which she helped faculty and students work together to define these words and to bring them to life. Alice’s belief in the “growth mindset” greatly informed Habits for Scholarship and Citizenship at Park, which has been a hallmark of her time as Division Head. All individuals, and adolescents in particular, yearn to feel known, to feel understood, to feel supported, and to feel celebrated. Alice Luceys’ tenure as Division Head is characterized by fostering a community where those feelings are nurtured. Her organizational oversight, ideas, and
dents and encouragement have empowered faculty enriched to explore differentiated instruction and the entire project-based learning, and to collaborate day. As and challenge each other to best support a writer, student learning. Her understanding of the Alice importance of traditions and of marking has been beginnings and endings is reflected in the called many innovations and adaptations we have upon as the person to publicly say goodbye adopted during her tenure. These include, on behalf of all of us at Park, in beautifully but are not limited to: the handshake ceremony that connects every teacher and stu- crafted farewells to graduating ninth graders, dent on the first day of school, the Morning to the Grade IX program itself, to adminMeeting announcements led by Grade VIII, istrators moving on to head other schools, and to colleagues upon retirement. the “Moped” presentations during which kids share their passions, and the reframing Fortunately, we are not saying goodbye of exams and projects that end the year. to Alice, as she will return to Park in a new role after her long-deferred sabbatical. With We celebrate Alice Lucey as a wonthe deepest gratitude, we say “au revoir,” derful storyteller and as a quietly brilliant wishing her a wonderful year of reading, wordsmith. We will remember her sharing writing, travel, and family time, until we see a poem or a children’s book in Morning Meeting in ways that always connected stu- her again.
Faculty & Staff Transitions, continued from page 4 Next steps for 2016-17 teaching apprentices: Thomas Cahill is deciding between pursuing a graduate
Sedef Seker will begin a master’s program in language and literacy at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
degree in Arabic Studies, or working with a non-profit or an embassy. Yeja Dunn is joining a startup company, Curriculum Associates, in Billerica, Massachusetts. Maren Kelsey will return to Park in the fall to teach Grade VII English, Growth Education, and she will also work with Grade VII advisees and spend her afternoons at ASP. Gillian Miller-Lewis will be a middle school humanities teacher at The Heschel School in New York City. Jasmine Mills will teach Grade 7 math at Kipp Academy in Boston’s Mattapan neighborhood.
Please know that I am incredibly grateful to each of these individuals for their contributions to the Park community. While we will miss seeing them around campus next year, I am equally excited to know that they will be sharing some of “the Park magic” with their new communities. These times of transition can be particularly poignant and bittersweet, but they also provide opportunities from which we all benefit. This year our community welcomed many new faculty and staff members, all of whom have added new perspectives and fresh ideas, and are contributing to what makes Park, Park. By conducting national searches, we have successfully attracted a large pool of attractive candidates for these open positions. I look forward to introducing you to these impressive, experienced individuals, who will, in turn, become part of the fabric of our community!
SUMMER 2017 // PAGE 5
PA REFLECTIONS
What Does It Mean to Me to Be Part of the Park School Community? Parents’ Association Members Reflect on Connecting and Volunteering B Y L A URA BARKAN, PA President and SUE JEPPSO N , PA Vice President
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n our first year as PA President and Vice President, we have
greatly enjoyed the privilege of working closely with so many parents who dedicate countless hours to serve the core mission of the PA – community building, student enrichment, and faculty and staff appreciation. Our parent volunteers are so inspirational – we have asked a few to share what is meaningful to them about participating in the PA. “Park is filled with smart, interesting, fun, and compassionate people. My family feels lucky to be a part of such a diverse
working together with fellow parents and staff to create an event where members of the community could have the opportunity to deepen connections with one another. I really appreciated the culture of the PA – people contributing in many different ways and working together to achieve a common goal. – Doreen Ho, Chair of the Family Skating Party, and Parent of Vivi, Pre-K, and Charlotte, Grade I “At Park, I know that my child is being valued for his whole self; that no matter what he comes to school with in his
and loving community.” – Jessica Dumphy, Co-Chair of the PA
head or heart or backpack, he will always be gently guided
Green Committee, and Parent of Eleanor, Grade I
to a place of mutual understanding, a place that feels good and appropriate to both him and his teacher, and such that
“Some of my most joyous experiences I have had at Park is
he has a plan for moving forward. I feel so fortunate to
working on a project, volunteering, or working side-by-side
have met some AMAZING people at Park. Both teachers
with other parents who I may never have met and gotten to
and parents. And yet I feel I’ve only scratched the surface!
know if it were not for PA opportunities to get involved.” –
The Park community is made up of thoughtful, kind, caring,
Heidi Johnson, Co-chair of the PA Community Events Council
and brilliant people. Let us continue to knit the fabric of
and Parent of Jonah Paquette, Grade VII
this community ever closer, so that we may fully engage with one another and be the best we can be to support the
“I appreciate what an inclusive, warm community Park is.
learning journey of our children. – Anna Wells, Co-Chair of
Whatever level of time you have to get involved, and even if
the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee, Parent of Coley,
you don’t have any at all, Park and the PA wants you to feel
Grade II
connected and embraced. This year, I was one of the co-chairs for Springfest, and what I’ve enjoyed about being involved
“Joining the Park School community is one of the best choices
in planning this signature Park community event is that I’ve
our family ever made. We love the school, and have made
been able to meet so many wonderful parents outside of my
many great friends. I am glad to have had the opportunity
daughter’s classroom.” – Tamar Frieze, Co-Chair of Springfest,
to serve this year as one of the Grade VII class reps. It gave
Park’s Community Day of Play, and Parent of Sloane, Grade I
me the chance to get to know some of the newest members of the Park community.” – Jeffrey Webb, Grade VII Class Rep
“This was my first year getting involved in the Park PA; I chaired the Family Skating Party. I loved the idea of
The Park Parent // PAGE 6
and Parent of Scott Schuster, Grade VII
"The best part about having been a Park School volunteer?
with the school and the myriad of events and activities that
Seeing how many parents make community, education and
are democratically parent driven. The PA is quite impressive,
family their top priority in life; meeting other parents early in
actually. – Glynn Lloyd, Co-Chair of the New Parents Dinner
the morning over hot coffee in order to plot and plan about
Committee, and Parent of Grace Grade VI
how to contribute; squeezing in some fun and trying to get as many smiles as possible in everything we do." – Jimena Canales, Chair of Family Bingo Night and Parent of Billy, Grade IV
“The Park PA is one of the most active and welcoming parent associations that I’ve had the chance to work with. I was so happy to be asked to speak to the Park parent community about a topic that I love and that I think can help parents in
“I appreciate that the community here at Park sincerely wants not just what's best for their individual children but
their child-rearing journeys. I was thrilled to be able to give back to a community that has been so welcoming and that
the community as whole and there is a lot of effort behind
has given so much to my family.” – Jenny Berz, Parent of
the scenes to make that happen. I also appreciate that the
Sarah, Grade VI and Noah, Grade VII
parent leadership, supported by the school, allows parents to step up and take on projects they think are important. Personally, I have enjoyed co-chairing the New Parents Dinner Committee – it was a chance to meet more parents outside of the hustle and bustle of drop off and pick up. It also gave me a better understanding of the relationship many parents have
If you haven’t already connected with the PA, please consider reaching out to us, Laura Barkan (lcbarkan@gmail.com) and Sue Jeppson (suejeppson@gmail.com), to get involved. We wish you a restful, family-filled summer break!
SUMMER 2017 // PAGE 7
Secondary School Team, continued from page 1 school advising. Prior to working at Park, Lisa DiAdamo was the director of secondary school advising at the Pike School and at the Solomon Schechter Day School, and Matt Kessler was director of The Steppingstone Academy. Connie Yépez served as the program founder and executive director of Achieve at Noble and Greenough School, and the assistant director of Admissions at Nobles. The Park Parent recently sat down with Lisa, Matt, and Connie to talk about the year. Here are some highlights from the conversation: Martha Golub for The Park Parent:
I’ve heard it was a great year for our eighth graders. From your perspective, how did the process go? Lisa: We had a terrific year! Our biggest
success was that we were able to provide thoughtful, consistent support to families throughout the interview and application process. We were thrilled that, on notification day, each and every student who had applied to an independent school was admitted to at least one school; in addition, I’m delighted to report that every student who needed financial aid received it. As a result, with high school plans in-place, students can focus on enjoying their final months at Park together with their classmates and teachers.
Martha: What do you think enabled these
successes? Lisa: Secondary schools are eager to enroll Park students because they are leaders on their campuses, in the classrooms, on the sports fields, and in the arts. Admissions officers report that Park students are not only prepared, but also insightful, curious and optimistic. These impressive results reflect the hard work of both students and teachers alike in preparation for the rigorous demands of high school. These successes are also a result of the well-developed relationships that we inherited from the prior secondary school team and the consistent support of Park’s administration. Lastly, we are a highly experienced team, and we feel fortunate to share a collaborative vision and enthusiasm about supporting students and families. Martha: Given that the parents of many rising eighth graders will read this article, can you please share a bit about your approach to secondary school counseling? Matt: Yes, of course. Our team’s goal is to
provide the resources, tools, and an individualized program so that each student enrolls in a “best fit” high school. There are so many different types of schools from which to choose, such as public, single-gender, day and boarding schools. Our approach necessitates knowing each student’s learning
style, passions and goals for high school. We know this can be a stressful process, and we provide consistent communication in order to to build genuine relationships with students and families. Martha: How do you stay informed about
secondary schools in the area? Matt: In the fall and spring, we spend a
significant amount of time visiting local day and boarding schools. We also host representatives from a number of schools at Park, who are interested in attracting more Park students. This fall, we plan to arrange visits between some boarding schools and our students. Martha: What’s the most important advice you can give to parents of students beginning to look at secondary schools? Connie: Our advice is to keep an open
mind, explore lots of options, actively partner with your secondary school counselor and listen to your child. However, if we had to focus on the most important advice, we would remind parents to stay positive and to remember that there are so many wonderful local school options, both public and independent. After graduating from Park, students have the academic preparation and the leadership skills to succeed in high school. The transition to a new school is our opportunity to watch them excel!
SECONDARY SCHOOLS BY THE NUMBERS – CLASS OF 2017 62 students 56 applied to independent schools 8 will attend public schools
The Park Parent // PAGE 8
100% accepted to at least one school 88% accepted to at least two schools 100% necessary financial aid granted
NEXT SCHOOLS FOR THE CLASS OF 2017 India Adam
Beaver Country Day School
Abby Kaufman
Concord Academy
Jack Barton
Noble and Greenough School
Caroline Keating
Noble and Greenough School
Amy Baumel
Newton North High School
Kata Khakali
Beaver Country Day School
Ainsley Bonang
Dana Hall School
Matthew Klosek
Beaver Country Day School
Maisie Brigham
Concord Academy
Marissa Lehv
Gann Academy
Jasper Burnes
Milton Academy
Sophie Lewis
Newton South High School
Oscar Burnes
Milton Academy
Rebecca Lipsitch
Beaver Country Day School
David Cammarata-Green Needham High School
Emmalee Manigat
Noble and Greenough School
Clara Choi
Rivers School
Sofia Nogueira Sanca
Dexter Southfield School
Claudia Cortell
Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Sebastian Park
Milton Academy
Kenitra Daly
Dana Hall School
Josh Pierce-Gupta
Concord Academy
Aria De Marco
Winsor School
Nina Porter
Meridian Academy
Priya Devavaram
Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Trevor Resnikoff
Brookline High School
Emily Dhadly
Newton North High School
Lilly Riehl
Cate School
Jake DiAdamo
Phillips Academy Andover
David Rome
Dexter Southfield School
Will DiGiovanni
Milton Academy
Sami Rome
Beaver Country Day School
Oliver Eielson
Milton Academy
Max Rudikoff
Noble and Greenough School
Bill Eugene
Milton Academy
Leah Sager
Dana Hall School
Max Ewald
Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Kaori Sakurai
Concord Academy
George Fulton
Middlesex School
Isabel Sullivan
Dana Hall School
Will Gedney
Boston University Academy
Ryan Swords
Noble and Greenough School
Nicky Glassman
Beaver Country Day School
Nika Taleghani
Dana Hall School
Ian Glick
Milton Academy
Joli Vega
Brockton High School
Sarah Hart
Northfield Mount Hermon School
Alexis Vilmenay
Winsor School
Livvy Hartshorn
Brookline High School
Josie Vogel
Milton Academy
Charlotte Hecht
Dana Hall School
Sophia Wallach
La Jolla Country Day
Lucy Hirschfeld
Milton Academy
Lucy Wilmerding
St. Mark’s School
Matty Hong
Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Sophie Wilmerding
Beaver Country Day School
Ravi Kalan
Beaver Country Day School
Erika Witkowski
Dana Hall School
Danny Kang
Commonwealth School
Shira Wolpowitz
Phillips Academy, Andover
Nina Kathiresan
Milton Academy
James Wood
Brooks School
SUMMER 2017 // PAGE 9
nd
A rou
The Reading Without Walls (Summer) Challenge Created by Gene Luen Yang, U.S. National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, the Reading Without Walls program encourages students (but everyone, really!) to read books they would not normally choose on their own. This summer, the librarians are excitedly taking on this challenge. Elyse Seltzer notes, “For me, this challenge is like eating cauliflower. It is the vegetable I most dislike, but I admit that sometimes I have it and it is delicious!” Listed below are a number of important new books that may serve to test our personal reading limits. Please JOIN US as we
The Library
all try to open up to the world around us. Visit the Park library webpage to share your progress in the Reading Without Walls (Summer) Challenge.
Tory Lane
Christian Porter
Library Department Head
Lower Division Librarian Character: What would it be like to be a pioneering African American actress
Character: I happily anticipate read-
and civil rights activist? I hope to learn
ing The First Rule of Punk by Celia
more by reading The Legendary
C. Pérez. This book should catapult me
Miss Lena Horne, by Carole Boston
into the world of both Latinx culture,
Weatherford (who we were lucky
about which I haven’t read enough, and
enough to host at Park this year!). This
the middle school punk band scene. I
lyrical, biographical picture book should
can’t wait!
be a great summer read.
Topic: My challenging topic is actually
Topic: My students love Minecraft, but
an author! M.T. Anderson is a brilliant
the game’s complexity intimidates me.
writer for children – his knowledge
This summer, the first Minecraft novel
wows me and his intelligence scares me.
is being published, and I plan to read
His new Arthurian graphic novel, Yvain:
it. Minecraft: The Island, by Max
The Knight of the Lion, looks both
Brooks, should be a great introduc-
enticing and imposing. I plan to read it
tion and immersion into this unfamiliar
with the internet nearby for edification.
environment.
Format: There are so many young read-
Format: The Park library has a won-
ers at Park who devour sports books, but
derful collection of audiobooks. Sadly,
I am hard pressed to pick one up. That
even though my colleagues always give
is why Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and
me recommendations, I never listen to
the Carlisle Indian School Football
them. That will change this summer, as I
Team, by Steve Sheinkin, will be a
plan to check out a ‘coming of age’ tale
challenge for me. I look forward to the
by Gavriel Savit, Anna and the Swal-
connections I can make with the third grade Indian Boarding
low Man, which is set during the Nazi invasion of Poland.
Schools studies; perhaps this book will be the gateway to a
This book is the winner of the ALA’s 2017 Odyssey Award for
new appreciation of this format.
Excellence in Audiobook Production.
The Park Parent // PAGE 10
The Reading Without Walls (Summer) Challenge
Elyse Seltzer
Topic: Many Park
Format: While I
students love to
don’t read manga,
read anything that
comics created in
involves animals.
Japan, I can’t even
Upper Division Librarian
However, I don’t.
say that I don’t
So, I plan to read
like this format
Character: I am
Amazon Adven-
because I have
not a white man
ture: How Tiny Fish Are Saving the
never really tried it. I will be reading
living in another era
World’s Largest Rainforest, by Sy
Wandering Son by Shimura Takako,
nor an artist strug-
Montgomery. The author is highly
originally published in Japan and only
gling with mental
esteemed and has written many
recently translated. It is the ground-
illness. That’s why I
acclaimed books for the Scientist in
breaking story of two fifth grade
chose Deborah Hei-
the Field Series. Hopefully, her skilled
friends who both want to be the
ligman’s Vincent
storytelling abilities will help me
opposite gender, a secret they attempt
tackle this new topic.
to keep from friends and family.
and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers for my character challenge. I am intrigued to learn more about this unique story of brotherly love.
Following The Yellow Brick Road, continued from page 3 and collaborative efforts. At Park we have a fundamental belief that all children possess the capacity to exercise heart, courage, and brainpower. As educators, we are charged with challenging, inspiring, and supporting the growth and self-discovery of our students. It is hard to believe that we have reached the close of the 2016-17 school year. It seems like just yesterday that our community set off on a journey to harness the energy and talents of our students, to encourage them to learn more about the world around them, to express themselves, and to appreciate the power of what is possible and the potential that lies within. Gladly, our school journey is a circular path. This summer, when you click your heels and appreciate the restorative power of “home,” know that, come September, we will be ready to venture onto the yellow bricks again! Best wishes for a wonderful summer. See you on Wednesday, September 6.
SUMMER 2017 // PAGE 11
TRANSITIONING TO SUMMER
The “Good” Good-bye B y O LIVIA Moorehead-Slaughter, Psychologist
T
The “sweet spot” of summer creates space for everyone to rest, he long awaited summer is almost here. The months of read, play, recharge and get ready for what comes next. Here are May and June move very quickly at Park; each warm day is some suggestions for helping your child successfully transition from a harbinger of the even the familiar rhythms of the school year to summer and beyond: warmer and more leisurely days ahead. However, before we get • A “good” good-bye: Good-byes can be hard, but they to summer, both children and bring important closure to relationships that matter. Talk adults must see this current with your child about how all of this feels and encourage school year through to compleways of maintaining connections and relationships tion. The process of closure whether from one grade to the next or from Park to includes saying goodbye to the the next school. Some relationships may well continue, familiar routines and ways of though not in their present and familiar form. Be open to being as well as preparing to conversations that encourage healthy ways of honoring a transition to the new. changing relationship as well as one that is actually ending. For some, the “new” is the For all ages, keep it simple and sincere. next grade at Park. For others, the future holds a new division • Make a Plan: Summer calendars are one way to create or even a new school. For all some degree of relaxed structure within the more of us, there will be change and unstructured summer days ahead. Involve your child in some degree of moving towards, scheduling camps, activities, family outings, and vacations. even into, the unknown. Even changes that are much anticipated Remember to leave time for reading, creative pursuits, as and desired can be stressful, so this periodic spring warmth may well as abundant down time, during which the only plan is indeed be tinged with discomfort and worry. to be and to enjoy the moment. From the very earliest days of Pre-K to the adolescent zone of Grade VIII, children get ample practice in making transitions. Nav• Track the Tech: The leisurely expanse of summer can igating transitions, both large and small, is an important skill for become easily overtaken by long stretches of time spent children and one that both children and adults can find challengimmersed in technology. Be aware of how much time ing. Whether moving from one task to another, leaving one space your child is spending “plugged in,” and encouraging a to spend time in another, or saying goodbye to teachers, friends, or range of indoor and outdoor activities. Engage your child an entire school, change comes in many sizes. Transitions can be in a discussion of the amount of summer screen time that hard, but parents can help a child navigate change with right-sized is reasonable. The goal is to set expectations, minimize preparation, reassurance and proper orientation to the unknown (or struggles, and find a balance that includes a range of the less well known). physical activities and other fun pursuits. Summer is As June approaches, both children and adults are digesting the the perfect time to get extra doses of Vitamin “N” (a.k.a. comings and goings of people with whom they have built relationVitamin “Nature”). ships.The Park School is a highly relational and collaborative place, where children form relationships with peers and adults through • Think Ahead: Let’s remember that September will be daily academic, social and emotional interactions. It is through here sooner than we all think! When it comes time, ease these countless minute-to-minute, day-to-day exchanges that your child’s re-entry into the “school zone” by putting the some of life’s most important lessons are learned. Sometimes these school night bedtime schedule in place one to two weeks lessons are the result of making mistakes, learning, recovering, and prior to the opening of school. A well-rested child is more ultimately building the resilience to face the next challenge that life available for learning, friendships, and the transition to surely will send. Learning to bring good closure to experiences as new experiences ahead. well as relationships is an important life skill for now and for the future.
The Park Parent // PAGE 12
GRADUATION
Graduation Day Speaker: Eliza Thomas ‘11 B Y A LICE LUCEY, Upper Division Head
E
ach year, Park features an alum with six years of post-Park
experience as the speaker at Graduation. On Friday, June 16th, during Park’s 129th graduation ceremony, Eliza Thomas ’11 will deliver the graduation address to the Class of 2017. After graduating from Park, Eliza Thomas went to Concord Academy, where she played lacrosse and soccer and was the student head of school during her senior year. Currently a junior at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, Eliza is majoring in geology and doing as many classes in art as she can. Eliza is an resident assistant on campus and serves as captain of the club lacrosse team. She has taken advantage of many opportunities to study away from campus. In her junior year at Concord Academy, she spent a semester at The Mountain School. Then, at Carleton College, she spent a semester in New Zealand conducting oceanographic research and another semester in New Zealand, in the Cook Islands, and then in Australia, studying studio art.
Passionate about the outdoors, Eliza leads backpacking trips in the summer (in 2017 she will be in Oregon!) and has enjoyed biking, hiking, and rock climbing in Minnesota during the school year. We are thrilled to welcome Eliza back to Park as the Graduation speaker for the Class of 2017!
Park’s 2016-17 Annual Fund Update “It Takes a Village” Each year, The Park School relies on the time and talent of our community in so many ways, and especially the support and dedication of our parent and alumni Annual Fund Volunteers. Annual Fund Volunteers help to raise over $2 million dollars each year, funds which play a critical part in sustaining Park’s operating budget. The Annual Fund also helps to ensure that Park thrives by providing support to our outstanding faculty, financial aid to a broad number of students, and a vibrant, beautiful campus. Please join us as we thank the key volunteers for their tireless efforts this year: Current Parent Annual Fund Co-chairs: Pierce Haley and Russ Porter Alumni Annual Fund Co-chairs: David Glynn ’91 and Eliza Drachman-Jones Quincy ’98 Major Gift Committee Co-Chairs: Nikki Nudelman and Joe Robbins Alumni Annual Fund Callers: Kathrene Tiffany Bell ’96, Mercy Bell ’05, Bob Bray ’53, Aldel Brown ’04, Astrid Levis-Thorne Burnes ’98, Emily Potts Callejas ’89, Carlos Castillo ’07, Lilla Curran ’95, Melissa Deland ’95, Sara Leventhal Fleiss ’95, Greg Kadetsky ’96, Joanie Amick Kelly ’83, Abbott Lawrence ’85, Amy Lloyd McCarthy ’86, Miriam Posner ’03, Rebecca Lewin Scott ’89, Diana Walcott ’85 Parent Annual Fund Callers and Major Gifts Committee: Seth Brennan, Ramsay Cadet, Greg Cohen, Emmanuel Doe, Mark Dolins, Latoya Downing-Peltier, Nick Good, Alison Haley, Julie Hayes, Beth Holzman, Preble Jacques, Dana Lewis, Kate Lubin, Amy Lloyd McCarthy ‘86, Katie McWeeny, Nikki Nudelman, Wendy Pierce, Rick Pinchera, Pete Riehl, Joe Robbins, Suzanne Samuels, Stan Shaw, Christina Vest, EJ Whelan, Chris Wilmerding, Robert Wood, David Zug
We welcome all parents and alumni to join the Annual Fund Volunteer team next year. It’s a fun time and critically important to Park. For more information, please contact Sharra Owens-Schwartz at 617-274-6019 or owenss@parkschool.org.
SUMMER 2017 // PAGE 13
Upcoming Dates of Note Sept. 4
Monday Labor Day – NO SCHOOL
Sept. 5 Tuesday New students visit school
June 15 Thursday Pre-K – V Last Day Sept. 6 Wednesday III – V Dress Day Opening day of school MD Final Assembly, 10:30 a.m. K-VIII Noon dismissal; No ASP Half of Pre-K (VI-VIII No School) Sept. 7 Thursday June 16 Friday Half of Pre-K VI-VIII Dress Day Oct. 9 Monday Graduation, 10 a.m. Columbus Day – NO SCHOOL VI-VIII End of School Year
Editor: EMILY RAVIOLA Layout Editor: TC HALDI Director of Communcations: Kate LaPine Editorial Board: Carol batchelder MARTHA GOLUB Todd idson HAJAR LOGAN President, Parents’ Association: laura barkan
Nov. 10 Friday Veterans’ Day – NO SCHOOL
Chair, Board of Trustees: vinny chiang
Nov. 22
Head of School: CYNTHIA A. HARMON
Wednesday Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day, 11 a.m. dismissal
Nov. 23 Thursday Thanksgiving – NO SCHOOL Nov. 24 Friday – NO SCHOOL Dec. 15 Friday Yule Festival 9:30 a.m., Noon dismissal Winter Vacation begins
We want to hear from you! If you have a story idea or issue you’d like to see covered or thoughts about something you’ve read, please let us know.
TheParkParent@parkschool.org
Read The Park Parent online at www.parkschool.org SUMMER 2017
The Park Parent
June 24 Wednesday VII-VIII Last Dance, 7 p.m.
DATES FOR FALL 2017
The Park School 171 Goddard Avenue Brookline, MA 02445 617-277-2456
June 13 Tuesday VI-VIII ARC at Park, 6 p.m.
The Park Parent