THE MAGAZINE OF PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL • SUMMER 2014
PDS
SPIRIT
The Lee Burns Era Comes to a Close
IN THIS ISSUE OF PDS SPIRIT Sometimes we all wondered if Lee Burns ever slept. He was constantly dreaming, researching, and planning. If ever there was a poster child for
PDS Spirit is a publication of Presbyterian Day School. PDS maintains a nondiscriminatory policy with regard to race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
a life-long learner, it is Lee. During the Lee Burns era, 2000-2014, Presbyterian Day School has been transformed into a national leader in the education of boys. What was always a strong school is now ever stronger, not just academically, but spiritually. With this issue we celebrate and bid farewell to Lee and take a look back at the accomplishments of the last 14 years. Lee’s letter to the PDS community, “Upon Leaving” starts on page 2. PDS and Memphis also transformed the Burns family. Lee and Sarah Burns arrived in Memphis as newlyweds, and will leave as a family of five. Sarah Burns’ “Reflections on Leaving Home” begins on page 28. One of the accomplishments of the Burns era is the creation of an intrumental music program at PDS, which was run by Bill McMath. We lost Bill suddenly this Spring. Bill was the epitome of a Humble Hero, so you might not have known of some of his accomplishments in the music industry. Read
EDITOR Winston Baccus Director of Communications wbaccus@pdsmemphis.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mike Bullard PHOTOGRAPHY Lisa Buser Jim Kiinhl CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jamie Baker Lee Burns Sarah Burns Darilyn Christenbury Cynthia Cross Susan Droke Cynthia Graham
more on page 32. Grace and peace,
Winston Baccus, Director of Communications
Presbyterian Day School 4025 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38111 901-842-4600 www.pdsmemphis.org
10 Farewell Lee Burns, Our Leader and Friend
“Fourteen years ago, a relentless and courageous leader was pivotal in moving this institution forward to embrace a new world and the changes it required of us.” Don Batchelor, Chairman of the PDS Board of Trustees — page 24
2 Upon Leaving
Lee Burns final thoughts as the Headmaster of PDS
4 Mini-Features BOYSPEAK: What is your favorite memory of Headmaster Burns? PDS BOYS VISIT ARGENTINA 2014 PDS DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS LUNCHEON AND MORE...
16 Fourteen Years of Lee Burns’ Leadership 28 Reflections on Leaving Home As the Burns family prepares to depart for Chattanooga, Sarah Burns shares her thoughts on the past 14 years.
30 The Humble Hero 32 A Life of Music: The Work of Bill McMath
Upon Leaving How do you say goodbye to a school community—a family, really—that you love deeply, that you enjoy, cherish, and believe in passionately? How do you thank a school community that has inspired you, that has prayed for you, that has laughed with you, that has helped to shape and nurture your children? Aside from my faith and family, serving as the PDS Headmaster for the last 14 years has been the
I’ve never felt like I’ve worked a day at PDS.
greatest blessing and joy in my life. Sarah and I
It’s been a joy each day. The boys delight me with
came to Memphis and PDS as newlyweds, excited
their talents, hard work, and accomplishments,
about the opportunity to invest ourselves in the
but I take even more satisfaction in seeing their
lives of the boys, teachers, and families of PDS.
growing faith and character and the many ways
That first August, before school began, we
they love and serve one another. Even in their
invited the 6th-graders to our house for dinner and
missteps and mistakes, the boys are fun and funny.
a class meeting. They were so polite and poised,
Overwhelmingly, though, they seek to be noble and
engaging and interesting. It was obvious they loved
good, and to embody our virtues of manhood and
their PDS. By the end of that dinner, they asked me
mission. Seeing them each day gives me great hope
if there was a ketchup shortage at PDS, because the
for our future.
ketchup portions were so small in the cafeteria. I
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knew right then that I was going to love PDS.
PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
The faculty, staff, and administrators amaze
me with their commitment to the boys. They see
Accepting the McCallie headship was an
their work as a calling, as ministry, as mentoring, as
agonizing and emotional decision, but I am
opportunities to speak into boys’ hearts as well as
convinced it is the right one, not just for my
their heads. They are incredibly smart and masterful
family and me, but for PDS as well. PDS is in
in their professional craft of education. They are,
strong shape and is blessed in many ways,
though, more than colleagues with whom I share in
especially with an extraordinarily gifted and
my learning and from whom I have learned; they are
experienced administrative team and faculty
friends with whom I laugh, pray, and sometimes, cry.
and staff that are outstanding in every way. Like
PDS has surely changed some since 2000.
all independent schools, we face challenges
There are some new or different approaches,
and opportunities. The time is right for a new
programs, and facilities. Yet our mission and
Headmaster to consider them and to bring
core values have remained firm and clear. We are
new ideas, thinking and approaches to PDS.
committed to Biblical truth, to teaching the whole
Steve Hancock will serve PDS well as
boy, to the highest standards of academic and
its incoming headmaster. He is a wonderful
personal excellence.
man and very talented educational leader.
During my 14 years at PDS, I’ve been
I know the PDS community will welcome
struck over and over again by how our mission
him and his family in the same warm ways
and core values anchor and inform our
that you did for Sarah and me in 2000.
decisions. From the teachers to the trustees,
Though Sarah, Betsy, Arthur, Preston, and I
PDS is committed to our core values and is
will be residing in a new city, PDS and Memphis
courageous in giving expression to them in
will remain in our hearts and prayers forever. It’s
ways that are both traditional and innovative.
where our children were born and baptized, where
This past August, Sarah and I attended the
we’ve formed the closest friendships of our lives,
wedding of a PDS alum who came to our house that
and where I’ve had the incredible and humbling
first August for the 6th grade dinner. It was a happy
privilege of serving as Headmaster of a school I love
yet sentimental reminder that there are seasons
with a passion that I have a hard time expressing.
in life and that God calls us to new adventures throughout our lives. Following much prayer and counsel last summer, Sarah and I concluded that God was
From the bottom of our hearts, I thank you for the privilege and joy of serving as PDS Headmaster. I will miss, love, and remember PDS deeply… and forever.
calling us to a new chapter in our lives, as I was presented the opportunity to serve as Headmaster of a boys’ school and my alma mater, The McCallie School, in our hometown of Chattanooga. Not only is McCallie my alma mater, but it is the alma mater
Lee Burns, PDS Headmaster 2000-2014
of my brother, father, and grandfather, who served for 47 years as a beloved teacher and administrator.
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Mini-Features
Have some news for a future issue of PDS Spirit? Send it to info@pdsmemphis.org.
The Dobbs EDGE Studio Dedication for our EDGE Design Thinking
than he experienced. Cindy
the dedication of the Dobbs
program, which was detailed in the
and Edward believe giving
EDGE Studio. The studio is a gift
previous issue of PDS Spirit. On an
their children an opportunity
from Cindy and Edward Dobbs
average day in the EDGE Studio,
to learn about philanthropy
in honor of their 3rd-grade son,
you’ll find painting, sketching,
and giving back to the
Andrew Dobbs. The Dobbs EDGE
prototyping, and brainstorming as
community is important.
Studio includes two classrooms
boys exercise their creative skills.
that are the center of our design
Edward Dobbs '83 spoke
On April 15, PDS celebrated
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The Dobbs EDGE Studio is another example of the Dobbs
and creativity programs. One
fondly of his years at PDS, but
family’s wonderful philanthropic
classroom is the new home for
noted that PDS today is a much
support of PDS, as well as
our art program. The other is a lab
different learning environment
the City of Memphis.
PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
BOYSPEAK
What is your favorite memory of Headmaster Burns?
Author/Blogger Glennon Doyle Melton Speaks to PDS Moms The PDS Parents’ Association annual spring mother’s luncheon was held at the school on Thursday, April 3. Attendees heard from 6th-grade mom and current PDS teacher, Sandy Kilgore, about the journey
My favorite memory of Mr. Burns is when he shakes my hand in the morning. It cheers me up in the morning when I am feeling sad. He has been a big Moral Motivator and Servant Leader to me in the last few years. When I grow up I want to be just like him. — Garner Uhlhorn, 4th Grade My favorite memory of Mr. Burns is when he dressed up as Herman the Nerd’s brother at the Christmas Program. — Jack Fortas, 3rd Grade After my mom’s death, Mr. Burns had a portfolio of notes from various people including him all addressed to me, which really was a big impact on my life. — Spencer Kenley, 6th Grade
from Pre-Kindergarten to 6th grade, and then her son, Samuel, a current 6th-grade student, made a surprise entrance and spoke briefly about his years at PDS. In addition, the Parents’ Association was excited to welcome a special guest speaker, Glennon Doyle Melton. Melton, a New York Times best-selling author and blogger (momastery.com) entertained the audience with her wit and candor about the trials and tribulations of being a mother. “Her words empower and encourage each of us to show up as who we really are, because deep down we are all really alike. No one is perfect, and we are all a beautiful, complicated mess.” After the lecture, Melton held a round table discussion for those who wanted to stay longer. The first 150 registrants for the luncheon received a copy of
My favorite memory of Mr. Burns is getting a toy on my birthday from his office. — Cooper Solberg, 1st Grade My favorite memory of Mr. Burns is the day of the opening of the lower school building. On this particular day he was as happy as ever. I’ve never seen a guy as joyful as him before. — Will Baird, 4th Grade My favorite memory of Mr. Burns is that he is always polite. — Bennett Frazer, 1st Grade My favorite and least favorite memory of Headmaster Burns is when he made the gamewinning free throw in the Student/Faculty Game. Grrr! I wish the students won. — Edward Grinder, 4th Grade
Melton’s book, Carry On, Warrior.
Look for more answers from PDS boys on subsequent pages.
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Harvard Names Assistant Headmaster Susan Droke As Project Zero Fellow Susan Droke, Assistant
responsibilities, Mrs. Droke will participate in the
Headmaster for Teaching and
planning, leadership, and follow-up of study groups
Learning at Presbyterian Day
participating in the 2014 Project Zero Classroom
School, has been named as
Summer Institute to be held at Harvard in July.
a faculty fellow at Harvard’s
Project Zero offers one of the most rigorous
Project Zero Classroom
and transformational professional development
(PZC) Summer Institute.
programs available for educators today and
This distinction has been awarded to Mrs.
focuses on teaching for understanding and
Droke based on her participation both at Harvard
creating a school-wide culture of thinking. Project
Graduate School of Education’s Project Zero
Zero’s mission is to understand and enhance learning, thinking, and creativity in the arts, as
“Susan is an immensely talented educator, and her excellent leadership has inspired our faculty and significantly enhanced teaching and learning at PDS.”
well as humanistic and scientific disciplines at
Lee Burns, PDS Headmaster Lee Burns
selected her as a Project Zero fellow. Susan is an
the individual and institutional levels. Education thought leaders Howard Gardner and David Perkins have been influential in the leadership and impact of Project Zero on teachers across the country. “What a tribute to Susan that Harvard has immensely talented educator, and her excellent
Classroom Summer Institute in 2007 and 2008 and
leadership has inspired our faculty and significantly
Project Zero Perspectives: How and Where Does
enhanced teaching and learning at PDS. It delights
Learning Thrive? which was held in Memphis in
me but doesn’t surprise me that Harvard would
February. The fellow position is a long-standing
recognize her and want to capitalize on her abilities
tradition at the PZC. To fulfill her fellowship
and gifts,” says PDS Headmaster Lee Burns.
BOYSPEAK Last year during the jamboree when Mr. Burns was in the dunk tank, I missed the target and ran and pushed the button. — TJ Thompson, 5th Grade
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
What is your favorite memory of Headmaster Burns?
<< PDS boys along with their new friends in a classroom at the St. Andrew’s Scots School in Argentina.
PDS Boys Visit Argentina Eleven PDS students and three teachers
including the Pink House, where the Argentine
boarded a plane in early April for a 10-day
President works, and the cathedral where Pope
adventure in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The students
Francis formerly served as Bishop. “Everywhere we
attended classes daily at St. Andrew’s Scots School
went”, says Mrs. Sandy Kilgore, “this group of boys
and learned about Argentine history, culture, and
represented PDS very well.”
the everyday life of students in Argentina. Mr. Russ Norment, Spanish teacher, says, “The
Ms. Alice Parker gave the boys many opportunities for reflection, using Harvard thinking
boys were able to use the Spanish they have learned
routines, journaling, and blogging. “Our days were
at PDS to order food, ask questions in class, sing in
so full of rich experiences,” says Parker, “that we
church, and even say the blessing at meals. They
were able to reflect on differences and similarities,
were able to fully participate in every aspect of the
and explore pre-conceived opinions and realities.”
immersion experience offered at St. Andrew’s.” The group toured the La Boca stadium, home
The trip was part of a school partnership program started in 2011 with St. Andrew’s Scots
of the legendary Argentine futbol club, the La
School which has also included using Skype,
Boca Juniors. Another highlight was a visit to
collaborative blogs, and teacher exchanges.
an Argentine estancia (ranch) complete with
The Crain Center for Global Studies has
gauchos, horseback riding, and asado (Argentine
enabled PDS to develop this partnership, as well as
barbecue). St. Andrew’s Argentina history teacher
travel and other opportunities for PDS to expand its
led the group on a tour of downtown Buenos Aires
global curriculum.
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Allen Morgan, Jr. '55 Named 2014 Distinguished Alumnus Each year, Presbyterian Day School honors
served as Chairman and CEO from 1969 until 2003,
an alumnus who demonstrates a love for the
and he was Chairman of Morgan Keegan and Vice
school and who represents the goals, ideals, and
Chairman of Regions Financial until his retirement
imagination of PDS.
in 2007.
This year, PDS is proud to announce Allen
Morganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s civic and cultural involvements have
Benners Morgan, Jr. '55 as the 2014 Distinguished
included the State of Tennessee Building Finance
Alumnus. Mr. Morgan was honored at a luncheon
Committee, Methodist Hospitals, the Community
held at PDS on April 11, 2014. John Phillips V '97,
Foundation of Greater Memphis, Allen Morgan
Chair of the Alumni Association Board, welcomed
Health Center, Opera Memphis, and Dixon Gallery
over 275 alumni, parents, and special friends of
and Gardens.
PDS who gathered to reconnect and honor this distinguished alumnus. Allen Morgan graduated from PDS, MUS, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel
Morgan and his wife Musette have three adult children, Kendall Morgan Rhodes, Musette Morgan, and Worth Morgan '99. Mr. Morgan spoke to the guests about his
Hill. After graduation, he began his career in the
career and recounted a few memories from his days
brokerage business in the Memphis office of Courts
at PDS. Don Batchelor '66, Chairman of the Board
& Co. Two years later he left that firm, and after
of Trustees, and John Phillips V '97, PDS Alumni
some advice from his father, Morgan, at the age of
Board Chairman, presented the award to Morgan.
27, started a brokerage firm with a friend. This firm,
PDS congratulates Allen Benners Morgan, Jr. '55 as
Morgan Keegan, grew and as it did, Morgan gained
the 2014 Distinguished Alumnus.
respect within the financial services industry. He
1 John Stokes and Jack Stokes '73 2 Clayton Chandler '91, Blake Bourland '89, Hunt Treadwell, and Will Levy 3 Bob Mallory '76, Neely Mallory IV '01, Neely Mallory, Jr., Neely Mallory III '70 4 Allen Morgan, Jr. '55, Musette Morgan, and Worth Morgan '99 5 Joe Weller and Tom Weller 6 Kem Wilson
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
7 Rodney Baber '61 and Brian Fowler 8 Lee Burns, John Phillips V '97, Allen Morgan, Jr. '55, Don Batchelor '66 9 Joe Morrison '72 and Steve Hearn 10 Luke Jensen '01, Louis Jehl '74, and William Ware '01 11 Larry Jensen, Chuck Smith '60, and Don McClure
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
Betsy (11), Sarah and Lee Burns, Preston (4), and Arthur (9)
Farewell Lee Burns, Our Leader and Friend
In 2000, Lee Burns arrived at PDS as a new and young Headmaster, full of energy and ideas and a deep commitment to the education and development of boys. As he departs this summer to become the Headmaster at the McCallie School, he leaves a school that is different in many ways, with more progressive educational approaches, new programs and facilities, and a faculty deeply committed to professional growth. Throughout his years of service at PDS, Mr. Burns has led the school in steadfastly honoring its successful past and beloved traditions while proudly living out its mission and Christian values. The schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transformative journey spans 14 years, has required many players, and reducing it to a few pages does not even begin to comprehensively tell the story. But, when you step back and take in the view from a distance, you see the milestones of a journey that transformed PDS into a stronger, more relevant school, and you see Headmaster Burns, Presbyterian Day Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quiet, yet lion-hearted crusader leading the charge.
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
Heeding the Call of the World One of the most important roles of a school’s board of trustees is to lay the foundation for the future version of the school. In 1999, as they undertook the responsibility of hiring a new leader to bring a new direction to PDS, the board certainly rose to that challenge. The board recognized that a sea change was underway. The way the world communicated, worked, and lived was evolving. Institutions, like schools and churches, were called to change to reflect a changing world. “The board knew that we must respond boldly and strategically to the changing world in order to prevent becoming a dinosaur—irrelevant and unsustainable. Our strategy was to preserve and celebrate our history, mission, and Christian values while moving forward to adapt the articulation, embodiment, and fulfillment of the mission to the world as it was becoming,” says Larry Jensen, chairman of the board during the search.
us, honoring the PDS mission and values as well
The board wanted PDS to be on the leading
as being the visionary who could keep PDS at
edge, at the forefront of education. If PDS was going
the edge of the changes in the world,” explains
to be a world-class school, it would require boldness,
Wilson Orr, chair of the search committee in 1999.
intuitiveness, and an unwillingness from the board
Lee Burns, an administrator at Christ School, an
to be satisfied with past successes. It would require
Episcopal boarding school for boys grades 8-12 in
embracing the idea that the methods of learning
North Carolina, was selected as the 11th headmaster
should be relevant to the learner—learning should
of PDS. The characteristics that set him apart from
engage the boys emotionally and give them a
other candidates were that he was a disciplined,
personal connection to the material. The new leader
agile learner and collaborative team leader. He was
would need to embody excellence in this new digital
also a man of unwavering character and courage
age and model it in how he lived and how he led.
who would model lifelong learning, kind and caring
“We agreed that the next PDS leader
relationships, impeccable values, and a strong
would have to be able to thread the needle
faith. Mr. Burns had education in his blood. His
by understanding the heritage of PDS while
grandfather, Major Arthur Lee Burns, a legendary
recognizing the call of the world. In short, we
educator at The McCallie School in Chattanooga,
decided we needed someone who could adapt to
had significant influence on Mr. Burns growing up.
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Technology was present at PDS before Mr. Burns arrived, but Headmaster Burns unleashed it with his drive, trust, and fearlessness.â&#x20AC;? Cathy Kyle, PDS Chief Information Officer
Technology Literate Learners In October of his first year, Cathy Kyle, Chief
place. Classrooms were no longer bound by walls.
Information Officer for PDS, and Headmaster Burns
There was a noticeable increase in excitement
visited Cincinnati Country Day School, the first
and engagement as boys learned how the
independent school in the country to become a
computer could connect them to experts, primary
one-to-one laptop school. They visited classrooms
sources, vast amounts of information, videos
to see how students were actually using technology
and creation tools like iMovie or GarageBand.
and taking responsibility for their computers. They
Boys were, for the first time, really taking charge
talked with teachers about the process of learning to
of their own learning, choosing to learn more
incorporate technology into the lessons and culture
deeply, and spend more time exploring.
of the school in authentic ways. “When we got back
“The biggest hurdle we had to cross in
to PDS,” recalls Mrs. Kyle, “we decided that in the
integrating technology,” says Mrs. Kyle, “was
next school year, 6th grade would go one-to-one. So,
to learn to trust students. With computers
we immediately bought all of the 6th-grade teachers
in student hands, teachers could no longer
laptops so that they could get a head start on
control the information. Students were no
learning to use them and develop ways technology
longer passive learners, but active participants
could enrich the learning experience for PDS boys.”
in their own learning. Once we reframed our
The technology department developed a
views about control vs. structure, learning vs.
five-year technology plan, which included the
teaching, delivering vs. discovering content,
incorporation of smartboards and document
and boys taking ownership in managing their
cameras into the classroom and a substantial
responsibilities, we never looked back.”
amount of professional development for teachers.
The successful adoption of technology
Computers as communication tools were changing
became the platform that paved the way for many
the place, pace, and time for learning. In time, boys
other innovations in teaching and learning at
were Skyping with teachers, using emails to turn
PDS. “Technology was present at PDS before Mr.
in assignments, and using chat to ask questions.
Burns arrived,” she says, “but Headmaster Burns
Learning was becoming anywhere, any time, any
unleashed it with his drive, trust, and fearlessness.” (continued on page 18)
What is your favorite memory of Headmaster Burns?
BOYSPEAK Every Sunday I see him at church with his family, always with a smile on his face. It shows me that he is a Godly man. — Mac Magness, 5th Grade
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
A World-Class Elementary School for Boys Headmaster Burns’ vision for PDS was to educate boys to think critically, creatively,
quality and preparations, character education,
and connectedly, to develop their skills of
and Christian development. PDS not only figures
communication, collaboration, problem-solving,
in the hearts, minds, and spirits of thousands of
and resilience, and to foster in them good
Memphians, its values live on in the leadership
character and strong faith. A set of overriding
of Memphis. Few schools, anywhere, can point to
questions was introduced that would guide the
such success.” PDS, indeed, has enjoyed since its
school throughout Burns’ tenure: “What does it
beginning a long, unrefuted history of success.
mean to be educated in the 21st century?” and
Weary’s summary concluded with this
“As an all-boys school, what is best for boys?”
foresight: “Through what can be anticipated
Conversations throughout the school centered
to be a challenging period, stable, committed
on these questions to discern what everyone at
leadership and a widely shared vision will allow
PDS must know and do, and how teaching and
this untested school to stay the course and do
learning needed to change, for PDS to truly prepare
its job, rightly claiming to being one of the
boys for their futures in a fast-changing world.
country’s finest boys’ elementary schools.”
In the fall of 2001, PDS hired Bill Weary, a
18
foundation out of its dedication to academic
From many strategic planning meetings
nationally recognized consultant, to facilitate the
with stakeholders of the school, 33 strategic
school’s strategic plan. In the executive summary
tasks were identified, setting PDS on a
of the strategic plan, Mr. Weary wrote “PDS,
specific course of change. The new strategic
for over 50 years, has built a strong and stable
plan was adopted by the board in 2002.
PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
Breaking Free of the Status Quo Teaching and learning at PDS has changed
strongly that schools must be designed to create
dramatically since Headmaster Burns first arrived.
innovators and problem solvers who are well-
World languages (Spanish and Mandarin) were
read, good in math and science, competent in
added. A science lab for hands-on exploration
technology, flexible, and resilient. School should
was added. Early on, a committee was formed to
create thinkers, not memorizers of information.”
research and bring the best practices for teaching
PDS brought in curriculum specialist Grant
boys into PDS classrooms. Teachers started
Wiggins to help teachers learn to restructure
attending conferences and sharing what they
how they taught. To learn more about teaching
learned with the whole school. Teachers identified professional learning goals at the beginning of each year, and observations and evaluations by administrators supported their growth. Collaboration and questioning caused the faculty and students
“Mr. Burns felt strongly that schools must be designed to create innovators... Schools should create thinkers, not memorizers of information.” Susan Droke, PDS Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning
to thrive. The expectation was clear: PDS teachers would be lifelong learners. In his second year at PDS, Headmaster Burns
for deep understanding, Mr. Wiggins suggested sending teachers to Harvard’s Project Zero, a
hired four reading specialists and implemented
research group dedicated to sharing teaching
small-group reading for all 1st through 6th-grade
methods that promotes critical thinking.
students, not only boys who were struggling.
Today over 90% of PDS teachers have attended
The specialists would also focus on explicit
Harvard’s Project Zero and, as a result, now design
instruction in meta-cognition (a student’s
student learning to develop boys’ thinking.
understanding of how he thinks), higher-order
“Changes and reorganization of what we
thinking, and comprehension skills while
do at PDS was unnerving at first,” says Mrs.
boys were learning to read. This was the first
Droke, “but very soon, teachers realized that Mr.
significant venture from the status quo at PDS.
Burns was passionate about and dedicated to
The changes were successful in improving reading
equipping our boys to be leaders for tomorrow.
scores and the learning experience for boys.
The goal was to make teachers confident leaders
“The success in changing the reading
of determining and teaching what best prepares
program opened the floodgates on curricular
boys. The result is,” she continues, “that teaching
innovation,” shares Assistant Head for Teaching
thinking and allowing boys to own their learning
and Learning Susan Droke. “Mr. Burns felt
is now the way we do things around here.”
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
Fostering Godly Men The mission of PDS is to glorify God by developing boys in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man. What could be more central to the school’s mission than asking (and answering with a well-articulated curriculum) what it means to be a godly man. Parents would often ask about other situations their sons must face like peer pressure, dealing with bullies and cliques, drinking, drugs, sex, and cheating to name a few, and how those discussions could take place at school. Seeing the demand for real talk about real issues, Headmaster Burns began developing a comprehensive curriculum that would guide boys through the transitions of adolescence. “The aim was to help boys see the challenges and stresses that are a normal part of the path to manhood and learn how to use their faith, values, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and education to solve them,” explains Braxton
“The lessons, training, and honest information a boy receives during his formative elementary years at PDS have an impact on not only his character but also the choices he makes in middle school, high school, and beyond.” Braxton Brady, PDS Chaplain
Brady, PDS chaplain and director of the Building Boys, Making Men character education program. The Building Boys, Making Men program began in 2003 with 6th-grade boys. The program morphed and changed each year since, but was finally supplemented, re-organized, and published by Mr. Burns and Mr. Brady as Fight Plan: Your Mission to Become a Man in 2010. Since then, thousands of copies have been purchased by other schools and organizations seeking to prepare their boys to be Christian men in the 21st Century. In Flight Plan, the teachings are structured around the Seven Virtues of Manhood which emerged from teachings in the Bible, research
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
Seven Virtues of Manhood THE THE SEVEN SEVEN VIRTUE VIRT
from experts, writings on male development, and the collective wisdom of PDS teachers and administrators. “Framing our conversations around these virtues is meaningful and accessible to
THE TRUE FRIEND THE TRUE FRIEND
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D E V E L O P A G O D DSEI V ZED L OVPI SAI OGN OD SIZED VISION
elementary school boys,” explains Mr. Brady. The program includes chapel programs, grade-level meetings, and class time to discuss the meaning and challenges of living by the seven virtues.
THE SEVEN VIRTUES OF MANHO SEVEN V2 V2 VI V1 THE V1
Father-son retreats for 5th and 6th-grade boys
engage fathers in the issues and dilemmas boys are discussing at school so that dads can share their experience and wisdom with their sons. THE TRUE FRIEND
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to PDS that when a boy leaves PDS, he must be prepared in all ways—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. “PDS aims to be a great source of information, knowledge, community,
VENTHE VIRTUES OFVIRTUES MANHOOD V5 V3 V5 V6 V4 V2 V1 SEVEN THE SEVEN VIRTUES OF MANHO MANH V2 V1 OF resources, and prayerful support for our boys throughout their lives,” explains Mr. Brady.
“Boys leave PDS feeling confident about
THE BOLD ADVENTURER THE NOBLE KNIGHT THE HEART PATIENT whatHUMBLE to expect. The lessons, training, and honestLEADER THE HERO THE SERVANT THE MORAL MOTIVATOR THE BOLDG IADVENTURER DON’T SIT AROUND CALLED TO DUTY VE UP CONTROL THE FRIEND TRUE FRIEND HUMBLE THE HUMBLE HERO HERO LEADER LEADER THEMOTIV MORA D E V E L O P A G O D STHE I Z E D VTRUE ISION I A M T HTHE IRD M A K E A D ITHE F F E R ESERVANT N C E THE SERVANT D O N ’ T S I T A R O U N D THE MORAL
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elementary years at PDS have an impact on not only his character but also the choices he makes in middle school, high school, and beyond,” says Chaplain Brady. “The compilation of his choices will be the man he becomes. Our V5program
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D ADVENTURER
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THE NOBLE KNIGHT THE HEART PATIENT ADVENTURER BOLD ADVENTURER THEKNIGHT NOBLE KNIGHT C A L L E THE D T O DBOLD U T Y THE G I V E U P CTHE O N T R ONOBLE L D O N ’ T S I T ADROONU’ T ND SIT AROUND
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<< Lee Burns, along with with Norma and Kem Wilson, celebrate the opening of the early childhood facilities.
World-Class Learning Spaces “A PDS boy will spend more time at PDS than
professional learning and endowment, a public
any other educational institution he will attend,”
purpose institute, Young Scholars Program, and
shares Kem Wilson, board member and chairman of
a new early childhood wing that would house the
the Building Boys, Making Men Capital Campaign.
admission department, a second gymnasium, two
“The time from pre-kindergarten to 6th grade is a
new playground areas, and a fitness center for
nine-year stretch during which PDS builds a firm
PDS boys. The goal of raising over $20 million
foundation for a boy’s success and spiritual development. PDS, through
Physically, PDS was a transformed school in which the learning spaces served the teaching and learning of boys, not, as often is the case, a school where teachers must compromise the learning to fit into existing spaces.
the good work of its teachers and leaders, builds a foundation for life.” As the curriculum was shifting, the use of technology was increasing, and the early childhood program was growing. Learning spaces were increasingly in short supply or functionally obsolete. Classrooms were not set up for connective, collaborative, and creative
dollars to provide world-class learning facilities
learning. More and different space was needed.
for a world-class learning program was set.
PDS embarked upon its first major capital
Over a six-year period, funds were raised,
campaign in 2006. Kem Wilson chaired an
thousands of square feet of learning space were
enthusiastic and dedicated campaign committee.
added, the elementary building was renovated,
Headmaster Burns, with other school teachers
and the programs outlined in the campaign plan
and leaders, envisioned the types of facilities
were created. Physically, PDS was a transformed
and programs that would meet the schools needs
school in which the learning spaces served the
for the next decade. Priorities emerged to create
teaching and learning of boys, not, as often is the
comprehensive and focused campaign objectives:
case, a school where teachers must compromise
a second science lab, a larger music space, new art
the learning to fit into existing spaces.
space, a center for global learning, funds for both
What is your favorite memory of Headmaster Burns?
BOYSPEAK Every morning Mr. Burns greets and shakes hundreds of hands with the same great smile from the first person he greets to the very last. — Cash Brown, 5th Grade
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
Serving a Public Purpose By 2010, Headmaster Burns was no longer
partnership between PDS, The University of
having to push the faculty forward. Redefinition,
Memphis, and the Martin Family Foundation. The
research, and experimentation were now part
institute offers year-round learning opportunities
of the DNA of the school’s, as dedicated and
for educators, as well as a residency program for
highly professional teachers continuously strove
new teachers to become confident and secure in
toward excellence. Learning was purposeful for
their practices before entering the classroom.
students and for teachers. Understanding that
Most visible of the institute’s programs is
excellence was truly a never-ending process
the annual conference held each June. About 750
inspired, not drained, the school culture.
educators from around the country, from public,
Always the visionary and serial entrepreneur,
private, parochial, and charter schools, come to
Headmaster Burns delved into the idea of the
the Martin Institute conference at PDS to learn
public purpose of a private school and what
from speakers and colleagues. The institute
that might mean for PDS. Mr. Burns found a
invites nationally-recognized educators to deliver
like-minded partner and willing colleague in
keynote addresses and education leaders to present
Board Member Brad Martin. Their conversations
learning sessions. Through a strategic partnership
focused on two guiding questions: “What is the
with leading educators, and the many conference
strategy that makes PDS an excellent learning
presentations and school visits across the country
environment?” and “How can we share that
made by institute staff, the Martin Institute has
with other teachers and school leaders?”
established a national reputation as a unique public purpose model, bringing recognition of and interest in the progressive and innovative learning approach
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” 1 Peter 4:10
at PDS. In 2014, Harvard’s Project Zero brought its research group to PDS with a conference for about 650 educators from around the world. Harvard rarely offers conferences outside of Cambridge but willingly came to PDS because of the deep implementation of Project Zero ideas at PDS.
The most effective tool in the transformation of teaching and learning at PDS was professional
has developed many community service and
development. Knowing that the single greatest
outreach programs that not only enhance PDS
factor that determines student success is the
boys’ education but also impact the community.
quality of the teacher, a public purpose for PDS
One example is the ongoing relationship
became clear: world-class professional development
between PDS and Berclair Elementary School.
for Mid-South teachers and school leaders.
This unique partnership provides resources
In 2010 the Martin Institute for Teaching Excellence was established as a public-private
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In addition to the Martin Institute, PDS
PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
to a school in need while students and faculty at both schools learn and grow together.
Lee Burns speaks at the 2010 Martin >> Institute Summer Conference.
Moving On In the spring of 2013, after 95% of the strategic
and innovative school and culture of excellence.”
actions of the first strategic plan had been
PDS is committed to academic excellence
accomplished, Bill Weary, the same strategic
and expertise, to biblical principles and living
planning consultant from 2002, shared these
the Gospel, and to continuous and disciplined
observations after talking with school stakeholders:
questioning and researching what boys need to
“PDS is a school of happy boys, thrilled parents,
become godly men and leaders in their chosen
satisfied and successful graduates, an energetic
fields and communities. Don Batchelor, current chairman of the
“Fourteen years ago, a relentless and courageous leader was pivotal in moving this institution forward to embrace a new world and the changes it required of us. Now the school has a shared vision, broad leadership capabilities, and a contagious desire to stay the course.” Don Batchelor, Chairman of the PDS Board of Trustees
board agrees, “PDS is on the exact right course to maintain the excellence, relevance, and sustainability of its mission. Fourteen years ago, a relentless and courageous leader was pivotal in moving this institution forward to embrace a new world
and broadly visionary faculty, exciting and
and the changes it required of us. Now the school
cutting-edge programs, a healthy and effective
has a shared vision, broad leadership capabilities,
relationship with its sponsoring church, expanded
and a contagious desire to stay the course,”
new facilities, a solid board, and leadership
Mr. Batchelor says. “Keeping current and
in all sectors of the school. While remaining
recognizing the value of dynamism, PDS
true to its roots, the school has exploded in all
is fully committed to preparing boys in
directions, positioning itself as a much admired
ways that will serve them for life.”
BOYSPEAK My favorite memory of Mr. Burns is shaking his hand every day!!!!!! — Mikey Arnold, 1st Grade
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
What is your favorite memory of Headmaster Burns?
Excellence is Never An Accident The culmination of 14 years of mission focus,
reflection, drive, execution, and ethical leadership.
deep inquiry, blue-sky thinking, experimentation,
In doing so, he has engendered the elements PDS
reflection, and refinement is a strong, progressive
needs to continue purposefully redefining and
school that is securely grounded in who it is while
reaching excellence in preparing boys. Without
ever mindful and open to new ideas that make
drawing attention to himself, he has exquisitely
learning more relevant and better for boys.
modeled the values of PDSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a noble knight,
Hundreds of educators from around the country have visited PDS to see first-hand how the school is growing, thriving, and implementing its educational mission. As the institution has matured and settled into its position as a leader in technology integration, customized learning, and innovative thinking, so has Lee Burns. When Lee Burns came to PDS he was 31, newly married, accepting his first job as head of school, charged with leading the school into uncharted territory. He departs as transformed as the school he has led. Through the challenges he has surmounted, opportunities he has molded, and amazing people with whom he has connected and collaborated with for the good of the school, Mr. Burns is more mature and confident. He possesses a national reputation as a leader with both courage and heart, wit and wisdom, intellectual and spiritual prowess. It is said that an organization takes on the qualities of its leader. Headmaster Burns has nurtured, from the boardroom to each classroom, a culture of curiosity, inquiry, relevant content, explicit development of thinking skills, empathy,
humble hero, bold adventurer, moral motivator, servant leader, heart patient, and true friend.
As I reflect on the past fourteen years, PDS is more than just a place where Lee has worked, and Memphis is more than just a city where we have lived. This is the place where we really started our marriage together. This is the place where we had our three children. This is the place where we have made lifetime friendships. In a word, PDS and Memphis are home. Fifteen years ago, I happily said, “I do” to the most amazing man I had ever met. We began our newlywed life together at an all boys’ boarding school tucked away in the mountains of North Carolina. I didn’t know what to expect, except I knew that life with Lee was going to be wonderful. After about seven months of marriage, Lee received a call to take a look at a great school over in western Tennessee. Lee and I were a little perplexed because we were just starting our newlywed life together, we were both young, and we thought we would be in North Carolina for a long time. I never once doubted that Lee would be the headmaster of a school one day, but I didn’t think he would have the opportunity so soon.
Reflections on Leaving Home By Sarah Burns
I remember when we visited PDS. Chatting with various folks, I would tell them that Lee and I had been married “about a year” to make it seem like we had a little more history together! After visiting PDS several times, Lee and I both knew that if given the opportunity, we would gladly move to Memphis to be a part of such an amazing school and community. I’ll never forget that day in November of 1999 when PDS asked Lee to be the next headmaster. We were elated, excited, and just completely overwhelmed with gratitude to God for the opportunity. And for the record, that November we had been married eleven months! When we moved to Memphis in 2000, Lee jumped right in, getting to know and becoming
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
a part of PDS, and I did, too. It was such a warm
morning, and he did not want to leave at the end of
and welcoming place to be. The PDS teachers and
the day. He loved his friends, he loved his teachers,
parents took us in like family, and since our families
and it was clear that they loved him, too. At the end
were so far away, we were so very grateful.
of the school year, I was a ball of tears because I did
I remember meeting so many wonderful
not want to change teachers. I did not want the year
PDS moms when we first moved to Memphis. I
to end. I did not want any change at all. I am happy
remember how I would cherish things that I would
to say that I have felt
learn about them, and how I hoped to be a mom just
this exact same way
like them, if and when I was given the opportunity.
at the end of every
These moms in our early years were such wonderful
school year at PDS!
role models to me, and I hope that they know what
As I continue
an impact they have made on me as a person and as
to reflect on our
a mom.
time at PDS, I
When Lee and I found out that we were
must celebrate the
“Not a day has gone by that I have not thanked God for bringing us to PDS and to Memphis—not a one.”
expecting in 2002, there was so much excitement in
dearest friendships
the PDS community! When we found out the baby
that I have made in my life. Many of us became
was a little girl, the PDS community was just thrilled
mothers for the first time together, and have
that we were having a girl Crusader! After Betsy was
been blessed to send our children to the same
born in October, it didn’t take long for her to have
schools together. Before the school days, we had
a role at PDS—playing baby Jesus in the Christmas
play dates and supper clubs, Bible studies and
pageant. Being her mom, I got to play Mary; clearly,
birthday parties. The roots of our friendships
I was the nervous one of the two of us. Being in the
developed long before we were lucky enough to
sanctuary, in the nativity, surrounded by the voices
become PDS and Hutchison moms together.
of the precious PDS boys, is a sweet memory that I
When we started at PDS, Lee and I were
will always cherish. Arthur was born about nineteen months after
younger than most of the current parents, and at that time, most of the teachers, too. Over the years,
Betsy, and I think I was the one who was more
we have been the same age as other PDS parents
thankful to God that we had been blessed with a
and teachers. Now, I would say, we are actually older
boy. I wanted Lee to have the same opportunity as
than most. Fourteen years is a long time, but it does
other parents to be a PDS dad. I couldn’t wait for
not seem long enough. Not a day has gone by that
Arthur and Lee to share the same experiences that
I have not thanked God for bringing us to PDS and
I had watched other PDS dads and their sons have
to Memphis—not a one. Lee and I could not believe
together. Something that I was not fully prepared
that we were the lucky ones chosen all those years
for was the love that the PDS teachers had for
ago to be at PDS, and we still feel that way today. I
Arthur. I had always known that the PDS teachers
know in my heart that I have gained so much more
were good, kind, and wonderful. I thought that was
from this experience than I have given, and I am so
because I had developed personal relationships
grateful. For Lee, Betsy, Arthur, Preston, and myself,
with them. When Arthur went to school in pre-
PDS has been a happy home.
kindergarten, he could not wait to get to PDS in the
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
The Humble Hero Lee Burns is renown in the independent school world, yet always humble and understated in recognizing how many people seek his counsel. He is aggressive but not imposing, competitive yet egoless. He pushes others into the spotlight for goals accomplished. Lee Burns is the epitomy of the Humble Hero.
BRETT JACOBSEN
Head of School, Mount Vernon Presbyterian School, Atlanta, GA Over the years, I have studied Lee’s educational vision and have learned from his leadership strategy. I consider Lee a mentor, an innovative collaborator, but most importantly, a friend.
PAT BASSETT
Former President, National Association of Independent Schools, Gainesville, VA As headmaster at PDS, Lee Burns has been the kind of “game-changer” that any franchise would want to be the point guard on their team: a selfless and self-effacing playmaker
FREDERICK W. SMITH Founder, Chairman, President, and CEO of FedEx, PDS Class of ‘56 , Memphis, TN
As an alumnus of PDS, I am very proud of the superb education being delivered to such a diverse generation of future leaders. We will miss Lee greatly here in Memphis but know he is leaving the school in great shape so that the tradition can carry on.
who saw all the openings, raised everyone’s game, and created such team unity and momentum that PDS began to lead the league in scoring. PDS has definitely brought the trophy home under Lee’s leadership.
DAVID BEECHER
Headmaster, Hillside School, Marlborough, MA I realize that Lee’s national profile is well known. And, I realize that his accomplishments at PDS and the Martin Institute are universally respected. But what I think of first, when someone mentions his name, is what a great dad, what a wonderful husband, what a nice friend and then, and only then, yes, what a great leader.
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
BARBARA HYDE
ELLIS HAGUEWOOD
Headmaster, Memphis University School, Memphis, TN
Former PDS Parent, Memphis, TN
RUSS INGERSOLL
The “Burns Era” will surely become known as a pivotal moment in the school’s history, when a solid independent boys’ school became much more—a nationally recognized, leading-edge model of innovative education impacting not only the lives of its students, but also the future of Memphis.
Lee Burns is many things and
been inspiring. Recently, he gave
has many gifts, but the core truth
me a 250-page document detailing
about Lee is that he is simply, but
all aspects of PDS. His attention
profoundly, a very good man. All
to detail and great anticipation for
14 years ago, I have admired his
his other exceptional qualities and
the next chapter at PDS is written
gentle, godly, and thoroughly
achievements are rooted there. At
on every page. I look forward to
analytical approach to all matters.
his core he is good. That goodness
our continued relationship over the
Lee is a true friend and I shall miss
drives his intellect to imagine and
years to come.
his presence personally, at Second
Lee Burns is a bold and masterful leader. His energy and determination, animated by his vision for what a school should be, have been transformational for PDS. He has been a friend to me and to MUS, and the ties between our schools are strong.
Retired Headmaster, Christ School, Asheville, NC
and teachers to educate the better boy. His goodness expresses itself in kindness and thoughtfulness in all his relationships.
STEVE HANCOCK
Incoming Headmaster of PDS, Princeton Day School, Princeton, NJ Over the past several months, I have found a kindred spirit in Lee Burns. Because Lee is so generous in sharing his great love for PDS and his exciting vision for education, our conversations have
PDS Trustee, Memphis, TN From day one when Lee arrived
Presbyterian Church, and in the
then shape the better school. It informs his school’s curriculum
BRYAN NEARN
CLAUDIA DAGGETT Executive Director of the Elementary School Heads Association, St. Louis, MO
As President of the Elementary
Headmaster’s Office at PDS.
BRUCE CAMPBELL Former PDS Trustee, Memphis, TN
School Heads Association, Lee
Lee has been forward
encouraged us to think about
thinking in structuring studies
our association in new ways.
and programs to prepare our
Lee is impressively good at
students to excel in the environment
staying positive, keeping issues
of the 21st century. He, with Kem
in perspective, and focusing
Wilson and the board’s help, has
on higher-level goals. These
been diligent in raising capital
are qualities I both admire and
funds for expanding and updating
treasure in a work partner.
the school’s physical plant—all in the face of very difficult economic times.
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pdsmemphis.org | PDS Spirit
A Life Of Music April 19, 1942â&#x20AC;&#x201D;April 23, 2014
The Work of Bill McMath On April 23, 2014, PDS Music Teacher Bill McMath passed away. Christian, husband, father, musician, teacher
After receiving his BA in Music and Master of Music at North Texas State University, Bill toured with Lynn Anderson and Tonya Tucker. This gave
and friend, Bill McMath influenced the lives of
him the opportunity to play with most everyone in
many.
Nashville from the 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to the recent stars.
The man from Strong, Arkansas grew up in a
Bill was drawn from Nashville to Los Angeles
home where academics and music were stressed.
where he played on several movie music tracks.
His mother was the high school math teacher and
While the lead guitarist on Thunderbolt & Lightfoot
the church organist. Bill was always interested in
and Every Which Way But Loose, he became
the connection between math and music.
good friends with Clint Eastwood. He and Clint Eastwood remained friends. Clint even visited him in Memphis. Bill wrote, produced, recorded, and played on at least 15,000 commercial advertising tracks. Bill joined the PDS faculty in 2002 and founded the PDS Instrumental Music Society. He directed the PDS orchestra, and taught private lessons for guitar, mandolin, banjo, violin, and piano. Until recently, Bill played many live productions at the Orpheum. Well-known Broadway directors specifically requested Bill as their featured guitarist. As an active member of Christ United Methodist Church, Bill played in several church gospel groups. In his later years, he played, sang, and composed music for the River of Jordan, a bluegrass gospel group. Bill McMath was such a presence and force in the music world and in our lives. He will be sorely missed.
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PDS Spirit | Summer 2014
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