PLURALISTIC SCHOOL ONE
Fall 2013
Celebrate the Many; Build ONE
2012–13 Report on Philanthropy
The PeriScope Volume 23, Number 3 Editors: Amanda Perla Deirdre Gainor Designer: David Mellen Design PS1 1225 Broadway Santa Monica CA 90404 (310) 394-1313 (310) 395-1093 fax To learn more about our school, visit our website www.psone.org
“Schools use gardens not to give their students a chance to develop a hobby but to enhance their overall instruction. They see gardens as laboratories where students apply what they have learned in the classroom and where a fragmented curriculum can become unified through hands-on experience that draws on math, science, and social science. They are places where students can explore the living environment and be challenged to consider: What is the web of life? How do organisms interact with each other and the physical environment? How do we get and use the food energy all living organisms need to survive and begin to understand the effect of human activities on the biosphere?” – Lisa Bennett
In This Issue: PAGE 1
Head’s Column PAGES 2–5
Traditions Old and New PAGE 6 –9
Pluralistic Connections PAGES 10 –11
Alumni Corner PAGE 13
2012–13 Report on Philanthropy BACK COVER
Save The Date! New Faculty
Rooftop Garden
Head's Column
The Vision Thing off each other every day, supplemented by four outstanding This issue of PeriScope joins pluralism in action with our Annual specialists in physical education, music, art, and library. And every Report, in which we acknowledge the many people who have teaching partnership is joined by at least two other classroom contributed this past year to the one: PS1 PLURALISTIC SCHOOL. teachers so that we and our students can operate as a cluster. No You can’t have one without the other. one stands alone. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Parents, faculty, alumni, administrators, and Board members An individual teacher builds his one classroom … with a lot of help came together over the past two years and rewrote the school from his friends (partner, specialists, cluster mates, faculty support Mission Statement. The entire faculty discussed, and the Board people in the administration, outside professionals, and parent of Directors adopted, the new Mission Statement in 2013. We volunteers). Teachers understand their co-workers and what they sought to write a mission statement that better demonstrated our do and how they work with children. Together we build one… uniqueness, one that could apply to us and no one else. We think school. that, now, ours does: To teach in a pluralistic way is to firmly believe that fitting in PS1 is a diverse community committed to an ever-evolving is about being yourself, that every child brings her own unique model of pluralistic elementary education. On a path to self- set of passions, talents, skills, and personalities to a group; that knowledge, students engage and become the best versions of a teacher’s primary responsibility is to value each and every one themselves. They develop critical academic and interpersonal of her students. A child’s responsibility is to recognize that she skills to be confident and passionate contributors to an increas- is also a part of a group and she too has to work to be a steward ingly connected world. of her environment and make every effort to bring out the best Teachers and specialists at PS1 are the sense makers of this in others. In a pluralistic school, everyone values everyone else mission. They take the philosophy and vision and bring it to life, in demonstrable ways. Often the first thing a visitor notices on making it relevant in the lives of young children. At our campus is that we enjoy each other. We are PS1, we start with the vision of celebrating the many where we want to be, doing the things we want to by recognizing that every PS1 teacher brings his or her do, alongside of people who believe in the same own passion, skill set, priorities, style, background, core values as we do. and enthusiasm. We actively encourage teachers to Parents and friends are integral in contributing demonstrate those attributes in their classroom. If we to this philosophy, vision, and structure. It is because asked all the teachers to take their special qualities we celebrate the many that so many people over the and their quirks out of the equation and to teach to a past 42 years have helped us to build ONE. Contribusingle program or way of working with students, we tors think about not just what this school has done for would not see pluralism in action. Measuring teachers them and their family, but also what they can do for with a single set of expectations is as counterproductive their school (that may be paraphrasing from a more as measuring young children with one simple lens. memorable speech, but you get the idea!). Why is Joel Pelcyger, I think of our teachers with years and years of your name included in the many lists contained within Head of School experience and those who bring fresh sets of eyes to the Annual Report? Likely there are as many reasons our campus. I think of our poets, writers, mountain for giving as there are names on the lists. climbers, yoga practitioners, young parents, grandparents, alumni Whether it is because you made a large contribution to the parents, scientists, voracious readers, swimmers, and triathletes Capital Campaign or a small donation to the Grow It Forward who are simultaneously PS1 teachers. I think of our teachers and Fund A Need project at the Auction that allowed us to build the specialists who bring their international teaching experience to PS1 patio rooftop vegetable garden, ceramics studio, and patio art (six) and those who have built their professional careers predomistudio that was visible on the first day of school this year; whether nantly at PS1; some who are white and some who are people of you were an Auction Angel, Party Book host, or part of the 99% color; some who grew up in the U.S. and the seven who were born of current families or 100% of faculty, staff, and Board members or grew up abroad. We encourage teachers and specialists to be who donated to the 2012-13 Annual Fund; whether you extended their own unique selves and to call upon the diverse range of their yourself in any way beyond what was required, you are part of the experiences in their work with our students. We celebrate the heart and soul of this institution. Because without you, we don’t many; this is half of the equation. exist; we don’t thrive; we are not sustainable. That’s what it As much as we encourage teachers’ individuality, passion and means to be a part of something larger than yourself. autonomy, our structure also demands accountability and col We’ve built a school together; we’ve built a campus together; laboration. That is how we grow together. Perhaps the first thing we’ve built a community together. We are indeed, as our Mission you notice about our classroom structure is that teachers operate Statement begins, “a diverse community committed to an everas a team, a partnership of shared responsibility. Every classroom evolving model of pluralistic elementary education.” represents the coming together of two creative minds bouncing
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Graduation
Traditi
Stand Up and Speak Each June, the PS1 community celebrates the graduation of our oldest students. Commencement exercises begin with Joel honoring all graduates (and families) by acknowledging their influences and contributions to the PS1 community. Perhaps the most affirming of all is listening to the graduates as they stand up one by one, in front of peers, teachers, parents, and the larger community to give a speech about what PS1 means to them. It is a rite of passage at PS1—perhaps one of our most treasured traditions—that exemplifies students’ sense of empowerment and comfort in their own skin, and vividly illustrates the images students have of their best selves. To read the Grads’ speeches, please visit the PS1 Portal.
2013 Grad Leaf Quote:
“A day without laughter is a day wasted.” – Charlie Chaplin 2
ions Old and New
The Best Way to Fit In is to Be Yourself Moving Up Day takes place the day following Graduation. Teachers highlight each and every student by recognizing his or her attributes and personal growth; using words that the students’ classmates have written about them. There are two parts to the ceremony. In the first part, students are honored individually on each side of the campus. In the second part, we gather as ONE school to hear songs from every cluster and celebrate the culmination of the school year. This tradition embodies pluralism in action by bringing together our entire community to celebrate the uniqueness of every child.
Moving Up Day 3
Make New Friends Day
“ Today is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be again.” –Eleanor Roosevelt
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Each September, anticipation abounds as families wait outside the PS1 gates on Euclid. As bubbles fill the air, Joel’s countdown begins and finally the gates open! Students and families sprint into the Euclid yard, greeted by old friends and beloved teachers. The energy and excitement is palpable, bountiful, and contagious. A new year begins.
First Day!
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Teachers were asked the question, “What are the qualities of a Pluralistic School teacher?� See their responses below!
Pluralistic C
A Pluralistic School Teacher‌
asks questions. plans fresh, real-life experiences to foster a love of learning.
balances the needs of each child with the whole classroom community.
is impacted by his or her students as much as having an impact on them.
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appreciates the complexity of teaching and learning with ever-changing individuals.
brings his unique lens and set of skills to his teaching practice.
uses a variety of strategies to meet needs of different learners.
sees children as unique individuals with unique learning styles.
is creative.
teaches to the strengths of her students.
Connections 1 respects each child.
This year’s editions of Periscope explore Pluralism in action. For this first issue, we focus on the sensemakers at PS1—the teachers and specialists who bring the school’s philosophy and vision to life. Later in the year we will learn more about pluralism through the lens of the students and alumni, and then through the curriculum and program.
continues to learn and grow in her own practice, changing and experimenting along the way.
partners with parents and colleagues.
creates an interactive learning environment.
is a steward of the school and greater community.
values the individual strengths and areas of growth in each child.
honors and cherishes everyone.
models risk-taking as a way to work on stretches.
listens to her students.
is openminded, and grounded in ideas of best practices.
embraces a wide range of teaching models.
is flexible, dynamic, and adaptable. helps students feel equal and value others.
looks for many solutions to a problem and thinks outside the box.
is continually reflective and seeks growth in her practice.
creates safe, nurturing learning environments.
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Summer Professional Development Highlights Each summer (and throughout the year) the faculty embarks on a journey of exploration, sharpening teaching skills through professional development. The faculty culture at PS1 is enriched by this continual growth and desire to learn. Faculty and staff learn from one another through the process of sharing information and experiences, and in turn develop both personally and professionally. PS1 teachers are devoted to making a difference in the lives of their students and helping students discover their passions. PS1 teachers nurture the inner genius in every child and set them on a path of lifelong learning. Similarly, PS1 teachers are encouraged to share their passions and expertise within our learning community and beyond.
Pluralistic Conne Jennine Rodriguez
Pedro Ortega
Kirstina Collins
I was delighted to return to my hometown this past August to attend the Columbia University Teachers College Reading and Writing project for the 4th time. My focus this summer was on upper elementary grades. One overarching theme I took away with me was that “oral language is the foundation of all literacy learning.” Spoken by Marie Clay, world-renowned literacy expert, it means we need to have conversations, take time away from our text messages and our computer screens and continue the oral tradition of language in order to strengthen our reading and writing. Another important theme is that we don’t teach reading, we teach readers. We teach our students to live reading lives, to be independent and to read for a variety of reasons. Transferring what we know into real-world situations and contributing to the world as informed and responsible citizens is what learning is really all about (also the basis of John Dewey’s tenets of progressive education).
I attended the beautiful Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Physical Education Conference this summer. This was my 8th year attending this conference. It was an adventure wrapped with action, learning, and breathtaking sights. The conference provides a fantastic opportunity to learn and become better as an educator. It is designed for physical education teachers at the elementary and secondary level who are interested in learning and sharing new ideas when it comes to program and curriculum. The conference provides a creative outlet for teachers to share their craft with others wishing to grow as educators.
I spent a week at a Responsive Classroom workshop held at the Westside Neighborhood School in Playa Vista this summer. The workshop highlighted age-appropriate teaching techniques and methods for creating a learning environment of “belonging, significance, and fun.” I look forward to infusing new ideas into my work with PS1 students this year. I had a great time at the workshop and especially enjoyed sharing the experience with my mother Marilyn, also a teacher, who came down from Washington State for the workshop.
“I believe that education is the fundamental method of social progress and reform.” – John Dewey, 1897
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Here are just a few key points: 1. Even our earliest writers can begin to build a foundation for persuasive writing. It makes sense, when you consider how persuasive the average five-year-old is!
Jayme Pohl This summer, I had the privilege to attend the June Institutes on the Teaching of Writing and Reading at Columbia University Teachers College in New York. The Teachers College Reading and Writing Project has been around for more than thirty years working in schools to research, uncover and implement best practices for literacy instruction. Over the course of my two weeks, I was immersed in the latest teaching techniques and approaches to teaching through Reading and Writing Workshop.
2. Science Writing can be taught during writing workshop in order to give our budding scientists the tools they need to process their big questions and to communicate their big ideas with the world. 3. In Reading Workshop, we can “read like writers” by considering the author’s intent (both in illustrations and words) and by thinking carefully about the choices that authors make and why. 4. Educators around the world are sharing ideas via Twitter. At the institute this year, The Teachers College Reading and Writing Project challenged us all to join the community of educators who are innovating by sharing ideas via Twitter chats and feeds. I discovered that, what I thought was simply social media, is actually a wonderful (and endless) resource for teacher collaboration and professional development.
Each day, we heard from a different keynote speaker including Lucy Calkins (Director of Columbia Teachers College Reading and Writing Project); authors Christopher Paul Curtis, Tony Wagner, Kathy Collins, Kylene Beers, and David Adler; and Poet Laureate, Billy Collins. I had the chance to work in depth with two renowned authors and educators — Carl Anderson, on the art of conferring with young writers, and Kathy Collins, on reading instruction for first graders. I am filled to overflowing with new teaching tools, innovative ideas and just ways to be a more effective educator. Another aspect of the institute is the opportunity to connect with educators from across the country. I shared ideas with teachers from New Jersey, San Jose, Sacramento, Florida and Texas. I collaborated with teachers from urban public schools and rural private schools. I created lesson plans with teachers just entering the field and with teachers who had been practicing for more than twenty years. I am grateful to PS1 for supporting me to continue to develop my teaching practice!
ections Holly Frazier Just after school let out for the summer, I hopped on a plane and headed to UC Berkeley so that I could flip my role from teacher to student. For six days I lived in student housing on the Clark Kerr Campus and attended The Greater Good Science Center’s summer institute for educators. After morning sunrise hikes, yoga or coffee walks, I spent the day attending interactive workshops and discussions that fostered an in-depth exploration and practice of mindfulness, self-compassion, empathy, gratitude, achieving and maintaining positive emotions, emotional literacy, and emotional balance. Lectures were given by scientists and researchers at the top of their field, and the educator participants from around the world provided perspectives from a range of backgrounds. It was powerful to not only learn about but also experience the impact that a mindful practice can make in the classroom and in daily life. This was by far the best professional development I have ever attended!
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The PS1 Alumni Association
AlumniCorner
Alumni Corner
We try to include as many Alumni updates as space allows. If you were not included in this column, and you sent us an update, please look for your feature in an upcoming issue. We love hearing your news!
Nicole Haskins, 1992–1999 Nicole came to tour our new campus this summer and reports that she is moving from Washington, DC, where she was a dancer in The Washington Ballet, to San Francisco to dance with Smuin Ballet. She was with Sacramento Ballet Company for six years, and has also danced with Kansas City Ballet and Ballet Montana. Hallie Hobson, 1980–1983 Hallie, who has been with the Museum of Modern Art in New York for many years, will move uptown in the fall to become Deputy Chief Development Officer for Individual Giving at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Catch her reading her exuberant poetry at Mike Geffner Presents the Inspired Word: http://www. youtube.com/watch?v=GOT3xaJrRXw Halle Jacobs, 2004–2010 Halle was awarded the 2013 Arrow Award at Archer School for Girls. The Arrow Award is presented each year to the student “who best exemplifies the qualities of honesty, respect, and responsibility.” In describing Halle, her teachers expressed, “When students look to find a partner in class, they no doubt look in her direction first. She is compassionate, supportive of all classmates, a quiet leader and role model… guiding her peers by example and always going above and beyond on big projects and simple daily assignments. She is a peacemaker and a friend of many—crossing boundaries of friend groups and never stingy with encouraging words for all of her classmates.” Way to go, Halle! 10
(l to r) Amanda Ehrlich, Ryan Browne, Alexi Glickman, Joel, Zachary Ehrlich, Ellie
Jacob Ehrlich
“ PS1 was truly an amazing experience for me and one that helped foster both creative and analytical thinking. It taught me to problem solve and emphasized the importance of being able to work well with others—things that have been invaluable for me in the process of film making and life in general.” –Jacob Ehrlich
Alexi Glickman, 1986–1993 Alexi finds himself living and teaching music in Mill Valley this year. He teaches 35 students drums, ukulele, guitar, bass and piano and loves his work. When Joel and Ellie joined him, Ryan Browne, and Zack and Amanda Erlich in San Francisco this summer, he explained how he got started: “I was producing a record for Little Wings at guitarist Brett Simundson’s home in Muir Beach. His housemate Will Hutchinson had a little Surf Shop in Mill Valley called Proof Lab. We’d all hang out after sessions to fantasize about expanding the shop to include more of the stuff we loved beyond surfing. Shortly thereafter Brett & Will managed to lease two more buildings on the same lot, and six months later Proof Lab had a surf & skate shop, outdoor apparel store, indoor skate ramp, native plant nursery, ceramics studio, coffee shop, and music school. It wasn’t long until the swarm of Mill Valley youngsters descended on Proof Lab after school to spend the evening skating and learning songs on guitar, bass, piano, drums, and ukulele. Brett and I were so busy last year that we’re opening a second room and are taking on a third teacher. In short it’s been fantastic!” Zack Ehrlich is practicing financial management in the Bay Area and he, Ryan, and Alexi still play professionally together as they have for years in San Francisco, LA, and now, all over the West. Jacob Ehrlich, 1982-1988 After studying film making in San Francisco,
Jake recently moved back to Los Angeles where he has been writing and directing short films and media content with his small production company. His 22-minute film “The Blessing” premiered at last year’s LA Shorts Fest, won the award for “Best Comedy Short” at Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival, and most recently played at the Newport Beach Film Festival. It is now available through IndieFlix. Jake is currently developing a feature length script based on the short. Phil Starr, former member of the Board of Directors and alumni parent of Jim (1985–1992) and Nick (1983–1990), announced the birth of Jim’s second child on May 28: “Delighted to announce my grandson Joe Antonio Starr was born last night at 8:53 p.m. Vitals are 7 pounds, 6 ounces, 20 1/2 inches. Mom and baby are doing fine.” Reanna, 2003–2010, and James Wauer, 1999–2007 Reanna Wauer, sophomore at Archer, won Broadway Gym’s “Leadership Award” this year, which goes to only one gymnast in their program per year. Reanna had surgery this summer for a damaged leg ligament. It will take several months of healing and rehab before she gets back to the gymnastics floor, but a full recovery is expected. Her brother, James Wauer, enters University of Chicago this fall. About his choice, he said, “I chose University of Chicago for its strong intellectual culture and its core curriculum encouraging academic exploration.”
Halle Jacobs and family
James Wauer
Jim Starrr, 1992
Reanna Wauer
Joe Antonio Starr
Joel with Nick Starr on Moving Up Day 1988
Nicole Haskins
Congratulations! Congratulations to our recent grads—the PS1 Class of 2013—and to the PS1 Class of 2007, who graduated from high school this past spring. Here is a list of middle schools and colleges these graduates are attending. We wish them all well in their new schools and look forward to hearing about their new adventures!
PS1 Class of 2013:
PS1 Class of 2007
Farid Adibi > Mirman Lila Avendaño-Dreyfuss > Palms Gifted Magnet Jimmy Beck > Crossroads Sage Brand-Wolf > Archer Poppy Caris > Ocean Charter Lucas Dante > New Roads Luca Ferrario > Crossroads Lily Gabriel > Windward Griffin Gamble > Palms Magnet Kindyl Henley > Archer Phoebe Katims > Crossroads Zachary Leete > Windward Isabella Leeves Coben > Viewpoint Auden McCaw > Windward Maxim Miller > Windward Violet Murray > Crossroads Katie Raphaelson > Brentwood Ruby Riess > Brentwood Alexa Robbins > New Roads Chloe Rosenstock > Brentwood Zoe Royo > Crossroads Danny Seplow > Harvard-Westlake Frank Samuel > Environmental Charter Jack Tobey > Brentwood Melina Waldman > Brentwood Alec Watts > Harvard-Westlake Gus Wortman > Paul Revere Charter
Emma Brown > Lincoln Middle > Samo High > Alexander Dawson School (CO) > Front Range Community College (CO) Elijah Cuffee > Windward > Grand View University Leslie Dinkin > Harvard-Westlake > Colorado College Robin Dinkin > Crossroads > University of Wisconsin Jonah Eatman > Crossroads > Boston University Savannah Ennis > Windward > Northeastern University Benny Fillo > Crossroads > University of Southern California Rylan Griggs > Palms Middle > Venice High > Phoenix High > Santa Monica College Jocelyn Hansson > Windward > Reed College Fiona Hayman > Paul Revere Middle > Pali High > UC Santa Barbara Emma Laurent > Windward > St. Andrews Celeste Marvin-Strong > Archer > Los Angeles School of the Performing Arts > UC Santa Cruz Madison Moss > Willows > Westmark > Curry College Morgan Pantuck > Crossroads > University of Chicago Gabbie Reade > Brentwood > Barnard College Jack Schwartzman > Wildwood > Santa Monica High > Santa Barbara City College, transferring to UCLA Jordan Solomon > Crossroads > Elon University Madeline Stedman > Wildwood > New York University James Wauer > Harvard-Westlake > University of Chicago When this issue went to print we hadn’t heard news of the following students’ college plans. We look forward to providing an update in the next issue. Austin Estwick > Harvard-Westlake > Ariel Fenster > Crossroads > Todahtiyah Forbes > Culver City Middle > 11
Mel Suhd
We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mel Suhd on August 2nd. Please read on for Joel’s letter to the PS1 Board of Directors in honor of Mel: Mel Suhd
I am writing to tell you all that the Founder of Educational Pluralism, if you will, died on Friday. He was 88 years young. Mel Suhd and a few other graduate students at UCLA wrote a paper on educational pluralism. Mel ran an educational workshop in Jackson, Michigan that I attended in 1969. It was my first exposure to being an educator. At the end of the summer workshop, I moved out to Southern California following Mel and his promise of a job and a Master’s degree. He delivered on both. For the next two years, while I was teaching elsewhere, Mel worked with a group of Westside parents interested in progressive education. Ellie headed the parents group. When it came time to start a school, Mel assured them that he had just the right guy to spearhead the project - committed, passionate, enthusiastic, and too young to realize how hard it would be to start a school on the Westside of L.A. with no resources and no contacts. He introduced me to Ellie and the rest, as they say, is history. Thus PS1 was born. An indomitable spirit, a man committed to trying the impossible and achieving it in many different areas throughout his life, an inspiration and mentor to many, and a person whose generative ideas and positive outlook made him the youngest one in any room he inhabited, Mel moved on to start several university-withoutwalls programs and various institutes in many different fields. Many of you may have seen him at our 40th Anniversary celebration. Indisputably, there would not have been a PS1 were it not for Mel Suhd. And I probably would have become the lawyer my father always wished me to be. I am sending this note to three different iterations of our Board of Directors, this year’s and the ones from 2007-08 and 2001-02, hoping that I am catching just about every PS1 Trustee over the past ten plus years. Mel was that special. I hope you are all well. I send you my best. –Joel
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2012–13 Report on Philanthropy at PS1 Why We Give‌ Steve and I believe that there is no better way to raise the consciousness of our world than through education. Imagine our delight to discover PS1. We know that our grandsons, Ian and Elio, are in great hands as they continue their educational journey towards being responsible, enlightened citizens of our somewhat chaotic planet. Steve and Billie Fischer Grandparents to Ian and Elio
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Message from our Board Chair
At one of our dinners we held last Spring, a parent said to Joel, “After all that has been accomplished over the past forty years… what’s next?” “What’s Next” is actually the ideal way to summarize the goals of the Board Of Trustees. We are charged with ensuring that PS1 has as bright of a future as it has had in the past 40-plus years. Last year we took giant steps forward toward securing our future: We retooled our mission statement and introduced new •vision and philosophy statements that re-emphasize our intention to be the leader in pluralistic elementary education. created a new strategic plan that will ultimately provide •theWe best educational experience within the classroom. It is because of this strategic plan that we received a full six year term of accreditation from the CAIS Elementary Board of Standards. We continued to push forward on the last stages of our •Capital Campaign which funds the new unified campus that we all now enjoy. Additionally we saw over 99% participation for our Annual Giving campaign — a tradition we are so proud of and which makes our 100% goal a realistic target. And so with that behind us… it still begs the question… “What is Next?” will continue to stress the importance to parents, teach•ers,We administration and, of course, the children of playing an integral role in our community. The most tangible and satisfying way of taking a meaningful role is contributing to this community – whether that be in the form of your time, expertise or a financial contribution. It is so critical because it really allows us to provide for “What’s Next” — not just for today but for years to come. Throughout this upcoming school year you will have opportunities to participate at different board, school, and parent guild sponsored events. We will tackle bigger strategic issues as well as immediate •project-related issues, such as succession planning and the parking situation at school.
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We will broaden our outreach in the larger educational community so that PS1 is seen as a leader in pluralistic elementary education. This will help us in terms of recruitment of faculty and staff as well as getting the word out to secondary schools on how special our student body is. As the anticipation of the new school year fills our house, I am personally grateful that we get to be a part of this educational oasis. I am truly optimistic that “What’s Next” will be worth all our hard work. I would ask that during the school year please feel free to come and tell me “What’s Next…” — as always I welcome your feedback. Lastly, I would like to welcome our newest Trustees who will join me on this year’s journey: Gareth Asten, Lizzie Murray, Darren Peers and James Vincent. I look forward to seeing everyone at school. Matt Schwab, father of Jordan and Zachary
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The Board Committees at PS1 are vital to the health of our institution. Chaired by Board members, we have many talented volunteers who bring their expertise to enrich and strengthen our community.
Administration and Finance Afshin Ghodsi, Chair Andrew Watts Bob Eatman Damien McCann Eric Reid Gareth Asten Darren Peers Glenn Rosen Jeff Reyna Joel Pelcyger Josh Perttula Kevin Crombie KristieAnne Reed Maggie Rosenfeld Matt Schwab Richard Steets Steve Trilling Building and Grounds Aaron Sevier Abbie Perttula Afshin Ghodsi Billy Rose Brad Shimada Edward Rogers Jeffrey Reyna Joel Pelcyger John Betz Josh Perttula Maggie Rosenfeld Mike Tatum, Chair Mindy Staley Pandro Sokolow Fundraising Committee Tina Andrews Rachel Bank Katrina Christensen Deirdre Gainor Anna Tran Reyna Hilary Rosen Pamela Schwab Maria Smith Kerri Speck, Chair Danielle Stokdyk Communications and Marketing Committee Amanda Perla Cindy Fitzgerald Deirdre Gainor Glenn Rosen, Chair Jamie Court James Vincent Meredith Blake Priya Nambiar Rachel Bruno
Standards & Search Anna Tran Reyna Joanne Van Emburgh Joel Pelcyger Maggie Rosenfeld Matt Schwab, Chair Strategic Vision Committee Abbie Perttula Alex Boudov Alexa Fischer Ben Madley Beverly Chang Damien McCann Deirdre Gainor Devon McNairy Gareth Asten Glenn Rosen Greg Walker Gus Koven Heidi Roberts Holly Frazier Holly Swope James Vincent Jeanette Rahill Jeff Reyna Jennine Rodriguez Joel Pelcyger John Waldman Jyoti Puvvula Kevin Newman Larry Jenkins Len Goldstein Marcie Greene Mark Emtiaz, Chair Mark Hyatt Marwan Al-Sayed Melissa Painter Michael Seplow Nancy Goglia Nathan Goldberg, Co-Chair Nayla Ammar Paul Marks Phil Leslie Priya Nambiar Richard Gabriel Rob Greenberg Shannon Brier Victor Santana
Being a good Board member takes ability, generosity, dedication, commitment, time, effort, and selfless giving. It takes something more as well. It takes perspective, stepping back and thinking about what is best in the long term for the institution, not just for the time that you and your family are enrolled. 2012–13 PS1 Board Members Rachel Bank Jeff Dinkin, Chair Emeritus Mark Emtiaz Afshin Ghodsi Nathan Goldberg
We said good-bye this June to three extraordinary Board Members…
Joel Pelcyger, Head of School Abbie Perttula Anna Tran Reyna, Board Vice Chair Glenn Rosen Maggie Rosenfeld, Director of Finance & Operation Joyce Sachs Matt Schwab, Board Chair Maria Smith Kerri Speck Mike Tatum
Joanne Van Emburgh spent seven years on the Board and for five of those years she was Board Chair. Her tenure as Board Chair extended three years beyond her daughter Emily’s PS1 Graduation.
Nathan Goldberg spent eight years on PS1’s Board, solving legal issues and spearheading our Strategic Vision Committee, Nathan also worked for PS1 long after his son, Brendan, graduated.
Bruce Tobey served for nine years on the PS1 Board, revolutionizing our Annual Giving Campaign and bringing his expertise and keen mind to every board meeting.
Bruce Tobey Joanne Van Emburgh
Our sadness at their departure is only mitigated by the amazing new members who are joining the Board this year…
Gareth Asten is the Chief Financial Officer of ValleyCrest Companies, a privately held commercial landscape design, construction and maintenance company. Gareth and his wife, Michelle, have two children attending PS1: Claire (8) and Gavin (5). Gareth is active on the Administration & Finance Committee and has participated on the Strategic Vision Committee. When he isn’t relishing time with his family, you can find him competing in marathons.
Lizzie Murray grew up in northern California and graduated from Northwestern University in Chicago before moving to L.A. where she worked mainly as a voice-over actress. She and her husband, John, have son Calvin, (9) and daughter Violet (12), a 2013 graduate of PS1. Lizzie’s been the PS1 Auction Co-Chair and a room parent. She currently chairs the spirit committee and serves as a parent admissions ambassador.
Darren Peers is an energy analyst and portfolio manager at NWQ Investments in Century City. Darren holds an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College as well as a BA in economics from Dartmouth. He is a former collegiate hockey player and an avid skier. Darren and his wife, Kelly, have two children attending PS1: Wyatt (8) and Chase (5). Darren is a member of the Finance Committee.
James Vincent is the coFounder and President of Media Arts Lab, an advertising agency dedicated to Apple. Originally from the UK, he’s a graduate of the London School of Economics and lived and worked in New York before moving to Los Angeles in 2000. He lives in Venice with his wife Marie, an art director, and their two children: Leo (7), a current PS1 student, and Manon (4). He has played an active role in Strategic Vision Committee.
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Richard Nielsen and Toni Spencer Robert S. Pelcyger and Joan C. Lieberman Scott Packer & Loren Kaplan Abbie and Howard Perttula Chris Riess and Amy Hill John Roesler and Kristen Melnyk Edward and Johanna Rogers Billy and Amy Rose Andrew Rosenfeld Whitney Sander and Catherine Hollis Ron and Camilla Schur Brent and Abbe Shapiro Jon and Maggie Sherman Bria and Evan Silbert Andy and Diane Solomon Jeff and Kim Tinsley Lorena Tong Peter and Emily Yu Ralph Ziman and Maria Greenshields-Ziman
Our Deepest Thanks to Everyone Who Has Joined Us!
Why We Give… In the course of my work, I ran across a quote from Thomas Jefferson: “An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people.” I’ve thought of those words often as we’ve all watched the technological sea change underway, this explosion of how we now receive information: smaller and smaller sound bites, twitter feeds, major news events and commentaries reduced to something we can glance at on a cellphone. I suspect that’s not what Jefferson had in mind when he talked about “education.” We give to PS1 because we want to directly invest in our boys’ education. But it’s more than that. It is vital for the health of our country and the functioning of our democracy that deep learning and critical thinking is not only encouraged, but takes root as a necessity. You can’t be a smart voter if you aren’t informed. You can’t engage in innovation if you haven’t learned to think beyond a sound bite or a standardized test. We believe PS1 provides this kind of education — challenging, comprehensive, committed to the idea that deep thinking is essential and necessary. And while it’s important for our boys to benefit specifically, it is equally, if not more important, that the many, many children that follow benefit from it as well. Investing in PS1 is investing in the future, all of our futures, for many generations to come. Greg Walker and Michelle Ashford Parents of Sam and Ben
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Finance
Income Endowment 4.2% Fundraising 9.6%
The Board of Directors set several financial goals for the 2012–13 fiscal year:
Tuition and Fees 86%
• Control tuition costs • Support compensation and benefits for faculty and staff • Support our strong financial aid program The budget that was passed by the board for the 2012–13 year met all of these goals. The CAIS re-accreditation report and commendations for our strong financial position validated the strength of the school’s fiscal management and its ability to meet these goals, as well as fund the school’s day-to-day operations. This year, PS1’s operating budget was $6.1 million. Operating income is generated through tuition and fees, the PS1 Annual Fund, PS1 Parents Guild fundraising activities, and a small portion of endowment income. All of this support expressed by the effort and generosity of our families ensures that our children’s education reflects the pluralistic mission of PS1. On the expense side, salaries and benefits continue to be the main operating expense — reflecting the school’s commitment to attracting, retaining and supporting an extraordinary faculty and staff. The other major components of our expenses are program expenses, financial aid and facilities. The Board of Directors, through its Administration and Finance Committee, also oversees the management of the school’s endowment. The long-term growth of the principal provides an enviable financial security for decades to come. The completion of our campus did not come from our operating monies. We funded all of our new buildings and facilities through generous donations and monies designated for capital improvements over the years. We did not have to borrow money from any outside source. As we start our second year with the completed campus, all members of the PS1 community should be proud of our achievements and recognize that our success has been possible, in part, because of the prudent financial management of the school.
Expenses Facilities 16.9% Program 8.5% Financial Aid 13.2% Salaries and Benefits 61.4%
As of June 30, 2013
Grad Gift Auction Party Book Book Fair Scrip Itty Bitty Art Sale MiniMall TOTAL Annual Giving: AG-General Library Donations TOTAL NET RAISED 18
$1,993.45 1 39,208. 1 9 25,434.95 7,083.83 3,260.4 1 6,794.70 579.78 $1 84,355.3 1 423, 1 1 0 . 1 7 1 ,022.44 $608,487.92
Advancement
A note of thanks from our Board Advancement Committee Chair Kerri Speck
As I review the draft of this “Report on Philanthropy at PS1” I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude. It is an amazing feeling to be part of a community where everyone is so generous. From the enthusiastic support for the Annual Giving Fund to the number of volunteers who serve on the various Parent Guild committees — PS1 is a place where people are eager to give! Members of our PS1 community are extraordinarily generous with their time. At any given moment there is a PS1 family member volunteering to make our school a better place for the students who fill the classrooms. They are shelving books in the library; making meals for families facing an unexpected crisis; creating educational and developmental activities for the Fall Festival. There are many, many other ways that people have contributed their time. Thank you! Your efforts serve not only to help advance the education of our children, but also to serve as an inspirational example of the importance of contributing back to an organization from which our children receive so much. In addition to time, members of our community also share other resources. PS1 asked families and friends to come together to help support the Capital Campaign, “One Campus, One Community,” and you have responded enthusiastically: we are dollars away from closing the ambitious $6 million dollar campaign. The money raised from this campaign has created a campus in which the physical space is now fully in concert with the overriding philosophy of PS1. You have also supported the Annual Fund. In total we raised $423,000, with whole-hearted support from all groups involved with PS1 – parents, grandparents, alumni, staff, administration and friends. This is an impressive showing for such a small elementary school! The Annual Fund is a critical piece of our fund-raising efforts, with money raised going directly to current programs, thereby ensuring that today’s students will enjoy a truly unique educational and social experience. In addition to these major fundraising efforts, you have helped support the auction and the Fund A Need efforts. Now our students have a beautiful garden space in which to enjoy nature, conduct science experiments, and create art. It is another magnificent physical manifestation of your passion for our school. As a member of the Board of Trustees and as Chair of the Advancement Committee, I would like to thank each and every person listed in this Report for all you have given to PS1. You each have made a difference, and as a result the students of today AND tomorrow will continue to benefit from this wonderful experience.
Why We Give… I give because I believe in the mission of PS1 and its philosophy of pluralism. As one who benefits from the warmth and inclusivity of this community I am inspired to give wholeheartedly. Billy Huynh Teacher in the Bridge Cluster
Kerri Speck, mother of Maggie Marks and two future PS1 students, Esme and Severin
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Party Book
Planning and Hosting a PS1 Party Book Party is a great way to give to your school and enjoy a fabulous evening or day with friends. These families hosted intriguing, funny, educational, adventure filled parties. We thank them for their imagination and their generosity!
Why We Give…
Party Book Hosts Carol and Robin Acutt Michelle Ashford and Greg Walker (2) Stephanie Barish and Scott Chamberlin Laura Berland-Shane and Reid Shane Tessa Blake and Ian Williams Cindy and Alex Boudov Christine and Kevin Crombie Maria and Stefano De Lorenzo Sahaja and Bill Douglass (2) Karen Dreyfuss Caskey and Mick Ebeling Elizabeth Freitas and Mark Emtiaz Ann Gentry and Rob Jacobs Carrie and Roderick Henley (2) Emma Hewitt & Jason Isaacs Beth Holden and Gary Garland Jennifer Howard and Robert Schwentke Loren Kaplan and Scott Packer Kathy and Jason Katims (2) Christine and Andy Kao Stephanie and Gus Koven Lori and Scott Lahman Jane Leeves and Marshall Coben Daphne and Devon McNairy
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Laura and Chris Miller Lizzie and John Murray (2) Christina Musrey and Mac McGary Priya and Sanjay Nambiar Heather and David Nevell Kelly and Darren Peers Kimberly and Josh Perttula KristieAnne Reed and Len Goldstein Johanna and Ed Rogers Amy and Billy Rose (2) Wendi and Harvey Rosenstock Rae Sanchini and Bruce Tobey (2) Susie Schroer and Mark Stratton (2) Camilla and Ron Schur Laurie and Michael Seplow (2) Maggie and Jon Sherman (2) Diane and Andy Soloman (2) Kerri Speck and Paul Marks Jennifer and Richard Steets (2) Mike and Jenny Tatum Cindy and George Teitelbaum Tracy and Chris Tragos Amber Valletta and Christian McCaw Peri and Christian Vincent Jane Wang and Chris Beck (3) Amy Weimer and Kevin Newman
“ Nothing that you have not given away will ever be really yours.”
C. S. Lewis
Although, we try not to use double negatives like the quote above, it is completely the way we feel about giving in our lives. When our school is a place that we can GIVE to and PARTICIPATE in, it gives us direct impact on our child’s education and especially in teaching our children true altruism. When our children see us give, that is a lesson that can’t be taught. Philip and Rachel Bruno Parents of Skutr and Meyer
Parents Guild
Executive Board 2012–13
Parents Guild Committee Chairs
Cindy Boudov
Auction Mary Williams Cara Kleinhaut
Evelyn Cazun Scott Chamberlin Alefiya Hussain Loren Kaplan Rae Sanchini Maricela Santana Rochelle Siegel Diane Solomon, Coordinator Cathy Watts
Back to School Picnic Maria De Lorenzo Rene Gonera Book Fair Loren Kaplan Christine Kao Community Service Gaby Greenberg Susan Hoffman Hyman Laurie Seplow Fall Festival Jean Kaneko Amber Valletta Fathers’ Breakfast Sunu Gonera Michael Seplow Mike Tatum
First Day Coffee Cindy Boudov Rae Sanchini Hot Lunch Daphne McNairy Devon McNairy Itty Bitty Art Sale Elizabeth Freitas Megan Kissinger Library Lauri Leete Lily Ng New Parent Coffees Scott Chamberlin Christine Jenkins One From the Heart Cindy Fitzgerald Kerri Speck Parent Pop Kathy Katims
Party Book Maria DeLorenzo Sahaja Douglass Maggie Sherman Room Parents Cindy Fitzgerald School Spirit Emily Ann Lizzie Murray Scrip Lori Lahman Neda Nikkhoo Staff Appreciation Day Cindy Boudov Kimberly Perttula Staff Assistance Christine Jenkins Yearbook Rochelle Siegel Scott Chamberlin Jeanette Rahill
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Faculty and Staff Pluralism includes a commitment to the growth and development of all members of our community. Below is a listing of our Faculty and Staff Professional Growth. Advanced Education and Institutes
Faculty and Staff Professional Development
September 2012 through August 2013
Workshops, events and programs
Alia Arbas Masters Degree in Education (with specialty in Literacy) Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Best Friends, Worst Enemies by Michael Thompson Billy Huynh Jen Lui Jayme Pohl
Kirstina Collins Responsive Classroom Northeast Foundation for Children, Inc.
CAIS Head/Trustee Conference Deirdre Gainor Joel Pelcyger Maggie Rosenfeld Amanda Perla Circuits Galore by The Exploratory Jen Lui Gina Rocca
Holly Frazier LiAnne Hall Critical Thinking Institute (K-8) UCLA Lab School Holly Frazier Greater Good Summer Institute for Educators UC Berkeley Deirdre Gainor Annual Fund Boot Camp Fountain Valley School of Colorado Pedro Ortega Elementary Physical Education Workshop California Polytechnic State University Amanda Perla Cheney & Company’s “Aim High” Conference for Independent School Communicators New Haven, CT
Container Gardening by Emi Carvell Nancy Goglia Educators Tour at Park Century Kristin Tone Electricity by The Exploratory Lucia Alcantara-Chibane Shannon Brier Jen Lui Jayme Pohl Gina Rocca Traci Saruwatari Kristin Tone First Aid Training All PS1 employees including Faculty, Admin, After Care and Facilities
Jayme Pohl Shannon Brown Teachers College Writing Institute Columbia University
Gender and Digital Life by Common Sense Media Brad Gilbert
Jayme Pohl Jennine Rodriguez Teachers College Reading Institute Columbia University
Inquiry Based Learning at UCLA Lab School Lucia Alcantara- Chibane Jen Lui iPad Exploration Julian Evjen Nancy Goglia Billy Huynh Chris Kuzina Abbie Perttula ISBOA – The Independent School Business Officers’ Association Conference Maggie Rosenfeld The Latest in Brain Research and How it Informs Teaching, Learning and Parenting by Joann Deak Alia Arbas Billy Huynh Jen Lui Joel Pelcyger Abbie Perttula Kristin Tone Never Too Young Engaging Elementary Age Social Activism Jennine Rodriguez
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The Science of the Meaning of Life by Bay Area Teacher Development Collaborative Billy Huynh Shared Inquiry Instruction by Great Books Foundation Shannon Brier Holly Frazier Kristin Tone Show and Grow by Educators Consortium of Service Learning Alia Arbas Nancy Goglia SoCal POCIS Professional Development Day featuring Angela Davis, Tim Wise, and Steven Jones Alia Arbas Kit Dreyfuss LiAnne Hall Bonnie Koo Kitaka Mixon Joel Pelcyger Traci Saruwatari Holly Swope John Waldman Solar In-service by Matt Henigan, City of Santa Monica Office of Sustainability and the Environment, and Stuart Cooley, Professor of Renewable Energies, SMC ALL PS1 Faculty, Julian Evjen, Nancy Goglia, Joel Pelcyger, Ellie Pelcyger Sun, Planets and Rockets by The Exploratory Lucia Alcantara-Chibane Bonnie Koo Jen Lui Kitaka Mixon Jayme Pohl Traci Saruwatari Teaching and Learning at Home and at School by the Center for the Future of Elementary Education Deirdre Gainor LiAnne Hall Joel Pelcyger Amanda Perla Abbie Perttula Gina Rocca Jennine Rodriguez Kristin Tone Zoobiquity, the Science of Healing by the Friends of the Semel Institute Alia Arbas Louise Everett
The faculty, staff, and administration at PS1 pursue a commitment to lifelong learning.
Please Support the School with Your Contribution to the 2013–14 PS1 Pluralistic School Annual Fund
Why We Give‌ We make sure to always set aside something to give back and will do so until forever. It is not easy to voice articulately the profound sense of gratitude we feel about how we have grown as a family with PS1 to support us through it all. Jeffrey and Maria Wauer Parents of James, Class of 2007 and Reanna, Class of 2010
MISSION STATEMENT: PS1 is a diverse community committed to an ever-evolving model of pluralistic elementary education. On a path to self-knowledge, students engage and become the best versions of themselves. They develop critical academic and interpersonal skills to be confident and passionate contributors to an increasingly connected world.
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1225 Broadway Santa Monica CA 90404
Save The Date! October
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PS1 Welcomes New Faculty and Staff:
Admissions Tour
4 11
Pajama Story Time Progressive Education Conference No School
18
Grad/Alumni Party
24
Admissions Tour
25
Book Fair Opens
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Fall Festival
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Halloween
November
7
Admissions Tour
8
Pajama Story Time
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Fathers’ Breakfast
14
Life After PS1
21
Admissions Tour
27
Thanksgiving Circle
28–29
December
5
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23–January 5
January
6
Shannon Brown Youngers Teacher
Judy Fukasawa Bridge Teacher
Thanksgiving Holiday
Admissions Tour Holiday Performance
Benita Griffin Teaching & Learning Coordinator
Winter Holiday
School Resumes
Jessica Hudson Aftercare Assistant
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Kitaka Mixon Bridge Teacher