2015 Fall Periscope

PLURALISTIC SCHOOL ONE

2014–15 Report on Philanthropy

Fall 2015

In This Issue: PAGE 1

Head’s Column PAGES 2–5

Traditions Old and New PAGE 6 – 8

Pluralistic Connections PAGES 9 –12

2015 Graduates PAGE 13

2014–15 Report on Philanthropy BACK COVER

New Faculty and Staff Notable Numbers Curt!

The Periscope Volume 25, Number 3

Welcome Back!

Editors: Amanda Perla Deirdre Gainor Designer: David Mellen Design PS1 Pluralistic School 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

Head's Column

Why? On Pluralism and Education Reform

I asked for some favorite WHY questions that members of my staff could remember from their own children or students. Here are some of the ones I received:

• Why when you’re sad does water come out of your eyes?

• Can a person believe in science and God? • Why do people smoke when they know that it gives you cancer?

• Do colors look the same to you as they do to me? And why

can’t we smell colors?

• Why would anyone want to hurt animals?

• Do you think that brains have evolved to allow kids to look at

video games longer?

• Why do we have summer break because I want school to be all year?

You’ll have your own favorite WHY questions from your children. What’s important about all of them is that they point to the curiosity and inquisitiveness that is so directly tied to intelligence, achievement, progress, growth, purpose, and challenge. Which is why, of course, we repeat those questions to friends and family when bragging about our kids. Why did I found PS1 45 years ago? I realized that the frequency of these questions dissipated as a child got older and more entrenched in the traditional educational system. There had to be a better way.

Efforts to reform education are doomed to fail if the organizing question, the very first question asked, is not WHY. (See Simon Sinek’s video on YouTube https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=IPYeCltXpxw on the power of why.) The Why must provide the context, the organizing principle behind education reform.

The following are pertinent and necessary, but not sufficient, questions: What?

What should we teach? What should our textbooks include?

What is the role of computers and technology in classrooms?

What do educators mean by blended learning?

How? For 100 years now, there have been disagreements between traditional and progressive educators about ‘how’ teaching and learning should be presented to students.

Where?

Should learning take place in schools? On line? Did you know that the largest university in our country now is the University of Phoenix which exists without a campus?

When?

When should we teach algebra? Geometry? What would be gained by making mandatory schooling for children before the age of five?

Who? The emphasis so often is on ‘what should teachers teach?’ rather than ‘how do children learn?”

Despite sincere efforts at reform, the educational system still fails thousands if not millions of children. Why? Because systems can only change after you can decide why you need them in the first place. Why have schools? Why do we need them? In the industrial age, we needed schools to train the masses to fill existing jobs.

Today we need to figure out ways for every person to be a contributing member of our society. That’s today’s purpose; that’s today’s WHY. The answer is we must start with the child.

Education comes from the Latin word educare which means to bring forth. This is where pluralism comes in, to help children develop the best version of themselves. We must start with what students already have within them, respecting and valuing the things they know and/or wonder about, the things they are most passionate about, the things they are already good at, and the things that make each of them the unique individual they already are.

We recognize at PS1 that it is our responsibility as educators and as schools to honor and cultivate that genius within each child, to help each child feel known, and to build a cohesive community that demonstrates respect for all of these similarities and differences. Pluralism helps to develop the best version of every single child in a school by getting to know them. Some ways this happens on our campus includes:

• Teachers write for themselves and me what they value, honor,

and cherish about each of their students before they ever write a child’s assessment

• Snack and recess duties are very important parts of every day,

not an afterthought — we work to catch children doing something right and build on the positive

• We have an annual camping trip where we foster independence,

develop personal and group responsibility, and live together as one

­ at Circle Times, • We share and acknowledge each other’s work —

Open House, etc.

• We organize around multi-age classrooms and Clusters • We have an extensive Financial Aid program and an emphasis

on inclusivity

• We honor of each student every year at Moving Up Day and, in

the end, at Graduation

• We embody our Vision Statement: Celebrate the Many; Build One. Just as pluralism doesn’t happen by accident, the conscious and deliberate planning by teachers and specialists informs what their students do in their classrooms every day. We haven’t worked as hard in the past to explain WHY teachers make the choices that they do. It is only when we start with the why that we can be certain that what we are doing with our students is right. This year, we are expanding the bi-weekly class letters to demonstrate our intentionality. Teachers will continue to tell you the what and the how of their class programs; the difference this year is that they will also share with you the why. 2015–16 is the Year of WHY. Maybe this year we will learn: Why is the sky blue anyway?

–Joel Pelcyger, Head of School

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Joel and Beth are featured here with Keishia Gu, ISA’s Executive Director.

Traditions Old and Independent School Alliance Information Night PS1 was proud to host an informational event with the Independent School Alliance (ISA) this spring. The meeting brought families from all over Los Angeles, who were interested in learning more about the independent school admissions process. PS1 is a proud member of ISA, whose mission is to inform members of racial communities presently underrepresented in independent schools of the option of independent school education; to identify applicants from these communities and assist them in the application process; to provide on-going support programs for students and their families; and to act as a resource to member schools assisting them in their individual efforts to address issues of racial diversity and multicultural education.

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Santa Monica Youth Orchestra/Summer OPUS Music Camp Instrumental Music can be heard year-round on campus, as students from Santa Monica (ages 7-16) participated in the second OPUS Musical Summer Camp held at PS1. Musicians explored art, choir, orchestra, and conducting during the two week camp, which culminated with a final concert for family and friends. Here, students enjoyed their first field trip to the Getty Villa!

d New

Grad Leaf Ceremony At the end of each school year, a special ceremony takes place on the bridge overlooking the Euclid yard. The Grad Leaf Ceremony is a passing of the torch, where students in the current graduating class place their Grad Quote on the Quote Tree and receive their very own PS1 Alumni ID Cards. Students then raise their glasses (of sparkling cider!) in a toast to their Olders classmates who will be entering their final year at PS1.

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Moving Up Day!

Traditions

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“ And suddenly you know: It’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings.”

- Meister Eckhart

Old and New

Make New Friends Day! 5

Each summer (and throughout the year) faculty members embark on a journey of exploration, sharpening teaching skills through professional development - attending and presenting at workshops and conferences around the country. The faculty culture at PS1 is enriched by this continual growth and desire to learn.

By devoting their time to professional development, our teachers also demonstrate their passion for continuous learning to students, helping students see that there are always new pathways to discover and new strategies to undertake.

Pluralistic Connec Summer Professional Development Highlights

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Gina Jang and Jen Lui

Kitaka Mixon, Bonnie Koo, and Daniel Larson

Gina and Jen spent a week at the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project’s (TCRWP) summer writing institute at Columbia University in New York City. The week invigorated them both, as they spent their days working with colleagues from around the country (and world!) thinking about the best ways to engage students in the work of becoming better writers. In her opening keynote address, Lucy Calkins (founder and director of the TCRWP) spoke about the importance of finding significance in the small bits of life and not becoming disengaged or discouraged, which struck a chord for Jen and Gina. They both hope to nurture this sentiment in their Writers’ Workshops program, as they help students take notice of the ordinary moments and create a culture that allows time to stop, notice, and wonder more deeply.

Bonnie, Daniel, and Kitaka attended a week-long Responsive Classroom Workshop together over the summer. The workshop was affirming and enlightening.

They enjoyed being students again and were able to gain valuable insights on empowering students and providing them with the tools they need to take control of their learning. The Responsive Classroom approach consists of a set of practices that build academic and social-emotional competencies and that can be used in conjunction with many other programs.

These practices include Morning Meeting, rule creation, interactive modeling, positive teacher language, logical consequences, guided discovery, academic choice, classroom organization, working together with families, and collaborative problem solving. The three teachers left their weeklong workshop feeling energized about the coming school year and can’t wait to begin implementing what they learned in their daily practice.

In Search of a Good Book?

Reading is one of life’s great pleasures and an important element of the PS1 program and curriculum. Not surprisingly, reading is equally significant to the PS1 faculty.

Each summer, faculty members choose a summer reading book as a means of broadening their horizons of knowledge and experience. Once teachers return in August, reading groups gather together to share their reflections on each of the books. This summer’s book choices were:

ctions Understanding Independent School Parents: The Teacher’s Guide to Successful FamilySchool Relationships

by Michael G. Thompson and Alison F. Mazzola

Pedro Ortega Pedro spent a week this summer at the 42nd Elementary Physical Education Workshop at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo.

He returns to EPEW every year to learn new insights, both from the presenters as well as his fellow participants. We know students learn through moving, learn more after moving, and learn more when they are healthy. Through the experiences at this workshop, Pedro expanded his knowledge, laughed a lot, and finished the week excited. Year after year, the EPEW conference provides a forum to rejuvenate and incorporate new practices into the PS1 curriculum.

Selected because Michael Thompson is our featured Parent Educator and Professional Development speaker this coming fall. This practical guide strives to help teachers and administrators understand the needs of today’s families in order to develop healthy and strong relationships between home and school.

Loving Learning: How Progressive Education Can Save America’s Schools

by Tom Little and Katherine Ellison Selected because we admire and respect the contributions that this late educator made to progressive education.

This book highlights Tom Little, the longtime head of Park Day School, as he embarked on a U.S. tour of 43 progressive schools. Through his experience, the reader comes to understand the history of Progressive Education and the impact this philosophy can have on our broader system of education.

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking

by Susan Cain Recently reviewed in the NY TIMES BOOK REVIEW - it’s about pluralism and understanding that differences are to be valued. Cain highlights research in psychology and neuroscience as she discusses the differences between extroverts and introverts. Her enlightening book will undoubtedly alter the way we think about what it means to be an introvert.

Things Fall Apart

by Chinua Achebe First published in 1959, the twin fables of human nature and clash of culture are timeless in this book by Nigerian author Achebe. Achebe depicts tribal life in a group of fictional Igbo villages called Umuofia both before and after colonialism.

Have you read any of these selections?

Write in to share your thoughts!

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Welcome to PS1, Glenetta!

Glenetta Pope is PS1’s new Assistant Head for Teaching & Learning.

Glenetta brings a wealth of leadership experience, most recently serving seven years as the Founding Principal of Lou Dantzler Prep Elementary School, and previously as Brentwood School’s Director of Community Service for eight years. Welcome to PS1, Glenetta!

What makes you happy when you walk into a classroom?

I get so excited when I see a child enjoying learning something new. The look on their faces is priceless. I also find joy when I see a child who was struggling with a concept have an “I got it” moment. No one can give that moment to a child and no one can take it away.

Last, but not least, I love when children know they are in the presence of adults who believe in them. You can see that belief in the interactions, on the bulletin boards, and on the faces of all involved!

Pluralistic Connections

What was your favorite homework as a child?

It would have to be a tie between writing and reading. I loved to write because the written word allowed me to create an alternate reality. Reading allowed me to block out the world and simply escape as needed. I ordered books from Weekly Reader on a regular basis!

What games did you love to play as a child?

I loved to play tetherball, kick ball, double dutch, monopoly, and operation. I also loved to create my own classroom and have other kids in the neighborhood as my students. I was famous for starting clubs as early as elementary. I ran into a friend from elementary school recently and she was reminding me how I formed a girls club on campus that had fundraisers and taught cheers.

What one piece of advice would you give a new parent whose kindergartener is just starting their educational journey?

What’s interesting is that my youngest child (of 4!) is entering kindergarten and I am HAPPY! I would say to simply....RELEASE. Kindergarten is such a fun time of discovery for our children as they begin the process of discovering their voice. Listen a lot to them and to those who work with them. Limit your expectations of what they should and should not be doing and just let them enjoy getting to know the educational world around them.

What is your favorite thing to do on the weekend?

My favorite thing to do on the weekend is drop my children off at my Mother-in-Love’s house on Friday evenings!! I get time to recharge my batteries through a good book, writing in my journal, checking out a new movie, or just sitting on the couch and enjoying the silence. When I pick them up on Saturday I am ready for a family outing to the park, movie night, and/or game night.

What excites you about PS1?

From the beginning of my educational career over 20 years ago, I have always believed that every child is unique and special. As educators, it’s our job to help them discover their gifts and talents and provide a secure environment where they can be themselves, take risks, and be heard. It is refreshing to be in a place where we all believe in every child and not just a select few. I am also excited about working with such an experienced and talented group of educational professionals.

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2015 Graduating Class

The Grad Speeches are a PS1 Rite of Passage. Each year, each grad stands in front of parents, teachers, and fellow students to address the crowd, and deliver his or her words of wisdom. Here are excerpts from their speeches:

Delilah Freund, Marlborough Over the years at PS1, I have been at a second home with great teachers and friends. When I first walked through the gate, seven years back, I was greeted by a nurturing community that has helped me grow.

I have been so happy to have gone to this school and to have been able to live this life; to be who I am; to have the ability and support to do so. My friends and family have helped me achieve that.

They have reached far beyond the sun for me, and for that I am so happy and so grateful.

Noah Eatman, Crossroads My time in the Olders Cluster has molded me into who I am today. I am more responsible and diligent with my schoolwork. Now I am very aware of who I am and in tune with my feelings. It has helped me approach my teachers with confidence. This year has been a great year to complete my elementary school journey.

PS1, I am going to miss you terribly.

From the all-school camping trip to the bake sale, from the Aftercare Clubhouse classes to PSRun, from Make New Friends Day to advisory work blocks, from yummy food at Dishversity Day to

playing pranks on teachers. All of these experiences are life-long fond memories for me.

Carver Messick, Oaks Christian The support of my teachers is what helped me to become confident on the stage. I used to dread Circle Time when I first came to PS1. In fact, I used to beg my mom to call in sick for me. My teachers knew it was hard for me and always made sure to give me parts I felt comfortable in. They did not force me, but they encouraged me. Because of this I was able to overcome my fear and now I look forward to our Circle Times. These performances will become some of my greatest memories from PS1.

Charlie Kortleven, Wildwood The friendships that I have made over the past seven years have helped me to learn what it means to be a good friend.

My friends have brought me laughter and joy and touched my heart deeply.

I immediately knew the teachers at PS1 were special. They have a unique ability to make their students feel heard and cared for and understood.

It feels like everyone at PS1 can have a different personality and a different way of learning, and everyone is respected

for who they want to be. In addition to all that I have learned from my teachers here, I am grateful for how they’ve inspired me and supported me so much over these years. They have taught me that fitting in is about being yourself!

Jacob Madley, Brentwood We are explorers! Intrepid and bold!

In the uncharted playground, we continue our quest for treasure, for monsters and perhaps that missing hat.

Later, after the day’s closing circle, As I scramble downstairs to pick up, I find myself filled with gratitude for this magical school, and all the outstanding teachers.

Julian Angus, Windward PS1 has changed me so much. It is amazing being able to show yourself for who you are in such a caring and understanding environment. I have so many friends here and it’s a pity I’m going to have to leave them when I go into middle school.

Here at PS1 you really become a huge family of friends and you always look out for the others no matter what grade.

PS1 is such a comforting and caring place to grow and learn. It is great having a school family of amazing friends and people.

Amelia Jenkins, Brentwood My years at Hogwarts…. I mean PS1, have been nothing but magical.

When I was nine, I always used to think about what my life would be without this school, and it was hard to imagine. PS1 has not only shaped me into the person I am today, but helped raise me. I have to admit, leaving PS1 seems like it’s the hardest thing I’ll ever do, but I know that they have prepared me for what’s to come.

Billie Riess, Brentwood I consider PS1 my second home and my learning community. Going here has not only impacted my learning experience positively, but it has impacted my life in multiple ways.

I not only love the school, I admire it.

I admire the respect everyone has for one another and that is something I have held deep in my heart. It does not matter who you are, what you look or act like. At PS1 you are always welcome with open arms.

Something I am most grateful for of PS1 is its originality and its personality.

I have been places where the word recess is foreign, and being different is a shame. I am forever grateful the rules don’t apply to PS1.

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Dylan Santana, Chadwick Since my first day of school as a “Younger” to my last day as an “Older,” teachers and staff often ask me, “What do you think?” It appears to be a very simple question but it carries thoughtfulness and always made me stop and reflect.

I would like to thank all my teachers and the specialists at PS1 for making an impact in my life NOT just as educators but for being incredibly caring.

Although our school does not give out letter grades, every year I found myself evolving as a student and wanting to do my best work. Not for my teachers, not for my mom and dad, but for myself.

Justin Yu, Windward Others may think of PS1 as a small phase in life, a stop between you and your destination, but to me, PS1 means much more. PS1 is a guide, a companion that follows you along the way. It stays with us, stands beside us, and walks with you down the most difficult roads. PS1 is a piece of the mold that picks up the sloshy goo, and shapes us into who we are. The teachers and staff who provide us with knowledge don’t just prepare us for the road ahead, they give us a memory, an experience to remember. They give us a community to come back to so we can re-live a part of our childhood.

Emily Beck-Hallstrom, Windward This is my graduating year, my final year where my journey is coming to an end at PS1 but I still have a long life to live. I am grateful for the knowledge and experiences I have been given at PS1, from the incredible teachers who have supported me along the way and to my friends who I know I can always lean on. This was a year of leadership, trying new things but most of all it was a year of having fun. At PS1 not only has my knowledge grown but so has my confidence.

Maddie Boudov, Harvard-Westlake I feel like I have made full circle now. I went from being a Younger to an Older in what seemed like a flash. I will cherish the lessons I have learned and, the friends, family, and moments I have made here for my whole life.

Every single person at this school has made an impact on my life and I am so thankful to have been given the gift of PS1.

I have learned to love learning, and that is the greatest gift anyone can be given.

Morgan Spencer-Nielsen, New Roads Now I don’t know how I can even begin to thank my teachers, because in this situation, words are indescribable, so with that I say thank you for strengthening my knowledge and understanding. I would like to thank everyone, from friends to family, from classmates to teachers, for making these vivid and heartwarming memories become one of the best experiences I have had.

Emily Lippman, Paul Revere Walt Disney wrote a tagline for Disneyland, calling it the “Happiest Place on Earth,” but I think differently. PS1 should take that title. PS1 is a school that kids like to be at; they enjoy coming to school every day to see friends and fabulous teachers. They enjoy the presence of staff members and other members of the PS1 family.

Walking through the blue gate into school every day, you feel a sense of the community, knowing everyone like they are part of your family. I have made so many life-long friends at this school, some I consider family, not guests at my house. They know where everything is and unfortunately where everything is hidden!

Gena Levin, Paul Revere I have grown so much at PS1 and have learned more than I could have ever dreamed of knowing when I was a little girl. Looking up to where I am now, standing here on this stage graduating from what I have known for the last six years of my life, so many feelings are passing over me: happiness, fear, excitement, thankfulness. The point is, I still have to write the next part of my story.

There are still chapters yet to come, all of those empty pages waiting to be written. And I can’t wait to start.

Kaelen Song, Wildwood We think that school is about learning, books and homework-it is, but it is also about learning to make friends, how not to be socially compromised and how to deal with those things we call friendships. PS1 has taught me how to make new friends each year and sustain my old friendships. I am so grateful that I have been fortunate enough to attend this wonderful, amazing and talented school called PS1.

Lola Butan, Berkeley Hall My years at PS1 have been like a book with a new experience in each chapter.

The things that make me different are

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When I started going here I had no idea what my experience was going to be. Fast forward six years and I have made some of my best friends, found my love for reading, and made so many amazing memories. Leaving this school is going to be hard but I’m prepared for the next chapter in my life and I am sure it will be an amazing adventure.

Lucy Hayes, Paul Revere Little did I know that I would need to savor those moments because this is the time I move on past PS1. Yes, I will be able to visit, but that will never be the same as being a student. The dread of going, but the anticipation of what to come is unbearable. I am off to seek adventures for the rest of my life. This is one that will never be forgotten, and I will not forget the friends I have made on the way.

Sam Walker, Brentwood You know, the greatest thing about baseball, and what I admire most about the game I love, is that there is no clock. No icon on the scoreboard slowly ticking away the time until the three digits all read zero and the game is over. As Hall of Fame New York

Yankees Catcher Yogi Berra, or maybe it was Joel Pelcyger, once said, “It ain’t over till it’s over.” Until the last out is made, the game will play on as long as it desires. Sometimes I wish I could stay at PS1 forever, but unfortunately, unlike the game I love, the school I love does in fact have a clock. And here I stand in the seventh inning, my seventh year at PSONE, and the clock is emitting its last ticks. The game is coming to an end. But as you know, there are nine innings in a baseball game, and after I finish playing the next two, there are many, many, more innings and games to be played after that. And that is what we call my future.

only did I make a good impression, I already had a teacher rooting for me at my new school. So I thank PS1 for teaching this valuable skill to me.

Viswa Douglass, Harvard-Westlake PS1 has guided me throughout my childhood years. It has taught me how to be kind and gracious, but most importantly how to have great relationships with the teachers and friends. I can remember one instance where this skill has come in handy. I was recently on the Harvard-Westlake campus, shadowing my brother. He introduced me to my future teachers, and, using the skills PS1 taught me, I was able to talk and interact with these figures. Not

Destinee Flonnoy, Brentwood PS1 has given me the opportunity to be myself, to learn, to love. PS1 isn’t just some school, it’s a loving, caring, and welcoming family. This campus is what I am going to remember as home. These people that I am graduating with and that are at this school are who I’m going to remember as family.

Since last year I’ve imagined being scared for this moment, but now I realize there’s nothing to be scared about because everyone here is a part of my

Cheval McNairy, Westchester Lutheran Friends will always help you along here at PS1 because they care about you like family. If you’re shy, or scared like Piglet, your friends will always be here for you. Friends can be the most important people in life because they not only share their love with their family but they also show love to you, their friend. Winnie the Pooh always shows love to his friends; that’s why they call themselves family.

family. As Christopher Robin once said, “ You are braver than you believe, stronger than you’ve seen, and smarter than you think.” I believe this quote was made for all of PS1, and I know this is what I’ve discovered over my six years here.

Jay Jay Venegas, Crossroads I am leaving here today with beautiful memories of PS1 that I will always treasure. Attending school here has been a fantastic growing experience and I am thankful for the skills I’ve acquired.

I feel as if growing here with all these wonderful people has made me a better and stronger person.

I’ve learned how to take criticism and compliments, among other skills.

These are things I probably wouldn’t be able to handle if I had gone to a different school, and now I feel that I can apply these things in many different situations. I’ve also learned to be open-minded, to value other people’s opinions, and to consider other ideas along with mine.

I’ve come to realize that being a part of a team is a lot more than just sharing credit. A team effort takes compromise. When you are on a team

the things that make me.” A.A. Milne

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you have to at times lead, follow, and more often than not, meet in the middle. And realizing this will help me in middle school.

Jonathan Smiley, Wildwood At PS1 you know everyone’s name.

Even in different classes and grades.

Everyone is so close. Each year the cluster and each class perform in Circle Time. I disliked acting at first so I was reluctant to perform. By the second Circle Time I was so excited because the teachers work really hard to assign the perfect parts for you. By third grade I even had a solo to sing! It was super fun once I learned my lines.

Now this year I’m going to go to middle school and I’ve learned a lot.

Now I’m more independent and will be more grown up for middle school. I’m so upset to go and I’ll take everything I learned these years to middle school.

Juliana Ciccone, Harvard-Westlake I am honored to graduate with this wonderful class of students. I consider all of you my friends and I hope you consider me yours. Thank you for helping me when I am hurt, for supporting me when I need support, for understand-

ing me when I feel misunderstood, for helping me when I am lost, for being there to talk to and share things with, for laughing at my jokes and being interested in what I am saying… and for always, always sticking by me.

My friends have been there for me, through thick and thin, through bad times and good. They have shaped me into the person I am today. I will miss all of you and the school that taught everything I need to know to move on in life.

Olivia Rosen, Archer School for Girls As I spend my last day at PS1, there is one quote that I know will stay in my heart forever. It is: “It is not how smart you are, but how you are smart.” I don’t remember the first time I heard this quote, but now I REALLY understand what it means. And it is because of this quote that I understand who I am, how I learn, and what I am good at.

I’ve learned, most importantly, that everyone is good at something but very few people are good at everything. The journey through life is to figure out that very thing you are good at and not try to do EVERYTHING.

Congratulations!

PS1 Class of 2009 Colleges and Universities Dean Abuneimeh > Westmark > Automotive School outside of Houston Mason Allport > Wildwood > Pursuing music career Alia Becker > Windward > moved to Japan > Occidental College Kalia Bornstein > Marlborough > University of Vermont Dylan Champion > Wildwood > Arete > Bard College (entered 2014-15) Sofia Duffy > Archer > Notre Dame > Washington State University Jack Ennis > Harvard-Westlake > Santa Monica College Jacob Feldman > Crossroads > Emerson College Henry Fillo > Crossroads > USC Aidan Fite > Brentwood > Ithaca College Emily Gasster > Marlborough > Colgate University Sam Gaynor > Brentwood > Syracuse University Madelyn Holtzman > Windward > Loyola Marymount Abigail Kuhns > Windward > Smith College Marie Line > Windward > George Washington University Jake Mindel > Brentwood > University of Wisconsin, Madison Robert Munn > Crossroads > Pepperdine University Cameron Roberts > Wildwood > The Theater School at DePaul University Daniel Sabet > Lincoln Middle School > Samo High > SMC > USC Nicki Shapiro > Windward > Samo High > UCLA Emily Surloff > Windward > Columbia University Bryce Terman > Harvard-Westlake > Tufts University Austin Wilson > St. Marks School > Wildwood > Occidental College Claire Goldberg > SAMO High > Georgetown University 12

Find Your Class Rep… Find your graduation class representatives listed below and send them your updates, news & announcements! Our Director of Admissions & Alumni Relations, Beth Kemp, will collect them throughout the year for future editions of Periscope. You can also email Beth directly at beth@psone.org.

1971–79 Please email beth@psone.org if you’d like to volunteer as a grad rep for this decade 1980–89 Please email beth@psone.org if you’d like to volunteer as a grad rep for this decade Classes of 1990–94: Please email beth@psone.org if you’d like to volunteer as a grad rep for these years Class of 1995: Brian Roth, Briroth@gmail.com Class of 1996: Cody Dashiell-Earp, codyde@gmail.com Heston Liebowitz, heston@hestonliebowitz.com Class of 1997: Brianna Dollinger, bfdollinger@gmail.com Zachary Brock, zbrock@gmail.com Class of 1998: Nora Frankel; Zachary Meredith, zachmeredith@gmail.com Class of 1999: Beryl Liebowitz, berylliebowitz@gmail.com Isabella Lebovitz, Isabella.lebovitz@gmail.com Class of 2000: Michael Larson, michaelkentlarson@gmail.com Erica Everage, Erica.v.everage@gmail.com Gina Rockenwagner, ginarocca@gmail.com Jake Faulkner Class of 2001: Devin Carli Singer, devincarli@gmail.com Kylie Clark, kbclark@gmail.com James Weinberger; Alex Marshi, alexandermarshi@gmail.com Sam Alper, alper.sam@gmail.com Class of 2002: Hayley Lloyd, hayley.d.lloyd@gmail.com Brad Thompson-Moreland, bradleytm@gmail.com Molly Wertheimer, babyridr@aol.com Class of 2003: Rosie Achorn-Rubenstein, SRAR1290@sbcglobal.net Michelle Cortrite; James Larson Class of 2004: Lindsay Rapkin, lindsrap@aol.com Griffin Harris, theroastedplum@aol.com Alex Hartung; Elijah Tilghman-Eddings Class of 2005: Elle Brosh, ellebrosh@gmail.com Sam Mindel, samuel.mindel@gmail.com Lili Cohen; Natalie Swain Class of 2006: Gabe Schuman, febesons@yahoo.com Wade Clement, wade01@aol.com Gina Segall, ginasegall@yahoo.com Class of 2007: Ariel Fenster; Emma Laurent, esl2@st-andrews.ac.uk Leslie Dinkin, leslied1017@aol.com Morgan Pantuck, creepycrawlies54@aol.com Class of 2008: Zak Fenster; Louly Maya, summergirl5896@aol.com Hero Stevenson Class of 2009: Kalia Bornstein, Kalia@bornarch.com Nicki Shapiro, Caligirl81297@gmail.com Jake Mindel: jmindel@bwscampus.com Marie Line, mjl913@yahoo.com Class of 2010: Asa Germann, 121497@gmail.com Veronica Crow, misscrow98@gmail.com Rudy Frayre, rudyfrayre@yahoo.com Kelly Riopelle, Kerio311@gmail.com Class of 2011: Amanda Reymer; Rod Henley, rhenley123@gmail.com Olivia Bornstein, Olivia@bornarch.com Dylan Vecchione, Dylan@vecchione.com Class of 2012: Matthew Tovar: dkm3tov@icloud.com Sadie Abraham, sadiejean@me.com Lukas Mitchell; Camille Riopelle, catlover131@gmail.com Class of 2013: Melina Waldman, mew3221@gmail.com Sage Brand Wolf, smailbox715@gmail.com Farid Adibi, farid@adibi.me Zachary Leete, pelicanmouth@verizon.net Katie Raphaelson, katesfluffy@aol.com

2014–15 Report on Philanthropy at PS1 13

Message from our Board Chair

Matt and his family

Matt’s Secret Recipe This year I’m going to give you my recipe for a year of good health: INGREDIENTS: You, Your Child and PS1 DIRECTIONS: 1) Pre-set alarm clock to 30 minutes earlier than normal 2) Remove one child from their bed and prep for school (add siblings as necessary) 3) Take child (or children) to PS1 4) IMPORTANT: Don’t drop your child at the carpool lane — find a parking space (may require additional prep-time) 5) Take your child’s hand and let the feeling marinate on the walk to school 6) Watch child play on the Euclid yard for 20–30 minutes (time can vary depending on child — do not overheat).

7) Breathe in and out and watch their joy — watch everyone’s joy 8) Repeat at least 1x/week This recipe can serve as many parents and children as necessary. What I can’t guarantee is how long the ingredients will be in season for… so take advantage now.

We all give to PS1 in many ways — our time, our resources, and ourselves. We do it for moments like these. Keep giving and keep enjoying!

On behalf of the Board, we welcome our newest members, Priya Nambiar and Steve Trilling. And we all look forward to a delicious year ahead. Enjoy!

Matt Schwab, Chair, PS1 Board Of Trustees

14

Our Board Committees, chaired by Board Members and enhanced by talented volunteers, work to enrich and strengthen our community.

2014–15 PS1 Board Committees: Administration and Finance Committee Gareth Asten Kevin Crombie Bob Eatman Damien McCann Darren Peers, Chair Joel Pelcyger Josh Perttula KristieAnne Reid Eric Reid Jeff Reyna Glenn Rosen Maggie Rosenfeld Matt Schwab Jason Schwarz Richard Steets Steve Trilling Advancement Committee Billie Fischer Deirdre Gainor Lizzie Murray Hilary Rosen Maria Smith Kerri Speck, Chair Building and Grounds Committee Stephen Abronson Jesse Aldana Marwan Al-Sayad Eric Britton Afshin Ghodsi Alexandra Marx Joel Pelcyger Abbie Perttula Josh Perttula Charles Rawlins Ed Rogers Billy Rose Glenn Rosen Maggie Rosenfeld Aaron Sevier Bradley Shimada Pandro Sokolow Mike Tatum, Chair

Communications and Marketing Committee Barbi Appelquist Meredith Blake, Chair Scott Chamberlin Reagan Feeney Alexa Fischer, Subcommittee Chair of Current Parent Communications Cindy Fitzgerald Nicole Haimes Jennifer Kalish Beth Kemp Priya Nambiar, Subcommittee Chair of Parents of Alumni (Alumni Ambassadors Program) Kimberly Perttula Jeanette Rahill Jessica Reid, Subcommittee Chair of Prospective Parents (Preschool Ambassador Program) Chris Tragos Standards and Search Committee Gareth Asten Joel Pelcyger Anna Tran Reyna Maggie Rosenfeld Matt Schwab, Chair Strategic Vision Committee Gareth Asten Jared Carney Caskey Ebeling Mark Emtiaz, Chair Alexa Fischer Phillip Leslie Joel Pelcyger Courtney Spikes Chris Thinnes James Vincent

PS1 has felt like home from the moment I began working here. I feel lucky and privileged to work with such talented, compassionate, and creative coworkers. The families are supportive and the kids are extraordinary. There is not another place like PS1; it’s like everyone who is at PS1 was meant to be at PS1 and together we can accomplish anything!

Jamie Bennett, PS1 Faculty

WhyPS

1?

As our second child heads off to college, we can reflect back on why we chose PS1 and how it contributed to the love of learning and creative spark we see in our children.

They both know what it means to take ownership of their learning and ask for what they need. This was evident not only at PS1, but throughout middle and high school, and for our oldest, in college. We are grateful for the PS1 community and teacher student involvement that makes for enthusiastic learners!

Lauren Fite, PS1 Alumni Parent (Aidan, Class of 2009 and Lexi, Class of 2005)

15

I love that my grandchildren attended a school where they were immersed in a community of such energy and variety.

I also celebrate the opportunity to be an active member of a community of like-minded grandparents acting on their lust for living.

Nancy Waldman (Grandmother of Louis, Class of 2011 and Melina, Class of 2013)

WhyPS

1?

A friend was looking through the 2015 PS1 Yearbook and said this about our students: the air around them tells their story — meaning their fresh and open faces were so full of exuberance and enthusiasm that they just look like a generation of children who are ready to take on the world.

His words made me think of Twyla Tharp, that dancing force of nature, who titled her autobiography, The Collaborative Habit. For me, up there in the PS1(derful) Library, doing my ideal job every day, Why PS1?, is that we — all of us — have the collaborative habit. As adults, we are not opening up little heads and pouring the knowledge in — oh, no. We collaborate with the kids in the same way we collaborate with our colleagues — we are all on the path together.

Christina Garcia, PS1 Librarian

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2014–15 PS1 Board Members

Retiring Board Member…

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.

New Board Members…

Steve Trilling is the Chief Technology Officer at Symantec, the world’s leading Internet security company, and bestknown to most consumers through its Norton brand of products. Symantec protects diverse systems from mobile phones, to desktops and laptops, to the data centers of the world’s largest enterprises. Steve received his BS degree from Yale University and his MS from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He lives in Brentwood with his wife Wendi, and their twin boys Max and Joe who are both entering their second year of Middles as PS1 students.

2014–15 PS1 Board Members Gareth Asten Meredith Blake Jeff Dinkin, Chair Emeritus Mark Emtiaz Billie Fischer Afshin Ghodsi Lizzie Murray Darren Peers Joel Pelcyger, Head of School Abbie Perttula Kimberly Perttula Anna Tran Reyna, Board Vice-Chair Glenn Rosen Maggie Rosenfeld, Director of Finance and Operations Matt Schwab Board, Chair Maria Smith Kerri Speck Mike Tatum

Afshin Ghodsi spent eleven years supporting PS1, four of them as a Board member. A structural engineer, he advised the school on many projects. He used his wisdom and kind attentive mind to create solutions in many needed areas.

Always willing to share his considerable knowledge and expertise in support of the school, we are indeed grateful for having Afshin and his wonderful family be a part of this community and we thank him for his outstanding service to PS1.

Priya Nambiar has worked in education for over 20 years. She earned a B.A. in Education Studies from Brown University and a M.Ed. from Harvard University.

She is the Founder of Nambiar Advising, where she helps families navigate the private school admissions process.

Prior to Nambiar Advising, Priya was the Associate Director of Admissions at Brentwood School, a Program Associate at the Coalition of Essential Schools (an organization focused on public school reform), and has taught high school Math in Wellesley, MA, Atherton, CA, and Los Angeles, CA. In addition to the PS1 Board, she also is on the Parents Guild Executive Board and is an active school volunteer. Priya lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Sanjay, and their identical twin daughters, Uma and Miya, who attend PS1.

17

Advancement

Kerri Speck

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Why PS1?

I love the theme of this Report on Philanthropy, because it is always so interesting to learn why people select PS1 — why they choose to send their children to the school, why they spend hours participating in the community, and why they give so generously of their resources to PS1. The answers to the question “Why PS1?” are as diverse as our community. We all have PS1 in common, and I like to think that because we all chose PS1, we have more in common than just the elementary school we help support.

When I was looking at schools for my oldest daughter, Maggie, I heard Joel speak at an elementary school symposium. He said “PS1 is a place where a kid can be a kid for seven years.” I didn’t need to look any further — I knew that I wanted my children to attend a school where childhood was celebrated and enjoyed. That is why my husband and I chose PS1.

Since that moment, over ten years ago, I have developed many more answers to the question “Why PS1?” But for purposes of this Report on Philanthropy, I want to share just one additional reason — and that reason is YOU. YOU have helped make PS1 a place where children are valued for who they are, and allowed to become the best versions of themselves.

YOUR support helps make a difference at PS1, and helps make PS1 a very special place. PS1 is able to do this by recruiting and maintaining faculty and staff members who are energetic, committed, and engaged; by being a leader in the conversation surrounding progressive elementary education; and by building a campus that is inviting, stateof-the-art, and fun. These things would not be possible without the additional support that our donors provide.

As a Board member, Chair of the Advancement Committee, and a parent, I want to thank you for your support. The lists contained in this report are lengthy; I want you to know that, for the Board, each name on these lists is an answer to the question “Why PS1?”

Thank you!

Kerri Speck, Chair, Advancement Committee

PS1 has been a wonderful environment of learning for the sake of learning for our son Luke. That foundation, coupled with the 7-year holistic experience of evolution and emergence for each individual child at PS1, and the remarkable camaraderie and friendship among PS1 students across ages and classes, has helped foster in Luke a genuine intellectual curiosity and respect for others. He truly is a “PS1 kid.”

Megan Kissinger and Chris Trunnell (Parents of Luke Trunnell, Class of 2016)

WhyPS

1?

When Ryan was a new kindergartener, just a week or so into the year, she came across some Olders girls in the music room doing some kind of dance routine with a teacher. She stood in the doorway to watch, entranced by the big girls.

The teacher, instead of asking Ryan if she was lost, or if she knew where she was supposed to be, or directing her back to her classroom, said, “Would you like to come in and join us?” And Ryan said yes, and did join them. That she was welcomed in and treated like she belonged there without any question, and that she already felt confident enough to join in, just astonished me. It was such a small but beautiful moment to me — the respect that teacher afforded her, even as a tiny kindergartener, and the sense of belonging that gave her, encapsulated everything I have grown to love so much about PS1.

Lindsey Hay (Mother of Ryan Meyer, Class of 2020)

19

Finance and Development

2014–15 Contributions:

$728,790.00 Interest and Other Incomes 5.5%

Tuition and Fees 84.2%

When my boys awaken each school day they are eager to get to school early. There are no fake coughs or requests to take their temperature. In fact, sometimes my kids pretend to feel well when they’re actually too sick to go to school. PS1 is a stress-free environment, with warm families and nice children, a place where my boys have developed a love of school and learning. I can’t think of a better introduction to education.

Frank Smiley (Father of Adam, Class of 2019 and Jonatha,n Class of 2015)

Fundraising 10.3%

WhyPS

Income

Salaries and Benefits 60.4% Facilities 12.9%

Financial Aid 13.1% Program 13.6%

Expenses

20

I’m always blown away by the kids’ Circle Time performances and how comfortable they all become at speaking and performing in front of the entire school. Not only is this an important life-skill to learn, but they always seem to be having a ball doing it!

Ed Rogers (Father of Mary, Class of 2017 and Audrey, Class of 2020)

PS 1?

In a city that can feel overwhelming, PS1 is a child’s oasis; a community where “everybody knows your name” — teachers, staff and students across all ages. This makes for a safe, nurturing, empowering environment for the youngest to the oldest students.

The students’ ability to navigate the world is nurtured by trusting in and empowering their problem solving skills.

Letting little kids work through a problem isn’t always the most expeditious way to learn or resolve a problem, but it builds a sense of competence that is a valuable lifelong skill-set. There is a real respect for the individual child’s gifts.

Cathy Watts, PS1 Alumni Parent (Caroline, Class of 2008, Ian, Class of 2011, and Alec, Class of 2013)

21

PS1 Annual Fund Participation

Lizzie Murray took the helm and chaired the Annual Fund Committee this year. She brought humor, fun, and creativity to every meeting. Under her guidance we had our most successful campaign ever.

2014–15 Annual Fund Committee Alex Boudov Deirdre Wallace Carney Mark Emtiaz Matthew Hayutin David Michaelson Lizzie Murray, Chair Kimberly Perttula Jeanette Rahill Matt Schwab Jason Schwarz Tracy Sokolow Maria Smith

PS1 Board Members Michelle and Gareth Asten Jeremy Langer and Meredith Blake Jeff and Marci Dinkin Mark Emtiaz and Elizabeth Freitas Billie and Steven Fischer Afshin and Nilou Ghodsi Lizzie and John Murray Kelly and Darren Peers Eleanor and Joel Pelcyger Abbie and Howard Perttula Kimberly and Josh Perttula Jeff Reyna and Anna Tran Hilary and Glenn Rosen Maggie and Mort Rosenfeld Pamela and Matt Schwab Maria and Kevin Smith Paul Marks and Kerri Speck Jenny and Mike Tatum

Current Parents

Greg Walker Anonymous The Abronson Family Carol and Robin Acutt Christina Aguilera Jesse Aldana and Rachel Harris Marwan Al-Sayed and Mies Grybaitis Eduardo Alvarez and Olga Cueva Jamie and Michael Angus Farhad Ashofteh and Gazelle Javadi Michelle and Gareth Asten Shane Barach and Jenny Daly Ken Baum and Julie Cantor Eric Beale and Jennifer Kalish Mat Beck Rikki and Michael Bogen Cindy and Alex Boudov Jordan Bratman Tracy and Adam Bromwich Rachel and Philip Bruno Kimberly and Marc Butan Jared Carney and Deirdre Wallace Christian Carter and Jen Lui Marilyn and Chris Cazun Scott Chamberlin and Stephanie Barish Karen and Jim Ciccone Marshall Coben and Jane Leeves Michelle Williams Court and Jamie Court

24

Raymond De Felitta and Sherry Brennan Sahaja and Bill Douglass Robin and Bob Eatman Caskey and Mick Ebeling Mark Emtiaz and Elizabeth Freitas Jaime and Don Estes Reagan Feeney and Richard Levine Roger Fishman and Courtney Thorne-Smith David Fishman and Lara Sachs Cindy and Jon Fitzgerald Derek Flonnoy and Michelle Todd-Flonnoy Michelle and Eric Freed Zack Freedman and Heather Singleton Tom Freund Richard Gabriel and Kay Seymour-Gabriel Jonathan Gardner and Barbi Appelquist Lee Gardner and Lily Ng Gary Garland and Beth Holden-Garland Ona Gauthier and Eric Britton The Gelinas and Hillebrand Family Chris Gerolmo The Reed-Goldstein Family John Goodman Julia Goodman Gilberto Granados and Jyoti Puvvula Cameron Gray and Ramaa Mosley-Gray Gabrielle and Rob Greenberg Jeff and Marcie Greene Tamara and Andrew Gross Michelle and Erik Gustavson Humphrey Gyde and Cielo Cerezo Nicole and Ted Haimes Nadene and Jeff Haines Olivia and Stephen Hamel Sky Hansen and Sharon Stanley Phil Hayes and Holly Swope Matthew Hayutin and Lizette Sanchez-Hayutin Jennine Rodriguez and Scott Hevesy Aleeza and Joe Hobeck Reina and Rich Holtzman Alefiya and Naveed Hussain Moje and Hyder Hussain Jon Hyman and Susan Hoffman-Hyman Jimmy Jellinek and Emily Ann Christine and Larry Jenkins Maura and Lewis Kay Anna and Richard Korngute Emille Kortleven Stephanie and Gustav Koven Alexander Kruglov and Alia Zaharudin Lori and Scott Lahman Jeremy Langer and Meredith Blake Robert LaPorta and Alexa Fischer Phillip Leslie and Christina Mills Maya and Matt Lieberman Tally and Andrew Lippman Amy and Victor Liu David and Jacklyn Louie Barbara and Ben Madley Alexandra and Peter Marx Lorraine and Damien McCann Mac and Christina McGary Daphne and Devon McNairy Stavros Merjos and Honor Fraser Scott Messick and Carey Hern Tom Meyer and Lindsey Hay Linda and David Michaelson Laura and Chris Miller Lizzie and John Murray Ruth Naiditch and Alan Levin Priya and Sanjay Nambiar Heather and David Nevell Kevin Newman and Amy Weimer

Neda and Ivan Nikkhoo Dan Offner and Mayumi Ijiri Amber and Olubusayo Ojuri Pedro Ortega Scott Packer and Loren Kaplan Kelly and Darren Peers Craig Perry and Courtney Spikes Kimberly and Josh Perttula Lisa and Tavi Perttula Allen Pomianek and Sitara Cave Jeanette and Bernard Rahill Jessica and Eric Reid Tim Reuben and Stephanie Blum-Reuben Jeff Reyna and Anna Tran Chris Riess and Amy Hill Dan Roberts and Nicole Cavazos Bill Robins and Mia Rue Robins Edward and Johanna Rogers Charles Rollins and Natalie McAdams Amy and Billy Rose Hilary and Glenn Rosen Lisa and John Rushing Maricela and Victor Santana David Schumacher and Yvonne Hsieh Ron and Camilla Schur Pamela and Matt Schwab Jessica and Jason Schwarz Robert Schwentke and Jennifer Howard Devin Sellers Reid Shane and Laura Berland-Shane Maggie and Jon Sherman Rochelle and Ian Siegel Linda and Ronald Sittler Frances and Frank Smiley Maria and Kevin Smith David Sobie and Emily O’Brien Pandro and Tracy Sokolow Charles Song and Sunny Lee Kerry Speck and Paul Marks Toni Spencer Annie Catherine Spong Jennifer and Richard Steets Susan Stich Mark Stratton and and Susie Schroer Andre Stringer and Tracy Chandler Jenny and Mike Tatum Raeleen Taylor-Brandy Mark Teichman and Nayla Ammar The Teitelbaum Family Kimberly and Jeffrey Tinsley Omar Torrez and Masha Tsiklauri Tracy and Chris Tragos Wendi and Stephen Trilling Chris Trunnell and Megan Kissinger Carol and Juan Venegas Stacia Vinar James Vincent and Marie Noorbergen Peri and Christian Vincent Greg Walker and Michelle Ashford Sean Weber-Small and Cara Kleinhaut Manuel Weiskopf and Evelyn Lanner Selene and Brad Wilk Ian Williams and Tessa Blake Francie Wong Freund Emily and Peter Yu

Alumni Families Anonymous Kelli and Peter Abraham Tina Andrews Raymond Bakaitis Deborah and Andrew Bogen Christine and Rob Burchuk Evelyn Cazun John Dent and Pam McBride Marci and Jeff Dinkin Laurie and Rudy Ekstein

Tammy and Jeff Ellis Lauren and Austin Fite Deirdre Gainor Sam Gasster and Dianne Waingrow Nilou and Afshin Ghodsi The Hill/Hall Family Andrea and Scott Holtzman Beryle Jackson Zoe Mooser Abbie and Howard Perttula Maggie and Mort Rosenfeld Eva Salamanca Gail and Roger Samuel Aletta Schaap Madeline and Phil Schwarzman Laurie and Michael Seplow Bria and Evan Silbert Mindy Staley Maria and Phil Starr Sam Surloff and Joanne Van Emburgh Andrea and Maurizio Vecchione Liz and John Waldman Maria and Jeffrey Wauer Nat Wilson and Laura Beck

Faculty And Staff

Tina Andrews Alia Arbas The Bennett Family Evelyn Cazun Lucia L. Alcantara-Chibane Kirstina Rasmussen Collins Louise Everett & Steve Collins Lauren Fite Holly Frazier Judy Fukasawa Deirdre Gainor Christina and David Garcia Brad “BG� Gilbert Nancy Goglia Benita Griffin Ashley Guillem Wendell Hamick The Hill/Hall Family Billy Huynh Nicole Jacoby Gina Jang Nicolina Karlsson Elizabeth Kemp Bonnie Koo Chris Kuzina Jennifer Lui Debbie Martinez Kitaka Mixon Pedro Ortega Joel Pelcyger Amanda Perla Abbie Perttula Jayme Pohl Rigo Ramos Jennine Rodriguez and Scott Hevesy Maggie Rosenfeld David Salamanca Eva Salamanca Brad Shimada Mindy Staley Holly Swope John Waldman

Grandparents and Special Friends Deborah and Andrew Bogen Grandparents of Kamden Bogen Caroleen Feeney In honor of Frank, Samantha and Julia Gerolmo Billie and Steven Fischer

Grandparents of Ian and Elio La Porta Matching and Sally and Tom Freed Organizational Gifts Grandparents of Jade and Troy Freed Nancy and Gary Freedman Apple Inc. Grandparents of Finn The Bank of America and Zadie Freedman Charitable Foundation Phyllis and Phil Gainsborough The Boeing Company Grandparents of Violet Capital Group Co. and Calvin Murray Charitable Foundation Judy and Paul Gardner DIRECTV Grandparents of Samantha Gardner First Pacific Advisors Aline and Jack Goodman French American Charitable Trust Grandparents of Sean Goodman Good Life Organics Stephanie and Marc Hayutin Kayne Anderson Grandparents of Bianca Capital Advisors Foundation and Luca Hayutin Lakeshore Learning Anita Hoffman Lois Lambert Gallery Grandparent of Isabelle Oracle Corporation and Alex Hyman Pardee Properties Linda and Mel Holtzman Sempra Energy Foundation Grandparents of Ronan Holtzman SC Construction Mary Howard Sony Pictures Entertainment Grandparent of Konrad Weingart Foundation and Theo Howard Maleka and Moayyed Hussain Grandparents of Hannah Hussain Hyman Family Charitable Foundation Family of Isabelle and Alex Hyman JoAnn and Charlie Kaplan Grandparents of Eli Kaplan-Packer Judith and David Keyes Grandparents of Charlotte and Penelope Tragos The Koven Foundation Family of Gus and Benjamin Koven Nancy and Jerry Lahman Grandparents of Noah and Toby Lahman Barbara B. Luchs In honor of Billie and Steven Fischer Kathleen and Robert Mulholland Friends of Tanner Goldstein Carol and Eugene Pantuck Grandparents of Morgan and Alex Pantuck Eleanor and Joel Pelcyger Grandparents of Isabella and Finn Leeves Coben Abbie and Howard Perttula Grandparents of Jonah, Lucas, Anna, Mia and Allie Perttula Bev and John Rogers Grandparents of Mary and Claudia Rogers Gail and Roger Samuel Grandparents of Frankie Samuel Barbara and Ken Seplow Grandparents of Rachel and Danny Seplow Sheila and Michael Siegel Grandparents of Charlotte and James Siegel Lisa and Josh Taub In memory of Ken Olsen, Grandfather of Wyatt and Chase Peers Maya and George Trilling Grandparents of Joe and Max Trilling Georgi Tsiklauri and Marina Serednitskaia Grandparents of Alejandra Torrez Joodi and Norman Veitzer Grandparents of Jordan and Zachary Schwab Gwen and Peter Wall Grandparents of Elijah Kay Nancy Waldman Grandparent of Louis and Melina Waldman Ida and Fred Williams Grandparents of Cheval and Ciahna McNairy

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.

25

Parents Guild

Party Book

PS1 Parents Guild makes so much happen. The warp and woof of our community depends upon them. Under the leadership of the Executive Board, our Committee Chairs create opportunities for every parent to use their talents, time and skill to enrich not only their own lives but the lives of all of us.

We thank all the families who offered such a wide range of adventure and fun this year in hosting a Party Book Party.

We learned, we laughed, and we played!!! It was stellar!

Executive Board 2014–15

Parents Guild Committee Chairs

Party Book Hosts:

Loren Kaplan, Coordinator

Auction Aleeza Hobeck Cara Kleinhaut Lily Ng Stacia Vinar

Beth and Stephen Abronson Christina Aguilera Michelle and Gareth Asten Shane Barach and Jenny Daly (2) Chris Beck and Jane Wang (3) Cindy and Alex Boudov Tracy and Adam Bromwich Kimberly and Marc Butan Jared Carney and Deirdre Wallace (2) Marshall Coben and Jane Leeves Sahaja and Bill Douglass Billie and Steven Fischer Roger Fishman and Courtney Thorne-Smith Cindy and Jon Fitzgerald (2) Zach Freedman and Heather Singleton Jonathan Gardner and Barbi Appelquist Gary Garland and Beth Holden-Garland Len Goldstein and KristieAnne Reed John Goodman Cameron Gray and Ramaa Mosley-Gray Gabrielle and Rob Greenberg Tamara and Andrew Gross Nadene and Jeff Haines (2) Kyle and Noah Hawley Alefiya and Naveed Hussain Mark Hyatt and Malerie Marder Christine and Larry Jenkins Lori and Scott Lahman Robert LaPorta and Alexa Fischer

Cindy Boudov Nicole Cavazos Scott Chamberlin Cindy Fitzgerald Christine Jenkins Priya Nambiar Lily Ng Maricela Santana Kay Seymour-Gabriel Rochelle Siegel Kim Tinsley

Back to School Picnic Maria De Lorenzo Neda Nikkhoo Kim Tinsley Book Fair Nicole Cavazos Christine Crombie Rochelle Siegel Community Service Gaby Greenberg Susan Hoffman-Hyman Grandparents Day Selene Vigil-Wilk Sharon Stanley Mia Robins Camilla Schur Fall Festival Carol Acutt

First Day Coffee Cindy Boudov Christine Jenkins Frances Smiley Hot Lunch Jenny Tatum Kim Tinsley Itty Bitty Mark Hyatt Christina Mills Library Support Lily Ng Jyoti Puvvula New Parent Coffee Nicole Cavazos Matthew Hayutin Priya Nambiar One From the Heart Cindy Fitzgerald Kerri Speck Parent POP John Murray

Farm to School Jessica Schwarz Amy Weimer

Room Parent Coordinator Cindy Fitzgerald

Fathers Breakfast Phillip Bruno Ed Rogers Mike Tatum

School Spirit Emily Ann Kyle Hawley Scrip Kevin Crombie Yvonne Hsieh Neda Nikkhoo Lizette Sanchez- Hayutin Staff Assistance Christine Jenkins Priya Nambiar Susie Schroer Courtney Spikes Staff Appreciation Cindy Boudov Kimberly Perttula Staff Birthdays Cindy Fitzgerald

Fathers’ Breakfast 26

Yearbook Jeanette Rahill Kelly Peers Jennifer Steets

Party Book

Paul Marks and Kerri Speck Mac McGary and Christina Musrey Heather and David Nevell Kelly and Darren Peers (2) Craig Perry and Courtney Spikes (3) Kimberly and Josh Perttula Jessica and Eric Reid Tim Reuben and Stephanie Blum-Reuben Dan Roberts and Nicole Cavazos Johanna and Edward Rogers (2) Amy and Billy Rose (2) Lisa and John Rushing David Schumacher and Yvonne Hsieh Camilla and Ronald Schur (2) Jessica and Jason Schwarz (2) Robert Schwentke and Jennifer Howard (3) Reid Shane and Laura Berland-Shane Maggie and Jon Sherman Maria and Kevin Smith Annie Spong Sue Stich Mark Stratton and Susie Schroer (2) Jenny and Mike Tatum Cindy and George Teitelbaum (2) Kim Tinsley Wendi and Stephen Trilling Peri and Christian Vincent Greg Walker and Michelle Ashford (2) Manny Weiskopf and Evelyn Lanner

Book Fair

Itty Bitty Art Sale

Teachers who love to read, parents who love to read, a librarian who loves to read, students who are learning to love to read, and an annual book fair to feed us all.

The art came from all corners of the planet. Small but mighty pieces! Some were purchased for gifts, some for keepsakes, but everyone who came had a good time and went home with unique art pieces.

Book Fair

Itty Bitty Art

Fall Festival

First Day Coffee

Fall Festival 27

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mercury Mailing Systems Inc.

1225 Broadway Santa Monica CA 90404

Original 1971 PS1 Student

PS1 Welcomes New Faculty and Staff:

Curt Harper was a PS1 student back in 1971.

CURT is a short documentary film about 50-year-old competitive surfer, Curt Harper.

Diagnosed with autism as a child, Curt faced many challenges growing up, but one thing that came easy was his love for surfing. Over the past 21 years, Curt has become a beloved fixture in the Southern California surf scene, having played an unlikely, yet vital role in the growth and development of multiple generations of groms. http://www.curtthefilm.com/.

Curt’s mom Fieldon says, “PS1 was our first school experience.

It was the first time anyone had embraced us, and it was so warm and welcoming!”

Notable Numbers 25 New Families entering PS1 this fall 7 New PS1 faculty/staff members 4 Summer Mailings 34 Middle Schools attended by PS1 Grads in the last 10 years 8 Colors in the PS1 logo 80 solar panels on the PS1 campus 22 PS1 Parents Guild Committees

Left to Right: Kasia Roca, Music Teacher Aurora Culpo, Middles Long-term Substitute Teacher Glenetta Pope, Assistant Head for Teaching & Learning Nina Tepper, Child Development Specialist Preethi Raghu, Youngers Teacher Daniel Larson, Bridge Teacher Danielle Valadez, Aftercare Teacher Not pictured: Kristina Schuman, Learning Specialist

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