PS1 Pluralistic School Class of 2022 Grad Book by PS1PluralisticSchool

PS1 Pluralistic School Class of 2022:

Thursday, June 9, 2022 3:00pm Field of Dreams

Savannah, Indie, Dylan, Carmen, Audrey, Gabriel, Henry, Ava, Trace, Izzy, Kashton, Zadie, Luca, Jaeden, Sebastian, Oliver, Benji, Clara, Kate, Tommy, Grace, Asha, Allie, Julian, James, Emme, Rowan, Bliss & Lily

Congratulations!

Class of 2022 Alumni Representatives:

The Graduation Ceremony is a PS1 rite of passage. Each year, each graduate stands in front of parents, teachers, and fellow students to address the crowd, and Joel prepares an individual honoring of each child. This experience is incredibly moving as the graduates share their words of wisdom before heading off to middle school. We are excited to share this Class of 2022 Grad Book (containing all of the student speeches, parent tributes, Joel’s speeches to each Grad, in addition to the Moving Up words from all of their years at PS1). We hope you enjoy!

Savannah Acutt Indie Bickle Audrey Charles Trace Ebeling Clara Lieberstein Asha Parry

Savannah Jade Acutt

Everything is right. The big brown gate Opens at 8 The bubbles fly high High in the sky The grass feels good The clouds are just misunderstood I run toward my class As other kids pass I run out to recess In my princess dress Handball on the court But the time gets cut short Running to art Ready, set, start! Reading in the library Playing in P.E It might seem ordinary But it is special to me My parents are done with Coffee on the Green And I am done with class on the screen I thought that my adventure was done, But I am wrong, it has just begun Now the stars will gleam at night Why can’t you see it, Everything is right This poem reflects how the roots of my tree are done growing out, and the trunk of my tree will start to grow. My tree is unique like all my classmates of 2022. I am so excited to start a new adventure with my sister once again, and share these moments of my life with all the other girls going to Archer. Before I go I want to thank all my teachers over the years and the PS1 faculty members for shaping me into who I am today. I would also like to give a big thank you to my parents for starting this journey and to Joel for taking his time to get to know me and write his very own grad speech that he will share this year because he is also graduating from being at this school for more than 50 years. Thank you to everyone for helping me realize how much PS1 has helped me and how I have grown.

Since she was an itty-bitty baby, Savannah’s nickname has been Savvy, and it’s suited her to a T. She’s savvy, smart, stylish, creative, determined, thoughtful and kind, and has an excellent sense of humor – her impish pranks are a side of her that’s not often seen at PS1. Here’s a few of the many other things we appreciate about Savvy: •S he’s the official family rememberer, and her keen powers of observation make her our household item finder. Misplace your purse? Savvy knows where it is. Lost your keys? Savvy knows where they are. Forgot something you meant to do that day? Savvy will remind you. She truly keeps the household running at a more efficient pace. •A nother of her superpowers is the power of persuasion – she convinced her allergic mom to get a kitten, not only by sheer force of will but also by in depth research and innovative designs to solve the problem AND cure her mom’s allergies. We are now the proud owners of Hazelbelle, who is 4 years old. •S avvy’s inner clock is finely tuned, and she makes sure we’re never late (well, tries to anyway). •S he is a fiercely loyal friend, and always looks out for her posse. •S av-Sav never forgets a birthday, puts a lot of thought into finding the perfect gift and she reminds her parents to purchase gifts in a timely manner. •A n avid baker, Savs can whip up delectable cupcakes or a moist red velvet dessert at the drop of a hat. •S he feels for those less fortunate than her, and wants to make the world a better place. •S he has a keen eye for design, with a clear vision and strong opinion regarding any house decorations or furniture purchases. •S he has an intuitive feel for finances - not sure how she does it, but she always has cash on her which we can borrow (with interest of course). •M ore of her nicknames are Captain, Pumpkin Seed & Pumpy-Lumpy. • She’s a loving little sister, and caring grandchild. •S he knows what it means to miss New Orleans, and feels right at home in her namesake, the African savanna. •B ecause of where her birthday falls, she’s often the youngest in any situation, but conducts herself with a maturity beyond her years. We’re so proud of the young lady she’s become, and so excited to see what she does in the future. World, look out!

Words from Joel:

To start off my grad speech here is a poem I created about all the perfect days at PS1. This poem is inspired by the one called “Everything is Wrong ‘’ by Shel Silverstein. The poem was shown to me by a friend and that’s what inspired me to call my poem“Everything is Right”.

Words from Carol and Robin Acutt:

Words from Savannah Jade Acutt:

Seven Years at PS1

Your parents named you Savannah. You have always been called Savvy, not only because it is a suitable nickname but also a perfect descriptive word that covers a multitude of positive attributes. You are strong and grounded from any and every angle, personally and socially and academically and thoughtfully. In a word, SAVVY. You are a calm force of nature. You have an uncanny aptitude for many things from athletics to the arts, as well as the art of negotiation. You are a loyal and steady friend and steadfast and caregiver to others. You have a well-organized mind; you are a successful entrepreneur, motivated more by the desire to do well and to achieve financial gain. Examples include doing good deeds for people in the neighborhood, like weeding gardens or washing cars or walking dogs, and starting a school newspaper. You are a leader all around campus (as you were on ZOOM!). You served as the campaign manager for the winning candidate in the school’s mock election. Your hobbies and outside activities include horseback riding, soccer, dance, piano, and beach volleyball. You are well balanced and organized, calm, capable, helpful, honest, genial, personal, and poised. Your parents have told me how you exert positive leadership within your family structure – a sure sign of a very healthy family. They complete ten years at PS1 today and have served in many capacities. Giving their time, talents, and resources, from event leadership to reliable laborer. There is nothing they won’t do. Mom has been on the Parents Guild Executive Board for seven years and headed the school’s Fall Festival for six years. Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are good at the monkey bars and you have a pretty singing voice. You are a great friend, you help people work out problems. You always know how to make people feel happy when they are sad. You are very understanding, when we get into an argument, you forgive me really quickly.

2016-2017 I like to play tag with you because you play fair flexible. You make playing games fun. You are a great friend because when I am hurt you help me and when I am hurt, you stand up for me. You are an amazing artist. I love drawing pictures with you. I like playing cats with you at recess.

2017-2018 You are nice. You always give your friends lots of hugs. You always play friendly and make sure everyone is included. You are a good writer because you are good at spelling words and your handwriting is neat. I liked when you were in the penguin dance in Mary Poppins, it was really funny.

2018-2019 You are a kind and understanding friend who wants everyone to be happy and you have a smile on your face everyday. You are awesome at volleyball and handball, I mean REALLY good at handball. You have wonderful handwriting too. I love spending time with you and would play with you. You have great listening skills and are quite independent, which is a big skill that everybody will need to learn one day. You are smart and are always reading an interesting book. I really appreciate you.

2019-2020 You are very nice and inclusive and always have a laugh to share. You are always listening to the person talking. You are a really sweet and kind friend and I love being partners in math with you. It is really fun! You are always really funny and smart you have great ideas. You’re super nice and have the best hand writing, way better than mine.

2020-2021 You’re always there for me. You were a really good leader when you were campaign manager for the Hope Campaign. I really appreciated how you kept everyone on top of things while helping with other stuff too. Thank you for always inviting me to work with you on math; it’s because of your reasonable and smart explanations that I was able to understand so many math problems we were given! You are easygoing, wonderful, and AMAZING in a thousand ways.

2021-2022 I am so grateful to have such a faithful friend and for teaching me to be a more open minded person. I love hanging out with you and you have one of the biggest hearts I know. You’re always the first to invite me to work with you and extend a helping hand! You make our classroom a place where vulnerability is welcomed and trusted because we know that you will compassionately empathize with our experiences! You accept me for who I am and you always seem to find the light in everything. I love your fashion style and how you are not afraid to dress in bright, vibrant colors. You always know how to put a smile on anyone’s face and how to brighten anyone’s day.

Indie Bickle

And that is a similar concept to what PS1 teaches you. PS1 has taught me to be my own person, but also someone who can easily work with others. Let me tell you a little story. When I was small, before PS1, I was stubborn, independent, and only liked to work alone. Not only has PS1 helped me to realize that it’s ok to ask a friend for help, but it has also helped me make the benevolent, noble, and attentive friends who are always willing to help. There are so many times PS1 has helped me with my team awareness, like when I was in I think second grade, PS1 helped inspire me to put together a team of my friends to do beach clean ups. I have always loved the earth and wanted to take care of it, and it felt empowering to bring friends together and make a positive impact. That is just one example of how PS1 has inspired this intrepid little girl. So let me ask you this, do you want to be the lonely ant killing an elephant or do you want to build a community so you can carry one?

Dear Indie, From kindergarten to 6th grade…. From Florida to California From bye, bye, Miss American Pie to Come as You Are From three-quarter length sleeve dresses to no dresses. Ever. From purple to blue to green to yellow From quiet and reserved to confident and well-spoken From hot dogs to veggie dogs From ballet flats to converse high tops From the Beatles to Janis Joplin to Nirvana From walks in the park to Women’s Marches From animal lover to animal rights activist From Aunt Annie’s peace pasta to Gjelina’s mixed mushroom pizza From sand castles to beach clean-ups From Kidz Bop at the Greek to Patti Smith at the Ford From violin to guitar From gymnastics to tap dancing From boogie boards to surf boards From pool noodles to ocean swims with whale sharks and manta rays From Curious George to Bob’s Burgers From Tikki Tikki Tembo to The Hunger Games From Princess Bride to Die Hard From Violet to, well, Violet (…and Esme. And Grace. And Norah. And Gemma. And many more) My oh my how you have grown and changed, and still stayed the same So Kind. So Brave. So Compassionate. So Strong. So Smart. So Generous. So Grounded. You have found your voice. Now go and make it heard. The world needs you. We are so very proud of you. We love you more than you will ever know. You are amazing. You are pure love. Shine Bright. Love, Mom and Dad

Words from Joel:

Would you like to hear a weird fact? It only takes one ant to kill an elephant, crazy right? Well it is true, if an ant goes into an elephant’s nose the elephant will die. Now this might seem shocking, but it always is, isn’t it? One person, no matter how big or small, can change the way everybody sees something forever. Now, did you know that if ants band together they can lift 5,000 times their body weight? Yup, that’s true too!

Words from Stephen and Kelly Bickle:

Words from Indie Bickle:

Seven Years at PS1 Indie Bickle, COME ON DOWN!!! I call you to come on stage today the same way as your Dad calls you to come to the gate at dismissal time! You are settled and grounded. You work hard and play hard and are, at the same time, quietly competent and easy going. You are both independent and connected, poised and child-like, fun loving and attentive, and a fan of music from classical to rock and roll. You are a good friend to many on our campus. You tap dance with your contemporaries and your grandmother. You love science, doing experiments, creative writing, history, art and music. You are kind, likeable, considerate, polite and popular. You add a great deal to the content and disposition of any group. Your love runs deep. You care deeply about animals and the planet. You started your own organization called Kids POP (kids Protecting Our Planet), which held beach and hike clean ups to help protect the earth and its oceans. You have made mala necklaces for kids to learn to meditate with, called ‘Animalas’ and donate the proceeds to several animal and ocean conservation charities. Your family moved here from Florida in 2016 and has fit in our community from Day One. You are a family which exudes love, caring, and friendship. As we were forming a group of diverse thinkers to build connection and community, your dad was one of the first people I recruited to serve. He also has given free yoga classes to teachers and staff for several years. Your mom has given talks to your classes about skin health and skin cancer. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 Indie your games are amazing. Your art is awesome. You are really good at gymnastics. You are really good at drawing bunnies. You are really fast. You do monkey bars really good. You are a good friend because you share.

2016-2017 I really liked your solo at circle time. You run really fast. You’re a very, very kind friend. Thank you for helping me read. I love you. I like when you play drama with me. You are such a great friend. I liked learning more about you at your birthday circle. You are nice and fun when we play games together.

2017-2018 You are a creative friend with an inclusive heart and you know how to have a great time with your friends. You have a witty sense of humor. You are so fun to play with since you are so fair and understanding. It is so funny that you wear matching clothes with your friends because you have great style.

2018-2019 You’re really funny, kind, nice, and also very helpful because whenever we’re doing writing and I need a peer edit, you always do it. And when I need help with my flashcards during Goals you always volunteer. You’re a really good friend and when we play “The Game” and you’re arrested for no reason you always make it super fun by being really enthusiastic.

2019-2020 I love being around you because you are always so calm and kind. I liked being in your math group because you always come up with the right answers. I enjoyed our cartwheel games of horse in your front yard while social distancing. You are an amazing friend to humans and to animals. I love how you are so loud about what you believe in. You inspire me to save the earth too. Your bull goal was sad but really convincing.

2020-2021 You’re so nice! Like really, really nice! And even though you have decided you’re antisocial, I don’t believe it. You know why? Well it’s because you can make friends with ANYONE. I admire how you care for animals greatly and care for the earth in so many different ways like reducing your carbon footprint! Your passion for music is so inspiring. Your voice is amazing. I wanna write more songs and play more guitar with you. You are super-duper awesome and you got skillz!

2021-2022 You have such a bright and positive attitude and you have such a good sense of humor. The first time I met you I knew you were a really cool person. I love all of your rock band shirts and even though sometimes, I say, “what band is that!?” I still think they are really awesome. I always see you tending to the plants and I admire your thrive to care for the greens and your love for animals. Thank you for being so aware of our environment. You care about everyone and put smiles on everyone’s faces. Your jokes and iconic comebacks have made this school year amazing. I love hangouting with you. There is never a time that I am not laughing with you. My stomach always hurts because you make me laugh so much. I love being your friend and I really look up to you. You are truly an amazing friend.

Dylan Alexander Byrnes Are any of you big readers? I’m a reader. I love books. You know that feeling when you’re on the last chapter. The last page? When you’re still clinging on to this story you’ve seen unfold, these characters that have been brought to life, this world you’ve come to love. That feeling of not wanting it to end, not wanting it to all be over. Because you know that once it ends, that feeling of connection, where the words come to life, when the story really resonates with you, in a way you can’t really describe, that feeling will also change. With graduating, I feel that same way, it’s the final page in this adventure that I’ve enjoyed so much, and I don’t want to have to say goodbye, but, I know I have to move on. Because sometimes, you outgrow the story, and it becomes something that, no matter how hard you try to have your old perspective, you just can’t see it in the same way. Because we’re growing up. We’ll never be youngers again. So here I am at the very last page of the story, clinging to it, but also, curious. How does it end? What happens after it ends? What do I do? What do we do?

Words from Anthony Byrnes and Anne Marie:

Words from Dylan Alexander Byrnes :

Seven Years at PS1

Oh, where have you been, my blue-eyed son? Oh, where have you been, my darling young one? ——— Dear Dylan, You’ve been a lot of places and you’ve grown so much— from young boy into young man—across 2,742 days since you started kindergarten in JP Orange. One constant, that we hope never changes, is the infectious joy that dances through your body when something excites you or makes you happy. Seven years ago, joy bounced through your body when you read your first book; now, cracking a code or a good joke, discovering a connection, conquering a challenge, learning something new forges that same spark. It’s a thrill to behold and always warms our souls. What a gift to have such passion knit so tightly into your being. What a gift to watch this passion grow from something ignited in the thrill of the moment to something you exude daily in your love of learning, understanding, and sharing. The good citizen who came from kindness as he graduated from 10th Street Preschool is now graduating from PS1 an empathetic, compassionate, caring, and loyal soul with a heart of gold. The way you have been present for and supported your friends—stood up for them amidst difficulty—is testament to this kindness that is you. We could not be prouder.

And we find the next book.

These past 2-1/2 years haven’t been easy…a global pandemic and crisis upon crisis in the world. We will, however, always cherish this period for the gift of time that we’ve had together as a family: the late mornings, daily lunch dates, closeness of our “co-working” with you on Zoom in one room and us in another, a mere holler or hilarious text away.

And even though nothing will quite be the same, even though you may never see those familiar faces of the characters you know so well, you’ll carry them with you.

And to see you soar, come into your own, and embody your voice on the other side of such a complicated time is nothing short of amazing.

And create our own new story.

You’ve accomplished so much.

We say goodbye. We say thank you.

——— Oh, what’ll you do now, my blue-eyed son? Oh, what’ll you do now, my darling young one?

Your kindness, your authenticity, your intellect, sharp wit, wry sense of humor, and ceaseless curiosity have carried you far and will continue to propel you forward into a new journey and whatever future you desire. Our wish for you as you turn the page and begin a new chapter is that you’ll always be guided by that bright, north star that is your strength of character, your integrity, your moral compass, your kindness, your laughter, and your unquenchable hunger for knowledge and understanding. Whether literary scholar, mathematician, computer engineer, all the above, or something you’ve yet to dream up, we’re profoundly proud of you, Dylan, and have so much admiration for who you are and who you’re still becoming… As you’ve written yourself, “Now you have to make your own story, and tell it to your next generation,” find that “glorious blazing sun,” and let it guide you forward. Congratulations! We love you, Bugsy. Mom & Dad

Words from Joel:

Dylan, where do I begin? I will start from the beginning in your first year at PS1 when you were five. You were disturbed by other children playing with toy guns at school – not necessarily because it violated school rules but, more importantly, because it violated your personal sense of ethics which can indeed be forged at such an early age. I brought you, your parents, an older student with similar convictions, and another staff member into my office to talk through your feelings and to give you support. You rose beautifully to the occasion. Flash ahead two or three years to when a Wall Street Journal reporter came to find out how an elementary school handled, at an age appropriate level, a mass shooting that occurred on a school campus in another state. I again brought you into my office, this time to talk with the reporter. If I remember correctly, not only was PS1 featured in a national article but you were quoted as well. You challenge yourself without taking yourself too seriously. Your keen sense of humor is often self-deprecating. You are articulate, sensitive, philosophical, inquisitive, insightful, unpretentious, genuine, aware, poised, reasonable, and witty. You are a good friend to many on our campus and make every group you are a part of better by your presence and contributions. Your parents are thoughtful, earnest and intellectually curious as well. The apple does not fall far from the tree. They are driven by their values and have become loyal supporters of our School in every way. They have shared their breadth of skills with our Marketing & Communications efforts, DEIJ work, parenting network happy hours, and our host family program. They live and extol the virtues of pluralism – in my world, there is nothing better than that!! Good luck at Harvard-Westlake next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are very kind to people. I see how you work with other people and share. One time, you took me to the office when I got hurt and made me feel like I belong. You are smart and you are a cheerful person.

2016-2017 You are a nice person. When you win a game you say “Good game! You did really good!” to your opponents. When you see people that are hurt you always take care of them. You are very smart and you sound very smart when you talk. Sometimes I feel like you hacked into the PS1 computer systems because you’re really smart. You love chapter books like Harry Potter and you are always welcome to talk with people and are always thinking about your friends.

2017-2018 You love reading and I liked having you as my reading partner because we could talk about interesting things about the books we were reading. You make up good games and it is important to play fair. You are a happy person and you make me happy. You are funny and you have interesting ideas like your plan for how to pick tents for the camping trip.

2018-2019 You are really fun to talk with about Avengers. Remember when we made our cool house and it took us so long on a Mine Craft server? You are very helpful because when we were doing our winter break paragraphs you helped me alot, like coming up with more descriptive words. You are so fun to play Super Smash Bros. with and you’re always the best one to talk to. You always listen to other people.

2019-2020 You are very kind, smart and you have interesting ideas. It was so much fun doing our Chumash project together and it’s fun to be around you. Remember that time in Youngers when you finished Harry Potter before me and I got so mad hahahahaha good times. You are so full of great ideas and you think very deeply about everything!! I love being your friend and taking hikes with you while trying to solve difficult math problems and impossible riddles. You’re nice, cool, and kind. You are an amazing person to be in a class with.

2020-2021 FINE! I ADMIT IT! YOU FINISHED HARRY POTTER BEFORE ME BECAUSE YOU’RE A BETTER READER! It’s good to get that off my chest, BUT I still wish I could have finished it before you. You are so full of information to share with the world. You never hold back from reaching your goals, and we all hope to see you soon because you are so focused, funny, and unique. Your boldness and fun leads to happiness for everyone around you!! Your math skills are great and you are great at dealing with tech and problems. I really liked when you would play your guitar on the way out of our zoom classes and it always gives me a smile.

2021-2022 You are a great friend, you are really good at math and you inspire me. You are so smart and you push me to do better in every way, I love watching and learning from you and to be honest I want to get to know you even better. Also when I talk to you, you introduced me to so many new things and I enjoyed all of them. You are so fun to hang out with. Remember when we and a few other kids made those seats on the spider web? That was really fun. You are very funny and smart. You are really good at wordle. Dylan Byrnes you are super smart at everything. You are a really nice friend too. You are also a very hard working kid like in your book club presentation I could tell you put a lot of hard work into it and the at the end it was so cool.

Carmen Carney

The O stands for open minded, which I have learned to be from this accepting community. I have grown into a more flexible individual, and I have learned to adapt to unexpected learning situations throughout my time at PS1, including when we had to transition from NORMAL school to ONLINE school. Additionally everyone here has shown me that to be treated fairly, I have to treat others fairly. I now have a greater appreciation for embracing new opportunities that allow me to step out of my comfort zone. Now, for my last word I knew it had to be as unique as this astounding group of learners and teachers, but also something simple, so I chose the word that is slightly obvious, but is still special in every sense: Education. In all my years as a student at PS1 I have been taught how to care, be compassionate, be thoughtful, and be expressive. As you can see we’ve evolved beyond the textbook, and have learned life skills rather than just academic skills. I have faced many hurdles in my life, but all the teachers (yes, every last one/;/’) have helped me leap over each hurdle higher than I would have before. I was a learner first, but now I am ready to be a teacher. Thank you

You were so excited the first day you stepped onto campus as a PS1 student. For two years you had been visiting as a “little sister” and had the privilege to experience DEAR time, circle time as well as other fun PS1 traditions with your sister. But now it was your turn. Your chance to make PS1 what you wanted it to be - and your 5 year-old self could not wait to get started! You’ve always had contradictory aspects to your personality. Joie de vivre is the number one thing that you bring to any group or relationship; you love to have fun. However, often before you allow yourself to sparkle, you like to sit back and watch carefully. We remember emailing the school the first few weeks of school and expressing our concern that you were perched on a rock during recess observing the action. Those wonderful teachers immediately set our minds at ease, sharing that they felt you were an observer, and when you were ready to you would join in all the activities. They were right. Just weeks later you were fully engaged and the rock became a safe haven that you haven’t needed again. Carmen, you embody E Pluribus Unum. Because you are not one thing and have so many aspects to your personality. Seven years at PS1 have had helped you explore and shape being a: Student, Friend, Explorer, Scientist, Artist, Thespian, Pop Connoisseur, Baker, Mathematician and Writer… As a PS1 grad you benefited from mixed age classrooms; bonding deeply with teachers and making new friends along the way. The school always met you where you needed it to. Each of your teachers honored you, helping bring together all your facets into a curious and kind hearted person. You know yourself, the way you learn as well as how to express yourself. Even though you can be a little shy, you allow yourself to shine. When you look back at your time there, we hope you remember the joyous garden that is the PS1 campus. All the friendships, the learning, Joel (of course), the extraordinary teachers and specialists. These special people helped you overcome your stretches and blossom into the young woman you are today. Look back on PS1 as the best start of your lifetime journey of learning being the best friend you can be. Remember the amazing amounts of happiness, the ready support and caring community. Always keep the joie de vivre that 5 year-old Carmen showed up with!

Words from Joel:

POE traditionally stands for process of elimination, which as a student we often hear around the subjects of math and writing. Today I want to use this acronym to illustrate who I have grown into throughout my time at PS1.The P stands for pluralistic, which we all know is literally at the core of a PS1 education, but to me as an individual it means thinking of my community before myself. PS1 has shown me this through the various team learning experiences that both students and staff take part in. It’s truly incredible when you think about the meaning behind “celebrate the many and build the one”, because it can be interpreted in so many different ways. This motto has really been implanted into my brain because I’ve been part of PS1 for 9 years. It’s been crazy. In a good way, obviously.

Words from Jared Carney and Deirdre Wallace Carney:

Words from Carmen Carney:

Seven Years at PS1

When I think of you, Carmen, I see a smile on your face and love in your heart. You have both a wry and raucous smile and love fun. I got to attend your sister’s Bat Mitzvah on Zoom and saw that happy smile wishing and wanting only the best for your sister, with whom you are very close. You have a natural talent for bringing people together. Your kindness shows in all the ways you interact with the world; your love of animals, the environment and people. At school you want to include everyone and always feels bad for others who are not part of the action. C C C – Carmen Collaborative Carney. You are sensitive and speak up for others, good natured, and enthusiastic. You started your PS1 experience as a reticent young person. That is not how we would characterize you now! Every year the gap between watcher and active participant has shortened. Now, as a graduate, you are willing to take leadership roles, take risks and still have a lot of fun along the way. Your creativity both within and outside PS1 finds its greatest expression in theater and in writing stories. As often as you possible can, your nose is in a book. PS1 parents since 2013, your parents immediately made their presence felt. They have served as ambassadors for the school, helping in strategic visioning and admissions, helping and leading the way in fundraising and outreach, admissions and generating support, and being cheerleaders for the school both in philosophy and practice. I am grateful that our connection will not end with your graduation. Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are a really good friend who is loyal and honest. You are really helpful. You have beautiful, long hair. You take care of everyone’s feelings and that makes you fun to be with. I love playing kitties with you.

2016-2017 You are fun to be around. You like to be with your friends and treat them well. You never do anything mean. You are so into dogs. One time you were so excited about talking to me about dogs that you started jumping around! You like spiders a lot and you are always smiling. You love to read with a lot of people and love the library. You are smart and cool and swag. You always have a bright smile on your face. You are powerful and strong in your heart.

2017-2018 You are so kind and generous to others. You are a talented actress and remember all your lines. You can make any playdate so much fun. I like how you sing and can make anything humorous. Whenever we are in the Library, we find silly jokes to share. It was great when you played the “Ant” during Circle Time because you knew your lines so well.

2018-2019 You sang the songs like you really meant it with pride. You are so responsible and know what to do. You are so warm, inviting,helpful and kind. You can make anyone laugh and you even laugh at my terrible jokes. You are so supportive and make me feel like I am never alone.

2019-2020 You cheer people up when they need a good laugh. You are very kind and you always make me smile. Thank you for everything!!!! You are ALWAYS cleaning up the supplies at school even if you didn’t use them. You are soooooo nice and you care for everyone. It’s so hilarious how I have a bad luck streak at your house and whenever I’m there I break something. Whenever you’re around I know it will be a good time. You are one of my very best friends and I don’t know what I would do without you

2020-2021 Your personality is so bright and playful. I love how you stand out in the crowd and share your creative ideas with people. You’re more fun than anyone or anything I know, including bubble wrap. You always see the best in everyone, and you help others be their best selves. You work really passionately. I am so grateful for all your help in math. I’ll never forget the time you walked around the outdoor canopy, offering everyone your ‘crisp morning air’ hand sanitizer; your generosity sparing everyone a walk across the yard!

2021-2022 You are so good at leading the grandparents and special day event. Remember in blue you Zadie and I were under the oak tree and we were singing camping songs. You are such a good friend to me because you always give me piggy back rides. I enjoy hanging out with you because you are so creative, kind, and playful. You always make me laugh and you always help me when I need it. I love your joyful and curious personality and you are always so caring to the people around you. Hi Carmen you are the best. I love how you take leadership of anything you can. You have a lot of good energy. You are very kind to everyone that you meet. You are also very funny and can lighten the mood. I’ve loved being in your class every single year at PS1, and I hope we can continue to be friends. You are so nice to anyone you meet and give such good advice!

Audrey Inez Charles

My teachers have been an awesome part of this experience, probably the most important too. They have taught me everything I know now and have prepared me for middle school and this moment. I have grown so much throughout my time at PS1, especially in math and writing. I also want to thank my parents for pushing me to my limit and telling me that I can do it and that I’m capable even when I didn’t think so . I want to thank my friends for helping me through every moment here at school and at home. With only a couple days left here at school I am so happy of all that I have accomplished and all of the wonderful memories I have made that I will carry with me forever. Thank you.

Audrey, as you get set to graduate and start your new journey at Buckley, we want you to know how impressed we are by you. Your time at PS1 has molded you into a strong young lady who is not afraid to advocate for herself or her fellows, and knows what it means to set boundaries and honor thyself. Your resilience in the face of adversity has been nothing short of inspiring. The support that your teachers and other faculty members have provided, since the second grade, has helped you blossom into an independent and creative thinker, and we can’t wait to see what happens as your academic and social worlds expand. All that you have accomplished has taken work and dedication, and no matter the setbacks, you have continued to show up and make a difference. We are so proud of your tenacity, grit, curiosity, adventurous spirit and courage, of course, but what makes us the most proud is your heart and its capacity for love. You are an incredible daughter and the best big sister anyone could ask for. You amaze, inspire, challenge, and impress all who are lucky to know you. You are one of a kind; our very own Avenger, Audrey Danger! Always remember to walk tall, hold your head high, don’t be afraid to take up space, and allow yourself to be vulnerable. You’re never alone. We will always be here, watching and cheering, as you make your own way. Always. WE LOVE YOU AMAZING? UNBELIEVABLE? DARING? RARE? EXCEPTIONAL? YES!!!

Words from Joel:

My time at PS1 has been a wonderful experience. I have made so many good memories, with friends and teachers. PS1 has made learning a fun, immersive and original experience. One of the ways PS1 has done that would be the school camping trips. The camping trips have always been refreshing and fun. They gave us the opportunity to learn about wildlife and have a good time with friends and other classes.

Words from Shayne Anderson and Tiffany Charles:

Words from Audrey Inez Charles:

Seven Years at PS1

Audrey, you have a presence about you that make people happy. I hear that from adults and children alike, in and out of school since your arrival at PS1 in 2017. You work hard, and apply yourself well to every task. Children have taught all of us adults a lot about resilience during COVID; Audrey, your resilience stands out even more among your peers. You go deeper than many into meaning and purpose; you are thoughtful, inquisitive, sensitive, caring, and up to any challenge. You make people around you better. You aim to please – there is another side to you as well. If something is not fair or just, you speak up for yourself and others in a direct non-confrontational way. You are a great friend – compassionate and glowing; genial and helpful; empathetic and positive. Your upbeat attitude and energetic spirit are infectious and you radiate confidence. You add a great deal to any group you are a part of. Your two younger siblings are indeed lucky to have Audrey as their older sister. Your parents completely align with our philosophy of program and show up with their time and talents to build community and demonstrate that education matters through efforts. Even with moving further from our School and even through COVID, their commitment and involvement has not waned. When they find a school whose values they embrace, there is nothing they won’t do for that school. We are indeed lucky to be on the receiving end. Thatuse of the word “lucky” twice in one grad speech – that exemplifies the impact every member of your family has on the people they touch. Good luck at Buckley next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are so good at building Legos. You are funny when you make up jokes and they make everyone laugh. You are good friend. You are good at the monkey bars and have the best ideas for blocks.

2016-2017 You are really funny and active. You are always doing something. When you’re stuck you don’t give up. You seem to enjoy playing anything. You can make 100 people laugh in 2 seconds. Everyone follows you around just to wait until you say something funny. You make a lot of friends. You always say, “You can play with me.” And you have so many ideas.

2017-2018 You are good at making up new and funny games in the MPR during recess. You are a good soccer referee because you always watch to see if people really scored. I like to be at centers with you because you always help clean up. You are one of the funniest kids in the class because of the funny voices you make.

2018-2019 You are really funny in math. You tell lots of jokes. You’re really good at arcade games, like the time you got two jackpots on the exact same game. You’re really fun while we’re waiting in line for aftercare by making us laugh. You are really fun to talk to and you start great conversations. You were really funny when you got yogurt poured on your head and laughed about it. Gabriel, you are such a good friend.

2019-2020 You are really funny because you come up with new jokes all the time. You are so nice and funny I feel really comfortable near you. You have been in my class since I was in Green, and I hope you are again next year. You always know how to make anyone smile. You make the class laugh and your hair is awesome. I love your enthusiasm. I loved your cooking show video that you made for math Even though we are not together every day we always call each other.

2020-2021 You’re so funny and always bring people up when they are not feeling themselves. You are so funny and smart and you are a great person and I can’t wait to see you next year (sorry for pushing you into the bush). You’re a very good person and you are also very light hearted which makes your jokes all the more funny. Thanks, for being funny and kind and thanks for trying to get my thermos open at lunch (even though you didn’t quite get it.)

2021-2022 Even though this is the first year I am in the same class as you, I have lots of good memories of you. Remember when we recorded Julius Caesar and I appeared in all the videos somehow. You are very nice and very fun. If you’re bored or sad go to Gabriel because he always has something interesting going on! I met you my very first day at PS1, and a little after that, we became friends. And though sometimes we’ve gotten out of touch over the different grades, I still consider you one of my longest running friends here at PS1 and am glad to have you as a friend. You are so smart, kind and absolutely hilarious! I love the joy you fill this class with and it won’t be the same without you. I really hope that you enjoy middle school but we will miss you at PS1.

Gabriel Aziz Chibane

My first year I had an assignment and it was, “what did you do during the summer?” We went to New Jersey and my grandparents live there and since my uncle lives in Philadelphia we usually go and see him since he lives so close. My uncle had nerf guns in his basement and we used to play there so I wrote about that and I said, “this summer I played with the guns in my uncle’s basement,” which must have sounded pretty sketchy. Additionally, I made a drawing of me firing a nerf gun at my brother Rayan. Jen, my teacher picked up my paper and walked over to my mom’s classroom and said, “Lucia we need to talk.” Thank goodness my mom was there to explain the story. But the point is not about my uncle’s basement, it’s about how my mom’s always been there for me and so has my dad,brother, aunts, uncles,grandparents,cousins, and my friends. I just wanted to tell you that I’m so thankful for you all. I’m really going to miss this place but as the 14th century English poet Geoffrey Chaucer would say “all good things must come to an end” and this has been a great thing. Thank you.

Dearest Gabriel, From the shores of La Ceiba, Honduras to Casablanca, Morocco generations of our family members have paved the way and stand with you at this very special time in your life. We have had the pleasure of watching you grow into the curious, courageous, spontaneous fun-loving young man you are today. You have soaked up the many opportunities provided to you and you have blossomed. We We We We We We We We We We We We

see you. see the way you help others. see your generous spirit. see your ability to light up a room. see your willingness to try something new. see your connectability to people of all ages. see you problem solving. see you creating beautiful moments and ideas. see you handle the difficult moments see you. love you are beyond proud.

Congratulations on this wonderful accomplishment. We look forward to all that is to come. We are so proud of you and we love you very much! Love Always, Mama and Papa

Words from Joel:

When I was born I immediately became part of the PS1 community. My mom had already worked here as a teacher for two years. We lived nearby on Yale Ave and every day we would go to a park a couple blocks away. When it was time for me to come to PS1 as a kindergartener, I had already spent much time on the campus. But being a student was different. I was happy but then I faced the truth and found out that life is not all fun and games.

Words from Soufiane Chibane and Lucia Alcantara-Chibane:

Words from Gabriel Aziz Chibane:

Seven Years at PS1

You were born a year after your mom started working at PS1. So I have known you your whole life. Gabriel, you are old beyond your years. You think deeply and embrace life. Your curiosity knows no bounds. Your cultural traditions are a composite of Moroccan, Honduran, Mayan, Spanish, German, and Swiss ... And that’s just the part I know about. Your person and your personality reflect that complete range. You have been surrounded by Spanish, French and Arabic through books, family members and travel. We are each unique beings – you have the heritage to prove it! You will engage in conversation with anyone of any age. I would venture to say that you cannot be intimidated; neither are you intimidating because you approach everyone and everything with a joyful and resplendent curiosity. You have made child care programs both before and after school that much more fun and collaborative because it is just in your nature to make everyone comfortable, young and old alike. Now that you are among the oldest students on campus, that is more commonplace; an interesting thing about you is that this has always been true. You are compassionate, curious, creative, opinionated, fair, personable, and extremely likeable. Your enthusiasm is contagious. We all aspire to be lifelong learners. You have a lock on achieving it – recent interests alone include photography, animation, video production, swim team, trumpet, scuba, and Spanish. The list continues to grow. You have a great twinkle in your eye in everything you undertake. Our school works hard to promote and foster community among all in our midst. Your parents do that in all areas of their life as well. They are among the best recruiters to PS1. Yours is a family that gives and then gives some more. Good luck at New Roads next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

Henry Craig Henry, One of the hardest things is to let go and trust you can handle all that life throws at you, and in these past 7 years, I have witnessed so much magic within you: In In In In In In In In In

your your your your your your your your your

laughter with friends, tears when disappointed, courage facing fears, care for your books, insatiable curiosity, moments of complete self-awareness, sorrow after making “poor choices,” loyalty to those you hold close, and joy with each breakthrough and success.

I am so grateful for your PS1 experience that has allowed you to live in your magic, proud of how you have grown through this journey and look forward to what comes next. I love you - Mom — Henry, Today is a day to celebrate you - your growth, your achievements, your life thus far. Before moving forward it’s helpful to look back to understand who you were, are, and hope to become. From your first night of life, sleeping on my chest, to your first day at PS1 to today, I have watched you become a young man of keen intellect, insightful humor, full of joy and promise, coupled with beautiful self awareness and emotional strength. Courage helped you overcome your first days in Yellow. Mindful support from Billie and Keondria, as well as friends, helped you develop in Bridge. Determination and hard work brought success with John and Aarika in Olders. And this past year has brought the biggest success yet - acceptance to your next school! I cherish each day with you, living and laughing. Being your father is the greatest joy of my life and I look forward to seeing the man you will become. With kindness in your heart, I challenge you to become the best version of yourself. I’m so proud of you. Your tree is definitely full of leaves!

Words from Joel:

As I leave the community I have been a part of for the last seven years it is most bittersweet. I am happy to move on to my next school but sad to leave this one behind. I have developed my skills in reading, writing, math and science at PS1,and I have had a great time here. The friends I have made are some of the closest friends that I have, and maybe will ever have. The teachers here have pushed me far beyond what I knew I was capable of and allowed me to do my best work. Last year I had a debate and put in so much work in preparation. When I presented it, it felt like a weight fell off of me because of how passionate I was about it. I have also made many memories like going on a camping trip or seeing the bubbles on the first day of school. As my time at PS1 draws to a close I would like to thank my parents for giving me the opportunity to go to this school, for it has shaped me to be who I am today. Thank you.

Words from Ryan and Karen Craig:

Words from Henry Craig:

Seven Years at PS1

Henry, you are good at a lot of things. I have been taken this year by your persistence to take on new challenges. You are a fine natural athlete but had no familiarity with volleyball; so you immersed yourself in learning from others, felt fine about not being good right from the start, and proved to yourself that as long as you wanted to be good at something, you could! If you have a problem, you reach out for help. This is quite an accomplishment for a boy who started out at PS1 incredibly shy seven years ago to now demonstrating daily how comfortable you are in your own skin. You shied away from the attention and spotlight and even hid behind a classmate during your first circle times in your early years at PS1. Your honesty follows you wherever you go. You are affable, respectful, considerate, even keeled, helpful, solid, and responsible. If someone wants to get something done, just ask Henry. You are sociable and yet, you take your time assessing a situation before jumping in. You are an observer, figuring out what is going on, and are a voice your friends listen to. You don’t crave the limelight; you prefer to be a supportive friend. You have a wonderful wry sense of humor – humor and ease and comfort characterize all three members of your family. The phrase “Hail fellow, well met” comes to mind in thinking about your parents. They attend events, work behind the scenes, and make situations better by their presence. They are outgoing without calling attention to themselves – a great combination. Good luck at New Roads next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends: 2015-2016 You are a good friend. You always think of fun games to play at recess. I like that you are always happy and cheerful. I like playing Dragon City with you because you’re really good at it. I like your illustrations in Writers’ Workshop because you draw cool people. You build cool structures in blocks. You are someone we can trust and count on.

2016-2017 You said my building was cool - the really tall one! You are really fast and great at drawing. I like the way you tell funny jokes at lunch time. You are good at one touch because you kick the ball really high. You are a good sport. When we played soccer you follow the rules. You are a kind person. You are good at doing front flips by the monkey bars. You are really smart because you usually figure out math problems.

2017-2018 It was so cool looking at your wristbands. You have an open heart and can be patient with others. You are so fast in “Freeze Tag” and I couldn’t catch you. You read so fast in Book Club and always beat the rest of us to the end of the chapter. You have good sportsmanship and have so much athletic talent. Since preschool, you have been so kind and respectful to me.

2018-2019 It’s really fun when we play soccer in PE together because you’re a really good soccer player, you pass alot and you score. You are really fun to talk to, like when we talk about Fortnite and the new stuff that’s coming out. You’re also really fun and funny to talk to because whenever I’m feeling down you always have a joke and it makes me feel better.

2019-2020 You always have so much energy! It keeps us all awake and paying attention.You are such a good friend, you are always nice and you’ve been a good. You bring lots of fun into online learning. It’s nice having you in my IIS group! You are really good at soccer and you always have good sportsmanship. It is so fun when we sat at the same table because you always have something new to talk about and are open to try anything. I could go on for a long time about you, but 2 years in violet some of the best years of my life and that’s saying a lot.

2020-2021 I am so glad we came back onto campus because we have become such good friends. You are a really kind, kind person- you are always so uplifting and never bring people down. You were great in story path and seemed like a real candidate. You are so funny and I love your cats’ names. You are really good at robot dancing- I can’t wait to see you next year. You always contribute to group projects and you know how to step up when it is needed. You were a really good partner in the 80’s party.

2021-2022 You are a very nice guy and I want to get to know you more. You are so good at math and when you solved a problem I was amazed and it helped me a lot. You have also introduced me to so many new things and I really enjoyed them and you did it in a way where it was not an information overload. You are also really good at sports, I remember when you carried our team in rugby- that was really cool. Though we have been friends before, I am especially grateful to have you as my friend this year, and hopefully in years to come. You are really kind and creative I love your caring and smart personality. I enjoy playing badminton with you. You are really friendly to everyone and you are super fun to hang out with.

Ava Grace Dalton “Once I was seven years old my mama told me you’re goin’ to school you won’t be lonely once I was seven years old It was a big big world and we were getting bigger, swinging on the monkey bars and diggin’ in the sand box, singing songs, making art and learning how to read. Making friends that we really hoped would last forever. Once I was ten years old I was in violet class and I thought it was gonna be a good year once I was ten years old Then Covid hit hit hit and we were zooming together and then we thought that this would last forever we were baking at home, doing everything we could, while we’re staying positive and while writing our story Now I’m twelve years old we’re finally in olders now, never thought that we would really get here. Now I am twelve years old Now The masks came off and we were smiling together. We’ve grown so much but now we have to (beat) leave each other. I’ve got my friends with me and my teachers to I’ll carry these memories all the way to (beat) middle school Now I’m twelve years old we’ve gone on our grad trip and did our Shakespeare play we should be proud. Now I am 12 years old Once I was seven years old, I started PS1 it was going be my very first year. Once I was seven years old. Once I was seven years old.” I would like to thank my mom and dad for making it possible for me to come to PS1 Thank you

Dear Ava, Congratulations! When you first started PS1, 6th grade felt like forever away and now you are finally here! We are so very proud of you, your hard work, and many accomplishments. From the first day at PS1 with bubbles raining down on you and being the “new girl,” to the confident young lady singing at graduation! We have delighted watching you grow and flourish in so many ways. Ava, you have so many gifts but we are most proud of your hard work and choices to follow your passions. You have such an energetic, happy, charismatic, passionate, and magnetic personality that makes people want to be around you. We love how you always bring fun to our family with dancing and singing through life. Your positive attitude is such an example to us all. Your younger siblings look up to you so much and we love how kind and nurturing you are towards them. We can’t wait to see you soar at Archer and have loved watching your journey through life so far. There is nothing you cannot do! Stand tall for what you believe in, be proud, be brave, be confident, and be you because no one does you better! Most importantly, continue to improve each day and be an example to others. We are so proud of you and love you very much Ava Grace Dalton!! Love, Mom and Dad

Words from Joel:

Sung to the tune of “7 Years” by Lukas Graham

Words from Carrie and Matthew Dalton:

Words from Ava Grace Dalton:

Five Years at PS1

Ava, your parents found us five years ago because they thought PS1 would be a better fit for you for elementary school. How right they were – it didn’t happen overnight. But to see you now, leading and fitting in so very well as if you had been here forever, brings joy to the faces of all the adults who have had the pleasure of your company. The accomplishment is yours. You questioned your own abilities early on. You can still be hard on yourself at times, but you are well aware of the wonderful progress you have made. You have many friends, are determined to do your best, and are much less wary to express self-confidence. You enjoy being part of a group, as both follower and leader. You are a passionate being, approaching everything with enthusiasm and eagerness. Your friends eagerly await your presence as you add light and liveliness to your peer relationships. You’re self-aware and a sophisticated self-advocate with a well-developed bag of tools for social emotional well-being. You have worked hard to get where you are. You are caring, positive, joyful, popular, fun loving, and resourceful. You manage your time very well and are now an energetic engaged learner. I see a life of performance in your future. Your future is rosy and bright. Your parents know how to be good supporters of their children’s schools. They express their gratitude in many ways. They attend events; they demonstrate leadership; they value education. Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends: 2017-2018 You are a really funny person because I’ve seen you do funny things. You really good at drawing butterflies. It’s so nice to have you in our class this year! You are a great friend because whenever I want to play with you, you’ll play with me and you will always include everybody. I love how you always make up the best games.

2018-2019 You were in my class in green and I am so glad you got to be in my class again because you are really fun to play with. You are nice and funny and you tell interesting stories. I enjoy talking to you. You were kind to me when I was sad. Remember when we went on that field trip and we read this funny book while we ate lunch in the back of your mom’s car?

2019-2020 You have been in my class since we were in Green, and whenever I need someone understanding to talk to, I can always count on you. I appreciate everything you have done for me from friend things to school things you are my bff and always will be. Remember that time where you kept saying platypus through the door? That moment will haunt me forever with laughter. You have a smile as big as the moon and a heart as big as the sun. You always say the right thing and when you want something done you get it done.

2020-2021 You are a great person and I appreciate that you always take the time to help others. You are so kind by always being there for me and you can sing! You are always open to new ideas and new projects. Thank you for helping me choreograph the dance for music (even if we never finish it.) You have been in my class for two years and it’s always been so fun to work with you. You make sure everything you do has something exciting and worth seeing. You are a very curious person. I feel that I can laugh and be myself around you. You are incredibly hard-working and always get your work completed with time to spare.

2021-2022 Remember when we sung Christmas carols together in the cold? That was so fun. You make me happy because you always help me. You are really energetic and a wonderful person. You are kind and smart. I hope you like the school you are going to go to next year. I always enjoy talking to you at lunch. I love hearing all the crazy stories you have to share with me. I think you are a great artist when you drew that picture of Alexander the Great. You are always really nice to your friends. And your writing skills are awesome every time you write. You try so hard and get great results. I think that you are very good at tennis and badminton. You are good at drawing and are creative. You are also really good at problem solving.

Trace Agent Ebeling

In youngers, I started to learn the fundamentals. I fell and I fell again, but I got up every time, and before I knew it, I was ready to ride. In blue I was just getting used to everything. I started getting comfortable with teachers and friends. Also I grew out of my fear of Joel. In fact, that year I became really good friends with him. I was off the lift and hopping on the run. I was slow to start but I began to find my groove. In Indigo, I made some really amazing friends and grew a lot, academically, socially and vertically. In my second year in Indigo the trail got a little rocky. Not only did my friends move up but Covid hit. On the slope you always get a big fall. You get snow everywhere. And once I got up from my fall it was about a year later. It was nice you get the “snow off’’ or in my case Covid antisocialness off and start riding again. We got back to Olders, in person and I got to see people’s legs! We had fun. Performed Shakespeare, then said goodbye and just like that the school year ended. This year we learned a lot, and had a ton of fun. This is like the best part of the run! The big jump, cool drop, or better yet powder! I would like to thank all of the staff, teachers and students. Especially my parents and brothers. You’ve been with me in my wild journey here at PS1, I’m so glad I’ve had you guys by my side. If this was a snowboard run, I would be coming to the end of a long, rewarding and exciting journey. Like always, when you reach the bottom it’s a bittersweet moment. It’s the end but also the beginning. You have other runs, and other mountains waiting to be explored.

Trace. You have turned out to be so much more than our lucky number 3! The heavens designed the perfect balance of “ready to roll” for any adventure with the “most reliable, on task and thoughtful” Ebeling in the house. Your generosity of spirit, sincere desire to look out for other’s wellbeing and the perfect amount of naughty has made the youngest person in the house a complete North Star! Trace we can not wait to see where you take yourself! Whatever you decide to do, we are certain that you have the aptitude, the talent and most of all, the discipline to see it through. You thrive in the daily work that is required to stick to a plan. Keep your eyes open, for we feel like when the opportunity presents itself you will have the inner fortitude to step up and claim your future! You are brave because you take action even when it’s not easy or if you are unsure. Remember your age nor your lack of experience has ever kept you from carving your own fresh tracks or from grasping a hand-hold that once was out of reach. Stay true to yourself! If ever you need support Angus, Bo and both of us are 100% with and behind you! And yes, it’s true, when you arrived in our family you were IT for all of us! With our deepest love and respect, Mama, Daddy, Angus, Bobo Allie and Dallas

Words from Joel:

My personal journey through PS1 has been a wild one, much like the adventure of snowboarding. I’ve been coming here since I can remember. When I was a wee lil grom, I was passed around by my brothers at show and tell, and of course I couldn’t wait for my turn to strap to strap on my board and get a chance to hit the hill.

Words from Mick and Caskey Ebeling:

Words from Trace Ebeling:

Seven Years at PS1

Maybe I shouldn’t write a grad speech for you, Trace, hoping that that act will keep the family at PS1 forever rather than merely the past thirteen years! Or maybe, instead of my writing a speech, I should have asked you to write the speech I could give you. After all, it was you who scheduled and conducted a series of long interviews with me to learn more about me, the origins and history of our school, pluralism, my values and ideas on a broad variety of topics, and probably about my personal life too – when you were nine years old! Speak to anyone about you and we are likely to hear the same things – you are honest, funny, intuitive, humble, curious, accountable, passionate, available, and highly principled. You make every group better. You are the youngest in a family of strong personalities … you have always more than held your own. You give your best to all that you undertake in and out of school. I would write that you throw caution to the wind but your thoughtfulness and desire to do right serves as your own innate guard and protection. You are an ardent environmentalist, not because it is trendy but because you are intensely committed to making our planet a better one. Like all of the rest of your family, you pride yourself on the inside jokes and special personal relationships you develop with so many members of our staff. Your parents came to embracing pluralism before they learned that there was a school that did. So recruiting them as a PS1 family was easy; little did we know the influence and contributions they would make to PS1 to make what we do more clear, more easily branded, more understandable to our school community and to the outside world. They and I are true partners for life! They wrote me: “We hold firm on the ideals that there are many ways to be smart, that being with kids who don’t quack just like all of the other ducks are actually of great value to the community and we have upheld the idea that curiosity in learning and actual failure come as part of academic success.” How true. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

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Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are so good at basketball and you shoot really, really well. Maybe you’ll be a pro. I think you’re cute. When I was hurt you helped me up and it made me so happy. I was working next to you during centers and you made a beautiful painting of a bird.

2016-2017 You are really fast and you are good at sports. You are a great goalie, you like to read, you love basketball and you love pigs. You are very silly and it makes it so much fun to play with you. When you get hurt you don’t cry you just keep going. You are good at jokes and you are a good person. If someone falls you either catch them or you help them up. You take good care of your friends. You are always trying to help and do what’s right.

2017-2018 You are talented at reading especially at speed reading during Book Clubs. You are a talented and gifted athlete. You are so good at volleyball and quidditch. You always remember to wear your onesie on Wednesdays. You are inclusive to everyone in all activities. You are so aware of things around you and make it better.

2018-2019 You are the best ultimate frisbee player in our class. You always catch the frisbee like its nothing, throw it so well, and outrun everyone, like the Flash. Remember the full court pass you made?! You are so energetic, I bet you could run for two miles without stopping. You’re hilarious in every way and you make me smile everyday. You’re a great friend because you always listen to my ideas and you’re always helping people in need.

2019-2020 You are the funniest person I have ever met. You are funny even in the awkward moments. You are very athletic and the ultimate parkourist. You’re good at quidditch, playing soccer, and basketball and I always wished that I was as good as you. You’re really good at football, if you had a football to catch that was 100 yards away you would never fail to do it. I enjoy talking to you about the snow and rock climbing. I like having staring wars with you.

2020-2021 You are super competitive while being funny, and you always try to help people boost up their feelings. Remember that time we were playing soccer and you successfully made the wombo combo? That was really cool. Thank you for your devotion and committed attitude!! It’s really cool how you want to become an actor and I love how you gave the lines for Bottom and Pyramus in our play. I know you’re a softy at heart and I hope you know that too. I feel like you will be a good role model when you get older.

2021-2022 You have a really good vibe all the time. I appreciate your sociable and confident personality. You are always so upbeat and you are really fun to be around. You are very smart and funny, quick witted and logical; you can do anything that you set your mind to and you can think of a solution to any type of problem. Thank you for being a friend I can always count on to make me laugh. You always know how to make uncomfortable conversations slightly less awkward. I am very impressed by your incredible amounts of strength and bravery. I really appreciated it when you helped me put my rubix cube back together and you won’t hesitate to put others before you. You bring happiness to the world.

Izzy Escalante Little did I know what magic awaits goodbye parents now come run in the class It was so much fun I had a blast Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd and 3rd all became colors and turns into a bird My bird has wings, orange, green and blue The rest of the body is Indigo and white too The bird has no more colors to add at the end So now it goes down and starts to descend Down, down, down the beautiful bird goes When it will rise is when you know That another little kid has walked through those gates And little do they know what magic awaits. That was my poem about PS1. One of my teachers has helped me really unlock my poetic side. He gave me confidence in my poems and that is why I chose to present my speech as a poem. Everything that I say in that poem is true. I was 5 when I joined PS1 and I didn’t know just how special it was. I want to thank all of my teachers for pushing me forward, my friends who have brought me joy throughout my years at ps1 and my family. My mom has shown me that you can do anything you put your mind to. She is the strongest and most amazing woman in the world. My dad is the best at multitasking, he works three jobs at a time and still makes it home for dinner. He has taught me very important things; One, potatoes are amazing and two, sometimes life doesn’t go your way but nothing happens to you, it happens for you. Finally my little brother, when I have a hard day he is always there for me even if he doesn’t want to be. We have so much in common that we really love to do together which is something some siblings don’t have. I have helped guide him through his few years here and he has taught me how to be a better friend. I really appreciate him and the rest of my family. This has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Thank you PS1, and farewell. Drop the mic!

In this pivotal moment of your life, we want you to know we feel incredibly proud of you and so grateful for you. Your Mom and I, your Brother, your extended family and friends, and even your ancestors are in awe of the person you are becoming and already are. We have watched you grow from a bright eyed, giggly baby to an inquisitive preschooling with a big heart to now a strong, confident, young woman. You have emerged as a natural leader, a trusted friend and a skilled communicator unafraid to introduce and defend your views. It has been a wonder to not only watch all this beautiful transformation, but also to learn from it. You have taught us so much as parents Isabella, we will forever be thankful to you. I still remember the first day we took you to daycare, you were 7 months old. Your Mom and I were nervous wrecks. The floor was dirty, the other kids were sick, babies were crying around us, we were so unsure, you were not. You looked at us, you crawled away to the Montessori teacher, picked up a toy and smiled back at us. We knew in that moment you would be fine. That transition, one of many, proved harder for us than for you! Fast forward to your TK year at The Growing Place. We had just moved from Colorado to California. We left family and friends behind and we were worried how you would approach your new environment. On the first day your Mom and I walked you in, showed you your cubby and classroom, you just smiled and looked around. Your eyes lit up, you were so excited to have ‘such a gigantic playground to play on’ and new friends to explore. Equipped with your Pink Kitty stuffy for support you were one of the only kiddos that didn’t need a goodbye window routine - you just marched into the school ready for the day, day after day. We were so amazed with you. Again you taught us how truly resilient you were and that despite all the change, you were head and heart first running towards it. And, if you ever felt sad, you always had your Pink Kitty by your side. Now here we are at your PS1 graduation! These last few years in particular have truly been remarkable. All the laughter, all the struggles, all the tears, all worth it. It has been wonderful to see all sides of you blossom. You will always be our little baby girl, but we are excited to watch you embark on this next phase of your life with grace, just like every transition before. Your kind heart, ability to always see the good in others, your joyful ambition and your willingness to explore without fear is admirable. We love you and will always be here for you! ….And just in case you ever need them (we have all 25 of your Pink Kitties saved in the garage ;).

Words from Joel:

I was 5 when I first walked through those gates

Words from Marcos and Caroline Escalante:

Words from Izzy Escalante:

Seven Years at PS1

Goodness. Joyfully committed. A good friend. The type of person you would turn to in a time of need. Somehow Izzy, your parents have enough of these qualities within them that they could pass them along to their daughter without losing any of it themselves. Your nature and being allow you to be a safe haven for others to dwell – to be themselves, to explore, to make mistakes, to not take themselves too seriously, to trust in who they are and what they feel. In short, you are a great friend. You started a school newspaper with some friends and learned there was more to it than just writing and publishing. (Ask the Los Angeles Times!) You had to fire up interest, select stories and writers, empower editors, determine layout, arrange for printing, and develop a client base - everything except advertising (again, ask the L.A. Times!). I suspect that it was the messages you wanted disseminated (the gospel according to Izzy) with issues like social justice and environmental causes in the forefront that motivated you to create this newspaper. You are ebullient, self-assured, trusting, solid, unpretentious, community minded, considerate, cooperative, decent, and gregarious. You are a trusted friend and know yourself wonderfully well for a person so young. There is an ease about you that makes everyone feel that everything will be okay – a guiding light in these troubles times. As I said earlier, your parents have served as good examples for you. Among so many forms of participation at PS1, one that characterizes them perhaps most is their hosting every year of a Party Book item called Cal’s Game Night – it builds community, spreads fun and cheer, and makes all who attend feel better about themselves, each other, and the world they occupy together. Maybe I can join the fun next year after I retire! Yours is a great family to have in any school. Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends: 2015-2016 You are a good friend who treats everyone nicely. You draw amazing and you keep the colors inside the lines. When you had your birthday circle I learned that you had a big family that you really love. I remember one time when I was feeling really at recess and you came and cheered me up. You always seem like you are happy.

2016-2017 You are very kind and you always share your toys with your friends. You are one of the very best friends I’ve ever had. Every time I ask you a question you give me a funny or kind answer. You love dragons and are always willing to play with me. I love it when we go down the slide together and act silly. You are fun to play with and make up a lot of creative games. You are confident and nice to others.

2017-2018 You listen to everyone! I am happy you are in my class because you are the first person I met at PS1. You tell jokes that make everyone laugh. You always let me play with you, you really understand me. You try your best in everything and you come up with ideas super quick. You do kind things for others because you support everyone.

2018-2019 You really helped me know the Circle Time transitions, I can count on you. You are so smart and helpful. You have been so friendly to me especially during the hard times. You are a peacemaker when students argue. You have empathy for others. You notice ways to help others and know how to direct people to do great things.

2019-2020 You crack me up and are easy going, funny, and playful. I’ve known you for so long and all the years of our friendship are magical! You bring out the best in me, even in the hardest times. You can make really good stories and you are also not afraid to show people the things you have done. You speak your mind and share what you feel. I think it’s really cool that you look out for your little brother. You are a great dumpling maker and a great friend.

2020-2021 You’re a great friend and you always try to deeply understand every assignment. It was inspiring that you wanted to get all of your neighbors to vote. Whenever I need help with my work I come to you because you would help me and do it with me. Thanks for making me laugh at lunch and for reading my joke cards. You’re very nice and always see the bright side of things. You were very persistent on our transportation project and with your mindset we ended up finishing. You are the best friend anyone could ask for. I appreciate your ability to be fair, true to yourself, funny and a great friend.

2021-2022 This is my second time being in your class and I’m glad we are in the same class- you are such a kind and caring friend. I remember I once looked over your shoulder and you were drawing/ designing sketches they looked awesome. You are so nice- when were at the same table every time I talked to you we had such interesting conversations and it was so much fun. You are also an amazing writer and when I heard one of your poems I was so interested and I look forward to hearing more. Also you always take a leadership role in every activity. You really are a very valuable asset to class. You are very nice and it is always nice to talk to you. You’re always calm so it is nice to talk to you. You’re also very energetic!

Kashton Estrada

From the bad times of breaking my nose on the 12th street yard to the Grad trip and the Leap of Faith when I climbed up, what felt like 50 feet, and challenged myself to jump the bar six feet away, what I learned is that you can still be friends with the person who broke your nose and taking the leap of faith relates to life at school and when I play football. Although I came to PS1 late, in third grade, I feel that I have been here throughout all of my school years. Blue was such a different experience than what I was used to because of the mixed grades and the two teachers, but over time I got used to it. Overall my first year in Blue was wonderful. After Blue, I went to violet. I was very excited to be with my teachers and my classmates. That year I made a lot of memories with my friends, like squishing mayo packets during lunch and trading Contest of Champion cards. I appreciate how my teachers understood my humor and didn’t shy away from my antics. Unfortunately, we had to switch from normal school to Zoom school. Despite the fact that the pandemic came, Violet was a great learning environment and was one of my favorite years. Next came Olders. When I was younger I thought Olders looked terrifying, but it turned out to be great. It started off on Zoom and was very chill. Towards the end of the school year, we got the chance to actually go to school. Olders 4 was a huge change for me because I had always been in the older grade in my class and had many people with whom I’d yet to have in class. I met so many new friends whom I still have today. Now we reach this year, Olders 5, that held a lot of familiar faces and created so many great memories, like all of the competitive capture the flag games and our tiny desk concerts in music. I am so grateful for my parents because they have put so much time and effort into getting me here. I am also very grateful that I got to spend my final year at PS1 with my sister. I am proud to graduate from this great four year experience. Thank you.

Dear Kash, what a bitter sweet year it has been. We’ve seen the most growth from you: your friendships have grown stronger, and we’ve seen you step into a big brother on campus role (which your sister has loved seeing her “bro bro” every day) and we are sooooooo sad to see that go! But, we are ready to see you move on to really great things in your life and follow your passions. We are so proud to be your parents and to see how you strive to be the best you can be. We love your determination and perseverance and how you have cultivated self-discipline. Our hope is that you continue to challenge yourself and that you keep your spirit, drive, and tenacity shining through. We can not wait to see what you do in the future and how you will change the world. We love you so, so much! Love, Mom, Dad, Mia P.S I just wanted to let you know that I am definitely going to miss my carpool buddy. Now I have to wait till I get home to hear about the latest football player and where he got traded, how many touchdowns someone has, and all the other crazy statistics you know :)

Words from Joel:

As you may or may not know, I am a major football fan, and I thought starting off with this quote would match that. Patrick Mahomes once said, “Every experience, good or bad, you have to learn from.” Anyway I thought that quote matched my personality and my time here at PS1.

Words from Matt and Kayla Estrada:

Words from Kashton Estrada:

Four Years at PS1

Kash, you joined the PS1 community in 2018, a year after your mom joined the faculty. You had made many friends in your old public school in the Valley, and PS1 represented quite a change for you. As your mom said, “Kash came to PS1 to learn to love school again.” I hope and trust that this has been accomplished. Looking back, the adjustment was steady but not swift. So I think back to the restrained observer you were feeling your way in a totally new environment and I realize how far you have come. You are surrounded by friends all the time, your smile is contagious, your boyish charm and respectful attitude glistens, and you have made PS1 very much your school. You tend to be more contemplative and quiet in a learning environment, though very much engaged and collaborative in project based learning. Your patience at the sports day for grads with teachers and staff two weeks ago were admirable, as you ran circles around everyone! Your talents are easily translatable on the field; when someone watches you play a sport, you’re a completely aware and strong athlete – a team player through and through. Football and drums are your two greatest passions. You are earnest, hardworking, conscientious, deferential, considerate, athletic, relaxed, and humble. You work hard and play hard. Your family has also made the big adjustment from mom as teacher to also include mom and dad as parents in the school; and you commute from the Valley every day. Still in all, and now, luckily for us, Mia has just completed her first year at the school, and your parents are helping new families make their adjustment. Each one, teach one – that is the PS1 Way! Good luck at Hesby Oaks Leadership Charter next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2018-2019 You are so good at kickball because your foot is powerful. You make imaginative games so fun. You help your classmates fit into a group. You are so athletic and it shows on the field. You are proud when you accomplish something hard. You think outside the box and that is cool.

2019-2020 You are really good at sports and you include people on your team. You are so kind and remember when we had a wedding? Well it was fun but awkward. It has been a fun and interesting year being in your class. You are a great athlete and always play fair. You are a great partner in math. You are very interesting (in a good way) and are very funny. I remember when you visited the school. You had such long hair. You are always open to new ideas. It is sooo fun playing meatball sub with you and you are really good at it.

2020-2021 You are always focused on doing your best, on the soccer field and inside the classroom. I like how you put in your best work, like the slideshow about the bees’ habitats. It was so interesting, and I knew you did a lot of hard work. You have always been a good sport and when you first came to PS1 I thought you were pretty nice! Now you have proved me right and I know you will continue to be kind, caring, and a GOOD SPORT. Sportsmanship is a big quality. Feel proud that you have it. You are the most perfect you there is.

2021-2022 You are great at football and you run so fast. In kickball you are always running around the bases as if you were the fastest person in the world. You are so cool and you are really good at sports, when I was on your soccer team you were carrying us to the win. Also you are a really nice guy and I think we could be great friends, you are also so funny and your jokes make me laugh so hard. We’ve been in class together before and we are good friends. You are kind, great at sports, imaginative, smart and an overall good person. I like the wonderful job you did when you did your last book club project. You are also a person who works hard on everything like Shakespeare.

Zadie Freedman

When I reflect on my past at PS1, I think of all the incredible lessons my teachers and friends have taught me, educational or not. Over the years I’ve learned about so many different things, from the different moon phases in youngers, to the zones of the ocean in bridge, to human rights in middles, and finally to how to be a leader in Olders. Being a leader means being kind, confident and collaborative. In my final year here, and throughout my PS1 journey I made friendships that I’ll keep forever, and as I graduate , I am so grateful for this journey because of how it shaped me and taught me to accept myself for who I am. And with that, Zadie out.

Zadie, your creativity, curiosity, passion for silliness and love for your friends is an inspiration. During your time at PS1 you have gone from a Younger filled with so much excitement and wonder, to the girl you are today with a sweetness in your soul and an empathy that is innate. Since you were in preschool you have shown a natural ability to lead, nurture, teach and lift up other voices. You have traits that cannot be taught and we learn from you as much as we teach. Zadie is a name that has several origins beyond the literary – you were named after a place representing love, family, adventure and beauty. Your middle name, Lucia, came from your grandmothers and represents an old soul with a gift to gab and a license to have fun! It is with awe and wonder that we watch all these characteristics grow within you and become the core of who you are. We are excited to witness your next chapter and to see what medium of expression you chose to express yourself. It could be art, writing, acting, sports, social causes, environmental activism or all the above. We hope you continue to lead with your heart and your mind, knowing how you are making your ancestors proud and your parents beaming with pride. Always.

Words from Joel:

Before I start I want to take a moment to thank my family, friends and teachers who have helped me throughout my PS1 journey. In the words of Taylor Swift, “Being fearless isn’t being 100% not fearful, it’s being terrified but you jump anyway.” This is a quote that I will take with me as I continue my journey into 7th grade and the rest of my life. Although I’m sad to leave, I’m ready to take all the gifts PS1 has given me and apply them to my life outside of PS1.

Words from Zack and Heather Singleton:

Words from Zadie Freedman:

Seven Years at PS1

Zadie, you were one of the most self-assured and mature students at PS1 when you were five years old. Both have only increased over time! Your noteworthy self-possession has allowed you to shine the light on others. You are a terrific leader, a great friend, an activist, driven to accomplish what you set out to do, a curious learner, and an enthusiastic team player. You’re delightful, silly and serious. When someone comes in to the school as strong as you did, I wonder what promise the future can hold. I have come to realize upon reflection that you have come a long way from the year before, year in and year out. Your trajectory is always upward – creatively, academically, socially, depth of thinking, and as a supportive member of any and all groups at home, in school, with friends your own age, and with kids outside your peer group. You are a team player who leads by subtle example – you are not pushy and yet people know they are in good hands in your presence. You and your friends know how to have a good time, at no one’s expense. All schools benefit from having a Zadie! Your family completes nine years at PS1 today. It has been a collaborative ride and an intergenerational one. Both parents have lent their professional expertise to PS1 – your Dad with landscape architectural services and Mom on parts of the social studies curriculum emphasizing social justice and contemporary Native American contributions and experience. And they also have rolled up their sleeves and volunteered their help in many PS1 programs and events, as have your grandparents. Good luck at Crossroads next year. Congratulations.

Zadie gaslight, gatekeep, girlboss unknown

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are funny when you tell stories. You are always smiling and it makes me think of happiness. You are so good at the monkey bars and I see you doing lots of tricks. It reminds me of the circus dancers at the Broad stage.

2016-2017 You act silly and you laugh all day with your friends. You run so fast. Once I tried to race you during recess and you beat me! You are a good friend because you invite me to play with you and help me tie my shoes. You actually taught me how to tie my shoes. People love doing yoga with you. You are always taking care of people. We always see a smile on your face and you are so good at reading and writing too!

2017-2018 You are a zany person with funny ideas. You have a great sense of humor and pizzazz! You have patience for others and that makes you special. You can make anything a joke like the game, “Human Bench.” You’re a really good friend, and whenever you’re doing something you always include me, even if others don’t. You come to school full of energy and joy.

2018-2019 I notice you are so happy with what you do and you are so encouraging to others. You make me feel better with your funny jokes and it makes me feel supported. You have a big heart and are so sweet. You are so helpful especially to those who don’t understand something. You are an awesome super smart student.

2019-2020 You talk about really interesting things that you have seen or heard of. You are very funny and you always have empathy. You are passionate and enthusiastic and I love to hang out with you and be with you at lunch. You are such an amazing person I CAN’T BELEAVE WE HAVE BEEN IN THE SAME CLASS 5 YEARS!!! I have really enjoyed it. You are so funny and talented at sports and you are very fast.

2020-2021 Being around you is an adventure. I like how you’re never scared to say what you think, and you’re always willing to try new things like soccer. I love how you make up funny dances with your friends. You are a great leader in group projects and you’re basically friends with everyone. You have a funny, friendly personality that makes anyone around you feel happy and welcomed! You’re creative and use your creativity in hilarious ways that make everyone laugh. Thank you for inviting me to sit with you at snack recess; you made me feel so happy!

2021-2022 You are a great friend, you are always funny and make me laugh. When I am down or sad you can always cheer me up. Hanging out with you is always such a blast! I have so much fun when we are together! I wish we were best friends from birth, that way I would have had even more embarrassing pictures of you. You are a very kind person to everybody. You are a very hard worker and you always try your hardest. You are an amazing leader. In the Blue Class it was cool when you did all these amazing skits with Carmen. You also are dedicated in sports and try your hardest which is pretty admirable. You are a very valuable asset to this class and it has been fun. You are also great at art and you are an amazing writer. You are very creative and have an open mindset. You are hilarious and kind. You are the most cool and caring kid. Great luck at Crossroads.

Luca William Sanchez Hayutin In the bamboo forest Dances an everlasting light. It pours through a kaleidoscope Where the colors celebrate with change, unless you forget to turn it. Don’t look away. You’ll miss the children playing beneath The great arms of the oak tree. We all remember when a dark cloak enveloped the school. The children’s clear changes became quilted in a cloud of smoke, Alone together. Yet now, finally, we gather here again, back under the falling light Of the towering oak where everyone belongs And it all makes beautiful sense. Am I ready to let it all go? The kaleidoscope’s colors must keep turning, colliding and Separating into new forms Loved by smaller hands. Something feels different. It’s me, it’s you. It’s everyone. Here under this oak tree I will always be King Oberon. Do you not see my wings? I am Caesar in a toga. The deepest creature in the sea. I am photosynthesis and precious metals, Liquid, solid and gas. I wear the flag of yellow, blue and red, A Colombiano who loves arepas, buñuelos and fútbol Who brought zumba, salsa and merengue to my friends in the MPR. The boy who does not forget where he came from And who never gives up. Not ever. I am Luca William Sanchez Hayutin.

Song for Our Son Who is this boy who asks such things? At three, buckled into a car seat, his scratchy voice– Dad, do you like life? I mean, actually being alive? His gray eyes occupying everything. We should have visited Sima more. Others drift toward him the way flowers turn their heads to the sun. On a neighborhood walk, his hand slips into his mother’s invincible in his beautiful boy skin. He dreams of animal sanctuaries and modern houses. The recycled boxes morph into catapults and candy canons without instruction or recipe. Did you know? He will ask, and won’t stop and just when you wish he would you remember that soon he will light his own sky leaving the house much too quiet. Brush your hand across the shirts he’s outgrown. For he will return once again to fill the room with sandalwood and cedar. Breathe slowly. This end is only a beginning. His own well of ink and still empty pages just waiting. Dear Luca, We couldn’t be more proud of you and all you are becoming. We will always be here for you with unconditional love. Love, Mom & Dad

Words from Joel:

Beneath th Oak

Words from Matthew and Lizette Sanchez-Hayutin:

Words from Luca William Sanchez Hayutin:

Seven Years at PS1

Luca, you join with the rest of your family in making everyone and everything around them better! Teachers have written of you as caring, community-minded, curious, joyful, sensitive, and soulful. You are all of these and so much more. You combine a fun-loving spirit and a depthfulness of thinking that come together in unique ways that forever attracts others. You are respected and admired by all you encounter. If I read a checklist of all the positive attributes that can be ascribed to humans – my hand would get tired checking off all that apply to you, Luca. I could be more efficient if I just checked off all that do not apply. Your family heritage is very important to you; you have a deep connection to all in your extended family. You wear your heart on your sleeve. You teach adults by your perspective on life and events, not because you are in any way pushy but because your out of the box thinking coupled with a quiet intensity and thoughtfulness attract us all to want to be in your presence, to hear a way or a method that we hadn’t thought of on our own. You also thrive on feedback. If I chose just three adjectives to describe you, I would choose honorable, resourceful, and astute. Because I have known your family for nine years, I can say there is nothing that either parent wouldn’t do for their child’s school. I am sure I would say the same thing if I knew them in any other capacity – as a neighbor, through another organization, or in meeting them as a stranger on the street. Perhaps they have more than 24 hours in their day – they are that helpful and supportive of everyone and everything! Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

Luca

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“ The re is nothi ng to fear but f ear itself .” -Fra nklin D Roos evelt

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are always smiling. You play nicely. You make good games. You are a good friend because you share.

2016-2017 You are very funny. You have good handwriting. You are good at reading. You are really nice to me and you are a good friend. You are such a nice person. You are a very very good friend. You make me laugh when we pretend to be seaweed and you run away. I am glad that my rug square is near you. At centers and recycled art, you are very creative.

2017-2018 You have good conversations with friends especially on field trips. You come up with the most creative stories like the one about the “Evil Teddy Bear.” You are so fast and skillful when we play “Capture the Flag.” You are so thoughtful and generous. You are a gifted writer since your thoughts easily flow on paper.

2018-2019 You seem so comfortable on stage. You speak clearly so others can hear you. You are so helpful, happy and upbeat. When I am sitting alone you are so inviting to me. You go with the flow like slow jams. You are so available to new friends and funny in many ways.

2019-2020 You are a great friend, and you are always trying to help people and make them feel better. You’re soooo funny and its fun being in the girlzy club with you like, yas queen. You are a great classmate and you always wear good hats. You are really good at math and you always get every question right. You are a great friend and always make me smile. I love your sense of style you are really good at sports to. It was so fun sitting at your table. I hope that you are living somewhere bigger than a mushroom right now.

2020-2021 You are so funny and kind, and your positive attitude is very contagious. I really like working on projects with you because you have really great ideas. You’re really fun to talk to, good at solving any mistakes that come up, and you make sure everyone is doing their part, and everyone is having fun. You put your all into everything you do and it gives everyone happiness! You are never too fast to judge, and there’s so much other things about you that I like.

2021-2022 You’re amazing. You are such an amazing friend and your sense of humor and your personality is outstanding. I always love doing things with you and you are always super fun to be around. You always bring a smile to my face and I can always trust you. I admire the pride you have in your family and culture. I have learned so much about Colombia from you. I enjoy talking to you because you are friendly, energetic and intellectual. You are a great listener. You are such an understanding yet casual person and can relate to so much that I say. Also, you are great at making me laugh. I loved being on your soccer team and making memories. Thank you for being my friend in my years at PS1.

Jaeden Katherine Johnson On this special day I would like to share a song called Roar “It is a song by American singer Katy Perry. This speech is actually a song that I would like to dedicate to all the graduating students of 2022 as well as all the other students of PS1, when times get hard remember this. I used to bite my tongue and hold my breath Scared to rock the boat and make a mess So I set quietly Agreed politely I guess that I forgot I had a choice I let you push me past the breaking point I stood for nothing So I fell for everything You held me down, but I got up (Hey!) Already brushing off the dust You hear my voice, you hear that sound Like thunder gonna shake the ground You held me down, but I got up (Hey!) Get ready ‘cause I’ve had enough I see it all, I see it now I got the eye of the tiger A fighter Dancing through the fire ‘Cause I am a champion and you’re gonna hear me roar Louder, louder than a lion ‘Cause I am a champion and you’re gonna hear me roar Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh You’re gonna hear me roar Now I’m floating like a butterfly Stinging like a bee I earned my stripes I went from zero To my own hero You held me down, but I got up (Hey!) Already brushing off the dust You hear my voice, you hear that sound Like thunder gonna shake the ground You held me down, but I got up (Got up!) Get ready ‘cause I’ve had enough I see it all, I see it now I got the eye of the tiger A fighter Dancing through the fire ‘Cause I am a champion and you’re gonna hear me roar Louder, louder than a lion ‘Cause I am a champion and you’re gonna hear me roar Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh You’re gonna hear me roar !!!Remember you are a Champion too!!!

Words from Jann and Angelia Johnson:

Words from Jaeden Johnson:

Seven Years at PS1

My Daughter, You have changed my life and showed me how to love more. You have taught me how to be more patient and express feelings with detail. So, on this very special day, I want you to know that I am overwhelmingly proud of you. I cannot believe that 6 years have passed by so fast. For two years, I have watched you grow from being carried daily across Broadway to the front door faithfully. By the 3rd and 4th year, I would park at the meter and run to the front office and we would tell Evelyn, “Hi!” I would wait by the bridge for you to cross over and blow me a kiss.

Dearest Jaeden, I am extremely proud of you! Today, you transition from Elementary School to Jr High School and my heart is filled with so much joy. As you embark upon your new path, may you always remember who you are. Keep creating and innovating because all of creation eagerly awaits your God given talents to help make the world a better place. Let your calling be your “WHY” and your reason to keep going.

When Covid came it changed the game. What would we have done without Aarika and John? They both made Zoom a little more fun. Now you made it through and everyone is back in school. Though it was not easy, I saw gifts and talents arise from deep within you. Which surprised us all.

Remember these things: • Nothing is as bad as it seems • There are always options (determine your top 3) • Utilize your resources • Sometimes you may think the task is impossible but do it anyway • You have the best A-Team in the world. • Never forget that you are Titanium!

Now, just like that, you’re graduating! I have to admit, it’s kind of scary. No more little girl that I used to carry. You’re beautiful, mature, insightful, and my daughter that I adore. As I look back, I realize that all of this time, I thought that I was carrying you, but the truth is, you have always been carrying me. I Love You Jaeden, Dad

On this new path, there will be roadblocks but never give up and push through.

Love You Immensely, Mother — Jaeden Katherine Johnson, I am so proud of who you are and all you are becoming. You are the #1 sister in the world. I tell you this all the time but you are a genius, you are gorgeous, you are fearless and you are so kind. God has made you like no one else in the world, because you will do in this world what no one else has. Thank you for loving your brother so much. I am bursting for joy about your accomplishments but more importantly for who you are inside. I love you forever. Congrats!! Your Big Brother Everett

Words from Joel:

Jaeden, you approach life with a smile. I watch you play tether ball during recess. Because you are not necessarily the best player among your peers, you play one game, don’t win, and pace jauntily to the back of the line waiting for your next turn undeterred. It is the playing, the being with others, the bringing of joy to a situation and to your peers – that is what is most important to you, Jaeden. You don’t force your opinions on others and yet always add a new, different, and often surprising dimension to every conversation. You love solving problems, and you are good at it. You have a good sense about right and wrong, and will defend what you see as being right with an open heart. You have a flair for artistry – details matter to you and are part and parcel of your creativity. You are an out of the box thinker; each new thought generates several new avenues for you to explore – your mind is always churning. Your favorite subjects are Math and Science. You love to figure skate, run track, sing, and draw. You are gracious, underdone, gentle, extremely ethical, fair, resourceful, and empathetic. Most of all, thinking about you, Jaeden, brings to mind the smiles and joy you create for others. You are a people person. Your parents have found many ways to volunteer their time from learning excursions to attending events and staying to fold chairs because that’s what they do–they’re helpers.

JJ A A EE D D EE N N

''EVER Y DAY MAY N GOOD. OT BE BUT T HERE .. GOOD IS SOM IN EVE ETHIN RYDAY G ''

Good luck at Wildwood next year. Congratulations.

you a you re beau are w tiful you o r th are e nou y gh

J O H N S O N

Words from friends:

2015-2016 I like to play on the play structure with you. You are nice and you say “have a nice day. ”You are a sweet, kind and a supportive friend. I can count on you when I need something. You are funny and you make me laugh. When I’m feeling down, you know what to do to make me feel better.

2016-2017 I like playing kittens with you because you are kind and helpful in that game. You always let us choose what kind of kitten we are and what name we want to be. You play with me when I have no one to play with. Last year, I liked it when you chased me around in after care. That was fun. We are happy together when we play pandas.

2017-2018 You have a good attitude and are good at making friends fast. You are a good table mate and playmate. You have been so nice and you stand up for me and are great at sharing. When you make a joke, your laugh makes it more funny. You like to garden and don’t care if you get dirty. You are a little sensitive but it just makes you more interesting.

2018-2019 I give you an affirmation for memorizing your lines for Circle Time. You are so brave and spoke your lines clearly. You share with your friends and make them feel so special. You are truthful with your friends and know how to speak up for yourself. You are so artistic and hilarious. You have great creative ideas. You can express your feelings.

2019-2020 You bring creativity and happiness into the classroom each morning. Jaeden is funny and has a cool laugh. You are so thoughtful. I admire the fact that you’re so creative. You are always coming up with cool ideas. What is even cooler is that you actually do them. It was funny when you made a mask for the Mona Lisa. On Earth day, I loved your drawing and I am always impressed with the arts and crafts you come up with.

2020-2021 You are very kind and always have something interesting to add to a lesson. Your video at the beginning of the year was amazing- you set the bar high for the rest of us. Your videos taught us about volume, Katherine Johnson and Mars. You put so much into each one and show us what you know. You always work hard and stay up on your assignments- That is a great way to be. I hope we are in class together next year-that would be great. You are smart and funny and willing to speak up and answer questions. Your projects are amazing!

2021-2022 I love playing handball with you every day even though you win most of the time. You are also really good at poison and you are awesome at four square. You are like the recess queen. You are really creative and I really liked both of your amazing book club projects. You are also a really good artist and every time I see one of your art pieces and sculptures I really like them. Also, you are really good at cool math games and when I see you play you are doing amazing. You are really nice and you are super good at acting. You are just so kind and I love how willing you are to share things with other people! We are together again after indigo! I have just really enjoyed how our friendship has grown over the years! Jaeden, you are kind, smart, and fabulously dressed, a package deal! It’s been great getting to know you this year and becoming your friend. I hope we can still stay close even when schools over.

Sebastian Matthew Jukanovic It is such an honor to be on this stage after 7 years of being a PS1 student. My time at PS1 has been wonderful. With remarkable teachers, amazing friends, and an overall incredible experience. I’ve gathered so much interesting knowledge and have accomplished so many things that I would have never ever thought of achieving. PS1’s teachers are extremely nice, nurturing, caring, understanding, encouraging, charming and they have made me feel comfortable and helped me to learn. There was this one time in 5th grade where we were all learning algebra, and even though it was challenging at first, we preserved and after about a week it was very easy. Here I learned that I could accomplish anything that I set my mind to. Here is another story that is special to me about PS1. I remember back in Youngers I brought this key to school that my mom loved from this fancy hotel in Yosemite. Anyway, I brought it to school and I was sitting on the stage, right here, and it fell through one of the cracks. Six years later during Covid, I said to my parents, “Haha, remember that time I dropped that key in the crack of the stage in Youngers. “Hahaha.” And they said, “What???” It turned out that I never told them! The next day my parents contacted PS1 just wondering if there was anything that could be done. And can you believe that Joel immediately responded and Brad and Carlos completely ripped open and dismantled the stage, gave us the key, and put the stage back together. Yes this very stage that I am standing on right now. Thank you so much Joel, Brad, and Carlos. Also thank you everyone amazing in my life who has been extremely kind, supportive, and has been a huge part of my life. Thank you so much to my amazing parents, my incredible friends, and all of my wonderful teachers. Thank you.

Dear Sebastian, We are so proud of you! You started PS1 as a shy little boy of five years old and you are now a mature, confident twelve year-old, a light of kindness shining on this world. PS1 has indeed been an amazing journey for you, as Joel and your teachers have helped you to realize who you are, celebrating in your strengths and helping you with your stretches. From the beginning of your time at PS1, you have been known as one of the sweetest children. You are a pleasant, honest, kind old soul who delights in life, laughs, tells witty jokes, and inspires people with your charismatic, bubbly energy. You greet people with infectious enthusiasm and a smile that lifts their spirits. Your tremendous love for life, empathy, and gentleness causes younger children to love and admire you, parents to adore you, and teachers to request you as a student. You impress strangers with your polite attitude, and you spread joy wherever you go. If the world were all Sebastians, we truly would have peace on Earth. You are helpful, appreciative, and supportive, washing dishes, cleaning, carrying groceries, always assisting in some way. You live in gratitude, recognizing and acknowledging the good in others. You are a caring friend, always ready to give advice or seek justice if someone has been wronged. You are easy-going and agreeable, yet you communicate appropriately and stand up for yourself when needed. You possess a maturity and wisdom far beyond your years. You have always impressed us with intriguing questions since you were a baby, barely able to talk, such as “Can airplanes touch the moon?” and “Why do things that are farther away look smaller?” As you have grown and evolved, we have enjoyed supporting your blossoming interests in social emotional learning, computer technology, engineering and economics. We are continually amazed by your motivation and drive and by how you turn difficult situations, such as the Covid-19 Pandemic, into positive experiences. During this challenging time, you developed leadership skills, taught yourself how to create enjoyable Roblox games, made professional instructional YouTube videos, and befriended safe kids on the internet. Thank you for respecting our boundaries and allowing us to protect you. Your athletic journey has been inspiring, as well, from your 2019 Santa Monica YMCA Basketball Rookie of the Season win to your Club and AYSO soccer tournament wins. We are continually impressed by your rise from AYSO Core to All-Stars to AYSO Extra, and we are excited to watch your upcoming season. Remember that above all, we love you for just being who you are – the light that brightens this world – the wonderful son, the loving soul and the deeply caring friend that you are. As you embark on the next exciting phase in your life, know that we are here for you every step of the way, we love you deeply, and we support you wholeheartedly in your journey. Much love to you forever and ever, Mom and Dad

Words from Joel:

Dear students, audience, and faculty members,

Words from Igor Jukanovic and Jennifer Penton:

Words from Sebastian Matthew Jukanovic:

Seven Years at PS1

Hail fellow, well met – from the first time I ever met you, Sebastian. You are positive, cheerful, enthusiastic, confident, and ebullient. A few of the most important characteristics of an inventor are persistence, optimism, and a commitment to trial and error, knowing there will be many failures before success can be achieved. Sebastian, you are and will be a successful inventor and innovator your whole life. You are also an excellent collaborator, and you make sure you can help whenever needed. A nation of Sebastians would lead to the achievement of Peace on Earth, Good Will Towards All! In a school filled with polite children, you still stand out as the most courteous. You greet everyone each day with a “How are you?” and you really mean it! Perhaps it is your out of school experience that best brings together your attributes. You were chosen as the AYSO soccer player of the year for your age group - this truly and fairly represent your ability, hard work, dedication, humility, sportsmanship, and sense of fairness. I believe you are fated to be an innovative engineer or technology expert – you were born to create! You are already developing video game content, creating and uploading instructional YouTube videos, and understanding complex computer platforms. You are sweet, inquisitive, kind, jaunty, and conscientious. You exude enthusiasm. Your mom has inspired interest and participation in many PS1 events through the amazing videos she has created for the school from when you first entered PS1 all the way through to the most recent Gala. Her talents have also made our Halloween Fruit celebrations joyous. Positivity and encouragement exude from all pores in this family. Bringing and spreading joy – it’s your family’s way! Good luck at Geffen next year. Congratulations.

Sebas tian Juka novic

I love favor sports (m it but I e is socc y er also li bask etba ke ll and footb a snow ll), I love t and & vacatio he more ns, anyth than i mom ng, love m a famil nd dad a y y. nd

You m i you d ss 100% o on’t t f the ake. shots - Wa yne G retzk y

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You look like you have so much fun when you play with cars. You treat people nicely and stand up for your friends. At recess, I watch you play ball and you’re a super star at bouncing.

2016-2017 You like to do thousands of different things. You are so funny and when we have a playdate we always laugh and tell jokes. You treat everyone in a kind way and you’re just the kind of guy people want to hang out with. You are always sweet. You love basketball and teach other people how to play. You are very polite. You smile whenever people come by and that makes them feel so happy.

2017-2018 You are a great singer and you also make funny voices that make everyone crack up. You care about everyone and are never mean no matter what. I like to be next to you in line and at our old table because you are a great person and you always picked up stuff. You are a Lakers fan, make a lot of shots and you will be in the NBA some day!

2018-2019 You really knew your lines during the Class Gathering and you were so proud of your work. You stay focused and spoke loudly. You are amazing! You are an athletic soccer player. You play fair and have great manners. You are so friendly to all and you share with others with care.

2019-2020 “And now for the World Cup Final- Sebastian Jukanovic!” If you played soccer in the MLS you would play for Croatia. You are extremely polite and funny at the same time. It was really nice to be at your table for a lot of the year because you are so funny and can always make me smile. I like that you are devoted to something that you feel passionate towards, we have that in common.

2020-2021 You are always calm and optimistic in every situation. You’re a really funny and nice person and you are always kind to everyone no matter what. You are so good at soccer and an amazing person- I hope we can be in class together again next year. It is great to be in your group when we are doing science labs-you understand and get things done. You have a very calm personality and can help bring a crazy situation back down to normal. You know how to work on your own and how to work with others.

2021-2022 You have such an agreeable, animated character. I really love playing four square with you and you always make sure everyone feels that the rules are fair. You are also a talented athlete. I’m guessing that in the future you will be a player on a highly regarded professional soccer team. You have such a powerful shot and it almost always goes in. If you don’t play on a team, maybe you will own one because you are so passionate about economics and smart. You are really hilarious. You make the funniest jokes and you have a great personality. I also love cheering for Real Madrid with you and it is really fun when we discuss all of our plans for Six Flags. You are one of the most optimistic and cheerful people I have ever met.

Oliver Knight

My experience at PS1 has really changed me, and I know that PS1 is one of the greatest schools in the world. PS1 is exceptional at making young children feel like they belong which helps kids feel comfortable learning. Some of my earliest memories include my youngers teachers giving me something called a moonstone, which I would hold whenever I missed home. Because I loved soccer, a teacher would address me as “Mini Messi”, which was a memory that I have cherished because it made me feel in my element. When I was in kindergarten the oldest kids were really kind to me. I really loved that quality about the PS1 olders and as a result I was friends with some of the kindergartners when I was in 3rd grade. Unfortunately this year I didn’t get that opportunity, because of COVID-19. On the bright side, I think that COVID-19 has helped progress my learning. In my opinion I struggled in middles, but online learning helped me be more disciplined. PS1 did a remarkable job transitioning us from in-person to online school. To help us learn time management skills, the teachers gave us the schedule and expected us to be on top of our work. As a result, in my last two years at PS1 I have become a better student, specifically more focused and better at time management. In a way, going to PS1 has been like spending many seasons at a soccer club, just to get ready for that big transfer to a bigger team, and standing here before all of you, I can say that I am ready. Thank you

Dear Oliver, It’s hard for us to comprehend that you’ve now accumulated 7 leaves on your tree; that you’ve truly reached that grad. moving-up moment when PS1 slides into your rear view. Perhaps you remember your first days at PS1? How you were timid of the new faces, the big kids, the new environment that seemed so LARGE compared to your tiny preschool. But - as you always do - you found your footing, connected deeply with your amazing teachers and fellow students, and you began opening up to all of the new, different, and exciting experiences that came your way: Moon stones. Circle Times. “Mini Messi.” Neighborhood News. PS Run. Your “Water Ice” character. After Care (which became your ideal after-school hangout). Trips to the Ballona Wetlands. Studio-built contraptions. An unexpected classroom-evacuation (you know what happened!). End-of-year camping trips. Distance-learning kitchen science. Research & debates about life, the universe, and everything. Weight-bearing toothpick bridges. Asparagus preservation techniques. Library visits. 7 full cycles through all of the Harry Potters (so much Harry Potter). And, of course, lots and lots of soccer. You have developed a keen sense of what’s right and fair. You are comfortable sharing your thoughts with peers and teachers and in advocating for yourself. You are wildly competitive (perhaps that’s not exactly a PS1 trait). And, you’ve even become comfortable in the theater spotlight, with incredible memorization skills, a commanding grasp of complicated Shakespearean English, and an astonishing Marc Antony performance on tap this year. Simply put, you’ve discovered the joy in learning. As you depart from this wonderful place, we hope you remember fondly the village of loving educators whose stories are intertwined with yours and how you’ve learned and grown from each and every one of them. PS1 will always be your home, your springboard to a life full of wonder and possibility. For that, we are eternally grateful and we simply couldn’t be more proud of who you are today and of how you’ve grown. Love you to the moon & back, OSK!! XO, Mama & Dada

Words from Joel:

Friends, Romans, Countrymen lend me your ears. I come to talk about my time at PS1, not Julius Caesar. Even though my grad speech does not include memories of Shakespeare, Shakespeare has been a big part of my memories of PS1.

Words from Jeremiah Knight and Britt Johansson:

Words from Oliver Knight:

Seven Years at PS1

Try to contain Oliver’s enthusiasm – I will bet you can’t! You bring the same joy to scoring a winning goal, heading a soccer ball into the basketball hoop, solving a math problem, and - if given the opportunity I am sure - running out to pick up the morning newspaper! You are at your ease teaching others, and it brings both the giver and receiver enormous satisfaction. This includes your parents (who I believe you are teaching guitar). On campus, you are most likely to be teaching and helping others in soccer or science. There are all kinds of learners – you thrive best when you really know where you stand, whether with a grade or with meaningful feedback. Feedback always pushes you to greater heights. You are the leading scorer on your soccer team which consists of players a full year older than you are. You thrive on competition and you are also innately fair – a wonderful combination. You are a great contributor to class discussions on virtually any subject. You have a probing mind. You crave a challenge and the collaborative process of learning, and consistently seek to do better in both your intellectual and athletic pursuits. One might say you are an intellectual athlete or perhaps an athletic intellectual! You deflect praise; you are humble, humorous, properly opinionated, clever, perceptive, and popular. Your Mom has served on the Parents Guild Executive Board for several years. She has found avenues of volunteering and dug in deep on committees like Book Breakfasts, learning excursions, and Family Festival. She was the co-chair of the Itty Bitty Art Sale for four years. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

Oli

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Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are a really great soccer player just like Messi. You have a good personality. You are hysterical, especially when you do pranks. At recess when we play ball together, you always hand me the ball when I drop it.

2016-2017 You really like soccer and are really good at it. You are fast and when you win or lose, you say “Good game!” You say “Good Game!” a lot and this is special because by saying that it shows that you really care. You always try to focus on your work. You are really nice to people. You are also pretty silly! You just love, love, love soccer and have really strong legs for playing it. You are good at sportsmanship.

2017-2018 You’re great at origami and you are nice when you try to teach me how to make things. You help people practice soccer and don’t mind teaching and not playing a big game. You like to tell me facts about nature and animals that are gross and funny. You can make anyone laugh. You understand when accidents happen in soccer and say, “It’s OK.”

2018-2019 You are optimistic, likable, and intelligent. You are so good at making origami, it looks professional. You are the most athletic person I have met! Remember the time we played World Cup and you beat us by 7 points?! I wish I was as good as you. I like how passionate you are about soccer. You even wear a soccer shirt every day. You’re really smart, good at math, especially fast facts, and you always have great ideas. You were the perfect partner to have when we made the math game.

2019-2020 GOOOOAAALLL! You are a really good soccer player and I like being on your team in PE because you always win. Even if we are rivals in soccer that doesn’t mean we can’t be BFF’s! You are great at soccer and work hard. You challenge me to work hard too. You are so so so educated about the sport and are really incredible at it. I bet you could score 100 goals a game. You are a really good friend and I enjoyed working with you in PBL. You are really funny like when you say “brahhh.”

2020-2021 You have a strong voice and you are a great public speaker. In my mind I imagine you playing some sort of sport when you are older- you’re so good at them and I think you should follow that dream. You are soooooo good at soccer and you are good at other things to like math, art and even pretty good at acting-enjoy your summer. You are an amazing group mate and you’re always looking for a way to help no matter what-I appreciate that. Thanks for being really funny and kind all year long. You are talented in so many ways!

2021-2022 I think you are great at soccer and math. Whenever I watch you play soccer I am always amazed by your soccer skills and your math skills are really really awesome too. You are also a good actor- when I see you play Mark Antony for a second I think you do it for a living. Also you are very funny and every joke makes me crack up. You are so fun to talk to and you have the best sense of humor. You are so nice and funny- thanks for being a good table mate. I like how we like the same kinds of books. You did an awesome job with your book club project. I like that you Wonderful in any PE game. You are very athletic and good at practically every single sport. You are also one of the hardest working people I know.

Benjamin Koven From Youngers to Olders, this has been an amazing journey as a student at PS1. In Youngers, I saw school as a playhouse. It was reckless but controlled. I remember every day after dismissal, I would go over to the 12th Street yard and go hangout with my brother and his friends. They would always ask me, “Who do you like better, me or Gussy?” Gussy is my brother, mind you. And I would always say that I liked my brother better, and they would all laugh. That was my best memory at PS1 because I thought hanging out with Olders was a one way pass to coolness. In Bridge I felt as though I was there to learn and strengthen my friendships. It was very fun and I made many friends that year. In Middles, it was more intense learning. But when the pandemic hit, I was forced into Zoom school like everybody else. In the first week of online learning, l discovered I had a hard time focusing. My teacher, Sam (who was my teacher then), helped me every step of the way. My parents also helped me by saying, “If you focus, we will get you chickens,” and eventually, after I worked hard on every piece of school work that I had, I had chickens. They were the cutest things ever. The next year in Olders 5, my teachers Aarika and John also helped me get through the year. So even when you have a hard time focusing or have a hard time learning, the PS1 community will always be there for you. Through my eyes, PS1 is an amazing school with loving teachers. This year in Olders 4, it has been an awesome journey. I am very sad to be leaving this nice peaceful environment, but I know that PS1 has prepared me for the challenges ahead. I can’t wait to visit everyone when I’m in middle school!

Benji, you are the youngest of your siblings. How does the saying go? The third child is the one who just falls into line and goes with the flow, amidst the chaos of family life. Well, you have cheerfully bucked, bent, and redefined that role to suit your curiosity and love of a good time, and made all of our lives happier, funnier, and way more filled with love than we could have imagined. At PS1, each child climbs the ROYGBIV color wheel ladder. Despite your predilection for rainbows, a more apt metaphor for how we feel about you is the five senses – Sight, Touch, Hearing, Taste and Smell. You are a person who lives through his senses, and your sensitivity and ability to express how you experience the world is your superpower. All the ways that you have made our lives better and have pushed us to look at the world in a different way: Sight – seeing art through your eyes, thinking of you climbing the tallest mountain to always get the best view, whipping up a painting or a sketch that blows our minds. Touch – of course your amazing hugs, but also your putting a wet starfish in our palms, or reminding us that the feel of a bee on your hand actually feels good, not scary Hearing – listening for the owl with you outside your window at midnight, hearing your melodic voice sing or read to us, remembering reading all of Harry Potter aloud to you when you were little; listening to Miles Davis’s jazz trumpet Taste – choosing different ice cream flavors at Treats, only wanting Hawaiian pizza, showing you how to cook a steak on the grill Smell – smelling the sweat on your hair after a hard-fought soccer tournament, snuggling with Edgar (who always just smells like a good dog!) Benji, you are an amazing kid and we are so privileged to have you in our lives. Your friends, your whole family, your teachers, and your coaches are lucky to have you. We can’t wait to see where you go in this world, how you will contribute to your community and what you will teach us next. We love you to infinity and back again a thousand times Buddy. Love— Mom and Dad

Words from Joel:

Hello, I’m Benji.

Words from Gustav and Stephanie Koven:

Words from Benjamin Koven:

Seven Years at PS1

Benji, your brother graduated from PS1 five years ago after seven years at PS1 so I have known you virtually all your life. You always want to be the first one at school in the morning. From the beginning, I started my school day with a hug from you. You have matured since then, and are now more reluctant to demonstrate affection in that way but you are just the same caring, warm, loving child you always were. Boyish charm defines you. As your parents say and recognize, you make it cool to wear your heart on your sleeve! You are imaginative, gregarious, fair, good-natured, and charming. You wear an impish smile of acknowledgment about the things that no longer impress your peers who strive to maturity. You are okay with that – your wit, joviality, and magnetic personality carry the day. You are a natural performer. You thrive being in the spotlight, whether you’re playing trumpet, acting on stage, or calling attention to the activity on the field or what you are working on in the classroom. You talk about wanting to play the drums – this would be a natural for you; for now, you have been a steady participant in the Santa Monica Youth Orchestra here on campus. Attending sleep away camp in Maine the past four summers has broadened your experience – you clamor for a return every summer. (I did this too; it makes complete sense.) You have a strong connection to nature and are a natural storyteller. Your parents both work full-time and have volunteered to participate in as many school events that occur during the school day as possible. I think back and remember the many times that they have shown up to support their kids and their school. We have been strong allies for each other. Good luck at John Adams Middle School next year. Congratulations.

BEN JI KOV EN

“Mis c Harr hief ma n y Po tter aged.”

“The o thing nly is fe to fear a Fran r itself.” klin D Roos evel . t

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are funny and silly and you make me laugh. You are very cute, cuddly and I really enjoy playing tag and hide and go seek with you. You are good at Pokemon cards. We have fun playing Ninjago and Star Wars together. You are a caring person.

2016-2017 You are great at sports. When you are playing something, I like to play what you are playing. You are so cute. You are a fast runner. You make me laugh. One time, you made me laugh at snack time because you were making silly faces.

2017-2018 I think that you are nice because you never exclude or are mean to anyone. When I am playing by myself you invite me to play. You will always be “my Squooshy!” because you are always there for me. You have a lot of friends and you know everybody. You are great at keeping kids from making goals when we play soccer at lunch and recess. I love you.

2018-2019 You tell the funniest jokes. You play with those who need a friend. You became a friend to me right away when I was new to the school. You are a good actor and I notice you participate in any activity. You are so athletic, especially on the soccer field. You make any game so fun with your energy.

2019-2020 I always like to hear your jokes and be around you. It is fun hearing about your water polo experiences and you are very great to play with at aftercare. You are always there for your friends. When we were sharing our goals and you wrote that romantic novel, everyone was laughing and crying tears of joy. You’re good at almost everything; sports, art, cursive... I can’t name one thing you’re not good at.

2020-2021 You can always take an odd situation and make it funny. You are so funny in many ways that sometimes you get in trouble for it but you always come back around as a great student- I admire that. You always know how to have a laugh about things even when they aren’t the best. That makes our class a better place. You are smart and kind with a great sense of humor- I admire you. You are a very creative person and always have an idea on what to make in group projects.

2021-2022 You are a humorous and enthusiastic classmate. I admire your ability to laugh even through the toughest moments. I have so many fun memories with you like racing to our class or playing soccer. I loved it when you organized baseball in the classroom before school. I always knew you are very good at soccer but I had no idea how good you are as an actor. Your Julius Caesar was excellent! Your drawing skills are also crazy good. I loved the chicken you drew in your PT. You can be serious and focused and you are also so funny and a good person. You are a unique person who always tries really hard. You put effort into everything you do and you don’t give up. You are such an amazing friend.

Clara Cedar Lieberstein

My years in RED are represented by a towering palace. Here, my imagination runs wild. This castle’s grand drawbridge represents my years in GREEN! Here I both learned about and embodied growth, the alligators in the moat unable to reach me. A thick forest represents my years in VIOLET! Covid didn’t stop our class from having important conversations on climate change, and it was here in Violet that I found the passion inside me to raise money for our planet with friends! My time in OLDERS4 is represented by… a rollercoaster. Sure, an emotional one, but that’s not exactly the point.I have millions of irreplaceable memories from Olders! And you see, this rollercoaster starts out slow before it shoots up into the clouds. Just like how PS1 has equipped me with the fiery passion inside myself to never back down. So here I stand, my journey through PS1 over, but never gone. It remains in memories, precious souvenirs of my experiences. I carry these memories with me as I take joyful steps beyond this realm. My journey starts… now.

To our darling, kind, wise, funny, amazing Clara, It’s been an inspiration to watch you set and achieve your goals for these past 7 years at PS1. We are so proud of who you are, both in school and out—your imagination, your ideas, your ideals, your talents, your smarts, your writing, your music, your sense of humor, your deep capacity for joy, your ambition, your world citizenship, your mindfulness, your thoughtfulness, your kindness, your hard work, your self-knowledge, your taking the time to stop and smell the roses, your strong attachment to your baby teeth. During these past years, we have, as Harry Styles* sang, “watched you take shape from a jumble of parts/ and find the grace and form of a fine work of art.” In Youngers, you memorized the names of your classmates (and your classmates’ parents). In Olders, you memorized Shakespeare-Peter Quince in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Brutus in Julius Caesar (and all the other parts). Somewhere in between Youngers and Olders, you figured out how to multiply numbers without drawing a mark for each value of “1,” taught yourself to touch type, dissected a sheep’s brain, learned to play the flute and the gamelan, acquired the ability to read or swim for five-hour stretches, and navigated a global health crisis. We mean it when we say this: There is nothing you can’t handle! Your first name means “bright and shining,” and that’s what you are. Your middle name means “any of a number of conifers that typically yield fragrant, durable timber,” and just to be clear, that’s NOT what you are. But we would love you and be proud of you even if you were a conifer. Always. Love, Mommy and Daddy *OK fine, it was Harry Chapin, a singer from the 1970’s, but we couldn’t afford to lose your attention at the beginning of the second paragraph.

Words from Joel:

My magical years at PS1 have taught me the arts of hope and imagination. I’ve learned it takes bravery to imagine a greater world. Speaking of imagining worlds, I’ll be doing that today. Because as I racked my brain for some metaphor capable of encapsulating my entire learning journey, a cardinal truth flooded through my mind. One that my years at PS1 have taught me admirably, effectively, and adroitly. What do you do if what you need doesn’t exist? You create it. So I created a realm that captures the joy of learning, beneficial exuberance of empowerment, and pure goodness of community PS1 demonstrates. Welcome!

Words from Paul Lieberstein and Janine Poreba:

Words from Clara Cedar Lieberstein:

Seven Years at PS1

Clara, you are studious, determined, secure, and a quiet leader. I learned from your parents that your spirit animal is an ant because they’re hardworking! A friend five years ago told you about a class in Chinese language she was taking on weekends – you have been enrolled ever since. That learning environment is very traditional and highly competitive; PS1’s is both traditional and progressive. Clara, you shine and perform well in both. The same is true for your participation in the Santa Monica Youth Orchestra playing the flute. You apparently are not intimidated even when in a group that encourages competition. You are a serious student, an inspiring philosopher, and a good friend. Your writing is an absolute delight to read. You thrive on academic rigor. During COVID periods of remote learning, we learned – as someone put it – “I realize that Clara never met a google doc she didn’t love.” I have heard that you bring to literacy a deep commitment to devouring books to the point of running into things or landing in a cozy spot on the soccer field to finish a chapter. You’re a consummate bibliophile. You fit in well with many different groups of peers. You are affable, sincere, fair, unpretentious, reliable, respected, and secure. Your Mom has been a Book Fair Chair for many years now – the same is true for both of your parents when it came to driving on field trips. They seem to be always available though both are hardworking in all parts of their lives. PS1 is indeed lucky that your brother, Henry, still has five more years before he graduates. Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

Clar

“Ameri

ca, yo u g -Hamilto n: An Am reat unﬁnis h erican Mu sical (Lin ed symphon -Manuel M y !” iranda)

Lieb

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Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are a really nice friend and kind. You are wonderful to LGRed. You are the nicest classmate. You are a good friend because you are kind. You are a great artist. You are funny when you blow on my hair.

2016-2017 You are a nice friend. You are so good at handstands and the splits. You are good at art. You were amazing with your self-portrait. You ruled circle time when it was your part. You are so great. You are always really nice to me. You help me when I need help.

2017-2018 You are very good at drawing, I have the drawings that you made me on my bedroom wall. You are a champion hand stander, I want to stay up as long as you! I like being with you because you are very calm and always happy. You are a great partner because you are smart and help me spell words better. You are amazing at playing Monkey in the Middle.

2018-2019 You have been my best friend for most of the school year and you corrected my spelling a lot. Thank you for helping me with the descriptive writing about Candyland. It was so good. You have the best handwriting, and you have the best ideas. You are great at solving problems from friendship to spelling. You were really helpful in editing my winter break story and helping me come up with an ending.

2019-2020 You are a great listener and you are very, very smart. You never want to get into a fight and you let me sit with you when I am having a bad day friend. You are always and I mean always a kind and caring friend and you care about others like you care about yourself. Thank you for being an awesome friend. You are so smart and funny your smile always brightens up the room You are an AMAZING listener and you are kind to anybody you meet.

2020-2021 I am so happy that we were able to get closer this year. From talking with you on the yard, to doing races on the climbing wall, I have had so much fun with you. You are never afraid to be yourself and whenever you work you pour your heart and soul into it. I admire how you’re so focused and committed to learning, and how you always do your best work possible. Your slideshow on Colony Collapse Disorder was so full of information it blew me away. I am also so amazed by how you memorized that gibberish poem (The Jabberwocky) for Poem in Your Pocket Day!

2021-2022 You are such a kind person and good friend. I appreciate how you try hard and don’t give up. Your gracious and cat-loving personality is so uniquely you. You are great at every subject and you think outside the box. You are creative and always supportive of other people. I look up to you in writing for your advanced vocabulary and ambitious stories. Your morning sentences that we used to do were always the most extravagant, smart, and entertaining to listen to. You are really good at teaching others and taking charge, you aren’t afraid to act. You are so knowledgeable and vocal. I love how you are not afraid to speak up and set goals to make changes in the world. You are one of my best friends and I feel really safe around you.

Kate Sydney Mehringer

Many people say that when you leave elementary school you start your journey. I disagree. My journey started a long time ago, on that first day, bubbles streaming through the door, kids laughing, people hugging, simply put: it was magical. On my first day, however, I wasn’t coming in as a kindergartener, like most people were, I was coming in as a second grader. This was unique as I was the only new student in second grade that year in BK Blue. As I walked into the classroom for the first time I was welcomed with open arms and loving hugs. After that first day I knew, I just knew, that I was going to have so many fond memories of PS1 for my whole life. As I see it, life is like a game of soccer: you have to have goals to win. If you don’t set goals how will you know when you are improving, and how will you ever get to where you want to be? PS1 has taught me how to set goals and work hard to achieve them. I know I’m not perfect, but PS1 has taught me that you can always improve and learn, and that you should always put in 100% effort and to remember to have fun too no matter what.I believe that those are really important life skills that I will carry with me forever. I really do have so many happy memories here that I constantly have to remind myself that graduation is not the end, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. I love PS1 so much and it will always be a part of me, no matter what. Thank you.

Dear Kate, our Tiger, the OG KTG, We are so proud of you and the person you’ve become during your elementary school journey. When you joined PS1 in Blue, you bravely jumped right in and didn’t miss a beat. You engaged, quickly made friends, connected with your teachers, and brought your outgoing, charming, witty, strong spirit to PS1 the past five years. You have grown so much as a leader – we see you speaking up with poise and confidence, asking questions, contributing creative ideas, listening, and making sure everyone is heard and included. Your leadership skills have translated outside of PS1 too. You were chosen as Team Captain of your soccer team and led your team to the State Cup finals. Your coach talks about your soccer smarts, good decision making, and your leadership. You have grown into someone who your coach and teammates can rely on. We looked back through the comments your teachers have written about you over the years. They describe you as strong, confident, focused, engaged, a leader in and out of the classroom, motivated, humble, a good listener, kind, sincere, considerate, thoughtful, embracing challenges, curious, a creative thinker, upbeat, hilarious, a problem-solver, organized, an experimenter, engaged, fun, persuasive, poised, positive, fearless, and a shining star. Wow! We also hear the PS1 soccer fields will never be the same without your fearless and competitive spirit, and we don’t doubt it! All that said, the characteristic of which we are most proud is your kindness. We’ve heard from so many parents about times when you’ve noticed someone being left out and you brought them back into the group dynamic. You are a good friend. We see your bravery and maturity shining through in your decision to attend Marlborough next year. We narrowed it down to our top two choices together, but then we let you choose. You told us that you knew Marlborough would be the hardest and most work of the middle schools you were considering, but you felt like it would put you on the best path for your future, and you wanted to work hard and aim for the stars. We are so proud of you. PS1 has been a wonderful place for you. It has helped you grow into who you are today, and it will be the foundation for who you will become. Keep being brave and shooting for the stars. We believe in you and WE LOVE YOU. Mom & Dad

Words from Joel:

My fellow graduates, teachers, and friends, it is an honor to speak to all of you today. Before I continue, I would like to thank my parents for supporting me throughout my PS1 journey. My teachers, for not only teaching me math, science, and English, but for teaching me how to be a good person. I would also like to thank my friends, for making me smile, and sharing so many good times. All of you have contributed so much to making me the person standing before you here today, and I thank you for that.

Words from Steve and Melinda Mehringer:

Words from Kate Sydney Mehringer:

Five Years at PS1

Kate, it’s been only five years since you and your family joined PS1 from your public school. It might as well have been 50 years since you are precisely the kind of family that has sustained PS1 all these years, made it the school it has become, and contributed in so many different ways. Your family loves being connected to the school, and “the school” loves and cherishes your connection. You are a force of nature in the classroom and on the field; you’re a leader. Your pursuits in class to extend your learning, and to understand more deeply the subject matter, are impressive. As a Student Ambassador on school tours, your smile seemed visible through your mask. You are stunningly confident, welcoming, and proud. That pride in your school and excitement to share are what we see in all areas of your pursuits. Math and science may be your favorite subjects. You’re an avid reader and a confident public speaker. You are athletic, a leader on and off the field, confident without being cocky, and always determined to do your best. You are outgoing without being in someone’s face; naturally inclusive but not in a gushy way; diplomatic without being starchy; your own person without being in any way alienating. Outside of school, you volunteered this past summer teaching science experiments to young kids as part of a free community service program. You’re hungry for the next challenge. Your mom’s contributions have been felt most strongly in our Administration and Finance Committee (focus on audit, risk management, and real estate). She adds talent, data, clarity, purposefulness, and collaboration skills to every project and discussion. Your parents have made their presence felt in markedly helpful ways. Good luck at Marlborough next year. Congratulations.

KATE

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Words from friends:

2017-2018 You are very athletic especially when you play soccer. You are the best soccer player I know since you are fast like a panther. You are so smart in Math, you can solve problems so quickly. You make up the most creative and unusual songs. You are so intelligent and have a kind heart.

2018-2019 You always come up with the best ideas for what to draw at journal time. It was really fun working with you at Open House, especially when the whole group wasn’t there and I got to take someone else’s job and you helped me a lot. You are a really good soccer player and I wish I could play soccer as well as you. You are really good at making things out of clay, like the time you made that bowl during ceramics.

2019-2020 You are fun, kind, and sporty. If I could choose any of my friends to teach me soccer or tennis I would choose you. You always push me to become better at sports. I enjoy working with you in math. It was fun to work on our goals together and you are really good at making slideshows. You always encourage me to work hard and tell me I can do anything. I like when we say “LET’S GO, places!”

2020-2021 You are great at soccer and also are a great person because you’re very honest. You’re a great friend to have and amazing to have in the waffle cult! Wow you are so good at multitasking so many sports in 1 week! You are always open to new ideas and are not afraid to share your own even if it is different than the others. After doing many group projects together this year I have realized what a nice and genuine person you are and I am so glad to be friends with you. You made our class that much better this year.

2021-2022 You’re a very gifted soccer player. When you shoot on me I’m genuinely scared for my life. You are such a good athlete, and I remember playing badminton with you and I always missed the birdie and fell over, but you always laughed with me and managed to hit it every time. I can always rely on you for a straight answer and that’s an awesome thing. I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to get to know your kind, confident, hardworking self over the course of this school year! I am constantly impressed by your dedication and strong will. I think you could do anything at all that you set your mind too. Thank you so much for being so daringly happy to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone; these qualities truly inspire me every day!

Thomas Leroy Merjos

Now that that’s out of the way, do you wonder why I always wear this beanie? Well not only does my hair need to be tamed, but the beanie makes me unique (I mean who in Los Angeles wears a beanie!?) Even though I only wear this one, I have a lot of beanies and each expresses my colors. My beanie embodies a burning sun where everyone and everything is welcomed. Every race, sexuality, and gender live here and love each other for who they are. My fellow graduates are there, celebrating our last out of 2,555 days of PS1. This burning sun is a utopia. And while my beanie may not exactly be this, it is a metaphor for what the world should be and maybe one day, will be. Thank you very much for listening to my graduation speech.

Tomsters! We knew you were ready for PS1. When you were 2 we took you to a school play. Roscoe was a slug, or something green and slimy. He slunk up a ladder to deliver his lines. In the pause after, you shouted out “My Turn,” jumped off my knee and made a dash for the stage! Soon enough it was your turn for a new backpack and lunch box, (can you remember the theme you picked in Youngers??), and you were heading to Elementary. You knew faces and some names; Pedro’s big smile, Joel’s mustache, Christina’s bagel breakfasts, but this was your experience, your new teachers, your Youngers class and your new community discovering each other and stepping into 6 years of precious growth together. You were tentative but present, more shy at 6 than at 2, but quietly confident, observing always and slowly building trust for your extended family. In Youngers we had DEAR time. It was dear to us all. We got to be with you for some extra minutes once the older kids had disappeared off to their classes and as your new relationships were cementing. Do you remember lying in the goals on the green and reading all those great stories? Sometimes friends would join. I remember the Mr. Men being a favorite. And now this PS1 tapestry is fully sown, telling fabulous stories of you and your pals on stage dancing to hip hop, having birthday circles, checking out books from the library, sitting on the map of America for Morning Meeting, playing hand ball in the morning before school, exploring every inch of the climbing structure and madly running around campus sharing ideas. One of the places Dad and I were so grateful for was aftercare. You seemed so happy running safely and blissfully feral with friends of all ages, bonding with the best aftercare staff, hiding from us in the bamboo when you saw us coming to pick you up. All these things are unique to PS1 and these scenes in this wholesome tapestry are strands in the fabric of who you have become; our brilliant, thoughtful, hilarious boy who intrigues people of all ages, and is loved by Youngers and Olders and teachers alike. We could not be more proud of all your have accomplished over these years, to name a few; raising SO much money for Spinal Cord Injury, working SO hard on your climbing and doing daring dynos, hiking the Ute on your own, supporting your friends through hard times and most importantly always knowing who you are. Please continue to fly the rainbow flag and continue to be an example to anyone, child or adult, who is looking for that bit of courage to do the difficult thing, and break out of the mold. Bravo, Mr T! Much love from us all XX

Words from Joel:

Ever since I was eight years old something didn’t feel right. Around a year ago I made my journey out of the closet. I first told my friends and they were super supportive and nice. I think I was scared that if I told my family they would think of me differently which was crazy. Of course, I eventually told them. First my brother, then my sister, then my mom, then my dad, and then, my oldest brother. It was such a relief when I came out to my family. I think PS1 not only gave me the confidence to do this but the community made me feel welcomed and happy about myself. To this day I am extremely surprised about how diverse PS1 is.

Words from Stavros Merjos and Honor Fraser:

Words from Thomas Leroy Merjos:

Seven Years at PS1

Tommy, your cousin suffered a spinal cord injury a few years back. You immediately brought a wheelchair to school to see what it felt like and you persisted in using it for quite some time. You still work hard to raise money for a program called Wheels to Work. And then, just a few weeks ago, you did it again… helping to raise consciousness on our campus. “Helpful” is your middle name – there is nothing you wouldn’t do for your school, your rock climbing gym, and for causes you believe in. Everyone just loves Raymond; I mean Tommy. Everyone loves Tommy. You returned some time after the reopening of the campus last year; when you returned, your peers were exuberant – they have their Tommy back! They even performed a musical number that they created for you upon your return. You are helpful, loyal, curious, reliable, and resilient. You forge long and deep relationships with friends in your close circle and also tend to students older and younger than you in comfortable and natural ways. You are a gentle being, generous in your investment in others. You don’t just say what might be expected. People feel good in your presence, at least in part because everyone knows that what you speak is something that you have thought about, whether that something is personal, academic, challenging, philosophical, simple or complex. I have known your family for 11 years. Your family is in the art business – Dad as a dealer and mom running her art galleries. They are well connected throughout the world. And they are also skilled at raising two delightful, polite, cooperative, honest, charming, and reasonable sons who leave a place better than they find it. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are good at climbing because you love the monkey bars. You always make people laugh because you do the funniest things like hanging upside down on the monkey bars and making a funny face. You are so fast at running.

2016-2017 You are so good at parkour and we see you practicing all the time. You are a really good friend because when someone does something right, you always cheer for them. You are very active and you are talented at jumping around and over things. You are never sitting around being bored. When we went to your mom’s gallery, you were amazingly helpful explaining the art and reading us a book. You taught us so many things.

2017-2018 You are a trustworthy and faithful friend. You are so brave especially when you jumped off the Spider Web. Your rap about the Ocean Institute was so cool. It is so fun when we just sit on a bench and have a chat. You are a great math helper. You play with anyone who asks because you are a good friend.

2018-2019 You are kind, caring, and willing to help everyone. You have been the funniest, best friend ever and we’ve had many laughs together. It’s cool how good you are at walking on stilts. You are a great artist and you are good at writing stories. I like to have you in a group because you have lots of good ideas. I’ve learned alot from you and I’ve enjoyed having fun with you. You’re such a great friend and a great classmate and I want to keep it like that.

2019-2020 Where do I even start!? It is always a good Time when I’m with you! You are so funny. Thank you so much for being an amazing person always. I hope we are in the same class next year. Remember when I was your Minion number 2 then for the gift exchange you gave me that hat well I was just wearing it!!!! P.S. you’re hilarious!! You can make people smile no matter what. It was so fun having you in my book club this year because your notes made me think of the book in a whole new way. You are the best cartoon drawer I have ever seen.

2020-2021 You are always kind to everyone, and you cheer everyone up so easily with your jokes and sense of humor. I really appreciate how you inspired the whole class to quack for the first few months of the year - that added so much to our community! I remember one time we were trying to fake fall to see if anyone would notice, and when I did no one noticed, but when you did everyone went “ARE YOU OK TOMMY?!?!” and that just proves what a great friend you are. I am so glad you rejoined us on campus to finish the year - the day you came back was the best day ever.

2021-2022 I enjoy being around you for your confident aura. I love your iconic yellow beanie and your hilarious knee high socks, and your Early Curly Fry Show is the best! You are one of the nicest, funniest friends I have ever had and you never fail to make me smile. I am glad I get to hang out with you everyday at school. When I sit next to you, it makes my day better. You are kind to everyone that you are around. You are a very chill person but you also work really, really hard and always do your best. I love your drawings. They are very artistic. Your devotion to your role in our Shakespeare play constantly inspires me!! You bring a really positive energy and a tight-knit sense of community to our classroom! Tommy, you make everyday the best day of my life.

Grace W. Nordling

I came here in third grade, I was so excited to walk through that gate. I made some new friends, and some dead ends, but who cares? This school made me who I am. The colors of the rainbow, playing with playdough, these are some of my best memories. Trying to climb the oak tree, running away from the bees, these are my best memories. Yeah, these are my best memories. COVID hit and knocked out my next two years, and the idea of having more fun times, suddenly disappeared. I’d lie awake in bed and would think about, The colors of the rainbow, growing potatoes, I thought about my best memories. Thinking about the oak tree, running away from the bees, I thought about my best memories. Yeah, these are my best memories. But wait, now I get to walk to the brown gate again, hear the sound of children’s laughter again, and create more fun memories ahead. The colors of the rainbow, singing with Romeo, these are my best memories. Acting under the oak tree eating lunch on the Field of Dreams, these are my best memories. The colors of the rainbow, getting our roles, these are my best memories. Running on the Field of Dreams, singing under this oak tree. I made all of these memories. And I’ll never forget these memories.

Dear Grace, We’ve been celebrating since the day we knew you were coming into this world! Every day was and still is a day of firsts and sometimes lasts - laughs and tears turned into our fondest memories. From made up bedtime songs, books about mama llamas, conversations about Hamilton, counting dogs on the way to school, boogie boarding or dancing in the kitchen … every day you bring us so much joy just by being YOU. At this turning point, from child to teen, from elementary to middle school, we pause with full hearts to admire your many accomplishments! We’ve watched the strength of your hands skillfully command the keys of piano, your resonating voice bring emotion and meaning to a song, your legs grow into the legs of a strong swimmer, your capacity for learning develop into a walking encyclopedia for Greek Mythology, your respect of others cultivate into many different friendships. All of these outcomes are a result of your principle love of people, self, learning and new experiences. Like anyone else you have gifts or skills - some realized, many not yet. We encourage you to always appreciate your gifts and use them to better yourself and others in the world around you to the best of your ability. Rise up with the waves, knowing there will always be ups and downs, and knowing that you have family and friends supporting you every step of the way. Never be afraid to be uninhibited yet composed, imaginative yet rational, daring yet safe, brave yet humble, vivacious yet reserved. In other words, keep being YOU! Your time in elementary school and PS1 is now assuredly escorting you into the next phase of learning. We remember your enthusiasm and growth in buying a simple can of beans for the camping trip at the market with Violet! You tackled that unknown with wonder and eagerness, creating a story that will stick with you into adulthood. We can’t wait for more stories to come in this next phase! Thank you and we love you so, so much booba, bunny, skittlebutt, baby dinosaur, peanut butter, peanut, mcluvin! Mom and Dad

Words from Joel:

Hi. Instead of doing a traditional speech, I decided to do something different. I’m going to share with you a song I wrote called, “Best Memories”. I hope you enjoy it.

Words from Chris and Jessica Nordling:

Words from Grace W. Nordling:

Four Years at PS1

Grace, you are a breathtaking vocal and performance artist. Your whimsical side is quite fun to witness. It is this balance of high-performing and silliness that draws us into your world. It is as if you are a 30 year old professional singer living inside your 12 year old body. You are poised and accomplished, and will go as far as you want. Singing is by no means your only special talent, nor your only focus. The thing about Grace is that you apply yourself diligently and thoughtfully to everything you undertake – some other interests include theatre, swim team, drawing, piano, guitar, reading and really all academic areas presented to you. You have completed your fourth year at PS1 and took to the school like a fish drawn to water when you first arrived. Your parents say that you make their job as parents easy. Notwithstanding that they have played a large role in making this true, Grace makes teachers and schools job easier as well because of the example that you set for others with your curiosity, your ability to make good friends easily, your skill level without causing undue focus on yourself, and your genuine caring and supportive nature. You have many friends. You are confident, hardworking, engaging, sensible, cooperative, collaborative, humble, and fair. Your parents found a home here at school as well. They too just jumped right in to an active parent body by volunteering for events, programs, up front and behind the scenes, in helping the school raise money, and in your Mom’s case, learning to play the cello at school. They are community builders. They make my job easy! Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

G R A C E

N O R D L I N G “I am I n

ot a pre I A m not tty M A b e a S R u tif , ADI ul A SUN NT AS , THE - K .” ATN EVE ISS RDE EN

“ TR Y SOME TO BE ONE A RA EL - M I AYA SE’S C NBOW IN LOUD ANGE .” LOU

Words from friends: “I c o ever me to p y to g day wi ractic e th et b ette a min dse r. CALE t DRES B SEL

2018-2019 You’re really fun to talk about Avengers and Marvel with and I really enjoy doing the Loki and Thor battles. You’re one of my favorite people to hang out with. You are a really great artist, like when we were sitting down at Friday Free Choice and we were working on drawing art together and you drew a really nice unicorn. You have really creative ideas. I’m really glad that you came to PS1 this year, and I think you are really good at singing like the song Hot Chocolate.

2019-2020 You are so funny, kind and loving. I like being your friend because you are really good and when you laugh it makes me laugh. From working with you on the deciduous forest project to you helping me come up with ideas for the ultimate animal- it’s all been super fun! You are an amazing singer. You are really good at acting and have really creative stories. You are an awesome artist. I’m so glad we share an interest in Villainous.

2020-2021 You always put 100% effort into what you do and are always understanding. Thank you for this. You’re really good at singing and playing instruments and are an amazing friend as well. You always support your friends and you know how to make sure everything is alright. This makes you the perfect classmate. I am glad we are friends and wouldn’t have it any other way. You are smart, intelligent, creative and funny and I hope I’m in your class next year.

2021-2022 Your talented, committed personality will lighten up anyone’s day! Thank you so much for being such a smart, open-minded leader during our “Tiny Desk Concerts” in Music- you completely blew us away with your performance TWICE! I also really enjoyed reading the d’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths with you. You were always on top of the reading you needed to do and made it so easy to work with you for our presentation, which really is a testament to your compassion, intelligence, and energy! You seem to know every answer in math and you are so tech-savvy and I feel like you know, like, everything about Google docs, slides, classroom, etc. You are always there to help anyone who needs it, and I love that about you. You have a big heart and a great spirit.

Asha Rhys Parry When I started at PS1, my family and I planted a seed. Now, this seed has become a tree with thriving roots, trunks, branches and leaves. With every challenge to overcome and every opportunity to seize, the trunk has grown stronger and the branches have grown longer and reached further. The dark and deep colors, the light and bright colors, and the sturdy and spindly branches represent the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. My tree first started growing in the yellow classroom during kindergarten and first grade. In addition to learning to read and to tie my own shoes, I gained the curiosity, confidence and friendships I still have today. After the sunlight of the yellow class, my tree began to sprout in the green classroom for 2nd grade. There, I learned about mathematical arrays, emotional support and how to be an advocate for myself. As I moved into Middles, my branches began to unfurl and reach for new heights. I moved into Indigo for 3rd and 4th grade where I learned my times tables, grew colorful celery, and had an unfortunate moldy potato leak. Amidst the natural light of middles, I began to really understand myself as a learner, friend and person. I entered the Olders 5 Zoom room from my living room in Montana, I went on to compare the arsenic levels in organic and non organic brussel sprouts for our science fair, put dry ice over my sorbet covered cantaloupe, and read historical fiction. This was the year I discovered just how resilient I could be. After the challenges of distance learning, I stepped onto the PS1 campus again and into the nurturing environment of Olders 4 for my final year at PS1. I dissected sheep brain and cow eyes in anatomy, made 3D Greek artifacts, explored new and old friendships, and had the opportunity to play a leading role in our production of Julius Caesar. As my time at PS1 comes to an end, I can see myself and my learning tree clearly and I am grateful for all the experiences- the moments big and small- that brought me here. I know that PS1 has given me two important things that I will take with me into my next journey; my roots and my wings. Looking forward, I know that I am both a masterpiece and a work in progress and I am grateful to be both. Thank you to all my friends, family, teachers, and faculty staff who have made this journey truly remarkable.

“You came into this family with a big, big, job to do. The one of growing up into the one and only you… Your job of growing up takes hard work, I know, but each day is an adventure. Each problem helps you grow. And I want you to remember, I’m here to watch the ride. I believe in one amazing you with all my love and pride.” – Marianne Richmond, I Believe in You When you were little, you would refer to yourself as “Amazing Asha.” Day by day, week by week, and year by year, we have come to realize just how true those words would come to be. You are kind and connected. You have a strong sense of yourself and find joy in bringing ideas into action. You are interested in the world, in the people around you, and in your own thoughts and ideas. You are attuned to the wants and needs of others while also having a strong sense of your own needs and your own voice. You make friends easily and have a unique ability to make people feel seen and heard. You are a critical thinker and an inquisitive learner. You are curious about people and places, ideas and activities. You are an engaged student who is eager to bring classroom lessons to life for yourself and your classmates. You use your writing skills to paint pictures with words and reflect on your experience. You are drawn to math and science and the ways these disciplines give insight into the world. You are a natural and capable leader. You are careful with your words and your actions. You bring a carefree joy to your interactions while also being aware of the larger needs of the group. You are respectful and often align your actions with the goals of the group in order to find a way to a shared success. Whether you are playing lacrosse or soccer, or leading a lesson on climate change, you have remarkable strength and resilience. You love to be involved in the world. You want to know more and be more. You have high expectations for yourself and you are willing to put in the time and effort to make progress toward your goals. You aren’t afraid to fail, but you also won’t stop until you have reached a level of mastery that makes you feel satisfied and proud. You want to be engaged, to take action, to make an impact. Because of you, the world is a brighter and more hopeful place. From your first Women’s March to your 100th night sleeping in a tent, from your dedication as a student to your commitment to leadership on and off the field, from your kind and connected approach to being Bodan’s big sister to your bold adventurous spirit, you shine bright! As you move into this next stage of your life, we are immensely grateful for the opportunity to witness your growth and support you on your journey. We love you, Asha! We will always be your roots as you find new ways to spread your wings and become the most amazing version of yourself!

Words from Joel:

Sophia Bush once said, “You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress.”

Words from Michael and Shannon Parry:

Words from Asha Rhys Parry:

Seven Years at PS1

Asha Parry – you are a perfect combination of serious commitment to environmental stewardship and social justice without taking yourself too seriously. You are a very social being who also craves solitude to achieve balance. You are insightful, energetic, reflective, helpful, empathetic, sprightly, and endlessly curious and enthusiastic. You care deeply about your friends. the world, and your role in the world. You are a natural leader; your method seems to be that you listen first and then bring people together – you do this informally and you did this on the PS1 Student Council. You are an upstander who notices when things go awry and you aren’t afraid to call it out and work to make it right – whatever IT may be. Your strong sense of civic responsibility carries over into many out of school activities ranging from Girl Scouts to community service both locally and beyond. You are a star on your lacrosse and soccer teams. You apply yourself fully to all that you undertake with a joyful passion. You are self-assured and also open to suggestions from others. You are a steward from a family of stewards. Your mom first learned about PS1, I believe, at a luncheon she led the Sustainability Awards when we got our first grand prize for sustainability from the City of Santa Monica. She said there was something I said in accepting the award that made her decide that if she ever had kids, they would come to PS1. If I knew what I said, I would say it every day if it meant it would attract families like the Parry family to come to PS1. Asha’s parents have helped their school in innumerable ways – PS Serves, making videos, initiating new projects and following through. They are connectors, and we are the beneficiaries. Luckily for us, Bodan is here for several more years to come. Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

Asha Parry

“Hap p prett iness and iest t hings confiden ce you c an w are the ear.” -Tay “Not lor S hi wift The ng is imp word ossib le itself says . I’m p os -Aud rey H sible.” epbu rn

“Bea uty b e

gins the

mom ent y ou d ecide to be -Coc yourself.” o Ch anel

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are a good friend and it was really nice of you to help me when I got hurt. I like when you laugh, it makes me smile. You are really good at making loopers and great on the monkey bars. We have fun together at recess times just walking around. You are so confident about everything and you believe in yourself.

2016-2017 You are a nice friend because when I am lonely you say I can play with you. You are fun to play with and I like to play tag with you. Whenever I ask to play, you let me. When I am hurt you help me. We have the same initials! You let me read with you and sometimes you read to me. When I am feeling sad, you always ask what I need. I like you because you seem happy.

2017-2018 You are great at math games and learn the rules fast. You think of new, fun ideas and then we try them. When I don’t have anyone to play with, you play with me and that makes me feel better. You are an amazing dancer and very stylish. When we are partners in Word Study you always wait for me.

2018-2019 You are so inclusive and kind-hearted. I remember several times when I was upset or sad you came over and let me play with you. Whenever somebody is down you will always volunteer to help them. You make the most out of everything and are the best friend to anyone who needs it. I like that you are adventurous and enthusiastic. You are funny and make me laugh. You are so athletic and a pro at lacrosse and soccer.

2019-2020 You are such a charming person, who is dependable and gracious. You are super cool and good at a lot of things like dance and sports. I wish I had your skills in Lacrosse. I like how you love Harry Potter and that you love to read. You are really passionate about global warming and you are really convincing and I think that is a great skill to have.

2020-2021 You’re very organized and have a great personality. You’re so great to come to when it comes to needing help-if I have any questions I know I can come to you for help. OMG girl you are just straight up good at everything- you are my bff. Thank you for being one of my good friends. You always make me laugh. We have been great friends for years but this year I really got to know you. You’re smart, kind and funny. I am so glad to be your friend and I hope you are in my class next year.

2021-2022 You are such a lovable person, and I really love how you break the “girls can’t play sports” stereotype. You are also hilarious, and you DO make really funny jokes. I really love how you are not afraid to participate in class and you are so confident! I can always turn to you with any of my problems. I can trust you with a secret even though you are a terrible liar. You comfort me every day and understand everything that I go through. You accept me for who I am and I will forever be grateful for that. You wear a smile even on a rainy day, which is contagious, making the sun come out! You have a strength for connecting people and bringing communities together that our class finds reason to appreciate every day.

Alexandra Rose Perttula

Every teacher, classmate, and friend has made an impact on me in their own unique way. PS1 has taught me how to be myself and how to stand up for others. It has also taught me that you should always keep trying and never give up. But one of the most special things about PS1 is the community. I will never forget all of the welcoming smiles and warm greetings that I have received. I have cherished every moment that I have had with friends and staff at this exceptional school. I sure have made some lifelong friendships that I don’t know what I would do without. The learning environment that this school has is something that is super special. I have learned things like how to read a clock in Youngers, to dissecting a cow’s eye and a sheep’s brain in Olders. Everything that I have done and learned here will be an experience that I will remember forever. My grandmother teaching me in studio my first year. Getting nicknames from my teachers. Playing silent ball while standing on stools. Kickballs stuck in the oak tree. Meeting up with friends in the Library and Art room at recess. I want to thank all of my friends, teachers, grandparents, siblings, parents, my dog, Redd, and every person who has been there for me throughout these 7 years. I can’t believe it’s time to say goodbye, but I’ll always have the memories. Now, as the last Perttula of this generation to graduate, on behalf of every one of my family members that has ever gone here, I think we can all say the same thing. Thank you, PS1.

Dear Allie, We are very proud of you! As you know, PS1 has been a family affair since the early 1970s (when Abbie arrived on campus) and we have loved watching you grow up in this nurturing community. As you may recall, you were on the campus (with Jonah and Anna) many years before becoming a student. Do you remember dressing up in your Halloween costumes and going to the school celebrations under the Oak Tree? We do! And we also remember how happy and proud you were to finally run through the bubbles and join your big brother and big sister. Over the last 7 years, you have had fantastic experiences: D.E.A.R. time, circle times, field trips, buddy classes, violin, chorus, Shakespeare, hip hop dance class, ballet, theater and sing-a-longs on camping trips. You have learned math, science, history, reading, writing - and your favorite, P.E., - from passionate and supportive teachers. You have welcomed and been a role model for so many younger students. You have played capture the flag and countless other games with competitive spirit. You have walked with, talked with, laughed with and played with dear friends on the Euclid yard, in the Library and on the Field of Dreams. All of these experiences are part of you now. You have built a strong foundation and you are now ready for your next chapter. And, ready you are. You are a loving and generous sister, daughter and friend. You are an engaged, energetic, curious learner who loves to collaborate. You have a contagious enthusiasm for life and a strong moral compass. You are confident, conscientious, considerate and kind. You are vibrant and always up for a challenge. You elevate the experiences of all those who cross your path. But, best of all, you are “you.” You bring joy to us - and everyone around you - each and every day. On your graduation from PS1, we want you to know that we will always love you and be here for you. You should be proud of all that you have accomplished through your hard work and talent. We are excited to watch you continue your journey as it is clear that the best is yet to come. Happy Graduation! Love, Mom and Dad

Words from Joel:

Before talking about my first day at PS1, I want to talk about make new friends day. I walked in knowing only my preschool friend and walked out with wonderful new friends. On the actual first day, standing with my siblings Anna and Jonah, we watched the bubbles floating through the air. We walked through the brown gate confident and ready. The next seven years at PS1 were a blast.

Words from Joshua and Kimberly Perttula:

Words from Alexandra Rose Perttula:

Seven Years at PS1

The last of this generation of Perttulas to graduate from PS1, following in the footsteps of your Dad, your aunt, your uncle, your siblings, and your cousins. Allie, you are by no means “just another one.” You stand out; your joyful presence lights up a room! You put others before yourself, always wanting to make sure that things are fine for everyone. You assess a situation and then work gracefully to make it even better because you care deeply about others. Seeing other people happy makes you happy! You are very expressive and love words, spelling, reading, and writing. You write with the same emotion that you feel; thankfully, no one can throttle your passions. You don’t crave attention and yet it is focusing on you on stage in any performance that fills the audience with glee, happiness, and good spirit. You make friends easily in any and all situations. You are kind-hearted, vibrant, caring, honest, and inclusive – your EQ is off the charts! You’re organized, on top of your work, and carry a can-do attitude wherever you go. Your Dad graduated from PS1 and now is completing 13 years as a PS1 parent. He commands attention in a room for his strength, conviction, and support – at the same time, I savor being able to see the three year old Josh in my rear view mirror (pardon my indulgence). There is nothing that your Mom hasn’t done at PS1 – from being Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors to Parents Guild leadership to being both a leader and volunteering for most every event in and out of her kids’ classrooms for one quarter of PS1’s history. Reflection, planning and implementing new programs, rolling up your sleeves to get things done, and true strategic planning for the institution – they have done all that … and more. Good luck at Windward School next year. Congratulations

Alex

andr a

Rose (Allie Perttu la )

“The r only e is alwa ys lig we’re h to se b r a ve en t. If e it. o I brav e eno f only w ugh e’re ugh t -Ama o nda G be it.” orma n

“No o make ne can you infer feel ior with out y our cons ent.” -Elea Roos nor evelt

“Jus tb ther e yourse e is n lf, bett o one er.” -Tay lor S wift

“She b she c elieved ou she d ld so -R.S id.” . Gre y

Words from friends: 2015-2016 You are nice and you are always willing to play with people when they don’t have anyone to play with. During recess, we play lots of games like tag. It’s really fun. In Writers’ Workshop, you draw really great illustrations. You are helpful. You are a great soccer player. You are good at helping the teachers get things done. I can tell you really love your family. You are a great soccer player. During recess, we play lots of games like tag with me.

2016-2017 You are nice because you always invite me to play. I love swimming at the pool at your house because you let me play with your special pool toys. You give kind, gentle reminders when you see students doing something they shouldn’t. You were a confident and talented dancer during our BJ Yellow circle time. You were the first person I met in this class and I remember you invited me to read a book with you.

2017-2018 You are caring and supportive of your friends and always open-minded and inclusive. You are a great actress and dancer, especially when you do the “Penguin Dance.” You are a talented violin player. You have a lot of great ideas stored in your head. You’re very good at math, and you share new strategies with me.

2018-2019 You tell great jokes and always make me laugh. You are strong hearted, smart, kind, and caring and you always help others. You are also very kind with little kids and they love you like I do. You are athletic and good at softball and soccer. You smash the ball into the goal like its nothing and if you get knocked down, you always get back up. It was fun sitting with you and always winning the quietest table. I had so much fun working with you on the board game for math.

2019-2020 You are so kind and really good at science not only that but you are a loyal friend. You are so nice and I have never seen you upset. (literally never). You are a great listener and always follow directions in class. Remember when Kelly told us to go on different sides of the room when we drank water because if we looked at each other we would just laugh? I have a feeling that is never going to change. You’re super nice and you always have a smile on your face.

2020-2021 You are more fun than anyone or anything I know, including bubble wrap. I admire your enthusiasm for learning, and how you always try your best to bring positive energy to the classroom. You have always been there for me especially when I’m at my worst, you even encourage me to be my crazy self. It is so inspiring how in class you are not afraid to ask any questions about what you are confused about. You are one of the most confident, friendly people I know.

2021-2022 I credit your bright, funky attitude and how you are never afraid to give your opinion in class. I admire your confidence and comfort in just being yourself. You are so enthusiastic about every subject. You are always eager to know the answer to every question and I appreciate how you are not afraid to ask questions. You go with the flow. You’re always happy. You’re super athletic and always play football and soccer and any other sport that you can play. When you are around people you make people excited. You are funny in different ways in good ways. You have good handwriting. You are very enthusiastic. You are a heartwarming person.

Julian Reid Dear Julian, Congratulations! We are so incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished during elementary school, and of the warm, smart, funny (and super cute!) person you are. You started PS1 as a shy, five-year-old boy, hands in your pockets, not wanting to participate in morning meeting. It didn’t take long, though, for you to take a chance on this new school with new people, and you soon found your place in LG Red. You quickly forged deep friendships that have stood the test of time and distance. You soaked up loads of knowledge about math, science, music, art, and so much more. You grew into a great baseball player, a relentless problem-solver, a leader among other students, and a seasoned camper. Each year since, you have grown and matured, mastered skills, and discovered new passions. One of your skills is also one of your passions: Reading. In LG Red, you became an avid reader, which opened so many worlds for you to explore. During DEAR time, you read to your friends, often while lounging under a table! Your favorite books and authors have a special place on your shelf and in your heart. We love seeing the well-worn covers of your Keeper collection because we know how much you enjoy revisiting beloved characters and stories. You amaze us with your ability to consume 1,000 page books almost overnight, and we appreciate that you continue to discover interesting, new genres. Your creativity is one of your most wonderful qualities. You are a very talented artist and writer, who keenly conveys complex thoughts and meaning through your words and visuals. Your poetry and drawings, especially, truly make people feel something. Your sense of color is unmatched (and often quite helpful to the rest of us!), and it’s exciting to see you experiment with different mediums and techniques. You are a true poet. We were blown away by your poem, “Sculpting the Mountains,” which was read aloud at Curriculum Night earlier this year. We hope you continue to tap the creativity that’s inside of you because it is endless, and you have much beauty to contribute to the world. You have a strong sense of fairness, a generous spirit, and great compassion for people and animals. You advocate for what you believe in. It’s just who you are. It’s beautiful to see how much joy you derive from doing something kind for others, whether you’re helping a friend run his lines for a play, choosing a birthday gift for a family member, or raising money to protect endangered animals. You’re an amazing, caring brother and friend, and an encouraging teammate. Plus, you give THE BEST hugs ever! Juju kitty cat, we look forward to seeing your curiosity and determination continue to blossom in middle school as you explore different interests and friendships, and hone new skills. Know that we will ALWAYS be here to support you and cheer you on. WE LOVE YOU!!! Love, Mom, Dad, and Dylan

Words from Joel:

My journey at PS1 has been full of amazing memories. In my time here I have been taught how to learn, hope, respect other people, and have developed many other important skills that I will utilize throughout my entire life. One of the skills is socialization. In my first year I only had a few friends and was too shy to make more, so I waited for someone to reach out to me, and finally, while I was doodling in the Library, someone did. The boy walks up to me and happily says “Growleeoo!” “What?” I ask. He tells me that Growleeoo is my new nickname. I reluctantly agree and he becomes the first friend I make at PS1. He still calls me Growleeoo to this day. Memories like that are what really drove me through this final year at PS1, but now it’s time for the next part of my journey; I have been accepted to Windward. Because of PS1 I am now confident in my skills and intelligence, and I know that I am ready to move on and be successful in my new school. Thank you PS1 for all that you have given me.

Words from Eric and Jessica Reid:

Words from Julian Reid:

Seven Years at PS1

Julian, you pitch balls and strikes with a hardball during recess when you are not sitting in the bamboo forest writing a poem. Or attending to a detailed drawing that you are conjuring with a precision quite rare in a child. You are an interesting person to observe. You are a deep thinker, a serious student, and a hard worker. You tend to keep your own counsel. You crave information. Thoughts are initiated; they brew for a while and I wish I knew what was going on inside your thoughtful mind; when you are ready, and only then, do you uncover the fully formed or sometimes not yet ready for prime time complete unveiling but when you show a willingness to let someone in. This may be the way with all deep thinkers – I feel privileged when you let me in. You are a voracious reader. Voracious and insatiable may be two adjectives that can be applied to many or most of your pursuits – there is a depth to you that is quite rare in a person of your age. A good noun for you is soul. You are thoughtful, shy, kind, respectful, grounded, humble, and resourceful. The list of PS1 credits for your parents over the past eleven years could take many pages of their own. Their titles only partially define their involvement and influence at PS1. Your Mom is Vice-Chair of the Board. She has chaired several committees, initiated projects, volunteered in classrooms, and helped with admissions. She has been a partner to me. Your Dad has been a strong member of the Board Administration and Finance Committee for nine years, serving and leading many subcommittees. Both of your parents give their all for the school, time after time … year after year. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are a kind friend. You are good at pretending to be a kitty. You are a fast runner. You are a good reader. You are very smart.

2016-2017 When you are with your friends, you are so funny. You make me laugh. You play basketball so well. I hope we can be partners one day. You build great buildings with blocks. It was great when you flipped your letter and you remembered to stand up after you flipped it. You have always been a nice person, especially when you let me sit with you.

2017-2018 You have a generous spirit and can be so helpful. You are so athletic and never give up because you have grit. You are a smart mathematician since you can solve difficult problems. I noticed how skilled you are when we play “Math Jeopardy.” You know how to make me laugh with funny stories about our school day.

2018-2019 You looked like you had so much fun during Circle Time. You are an incredible Next Gen volleyball player. You are super smart and help others with hard math work. You cheer people up by being kind. I notice you look for ways to include friends in your game. You can be so funny with your words and actions.

2019-2020 You have always been a good friend to everyone in class. You include everyone, no matter what. You are sooo funny and I enjoy doing stuff with you. You always know what the best books are when you want to read. You are bright and funny and really good at math. Every time you help someone, it inspires me to do the same. Thank you for that! You are always using details for everything that you do. Every drawing that you make is really good.

2020-2021 You never give up on what you’re passionate about, and you always bring a new perspective to discussions and make the topic more interesting to think about. Your Haiku at the poetry community circle time was so unique, and it stood out from everything else for me! We all missed your smart and kind contributions to our class at in-person school. You write amazing creative paragraphs in writing and you were such a good Vice President for the hope campaign. You were definitely apart of making the hope campaign win the election and fight on long side Opal Wilson with your creative ideas.

2021-2022 You are an amazing friend. When I play with you, you are so nice and you teach me a lot. You are also amazing at art and inspire me to do even better. Remember when we did diary of a wombat in blue? That was so fun and we also cleaned up trash. You are a very creative individual who loves creating and fixing and I like that. Whenever we are in P.E and we are doing baseball you were really good at it and your poetry is really good I am inspired by your poetry. And when we play hockey you are always scoring goals. I like how good you are at everything I really admire you. We’ve known each other for a while, and been friends for a while as well. From bridge, to middles, and now even through Olders. You’ve been one of, if not my best friend all throughout my time here at PS1, and even though we’ll be parting ways this year, I hope that we will continue to be friends for years to come. You are smart and creative your last book club project was amazing.

James Reyna

Youngers was my rookie year. I was really worried because I had never been in this new league before. With the support of my coaches, I became more comfortable with starting new things. Before I knew it, I was selected to be part of a new team: Bridge. My sister had moved to another league, leaving me all alone. But, I soon found my home base. I became more confident in my surroundings. I learned a lot from my teammates and my new coaches, Holly Swope, Daniel, Billy and Keondria. For example, I was really nervous about the first overnight camping trip. But, I had so much fun with my tent-mates and I knew that I could rely on Holly and Daniel if I needed them. This allowed me to have an overall good time and to overcome my fear. After two years in Bridge, I got traded again to Middles. I was really hitting my stride as a seasoned player. My stats were improving in every subject. Then, in my second year with this team, I was thrown the biggest curveball of my career: the COVID-19 Pandemic. It shut everything down. Management was trying to figure out if our season could go on. But, after a few weeks, we found a way to play ball: Through Zoom school. I was traded one last time, to Olders: The best of the best. Since I was in Youngers, I had always looked up to this powerhouse of a team and the coolest kids on the field. At the start of this year, we were just getting back to normal play because of the pandemic. I had always enjoyed PS1, but after distanced learning during the pandemic, I now appreciate being with my team more than ever. So, as I stand here today at Graduation (or as I like to consider it, my induction into the Hall of Fame), I would like to thank those who made my major league career possible: My mom and dad, my sisters Hailey and Allison, the PS1 staff and faculty, Joel and my friends. You have all contributed to who I am today. I will value and remember my time at PS1. And, I am ready for my next chapter. After all, you can’t steal second without taking your foot off first.

Dear James, Congratulations on your graduation! We are proud to be your parents and so very proud of you. We have learned so much from you. Many of these lessons came from us watching you play video games (yes, you read that correctly). 1. The more you play, the better you are. The people who train better and prepare are more likely to get further in the game. This is true of online multiplayer games, and it’s true of baseball. If you extrapolate further, it applies to school work, too. Through your early years in school, the crush of the pandemic and through your 6th grade “senioritis,” you have managed to put in the time to improve your skills in all of these areas. 2. Be flexible. You can’t fully predict where you are going to “drop in,” what items you’ll get or who will be near you. You need to adapt to all kinds of situations. Complaining doesn’t work; making the most out of the situation gets you further in the game. We have seen how you have learned this skill over the years. You’ve learned to adapt to new teams and coaches, to new classrooms and teachers, and with gamers from all over the world. You’ve learned how to be open to meeting new people, and when to put up your guard. 3. Teamwork makes the dream work. You have to work with others in order to succeed. You’ve teamed up with your friends, communicated with them about potential obstacles, provided supplies to each other and decided when to forge ahead or when to pull back. Perhaps your baseball coaches play online MPGs; when they shout out, “Communicate!” they are reinforcing the benefits of teamwork. 4. You need balance to succeed. Players who hide for most of the game to stay alive don’t develop survival skills. When the endgame comes, they face the best players and don’t last. You have had the courage to try new things and learn new skills. You have learned from setbacks to become a stronger person. And, yes, sometimes balance means turning off the console—one of the hardest lessons of all! 5. Your health is the most important thing you have in life. Enough said. Respectfully, The Loving Parents of Zebrashavelegs

Words from Joel:

It was 2015. My agents, mom and dad, were excited to tell me that I had just been called up to the Big Leagues: PS1. Let me take you back to my first day: I walk onto the field… of my dreams. I cling on to my older sister, Hailey, who is becoming a free agent at the end of the year. I hold her hand tightly and I wish she will stay with me for the whole day. But then, before I could blink, she bolts off in another direction and joins a group of her friends. I stand in the middle of the field, frozen, under a canopy of bubbles, not knowing what to do. Then, as people rush past me, I see Jason, a fellow rookie who I met in Spring Training (otherwise known as Make New Friends Day). I run over to him and together we meet our new coaches, Bonnie and Jayme, and our team, the Youngers.

Words from Jeffrey and Anna Reyna:

Words from James Reyna:

Seven Years at PS1

James, you are both playful and silly as well as serious and collaborative. Initially you are quite shy until you develop a kinship. When you are comfortable and we probe, we realize you are quite perceptive. You are an influential presence on our campus. You have a joyful authority about you. You can navigate peer relations of all kinds and you are well-liked by many. You are empathetic, witty, fun loving, polite, and relaxed. Naturally athletic, you have a great passion for sports, inside and outside school. One of my early memories of you and baseball is from a PS1 event at the beach. You must have been a preschooler at the time, and you were hitting baseballs with a toy bat farther than children three times your age. I’m not surprised that you have followed your passion for baseball to this day. That takes great eye/hand coordination and you’ve got it! A very recent memory took place at the PS1 “camping” trip a few weeks ago. At the end of the song I lead at every camping trip, your schoolmates will long remember your being “the prettiest little bird that you ever did see!” Your family’s involvement at PS1 was instantaneous and it has increased every year for thirteen years now. Both have shared their culture and heritage, their brains and their brawn, their resources and their time, their leadership and their participation. Your mom is currently the Chair of the Board of Directors, on which she has served for about ten years. What hasn’t your Mom done for and at PS1? Nothing that I can think of!! PS1 is lucky indeed that your sister, Allison, has four more years at PS1. And your Mom has told me that, if she has any say in the matter, her grandkids will come to PS1 as well. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

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Words from friends: 2015-2016 You are so helpful because you tell me what to do when I don’t know what to do. You are a hard worker. You are a great soccer player especially when you play goalie. I love playing math games with you because you are good at math. You are good at explaining the rules. One time you pushed in my chair for me and I thought that was very nice of you.

2016-2017 You are so funny and make me smile when you spy on people at recess. You always make hilarious jokes! I think you are an amazing athlete and are good at being a catcher. You never exclude others – I like that. I love that you are a good reader. You are my BFF because you make me laugh. I enjoy you because it seems like you’re always in a good mood.

2017-2018 You are a flexible partner since you listen to others’ ideas. It was fun reading with you in Book Clubs. You are great in math and you can solve any problem in a snap. You are an athletic dodgeball player since it is hard to get you out. You are aware of helping those who need a friend.

2018-2019 You are so fun to play catch with. You are really good at ultimate frisbee. You are undefeated and your passes and catches are amazing. Remember the time I threw it across the whole field and you caught it. You’re a really good goalie because you always block a PK. And you’re really funny. I like your name because it sounds like “games.” I really like your cool hats.

2019-2020 It is so easy to be around you since you are so calm all the time. You are an amazing friend and know so many things about sports that I don’t. Go dodgers! I enjoy talking to you about baseball and how we were both excited about going to spring training before the whole coronavirus thing happened. You are nice to your friends. You are so skilled at playing soccer and kickball. You almost always can kick a homerun in kickball!

2020-2021 You are one of the most skilled sports players that I’ve seen at PS1. It is so inspiring how you believe in yourself and your team when we are playing. I admire how you try your hardest in the things you love doing. You can always be found having fun and laughing with your friends, and you bring your smiles everywhere you go. You are so generous and kind! The slideshow that you worked on about the bees and their threats brought up points, evidence, and thoughts that I never heard of!!

2021-2022 You’re so athletic. You are a talented baseball player, a fearless goalie for all field games, and a great QB in football. We always play football and I hate to admit it but you always get the touchdowns over my head. Your good attitude and charismatic character make it easy to be around you. You have a good sense of humor and are very upbeat. You are very smart and very very funny. You are also very nice and you always find a way to include everyone. You show leadership to people every day. You and I have had great memories over the years and I hope we can make more. Thank you for being my friend.

Emme Claire Rogers Hello - I’m Emme, a sister, daughter, friend, and most importantly today, a proud grad student of the PS1 community. By definition, the word graduate means “complete a course of study.” Now, this definition might apply to other schools, but a PS1 graduate is never fulfilled with their time here, and will always have the spirit of the school by their side as they travel beyond . When I stepped through the brown gates on Euclid Street, I was awestruck by the bubbly, warm welcome, and I instantly knew it was right for me. Over the course of 7 years, I’ve traveled through a unique path of classrooms, blossoming and growing from every experience I’ve made. Every memory I’ve collected - practicing gymnastics with friends during “morning tea,” performing as a wicked character for our Shakespeare play, or singing the lyrics to Flounder, is a colorful splash of ink on the pages of my story. Although it felt like just yesterday that I was a shy little girl, my achievements, triumphs and mistakes throughout a rainbow of environments have made me into the person I aspire to be.

Dear Emme, Congratulations on your graduation. Never could we have imagined what an extraordinary young woman you would become in such a short time. You have always been full of determination. Fierce! Yet, you also have deep compassion and empathy for others. Your family. Your friends. Strangers. Your maturity and wisdom easily surpass the 12 years you have been on this earth. As you move through middle, high school, college and beyond, you will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impression on everyone you touch. Truly, you hold the power to change the world. So, hold on to your dreams, your ideals, your relationships – those are the things that help ground and define you. We cannot wait to see what you will do next. We are so proud of you and know that your best is yet to come. Love, Mom & Dad

Words from Joel:

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” - Winnie the Pooh.

Words from Jeremy Rogers and Ann Singhakowinta:

Words from Emme Claire Rogers:

Seven Years at PS1

Just before COVID, Emme, your Dad invited me to join him and you and your brother to watch a golf tournament at Riviera Country Club. He and I are both golfers and sports enthusiasts. We were there all day; you rarely looked up from your book! I imagined you thinking, “Why would anyone watch people swing a golf club time after time when you could instead be engrossed in a book that would teach or entertain you?” You’ve got a point – you get many points. You are a gem; you love to be challenged and you rise to every one. You are a wonderful combination of many attributes – you are good at math because you value precision; you excel in writing because it taps into your creativity. You are a lover of many arts. You have a great presence on a stage. You love competition, athletically and academically. You are a very good student, work hard, and will most often go the extra mile in extending your assignments, whether required or self-initiated. You seek perfection, and often achieve it. You are a go-getter and a self-starter. You are perceptive, perseverant, poised, articulate, capable, determined, disciplined, eager, and energetic. Your parents are community builders and have been thoroughly engaged in many facets of PS1. Mom has been the leader of the Parents Guild Executive Board for the past three years. Your Dad is a real estate maven offering good advice, counsel, and detailed research. Practically speaking, your Mom is a parent ambassador – less formally, there is nothing she wouldn’t do for her children’s school. They are both great and influential advocates. When either of them talk, I listen!! And because your brother Elsen will still be at PS1 for several more years, I am grateful that their talents will still be shared with the PS1 community. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends: 2015-2016 I like that when someone’s feeling down you care about them and you try to cheer them up. You are happy when you see your friends and I like that. You are really good at spelling and writing. You draw really pretty pictures and you are a flexible friend. Sometimes you play Star Wars with me and I like that a lot. You are a helpful person because you are always willing to do things for our classroom.

2016-2017 You are kind and sweet. You are good at playing Rock Tag and Dead Man because you are a flexible playmate. When I’m hurt, you always offer to bring me to the office. I like going to Art class with you because you always help me. You are really good at art and drawing.

2017-2018 It was fun playing games with you on the ride to the Ocean Institute. You are able to make a believable French accent. You are so supportive especially when I needed help in the “Mary Poppins” play. You have amazing artistic skills especially drawing cats and dolphins. You have a smart active brain.

2018-2019 You are a great, creative artist and I love your sense of style. I wish I could draw like you! I really like how you’re always reading, it is very inspiring. You are an awesome person and I don’t know what I would do without you as my friend. You are very funny and have the best sense of humor. You are one of the best mathematicians I ever met. You are also a great writer (and I like your handwriting). I really loved being your partner in the fraction board game. And, Remember- You are Awesome!

2019-2020 You are super kind and fun. It’s cool how well you listen to me no matter what I am saying, even when you disagree with me. I had a lot of fun at your house when we made homemade pizza. You’re great at all subjects in school. Thank you for all the times you helped me with my math homework. I enjoy watching all your amazing sketching come to life on paper. You have a lot of talent for drawing and painting.

2020-2021 You are such a kind and caring person, with a ton of talents! You do art, tennis, and swimming with such passion. I love how you always want to do your best and the best for other people. You have always been so kind to me. I really appreciate your warm personality. Your art is beautiful and I really admire how smart you are. It’s so cool to see your drawing process. I feel like you’ll be a writer or something when you grow up. I know you are my best friend forever.

2021-2022 You’re super good at sports. You are always humble and never brag even when most people would. You are one of the best drawers I have ever met. Every individual in our class knows who to come to when in need of adorable drawings, perfect bubble letters, and most of all, kindness. I’m so inspired by your ability to not only impeccably organize and explain your opinions, knowledge, and wisdom, and to exceed expectations, but also to showcase the funny, enthusiastic side of your personality. You are always willing to extend a helping hand to those in need of it! I appreciate how you will always love me for me. I love you for you and you are never afraid of being different. You’re incredibly intelligent, trustworthy, understanding, and passionate personality brings a unique sense of safety and peace to our classroom!

Rowan Schwarz

I have grown in the classroom, accomplishing so much as I’ve moved along. Maybe, like crossing the monkey bars, it’s the little things, like the love that I now have for reading. I have been helped and pushed beyond my comfort zone in so many ways by the amazing teachers I’ve had throughout my years at PS1. Maybe it’s not correct to call the relationships I’ve developed an accomplishment. But without a question, one of the most important things that I will walk away from PS1 with is lasting friendships I now have. Actually, maybe this was the greatest accomplishment of all – that I will have a group of lifelong friends forever connected by our time together at PS1. Finally, I want to acknowledge my parents. They have been with me every step of my PS1 journey. From in- person school to zoom, from bridge to middles, from taking time out from what they were doing just to help me with my homework. These little things, they make the biggest difference, and honestly I don’t know what I would do without them. I’m sure, everyone has had some lessons in their life, given by their parents. Mine might have been to slow down, and stop talking so fast, so people could understand thr things I have to say. The most important thing is knowing that they are always there for me, so thank you mom and dad.

Dear Rowan, It is said that there no endings, only new beginnings. No graduations, only commencements. Your PS1 journey will soon turn into your Archer journey, and then before long your college journey, and so on. Your path ahead will be full of amazing accomplishments and achievements, a fair share of disappointments, and no doubt lots of twists and turns. And you will be ready for all of it, even if it doesn’t feel that way. You have developed into a remarkably self-possessed, confident, and compassionate person. People are drawn to your energy, humor, and kindness. You have come so far in your short time at PS1 and we can’t wait to see what comes next. From your circle time performances where you confidently occupied center stage to begrudgingly reading with Dad at Book Breakfast. You have become a strong student, wonderful performer, great athlete and a great friend to so many. To us, you are an amazing daughter and wonderful sister. We are in awe of you and can’t wait to watch you walk through this next stage of life. We hope that as you reflect on your time at PS 1 you are comforted by the confidence and strength of spirit that you’ve developed which will no doubt help you navigate all the new beginnings that lie ahead. Love, Mom, Dad, Dylan & Remi

Words from Joel:

When I came to PS1, in Orange, one of our first projects was to share our hopes and dreams for the year ahead of us. My hope – or maybe it was a dream, who knows - was to cross the monkey bars on the play structure. Clearly I set low expectations, but thinking back, it was quite difficult for my five year old self. Over the next seven years, I have accomplished many things at PS1, some big, some small, but all of them meanful in their own way.

Words from Jason and Jessica Schwarz:

Words from Rowan Schwarz:

Seven Years at PS1

There’s a je ne sais quoi about you, Rowan: a jauntiness, an ease, a cheeriness. You are the middle child in an accomplished fabulous family where each has a distinct personality and, obviously, your own place within the family. Your role, as I understand it, is that of a mediator. You don’t make waves, you find your way, and you are an agreeable sort. When you set your mind to something, you persist until it gets accomplished and you visibly delight in the accomplishment. You throw yourself in to everything you undertake. You are resilient. You are a powerful athlete; the other day, I watched you be the goalie where a peer with the power and accuracy of a Messi in his soccer kick, kept firing at you from fairly close range with you making save after save – you both had a frolicking good time together! If you ask most people, especially children, what is their favorite (fill in the blank), they most often have a ready answer. Not you, Rowan - you will give someone an on the spot answer to such a question which most likely will be different from your answer the day before and the day before that. You are less flippant and more just spontaneous. And yet when I asked you about middle school, you just knew that Archer would be best for you. “Why?” one would ask. “Because they will best know how to bring out the best in me,” you answered. “I just know it.” We agree with your parents’ assessment that you are low maintenance. Your Dad is a valuable member of the Board of Directors. He is a product of independent schools and comes from a family of educators. Your Mom has run several programs at PS1 over the past nine years. She is well organized and extremely talented and knows how to get the job done. Good luck at Archer next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 I love it when we have afterschool playdates together. They are so much fun. You are smart and creative. You are very helpful. I see you always doing jobs for the teachers and for your friends.

2016-2017 You are active and goofy. You make people laugh all the time. You are always making up little songs and dances to entertain people. Even when we went on the field trip you were singing songs for us. You are comfortable playing any game and you are so playful. You are always happy and that makes everyone around you feel joyful. You always have a big smile on your face.

2017-2018 I think you are a good friend because at PE you and some friends were hanging out and I was alone you said, “Hey, we need to include everyone.” You are funny because you think up jokes and I laugh so hard I feel like my guts are going to pop out. You are patient when you teach me cartwheels. I enjoy looking at your drawings because they are so colorful.

2018-2019 You are great at letting others be helpful. You are so athletic, especially in soccer and softball. You are so grateful for things and shows. You are a smart math student because you know how to use big numbers. I enjoy reading with you because you have good expression. You are there as a friend when it is needed.

2019-2020 You are happy all the time and you never quit. It is fun being in your class this year and being together on softball teams. You always cheer me up and are such a great friend. You are so kind hearted and awesome. You really are Rowan the great. You are great and have great ideas. You have so much energy and enthusiasm I think you can run around the world 10 times before taking a rest!

2020-2021 You always speak up in class when others are silent and that’s something I admire about you and I love that you have so many friends. You are so confident and kind with your words. Every time you share a project you made with the class I become so excited to hear what you’ve come up with! Thank you for putting your all into everything you do- it benefits everyone around you! We have known each other for so long and it’s always been amazing to spend time with you. Hopefully we can become good friends in the year to come!

2021-2022 You are great at softball and you are the best at everything. I always look up to you and I am amazed that you are sooo cool, You are very nice and it was very fun working on social studies with you and the group and class would not be whole without you. You are so fun and nice. Remember when we did those dares where if you missed 9 3pointers then you would get a weird dare. You are so kind to me and I love having you in my class this year and all the classes I have been in with you. You are very humorous to everyone. Hope you like the school you are going to next year. You bring out the very best in people and I’m happy that you were in my class this year. You are so talented and you have so many skills like kickball and soccer. I love your playful energy and joyful personality. You are so fun to hang out with and you always make me smile.

Bliss Spell My graduate year seemed to have gone by so quickly but the realization I would be standing here delivering this speech as a grad registered very very slowly. First day of sixth grade, walking through a green gate in place of a brown one seeing halves of new faces, courtesy of the masks. First time being in the same class twice. First time being a part of the oldest grade on campus. I’m realizing that you’re never too old to be experiencing something for the first time and you always will be; learning, meeting people, discovering things. But I also realize that when things end, you can experience them for the last time too, which is this funny jumble of bittersweet feelings. Today I’m graduating and in August I’m off to middle school. So rather than graduating a more fitting label would be moving up. Today I’m moving up and would like to talk about 5 skills I’ve developed and have improved on over these seven years; inspiration, reflection, acceptance, growth, inspiration, and perseverance. Inspiration. I was in Yellow, it was my first year at PS1 and sitting on the 12th street lawn I watched our orchestra perform ‘We Will Rock You’, everyone was so excited, smiling faces all across the crowd, a whole community of people bonding over the music these talented kids were producing with their instruments. That day I decided I had to be standing on that stage with them and the next year I picked up the violin. Reflection and acceptance. I’ve always been a creative individual. I think and observe, I use my hands, my mind, my heart, and I create, in all aspects of my life really. However, sometimes the “think and observe” stage is glossed over and I just speak or act which has landed me in quite a bit of trouble. I haven’t always made the best choices, I’ve gotten into arguments with friends and had some uncomfortable talks with teachers but I’ve been able to acknowledge that there’s room for change within myself and act on it. I’m able to accept that that doesn’t mean I’ll never make a mistake again but I won’t be making the same one twice.

Growth and perseverance. In the middle of my fourth grade year in Indigo COVID hit. I remember driving home from school with my dad and hearing the updates on the news. A week off of school and I was thrilled but a week turned to two, then to a month. I was distanced from everyone, maintaining friendships, managing my time and figuring out zoom was difficult. But during my time at home I discovered a lot about myself. Being able to sit with myself for that much time was a vital component in building who I am today. I was exploring the internet and got to experience parts of the world outside of my own, outside of my home and of school. These seven years weren’t always easy but I’ve made a ton of memories and have had a lot of fun. I’ve hit a lot of walls in the pursuit of conquering this mountain that is my journey here at PS1. But right here, at this moment looking out on all my accomplishments, and standing here because I had the audacity to climb my way to the top—it’s all worth it. My name is Bliss Spell, I’m twelve years old, turning thirteen in November. I have two lovely parents and my most of the time tolerable brother, as well my amazing dog Harley. I love art, writing, snakes, pizza, and music. I value self expression, creativity, variety, freedom, and fun. I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up or even my favorite color but as long as I can feel this way again wherever I may be in a year, in five, in twenty; it’ll be worth it. My name is Bliss Spell, I’ve grown—a lot. And lucky for me there’s room to continue. Today I’m moving up but I’m not moving on.

Words from Rhazes and DeAnn Spell:

Words from Bliss Spell:

Seven Years at PS1

…Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself. They come through you but not from you, And though they are with you yet they belong not to you. You may give them your love but not your thoughts, For they have their own thoughts. You may house their bodies but not their souls, For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams. You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you. For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday… -Khalil Gibran Dearest Bliss, This is your graduation - a celebration of all that you have learned in school and out…about others and yourself…about the outside world and your inner world. But this is also a graduation for us: we have learned so much about you! And you have challenged us to learn new parts of ourselves, and to see the world with the brilliance of your clarity, wit, cynicism, enthusiasm, and wonder. As you begin your tomorrows: cherish yourself as we cherish you…cherish these memories as we cherish them…keep laughing…keep crying…keep questioning…stay curious…and always show up as best as you can because the world needs any bit of Bliss that it can get. Vincit Qui Patitur, Team Spell

Words from Joel:

Bliss, you are a team player. You learned a few years ago in a theater production at school that you loved working behind the scenes. You also do incredibly well front and center. You are a natural leader – everyone … everyone … gravitates to you. You influence others through your passions. If you keep at it, you could become a world class volleyball player. You are so well rounded. You will put a ball down and turn to your favorite drawing and then to a friend in need and then surveying your surroundings to determine if there is someplace else you may be needed. Or you get immersed in a book. You are determined to be of best use. You are a great encourager – it seems to come so naturally to you. You express yourself confidently and clearly both verbally and in your writings. I heard from several admissions directors at middle schools about you – they seek out student athletes and athletic students – you are both! You have an ability to make anyone smile, to draw people into an idea, to bring them along through your enthusiasm, and to show them what’s possible. You are strong, imaginative, witty, helpful, forthright, decent, magnetic, and mature. From dance to athletics to powerful writing and research, you are adept and ready for the next challenge of middle school. Your Mom has served on the Board of Directors for three years, has chaired both the Governance and DEIJ Board committees, was on the Search Committee for the Interim Head of School next year, worked as a parent ambassador in admissions and is the PS1 Private School Village Ambassador. And that is only a part of the list. Your Dad is a leader in education and a special presence on our campus. Your family casts it SPELL over the school for still another year before your brother Rhazes graduates – what a gift! Good luck at Harvard-Westlake next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends: 2015-2016 I really like playing with you because you are friendly and you help me. You have a great sense of humor. You help me spell words in Writers’ Workshop and you are a great reader. You draw emojis for me at center time and I really like that. Your laugh makes me laugh. I like when you read books out loud to me at center time.

2016-2017 You are a great reader because you read so clearly! You never exclude others. I like when you laugh – it makes me laugh. You are a good listener. You are good at making self-portraits. Your drawing is awesome – can you teach me? You are such a good student and friend and are always so enthusiastic! You are the best artist and the best friend I could ever have.

2017-2018 It is fun making silly games and unique songs with you. You are so artistic and can draw almost anything. You are so athletic in every way. It was funny when you said, “We are not going to tease you, but will cheese you.” It was so fun and memorable singing the “Flounder” song and “Wetlands” rap with you.

2018-2019 It was really fun to work with you when we were making a dance party on code.org. You always have the best ideas whenever we draw pictures of people. You make people feel better by being positive about any problem. Remember when you were reading a book to us during the whole recess? It was super fun! You are so fun to play with that it’s worth waiting 15 minutes for you to come down from your clubhouse.

2019-2020 You are so upbeat and optimistic and always make me laugh. You are always willing to help me and can instantly cheer me up with your bright mood. You can light up a room with your sense of humor. You are an amazing volleyball player. Your art is inspiring. SERIOUSLY. I even have the soccer picture you drew me framed on my wall. You are really creative and cool and I love listening to the stories about your interesting dreams.

2020-2021 It is inspiring that you take so much pride in everything that you do. Remember when we were doing that play together and we couldn’t find a virtual background but then we found the same one! You are amazing and I know you will do great things when you are older. You are an amazing artist and you always know when it’s a good time to joke or when it’s time to be serious. I love your art skills and I want to be in your class next year. I’ve known you for a while and you always know how to make me laugh. You are also really smart and a fantastic artist but also really fun to hang out with.

2021-2022 You are so good at art and inspired me to practice hours a day and because of that inspiration I am now ten times better. You are also really good at writing which I personally really like and you are a very valuable asset to the class. You are very nice and funny. Remember that time when we created a class family that everyone was a part of. That was really fun, funny and cool Bliss, you are a great friend you are also a great drawer. You are also a great fortune teller. I hope you like the school you are going to next year. You are so funny and so caring. You’re really good at art and when I saw your book club drawings I was blown away! You are so generous and make sure everyone has what they need. You are a great poet, creative writer, and artist not to mention you are good in math. I will miss you next year and I wish you all the best.

Lillian Rian Tyler

It has been said that PS1 graduates are self-aware, respectful, expressive, inquisitive, collaborative, problem-solver, connected, proactive, and prepared, and I have learned how to be all of that here in all my different classes. Youngers taught me necessary information like the months of a year with a song we learned in English and in Spanish. In Bridge we learned all about the oceans and the wetlands. Middles was focused on the Gold Rush, and in Olders we have done what feels like everything. Almost every week I have learned something new and am forever grateful for that. A very vivid memory I have is that for two years in a row my birthday was on the all school camping trip, my teachers always made sure I had a great birthday. In Blue we got to make banana boats and then in Indigo we woke up early and got to walk to the beach then later the whole school sang happy birthday to me. At the time I was mortified but now I am glad I have gotten that experience that no one else had had in the past seven years. One important thing I have learned is that PS1 cares, every adult has a special relationship with a student. Most of all PS1 has taught me how to be myself, and how to stand up for myself. PS1 has also taught me how to be a leader. With all of that being said I am so grateful for my experiences here and I will take them with me to middle school.

Dear Lily, When we were looking at Kindergartens for you, we visited all types of schools all over the city. But the moment you stepped foot on to the PS1 campus, you knew that it was the right school for you. There was no hesitancy or doubt in your heart or your mind, you knew that this was where you wanted to be for the next 7 years. And what an incredible choice that was. To this day, you carry the same trust and confidence in every decision you make. We would like to think that it had everything to do with us, but we know that your belief in yourself is a very special and powerful trait that is all yours, and will be your greatest ally as you head in to the next chapter of your life. Confidence gives you a voice, it empowers you to take risks, it attracts other confident people to you, and it supports others who may need a little of it themselves. Even when you feel like you don’t have power, or that you aren’t strong enough, you have to remember that simmering spark that lives deep inside you and can’t ever be put out. We look at you and know you are ready for this next step. You are smart, kind, funny, friendly, gracious, polite and thoughtful. You also have a resiliency that very few other kids your age have. You were able to make it through the hardest year that you will hopefully ever have to experience, and made it to the other side with a successful school year, even stronger friendships, and an acceptance to your first-choice school. There aren’t enough words to express how proud we are of you. So, as you go forward in to the big teenager world, we just want to give you 4 pieces of advice: 1. B e nicer to your brother, he is going to be bigger and stronger than you very soon. 2. There is no magic delete button on the internet, be very selective in what you text and post. 3. Remember Heather Freedman’s motto 4. Keep being that confident YOU, it is the best thing in the whole world. LOVE, MOM AND DAD

Words from Joel:

Seven years ago I never would have thought that this day would have come so soon, but here we are. All seven years and all seven classes at PS1 have been different but amazing experiences. Here I have learned how to problem solve and how to use my creativity. I also learned how to deal with different friendships.

Words from Spencer and Jennifer Tyler:

Words from Lillian Rian Tyler:

Seven Years at PS1

Lily, you are one of the sweetest, kindest souls. Your peer group is one that really thinks of how to make an impact on those in need. You’re polite, a strong team player, athletically adept, wise, dedicated, and an enthusiastic learner and person. You’re happy to greet anyone and ask how they’re doing. Upbeat, easygoing, and relaxed are a few of the adjectives that quickly come to mind when thinking about you in our community of learners. You are very positive, even in the face of adversity. This has been a challenging year for all of us. For you, Lily, you would have to add the life terrible accident Nash suffered right at the beginning of the school year. Your strength helped carry your family and all of us through this most difficult of times to a place where the light at the end of the tunnel now shines bright. You seem to attend to and achieve things so effortlessly and gracefully. You are smart, easy-going, self-composed, gentle, and a great friend. You make yourself available to all, and they return the favor. You do not pretend to be anyone or anything that you are not. You are comfortable in your own skin. For five years now, you have devoted yourself to volleyball, playing and training now three days every week at a club in a converted garage with ceilings so low that the balls are always hitting it. It has the humble beginning of a great story for a potential Olympic athlete in eight years! You are also a very good student. Your parents are do-ers. They and I have grown very close together this year, appreciating so much about each other. We are inextricably intertwined – this often happens when people emerge from difficult situations together. PS1 is lucky indeed that Nash has two more years at the school. Good luck at Windward next year. Congratulations.

Words from friends:

2015-2016 You are so friendly and cheerful. You are really good at the monkey bars. You never exclude people and you always treat people nicely. If I’m hurt, you help me to Mindy’s everytime.

2016-2017 You are great at doing the monkey bars because you have a good grip. I like that you are a Harry Potter fan. You are good at piano and you are my best friend. You are super nice because you let me hug you. I think you are SO good at writing books. You are an amazing person and I love that you love Cat Wings. You are really creative and a really good writer.

2017-2018 You are caring and loyal to your friends. You are my best friend and come up with the zany games like the “Human Bench”. I enjoyed reading “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing” with you. It was fun being in the “Mary Poppins” play with you. You make any idea even better. You are up to do any job to make our class special. You have a big warm heart for others.

2018-2019 You are loving, incredible and awesome. You are an amazing friend. I really appreciate when you come over and make me giggle whenever I’m sad or upset. During circle time, you did a great job stepping into a role that wasn’t yours. I love your Gold Rush paper sizzling start and all of the old fashion language you used. You are so good at volleyball, handball, and Foursquare and are impossible to beat! You have amazing handwriting, especially your cursive writing and I also love your style!

2019-2020 You make me laugh and you do so many fun things. You are a great listener in class. You are so funny and we have had so many super funny times together like at math when a poster fell of the wall and I got SO scared and also when we were at the store and we started dancing and without even thinking about it, we made a whole dance to the song “Someone Like You.” I love having you as a friend! You are super kind and very good at volleyball.

2020-2021 You are very good to work with because you always are open to ideas and come up with great ones! You are really helpful when it comes to school work- let’s face it, you are amazing. You have a very good work ethic and always put your all into every assignment. Thank you for being a good friend and being an amazing math song partner. I will always remember our song! Whenever I ask you for a favor, you do it the best you can. You are a great writer and so smart in many ways. You have an amazing attitude and you are a great friend and work partner.

2021-2022 I like how you are never afraid to share your thoughts or speak up for yourself. I love how in your projects, you find a way to make it your own, and how you are not afraid to show your own personality. Your confidence is admirable. I have always admired the way you stand up for all your friends and even people you don’t know that well. I always have fun talking with you. Teasing about volleyball and sports never gets old. I always come looking for you when I need advice. You give off this fun and happy vibe. You seem to always have a smile on your face and that really makes a difference when you are around people. Everyday you make me excited to come to school. Thank you for being such an amazing person.

Good Luck!