Celebrating Patty Pontarelli

After 21 years as First Grade teacher and Lower School Division Head, Patty Pontarelli will retire this June. While this news is met with mixed emotions, we wish Patty every happiness as she embarks on a life filled with rich experiences, and in particular spending time with her new grandbaby! As we celebrate an incredible legacy, what follows are just a few thoughts from those who know Patty and have worked closely alongside her.

Patty’s ability to see the beauty and gifts in each child makes her a remarkable educator. She truly sees and knows students, and isn’t that what each of us wants? She blends compassion and graciousness with spunk and, when necessary, a steely resolve, punctuated by her expansive sense of humor. A generation of young souls have been strengthened by knowing her!”

- Diane Rich Head of School

“Faithfully putting the needs of young children at the forefront of every conversation and decision, Patty has led the Lower School with care and with compassion. I am honored to have known Patty and her wonderful family for much of my many years at RHCD, having taught her children Sarah and Will and worked and laughed with her husband, Jim. - Michael Jedrey,

Middle School Division Head

“A peaceful song, the smell of citrus, and a smile are only pieces of what Patty has brought to Lower School. She cares for the children and her faculty endlessly, and her dedication and warmth show in each interaction with students and colleagues. We’ll miss her dearly, but her legacy will certainly carry on.” -

Caity MacDonald, Head of Lower School Elect

“Patty approaches every encounter with a desire to understand and support each of us. She generously offers thoughtful questions, inquisitive listening, and respectful dialogue. Patty is a colleague to whom we can bring our full selves with confidence that she will care for us with as much compassion as she does with her students.”

- Brady Wheatley, Upper School Division Head

“ ‘Good Morning Lower School Friends!’ - the routinely familiar, warm, and inviting words Patty would use to greet excited students each day. Her kindness swept the halls of Perkins, radiating as each and every day to ensure each and every student was supported, nurtured, engaged, and happy. Patty’s strong, sweet and steadfast love for her students will always be in the fabric of RHCD.” - Kristin Mitchell (Parent/ Colleague)”

To walk through Lower School is to feel the creative, nurturing, guiding spirit that Patty personifies. Patty has embodied the light and love that emanates from the Lower School. Her dedication, innate kindness, and warmth have embraced students, families, and colleagues throughout her tenure. I especially feel the richer for our twentyyear collaboration--a gift of shared aspirations, learning, and laughter!”

- Belinda Snyman, Upper School English