2022-2023 Riverside Review

Riverside Review 2022-2023

A Message from the Head of School

As Riverside Presbyterian Day School begins its 75th year, we have great reason to celebrate the many wonderful accomplishments and special moments that have defined the School and its enduring legacy. Since 1948 the story of RPDS has been one of courage, optimism, forward thinking, and faith; a place where love and learning go hand in hand, where traditions are honored, innovation is encouraged, and childhood is celebrated. As you will see in the pages of this year’s Review, RPDS holds dear the same values, driving spirit, and boldness of vision as our 1948 founders did from the start.

This past year, the 75th Anniversary Committee began meeting to discuss the significance of the 75th anniversary and the ways to best honor and celebrate this milestone in the life of the school. The committee members put much thought and intentionality into Riverside’s 75th year and are looking forward to celebrating RPDS’s rich history, while highlighting the special moments and people who have helped shape the RPDS experience along the way.

Thanks to tremendous leadership and partnership between Riverside Presbyterian Church and School, we launched the public phase of the Riverside Cornerstone Campaign in October of 2022. In the coming school year, we look forward to seeing this campaign come to fruition as we celebrate the groundbreaking of the Mary Lou Davis Family Life Center and the enhanced Rice Sports Zone. The spaces being created through the Cornerstone Campaign will undoubtedly shape a campus that enables us to foster greater community engagement and allow both the church and school to more fully advance our missions.

Our outstanding faculty members continue to shine and teach at the highest level with the same heart, standard of excellence, and innovative spirit as the generations of teachers before them. The pictures and stories in these pages demonstrate their commitment to educating the whole child as well as their dedication to continuous learning so as to offer our students a quality education that enriches their present experience and prepares them well for the future.

Our founders’ boldness of vision and eagerness to take initiative remains a permanent trait within the mindsets and ethos of our community and students. In the fall of 2020, 6th grade students launched a campaign to create a school mascot. With determination and action, they invited the student body and faculty into a process that resulted in naming the ram as the School’s official mascot. Today their idea has been brought to life, allowing our community to enter year 75 with a life-size mascot.

It is an exciting time to be at RPDS as we celebrate our past and set our sights on the future. I am extremely grateful to our faculty, staff, board of trustees, administration, parents, alumni, and friends, for their commitment to our current success and for their energy and enthusiasm for ensuring RPDS’s bright future.

With gratitude,

Ben Ketchum Head of School

Ben Ketchum Head of School

Year in Review Board of Trustees

As I conclude my term as President of the RPDS Board of Trustees, it affords me the opportunity to reflect on the work we accomplished this past year.

The success of the Riverside Cornerstone Campaign is allowing us to begin our overall campus improvements. This summer, we started the Oak Street parking lot, improvements to existing facilities, and enhanced campus security. The long awaited groundbreaking for the Family Life Center will take place at the beginning of the 2023-24 school year.

Our annual fundraising efforts were also successful, allowing us to refresh areas of our campus with new paint, carpet, and desks. We are excited to be able to continue to reinvest in our campus.

Our faculty and administration are engaged, and visionary. Our rising student headcount is a result of their hard work, dedication, and commitment to Riverside’s mission to edu-

cate the mind, nurture the spirit, and foster the development of the whole child.

We have an engaged Board of Trustees volunteering their time, talent, and treasure to support the mission and future of RPDS. We have identified Board leadership through 2027, allowing us to commit to long-term goals. We are updating our latest strategic plan to ensure RPDS is ready to meet the needs of future generations.

The work of our Board is not complete, nor should it ever be. I am honored to have served as President for the last two years and confident in the bright future of RPDS.

Sincerely,

Martin Harrell Board of Trustees President

2022-23 Board of Trustees

Martin S. Harrell, President

William Trice, Vice President

Stephanie Harden, Secretary

Tommy Dudley, Jr., Treasurer

Jan Andrews (‘59)

Brad Arrowsmith

Marcela S. Beard

Jenny Brumback

Josh Bryan

Alicia Buckley

Benjamin A. Campen

Penny Cunningham

Jed Davis

Katie Fackler

Colleen Haley

Virginia Hunt

William H. Klima, Jr. (‘89)

Mary Elizabeth Lott

Elizabeth G. Meux

John Sapora

Shannal L. Thomas

Annika Wallace

Deena Bateh Wallace (‘94)

Martin Harrell President, Board of Trustees

The Riverside Cornerstone Campaign public phase launched in October of 2022 and to date has raised $6.2 million dollars, thanks to the generosity of the Riverside community. Earlier this spring, the first phase of construction began with the demolition and leveling of the Oak Street parking lot, which will be made into a finished lot to provide additional parking for the church and school. In June, the former RPC youth building on the corner of Oak and Post Street was demolished to make space for the new Mary Lou Davis Family Life Center. Additionally, construction began on the new youth suite, located on the fourth floor of Riverside Presbyterian Church.

The Riverside community is excited about the official groundbreaking of the Family Life Center and reimagined Rice Sports Zone on Wednesday, August 30 at 8:30 a.m.. This event marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for Riverside Presbyterian Church and Day School.

Faculty Professional Development Growing as Experts

As a learning community, the RPDS faculty actively deepened their pedagogical understandings and explored new learning throughout the 2022-23 school year. As a school, RPDS focused on several areas of professional growth, including differentiated instruction, global competencies, and responsive classrooms. This balanced approach to learning allowed faculty to fine tune their skills in order to meet a wider range of learning needs, as well as explore innovative approaches to engaging students in the learning process. Lynne Ecenbarger’s whole day workshop provided our faculty with practical strategies for furthering differentiated instruction in the classroom so that our faculty are able to authentically extend student learning and cater to the needs and learning styles in each classroom. Dr. Michele Borba delivered a workshop for faculty that honed in on ways teachers can foster students’ resilience. This workshop, combined with the ongoing Responsive Classroom consultancy, further enhanced the School’s approach to students’ social-emotional wellbeing. Additionally, exploration of the Project Zero (Harvard) protocol for Children as Citizens sparked investigation into new ways to engage students as thinkers and active citizens.

FCIS Annual Convention

Last November, RPDS 6th Grade teachers Nikki Camino, Suzanne Byerly Taylor, and Karen Worsham were featured as presenters at the Florida Council of Independent School’s Annual Conference. Their presentation, “Fostering Health & Wellness Through Creative Collaboration,” focused on the health and wellness project they created for the 6th Grade class.

SAIS Academic Support Conference

In February, Riverside’s Sarah Cotchaleovitch, Emma Reddaway (‘08), and Peggy Campbell-Rush traveled to Nashville, Tennessee to attend the Southern Association of Independent School’s Academic Support Conference. Peggy also delivered a keynote address titled, “Helping All Learners Soar,” sharing practical ideas and strategies to help all learners succeed.

American Library Association Conference

In June, our Library Media Specialist, Mrs. Lucas, traveled to Chicago to attend the Annual Conference of the American Library Association. The conference hosted 15,000 people from 51 countries. The opening keynote speaker was renowned author Judy Blume, author of 85 books. Throughout the conference Mrs. Lucas spoke with authors and looked at thousands of potential new books for the RPDS library.

During the 2022-2023 school year, RPDS faculty & staff attended the following conferences and trainings:

• American Library Association Conference

• Beacon Educator

• Children of the World: Nurturing and Celebrating Our Youngest Global Citizens

• Equity in Design and Demonstration

• FCIS Annual Convention 2022

• FCIS Conference for School Leadership

• Florida Foreign Language Association Conference

• Florida Music Education Association Conference

• Introduction to Chat GPT and Artificial Intelligence in Education (Online safety and academic integrity)

• Licensed Professional Counseling Conference

• NAIS People of Color Conference

• SAIS Academic Support Conference

• Share the Wealth Physical Education Conference

• Singapore Math - Model Drawing

• Teaching Students with Disabilities in Physical Education

Faculty & Staff

Milestone Years of Service

Celebrating 5 Years

• Nikki Camino, 6th Grade Teacher

• Suzanne Byerly Taylor, 6th Grade Teacher

• Andrea Crowder, 4th Grade Teacher

• Trudi Lockwood (‘79), PreK 4 Assistant Teacher

•

Celebrating 10 Years

Over the past ten years, Molly Rhoden has served students at RPDS as a science teacher, PreK 4 teacher, a learning specialist, and most recently as a Kindergarten teacher. Regardless of the role, Molly lets her light shine in a way that illuminates the goodness and greatness in each of her students.

Listed as pictured from left to right:

Lesley Gittings (‘00), PreK 3 Assistant Teacher

Molly Rhoden, Kindergarten Teacher

Honoring 25 Years of Service

Denise Brennan Fleming

For 25 years, Mrs. Denise Brennan Fleming has made RPDS feel like a second home for everyone who walks through the front door. It is immediately clear that, with every encounter, she provides a warm and loving atmosphere where acceptance, joy, laughter, and gratitude outweigh the noise of the world.

In the small space between caring for children, parents, and visitors, Mrs. Denise faithfully makes time to attend to the various needs of a faculty and staff she holds dear to her heart. For each one, Mrs. Denise is always there to provide exactly what they need, whether it be a cheerleader, a supporter, a resource, or a friend.

RPDS has been and continues to be such a big part of my life, and truly a blessing for me and my family. Watching children grow here, including my own, --physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Working here is a gift that is hard to describe. I just love RPDS!

Mrs. Denise can be described as “a shining light reflecting God’s love with both words and actions.” RPDS remains grateful for the love Mrs. Denise provides each person she encounters and appreciates all that she does for the RPDS community. Riverside thanks Mrs. Denise for being there for each of us, for sharing her gifts with the children, and for being the light and love that brightens everyone’s day.

Ashley Daw

Mrs. Ashley Daw has served RPDS with wisdom, grace, and charisma for 25 years. During her career, she has taught 2nd Grade, 1st Grade, Kindergarten, and now cares deeply and passionately for our littlest students as a PreK 4 teacher. Mrs. Daw ensures her students are given the foundational skills and dispositions to become inquisitive lifelong learners who seek to serve others and strive to become their best selves.

An astute educator, deeply in tune with her students’ needs and abilities, Mrs. Daw understands the joys of childhood, and upon entering her classroom, students are immediately placed in an atmosphere full of life, learning, and laughter. She is spirited, cheerful, patient, and kind; a true reflection of love and the Riverside Way. Mrs. Daw’s deeply rooted faith guides her work and is reflected in her interactions with teachers, students, and parents.

We are truly grateful for Mrs. Daw’s 25 years of service and for playing an essential role in each child’s journey through Riverside. Her steady investment of time and talent is greatly appreciated, and her contributions to the RPDS community are worthy of our praise and admiration.

It’s been a joy and a privilege to be a part of the Riverside family for 25 years. I’m thankful for the incredible blessings I’ve received through working with wonderful children, caring parents, and amazing colleagues.”

New Faces at Riverside

Welcoming Faculty & Staff for the 2023-24 School Year

New Faculty Members

New Staff Members

Katie Cavanaugh 3rd Grade Teacher

April Burch 1st Grade Teacher

Tricia Senesac

Stacy Streeter Art Teacher Student Support Specialist

Peyton Grant (‘09) 1st Grade Teacher

Amy Chapkovich

Christine Cole 3rd Grade Teacher Science Teacher Kindergarten - 3rd Grade

Amy Chapkovich

Beth Kawugule 4th Grade Teacher Maintenance Manager

Simeon Wyatt

Felicia Sandstorm Business Office Parent Liason

Teri Alderman Business Office Associate

Garrett Allen Advancement Services Manager

2023 Bo Cotton Award Recipient Deana Green

A true professional, Deana’s actions and words reflect those of a wise and compassionate teacher who is collegial and puts the needs of others first. She collaborates gracefully with her colleagues and never hesitates to go above and beyond what is required for the betterment of her students and the RPDS community. It is evident in all she does that Deana has a heart for RPDS, ensuring the traditions and foundational values remain embedded in the life of the school, while at the same time helping the school to grow and meet its ever changing needs.

A shining light radiating God’s love in everything she does, Deana is a person of integrity and great faith. Her profound faith guides her teaching, permeates the classroom environment, and is expressed in her calming words, giving heart, and noble actions. Understanding the power of connection, Deana faithfully embraces her students at the door with a joyful smile and a genuine personal greeting. Deana ensures her students are known and loved in a way that they feel safe to learn and can grow freely and confidently, appreciating their God-given gifts in order to be their best selves. Deana is cherished as one who is naturally able to recognize her students’ strengths and cultivate the spirit and talents that live within each. A master teacher who

is skillful in both her delivery and approach, Deana plans meticulously with the developmental needs of her students in mind and provides learning opportunities and experiences that engage and challenge her students. She has a keen understanding of her students as individuals and learners and purposefully differentiates her instruction to meet their various learning styles and needs. Deana’s greatest gift is the way she lovingly instills in each child etiquette, compassion, curiosity, and empathy so that they leave her classroom better students and even more importantly, better people.

Deana’s transformative contributions to the RPDS community are universally appreciated and deeply valued. Her passionate interest in education and her consistent devotion to the wellbeing of all her students and families has positively transformed the RPDS community. As one who fully embodies the spirit and ethos of RPDS, Deana’s imprint and legacy is to be celebrated and treasured. Deana Green is a true gift.

Vice President of the Board of Trustees, Will Trice, Molly Cotton Hughes, Deana Green, & Ben Ketchum

Molly Cotton Hughes presenting Deana Green with the 2023 Bo Cotton Award.

1948

School is Founded

In May of 1948, Dr. Kissling & J. Beatty Williams encouraged Riverside Presbyterian Church start a school. Enrollment during the first school year was 20 students in Kindergarten6th Grade with 1 classroom and 2 members of the faculty.

1974

Riverside Parents Council is Formed

1958

Kissling Building is Built

1959

First Graduating Class

In 1959, RPDS celebrates its first graduating 6th Grade class, consisting of 15 students.

1970

RPDS Continues to Grow

RPDS graduates 38 students with 350 students total in K-6 with 17 classrooms, 31 faculty members and 7 school buses.

1963

School Gains Accreditation

RPDS is fully accredited by FCIS and joined NAIS.

1978

Suzanne Tomlinson Becomes Head of School

Suzanne Tomlinson is the longest serving Head of School at RPDS to date, holding the position for 17 years.

1982

The Robway is Built Between Kissling and Williams Buildings

1987

A Year of First Time Events

The School holds its first Capers Dinner and Auction and the first Riverside Book Fair is established by the Parents’ Council.

History of the Past 75 Years.

Educating the mind, nurturing the spirit, and fostering the development of the whole child since 1948.

2020

RPDS Students Create First Mascot

During the 2020-21 school year, the 6th Grade class led a school-wide mascot election and the School adopted the Ram as our mascot.

2021

Launch of Riverside Cornerstone Campaign

Riverside Presbyterian Church & Day School launch a joint capital campaign to build a Family Life Center, expand the Rice Sports Zone, create endowments, and add fencing to campus.

2010

2015 RPDS Establishes an Athletics Program

Coaches Mike Sullivan & Gabe Clark begin RPDS Athletics for 6th Grade students.

1995 RPDS Adds a Computer Lab

2023

RPDS Celebrates 75 Years!

We look forward to celebrating with you!

The Rice Sports Zone is Completed

1999

Lane House is Donated & Moved to Campus

1996 First Grade Center & Playground Opens

Local preservationist, Helen Lane donated the Queen Anne house to the School. On the day it was moved, faculty and students gathered outside to watch. Over the past 23 years, the Lane House has housed the school’s Administrative offices.

Celebrating 75

A Message from Leigh Long

When researching schools for our eldest daughter, Hunter, seven years ago, my husband, Bill, and I were immediately drawn to RPDS. It seemed to us then just as it is today: a balanced environment led by a talented and kind faculty dedicated to getting the most out of our children by challenging them to be the best versions of themselves. For all the benefits afforded by a school founded on spiritual principles, RPDS has also proven to be a place where children receive a top tier education in math, science, language, and the arts, while also experiencing an array of extracurricular activities and organized sports, including Hunter’s favorite, volleyball.

With Hunter graduating from RPDS this past May, it was a bittersweet time for us all as we paused to take inventory of her incredible growth while also looking forward to the exciting times that lie ahead. We are grateful that our two youngest, Annie and Will, will remain Rams for more years to come.

The 2023-24 school year provides us all with a reason to celebrate our collective appreciation for RPDS and all it has done for its students, alumni, families, and faculty as we celebrate Riverside’s 75th anniversary. As part of a committee of 40 volunteers, Jan Andrews and I have been

tasked with spearheading Riverside’s big milestone celebration. In our first brainstorming meeting, everyone on the committee was asked to identify what unique and special RPDS qualities should be highlighted during the school’s 75th anniversary year. The answers were numerous! By the end of the meeting, we compiled four pages of notes to review. A common thread expressed by the committee was Riverside’s ability to remain true to its values of raising conscientious, kind children who learn to be hardworking, responsible, and respectful to their elders, peers, and communities. We wanted to honor these timeless RPDS virtues and its continued pursuit for improvement. Unsurprisingly, I suppose, the qualities we came to appreciate the most about RPDS are a reflection of those we wish for our children.

It is fitting, then, that this ensuing milestone year of reflection and appreciation will also begin with a groundbreaking ceremony as RPDS’s long-anticipated expansion project commences construction symbolizing the next era of positive change in the lives of future RPDS students and stakeholders. Jan and I are extremely grateful for the opportunity to play a small role in such a momentous occasion and look forward to celebrating with each of you in the year ahead.

Celebrating 75

Special Anniversary Events & Happenings

Celebrating Decades of Alumni

This year specifically, the Alumni Council is an integral part of the implementation of alumni events and volunteer opportunities on and off campus to enhance our 75th celebrations. The Council will be hosting three alumni chapels and an adult alumni gathering in November. The Alumni Council also looks forward to bringing back the beloved Open House Spaghetti Dinner and working closely with the Run Riverside Committee this year. Additionally, RPDS alumni are invited to participate in our 75th Anniversary alumni pen pals program with current students. If you are interested in volunteering, please email Sally Smith (‘89) or Garrett Allen at alumni@rpds.com.

Decades Parade - Friday, April 5th

Riverside Presbyterian Day School’s history has spanned eight decades. Each grade will be given one of those decades to represent in a schoolwide parade. We hope to celebrate the history, technology, art, and fashion of each decade in a festive event for the kids as we approach the end of our school year celebration.

75th Anniversary Gala - Saturday, April 13th

Join us on Saturday, April 13th as we celebrate 75 years of RPDS! The committee will share more details in the coming months.

Through a Father’s Lens

Kevin Snow Shares His First Year at Riverside

What brought your family to RPDS?

During COVID, we chose to homeschool because it was such a crazy time. There were a lot of things we loved about homeschool but there’s pros and cons with anything. Despite the sweet moments with homeschooling, my wife and I thought our kids would really thrive in a school environment.

My wife [Melissa] was the first to tour RPDS, and she fell in love with the school, and then shortly after I toured and did the same; it’s such a sweet atmosphere, and all of the faculty were so warm and hospitable. Throughout the entire admissions process, we just thought how we would be so grateful to be a part of the community.

How did your daughters handle the transition from homeschooling to RPDS?

The girls, of course, had a healthy level of nerves leading into their start at RPDS. My girls are a little more introverted, and so I think entering a school environment can be a little bit unnerving. We knew Violet’s teacher from church, and so that definitely helped her comfort level. Violet also had some special learning needs, and Mrs. Baggs and Mrs. Bayer really worked with us to help catch her up to speed in math. We were very grateful that RPDS was able to work with both our girls in catching up in the needed areas coming from homeschool. The School was just so accommodating. By the end of the year, both of the girls were so much more comfortable and confident with their peers.

You and your wife documented this past school year, often tagging RPDS on social media and sharing the school year through big events and even the everyday happenings. Can you share your perspective on the importance of capturing these photos in this season of life? These childhood years are fleeting, so I do want to capture these moments while I can. My dad was a professional photographer and mostly photographed weddings. Every once in a while, in the 1980’s and 1990’s, I would go out and help him with his film photography. Growing up, I was always around photography. I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. I never actually pursued photography as a career, but I work for a church and utilize it in my role there, and it’s ultimately just a part of my DNA. My dad would pose people in that classic 80’s and 90’s style. I myself lean more towards a documentary style and capturing real life moments. There is something magical about capturing authentic moments. Having that mindset and having kids the ages we do, I just find myself always pulling a camera out. Taking a photo can elevate the true nature and reveal the magic of these sort of everyday, seemingly mundane moments. Putting a lens on these moments can allow you to see them for what they are, which is a pretty special chapter in childhood.

Having just completed your first year at Riverside, what were some of the moments you and your wife enjoyed most?

I come to Chapel every week and enjoy that sweet time with them. Almost every week, Ruby asks us to come to lunch. One day she’ll be too cool to ask us to come to lunch, and we know one day it’ll stop, so as long as she keeps asking, we will keep coming. My wife and I try to be as present as we can and enjoy having the flexibility to be a part of the school life.

This coming school year, you’re adding a Ram to campus with your youngest daughter. What are you all looking forward to in the 2023-24 school year?

We are so excited for Greta to start Kindergarten in the Fall. She’s very excited to be a Ram! We’re grateful to have these few years where all our girls are at RPDS and want to soak it in.

View Kevin and Melissa Snow’s snapshots from the 2022-23 school year on the right.

2022-2023

Author-In-Residence Series

Christina Soontornvat

On November 29th, RPDS welcomed renowned, award-winning author Christina Soontornvat to campus as this year’s Author-in-Residence. In 2019, Ms. Soontornvat won a Newbery Honor award for her nonfiction book All Thirteen, which also won a Sibert Medal for outstanding nonfiction writing. Additionally, Soontornvat’s book, A Wish in the Dark won the Newbery honor for fiction. Ms. Soontornvat spent the day sharing about her books, the writing process, and answering a lot of great questions from our excited and curious students! It was a wonderful day focused on cultivating a love for reading and writing stories.

Stuart Gibbs

On January 25th, RPDS was excited to welcome our second author of the school year, acclaimed children’s author Stuart Gibbs. Mr. Gibbs came to campus as a special second author visit for our 4th - 6th Grade classes. Author of five bestselling middle grade series: Spy School, FunJungle, Charlie Thorne, Moon Base Alpha, and The Last Musketeer, Mr. Gibbs spent time with our students and shared all about his creative process, how to become a writer, and even provided inside glimpses of some of their favorite books like the Spy School series.

A Look Ahead

2023-2024 Forecast: Weather, sharks, food, space! Riverside’s Author-in-Residence Program will be focused on non-fiction and will be sure to spark students’ curiosity. Watch for the upcoming announcement of dates and details shortly after the school year begins.

Students Debut Podcast for Connection Now Recording!

In May of 2023, RPDS launched its pilot episode of The Bridge, a student-led podcast focused on cultivating curiosity, creativity, and connection within our community. The Bridge was created by 5th and 6th Grade students in the Midweek Media Afternoon Academy.

The goal of The Bridge podcast is to cultivate a space where students can explore new creative elements such as writing, sound mixing, and graphic design. Additionally, this podcast encourages curiosity about faculty, fellow students, community partners, and more and provides an outlet to explore those curiosities and foster connections both in and outside the school community.

In the debut episode, our student podcasters interviewed the Director of Sanctuary on 8th Street, David Clark, to learn more about what his role entails and the work of this nonprofit partner of both Riverside Presbyterian Church and Day School. Additionally, the episode features a faculty highlight as students get to know 4th Grade teacher, Mrs. Crowder, and hear a story from fellow

RPDS students on the importance of supporting friends.

RPDS looks forward to more episodes of The Bridge in the 2023-2024 school year; listening as our students build connections and deepen their understanding of new topics, people, and places.

Where to listen?

The debut episode of The Bridge is available on Spotify or by scanning the QR code.

The Bridge Podcast crew recording their pilot episode, interviewing the Director of Sanctuary on 8th Street, David Clark.

Rams Take the Stage 2022-2023

Performing Arts

Being in a play with classmates not only provides our students with new experiences and creates fun memories, but it also helps students uncover talents and passions they have possibly never explored before.

- Lisa Butler, Music Teacher

Overview

This year our students dazzled student, parent, and faculty spectators with their vibrant stage productions.

• 2nd Grade musical Bunnies

• 3rd Grade musical

Christmas Showstoppers

• 6th Grade play

Dr. Newheart’s Neck-Up Checkup

• Over 80 RPDS students collaborated to present Shrek the Musical, Jr.

We have been so proud to see Abigail’s confidence blossom while being involved in the performing arts at RPDS. She not only had fun being in the school play, she also developed skills that will grow with her throughout her life.

- Kelly Breiner, 2nd Grade Parent

One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the performing arts community at Riverside is to witness students of all ages develop their own unique voice. Students get the opportunity to practice stepping outside of their comfort zone in a safe setting and work together as an ensemble. Being involved in drama, music, and dancing helps a child develop their body, brain, and emotions in different ways, and the end result is they find confidence in themselves.

- Molly Rhoden

It was an honor to be chosen to play the role of Shrek; the makeup and the costume really made me feel like I was the character. I really enjoyed working with my teachers and friends to put on a great show!

- Marshall Powers, 5th Grade student

RPDS Athletics2022-23 Replay

The RPDS Rams basketball, volleyball, and flag football teams all had successful seasons, with an RPDS team winning the North Florida Independent Schools Athletic Conference (NFISAC) championship in volleyball, girls basketball, and boys basketball. In fact, the volleyball championship game and girls basketball championship game featured RPDS teams competing against one another.

We are proud of the determination, teamwork, and Christian spirit these athletes displayed throughout their seasons. Go Rams!

Class of 2023

On Friday, May 26th Riverside Presbyterian Day School celebrated the Class of 2023. Thirty-nine RPDS students received their graduation certificates and Bibles from Head of School Ben Ketchum, Board President Martin Harrell, and Lead Pastor of Riverside Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Brian Lays. Congratulations, Class of 2023!

Class of 2023 OutplacementCongratulations

Cristina Angiolillo, Assumption

Caimile Barker, Christ the King

Abi Britton, Episcopal

Ryan Correia, Episcopal

Claire Crum, Episcopal

Evelyn Dunton, Bolles

Connor Esterman, Episcopal

Kylin Fillingham, Episcopal

AJ Franklin, Pacetti Bay Middle School

Brie Gay, Episcopal

Gage Gerisch, Episcopal

Willow Grau, Episcopal

Charlotte Herford, Episcopal

Quinn Indelicato, Episcopal

Jage Jennings, Episcopal

Lila Jimerson, Bolles

Mary June Jones, Episcopal

Parke Jones, Bolles

Julia Kleyla, Episcopal

Gary Lamar, Episcopal

Hunter Long, Bolles

Duncan McArthur, Bolles

Petal McCart, Episcopal

Finley Michal, Episcopal

Dilan Patel, Episcopal

Margot Pedrick, Bolles

Barrett Perkins, Bolles

Courtland Rice, Bolles

Blair Ross, Bolles

Lenord Simmons, Episcopal

Kate Skinner, Episcopal

Jackson Starks, Bolles

John Stewart, Episcopal

Lily Tight, Episcopal

Tyler Tippett, Bolles

Robertson Todd, Episcopal

Jack Wallace, Episcopal

Hudson Westerman, Episcopal

Elise Wilson, Christ the King

Educational Excellence

Robertson Todd

Barnabas Award for Christian Spirit

In scripture, Barnabas is mentioned as a trusted Christian friend, encourager, mentor, and evangelist. Robertson Todd is the recipient of the 2023 Barnabas Award for Christian Spirit. His encouraging spirit is an inspiration to his family and fellow students, faculty, and friends.

Blair Ross

Ellen Millar Award for Excellence in Writing

Long-time RPDS Language Arts teacher Ellen Millar was known and respected by her students and colleagues as a professional who expected the best effort that each had to give. She guided her students through the writing process with care and patience and taught them how to write with clarity and expression. This year’s award was presented to 6th Grade student Blair Ross, whose writing reflects excellence in the elements of written thought and expression.

Charlotte Herford

Andrew L. Clarke Music Performance Award

The Andrew L. Clarke Music Performance Award is given in honor of long-time RPC organist Andrew Clarke to cultivate an ongoing excitement for and love of individual music performance at RPDS. The 2023 award was given to 6th Grade student Charlotte Herford, who demonstrates an accomplished foundation for studying, appreciating, and performing musical compositions through private study and in music classes at RPDS.

Abi Britton

Elizabeth Martinson Poetry Award

The Elizabeth Martinson Poetry Award fosters an ongoing love of poetry at RPDS and annually honors a student who has demonstrated an excitement for learning, appreciating, and interpreting poetry during their years at RPDS. This year, the award was presented to 6th Grade student Abi Britton.

Highest Academic Distinction

High Academic Distinction

Lila Jimerson

Finley Michal, Dilan Patel, & Charlotte Herford

Mary June Jones & Evelyn Dunton

Student Voices

“A New Light”

by Abi Britton

I open the window to see a light A light that burns throughout the night. I reach to touch the light

And just like that, it turns to night and leaves my sight. Every thing black not a thing to be seen. Until a light flickers inside of me. A new light that shows a different shade. One with pink and maybe some orange. Unlike any light I’ve seen before. It dances around and tickles me inside. A light out my window I can’t seem to find. I open my eyes to see the light in the sky. I open my window and close my eyes.

Blair and Abi are exceptional writers because they not only patiently work through the writing process, but they also possess a unique gift for immersing us into new worlds and leading us to reflective understandings through their writings.

- Suzanne Byerly Taylor, 6th Grade Language Arts Teacher

The second we began to slake our panic, the water started to move again in a different way, as if someone had taken a huge stick and swirled it around in it. The water started to spin faster and faster until I felt like I left my stomach a couple feet back. I tried to get a better grip, but the metal handle became too hot, so I tried to slide over to grab the seat. As I was reaching over, I slipped on the cold slick ground. I was plummeting down when the side of the boat interrupted my fall, and I fell overboard into the swirling water. My oversized life jacket slid off me as the water sucked me up. I gasped for air, but I didn’t get any. I heard people above screaming and yelling, but I could not define any of the voices. My lungs felt like an over blown balloon, but the water refused to let me go, as it pulled me under. Then everything went black.

I woke up somewhere, but I didn’t have the strength to open my eyes. The ground under me was peaceful and calm. I lay there for a little longer, soaking up as much serenity as I could, when an ear splitting sound echoed through my brain. It sounded like an elephant, and when I opened my eyes, I saw that it was. This elephant was different from the elephants I’m used to, this one was beautiful. It had patterns running throughout its skin, and I felt like its eyes were

staring into my soul, maybe they were.

Hello, I felt a voice in my mind, more like a whisper. I stared in shock at the elephant. As the fog cleared from my head I became mesmerized by what was around me. It was the most incredible, most peaceful, most perfect thing I had ever seen. It was a jungle, with trees that stretched up to the sky, and a waterfall with water that was crystal clear. There were lights above me twinkling like stars, and mysterious fruit dangled from plants. A squirrel-like animal ran up to a bumpy purple grape-like fruit, and ate it in one bite. In this world everything had a place, everything seemed like it had a purpose. The only weird thing about the jungle, or whatever it was, is that it was enclosed in a gigantic sphere.

Hello? I heard the whisper again. I looked at the elephant again.

“Was that you?” I said out loud. Yes it was, it replied

“Do you know where I am?”

Yes, it said

“Well, where?” I stared at the elephant, waiting for my answer.

You’re in the center of the Earth.

“Centered”

A Short Story by Blair Ross

Poem

Leading the Charge

Alumni See Mascot Come to Life

In the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Riverside’s class of 2021 sought to find a way to connect and spark joy as a school amid a challenging season. After many snack and lunchtime conversations, a group of girls decided it was time to set up a meeting to pitch their idea to the Head of School. Then 6th Grade students, Lily Indelicato and Grace Ross emailed Mr. Ketchum to share their spirited idea. The class of 2021 led the school through a mascot election process where students campaigned for different mascot candidates from river dolphins to raptors through creating posters and discussing the different qualities of their candidates that would make them a good representative for the first mascot in school history. In the spring of 2021, Mr. Ketchum shared with the school that Riverside has a new mascot - the Ram!

During a flag ceremony in November of 2021, the School unveiled the RPDS Rams mascot logo. Over the last two school years, students, faculty, and staff have confidently charged into their studies and passions as the RPDS Rams. Throughout the 2022-2023 school year, the School realized it was time to bring the RPDS Ram to life and began designing a mascot costume. In July of

2023, RPDS was thrilled to welcome Lily Indelicato and Grace Ross, now rising 9th Grade students, back home to Riverside to see just how much their idea has grown over the last three years, and the legacy they, along with the Class of 2021, have left behind for future students to enjoy. As the first people to see the mascot uniform, Lily Indelicato said, “It’s just amazing to see how far our little idea has come. When we were talking about a mascot with our friends, we would’ve never thought it would turn into all of this. It’s just really cool.”

ALUMNI

As RPDS wraps up another successful academic year, the Alumni Council has continued its promise to grow our alumni community to be an active and involved part of the RPDS community. We have successfully entered over 1,700 new alumni names into the School’s database, hosted a Legacy Chapel in which alumnus Christian Glover (‘11) was the featured speaker, hosted the 2nd annual young alumni reunion on campus, and continued the legacy of the parent-hosted class reunion for high school seniors. We are honored to have welcomed 39 new graduates into our alumni family, and upon this welcoming, each received an alumni t-shirt.

The Alumni Council is extremely proud to be an integral part of planning and executing the yearlong 75th anniversary celebration. Please be on the lookout for specific dates of alumni events and volunteer opportunities. We would love to have you on campus and interacting with our students.

Stay tuned for upcoming Alumni Council events to be hosted in 2023!

If you haven’t filled out the Stay In Touch form, please do so by visiting our website at www.rpds.com/alumni.

Riverside Presbyterian Day School

May the road rise to meet you...

Ethan Barron, Florida Polytechnical

Alex Bean, University of Miami

Isabella Buschini, University of Florida

Hunter Bush, Florida State University

Naomi Cochrane, Jacksonville University

Ashley Crowe, University of Miami

Atlantic Diebenow, University of Florida

Kelly Donovan, University of Florida

Aubrey Finn, University of South Carolina

William Gibbs, Butler College

John Allen Ginder, Wooster

Annie Hellman, Indiana University

Grace Huie, University of Virginia

Andrew Kunkle, University of Florida

Jianna Lee, University of North Florida

Skyler Malone, Unknown

Shelby McCart, Santa Fe College

Alexander McLaurine, University of Florida

Grace Medure, Florida State University

Mason Montour, University of North Florida

Cookie Meyers, Appalachian State University

Ryan Napolean, Florida State University

Charlotte Nolan, University of South Florida

Hudson Norris, Florida State University

Lulu Nowicki, Appalachian State University

Ty Officer, Florida State University

Collin Poe, University of South Carolina

Jack Pruden, Auburn University

Natalie Rabil, University of South Carolina

Jack Raynor, Auburn University

William Riggs, Elon University

Evelyn Ritch, University of South Carolina

Caylin Rozier, Florida State College of Jacksonville

Emery Sawyer, Northwestern University

Pierce Shirk, Georgia Southern University

Ellie Spickelmier, Furman University

Maggie Stoll, University of North Florida

Spencer Surface, Washington & Lee University

Caroline Taylor, Harding University

Cross Thomas, Auburn University

Alison Tippins, Unknown

Hailey Warwick, University of North Florida

Will Wilkinson, Auburn University

Graham Worley, University of Florida

Alumni Class Notes

1995 2009 2006

Mrs. Sarah Cotchaleovitch, ’95, who currently provides learning support to students in 1st through 3rd Grade, will move into a full-time role as an Academic Support Specialist. Mrs. Cotchaleovitch has been an essential member of the RPDS staff for the past eight years and over the past two years has split time between supporting the Business Office and providing student support. Having recently completed her M.Ed. in Reading Education with a Master Certificate in Dyslexia from the University of Florida, Mrs. Cotchaleovitch looks forward to fully leaning into a learning specialist role.

Peyton Grant, ’09, is returning to RPDS to teach 1st grade for the 2023-2024 school year. Peyton’s classroom will be the same one she was in as a 1st Grade student.

Jack Jolly, ’09, received his Juris Doctorate from the UF Levin College of Law May 19, 2023. Jack joins his father and sister in being a “double Gator” (undergraduate as well as Law School) and will be starting his legal career at the State Attorney’s Office this September.

Chandler Jolly, ’06, married Matthew Silverstein on April 22, 2023 at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine. Chandler is an employment attorney with ADB Law, and Matt is an attorney with Murphy Anderson. The newlyweds reside in Jacksonville.

2010

James Prohaska,’06, married Sarah Scrambling on March 5, 2023 at The Five Points Chapel in Jacksonville. Serving as groomsmen were Aaron Prohaska, Class of 2010, and Austin Schumacher, Class of 2012. James and Sarah both work for Summit Contracting Group and live in Jacksonville.

Daley Pajcic, ’10, recently graduated from Florida State University College of Law, magne cum laude, in May 2023. Daley participated as Staff Editor of Law Review, Vice President of Moot Court, and President of the Florida Justice Association FSU Student Chapter. Upon graduation, Daley was awarded a Distinguished Pro Bono Service Award, the Polston Award for Volume 50 of Law Review, and the Moot Court John Barretto Award for spirit of service and comradery. Daley will start as an Assistant State Attorney at the State Attorney’s Office of the Fourth Judicial Court in September.

Lizzy Stokes, ’11, married Seth Robinson of Houston, Texas at Congaree and Penn on March 4th, 2023. Lizzy is currently working at Whistle Stop Acres Ranch as Director of Sustainable Living and Curriculum Developer. Lizzy and Seth met while working as river guides for Noah’s Ark Outfitters in Buena Vista, Colorado.

Madeline Finke, ’21, was awarded the middle school English Award at St. John’s Country Day School. She also received a gold medal for placing in the top 1% on a Latin test among students internationally.

RPDS alumni received the following awards from The Bolles School: Grace Ross, Dance Award; Grace Christy, The James D. Ball Sportsmanship Award; and Gabriella Louh, The McKenzie Noelle Wilson Award.

Alexander Goldfield, ’13, celebrated his graduation from Davidson College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, double majoring in Math and Political Science with Cum Laude honors. He is grateful to RPDS for laying the foundation of his spiritual and academic growth.

RPDS alumni from the Class of 2022 received the following awards from The Bolles School: Kinley Nelson, US History Award and Emily Day, 7th Grade French Award.

Wiley Gillam, ’13, graduated from University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in neuroscience and minoring in history. He was also commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. Wiley will be moving to Gainesville, Florida to attend University of Florida School of Medicine this fall.

Recent Alumni News

RPDS Alumni Inducted into Bolles National Honor Society

Current Bolles students and RPDS ’18 alumni Chloe Brown, Ellie Smith, Cauthen Catlin, Reagan Lane, Wesley Smith, Davis Meux, Will Morales, Eli Stevenson, William Green, Jonathan Knight, and Tommy Brice were all inducted in the National Honor Society in April.

National Honor Society Induction at Episcopal

The following RPDS alumni who currently attend Episcopal School of Jacksonville were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society this spring. Members include:

Class of 2020: Jack Blanks, Ali Freel, Emme Grimes

Class of 2021: Ashlyn Bush, Harrison Clark, Lucas Forbess, Johnny Froats, Liza Haley, Alex Hughes, Lily Indelicato, Kylie Kellogg, Lucy Saenz, Reilly Schultz, Rick Schultz, Ellie Skeels, and Michael Ziegler.

Riverside Parents Association

The Riverside Parents Association (RPA) provides on-campus opportunities to encourage our families to get involved in the daily lives of our students. The RPA offers a variety of ways to engage, from joining together in fellowship to serving as a homeroom parent or ambassador for new parents to chairing a committee to simply volunteering in support of our many activities. These engagement opportunities foster community, strengthen our partnership and demonstrate our commitment to educating the whole child. To learn more about volunteer opportunities for the 2023-24 school year, please visit www.rpds.com/rpa.

RPDS is so thankful to our families for their generosity, leadership, and enthusiasm for our continued success. We look forward to working together with you next year!

Sundae Monday

August 14, 2023

Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day

October 12, 2023

*Fall Festival

November 11, 2023

Caring Tree

December 7, 2023

Run Riverside

April 27, 2024

End of Year Party

May 22, 2024

*Please note plans may shift due to Cornerstone Campaign construction.

Simmons Skinner RPA President

RPA Vice President

Annie Roberts (‘97)

Special Events Special Events

35th Annual Capers Gala

Parents, alumni, and friends of RPDS gathered together to celebrate the 35th Annual Capers Gala on Friday, February 10th at The Glass Factory. Led by co-chairs Joy McDonald and Caroline Skinner, the event featured live and silent auctions, catering by Chef’s Garden, and live music by Bay Kings Band. With over 200 attendees, it was a successful event supporting RPDS’s arts programs. A heart-felt thanks to the Capers chairs and their incredible committee for lending their time and talents to creating an unforgettable evening! Capers will take a break in 2024 as we host our 75th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, April 13th, 2024.

1st Annual Run Riverside

On Saturday, April 29th, RPDS kicked off its first annual Run Riverside, which included a health & wellness festival, 5K, and the “funnest” Fun Run ever! The event attracted over 600 participants from RPDS and the broader Jacksonville community. Despite the weather, RPDS families, Business Partners, and vendors joined in support of our newest event, Run Riverside. A special thanks to our Title Sponsor Daily’s, our co-chairs Annie Bryan and Jen Baker, and the incredibly dedicated Run Riverside committee and volunteers. We are so grateful to everyone who participated, and we look forward to the next Run Riverside event on April 27th, 2024.

Fall Festival

This year’s Fall Festival, held on Saturday, October 22nd, was an incredible occasion as RPDS families gathered to celebrate and give thanks for our beloved community. Guests enjoyed Toon Town pizza, Kilwins ice cream, inflatables, face painting, DJ Dance party, and more! We are so grateful to our committee chair, Amanda Davis, and committee members Kelly Bugg, Molly Davis, Melissa Gerisch, Stephanie Grau, Shannon Langley, Neely Thomas (‘92), and all of our dedicated volunteers. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the Fall Festival!

Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day

On Thursday, October 13th, RPDS was elated to host our annual Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day. It was a special morning hosting over 300 grandparents and special friends with special performances in Chapel, classroom tours, and fellowship as an extended school community.

Business Sponsors 2022-2023

The RPDS Business Partners Program was started in 2012 as an opportunity to encourage mutually beneficial relationships between Riverside and business/corporate partners. Many thanks to the generous businesses who chose to partner with RPDS this year:

Platinum Partner ($10,000)

Silver Partners ($2,500)

Bronze Partners ($1,500)

Patron Partners ($500)

Top

Gary

Ryan Correia, AJ Franklin, Hudson Westerman, Jack Wallace

Bottom Row: Barrett

Petal McCart, Margot Pedrick, Quinn Indelicato, Charlotte Herford, Abi Britton, Jackson Starks