Spring 2018 kinetics by Seattle Country Day School

SCDS

SPRING 2018

SEATTLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL MAGAZINE

FORWARD!

DEAR SCDS COMMUNITY, Kinetics /k ’nediks/

Kinesis comes from the Greek word for motion, and “kinetics” is used in the vernacular to describe mechanics associated with the forces that cause motions of bodies. At SCDS, we’re all about energy and active learning. Every day, SCDS teachers engage students’ minds and bodies through inquiry-based teaching. EDITOR Andrea Sanders DESIGN/PRODUCTION Christa Fleming Design CONTRIBUTORS Alexander Belfiore ’18, Brian Crawford, Katherine Drais ‘18, Ramona Emerson, Claire Fallat, Sheena McFerran, and Michael G. Murphy COVER SCDS students, faculty, and staff gathered following the school’s opening assembly, September 2017. Photo credit: SCDS Advancement Office KINETICS is produced by the SCDS Advancement Office for its current—and former—families and friends. Inquiries may be sent to: andreasanders@seattlecountryday.org

Kinetics is Digital! Read the latest issue of Kinetics on your phone, computer, or tablet: www.seattlecountryday.org/Kinetics

THE SCDS MISSION

Inspiring gifted children to reach their potential through inquiry, curiosity, and wonder. www.seattlecountryday.org

In so many ways, spring is hopeful and joyous, and at SCDS we certainly have much to which we look forward and much to celebrate this time of year. At the Board level, we couldn’t be more pleased to have Kimberly Zaidberg join us on July 1 as our new Head of School. We are thrilled with the wealth of experience, love of education, and caring for students that Ms. Zaidberg is bringing to SCDS. In late March 2018, she spent a week on campus getting to know SCDS students, faculty and staff, volunteer parent leadership, and the Board of Trustees. It was wonderful to welcome her to the school and we await her official arrival later this summer. The Board had a busy fall and winter completing updates to the school’s Strategic Plan, which provides major strategic priorities that, at the highest levels, will guide the school over the next two to three years. Key pillars of the updated plan center on: program advancement; diversity, equity, and inclusion; advancement and development; facilities planning; and communications. A community-wide announcement about key achievements under the prior Strategic Plan and the updated plan were mailed in early February 2018; it also can be accessed on the school’s website. The Board and school house are currently moving forward under the updated plan. One focus of the prior Strategic Plan was the establishment of an inaugural endowment for the school. Three years ago, we launched that endowment as The Infinity Fund with an initial goal of $5 million. As planned, once that milestone was reached, we would begin to utilize the fund’s investment income to support financial aid as well as program advancement and teacher excellence. We are excited to announce that due to the support of our “Founding 50” seed donors and the recent robust support of the school community at our In Bloom Benefit Auction, we have exceeded the $5 million mark and can begin to operationalize a portion of The Infinity Fund Endowment’s investment proceeds. We will continue to grow The Infinity Fund Endowment so it can become an even stronger enduring source of funding for the school. In May, we celebrated Michael Murphy and the wisdom, guidance, and love that he has given to SCDS over the past 14 years of his headship. Mr. Murphy’s retirement event provided the opportunity to bring the community together to reflect on his exemplary dedication to—and leadership of—SCDS through many years of wonderful growth. We are deeply thankful for all that Mr. Murphy has done for our school and our community. And, of course, as we draw to the close of this academic year, your Board remains grateful for inspiring students, outstanding faculty and staff, a supportive and engaged parent/guardian community, and alumni and alumni families who paved the way for SCDS today and continue to give back in many ways. May you share in the joys of spring—and all that is Seattle Country Day School.

Best Regards,

Ramona M. Emerson

PRESIDENT, SCDS BOARD OF TRUSTEES

DEAR SCDS COMMUNITY, You can learn a lot from the SCDS 2nd grade U.S. States Convention. This annual research project has students doing a deep-dive into each child’s state and—with the guidance and support of their teachers—the entire grade presents and shares their collective findings at a school-wide convention. The state motto of Wisconsin is Forward! The word carries meaning: direction and motion with purpose and progress. Wisconsin’s most famous politician, Robert “Fighting Bob” La Follette, was an influential progressive in the era of Teddy Roosevelt and William Howard Taft. The state was first to implement worker’s compensation and unemployment benefits. Governor, U.S. Senator, and staunch conservationist Gaylord Nelson was instrumental in founding Earth Day. Forward!

In my 14 years as Head of School, I have been honored to be a conductor of sorts, helping to bring all parts of the school together and coordinating all elements to support and advance the school mission with, of course, keen support and oversight from the Board of Trustees.” HEAD OF SCHOOL, MICHAEL G. MURPHY

Eleven years ago, in the midst of SCDS’s $15 million comprehensive campus construction project, I met weekly with the construction company, our Facilities Director, and owner’s representative. For over a year we monitored progress, made in-the-field decisions, and solved construction questions. Some weeks it was smooth sailing, other times it was agonizingly slow. During this time, a new Middle School was built, a new driveway installed, roofs on existing buildings were replaced, the Library was updated, additional classrooms and space became available in the lower and intermediate grades, and new sprinkler systems were installed. Smooth or slow going, my final word in every weekly team meeting, complete with a hand gesture that resembled a football referee’s first down signal, was Forward! To this day, as I complete my morning walk to school, I try to greet our dependable and magnanimous Facilities Assistant and driveway traffic helper, Daniel Magana. After exchanging greetings and small talk, one of us always ends the short chat with: Forward! In my 14 years as Head of School, I have been honored to be a conductor of sorts, helping to bring all parts of the school together and coordinating all elements to support and advance the school mission with, of course, keen support and oversight from the Board of Trustees. Forward! I am most humbled to be part of such a dynamic learning community where: • An aspirational mission clearly identifies our purpose and spirit of learning • Resourceful teachers and staff deliver on the mission • Students can be their creative and authentic selves • Creative problem-solving is encouraged in age-appropriate and challenging ways The Board of Trustees and I continue to make Head of School elect Kimberly Zaidberg’s transition a seamless one. Like a smooth handoff of the relay baton in the exchange zone on a track, nobody stops; momentum by both parties ensures ongoing direction and purpose. Forward! To all SCDS Trustees (the ultimate volunteers), my wife Deborah, faculty, staff, and to the three instrumental and timely counselors in my professional journey—Charlie Erdmann, Mary Thorn, and Rose Boyle—I am grateful for your wisdom, example, gentle guidance, and focus on stewardship. And to the SCDS community, present and future, I say Forward! Most Sincerely,

Michael G. Murphy HEAD OF SCHOOL

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

F Photo montage of Head of School Michael G. Murphy supporting students, 2004-present.

SPRING 2018 | KINETICS

As a long-time volunteer for the school’s annual auction, I spent many hours working in the Yellow (Rose Boyle) House. Michael regularly made it a point to wander down and express his appreciation to volunteers. On the occasions that I was there alone, Michael would give me a knowing smile and thank me for my efforts. I always knew I was appreciated as a volunteer.” ALUMNI PARENT AND FORMER TRUSTEE, LISA CARROLL

FORWARD! Head of School Michael G. Murphy has steadfastly led Seattle Country Day School for 14 years. During his tenure at SCDS, he has shared in the educational journey of over 1,013 students as well as 135 faculty and staff. Mr. Murphy has inspired countless community members and has played a pivotal role in strengthening the foundation for current—and future—problem-solvers. As one alumni parent fondly reflected, Michael Murphy— in conjunction with Country Day’s founding Head Lucile Beckman and Former Head of School Jayasri Ghosh— could be likened to the “Mt. Rushmore of SCDS.”

From the first day Michael set foot on campus in 2004, ensuring SCDS put its mission into practice remained a core focus. He intrepidly guided the school through Northwest Association of Independent School (NWAIS) reaccreditations, Strategic Plan refreshes, A Place to Grow Capital Campaign (which included $15 million in campus enhancements), Gymnasium and Playground projects, and the establishment of the school’s Infinity Fund Endowment. Michael’s enthusiasm in joining the SCDS community during a time the school was experiencing a dynamic growth phase and the largest capital campaign/construction project the school had ever undertaken, is a testament to his unwavering commitment and belief in the school. As former Trustee Frank Firmani reflected, “When Michael came on board at SCDS, I was concerned that the capital campaign and the new Middle School construction might be distracting, even overwhelming, for a new Head of School. Michael stepped right into his leadership position, embraced the project, and led it to its successful completion.” The strategic and mission-centered milestones celebrated by the school over the course of Michael’s tenure are both noteworthy and memorable. However, it is the unsung daily practices which will be carried forward as we reflect on time spent with Head of School Michael G. Murphy at the helm. Michael took his role as a steward to heart and aimed, in the spirit of an early mentor Charles P. Erdmann, to leave the school in better shape than he found them. In Seattle Country Day School fashion, we share a few of the ways Michael’s impact will continue to resonate across campus:

TIMELINE:

2004 2005-2007 2009 Michael Murphy assumes role as Head of School Enrollment surpasses 306 students

A Place to Grow Capital Campaign launches, creating a new Middle School building, driveway, Green Top, parking lots, enlarged Lunchroom, and dedicated Intermediate School building

SCDS reaccredited with Pacific Northwest Association of Independent Schools (PNAIS)

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

FORWARD! GREETING STUDENTS IN MORNING CARPOOL One of Mr. Murphy’s trademarks—after he embraced healthy transportation habits by walking the two miles to work each day—was commencing his morning routine in the carpool Drop-off line. In addition to ensuring students were off to class safely, greeting each student allowed Michael the opportunity to offer an encouraging word and affirm their potential as they launched into a day of inquiry, discovery, and growth. In the words of alumni parent, Mike Boyle, “Michael would interact with all the kids, all the families etc. and he always had a positive attitude and a smile on his face.” Grade 1 Student Alexander Hwangbo concurs, “He always shook our hand when we got off the bus.” Regardless of the time of day, students remained at the center.

MAGNIFYING THE POWER OF A PENCIL “Father Murphy” as Michael was fondly called at times, sought ways to accentuate positive behavior on campus. One tangible way this goal was achieved was through the pencil. And not just any pencil, but a green SCDS pencil. At assemblies, Michael began a tradition of recognizing students nominated by their teachers and/or peers for doing a good deed without seeking recognition. Michael often gently reminded students “If you expect a pencil for doing the right thing…” and students would respond “you’re probably not going to get one.” As former Grade 3 Teacher Mark Holtzen reminded us, “Of course, the pencil is not the point. When one does something thoughtful—holds the door, compliments an outfit, sends a thoughtful email—it makes another feel good.” Virtue is its own reward.

MAINTAINING AN OPEN DOOR POLICY Although he partook in countless meetings each day, it was the unanticipated visitors [students] that were treated with the utmost respect and care. As Former Board Chair Nancy Senseney reflected, “In the spirit of inquiry, one of Michael Murphy’s greatest strengths was his ability to listen to individuals while giving them the autonomy to explore who they are and the support to express themselves to be successful in their endeavors. This included listening to students, teachers, staff, parents, and Board members.” Whether or not you had a standing appointment with Michael, he never failed to carve time out of his day to lend a listening ear and make you feel welcome.

CARRYING ON THE ADOPT-A-STREET TRADITION The work week was frequently extended when Michael participated in Adopt-a-Street—a volunteer program supported by the Parent Council and affiliated with the City of Seattle with the primary purpose of cleaning the surrounding neighborhood by picking up litter. Without fail, Michael attended each Adopt-a-Street Cleanup with his wife Deborah, eager to connect over coffee, a donut, and conversation with a handful of early-rising SCDS parents. “Michael never failed to take the most challenging section of the neighborhood,” shared alumni parent and Former Board Chair Anne Schaefer. “His commitment to SCDS has always proven contagious to others.” Despite having a modest number of volunteers, rain or shine, Michael never missed an opportunity to beautify the grounds surrounding campus and strengthen connections with parents.

2010 2011 2012 2013 Enrollment surges to 325+ students

Let’s Get our Gym in Shape $1.5 million Gymnasium renovation Social Emotional Learning (SEL) launches at SCDS

SPRING 2018 | KINETICS

New Strategic Plan approved

SCDS refreshes its Playground

from Head of School Michael G. Murphy Director of Advancement Andrea Sanders sat down with Head of School (HOS) Michael G. Murphy for a cup of coffee and conversation this past spring to gain insight on time spent—and lessons learned—while at SCDS.

EMBRACING A LOVE OF LEARNING AND FUN WITH PICKLEBALL Mr. Murphy was also known for not only being an avid tennis player, but a fan of Pickleball. In an effort to add a bit of activity during mid-day and engage with students, Michael penciled in some lunch hours where he challenged middle school students to a game of Pickleball on the Green Top. “Michael Murphy sought ways to connect and engage with SCDS students of every age and stage so that they had opportunities to interact with him and feel personally known,” reflected current parent Kate Dandel. “Pickleball lunches were just one more way Michael served as an influential role model for the entire community.”

If you attended an SCDS graduation ceremony in recent years, and had the good fortune of securing a seat up front, you may have heard the words of encouragement Michael whispered after shaking each graduate’s hand—“Make us proud.” As Seattle Country Day School embarks upon Michael G. Murphy’s final few months as Head of School, we can’t help but look back and extend our gratitude for the countless seeds he has sown which will allow SCDS problem-solvers to continue to grow and thrive. And as we propel forward, we can affirm with confidence, Michael, we will do just that.

Q: “Can you speak to some of the milestones that were achieved during your tenure? Is there a particular poignant moment that stands out?” A: “I preface my answer by reminding everyone that advancing a school is always a team effort. A few items come immediately to mind. One, the introduction of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) has strengthened the K-8 program immensely. SEL complements and enhances SCDS academics and has improved the overall climate of the school. Two, the systematic move to broaden the school’s outreach and recruitment of staff has advanced the hiring process for the good of the school. Third, since the $15 million campus improvement project (including the new Middle School) and the severe recession of 2008-2009, SCDS has solidified its institutional financial condition, including attending to and planning for deferred maintenance of the campus, managing its modest debt, and increasing need-based financial aid to sustain and broaden access. A key achievement has been personal growth, thanks to being surrounded by so many resourceful and creative thinkers—students, teachers, staff, and Board members!” Q: “What is your biggest regret?” A: “As HOS, I should have done much more for the school to stay in touch with—and continue to engage—former Board members. Trustees are a school’s greatest volunteers; their investment of time, wisdom, and treasure pays dividends down the road.”

2014 2014-2015 2015 Enrollment reaches 356 students

SCDS celebrates its 50th Anniversary

The SCDS Infinity Fund Endowment launches

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

Reflections from Head of School Michael G. Murphy, continued Q: “Can you share more about your open [office] door policy and how it tied into your philosophy as HOS?” A: “This is really about being present, accessible, and engaged, from greeting students at morning carpool Drop-off to visiting any community member throughout the school house. One of SCDS’s core values—and mine— is having the school be student-centered. There is a quote on my office door which reads: ‘Students can visit any time; adults may need an appointment.’ I welcome all visitors, of course, but especially the students.” Q: “You gave your time so graciously (and frequently!) outside normal operating hours. In particular, what drew you to the Adopt-aStreet service opportunity and can you share a pearl of wisdom collected?” A: “When I arrived at SCDS 14 years ago, the Parent Council Adopt-a-Street program was already in operation. Having SCDS continue the Adopt-a-Street program in our neighborhood is a sign of being a good neighbor. Everyone who volunteers with the Parent Council in this way feels good after an hour of volunteering. The outcome is tangible and immediate. I enjoyed doing so and wanted to set a good example. Everyone can demonstrate pride in their school, and picking up litter is an honorable act.”

Q: “Is there significance—or a story—behind your bow tie?” A: “I inherited three bow ties in college when my grandfather, Judge Leo F. Murphy, died. Like Judge Murphy, they are unique and modestly dapper. Since getting a necktie stuck in a handcranked mimeograph ditto machine very early in my teaching career, I prefer the bow tie.” Q: “Do you have any plans following your retirement?” A: “In the short-term, more sleep, reading, writing, travel, and tennis. I’m going to take several months off during which time I hope to figure out the next chapter.” Q: “Do you have a specific story you will carry with you that exemplifies SCDS?” A: “I vividly remember being at Nordic skiing one Winterim day several months before Rose Boyle died. The entire school community knew that Rose—Co-Chair of the Search Committee that had brought me to SCDS and my first Board Chair—was dying of cancer, yet she loved cross country skiing, and was out there at Snoqualmie Pass skiing with the school’s Nordic groups. Even while ill, I recall watching Rose trudge along the trail well ahead of my group. She fell twice and got up immediately, still determined to move along the trail. That scene continues to resonate with me. She was out there participating as best she could to the very end, doing something she loved despite her physical decline. I learned a lot from Rose Boyle, including her example of commitment and determination.” Q: “Is there parting advice you would like to share with the students?” A: “Continue to be your authentic selves.”

2016-2017 2017 2018 SCDS reaccredited with Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS)

Enrollment reaches 362 students

Strategic Plan update

SPRING 2018 | KINETICS

The SCDS Infinity Fund Endowment surpasses $5 million milestone and ignites

FLYING

SCDS 7th and 8th grade students posed with SCDS alumnus Zahlen Titcomb ’96 of ARIA Ultimate before embarking on their trip to Rwanda.

RESILIENCE By: Katherine Drais ‘18 and Alexander Belfiore ‘18

Ultimate allowed us to connect without speaking. We were able to just pick up a disc, start throwing, and have a good time together.” GRADE 8 STUDENT, MARGARET LEWIS

Our thoughts swirled. We learned that our applications were accepted and we would join the 18 other 7th and 8th grade students traveling to Rwanda. The application included an essay, interview, and three teacher recommendations—a small effort for a once-in-a-lifetime trip! Rwanda is a tiny African country bordering Uganda and Burundi. This year, 20 students had the opportunity to go on Seattle Country Day School’s second friendship exchange trip to Rwanda. In addition to fortifying cross-cultural connections and friendships, we aspired to immerse ourselves in Rwandan culture and history and share a love of Ultimate. To prepare for the trip, we had the opportunity to meet Zahlen Titcomb ’96 and talk about what makes the sport of Ultimate different from others. His company, ARIA Ultimate, also generously provided us with 60 personalized discs to bring to our Rwandan partner school. We learned that Ultimate is a universal language; as 8th grader Margaret Lewis said, “Ultimate allowed us to connect without speaking. We were able to just pick up a disc, start throwing, and have a good time together.” Before the trip, we didn’t know what to expect, even though we read books about the culture and learned some Kinyarwanda, one of the official languages of Rwanda. As the trip came closer, our excitement grew. We were not nervous because we were going to be far away, but because we didn’t know how the kids we would meet were similar and/or different from our friends in Seattle.

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

Students at GS Nyamata EPR opened their classroom to their SCDS visitors.

Sabina Petersen ’18 created connections and solutions with students at GS Nyamata EPR while problem-solving for an unknown variable.

Our biggest takeaway was understanding that Americans and Rwandans have much more in common than we do different.” GRADE 8 STUDENT, KATHERINE DRAIS

SPRING 2018 | KINETICS

At GS Nyamata EPR, we attended classes and became Rwandan for a few days. During our first recess, we bridged gaps between Americans and Rwandans through a love for Ultimate. We never thought that going outside and throwing discs could be a memory we would keep for the rest of our lives. “Ultimate was a common thread among all of us,” remarks 8th grader Torin Bashore. Ultimate was a good connector because there was no language barrier. We were able to teach our new friends through body language and pointing. The faculty and staff who accompanied us on the trip included: Grade 8 Language Arts and Grade 7 Drama Teacher Brian Crawford; Grades 6 and 8 Math Teacher Eddie Feeley; Grade 6 Humanities Teacher Brenda Ajbour; and Intermediate and Middle School Head and Director of Professional Growth K-8th Grade Dan Sweeney. “As a teacher I couldn’t interact with the Rwandan students the same way as the SCDS kids because of the cultural view of the teacherstudent relationship in Rwanda (e.g. the teacher as an authority figure),” Eddie Feeley said. “Being able to play Ultimate with the Rwandan students during recess allowed me to break down that teacher-student barrier and spend time with the students.”

Our biggest takeaway was understanding that Americans and Rwandans have much more in common than we do different. We both loved learning from one another. We discussed all of our favorite meals and an assortment of American pop artists. We even took part in a celebration of song during spontaneous dance parties. The significance is summed up by 8th grader Sabina Petersen, who said that, “After getting to know some Rwandan children, I realized that even though we don’t speak the same language, we can still make connections. After going to Rwanda, I found myself with a new respect for everyone there. I am incredibly grateful to have taken such an amazing trip.”

Eli Colton ’18 posed with a Rwandan student as they formed a friendship over Ultimate.

SCDS students, faculty, and staff gathered after mass in front of the Sainte-Famille Church in Kigali.

SCDS alumnus, Zahlen Titcomb ’96 along with his siblings—Xtehn ‘98, Vehro ‘99, Rohre ’01, and Qxhna—founded the company ARIA Ultimate in an effort to create a disc that meets the standards of the highest competitive levels while also building a company dedicated to the sport and its global impact. Built upon values such as inclusiveness, sportsmanship, and self-officiation, Ultimate gives each player the chance to learn and grow. According to ARIA Ultimate, if everyone had the opportunity to play, it would make a world of difference. Titcomb donated 60 personalized discs for SCDS students to bring to Rwanda.

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

PROPELLING ALUMNI CONNECTIONS FORWARD

(L to R): Emma Sluss ’13 poses with Big Fish Games SVP and General Counsel Sarah Leung ’90.

The inquiry-based thinking and learning tools gained from a Seattle Country Day School education equip students for their journey into high school, college, and greater life endeavors. However, students don’t need to continue their journey alone! This past Winter Break, the SCDS Alumni Council soft-launched an exciting step in the ever-evolving cycle of alumni connections—a program granting younger alumni the opportunity to job shadow with SCDS career alumni. “This was a great experience not just for the young alums, but for me as an alumnus [and 7 Simple Machines job shadow host] to share my experience,” SCDS Alumni Council President and current parent of an SCDS 8th grader Karim Lessard ‘85 reflected. “It was satisfying to communicate what inquiry is like in the real world and make a contribution to their [ongoing] education.” Noah Franklin ’13 (Center Left) and John Randolph ’13 (Center Right) are exposed to Agile software development in this post-SCRUM pose in front of the 7SM Kanban board. They are accompanied by COO Jennifer (Zwiebel) Henninger ’86 and CEO Karim Lessard ’85.

SPRING 2018 | KINETICS

Thanks to the valuable time commitment of five alumni in various career sectors, the classes of 2010-2013 were offered this exciting job shadow opportunity as part of a small pilot program which the Alumni Council hopes to offer more broadly in the future. Starting small to gauge interest, three alumni took advantage of this growth opportunity at two of the available alumni businesses: John Randolph ‘13 and Noah Franklin ‘13 with Karim Lessard ’85 at 7 Simple Machines (7SM); and Emma Sluss ’13 with Sarah Leung ’90 at Big Fish Games. “I learned a lot from the alumni job shadow program. At 7SM, I learned about how an office runs, and got to see the workflow of the day” Randolph reflected. “It was a useful experience as it showed me exactly how it would be if I were to work at a similar company. Big thanks to Karim and SCDS!” The alumni who participated asked deep questions, gaining insight into the nitty gritty of SCRUM, business meetings, and ideation. “[At Big Fish, Emma] met with people from the legal, business units, game studios, customer support, marketing, and finance teams,” SCDS Board of Trustees Secretary and parent of an SCDS kindergartener and 5th grader Sarah Leung ’90 detailed. Some of the nuggets of wisdom Big Fish staffers shared with Emma over the course of her half-day job shadow?

“Take risks;” “Try to be a humble collaborator and an adaptable problem-solver;” “Be relentlessly curious;” “Choose optimism;” and “Speak up for the right thing—always.” The job shadow pilot program is the first step toward what the Alumni Council envisions will be a growing effort to offer job shadow, internship, and mentoring opportunities to SCDS alumni. “I am looking forward to participating again and hope we see other SCDS alums opening their businesses to fellow alumni,” Lessard said. “All alums should take advantage of this opportunity!”

The SCDS Alumni Behind

FIVE

Local Companies:

Have an interest in participating in the next SCDS job shadow program? Connect with us today! alumni@seattlecountryday.org

7 Simple Machines is a small custom software development company located in Ballard where both the CEO and COO are SCDS alumni. Job shadow participants received an overview of the business, learned the software development cycle, sat in on a planning meeting, and participated in daily SCRUM. ARIA Ultimate is the latest technology and the most modern approach to supporting the Ultimate community with discs. Five Ultimate is a player favorite for jerseys and Ultimate gear, from beginning middle school programs to world champion national teams. The Seattle Cascades is professional men's Ultimate at the highest level with a full suite of game-day action right here in Seattle. All three companies were started by SCDS alumni. Job shadow participants had the opportunity to tour their Belltown offices, join a sponsorship proposal session, and dive into a jersey design brainstorm. Big Fish Games is a video game company located in Interbay, where the SVP and General Counsel is an SCDS alumna. Job shadow participants learned about the business of creating video games from conception to launch and sat in on business and legal meetings. Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute is a continuing education company, located in Capitol Hill, which sponsors live training seminars for physical therapists and other allied health professionals. An SCDS alumnus is a Partner there. Job shadow participants had the opportunity to receive an overview of the business and sit in on highlevel meetings with team members. Wrench, Inc. is a full service shop without the shop! It removes the hassle of car maintenance and repair by bringing certified mechanics to your doorstep. The CEO of Wrench is an SCDS alumnus. Job shadow participants had the opportunity to learn about a platform built for efficiency and ease of use.

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

CLASS

NOTES RACHEL TILLMAN ’79 continues to travel the globe with her

13-year-old son doing MarsMakerTM events and talks with the nonprofit she founded to preserve the Viking Mars mission history. Tillman builds load-bearing spacecraft out of scrap material and exhibits artifacts and talks about the mission with students from preschool through PhD! Meanwhile her son secured the only children’s role in the Portland State (PSU) Opera. Their latest trips were to Australia, New Zealand, Tokyo, and Guadalajara.

JEFF BRUMLEY ’90

became a young grandfather in January! His daughter Amara gave birth to a baby girl, Luna. All involved are still adjusting to the many life changes, but are excited about the future. Brumley continues to work in Business Intelligence at Big Fish Games in Seattle, and plays bass for many bands, including “Rise Up—the Hamilton Tribute!”

MICHAEL LAND ’08 moved to Washington, D.C. to take

ROBIN SALANT ’85 welcomed her daughter Simone’s

little sister, Aya Rainier, to the brood in December. At the doorstep of seeking the right educational fit for their children, Salant is reminded how fortunate she was to attend SCDS. She hopes to transfer some of that amazing learning to her daughters, to likewise cultivate their curiosity, exploration, and sense of community. Salant saw TYLER MORIGUCHI ‘87 and his family this past summer, as well as JOHN TOCHER ’86 and KONRAD SCHRODER ‘86 and their families.

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a job at a foreign policy think tank researching the conflict in Syria. He is also working as a Starbucks barista, where his go-to drink is a blonde raspberry white mocha. He is still trying to figure out how to get his prized 1967 Fiat across the country to join him.

TAKEKO “TAKI” HORIUCHI ’10 will graduate May

2018, from Loyola Marymount University (LMU) with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and cum laude honors. During her four years at LMU she was a member of the Honors Program. Horiuchi has accepted a position with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) following graduation. She will work as an account auditor in the Los Angeles area. Horiuchi intends to spend the summer studying and testing for her California CPA license.

STAY CONNECTED Network and reconnect with former classmates and keep your contact information up-to-date by visiting the SCDS Alumni Directory: www.seattlecountryday.org/AlumniDirectory

Congratulations to JESSICA CHIN ’14 and ANNA KIEM ’14

who have both earned the honor of valedictorian from Holy Names’ Class of 2018. The school awards these honors based on a record of outstanding academic achievement and a weighted cumulative grade point average. Chin was also honored last fall as a Seattle Seahawks, “Athlete of the Week”; she was recognized at CenturyLink Field during the December 3, 2017 game vs. the Philadelphia Eagles based on leadership through athletics, academics, and community action.

COLE BAKKEN ’15 is starting school at Lake

Washington Institute of Technology.

FLETCHER WELD ’15 is a junior at Seattle Prep.

He is continuing his ballet career at Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB) in Level VIII, dancing six or seven days a week. This summer, he will spend six weeks at the Houston Ballet summer intensive. He performed in PNB’s “Swan Lake” and “Snow White” this spring, and will be performing in the PNB Balanchine ballet, “Fanfare,” on June 16. He is also playing on the Ultimate team, Shrubbery, captained by HAYDEN RATLIFF ‘15.

PLUG IN TODAY!

SCDS ALUMNI COUNCIL

With 26 Class Agents and connectors, a Wildcat Tracks eNewsletter, and a variety of events throughout the year, SCDS’s alumni presence continues to grow. Contact your SCDS Class Agents via the Connect tab of the SCDS website to learn more about how you can be involved. Don’t see your class year listed? Email us for information on becoming a Class Agent: alumni@seattlecountryday.org 1981: Anastacia Sims Dillon 1983: Jason Froggatt 1985: Karim Lessard and Wendy (Sunderland) McDermott 1988: Carolyn Holtzen 1989: Lisa (Narodick) Colton 1990: Sarah Leung 1991: Catherine (Burns) Humbert 1993: Josh Donion 1996: Chris Loeffler 2000: Sam Fisher and Emily Hamilton 2001: Laurel Stewart 2005: Devon Thorsell 2012: Emma Gautier 2013: Emily Jordan and Emma Engle 2014: Cole Graham and Emmy Hunt 2015: Emme McMullen and Hayden Ratliff 2016: Nathan Burke, Suzanna Graham, and Jane Lord-Krause 2017: Tamarin Camp and Blakey Weld

Congratulations to

REBECCA YEUNG ‘19

and KIMBERLEY YEUNG ‘21 for making Seattle Magazine’s ’36 Women in Seattle Who Are Getting Things Done’ list. These SCDS alumni sisters have conducted experiments launching astronomical instruments into the atmosphere which has caught the attention of the scientific community.

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

ALUMNI EVENT RECAP...

On November 24, 2017 SCDS alumni spanning class years 1985 to 2017 gathered for The 3rd Annual Alumni Turkey Scramble. Over 25 alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, and friends were in attendance. Food was collected for donation, windy Ultimate was played, and sweet swag was given courtesy of Five Ultimate and ARIA Ultimate. A big thank you to Zahlen Titcomb ‘96 and Xtehn Titcomb ’98 for making this event possible. We hope to catch you at the next Turkey Scramble— November 23, 2018! This past Winter, SCDS piloted an inaugural Job Shadow Program, offering alumni the opportunity to learn more about a handful of local companies run—and employed— by SCDS alumni. Students from the class of 2013 participated and reflections are shared on pages 10-11. We look forward to offering future opportunities as we create and strengthen connections amongst alumni spanning all graduation years. Fresh powder atop Crystal Mountain greeted 55 alumni, parents of alumni (PLUM), and community members on Friday, January 26, 2018 for our 4th Annual Alumni Winterim. There was much to catch up on over ski slope shenaningans while new memories were being made. Keep your eyes peeled for information on SCDS’s 5th annual Alumni Winterim Day forthcoming fall 2018.

SAVE THE DATE!

Join SCDS alumni on Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. to watch the Seattle Cascades take on the San Diego Growlers at Memorial Stadium. Reconnect with friends, grab the latest SCDS swag, and watch alums in action (John Randolph ’13, Henry Schneider ‘99, and Xtehn Titcomb ‘98).

SPRING 2018 | KINETICS

AROUND

CAMPUS SCDS’s 2017-18 MIDDLE SCHOOL DEBATE TEAM completed their impressive season by placing second in the season’s final debate tournament on January 27, 2018. The team competed as part of the Pacific Northwest Middle School Debate League coached by Grade 8 Language Arts Teacher and Grade 7 Drama Teacher Brian Crawford as well as Grades 4-5 Drama Teacher and Grades 6-7 Spanish Teacher Evelyn Cook. This year’s team included the following 8th grade students: Abby Assadi, Alexander Belfiore, Avi Berman, Eli Colton, Quinn Elliott, Zach Harding, Jack Lessard, Andrew Schwiebert, Owen Snyder-Smith, Elena Weitz, Holt Witter, and Amelia Worthington. The team also included the following 7th grade students: Ava Barnhart, Sebastian Byrne, Kyle Cassidy, Advik Eswaran, Theo Halpern, Nina Kibria, Jack Little, Julian Loewenherz, Olivia Rosoff, and Nicholas Thorsen. GRADES 7-8 SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER AND SCDS ULTIMATE COACH

Mary Lowry was inducted into the USA Ultimate Hall of Fame February 1, 2018. According to The Ultimate Hall of Fame and USA Ultimate, Mary exemplifies the “spirit and soul” of Seattle Ultimate. “Mary has been the driving force behind youth Ultimate in Seattle for over 30 years. As a founder of the first youth leagues in the area, one of the organizers behind Spring Reign, and coach of the first-ever World’s high school girls team for the Ultimate Players Association (UPA), Mary has led the way for growth of the sport at every level. She is also an accomplished player, winning world championships in both Ultimate and Freestyle. Seattle’s Ultimate scene would not be where it is without her influence.” Ms. Lowry was inducted along with eight other notable individuals: Dave Blau, Leslie Calder, Jeff Cruickshank, Steve Dugan, David “Buzz” Ellsworth, Pam Kraus, Caryn Lucido, and Mark Licata.

K-3 TECHNOLOGY TEACHER Alice Baggett spoke at the

2018 Northwest Council for Computer Education (NCCE) conference on Valentine’s Day. She gave a presentation on K-3 students and the Maker Movement. “Some of the content in my presentation comes from my book, The Invent to Learn Guide to Making in the K-3 Classroom: Why, How and WOW!, but a lot of it was inspired by new work I have been doing with my students in the K-3 lab right here at SCDS.” Alice enjoyed sharing ideas with other technology educators in our region.

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

SCDS’s second annual

INTERNATIONAL NIGHT

took place this past March. Dedicated families created over 30 cultural displays and generous volunteers provided dinner entrees, desserts, and snacks from around the world. The displays in the gym reflected the wide-variety of cultures that are meaningful to SCDS families. All of this came together to produce a night full of celebration, camaraderie, and cultural learning.

SCDS SPORTS IN REVIEW:

Grades 3-8 Ultimate:

119

ATHLETES PARTICIPATED

For this year’s 24th annual St. John’s-Ravenscourt School’s HOLD BACK THE SNOW (HBTS) Ultimate tournament, SCDS Wildcats faced off against one another after defeating the other teams in the semi-finals. While SCDS’s Green Tide team won the HBTS competition, SCDS’s Blue Tide team was awarded the tournament’s “Spirit of the Game” award. Special thanks to SCDS Ultimate coaches: Grades 6 and 8 Math Teacher Eddie Feeley, Grades 7-8 Social Studies Teacher Mary Lowry, Grades 7-8 PE and Life Skills Teacher Shiloh Greenhaw, and Grades 6-7 Math Teacher Stephen Gussin.

Grades K-8 Cross Country:

ATHLETES PARTICIPATED

Grades K-8 Soccer:

140

ATHLETES PARTICIPATED

Grades 6-8 Girls’ Volleyball:

ATHLETES PARTICIPATED

SCDS’s K-8 SOCCER TEAMS took to the field to represent Wildcat tenacity this season with spirited teamwork and fun! They couldn’t have done it without the support of our amazing set of parent coaches.

Grades 4-8 Basketball:

The MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TEAM did well in their “End-of-season Jamboree,” winning two games with only one loss.

ATHLETES PARTICIPATED

SCDS MIDDLE SCHOOL BASKETBALL TEAMS had a wonderful season with standout performances propelling the Middle School Boys’ Division 1 team to 8-1; the Middle School Boys’ 7th grade team to 8-1; and the Middle School Girls’ Division 1 team to an impressive 9-0.

SCDS’s K-8 CROSS COUNTRY TEAM was 7th overall in the CYO AAA Division Championships. SCDS student athletes placed in multiple grades: 4th grader Cole Bernard placed third; 5th grader Duncan Frisbie-Smith placed eighth; 7th grader Stephen Bleakley-Harris placed sixth; and 8th grader Yumi Park-Davis placed tenth.

SPRING 2018 | KINETICS

New Faculty & Staff: MATTHEW ROPP began as the Admissions

Assistant in March 2018. He graduated from Northern Illinois University with a BA in Communication and a minor in Southeast Asian studies. After graduation, Matthew lived and taught in Terengganu and Sabah, Malaysia as a Fulbright Grant Recipient. He coordinated and taught English language programs sponsored by the Malaysian Ministry of Education. After the completion of his grant, he was a Senior Teacher and Content Creator for Storyland, a literacy training center in Shanghai, China. Matthew is interested in exploring the administrative side of education and is excited to join Admissions.

Farewells: Admissions Assistant KATIE GELUSO left SCDS in November 2017 to accept a position as Member Services Administrator at SBI Association Management, “I am excited about this opportunity for professional growth and genuinely saddened to be leaving this special community,” Katie expressed.

NICO SENI joined the Extended Day team

in December 2017. Nico is from the greater Seattle area and has a background in sports science and a degree in physical education from Sierra College. Prior to SCDS, Nico coached various high school football programs. His passion for team-building and group facilitation has been a great asset to the team!

MEGAN STOCKERT joined the Extended Day team after her recent move to Seattle from Reno, Nevada. She earned her BS in Community Health Science from the University of Nevada, Reno. Originally, Megan planned to pursue a career in pediatric physical therapy, but has recently had a change of heart. She is now planning to pursue a master’s degree in education or counseling. She enjoys hiking, playing tennis, and spending time with friends, family, and her pup. RAY STOEVE began as a Teaching Assistant

on October 6. Ray earned a BA from the University of Washington and has several years of experience with children and adolescents as a summer teaching assistant with Gage Academy of Art, as a tutor with the Shoreline School District, and as a counselor and instructor with the Associated Recreation Council. Ray has also worked as a bookseller, barista, and an intern with a magazine while an undergraduate student. Ray started a Middle School Creative Writing Circle in January as a space for middle school students to hang out, write, and give/receive writing feedback.

After over ten years of service, Director of Admissions KATHY MCCANN retired in October 2017. She was honored for her years of dedicated service at the first AllSchool Assembly. At the assembly she expressed gratitude to the faculty, staff, students, and families through smiles, kind words, and a few tears. Kathy began at SCDS just as the comprehensive $15 million campus renovations were being completed. During her tenure—in concert with the administration and teaching staff working with admissions—enrollment grew steadily over the years, particularly in the Middle School, to our current K-8 enrollment of 362. MATT RAYMOND,

Teaching Assistant for over two years, left SCDS in October 2017. Matt took a full-time position with Open Sky Wilderness Therapy in Durango, Colorado, where he now works as a Field Guide.

KINETICS | SPRING 2018

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 6244 Seattle, WA

2619 4th Avenue N Seattle, WA 98109 206-284-6220 www.seattlecountryday.org

SCDS STUDENTS ARE

On the Move THIS YEAR…

41,235+ 220 INNUMERABLE

STUDENTS (GRADES 4-8) PARTICIPATING IN CLASS TRIPS: NUMBER OF LESSONS LEARNED:

Vashon Island, WA

MILES TRAVELED:

Victoria, Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Vancouver, Canada Brussels, Belgium

Ashland, OR

Ho Chi Minh City, Hội An, Ha Long Bay, and Hanoi Vietnam

Atlanta, GA New Orleans, LA

Birmingham, Montgomery, and Selma, AL

Kigali, Rwanda

Akagera National Park, Kayonza, Rwanda

CAN YOU GUESS THE NEXT LOCATION?

Forward! DIVERSITY STATEMENT SCDS actively seeks to increase the breadth of diversity and inclusion in our entire community: the gifted children at the center of a dynamic learning process, their families, and our faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees. We aspire to include a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives; to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of differences; and to cultivate diverse thinking essential for creative problem-solving. Read more here: bit.ly/DiversityatSCDS

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT Seattle Country Day School strives to maintain a diverse school community. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability in administration of its educational policies, admission, financial aid, or any other school-administered programs.