Summer 2020
IN THIS ISSUE Graduation Alumni Profile: Mackenzie Kirchner-Smith ’09 Reopening our campuses 2020-21
By Alexandra S. Thurstone G’80, ’84
St. Francis has provided me with not only an education, but a life experience. I have learned to be a person who is engaged with the world around me, to greet every person I meet with compassion and understanding, and to carry the philosophy of St. Francis with me because it isn’t just our school’s Mission, it’s a way of life.” - Caroline Frederick G’16, ’20
Wyvern Report
2020 is most definitely a year that none of us will ever forget. Closing school to in-person instruction on Friday, March 13th, and opening for our first-ever foray into remote learning on Monday, March 16th was quite a feat. While I think we all confirmed clearly that in-person school is highly preferable to remote learning, I am so very proud of all of our amazing faculty who rose to the occasion, diving in headfirst and doing a truly outstanding job. I also want to commend our students – from our little people in Preschool and Lower School who had to learn to be more independent (with a lot of help from their parents and caregivers, of course) to our Middle and High School students who rocked remote learning and participated wholeheartedly in all the virtual community events we held in support of each other and to keep the SFS community strong. And to our parents who reached out with suggestions for making the experience better and with so many thankful, appreciative messages, as well – you helped keep us all going. The whole experience was nothing short of a miracle. Of course, our end-of-year events were completely different than ever before, but no less wonderful and unique in their own ways. Our Carpool Abacus Presentation and video Graduation ceremony still allowed our 8th graders to come together as a class one last time, and then have a video to commemorate the year forever. The High School’s Graduation at Sauerbeck Family Drive-In was a sight to behold. While it poured buckets of rain until about 4:05 p.m. (the ceremony was supposed to start at 4:00 p.m.), we held off until the skies cleared and then it was perfect for the entire ceremony. With both of these ceremonies, we were able to preserve our favorite parts: the student speeches. I’m delighted to share some quotes from a few of those now. Mireia Cecil G’20 talks about how welcome she felt when joining SFS: “When I first came to St. Francis in 6th grade, I was very nervous. I had been going to the same small school my whole life and was unsure of what awaited me in middle school. Luckily, there was no need to be afraid. All of the teachers and students that I have met during my years at SFS have each taught me something valuable and treated me with kindness.” Jack Scantland G’20 shares a memory that contrasts with the end of school: “Another memory that I am going to cherish is the 8th Grade Lock-in. From playing volleyball and watching The Ring, that was such a fun and wholesome experience – it really epitomizes my feelings for my class and school. I am so happy we were able to share that moment before the year took an abrupt turn and became virtual and remote, two words I never would have associated with St. Francis before the pandemic… 8th grade Goshen Class of 2020, we may be six feet apart, but we will all remain in each other’s hearts.”
2
Caroline Frederick G’16, ’20 feels that our Mission is a way of life: “St. Francis has provided me with not only an education, but a life experience. Of course, I am grateful for everything I have learned inside the classroom at St. Francis, but for me it was more about what was beyond our school’s walls. I have learned to be a person who is engaged with the world around me, to greet every person I meet with compassion and understanding, and to carry the philosophy of St. Francis with me because it isn’t just our school’s Mission, it’s a way of life. To cultivate a joyful, compassionate, and intellectual community that celebrates individuality and inspires independent thinking for life.” Adelaide Lenihan ’20 relates how differently she feels about her school compared to friends at other schools: “Now every time I talk about my high school experiences to my friends from different schools, I start to notice how fortunate I am because no one else can relate. It’s easy to forget that you go to the School of Thought when you are constantly in an environment that challenges and complements you at the same time, but when I listen to these other friends talk about their classes, their busy work, their boring teachers - it becomes very clear. I feel the exact opposite. I love my classes, the challenging discussions, and I never want to let my teachers down. In fact, I hope I have made my teachers proud.”
Michael Crinot ’20 wrote a poem for his graduation speech and we are sharing a excerpt of it below: Fellow children of the sun We were born holding the crook and the flail With eyes of silver and gold and minds to rival Toth Our time has come They will understand why we riot in the street Because Marsha threw the brick Because Tarana raised her voice Because Aoki supplied Because Malcom died This is our piece de resistance We will make piece from our resistance Children of the sun. The steps we have taken toward a better world were not a result of docility or sitting calmly with the oppressor.
Ford Middendorf G’16,’20 discusses the transformation from 9th grade and the special quality of the relationship with faculty: “Slowly but surely we have all become different from the kids who first stepped through the doors of 3rd and Broadway. Whether we gained awareness of our privileges, a more open mind, or a greater respect for each other’s journeys, the students before you are hopefully not just smarter, not just prepared to go to college, but more compassionate human beings with a broader world outlook. This would not have been realized by students without our understanding and brilliant faculty, who all wholeheartedly believe in our school and us, the students. They facilitate this change by creating trusting, enduring, and meaningful relationships with us.”
They were a result of people standing up and saying we will have our freedom by any means necessary.
As always, our students capture the essence of SFS so well in these speeches. We are so grateful to them for sharing their thoughts with us.
Keep your eyes on the future
By any means Necessary. By Any Means necessary. Children of the sun. While our world was crumblin’ We have run a hundred miles and we are still running We do not flee we chase, The sun Children of the sun as we take flight remember what we have learned And feel the will of fire burn in your chest as you soar.
3 www.StFrancisSchool.org
By Síofra Rucker G’84, Associate Head of School Development and External Relations
High School Gymnasium & Wellness Center
3rd street exterior
While the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly impacted philanthropic direction, it has not dampened the inherent drive of people to help others. Our Capital Campaign has two planks remaining: 1. The High School Gymnasium & Wellness Center $8.4 million 2. Scholarship Endowment $2 million Now that more of our families are requesting and qualifying for financial assistance than ever before; as such, some of our donors are prioritizing gifts to the scholarship endowment. The timeline of our High School Gymnasium & Wellness Center is likely to be extended, as we all find our feet underneath us in this new normal. However, with a $2 million matching grant that will double gifts to the campaign for either plank, our donors continue to be motivated to support our students with their philanthropy.
Gym interior
Wyvern Report
High School Gymnasium & Wellness Center In spring of 2019, we acquired the former Gray’s Bookstore property, thus becoming owners of ¾ of our block, with McDonalds in the final quarter. Our architects, Luckett & Farley, have designed a stunning building to provide substantial on-site athletic facilities for our students. Architecturally, the new facility is envisioned as a dynamic play of steel and glass that activates the 3rd Street side of campus, while extroverting the student, community, and athletic activities within. In addition, it will allow for accessibility enhancements to the School, which is not truly possible with our existing building. The gymnasium will provide a regulation high school-sized basketball court, volleyball court, weightlifting/workout facilities, locker rooms, bathrooms, storage, and concessions.
4
why i give
By Olivia Sleadd 2019-20 Annual Fund Chair
Now that the 2019-20 school year is behind us, it feels like so long ago that we kicked off the Annual Fund campaign. So much has happened in our country and our community since that time. As we are continuing with some difficult conversations and future uncertainties, I hope you’ve had the opportunity to reflect on the value St. Francis School brings to your children and your family. When I enthusiastically kicked off this campaign I shared with you some of the reasons why I give to the Annual Fund. One of my main reasons had to do with the loving, supportive, and safe learning environment of our school. I have always loved that St. Francis School values the cultivation of joy along with academic rigor so my children are not only learning the things they need to know to be successful, but they love the process of learning as well. This has never been more important, nor more evident, than it was a few months ago when the doors to the school closed and St. Francis turned to online classes due to COVID-19. My children logged on to classes every day, engaged with their teachers outside of those online classes, and continued
seeking opportunities to learn, not because they had to but because they wanted to. Additionally, I have always loved that St. Francis School seeks to cultivate a compassionate community that demands tolerance and respect for individuals. Our school encourages open and honest conversations to allow students to fully understand (at an age-appropriate level) current events and critical issues. Our students know that they are in a safe place to ask tough questions and discuss challenging topics. Most importantly to me, they are surrounded by people with diverse backgrounds and experiences to help them understand various perspectives of any given subject. Although much is changing, and we are still facing significant uncertainties, the core of why I gave and will continue to give to St. Francis School has remained the same. Our teachers rely on our gifts to make school a safe and special place for our children to grow into the compassionate leaders and community members needed for a better future. So thank you to everyone who gives to the Fund for St. Francis. Your donation, no matter the size, makes a difference and your support is deeply appreciated! Thank you to all our donors who helped us meet and exceed our Annual Fund goal!
thank you to our parent association Every parent at SFS is a member of the Parent Association (PA). The PA raises funds through annual dues, the High School used book sale, and fun family events throughout the year to give back to the school in the form of PA grants. Last year the School received a PA grant of $18,000 to fund the following items requested by faculty: High School • Classroom furniture (desks, chairs, bookcase, tables) for one classroom Goshen • A set (20) of Chromebooks Preschool • Sensory tables (2) Thank you, SFS parents, for these grants and for all you do to make our School the wonderful community it is! Questions about how to support your PA? Ask Dianne Siciliano, High School PA Chair, at DowntownPA@StFrancisSchool.org; Allison King, Goshen PA Chair, at GoshenPA@StFrancisSchool.org; or Laura Burke and Stacy Plotts, Preschool PA Co-Chairs, at burke4ever@att.net and Sa.plotts@gmail.com.
5 www.StFrancisSchool.org
Mackenzie
Mackenzie graduating from Fort Hays State University in 2015
Mackenzie working in the UC Museum of Paleontology fossil preparation laboratory at UC Berkeley
Briefly describe your path after leaving St. Francis. After leaving St. Francis I moved to Bloomington, Indiana to begin my undergraduate degree at Indiana University, finishing in four years with a B.S. in Geological Sciences. In 2013 I moved to Hays, Kansas where I began graduate school at Fort Hays State University, and, after two years there, I received my M.S. in Geosciences and completed a certificate of Museum Studies at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Continuing my journey westward, I moved to California and began my Ph.D. in Integrative Biology at the University of California, Berkeley in 2015, and I am now in the fifth year of this program. What three words come to mind first to describe St. Francis? Unique. Free-spirited. Artistic. Looking back at your time at St. Francis, how would you describe what makes a St. Francis education unique? St. Francis was the kind of experience you would expect from your first year at college. There was a lot of freedom, which meant the School placed a lot of trust in us, the
Wyvern Report
students. The fact that we were able to sign out of the building to go downtown gave me the kind of personal responsibility I needed to prepare me for college and beyond. We were also such a small school, and very open-minded. Being at St. Francis helped me discover myself, where teachers and students alike were openly gay, or vocal about differing political and religious views, or willing to discuss societal topics (even in class) that were usually reserved for adult conversations. Here we were part of the conversation, no matter how tough it might be to talk about, and I think that is extremely important for high-school-age individuals. Do any specific memories or examples come to mind that illustrate this? Even though I am not personally religious, the ‘Sacred Space’ was always my favorite place to go. It was a calming space for meditation, reflection, and escape when you needed it. Places like the ‘Sacred Space’ were for everyone, no matter who you were or what you believed in, and I believe every school should have a space like this.
6
Kirchner-Smith ’09 Mackenzie poses with her Senior Project of a Wyvern skeleton during her 10-year-reunion
Do you recall a specific teacher who influenced you or had a particular impact on you? I think that Cia White (former Master English Teacher) probably had the biggest impact on me. She was always there to listen if I needed someone to talk to about anything, whether it was school or personal. Her lessons have stuck with me the most through the years, and her teaching style is what I strive to have when I teach my own students today. How did your experience at St. Francis impact your career path and/or life? My time at St. Francis gave me confidence and personal experiences that made my transition into college much more smooth and successful. I already had a feel for the kind of freedoms, workloads, and schedules that college expects, but on a smaller scale. What are the highlights of your career thus far? While I do not yet have what I would call a ‘career’, one of my biggest accomplishments has been obtaining my master’s degree. It was a huge step towards my career goals and provided me with many exceptional experiences and contacts. The highlights of my years spent in graduate school (so far) have probably been the sheer number of times I have gotten to go behind the scenes to work and do research in museums and natural history collections, including some of the largest
Mackenzie sporting vintage Wyvern wear in 2009
and most well-known museums like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Chicago Field Museum. How do you define success? Success is accomplishing what you set out to accomplish. When I chose to make the Wyvern skeleton sculpture for my Senior Project, I had a number of people question whether or not I would be able to do such a thing, or who suggested I try to do something easier. I chose to do this project regardless, not because I needed to prove to anyone that I could, but because it was what I had decided I wanted. In completing it, I succeeded in what I had set out to accomplish in the first place - showing that art and science could mesh, and do not need to be considered separate spheres of thought. In academia, it is very tempting to judge one’s success by the number of publications or degrees one has, or the prestige of the institution. But I believe it is more personal than that success is what YOU make of it. What’s next for you? I will be finishing up my Ph.D. in the next couple of years and applying to jobs in the natural history museum field. With any luck, in two years I will be working in a museum as a curator, collections manager, or museum outreach educator. The size of the museum does not matter to me, and I have no idea where in the world I will end up. All just part of the journey!
7 www.StFrancisSchool.org
TJ Miller G’75 is back in Louisville after working at LearningLeaders in Shanghai, PRC, where he designed and taught courses in rhetoric, declamation, and debate for Chinese students who plan to study in the US. He currently runs a self-built tutoring firm, Strategic Learning Concepts, which works with students across the US in standardized exam preparation and academic tutoring. TJ is also an Adjunct Professor of Statistics for Butler University’s MBA program in Indianapolis, and he teaches skiing in Vail, Colorado during semester breaks. Wes Ramsey G’92, ’96 is thrilled to release his newest collection of works, INTO THE BLACK. After the successful launch of his first volume SALT & SAND in 2014 (which has now been retired to history), Wes has proudly prepared this new book as a proper introduction to the poetry world. You can purchase the book online at www.wesramsey.com TJ Miller G’79
Medina and Phil Yenawine G’02,’06
Paige Pence ’16
Wes Ramsey G’92, ’96
Lucia Burton G’11, ’15
Lena Crum ’16
wyvern pop-up What’s a Wyvern Pop-Up? It’s an alum-hosted, small, casual gathering of Wyverns somewhere outside of Louisville. You simply contact the Alumni Office and we’ll send a box of Wyvern Swag (Baby Wyvern stuffed animals, bumper magnets, t-shirts, etc.) to the event and once we get some great photos of this Wyvern Pop-Up, we’ll reimburse the host for the first round or two! (Of course there are a limited number of events per year and limits on reimbursements, but you get the idea.) Curious? Contact Melanie Pugh at MPugh@StFrancisSchool.org for more information.
Wyvern Report
Phil Yenawine G’02, ’06 and his wife Medina opened a new business in early 2020 called Notorious Art. In true Yenawine fashion, on top of getting married and buying a home in one year, he decided to become professionally involved with Josh Wingerter, a remarkable artist making his debut in Louisville, Kentucky. “At Notorious Art, we forge connections and utilize our network to build credibility and market viability for our artists. As artist representatives, we build a foundation for our artists, while simultaneously increasing the value of the art that our network of collectors hold in their collections. By synergizing both producers and collectors we can facilitate a stronger presence in the market as we shape the future of the art dealing business,“ said Yenawine. Bart Freibert G’06 started his own company called Reign Together in 2019. Reign Together creates products for couples that encourage them to “de-stress to connect” through the power of human touch - most notably with CBD Massage Oil and Kissing Balm. “Things are going really well with the business, and I want to share my excitement and invite you all to pay a visit to the website and join our email list to stay up to date with content and product offerings,” said Freibert. You can visit the online store at www.reigntogether.com. Lucia Burton G’11, ’15 graduated from Earlham College in May of 2019 and moved to St. Louis, Missouri in October. “I am absolutely thrilled and ecstatic to say that I have accepted an offer to one of my dream jobs! I am now the Child Nutrition Program Coordinator at Operation Food Search, a St. Louis-based non-profit organization that is working to end hunger and food insecurity in St. Louis and other surrounding counties.” She is helping coordinate after-school programs, weekend backpack programs, and summer programs that provide children with meals to take home. Lëna Crum ’16 released an EP album titled The Boy Next Door available on Spotify, iTunes, and YouTube. Paige Pence ’16 has been commissioned as a pilot in the U.S. Army following her graduation from Auburn University.
8
marriages
baby
wyverns
Hilary Bendon Lobb ’99 and her husband Tom welcomed their third child, Nolan Thomas Lobb, on February 4th, 2019.
Adam Maple G’97, ’01
Adam Maple G’97, ’01 married Jacey Rice on September 7th, 2019.
Caroline Johnson G’09, ’13
Caroline Johnson G’09, ’13 married Mitchell Goodrich on December 7th, 2019.
Alex Campbell ’01 and his wife Jamie welcomed their son Hugh Alexander “Alex” Campbell II on December 15th, 2019. Ghuneem Abdulnur ’02 and his partner Jenni welcomed their daughter Leena Josephine Abdulnur on July 29th, 2019.
Nolan Thomas Lobb
Hugh Alexander “Alex” Campbell II
2019 wyvern alumni reunion In September 2019, we celebrated the classes of ’79, ’89, ’99, and ’09 with a weekend of alumni events. Weekend events included small class gatherings hosted by classmates, the Fall Sports Picnic, and a dinner held on our Downtown Campus celebrating 10, 20, 30, and 40 years of Wyverns. This reunion was particularly noteworthy as it was our first reunion celebrating four graduating classes. The Class of 1979 was the first class to graduate after all four years attending the High School since its establishment in 1975. Attendees included Karl Victor ’79, Stephen Cull ’89, Drew Daniel ’89, Tom Henrion ’89, Rob Kemp ’89, Heather Mill ’89, Tim Peters ’89, Mark Serratoni ’89, Joe Waterman ’89, Hilary Bendon ’99, Courtney Dauenhauer ’99, Jessica Flynn ’99, Carolyn Gilles Hannan ’99, Megan Hille ’99, Belle
Holloway ’99, Rob Penta ’99, Emily Plant ’99, Jeff Roth ’99, Nathan Sullivan ’99, Ashley Tiller ’99, Jeff Treitz ’99, Allison Welsh ’99, Lizzy Denny ’09, Charles Joy ’09, Mackenzie Kirchner-Smith ’09, Gaby Perez ’09, Kyle Snyder ’09, Greg States ’09, Vanessa States ’09, Ashlee Swift ’09, Chris Thomas ’09 (and many alum partners, as well as faculty and staff)
Our 2020 Wyvern Alumni Reunion will be held in spring 2021. Classes of 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015, stay tuned for details!
in memoriam Former Goshen Campus faculty member Susan (Yeager) Judge passed away on December 16th at the age of 72. Susan taught a variety of grades during the late 70s and 80s. She is survived by her daughter, Meredith Plumb Williams, her grandchildren, Sophia and Cyrus Williams, and many extended family members.
Former student Robert N. Mitchem IV passed away on March 26th at the age of 23. Robert was a member of the class of 2015. He is survived by his parents, Kimberly Cooper and Robert Mitchem III, his sister, Alexis Cooper, and many family and friends who miss him greatly.
9 www.StFrancisSchool.org
Goshen Campus Carpool Abacus Presentation and Awards
The Goshen Campus Head of School Award Jack Scantland, Mya Stevenson The Spirit of St. Francis Award Mia Barbercheck, Ben Manno, Mae Wilson The Eagle Award Frey Blandford, Jack Christensen, Ella Gordon The Edward Y. Mason, Jr. Athletics Award Frey Blandford, Jack Christensen, Lucy Cohen, Avery Flynn, Emma Hales, Caroline Koloff, Julia Koloff, Isaac Levitch, Ryan Marks, Allie Rahman, Anna Smith, Esme Vaughn, Jackson Wood The St. Francis Goshen Campus Triple Crown Award Caroline Koloff, Julia Koloff The Russell D. Herr Art Award Amy Bagley, Mireia Cecil, Elle Goldstein, Allie Rahman The Ed Gupton Memorial Drama Award Lachlan Apple, Mia Barbercheck, Mireia Cecil, Ben Manno, Zack Mushkin, Allie Rahman, Jack Scantland, AJ Stevenson, Mya Stevenson
Wyvern Report
Goshen Campus St. Francis “Lifers� Attended St. Francis continuously from Preschool through 8th grade:
Caroline Koloff, Julia Koloff, Allie Rahman, AJ Stevenson, Mya Stevenson Attended St. Francis continuously from Junior Kindergarten through 8th grade:
Mae Wilson Attended St. Francis continuously from Kindergarten through 8th grade:
Mia Barbercheck, Alexandra Frazier, Ben Manno, Ryan Marks, Jackson Wood 8th Grade Children of Alumni Lachlan Apple, Lucy Cohen, Avery Flynn, Ella Gordon, Jackson Wood The Frank Q. Cayce Scholarship Award Amy Bagley, Ben Manno, Mya Stevenson The Cassie Stevens Memorial Award (5th graders) Kate Christensen, Zara Farber
10
High School 2nd Semester Honor Roll: Students who earned all As and Bs
12th Grade Priscila Angoa, Kelly Baize, Haydon Bauer, Lalit Bhattarai, Jack Borders, Jack Charlton, Maimouna Cherif, Ben Cornett, Oliver Cox, Michael Crinot, Amelia Dimas, Grace Donovan, Natalie Ernst, Caroline Frederick, Connor Gordon, Sam Greenbaum, Declan Keegan, Natalie Lancaster, Adelaide Lenihan, Grace Malone, Eston McLeroy, Ford Middendorf, Christ Moo, Osaz Omoruyi, John Ospital, Caroline Pepa, Drew Perkins, Jamani Reed, Alex Shelley, Eli Sherman, Connor Strothman, Colleen Torrans, Bradley Wilson, Lowell Woock, Holly Yelton 11th Grade Eduardo Avila, Eden Baize, George Bevan, Audrey Brinkmann-Piuma, Will Caudill, Charli Clark, Harrison Hilton, Jaida Knuckles, Matt Kurtz, Jimmy Lancaster, Bennett Middendorf, Teagan Morrison, Katie Mushkin, Bella Nugent, Grayson Razavi, Addie Regnier, Claire
Richards, Nacho Seco Legarda, Drew Siciliano, Parker Smith, Sydney Snyder, Natalie Stewart, Max Willey, Sam Yost 10th Grade Nora Abugabal, Stevaun Butler, Ella Carden, Evie Dunn, Lily Gilbert, Katie Hammond, Anna Hardwick-Jones, Jed Ives, Lucy Johnson, Aidan Kash, Ayda Marshall, Rayya Metry-Bonyun, Ali Muse, Lucas Nofsinger, Katy Roemer, Alison Smith, Ellie Westfall 9th Grade Cole Bridges, Nolan Brown, Amir Campbell, Cara Chambers, Ja’Karri Clay, Emily Cordero, Kenna Cornell, Lane Coughlin, Olivia DeWees, Lucy Frederick, Amelia Gorman, Alex Horner, Ku Htoo, Hayden Jones, Aidan Keegan, Guy Koerner, Ava Kurtz, Aryana Luckett-Orr, Jane McLeroy, West Middendorf, Alex Miguel, Mohamed Muse, Sheridan Oller, Abigail Runyon, Amillia Samuels, Xavier Shelley, Jackson Sleadd, Emma Todd
High School Awards Day Ceremony BOOK AWARDS (for 11th graders) Dartmouth College (Excellence in World Languages)
Audrey Brinkmann-Piuma Harvard University (Excellence in Math) Natalie Stewart Princeton University (Excellence in Science) Drew Siciliano University of Virginia (Excellence in History) Eden Baize Yale University (Excellence in English) Sydney Snyder Bryn Mawr College (Purposeful young woman) Katie Mushkin Hampden-Sydney College (Purposeful young man) Jimmy Lancaster University of Louisville (Excellence in Community Service) Teagan Morrison University of Kentucky (Leadership) Parker Smith
NATIONAL SOCIETY OF ARTS AND LETTERS AWARDS
(for seniors) Overall Artistic Excellence Excellence in Drama Excellence in Music Excellence in Photography Excellence in Studio Art Excellence in Video
Caroline Frederick Amelia Dimas Eston McLeroy Jack Charlton Connor Gordon Eli Sherman
ATHLETIC AWARDS
Triple Crown Award Kelly Baize, Connor Gorman, Bruce Hamilton, Fairleigh Jones Senior Scholar-Athlete Awards Ben Cornett, Alex Shelley Athletes of the Year Connor Gorman, Caroline Pepa Athletic Director’s Award Connor Gorman
SENIOR DEPARTMENTAL AWARDS
History Math Science World Language
Lalit Bhattari, Ford Middendorf Jack Charlton Amelia Dimas, Drew Perkins Grace Malone
11 www.StFrancisSchool.org
Graduation Awards The Phi Beta Kappa Award Amelia Dimas The Head of School Award Michael Crinot, Adelaide Lenihan The Thomas H. Pike Award Caroline Frederick, Drew Perkins The Class of ’93 Esprit de Corps Award Lily Habich The Cia White English Prize Colleen Torrans Honors Graduates Lalit Bhattarai, Jack Charlton, Maimouna Cherif, Ben Cornett, Oliver Cox, Michael Crinot, Amelia Dimas, Grace Donovan, Caroline Frederick, Connor Gordon, Adelaide Lenihan, Grace Malone, Eston McLeroy, Ford Middendorf, Christ Moo, Osaz Omoruyi, Caroline Pepa, Drew Perkins, Alex Shelley, Eli Sherman, Connor Strothman, Colleen Torrans, Bradley Wilson, Holly Yelton
Wyvern Report
St. Francis AP Scholars Priscila Angoa, Maimouna Cherif, Ben Cornett, Michael Crinot, Caroline Frederick, Grace Malone, Osaz Omoruyi, Alex Shelley, Colleen Torrans, Holly Yelton Senior Project Honors Lalit Bhattarai - “Lhotshampa: The Forgotten Children of Bhutan” Ben Cornett - “Designing a Building” Amelia Dimas - “Studying Vocal Technique Across Multiple Genres” Caroline Frederick - “‘The Thoughtful Theatre Nerd’: How Musical Theatre Sought to Represent, Analyze, and Critique American Social Issues” Adelaide Lenihan - “Introducing Demanding Denim, My Authentic Denim Line” Grace Malone - “Grace Writes a Book” Eli Sherman - “The E-Life: The Pilot” Colleen Torrans - “Creating a Fanzine”
Holly Yelton - “Creating a Booklet to Teach Chinese Grammar Through Original Stories” Rotary Club Unsung Hero Award Adelaide Lenihan Mayor’s Outstanding Senior Award Christ Moo St. Francis “Lifers” Attended St. Francis continuously from Preschool through 12th grade: Grace Donovan, Natalie Lancaster, Grace Malone, Eston McLeroy, Holly Yelton Attended St. Francis continuously from Junior Kindergarten through 12th grade: Ford Middendorf Attended St. Francis continuously from Kindergarten through 12th grade: Connor Gorman, Bradley Wilson 12th Grade Children of Alumni: Ben Cornett, Grace Donovan (double alumni child), Connor Gordon
12
class of 2020 enrollments and acceptances Priscila Angoa - University of Kentucky, Duquesne University, Loyola University Chicago, Regis University, University of Minnesota, University of Pittsburgh Kelly Baize - University of Louisville, Bellarmine University Haydon Bauer - Northern Kentucky University Cloey Beardsley - University of Louisville Lalit Bhattarai - Berea College Luke Borden - Gap Year Jack Borders - Loyola University Chicago, Savannah College of Art and Design, University of Arizona, University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, University of Redlands, Xavier University, Ohio Dereka Bush - Gap Year
Mohammad Flournoy - Fisk University
Belle Oliphant - Gap Year
Caroline Frederick - Trinity College, American University, Connecticut College, Denison University, Dickinson College, Elon University, Ithaca College, Oberlin College, Skidmore College
Osaz Omoruyi - The Ohio State University, American University, Centre College, New York University, University of Louisville
Connor Gordon - University of Cincinnati, University of Louisville Connor Gorman - University of Alabama, Clemson University, Florida State University, Indiana University, Bloomington, Texas A&M University, University of Kentucky Sam Greenbaum - University of Pittsburgh, University of Connecticut, University of Louisville Lily Habich - Sullivan University
Clay Carlton - Belmont University, Bellarmine University
Bruce Hamilton - University of Tampa, Miami University, University of Cincinnati, Western Kentucky University
Jack Charlton - University of Kentucky, The Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, University of Louisville
Lily Johnson - Lewis & Clark College, Reed College, University of Louisville
Maimouna Cherif - Colby College, Bellarmine University, Centre College, University of Kentucky Ben Cornett - Tulane University, University of Cincinnati Oliver Cox - DePaul University, Boston University, Emerson College, Ithaca College, Loyola Marymount University, Temple University Michael Crinot - Stanford University, Harvard University, Miami University, Ohio, Purdue University, Rice University, University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Davis, University of Chicago, University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, University of Southern California Ella Davis - Transylvania University, Charleston Southern University, University of Kentucky Amelia Dimas - Emory University, Bellarmine University, Centre College, Kenyon College, Middlebury College, Oberlin College, University of Kentucky Grace Donovan - Dickinson College Carly Durbin - University of Louisville Natalie Ernst - St. Louis University, DePaul University, Loyola University New Orleans, University of Dayton
Bold text denotes enrollment
Declan Keegan - Gap Year Natalie Lancaster - University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Miami University, Ohio, Rollins University, Stetson University, Texas Christian University, University of Arizona, University of Cincinnati, University of Colorado, Boulder, University of Kentucky, University of Tampa Adelaide Lenihan - Savannah College of Art and Design, Academy of Art, San Francisco, Belmont University, Fort Lewis College Grace Malone - Centre College, Berry College, Furman University, Hanover College, Lewis & Clark University, Sarah Lawrence College Eston McLeroy - DePauw University, Centre College, Murray State University, Transylvania University, University of Kentucky Ford Middendorf - Georgetown University, Southern Methodist University, University of Virginia, University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, University of Oregon, University of Washington Christ Moo - University of Louisville, Bellarmine University, Murray State University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, University of Evansville, University of Memphis
John Ospital - Western Kentucky University Caroline Pepa - College of Wooster, Coastal Carolina University Drew Perkins - Centre College, Emory University, Georgetown University, Hanover College, Lehigh University, University of Dayton Jamani Reed - Western Kentucky University, Bellarmine University, Brescia College, Campbellsville University, Eastern Kentucky University, Kentucky State University, Murray State University, Philander Smith College Alex Shelley - Centre College, Berry College, Davidson College, Furman University, Hanover College, Haverford College, Wake Forest University Eli Sherman - Savannah College of Art and Design, Stetson University, University of Arizona, University of Tampa Cole Strause - University of Louisville Connor Strothman - University of Louisville, Butler University, Transylvania University Colleen Torrans - Haverford College Ellie White - University of Cincinnati, DePauw University, Indiana University, Bloomington, Loyola University Chicago, Miami University, Ohio, Michigan State University, Ohio University, University of Kentucky Bradley Wilson - University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, Lewis & Clark College, University of Kentucky, University of North Carolina, Asheville, University of Oregon, University of San Francisco Lowell Woock - Skidmore College, American University, Belmont University, Centre College, Drexel University, Elon University Holly Yelton - Oberlin College, Centre College, Haverford College, Kenyon College, Miami University, Ohio, Washington and Lee University
13 www.StFrancisSchool.org
1) 5-DAY IN-PERSON MODEL
our campuses for 2020-21 Short of a mandate to return to Healthy at Home, the St. Francis Board and Leadership Team have determined that we will reopen our campuses for school in August. We don’t have all of the answers yet and details may change between now and August, but we have established a plan that adheres to public health guidelines and allows for all students to be at school every day all day, versus an A/B or shift model, in which only a portion of the student body is in the building at one time. In building this plan, we focused on our priorities for reopening our campuses, which are: • minimizing risk and prioritizing health and safety for our students, faculty, and staff; • being together as a community; and • delivering our curriculum optimally under multiple scenarios. Based on the Kentucky Department of Education and Governor’s Office’s Healthy at School guidelines we have developed three models that are outlined below, all of which will adhere to the Healthy At School guidance.
Wyvern Report
This model is how we intend to open in August. It is the most like “normal school,” with all students on campus on a regular schedule. • Our physical spaces on both campuses will accommodate social distancing guidelines with creative use of spaces and some modifications to scheduling. We have measured each learning space and modeled various furniture layouts. • As needed, we will move classes into other larger spaces on both campuses o Goshen: Multipurpose Room, Gym, Main Amp/Theater, Play Shelter, divisional Amps o High School: Commons Room, Space for Thought, Performing Arts Space, Courtyard, Art Studio • We will activate more of our 64-acre Goshen Campus with outdoor learning spaces o We have identified 15+ outdoor teaching/classroom spaces for use when the weather is suitable; most of these spaces will have seating and shade o We will have some outdoor classroom space designated primarily for LS and some for MS • We are evaluating practices and protocols in every area on both campuses, including staggered morning arrivals, travel patterns throughout the day, bathroom capacity, lunch, recess, staggered dismissal, enhanced cleaning, and more; in short, all aspects of school.
2) Intermittent Remote Learning Model This model will be implemented when and if public health guidelines mandate a Healthy at Home order. While we all sincerely hope this doesn’t happen, it remains a potential scenario. We are enhancing and improving our remote learning program based on: • our experience last spring; • survey results from parents, students, and faculty feedback; and • the significant professional development we have invested in during the spring and summer. All of the above will result in our already strong remote learning program being even better, if needed.
14
3) Hybrid Model – Remote Learning Concurrent with In-Person Learning We want to ensure that students who need to be at home for their own or their family members’ health can still receive a St. Francis education. We have made significant investments in doubling our internet bandwidth and increased hardware to allow each classroom to deliver concurrent remote and in-person learning, to serve students in the classroom and at home at the same time.
While we don’t have all the answers just yet, we will continue to deliver on the promise of an outstanding SFS education for every student, regardless of which model is implemented.
parent testimonials during remote learning We know that this whole thing has been such a curveball for everyone, but you all are handling it especially well. My child looks forward to your stories and classes every day, and we look forward to it because he does. - Dan S., Preschool Parent
A big thanks to you and all your teachers for all the hard work. Additionally, I wanted to let you know what a huge difference it makes for the kids to see their teachers and their friends via the video conferencing. A morning that started with anxiety, frustration and confusion, quickly righted itself when Kim Rash showed up singing! It is incredibly grounding for the kids in a time of chaos. I have spoken with several parents and teachers from both public and private systems, none of which have a schedule of video conferencing. I wondered if it was really necessary. The emotional and psychological benefits I witnessed this morning were tremendous. So, kudos to all of you for everything you have done and will continue to do in the coming weeks. We are so grateful. - Christy D., Lower School Parent
Please pass along a huge thank you to all the teachers, staff, and admin who are teaching and supporting students and families right now. I know teaching and supporting right now takes a lot longer and looks different from anything we’ve done before, but you all appear to take it in stride and demonstrate the type of courage, resilience, creativity, calm, and strength that we hope our children are learning. - Carol J., Middle School Parent
I just wanted to send a note and tell you that we have been really pleased with the remote learning offered by St Francis. We can tell the teachers have worked hard and adapted quickly, and we feel like what is being offered is truly teaching and not just self-directed learning. We happen to also have children in a different school, and by comparison, the quality of what SFS is doing is much stronger. We also appreciate the check-ins from teachers and Ms. Marks on our child’s overall well being in this crazy time. I just wanted to let you know that we have been very happy with what you all have made of this unpleasant situation. I hope we are back in school in the fall, and we never have to do this again, but I did want to let you know how much we appreciate all that you and the teachers have done. Thanks! - Kate R., Middle School Parent
I’m in awe of what you’ve managed to accomplish. For the rest of our lives, we will all vividly remember how we spent the 2020 Covid-19 Quarantine. For current teenagers it will shape who they become. Because of you, and your staff, the lucky students in your care will reflect on an experience that was not what they anticipated, but find it rich and satisfying. They will learn the lessons of resilience, perseverance, strength and acceptance, but not at the cost of tradition and right of passage. You have supported and nurtured them beyond anyone’s expectations. Your primary goal was to complete their education of this term’s curriculum, but you did so much more. You managed to continue to create community by providing Grandparents’ Day, Awards Day, Senior Projects, Student Art Show, Senior Luncheon, and Graduation in a meaningful way. The heart of this school continues to shine through. Thank you! - Dianne S., High School Parent
15 www.StFrancisSchool.org
If we have something incorrect here, please accept our apologies and set us straight by using the postage-paid envelope inside to let us know.
We THINK; therefore, we are St. Francis. 233 West Broadway
Louisville, KY 40202
A MESSAGE FROM THE FACULTY, STAFF, AND ADMINISTRATION OF ST. FRANCIS SCHOOL: The recent deaths of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and Ahmaud Arbery, as well many others before them, are testament to the continued racism in our community and our country. This is a time of sadness, anger, and shame. As a school, we share in the immense grief caused by these deaths and the loss of so many other black lives before them. Black lives matter. As a School dedicated to core values that include community, inclusivity, thought, and expression, we encourage difficult conversations about race, the training of white accomplices to listen and advocate, and the need for personal acceptance of biases that require enduring vigilance to resolve. We recognize the students, parents, alums, faculty, and staff who have been active participants in peaceful protests in recent days. Our
School community will continue striving to pursue anti-racist policies and practices, now more than ever. We want to support our families of color. We also want to serve as a resource to students, parents, and alumni by providing antiracist resources, education, and ways to take action. In the face of injustice in an imperfect world, we choose the path of compassion, empathy, and peace. We will continue this work with passion. We accept that it is our responsibility, as St. Francis School, to help foster and create a more just society than the one in which we currently live. We pledge to do our part to move this work forward. Originally posted June 1, 2020