1953 T H E M A G A Z I N E O F S T. J O H N S C O U N T R Y D AY S C H O O L
Winter 2022
Seniors Jude Howell, Jordan Taylor, Finn Howell, Brad Hodges, and Cooper Hunt bring their A game in Homecoming Week’s Squad Day.
Contents Letter from the Acting Head of School.....1 School News Briefs........................................2 Lower School................................................................................... 2 Middle School.................................................................................. 5 Upper School...................................................................................8 Athletics............................................................................................ 14 Performing Arts ......................................................................... 19 Visual Arts .................................................................................... 23
Class of 2022................................................. 26 Commit to St. Johns................................... 30 Redefining St. Johns’ Mission................... 33 Alumni Spotlight ......................................... 36 Alumni Notes................................................40
On the cover: Ryder Sapp ’35 and Chloe Corpuz ’35 enjoy the performance on Grandparents Day
1953: The Magazine of St. Johns Country Day School is published twice a year for the school community, with goals to tell the school’s stories and capture the history, traditions, values, and culture of St. Johns Country Day School.
Happy New Year, Spartan Families!
Head of School Valorie Baker with St. Johns’ new campus therapy dog, Byrdie
It’s my pleasure and honor to once again present you with our semi-annual magazine—a celebration of all things “St. Johns!” We have had much to celebrate over the past semester, starting of course with simply being open for in-person, on-campus learning once again. I am so thankful for the support we have received from the whole School community, which has enabled the School to remain safely open so far this year. We know that in-person learning is far superior to online alternatives for our students and are grateful to have kept our doors open during this very trying time. I give much credit to our amazing faculty members, who have continued to adapt classrooms and lessons to keep our students as safe as possible throughout the pandemic. Speaking of our amazing faculty, you’ll see a couple of notes in this issue about how our fantastic staff are being recognized in the community for their excellence. Those of us who work at St. Johns have known how great our faculty and staff are, and it’s wonderful to see that acknowledgement coming from beyond our gates as well. Also in this issue, please take a few moments to read (page 32) about how we have continued to refine and improve our programs and curriculum as we implement our new mission to develop students who seek solutions, accept responsibility, and create collaboration. We heard from leaders in education and business that these are the critical skills students need to master college and the 21st century workforce beyond, and St. Johns strives to ensure that our graduates are fully prepared for the future as they walk across the stage at their graduation. There are more exciting new changes to come, including results of our very first Winterim, which is taking place as I write this letter. I look forward to telling you all about it in the next issue! Spartan best,
Valorie Baker Head of School
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SCHOOL NEWS BRIEFS Lower School News “Flat Students” Welcome Parents With a nod to the Flat Stanley books, Grade 2 students made life size replicas of themselves to welcome parents to their classroom for St. Johns’ August parent open house. The replicas were a fun, handy way to greet parents and help them find their child’s seat!
Lower School Student Council Elections In September, students in Grades 4 and 5 had the opportunity to run for various positions on the Lower School Student Council, including Historian, Treasurer, Vice President, and President. Students made posters for display in the Lower School hallway, and on September 9, delivered speeches to family, friends, and fellow students in the Performing Arts Center. “Everyone did a fantastic job on both posters and speeches,” said Head of Lower School Otis Wirth. Votes were then tallied and verified, and Mr. Wirth announced the results at flag raising the following morning. The 2021-2022 Lower School Student Council officers are Historian Claire Galnor ’29, Treasurer Noah Rosenau ’30, Secretary Miley Desguin ’30, Vice President Wade Sabbagh ’30, and President Max Rivera ’29.
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School News Briefs
Welcome Back, Grandparents! After the School was forced to cancel Grandparents Day last year due to COVID-19, St. Johns was thrilled to welcome our Lower School grandparents and “grand-friends” back to campus on November 11. Grandparents joined us in the Performing Arts Center for a rousing and patriotic show in honor of Veterans Day, and then had brunch on the new patio and Quad area before joining their grandchildren for a classroom tour. The day was capped off with a visit to the Scholastic Book Fair, which took place all week.
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School News Briefs
Thanksgiving Food Drive In November, the Lower School Student Government sponsored a food drive for the Food Pantry of Green Cove Springs. With strong support from all three divisions and the whole St. Johns community, the Lower School gathered and donated about 800 pounds of much-needed food and personal items for the food pantry.
Ben Forbrich, Head of Lower School for the Day! At the 2021 Gala & Auction: A Night in Old Havana, Grade 2 student Ben Forbrich’s parents bid on and won “Head of Lower School for a Day” for him, and he seized the day in September. With help from his predecessor, Mr. Wirth, Ben helped out with morning carpool, attended flag raising, developed evaluation criteria for teachers and learning metrics for students (e.g., are they better than him at Prodigy?), and evaluated Lower School classrooms. He also helped out in some of the younger classrooms and was sure to make it back to his “real” classroom for apple pie in celebration of Johnny Appleseed! Sounds like a great day all the way around!
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School News Briefs Middle School News Student Council Elections Held
L-R Ilias Mamea, William Pounds, Grace Castleman, Ava Rose Weber, Bailey Conner
Middle School Student Council Elections were held September 1, 2021 and included candidates Bailey Conner ’27 for Historian, Ilias Mamea ’26 for Vice President, and, for President, William Pounds ’26, Gracie Castleman ’27, and Ava Rose Weber ’26. All of the candidates gave excellent speeches to their peers in St. Johns’ Performing Arts Center, with elections following in homerooms. The results were: Historian Bailey Conner, Vice President Ilias Mamea, and President William Pounds. Congratulations to all of the candidates and to the newly elected officials.
Regolith Grant Fuels Future Scientists NASA scientists currently believe that in order to get to Mars in the future, spacecraft will need to make a pitstop at the Moon. Thus, NASA will likely establish a lunar operating base on the Moon. This year, Grade 7 Earth Science teachers received two grants that provided about $400 worth of lunar regolith (simulated Moon soil) and Mars regolith (simulated Martian soil). Mrs. Wagstaff’s Grade 7 science classes have been studying whether specific percentages of lunar regolith and mixed compacted Earth additives will affect the growth of dandelions. Mrs. Sachs’ Grade 7 classes are studying the same concepts, but are using Martian regolith. As part of the grant, students have also had the opportunity to participate in webinars with scientists and astronauts who are providing information about the best ideas for growing food on the Moon or Mars. “This experience was a great way for students to experience designing a solution for our future society,” said Science Department Chair Jennifer Wagstaff. “It helps them see the practical applications of what we’re learning in the classroom, and may pique their interest in possible future careers. We might even have the next NASA astronaut or astrobotanist in the classroom!”
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School News Briefs
Middle School Spelling Bee In October, Middle School classes held qualifying rounds for the Middle School Spelling Bee. From these, class bees selected students (right) to advance to the final. Then, on December 9, all the class bee winners competed in a Middle School Spelling Bee, held in St. Johns’ Performing Arts Center. In a total of twelve rounds, the spellers competed with words including Juneteenth, conkers, tartan, and sustenance. For the final five rounds, Grade 8 students Pamela Hernon and Wyatt Hollingsworth battled it out with words like instinctive, ransacked, trodden, and swankiest before Wyatt stumbled on oft-misspelled ‘mantelpiece’ and Pamela was able to pick up the round with parole. According to the rules, Pamela had to spell one more word correctly, which she did, sealing the win. Pamela will represent St. Johns Country Day School at the Clay County Bee in January 2022, with Wyatt as the alternate. Congratulations, spellers!
Grade 6 Spellers (left to right): Asher Hendrix (alternate), Luke Mooneyham, Sophia McClellan, Caris Morgan, Cayden Ingram, and Brennan Rowzee
Grade 7 Spellers (left to right): Jordan Bliffen, Essie Melicharek, Madeline Finke (alternate), Liam McNulty, Ian Mamea, and Jamal Scott
Grade 8 Spellers (left to right): Emily Steckler (alternate), Calli Berrang, Pamela Hernon, Wyatt Hollingsworth, Deavyn Coleman, and Alyssa Walker
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School News Briefs
Middle School Faculty Amp Up the Fun, Science This fall, faculty members Jennifer Wagstaff and Denise Fountain created a new way for Middle School students to explore their love of science through FUSE (Fun and Unique STEM Enrichment) —a series of field trips and other exciting activities that help St. Johns students get an up close and in depth look at some exciting science, hands on! The first field trip took place in October and was to Marineland, where they participated in the mock rescue of a stranded dolphin on the beach, interacted with dolphins one-on-one, and learned from Marineland staff about marine science and dolphin behavior and biology.
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School News Briefs Upper School News Junior Ring Ceremony In December, the juniors who ordered class rings received them in a touching ceremony, which marked the beginning of their journey toward senior year, graduation, and beyond. Congratulations, juniors!
Dr. Román Named St. Johns Riverkeeper Educator of the Year In December, St. Johns’ own Dr. Judibelle Román was named Educator of the Year by St. Johns Riverkeeper, an organization working to protect and advocate for the St. Johns River. Dr. Román was recognized for standing out above the rest for the incredible work she does in our school, the Jacksonville community, and for the St. Johns River. For example, for the past four years Dr. Román has partnered with St. Johns Riverkeeper to teach students about eutrophication and aquifers as it relates to Florida and the St. Johns River, and she participates in professional development through St. Johns Riverkeeper to invest in her own education. “It has been an honor to work with such a dedicated educator who actively looks for ways to connect her students locally while also teaching the bigger concepts and global issues,” said St. Johns Riverkeeper Education Director Emily Floore. “Dr. Román is an inspiration to what a science teacher is capable of doing with the encouragement from her school, support of her family, and the love of teaching.”
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School News Briefs
New Technology Center Improves Access, Resources St. Johns’ new Technology Center affords more space and resources to help students learn through and about technology. The School’s thirteen 3D printers are almost constantly in action bringing students’ vision to life in a variety of projects and lessons, and virtual reality allows students and faculty to visit faraway museums, memorials, and locations where otherwise they’d have to be content with reading or viewing photos.
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School News Briefs
National Honor Society Inducts 36 New Members On November 16, the St. Johns chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) inducted 36 juniors and seniors as new members. They join the 34 existing members who were inducted last year: Angie Arellano Julia Boaventura John Cabrera Abbie Campbell Kaiya Cooper Lauren Correia Walker Cowherd Addie Ellis
Mary Beth Garrison Susannah Goodwin Sean Gregson Kinley Hall Evelyn Hanson Adan Herrera Finn Howell Jude Howell
Hannah Lemieux Jeramy Lewis Jack Minners Kiera Moisan Jonathan Moore Tyce Moore Mia Morin Robert Morris
Riley Myers Lillian Ouattara Luke Pardo Maggie Pizzi Nate Rowan Noelle Sanford Ariel Sauer Callum Steiner
Matthew Stratton Jordan Taylor And Junior Kellen Brown, who was inducted at his previous school.
Abigail Maierhoffer Marshall Martin Jack McNulty Juliet Moody Jack Mooneyham Cookie Myers Hunter Noble Daniela Oceguera Aidan Rice
Emma Schultz Chloe Smith Jacob Thomas Patrick Walsh Lily Weldon
After opening the ceremony and introducing existing members, NHS sponsor Stacy Johnson turned the program over to the chapter’s senior members. “In order to become a member of the St. Johns chapter of the National Honor Society,” said Mia Morin ’22, “a student must have a cumulative Upper School grade point average of at least 3.6 at the end of the sophomore or junior year, must have been a St. Johns student for at least a year, must be an active participant in school activities, and must exhibit the finest qualities of character.” With that, Senior John Cabrera introduced the new inductees: From the Class of 2022: Emelia Morton From the Class of 2023: Kennedy Brown Brooks Burson Javier Coll-Román
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Noah Cone William Cooper Emerson Cooper Ally Desguin Josie Dinkins Trey Dubnansky Kali Evans Meg Fackler Andrew Hightower
Shannon Hodges Antonio Holmberg Jacob Holyer Hunter Hopkins Sam Hopkins Ava Johnson Thomas Keenan Anna Kemp Talon Luster
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School News Briefs
A candle was lit as an NHS member spoke about each of the four pillars of the National Honor Society—scholarship, service, leadership, and character—and the inductees repeated the National Honor Society Pledge:
I pledge myself to uphold The purposes of the National Honor Society. I will be true to the principles for which it stands; I will be loyal to my school; I will maintain high standards of scholarship, High standards of service, High standards of leadership, and high standards of character. Next, Head of Middle and Upper Schools Jackie Lentini introduced the afternoon’s speaker, Mr. Matthew Jones, a 2001 graduate of St. Johns Country Day School. In 2005 Mr. Jones graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in design and he is now Vice President at H. Stephen Jones and Associates, Inc. Mr. Jones was also recently named one of Jacksonville’s 40 under 40 by the Jacksonville Business Journal. Mr. Jones spoke with the students about the qualities of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. “I truly hope that each of you feels a sense of honor and pride in this outstanding accomplishment,” said Jones. “The four qualifying characteristic pillars of the National Honor Society will all undoubtedly serve you well throughout your personal, professional, and scholastic career.” Congratulations, National Honor Society members!
St. Johns Lauds National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Last fall, Seniors Sean Gregson, Mia Morin, Robert Morris, and Ariel Sauer were named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists by The College Board. High School juniors enter the competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT©), which serves as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. “It’s an incredible honor to be named a National Merit Semifinalist,” said Director of College Counseling Caroline Morris. “Only one percent of high school seniors nationwide achieve this recognition, so these four Spartans have a lot to be proud of.” Congratulations, Semifinalists!
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School News Briefs
Homecoming The third week in October sure brought busy times for our Spartans, with themed dress-up days daily, plus the Homecoming parade, lip sync competition, pep rally, inaugural all-school Spartan Fest family carnival, Homecoming football game, football Senior Night, AND the crowning of the Homecoming Queen, Evelyn Hanson ’22 at half time! Evelyn’s crowning was followed by the crowning of her escort, Matthew Stratton ’22, as Homecoming King at the homecoming dance on Saturday night. Congratulations, Evelyn and Matthew, and to everyone who helped make it such a fun week!
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Jgs In Dec
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School News Briefs Athletics
Seven Commit on Early Signing Day On November 10, seven Spartan athletes took advantage of Early Signing Day to make a commitment to continue their academic and athletic careers at the next level. By signing a National Letter of Intent, they commit to play a sport at a particular college or university. These signees included:
Brad Hodges (baseball) – University of Virginia Finn Howell (baseball) – University of North Florida Jude Howell (baseball) – Rollins College Jordan Taylor (baseball) – Florida State University Julia Boaventura (soccer) – University of Southern Mississippi Isabella Pontieri (soccer) – Virginia Tech Matthew Stratton (cross country) – University of Florida
“We are so proud of each of these athletes and the tremendous achievements we recognize with this signing ceremony,” said Director of Athletics Traci Peacock Livingston ’90. “They have each worked so hard, and they and their families have made many sacrifices to get to this point. We look forward to watching them continue to grow and improve over the years to come.”
Cheerleading
Semaj Williams ’23
Under the new direction of Coach Kim Kurnitsky, the varsity squad cheered with great organization and excitement throughout the fall season. Excitement and pep were definitely in the air, and the School was thrilled to have such a large number of students out cheering on the Spartans. Middle School cheer also had an awesome season with Coach Kurnitsky. The squad cheered at numerous Middle School volleyball games throughout the fall.
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Semaj Williams ’23
School News Briefs
Football
George Auchter ’24
Under the direction of Head Coach Rocky Bantag, the Spartans continued membership in an 8-man league under the Sunshine State Athletic Conference. The Spartans gave their all in every contest and showed great character, including at the final home game on October 22, where St. Johns recognized the senior football players and cheerleaders. In December, three Spartans were named to the SSAC 1A-2A 8 man All Conference team: Caleb Cameron ’25 (DE), Josiah Jones ’22 (LB), and Thomas Pounds ’23 (OL). Congratulations, Spartans!
Golf
Matthew Stratton ’22
The boys’ golf team had an outstanding year, and Head Coach Bryan Kipnis had them playing golf year-round. The boys played a very competitive schedule and had numerous players earn medalist at matches. “There is some very young talent on the boys’ side,” said Coach Kipnis, “and the future is looking bright.” Under the direction of Coach Marion Detlefsen, Girls Golf also had a great season. Freshman Addy Vogt had an outstanding year, leading the team with numerous medalist honors throughout the season. After an extremely competitive District Tournament Championship, Addy advanced to the Regional Tournament Championship where she recorded her career best for 18 holes, becoming the overall runner-up for the tournament. Addy’s performance allowed her to qualify for the 2021 State Championship.
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School News Briefs
Cross Country In his 3rd year with Spartan Cross Country, Coach Greg Stratton continues to bring out the best in his runners. On October 28, the girls team placed 3rd and the boys team placed 2nd in the district. Matthew Stratton ’22 was the overall district champion and homeschooled runner Graham Myers was 2nd. Other meet medalists were Richard Nichols ’24, Walker Cowherd ’22, and Rebecca Stratton ’25. At Regionals, the Spartans took 3rd place and went on to compete in the State Championships, where Senior Matthew Stratton was crowned Class 1A State Champion. “The whole team has really given it their all this year,” said Coach Greg Stratton.
Stratton Receives Rotary Honors
In December, Senior Cross Country runner Matthew Stratton was honored by Orange Park Rotary Club as its Athlete of the Quarter, based on his performance both as an athlete and as a student. Congratulations, Matthew!
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School News Briefs
Girls’ Basketball’s Coach Yo Awarded A huge congratulations and shout out to Spartans Girls Basketball Coach Yolanda Bronston, Coach Yo, on her Breaking Through Award from WeCOACH, an organization dedicated to the recruitment, advancement, and retention of women coaches of all sports and levels. This award is presented to a female coach who has shown exemplary courage, resilience, and leadership in navigating the coaching profession at the high school level. Coach Yo has more than 25 years of coaching experience at various levels, from youth to Division 1 basketball, and in her four years at the helm of Spartan Girls Varsity Basketball, the team has reached the state playoffs each year with a roster that included several Middle School players. In the 2020-2021 season, Coach Yo led the Spartans to their first District Championship in 29 years. “Coach Yo has brought the women’s basketball program back up to where it was in its prime,” said Director of Athletics Traci Peacock Livingston ’90. “We look forward to what she and the team will do this season!”
Volleyball
Kate Jacobs ’24
Gianna Lentini ’24’
Under the direction of Coach Traci Peacock Livingston ’90 and assistant Coach Christie Jones Slaughter ’05, the Spartan Girls Varsity Volleyball team (19-5) had a great season. The team finished as the district runner-up, went on to win their first round of Regionals against John Paul II and traveled to Harvest for the Regional semifinal game on November 2. Numerous players were recognized as top stat leaders in North Florida. The Junior Varsity team, led by Head Coach Jenna Williams ’10, continued to build a strong foundation of success with emphasis on skill development in a fast-paced environment. The JV team is made up of hard-working athletes who continue to develop their fundamentals in preparation for earning a spot on the varsity team. The JV team finished the season 15-4. Rounding out the School’s volleyball presence, the Spartan Middle School Volleyball team is led by new coach and Lower School teacher Sophia Hewitt. “These young players are beginning with the basics of volleyball,” said Hewitt. “They’re working on their skills and learning and loving the game of volleyball.”
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Photographs by Kiera Moisan ’22, Javier Coll-Román ’23, Ava Morin ’24, and Serenity Williams ’22
School News Briefs
Swimming Head Coach JJ Albino continues to build St. Johns’ swim program by offering year-round team training. The Spartans had an amazing regular season in competitions and did well in Districts at Episcopal, advancing 12 athletes to the Regional meet at The Bolles School on October 26.
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School News Briefs Performing Arts News A Wrinkle in Time The fall theatrical production “A Wrinkle in Time,” by James Sie and based on the classic novel by Madeleine L’Engle, came to the Performing Arts Center in November and was a tremendous success. Hearty congratulations to Mr. Riker and the technical theatre and theatrical performance students, who all worked hard to pull the production together—from learning lines to painting sets. Through the course of an evening, the audience is transported, along with one of literature’s most enduring young heroines, Meg Murry, played by Jane Garrison ’25. Once again, Meg joins forces with Mrs. Whatsit, Charles Wallace, Calvin O’Keefe, and more to battle the forces of evil so she can rescue her father, save humanity and find herself. “In the end, we know two things for sure,” said Theatre Director Mr. Cody Riker, “First, love CAN overcome evil, and, second, “there IS such a thing as a tesseract.” The cast also included Cordelia Painter ’24, Serenity Williams ’22, Reagan Wagstaff ’25, Haley Pierce ’25, Zion Dugan ’22, Shane Reaves ’25, AJ Hawk ’24, and TJ Ryan ’24. Congratulations, cast and crew!
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School News Briefs
Holiday Concerts The last full week before Winter Break, the bands and choruses held winter concerts, to the delight of everyone who attended. On Tuesday night, Middle and Upper School choral director Ms. Brink and Lower School chorus teacher Marinette Gomez hosted a Holiday Choral Concert, featuring Carol of the Bells, When Christmas Comes to Town, Silent Night, and many more favorites. Performances were by the St. Johns Singers, Tenor Bass Quartet, Treble Quartet, Middle School Chorus, Lower School Chorus, and more. The following Thursday night, Director of Bands Mr. Michael Warren hosted a Swingin’ Holiday featuring the Beginning, Concert, and Symphonic Bands. Kicking off with a mini-doughnut food truck and fun holiday-themed family photo opportunity, the evening continued with great performances from all three bands, including Jingle Bells, African Noel, an energetic rendition of Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! and much more. Both concerts were full of fun and uplifting seasonal music. Congratulations, everyone!
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School News Briefs
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School News Briefs
School News Briefs
Middle School Fall Play On December 8, Middle School drama classes treated the audience to a production of The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon, by Don Zolidis. In the show, two intrepid narrators, played by Eve Earp ’27 and Alyssa Walker ’26, attempt to recreate all 209 fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm in a 45 minute production. Their task is made even more difficult by ornery actors and their goal of combining the tales into one gigantic fable. Chock full of audience participation and lots of laughs, the show was a big hit. Congratulations to Mr. Riker and the whole cast and crew!
Prism Concert Band Trip In December, Middle and Upper School band students traveled to Tallahassee for Florida State University’s annual PRISM concert.
Student Band Honors In November, Director of Bands Mr. Michael Warren was proud to announce several band student accomplishments including: Addison Wagstaff ’26 - auditioned into All-County Honor Band Kennedy Brown ’23 - All-County Honor Band and FSU Honor Band Timmy Jackson ’24 - All-County Honor Band, USF Honor Band, and All-State Honor Band! Congratulations, Spartans!
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L-R Timmy Jackson ’24, Addison Wagstaff ’26, and Kennedy Brown ’23.
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School News Briefs Visual Arts Grade 5 3D Kusama Pumpkins With her fun patterns and vibrant colors, Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama is always a popular subject for study. This fall Grade 5 took on some 3D art inspired by her work and created an amazing installation of 3D pumpkins. First, they used papier mache to create the pumpkins themselves, then painted them with acrylics in the vibrant polka dots Kusama is known for. Finally, they installed an amazing exhibit in the art tower for all to see.
Kindergarten Art Collaboration St. Johns’ art classes often study the style and works of renowned artists before emulating their work or processes. This fall, Kindergarten students worked together in small teams to create Matisse-inspired cut-out art installations.
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School News Briefs
Spanish Students Collaborate on Day of the Dead Projects Last fall, students in Spanish 3 and AP Spanish classes collaborated with Mrs. Velasco (history) and Mrs. Ayres (visual arts) on a Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) project. “Originating largely in Mexico, Día de los Muertos is a multi day holiday celebrating, remembering, and honoring friends and family members who have died,” said Upper School Spanish teacher Enitza Calderón. “Families build home altars filled with photos, memorabilia, and favorite foods of the deceased.” Last fall, upper level Spanish students learned about Día de los Muertos history and culture from Sra Calderón and Mrs. Velasco, and then worked with Mrs. Ayres to create remembrance cards and decorations. They then installed an exhibit in the Art Tower displaying their creations.
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Upper School Artists Leverage New Space This fall, visual arts students have been making great use of St. Johns’ new Painting and Printmaking Studio, working on 2D projects like painting, etching, and prints. “It’s a wonderful new raw working space that can handle wet and dry materials and larger painting projects,” said Visual Arts Department Chair Anna Reynolds. “All of the tables are on casters and can be moved as needed, students will be able to stretch and store canvases, and it gives us a permanent home for our iconic Charles Brand Printing Press.”
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St. Johns Presents the Class of 2022
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n a ceremony almost as old as St. Johns itself, right before Thanksgiving Break, the School was honored to present the class of 2022 to the School community. In November 1962, St. Johns’ Founding headmaster, Dr. Edwin P. Heinrich, introduced the first Senior Presentation—of the class of 1963—to St. Johns. He had attended a similar event for his daughter at Agnes Scott College, and liked the idea of acknowledging the seniors’ coming of age and presenting them to the community as adults in their own right, ready to face the world. 26
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It all began with a beautiful brunch at Timuquana Country Club (TCC) for the seniors, their advisors and just a few members of administration. It was an opportunity for them to spend time together as a class and just enjoy being together. After photos and food at TCC, the Senior Presentation ceremony began at 1:00 p.m. in St. Johns’ Performing Arts Center. After a trumpet solo by Sophomore Timmy Jackson, Student Council President Walker Cowherd ’22 read the invocation and the Singers Treble Chorus delivered a
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rendition of “Durme Durme.” Senior Class President Mary Beth Garrison read an excerpt from Lincoln’s Presidential Thanksgiving Proclamation and introduced Head of School Valorie Baker. After a short greeting, Mrs. Baker turned the podium over to Homilist Kinley Hall ’22, who read from the Book of Proverbs. “One of St. Johns’ newest traditions,” said Head of School Valorie Baker, “is for the senior class to nominate
their own speaker for Senior Presentation, and this year’s class has elected School Registrar Ms. Dana Goode.” “After the news was shared with me about being your speaker,” said Goode, “I decided that I would share with you what I think are three important qualities, all of which you possess, but I would like to remind you of: be kind, be present, and be you.” Goode’s talk touched on both observations and advice in each of these categories. CONTINUED ON PAGE 29
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Members of the Class of 2022 Angela Cristina Arellano Sanaa Anyai-Shantel Bass Ethan Jodel Beauvais Julia Oliveira Boaventura Andrew Michael Britts Kassie Ann Burton John Francisco Cabrera Abigail Bree Campbell Kaiya Lee Cooper Lauren Nicole Correia Stanley Walker Cowherd IV Dru David Detlefsen Zion Judah Dugan Addison Elizabeth Ellis
Mary Elizabeth Garrison Emma Nicole Gonzales Susannah Parker Goodwin Sean Michael Gregson Kinley Spencer Hall Evelyn Luisa Hanson Adan Quinn Herrera Bradley Eugene Hodges Finn Garrett Howell Jude Lawson Howell Cooper Lucas Hunt Josiah Ercell Jones Hannah Catherine Lemieux Jeramy David Lewis
Jaidy Alejandra MejiaAndrade John Edward Minners Kiera Morgan Moisan Dalton Tyce Moore Jonathan Donald Moore Mia Imelda Morin Robert Brent Morris Emelia Patrice Morton Riley Madison Myers Lillian Elliott Ouattara Luke Phillip Pardo Anh-Khoi Pham Clayton Rusty Philpott
Margaret Schley Pizzi Owen William Roth Nathan Lenarde Rowan II Noelle Jessica Sanford Ariel Gil Sauer Justin Michael Shipman Callum Michael Steiner Matthew Gregory Stratton Jordan Emilio Taylor Kamryn Ainsley Towers Trevor Grayson VanKempen Serenity Tamya Williams
Congratulations, Class of 2022 and families!
Senior Presentation
Be Kind. “I have witnessed a kindness in you that is not often seen these days,” Ms. Goode continued. “I know that you rally around a classmate who perhaps did not do so well on a test, or encouraged them during a sporting event when selfdoubt may have crept in; that is a kindness that is needed. You put your own matters to the side because there is someone else who needs you, and at that moment that is what you do. I would suggest that you love the person in front of you. Sorry to put that pressure on you, but don’t worry, you always rise to the challenge.”
Be You. “You are a gift to your family and a blessing to your friends,” summed Goode. “Each morning provides a new opportunity to show yourself and the world what you have to offer.” With nary a dry eye in the auditorium, the seniors stood as Head of Upper School Jackie Lentini read each of their names and, finally, Mrs. Baker read the words of founding headmaster Dr. Edwin P. Heinrich, presenting the Class of 2022 to assembled family, friends, and classmates: As a teacher I present you to the academic world that you may enter it and meet its demands honorably and successfully. As your Headmaster I present you to your schoolmates so that they may accept you and look up to you as their leaders and their shining example.
Be Present. “It says so much to the people you are standing around talking to when you can put your phone away for just a few minutes,” said Goode. “It shows those around you that their presence at that moment is important; that again, they matter.”
As your friend I present you to your parents so that they may accept you as adults who have come into their own and who are to be dealt with from henceforth on an equal basis. As your fellow human being I present to you your calling in life that you may always have the wisdom to recognize it and the strength to live up to the divine calling in your life.
LIFERS
Students who have been at St. Johns since Kindergarten or preschool:
Angie Arellano Andrew Britts John Cabrera Dru Detlefsen Addie Ellis Mary Beth Garrison Emma Gonzales
Kinley Hall Evelyn Hanson JD Lewis Riley Myers Luke Pardo Noelle Sanford Trevor VanKempen
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Invest in the St. Johns Experience.
o t t i m m Co hns St. Jo
Your gift helps us grow beyond our budgets. Whether you’re a proud St. Johns parent, grandparent, alum, parent of an alum, or community supporter we ask that you champion our students, teachers and staff with your gift to the St. Johns Fund.
Your gift enhances the St. Johns Experience. St. Johns Country Day School is comprised of Grades Pre-K3 through 12 on one campus, which means all students have the opportunity to benefit from the impact of your gift.
Give a voice to your gift choice.
Support our students as they:
Your gift designation is welcome and tells us what is meaningful to you.
You may choose to: Make an undesignated gift in support of St. Johns’ Greatest Needs as they arise during the school year Support the arts, athletics, technology and innovation, and more Sponsor a program, club or activity
Mr. Ro
Seek solutions and are independent problem solvers who actively take part in their education Accept responsibility as individuals, St. Johns community members and global citizens Create collaboration through a teamwork approach to learning indoors, outdoors and in the community
Some call it giving. We call it the Spartan Way. Commit to St. Johns today at sjcds.net/give
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Director of Student Life Ian Gibson (far left) with Middle School Assistant Kim Kurnitsky (far right) and a group of Grade 8 students at the Northeast Florida School for Special Education.
Grounded in Tradition, Prepared for the Future: REDEFINING ST. JOHNS’ MISSION
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hen Dr. and Mrs. Heinrich founded St. Johns in 1953, the idea of a college prep school was groundbreaking. But the world has changed dramatically over the past nearly 70 years, and we know that graduates of tomorrow need a whole host of skills and experiences that weren’t so much as a glimmer in Dr. Heinrich’s eyes during his time as our first Headmaster. That’s why St. Johns has been working to redefine the college preparatory experience, to root it in helping students cultivate the skills they will need in order to be prepared for college and the 21st century workforce beyond. “Our goal is to develop students who seek solutions, accept responsibility, and create collaboration,” says Head of School Valorie Baker. “These are the college-ready skills that students need to be effective team members for the employers of tomorrow.” So what does that mean?
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Mission, Redefined
1. Seek Solutions
A St. Johns student is one who actively seeks out answers and solutions to problems, both in and out of the classroom. Not content to sit and be passively spoon-fed information, a St. Johns student seeks active engagement with the content, collaborators, their own education, and their future. For example, in St. Johns’ new Technology Center, students work daily with virtual reality, 3D printers, and on computers to bring lessons to life, travel to faraway places, and create just about anything their minds can imagine. For example, this fall in Mr. Stern’s history classes, students used virtual reality in St. Johns’ Technology Center to more deeply explore global memorial. Below, Juniors Tripp Vogt and Thomas Pounds look through the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe in Berlin, Germany. “Being able to explore memorials like this one really brought this lesson home for students in a way that merely reading about it or listening to me talk about it just can’t match,” said Stern.
2. Accept Responsibility
A St. Johns student accepts responsibility not just for the work at hand but also for their role in school, in their communities, and as a global citizen. As St. Johns’ new Director of Student Life, Mr. Ian Gibson (above) is working to establish collaborations with other schools and organizations in the community where students can jump in, complete service opportunities, and learn the value of helping others. For example, last fall he led several student community service trips to the North Florida School for Special Education (NFSSE). “Community service is so important for students and young adults of all ages,” says Gibson. “It’s important to cultivate a servant heart, putting others first in all that you do.” This cultivation is essential not just for the students themselves but also for their college applications, and for life beyond school and college. “Our hope is that these new relationships with groups like NFSSE will become long-term collaborations, with opportunities for St. Johns students to grow and develop over time, and see what a commitment to service looks like and what it can do, both for you and for the recipient.”
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Mission, Redefined
3. Create Collaboration A St. Johns student knows that some solutions require a collaborative approach. They are readily able to identify the various skills and perspectives a particular problem requires and they don’t hesitate to pull together the right group of collaborators to get to work on it, comfortable working with groups and understanding their role within the group. St. Johns teachers put that practice into action every day in their classrooms and nowhere is that more evident than in a collaboration on curricular mosaics led by Visual Arts Department Chair Anna Reynolds and her Grade 8 art students. “It started with an idea to replace some older art panels on display in the Middle School building,” said Reynolds, “and grew from there.” It was time for an update of the aged panels, created by Middle School students years ago, and Reynolds had the idea to do mosaics depicting the various curricular areas. “It’s been a real collaboration,” said Reynolds. “There are twelve panels to replace, so first the students brainstormed
the subject areas to include.” Then they thought about what images best convey each subject, sketched out some ideas, and routed those through Department Chairs. “The Department Chairs had to review and approve all of the content areas to be depicted,” said Reynolds. “That way we know that we’re showing the most important, relevant concepts in each mural.” “The goal is to complete at least two panels each year,” sums Reynolds. “The Visual Arts and Science panels are done and waiting to be installed, and History is in the design process and will start soon!” We can’t wait to see these projects and the exciting makeover for Middle School!
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Alumni Spotlight
Alumni: In Their Own Words Brianna Enter ’19
THEN
Junior, Florida State University Major: Psychology with a Minor in Criminology Sport: Softball
St. Johns taught me about what type of people and the type of environment I want to be around in the future. St. Johns was a very family oriented community when I look back and think about it. All the teachers, staff, coaches who work there really care for not only their student’s academic goals, but their well being, too. It’s been almost three years since I have graduated from St. Johns and I still keep in touch with some of my teachers and coaches from my time there just because I consider them family now. They all wish me nothing but the best when it comes to accomplishing my dreams and that means a lot because I know I can look back at my hometown and have people in my hip pocket that support me. That’s why picking Florida State and their softball program was a no brainer for me. Florida State has that same family atmosphere that St. Johns carries and that has now become one of the most important values I will always look for in a new environment. Due to being surrounded by a community with a core value of family, I have accomplished my dreams in my athletic career. I am surrounded by people every day who want me to grow as a player and as a person. They push me to work hard and help show me what I am capable of doing both on and off the field. I strive to be the better version of myself not only for me, but for my teammates to my left and right. In 2021, my team and I made it to the Women’s College World Series and ended up being the national runner-up. This so far has been my biggest accomplishment in my athletic career, and there are more goals set to help us get back there and win it all in the future. There are also other little accomplishments I have made in the 36
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past two years on the field, but these were achievable because I surrounded myself with the right people. To current St. John’s students, when looking for colleges that you want to attend, focus on your personal values and make sure that the school can
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provide them for you. Whatever environment you choose to be in for the next four years, make sure you surround yourself with people who will encourage you to be the best version of yourself. The people you meet along the way during those years will stay with you for a lifetime. These years are used to help you find your identity and to help create a future for yourself in the long run, so don’t waste that time. There will be so many resources at the university you pick to help you find your way and take advantage of all of them. There will be many highs and lows that you will experience during those four years, but many of them turn out to be the greatest life lessons that you will learn. Lastly, just have fun. Try not to stress and worry about every little thing, whether it’s school related or just life in general. These are supposed to be the best years of your life, so make sure you’re living life day by day.
Kamy Loustau ’19
THEN
NOW
Junior, Princeton University Major: Religion with Certificates in African American Studies & Urban Studies Sport: Soccer
In making the transition to college, I have to admit I was nervous about being able to keep up in my classes, not to mention on the soccer field. However, as hectic as freshman year of college naturally is, I felt very well-prepared to complete my assignments and to do them well. I was particularly thankful for the proficient writing and presentation skills that St. Johns instilled in me. These were definitely things I took for granted in my time at St. Johns, but that I have come to greatly appreciate in my time here at Princeton. In terms of writing, Princeton requires every student to take an introductory writing seminar. Notorious for its difficulty, this was one of the classes I was dreading the most my freshman year. However, once I got into class, I soon realized that all of the terms and ideas we were talking about were very familiar to me. From articulating clear and concise arguments through thesis statements, to incorporating quotations
within the actual sentences of my papers, rather than just quoting and then describing, I had heard all these ideas before in the English classrooms at St. Johns. That is not to say the class wasn’t still challenging. I would be lying if I said I didn’t struggle to become more clear, more concise, and more credible, but the foundational skills I received at St. Johns made me confident enough to tackle these slightly more complex concepts rather than shy away from them. This is the same for my presentation skills. Whether it be a general summary of the topics we have been covering or leading the group discussion for that day, almost every class I have had at Princeton has required some sort of pre-
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Alumni Spotlight
sentation. Sound familiar? From discursos in Spanish class, to presentations about the Columbian exchange in history, to research presentations in biology, St. Johns also requires its fair share of presentations. Even though I didn’t always love it then, it has helped me so much here. The presentations I had to do at St. Johns gave me experience speaking in front of people, communicating information efficiently, and keeping people engaged throughout the presentation. Furthermore, something St. Johns helped prepare me for in college was the process of opening up communication between you and your professor. It can be a shock going from SJ to college because you quickly realize you don’t know everybody, and they don’t know you, nor do they necessarily go out of their way to get to know you. Professors have so much responsibility on their plate already that they don’t have the time to reach out to and keep track of all their students. St. Johns, on the other hand, is naturally able to create these close student-teacher relationships. Because of the small nature of the school, you can’t help but know and see your teachers, maybe more than you want to. However, this relationship opens so many lines for communication and collaboration. Take advantage of this when at St. Johns and replicate it when you’re in college. Reach out to your teachers early about assignments that may seem daunting to you, even if just to say that you are unsure of what the requirements are or how exactly to approach something. Even though teachers are busy, they truly want to help in any way they can and often welcome the questions or emails with open arms. The close relationships I had with my teachers at St. Johns showed me how to pursue those relationships here at Princeton. It has made all the difference. Not only have these relationships clarified so many assignments but I have been allowed many extensions on overwhelming assignments simply because I took the time to ask in advance.
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Communication isn’t just something I learned in the classroom, it’s also something I learned on the field. As a member of the soccer team at St. Johns, communication was just one of the many things we focused on to help improve our organization and success as a team. More than that, getting to play soccer at St. Johns taught me so much about how to push my limits every day and to believe in myself. Coach Pickett would always ask us, “Did you come to school today to get by or to get better?” Somedays the choice came easier than others but we were always encouraged to get better; to get to the next level; to never say “I can’t.” Coach Pickett and Coach Gary Thomas worked so hard to help me understand that I could do so much more than I thought possible if I was just willing to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Moreover, Coach Brad Schmidt helped me to see the strengths I had within myself and taught me how to believe in myself beyond any doubts I, or others, may have. This has helped me so much throughout my time playing for the Princeton team. Each day I try to focus on getting better, making those around me better, and believe in myself above it all. From quality writing and presentation skills to establishing close student-teacher relationships, St. Johns taught me so many little things that ended up paying back in huge ways once I got to college. Not to mention, I owe so much thanks to the athletic program at St. Johns and specifically to Coach Mike Pickett, Coach Brad Schmidt, and Coach Gary Thomas for helping push me to reach new levels each day and teaching me how to believe in myself, two behaviors that can make or break a college athlete. Whenever I travel home for breaks, I often visit St. Johns, to see my old teachers, or coaches. We get to catch-up on our new lives while also reminiscing on good times spent there, whether it’s a funny moment in class or fun out on the field. I am so thankful for the teachers and the coaches at St. Johns, who undoubtedly helped prepare me for college. Go Spartans!
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Alumni Spotlight
Jared Marsano ’19 Junior, Flagler College Major: Accounting and Political Science Sport: Soccer
St. Johns instilled in me the belief that anything is possible with hard work, practice, and THEN persistence. When I began th playing soccer in 7 grade, I did it to have fun and to hang out with my friends. At St. Johns, it didn’t matter that I hadn’t had any experience to join the team. I was given the opportunity to try a new sport that I hadn’t played before. From there, I was coached, given a chance, and was able to improve my skills. This opportunity that St. Johns provided to me sparked my love for the game and my dream of playing at the collegiate level. Academically and athletically, St. Johns pushed me to achieve the best version of myself. This is replicated through the teachers at St. Johns that hold their students to a very high standard. The high standards led me to fill my course load full of honors and AP classes. The combination of rigorous academics and competitive athletics proved demanding. However, it helped to establish a high level of work ethic and time-management skills that continued into my collegiate athletic and academic career today.
When thinking about my athletic career, two of my greatest accomplishments were being awarded the conference player of the week and winning the conference championship in the same season. In my first collegiate start, I was awarded the Peach Belt Conference Player of the Week against Francis Marion University. Stunning the reigning conference champs on opening day reminded me of the McClay performance at St. Johns. It was beating McClay that sparked my belief that any team could be toppled, no matter their ranking or presumed quality of players that they have. Later that year, the standard of success continued, as we won the Peach Belt Conference for the first time since 2011. This winning mentality originated at St. Johns, when we won the 2019 district championship after a long drought. To be competitive at the college level, you need to be willing to do whatever it takes to improve. You have to be prepared to sacrifice all obstacles that lie in the way. Sometimes it even means missing out on your senior prom to compete in a soccer tournament. My advice for current St. Johns students is to work towards your goals, whether it be academically, athletically, or any other discipline. St. Johns provides the tools in order to achieve your dreams. It’s whether you utilize them is what makes the difference.
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Alumni Notes
Alumni Notes
2010s
1980s
Becca Staples ’11 is engaged to Eric Brinton. Eric’s sisters are Hailey Berger ’15 and Tori Berger ’12.
Over the fall semester, Ian Gibson, Head Coach of the Boys’ Basketball team, visited with alumni in Jacksonville. He is pictured here with Rory Eggers ’87 and Todd Zehner ’87.
1990s
Caroline Weber ‘12 got engaged to Thomas Sisco on Christmas Eve 2021. Jennifer Shirley Gordon ’00 completed her first Ironman triathlon 70.3 and she is currently training to compete in the 140.6 Ironman later this year. Chris Schoonover ’00 works as a lobbyist with Capital City Consulting in Tallahassee.
Andrew Weaver ’98, Robert Weaver ’01, and Patrick Weaver ’03 supported the Spartan Boys’ Basketball team as they prepared for a new season. As a token of appreciation, Valorie Baker, Head of School, Ian Gibson, Head Boys’ Basketball Coach, and Ryan Trevett, Director of Development presented Robert and Patrick with a framed jersey.
2000s Chris Wood ’06 was named as one of Jacksonville Business Journal’s 2021 40 Under 40 honorees. Chris is the Principal and Vice President of Riverside Homes.
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Jennifer Cowie Stanton ’06 and her husband, Mike, recently welcomed their second child, Robert Lawrence Stanton, on July 20th. He is pictured here with his sister, Elizabeth “Libby,” who is three.
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Ashley Schopp ’12 and her dog, Louie, got engaged to Andrew Baxter. They live in Anacortes, Washington..
Alumni Notes
Kevin Weaver ’13 is engaged to Brianna Hathaway. He proposed in St. Barths in August, and they currently reside in Miami.
Kendall Perkins ’14 married Colin Dead in November. Kendall is pursuing a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Michigan.
Kara McCurry ’13, received her master of science in occupational therapy from Florida Gulf Coast University. She is currently working for Wolfson Children’s Hospital where she provides traditional occupational therapy services as well as intensive services specializing in treatment for children with developmental delays, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain inquiries, post-stroke, spina bifida, and down syndrome. She also works as an acute care therapist for UF Health.
April D’Innocenzi ’17 is attending veterinary school at Scotland’s University of Glasgow.
Brooke Arnett ’16 and Brandon Livingston ’17, son of Traci Peacock Livingston ’90, got married on October 30, 2021 at Chandler Oaks Barn in St. Augustine, Florida. Linsey Arnett ’19, Madison Dill ’16 and Madison Livingston ’19 were bridesmaids for the big day!
This fall, St. Johns welcomed more than 110 new Spartans, including 20 new alumni legacy students, such as (L-R below): Kirkwood Weber ’35 (son of Larry Weber ’04); Grandchildren of Billy Courtney ’73 and Owene Courtney ’73: Charlie Courtney ’33 and Gwen Courtney ’36 (children of Nick Courtney ’03) and Lane Courtney ’36 and William Courtney ’34 (sons of Will Courtney ’01); and Kendall Proffitt, daughter of Laura Fisher Proffitt ’92 and granddaughter to Roddey and Mary Virginia Fisher.
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Alumni Notes
On Friday, September 17, 2021 Clay County honored Mary Helen Hoff whose advocacy led to the presence of POW/MIA flags across the country. Part of Moody Avenue was named after Mary Helen, who was the mother of Michael Hoff ’80, Robert Hoff ’82, Charles Hoff ’83, Suzanne Hoff Ogawa ’85 and Joseph Hoff ’87. It brings the School much pride to see an alumni family recognized in such a meaningful way.
Marie Price ’16 (2nd from right) is working on Capitol Hill as a Scheduler. She is working with Congressman Ralph Norman (R-SC) and his staff.
Kirsten Pavlisko ’18 and Troy Britts ’18 got engaged over the summer at the Grand Canyon.
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Lauren Hodges ’17 and Thomas Maierhoffer ’17 are engaged! They are getting married in Jacksonville in early May.
Megan Lindholm ’17 graduated from Florida State University this summer. She is getting her master’s degree in family and child sciences, also through FSU.
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Payton Crews ’18 and Paige Crews ’21 along with their TCU teammates are the Big 12 Regular Season Champions and the Big 12 Tournament Champions for women’s soccer!
Alumni Notes 2020s
In Memoriam Mary Ann Petska Laura Braddock Joyce Baxter Norville, mother of Paula Lamb ’72 and Lee Norville ’75, and grandmother of Palmer Lamb ’99 Haley Juskowski ’21 spent the day in St. Augustine with her first grader, Davie Price ’32. She showed him around the campus of Flagler College, where she attends school.
Ian Duncan ’20 (Front, 3rd from left) is serving as a Residence Assistant at Jacksonville University for the 2021-2022 school year.
CDR Elvin G. “Lites” Lightsey, Jr., father of Richard Lightsey ’83 Dr. Hinston Stephens, father of Mike Stephens ’80 Patricia McClow, mother of John McClow ’69, grandmother of Allison McClow Vogt ’96, and greatgrandmother of Tripp Vogt ’23 and Addy Vogt ’25 James Lyerly Jr., father of James Lyerly III ’80 Benjamin C. Bishop, Jr. father of Ben Bishop ’83, father-in-law to Brooke Darby Bishop ’87 and former St. Johns Board Member.
Members of the Class of 2020 finally got to experience the Grove at The University of Mississippi this fall. Pictured here is Liam Bielik, Carolina Hollis, and Parker Robbins.
When St. Johns band students traveled to FSU for the annual PRISM concert in December, they were able to meet up with several Tallahassee alums. Clockwise from front left: Anthony Morris ’20, James Woolard ’20, Josh Soffler ’20, Liam Woolard ’20, Director of Bands Michael Warren, Emma Harward ’21, Kaley Burnside ’21, and Julia Andrawis ’21. JohnB Linge ’21 was elected to the University of Florida Student Senate.
Joy Jones, mother of Leah Jones Copham ’98 and Paul Jones ’00 and former St. Johns Board Member. James Rufus Trimble, father of Bonnie Trimble Copeland ’69 and grandfather of James S. Trimble ’99. Dr. Loren Clayman, father of Robert Clayman ’92, Edward Clayman ’92, Mark Clayman ’93, and Eric Clayman ’07. Mary Jo Horne, mother of Terrell Horne ’74, Kim Horne Frank ’76 and Leigh Horne Mebel ’80. Leasil Gay ’92 Catarina Castruccio-Prince ’97
We love to hear your news! Elizabeth Stoeber ’20 and Alex Dimmick ’21 spent time with St. Johns Band Director, Michael Warren, before a UF home game.
Brooke Ferris, Jack Hodges, Courtney Sage, Kendall Sage and Jackson Powers, all Class of 2020, enjoying a Clemson football game this past fall.
Alumni, please send your updates to Director of Alumni Relations Jean Marie Maierhoffer Petty ’13 at jpetty@sjcds.net.
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Alumni Notes
Founders Day
The School community celebrated its 68th anniversary on Founders Day—September 14, 2021. At flag raising, choral director Ms. Liz Brink led the Middle School Chorus and St. Johns Singers in the Founders Song and Director of Alumni Relations Jean Marie Maierhoffer Petty ’13 made a few remarks. Then, in the afternoon, Grade 1 was matched with their Senior Buddies (below) and the groups walked across the Quad together to the new fountain, where they threw in a penny and made a wish for their time together (right). Finally, Head of School Mrs. Valorie Baker and Board President Mr. Gene Nichols cut the ribbon (above) to officially open the new courtyard area and refreshed Roddey R. Fisher Quad (bottom right).
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Published by St. Johns Country Day School Mail: 3100 Doctors Lake Drive Orange Park, FL 32073-6997 Phone: (904) 264-9572 Email: info@sjcds.net Web: sjcds.net Head of School Valorie Baker vbaker@sjcds.net Director of Alumni Relations Jean Marie Maierhoffer Petty ’13 jpetty@sjcds.net
St. Johns thanks those who served on the 2020-2021 Board of Trustees:
Director of Communications Regan Minners rminners@sjcds.net
Officers:
Director of Development Ryan Trevett rtrevett@sjcds.net
Eugene B. Nichols, President Daniel W. Hodges , Vice-President Steven W. Conner, Secretary Allan E. Wulbern, Treasurer
Members: Nicholas K. Courtney Margaret Rood Gibbs Rick Gregson Immediate Past President Joseph E. Lemieux, Jr. John Maierhoffer
Robin McMullen Pamela Petty Craig Phillips Daniel Towers Richard C. M. Wilson
Trustee Emeritus:
Headmaster Emeritus: Ex Officio:
Dr. Steven B. Kailes
Stephen F. Russey
Valorie Baker, Head of School
Save the Date! Email Jean Marie Maierhoffer Petty ’13 at jpetty@sjcds.net for more information about these upcoming events:
Alumni Legacy Breakfast: Thursday, April 14 16th Annual St. Johns Spartans Golf Tournament: Friday, April 22 A Day at the Downs: Saturday, May 7 Graduation: Saturday, May 28
St. Johns Country Day School 3100 Doctors Lake Drive Orange Park, FL 32073-6997
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In September, several Lower School classes celebrated National Teddy Bear Day by bringing their best buddies to school with them.
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College Prep, Redefined.
