Patterns Summer 2014 by St. Martin's Episcopal School

Patterns

SUMMER

2014

The Magazine of St. Martin’s Episcopal School

A grand adventure Commencement 2014 • Portrait of a Graduate • Alumni News • Voices

Middle School Grandparents’ Day St. Martin’s welcomed grandparents and visitors of Middle School students to campus on April 11. Eighth graders Ansley Reese and Knox Pittman served as emcees for the event as other students performed in scenes from ‘Seussical Jr.’ The band and flute choir both performed and the chorus sang two songs. Eighth grader Sarah van Duser performed a solo on piano. Annual Fund Grandparent co-chair Jim Caswell and his grandson, 7th grader Caswell King, also spoke to recognize grandparents for their participation in the life of the school and to thank them for their generous support.

Patterns Editor Christina Mimms Director of Communications

Contributors The Rev. Dr. James Hamner IV Whitney Pierce Rev. Betsy Martin Turner ’96 Printing: Graphic Communications Corp. Photography: Jeff Frantal, Skeeter Lee, Christina Mimms Administration The Rev. Dr. James E. Hamner IV Headmaster Cindy Alexander Principal, Early Childhood Dr. Mary McPherson Principal, Elementary School James “Skeeter” Lee Principal, Middle School

The Rev. Dr. John McCard Church Rector Patterns is published quarterly by St. Martin’s Episcopal School. Please direct any letters, comments or news items to: St. Martin’s Episcopal School 3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Rd. Atlanta, GA 30319 Attn: Christina Mimms (404) 237-4260 www.stmartinschool.org cmimms@stmartinschool.org

Mission Statement : St. Martin’s Episcopal School is dedicated to providing a quality education of the whole person in a loving, Christian atmosphere, which fosters lifelong learning.

contents

SUMMER

departments

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letters

From the Headmaster and the Editor seen & heard

News and happenings in the school community in class

Connecting the spirit

class notes

News from SMES alumni

voices

We are not alone

features f e at u r e

Portrait of a Graduate

f e at u r e

Graduation 2014

On the cover: A collage of photos from the 8th grade Grand Canyon trip. View this magazine on your tablet at issuu.com.

2014

letters from the headmaster St. Martin’s celebrated the completion of another strong year of growth and achievement with our wonderful graduation service honoring and celebrating the Class of 2014. This year our service moved to the Cathedral of St. Philip, the mother church of our diocese, to better accommodate our growing numbers of students and their families. As always, it was a joyous occasion as our students transition to their many excellent high schools. Every spring, we honor our 12th grade alumni with a special dinner and program with their parents here at school. To hear their stories of SMES, their high school experiences and accomplishments, and their excitement about their impending college journeys, reaffirms the extraordinary influence and importance of a St. Martin’s Episcopal School education. In this edition of Patterns, you will see

something of the great diversity of opportunities and achievements of our students both present and past. Whether participating in one of our many service learning projects, playing on a championship sports team, or grappling with the great questions of ethics and religion, our students are engaged in a deep, holistic process of learning which we believe will serve them very well. I hope you will enjoy reading our “Portrait of a Graduate” which outlines something of how our students are prepared for success and to live lives of meaning, purpose and service. Summer time is a period for our students (and their families) to relax and renew themselves. While many students will be doing a variety of activities, camps and the like, I hope each of you will have some unstructured time to simply be and to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. Enjoy a wonderful, restorative summer.

from the editor In late April, we hosted the Senior Dinner, which is an event to celebrate our alumni who are seniors in high school. Their parents also are invited to the dinner, and it is a wonderful evening of fellowship and sharing memories. This year we celebrated our Class of 2010, which reminds me a lot of our Class of 2014. Both groups of students are the kind who take initiative, organize activities and lead other students with great passion. Both groups brought some new activities or events to our school. Students in the Class of 2010 were the first to participate in Warrior TV (a group that I co-advise) when it launched five years ago. Students in the Class of 2014 were the first to serve on a Student Vestry and the first to participate in a student-led prayer group called Growing in Faith Together (GIFT).

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A few families have children in both of these classes, which means they celebrated two graduations this year. I can only imagine the many boxes of tissues that those households went through with these emotional moments. Some of the families have been part of the St. Martin’s community for nearly 20 years, with the parents also serving in leadership roles in various capacities. Our graduates, as a whole, and their families have made a true difference at St. Martin’s and have left our school better than when they found it, which benefits future students and families. I know others join me in thanking them for their time here and for sharing their children with us for so many years. We wish them well as they embark on new journeys to high school, college and beyond.

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seen&heard The Rev. Dan Heischman speaks on Ash Wednesday The Rev. Dan Heischman, D.D., executive director of the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES), paid a special visit to St. Martin’s on March 5, Ash Wednesday. He spoke to the full faculty as well as a parent group, and spoke to students at chapel. Author of “Good Influence: Teaching the Wisdom of Adulthood,” a recent book which focuses on the role that adults play in the development of young people, Heischman talked about the importance of adults differentiating themselves from children. “Many parents are reluctant to do the hard things required of parents,” he said. “Many parents judge their effectiveness as parents based on their closeness with their child.”

He also reminded all adults that they are role models. “Children need credible models of what it means to be an adult. They are watching, and they will notice the disconnect between what we say and what we do,” he said. Heischman is a former upper school head at St. Albans School in Washington, D.C., alma mater of both Dr. Hamner and Mr. Lee. As part of his role at NAES, he The Rev. Dan Heischman with Headmaster Dr. Hamner sends a weekly meditation message to all 1,100 Episcopal schools around holy was taking place. Tradition was the country. In a message about Ash honored, even in the midst of a religiousWednesday, he wrote about St. Martin’s ly diverse, contemporary student body. chapel and the imposition of ashes: This was not simply any way, but a way of “Here was a clear sense that something real spiritual substance.”

SMES programs ensure a sustainable community Many families honor a commitment to “green” living, perhaps through the cars they drive, the structure of their homes, the food they eat, and product recycling or re-use in their homes. St. Martin’s also is committed to operating as a green campus and ensuring its sustainability. While the new Middle School building was constructed as a “green” building, other sustainability programs are executed in a variety of ways: • Campus-wide recycling of paper, plastic and cans. For the past several years, the 7th grade has adopted paper recycling as its service learning project, collecting paper from offices and classrooms each week to deliver to the main recycling bin on campus. Plastic and cans are recycled through the DeKalb County sanitation program. In addition, empty ink cartridges from copiers and empty glue sticks are recycled through separate programs. • With a commitment to healthy food, Sage Dining Services uses a color-coded system to denote healthy food choices on school lunch menus. The majority of food vendors are local, ensuring that food is minimally processed. There are no fried foods and sweets are kept to a minimum. An elaborate salad bar ensures that vegetarian and fresh items are always available. • Twice a year, the school holds a Farm to Table lunch serving only locally grown, in-season foods to highlight the food program.

• The majority of the campus now has sensor faucets, soap dispensers and paper towel dispensers. • Environmental education takes place through the Middle School Green Club, in the Library and in science classes. In Early Seventh grade students carry out recycling Childhood, for exameach week throughout the campus. ple, the Idbids curriculum introduces environmental concepts in an understandable and age-appropriate way. • St. Martin’s holds an annual Earth Month celebration with an environmental poster contest, recycled art projects and shared environmental facts. “We’ve come such a long way with our green efforts in recent years and we have done a great job as a school,” said Kathryn Hechenbleikner, EC assistant and chair of the school’s Green Committee. The school hopes to add more recycling programs in the near future and is looking for possible new serveware to replace Styrofoam in the Commons. patterns

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PTO’s year a great success It’s been quite a year for us. As co-presidents of the PTO, we have been a part of wonderful events and programs that built our SMES sense of community and enhanced our children’s education. And bigger than that, we have had the privilege of working with the many volunteers that made all of those things such a tremendous success. Their talent, enthusiasm and generosity brought forth events like the very successful Fling, the fun and exciting Fall Festival, the beloved Father-Daughter Dance and the Fall and Spring Book Fairs. Together, the PTO raised more than $140,000 to benefit our school. We are particularly proud of our service to the teachers, staff and parents of St. Martin’s. Our Teacher Appreciation Committee makes sure our teachers receive lunch on conference days and gifts on their birthdays. The Hospitality Committee greets our prospective new families at open houses while our Warrior Buddies make sure they feel at home when they choose SMES. And the Warrior Wings program reaches out to those in need in our community. All these programs make SMES more of a home to us and our children. It has been our pleasure to serve the St. Martin’s PTO. It’s been fun and challenging. We leave the PTO in the capable leadership of Bridget O’Donnell and Katie Smith. They are already hard at work preparing for the 2014-2015 school year. It promises to be an exciting one — enjoy your summer! — Mary Ann Embleton and Julie Goggans 2013-2014 PTO Co-Presidents

seder for 6th graders

Sitting in Shaq’s seat The Warrior TV staff toured Turner Broadcasting studios on April 15, where they enjoyed the opportunity to visit the set of “Inside the NBA,” TNT’s basketball show featuring analysts Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson. Students took turns sitting in the broadcasters’ seats, which are quite high, to no surprise.

For the past several years, 6th graders have enjoyed a traditional seder meal on Maundy Thursday. Held on April 17 in the Atrium, the meal was modeled after the Passover meal — matzoh bread, harosis (an apple mixture), bitter herbs, horseradish, a hard-boiled egg (representing new life), a lamb shank and grape juice (in place of wine). Students read from the Haggadah, which is the liturgy of the Passover. Participating in the seder helps students connect to their studies of the Passover in Exodus as well as understand the correlation between Jesus’ Last Supper (a seder) and Christianity, according to religion teacher Jan Swoope.

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Students also toured the set of “The Starters,” went inside a control room and spoke with several producers. The sets include about 18 different hightech cameras to cover the 360-degree layout and a half-court where analysts often demonstrate some moves. One of the sets also houses a 103-inch wide touchscreen. The students were able to ask many questions about broadcasting careers and the Turner companies, which operate the largest production facilities in the Southeast.

seen & heard

SMES featured as GISA School of the Week During the week of April 21, St. Martin’s was the School of the Week on the web site of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA). SMES photos and facts about the school rotated on the home page, which features a different school each week. St. Martin’s is one of 167 member schools of GISA.

Reaccreditation visit planned for fall St. Martin’s is fully involved in its reaccreditation process through the Southern Association of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools. The steering committee has submitted responses to the standards and indicators which demonstrate the school is in compliance with best practices established for independent schools. The school is now focusing on its self-study, which allows the school to develop a plan to ensure it continually analyzes and reflects on its areas of excellence, as well as areas to grow to meet the needs of students and the greater school community. Thanks to the Board of Trustees, there is a clear guide which is central to our self-study: the St. Martin’s Strategic Framework. If you have not read through it, please take the time. It is available on the school’s Web site.

On March 18, principals Skeeter Lee and Mary McPherson attended the dedication of the Ashford Dunwoody sidewalk extension with Brookhaven Mayor J. Max Davis.

St. Martin’s held its annual POP Day celebrating Power over Prejudice on March 19. Middle School students organized activities across all grade levels to help students embrace POP.

Learning from leaders Over the course of this school year, selected Middle School students participated in leadership workshops organized by Dean of Students Patti Pitoscia, who teaches leadership classes to 4th-8th grades. The students heard from SMES parents and community leaders John Inhouse and Dr. Jodie Guest, and more recently participated in a workshop with former sports agent and now book author and speaker Molly Fletcher. She shared some tales from the business of sports as well as some anecdotes about her former clients, including Atlanta Braves favorite John Smoltz. The students broke into small groups to compile a list of qualities they deemed important in leaders, such as “listen to others” and “be optimistic.” “Leadership is another way for our students to experience our school mission,” Pitoscia said. “It combines efforts from counseling, religion and leadership in building character and a sense of lifelong service in our students.”

Beginners, Pre-K and Kindergarten students celebrated their moms on May 1 with classroom parties. Beginners and Pre-K enjoyed Muffins for Moms in the morning, and Kindergarten had cupcakes in the afternoon. Students created artwork and paper flowers for their mothers as well. patterns

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Golf tournament raises $28,000 for Endowment

St. Martin’s held its 12th Annual Golf Tournament on May 5 at St. Marlo Country Club. Teams of 88 golfers enjoyed a wonderful day on the course while raising more than $28,000 for the school’s Endowment Fund. Thank you to all of our sponsors: Blue and White Sponsors Awards Atlanta – Chuck Lisowski Chastain, Morris, Schmitt, and Scott Families The Clare Family – Amanda and Chris The Granade Team – Borowsky, Swinney, Rahiya and Granade Gray, Rust, St. Amand, Moffett and Brieske, LLP – Matt Moffett GV Financial Advisors – Craig Belisle Harvest Networks – Kevin Feagin Holy In One – Rev. Stefanie Taylor Insight Global – Scott Madden The Jaynes Family – Shannon and Richard Jaynes Mellow Mushroom Brookhaven – Scott Mathis Morgan Team – Doug and Chris The Park Family – Lauren and Michael

Parkside Partners – Doug James Ruth’s Chris Steak House St. Martin in the Fields Church State Bank & Trust Company Veredus – David Brown Family and Hole Sponsors The Beck Family The Brennan Family The Coca-Cola Company Foundation The Demba Family The Flint Family The Hanaway Family The Degitz Family The Morgan Family The Payne Family Sage Dining Services The Sjostrom Family TMS, Technical Management Services The winning teams received beautiful trophies donated by Chuck Lisowski at Awards Atlanta and gifts cards donated by Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Raffle prizes were supplied by Awards Atlanta, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Diane and Matt Moffett, and Kids Golf Academy.

Letters from home support military When you serve in the military 10,000 miles away from home, receiving a letter can mean a lot, which is why St. Martin’s students have corresponded with two military units (one Air Force and the other Marines) during the school year. Students in Claire Conarro’s 3rd grade class (at left) sent letters in May to thank the soldiers for their service and to share some of their own stories about family members in the military. They also learned some fun facts about the Marines.

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1st Place Team Mike Papirio Jon Hughes Tony Martin Rodney Clark 2nd Place Team Brad Buie Jimmy Daniel Jared Lisenby Sonny Hires 3rd Place Team Michael Park Matt Park Greg Park Ken Park Putting Contest Winner: Greg Park Closest to the Pin Hole #7: Mike Marsau Closest to the Pin Hole #11: Chris Stenglein Longest Drive: Brandon Smith Straightest Drive: Randy Jacobs

Science Olympiad at state St. Martin’s Science Olympiad Team of 4th and 5th graders competed in a regional tournament on May 3 and qualified to represent DeKalb County at the Georgia State Science Olympiad, held May 17 at Kennesaw State University. With a total score of 355 points, St. Martin’s placed 4th overall in regionals. Only 65 of the 265 teams in the Georgia Science Olympiad programs qualified for state.

seen & heard

SMES students do good through SOLVE projects The Rev. Billy Graham once said that “the highest form of worship is the worship of unselfish Christian service. The greatest form of praise is the sound of consecrated feet seeking out the lost and helpless.” Here at St. Martin’s Episcopal School, we believe service is the backbone of education as it is a noticeable sign of what we are learning about the world and our relationship to that world. Often, we think of service almost like a sacrament — it is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace; what we do corresponds to what we believe.

This year, our students have sought out the lost and helpless and have directly impacted thousands of people in our community and around the world. The service projects are chosen each year by a committee of faculty and staff and more are added as needs arise throughout the year. These projects have served as outlets for our students to respond to the needs of the world and they love the opportunity to give back. Philip Alston, a 5th grade student, said, “I felt like I was doing something good and it was fun at the same time.” Another student, 4th grader Dorothy Bailey said, “I was happy that I got to help people out — it felt good doing something good for someone else.” Likewise, those who have been touched by the St. Martin’s community feel the same sense of passion and joy. Sandy Rose, the manager of the Suthers Center where our 1st grade donated food said, “St. Martin’s School gave us a terrific donation of food. It was a great help. We were amazed about all the food that the School gave us.” Additionally, our school received a video from the Nan Mango School in Haiti thanking the students for their gifts — those gifts meant that the Nan Mango school could now provide lunch and many women in the village now have jobs. No matter how big or small each project at the school was this year, the sum total is the same: our students are learning to be

SOLVE Program at St. Martin’s Episcopal School: A Year in Review Serving Others through Leadership, Volunteerism and Education Grade level Projects • Early Childhood — Good Samaritan Health Center Good Samaritan Health Center was happy to receive the following donations: 67 First Aid kits, 654 books and 176 stuffed animals • 1st Grade — Food Pantry at the Suthers Center: The food the 1st grade collected fed about 120 families. The food pantry gives approximately 55 pounds of food per family. • 2nd Grade — Canterbury Court visits The 2nd grade went to Canterbury Court nine times this year. Each class visits three times during the school year to play bingo for about an hour with the residents and enjoys inter-generational bonding time. • 3rd Grade — Santa Shop The Santa Shop was set up in the church by the 3rd grade and they were responsible for providing all the toys and gifts. Approximately 80 families came to the Santa Shop, serving more than 250 kids. • 4th Grade — Operation School Bell The 4th grade donated about one full car load of school supplies. • 5th Grade —Cookie Company Raised $1,000 for the UGA Marine Extension Service at Skidaway Island. • 6th Grade — manage lost and found • 7th Grade — manage recycling in the school • 8th Grade — Philanthropy project Thank-a-thon The 8th grade called all of the Annual Fund donors to thank them in person. • Faculty Service Project — Blessing Bags: 20 boxes of nutrigrain bars, 27 boxes of crackers and 29 boxes of applesauce Monetary Donations: $255.25 Schoolwide Projects • St. Francis Day Pet Supply Collection Students donated two huge bins full of supplies from the DeKalb County Animal Shelter Wish List. • Share the Cloak: The school donated a box of coats to the Suthers Center in November • Spanish Club — Bake Sale for Our Little Roses Orphanage in Honduras: $239 • French Club — Collection and bake sale to provide lunches for the children of Nan Mango School in Haiti: $2,180 • Student Council: Snack cart every day Sales totaled around $2,000 and the money goes to various organizations such as: Desire Street Ministries, CURE, Emmaus House and the Suthers Center.

the hands and feet of Christ in the world. The impact of their generosity and love has been felt and our school occupies an important place in our society — not only do we educate young people but our young people use that education to make the world around them better. patterns

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in class Faculty Profile

Connecting the spirit

By Whitney Pierce, religion teacher

Religion classes take students from basics of faith to questions of ethics.

I have the unique privilege of teaching both St. Martin’s youngest and oldest students. Our school offers religious education for every age and grade level, beginning with the basics of faith (awe, wonder, joy) and culminating in an ethics capstone course. On any given day, you might find me sitting on a colorful classroom rug reading a Bible story, lecturing on the fundamentals of ethical theory, leading 5th graders in analyzing a passage from the New Testament, telling a felt-board story in chapel, or brushing the glitter off my skirt as I dash from my classroom in Early Childhood over to the Middle School. Though the objectives and expectations between Pre-K and 8th grade religion may seem disparate, frequently, one class sparks an idea for another. One day as I was leading the Beginners in a sing-along march around the “walls of Jericho,” I pondered the ethical significance of the marching tactic and whether it might be a nonviolent event that offers some redemption for the otherwise incredibly violent book of Joshua. I decided this would be a good biblicalethical case study for my 8th graders to discuss later in the day, as I sang, “And the walls came tumbling down!” Though it makes for hectic, fast-paced days, I cherish the opportunity to nurture faith and journey alongside students at all stages of spiritual development. The privilege of teaching at both ends of the spectrum also offers a unique perspective — seeing where students begin and end their spiritual journeys at SMES. As children learn to read, write, solve problems and think

critically in core academic courses, they are also pondering issues of faith. From a very young age, children are deeply spiritual beings with questions of significance. Where did God come from? Why does God want us to be good? What is my place and purpose in the world? Our religion curriculum seeks to give students the tools to answer these questions for themselves, and to understand how the Judeo-Christian tradition has answered them for the past two centuries. Since there are few straight answers and absolutes in the study of religion, this journey is one that we take together. Eighth grade religion is the true culmination of the curriculum, as students are asked to synthesize their faith experiences and knowledge, and consider how they might be active persons of faith in today’s world. In ethics, we study both theoretical and practical facets of decision-making, with an emphasis on the development of one’s own ethical perspective. This class is one of open discussion, which demands risk-taking, mutual respect and well-reasoned argumentation. Whether we are discussing the ethics of God asking Abraham to sacrifice his only son (Genesis 22) or debating the pros and cons of gun control in America, 8th graders learn how to stand up for what they believe, speak confidently and defend a position. It is our hope that students will make such decisions based on the journey of faith and virtue that they have taken both at home and at St. Martin’s.

Top: Stafford Barton works on an idea board in religion class. Bottom: Matilda McCard takes notes in religion class.

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feature

Portrait of a Graduate St. Martin’s sets young people on a path for success. By Christina Mimms, Editor

any parents wonder, at the start of their child’s school career, “What will my child become?” A business owner, a doctor, a financier? More importantly, they also ask themselves, “Who will my child be?” Will he be a person of good character? Will she be a loyal friend, wife and mother one day? Will my child be happy? The possibilites are infinite and a St. Martin’s education, in its intentional and purposeful design, pursues excellence for each student. As a school fully focused on the development of the young child, St. Martin’s sets realistic goals and expectations and gives students opportunities to grow into people of solid character who contribute positively to the world around them.

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A Person of Faith As they are seeking to understand, students are inquisitive about their faith, ethical behavior and are truly working to learn right from wrong. In religion classes, students explore their faith and the traditions of the Episcopal church, while also developing a knowledge of other faith traditions and communities. All students participate in daily devotionals and weekly chapel services. Being inclusive of others is a hallmark of the Episcopal tradition, as is serving others. Students serve on a student vestry, as acolytes and readers in chapel, and serve the community through a variety of service learning projects, some of which are organized by groups of students on their own.

The students learn great empathy and compassion for others through the projects along with a desire to better the world around them. Students are developing their own moral compass: through character education at St. Martin’s, students learn respect for others and learn to live by an honor code. Students develop their own sense of justice as they broaden their own world view. For example, in Middle School, students take field trips to nonChristian houses of worship to gain an understanding of world diversity and an acceptance of other beliefs that may be different from their own. A Scholar St. Martin’s students are well-rounded academically. Through a developmentally appropriate and relevant curriculum, students develop a passion for learning as they develop new skills that will serve them in high school, college and beyond. Their use of technology is innovative but appropriate and responsible as teachers combine technology education with traditional subjects such as language arts, math, reading and foreign language. Teachers find interesting ways to engage students in the classroom through interdisciplinary units and special projects. For example, the 4th grade participates in the national Stock Market Game, in which students use their skills in research, technology and math while also learning some real-world business skills. From a young age, St. Martin’s students are required and encouraged to speak and present in front of their peers and even larger audiences. Through in-class presentations, students learn how to communicate publicly and express themselves. At school assemblies and special events, students have the opportunity to utilize their skills and perform in front of larger groups. This life skill truly sets our young students apart from other peers who may not have the same opportunities. Students are exposed to a wide variety of literature throughout their years at SMES, which develops their reading skills and also inspires them as writers. They read from every genre. Writing every day from a young age develops a skill that students will use throughout their entire lives, regardless of their vocation. Communicating well through the written word is a quality of every SMES graduate. Because St. Martin’s students work collaboratively, often in small groups with their classmates, they develop a strong rapport with their peers. As well, because of small class sizes, the students have an equally strong rapport with teachers and other adults. Everyone is expected to be an active participant in class and no one is lost or left out. It is a safe place for students to compete, learn, grow alongside each other and develop an intellectual curiosity that will serve them throughout life. Students live under an honor code at St. Martin’s, developing a sense of personal integrity and pride in their work. They are expected to be academically responsible and are held accountable for their work and their actions. Students sign an honor pledge on their homework and tests. They also are taught the ethical use of media and technology, with the expectation that they will live as responsible digital citizens, using technology to enhance their learning and not to the detriment of themselves or others.

Students are recognized for their achievements through Honor Roll, Headmaster’s List, Honor Society and Duke TIP. A Leader St. Martin’s size gives students opportunities to be involved in the school and to lead in a variety of ways. The many offerings in sports, clubs and other activities give students a well-rounded experience, in which they can participate in a sport, in drama, in journalism or in clubs, all at the same time. They are not limited to just one activity, even in the lower grades. Not every student will be a team captain but all will have the chance to lead a small group, serve as tour guides at special events, mentor a younger student, such as through the Book Buddy program, organize an activity or try a different way to develop their interests. Lessons of good sportsmanship are instilled in P.E. classes as well as in team sports. Through leadership classes in 4th-8th grades, students learn from mentors and study examples of capable leadership. They often work in small groups on projects they present to their peers and participate in activities of self-reflection. All are designed to develop their confidence and their skills as young leaders who will blossom into adult leaders. Because St. Martin’s offers small classes, every student is known and can safely take risks or try new challenges, knowing they have the support of their teacher and peers. Taking risks can lead to moments of discovery. In addition, students learn to be self advocates. Because they know their teachers and are known, they can express their opinions, pose questions and take on new challenges. Students lead through Student Council, sports teams, the Power over Prejudice program, and classroom jobs that support their class community. They also serve as campus tour guides and club officers. Students are recognized for their achievements through Student of the Week, Student of the Month and merits. A Loyal Alumnus/Alumna The relationship with St. Martin’s and its graduates does not end on graduation day. Long after they graduate, alumni come back to visit and say that St. Martin’s feels like home to them. Even if the face of the campus changes over time, they still feel a sense of belonging when they walk through the doors. After all, many of them spent 10 years or longer in our community, far more years than they spend in high school or college. They enjoy including St. Martin’s in their lives and sharing their successes about their college acceptances, career achievements, marriages, births and other accomplishments in life. They feel connected to the school and to one another, through regular alumni events held on campus, social media and a school magazine with a hearty alumni news section. Many alumni have served as speakers at various school events and have mentored younger students. The typical 14-year-old St. Martin’s graduate will not have all the answers to life’s questions but he or she is on a path of learning, appreciating, questioning, understanding, growing and becoming a person of substance, and a person with goals and immense potential. Starting that journey at St. Martin’s gives them all the possibilities. patterns

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feature

Graduation 2014

Treasuring traditions By Christina Mimms, Editor

While embracing past rituals, the 21st Commencement is first to be held at the Cathedral of St. Philip.

G Above: Commencement speaker Dr. Jodie Guest with son Gavin, graduate, Student Council President and speaker. View additional photos from graduation and the complete commencement speeches on the News page of the St. Martin’s Web site.

raduation at St. Martin’s brings to the forefront many time-honored traditions that each class, each with its own distinct personality, experiences during the students’ last few days leading up to their commencement. Class trips, Field Day, exams, breakfasts, luncheons and a host of meetings soon give way to more formal events, such as the Honors Day assembly and a newly established tradition of an 8th grade chapel, which was held in St. Martin’s Church following the 8th grade offcampus luncheon this year. The Rev. Stefanie Taylor, chaplain, and the Rev. Dr. James Hamner, headmaster, led the chapel, which included prayers and the reading of Psalm 121. Two students also read reflection papers. “You always belong here and you always have a home here,” said Mother Taylor. The chapel service adds a new tradition to a historical list of other traditions unique to St. Martin’s.

Clap-out

The tradition of “clap-out” began in 2001. Students in 1st through 7th grades line the

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hallways to clap for the 8th graders as they process around the campus. Seeing younger students, siblings and parents clapping for them often brings tears to the eyes of the graduates as the end of their SMES career becomes real. The clapping continues as they process into the Honors Day assembly, during which students in 4th through 8th grades receive a variety of academic awards and recognitions for their many contributions to the life of the school. The assembly also includes the presentation of two important awards.

The Reeder Excellence in Teaching Award

The Reeder Award, which dates back to 1993, is presented to a teacher each year at the Honors Day Assembly. Teachers are nominated by faculty and the recipient is selected by previous award recipients. The award recognizes a teacher who is characterized by positive contributions to the school. This teacher is committed to students first of all. The primary qualities of this valued colleague are a positive attitude, loyalty, dedication, flexibility and good relationships with students, parents, administrators and teachers.

Along with the honor of the award, the recipient receives a generous stipend from the Reeder Foundation. The 2014 recipient is Middle School math teacher Laura Lewis. She has taught at St. Martin’s for seven years and this year served as chair of the Professional Development Committee and served on the Reaccreditation steering committee. She is an advisor to the St. Martin’s Honor Society and a 6th grade homeroom advisor. Speaking after receiving the Reeder Award, Laura thanked all of her students. “You have made me the teacher I am today,” she said. Laura and her husband Eric have three children: Tori, 21; Trae, 20; and Tucker, 14. The Lewises live in Brookhaven and attend church at Our Lady of the Assumption, where Laura previously taught for 12 years.

The Oglethorpe Award

The Oglethorpe Award is the highest honor awarded to a student. The award was named for Gen. James Oglethorpe, founder of the colony of Georgia, statesman, social reformist and philanthropist. The Oglethorpe Award

was started through the efforts of colleagues at St. Martin’s, board members with connections to Oglethorpe University and the generous support of the PTO. The first Oglethorpe Award was presented at Honors Day in 1988 to a well-rounded Middle School student who displayed high academic achievement and strong character. In March 1995, a committee comprised of faculty and administration convened to establish extended criteria for the award, which is now presented to an 8th grader at the end of the Honors Assembly. The criteria for the Oglethorpe Award nomination state that the student must be a good citizen of the school and community, and exhibit intelligence, compassion, enthusiasm, responsibility and common sense. Faculty nominate students and a committee determines the winner. The 2014 recipient is Molly Richardson. Molly played soccer for St. Martin’s and also plays club soccer. She was the secretary of the SOLVE Club and a member of the POP Club, Legend staff and Honor Society. She was on the Headmaster’s List both semesters. Molly is an acolyte at Peachtree Road United Method-

Above: Reeder Award recipient Laura Lewis. Oglethorpe Award recipient Molly Richardson with Dr. Hamner and Mr. Lee.

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Graduate Diane DeLany with brothers Dave ’10 and Jake ’08.

ist Church. She will attend Pace Academy next year. Other nominees this year were Charlie Albert, Erika Kaivani, Marc LeVan, Knox Pittman, Jacob Reading, Ansley Reese, Jordan Ricketts and Julia Steck.

Commencement

The 21st Commencement ceremony for the Class of 2014 took place at the Cathedral of St. Philip for the first time, breaking with the tradition of holding the event at St. Martin in the Fields Church. In order to provide ample room for the 65 graduates and their families, along with the faculty, administration, trustees and church vestry, it became necessary to find a larger venue. The ceremony itself retained its same traditions, including readings by students and the presentation of the class gift. The 8th graders raised $1,350 at their annual car wash and elected to purchase two new benches, which will be placed on the athletic field to give spectators more viewing. Student Council President Gavin Guest gave a reflection speech. He shared memories going back to the 3-year-old class, noting how much things changed when the students reached Middle School. “Now we were really working together — in the classroom, on the athletic fields, the newspaper, Warrior TV, the musical and on student council,” he said.

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The Grand Canyon trip, the pinnacle of the 8th grade year, challenged the students, Gavin said. “On the long hikes, we pushed each other to keep going because in the end we knew that once we got to see the view, the treacherous hikes would all be worth it,” he said. “I can honestly say, that I would not have wanted to go to the Grand Canyon with any other friends. We conquered the Grand Canyon by working together, just as we have conquered our Middle School years at St. Martin’s.” Dr. Jodie Guest, former chair of the board of trustees, church vestry member and mother of Gavin and Annie, a rising 5th grader, gave the Commencement address. She first acknowledged the families of the students. “Your support of these students is essential to what they have achieved,” she said. She offered four key pieces of advice to the graduates: • Follow your passion. • Never stop learning. • Travel. • Do good in your world. Dr. Guest reflected on her own experiences as a foreign exchange student, her 29 years of education to obtain multiple degrees, her travels to Europe, Honduras and Alaska, and her family’s philanthropic work, which includes providing health care to migrant farm workers in south Georgia. “Follow your passion, stay true to yourself and never follow someone else’s path,” she said. “You have the gift of time. Use it to do what you love. Believe anything is possible and work to make it happen.”

High school placement

Looking to the future, the 8th graders continued the SMES tradition of high achievement in their high school acceptances, which include: • Atlanta Girls’ School

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• Atlanta International School • Galloway School • Greater Atlanta Christian School • Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School • Lovett School • Marist School • Mount Vernon Presbyterian School • North Springs Magnet for Fine Arts • Pace Academy • St. Pius X Catholic High School • Wesleyan School • The Westminster Schools • Woodward Academy • Asheville School (Asheville, N.C.) • Baylor School (Chattanooga, Tenn.) • Choate Rosemary Hall (Wallingford, Conn.) • Darlington School (Rome, Ga.) • Kent School (Kent, Conn.) • McCallie School (Chattanooga, Tenn.) • St. Mary’s School (Raleigh, N.C.) Students will also attend the following area public schools: Dunwoody High School, Lakeside High School, North Atlanta High School and Riverwood High School. Reese Simpson was named the Kent Scholar for the class of incoming 9th graders at the Kent School. This award is given to only one student per year and gives Reese a full scholarship for her four years at Kent. Julia Steck was named one of the five finalists for the Distinguished Scholar Program at Baylor School and received a generous scholarship award. “We are extremely pleased and thrilled for our graduates,” said Director of High School Placement Jan Swoope. “Their hard work in the classroom, in athletics, in the arts, and in service learning continues to make our students extremely attractive to the many secondary schools, both locally and beyond.” Their next step will take them well beyond St. Martin’s. As Gavin stated in his speech, “It’s time to soar high to new challenges on our own while never forgetting our time at St. Martin’s together.” Congratulations to the Class of 2014!

class notes 1999 Claire Graves is a general surgery

resident at Columbia University Medical Center in New York. She graduated from Yale University and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

2003 Veronica Tarantino will run the Chicago Marathon in October.

2008 Colin Barham performed in “Zombie

Prom” at the American Theatre of Actors in New York. He attends New York University.

2009 Mary Walker Mixon has a 3.6. GPA at Gardner-Webb University, where she plays tennis. She will be working for the BB&T Open this summer.

2010 Olivia Haas graduated from West-

minster, where she was president of the senior class and captain of the crew team, and was on the Discipline Council. She also ran cross country and served as an admissions ambassador. She received the Spirit Award from the senior class. She will attend Converse College. . Dave DeLany graduated from St. Pius and will start at University of Georgia in the fall. He was on the football team at Pius.

Darby Thomas served as the varsity volleyball team manager for three years at St. Pius. She will attend Rollins College.

Alumni Profile • Austin Sprague ’10

Anna Johnson was captain of the cross country team at St. Pius this year and co-president of the STAND Club. She received acceptances to University of Alabama, Auburn University and Louisiana State University and she will attend University of Mississippi. Sam Downey was involved in the theater program at Pace Academy throughout high school. He was accepted at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University and will pursue acting. Vivi Coronado graduated from Lakeside High, where she was involved with the theater program and served as co-president of the gay-straight alliance. Her classes included AP economics, AP Psychology and AP Calculus. She will attend Oxford College at Emory University. William Boor graduated from Holy Innocents’. He played varsity lacrosse and served as a peer counselor and on the Integrity Council. He will attend Florida State University. William Patterson recently earned his Eagle Scout award. His artwork has been displayed at the High Museum and at the Capitol. He graduated from Druid Hills High and will attend Auburn University. Anna Sanders served as a peer leader and a retreat leader at Marist. She was captain of the cross country team this year. She will start at Samford University in the fall.

Jeanne Davis graduated from Class of 2010 alumni at Holy Innocents’ prom: from Dunwoody High, where her left, Robert Beeland, William Boor, Grace Dennard, classes included AP World History, AP Physics, AP Psychology, Jason Schick, Olivia Kushel and Jack Barton.

For the past six years, Austin Sprague has dominated the independent school running circuit and more recently, has earned national accolades as well. He started young — his parents entered him in the Peachtree junior road race and an Iron Kids triathlon so when he came to St. Martin’s in 7th grade, he was already a seasoned runner. Austin won every meet except one during his 7th and 8th grade years at SMES. As a freshman at St. Pius, he set a goal to qualify for a national event by the time he was a senior. Over the past four years, he helped his St. Pius varsity cross country team earn four consecutive state championships and placed 1st himself in 2013 and 2014. “I like seeing my team succeed as much as I like to succeed,” he said. In 2013, he earned a spot in the Nike Cross Nationals, an elite event for runners held in Portland. He finished 32nd in 19-degree windy conditions. “It was nice to branch out to a bigger running community, but it’s crazy how small the community is when you get to these national races,” Austin said. He expects to meet up with familiar runners when he enters the college circuit. He has earned a cross country and track scholarship to Furman University, where he plans to study business and technology. Austin recently earned another accolade when he was named Gatorade Cross Country Boys Runner of the Year for Georgia. He is the first St. Pius runner to receive the honor, which is awarded to a student with academic achievement and contributions in community service as well as running achievements.

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class notes

William Boor, Austin Sprague and Mrs. Katie Byrd, Mrs. Laura Lewis, Alex Bonaparte. Jeanne Davis and Madison Mischik Andrew Skinner, Jillian Coheley Olivia Kushel, Darby Thomas and dent of the senior class. He ’10 at the Senior Dinner. and Camilla Grayson. Kirstie Caverhill ’10 at the Senior Dinner. was a member of National Honor Society and played student newspaper and took last year. She received the AP Literature, AP Macroecosaxophone in the jazz band. six AP classes. Good Citizen Award at St. nomics and AP Calculus. She He earned college accepPius, where she was a cheerwas editor of the yearbook. tances to Emory University, Maddy Southers graduated leader and a member of She participated in the GoverUniversity of North Carolina from Marist and will attend National Honor Society. She nors Honors Program in 2013 at Chapel Hill, the honors pro- Clemson University, where has served in the National and received an honorable gram at University of Georgia, she will be on the horseback Charity League for four years. mention in the 2014 Moody’s University of Richmond and eventing team. She will attend Georgia Tech Mega Math Challenge. She Wake Forest University. but also received acceptances received an acceptance to Madison Mischik served to Auburn, Clemson, Samford, Carnegie-Mellon University Robert Beeland graduated on the newspaper staff at St. Furman, Elon, University of and will attend University of from Holy Innocents’. He Pius. She will attend UniverNorth Carolina - Wilmington Georgia. played varsity golf and was sity of Georgia. and Georgia College & State president of the French Club. University. Andrew Skinner graduated He has taken three AP classes Michael Daniels recently from Rabun Gap-Nacoochee and French V Honors. He will earned his Eagle Scout award. Andrew Buss graduated from School, where he was the reattend University of the South He has played hockey for the Marist and will attend Univercipient of the Head of School - Sewanee. last three years and plans sity of Georgia. He took four Leadership Scholarship and to attend either University AP classes this year and was the Morris Brown Academic Maddy Nelson graduated of Georgia or University of a member of National Honor Award Scholarship. He earned from Mount Vernon PresbyMiami. He graduated from Society and Spanish Honor 1st place in the Academic terian School. She was on Marist. Society. Symposium for Science in the varsity swimming and 2013 and served as vice presicross country teams and also Emily Britt graduated from Kayla Feng received an IB dicoached youth swimming. Marist and will attend Georgia ploma from Riverwood High She will attend Clemson Tech. She was a retreat leader University. and a peer leader and was on the Please send your Sean Kelly served as tennis dean’s list. She team captain at St. Pius this news and updates to also earned colyear. He will attend University lege acceptances alumni@stmartinschool.org of Georgia. to University Photos also welcome! of Notre Dame, John Morrison graduated Cornell University from Pace Academy and will and University of Visit our Alumni pages online be in the honors college at Richmond. at www.stmartinschool.org University of Alabama. He was a National Merit Finalist and Caroline Harvey Class of 2010 alumni at the Pace Academy prom: and on Facebook and Twitter! from left, Kandace Thompson, Cory Bush, Sam was selected for the top 12 is a 12-year Girl long snappers in the counScout and earned Downey, Riley Muse, Madison Hoff and John try. He also worked for the Morrison. her Gold Award

Keep in touch!

Summer 2014

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Congratulations to the Class of 2010 on their college acceptances! University of Alabama Appalachian State University Auburn University Bates College Brevard College Carnegie-Mellon University Clemson University Coastal Carolina University College of Charleston University of Colorado Converse College Cornell University Davidson College Denison University Elon University Emory University University of Florida Florida Atlantic University Florida Southern College Florida State University Furman University University of Georgia Georgia College and State University Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia Southern University Georgia State University Goucher College Guilford College High Point University Hollins College Indiana University James Madison University Kennesaw State University University of Kentucky Louisiana State University Mercer University Millsaps College University of Mississippi New York University University of North Carolina Chapel Hill University of North Carolina Wilmington University of Notre Dame Occidental College University of Portland University of Richmond Rhodes College Rollins College Samford University Sewanee: The University of the South University of South Carolina University of Tennessee Wabash College Wake Forest University College of William & Mary Wofford College Young Harris College

School. She served as vice president of the student body, secretary of National Honor Society and as the Riverwood representative on the superintendent’s student board. She also was a varsity Seniors Kirstie Caverhill, Anna Sanders, Darby Thomas, Robert Beeland, Jason football cheerlead- Caroline Harvey and Madison Hoff. Schick, Mr. Alan Shafir, Chris Harris, er. She will attend Joe Looper and Vivi Coronado ’10. the College of WilShe plans to study law and liam & Mary. Grace Dennard graduated will focus on politics, economics and American History. from Holy Innocents’ and will Jillian Coheley graduattend University of Colorado. ated from St. Pius and Emma Duke (photo below) is will attend University of the only 4-year dance comAli Amacher graduated from Georgia. She plays club Dunwoody High and will pany member at St. Pius to soccer and also coaches date. This spring she received attend Auburn University, 6-year-olds. the Director’s Award for Excel- where she plans to study molecular biology and hopes lence in Dance, the highest Madison Hoff was a to work in women’s health. award offered at St. Pius. She cheerleader for four also served on a mission team years at Pace Academy. Olivia Kushel was captain of to Nicaragua and was on the She will attend Wake the tennis team at Holy Innojunior and senior councils. Forest University. cents’ this year. She has made Emma was offered a position the dean’s list and headmasas a trainee in the Nashville Camilla Grayson ter’s list and served on the Ballet II company but will played varsity volleyactivities committee. She has attend University of South ball at Lovett. She will taken five AP classes in adCarolina on the Woodrow attend University of dition to honors English and Scholarship. Georgia. honors Spanish. She received acceptances to Auburn, UniJennifer Leib received versity of Alabama, University a tennis scholarship to of Mississippi, Clemson, UniFlorida Atlantic University of Florida and College versity. She served as of Charleston. She will attend tennis team captain at Florida State University. St. Pius this year. Hannah Rose Adams recently performed in “An Experiment With An Air Pump” at Westminster. She received the Head of Upper School Award at the senior honors program. She will attend Rhodes College, where she has received merit and leadership scholarships.

Sadie Fitzgerald was a varsity football and basketball cheerleader at Marist. She also Anna Johnson, Sadie Fitzgerald served on the yearbook staff. She will attend University of and Jennifer Leib ’10 at the Senior Georgia. Dinner. patterns

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class notes

Class of 2013 girls Caroline Koch, Lily Zay, Megan Wilson, Madlyn Wright, Cheyenne Murray and Emily Reittinger. Joe Looper played baseball at St. Pius. He will attend University of Tennessee, his dad’s alma mater. Alex Bonaparte graduated from Marist and will attend Auburn University. Jason Schick played basketball for four years at Holy Innocents’. He will attend University of South Carolina. Kirstie Caverhill played volleyball and softball at Marist. She served on student council and was in the environmental science club. She also has participated in several mission trips. She will attend Clemson University. Branden Mitchell graduated from St. Pius, where he played varsity football as a running back and defensive back. He will play football at Mesa Community College and transfer to a Division I college team in the future. Riley Muse graduated from Pace Academy and will attend University of Georgia in the fall. Florrie McCard graduated from Saint Mary’s School and will attend Agnes Scott College as a recipient of the Letitia Pate Evans Scholarship. As a senior, she has served

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Mr. Alan Shafir with Class of 2011 alumni Michael Matthews, Fitz Smoak, Alex Magee and Jon Walsh.

on the executive student government association as the chair of the judicial board, president of the student-led a cappella group, junior warden of the vestry, and on the community service committee. She was a four-year member of honors chorale and honors chamber choir, and also participated in JV basketball, varsity swimming, and varsity track & field. She played the role of the Wiz in the school play “The Wiz” and received recognition as an “emerging artist in musical theater.” Florrie was inducted to The Beacon, an honorary senior leadership group in the fall. Avery Triesch graduated from Lovett School and will attend Auburn University. She played varsity volleyball and varsity lacrosse and was a peer leader. She is taking a mission trip to Nicaragua in June. Andrews Owen graduated from Marist and will attend Auburn University. He played varsity golf. Chris Harris played varsity golf all four years at St. Pius and served as captain the last two years. He made the All-Region golf team for two years and the AAA All-State Golf Team last year. He received a golf scholarship at Rhodes College.

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2011 Grace Francour, Julia Beck

and Claire Snyder spent their 2014 spring break in Cambodia. They were with a group of 16 Pace Academy students that traveled there with Habitat for Humanity. They spent four days digging foundations and contructing brick walls for four houses in Battambang. They also traveled to Angkor Wat. Julia Beck received the Scholar Athlete Award for Excellence in Athletics from Pace Academy, which is presented to an outstanding athlete who also maintains a high GPA. She received the MVP award for golf and is the best female golfer in Pace’s history. She also received the Smith College book award for excellence in English. She is a member of National Honor Society and Cum Laude Society and is on the student newspaper staff. Sam Nail received the Renaissance Arts Award from Pace Academy, which is presented for artistic success, passion for the arts, commitment to self-challenge and serving as a role model for others. Sam participated in four plays this year. He was Smee in “Peter Pan,” G.G. and Lawrence in “A

Lucy Hatcher, Sally Smith, Brittany Walsh and Alexandria Cannon from the Class of 2012. Cheever Evening,” and Dogberry in “Much Ado About Nothing.” He also was in the three-man cast that performed “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare” in the Region 5A One Act Play Competition, for which Sam received the All Star Cast Certificate of Recognition for his performance. Grace Francour received the Frank Woodling Community Service Award for Pace Academy. She is also on the student newspaper staff.

2012 At Asheville School, Lucy

Hatcher is on the varsity volleyball, swimming and lacrosse teams. She was named to the All-Western North Carolina swim team with an honorable mention. She was also a member of the 400 free relay team which broke the school record.

2013 Maggie Fitzgerald made

honor roll at Marist this year. She is a cheerleader and is on the JV lacrosse team. She recently joined the yearbook staff. Carter Fricano played JV volleyball at Greater Atlanta Christian School this year. She

recently was inducted into the Beta Club and was on honor roll first semester. She is in Honors English and also plays club volleyball. Cheyenne Murray attends Stone Mountain High, where she is taking all accelerated courses. She played basketball and soccer. Phillip Game attends Holy Innocents’. He was captain of the JV soccer team this year and was on the fall homecoming court. He also serves as a student ambassador. Iain Thomas plays varsity golf at Holy Innocents’, where he is also a member of the chorus and the Bear Tones. David Cooper is a student ambassador and shadow student host at Marist. He also is on the football and golf teams. Madlyn Wright is on the St. Pius cross country team. Claire Dame attends Lovett, where she is in Honors English and plays volleyball. Donald Barbee attends Dunwoody High. He is in the band and is taking Latin. He also plays basketball with the Doraville Basketball League. Emily Reittinger attends Lakeside High and is in several honors classes. She also runs track. Caroline Smith was on the 9th grade football

cheerleading and the JV basketball cheerleading teams at Marist. She also plays soccer. Megan Wilson lettered in varsity cross country at Holy Innocents’ and was selected to run in the state meet. She also runs track. Abby Thomas attends St. Pius, where she played on the freshman volleyball team. She took Algebra I honors this year. Kyle Blasingame plays JV lacrosse at Holy Innocents’. India Sloan recently was accepted into the St. Pius dance company. Grace Sanders plays tennis at Holy Innocents’. Lily Zay attends Galloway, where she is on the tech crew and plays softball. Joe Regas plays JV football and JV baseball at St. Pius. Teddy Ewing attends Chamblee Charter High, where he is in four honors classes: English, Biology, American Government and World Geography. He also plays baseball and is in the Interact Club.

Nic Hewett plays basketball, lacrosse and football at Holy Innocents’. Leann Kelly made the honor roll in her first semester at Saint Mary’s School. She is involved with dance and horseback riding. Emma Downey took four honors classes at Pace this year. She plays volleyball and is involved with theatre, chorus, gymnastics and horseback riding. Bryce Weber attends Holy Innocents’, where he is in the French Club, the Vestry Club and the Model U.N. His classes included Honors Ancient History and Religion, Honors English, Honors French II and Honors Orchestra. Ryan Connor is on the track and field team at St. Pius. He plays hockey with Mill Creek Hockey, which placed 2nd in state this year.

Caroline Koch attends Marist. She is in the color guard and is on the staffs of the Rapier art and literary magazine and the Blue & Gold newspaper.

Nathan Little and Jack Randolph were placed on the Faculty Recognition List at McCallie School for the fall semester, acknowledging those students whom faculty members think deserve special recognition for their academic efforts. Nathan also made the headmaster’s list for earning all As and is on McCallie’s lacrosse team, which is ranked 5th in the nation.

Ty Feng was in four honors classes and one AP class at Riverwood High this year. He also plays JV soccer.

Nicolas Caceres was in Honors Geometry this year. He is a member of Pius Players.

Jill Florence ’04 speaks at Senior Dinner

One of the traditions at the Senior Dinner, held each spring for the SMES alumni who are graduating from high school, is for them to hear some “inspiration” from another SMES graduate. This year, Jill Florence addressed the seniors and their parents. She spoke of her own hesitancy at starting at St. Martin’s in Elementary School but how she quickly got involved and made good friendships that continue now, both with fellow students and with teachers. “There will always be a special place in my heart for St. Martin’s,” she said. She reminded students that “not all learning happens inside the classroom and that learning shouldn’t stop when you leave the classroom. Push yourself to learn from the world around you.” While their next journey is about to begin, Jill suggested that they “take comfort from the past and never stop learning.” Jill is a St. Martin’s Oglethorpe Award winner and a graduate of St. Pius X Catholic High School and Georgia Tech. She is a consultant with Bravo Solutions, an Atlanta engineering firm. She is a regular attendee at SMES alumni events. Her parents are Tom and Kathy, in photo above.

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voices

rev. betsy martin turner ’96 I recently spoke at the St. Martin’s chapel services. I had a great time walking around the campus, basking in nostalgia, seeing all the changes on campus and feeling that same wonderful St. Martin’s warmth, which hasn’t changed at all. But my task in chapel was a tough one. It’s a lot of pressure to come up with something meaningful to say to all those students. So I thought, what’s the one thing I want them to know? Or, put another way, what did I need to hear when I was a child? Or, what’s the one thing I’d want my own child to hear and know? The answer was stunningly simple. I told the students that they are loved by God and the people around them, and that they are not alone. Everybody needs to be reminded of that, regardless of age or circumstance, so that’s what I preached. I talked about Anna and Simeon, who recognized, celebrated and loved Jesus, and I reminded the students that they have Annas and Simeons in their lives, adults that they can trust, who love them, who communicate God’s love to them, who celebrate them for who they are. Every child, every person, needs to know that simple and profound truth: you are loved and you are not alone. I had a really big disappointment in my life about six months ago: something I had counted on and been excited about fell apart. I felt like a failure, disappointed, betrayed, frustrated, angry, unsure of where I belonged or what would come next. But in those dark days, my community — friends, family, colleagues, neighbors, my Annas and Simeons — surrounded me, sympathized with me, listened to me, and told and showed me that I am loved and that I am not alone. Some call that the great cloud of witnesses. Others would call it the “village” it takes to raise a child. As a mother and as a minister, I tell my daughter and my congregation all the time — you are loved, so very well loved, and you never go alone. Whether you are in Early Childhood, Elementary School, Middle School, or well beyond, it seems to me that the whole gospel and all of human wisdom may come down to that: knowing and trusting and telling one another that we are loved and that we are not alone. Thanks be to God!

Summer 2014

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The Camp at St. Martin’s – spaces still available! New camp hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Drop-off at 8:30 a.m.) Ages Pre-K through 8th grade Camp Session I: June 2 – June 27, 2014 Camp Session II: July 7 – August 1, 2014

2014 r e m m Su amp

A n ew c ES for M S t a e c experien ages Pre-K children d) through s ol (4 year grade! 8 th

Golf, tennis, baseball, soccer, yard sports, volleyball, cheerleading, football, dance, karate, choir, art, chess, musical theater, robotics/LEGO Bricks, cooking, edible art, puppetry, jazz music, science, zoology, fashion design, typing, computer, filmmaking, app design and academic brush-up camps. Registration opens Feb. 1. Visit our camp page online at: http://www.stmartinschool.org/campus_life/summer Mark McDaniel, Director of Summer Programs

St. Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal School 3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Road Atlanta, GA 30319

The 2014 Oglethorpe nominees are (from left), Jordan Ricketts, Charlie Albert, Molly Richardson (winner), Marc LeVan, Ansley Reese, Jacob Reading, Julia Steck, Erika Kaivani and Knox Pittman.