Spring/Summer 2013 - St. Mary's Magazine

FIELD STUDIES

FOR FAMILIES, FRIENDS, ALUMNI AND SUPPORTERS OF ST. MARY’S SCHOOL

SPRING/SUMMER 2013

THE WORLD IS YOUR CLASSROOM Committing to DIVERSITY DISCOVERING Student Inventors Learning Outside the Classroom Across the COUNTRY & ABROAD Paying it FORWARD The GRADUATES

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HEADMASTER’S MESSAGE

ST. MARY’S – A SCHOOL OF THE FUTURE BUILT BY A LEGACY OF FAMILY SUPPORT AND DEDICATION Dear St. Mary’s Families, St. Mary’s was very fortunate to have National Association of Independent Schools President, Pat Bassett, on campus last spring as part of our speaker series.

Earlier this year I had another opportunity to hear Pat speak, and once again I came away energized and inspired about the great gifts of independent school education for children. Both of Pat’s presentations, based on the research he has done in visiting hundreds of independent schools around the world, focused on his list of characteristics that define great schools.

In his talks, he refers to the institutions that embody these characteristics as “schools of the future.”

As I listened to Pat’s words, it was again eminently clear and reaffirming to me that we are indeed one of these schools.

I concur with Pat that among other things truly “great schools” have passionate and dedicated teachers, committed and involved parents, and as a result, inspired and engaged students. These schools have something else in common; a community of people who understand the need to respect and appreciate the efforts and contributions of those who came before them, and the responsibility to leave their own legacy for the families and students who will follow

An inquiry-based, student centered approach to learning is designed to enhance both curiosity and creativity in students.

It has become increasingly clear that these traits and skills will be essential for our children when they enter the adult world.

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them. Pat defined this responsibility with the following words: “Pay it forward by building endowment and thereby sustaining intergenerational equity so that the next generation of families will be at least as well served by this generation as the current generation of families has been by its predecessors.”

St. Mary’s would not be the school it is today had it not been for the efforts and support of those who came before us.

A seminal group of St. Mary’s families helped our founder Father Sillers and his faculty take a school that began in a series of “trailers on a dirt lot” and transformed it into the beautiful campus we all enjoy today. In this edition of St. Mary’s Magazine, the contributions of one of these founding families, the Pellizzons, are chronicled in an article based on a conversation I had with long-serving board member and board chair Greg Pellizzon. Greg’s story is an inspiring one, and it reminds us of the importance of paying it forward so that we can leave our own legacy for future families and students. God bless.

John O’Brien, Headmaster

FIELD STUDIES

Exploration, Innovation and Imagination St. Mary’s is a very student-centered educational environment. Our curriculum is based on inquiry-driven learning and is focused on application in the real world. We promote a strong sense of confidence, inquiry, connectedness, and appreciation for different cultures and faiths. Join us, as our students discover the dynamic combination of knowledge, skills, independent critical thinking, and an appreciation for the richness of life through international awareness.

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What’s Inside Living and Learning in Italy............................................................................ 2 Opening Eyes and Minds with Art................................................................. 3 Measuring Up In Washington, D.C................................................................ 4 Exploring California’s History and Science...................................................... 5 Competition in Scholastics and Art................................................................ 6 Invention Convention.................................................................................... 7

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The 2013 Graduates.................................................................................. 8-9 A Legacy of Excellence................................................................................ 10 In Step with Devin Walsh............................................................................ 11 On the Trail to Writing Success.................................................................... 12 Remembering the Holocaust....................................................................... 13 The Power of Kind, by student Camryn Barry.............................................. 14 Using Technology to Enhance Learning....................................................... 15

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Athletics Offer Powerful Lessons................................................................. 16 9th Annual Track Invitational....................................................................... 17 A School Built by Dedicated Families........................................................... 18 Advancing the Mission................................................................................ 19 Dream Gala Raises Spirits and Funds........................................................... 20 Alumni Updates.......................................................................................... 21

Headmaster: John O’Brien Advancement Director: Bonnie Cotter Editor: Katherine Ransom Contributors: Christine Downie, Noel Green, Roxanne Kane, Nancy Qushair, Jan Rucktenwald, Arturo Valdez and student Camryn Barry.

Design: Phil Holmes Design

St. Mary’s Magazine is published three times a year for families, friends, alumni and supporters of St. Mary’s School.

We welcome your feedback.

Please address questions and comments to Katherine Ransom at katherine.ransom@smaa.org

Alumni: We enjoy hearing from you.

Please send us your latest news and notes: marketing@smaa.org Join St. Mary’s community online by becoming a friend on Facebook.

St. Mary’s School: 7 Pursuit, Aliso Viejo, California 92656 | www.smaa.org | 949.448.9027

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FIELD STUDIES

“I learned that Rome is one of the oldest places in the world. It is so rich in history yet it is a city at the height of modern culture and fashion. I‘m glad I studied Spanish because it really helped me to understand the Italian language.” Leighton Holritz

LIVING AND LEARNING IN ITALY “THE WORLD IS A BOOK, AND THOSE WHO DO NOT TRAVEL READ ONLY A PAGE.” - SAINT AUGUSTINE

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n March a group of 18 St. Mary’s Grade 7 and 8 students returned from the European experience of a lifetime.

They spent two weeks in Italy as part of our International Exchange Program with the International School of Milan (ISM).

For the past nine years, St. Mary’s has partnered with ISM to provide an exchange program for our Middle School students.

Each fall, students from Milan travel to California, spending a week with St. Mary’s host families and experiencing life in the United States. In the spring, the roles were reversed and our students flew to Italy for educational and cultural immersion.

For one week, our students lived with their host students in Milan and attended classes at ISM, which is the largest international school in Italy. For the second week, our St. Mary’s students were treated to a cultural and historic tour of Italy accompanied by professional docents who provided fascinating insights about each of the sites visited. The group toured Milan where they viewed DaVinci’s Last Supper, took a day trip to Venice, a bus and train excursion through the Cinque Terre region, followed by visits to Pisa, Florence, and

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Pienza in the Tuscany region and then two days in Rome.

“This is an opportunity like no other. We go far beyond discovery because we connect at a deeper personal level with the Italian students and families. Everything is richer experiencing this program through the eyes of natives,” said teacher, Arturo Valdez, Italian Field Study Lead As journalist Ella Maillart said, “You do not travel if you are afraid of the unknown, you travel for the unknown that reveals you with yourself.” The IB programme at St. Mary’s is committed to developing internationally minded individuals who understand and appreciate the entire book.

“The first week was truly excellent. I got to engage with my counterparts who live across the world. We saw amazing landmarks and participated in daily living with my host student and his family.

The time we spent made me realize we are not so different. This was the best time I ever had in my life.”-Noah Hill

FIELD STUDIES

OPENING EYES AND MINDS WITH ART “THE REAL VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY CONSISTS NOT IN SEEKING NEW LANDSCAPES BUT IN HAVING NEW EYES.” – MARCEL PROUST

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t. Mary’s shares something in common with Harvard Medical School. Both schools are using art museum experiences to improve students’ powers of observation and critical thinking skills.

For St. Mary’s, the latest opportunity came on March 6 when a group of students, teachers and parents embarked on a Fine Arts Cultural Field Study in New York City. The goal was not simply to expose the students to some of the world’s greatest cultural experiences, but to broaden their perspectives and prepare them for successful careers – even if their career choices may be unrelated to art.

Harvard Medical School has applied this strategy since 2004, with a course that combines clinical learning with museum art experiences. The results have been eyeopening: Students in the course scored 37 percent better in the accuracy of their observations and the use of evidence to back up their interpretations. The co-creator of the Harvard program believes that studying art teaches people to look more deeply, and to realize that there is more than one right answer to any given situation.

What did St. Mary’s students observe in the Big Apple? What did they experience that could help them become better doctors, architects or computer programmers?

Plenty. Visual Arts instructor Roxanne Kane and Music Teacher Dan Fineberg led 18 students and parent chaperones on a tour that included renowned art museums, musical and theatrical venues, and multicultural cuisine opportunities.

At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, students were guided toward exhibitions inspired by their individual IB classroom units of inquiry. Grade 3 visited the

Museum’s Egyptian collection; Grade 4 viewed J.M.W. Turner’s paintings of the majesty and wonder of nature, which tied into their classroom studies focusing on natural disasters; Grade 5 saw Jasper Johns’ White Flag which provided inspiration for their visual arts project involving mixed media renditions of the American flag; and Grade 6 explored the Museum’s vast collection of Ancient Greek and Roman treasures.

At the Guggenheim Museum, the group was treated to a guided tour of an exhibition about the Japanese modern art movement known as “Gutai” which celebrates ways of revealing the inner life of a given material or object. Students then participated in a hands-on visual arts workshop arranged

by Guggenheim Museum educators. At the Frick Collection, students viewed a new exhibition featuring the early Italian Renaissance and saw a wide variety of pieces that are permanently on view.

Other trip highlights included a tour of Lincoln Center of the Performing Arts…a Broadway production of the new musical revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella…the New York Pops Spring debut…a performance by the Paul Taylor

Dance Company at the David Koch Theater…a jazz tribute to Dizzie Gillespie at Lincoln Center’s Rose Theatre…and a Northern Italian dinner at Café Fiorello, where the group dined alongside opera singer Placido Domingo and his family.

The students used sketchbooks and graphite and watercolor pencils to capture their impressions throughout the trip. Like the Harvard Medical School students, their eyes and minds were opened by their artistic observations. As they say at the end of a successful theater performance: ENCORE! This trip was so successful that next year’s trip to New York is already full.

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FIELD STUDIES

MEASURING UP IN WASHINGTON, D.C. YOU’D EXPECT STUDENTS SPENDING A WEEK IN WILLIAMSBURG AND WASHINGTON, D.C. TO LEARN ABOUT OUR COUNTRY’S HISTORY AND HERITAGE. BUT A MATH LESSON, TOO?

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hat’s exactly what our Grade 8 students experienced during their pre-Christmas visit to the capitol, where the Washington Monument dominated the skyline and made the perfect centerpiece for this year’s scale model project in math.

From an historical perspective, students learned that the Monument is an obelisk on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., built to commemorate the first American president, George Washington. From an architectural and artistic perspective, they learned its construction of marble, granite and bluestone gneiss reaches 555 feet 5 1/8

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inches (169.294 m) making it the world’s tallest stone structure and the world’s tallest obelisk.

Their mathematical challenge: to build a 3D scale model of the landmark. In a classic application of classroom learning to a real-world context, the cornerstone of our IB educational philosophy, students were provided initial data on the obelisk in feet and inches. They put their math skills to work, first converting the measurements to decimals to feet and then to metric measures. Using rulers, compasses and protractors they then built their own 3D models based on their measurements.

Students chose their own construction materials and determined the scale that

best suited the constraints of the materials they selected.

But the lesson didn’t end there. Students prepared written reports in which they were encouraged to calculate the surface area and volume of their model, demonstrating their understanding of Pythagoras’ theorem, similar triangles, area of triangles and trapezoids, and the volume and surface area of cones. They also delivered oral presentations using diagrams, tables and calculation methods to show the processes behind their problem-solving.

So next time you see pictures of the Washington Monument, take a moment to appreciate the math behind the historical landmark.

FIELD STUDIES

A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY AT OUR STATE CAPITOL IN OUR STATE CAPITOL, THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF CALIFORNIA INTERACT WITH EQUAL FORCE. STUDENTS EXPERIENCED OUR RICH HISTORY WHILE GLIMPSING THE MODERN LAWMAKING PROCESS.

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his spring, our Grade 4 students visited the Senate and Assembly chambers at our State Capitol Building, where representatives help to shape the future of our state. Digging deeper into this unit of inquiry, they learned more about our regional roots with a visit to the California State Museum. “While walking through Old Town Sacramento, I loved the western style and at the Capitol I learned more about justice,” said Caitlin Ballantyne. Classmate Daniella Valdez added, “As we walked through the museums, I really enjoyed the feeling that we were in an older place and time.” Students also toured the Railroad Museum, where they learned about the challenges and hardships of building the transcontinental railroad.

Taking a step even further back in time, students immersed themselves in the Sutter’s Fort experience where they panned for gold along the American River near Sutter’s Mill, the famous site where gold was first discovered. It was truly a golden opportunity to learn about California’s history.

DIVING INTO COASTAL CONSERVANCY FLORA, FAUNA, WILDLIFE, MARINE BIOLOGY AND A DEEPER APPRECIATION FOR ALL OF LIFE’S UNUSUAL CREATURES. Crab by Christian Caves. All the Grade 6 students who experienced this field study also created beautiful works of art depicting sea life.

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n March, Grade 6 students spent five days at Emerald Bay on Catalina Island where they investigated coastal habitat. The exploration ran the gamut from biology, to understanding how the ocean moves and why, to the characteristics and the chemistry of the sea as well as the fragile native habitat.

Students met with representatives from the Catalina Island Conservancy and learned the history of the Island from the naturalist’s point of view, which included the importance of the prickly pear cactus, and how invasive plants affect native animals. “We dug up the fennel plants that are choking the prickly pear because the Catalina Island Fox that we saw around the camp, has become endangered,” noted student, Parker Kinney.

Emily Khosravi shared that “If a starfish loses a leg, it will grow back and they can live up to 35 years.”

Kelly Lester added, “A lobster can live up to 100 years!”

Every student who visited the Island emphasized the importance of safeguarding the environment as well as correlation and causation. “Everything is connected and it’s our job to protect the environment,” Terrance Jung wisely observed.

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WINNING & LEARNING

PROUD FINISH IN INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION Four St. Mary’s students from Grades 5 and 6 were selected to participate in the 18th International Maths Quest. The competition was hosted by the International School of Stuttgart in Germany and included 20 schools and 80 students from around the world. After several weeks of training, observations and assessments, Ryan Sears, Oliver Breese, Ella Kang and Angie Yogaratnam were led and coached by teachers Nancy Qushair and Dustin Mittelsteadt to represent the U.S. We applaud their dedication and achievements in ranking fourth place worldwide. Students stayed with host families on competition days and in their free time they explored German food, culture and arts.

STATE OF THE FINE ARTS Our Middle School students recently competed in the Second Annual Spring Junior High Art Showcase at J Serra High School. In the Color category, winners included: Kylie Sharron (2nd), Sean Byrne (3rd), Allyssa McConkey (3rd). In the Mixed Media category, winners included: Mackenna Strohmeier (1st), Sylvia Keighobad (2nd). Black and White category winners included: Carly Hodes (2nd), Stefan Kitts (2nd). Congratulations to our winning artists!

When students enter juried art competitions they have a chance to get their feet wet and to discover that being critiqued helps young artists see how effectively they are conveying their messages.

SUCCESS IN SCIENCE It was the quality of St. Mary’s IB programme and its Science curriculum that attracted the Mahjoob family to the school last year. Grade 6 student, Ashkaan, is coming into his own in the science lab.

He won First Place in the category of Behavioral Sciences at the 58th annual Orange County Science and Engineering Fair in late March and was in the running for the California State Fair at the California Science Museum in LA in April. In addition, Ashkaan, recently was nominated for the Broadcom Masters, through the Society for Science and the Public. Nominees enter this competition by completing an application explaining their science project and demonstrating their use of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) principles.

Ashkaan’s multiple interviews with judges took place while he was on a weeklong field study with his class on Catalina Island. Ashkaan’s mother notes, “His teachers told me that he did a great job answering all their questions about his science project and that it was very exciting to conduct phone interviews at the beach. We are of course very proud and glad that he is receiving a very well balanced approach to learning.” This national competition is for 6-8 graders to encourage up-and-coming scientists and engineers.

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WINNING & LEARNING

INVENTION CONVENTION HOW MUCH WOULD YOU PAY FOR A SPORT SHOE THAT NEVER WEARS OUT? HOW ABOUT A PRODUCT THAT KEEPS YOUR LUNCH AT THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE? THOSE WERE AMONG THE IMPRESSIVE INVENTIONS UNVEILED AT A RECENT CONFERENCE OF INVENTORS AT ST. MARY’S. EVEN MORE IMPRESSIVE: THE INVENTORS WERE OUR GRADE 4 STUDENTS.

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uring a six-week Invention Convention, these young minds were challenged to think outside the box and gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of innovation. It’s a prime example of how St. Mary’s encourages creativity and critical thinking, and it reinforces our IB curriculum’s trans-disciplinary theme of “how the world works.”

“The thing I love about the Invention Convention is that it ties so many concepts together,” said Janice Rucktenwald, Grade 4 teacher. “The natural world and its laws … the interaction between chemistry, physics and biology…the impact of technological advances on the environment…math, science, history, economics and art. It all comes into play when students are inventing.”

At the start of the program, each student chose a famous inventor and conducted research into that person’s life, times, methods, setbacks and breakthroughs. The research was shared with the class during oral presentations.

Then the real fun began. Building on techniques and information learned through their research, the students made the critical leap from understanding to application and were turned loose to generate their own inventions. They brainstormed ideas for new products or solutions, then gathered material, built prototypes and put their inventions into action. The importance of commercial viability was reinforced with lessons on trademarking and marketability.

As Thomas Edison stated, “Anything that won’t sell, I don’t want to invent. Its sale is proof of utility, and utility is success.”

When the 4th Graders unveiled their creations, they described the problem they were seeking to address the process of how they created it, the workings of the invention and finally the marketable opportunity (including the feasibility based on the cost of production). Their audience included Kindergarten through Grade 2 students who enjoyed an inspirational look at the IB values of curiosity, creativity and intelligent risk-taking.

“I can’t wait to be part of the Invention Convention next year,” beamed 3rd Grader Chloe, daughter of Lola and Dave Vautrin.

“I already have some cool ideas for things I want to invent.”

Thomas Edison would be proud. And so are we.

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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR CLASS OF 2013 Matthew Alinsod Soraya Amir Jillian Baldwin Camryn Grace Barry Daniel William Blackburn Jenna Boerlin*

There is a good reason the ceremony is called commencement. Graduation is not the end, it is the beginning.

Ethan Joshua Briggs Caroline Cai Shannon Cleary Lauren Linelle Coyne* Elena Ghaleb Dahi Evan James Deakin* Sara Elizabeth Dejbakhsh* Lauren Drysch* Connor Dutton Camellia Edalat Mason Emes Omeed Fakhimi Anthony Fanticola Mary Kathryn Flanagan* Matthew Fergus Flanagan* Isabel Garcia Helin Erin Gerardo* Ameen Ghazizadeh Madeleine Green Scott Grimes Reilly Ann Hamilton Lauren Elizabeth Hausman* Noah William Hill Carly Ann Hodes Matthew Jacob Hodes Leighton Winter Holritz Emily Marie Hublitz* Stephanie Inchaustegui Bianca James Cassiani Kateyiannis Samuel Walter Keighley Sarvin Keighobad

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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Sara Khoshniyati Riley Kuo Annika Lambach Sage D. Landreth* Grant D. Lowrie Robert Henry Lynn-Green Isabella Kealoha Martinez Alyssa McConkey* Avalon Milburn Yasmin Minai Isabella Randhawa Musto Trevor Richard Phillips Matthew Quinn Picerne Karli Danielle Pieropan Michael Brendan Porch Dante Powell Faith Quigley* Cassandra Rasich* Alexander Reid Bryan P. Richardson* Maxwell Rist Jared Michael Rodriguez* Christian Emmett Roth Sina Sadri Kayhan Salmi Kian Christopher Sedghi Anthony Milad Shara Benjamin Snider-Bilbrey Daniel Sonboli Nicholas Tedesco* Alexis Truong Kassandra Vasquez Austin Walker* Devin N. Walsh Nicholas Wharrie* Brodan Whelan Melanie Erin Zimmerman *Students who attended St. Mary’s from Kindergarten through Grade 8.

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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

T STUDENT LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENTS: 2013 Devin Walsh 2012 Abigail Jackson 2011 Kristen Walker 2010 Alex Gonzales 2009 Liviya James 2008 Hayley Ritterhern 2007 Drew Phillips 2006 Trevor Cutler 2005 Lauren Cullen 2004 Michael Fice 2003 Michelle Pellizzon

he St. Mary’s Leadership Program is integrated into the core academic program through projects, discussions, student involvement and practical application. It focuses on four main principles that form the cornerstones of a strong community: Attitude, Commitment, Engagement and Service (four ACES).

Students in Preschool through Lower School learn that leadership is a characteristic that anyone can display.

Leaders are everyday people who lead by example and inspire others to become better individuals. Students are often asked to identify and reflect on someone in history, a person integrated into their current course of study, or even in their life, that exemplifies the characteristics of a true leader and hero.

Opportunities abound through experiences in the classroom, participation in the arts, music and athletic programs, involvement in student government and initiation of service learning projects that allow students to experience leadership at the practical level.

In the Middle School, the Leadership Program is designed to be a three-year, in-depth study into the principles and

Leadership can happen anywhere Leadership can be learned Leadership is more than a title Leadership is about working together

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practices of developing strong leadership qualities. The program begins in Grade 6, utilizing the International Baccalaureate’s Learner Profile to illustrate how these traits are reflected and demonstrated in daily practices. Grade 7 explores societal issues that directly affect adolescents with the objective being to equip students to make educated decisions based on an awareness of their surroundings. Grade 8 actively plans a vision for their educational and professional future by researching careers and professions that match the students’ demonstrated leadership skills and personal interests. By exploring various programs of study at colleges and universities, students are able to select appropriate means by which to fulfill and complete their leadership vision.

The culminating event for the Leadership Program is the Tribute to Leadership Assembly and presentation of the Legacy Award. The Legacy Award, which is given annually, honors a St. Mary’s student who demonstrates and represents the highest standards of St. Mary’s Four Aces of Leadership through his/her involvement in school, local organizations and the community.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Devin will be attending Santa Margarita Catholic High School in the fall.

Just a few of her many accomplishments and interests include: • Cheer Team • NCL National Charity League • Tennis • People to People England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland in 2010 • Headmaster’s Honors 2012 • Italian Exchange • STAR Program (Mentoring younger students) • JV Cheer at Santa Margarita (Fall 2013)

DEVIN WALSH, LEGACY AWARD WINNER When did you start at St. Mary’s School?

I first came to St. Mary’s for Summer Resort, the summer of 3rd grade, where I met someone who lived on my street. The next year, I officially joined St. Mary’s and today I am still great friends with my first friend and we recently went on vacation together Which teachers have made a big impact on you?

Mr. Quinn for Honors Algebra and Geometry and his unique way of teaching makes it easier to understand hard match principles. He helped us make cool connections to formulas by singing the formula and it really sunk in.

Do you have a favorite class and why?

Geometry and Humanities are my favorite subjects. Geometry is all around us and

it’s fascinating to see it in architecture, packaging, engineering…I love it! The field trips are the absolute best and the field study to Italy was an incredible experience that I will take with me the rest of my life. I learned so much!

What do you do when you’re not studying?

I like hanging out with friends, going to the park, the movies or the mall. But I love the Cheer Team! Doing stunts and inspiring people are perfect because I am naturally pretty peppy. It’s a great way to release energy and work as a tight-knit team.

What advice would you give younger students at St. Mary’s?

The years fly by so branch out, try new things and don’t be afraid to stretch yourself and of course have a good time along the way.

What does the Legacy Award mean to you?

When you mix kindness with firmness, people know you are trying to lead because you care. It was very affirming to know that my leadership skills have improved and that I was honored in this way. I will always keep this memory with me. It’s a reminder that I know how to be confident and strong.

What are your dreams for your future?

I am definitely going to college. I will keep my academics as high as possible and will keep pushing forward but will balance fun with academics.

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WORLD VIEW

“…Hattie trotted to the front of the line on a beautiful appaloosa, and like the dove call, she said the key words.

“Let’s move out,” called Hattie, and the trail of horses moved forward towards the endless golden hills.”

– From Morning Ride

by Jillian Baldwin

ON THE TRAIL TO WRITING SUCCESS JILLIAN BALDWIN

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any words can be used to describe Jillian Baldwin.

Talented. Inspired. Dedicated.

Creative. And now this St. Mary’s Grade 8 student can proudly add two more words to the list: Published author.

Jillian’s article Morning Ride was published in a recent edition of the Alisal Ranch newsletter. It describes the day she took her first advanced trail ride using rich, emotive language, imaginative descriptions and humor. “The article was written for a Grade 7 Language A project,” Jillian explained. “Ms. Hulme, my Language A teacher, asked us to create a short story based on a memory and describe it using our senses. I worked on my project over several weeks, editing and perfecting it.

When it was finished, I gave my story to

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the wrangler at Alisal as a gift and the Marketing Director called to ask if they could publish it!”

Jillian’s trail to becoming a published author stretches back a long way. Her mom Paula recalled that Jillian’s love for writing was guided and nurtured by her teachers at St. Mary’s from the very start.

“Jillian was encouraged early on to express herself, writing poems and short stories,” Paula said. She added that both Mrs. Galloway, the Language A Chair, and Ms. Hulme were especially influential in Middle School, recognizing Jillian’s talent and helping her flourish. Jillian’s writing was further strengthened in Humanities and Grade 8 Language A classes where she learned investigative and analytical styles by writing research papers and opinion arguments.

“The teachers here and the curriculum have given Jillian the confidence to grow,” Paula said. “The students are encouraged to read, think, debate, to have an opinion.

Jillian has become a confident writer and speaker and has been given scope to develop her creativity and skills.”

Besides writing and horseback riding, Jillian’s interests include aerial arts, which she describes as “dance in the air.” She is also a member of the National Charity League and takes part in the Sunshine Readers program, reading and performing stories for children at local libraries. As for future plans, she intends to go to Santa Margarita Catholic High School and hopes to pursue a career in journalism or writing.

Whatever path she takes, we’re sure her trail will lead to continued success.

WORLD VIEW

REMEMBERING THE HOLOCAUST “LOVE LOST, SORROW AND SUFFER; BUT NOT TODAY, YOU’RE STILL ALIVE” – KASSIE VASQUEZ, FROM PRIZE-WINNING POEM, “IMAGINATION OR REALITY: A MESSAGE TO THE FUTURE”

Strength in Consequence

by Carly Hodes

Students Camryn Barry, Kassie Vasquez and Carly Hodes.

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uthor John Steinbeck urged the world, “Try to understand men.

If you understand each other, you will be kind to each other.”

With this in mind, St. Mary’s Grade 8 students listened to the voice of a Holocaust survivor – and then used their own words and images to share this unspeakable tragedy with future generations.

As a preview to the Grade 8 Language A Tolerance unit, teachers Peggy Fowler and Lisa Dennis’ students participated in the 14th annual Holocaust Art and Writing contest sponsored by Chapman University and the “1939” Club. For the “Courage to Create: Message to the Future” contest, all 8th Graders viewed the videotaped testimony of a Holocaust survivor, Frances Flumenbaum.

Students were asked to write about the personal connections they made with her testimony, focusing on common themes such as love, courage or the loss of a family member. Authors were then encouraged to compose an original poem or prose piece inspired by their reflections. They were also given an opportunity to express those feelings visually during their art class with Mrs. Dennis.

A judging panel chose The Holocaust Still Lives by Camryn Barry as the St. Mary’s finalist for the prose contest. Kassie Vasquez’s poem Imagination or Reality: A Message to the Future was selected as our school’s finalist for the poetry contest. A painting entitled Strength in Consequence by Carly Hodes was submitted to the art contest, inspired as she says by “…her (Frances Flumenbaum’s) strength through the roughest of times during the Holocaust.”

Our finalists received their award certificates at a ceremony at Chapman University on March 8, where they met Holocaust survivors and were given a copy

of The Holocaust Chronicle: A History in Words and Pictures. The ceremony included keynote speaker, Chava Pressburger, who spoke about the art created by her brother, Petr Ginz, during his imprisonment in the Terezin concentration camp before his death at Auschwitz. His work inspired the recent film The Last Flight of Petr Ginz which many Grade 8 students saw screened at Chapman University in November.

This has been a unique opportunity for all of our 8th Graders to put a personal face on the events of the Holocaust which will extend into their exploration of Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel’s memoir Night in April.

“My message to the next generation would be to have tolerance, acceptance, and to not stand for any one person or group causing emotional or physical pain and suffering for those not seen as an equal.” – Camryn Barry, From prize-winning essay, The Holocaust Still Lives

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

THE POWER OF KIND PHILANTHROPY IS ALL ABOUT GIVING. IT CAN MEAN GIVING OUR TIME, OUR MONEY – AND EVEN OUR HAIR. CAMRYN BARRY SHARES HER EXPERIENCES AS STUDENT PHILANTHROPY COMMISSIONER.

BY CAMRYN BARRY

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y role as a member of the ASB (Associated Student Body) expands far beyond the classroom, and involves leadership and service learning throughout our school. As St. Mary’s Philanthropy Commissioner, I have put together several charitable and outreach projects that have increased our school’s awareness of worthy causes.

One of my major projects was to organize, educate and recruit girls for the Cancer Awareness Assembly with the goal of doubling last year’s hair donations. Roughly 16 girls donated in 2011. I sent out a mass email to our school community over the summer, announced the upcoming date every Monday at chapel, marketed the event through Facebook and Instagram, and personally recruited teachers, students and mothers throughout the school! In the end, 42 brave girls and women gave away over 335 inches of hair to those who needed it more than they did.

The momentum and energy moved St. Mary’s School to dedicate the entire month

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of October to Cancer Awareness. The whole school dressed in pink every Friday, and students created cancer-awarenessrelated service learning projects and gave touching personal presentations about how this terrible disease has affected them and their families.

With the support of St. Mary’s, I also organized two successful Blood Drives and was part of the team that launched the “Kind Campaign,” a drive to instill kindness in every student and dedicate our Leadership Assembly to “The Power of Kind.” As further evidence of our commitment to service, we joined with our neighbors at Covington to bring flowers to the senior citizens, and held a book drive at the Valentine’s Day social which allowed our school to donate four boxes of books to our friends at The Boys and Girls Club.

I feel like our community has been touched by the kindness of our school and feels compelled to pay it forward. I hope that this inspires others to continue our legacy as a philanthropic community of families.

Camryn Barry is passionate about the causes she adopts.

Additional leadership activities include the NCL.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

USING TECHNOLOGY TO ENHANCE LEARNING ERFAN MOJADDAM, DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AT ST. MARY’S, DISCUSSES THE RELEVANCE OF TECHNOLOGY FOR TODAY’S CLASSROOMS AND TOMORROW’S WORLD.

What is your role at St. Mary’s?

On the one hand, I manage and develop the IT infrastructure of the school – that’s the systems and equipment used by students, teachers, parents and other school functions such as finance, HR and security.

The other side of my role is “academic technology” – how technology is used as an educational tool. It involves everything from installing interactive whiteboards or iPads into classrooms and training teachers on their effective use, to helping develop the technology curriculum we teach students.

How is technology currently used at the school?

We have interactive whiteboards in every classroom except Kindergarten and Junior Kindergarten. Those will come next year.

We have six laptop carts/computer labs and three iPad carts; K-2 classes have six iPads per classroom that are used for spelling and math during centers and most of our classes have access to stationary desktops.

How does this relate to the broader curriculum?

All students have specialized computer classes, but technology is also integrated into so many areas of their learning – art,

science, math, humanities. For example, students in Grade 5 are writing and animating stories about Native American and colonial history using the Scratch programming language, and the Grade 7 students are producing video commercials for ancient Chinese inventions.

What is the future of IT at St. Mary’s?

Our new strategic plan will, for the first time, include an Educational Technology component. Our focus will be in four areas: integration of new technologies within the curriculum, increasing device access for our students, programming and professional development.

We are exploring more use of the flipped classroom, where the teacher records the physical lesson, the students can view it online, and more classroom time is devoted to practicing skills and completing assignments with the teacher’s guidance.

We also want to move toward a one-to-one model where every student has a device accessible at all times, with more resources available and projects completed online.

Grade 5 students will learn robotics, Middle Schoolers will learn how to design video games, and Grade 8 students will be

introduced to Java programming. All are valuable skills in themselves, but they have broader significance, especially within an IB context because learning the logic of programming helps students with problemsolving in all areas of life, and encourages an interest in the STEM subjects.

The challenge is always to ensure that St. Mary’s is staying ahead of the IT curve, but also to be sure that the technology we use and teach is relevant educationally.

Technology is an integral part of the St. Mary’s community. We must continue to leverage technology to enrich teaching and learning and foster its benefits to develop innovative teachers and responsible digital learners.

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ATHLETICS

ON THE FIELD OR COURT, ATHLETICS OFFER POWERFUL LESSONS Development of the mind and body are important parts of the educational experience at St. Mary’s School and to encourage students to develop their physical skills and appreciation for wellbeing, we offer a wide breadth of athletic programs. Playing sports at St. Mary’s is about more than winning and losing – it is about developing skills and appreciation for physical well-being and encouraging team spirit.

Despite the fact that both the boys and girls teams could not practice on our field because it was under construction for much of the season, they played in a local park for each practice and still managed to do a great job. “In fact, our girls lacrosse team Grades 7 - 8 team was one of the best and hardest-working teams that have come through St. Mary’s,” according to Athletic Director, Noel Green.

Our entire program was elevated with the addition of our beautiful new artificial turf field that was dedicated earlier this year, with Pastor Mark Chapman and Headmaster John O’Brien presiding. Now, every school day hundreds of students have access to the track for our curriculum and it allows us to have appropriate practice areas for football, lacrosse and soccer.

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Our Girls Basketball team had a strong season and was led by two Grade 7 twins, Kate and Kenna Knollenberg along with 8th grader Cassie Rasich.

We doubled the number of players in the program from the last basketball season and our Mountain A girls finished with a winning record for the first time in seven years, taking it to the first round of the playoffs.

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Our Boys Basketball team was made up of mostly Grade 8 students. We had a top three finish in a preseason tournament at JSerra High School to start out the season. We increased the number of boys playing basketball in the program and the boys made it to the first round of the playoffs. We also created a co-ed scrimmage basketball league for Grades 3-4.

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The Boys Lacrosse A Team played in the Parochial Athletic League (PAL) and the Orange County Lacrosse League. The A Team (Grades 7-8) lost a heart-breaking match in the playoff semi-finals and the B Team (Grades 5-6) lost only one game during the season in the PAL.

The St. Mary’s Cheer Teams were red hot at the USA Jr. Nationals Competition this season. Our Junior Varsity team competed against five other teams from throughout California to take first place.

Our Varsity Team competed against 12 teams taking a very respectable fourth place.

ATHLETICS

9TH ANNUAL TRACK INVITATIONAL The St. Mary’s Track Invitational brought 13 other schools together to compete in a daylong meet. Participating schools included Aliso Viejo Christian School, La Purisima School, Mission Parish School, Mission Hills Christian School, Mission Viejo Christian School, Our Lady of Fatima Parish School, Serra Catholic School, St. Anne’s Catholic School, St. Angela Merici School, St. Cecilia School, St. Edward the Confessor Parish School, St. John’s Episcopal School and St. Margaret’s School .

This all day event included access to the San Clemente High School quality track, professionally timed races, instant electronic feeds to a track scoreboard, a public announcement system, free drinks and snacks for the athletes, and food vendors for family and friends. The event also included a photo finish booth, where families from any school could purchase a finish line photo of their student athlete.

“Thanks to our sponsors we can offer a first-rate experience for our athletes and families.”– Donna Sears, St. Mary’s parent, board member and track meet coordinator This volunteer-lead event relies on the support of local families and sponsors to pay for the invitational. Sponsoring companies include Reza & Laura Shirangi Homes, Chronic Tacos, LALA Foods, Clif Bar, Asics, Arrowhead, Whole Foods (Laguna Niguel), Sabra, Costco and Powerade. Sponsoring families included: the Drysch, Phillips, Pellizzon and Sears families.

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ADVANCEMENT

A SCHOOL BUILT BY DEDICATED FAMILIES EVERYTHING BUILT ON THIS GROUND HAS A STRONG FOUNDATION – ONE PROVIDED BY GENEROUS FAMILIES WHO’VE SUPPORTED OUR MISSION AND HELPED BUILD THE SCHOOL OUR CHILDREN ENJOY TODAY.

Our whole school community was inspired to make donations, to help build a future.

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hen you see St. Mary’s School now and you witness the success that our students have enjoyed, it’s hard to imagine that less than two decades ago we were in a trailer on a dirt lot. Everything built on this ground since then has a strong foundation – one provided by generous families who’ve supported our mission and helped build the school our children enjoy today.

Take the Pellizzons for example. A year before Father Ernest D. Sillers obtained the land for St. Mary’s, Greg and his wife Chris were searching for a school for their daughter Michelle. Based on their faith in Father Sillers’ vision, they enrolled Michelle in the first Kindergarten class of 12 students. That class took one end of a trailer on the dirt lot; a dozen Grade 1 students occupied the other end of the trailer.

“There was no playground,” Chris recalled. “A group of moms used to come around lunchtime to take the children to Laguna Niguel Regional Park for lunch, playtime and even naptime.”

Many campaigns were organized to raise funds to build a true campus from this modest beginning. Greg and his brother

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Jerry were two of the early supporters who were instrumental in leading the way. Their parents, Norman and Eugenia (Brutocao) Pellizzon, and other family members made generous donations to found the school’s first library. When the challenge arose in the late ‘90s to raise funds for an “edutainment” complex that included the gym, the new Brutocao library, science labs and math and tech classrooms, Greg was Chair of the Board and Jerry headed the Finance Committee. Together they raised over $3 million in pledges, generously leading the pledges themselves.

Jerry spearheaded efforts to build the complex and contributed his time and knowledge by serving as the development/ construction manager. “From start to finish, it consumed over two years to complete but for me it was a labor of love,” he said.

Since St. Mary’s doors opened, more than 1,000 students have graduated, and those first Kindergartners are now close to 30 years old. Like the buildings on our campus, they’re blessed with a strong foundation.

As Greg noted, “The IB programme and Father Sillers’ philosophy really set our school apart. We must continue to press upon our families that we are on a great path, but there is always more to be done.”

We are very sad to report that Michael Pellizzon, a member of the St. Mary’s class of 2001, passed away on April 21, 2013. Michael had tremendous impact on our young campus during his time at St. Mary’s. His energy, enthusiasm, and spirit were reflected in the classrooms, courts, and fields. Michael’s athletic ability and leadership earned him the Athlete of the Year Award in 2001. In addition, Michael’s sense of humor and personality won him the respect of his teachers and peers.

Michael took his athletic talents to Santa Margarita Catholic High School where he was a member of the 2004 CIF Championship Basketball Team. He later graduated from Arizona State University with a major in Business. Most of all, Michael loved music. He would play his guitar and write songs for hours at a time.

Michael touched the lives of everyone he met and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. An engraved paver in Michael’s memory will be laid in the school’s courtyard as a tribute to this wonderful young man.

ADVANCEMENT

ADVANCING THE MISSION “SUPPORTING THE ANNUAL FUND IS OUR COMMITMENT TO ASSIST THE SCHOOL IN CONTINUING TO RAISE ACADEMIC STANDARDS AND ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION.” – MICHAEL AND MARISA GALLEGOS, PARENTS OF A KINDERGARTNER.

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oms and dads chatting happily with friends and sharing stories about their children. Joyous kids laughing, singing, tossing a football and creating plans for an upcoming

field trip.

Not a Saturday neighborhood picnic, but Friday afternoon student pick-up time at St. Mary’s School.

St. Mary’s is a joyful community of learners where kids prepare for a meaningful life through hands-on, experiential education that explores global issues while developing intellect, building critical thinking skills and enhancing moral character and compassion. It is a place where parents connect with teachers and each other to support their children and the school’s commitment to prepare each child for success in a global environment.

Volunteer hours are required and gratefully fulfilled through unlimited opportunities to get involved.

Annual Giving is the foundation for raising and utilizing philanthropic support to bring the educational program to life for the children each year. From academic programs and technology improvements to athletics and the arts, parent dedication and Annual Giving sustains and enriches St. Mary’s and the student experience.

Gifts from friends, alumni, grandparents and parents ensure that students enjoy a richer, fuller IB education in lasting and measurable ways. In addition to the Annual Fund, we offer a number of innovative ways to show your support from alumni class gifts to making a multi-year commitment.

To learn more about how you can support St. Mary’s contact Bonnie Cotter, Director of Advancement at 949.448.9027 ext. 325 or bonnie.cotter@smaa.org.

Thank you for making our mission, your mission.

“We give to the Annual Fund because we see the immediate impact of the money that has been raised. Our children have clearly benefited from the smaller class sizes, technological advances, and an IB programme that has prepared them to become lifelong learners.” – Joe and Chris Barry, Annual Fund Co-Chairs and parents of four St. Mary’s students.

“The reason we give to the Annual Fund is because we see and appreciate the immediate improvements and changes taking place on campus. Because our son is just starting his academic journey here at St. Mary’s, we know that what we give today will impact our son’s education in the future. We feel so blessed to be a part of this special and unique community, and we want to do our part in contributing to the school’s growth and success. I hope other families will join us in reaching our 100 percent participation goal.” – The Brandenberger Family

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RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

DREAM GALA RAISES SPIRITS AND FUNDS ALL THE TOP HATS, TIARAS AND WHITE ATTIRE ADDED A LOT OF GLITTER AND GLAM! IT WAS A SPECIAL TIME FOR OUR PARENTS, FRIENDS AND FAMILIES TO GATHER TO CELEBRATE AND SUPPORT ST. MARY’S.

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lamour, glitter and goodwill permeated the air as acoustic jazz by the Castaways set the tempo for St. Mary’s School, Dream Gala at the St. Regis Resort Monarch Beach. The VIP reception offered a preview of nearly 100 silent auction items, ranging from fun (a mini BMW pedal car) to flights of fancy (25 premium wine baskets) to sporting events and health and beauty packages. In addition, Lugano Diamonds of Newport Beach, took the opportunity to present their stunning collection to entice the 400+ guests in attendance to win a special opportunity drawing for an exquisite diamond pendant.

The 18th annual gala was established as the school’s premier fundraising event for St. Mary’s IB programme. Proceeds helped to advance our academic program as well as to expand the school’s health, fitness, and athletics initiatives for students by funding assessment programs, training tools, equipment and the adventure-training curriculum.

Following a cocktail reception and silent auction, the event kicked into full swing with entertainment by the high-energy Rock/R&B band Night Shift, followed by dinner, a live auction and dancing. The live auction items generated a lot of excitement as auctioneer, Mark Drilling’s signature humor and enthusiasm helped to fuel a few good-natured bidding wars.

The auction’s success was made possible by the high-end array of both silent auction and live auction items donated by families, local businesses and supporters of the school.

During a short video presentation prior to the live auction, Headmaster John O’Brien noted, “As our school approaches its 20th anniversary, we are seeing our founder Father Ernest Sillers dreams come to fruition. We are also thrilled to see our first alumni’s children enrolled in the school. I think Father Sillers would be very proud of what has been accomplished since he created what he called, ‘the jewel in the crown’ of the four schools he built during his lifetime.”

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This event reinforced the passion our families and members of the community feel for St. Mary’s, as well as their commitment to making it a world-class school.

“My wife and I are thrilled that we discovered St. Mary’s,” explains Dave Kinney, St. Mary’s immediate past Board Chair and parent of two children. “Our children are receiving a rich education full of experiential learning with fantastic teachers, and they’re excited to go to school in the morning. As a result, our sons are confident risk-takers who are ready to take on the challenges of school and life. Events like this will help St. Mary’s become an even better academic institution, allowing generations of children to have the opportunity to experience such a unique school.”

ALUMNI UPDATES

KEEPING UP WITH OUR ALUMNI WE LOVE WHEN OUR ALUMNI MAKE US PROUD, WHICH THEY OFTEN DO.

BROOKE BARBEE CLASS OF 1995 Brooke, a member of St. Mary’s first graduating class went on to graduate from Santa Margarita Catholic High School and DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. She enjoyed traveling through Europe and Australia before coming back to Orange County to work for Wells Fargo Dealer Services in Irvine. She is planning a wedding to a fellow Santa Margarita alumni.

MICHAEL FICE CLASS OF 2004 Michael recently completed his undergraduate work at UCLA with a degree in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, with a minor in Biomedical Research. He has traveled to Nicaragua over the past two Christmas breaks with the non-profit group, Global Medical Training, which provides free medical and dental care to populations in the country’s poorest areas. Michael is currently continuing his research at UCLA, with the goal of gaining a better understanding of lymphoid cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

He plans to attend medical school and hopes to specialize in pediatric orthopedics.

MORGAN GAULT CLASS OF 2007 Morgan attended St. Mary’s from Preschool - Grade 8 and went on to Santa Margarita Catholic High School where she graduated in 2011. While at SMCHS she was the school mascot, the Eagle, for 3 years.

She was honored for her six years and nearly 500 hours of philanthropic community service through the National Charity League, Laguna Chapter as a debutante in December, 2011.

She is currently a junior Journalism major at the University of Missouri (Mizzou) in Columbia, Missouri and a member of the Phi Beta Phi sorority.

ANDREW POTTER CLASS OF 2008 Andrew is a sophomore at New Mexico State University and is in the Professional Golf Management Program.

Although he does miss his friends and Orange County, he is very involved on campus and truly enjoys the program. He is hoping to pursue his passion and make it a career.”

ELLE GARGANO CLASS OF 2008 Elle graduated from Santa Margarita Catholic High School where she enjoyed DREW PHILLIPS CLASS OF 2007 being on the Pep Squad. Elle Drew attended Culver is a sophomore at Texas Academy where he received Christian University where a Batten Scholarship, won she is majoring in Strategic the Chambers Award for top student athlete and Communications in the Schieffer School of graduated Cum Laude in Journalism. Elle is a member of the Gamma 2011. He attends Northeastern Phi Beta Sorority and a member of the National University in Boston with a major in Mechanical Honor Society at TCU. Elle lives in the dorms Engineering and minor in Entrepreneurship. and rooms with fellow St. Mary’s graduate, He is in the University’s Honors Program and Raleigh Seibel ’08. is on the club hockey team (the first in the school’s history to make it to the nationals). A member of the Entrepreneurship Club, Drew has completed his core engineering classes (Dean’s List) and a Co-op with a leading engineering firm.

Send your alumni submissions to Claudia Kechejian at claudia.kechejian@smaa.org Stay connected to St. Mary’s and follow us on facebook.

LIVIYA JAMES CLASS OF 2009 Liviya graduated from Mater Dei High School and has earned Principal’s Honor Roll every semester since sophomore year. She has been involved with the Girls Soccer Program all four years, and is lead coordinator for the Mater Dei Soccer Program’s outreach to Kids Works, an after-school program in Santa Ana. Liviya has served as Vice President for the Orange County Teen Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, an African American family organization involved in leadership development and community service. She plans to study history or political science in college, and wants to attend law school.

KRISTEN WALKER CLASS OF 2011 Kristen is a junior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, where she has received First Honors recognition and has qualified for membership in the California Scholarship Federation. Kristen serves the Associated Student Body as CoCommissioner of Events, is Co-Captain of the Junior Varsity Cheer team, and is actively involved in the National Charity League.

ABIGAIL JACKSON CLASS OF 2012 Abigail is a sophomore at Santa Margarita Catholic High School where she is learning to balance a rigorous honors course load with the activities that she loves. Abigail is a member of the Eagle Regiment Marching Band and the Steel Drum percussion ensemble. She participates in the Model United Nations program and is on the Santa Margarita swim team. Abigail is also the treasurer of the Operation Help a Hero club, helping deployed service members and their families.

ALEXA AND BRIE VANDENBURG CLASS OF 2012 Alexa and Brie were proud to play on the Varsity Volleyball team at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School as freshmen.

Their team was undefeated in Academy League, won the Academy League Title and also won the Division 3 California SS CIF. Alumni submissions as of March 2013

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St. Mary’s School 7 Pursuit, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

Non-Profit U.S. Postage

PA I D Laguna Niguel, CA Non-Profit Permit No. 1091 U.S. Postage PAID Laguna Niguel, CA Permit No. 1091

ST. MARY’S SCHOOL 7 Pursuit, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

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ST. MARY’S

DISTINGUISHED SPEAKERS SERIES THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2013 • 6:30 PM James Steyer Talking Back To Facebook: A Common-Sense Guide to Raising Kids in the Digital Age James Steyer’s new book, Talking Back To Facebook explores how social media and cellphone technology have transformed the lives of today’s young people in very dramatic and surprising ways.

Grab your passport

and golf clubs James Steyer us on James is one of the nation’s most respected and experts join on children’s mediaa trip around the world and education. He is founder of Common Sense Media, a leading in organization just 18 holes.

dedicated to improving media and technology choices for kids and families.

Headmaster John O'Brien recently announced a partnership with Media, Club which El Common NiguelSense Country will allow St. Mary’s parents direct access to all the resources available through Common Sense 23700 Clubhouse Drive Media. (See Headmaster’s Message on page 2 of this publication for more details.)

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Is Your Teen at Risk?

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2013 • 6:30 PM

Monday, September 16, 2013

9:00 Sheriff’s a.m. Registration This community education workshop presented by the Orange County Department a.m.

Shotgun focuses on current street drug trends, substance abuse, teen 10:30 driving and internet safety. ThisStart is not designed to be a “scared straight” kind of event but rather one where we create a dialogue between parents and their teens on topics that are often difficult, but necessary to discuss.

SAVE THE DATES ●

Player Registration Fee: $225 Early-Birdie Fee by 8/1: $195

For more information visit www.smaa.org

Funds raised will directly benefit all St. Mary’s

Book Fair – NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 1, 2012students, NOBLE, ALISO VIEJO • BARNES AND Preschool – Grade 8.

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K– 8 Christmas Concerts – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2012

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18th St. Mary’s Gala – SATURDAY, APRILSign REGIS MONARCH BEACH 27, 2013 up• ST. today: www.smaa.org/golf

or call Claudia Kechejian: (949) 448-9027, ext. 331