Same Methodology, New Tools

by Hazel Crowley

when a global pandemic has changed each and every familiar routine, it’s easy to wax nostalgic for “precedented times.” In those rosy pre-COVID–19 days, Landmark functioned much like a well-oiled machine: a complex apparatus, bustling with students, operated by dedicated faculty, and fueled by Six Teaching Principlestm .

Then, in March, the intentionally streamlined lessons honed by teachers ended abruptly. The multifaceted activities meticulously individualized for students went on hold. COVID-19 threw a wrench into the system…but the system did not break. “For me, the silver lining of going online, is how it has revealed the innovative talents of so many Landmark teachers,” said tutor Mary Kahn. Challenged to broaden her focus while teaching virtually, Kahn has relied on digital versions of classic games like Tic-Tac-Toe, Chutes and Ladders, and Candyland to “maintain student engagement while providing continual reinforcement of critical decoding skills.” Such simple, traditional games provide both the anchor and the propeller needed by students who may feel at sea in the remote setting.

Similarly, the Elementary•Middle School (EMS) Science Department has supported students by sending kits of materials home, where kids can set up their own “laboratories.” Teacher Lauri Johnson explained, “Each week, I send home experiment bags and tools to keep the learning hands-on and engaging.” Equipped with pennies, aluminum foil, rubber bands, and more, students in her department have built weight-bearing boats and created their own musical instruments to demonstrate their understanding of learned concepts. Once again, what’s most familiar turns out to be what grounds students and gets them off the ground, so to speak.

To provide multimodal reinforcement virtually, EMS Math Department Head Chris Woodin encourages his students to look no further than their own hands. “My goal is to help students internalize concepts, using their primary frame of reference—themselves. When we’re remote, everything’s externalized, so it’s even harder.” As a solution, Woodin has his students perform an idea, like moving the length of their hand around their face, before finding an efficient formula to discuss that concept, like the formula C=2π R for finding a circle’s circumference. Woodin compares it to cooking. “Rather than follow a recipe to make the souffle, we are making the souffle, then writing the recipe together, so they can eventually make the dish themselves.” Though the circumstances are new, his approach remains the same.

At the High School campus, where remote and in-person students attend classes together, finding creative alternatives has been even trickier. “Before the pandemic, my lessons included a lot of group work,” said language arts teacher Kyle Clark. “Now, in order to get students on the same page and to make sure that they all feel like ‘one’ class, I have to create a digital platform where students can write out their ideas before sharing aloud.” Though the setting is different, Clark’s fall semester students have discussed abstract and complex subjects, such as cognitive bias. “Equity is the name of the game. I do everything I can to allow their voices to be heard.”

In already challenging times, High School Math Department Head Adam Craig has tasked himself—and his students—with a big, new challenge. Adopting the “discovery method,” Craig has encouraged his students to use the phrases “I notice” and “I wonder” in order to understand concepts globally, problem solve creatively, and initiate various solutions. Together, his classes have done everything from locating the geographic center of the math building at Governor’s Landing to creating art using tessellations and neoplasticism. It’s new and different, but he’s leaning into the awkwardness of it all. “The exploring part, yes, it’s going to feel a little uncomfortable. But math was invented to make sense of the world, and that’s what we’re doing.”

Craig’s encouragement to his students feels universal to Landmark. These unprecedented times? They’re tough. But as this “new normal” takes precedence, Landmark can only get better.

The View From 50 Years of Hindsight A conversation with Bob Broudo

KIERAN KESNER

Bob Broudo is a living symbol

of Landmark School. He is a founding faculty member, has served in almost every role during his tenure at the school, and has led the school as headmaster since 1990. Last month, Bob announced that he would be retiring from this role at the end of the 2021–2022 school year, and we recently sat down with him to reflect on his 50 years at Landmark School.

Q: What is your fondest Landmark memory?

A: “Wow, there are so many memories, but I am always moved by my memories of opening day in September of 1971. It was like watching a rocket ship go off. There was a sense of excitement, opportunity, hope, amazement, commitment...a sense that we were starting something brand new here that had never been done and would change lives. We all had so much passion. People were putting in 120 hours each week just so the school would be ready. Many of the things that took place on the first day in 1971 related to our teaching methodology, student profile, mission— even traditions like Milkbreak still take place today.”

Q: How did you attract students to that first cohort?

A: “In the late 1960s and early ‘70s, there was significant new information and awareness about dyslexia. Dr. Charles (Chad) Drake, Landmark’s founder, opened the Reading Research Institute, a diagnostic testing center in Wellesley, Mass., and there were other testing centers, such as at Children’s Hospital. Frustrated by the lack of appropriate services and programs for students diagnosed with dyslexia, Dr. Drake ran remedial summer programs in Maine in various locations, including Camp Deer Trees, Bates College (which is where I went to college and how I met Dr. Drake), and at Hebron Academy. Many of the summer students and “word of mouth” produced the first cohort of Landmark students (40 on opening day!).

Q: What do you plan to do after you leave Landmark?

A: “My last year as head of school will be the academic year of 2021–2022. The new head will take over at the end of June 2022. Landmark will always be part of my life, and I will stay involved to work on specific important projects for the Board and the Landmark community. I am also looking forward to having time to write, volunteer with meaningful nonprofits and the City of Beverly, and do some traveling with Maida.”

Q: What has been the most significant change in the school since 1971?

A: “This change has come from the outside— mostly in the form of neuroscience and the validation and insight it has provided for our work. We designed programs based on hypotheses and then experience. Neuroscience advanced us and helped us get to the next level.” “Landmark articulated early on what our mission would be and the specific profile of our students for whom we designed our programs—and we stuck with these two basic tenets.”

Q: What do you hope your legacy will be?

A: “To be able to outrun any student up the hill until I retire (he chuckles). Seriously, I hope my legacy will be to help build and support our human capital so that we can support our faculty and help more kids with language-based learning disabilities.”

Q: What about Landmark has made you most proud?

A: “Landmark articulated early on what our mission would be and the specific profile of our students for whom we designed our programs— and we stuck with these two basic tenets. Over the years, we’ve developed and refined our programs but never watered them down. During the recession of the early ‘90s, our enrollment and finances took a huge hit. We labored over the difficult decision to reject approximately 120 applicants that would have helped our bottom line—but we knew we couldn’t serve their needs

based on our mission and student profile. As hard as that was, I’m really proud of that. If you have a blown out knee you go to an orthopedic doc, not a generalist. We are specialists and it’s helped us stay strong and help more kids.”

Q: What advice would you give your 22-year-old self?

A: “Continue to take advantage of opportunities. Assess them and choose them carefully as they come to you. Check in to see what’s in your heart and if it’s wrong—don’t do it. And one more thing. You are not going to be able to change the world—but you’ll make a difference.”

Q: What is your one wish for Landmark’s future?

“Maintain who we are—the Mission. Sustain Landmark by making sure the business works, allowing the school to go on forever. Expand our impact to reach more students and families.”

“You are not going to be able to change the world—but you’ll make a difference.”

Q: Who influenced you most in your life? • My mother. When I was 13, my mom died at the age of 39 from Hodgkin’s disease.

She was, and still is, my social and emotional guide. • My dad. A non-judgmental, creative, passionate, pragmatist. • Dr. Charles (Chad) Drake. His influence was game changing for me and so many others. • Fred Hammond. My high school track coach taught me about achieving potential and leadership. • Jeff, my college roommate, opened doors I hadn’t thought of. • Thursday night Newburyport men’s group from the late ‘70’s to the present day. Too much to say, but they are brothers forever. • Native American Chief, Little Bear. He helped me understand what is and what is not “my medicine.” • Larry Silver, M.D. A leading mind in the field of learning disabilities and a very wise, humble man and friend. • Nick Lopardo. From day one, we were always on the same page with a sense of

“Yes, we can!” • Nelson Mandela. He never doubted his sacrifice and made a difference in the world. • Abraham Lincoln. He was a unifier during the most tumultuous time in our country’s history. • Jack Kornfield. The Buddhist author taught me that when you have multiple paths, pick the one with your heart on it. • Rumi. I love the Persian poet’s simple, basic enlightening truths. • Mary Oliver. Nature, nature, nature, nature, nature! • W.H. Auden. His poem, “For the Time

Being,” changed my life. • Massachusetts General Hospital taught me about trust, faith, letting go, and priorities. • Maida. Taught me about that higher power of love on earth that I was always digging for.

 PENLIGHT

in her own words

Seeing the Light

By Emma Hiott ’27

Before coming to Landmark, I felt like there were two sides of me. Part of me was shy and sad because I felt like I was stuck in a corner and unable to learn at my school. My peers made fun of me because I could not read a word in English. It was hard to have someone laugh at me for something that I could not control. I was a fifth grader who dreaded going to school each day. The other part of me, though, was happy when I was with my family, hanging out with my friends, and wrestling, a sport I am passionate about. I wanted my home life and school life to be places where I could feel happy, but that is not how it was. On March 13, 2020 school shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and 10 days later I learned I would be going to Landmark School in the fall. I knew Landmark was a school for kids with dyslexia, and I hoped that it would be a better place for me.

My first week at Landmark was amazing for many reasons. I was introduced to all the staff and to my teachers, who were super nice and helpful. I could see that they cared about me and wanted me to succeed. After my first few days at Landmark, I could feel the sense of school dread start to disappear, and I began to feel happy not just at home, but also at school. In the first week, I learned that my tutorial class was unique and I was the only student in it. Everyone has it every day and mine was designed just for me. I didn’t have to get pulled from another class, like I did at my last school. This made me feel like all of the students were on the same playing field and I didn’t feel left out, but included. My classmates were very nice and kind to me and helped me find my classes. I could relate to my classmates because no one had to shy away from asking any questions of each other. We were all there for a reason and were all working on learning new skills individually and together.

Looking back on my past school experience, it felt like I was walking around in the dark. I had no one to guide me, and I felt very much alone. Now, at Landmark, my fellow classmates and teachers have acted as flashlights and have led me out of a dark time. Because of them, I can see the light and have more hope about my future and all that I will be able to accomplish at school. BOOK-OPEN “Because of them [my fellow classmates and teachers], I can see the light and have more hope about my future and all that I will be able to accomplish at school.”

 SPOTLIGHT

faculty

The COVID-19 Queen

The Engine Behind Landmark’s Pandemic Response and New Health-andSafety Standards By Amy Veling

Little did the High School faculty and students know when they left campus on March 6, 2020, for spring break that they would not set foot on Landmark grounds again until August 24.

Unexpected School Closure

On March 10, 2020, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker declared a state of emergency. Three days later, Landmark’s Elementary•Middle School closed, uncertain of what was to come next. In the days and weeks that followed, most people across the country hunkered down at home, as mandated by stay-at-home orders. For the first time in its history, with both campuses closed, Landmark shifted to a fully remote learning model. And while the school has always had an Emergency Response Team (ERT) to deal with general campus safety issues, this 28-person committee was now faced with the daunting task of running a school during a global pandemic.

Plans to Reopen School

Daily meetings were held with faculty and staff to discuss everything from technological needs, the social-and-emotional health of our community, and how to continue to deliver our unique program and approach remotely. Throughout the spring and summer the group gathered through Google Meet to discuss whether and when to reopen, what campus modifications would need to be made, how to source enough plexiglass, hand sanitizer, and alcohol wipes, and what the effect would be on the school’s financial future, among a myriad of other issues.

Meet Andrea Meade

Being a germaphobe and a clean freak, I called the one person I knew who could give me the unfiltered truth about the virus: Andrea Meade. Complete with her science background, extremely high standards for cleanliness, and impeccable organizational skills, Andrea— coordinator of the ERT—took on the Herculean task of preparing our campuses and community for a safe return to school at the end of the summer, much sooner than most other schools.

Working Behind the Scenes

In May and June, Andrea spearheaded the effort to pack up the dorm rooms of our residential students and safely bring these families to campus to pick up their belongings. For students who lived outside a reasonable driving distance, she worked with other members of the residential team to ship countless boxes. Throughout July and August, Andrea could be seen with her tape measure, colored duct tape, mask, and gloves, rearranging classroom furniture, marking out traffic patterns, hanging signs, and installing hand-sanitizing stations. She measured hundreds of feet of plexiglass, sent out hundreds of emails, and spent countless hours preparing for the start of school.

KIERAN KESNER ’09

Andrea worked closely with Landmark’s own “Dr. Fauci” (Jessica Fauci, director of the Health Center) and Shari Gallant, Elementary•Middle School nurse, setting up MyMedBot—Landmark’s daily health screening app, interpreting the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) recommendations, and reading, analyzing, and summarizing Department of Public Health weekly updates to report all of this information to the rest of the school community. As school was about to begin, Andrea and Jess hosted several training sessions to discuss COVID-19 healthand-safety protocols and answer the endless “what if” questions from faculty. Andrea finetuned the complex plans to keep our community safe before, during, and after the holidays.

While the virus continues to impact everyone’s daily living, Landmark can proudly boast that it has made it through nearly five months of school without a major outbreak due to the dedication and fastidiousness of Andrea Meade in collaboration with our nursing teams, as well as many other faculty and staff members on both campuses.

Wearer of Many Hats

In addition to her role as the Emergency Response Team Coordinator, Andrea wears many hats, including High School chemistry teacher; mom of a Beverly High School senior and Landmark School freshman; wife of Guido Meade, a member of Landmark’s residential team; assistant dean of students at Landmark High School, and doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership at Vanderbilt University. And now she has been dubbed The COVID-19 Queen. Other adjectives used to describe her are: dogged, trustworthy, caring, intelligent, and diplomatic. To summarize—simply the best. Thank you Andrea, for all you did and continue to do to keep all of us at Landmark safe! BOOK-OPEN

Heart LIMELIGHT

love story

A Love Letter to Teaching

By Scott Blanchette

Dear Teaching, This year has been a tough one for us. Our relationship has been through so much over the past 12 months. We’ve been forced to change our ways, go long distance, and test our commitment to each other like never before. Yet despite all that, my love for you remains strong.

Before the pandemic, loving you was easy. It was familiar and routine. It was the feeling of walking out of a classroom and knowing that I executed a near-perfect lesson. It was seeing a student smile at one of my stupid jokes or seeing that figurative lightbulb go off in their head when they made a deep connection to what we were learning. It was giving high-fives and fist bumps in the hallway or sitting next to them at their desk to help them stay focused.

Now, with one-way traffic patterns, limited social interaction, and an ever-changing combination of in-person and remote learners, I’ve come to see you in a whole new light. My passion toward you has only grown stronger as we’ve navigated these changes together. That same love I had before is still there, it just looks a little different. It’s the challenge of planning engaging lessons, for students both in the class and at home. It’s the comfort of a new routine that includes sanitizing every square inch of my classroom multiple times a day. It’s the unpredictability of each day, like when a student says, “I didn’t think your face would look like that,” after seeing me without a mask for the first time. (Still not sure whether that’s a compliment or an insult.) Finally, it’s the surprising resilience of young minds that I’ve come to love most about you during this time. Seeing a community of teenagers adapt to a constantly changing world has been a beautiful thing to witness.

So what I’m here to say, Teaching, is that my love for you is unconditional. It is not dependent on a physical space or the use of certain materials. It has no expectations for what the future may hold for us because I know whatever it holds, we’ll face it together. And I know this love is mutual, because I feel it everyday. I love you, Teaching, and I always will. For better or worse, in sickness and in health, through COVID and beyond. BOOK-OPEN

Yours truly,

“That same love I had before is still there, it just looks a little different.”

 PENLIGHT

in her own words

Prepared for the Next Challenge

by Taylor Nault ’21

My name is Taylor Nault, and I’m a senior at Landmark High School from North Hampton, New Hampshire. I came to Landmark eight years ago to work on my reading and writing skills. Not only do I have a learning disability, but I also have Dwarfism, which makes me unique. Dwarfism is defined as a shortness in height that comes from a hereditary or medical condition. At Landmark I have different accommodations than other students. For example, I get rides up and down the hill, use a stool for sitting in a classroom, and have an adjustable chair. Though I am the only student at Landmark with Dwarfism, having dyslexia is something that I share with most of the students here.

My transition from Landmark Elementary• Middle School (EMS) to the High School came with some challenges as the only person with Dwarfism. But I was comforted to be moving up to the High School with some friends from EMS.

During the summer of my sophomore year, I underwent major surgery on my legs that caused me to be in a wheelchair for six months. Because I had two frames on my legs, I felt like I stood out even more than usual. Although this part of my life was difficult and scary, I learned to overcome my fears by maintaining a positive attitude. Now, as I begin to transition into another part of my life, I know that I will be able to take on the challenges that lie ahead.

After I graduate from Landmark this spring, I am planning to either do a post-graduate year or go to college. A post-graduate year would allow me to learn more skills at another prep school or community college and also to complete an internship. I know how important it is to go to college, but waiting an extra year to see if the world goes back to normal is probably a good idea. If I do decide to go to college the fall after graduation, I’d like to study Early Childhood Development. I want to study this because I was inspired by the people who helped me during my surgery. Landmark has taught me many skills, such as working hard and maintaining a positive attitude, that I’ll take with me through the next phases of my life. No matter where I end up, I know I will be prepared for what my future holds. BOOK-OPEN

NAME

Taylor Nault

HOMETOWN

North Hampton, NH

 Book-Reader

CLASS OF

2021

FUTURE PLANS

Studying Early Childhood Development

 SPOTLIGHT

trustee

Looking Ahead

by Beth Rowen P’20

Headmaster Bob Broudo oftens calls Landmark a mission with a school, rather than a school with a mission. That philosophy resonated with Thilo Henkes P’24, chairman of Landmark’s Board of Trustees.

“Landmark provides the right kind of instruction for students with dyslexia and other languagebased learning disabilities (LBLD)and is at the forefront of current research,” says Henkes. “It is a wonderful, strategic opportunity to combine research and experience, and disseminate it to all who could benefit.”

This ambitious goal is personal for Henkes. His son Rowan enrolled at the Elementary•Middle School in 2016. Rowan’s outlook on education—and life—changed just a few weeks into his tenure at Landmark.

“It was magical what Landmark did for my son in such a short time. The most immediate change was his increased confidence and self-advocacy skills,” Henkes said. “I was fascinated with the miracle that Landmark produced and knew I wanted to be actively involved in the school.”

Henkes’s involvement began with a seat on the Board of Trustees in 2017, before becoming chair in 2020. Along with a parent’s perspective, Henkes brings experience and expertise as a member of the board of First Lutheran Church of Boston, a former board member of Beaver Country Day School, and 20 years as a strategy consultant with L.E.K. Consulting, a global management consulting firm.

Leadership Role at Landmark

As Henkes assumed the role of Board Chair, Landmark was planning its 50th anniversary celebration, a major capital campaign, and implementing a five-year strategic plan. Then, in March 2020, the pandemic occurred. The trustees focused on support for innovative, practical ways to adapt and update the campuses so faculty and staff could continue to provide students a quality and safe Landmark education.

“Without a doubt, the pandemic shifted our thinking and priorities. It forced us to be creative in service delivery, think practically about our physical plant and investments, such as HVAC and air filtration systems, and maintain our high standards for health and safety.”

“The pandemic may, in fact, have had a silver lining,” added Henkes. “By adapting our in-person methods, we’ve developed online learning tools better suited to reaching the one-in-five students with language-based learning disabilities in different states and countries. It expands the field of vision.”

50 Forward

As the Landmark community looks back to celebrate its 50-year history, the Trustees are looking ahead. Henkes outlined where he sees Landmark going in the next 50 years.

“In 50 years, Landmark will still be the leader—the beacon—in educating students with language-based learning disabilities. That will remain our core, with an incredible teaching and administrative staff. We also will be at the forefront of LBLD research and expand Outreach so that more students can benefit from a Landmark education without being present on our campuses.”

A Man of Many Talents

As passionate and invested in family as he is in professional life, Henkes can be spotted pedaling around the North Shore with his wife, Lucy Armstrong, on their tandem bike, or navigating technical downhill mountain biking trails in New Hampshire with Rowan. He and Rowan also share an interest in woodworking. Rowan is enrolled in Landmark’s woodworking class and shares tips with his father in their home woodshop.

Music brings the entire family together in jam sessions, with Thilo on bass, Rowan on fiddle, Lucy on piano, Willem on guitar, and Colin on keyboard. Their interests range from jazz to classical to classic rock.

Landmark is looking ahead with a commitment to our mission and a passion for our purpose, with Henkes and the rest of the Board of Trustees leading the way. BOOK-OPEN

 STARLIGHT

athletics

Running Against the Odds

by Tara Joly-Lowdermilk

The Elementary•Middle School campus opened its doors to eager students this fall. One ingredient that was missing for many middle school students was athletics. Our student athletes were hungry to get into shape, practice skills, and create bonds with teammates. Due to COVID-19 health-and-safety requirements, plans to offer a full athletic program were put on hold. However, the students were flexible and adapted to a more skills-based approach that provided them an opportunity to participate.

Soccer: Skills and Drills

Our soccer team transitioned from practicing off campus each day on league-sized fields to staying on campus with a more backyard feel. Despite the change of venue, the team was able to learn more about the game and grow as players. The veteran coaches challenged the students to be laser-focused on targets while using their communication skills to call out locations and react swiftly to directions. They shifted from a more intensive training and conditioning style of practice to a thoughtful skills-and-drills approach. Players were able to concentrate on areas of interest and see the game in a different way.

Cross Country

The cross country coaches approached their season with a concentration on grit and a growth mindset. While the kids weren’t able to participate in races with other schools, they used their time to develop as runners and teammates. They concentrated on timed runs to set personal and team goals. The athletes focused on doing their best, while supporting their peers to dig deep, beat the clock, and ensure that everyone was improving. Runners quickly came together as a group and could often be heard after school cheering each other on as they ran the course.

As a way to celebrate the abbreviated but spirited season, the clubs came together to compete in relay races, a group run to West Beach, and express words of gratitude to each other and their coaches for their efforts. Nearly 30 student-athletes committed and excelled in middle school athletic clubs this fall. They are sensational representatives of the strength, resilience, and dedication Landmark students have to their school, community, and each other. BOOK-OPEN

 STARLIGHT

performing arts

Cultivating Creativity

by Beth Rowen P’20

Landmark has found innovative ways to provide students outlets to cultivate their artistic talents, whether in an in-person or remote environment. The Elementary•Middle School (EMS), for example, added a drama elective for the 2020–2021 school year.

Carolyn Aliskevicz, an EMS faculty member and a talented actress herself, teaches the class. “Every other week when we’re on campus, we hold classes outside, moving, stretching, pretending, and using our voices,” she said. “On the alternate weeks when we are remote, we focus more on facial expressions and language expression, including group and solo storytelling.”

“Electives are an important part of the school day because they allow our students to exercise talents other than academics. Drama provides an opportunity for students to stretch, move, and be creative. It allows the students to shine in ways that may not happen in academic classes,” she added. (See more on electives on p. 16)

Ever the optimist, Aliskevicz sees a benefit of the mask mandate. “Masks have challenged the students to really project their voices and articulate behind a mask,” she said. BOOK-OPEN

Landmark Cares Week

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2020

During Landmark Cares Week our community stepped up and came together like never before. We raised vital funds for Landmark’s annual giving program, the Landmark Fund, while showing support for our essential workers, Landmark’s teachers and staff. A central event was a virtual 5K road race, where participants ran representing friends, family, and Landmark friends.

Three days into our weeklong initiative, we reached our initial goal of receiving 280 gifts, representing our 280 incredible teachers and staff. So we did what we always do at Landmark, we tested the limits and stretched the goal challenging our community to help raise $100,000 by the end of the campaign. In true Viking spirit, by Saturday morning we had successfully reached that target! Thank you!

428 Gifts $107,952 Heart

Heart

MONDAY

Ipswich Country Club

Grab your spikes and clubs...we are on!

BENEFIT SCHEDULE:

11:30 a.m. Registration Driving Range & Putting Green Open Lunch

1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start

6:00 p.m. Reception and Awards

Secure your spot today! Follow this link to register online: landmarkschool.org/golf-benefit

LANDMARK

LEARNS Parent Education

subjects

learn more

Landmark Learns Parent Education

Landmark Learns is a new series of educational workshops, presentations, and other resources for current Landmark School parents and guardians. The Landmark Parents’ Association (LPA), Outreach Program, and Student Life teams collaborate to deliver timely and relevant content addressing the unique needs of our families.

Topics covered during the fall included executive function and motivation. Workshops planned for 2021 include anxiety, maintaining relationships in a digital age, and more. There are two sessions for each topic, one for families with High School-age students and another for families with Elementary*Middle School-age students. All are led by Landmark School faculty. The presentations are held virtually in the evening, run about an hour, and include ample time for questions and sharing of additional resources.

The Landmark Learns webpage features resources from past presentations, as well as details about upcoming workshops.

landmarkschool.org/landmark-learns

Have an idea for a presentation?

Share it with us! Email Danielle Figueira, director of Alumni and Parent engagement at Dfigueira@landmark school.org.

Landmark Parents’ Association

The purpose of the Landmark Parents’ Association (LPA) is to cultivate a strong sense of community and to support Landmark School in its mission to foster an understanding of language-based learning disabilities. All parents and guardians are automatically members.

While this school year may look different, the LPA remains committed to its mission. The LPA invited all parents and guardians to join a virtual meeting in October to brainstorm ways to adapt their typical faculty and staff appreciation events given the limitations during the pandemic. Of the many ideas collected, several are being put into action. Stay tuned for ways to get involved.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

While the LPA continues to host planning meetings, this year the LPA is partnering with the campuses and Advancement team to provide a menu of parent educational events. Check out Landmark Learns (page 47) for those details.

Staff Support

Are you looking to connect or learn more about the LPA? If so, please contact Danielle Figueira, director of Alumni and Parent Engagement, via email: Dfigueira@landmarkschool.org

2020–2021 Officers

Co-Presidents: Angela Timpone Gowans P’23 Robert Gowans P’23 High School Co-Vice Presidents: Jacquie Gardner P’23 Jeff Appelstein P’21 EMS Vice President: Meghan Cashel P’28 Treasurer: Mark Moreschi P’23 Secretary: Carolyn Beatty P’27 Landmark Fund Liaison: Maureen Palmer P’21 *An election for next year’s officers will be held in the spring.

Alumni Notes Alumni Notes

facebook.com/landmarkschool @landmarkschool landmarkschool The Landmark School Alumni

Stay in touch! Please email us and let us know what you’ve been up to. Send updates and pictures to dfigueira@landmarkschool.org

Grey Kearney ‘76

I am one of the original students dating back to the old Reading Research programs before the founding of Landmark in 1971. Today I work as an editorial cartoonist and illustrator. My work has been published in over 100 publications in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Mike Burns ‘77

I have a small goat and sheep farm in North Carolina and it works for me!

Robert Baldera ‘77

Still here in Florida, I can’t believe how time flies. I’m turning 60 and have been happily married for 33 years!

Stephen Gallagher ‘78

My wife and I were in Camden, Maine, for the summer. We headed to Florida in October. We are full time RVers with our two black labs, Lexi and Kizzy.

Greg Paxton ‘79

I’m currently a business owner in Winchester, Virginia. After Landmark, I went into the Marine Corps and was stationed in Washington D.C. as a presidential Marine. I was there when President Reagan was shot. I’m into history and research. I do a lot of forensic work on artifacts. I specialize in American colonial society up to the American Civil War. If you have a relic, I’m the man to talk to!

Stephen Baetz ‘82

After leaving Landmark in 1977, I went into public schools, then graduated with my class in 1982. I then attended Architectural and Mechanical drafting school in Stratford, Connecticut. I worked in that field until I decided to follow my dreams of driving professionally. I’ve been in this line of work since. It’s hard to call it work when you enjoy doing it and have free travel to boot, but my lifestyle isn’t for everyone. I’ve been married twice. When not trucking, I enjoy showing my classic 1970 Charger at the many local car shows around my home town of Lago Vista, TX. I enjoy healthy cooking and have

Jonathan Rock ‘77

Stephen Gallagher ‘78

Stephen Baetz ’82 Janine Klein Roache ’83

Phil Monier ’83 Stephanie Sacks ‘85

lost over 130 pounds on Optavia. I enjoy attending concerts, going to the beach, and sailing. Many thanks to Landmark School for this hobby! I also enjoy attending all of my grandchildren’s sports activities.

Mark Elliot Graham ‘83

I am a retired pediatric ICU nurse and am now a commercial pilot!

Janine Klein Roache ‘83

This past May I celebrated my 21st wedding anniversary with my husband, Larry, and our beloved dog, Ruby. Since COVID-19 hit I lost my job that I had for 13 years working with exchange students and au pairs. I worked with both F1 and J1 visas. Now, I’m reinventing myself. I have become a fulltime student at Catherine Hinds Insitute in Woburn, Mass. The thought of not being in a classroom scared me. I wasn’t sure if I would like being in class through Zoom, however I love it so far. I am getting my master’s degree in aesthetics. My dream job is to be able to assist doctors in skin grafts at the Shriners Hospital in Boston. In the near future I hope to open my own practice. I am excited for what the future holds!

Phil Monier ‘83

Hi everyone, I reinvented myself many times over the years...I guess my biggest claim to fame after Landmark is my 12 seasons being a Vail Children’s Ski & Snowboard coach and instructor. Next up was a decade landscaping on the southeastern Florida coast. I have a home down there but am out on the road about 300+ days a year in “Sweet Jane.” She’s a freightliner Cascadia and we’ve got 500K under our belts now! When I’m not out there running the “Western Eleven” there is probably sand between my toes…

Jorge Arellano ‘85

In 1999 I created the company Ocala Gran Prix (OGP), a kart racing track. The company deals with every part of racing, from schools to sales to repairs, local racing, state series, national series, and international series. OGP provides trackside service for all kart racing experiences. I am also involved in my family business of Bacardi Rum. I help with the board of directors, not the day-to-day operation. I am married for the second time, to Ann Stewart, for 15 years. I do not have any children. I am currently living in Ocala, Fla. I still love power boating.

Stephanie Sacks ‘85

I’m working at an art store, selling greeting cards and other people’s art. My puppy is now 2 years old, and I’m just waiting for things to get back to normal after the pandemic.

Mara (Elliott-Hazard) Paul ‘86

I am an assistant director at a childcare facility, and over the past two years I’ve lost 100 pounds and am thinner than I was at Landmark! I live in Derry, N.H., with my husband, Brian, and my son is a sophomore at UNH.

Alexis Arenella ‘87

I have a few irons in the fire. I’m a professional drummer at a studio in Little Rock and Long Beach. I work in property management, private branding of supplements and wholesale distribution via www. apawellness.com. I am a loving father to 10-yearold Carmen Lee Arenella. I currently reside in Long Beach, Calif., and Little Rock, Ark.

Sarah (Nenner) Zabriskie ‘90

I’ve been retired now for 11 years and enjoy traveling with my husband when we can. I volunteer in the community with the seniors at our local senior center. Life is good...

Mary Devereaux ‘91

Most recently I have been working as an infant and toddler teacher in Braintree, Mass. I have been with Hugs Plus Learning Centers for 10 years now. My husband, Robert Devereaux ‘92, and I have been living in Hanover, Mass., since 2014 and we have a beautiful German Shepherd named Missy who is 4 years old.

David Breen ‘92

I have been keeping very busy writing, directing, and performing a show with my troupe, the King Serpent Variety Troupe, which continues to find audiences all over New England. I’ve also been very busy working as the theater director and drama and acting instructor at Camp Evergreen Day Camp in Andover, Mass.

Zachary Fine ‘92

Last year I received my doctorate in education from Northeastern University.

David Breen’ 92

Joshua Westfield’ 99 Sherry Souza-Bowden ‘92 with partner Tasha Pearce Noah Pearce’ 93 Noah Pearce ‘93

After graduating with a BFA from Adelphi University in 1997, I began a career in the jewelry industry, working for Tiffany and Co. and Mikimoto in New York City. In 2018 my wife, Sarah, and our two daughters, Norah and Jackson, relocated to Bainbridge Island in Washington State to join me for my current position with Blue Nile as VP of Fulfillment Operations Over Quality Assurance, Jewelry Production and Career Logistics. After a life in the Northeast, they are absolutely in love with the Pacific Northwest and are taking advantage of all the surrounding mountains and Puget Sound have to offer. If any other Landmark School alumni are in Seattle, let’s connect!

Sue Kesselring ‘97

We welcomed our fifth grandchild last spring. He’s a happy and healthy bouncing baby boy. We’ve been doing some work around our house while being home during this pandemic and have been spending some very much-needed time together.

Taylor Grinnell ‘98

I’m living in Boston with my wife, Jillian, and beagle, Olive, and still working for the Red Sox in sales.

Joshua Westfield ‘99

I live in Dedham, Maine, with my wife, Alicia, who runs her own daycare, and our three sons, Trevor 12, Gavin 7, and Lucas 5. I’ve been working for the railroad for almost seven years now. We spend our summers and every weekend at our family camp near Moosehead Lake. Most of our free time is spent doing things as a family!

Jason Ventura ‘99

I recently have become unemployed due to COVID-19. I am currently looking for new opportunities. I am using this valuable time to start a new business called Picks for Poverty that will help fund local and national food banks. We will also provide musical instruments and lessons for low-income families.

Thomas Tyson ‘02

For the last five years, I have been living and working in Hong Kong. I helped to set up and train an engineering team in mainland China. It has been truly challenging, but a rewarding experience to learn and grow with my team. My wife and I love our careers, and enjoy exploring the world on our

time off from work. In my free time, I enjoy building electronics (one of the reasons I love being in southern China), oil painting, hiking (Hong Kong has some beautiful trails and beaches that are easy to access), travelling, and scuba diving.

Even though my time was short at Landmark, it (people and place) had a significant impact on my life and career. To this day, I am still learning on my own and taking classes, in which I utilize the tools from Landmark. I could not be a bigger advocate for Landmark and its staff.

Vivienne Brefini ‘05

After graduation, I went to school for fashion design and construction. Then I worked several fashion jobs. My idea was to one day work for myself and have my own clothing line. That became a reality when I started my shop, TIEN 2 (clothing and jewelry), located in Beverly, Mass., with my mother six years ago. Three years ago this past July I got married and still live in Beverly.

Jennifer Sweeney ‘06

I am working at New England Baptist Hospital and have been there for 10 years. I’m enjoying my time with my family.

Tim Barrett ‘07

I am currently living with my girlfriend and our dog. I work in the technical support department for a company called Texthelp Inc. It’s a software company that develops accessibility software for people that may have learning differences. As a former Landmark student, I was very excited to join this amazing company. I can say that I have helped some of the Landmark teachers with our product Fluency Tutor. Being able to help the school that helped me so much gives me a lot of enjoyment.

William Ruez ’07

I’m working at Alvarez and Marsal in their Disputes and Investigations group, where I assist lawyers in calculating financial damages in corporate lawsuits. I live in Houston, Tex., with my wife, Caroline, and our three children who range in age from 2 to 6.

Eva Fisherman ‘08

For the past two years, I’ve been working as a software engineer for my own company, which subcontracts out to other firms, such as Keller Williams. I’m currently working on their internal real estate software for all of their agents. I built an MVP proof of concept for an internal tool for In4fmation Insights in Needham. On the side over the past two years, I have been developing my own time-tracking software that provides structure for my time management needs for working with clients and other members on projects.

Caroline Cohen ‘09

I’m grateful to live in Boulder, Colo. I recently started my own coaching business to support a small number of individuals working to create an environmentally sustainable future.

Christina Norton ‘09

2020 was a challenging year to say the least. I graduated as a surgical technologist from Bunker Hill Community College. I was forced to give up a job at Tufts Medical because I was unable to pass my boards. Winchester Hospital agreed to give me a year to work while studying for my certification exam. After three unsuccessful attempts, the fourth time was a charm. Unfortunately, this is a very hard exam to pass and only 7% of my class was able to pass on the first try. Nothing was going to stop me, and now I am officially a certified surgical technologist. Now that I am certified, I am able to apply to any hospital in the world. I am very proud of this accomplishment. When COVID-19 hit I was “deployed” from the operating room and forced to work long and unpredictable hours in the emergency room to utilize my skills as a medical assistant. I will

Vivienne (Lowe) Brefini ’05

Thomas Tyson ’02

Christina Norton ’09 Elizabeth Johnson ’13 Summer Kelley ’15

never forget my first shift in the ER, when I was asked to take care of postmortal care on multiple patients. As you can imagine this was a very scary time for me. However, I am back to my normal routine working in the operating room. I have been forced to take calls every other weekend since COVID-19 hit, and I’m working close to 50 hours a week. I am also taking anatomy and physiology, which has been the hardest class I have ever taken at Bunker Hill Community College. (My first exam I received an 80%!) I am determined to continue my journey to become a nurse one day, even if that means taking one class at a time. My path in life has never been the norm, but every accomplishment has prepared me for the next and I have to be grateful for that.

Kristen Mulvey ‘10

I graduated from NYU School of Law in 2019. I spent the past year as a fellow at the ACLU of Massachusetts as a civil rights and civil liberties lawyer. I am now a law clerk for a judge.

Sam Seckler ‘12

I’m working my way through my electrical apprenticeship in Utah.

Laura Clayton ‘13

I recently graduated from Lesley University with a degree in user experience design, moved, and got a job at Rockport Shoes.

Elizabeth Johnson ‘13

My boyfriend and I are owners of a small business called Pet-A-Tude Pet Care. We do daily walks for teachers and nurses who live in Manchester, Beverly, Danvers, and Gloucester. We also do house stays if people go on vacation.

Jocelyn Fumo ‘14

I’m a clinician working at Westborough Behavioral Healthcare Hospital in intensive outpatient services and its partial hospital program. I love it!

Summer Kelley ‘15

I graduated from Framingham State University in 2019 with a BA in English. After graduation, I started working at Austin Prep in Reading, Mass., in the dean’s office as an administrator. This fall I will be starting my second year at Austin Prep!

Dylan Shrier ‘15

I just started a new job as a junior/fellow designer at SJR Group, designing for clients like Pfizer, Exxon Mobil, and more.

Shaurya Agarwal ‘16

I’m working on an entrepreneurship venture and currently running two companies.

James Colby ‘19

I’m currently attending the University of Denver. I have an internship where I am creating a commercial drone company.

Callie Dangel ‘20

I am studying fine arts at Lesley University.

AJ Hughson ‘20

I am happily enrolled at Emerson College, majoring in theater and performance.

Ekaterina Leikikh ‘20

I am attending University of Wisconsin—Madison as a nursing major.

Olivia Moran ‘20

I just started my freshman year of college in the midst of a global pandemic. Definitely not how I expected college to start out. Despite the unexpected way to enter this next phase of my life, I am glad I had four years learning Landmark’s skills and tools to help me get through it.

Janet Foley (now Jentilet)

FORMER FACULTY: Taught 1986–1988 I was an instructor in math, language arts, tutorial (of course). I also was a “duty master” one summer and a houseparent another. I’d love to hear from other former faculty and any/all of my students! After leaving Landmark and getting an MBA in finance (Indiana University), I spent most of my career in corporate finance for Fortune 100 companies. I now work at the Oak Ridge National Lab (Tennessee) in project management.

IN MEMORIAM:

Michael Evan Zlot ‘92

July 1, 1974–June 10, 2019

AJ Hughson ’20

Stay in Touch

We are a community at Landmark and we love it when our alumni stay in touch. Let us know what you are up to. No news is too minor or major—it’s all good. landmarkschool.org/landmark-alumni

MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES

Stories, Surprises & Annual Spring Auction Stories, Surprises & Annual Spring Auction

VIRTUAL EVENT

APRIL 14, 2021 • 7:00 p.m.

Join us for this first-ever VIRTUAL event to celebrate our extraordinary community at a remarkable time in history. You won’t want to miss out on the fun—or the surprises we have in store. Tickets are $25. Reserve yours today!

landmarkschool.org/makingwaves

You are invited to a virtual Alumni Town Hall meeting with Headmaster Bob Broudo and Board Chair Thilo Henkes P’24 in February. These meetings are designed for alumni to get an update on the school, hear plans about Landmark’s future, and learn how you can be involved. You are welcome to join one or both sessions.

A New Chapter for Landmark School

After 50 years at Landmark School and 30 as headmaster, Bob Broudo, recently announced his retirement at the end of the 2021-2022 academic year.

We are in the process of conducting an international search for our next head. We invite you to participate in this important process. You can get involved by filling out our community survey and attending an upcoming town-hall meeting to learn about our progress and share your thoughts with the search committee and our executive recruitment partner, Spencer Stuart.

 IN MEMORIAM

Charles P. Harris: Farewell to One of Landmark’s Finest

by Bob Broudo P’11

Charles (Charley) Harris was a long-time leader at Landmark and a very dear friend and colleague. He was an exceptional human being anyone was fortunate to know. Landmark, where I met Charley, had the pleasure and the benefit of his professionalism, wisdom, and influence since the pre-Landmark planning period in the late 1960s, which means that I, too, had that pleasure and benefit going back that far with Charley.

Charley leaves behind many legacies, perhaps the most pronounced being that he always put people first, and he was a tenacious advocate for children, adolescents, and adults with learning disabilities. Finally, within this legacy, Charley exemplified nonjudgment and inclusiveness.

Charley’s many hats included: U.S. Army veteran; husband, father (son Peter is head of the Language Arts Department at the Elementary•Middle School), grandfather (grandson Chris is an EMS faculty member); school administrator; mentor; ombudsman; project coordinator; personnel director; linguist; reality checkpoint; board clerk and parliamentarian; standard bearer for honesty, integrity, kindness and clarity; ballast serving to stabilize any rocky ship; friend; advisor; unending source of wonderful book suggestions; humorist; humanist; and loyal Red Sox Fan.

Yogi Berra (a Yankee!) once said, “You can observe a lot by watching.” So many people have observed and learned a lot by watching Charley Harris.

A gracious gentleman, extraordinary and sensitive writer and communicator, and a humble man and leader, Charley helped build Landmark from a concept to its present reality and positively touched and guided more lives than can be counted, very definitely including mine.

Charley Harris was one of the very finest human beings I have ever had the privilege of knowing, and one of the brightest guiding lights of my life.

Rumi wrote: “Out beyond ideas of wrong-doing and right-doing, there is a field. I will meet you there.” That’s how Charley lived—he met everyone in the open field. BOOK-OPEN

Landmark School 2021 Board of Trustees

Thilo Henkes P’24 CHAIR

Georgetown, MA Managing Director and Partner, L.E.K. Consulting

Moira McNamara James P’10 SECRETARY

Marblehead, MA Director of Video Operations The Conference Board

*Nicholas A. Lopardo P’92, GP’20,’22 ’23, ’24 CHAIRMAN EMERITUS

Sanibel, FL Retired, Vice Chairman State Street Corporation

Robert J. Broudo P’11 PRESIDENT AND HEADMASTER

Beverly, MA Landmark School, Inc.

Larry Karle VICE PRESIDENT

Norwell, MA Landmark School, Inc.

Kim Hildebrandt CLERK

Beverly, MA Landmark School, Inc.

Jeffrey Alpaugh P’21

Wellesley, MA Growth and Industry Practices Leader, Marsh & McClennan

Harvey L. Alter ’82

Glenview, IL Executive Vice President, The Alter Group

Jennifer Buddenhagen P’23, ’27

Magnolia, MA Chief Marketing Officer, Carling Technologies, Inc.

Jennifer Paul Casey P’02, ’06

Annapolis, MD Community Volunteer and Artist

Nancy Crate P’19, ’21

Ipswich, MA Volunteer

Alan Dachs

San Francisco, CA President and CEO, Fremont Group

Julie Donovan P’23, ’28

Marblehead, MA Recently Retired Senior Vice President, Fidelity Investments

Lori H. Freedman P’23

Winchester, MA Vice President & General Counsel, Organogenesis

Nadine Gaab, PhD

Newton, MA Associate Professor of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education

Bill Gersh ’06

Los Angeles, CA Agent, The Gersh Agency

John Leslie P'21

Newton Centre, MA IHS Markit, Office of the CTO

Robert S. Merowitz P’06

Sudbury, MA President & CEO, Universal Realty Corporation

Joseph H. Morgart P’12,’22

Waltham, MA Alternative Investment, Amundi Pioneer Investments

Shelley Moses-Reed P’23

Greenwood Village, CO Customer Experience Executive, Medallia

Michael Pehl P’21

Wayland, MA Founder and Managing Partner, Guidepost Growth Equity

Catherine Slark P’01

Burr Ridge, IL Volunteer

Martin P. Slark P’01

Burr Ridge, IL Retired, President and CEO, Molex, Inc.

Spencer Smitherman ’08

Mission Viejo, CA Founder/CEO, Switchboard Technologies, Inc.

Michael D. Tancreti P’09, ’11

Nashua, NH Chief Executive Officer, Ashwood Development Company

David A. Tessier P’10

Del Ray Beach, FL President,Hospitality and Gaming Advisors

BOARD SPOTLIGHT

Check out our profile of Board Chair, Thilo Henkes, on page 40

Sam Vigersky ’98

Brooklyn, NY Senior Humanitarian Advisor, United States Mission to the United Nations

TRUSTEES EMERITUS

Robert J. Campbell P’04

Rockport, ME Investment Counselor Beck, Mack, & Oliver

David G. Peterson P’08

Bedford, MA Sales Management Consultant

Suzanne H. Sears P’02

Hamilton, MA

ALUMNI AND PARENT RELATIONS

Robert and Angela Gowans P’23

Landmark Parents’ Association Representatives Beverly, MA Fire Chief Educational Advocate

Gabriella Pecoraro ’07

Alumni Representative Salem, MA Global Wealth and Asset Management Strategy Leader, John Hancock

Post Office Box 227 Prides Crossing, Massachusetts 01965-0227 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED