Aurora Swift School Magazine summer 2016
curiosity
persistence
right brain adventure
navigation left brain
Swift launches a whole new look! 06
Lift Off! Swift launches a new look for 2016-17, complete with an exciting new website!
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Class of 2016 Swift’s largest 8th grade class to-date welcomes the next chapter.
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Learning Skills for Life Swift alumnus Megan Phillipa shares her story
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Back to School Bash Thursday, August 11, 2016 5 - 6 p.m. New Parent Orientation 6 - 8 P.m. Meet & Greet - all parents & students Meet your teachers and classmates • sign up for after-school & carpooL food provided by a Tasty Touch • Supervised student activities Detailed information to follow
Contents
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Class of 2016 Swift’s largest 8th grade class to-date welcomes the next chapter.
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06 Brand Launch Swift launches a new look for 2016-17, complete with an exciting new website!
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Advancing the Mission...Together A new Development team brings exciting new changes.
Division Highlights A quick look back at some memorable moments.
05 From the Head of School
16 Faculty Focus
26 Swift Galaxy: Alumni Profiles
34 Upcoming Events
Launch Pad . Class of 2016
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Aurora . Winter 2016
Graduation 2016 Swift’s number of 8th grade graduates rose to 40 on May 24th when 14 8th graders proudly marched across the stage to receive their diplomas. The Class of 2016 marks Swift’s largest graduating class to-date.
Launchpad . Rich Wendlek, Head of School
Summer is Upon Us!
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ear Parents and Friends, It happened yet again! The academic year seemed to fly by and here we are – in the summertime.
Looking around at the lighter morning traffic – this is a slower season all around – families are less rushed, attire is more casual. I vividly recall those wonderful leisurely summer mornings of my own children’s youth. That said, schools are busy places the year round. While writing this letter, I am observing a stream of teachers heading into the dining hall for professional development training. That continued for the rest of June, and right after the 4th of July Summer Explorations commences. A couple just entered the admission office for the parent interview process. The business of the school continues, but summer does allow for blocks of time to implement strategic initiatives.
Two years ago the Frameworks program was developed in order to provide more intensive language acquisition programming for the benefit of Lower Division students requiring it. Simultaneously, learning specialists were installed to further support student learning needs. In the coming year a formal Learning Support Department has been formed. In addition to Frameworks, learning specialists and several speech and language pathologists will form a Learning Support Department designed to provide students with further support programming. The great news is that the learning experience for all students will be positively impacted. Much gratitude is extended to those who have put such great thought and expertise into the formation of this department. I am pleased to announce that Sandi Epstein will direct Learning Support affairs.
“I must admit, I do miss the ritual of morning carpool during the summer break! Greeting students is a highlight of each day.”
Once again, enjoy summer. Allow time for renewal. We look forward to seeing you in August. Best regards, Rich Wendlek Head of School
Swift School
Jill McGuire has just been appointed to the position of Middle Division Dean for the coming year. One dimension of her role will be to support students and families in outplacement activities – providing guidance and direction in the high school search process.
A feasibility study conducted by Sinclair, Townes & Company is currently engaged to assist in guiding action for the use of the new 18.3 acre site Swift School acquired last winter. As plans materialize I will keep you apprised of our progress. Swift School was founded just 19 years ago. In my conversations with the founder, Gail Swift, she so often expresses sheer amazement in the growth and progress of the school she founded with 5 students in a church basement!
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On May 24th the number of Swift 8th grade Swift graduates rose to 40! This is quite a hallmark considering the Middle Division’s brief tenure. Observing the well-versed young men and women who are prepared to move on to their high school careers brings about mixed emotions among the faculty. Gladness, a sense of pride, and a sense of accomplishment accompany the graduation ceremony proceedings, coupled with a tinge of sadness! It’s a little like waving good-bye to relished friends who just visited – you wish they could have stayed a little longer. Swift’s Class of 2016 is the largest to date with 14 graduates.
Lift Off . Swift Launches a Whole New Look
dyslexia
Lift Off!
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Aurora . Winter 2016
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wift Branding 1.0 Swift School was founded by Gail Swift in 1998. Gail, a talented, passionate educator of dyslexic students started Swift after a long teaching career at the Schenck School.
The school began modestly with Gail teaching five students in a rented church basement in Marietta. Word spread about what this amazing teacher was doing and other teachers and students came to join her. The school expanded and moved from one room to a single trailer and then a double wide. Branding was done by the boot straps. Parents came together and helped create the first logo and the colors were green, maroon, blue.
Swift Branding 2.0 In 2006, Gail retired and Swift moved to its current campus. Swift was helping more and more students and families but was still relatively unknown to the general public. Swift was commonly referred to as the “best kept secret in Roswell.” Branding became critically important to increase Swift’s awareness in the Atlanta community. In 2009, Swift was the lucky recipient of a $100,000 marketing grant from Matchstic’s “On the House” project. Lead by Matchstic, the project brought together local marketing agencies to donate expertise, design and marketing materials to a local non-profit. Swift received a new logo, tagline, website, brochures and many other marketing materials from this generous project. The new
logo and focused tagline “Success with Dyslexia Starts Here” seen on car magnets all over town, helped increase awareness of Swift and fueled further growth. With the launch of the Middle Division in 2011, Matchstic again offered services and created a unique sports logo for the Swift Spartans teams. Swift Branding 3.0 Under the leadership of Rich Wendlek, Swift School has made tremendous strides. Swift has greatly expanded programming and increased teacher development. In 2012, Swift opened a new Arts & Sciences building. In 2016, Swift purchased 18 acres close to its current location.
In 2015, Swift partnered with EM2 to improve the communications strategy for the Swift brand in the marketplace. A brand style book was created including new graphic elements. The constellation design element represents how Swift views our students as unique and full of potential. The Swift Five-Point Promise was created to communicate Swift’s educational philosophy. A new tagline reflects Swift’s belief in a comprehensive, whole child approach to empowering dyslexic students to succeed “Swift School: A holistic education for dyslexic students.” A totally revamped website was launched in June 2016.
Research about dyslexia has continued to evolve. Today we know more than ever about the strengths associated with the dyslexic mind. Our curriculum has continued to expand and evolve in order to best support the language development needs as well as to develop the talents and strengths of our students.
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The redesigned site also features a new Parent Portal (MySwift) created with Swift families in mind.
Swift School
Website Launch On June 17, 2016 Swift School announced the launch of its new website. In addition to moving to FinalSite, a national leader in school website development, Swift designed the entirely new platform to be more attractive and informative, easier to navigate, and more user-friendly.
Swift’s Five-Point Promise
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Students are embraced for who they are and the potential they possess.
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Students emerge as academically prepared and confident individuals, enthusiastic about learning and skilled in self-advocacy.
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Aurora . Summer 2016
Swift is a collaborative community of nurturing teachers, therapists and families working together to guide each student’s journey.
Our Promise to You Swift’s Five-Point Promise is displayed in each classroom and in central points throughout the school. The Promise serves as our commitment to our families and the Swift community.
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Dyslexia is viewed through the lens of leading-edge brain–science and seen as a braintype with great advantages.
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Teachers use multi-sensory methods, customized to each student’s learning style and are proven to achieve success with dyslexia.
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Swift School
Swift’s new branding features a constellation element, positive messaging and bright colors to represent how Swift views students as unique and full of potential.
Strengthening the Vision . Rich Wendlek, Head of School
This is the Swift Effect
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ast spring on a typically busy day I had the pleasure of touring a Roswell dignitary around the campus.
We went from classroom to classroom, the art room, music class, science labs, observed all sorts of instructional formats – lectures, small group instruction, performance groups. I was proud of the variety of instruction I was able to share. At the end of the tour she asked, “What did you say these students have?” The obvious answer was dyslexia. To the untrained eye dyslexia is an invisible phenomenon. To those of us who know dyslexia’s implications we refer to what happens to our students as ‘the Swift effect’. It is not a surprise that so many parents, educators, and other groups of professionals are curious to know about what the recent brain research reveals about their interaction with learners. I hear these conversations everywhere I turn. Recent neurological findings reinforce what we here at Swift School have known and practiced for some time!
ing – teaching others what you know helps to reinforce one’s learning. The view of what is meant by ‘intelligence’ is shifting, with the recognition that brain plasticity is indeed real. We also have made strides in understanding that dyslexia is a language based learning difference. It is the result of a brain that is neurologically different; one that requires strong multi-sensory instructional methodologies for language acquisition – including the language of mathematics. We also have learned that the dyslexic mind has learning advantages not as common in the other brain-types. In all, the importance of neuroscience research on learning cannot be overstated. How does Swift School engage student learning so effectively? The answer to this question is very complex, but essentially lies in the fact that not only are the instructional methodologies designed for our learners, but – and this is huge– the investment in every single faculty member’s training is uniform, in-depth, and ongoing.
As students move through Swift’s programming the
“...students are provided with an education that is specifically designed for and delivered to the dyslexic learner.”
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Aurora . Summer 2016
What are the findings? How do these findings impact educational programming? The MRI revelations and many of the new books and insights into how the brain learns describes what we in the field of dyslexia education have known, practiced, and advocated. The centrality of play – particularly in early education programs - has schools turning away from excessive academic regimen in favor of interactive, multisensory learning experiences. We know that emotional engagement is essential for academic engagement; if you do not feel reasonably good about yourself the chance for achievement is diminished. We know that the arts – visual and performance – help to create empathetic problem solvers. We know more about the importance of relational learn-
content changes, however, instructional methods are the same. This practice is fundamental to the success of student learning outcomes. Coupled with the professional knowledge of what neuroscience has uncovered about the dyslexic mind, students are provided with an education that is specifically designed and delivered for the dyslexic learner. I guess, in a nutshell, that’s ‘the Swift Effect’!
Guiding Light . The Avatar Project from Associate Head of School for Student Affairs, Eric Osorio
Partnering in Educational Technology
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his year, Swift began a partnership with the University of West Georgia’s Department of Learning and Teaching College of Education. Dean of Instruction, Harriet Litzky, connected with Dr. Elaine Roberts to explore the Mursion/Teach Live Program and its potential for professional development opportunities. This exciting computer simulation project creates a virtual classroom environment with avatars that mimic the traits, habits, and personalities of students—a powerful opportunity for experiential learning. Connecting with Swift provided UWG with a profile and specific information on students with dyslexia and language processing differences. In October, Dr. Roberts’ team met with a group of Swift teachers and administrators to brainstorm and make recommendations about the Mursion/Teach Live scenario.
education program. This was 21st Century learning at its best, and Swift has become an integral part of it. In April, the team was introduced to our “students.” Mrs. Grigsby and Mrs. Campbell went through scenarios with their virtual classes, teaching the very students that they were an integral part of creating. This demonstration was the culmination of a year’s worth of work by the design team, and has opened the door for greater collaboration with our friends at West Georgia. In June, the Swift/UWG design team presented their work on a panel at University of West Georgia with Ms. Gilbert to answer questions about the project. So what lies ahead for Swift and the University of West Georgia? Swift will continue our collaboration throughout the 2016 – 2017 school year, enabling us to learn how to use the technology, and hopefully move forward to run a Swift Mursion/Teach Live Training.
“Swift continues to be on the cutting edge of professional development and offering its students the latest researched-based techniques.”
Swift School
Caroline Grigsby, a 5th grade lead teacher, and Kimberly Campbell, a teacher in Swift’s Middle Division, joined the design team in February. This was a unique opportunity, as the avatar program represents a piece of technology that future college students will use in their teacher
This is a fabulous opportunity for professional development at Swift, and could also have broader implications for other educators in our area. Swift continues to be on the cutting edge in professional development and offering its students the latest researched-based techniques. Stay tuned for more updates from the Swift Teach Live Design Team!
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The teams narrowed down scenarios, set up a timetable, and formed a Swift scenario design team. Kristen Gilbert, the facilitator of Mursion/Teach Live, conducted a live visual presentation of the avatar classroom, which was truly a remarkable experience. There were 5 students in the classroom, ages 11 – 12, interacting with Ms. Gilbert throughout the hour presentation; each student had a name and a rather unique personality. After experiencing the program firsthand, the design team was ready to jump in and create a profile for a dyslexic student.
Mission Accomplished . Class of 2016
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Aurora . Winter 2016
Graduation 2016 Including the Class of 2016, Swift School has now graduated a total of 40 students. These students have gone on to attend a wide variety of schools that include various public high schools and independent schools like Brandon Hall, The Cottage School, The Howard School, Mt. Pisgah, Mill Springs Academy, St. Francis, and Weber.
Mission Accomplished . Class of 2016
Congratulations Class of 2016
Conrad Brown St. Francis School
Cameron Carr
Luke Evens
Centennial HS
Mill Springs Academy
Cambridge HS
Caroline Hegwood
Shane Hendrickson
Cooper Medved
Sean Murphy
Roswell HS
Queens of Angels
Walton HS
The Cottage School
Lauren Robb
Connor Schur
Michael Slifer
Ethan Turnquist
Mill Springs Academy
Brandon Hall School
Mill Springs Academy
Mill Springs Academy
Alex Haertel Dunwoody HS
Taylor Pace St. Francis School
Swift School
Daniel Beck
Each of them now moves into a variety of high schools with the knowledge that there is a close, caring community cheering for their success. We are proud of them all!
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ongratulations to our largest graduating class! Fourteen 8th grade students proudly marched down the aisle to formally say goodbye to Swift Middle Division.
Mission Accomplished . 2016 Class Speaker, Conrad Brown
I am Lucky...
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was lucky. I came to Swift young. I was fresh out of kindergarten. But I was already falling behind. It wasn’t obvious to everybody, even my parents. But I knew it, I felt it. I just wasn’t understanding the information despite having a good teacher at a good school. My teacher knew it and suggested I get tested for learning issues.
I was lucky. My parents got me tested right away. The results came back in July and the doctor said I was dyslexic. She recommended I go to a school that specializes in helping kids with dyslexia. And she said returning to my old school would not be best for me. But my old school is where all my friends were! My old school had 40 acres and ponies! But what they didn’t have were teachers that understood the way I learn, they didn’t have small class sizes and they didn’t have any kids that were just like me. So at the end of July we started searching for a new school. I was lucky. Between kindergarten and 1st grade we found Swift. Within two weeks, I visited, applied, got accepted and started my first day of first grade with another kid you might know, my good friend Dan Beck.
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Aurora . Winter 2016
I was lucky. Swift gave me the keys to unlock language. I have great memories of my days in Ms. Wanamaker’s 2nd grade classroom learning to make sense of sounds and decoding words. By 5th grade, I was reading and things were going well. I remember Ms. Cherry’s class and how she helped me understand and appreciate literature. We read classic books like Fair Weather by Richard Peck about a family that goes to the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago. She believed in me - and she helped me believe in me, too. I was lucky. I stayed at Swift for Middle School. And these have been some of my best times ever. I don’t struggle like I used to and I’m not afraid like I used to be.
I know what it means to be me. I am dyslexic and that’s ok. In fact, it is more than ok, it’s pretty cool. Because of Swift’s Middle Division, I have discovered and developed my strengths. Thank you Ms. Nix. You nurtured my awesome talent in mathematics. Thank you Mr. Lytle. You revealed my love of science—balloon-racers, egg-drops, pig dissections they all rocked. Thank you Ms. Lane and Ms. McGuire too. I am finally capitalizing my name thanks to you two! Because of the support, kindness, compassion, and patience of all my Swift teachers over the years, I have experienced tremendous growth in language development. I am lucky. I am dyslexic. I have a brain that has unique strengths and advantages. I spent eight years in a school that appreciated me for who I am and helped me to become the student I am today and the man I will be tomorrow. We are all lucky at Swift. So you parents and grandparents out there don’t worry so much, it’s going to be OK. Just look at me! I came to Swift a shy, scared child who could not read. And today, like all my fellow graduates, I am leaving a confident, empowered teen prepared for what lies ahead. You know what, it’s the WORLD that is lucky to have US!
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Trajectory . Faculty Focus
Celebrating 15... Swift’s Director of Technology & Assessment is recognized for an outstanding 15 years of service.
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onna Cherry joined Swift School as a science teacher in 2001 as the school entered into its third year and offered instruction to 1st through 6th graders.
Initially, Cherry was drawn to the school by its founder, Gail Swift, and “her love of children and unequaled ability to teach” students who struggle to read and write. “There was a magic in what Gail did,” says Cherry of her attraction to Swift School. “I watched and had the pleasure to present with Gail. I just wanted to sit beside her, scooping up all this information. The information she shared was so rich; she was so engaging and had such life in what she did. I wanted to be part of that.”
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Aurora . Summer 2016
Once at Swift, she began teaching 4th/5th and 5th/6th combination classes. With the creation of Swift’s Middle Division program, Mrs. Cherry moved exclusively to 5th grade and piloted Swift’s inaugural 1:1 computer program. “Throughout my teaching career, I have loved interacting with all of the ages and stages from 1st - 8th grades, but have especially been at home with 5th graders. It is a critical year for students to begin applying skills to advance their own learning.”
Now, Mrs. Cherry enters her third year as Swift’s Director of Technology and Assessment. With a focus on students, technology helps close the gap between student achievement and potential. With support from the Board of Trustees and Swift’s Administration, Mrs. Cherry has implemented new technology initiatives that introduced iPads in 1st through 3rd grades, Chromebooks for 4th graders, and a 1:1 “Bring Your Own Chromebooks” for Middle Division this year. Mrs. Cherry officially marks her 15th anniversary with Swift on August 1st with no signs of slowing down. Among her list of upcoming initiatives, she will discuss assistive technology in the writing process when she presents at the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Annual Conference in Denver.
Swift School
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“Throughout my teaching career, I have loved interacting with all of the ages and stages from 1st - 8th grades, but have especially been at home with 5th graders. It is a critical year for students to begin applying skills to advance their own learning.�
Orbit . Division Highlights
LOWER DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS
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hat a year it has been! I am so proud to be able to serve the wonderful students and the entire Swift School community. Thank you for all you do to make coming to work such a pleasure for all of us who are privileged to work here. Academically and socially, this was a stellar year and our children continued to inspire. Our teachers worked diligently to educate your children; to encourage them to reach for the stars. The attention to academic excellence coupled with the multi-sensory approach to teaching allowed our students to develop their talents, build upon their knowledge, and grow socially and emotionally. We have seen this once again in so many ways. The Spring Concert, held at St. David’s church with over 150 people in attendance, allowed for our students to truly shine. The Field Days and Closing Ceremonies provided a fitting end to the year. We celebrated the academic achievement of so many students, and saw the huge support that parents give to the school.
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Aurora . Winter 2016
I hope everyone has a wonderful summer, and I look forward to seeing you again at the beginning of August. I extend my grateful thanks to the entire Swift community for the way you continue to support administrators, teachers andstudents. I also wish you all an excellent summer, wherever you may be, and I look forward to many more years ahead. With very best wishes, Roni Battoglia
On April 28th and 29th, our students welcomed their Grandparents and Special Friends to visit Swift.
Fourth grade students enjoyed a fun day of science courtesy of Ms. Hartmann, who brought a special guest from The Magic School Bus.
The Spring Concert featured 4th and 5th Grade Choruses accompanied by 6th grade Orff Ensemble.
Pet Day is a school favorite among our students.
Bring it on! Field Day brings out the competitor in all of us!
After Closing Ceremonies, the Lower Division celebrated the last day of school with a visit from Swift’s favorite ice cream truck. Swift School
Everyone knows Swift students are full of potential!
I scream, you scream...we all scream for ice cream!
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The annual variety show offered students a chance to showcase their unique talents.
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Aurora . Winter 2016
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Orbit . Division Highlights
MIDDLE DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS Day of Achievement (10) Students celebrate collaborative, interdisciplinary work at our Day of Achievement.
Recycle Team (8) The Recycle Team participated in Roswell’s Ready, Set, Recycle contest and proudly won first place!
6th Grade Spring Trip (1) Science, social studies, and environmental education came to life when students visited several Georgia islands while on their spring interdisciplinary trip. Our students thrived in this real-world learning experience.
Learning to C.H.E.E.R (5) 7th and 8th grade students welcomed Moose and Buckets from the Harlem Globetrotters this spring. Their CHEER for Character (Cooperation, Healthy mind & body, Effort, Enthusiasm, and Responsibility) program encourages students in a unique, fun way. Community Service (2) The Swift community’s efforts and contributions allowed Middle Division students to deliver 1,254 pounds of food, which calculates to 1,045 meals to people in need in the Atlanta area.
Night to Shine (3) Everyone was impressed with our Wax Museum stars during our Middle Division’s Night to Shine performance. Students spoke eloquently in front of a large audience; some spoke in Spanish, while others read poetry.
7th Grade Spring Trip (4) Our students gained confidence and developed closer bonds with classmates through North Carolina’s ‘Go Outside, Grow Outside’ program. It is designed to foster teamwork, to encourage outdoor activity, and to experience science in a hands-on manner. 8th Grade Spring Trip (9) History came alive in a meaningful, fun way when students experienced Williamsburg and Washington D.C. in ways that encouraged respect and pride in American history.
Swift School
8th Grade Commencement (6) Swift recognized its largest graduating class to-date on May 24th, when 14 8th grade students proudly marched across the stage towards the next phase of their journeys.
National Junior Honor Society (7) In early May, select 7th and 8th grade students were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. Membership requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, along with leadership experience and community service.
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iddle Division Shining Stars: Springtime for Swift Middle Division students was filled with activity. In the midst of academic learning, Advisory classes began to evolve into a more robust, personalized system providing individual support to students that addressed both academic and social needs. During this time, students worked on typing skills, asking questions about homework, organizing assignments, binders, or backpacks, helping a fellow student, or working on the Recycle Team. Advisory class presented opportunities for social development and executive function support.
Spartan Strong . 2015-16 Athletics Review
#SpartanStrong SOCCER
TRACK & FIELD
Overall Record: 6-8 Participants: 30 Varsity: Runner-Up Junior Varsity: 3rd, APAC Championship Tournament
Participants: 23 Meets: 4 regular season, 2 APAC Championship Meets. Events: 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 4 X 100m Relay, 4 X 400m Relay, Shot Put, Discus, Long Jump and Triple Jump.
This season saw the young and fast vs. the old and bold. Swift’s largest 6th grade group to-date made their presence known at our full team practices, along with many new players for the 15-16 season. Our focuses were to use as much space as possible, learn to pressure our opponents defensively, and to play with undying positive attitudes. Our Spartans were successful in this light, and made good showings against some of the best teams that we have played in the history of the APAC league. Congratulations on a great soccer season!
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Aurora . Winter 2016
BASKETBALL
This year’s track team saw its greatest depth of talent in running, jumping, and throwing that Swift has ever experienced. Several sprinters neared the 13 second mark in the 100 meter, numerous throwers hit 40+ feet in the discus throw, and distance runners pushed the 2.5 total mile mark at practices. Coach McCormick did a great job pushing the distance group to increase their mental toughness and endurance with his Cross Country background. Track welcomed many 6th graders and new Track and Field athletes. The team’s hard work shined through growth in skill, attitude, and speed. Congratulations on a great season!
Participants: 43 Boys: Spartan Gladiators, Soldiers, Junior Varsity Girls: Lady Spartans Spartan Gladiators: 3rd, APAC Championship Tournament.
Congratulations to all Spartans on a great year. Go Spartans!
To say that we “brought the noise” down at Waller Park Gym would be an understatement. Again, it was a case in which the 6th graders had a great turnout in numbers, creating the largest combined boys group that Swift has ever had. Coach McCormick joined the team for the first time, and was a great help in keeping the boys moving and reinforcing skill work during team sessions.
Katherine Adair, Dan Beck, Lulu Celecia, Dalen Clift, Shane Hendrickson, Avery Hodson, Noah Huffman, Cooper Medved, Collin Moonan, Will Morris, Maheer Mushfiq, Jonathan Renno, Olivia Robertson, Anna Scalf, Raffaella Shanahan
Our focuses were to improve ball handling and passing, to shoot quickly with good form, and execute a solid man-to-man defense. The 6th grade and Varsity Spartan teams recorded season high numbers. Despite a tough run against some very challenging opponents, the Spartans will continue improving in overall expectations, skills, and success of the program. Congratulations Spartan basketball players!
THREE-SPORT STUDENT-ATHLETES
SPARTIATE AWARD Shane Hendrickson
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Swift School
3600 of Learning . Extended Day Programming
Above & Beyond
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tudents had a blast this year in Above & Beyond, Swift’s extended day programming.
Students earned respect by demonstrating their martial arts skills through a series of belt tests. Our newest yellow belts included Ashley T., Charlotte L., Christopher U., and Oliver H, while Joey S., Lawrence C., and Walker W. each earned the esteemed green belt. Enrique E., Michael H., Ryker M., Nathan R., Luke C., William A., and Cole S. mastered new moves this year, too. Musical Theater received standing ovations for their performances of The Wizard of Oz, Teen Beach Movie and The Lion King. The students did a fantastic job singing and dancing to these great shows. Both after-school favorites, Tae Kwan Do and Musical Theater will return for the 2016-2017 school year, along with two specials . Tennis, led by Coach David from Playtime Athletics (Roswell), and Music Therapy from the team at Therabeat.
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Aurora . Summer 2016
Detailed information for 2016-17 Above & Beyond programming will be available in early August. Music Therapy provides fun music classes that incorporate team-building along with social skills, attention and focus, and confidence and leadership skills into each session. Detailed information will be available in early August.
On the Socia
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wift’s social media has grown over the last school year. Take a look at some of the more popular hits in 2016, and don’t forget to follow us!
Facebook . /theswiftschool
Twitter . @swiftschool_ga
YouTube . /theswiftschool_ga
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Swift School
al Scene...Swift’s Top Hits
Swift Galaxy . Alumni Profiles
Learning Skills for a Lifetime... Swift’s holistic approach to dyslexic training and education allowed Megan Phillips to grow and expand with the pace of a shooting star.
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Aurora . Summer 2016
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wift School has helped hundreds of dyslexic students unlock their potential by providing them with a holistic education, and Megan Phillips is no exception.
You see, Phillips attended Swift School from 5th to 6th grade, and, according to her, it changed her entire life. In fact, you could say Swift became a family affair. Megan’s mother, Kelly, spent time working for the school’s administrative support staff, while her father, Dr. Richard Phillips, rounded out the family involvement as Swift’s current Chair of the Board of Trustees. If you’ve ever heard Dr. Phillips speak, then you’ve felt how much Swift continues to mean to his family.
Megan, who is a 2016 graduate of Texas A&M, has made leaps and bounds since her days at Swift. The Phillips’ relationship with Swift began when Megan struggled academically, falling far behind her 4th grade peers. Her parents found Swift and, hoping to secure the support she needed, immediately enrolled Megan for the 5th grade school year. According to Megan, she was completely caught up within two years. Swift did not offer a Middle Division program at the time, so she began attending St. Francis School from 6th through 9th grade, and graduated from Pope High School. Phillips credits Swift with teaching her important life skills. Her biggest takeaway? Learning coping skills and strategies that quickly became an intrinsic part of her everyday life.
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Swift School
“At Swift, I learned coping skills and strategies that became part of my everyday life. They’re just a part of me now.”
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Aurora . Summer 2016
Swift Galaxy . Alumni Profiles
“Swift helped me get to where I am. It gave me the tools to succeed and be where I am today.”
So, how is Megan handling life these days? For starters, she just graduated from Texas A&M in May. You can add successful student-athlete to her list of accomplishments, too. As a member of A&M’s equestrian team, Phillips spent the last four years competing among the nation’s best in the Southeastern Conference. She is the first and only equestrian in her family, developing a love for the sport at the age of five. Soon, she began lessons three to four days per week. Where Swift helped her with patience and focus, working with horses strengthened that. When you reflect, what comes to mind about Swift School? “Swift helped me get to where I am. The school taught me how to cope. I was tested in college, and tested beyond expectations. Because of Swift, I learned to cope very well.” Competing as a NCAA Division I student-athlete is quite an honor. How do you feel about that? “It’s a privilege. I wouldn’t change it for the world. This experience helped me learn to work as part of a team, and to work with varying opinions and personalities.”
I learned skills that have become such a part of me and my everyday life, that it might be challenging to actually talk about them, but I can demonstrate those skills and strategies without even thinking about it. They’re just a part of me now.” Donna Cherry, who is celebrating 15 years of service this year, taught you at Swift and recalls your love of horses. What comes to mind when you think about Mrs. Cherry? “Mrs. Cherry is absolutely amazing. She pushed me, and she was always there. She reminded us everyday that there are no stupid questions, and that we should always ask. She told us that we should never go a day without asking question.” Do you have any advice for current or prospective Swift students? “I would say to remember that it’s not all about grades. At Swift, you learn coping skills and strategies that help you throughout life. You may not be able to speak about those skills, but you can put them into action, and show how well adjusted you are.”
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Swift School
“I’ve been really successful in school with a 3.8 GPR and a 3.3 overall average. I owe so much of that to Swift. It gave me the tools to succeed and be where I am today.
Advancing the Mission . Director of Advancement, Martha Moore
Advancing the Mission Together
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he beginning of 2015-2016 marked several exciting changes in the Advancement Office. Martha Moore joined the staff and took the leadership role for the department as Director of Development and Jennifer Clark moved into a new role as Communications Manager. With a foundation of philanthropy already in place, the new team explored opportunities and initiatives to move the school forward and continue to bring the community together. Some projects were subtle or internal; improved online giving, a new format for Snippets, upgraded data processing. Some were more apparent:
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Aurora . Summer 2016
A New Look Revealed Have you ever looked into your closet and realized it was time for a new wardrobe? That is what re-branding is like for a school. We haven’t changed anything fundamentally about the school or its mission, it was just time for our look to catch up to what we already present to the world and provide to our students. For this new look, we asked the experts at EM2 Brand to comprehensively craft new visual and written material to help us unify, clarify and amplify the unique mission of Swift School. See page #4. Volunteer Structure Revised Volunteer support is not at all new to Swift, in fact, the school owes a debt of gratitude for immeasurable time and talents shared through the years by parents, grandparents and friends of the school and for leading the school to its current success. Volunteer leaders assist in a wide variety of school activities and help build a strong community, improve student life and lend support to the faculty. In the coming year, there will be a parent volunteer coordinator in each division rather than one overall Parent Association leader. Events will have chairs or co-chairs and
parents can then, through online sign-up, join committees of their choice. This is intended to provide better communication and volunteer opportunities to our families, give more direct assistance to faculty and staff, and better meet the developmental needs of students. To meet the intricate needs of the school’s mission, we value the dedication of those who step in to serve and assure Swift School is a great place to work, learn and gain friends. Take time this summer or early in the fall to step into your role as a volunteer. Go to theswiftschool.org/volunteer Alumni and Former Students Re-Engaged With 18 years behind us, four 8th grade classes graduated and out in area high schools, and many other former Swift students successfully making their mark on the world, there is a huge advantage to improving relationships with former students and their families. These are the people who know the beginning, middle and outcome of the Swift Effect and we are vested in them, in their stories, and in their accomplishments. Founder’s Day was modified as an event that pays tribute to graduates, former students, current and former Board members, faculty and administrators. Former Swift students are welcomed to visit the school any time but especially plan to attend on Founder’s Day from now on!
Feasibility Study Committee Sandi Epstein, Faculty Martha Moore, Development Director Jeff Pace, Board of Trustees Loulie Reese, Lower Division Parent Laura Ries, Board of Trustees Paul Shur, Middle Division Parent Rich Wendlek, Head of School
Paula Collins, CURE Childhood Cancer Parent Representatives Loulie Reese, 2nd grade parent (1-3) Maria Lutz, 4th grade parent (4-5) Kim Huffman, 6th grade parent (6-8) Stellar Gala Committee Chair Margaret Celecia, 2nd and 6th grade parent Parent Association President Amber Carey, 2nd grade parent Scholastic Book Fair Chair Julie Coppedge, 3rd grade parent Fall Festival Chair Susan Duncan, 7th grade parent Swift Family Bowling Chair Mara Robb, 6th grade parent Teacher Appreciation Chair Jennifer Speros, 4th grade parent Grandparent/Special Friends Chair Kathy Zimmerman, 5th grade parent Uniform Resale Chair Deneen Campbell, 5th grade parent Campus Seasonal Décor Chair Ana Estrella, 3rd grade parent
Swift School
Feasibility Study Initiated What’s the big idea? After years of pursuing and finally purchasing additional land for the school, that’s a good question. Knowing that any bold and ambitious plans for the future and growth of Swift will require a significant interest and investment, we have engaged the consulting firm of Sinclair, Townes & Company to help define the vision and determine the feasibility of support. The study will be conducted this summer by the team from Sinclair, Townes; Company and supervised by the Feasibility Study Committee comprised of members of the Swift community. Next steps will be determined in the fall following the completion of the study.
2015-2016 Volunteer Leaders Advancement Committee Advancement Committee Chair Jeff Pace, Board of Trustees, 8th grade parent
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Advancement Committee Formed The Advancement Committee, a committee that reports to the Board of Trustees, explores issues concerning philanthropic funding for the school. Chaired by Jeff Pace, a member of the Board, the committee is made up of parents who also serve as representatives for the Swift Fund, the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program and fundraising events such as the Stellar Gala. Community members who have experience in non-profit fundraising also serve a significant role. For 2015-2016, the committee was served by Swift parents Loulie Reese, Maria Lutz, Kim Huffman, Amber Carey and by Paula Collins, development manager at CURE Childhood Cancer.
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Aurora . Winter 2016
Moonshot . 2016 Stellar Gala
Stellar Gala...
The heart of the evening began in the main ballroom with delicious dinner stations and music from the band, Legacy. Celebrity guest, Holly Firfer, an Emmy-nominated journalist, served as co-auctioneer for an energetic live auction with Swift’s own, Rhett Saylors…now a celebrity in his own right. A silent auction featuring valuable treasures, collectable wines and unique experiences completed the evening. Seen throughout the night were creative and faculty-made videos, or Public Service Announcements, for the school priorities of their choice. An emotional video that was produced by students from the broadcast team detailed, in the expressive words of current students, how
Proceeds from the 2016 Stellar Gala will result in an Outdoor Classroom/ Learning Garden for Lower Division students to establish and maintain; new athletic uniforms to outfit Spartan basketball and soccer teams; the opportunity for more teachers to attend the Tech Conference; new sod for the front field for an appealing and healthy lawn; and many more campus priorities. Many thanks for the work and dedication of the Stellar Gala committee: Margaret Celecia – Chair, Amber Carey, Karen Clark, Sheryl Covell, David Covell, Deborah Haertel, Kari Hines, Michele Hirsch, Susan Renno, Mara Robb, Jennifer Sunderland, and Mia Van Wagenen. Sponsors Title Sponsor The Carey Family Foundation Presenting Sponsor Sheryl and David Covell/Pavillion at Olde Towne Charlotte and Glen Hegwood Michele and David Hirsch Galaxy Sponsor Bank of North Georgia Swift Parent Association
Constellation Sponsor Tricia and Robert Brandes Laura Ries and Scott Brown EM2 Susanne and Bob Gray Linda and Jeff Pace Loulie and Frank Reese Kathryn and Scott Solomon Stromquist & Company Star Sponsor Roni and James Battoglia Dr. Mary Hynes Danielak DoubleTree by Hilton Keystone Press Inc. Barbara and Jack Lipasek Michael Mascheri/Chapman Coyle Chapman New South Construction Rolader and Rolader Sherry and Matt Scalf Deborah and Kevin Smith Celynda and Gary Tadlock Crim and Associates Connie and Richard Wendlek Patron Margaret Celecia Karen and Stephen Clark Jennifer and Paul Cohen Michael Dudgeon Ellyn and Paul Foltz Joanie Gerkin Leslie and David Hein Kari and Zach Hines Regan and Jeff Kudlata Dorcas and John Morris Connie and Andrew Pope Anne Rosenthal Jennifer and Rob Sunderland Mary Welch Cheryl and Walker Wellford Renee and Bobby Wilmath Kathy and James Zimmerman
Swift School
As guests entered The Pavillion at Olde Town, they were greeted at the door by a large Yamaha Waverunner, one of the night’s coveted items offered at the live auction (and eventually acquired by Laura Ries and Scott Brown). Sponsors and special guests were welcomed early to enjoy select cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and were treated to some personal time with Roswell mayor, Jere Wood.
Swift School is helping them understand dyslexia and reach their full potential.
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hanks to generous donations from sponsors, ticket sales and results from the auctions, not only was the Stellar Gala of 2016 a fun and memorable occasion, it raised significant support for the mission of Swift School.
On the Horizon . Swift Happenings
Summer Initiatives
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wift School is still a busy place even in the summer. While Swift students and faculty take a well-earned break for the summer, the campus welcomes professional educators in June, summer camp students in July and skilled workers all summer long carrying out improvements and maintenance.
Campus Improvements This summer will see new sod for the front field and an easier entrance to that space. New landscaping and plants were installed ahead of schedule at the front walkway with the help of Swift alum and (now) Eagle Scout Brandon Carr. In pursuit of energy efficiency and better lighting, the school will embark on the phased replacement of the original florescent lighting to more energy efficient and modern fixtures in the classrooms. Carpet in some areas will also change out to modern carpet tiles as the change to the more current Swift colors moves forward. In the technical area, the IT department will be servicing all computing devices in preparation for the new school
Students will use block programming to interact with robots designed in Carnegie Mellon’s Robotics Institute. This opportunity is made possible through a loan program by Birdbrain Technologies. Watch for news of another flock of Finches anticipated in the 2016-17 school year! Learning on a Global Level Above and Beyond classes took on a global perspective this spring with the introduction of the Global Inventors class. Ten Swift students partnered with a class in the country of Jordan. Each week, the students sent video messages to classmates over 6,000 miles away. Students in both countries learned about the Engineering Design Cycle – creating and improving upon ideas through multiple iterations. One highlight of the class was meeting our Jordanian friends via Skype. In our final class, our students assembled solar powered flashlights in a case they designed.
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Aurora . Summer 2016
“All in all, a busy and productive summer is ahead, all in an effort to continue to deliver a great Swift experience for students when the new school year blooms in August.” year. This will include loading new iPads for instructional uses with new apps and settings. On the exterior, the pavilion deck will be receiving some needed attention with an application of water repellent sealant. Other projects are in the works; some very subtle and others that will improve the viewing and listening experience in the assembly/dining hall. Do the Robot... This summer, Finch robots will be visiting Summer Explorations!
Imagine the fun students had designing these projects. What’s next? The answer is limited only by our imaginations!
On the Horizon . Associate Head of School for Student Affairs, Eric Osorio, and Dean of Instruction, Harriet Litzky
Checking in with the Cadre
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his has been an exciting first year for the Swift Cadre! Led by Dean of Instruction Harriet Litzky, the Cadre is designed to be a research- based team of faculty who serve as resources on dyslexia. In addition to becoming a key resource for professional development at Swift, the Cadre will ultimately have implications for educators far and wide. This year has been focused on a deep dive into research on the dyslexic learner, beginning with a thorough review of The Dyslexic Advantage by Brock and Fernette Eides. Using the acronym M.I.N.D., the book outlines a strengthsbased profil: Material Reasoning, Interconnected Reasoning, Narrative Reasoning, and Dynamic Reasoning.
In October, the team headed out to Grapevine, Texas for the 2015 International Dyslexia Conference. The annual conference provided an opportunity to find out the latest research and meet key professionals in the field of Dyslexia. The cadre connected with educators all over the world and discovered excellent resources to use at Swift. Presently, the Cadre has been working on a two-day training program for this year’s New Faculty Orientation. This training will include current research and practices for our students. The next step will be a training program for the full faculty, with the long-range goal and to eventually open it up to educators throughout our area in Georgia.
“Lots of wonderful opportunities lie ahead; we can’t wait to see what they do next!” In the Fall, Cadre members presented their review and findings to members of the Swift administration. They also designed a set of presentations for the faculty, which provided strategies and resources to use in Swift classrooms.
As we close our first year, the Cadre has already laid down a strong foundation for their continued work this year. Lots of wonderful things lie ahead; we can’t wait to see what they do next!
Natalie Felix Learning Support Specialist
Megan Hartmann Lower Division Lead Teacher
Mandy Menshon Lower Division Lead Teacher
Jim Reed Middle Division Teacher
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Sandi Epstein Director of Learning Support
Swift School
Swift School Cadre
300 Grimes Bridge Rd. Roswell, GA 30075 theswiftschool.org
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A holistic holistic education A educationfor for students with students with dyslexia dyslexia 300 Grimes Grimes Bridge 300 BridgeRd., Rd.,Roswell, Roswell,Georgia Georgia
Your Your child child can can rise rise and and shine shine at at The Swift School School the Swift Rolling means Rolling admission admission means we're we arealways alwaysopen opento to discuss child's brilliant discuss your your child's brilliant future. us today today at at future. Contact Contact us 678.205.4988 learn more more or or 678.205.4988 to to learn visit theswiftschool.org visit us us at at theswiftschool.org. Serving grades grades 1st Serving 1st through through8th 8th