VOICE
THE TRINITY
MAGAZINE
Winter 2020 Issue
THE TRINITY VOICE /WINTER 2020
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DEAR
TRINITY FAMILY, A 20th anniversary certainly seems like a fitting time for a celebration. Though when we find ourselves in the wake of the holiday season, amidst the cold, dark winter months, the world can often look a lot less lively. Many of us have already fallen off the wagon with our well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions, and it becomes increasingly difficult to stay mindful or full of wonder when the holiday twinkle fades. Yet there is something about Trinity Episcopal School that still glows bright. There is a quality about this place that is often difficult to describe, one that transcends seasons, years, and now, decades. As much as our milestones, facts, and people are a part of our history, it is the unique spirit of Trinity that carries us forward. It is this special spirit that has persevered and propelled us to where we are today: secure, growing and thriving. Our days and classrooms reflect this spirit, constantly full of joy, love and wonder. What’s more, this spirit is the light that guides us as we plan for the next 20 years, staying true to who we are while we build on all that our founders intended us to be. The spirit of Trinity is what connects us to our past, present and future. It is the piece of this community that will never fade. While we cannot fully define or articulate what is behind it, what we do know is that it is bigger than any one of us alone. What is threaded throughout this special issue of The Voice is just that - us. It is a celebration of this vibrant community and the countless stories, memories, contributions and dreams that make it so special. It is a collection of pieces that honor what is so difficult to put into words alone. • Pages 10-17 pay tribute to our enduring mission, one that continues to guide all that we do, the individuals who we hire and the families who we welcome. The articles look at the three unique threads - creating scholars, embracing diversity and nurturing spirituality - in the context of our community today and speak to their collective strength. •You will find an extension of our Voices of Trinity project (www.voicesoftrinity. squarespace.com) printed on pages 18-23, featuring a variety of individuals who have shared their stories about this place and its impact on their lives. •The Honor Code is arguably one of the very best things about our school, and its legacy is celebrated on pages 24-25 along with commentary from an alumna who was part of its origination. •An update on our growth, the new Center for Community and the Arts (CCA) and the next chapter for Trinity can be found on pages 26-27. Trinity is a beacon to so many in this city, most of all to the children who pass through our doors each day. They are our future, and ultimately the ones who will carry a piece of Trinity’s spirit with them as they grow, experience and change the world. Our hope is that they will spread the contagious warmth and light of this place wherever they find themselves. As we look ahead to our next decade, there could be no better wish than to dream of the goodness of Trinity scattered in every nook, pocket and corner of this world. With peace, gratitude and excitement for all that is yet to come,
Head of School
IN THIS
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ISSUE
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4-5 >> The Buzz at Trinity
6-9 CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 10-17 >> Three Strands...One Vision: • Creating Scholars in the Heart of Center City • Embracing Diversity in an Increasingly Complex World • Examining Our Spiritual Identity
18-23 VOICES OF TRINITY 24 >> The Trinity Honor Code: A Foundation for Our Community and Lives Beyond Trinity 26-27 26 >> Learning as We Grow 28 >> Alumni News & Notes 30 >> Parting Words
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EMBRACING DIVERSITY AT TRINITY Centers on four essential questions: Who am I? Who are you? Who are we together? What are we called to do? All diversity lessons at Trinity tie back to these questions through books, group discussions & personal reflections. Fourth graders have been working with the first two questions, building visual identity circles to see themselves and their peers in new lights. They recently read “I am Enough” by Grace Byers and reflected on why they are enough, just by being the unique individuals that they are. “OH THE THINGS YOU CAN THINK!”
2 Trinity Middle School students reminded
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us of this important lesson in the musical performance of “Seussical, Jr.” this fall in our new auditorium! It was a joy to see the whimsy of our favorite Seuss characters brought to life on stage with dancing, singing and even hoverboards! RAIN COULDN’T GET US DOWN for our annual Field Day festivities! Every corner of campus was abuzz as students played tug of war, challenged each other in paper football, jammed to tunes in the dance party room and cheered on their favorite team in the 8th grade vs. Faculty volleyball game (the faculty were victorious!)
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4 QCC CHAMPIONSHIP
The fall athletics season was marked by commitment, perseverance, teamwork and victories big and small. We are proud of our 89 fall athletes and congratulate the Boys’ Cross Country Team who clinched the Queen City Conference Championship. Go Wildcats! TORTILLAS, CYCLING AND MATH? One of our middle school math classes was inspired by a Trinity alumna AnneGray and her dad, John Oxrider, a founding member of Charlotte Burrito Bikers, a local non-profit dedicated to feeding the homeless. John helped our MS math students understand how ratios could apply to a breakfast burrito recipe. Students worked out a formula to bolster production in order to cook, roll and wrap 30 burritos (in under an hour!) to be delivered to our homeless neighbors across Uptown.
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MATH COLLABORATIVE IMPROVEMENT VISIT This past fall, Trinity hosted 8 visiting faculty members from across the math education network. Our visitors spent two full days visiting math classrooms, talking to students and assessing our program. Collectively, they presented a long list of commendations, most notably speaking to Trinity’s growth mindset and ability to instill a strong work ethic in our students. They also presented a list of recommendations which were shared at our annual State of the School event. Ms. Karen Blackert, Myers Park High School; Chair, Math Department Ms. Annie Castro, Providence Day School; Chair, Math Department Mr. Eric Finch, St. Andrews School (Delaware); Mathematics Teacher Ms. Cheryl Gann, NC School of Science and Mathematics; Instructor Ms. Tery Gunter, Duke School; Second Grade Teacher & Math Coach Ms. Chrissy McConaughy, Charlotte Latin School; Chair, MS Math Department Dr. Luke Reinke, UNC Charlotte; Professor, Elementary Education Ms. Heather Zetterberg, The Foote School; Lower School Math Specialist
The
TRINITY LESSONS & CAROLS CHAPEL We honored the end of Advent and beginning of the Christmas season together at our annual Lessons & Carols Chapel. Our middle school ensembles helped set the tone, as our student readers shared the story of Jesus’ birth.
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BLESSING OF THE NEW CENTER FOR COMMUNITY & THE ARTS (CCA) On Monday, January 6, we hosted our first-ever Greet the Week in the auditorium of our newly opened Center for Community and the Arts! Kahu David blessed the building along with the help of our entire community. Students put together a time capsule that commemorates each class and represents our community as we are today. This capsule will be opened in 20 years: January, 2040!
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BUZZ at
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PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION EVENTS The TES Parents’ Association continues to be a driver of good, connection and community across our campus and beyond. This fall, the PA hosted three major events: the Panthers Community Tailgate, the Fall Social/Oyster Roast and Cookies + Caroling for our First Ward neighbors. Trinity would not be where it is today without the commitment of the countless parents - past and present - who so generously give of their time, resources and love. Make sure to keep an eye on the regular Good News communication and email invites for more PA events this spring!
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As the new millennium began, so too did a new tradition for Charlotte. 20 years after Trinity’s founding, the tradition has not only endured, but rooted itself in the very heart of this city. Over 1,700 students have passed through our doors, 3,000 donors have made the growth of this school possible and one forward-thinking mission has sustained our community through it all. As we celebrate our history and look toward our future, we stand grateful for those who have made this extraordinary School possible: founders, students, families, teachers, leaders, church communities, the First Ward neighborhood and countless others. Here’s to 20 more years of creating scholars, nurturing spirituality & embracing diversity in the heart of Charlotte.
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CELEBRATING
OUR HISTORY
Inch by I n c h ... UST 23, 2000 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL: AUG ning Cottages” Trinity opened the doors of our “Lear in grades K-5. for the first time with 102 students
Rowby Row...
: 1999 HEAD OF SCHOOL TES HIRES FIRST nding ved as Trinity’s Fou ser ts Oa y oke Sm Father 2010. Head of School until
TES OPENS NE W BUILDING: AU GUST 2003 Trinity officially became a K-8 sch ool when we opened the doors of our new build ing in First Ward .
2009 OF LIFERS: RST CLASS ete all grades, K-8, FI S IT ES RADUAT ass to compl TRINITY G e the first cl udents wer ity Episcopal School. These 15 st in Tr at
ET PARK: 2010 TES OPENS ALEXANDER STRE lotte, Trinity In partnership with the City of Char ding soccer opened Alexander Street Park inclu and more! fields, basketball & tennis courts,
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T LLMEN ENRO HEST E TIME: 2014 IG H H H ith TT WIT sary w PENS ORY A TES O HOOL HIST 15th anniver . r -8 u K o s d e IN SC d gra brate We cele 35 students in 4
S : 2020 D THE ART building -- the UNITY AN M nd M co se CO r R ou ace. ed TER FO Trinity open & a rooftop garden terr S THE CEN n Charlotte, es TES OPEN fic ow of pt s, U m in s oo our 20 year um, art & music classr Celebrating tori e to an audi CCA -- hom
Lord, bless these seeds we sow...
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TES INSTA LLS NEW HEAD OF Following SCH th Tom Franz e retirement of Fath OOL: 2011 er Smok joined the Tr in ity commun ey, the second ity as Head of Sc hool.
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Three Strands, ONE
VISION
They serve to inspire young lives and ground students in compassion, tolerance and love for all people as well as the world around them. Each of our core values - creating scholars, nurturing spirituality and embracing diversity - are noble and strong in their own rights. When interwoven, they create an even stronger vision, one that guides us in all that we do here at Trinity. While these interwoven values will remain timeless and true for generations of Wildcats to come, the following three articles seek to examine each of them contextually in the life of the school today.
CREATING SCHOLARS TES is grounded in an exceptional educational program that inspires a love of learning and a quest for knowledge. The innovative and integrated curriculum challenges children to fulfill their unique potentials as students and scholars. NURTURING SPIRITUALITY TES nurtures spirituality as an integral dimension of children’s development, thereby preparing them to share their intellectual and creative talent for the fulfillment of God’s purpose. We observe the cherished rites of the Episcopal Church, including its tradition of reason, openness and acceptance. Our responsibility as children of God affirms our commitment to outreach and service to others. EMBRACING DIVERSITY TES is committed to creating and sustaining a school community that is welcoming, respectful and inclusive of differences and that reflects the diversity of the greater Charlotte community.
THE TRINITY VOICE /WINTER 2020
Since its founding, the mission, vision and core values of Trinity Episcopal School have held steadfast and true. Our mission and vision are grounded in three core values that speak to the very essence of healthy, whole-child development. These core values are not nouns or adjectives, they are action-oriented verbs.
Trinity Episcopal School is called to inspire young lives by creating outstanding scholars who are grounded in a firm spiritual foundation and an enduring commitment to the richness of diversity.
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OUR VISION & CORE VALUES
Scholars
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CREATING Tom Franz Head of School Wildcat Since 2011
What does it mean to be a scholar? Beyond the given definition of being a “learned person,” it means to be curious about the world and to learn for a lifetime. At Trinity Episcopal School, being a scholar is more than just being a good student. We inspire our young people to acquire a breadth of knowledge that can be used to think critically and to creatively solve problems in this complex and complicated world. We believe that scholars thrive when they own their own learning and know themselves as learners. This means that our students understand how to advocate for themselves, how to make adjustments and how to apply a variety of strategies that will help them master content, concepts and skills. They don’t settle for the common excuse, “I’m just not good at it.” To illustrate, if you were to walk into one of our Middle School English classrooms, you would find students in a living room setting, sitting on sofas, chairs and the floor in the corner of the room for a mini-lesson. After the English teacher’s short lesson, you would see students spread out across the room
SCHOLAR (NOUN)
schol·ar | \ ‘skä-lər
A learned person.
in the Heart of
CENTER CITY
and select books aligned with their interests and reading level. They would then do what good readers do - spend the majority of class time reading instead of being glued to desks listening to a “one size fits all” lesson. While reading and making notes about the mini-lesson’s topic - thirdperson perspective, for example - the teacher would begin conferencing with students individually to assess their understanding of the text and to challenge them to a higher level of critical thinking. Through this, you would see that Trinity teachers are intentionally serving as conduits, empowering students to work beyond just knowing and toward understanding, leaning into higher level skills such as analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating. Our Middle School Academic Dean and English faculty, Emily Dia, references the work of Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe, two prominent education researchers whose academic model, “Understanding by Design” points to the way we approach teaching at Trinity: “Knowing is never enough. Students must understand a concept and think critically about its application across subjects to truly learn. It is a difficult mission to be a teacher because to successfully do so, we need to put students in a position to take ownership of their learning in order to apply it beyond our classrooms and throughout life.”
If a scholar is one who goes beyond simply knowing information, then a standard set of textbook knowledge, rote facts and a slate of top grades will never be enough. A scholar always seeks more and leads with curiosity, inquisitiveness and an open mind. True scholars value the art of questioning because they know that to fully grasp a concept, they must consider the perspectives of others. They must know how to engage, how to ask questions, how to listen, and how to connect concepts.
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Today’s world often lacks connection, listeners, and inquisitive minds. It instead feels full of simple “likes,” loud opinions and fixed mindsets. It is much more complicated to have civil discourse focused on learning from one another than to share an opinion or speak from a narrow, self-focused perspective. It is this ability to see beyond oneself and to approach everything as a learner that we believe paves the way to success in school, careers, relationships, friendships, and parenthood. This all then begs the question of why there is such a narrow definition of academic success in our schools, communities and society? Shouldn’t we push the next generation to strive for more than just getting “A’s”? While these measures have their place in the world, to truly help a child grow, we must celebrate their strengths, reflect their areas of growth through meaningful assessments, and show them that “success” is about more than just a score on a test. To measure a children on how they are demonstrating respect for their own learning, how they are persevering amidst challenge, or how they are expressing academic humility, tells students that they can, and should, aspire to more. I am amazed by the quality of teaching and learning that is ingrained in our school’s culture and am proud of how our students have valued “success” for the past 20 years. At Trinity, we believe that becoming a true scholar is not only an important element of an outstanding education but a necessary component of raising civically engaged citizens who will make a profound difference in the world.
Trinity Episcopal School’s
SCHOLARLY HABITS
These eight habits are how we encourage and assess students on their pathways to becoming a scholar. Posters with these habits hang in every classroom and community space on campus. • Comes prepared with materials & assignments • Shows respect for their own learning & learning of others • Exhibits curiosity; asks questions & seeks answers • Works independently; sustains attention & focus • Demonstrates effort and perseverance with difficult tasks and situations • Communicates effectively; listens actively & speaks efficiently • Demonstrates critical & creative problem solving skills • Shows academic humility; understands that no matter how much we know there is always more to learn
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EMBRACING
Diversity in an Increasingly Complex World
“Embracing diversity is not always easy work.” This is one of the opening statements from Board of Trustees member and alumni parent, Dana McDonald-Mann, in Trinity’s mini-documentary that highlights the diversity thread of our mission. Building a community where EVERY member feels valued -- and more importantly, feels a sense of belonging -- takes commitment, diligence and effort. It requires that every individual -- student, parent, teacher, administrator -- honors their own story and personal beliefs, as well as those that other community members carry. It means we must lean into difficult conversations, examine our country’s history and present reality through a new lens, and constantly reflect on how we are living into this piece of our Mission. A diverse school cannot be fully realized unless the work is seen as absolutely essential to the health and wellbeing of the community. At Trinity, we are committed to this work, as it is embedded in our Episcopal identity, Mission and classrooms since the very founding of the School. It is beyond essential to us; it is quite simply, who we are. In our community today, we have students who commute more than an hour each way, students with physical & learning differences, families from all socio-economic walks of life, of numerous religious backgrounds and a rich blend of global heritages. We are privileged to call each of these unique individuals and families, Wildcats. Most importantly, we celebrate them all. While our differences may be many, we are deeply enriched because of them. ‘Embracing diversity’ is a living and growing facet of our community, played out in a multitude of ways every day. Khalid McRae, Alumni Parent to Jasmine ‘19 and Malik ‘15, says it best: “When you step back, you see that Trinity embraces diversity on all levels - it’s not a numerical game or some photo opp, it is authentic. From the Head of School to the teachers, staff and students, everyone is committed. It’s baked into the culture.”
The programs below provide opportunities for our students, parents, faculty & staff to learn alongside each other, communicate our differences and support one another as equals.
“WHO AM I?” “WHO ARE YOU?” ‘’WHO ARE WE TOGETHER?” “WHAT ARE WE CALLED TO DO?” Faculty and chaplains co-plan these lessons, often using books as catalysts for class discussions and individual reflection exercises. Recent discussions have focused on nurturing the true inner self, embracing others with physical differences and common identity stereotypes.
AFFINITY GROUPS:
Each faculty/staff member participates in two trainings critical to the embracing diversity strand of our mission: Race Matters for Juvenile Justice (RMJJ) and Communication Skills Training (CST). RMJJ is a 2-day training & collaborative leadership group that works to reduce disproportionality and disparate outcomes for children and families. CST, now The Space Between Us, is a 3-day training focused on building connections through the heart & science of positive communication. In addition, faculty/staff regularly participate in dialogue, immersive experiences focused on various aspects of diversity including working with The Root Collaborative, book clubs & discussions, and other professional development opportunities.
Student Groups:
Defined as people linked by a common purpose, ideology, or interest, we believe affinity groups at Trinity play a vital role in supporting unique identity characteristics, common interests, traditions and heritages shared by members of our community.
• Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) • Interfaith Group • LatinX • Young Children of Color (YCC; LS) • Young Men of Color (YMC) • Young Men for Social Justice (YMSJ) • Young Women of Color (YWC) • Young Women for Social Justice (YWSJ)
They help bolster an inclusive environment where all are valued and empowered to belong. We currently support eight student and four parent affinity groups, and a Diversity & Belonging Parent Committee.
Parent Groups: • Café con Padres • KINDRED • Parents of Children with Invisible Differences • Parents of Children with Physical Differences • Diversity & Belonging Committee
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All grade levels and each Middle School Koinonia regularly engage in discussions about difference, centered on one of our four essential questions:
FACULTY/STAFF TRAINING:
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MONTHLY EMBRACING DIVERSITY LESSONS
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EXAMINING OUR
Spiritual Identity
Who am I? Who are you? Who are we together? What are we called to do?
The Rev. Amanda K. Robertson Associate Rector at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter TES Board Member & Faith Studies Faculty
These questions frame Trinity’s Diversity and Belonging work and are crucial questions for every individual and every institution to consider. With so many competing demands for our time and attention, it is often hard to create the space needed to enter into such reflection. We find ourselves relying nostalgically on the past (who we have been), reacting to expectations (who others think we should be), or projecting too far into the future (who we could become). More intentional exploration, on the other hand, allows us to experience the joy and peace that comes with truly knowing and believing in ourselves as we are. In the fall of 2018, Board Chair Casey Rogers invited me to lead the Spiritual Life Committee—a standing committee of the Board of Trustees—in reflecting upon the spiritual identity of the school. Our task was to examine the spiritual life and stated Episcopal Identity of Trinity, and to ensure the school’s spiritual core was being accurately reflected in communications and practices across the community. With Tom’s help, we identified a group of parents, faculty / staff and trustees willing to serve on the committee and engage in this work. Below is a look into our committee’s process and the outcome of our efforts.
THE HISTORY OF EPISCOPAL SCHOOLS The history of Episcopal schools in the United States can be traced back hundreds of years. The oldest, Trinity School in New York City, was founded in 1709. In the 18th century, most children were educated at home, with the exception of working-class children whose parents were neither available nor had received formal education themselves. Trinity School was created for those children. Education was understood to honor God’s gifts of the mind and human reason as well as the belief that all people are created in the image of God. Today there are over 1,000 Episcopal schools across the country, concentrated in California, Texas and the eastern seaboard. These schools are as unique as the regions of the country they occupy and the diversity of the students they serve. Still, there are certain hallmarks among them: intentional pluralism, inclusive Christian worship, religious study, dialogue with other faith traditions and service to the broader community. The founders of our school ascribed to these tenets when they opened Trinity’s doors as the first Episcopal school in Charlotte in the fall of 2000. They shared a vision of bringing together children from different backgrounds and neighborhoods into the heart of the city: to create scholars, embrace diversity and nurture spirituality. It is an enduring mission that continues to set Trinity apart from other independent schools in the area, as it connects back to the deep and abiding roots of education within the Episcopal tradition.
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Having located ourselves within the history of Episcopal schools, the Spiritual Life Committee turned its attention to the stated Episcopal Identity of our school community. Trinity’s first Episcopal Identity statement was written in 2013. Five years later, our committee recognized the importance of this original statement and at the same time acknowledged that its language had few echoes in the daily life of the school. The statement lived on the website but did not fully capture the spirit that lives, breathes and moves within the hallways, chapel services, classes and service learning partnerships at Trinity. At our committee’s first meeting, Casey Rogers (parent and board chair) shared a story from his recent attendance at a conference of the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES). In a workshop session, Casey and other participants were asked to stand in different corners of the room based on the main strength of their school. The corners were designated as Academics, Athletics, College Prep and Episcopal Identity. As others took refuge in college preparation, athletics and academics, Casey was surprised to find himself standing alone in the Episcopal Identity corner. He knew he belonged there, but he also struggled to put that very identity into words. Casey’s experience resonated among our committee members. We believed the school’s Episcopal roots were essential to the Trinity experience but there was a clear need for language that would equip everyone to speak to what that identity means. We began revising the 2013 Episcopal Identity statement. Over the course of a year, the Spiritual Life Committee met close to a dozen times, revised eight drafts and developed a statement that received full Board approval in December 2019 and was presented at the State of the School address in January 2020. The newly-revised statement is now on Trinity’s website and is well-summarized in its headings below: No concise statement can encapsulate all of what it means to be an Episcopal school, but I do believe our process and final product were inspired. The practice of intentional reflection and discernment was as meaningful as the language it led us to choose. We were guided, challenged and encouraged by one another and by the very God who first called Trinity into being and continues to sustain the school today.
A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE. Identity is dynamic. You would not answer the question “Who am I?” the same way at age 10, 20 and 40, and neither will the school. “What are we called to do?” The final question of Trinity’s Diversity and Belonging curriculum is also dynamic. What Trinity is called to do - whom it serves, how it nurtures, what it teaches - will evolve as the world, its technology and culture evolves. Our desire as the Board is that the renewed Episcopal Identity statement will guide and inspire students, faculty, staff and Trinity families today and as they grow into the future. We trust our process of reflection and the language we crafted will provide a foundation for Trinity as it continues to live into its mission, empowering our children “to think deeply, welcome broadly, and live nobly.”
SUPPORTING EVERY CHILD’S SPIRITUAL JOURNEY FOSTERING A SENSE OF BELONGING IN AN INCLUSIVE SCHOOL COMMUNITY PROMOTING EQUITY, JUSTICE AND LOVE OF NEIGHBOR
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TRINITY’S EPISCOPAL IDENTITY STATEMENT
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the
of EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
For 20 years, Trinity Episcopal School has transformed lives.Click Here t We explored the stories behind why. This project explores the unique perspectives of gratitude, transformation and wisdom from individuals across our community. Each story is intrinsically linked to this special school and its spirit that is greater than any one of us. To read more, please visit us our website www.voicesoftrinity.squarespace.com
To submit your own story, please contact Marketing & Communications Manager Katie Brown at kbrown@tescharlotte.org.
TERE EY Founder • Founding Parent Former Board of Trustees Chair
When I see what Trinity has become today - I step back and realize how this is more than I could have ever imagined. Trinity in one (two!) words, is a
shared vision.
PRESTON HOLMES TES ‘05 • Christ School ‘09 • Auburn ‘13 Penn State Law ‘17
The Trinity spirit is one of compassion, strength, discipline, hard work and community. I was kind of born at Trinity - it is definitely where I found myself. This school was a springboard for developing the confidence, wherewithal and knowledge of myself to be able to truly flourish and grow in life. At Trinity, I learned how to find my core people and stay true to my values. This has all helped me progress through life in larger environments like college, law school and now, New York City. In one word, Trinity is
trailblazing.
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It is magnetic. People just wanted to be a part of what we were doing, helping us bring a new type of educational tradition to Charlotte.
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Being a part of Trinity’s founding was an incredibly spiritual experience for me. It was a fairly small group of people, each of us bringing forth our very best and making up different pieces of a puzzle.
JUAN CARLOS RODRIGUEZ
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TES Facilities Staff Member, 13 years
Trinity has changed my life in so many ways. Most of all though, my life has been changed because of the people. All of the people - the students, the parents, the staff, the teachers. Everyone here is incredibly different, yet we are all a family. What’s better, is that everyone has always treated me like I am part of their family. Never has anyone treated me as “other,” as “a worker,” as an isolated person. I love the whole world that is Trinity. In one word, Trinity is just
spectacular.
claire a. TES Student • 7th Grade
Trinity embraces diversity through the safe spaces they create with affinity groups and koinonia “families.” In these groups, we are safe to explore who we are and who others are in an environment without judgement. It is a place where you can ask questions and talk about the harder things, without worrying about speaking your mind. I like that we are comfortable enough to express our perspectives and learn more from each other. Sometimes, there’s just not a perfect answer to every issue, but the important work is just in the wondering and considering of it all. Trinity in one word, is
embracing.
shante watkins TES Parent 21
Trinity is a gift from God to our family. It is our family.
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Since choosing Trinity, we have never looked back. It has become a part of Jade and our family more than I could have even imagined. I can’t think of a better school. Nothing is perfect, but for Jade and for our family, this is the perfect place. Nothing can be more perfect than what is picked by God. We know whatever challenge she has while she’s here, it’s all good. Trinity in one word, is a
gift.
Porter durham TES Parent • Vice Chair, Board of Trustees Chair, Strategic Planning Committee
Trinity was the right place for my children at exactly the right time. They had just lost their mother and moved to a whole new place. The sort of hug that we got from Trinity was just extraordinary. I will never be able to do enough to thank Trinity for what it did to help my family heal. Trinity in one word, is
love.
Tyler Bell TES ‘15 • UNC School of the Arts ‘19 • Fordham
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University ‘23 • Alvin Ailey Dance Company Member
Trinity’s development and focus on individuality has had a huge impact on shaping my path. Growing up in a school that accepted various solutions to problems, fostered different learning styles, and taught us to dream big dreams has been fundamental in helping me confidently pursue my own set of unique passions. I hope that in 20 years, Trinity maintains its integrity as an Episcopal school, whose core values continue to cultivate spirituality, embrace diversity, and build community, not borders. In one word, Trinity is just
essential.
Mary Anne Dickson Chair, Friends of Trinity Board • Former Trustee
Trinity is an absolute oasis in the center of Uptown. I first got involved with Trinity through my late husband’s interest in seeing a faith-based school developed in the center of Charlotte. He was profoundly pleased to see his dream become a reality and I have had the privilege of watching it grow to where it is today. Through the years, this school has changed my life by making me aware of how diversity and disciplined learning can help young people reach the educational apex of their lives. The young minds at Trinity are being stretched, strengthened, challenged and expanded. Trinity in one word, is
impactful.
linda minor Founding & Retired TES Faculty Member 23 THE TRINITY VOICE /WINTER 2020
Trinity opened my eyes to so many things. It has made me notice the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way - both the wonder of it all and the issues that divide. I was always trusted at Trinity to make the most out of every moment with my students, the ultimate freedom as a teacher. To me, Trinity is a place that always finds a way to bring people together, no matter their differences. Trinity in one word, is a
awake
...to the world around it, the individuals within it and the issues that matter most.
david martin TES Athletic Director • K-8 Healthful Living Teacher
My dad passed away after my first year teaching at Trinity, and Father Smokey told me to “take care of my own garden of Eden.” One important lesson I learned from that was to tend to the relationships that matter most. I look for opportunities to hang out with students in the hallways, on trips, in camps, in the gym, in the lunchroom. Coaching basketball means more to me than I can explain. There is nothing in the world like becoming a team and I get to experience that every winter. The greatest gift Trinity has given me is the opportunity to build so many relationships with so many different people. It is truly an honor to be a part of it. Trinity in one word, is a
neighborhood.
THE TRINITY VOICE /WINTER 2020
THE
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Trinity Episcopal School
HONOR CODE
A foundation for our community and lives beyond Trinity When asked what makes Trinity Episcopal School special, one fourth grader remarked without hesitation, “The honor code. It teaches us to be kind to each other and makes sure everybody takes care of everybody else.” The beauty of this sentiment is that this standard of living life together at Trinity is inherently good. As our 440 students and faculty/staff walk through the arch each morning, they embrace and abide by a code created just for them by the students who came before. The Trinity Episcopal School Honor Code was born in a milestone year for TES - 2003 - the first year in which Trinity welcomed a full complement of classes, grades K-8. Our developing community tasked then-Dean of Student Life Joanne Stratton-Tate, and an Honor Code committee comprised of seven Middle School students (listed to the right) with writing, editing and presenting an Honor Code to which all students, faculty and staff could adhere to. Their iteration of the Honor Code was approved and adopted in the spring of 2003, and to this day has been the only code of conduct we’ve ever known and lived by at Trinity. While many schools have honor codes, honor sayings and honor councils, what is special about Trinity’s is that it was born of students and flows directly from our School’s mission and vision. Our mission, vision and Honor Code seek to emphasize the uniqueness of every community member while simultaneously encouraging a lasting sense of personal responsibility and respect in each person. This means that the Honor Code at Trinity is not about a list of do’s and don’ts, punishment, or blind obedience. In Joanne Stratton-Tate’s article from the June 2003 edition of the TES Newsletter, she reflects on the deepest value of this code - its respect for each individual’s ability to think and choose: “The Honor Code is one that we can love because its value is much greater than a punitive set of rules
printed in a manual. It aims to teach members how to live with one another in community rather than simply dictate punishments for “crimes.” It respects our ability to think and choose rather than fostering blind obedience. It resists quick-fix solutions rooted in retaliation and focuses instead on long-term development of self-control and responsibility. It provokes guilt when appropriate but never shame. It teaches problem-solving and decision-making.”
It calls us to a high standard but it gives us the opportunity to experience forgiveness, redemption, and even grace. - Joanne Stratton Tate The thought and sincerity originally put into this Honor Code has created a lasting legacy for the Trinity Episcopal School community. Not only has it remained unchanged over the past 17 years, but it very much lives on outside our walls, too. One of the original authors, Pemberton Heath ‘04, reflects: “It was special to be at a school that actually listened to and valued its students’ voices. I remember how we all believed that to be lasting, the honor code needed to be comprehensive, rather than a list of what not to do. We wanted to create a code to truly live by, that advocated for respect of all humans, integrity and kindness. While academic integrity was certainly a key component, we wanted people to take this with them for life. I think about my years at Trinity as a time that shaped me into the
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kind of person I try to be today: respectful, kind and authentic. While I don’t often think about the exact words of the honor code explicitly, the values we upheld in writing and living that honor code continue to be the core values I live by to this day.” As we live into our mission of creating scholars, nurturing spirituality and embracing diversity in an increasingly complex world, we stand grateful for the team of students who penned this beautiful code of conduct that continues to guide us, both inside our walls and out. Pictured: Middle School students participate in the tradition of signing the Honor Code book each fall.
TES HONOR CODE
TES HONOR CODE COMMITTEE
A lasting standard for accountability longterm development, grace and redemption.
The Honor Code was written in 2003 by following members of Trinity’s pioneer class:
As a member of the Trinity Episcopal School community, I pledge to:
Gracie Beard Laura Good Pemberton Heath Martin Hoppe David Jackson Cliff Landess Taylor Major
• Be responsible for my actions • Always do my best as an individual and as part of a team • Respect the uniqueness and gifts of others • Practice kindness and consideration • Celebrate the joyful, beautiful & enduring • Not lie, cheat or steal I will follow this honor code, and I will help others do the same as ambassadors of God’s grace and everlasting love.
Joanne Stratton-Tate Dean of Student Life
Father Smokey Oats Founding Head of School
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LEARNING as we
GROW
Fresh off of a relaxing winter break, there was palpable excitement in the air as our community kicked off a whole new decade, greeting the week in our brand new Center for Community and the Arts for the first time. Since then, the CCA hallways have been buzzing with artists, musicians, actors, thinkers and teachers. The auditorium has seen a bright and colorful Middle School production of Seussical, Jr., an inspiring Freedom Fete presentation by conservationist attorney Jay Leutze, outstanding shows by our 2nd (Jungle Book) and 3rd graders (Magic Treehouse), as well as weekly grade level chapels, the annual State of the School address and a festive winter break celebration for faculty and staff. Needless to say, we’ve kept this place busy. While the first few months of the year often ring in a season of productivity and sometimes chaos, we won’t lose sight of the path that brought us here, most especially, those who worked tirelessly to make this dream come true 20 years ago. As we look out of the windows in our brand new art rooms and see the growing Charlotte skyline towering over our First Ward home, we send thanks to the dreamers and doers that came before, planting our hope in the next ones growing right before our very eyes.
By the Numbers
CONSTRUCTION HOURS
3000
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60,000
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Building the CCA took...
BRICKS
150+ DONORS
...and it will benefit
444
STUDENTS
75
FACULTY
7+
STUDENT PERFORMANCES
1
WILDCAT COMMUNITY
NEWS & THE TRINITY VOICE /WINTER 2020
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NOTES 2019
Josie Pitt (‘19), freshman at St. Andrews (DE), was named CoCaptain of the JV Basketball team and ranked the #1 runner on her Girls Varsity Cross Country team this year. Looking ahead, she plans to attend the Youth Environmental Summit in Delaware 2020 and tour Croatia with the Andrean’s Ensemble Choir during Spring Break. Mary Ellis Stevens (‘19), freshman at Myers Park HS, welcomed youth climate activist and TIME Person of the Year Greta Thunberg to her 31st weekly climate strike in November, drawing over 1,200 to uptown Charlotte. In recognition of her continued efforts for climate action, she received the 2019 Alan Burns Legacy Award from Clean Air Carolina. In January, she, fellow alumni Ollie Ritchey (‘16), and Krissy Oliver-Mays were invited to speak at Charlotte’s 4th annual Women’s March. She is especially thankful for the TES Environmental Justice Club for joining her each Friday for the climate strike! Mikala Waldermo (‘19) participated in Model United Nations at her school this year and has also become a serious rock climber, training and climbing most days of the week.
2018
Taylor Stolen (‘18), sophomore at Charlotte Christian, served as the starting Varsity Goalie for the boys soccer team and is an AP student.
2017
Emily Horn (‘17), junior at Charleston Collegiate School, has been interning at the Kiawah Conservancy and learning about conservation through wildlife photography. She has also been incorporating what she learned at Trinity by starting an advocacy club at her high school. Emily’s love for running is still strong and after much recruiting, she has helped her track team grow from 10 to 30 runners. For the first time in many years, her team competed at the state meet, where Emily placed second in her division. Griffin Pitt (‘17) was elected co-Captain of the St. Andrew’s Varsity Women’s Basketball team this year as a junior. She is also the head of the Ethics Debate Club, and attended the prestigious international NAIMUN Model UN conference at Georgetown University.
Sadie Weiss (‘17), junior at Myers Park High School, recently co-founded the Civitas Club where students meet biweekly to debate and discuss current events and political issues. She was also selected as an Echo Foundation Student Ambassador and will travel this summer with 12 other students from Charlotte as part of the Footsteps Global initiative. The group will meet with representatives from the European Union in Brussels and the International Criminal Court in The Hague to better understand foreign policies and international relations. Through Echo, Sadie also serves as a student engagement leader whose goal this year is to teach high school students the work of Dr. Denis Mukwege, the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, and his humanitarian efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
2016
Bella Kolander (‘16), senior at Myers Park HS, was recruited and recently committed to row at University of San Diego. Olivia Ritchey (‘16) was moved to start the Charlotte chapter of Extinction Rebellion Youth after an inspiring summer spent at The North Carolina Governor’s School. She has spoken locally on panels about climate change, shared a stage with Great Thunburg, was a featured speaker at the 2020 Charlotte Women United March and has stood side by side with friend and fellow TES alum Mary Ellis Stevens (‘19) during the weekly Friday’s for Future strikes. She will be attending The College of William and Mary this coming August.
2015
Peter Lash (‘15) was nominated the first Charlotte Observer basketball player of the week for his accomplishments at Charlotte Christian. Peter, a 6-6 senior forward, had 24 points and six rebounds to lead his team to an 88-62 season-opening win over Gaston Christian on Nov. 15. Peter was again nominated as the player of the week in January for his stellar play during winter break! Emma Grace Martin (‘15), freshman at Wake Forest, was named to the Dean’s List in her first semester and will have an essay published through WFU Writers’ Camp program. Emma is also a member of the Episcopal Student Fellowship. Wesley Stolen (‘15), freshman at NC State, is majoring in mechanical engineering where he is conducting undergraduate research on the impact of 9mm bullets on the gel used in production of bulletproof vests.
2014
Ele McCarter (‘13) is serving as an intern in Washington, D.C. for Congresswoman Alma Adams. Adams recently tweeted the following about Ele: “Yesterday, one of my talented interns, Ele, accompanied me on the Hill. My interns contribute so much: energy, value, infinite knowledge. I truly have some of the best young people working in my DC and District offices.”
2012
Mary Alex Edmiston (‘12) was crowned “Ms. TCU” at halftime of the Texas Christian University homecoming game in October. She was nominated for this honor by the TCU Rangers, a coed spirit team of dedicated TCU students that Mary Alex leads and serves as President. Henry McDonald (‘12) graduates from UNC in May with a double major in Business and Religious Studies. Upon graduation, he will relocate to NYC to work for Aquiline Capital Partners, a private equity firm that focuses on insurance and financial services.
2011
Hannah Taylor (‘11) took the summer off to explore ceramics and painting after graduating from The University of Alabama in May. In October, she accepted a Jr. Art Director position at FCB Health in New York City and loves living in the big city!
2010
Gaby Stewart (‘10) and Richard Carden wed on October 26, 2019 at the Levine Museum of the New South. Dear friend and fellow Trinity alumna Kyrie Pennington (‘10) served as Gaby’s maid of honor!
2009
Leighton Durham (‘09) is currently a fully-funded first year graduate student in the Clinical Science Doctoral Program at Vanderbilt University pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Her area of interest is affective neuroscience. Specifically, she studies the heterogeneity of anxiety and depression
Matthias Farley (‘07) joined the New York Jets as a free agent at the end of August 2019. In his short time with the team, he’s made a huge impact on and off the field, and was recently awarded the Marty Lyons Community Service Award.
2006
Shanelle Camp-Redic (‘06) has accepted a new position as an Administrative & Marketing Coordinator for the VP Financial Advisor at Sharonview Federal Credit Union.
2005
Louise Dufresne Serio (‘05) won an Emmy® Award for Outstanding News Special for her work as a contributing producer on the CBS documentary, “39 Days,” which chronicled the Parkland shootings.
2004
Sam Potts (‘04) and wife Ashley welcomed a baby boy named James Chilton Potts on December 20th, 2019. Sam, Ashley (and grandmother Woods Potts, TES founding Director of Admission) are all overjoyed at Chilton’s arrival!
Elisabeth Durham (‘04), is currently in her last semester of the MFA program at the University of Pennsylvania. Alumni News Submissions: We would love to share your good news with the Trinity community. Please send any information updates to Annual Giving & Alumni Relations Manager Katie Keels at kkeels@tescharlotte.org.
THANK YOU
to Ellie Good ‘07, Tracy Laughlin ‘14 and Louise Dufresne Serio ‘05 for their help with our CCA Grand Opening, Together for Trinity and Winter Roundtable events! Ellie provided music for two community events in our new building, while Louise and Tracy served as part of our Winter Roundtable discussion on stress, success and balance.
THE TRINITY VOICE /WINTER 2020
2013
2007
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Matthew Griffin (‘14), sophomore at Duke University, was recently elected editor-in-chief of The Chronicle, the school’s student-run daily newspaper. Matthew, a political science major with a minor in French and a certificate in policy journalism and media studies, is currently a university news editor and will begin his one-year term as editor-in-chief April 22.
symptoms in youth and young adults from a neurobiological perspective in hopes of informing the development of more effective prevention and treatment approaches.
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Parting
WORDS
While each issue of The Voice is full of wonderful updates, photography, perspectives and more, we leave you with a few final reflections from those that this community centers itself on: our students.
Finley Holzman, ‘20 Trinity Episcopal School has played a critical role in shaping who I am today. With Trinity’s guidance, I have found myself in a sea of amazing scholars with whom I have created an immense sense of community. I am grateful for Trinity’s support of our neighbors and our ministries across the city. I have been given incredible opportunities to help build the Charlotte community, which has not only assisted people in need but also taught me a sense of selflessness and kindness that will influence me for the rest of my life. Trinity has also given me lifelong friendships, opportunities to develop effective problem-solving skills and a devoted staff that has pushed me to be the best possible version of myself. I could not be more grateful for this nourishing community and for everyone who has helped me develop a mentality to achieve great things. I have been forever changed by Trinity Episcopal School.
Samira Messele ‘20
I arrived at Trinity in 2nd grade and was welcomed with open arms. I have been grateful for this tremendous experience and have learned many things throughout my time here. Trinity has changed my life. Every Monday we recite the Honor Code and this ritual helps me hold myself accountable for the things I do. Trinity teachers understand that we will make mistakes, yet they believe in us and help my peers and I exceed our potential everyday. When I envision Trinity in the next 5, 10 or 20 years I see many things. I am most excited for Trinity to grow as a school and am confident that over the course of the years, Trinity and its impact will grow exponentially. Trinity is a place that is eager to learn about different cultures and traditions. Trinity’s community has always been open to new people and that warms my heart. The families and faculty here have impacted me more than they could ever know. I have made countless friends that make me smile everyday. I am grateful that Trinity has taught me to embrace others as warmly as they embraced me. I am indebted to Trinity and it will always hold a special place in my heart.
Henry Geis ‘20 I am very grateful for Trinity’s service learning program and the chance to serve our Charlotte community. My seminar group is currently visiting Hope Haven, which is a rehabilitation center for drug and alcohol addictions. This exposure, chance to learn people’s stories and to reflect on the struggles they will face in the future is eye-opening. I will forever remember this experience.
Our Mission
The Trinity Voice
19-20 Board of Trustees
Trinity Episcopal School is committed to the breadth of the Episcopal tradition in both its unity and diversity.
is a publication produced by the Advancement Office of Trinity Episcopal School in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Casey Rogers, Chair Court Young, Past Chair Barbara Cantisano, Secretary Angus McBryde, Treasurer
Visual Communications Manager Jessica Masanotti jbmasanotti@tescharlotte.org
Dr. Katherine Addison Anne S. Bowman Marcus Clarke Amy Colaco Porter Durham John F. FitzHugh Terrie Hagler Gray Jed Guenther Albert P. Lindemann III Dana McDonald-Mann T. Edmund Rast The Rev. Amanda Robertson Molly Shaw Holly Welch Stubbing Frank Toliver
Advancement Assistant & Special Events Coordinator Tim Gibson tgibson@tescharlotte.org
EX OFFICIO Thomas J. Franz, Head of School Rob Hancock, PA President
Director of Advancement Lauren Harnett lharnett@tescharlotte.org Marketing Communications Manager Katie Brown kbrown@tescharlotte.org
A student of Trinity Episcopal School is trained in the example of Christ and toward a stewardship of healthy body, lively soul and discerning mind.
Annual Giving & Alumni Relations Manager Katie Keels kkeels@tescharlotte.org
THE TRINITY VOICE /WINTER 2020
As faculty and families together influence young lives, students themselves will be affirmed as ambassadors of grace, citizens who live and teach an ethic of service and respect for others.
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A student of Trinity Episcopal School is challenged to academic excellence while honored as an individual with unique potential.
Volume 5, Issue 1
Trinity Episcopal School admits students of any race, color, religion, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national and ethnic origin in administration of its education and admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school - administered programs.
You make it
POSSIBLE
Every year, the Trinity mission and culture are sustained through generous, selfless giving by our community. Thank you for supporting our students and teachers in countless ways.
TRINITY FUND For more information on these funds and how to get involved visit:
www.TEScharlotte.org/giving
750 E. 9th Street Charlotte, NC 28202-3102 T | 704. 358. 8101 www.TEScharlotte.org
Pictured: First Graders pose with Head of School Tom Franz before their annual Fairy Tale Plays.