A look back at Meadowbrook’s origins and growth over the decades
16 Meadowbrook Moments Through the Years
Archival snapshots dating back a century
20 Voices of Meadowbrook
Oral history transcripts provide unique insight to the past
24 100 Years in the Making
Hundreds gathered on campus to toast a century of Meadowbrook
30 A Night to Remember
Young alumni celebrated with a food truck and live music
34 A Community United in Giving Back
An inspirational day of service brought everyone together
38 A Message to the Future
Time capsule will be unearthed in 2074
40 The Alma Gray Legacy Society
A way to support Meadowbrook longterm
42 A New Chapter
The start of the second century ON THE COVER
In this undated archival photo, students play baseball next to the original school building. The cracks visible in the picture come from the textured cardboard it was mounted on, which shows through the photo.
This is the oldest full-school photo we have, from 1925. Water damage has discolored the original image, which remains in its original glass frame.
Dreaming Big for our Second Century
One hundred years ago, the original founders of the Meadowbrook School gathered with a bold dream—to start a new school. Their courage has touched the lives of thousands: children, families, and faculty. Reflecting on their vision, I often wonder about their challenges and decisions. As I think of Meadowbrook students in the next century, a question drives me: if we had all the courage in the world, what would we do?
Today, the world can seem topsy-turvy, with expectations for students, adults, institutions, and nations continually lowering. This is the antithesis of what we want for our children. So, if we had all the courage in the world, what would we do for them?
From the moment I first stepped foot on this campus, I felt the collective belief in an amazing school from this community. A school with the highest academic, ethical, and social standards. I love high expectations. The higher the ceiling, the better, because it means there is room for growth. And I don’t know if there’s a force more powerful than growth.
My vision is for Meadowbrook to be the preeminent K-8 school where each child can flourish in their life while here and for the rest of their lives. We are known for our academic excellence, and while that remains our north star, it isn’t enough for the world our children will inherit. Our founders dreamed on our behalf, creating a school where children can thrive. Now it is our time to dream bigger than just starting a school or being the leading academic institution. We must dream that our children’s lives will flourish in every way, setting a model for the rest of their lives.
In a pessimistic world, wide-eyed optimism for children is courageous, and that’s who we are right now. We will summon our collective faith in young people to do what’s right for them, for us, and for the world they will improve upon. The big question is not if we have all the courage in the world, what
BY ARVIND GROVER
would we do? The question is better asked: with all the courage in the world, what are we going to do?
We will take the torch together and lead our beloved school to become a place where every child can flourish. We will center on people—the most ambitious and masterful teachers—fostering powerful human relationships in a world of AI. Our beautiful, pluralistic, and multicultural community will be a distinct advantage, preparing our children for the world beyond our doors. Finally, we will build out our school for the future, ensuring financial flexibility to meet the modern moment.
Meadowbrook should not be a once-ina-lifetime experience; it must be an advantage that lasts a lifetime.
We are the founders of the second century of Meadowbrook, and thank goodness we have the courage to wear that mantle.
Happy 100th birthday, Meadowbrook! u
(Exact
The Meadowbrook football team poses for the camera in this photo from the school’s first decade.
date unknown.)
Making History
A look back at Meadowbrook’s humble beginnings and how the school has grown and changed while keeping its students at the center.
— by pam scafati
making history
Over the last year, we have celebrated Meadowbrook’s 100th anniversary. We’ve had special assemblies and birthday cake, a Day of Service, an event for young alumni, and a spectacular, confetti-covered party for the ages with Meadowbrook community members past and present. With this special issue of the magazine, we are documenting how we marked the occasion, and also looking back on how we got here, to 2024, poised for another hundred years of educating students and supporting families.
Origins
Before moving to its current location, Meadowbrook began as the Pigeon Hill School in Weston. (at right)
Meadowbrook originated in 1890 and was known as “Mrs. Bridges’ Class,” in Waltham. In 1901, the school moved to Weston and became known as the Pigeon Hill School, named for its location on Pigeon Hill Road in Weston. Then, a group of families, feeling that the school had outgrown its space, came together to create a new school.
Robert Winsor was an investment banker, businessman, and highly influential landowner in Weston. As part of his work to develop some of his 400 acres into a neighborhood for his family and friends, he sold part of his expansive property to the Weston Golf Club in 1916. A few years later, when the Pigeon Hill School had outgrown its location, Winsor sought to include the new school into this neighborhood, on a parcel off of Summer Street. The property fit the bill of our founders, who described it as “an excellent site” that would offer “extensive playing fields” and access to the “fresh air and low temperature essential to health.”
Mary Trumbull, Winsor’s daughter, served as president of the executive committee of the new school—one that they named “Meadowbrook,” inspired by the beautiful natural setting it was to be built on. Architects Allen and Collens were hired to design a simple schoolhouse. When construction began on the Meadowbrook School, the road extending to Wellesley Street was renamed Meadowbrook Road. The Winsors and the Trumbulls would stay active in the school community for decades.
The Meadowbrook School of Weston was incorporated on May 22, 1923 and opened its doors on Farm Road for the first time on October 1, 1924. Miss Alma Gray was named the Headmistress, having previously served as Headmistress at a boys’ school in Minnesota. Five teachers were employed, including Miss Gray. Tuition ranged from $100 for Kindergarten to $275 for grades 5-8. Afternoon cocoa was available for an additional .10 per day. (There are several references to this afternoon cocoa as
Land
School
The school has a total of 12 teachers.
is purchased to relocate the Pigeon Hill School to Farm Road.
opens on its present site, and is named The Meadowbrook School for the area in which it was located; Alma Gray named headmistress.
Beatrice Cervi named second headmistress; Miss Cervi is also the first grade teacher.
Alma Gray, Headmistress 1923-1933
well as chocolate milk—and it appears that this was a much-loved treat for the first Meadowbrook students. Fun fact—our 8th graders enjoy the occasional hot chocolate treat even today!).
Course of Study
In its first promotional booklet, the founders say, “this school should be thoroughly modern –progressive in the best sense of the word… it will devote much time to handwork, natural science, and the arts, but not more than is compatible with thorough progress in the academic branches of study.” They speak fervently of their goal for the students to enjoy fresh air, and an emphasis on physical and mental development was clear from the beginning.
By all accounts, the school’s founders were interested in both academics and personal growth. Lots of learning happened outdoors, and from the beginning, Meadowbrook offered athletics and woodworking (although they called it “sport” and “sloyd” back then). We also know that the children learned basketry, gardening, drawing, and other
hands-on skills.
Meadowbrook opened its doors with eight grades plus kindergarten. In 1932 the school made the decision to admit 4-year-olds and cut back on the upper grades, ending at 6th grade. That Pre-K through 6th Grade structure would stay in place until the turn of the century.
Early documents show that the subjects taught in the first years are not vastly different from what is taught now. Reading, math, science, history, geography, French, and Latin were all offered. Even a century ago, the founders talked about the importance of knowing the needs of each individual child and encouraging their creative abilities. Echoing what we call critical thinking skills today, they even go so far as to say, “love of thoroughness, as a means to clear thinking…[is] what the School is specially trying to develop in its pupils.”
They enjoyed regular assemblies, first in an “Assembly Room,” and later in an outdoor gathering space, generally referred to as the Magic Forest. (The Magic Forest was roughly where the pools are now, and it may have extended into what our students today call Woodyville.) For music, they learned about rhythms, singing in rounds, harmony, composers, and even opera and Wagner stories and motifs.
1930s through 1950s
In 1933, Beatrice Cervi became the second Headmistress. She served in this role while at the same time teaching first grade. A total of twelve
1937
The school boasts “outdoor equipment that includes a football field, skating rink, toboggan slide, ski jump, basket ball field, JungleGym, swings, and an outdoor theatre.”
1948
Esther Edwards named headmistress.
The school’s co-ed football team was a popular fall sport in the late 1930s and 1940s, with several undefeated seasons.
1959
Headmaster.
Charles Goodwin named
Beatrice Cervi, Headmistress 1933-1948
making history
Summer Programs
Meadowbrook Day Camp began in 1950, thanks to the vision and dedication of Katie Peebles. Originally, it started as a small playgroup for children of Weston Golf Club members, where Katie, drawing on her experience as a counselor at Beaver Day Camp, looked after the children. The group grew quickly, and she recalled, “I know I can get more people, but I can’t do it without proper equipment, supplies, and a real place to do this.” This led Katie to move the camp to Meadowbrook’s property, with support from headmistress Esther Edwards.
In the early years, the camp made do with inflatable wading pools and sprinklers, and Katie even drove the campers in caravans to her grandfather’s pool in Hudson for swimming. Eventually, she built a small pool at her home, where campers walked to swim. From 30 campers in its first year, the camp grew into a thriving community, providing enriching summer experiences for young children and upholding Katie’s original vision of a non-competitive, relaxed environment.
Decades of Meadowbrook Day Camp counselors and campers have made indelible summer memories on our campus on Farm Road.
In 2009, the school added Mazemakers, a summer program created by Barbara Vincent. Mazemakers is a unique summer community that embraces creativity and exploration. Each year, the Mazemakers community welcomes children eager to explore their interests through hands-on activities and collaborative projects. With a focus on self-discovery, creativity, and independence, participants design their own unique summer experience by choosing from a wide range of workshops, from technology and engineering to art and performance. Mazemakers just celebrated its 50th anniversary and continues its strong tradition at Meadowbrook.
In 2021, Meadowbrook restructured its summer programs to fall under a single organizational structure, known as Branches. Branches at Meadowbrook, now in its fourth year, offers five distinct summer programs as well as occasional programming during the school year. In the summer of 2024, Branches enrolled 789 campers over the 8-week summer season.
faculty members were employed by the school, and enrollment was around 50 students.
The Great Depression took a toll on the burgeoning Meadowbrook community. First person accounts tell us that many families withdrew from the school for financial reasons. As one alumnus, Harold Willis, Jr., noted in a 1986 interview, “The Depression hit hard, and my family couldn’t afford to send all of us there.” Despite hardships, the school’s founders and benefactors, including families like the Trumbulls and Winsors, provided crucial support to keep the institution afloat.
World War II created difficult conditions for the teachers and students. In a letter to the families dated December 31, 1941, Headmistress Beatrice Cervi outlines the school’s plan for handling air raids. She advises the parents about where the children will be assembled (the “lower corridor,” which she says an architect has advised is the best protected part of the building), how they will practice with drills, and how the teachers are being trained on first aid courses. Other correspondence reveals adjustments on meetings—due to the gas shortage and rationing, they cancel parent conferences – and other less significant changes, like the fact that no hard candy will be available for a
Skating on the pond was a favorite activity for many; some played hockey and others practiced figure skating.
from 1992 until 2007.
The Meadowbrook 500 campaign is launched, raising funds for endowment and renovations to the old schoolhouse.
New gymnasium is constructed. This building served as our dining hall
Theodore Rand appointed Headmaster.
school celebration. Food rationing made supplying the students a healthy lunch challenging, and Miss Cervi sought the help of parents to share any extra food they could spare with the school.
By many accounts, Miss Cervi was hard working and well respected. “I think everybody old and young loved Miss Cervi. She had a wonderful personality…I’m sure everybody who ever went through the school when she was there loved her. It was like one big family in a lot of ways.” Isabelle Sargent, a teacher from the 1930s, recalled.
In 1948, Esther P. Edwards was named the third Headmistress. From the records we have from that time, it seems that the school community was thriving by then. The parents were engaged and delighted for it – the annual “Meadowbrook Fair,” held in October, was a major event, run by the parents, that everyone looked forward to. (The fair appears to be an early version of what
1980s
Meadowbrook increases its student body from 164 to 177 students in grades Junior Kindergarten through 6. At the same time, the school moves to a co-teacher model with two fully qualified teachers in each classroom.
is now Fall Fest, with outdoor games, food, and prizes.) The curriculum continued its strong academic focus, with lots of outdoor time in the afternoons. Assemblies for each grade were held regularly, with a special concert held around the December holidays and an annual Physical Education assembly that showcased the athletic prowess of the students. Miss Edwards even invited the students to bring sleeping bags to go “camping” at her house in Hyannis to celebrate the end of the school year. “The children can bring their sleeping bags and we will have a picnic on the beach,” her letter reads.
Growth
In 1959 Charles Goodwin was named Headmaster. During his tenure, the school’s enrollment continued to grow, enrolling 106 students in 1967, up from 79 students just five years prior. In his last year as head, Mr. Goodwin, known as “Shang,” oversaw the construction of a gymnasium, built across from the entrance to the schoolhouse (at the site of the current MacDowell Center). That gymnasium was used until 1992, when it was repurposed as the lunch room.
Esther Edwards, Headmistress 1948-1959
1986
Steve Hinds is appointed Headmaster. His tenure is the longest to date (31 years). The upper fields, currently used for lacrosse and soccer, are now named the Stephen T. Hinds Athletic Fields in his honor.
An interview with Mr. Goodwin from 1999 tells us that he was hired with instructions from the board to “make the school more academic” and began what he called “the academic rejuvenation
1988
Meadowbrook is recognized as a National School of Excellence by the US Department of Education.
Headmaster Charles Goodwin was known to greet students personally outside each day.
making history
The main hallway in the original school building remained unchanged for decades. (at right)
In 1963 a student gets an extra helping of noodles during lunchtime. (at right)
of Meadowbrook.” A now-famous story he liked to share was about a student who would not follow the rules. He tried everything he could to make him behave. He finally asked the student, “What would you do if you were in my shoes?” The student’s answer? “I’d have them shined, sir.”
Laura Brooks, class of ’66, remembered Goodwin when interviewed for the oral history project in 1999. She said, “One striking memory I have of Charles Goodwin was he would stand in front of the front door and greet every single student coming to the school…He was slightly off-beat. He was formal but also kind of fun in a kooky way.”
Our archives for the 1950s and 60s are less robust than what we have for the early and later years. The oral history project helps fill in some gaps. Most of the memories we collected from alumni from that time are fond or funny memories of specific teachers and classmates. The “lead pipe jungle gym,” (as alarming as it is to look at now, see pic on page 9) is often mentioned as a favorite memory, especially for the students who were able to climb all the way to the top. Skating on the pond, sledding down the hill, the annual “Yule Mart” event, and assemblies in the woods are the stories shared most often.
“We used to have forts in the woods. That’s where we did Capture the Flag. I remem-
The Campaign for Meadowbrook is launched, for construction of a new library and faculty endowment.
ber playing on the sledding hill and we were never allowed to go outside the lines,” recalls Pat Nagy, ’53.
1960s and 1970s
In 1968 Ted Rand was appointed Headmaster. His tenure is remembered for its nurturing leadership, personal engagement, and commitment to community and tradition. One of Mr. Rand’s distinguishing traits was his caring relationships with students. He regularly visited classrooms, taking the time to connect with students individually. Kelley Bothe recounted, “Ted would go into the 6th grade class and read a story every Friday morning. Each of my children remembers that very fondly. It made them feel special that the headmaster would come in
The Endowing Excellence campaign kicks off, adding one million dollars to the endowment and construction of the Grinker Gym. 1998
The Board of Trustees approves the expansion to a Jr-K to 8 academic program, adding a Middle School.
and do that and have a conversation with them.”
Georgie Johnson, who was hired by Mr. Rand and went on to teach at Meadowbrook for over two decades, says of him, “He was especially interested in the way [teachers] felt about children,” she says. “He looked for people who had a real love and understanding of children...He really wanted us to be about the whole child.” Claire Connolly, who worked as Ted’s secretary for many years, recalls his excellent writing and command of language. “He just knew what to say and how to say it,” she said.
In 1977, the school’s first-ever capital cam-
Technology
paign was launched, “The Meadowbrook 500.” Its goal was to raise $500,000 to create an endowment in support of faculty salaries as well as capital improvements, including renovations to the old schoolhouse and the construction of a new academic wing. Ed Woll, former treasurer and active volunteer, shared memories of the campaign’s fun and imaginative nature, saying, “We had a racecar motif and we had an oval track and we would keep a record of how far we were along on the track. We had little cards at events and little flags. It was catchy and imaginative from a fun group.” It highlighted the importance of endowment funds for the school’s
Technology has been an integral part of Meadowbrook since the late 1970s, when teachers Louisa Birch and Barbara Vincent first introduced computers. Initially, the faculty faced a period of adjustment and training as they integrated this new technology into their teaching methods. By the 1980s, students were learning on Texas Instruments TI-99 computers, and Ms. Vincent taught DOS programming and Logo. Meadowbrook was quick to embrace other technological advancements, such as providing faculty with email in 1993 and establishing two computer labs by 1997. In 2006, a pilot program providing middle school students with tablet computers laid the foundation for today’s 1:1 device initiative. The technology department was formally established in 2011, offering a comprehensive JK-8 program. That same year, Meadowbrook was recognized as a STEM school by the National
The first 8th grade class since 1932 graduates.
Theodore “Ted” Rand, (at left) Headmaster from 1968-1986.
The Pillars of Excellence campaign fulfills the “One Campus” initiative, adds to the endowment, and builds the MacDowell Center.
Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and later as an Exemplar School by the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (P21) in 2015.
In 2014, the EurekaLab launched with a focus on hands-on learning, using simple materials like cardboard and 3D printers to enhance curriculum. Students quickly took to this tactile, creative approach. When the Learning Commons opened in 2017, the Dannoff Family Innovation Center became the new home for the EurekaLab. Today, the lab is a hub of activity with equipment such as 3D printers, a laser engraver, sewing machines, and various tools that inspire creativity and problem-solving.
Currently, Meadowbrook students use iPads (in grades JK-2) and laptops (in grades 3-8) as tools for learning. The tech is used to enhance understanding, organization, and communication.
2007
The MacDowell Center opens, providing an expansive space for everyday lunches and special school-wide events, as well as new spaces for the performing arts.
making history
Longtime Meadowbrook teacher Georgie Johnson assists a student in this photo from 1997. (at right)
financial stability and the professional growth of its faculty. The Meadowbrook 500 marked the beginning of a culture of giving that would continue to support Meadowbrook’s mission and growth.
It was during this time that the idea of interdisciplinary study really took hold. Teachers across the school were encouraged to work together to reinforce concepts and give students a wider understanding of their subjects. Margaret Hoenig-Hahn, who taught art from 1973 to 1993, explained, “We had integrated curriculum projects like making Greek vases for the 5th grade study of Greece and hippos for the 3rd grade study of Egypt. These projects were hands-on and tied directly to what the students were learning in their classrooms.”
Even then, teachers were creatively using the natural surroundings of the campus to underscore their classroom les-
sons. Pete Johannsen ’82 (who also taught here for more than a decade) remembered, “We went on weekly nature walks with Mr. Tavarelli as part of the science curriculum. He taught us to appreciate the natural world and understand the ecosystems around us.”
Campus Construction Through the Years
1974: Octagonal Arts Complex
The Octagonal Arts Complex marked the first major expansion of the school’s original footprint, providing a dedicated space for all arts and music classes.
1992: Grinker Gymnasium
The Grinker Gymnasium was the school’s first full-size gym, giving PE teachers much-needed indoor space. It remains in active use today and features a climbing wall and ropes course used for Project Challenge.
1999: Middle School Wing
Adding grades 7 and 8 meant more classroom space was needed. Known then as “Phase I,” it was the first building project for the new Middle School.
Construction and Modernization
In 1986, the school hired Steve Hinds, who came to Meadowbrook after serving as principal of Millis Middle School, and as a history teacher in Weston before that. Steve would stay on for 31 years, the longest tenure of any of the heads to date. He oversaw an extended period of modernization of the curriculum, the expansion of the physical plant, and the addition of the Middle School.
In 1987 the school was honored by the U.S. Department of Education, recognized as an Elementary School of Excellence. In an interview from the early 1990s, Mr. Hinds described how he applied for the award shortly after his arrival, impressed by the tone of the faculty and the individualized attention provided to students. Hinds attributed the credit for the award to the faculty who preceded him and to his predecessor Ted Rand. Mr. Hinds, along with Barbara Vincent and Jim Barrett, traveled to Washington D.C. to receive the award at a reception where they heard President Ronald Reagan and Secretary of Education
2001: Vinik Family Center
Originally known as “Phase II” of the Middle School expansion, the Vinik Family Center added more gymnasium space, a performance stage, and art and pottery rooms. It was renamed in 2012 to honor Jeff and Penny Vinik’s generosity to Meadowbrook.
William Bennett speak.
Adding the 7th and 8th grades was a strategic decision, years in the making. Mr. Hinds and others believed strongly that Meadowbrook could provide an outstanding academic experience for those middle school grades, and in so doing, would better serve our students, giving them more options for high school. Developmentally, the students would be better served staying in a K-8 environment before making the leap to secondary school. In December of 1998, the Board voted to move forward with these plans, which involved fundraising, purchasing property, new construction, building a new curriculum for 7th and 8th grades, and hiring new teachers to implement it. The first class of 8th graders since 1932 graduated from Meadowbrook in 2003.
With the addition of the middle school, enrollment grew, as did the faculty. The program continued to evolve and expand, making way for new initiatives that best met the needs of the students. Capstone experiences like the Gettysburg/ Washington DC trip and the Costa Rica cultural exchange were added, becoming touchstone moments of a student’s Meadowbrook career.
2007: MacDowell Center
The MacDowell Center replaced the outdated dining room and introduced new, larger classrooms, music and band rooms, an After School room, and a blackbox theater.
from 1986-2017.
2017: Learning Commons and Lower School
This project provided state-of-theart classrooms, maker spaces, a woodworking shop, and a library.
Stephen T. Hinds, Headmaster
making history
Varsity soccer and lacrosse teams play their home games at Hinds Field, which was part of the “One Campus” initiative in 2011.
The Vinik Family Center, known from 2000 to 2015 as simply “Phase II,” was built to provide a gym, performance space, and sunlit art and pottery rooms. It was built in 1999-2000 in preparation for the new Middle School program offerings. In 2012 it was dedicated as the Vinik Family Center, in honor of the Vinik family, long-time benefactors. The back driveway is still named “Penny Lane” in honor of Penny Vinik, who served as Board President from 2006 to 2011.
old country school on Farm Road and made it a nationally known model of K-8 education,” he said. “He totally transformed the place.”
Recent History
The Costa Rica trip began in 2005 as a capstone experiential learning program for 8th grade students. (at right)
The physical plant continued to grow and shift to accommodate the increased enrollment and the school’s expanded program offerings. The “One Campus” initiative was completed in 2011 with the opening of playing fields at Cedar and Farm Roads for soccer and lacrosse, now aptly named the Hinds Fields. The MacDowell Center was built as a result of the Pillars of Excellence Campaign in 2007, giving us a new dining facility, music practice rooms, a black box theater, and an after school room. Other strategic property purchases allowed the school to build tennis courts, expand campus parking, make better use of the outdoor spaces, and use two homes for office space. (See the sidebar at left for other construction milestones over the years.)
Steve Hinds’s vision and drive for Meadowbrook to keep evolving is how his tenure is best remembered. Tom Grape, Board President from 2011 to 2016, feels that Steve’s vision and leadership are what helped Meadowbrook succeed into the 21st century. “He took a little
In 2017, Meadowbrook welcomed arvind grover, only the seventh head of school in our 100-year history. Mr. grover also made history as the first person of color to serve as head. When he arrived on campus in July of 2017, the school was under construction and the team was hard at work readying the new Lower School and Learning Commons for the September opening. School opened that fall with brand new classrooms, a new library, modern offices and breakout spaces, and the beginning of a new chapter.
In March of 2020, like all schools in the area, Meadowbrook shifted to online learning in response to the Covid-19 global pandemic. The remainder of the 2019-2020 school year was completed remotely, with teachers and students using their laptops or tablets to participate from home. Graduation for the Class of 2020 was held online and was followed by a celebratory car parade, with faculty lining the walkways in masks while they
Jeff and Penny Vinik establish the Vinik Family Endowed Faculty Fund, creating annual bonuses for teachers; The Vinik Family Center is named to honor this historic gift.
New mission statement including “know, love, and challenge” is approved by the Board of Trustees.
Imagine More campaign transforms the campus and builds the endowment for financial assistance and faculty support.
cheered on the graduates who paraded through in their cars with their families. By the fall of 2020, school opened back to in-person learning, with heavy restrictions in place, like masking, keeping everyone six feet apart, and frequent Covid testing. This challenging time was especially significant for Meadowbrook—community members stepped up to make generous donations of their financial resources, time, and creativity, making it possible for the school to weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side.
Forward progress continues. Over the past year, the faculty have engaged in an extensive process to develop a statement of philosophy, a set of values that guides our educational approach. The science of emotions and their effect on academic performance has been embraced by the teachers and social-emotional learning is integrated into the curriculum. Outdoor learning is being thoughtfully embedded into science and other subjects, to allow students to reap the benefits of fresh air on their learning. New sports offerings have been added, more art classes, new field trips, and new traditions have taken root. The evolution of Meadowbrook continues.
Looking Ahead
The second century of Meadowbrook has begun. We’re known, locally and nationally, for our unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Our focus remains, as ever, on the students, ensuring we’re prepared to answer the important questions about what they need to become resilient, empathetic, and successful as they grow. To fulfill our mission, we’ll continue to rely on exceptional teachers, foster a dynamic and diverse community, and remain nimble so that we can offer the best programs that meet our students’ needs and aspirations.
On September 3, 2024, Meadowbrook opened its doors with an enrollment of 330
students across ten grades. The celebrations of the 100th anniversary are behind us, and the second century of our history has begun. So what’s next for Meadowbrook? Excellent teachers, committed parents and guardians, a forward-thinking board of trustees, an ambitious administration, and thoughtful, imaginative, limitless students. I guess you could say what’s next for Meadowbrook is more of the same.
Happy birthday, Meadowbrook!
Writer’s Note:
To write this piece, I dug through the school’s archives, literally and figuratively. Boxes of pictures, school rosters and attendance books, meeting minutes, programs from plays, and old copies of the Meadowbrook Magazine all aided me in gathering historical information. In addition, I was helped greatly by the oral history project, conducted in the late 1990s for the 75th anniversary and transcribed by former development director, Muffy Johannsen P ’82, ’86, ’89, ’93. During Headmaster Emeritus Steve Hinds’s 31-year tenure, he documented the key events as he knew them and then lived them. The meticulous record-keeping of many—including Claire Connolly, Kathy McNamara, Nancy Lippincott, Mike Scafati, and others—allowed me to reference annual booklets, read correspondence, review digitized old videos, and access many of the photos featured in this magazine. Finally, the book, “From Town to Suburb: the History and Architecture of Weston, Massachusetts,” by Pamela W. Fox provided valuable insight about 2017
The Learning Commons and Lower School building opens, placing technology and innovation at its center.
It includes the Dannoff Family Innovation Center, the Stansky Makerspace, and the Callaghan Library, modern and flexible spaces to accommodate a variety of learning methods.
arvind s. grover appointed Head of School.
Head of School arvind s. grover with members of the class of 2027 in this picture from 2017.
Voices of Meadowbrook
To mark the school’s 75th anniversary in 1999, a group of enthusiastic volunteers initiated the Oral History Project. Their goal was to gather and preserve the personal stories of individuals connected to Meadowbrook, offering a rich and detailed look at our history and culture. This project involved in-depth interviews with alumni, faculty, staff, and parents, aiming to document their unique experiences and memories of the school. These interviews capture a broad spectrum of the school’s history, from its early roots in the Pigeon Hill School to its move to Farm Road and eventual growth into the established institution it is today.
Participants shared their memories of daily life at Meadowbrook, including classroom activities, interactions with beloved teachers, and participation in school traditions such as the May Day celebrations and the annual Thanksgiving pageants. These interviews also highlight the close-knit community spirit that has long been a hallmark of the school, with many interviewees reflecting on the strong friendships formed and the values instilled in them during their time there. The transcripts reveal some of the educational philosophy of Meadowbrook, focusing on the balance between academic learning and hands-on activities like gardening, woodworking, and outdoor exploration. The oral histories collected serve as a valuable historical resource, preserving the voices and perspectives of those who were integral to the school’s development. These stories offer a personal and heartfelt look at how Meadowbrook’s educational approach shaped the lives of its students and contributed to the school’s lasting legacy of community, learning, and growth.
Ted Rand Headmaster: 1968 – 1986 (1998 interview)
Lucy Rand (1998 interview)
Steve Hinds
Headmaster: 1986 – 2017 (1999 interview)
Walter Birge Faculty: 1960 – 1965 (1999 interview)
On Saturday, June 1, 2024, nearly 500 community members joined us for the party of the century—Meadowbrook’s Centennial Celebration!
the Making
This milestone event was more than just a roaring good time; it was a testament to the School’s rich past and vibrant future.
Opportunities for Reconnection:
Parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, former faculty, and friends from across the years returned to campus to celebrate our shared history. Old relationships were rekindled and new friendships formed as guests enjoyed an evening full of 1920s-themed music, food, and drink. In addition to dancing and casino games, attendees joined together to toast and sing “Happy Birthday” to Meadowbrook before an explosion of confetti filled the room from every corner.
Inspiring Moments:
After beloved faculty members Rosanne Beard and Ted Vassallo offered warm and hilarious opening remarks, Board President Brian Sung acknowledged how the School’s long tradition of philanthropic support from current and past families and faculty—including Headmaster Emeritus Steve Hinds—has led to our incredible accomplishments of the past 100 years. He then introduced a special retrospective Centennial video.
Call to Action:
Head of School arvind grover paid tribute to the original founders of Meadowbrook, who had a bold dream to start a new school—a dream that has touched the lives of thousands of children since 1923. Mr. grover shared his vision for Meadowbrook as the preeminent K-8 school where each child can flourish. As the founders of the School’s second century, he called on our community to carry the torch together by recommitting ourselves to the promise that has defined 100 years of Meadowbrook excellence.
With Gratitude:
Thank you to our incredible Centennial Anniversary Co-Chairs, Suzanne Foley P’20,’23,’26, Irene Levangie P’26,’30,’30, and Barrett Yates-Mack P’25,’32, whose vision, planning, and execution allowed our community to appropriately honor and celebrate a century of Meadowbrook memories and milestones—and look forward together to the next chapter in our School’s history.
Meadowbrook’s Centennial Celebrations would also not have been possible without the generosity of:
Anonymous (3)
Susan Littlefield and Martin Roper P’15,’20,’22
Barrett Yates-Mack and Timothy Mack P’25,’32
Suzanne and Alex Tannenbaum ’99 P’30,’32
Their support brought together current and past families, alumni spanning 1938 to 2023, and current and former faculty, creating lasting memories.
Young Alumni Centennial Celebration:
A Night to Remember
Meadowbrook threw an epic Young Alumni Centennial Celebration on May 29, reuniting over 100 alums from the classes of 2018 to 2023. It was an unforgettable night packed with fun, food, and fantastic music.
The party kicked off with mouth-watering tacos from the fabulous Naco Taco truck, all thanks to the generous donation by Alex Tannenbaum ’99 P’32,’30. And for dessert? Delicious churros with a variety of dipping sauces. Middle School Head Jordan Bentley and Head of School arvind grover both welcomed the alums back and reminded them that they’re always welcome back at Meadowbrook.
young alumni celebration
As the evening went on, the highlight of the night took the stage: Steeples and Satellites, a rock band composed of our very own faculty. These talented teachers aren’t just great in the classroom—they know how to command a stage too! Playing a mix of their original songs, they had everyone on their feet and dancing the night away. The music was upbeat and irresistible, and the alums loved watching their former teachers perform.
Led by Matt Molyneux (vocals, guitar), the band also includes faculty members Kevin Christensen (drums), Barb Campbell (vocals), Tom Williamson (guitar and vocals), and former faculty member Sarah Williamson (keyboard and vocals), with Ed Newton (bass).
A photo booth added to the fun, with alums snapping silly pictures and capturing great memories with friends. Everyone left with a 100th anniversary baseball hat, a perfect keepsake to remember the night and the school’s 100-year milestone.
The Young Alumni Centennial Celebration was all about reconnecting, reminiscing, and making new memories. It was a night that showed the true spirit of the Meadowbrook community and left everyone looking forward to the next big gathering.
Meadowbrook’s Centennial Day of Service:
A Community United in Giving Back
In a beautiful demonstration of community spirit and dedication, Meadowbrook celebrated its centennial with a Day of Service on April 6. Nearly 300 students, parents, alumni, faculty, and friends came together to contribute 600 hours of service to nine community partner organizations, reaffirming the school’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the communities that have supported it for the past century.
The volunteers gathered on campus to kick off the day with a pancake breakfast, then dispersed to several nearby service sites. Other volunteers stayed at Meadowbrook to complete projects on campus, like making blankets for dogs at On The Rocks animal shelter and assembling care kits for Newton Wellesley Hospital. They used supplies donated by the community through a drive organized by the Community Service Club.
The success of the Centennial Day of Service was made possible through the generous support of event sponsors, including FLIK, Roche Brothers, Verrill Farms, Whole Foods, and an anonymous donor who provided perishable grocery items. Meadowbrook families and faculty also played a crucial role, donating numerous curated items collected as part of the Community Service Club drives.
Where did we help?
Land’s Sake Farm: Volunteers prepared fields and gardens for the upcoming spring planting and growing season.
Maplewood Senior Living: Participants refreshed the Memory Care Patio, created an art project, and read stories to residents, brightening their day.
FamilyAid Programs: Clothing and hygiene products were sorted and packed for children in need.
Weston Forest & Trails Conservation: Volunteers learned about and removed invasive garlic mustard plants on the Weston town green.
Hope & Comfort: 100 hygiene kits, 80 laundry kits, and numerous well-wish cards were produced for youth.
Foster Love: 40 teen duffel bags containing flashlights, journals, hygiene kits, and other essential items were assembled for teens entering foster care.
Newton-Wellesley Hospital: Volunteers created 40 Jared Boxes filled with small gifts, toys, games, crayons, and coloring books to bring joy to children.
Franklin Food Pantry: 47 grocery bags filled with 452 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables were packed for local families experiencing food insecurity through Spoonfuls.
Off the Rocks Animal Shelter: 40 fleece blankets were crafted for homeless cats.
Weston First Responders: Colorful artwork was created to thank police, firefighters, and EMTs for their service.
Big thanks to Barrett Yates-Mack, Suzanne Foley, and Irene Levangie for their leadership on this awesome event!
A Message to the Future
In a spirited celebration of Meadowbrook’s centennial year, students and faculty came together to prepare a time capsule that will bridge the past and the future. Held in the courtyard before the start of Field Day, students helped prepare a variety of items that capture the essence of Meadowbrook in 2024. Among the treasures placed inside were the school’s mission statement, photos capturing memorable moments, our latest yearbook, the Meadowbrook Magazine , the latest Brookbinder featuring student artwork, a Meadowbrook “M,” and numerous other objects that paint a vivid picture of our school’s life today. This capsule, to be opened in fifty years (on June 7, 2074 to be precise), will offer future Meadowbrook students a unique glimpse into our traditions, achievements, and daily life.
Introducing: The Alma Gray Legacy Society
The newly established Alma Gray Legacy Society, named after Meadowbrook’s first Head of School, Alma Gray, recognizes a dedicated group of alumni, families, and friends who wish to make a lasting impact on Meadowbrook’s future by providing critical long-term funding for the school. When you make a gift to Meadowbrook through your will, retirement assets, insurance policy, or another planned giving vehicle, we honor your generosity and vision through automatic membership in The Alma Gray Legacy Society.
A planned or estate gift is a powerful demonstration of your belief in the importance of a Meadowbrook education and can provide financial and tax benefits for you and your family. You can choose to make an unrestricted gift or to designate your planned gift for a particular passion area or purpose, including faculty support and professional development, financial assistance, student programming, and facilities.
Members of The Alma Gray Legacy Society
“Meadowbrook loved me—and what could be more important than investing in the future of children’s lives?”
help secure a brighter future for Meadowbrook and ensure that we will live our mission to know, love, and challenge generations of students to come.
For more information or to discuss opportunities to give through your estate, please contact Director of Development Matthew Fishbein (mfishbein@meadowbrook-ma.org, 781-314-9228).
The Rev. Sasha Childs ’73
After visiting Meadowbrook recently, Sasha says, “This is still how the school is training its teachers and the vision that the school is building its legacy on. arvind understands that if there isn’t a philosophy about how to work with children, as well as attracting great educators and supporting them with great training, then you can’t cultivate the children into the stars they naturally are.”
Looking back, Sasha says she was able to excel and grow confident because of the Meadowbrook teachers who truly cared about her and her family. She felt known and heard, and she can recall minute details of her first art projects and performances as the school supported and inspired her creativity.
Sasha went on to obtain a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design and later a Master of Divinity from Pacific School of Religion, in Berkeley, California. She is ordained in the United Church of Christ, as a traveling minister of the arts. She creates visual spaces as reflections of the theme and narrative of a service, which are as beautiful as they are transformative. She designs
large-scale environments for UCC national assemblies, as well as elaborate visuals for her church in Alameda.
Looking ahead to future generations at Meadowbrook, Sasha felt called to become an inaugural member of the school’s new Alma Gray Legacy Society this past year by including Meadowbrook in her will. The society recognizes all who make a bequest, gift of life insurance, or other planned gift to support the school.
She says, “Making a bequest is an easy thing to do and doesn’t cost anything now. It concretized my priority for supporting Meadowbrook into the future. They helped me find a way in the world that reflects who I am, so I could express my creativity and be of service. Meadowbrook loved me—and what could be more important than investing in the future of children’s lives?”
Ethan and Maly Bernstein, Parents
Ethan and Maly’s sons, Covell ’27 and Clayton ’32, started at Meadowbrook in Junior Kindergarten. Ethan says, “The faculty keep our boys intellectually fed, all while respecting their developmental level. They tailor the environment to each child and truly see them as individuals.”
As a professor in the field of organizational behavior, Ethan invests a great deal in helping his graduate students make progress in their careers and lives—“and I love that Meadowbrook doesn’t wait to teach our children what some of my students say they wish they had learned much earlier.”
Ethan explains that he and Maly support The Meadowbrook Fund each year because they know the cost of providing a great education exceeds
the tuition charged. Ethan also recently included the school in his will, becoming one of the first members of Meadowbrook’s new Alma Gray Legacy Society. The society recognizes all who make a bequest or other planned gift to support long-term needs at the school.
He says, “I added Meadowbrook to my estate plan because, with Covell and Clayton at the school for 10 years each, there will be no other educational institution that will have more years of influence on their generation of our family than Meadowbrook. It is already part of our legacy; inclusion in my estate plan seemed to be a way to amplify that legacy for Clayton and Covell.”
His gift reflects the lifelong value of the faculty and community relationships at Meadowbrook. “I still have yet to hear a more concise way to state the optimal conditions under which learning happens than ‘know, love, and challenge.’ It’s what brought us to Meadowbrook, and it’s what we cherish in every interaction there.”
“The faculty keep our boys intellectually fed, all while respecting their developmental level. They tailor the environment to each child and truly see them as individuals.”
Capturing a milestone moment!
October 1, 2024 marked the 100th anniversary of Meadowbrook’s opening on our Farm Road campus. Although the school was incorporated in 1923, it continued to operate at the former Pigeon Hill School until the new school building on the newly-named Farm Road was ready for use.
Gathered together in the Vinik Gymnasium, the entire Meadowbrook student and faculty body came together to kick off our second century. This whole-school photo captures the spirit of unity, tradition, and forward-looking energy that defines Meadowbrook. Here’s to the community that makes Meadowbrook a place of learning, growth, and belonging every day.
Massachusetts 02493-2493
The 2023-2024 Annual Report of Giving is now online!
This year we are recognizing the contributions of our community through a digital format, Our Foundation for the Future, featuring: Donor stories
Operating Statements and Contributions 2023-2024 Report of Giving
We extend our deep gratitude to all who made Meadowbrook a philanthropic priority this year. Together we celebrated our first century and built momentum for the next.
Use the website and password to view: https://www.annualreport2324-meadowbrook-ma.org/ Password: meadowbrook
