CilieDe
issilns Issue
Kendall Huennekens (Kindergart en)
The Hol iday Symbols: Thomas Davi s, Allen Edwards, and Taylor W ilson (3rd grade)
Carol ine Rakes (2nd grade) Jonathan Brickhouse (6th grade)
Volumc 7.
umbcr _
February 200 1
The Blue & Gold Connection i published rour time each )ear ror T he le\ ard ch 01 com munity.
Roger Coulombe lI ead master
Kelley C uneo Editor
Marie Mullins (1st grade) Front cover (I to r): Sen iors Jon T ipton , Brantley Scott, Coll in Ackerman , Divam Mehta, Laura Slabaugh , and Will Perkins
T he lewa rd chool 11600 Gayt n Road Ri hm nd. irginia 2'233 "\\\\. te" ardschool. rg
From the Headmaster
In a recent issue of The Wall Street Journal, an article appeared with the title, "To Impress Colleges , Some Prep Schools Use Aggressive New Tactics." The control point made by the article's author, David Golden , is that the pressure exerted on schools by trustees and by parents determined to get their sons and daughters into th e right college or university has allegedly resulted in questionable tactics used by the schools to ensure that that goal is realized . One of the early points made in the article is that "more than ever before, private secondary schools are graded on how many graduates enter the likes of Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford universities ." Mr. Golden goes on to assert that the response of schools is to inflate grades, thus creating the impression that certain students are performing at superior levels in schools reputed to have "unusually high" grading standards, and to hire college counselors with direct ties to the Ivy League schools . The points made by the Journal have both obvious implications and less obvious consequences. The tension created by such expectations may result in rationalization by school officials in deciding to ease up on standards, to inflate grades , and to take ill-conceived steps designed to relieve the pressure . A less obvious result involved a college counselor in a prestigious New England school who, after admitting to exaggerating college admissions numbers in the school
catalog , committed suicide . Part of th e tragedy includes the fact that the individual involved , when he admitted to overstating the placement figures , had earlier resigned his college counseling position because "he had lost some joy in it." Upon th e discovery of his transgression , the counselor "fell apart," and there was no doubt that "he regarded the placement record as a reflection of his own value ." What in fact is happening is that colleges are changing their admissions standards and expectations . In the past, attendance at the right prep schools pretty well ensured an unobstructed highway to admission to one of th e "Ivies." Today, in the interest of socio-economic and racial diversity, colleges are admitting more students from many different schools . More public schools are being respected because, in trying to catch up to independent schools, they offer more Ad va nced Placement courses. The competition is more keen today than was true in the past. One cannot deny the existence of pressure felt by schools. According to the Journal, when parents pay the median annual tuition of $13,345 for a day school , they "count on the investment to propel their children" into the desired college. However, one is reluctant to accept the Journars view totally at face value. Schools are very much influenced by confidentiality and privacy laws, and therefore cannot fully respond to various allegations made about their procedures or policies. While there surely are instan ces in which schools and counselors have refined their images by providing selective information, my own experience tells me that independent school personnel accept the pressure of th e job, recognize that "it comes with th e territory: and still do th eir very best to make the right decision .
Steward , along with our sister schools nearby and throughout the country, follows a very simple formula . We seek the right match between the student and a college at which th at student will be happy and productive . Through our knowledge of the individual student, and with observations from teachers , coaches , and advisors, we have a clear idea of how the right mix looks as we discuss options with students and their parents . Defining that appropriate match requires real thought, the process beginning in a confl uence between the student, parents , and the college counselor. The "right" college might not seem so obvious at the start, and the search procedure must include a visit to the colleges. This country is blessed with a large number of colleges and universities from which a student may choose. A great many offer top quality educations for the stud ents who are enrolled. But, despite the fact that many seem similar or equal on paper, there is a reason why some choose Davidson and not Washington and Lee, Gettysburg instead of Lafayette , UVa rather than UNCChapel Hill, Radford and not the College of Charleston . The "feel " must be right. At Steward , we are fortunate that the college counseling process results in th e proper mix for students and colleges. It is something we do well because it is a natural outgrowth of our efforts to meet the needs and serve the best interests of students while they are here. If a student approaches his or her courses with consistent seriousness, the college placement options are increased , the chances for deciding on the "right" college are enhanced , and the college preparatory program and college counseling process at Steward will have served their purpose .
Pagel
Steward Seniors Busv with College Applications It's an exciti ng time of year for the Class of 2001-the "beginning of the end" of their high school education . Everything they have done over the past three and a half years will come under scrutiny as they apply to college. What courses have they taken? What sports do they play? In what extra-curricular activities do they participate? How involved are they in their community? It all comes down to the wire as they feve rishly finish up applications, compose essays, and collect recommendati ons. It may surprise some people to learn that Steward's college admissions process starts in the ninth grade . Two grade level meetings are held each year in Upper School , one each semester. The February ninth-g rade meeting outl ines Alternate Program activities, including workshops , college visits, and personality tests. Carolyn Brandt, the director of studies and Upper School head , also explains how the Differential Aptitude Test resu lts can be used in college planning (e.g., for the selection of upper-level high school courses and college majors ). In the fall of tenth grade , the PSAT is explained , and then in February pare nts learn how to use the PSAT results to help prepare the student for the junior PSAT and SAT. In grade 11 , Mrs. Brandt meets with all of the juniors and their parents to explain the SAT testing procedures and the college process in greater detail. This is fo llowed by individual conferences with each family in the spring and su mmer preceding the senior year. In the fall of the senior year, seniors and their parents learn the specifics of assembling each application packet and craft-
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of the "enlor lounge.
ing the essay. In February, a separate meeting focuses on financial aid options as well as the issues of separation involved in leaving home. There are also four seminars conducted throughout the senior year on time management , money management, separation issues , and communication in college .
tions from teachers . To further prepare , students learn how to write college essays in their Engl ish classes. "The teachers were a big help, because they read and reviewed students' essays for applications and for scholarships," Dr. Burns said . "They gave real suggestions. They really know what colleges are looking for."
Parent Donna Burns felt that Steward was extremely supportive as she and her husband helped son Neal with the col lege admissions process . "The personal meeting with Mrs. Brandt was very beneficial ," she commented . "We had phenomenal support from the school. .. I even had one college admissions office comment on the high quality of the recommenda tion letter sent by Steward . The entire office had been talking about that letter." Dr. Burns recommended that students and parents start early and visit the schools about which they've heard good things. "Neal had no idea where he wanted to go ... so we looked at big schools and little schools , schools that were nearby and some that were far away." The grade level meetings . individualized meetings , and visits to schools helped Neal to decide where to apply.
Several seniors zeroed in on one college as their first and only chOice and then applied "earlydecision ." Those students , and the schools to which they were accepted , are Collin Ackerman (Virginia Commonweath University), Brianna Bloom (College of William & Mary), Caitlin Rossmoore (Virginia Tech), and Michelle Whitaker (Sweet Briar College). Other students will be hearing from colleges and universities for the rema inder of the semester. As of the first week of February, acceptances include: Jason Anderson (Florida State University); Harry Baron (Ball State University, University of Alabama ); Melissa Beck (Mary Baldwin College); Ted Benson (Dartmouth College); Corbin Brierre (Hollins University, Mary Ba ldwin College . RandolphMacon Woman 's College ); Neal Burns (Appalachian State University, Bridgewater College , Elon College , Longwood College . Radford University, RandolphMacon College); Alex Duty (Mary
In the fall of their senior year, students begin filling out applications and collecting recomm enda-
Washington College ); Marshall Felvey (Christopher Newport University, Roanoke College); Sally Gottwald (University of Alabama , University of Colorado); Ellis Harman (Elon College); Elena lantosca (UNC-Wilmington); Cynthia Johns (Elon College , Hollins University, Mary Baldwin College); Rubin Kartohadiprodjo (Canisius College , The Glion Hotel School in Switzerland , Johnson & Wales); Sara Lipsitz (Barton College); Sarah Martenstein (College of Charleston , East Carolina University, Elon College , UNCWilmington , University of South Carolina); Jamie Reed (Catawba College); Laura Slabaugh (Washington College, Wofford College); and Carly Vilas (Christopher Newport University). In add ition , Ted Benson is currently a finalist for the prestigious Jefferson Scholarship from the University of Virginia. Ted was also recently named a finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program . We are proud of all of our outstanding seniors and their hard work. With the college admissions process still underway, we look forward to finding out where all our seniors will be going next fall!
ASeniOr's Wisdom I, Ellnllllh 'BrUS, 12'- .rallll So the last twelve years of your education have been preparing you for college. Now what do you do , and where do you start? Here at Steward , it all starts in the ninth grade with Alternate Program . The teachers take you to visit a few colleges, and for most students this is the first "college experience ." Taking these tours is a very important part of the college application process , because th ey give you an idea of the characteristics you are going to be looking for in a college.
up, keep it full. Don't start slacking off- colleges like to see that you are working up to the end , and that dreaded disease "senioritis" doesn 't look good.
I
Once you have sent off all of your applications , all you have left to do is wait, and wait, and wait. If you are not a patient person , get up and get out so that you aren't waiting for the mail every day. While you are waiting for the acceptance letters, SenIor [/ lZabe th Larul ,hMes her co lleg admlf,\lon e).periencl'!I make sure that you thank your parents, because without them you After Alternate Program , you tend to would have never made it to the forget about college for a while , but college tours. Once you are acif you want my advice, DON'T. You cepted into your colleges , Mrs. can never visit enough schools as Brandt will put a star on the window you try to decide where you want to of the senior lounge. I am still waiting go. Another good piece of advice is for mine, but I should hear any day to get your hands on all of the now! I college literature that you can . Considering a wide variety of schools will help you find the place that is best for you . Skip ahead to your junior and senior years: now there is a mad dash to meet all of the deadlines , wh ether it be SAT testing deadlines or the deadlines for applications. To get ahead for the next year, go during spring break of your junior year as well as the following summer to look at as many colleges as you can . Also that summer you and your parent(s) will meet with Mrs. Brandt and plan your schedule for your senior year. You will also go over your grade point average and SAT scores. By then you should have an idea of where you would like to apply, and during that meeting is a good time to talk te Mrs. Brandt about those choices. She has a good idea of the colleges that would fit your personality and academic record . When the question of your senior year schedule comes
Senior Receives Blanton Scholarship
Congratulations to senior Brianna Bloom , recipient of the Virginia Historical Society's Wyndham B. Blanton Scholarship, which honors high school juniors and seniors who have demonstrated excellence in history and government studies . Brianna was one of only twenty students selected from across the state to receive this honor and attend a lecture by Pulitzer Prize-winning author A. Scott Berg .
,.•• 3
ABlack Tie AHair BI Bonnl, AIIt/,ISIIn, Music T,sch"
The Holiday Program proved to be a most elegant affair this year. "A Black Tie Affair" was a high-energy holiday production with precision dancing and spirited vocal numbers, at times in two-part harmony! Reindeer, penguins, holiday symbols, elves, snowfiakes, and Santa's budd ies sang and danced their way through a production th at brought sm iles to all audience members. Santa , played by Will Garner, fe ll out of his sleigh in the South Pole and suffered a terrible case of amnesia . Santa finally real ized who he was and what his mission was with the help of Jack Frost (Kitty Ball ), the Abominable Snowman (Ben Sauer), the Snow Queen (Laura Skove ), and the Penguins (Sara Small , Amy Bisger, Cary Baronian , Stewart Hargrove , John Lewis , Stuart Smith , Polly Cannella , Beth Dixon , Josh
Stafford , Patrick McKeown , and Margaret Gupton ).
To help Santa regain his memory, the penguins called on the elves (kindergarten), Santa's buddies (first grade), the snowflakes (second grade ), all of the symbols of the season (third grade ), the reindeer (fourth grade ), and the remain ing penguins of the South Pole (fifth grade). After a beau tifu l solo by the Snow Queen , Santa was awakened and greeted by his dancing reindeer. All ended well-a happy end ing to an evening which began the holiday season for our students and the entire Steward community.
"114
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grader Brooke fallon play, • ,nolVn.ke In the Holiday Program
Every year, Ronny Hajek plays Santa Claus for Steward's Holiday Choral Tour. The following article shares her impressions as the studen ts visit a local nursing home.
Through Santa's Eves B, 'IInn,III/,t ill." Schllll/ P.l Tllch"
As I enter the room, waving my mittened hand high and letting out a resounding "Ho, ho , Merry Christmas!" from beneath my snowy white and slightly itchy beard , I see elderly faces scattered about the room . Some turn to welcome me with a look or nod , while others are lost in their own thoughts, their own worlds. I make my way around the room , shaking hands, patting backs, exchanging good wishes, and hugging. Then th e children enter th e room and the audience seems to brighten at their presence, as they watch the children 's every move with interest and joy. They rema rk to each other how they look like angels , and in a sense , angels they may be. These
are the students of our Steward School Holiday Chorus , comprised of all 4111 and 5th graders, as well as a good number of Middle and Upper School students. They have come here under the direction of grader Amy BIIg('r ."d fourth Wdder ,I music teacher theer \\/th d nur .. tng homt' rt>, icJt:nl Bonnie Anderson to brighten up the holiday season for enough to come sing to them puts them back in touch with a reali ty the res idents of this nursing home. they touch less and less. They As Mrs. Anderson adeptly organizes marvel at their voices and are the children , making them fit on the warmed by the message of the stage and trying to ensu re each cherubic fa ce can be seen , the old songs , the energy of the presentation , and the thoughtfulness of the folks smile and nod and seem to visit. At the conclusion of the breathe with a little more life just performance , the singers mingle being near so many little ones. I'm with the audience , bestowing gifts of struck by the fact that many of these residents do not leave the nursing cheer-little bags of candy and home very often , and many are treats, as well as smiles, kind words, never visited by a child of any age. handshakes, and hugs. This is stewardship at its best. Scra tchy cannot say for sure, but it seems that just being a part of the audience beard or not, I'm ready for next and having these children care year!
ruden!' (rom Steward', I.o"er. Middle Chor.1 Tuur.
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Lower School I
Fourth Grade Receives Speciallener B, S'Tlh H,rg"", ,nil Char/,ss Smll/J-H,rrlson. #i Srall'
Near Christmastime , the fourth grade wrote to the "Any Soldier Program" in Bosnia and Kosovo. We told the soldiers about our lives , pets, and what we were doing over Christmas. Our teachers also told us to draw a holiday picture . Many of us drew things like Christmas trees , presents, and angels. In January, we received a letter back from Andrew B. Seward , who is a lieutenant in Kosovo. He rea lly appreciated our letters. He has a wife and daughter. Lieutenant Seward grew up in Lynchburg , Virginia . He looked us up on the Internet and found out about The Steward School. We hope to write to him soon , maybe by email.
You Are What You Eat B, RollIn Rletlns. 2'* STlIIII Tlleh" On January 10, 2001 , the second grade partiCipated in a program presented by High Touch! High Tech Science. The name of the program was "Nutty Nutrition," and it included hands-on activities related to healthy nutrition . The students investigated the fat content of several popular foods , observed the digestive effects of sali va on crackers , and tested the effect of vitamin C on apples and potatoes . Each child built a food pyramid out of healthy snack foods .
Pa.,6
Hlppen~nls
This program was part of the second grade's study of healthy nutrition . The students learned that to build strong bones and an alert mind , a person must eat a balanced diet of healthy foods .
"adopted" a basketball player, for whom they made a special poster. They were very excited to see their special friends as the team played that night. The halftime entertainment was the highlight of the evening for many. Bedecked in gold glitter wigs, shades , shakers, and school colors, the Lower School B, Ronn, H'/It teachers presented their awesome cheerleading routine, complete with chants and an astounding pyramid . Friday, January 26 , 2001 , was a As each child left at the end of the special day for the Lower School. evening , they were given a special In the afternoon , all the students prize to commemorate their particigathered in the gym to Jumprope for pation . All in all , the Athletic JamboHeart to ra ise money for the Ameriree was a stupendous success! can Heart Association . A twentyminute jumping fest raised over $500 as well as the aerobic capacity of students and teachers! The festivities continued into the evening as students enjoyed special seating at the varsity boys' basketball game . Each class had
lower School Enjovs Athletic Jamboree
"~ddle We Are Not Alone! B, JessIca WIllIamson. Bill 6,,1111
The Steward School has been visited by a spaceman . Recently, a man from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration , otherwise known as NASA, came to teach Steward kids about space exploration . He taught us about new developments in night technology, such as a plane with propellers that rotate upward to allow a helicopterstyle landing. Another fascinating topic was how materials used to build space shuttles could one day be used in everyday life. He had a sample of nearly everything he talked about. We got to try our strength against a Kevlar mat, which is almost impossible to bend . He even showed us a block of foam-like material that could be safely touched just seconds after it was blasted with a blowtorch. He discussed how these
School
Hlppen~nls
items could become a part of our future professions. Afterwards , he let us touch the displays and ask any questions that we had. It was a wonderful presentation!
Middle School Basketball Update B, Anls Mills. Bill 6,,1111
The Middle School boys' "A" basketball team is having an off season this year. We kicked off the season with an away game against Goochland . It was a very tough game. Our next couple of games were pretty close and were disappointing losses. We finally won our first game with a home match against South hampton Academy. We hope to keep our winning streak alive in the next couple of games. The coach of our team is Mr. Kautz , and the team 's record so far is 1 and 6.
Miaae, ScAooe HOHor Rote "2" denotes Honor Roll for Marking Period 2 路S路 for First Semester
S/xtA <;rtla" Montie Anderson (2,S) Tucker Bloom (2,S) Jonathan Brickhouse (2,S) Spencer Hamrick (S) Mark Hasten (2) Tarina Hesaltine (2,S) Katy Kasper (2,S) Jeremy McMahon (2) Kaitlin Meyer (2,S) Morgan Miller (2,S) Steven Rogers (2,S) Evan Schnall (2,S) Elizabeth Ward (2,S) Mary-Margaret Watson (2,S)
S"I/""tA <;rtla" Tracey Best (2,S) Anne Borum (2,S) lauren Costello (2,S) Ryan Delaney (2,S) Sarah Greenlee (2,S) Austin Haas (S) Hannah Huber (S) Katie-Beth Kurilecz (2,S) Kayla Ward (2,S)
S/(lAtA <;rtla" Hunter Bertinguet (2,S) Brittany Bertozzi (2,S) Philip Gianfortoni (2,S) leigh Greene (2,S) Chris Harvey (2,S) Rachael Meyers (2,S) Sarah Newcomb (S) Noah Schnall (2,S) lacy Slabaugh (2,S) Emily Stainback (2) Wallace Young (2,S)
Pagel
Upper School
Hlppen~nlS
Dancing for Tots B, Harry Baron, lP Slide
On December 16, 2000, the Upper School Student Council sponsored a "Toys for Tots" dance in the Dining Commons of the school. In lieu of paid admission , every student who attended was requi red to bring a new toy to contribute to the cause . In casual dress, students danced from 9:00 p.m. to 11 :00 p.m. to music provided by our very own DJ , Evan Weiner. About 50 students attended , and the dance was such a success that the Council plans to hold the dance each year. The toys collected were later donated to the local charitable organization which distributes toys to needy children
Upper
(hooler \wdt'nh dnd facuir) take d break In lilt! hd/h\Cl)
throughout the Richmond area . Of special note, Steward collected more than 1,000 toys schoolwide during the holiday "Toys for Tots" drive.
APEnglish Students VisitUVa B, Palflck Cuneo, En,lIsl1 DeDanmenl CllalfDerson
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On January 12, 2001 , the seniors enrolled in Advanced Placement English- Melissa Beck , Ted Benson , Corbin Brierre, Ellis Harman , and Elizabeth Larustraveled to the University of Virginia to view Alderman Library's special co llection of original
manuscripts, rare books, and letters . Am ong the most notable items they examined were a hand-written illuminated manuscript from the thirteenth century; a page from Gutenberg 's Mazarin Bible (circa 1455), the first book ever printed with movable type; one of only twenty-seven known printer's copies of The Declaration of Independence ; and several letters penned by Thomas Jefferson , including one in which he foretells the American Civil War. Of particular interest were the original manuscripts of such works as Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass, Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises, and William Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury. Complete with proofreading marks, scratch-outs, and insertions , the hand-written copies serve as reminders to students and budding young writers alike that all great works of literature were once works in progress.
Upper ScAooe HOHor Roee
Environmental Club Update
路r denotes Honor Rollfor Mart<lng Penod 2' 'S"for First Semester: "H"for Headmaster:S list (semester GPA of3.15+)
eellllllHtA (iradll Lainie Ashker (2,S) Jennifer Gray (2,S) Lorraine Hawes (2.S,H) Heather Keisch (2,S,H) Sara Kornblau (2,S) Chris Maszaros (2.S) Michelle Shea (2,S) Clay Tharrington (2,S) Laura Weisiger (2.S) 1wlleitA (iradll Harry Baron (2,S) Ted Benson (2,S,H) Corbin Brierre (2,S,H) Sally Gottwald (2,S,H) Ellis Harman (2,S) Elena lantosca (2,S) Andrea Lehmann (2,S,H) Sara Lipsitz (2) Caitlin Rossmoore (2,S,H) Jocelyn Sandberg (2,S,H) Molly Sauer (S) Laura Slabaugh (2) Carly Vilas (2,S)
N IHtA (iradll Hilary Beck (2,S,H) Spencer Best (2,S) Dean Carter (2,S) Faith Gray (2,S) Heather Hajek (2,S) Austin Hamilton (2) Lauren Harris (2,S) Jeremy Karmolinski IS) Coleman Kay (2,S) Christina Nelson (2,S) Megan Robertson (2,S) Amy Strickland (2.S) Kendall Tate (2,S) TIIHtA (iradll Chris Byme (2,S,H) Mary Congdon (2,S) Blake Frostick (2) Eddie Fuller (2,S) Nick Lauher (2) Brett Sandberg (2,S,H) Melissa Shelbume (2,S,H) Allison Strickland (2,S) Ann Yates Wyatt IS)
By Mary STeenlle, Science TBBCll"
The holiday tree pick-up and recycling program was cancelled this year due to difficulty in making arrangements for truck pick-up , but th e cl ub hopes to reinstate this popular program next year. The highway clean-up has been tentatively scheduled for April 7"' and May 12'h. These clean-up events are limited to participants who are over 18 years of age . Each event will require eight volunteers and should requ ire about two hours of each volunteer 's time. The Environmental Club will provide safety orientation and refreshments for the volunteers. If you would like to help , please call Mrs. Greenlee at The Steward School or talk to a member of the club.
1
Special thanks are due to Evan Weiner , who continually donates his time and tru ck to transport the
recycled paper and cans collected at the school to the recycling center.
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Tenth Graders Rock Around the Clock On January 26 , 2001 , the Class of 2003 participated in a "Rockathon " to raise money for Children'S Hospita l and the sophomore class treasu ry. Th e tenth graders each brought a favo rite rocking chair to the Din ing Commons and rocked all night long , from 7:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. Some participan ts even brought television sets , movies, video games , CD players , and munchies to help pass th e time .
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Last year's Rockathon raised over $2 ,600 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation . The Class of 2003 looks forward to tallying the results of this year's hard work!
a Ruc"JOlOn tor (hdrtt ;.
Page 9
SpoUight on: Chris Schall " '",nll, Tumll. English Tllch" One of the benefits of being an employee or a student at The Steward School is having access to the weight room in the new athletic facility. Equipped with state-of-theart cardiovascula r machines, free weights, bench presses, and strength-training machines, the weight room is a hub of activity during the day and after school. Students, faculty, and staff who want to get into shape and athletes involved in conditioning for sports work out together. As impressive as this facility is , what makes it even more inspiring is the positive atmosphere that prevails . Sweating away on the cross trainer, I had the opportunity to observe some of the intera ction between the Spartans who were exercising their way to fitness.
P••• 10
All gyms requ ire spotters for certain weight lifting activities; however, there are spotters who stand by like statues and there are spotters who encourage their partners . Fortunately, we have the second type. Comments like , "Come on , you can do one more rep ," or "Good form ," or "You 're looking good ," are examples of pieces of conversation I was able to hear. And , no one laughed at me when I sat backwards on the chest press machine. Someone is always available to help adjust the Ch,,\ \( hdfl. In ell{' \\(! Ighr mom of Ow nt'l\ \th/('lIt «('mer settings on the equipment, remind you of desk from midnight to 8:00 a.m . your form , or point you in Though he loved the recording the rig ht direction as in business , Chris decided to move on my case. after eight months, mainly because he did not like the lifestyle. During We all know that Chris' time in New York, his father positive atmospheres do to Farmville , Virginia , relocated not just occur; someone where he became the Dean of has to create th em , and Educa tion and Human Services at that someone at Steward Longwood College. Chris moved to is Chris Schall , our to take classes for one Farmville strength and conditioning semester and one summer in coach . After graduating physical fitness and then went to from the State University pursue a masters' degree in Exerof New York at Fredonia , cise Physiology at the University of Chris traveled to the "Big Virginia . Upon completing his Apple" to pursue a career at UVa , Chris worked for degree in sound recording four years at Nova Care , a physical technology. He was an therapy and fitness-training cen ter, employee of the Power in Orange, Virginia . While working Station , a record ing for Nova Care , Chris had the studio in New York that to work with athletes opportunity has recorded some of th e from the public schools and from major names in the music Woodberry Forest, a nearby indeindustry. As the new kid pendent school. Based on his on the block, Chris interaction with these students and worked the reception
l his desire to work with athletes to enhance their performance , Chris accepted a position at Blue Ridge School. During his tenure at Blue Ridge , he taught health and fitness classes and served as hall master for his residence hall. Because he had a desire to teach math as well as to work in the area of physical fitness , Chris decided to "take a leap of faith" and return to Farmville to take math and education classes . When the time came to find employment, he applied to The Steward School on a recommendation from a peer. He sent in his resume and interviewed with Roger Coulombe, who informed him that not only did he have a math position open but that the school was planning to build an Athletic Center that would house a weight room . Who says dreams don 't come true? As Steward School 's strength and conditioning coach , Chris is our resident guru of fitness , and he is the primary reason why the weight room is becoming a center of activity on campus. Although he runs a tight ship for safety reasons , the studen ts, faculty, and athletes who work out there seem to enjoy themselves (well , as much as they can given the hard work that goes into getting in shape). He moves from station to station, providing instructions on procedures and form and offering encouraging words. The man has the patience of Job. Those who are interested in using the weight room must schedule an appointment with Chris , who talks to each participant about hisl her fitness goals, prefere nce of equipment (i.e. free weights versus machines), and current level of fitness. He then designs a program to meet these goals. For example , I am interested in strength training . Chris developed a program that combines weight machines and free weights for me . He escorted me to each station ; showed me the proper form , position , and amount of
weight to use; and explained how to adjust the settings on the machines. As I progress, Chris will upgrade the program . Not only does Chris assist individuals, he also devises conditioning programs for athletic teams. Currently, he is working with the lacrosse team . In a recent conversation with Chris, I asked him what his goals are for the weight room and the strength and conditioning program. He replied , "I would like to see more Chrll uemomlrJIl" Ih~ proper use of the ne\\ treaunlll/\ students, faculty, 10 fel/uw malh I('acher Tudd err. and staff use this facility. In addition , I would like for all athletes to have It's time to the opportunity to participate in dust off those conditioning programs before their hula skirts and season . This might be difficult to do since many of our students play Hawaiian shirts more than one sport." as the annual In addition to serving as strength and conditioning coach , Chris Schall teaches physical education and math in the Upper School and functions as an Upper School advisor. When he has spare time , Chris enjoys hiking , playing bass, and traveling with Sally, his wife of one year. Young . energetic, and enthusiastic educators like Chris Schall make the teaching and learning environment at Steward exciting and help participants become more physically fit.
Parents' Association Auction
Goes Hawaiian Saturday, March 31, 2001 6:00 p.m.
Willow Oaks Country Club Auction booklets available the week of March 19
Featuring a live band and hula dancers! -Festive attire encouragedPalle 11
Deyelopmen~ Ipdl~e Steward Receives $2 Million Anonvmous Gin I, S,nd" D,II1f-SII"ner.
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T he Steward School has been the fortunate recipient of an anonymous gift in the amount of $2 million , one of the largest in its history-second only to the $15 million gift received in September 1997. This recent gift wi ll enable the school to simultaneously build the Library/Administration building and the Paul R. Cramer Center for the Arts. Construction on these two buildings has begun , with the completion of the Library/Administration building scheduled for April 2002. The Cramer Center for the Arts is expected to open in September 2002 . Accord ing to Headmaster Roger Coulombe , "The new library will be the focal point of the campus for students and faculty. It will be the hub of learning at The Steward School. " The library will contain a greatly expanded collection of volumes and will have an audiovisual room , a classroom , two group project rooms , individual workstations, and administrative offices . The entire faculty will be
'his 12 million lilt is the second larlest in the history 01 'he Steward School. h â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ 12
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equipped with state-of-the-art technology. J im Slaba ug h , chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated , "The fact that this gift came in after the successful completion of our recent capital campaign is a clear indication that there is growing support and belief in the initiatives and mission of the school. It is our hope that the gift will inspire many others to be a part of the success of The Steward School. In order to fulfill Steward's vision and to complete the Campus Master Plan , we still have monies to raise ." Remaining projects include the renovation and expansion of Dixon Hall and endowment funds for scholarships, financial aid , technology, faculty development, and campus beautification . Steward raised in excess of $6 million over the past three years to complete the capital campaign , Building Our Future Today. Funds from this campaign have helped build athletic fields , an addition to the Upper School , a state-of-the-art Ath letic Center, a renovated Middle School and Dining Commons , and a drop off/pick up area with additional parking .
Paul R. Cramer Center for the Ans Dedicated I, Ru,en, ',u/,n,.
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On January 5, 2001 , th e entire school met in the newly built Athletic Center for the groundbreaking ceremony for the Paul R. Cramer Center for the Arts. Senior Corbin Brierre spoke of the present arts program at Steward and how nice it will be to have an art gallery for displaying students' and visiting artists' work once the new Center for the Arts is completed . Tayl o r Coll ier '99 , presently a freshman at Shenandoah University, talked about his involvement in the art, music, and theater programs at Steward and how they have influenced his life and his decision to go into the arts professionally. As chairperson of the Fine Arts Department, I was able to express my delight over seeing the center become a reality, especially after having been at Steward for 14
gymnasium , a weight and cardiovascular room , four locker rooms, two classrooms , a training room , athletic offices, and a welcoming entrance foyer complete with concession stand .
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15
The Steward School is grateful to the Marietta McNeill Morgan and Samuel Tate Morgan , Jr. Foundation for their challenge grant of $25,000 to the Athletic Center in February 1999. The Steward School raised the $25 ,000 necessary for the match over a four-month period .
Headma'ler Roger Coulombe and ,enlor basketball player< wt the ribbon at (he Athlellc Center opening
years. Guest speaker Paul Cramer, past headmaster of the Steward School and the man in whose honor the new center will be named , reflected on his years as headmaster and how the arts program has grown over time . He reminded us of some of the alumni who have graced our stage , worked behind the scenes, exhibited their artwork , and placed their marks on the growth of the arts program at Steward . This special event ended with a ceremonial groundbreaking outside surrounded by the entire student body, the faculty, alumni , and friends.
transformation of Steward athletics over the past twenty years. Alumna Mary Harvard Nolde '93 reflected on the impact sports had on her while at Steward . Then Board Member Ray Tate spoke to the grou p about the effect this facility will have on each and every student. The new Athletic Center. which is 44 .300 square feet , contains a varsity gymnasium , a multi-purpose
An anonymous donor has named the Athletic Director's Office in honor of Janet Rice for her enthusiastic commitment to Steward . The weight room has been named in honor of Ray M. Tate for his love of The Steward School and athletics. The James A. Slabaugh family has named the Athletic Center Exterior Plaza in honor of Ian Coddington and Janet Rice for their dedication and commitment to Steward students and the school's athletic program for many years.
Annual Giving Update The 2000-2001 Annual Giving Campaign is well underway to reaching its goal of $175.0001 Steward has already raised $151.527.83 as of February 5. 2001 .
Athletic Center Update B, Sand" DIIIIII-Sbnnlf The new Athletic Center is an incredible addition to The Steward School . The official opening took place on December 5, 2000 . Steward family members gathered in the varsity gymnasium to hear former athletic directors Neil Turnage and Don Steeber and current athletic director Janet Rice talk abou t the
Cash-in-hand Pledge Balance Cash & Pledges
2000-2001 $107.727.83 $43.800.00 $151.527.83
1999-2000 $105.340.66
$36.576.35 $141.917.01
The 2000-2001 Annual Giving Campaign ends on June 30. 2001. If you have any questions regarding Annual Giving or would like to serve as a volunteer. please contact Mary Harvard Nolde '93 at (804) 740-3394 ext. 522 or at mhnolde@stewardschool.orq_
Thank you for your continued support of The Steward School! PI'813
II, Ja"e' "lIe, AIII'e",.I,,",r Our first winter season in the Athletic Center has been a busy one. We currently have seven baske tba ll teams in competition. The varsity boys' team , coached by Jim Duty, and the new JV team , coached by Wallace Inge, are back in the Virginia Commonwealth Conference (VCC). As of the end of January, the varsity team has posted an overall record of 6-7 with a 3-5 VCC record . Leading scorers are Jam iel Allen with 17 points per game (PPG ) and Alex Duty averaging 11 PPG. The JV team is a young group. Three of the five starting players are eig hth graders. Ross Guedri leads all scorers wi th a 14 PPG average while Chris Harvey pu ts in 12 points per game. The varsity girls' team is under the direction of Billy
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Gray. Their reco rd is 7-7, and the record in the League of Independent schools (LIS) Division II is 3-2. Heather Keisch and Faith Gray lead the team in scoring with 12.6 PPG and 7 PPG respectively. The boys' Middle School "A" team is coached by Steve Kautz, and the team captains are Artis Mills, Matt Long , and Kevin Strader. A highlight of the season was Mills' 32-point effort in the 54-40 loss at Richmond Ch risti an. The "B" team is under the direction of Frank Watkins and their best performances were at the Blessed Sacrament-Huguenot Round Robin where they defeated Carmel Christian and Commonwealth Christian.
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The Middle School gi rl s have two teams participating in Collegiate's League. The "An team , coached by Janet Rice , is having a tremendous season . They just captured the Division II Regular Season Championship. The team went undefeated for the
second straight season . They will participate in the Division I tournament. Captains Leigh Greene and Morgan Hutchinson lead the team . Greene leads all scorers with an 11 .7 PPG average while Hutchinson averages 7 points per game from her point guard position . The girls' Midd le School "B" team is under the direction of Jenny Nuckols, and they are participating in Division II I. The varsity girls' soccer team is playing a varsity schedule in the LIS under the direction of Catesby Jones . Once again, we have two cheering squads. Kendall Malone sponsors the Middle School team , while Ronny Hajek coaches the varsity squad . The older group placed second in the Lee Davis Cheering Invitational.
All information included in this article is correct as of January 31 . 2001 . Look for a complete wrap-up of the winter sports season in the next issue of Blue & Gold.
Alumn~ Ac~~on
asked a lot of great questions . Thanks to our alumni for being so generous with their time and wisdom!
Alumni Share Their Wisdom The annual Alumni Panel Discussion was held on January 4, 2001 , in the new Dining Commons. Whitney Frostick '00 , Stephen Paulette '99, Rusty Perkins '99, Whitney Hajek '98 , Cabell Jones '98 , and George Cauble '97 all came back to share how Steward
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"Hooping" It Up!
A big thanks to our alumni panel members:
George Cauble ' 97 .. , University of Virginia Whitney Frostick '00 .. , Radford University Whitney Hajek '98 .. , Syracuse University Cabell Jones '98.. , Hampden-Sydney College Stephen Paulette '99 .. , College of William & Mary Rusty Perkins '99 .. , Virginia Tech
On January 7, 2001 , Steward alumni came out for the annual Alumni Basketball Game in our new Athletic Center. They were amazed by the beautiful new facility! They were so awestruck that Steward's boys' varsity team almost beat them- a/mos/. But the alumni Cahell Jun .. " W/llrne~ Paulelle managed to pull
prepared them for college , They gave great advice on what life in college is really like, For these graduates , the strength of Steward 's writing curriculum helped them the most in college; often they were better prepared than many of their classmates when it came to writing papers. They stressed time management, stating that juggling many extra-curricular activities and playing several sports at Steward had taught them how to balance demands on their time , What was some of the best advice they could pass along to their fellow Spartans? "Go to class! " The seniors and juniors really listened to them and
out a respectable win in overtime after a great game , Keith Fairly '81 , 80 Steele '87 , and Taylor Steele '85, all helped to make the alums' win possible . Quite a few young alumni also showed up to cheer them on , including Scott Howard '97 , Shelley Giglio '99, and Ruth Williams '99, A big thanks to the varsity team for loaning the alumni players their navy blue "away" jerseys, Several alumni said it felt like the "good ole' days ,"
I/lImn. relurneci II) S,p\\arcl fur rhl' annuJI AlumnI Ba,l.e,hall Gam!' on 'Jlluaf) - JOO I
Page 15
IT'S TIME FOR THE STEWARD SCHOOL ALUMNI AZALEA SALE 2001
Friday, April 6 12:00 noon - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 7 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m Three-gallon containers- $8.00 each Over 1000 plants to choose from! Sponsored by The Steward School Alumni Association. Contact Mary Harvard Nolde' 93 at 740- 3394 ext. 522 or mhnolde@stewardschool.org for more details.
• •• • ••• • • • • •• • • • • • • • • • • • •• •• • • • • • •• • • • • ~ . ~ Camp Steward: • • ~ . ' . . ~ Theatre Camps: • • ~, Art Camps. • • , Golf Camp : • • • Basketball Camp : • • • Photography : • • Rock, Scissors, Paper : • • Kindergarten Play Camp : •
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• • • •
Desktop Publishing Keyboarding Confidently Summer Book Club Public Speaking Government
l
~our
sl.hoo\ spirit'
Visit the ~£.hoo\ ~tore for a great se\e£.tion of ~te\tlard £.asua\ dothing. ath\eti£. \tIear. hats. and mu£.h more!
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• • • • • • • • •• • • • • • Don't miss out on the fun! • • • June 25· August 3,2001 • • • • • • • For more information or to request a • • • • brochure. contact Patrick Cuneo. • • Director of The Summer Experience. • • at 740-3394 ext.S3S. • • • • • •• • • •• •• •••• •• • • • •• • ••••• ••••• Pile 16
'5how
::rust a fe\tl popu\ar items avai\ab\e ONLY at rhe ~te\tlard ~£.hoo\ ~tore:
Vi,n,,\\lealeIS .,se"\\ ,a,s Sw eatshirts
Urnbrellas
Stadium b\ankets
AS
MOMS'
P" 'rts lapllt pi,. GO\' S", s
,.sbirts
~tore
hours: Monda1 - Frida1. 10 :30 AM -
1:00
PM
Top left: Zach Corey (2nd grade) Top r ight: Bennett Camp-Crowder and Channing Rives (Kindergarten) Left: Lindsey Greene (1st grade) Bottom left: Hayden Hodges (3rd grade) Bottom r ight: Kaici Ell is (4th grade) Back cover: Chaviess Smith-Harrison , Sarah Hargrove, and Ab igail Hamrick (4th grade)
The Steward School 11600 Gayton Road Richmond, Virginia 23233
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PAID Richmond, VA Pamit No.89S