The Steward School
STEWARD WELCOMES A NEW GENERATION
Mother & Daughter Share the Benefits of Steward Steward has entered a new phase in its growth-second generation students! Sarah-Gray Avery, daughter of Steward alumna Jane-Gray Uones) Avery, Class of 1982, and husba nd Rusty, entered Cheri Wolff's kindergarten class this fall. When asked how the first two weeks of school were going, Sarah-Gray and her mother were all smi les. Although having some initial reservations about 8:00 to 3:00 kindergarten day Uane-Gray admitted this was more a factor of "mother missing daughter"), she has al ready observed the benefits of the day 's structured activities for her ch ild. SarahGray comes home bubbling with excitement about all the new and different things she is learni ng and the friends she is making. We talked with Sarah-Gray on the playground. Dashing between the slide and the tree house, she managed to take a moment to let us know that reading, and of course playground time, were two favorite activities at Steward. She was surrounded by friends, most of whom she had just recently met at school, and a pause to give her teacher a qui ck hug clearly indicated she had adjusted well to her home away from home.
CONNECTION
In this issue Sept. 1996 Mother & Daughter Share the Benefits of Steward ........... 1 80 New Students Bring Enrollment to New level ........ 2 Soaring Into September ........... 3 Introducing a New "Spirit" ...... 3 Bulging at the Seams .. . and Thriving On It ................... 4 13 Newcomers Join Stewards faculty and Staff ...... 6 A Busy Beginning ................ ..... 9
let the Bidding Begin! ........... 10 Getting "Hooked' on the Internet ........................... 11 Off to a Running Start ........... 11
Campus Changes with Growth .................................. 11 Answer the Call for Annual Giving ....................... 12
Whe n asked what factors drew her to Steward, this time as a parent, Jane-Gray was quick to stress the School's low student-to-teacher ra- afternoon on Steward's playground. tio (better than most nursery schools) and its focus on the individual learning styles of its students. She likes the reinforcement of values taught at home, "children being encouraged to be kind to each other. " The diversity of the student body, the support network for helping a child deal with the ups and downs of youth (inside and outside school), and the fact that Sarah-Gray can "very much be her own person and not a cookie-cutte r child"
Success in 1996-looking Aheadto 1997 ....................... 13 Campus Active with Summer Experience ................. .. .... ..... 13 '96 Graduates Move forward ................................ 15
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The Blue 8. Gold Connecrfon is published for The Sl:f."waro ScflOOl Community
Slephen M Stad:housc Headmaster
(continlled on next pase)
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were among the many reasons the Averys chose Steward for their child . Steward may have changed since mother graduated in 1982 ("we didn't even have a playground on campus then"), but the side effects are the samelasting friendships, a sense of belonging, and individual attention. These and the many other assets of our School will no doubt serve Sarah-Gray well through her years at Steward. FROM THE HEADMASTER'S DESK
80 New Students Bring Enrollment to New Level Welcome back! School is in full swing and inside this edition of The Blue & Gold Connection is all the news on the changes on campus. There is much to report -new students, new staff and new courses and activities. These changes made for a very busy summer of planning, but the effort was well worth it. By every indication we have had a great start to the school year.
The academic and extracurricular programs at Steward are growing as well. In the Upper School, there are new classes available in photography, psychology, keyboard, Spanish and Honors Symposium. In the Middle School, Spirit team competitions will become part of activity period. In the Lower School, the faculty will be expanding and enriching new language arts program with the incorporation of a new reading series and special training . Finally, during this year the faculty will be working together to improve instruction. Dr. Ted Forte, education professor of Old Dominion University, conducted seminars with the full faculty during orientation week fOCUSing on the characteristics and mechanics of effective teaching. He will be working with the administration and faculty throughout the semester instructing faculty in observation techniques. The goal is to establish a "peer coaching" network which allows our teachers to give one another productive feedback. We are looking forward to a great school year ahead. I know that as you read this edition of The Blue & Cold Connection you will conclude with me that Steward is not only getting bigger, it is getting better!
Sleward opened with a record enrollment of 2 79 students. In all, there are 80 new students on campus. The largest increase was in the Upper School which has 15 more students than last year. Over the past two years, the School's enrollment has grown an average of 10% against an independent school national average of 2-3%. During this time, the Upper School has grown from roughly 60 students to close to 100. More students enrich the School enabling us to provide a greater variety of programs and activities. In addition, thirteen new faculty and staff members have joined us for the new school year. Most of the additions are the result of growth, adding three new sections (Grades 1, 4, 5) at the Lower School and large classes in Grades 8-12. These talented professionals bring teaching expertise, experien ce, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to our classrooms. Among our new administrators are Charlene Wilton as Director of the Learning Resource Center, Weezie Wiltshire as Head of the Lower School and Sandra Dollar as Director of Development. Page 2
Brad Souder and Sam Baronian prepare for t heir safety dUlles on Steward's opening day.
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!he Upper School has grown from 65 to 98 students In years, providing new opportunities in both cUrriculum and extra-curricular activities. New course offerings this year in the Upper School include Psychology, team-taught by Laraine Brumberg and Liz Shupe, two photography classes being taught by Rugene Paulette, and two independent study keyboarding classes being supervised by Adam Cohen. One course, formerly called Writing Portfolio, has been renamed Creative Writing to better reflect the content of the course. The Upper School choral music class has changed its name from Girls' Ensemble to Chorus to reflect its co-ed composition this year. Honors Symposium, open to selected students in grades nine and ten, continues the study of heroes begun last year. This year, in addition to the periodic off-campus symposia, the course now meets two days per week during the regular school day.
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Because of the add ition of sections in some su bject ~reas, we have added two part-time faculty, Denise Laycock in the science department and Melanie Rodriguez in the foreign language department (see separate article on new faculty). In order to better utilize our computers and expand our computer program, we now have two instructors, Adam Cohen handling classroom instruction, and Mitra Palmer, working part-time as a resource for teachers.
Carolina), jessica Sizemore (from Hermitage High Schoo~), and Amanda Taggart (from Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania), We welcome the entire ninth grade to Upper School, both returning Steward students and those new to the school. New is Katie Drzal from Short Pump Middle School, joining her brother Chris who is a member of the junior class. Also new to the Class of 2000 are Adam Binder from Fork Union, Chip Cosby from Henrico County schools, Anna Cox from Hanover County schools, Jason Lewis from Gooch!and County, Brian McTamaney from Thompson Middle School in Richmond, Justin Mehaffey from Collegiate School, Andrew Rankin from Potomac, Maryland, Eric Sternberg from Byrd Middle School, Melvin Todd from Chesterfield County Schools, and Caroline Vend from Texas. We are pleased to welcome all of these new students into the Steward family. We look forward to the positive impact they will have both in class and in extra-curricular activities
Perhaps the biggest news in the Upper School, however, is not the curriculum and staff changes but rather the addition of new students at all grade levels. In grade 12 we welcome Heidi Arista, our American Field Service exchange student from Cancun, Mexico. joining her as a new student in grade 12 is Caleb Nugent, who recently moved to Richmond from West Virginia, and Brandon Sullivan, a former student who left us in june, 1995, and has returned from North Carolina to complete his senior year with us. In grade 11 we welcome back Brannan Heywood (from Douglas Freeman). Also new to grade 11 is Eliza Chenault, who joins her brother Brooking, who was new in grade 8 last year. joining the junior class from Henrico County schools are both Stephen Harler and David Towberman. Coming from Raleigh, North Carolina, is David Fixman . Grade 10 has also grown with the addition of Michelle Giglio (from Douglas Freeman), Erin Hunter (from Potomac, Maryland), Timothy Ligon (from Collegiate Schoo!), Clay McElween (from Aiken, South BLUE
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Upper School students Chris Hines, Miriam Baron, Ifrah Nur, and Bruce I alone settle back into classroom roul inc.
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Upper School Class Activities All four Upper School classes have elected officers and are beginning their planning for the year. Congratulations to the following students: Grade 12
President Vice-President Treasurer Secretary
Lain ie Haskell Brian McGehee Shawn Lew is Rose Wolff
Grade 11
President Vice President Treasurer Secretary
Meghan Hajek Sara Ross moore Camberly Pearson Ned Trice
Grade 10
President Vice President Treasurer Secretary
Matt Gottwald Stephen Pau lette Fahad Qu reshi Michael Maszaros
President Vice President Treasurer Secretary
Jason Lewis Carter Eberly Stewart Felvey Melvin Todd
Grade 9
SCA Officers for the 1996-97 school year are: Rose Wolff President Vice President Lainie Haskell Treasurer Shawn Lewis Meghan Hajek Secretary This year we hope that each Upper School class will have several social activities and become involved in a community service project as well. In addition, each of the classes has adopted a Lower School class and will be doing activities with their paired class as follows: Grades 12 and K, Grades 11 and 4. Grades 10 and 2, and Grades 9 and 3. This year the student government is under the sponsorship of faculty member Leslie Roughley. Leslie 's extensive experience with the Richmond Jaycees (including her leadership of the organization last year and her role in the state organization this year) make her well qualified to guide the students in the process and co ntent of their programs for the year. She is particularly well-suited to help them become more focused on community service.
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FACULTY AND STAFF
13 Newcomers Join Steward1s Faculty and Staff With growth of our student body comes the need for additional faculty and staff members at The Steward School. This year we welcome thirteen new employees to The Steward School family. We asked them to tell us a little about themselves and perhaps share a favorite quote. Here's what we learned:
Susan At kinson (Grade 1) Susan joins the Lower School faculty after five years as a teacher at Riversi de School. Prior to teaching, investment banking, IRS co llections, and theatre box office experience were her focus. Susan earned her B.A. degree in English at RandolphMacon College. Sons Will (grade 6) and Jimmy (grade 5) are among our Steward student newcomers. Spare time activities include bicycling-she took on a metri c hundred during the first weekend in September. Before the school rush began, Susan and her sons enjoyed a whirlwind trip to Hershey, Pennsylvania, to take in the chocolate factory, caverns, and amusement park. They also hiked Crabtree Falls. Her favorite quote: "Seek to understand, not to be understood"-S. Covey.
Ke rry Blum (Grade 5) Originally from Boston, Kerry came to Richmond in 1987 and taught middle school math at Richmond Montessori School before joining the Steward faculty. She earned her BA degree in English literature at the University of Massachusetts and her M .Ed. in special education from Boston College. Kerry and her B LUE
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husband, Joel, have two daughters, Courteney and Anna , and a so n, Aaron . T hey are also foster parents to Aida , a Bosnian child. Singing with the Richmond Symphony chorus, reading, photography, and classical mu sic were all listed as specia l interests, and Kerry e njoyed a "wo rking vacatio n" at a children's camp in northern Maine for a month prior to the start of school. Her favorite quote: "We are responsible for our own happiness."
Adam Cohen (Computer) No stranger in the halls of Steward, Adam served as a substitute teacher and part-time Lower School computer .t teacher during the 1995-96 school year. This year, Adam teaches computer at all grade levels, as well as coaches the Middle School soccer team. A graduate of the UniverSity of Hartford, Adam spent three years coach ing lacrosse before joining Steward's faculty.
Patrick Cuneo (Middle School English) A recent graduate of the University of Virginia (B.A. and M.A. in English and Italian), Patrick originally hails from North Carolina; however, prior to landing in Virginia, Patrick lived in seven other states and Riccione, Italy. He and his bride, Kelley, BLUE
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enjoyed a Hilton Head hon eymoon in June and now relish special times with their dog, Maggie. Patrick also cites baseball, hiking, mou ntain biking, and cooking as spare ti me activities. He has also taught Italian conversation at UVA and worked at a Charlottesvi lle publication.
Lynn Define (English) Ly nn gets the prize for longest faculty co mmute to Steward as she and husband, Bill, reside in Louisa with their two cats, Franny and Zoey. Lynn earned her B.A. (English and Philosophy) and M.A. (E ngli sh) degrees from Boston College and the College of William & Mary, respectively, and taught at Stuart Hall in Stanton, Virginia. Aside from interests in reading, ten nis, swimming, golf, cooking, and gardening, Lynn is busy planning a summer 1997 trip to France. Her favorite quote: "A room without books is like a body without a soul" - Cicero.
Sandi Dollar (Director of Development) A native New Englander (from Barrington, Rhode Island), Sandi spent most of her pre-college years in New Jersey before coming to the University of Richmond where she earned her B.A. in In ternational Studies and German. Prior to joining Steward's administrative staff, she was the Educational Manager for Junior Achievement in Richmond . Most of her spare time is now taken up with training a new golden retriever puppy, Copper, but other special in terests include tennis, road biking, baking, crossPage 7
stitching, and traveling. Her most recent vacation of note ~as a Pacific Northwest trip taken last year. Her favorite quotes: "Live life to its fullest" and "Make the world your classroom."
Katherine Goodpasture (Grade 4) Katherine has taken the internalional route to Steward. Born in Scotland, she also lived in Portugal and Denmark before making her way to the USA. Katherine earned her B.A. degree at Davidson College, and J. D. and M.T. (Elementary Education) degrees at the University of Richmond. Prior to taking on the fourth grad~ class at Steward, she practiced law, wor~ed at Richmond Montessori School, and tutored ~or five years .at Fox Elementary. Reading, crochetmg~ and .walkmg her dog, Sophie, are among her favOrite thmgs to do for relaxation. Katherine also reported . that this past summer included a great time with friends and family at Holden Beach in North Carolina.
Denise Laycock (Science) Having lived in Oklahoma and Texas, Denise and her husband, Bill, are newcomers to the Richmond area. They are proud parents of daughters Laura (10) and Melinda (6). She earned her B.S. degree in biology at Texas Wesleyan University and taught in the Arlington , Texas, public school system prior to joining Steward 's faculty. An avid Girl Scouter Denise also enjoys crafts, bicycling, and playing with her kids. Page 8
Betty Marshall (Mathematics) Although Betty was born in Richmond, she lived in Wilson, North Carolina, for 30 years (and taught 22 years in the public schools) prior to returning and joining the Steward math team. Her husband, Tom, is attending Union Theological Seminary-a prior college professor who is now beginninga career in ministry-and they boast four children and two grandchildren. Betty earned her B.S. and MA degrees in mathematics at Mary Washington College and East C~rolina Uni~ersity, respectively, and enjoys crossstltchmg, se.wmg, and reading. When asked if any plans were m the future for a great trip or vacation, Betty said that "beginning this new life in Richmond is a pretty big 'trip' for us."
Melanie Rodriguez (Spanish) Having tutored here at Steward since 1990, Melanie is certainly no stranger. This year she assumes an additional role as parttime Spanish teacher. She and husband John have three son s, Marc ' (28), Brett (24), and Steven (16). Melanie earned her BA degree in psychology from Belknap College. She lived in Puerto Rico for 21 years (and was Coordinator of English as a Second Language at the Caribbean Schoo!), and is busy planning a trip back for winter vacation. When asked about a favorite quote, she said, "My license plate says it all-'3 Hijos' (three sons in Spanish)." BLUE
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Robb Stottlemyer (Science) A newcomer to Steward's science department, Robb previously taught fourth grade at The Benjamin School in West Palm Beach, Florida. He earned his BA degree and Elementary Education Instru ctiona l Certificate at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in communications and rheto ric. Robb enjoys " listening to lots of music, reading lots of books, running, hiking, and mountain biking." He already has next summer mapped out with a tour of Washington state, Oregon, and Northern California. His favorite quote: "Work to become, not to acquire."
Charlene Wilton (Director of Learning Resource Center) Having earned her BA in English and M.Ed. in Special Education at Longwood College and v.C.U., Charlene was an educational consultant prior to joining the Steward leam. She and her husband , David , have a son, Benjamin (5), and are anxiously awaiting a trip to Romania to pick up Benjamin's adopted sister. Sailing, cooking, and reading are favorite spare time activities for Charlene.
Weezie Wiltshire (Head of Lower School) Weezie was Supervisor of Student Teaching at the University or Richmond prior to assuming leadership of Steward's Lower School. She earned her B.S. (History) degree at Salem College and her M.Ed. (Reading) at the University of Richmond. She and BLUE
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husband Buck have two children, Will (22) and Mary (15). An ardent reader, Weezie also enjoys sports and travel. She and her husband enjoyed a fantastic trip to London last year in celebration of their 25th wedding anniversary. Her favorite quote: "Everyone is entitled to a bad day; when you have two bad days in a row, look ins id e yourself." PARENTS' ASSOCIATION
A Busy Beginning The first weeks of the new school year are already behind us. BOY, have we been busy! The chi ldren, teachers, staff, and parents all seem to be adjusting very nicely to their schedules. With the increased enrollment, additional classrooms for several grades, and the many new faculty and staff members, I am looking forward to capitalizing on the enthusiasm these great new add itions bring to our school. Judging from the abundance of interest finders that have been returned, I can tell how anxious everyone is to make this Steward School's best year ever. The Parents' Association barely took a breath during the summer, with many volunteers busy preparing for September. The library took on a new look with the fantastic " I Spy" thematic decorations of Sharon Wilton. We thank her for a tremendous job. Ann Maszaros closed out the Used Book Sale with additional "recycled " textbooks being sold during student orientation. Because of her long hours and hard work, the Parents' Association benefited from a very profitable sa le this year. Thanks to Sally Newcomb, chairperson of our Teacher Hospitality Committee, and her volunteers for providing such a delicious "welcome back to Page 9
set the mood for a wonderfully relaxi ng evening with new and old friends. The decorating and caterin g talents of Linda Proffitt and Nancy Gottwald are second to non e!
Shown above are new Steward parenls a!lending the recent reception in the" honor. From lert: Wendy Marino (la ch, kindergarten); Dale & joanne Ross (Brooks, K, & Hunter, grade 1); Ginger Chalkley, 1st grade teacher; Cheri Wolff, K leacher; and Elizabeth Hargrove (Sarah, KJ.
And ... this is just the beginning for 1996-97. The Parents' Association is an active link between the parents, faculty, and administrative staff at The Steward School. We work to help the faculty create an environment in w hich our children are eager to learn and to help raise some of the funds necessary to provide those extra " perks" to enhan ce their educational ex perience. Volunteer opportunities are endless, and your time is always greatly appreciated. The Steward School Directory co ntains a list of Parents' Association committees-feel free to call any of the officers or those co mmittee chairperso ns listed for additional informati on on a specific co mmittee of your choice! Comm unicate with you r ch ild, your child's teachers, the School, and other parents. Read the School publi cations-The Blue & Cold, division newsletters, special bulletins-don't miss any of our news! The Parents' Association needs your help to be successful. I look forward to working with you to make this our best year ever for our children at Steward.
Marykay St ainback President, 1996-97 AUCTION Saied and Fereshteh jarvandi, new parents (Sarah, grade 2, and Nlma, grade 7), lalk with Catcsby Jones at the Parellts' Reception.
school" luncheon for the faculty and staff on the first day of school. Mia Norton , Karen Sears , and Connie Martenstein have spent countless ho urs organizing the School Store. Staffed by volunteers, the store is open at lunch on ly until more volunteers become available for add itional hours. In addition to school supplies and Steward logo-adorned cloth ing, the store offers bagels with cream cheese, yogurt, a variety of low-fat snacks, and Good Humor bars. Non-carbonated beverages such as juices and Nestea are also available. Classes and/or clubs will be selling lunch items to earn money for their respective projects throughout the year. I hope you were able to enjoy the beautiful Parents' Reception on the evening of September 12th at the Tuckahoe Woman's Club. Karen Sears, Reception Chairperson, and her very talented committee Page 10
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Let the Bidding Begin! Summer brought no respite in planning for the Parents' Association's largest annual fundraiser. The auction assumes a new spot on the school year ca lendar in the fall, November 16. This year's event will be held at the Westwood Racquet Club. Appropri ately dubbed " In the Nick ofTime," the auction will feature clockworks from ou r Lower School artists as well as a spectacular hand-crafted grandmother clock built by Steward parent David Maszaros and creatively decorated by Middle and Upper School artists. And ... the auction is bei ng held just in time for your holiday buying, home-decorating, evenings out, and vacation planning. With the many wond erful items being offered, the bidding promises to be hearty and hefty! Don't miss the opportunity to join in the fun and support Stewa rd. BLUE
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Thanks to Barbara Jean Long, the Chairman of this year's Auction, for her diligent work to coordinate this function. She is being assisted by the following com mittee members Treasu rer/Reservations Live Auction Silent Auction Decorations
Art/Children's Projects Display Auction Booklet
Ann Maszaros Sally Newcomb Lynne Fischer Carolyn Kendig Rachel Davenport Linda Proffitt Janet Bisger Sarah Smith Susan Greene Diedre Turner Sue Drzal
If you have friends or neighbors who would like to receive an invitation to this year's event, be sure to co ntact Marion Baronian at 750-1714, who is in charge of addressing invitations. COMPUTER CONNECTION
Getting IIHooked ll on the Internet In the next few weeks, Steward will be hooked-up to the Internet. The project which has been in the works since last sp ring will network all the computers in Dixon Hall providing ~:::z:::==!, access to the computer labs and the library. The improvements will provide new opportunities not just for the computer program, but the entire academic program. The School will have the capacity to access the internet simultaneously at thirty different sites throughout the building enabling us to have entire classes utilize the internet at once. The resources that will be available to our teachers and stude nts will be significant. A comprehensive computer curriculum incorporating new opportun ities provided by the internet was w ritten over the summer by Mitra Palmer. This year, Mitra will serve as a resource for classroom teachers using the computer in their class. She will spend time throughout the year with each academic department A copy of this curriculum is available through our computer department. BLU E & GOLD CONNECTION
ATHL ETICS DEPARTMENT
Teams Off to a Running Start While many students were sleeping late and enjoying the last couple of su mmer weeks in August, many Steward varsity athletes were up and at 'em for pre-school practice. The varsity soccer team, coached by Ian Coddington and Robb Stottlemyer, began the 1996 seaso n with a 7-0 victory over Grove Avenue in the 10th annual Steward Invitational. Hurricane Fran caused the cancellation of the championship game against Belmead. The team, led by senior tri-captains George Cauble, Shawn Lewis, and Sam Proffitt, sho uld have a very successfu l season in the Virginia Commonwealth Conference (VCC) . The varsity field hockey team, many young and new to the sport, opened the season at the Trinity Invitational Tournament. Although losing to eventual champions Trinity, the Spartans captured the Consolation title by defeating Virginia Episcopal School in overtime. Two players were named to the all-tou rn ament team: eighth grader Laura Slabaugh and senior Lainie Haskell. The 1996 squad elected Jessica Gray and Lainie Haskell as their team captains. The Middle School soccer team, coached by Adam Cohen, began their games in mid-September. As of press time, the team had a record of 1-3. Our cross country runners are functioning as a team this year, upgrading from the club status of last year. The squad, coached by Todd Serr, has eight team members. BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Campus Changes with Growth In addition to a number of new student faces on campus, you may also notice a number of campus changes. Passing motorists are now able to see our athletic field due to the selective thinning of the woods along Gayton Road . Numerous positive com ments Page 11
have been heard since we opened the "green curtain" which has blocked the view of our campus for quite some time. Our new portable classroom trailer was delivered in mid-August and a constructio n crew led by Vince Narron, father of Dr. Jill Narron, a 1985 Steward graduate who is cu rrently a pediatrician serving in the U. S. Air Force, built the deck and handicapped ramp in time for the opening of school. We are also indebted to a current Steward parent/grandparent, Adrian Howard, for spearheading the effort to get this work accomplished. Among the parents we were able to identify who assisted us by weeding some flower beds and bringing in the beautiful planters for our entrance area were t he President of our Parents' Association, Marykay Stainback, and Carrie Camp. We are indebted to Marykay and Carrie, along with the others who worked incognito. A dozen hybrid daylily plants were contributed to the School by Andre Viette Farm and Nursery in Fishersville, Virginia.
Traffic and Carpools Most of you are aware that some initial steps have been taken to assist motorists at the corner of Ryandale and Gayton Roads. A handout was prepared and distributed which listed several areas which needed to be addressed . In the event you did not receive one and will be occasionally, or even regularly, driving carpool, please take note of the following guidelines which will enhance traffic safety here at Steward ... Please .•. do not make U-turns in front of the campus, go down Ryandale Road to the next intersection, Baypines Lane, and make a U-turn there. Please do not park along Ryandale Road where the signs indicate "No Parking Here To Corner". Please do not park at anytime in the Fire Lane in the dropoff area in front of the Lower School. Please do not allow you r child, or the children you are picking up to cross Ryandale Road unaccompanied by an adult, or to cl imb over the wooden fence along the school property. Please do not double park along Ryandale Road. Your cooperation in observing these rules will assist us greatly in safely moving the carpool traffic onto Gayton Road. If you have any suggestions or comments, please call the Director of Facilities, Ross Hotchkiss, at 740-9544.
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Decals for the New Steward Bus No! We do not have a new bus. The "new" bus is no longer the all-white bus purchased early in 1996; it now sports The Steward School identity in light reflective decals on both sides, as well as front and rear. Russell Perkins, a Steward Trustee, installed the new decals when he took our bus into Capital GMC/Freightliner for servicing. We are grateful to Russell for all that he does for the School. D EVELOPMENT O FFICE
Answer the Call for Annual
Giving The 1996-97 Annual Giving campaign officially kicked off on September 24th with a breakfast for this year's volunteers. Our annual Phonathon begins on October 16th. We hope you have received the Annual Giving Report from 1995-96. Steward's goal of $1 00,000 was met and surpassed with a final total of $103,319. With the exceptional giving of last year's campaign, Steward's Development Committee has set this year's achievable goal at $125,000. Listed below are this year's Annual Giving leaders:
Annual Giving Co-Chairs:
Ferd Baruch Ruble Hord
Annual Giving Division Heads: Lower School Ray Tate Middle School Jim Slabaugh Upper School Tom Robinson Grade Captains: Denise Kasper Kindergarten Nan Thurston 1st Grade Bobby long 2nd Grade Carrie Camp 3rd Grade luke Newcomb 4th Grade Dick Turner 5th Grade Dudley Stainback 6th Grade Barry Kornblau 7th Grade Russell Perkins 8th Grade c.c. Satterfield 9th Grade Diane Goldberg 10th Grade Tim Pearson 11th Grade Adrienne Hines 12th Grade BLUE
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LOWER SCHOOL REPORT
Soaring Into September The Lower School is off to a smooth start for 1996-97. Our three new faculty members, Mrs. Atkinson, Mrs. Blum, and Ms. Goodpasture, have been warmly received by teachers, parents, and students. They bring to us fresh ideas and approaches to teaching . The "veteran" faculty members contribute their stability, consistency, and solid teaching skills. We are a unique Lower School because of our class size, and we are proud of our ability to meet the needs of each individual learner. The Lower School Student Council elections were held on Friday, September 20. An exciting week of campaigning with posters, flyers, and stickers culminated in our Friday assembly where the candidates gave their speeches. The Lower School teachers and guests were impressed with the context of the speeches and the poise of the candidates. The results of the election were : President, Ida Henley; Vice Presid ent, Artis Mills; Secretary, Jamie Satterfield; Treasurer, Sam Baronian. Congratulations to the winners and all the candidates for an outstanding job. In upcoming editions of Th e Blue & Gold, you will receive more detailed information about our programs and plans. We have already been in contact with the Science Museum and Maymont Foundation to be involved in activities with these two organizations. Our usual field trips to various destinations (Pumpkin Farm and Jamestown) are being joined by new field trips we are planning. In the area of curriculum, the Lower School faculty will be involved in a series of Monday afternoon workshops to enlarge and enrich our Language Arts program . Emphasis will be on the "scope and sequence" of grades K-5 in order that decoding and spelling skills are covered in the appropriate grades. Again, our unique situation of one teacher per nine to twelve children enables us to not only meet the needs of a child with learning challenges, but also to enrich the child with gifted abilities.
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Welcome New Lower School Students Kindergarten Kristy Aspey Keri Drummond Sally Hargrove Eliza Leitch Alex Lutterbein Cally McGowan Luciana Rivera J.B. Shaver Sarah Young
Sarah-Gray A very Chesley Goodstein Christine Kasper Josie Long ZachMarino Alex McMillan Brooks Ross Elliott Wortham
Gradel Molly Duke John Lewis
Hunter Ross Kelsey Taylor
Grade 2 Evan Arikian Racine Faye
Sarah Jarvandi Katie Kasper
Grayson Goodstein
Steven Rogers
Grade 3 Harper Early
David Parrish
Grade 4 Nathan Jamerson Jeff Kern
Fernando Rivera
GradeS Jimmy Atkinson
Kristin Parrish
MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT
Introducing a New "Spirit" The Middle School is organizing Spirit Teams for the school year. The program is designed to enhance Middle School morale and spirit as well as to bring about a greater sense of Middle School community. Patrick Cuneo, new Middle School teacher, is the Spirit Teams Tzar/Commissioner! Another prim~ry purpose of the Spirit Teams is to give .students an I~足 formal opportunity to interrelate With students In other grades. The four teams, Blue, Gold, Red, Green, will be organized across grade levels. Page 3
As teams compete over the year, they will compi le points depending on the event results. Each team has selected its co-captains, and the teams will have competition in many different areas: 3 on 3 basketball, soccer, fie ld hockey, chess, checkers, scrabble, spelling bees, mock Jeopardy contests, etc. There will also be po ints earned for academic achievements like grade point average. Teams can also lose points for ru les violations, detention, and unexcused tardies. There will be three competition periods : end of first semester, end of third quarter, and end of year. Students wi ll wear their team T-shirts on Fridays, the T-shirts being the color of their Spirit Team. Three new faculty are heavily involved in the Middle School. Patrick Cuneo, Rob b Stottlemyer, and Adam Cohen are active ly involved in their teaching, coaching, and Spirit Teams, and their impact on the students has been postitive. The Midd le School has already been on the road, taking the following trips: Grade 8, September 18, Westmoreland State Park; Grade 6, October 2, Maymont; and Grade 7, October 4, Luray Caverns. Middle Schoolers
Another new program in the process of development is the Middle School Distinguished Guest Series. The program will bring various well-known artists, performers, politicians, athletes, writers, academicians to camp us for assemblies. The intention is to have one guest per month. The goal is to bring the wider world to our students, to broaden their horizons beyond the campus of Steward-or even Rich-
Middle School Students New to Steward Grade 6
Grade 7
Will Atkinson Mary Congdon Maurice Finnegan Leora Rothenberg Holland Scott David Sizemore Juliana Sumner Ann Yates Wyatt
Taylor Brewer Eliza Bul lock Warren George Cora Hatherley NimaJarvandi Shelia Mogetz Mary Patterson
GradeS Marshall Felvey Roland West David Wood
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gec chelf lockers "in order' for che school ycar ahead.
mond. Sandy Shaw has taken on the responsibility of organizi ng the program. We look forward to an exciting and exhilarating year. UPPER SCHOOL REPORT
Bulging at the
Seams ... and Thriving On It "Let's have a combined Middle and Upper School Assembly in the auditorium tomorrow?" "Wait a minute? Will we all fit?" " Before we set aside a room for a class meeting, we need to know if there are enough chairs in the room." "Ca n we interview a prospective student?" "O nly if we can work out an appropriate schedule because some classes are closed because of class size." Conversations such as these are the by-product of the exciting growth in the Upper School this year. B LUE
& G O LD CONNECTION
Each grade will be represented by at least two volunteers per grade to support the parent phonathons. The phonathon dates are as follows : Wednesday & Thursday Monday - Thursday
October 16 & 17 October 21-24
If anyone is interested in being a part of any of these exciting evenings, please contact Sandi Dollar or Sue Drzal in the Development Office at 740-3394.
Gearing Up for Steward's 25th Anniversary There will be plenty to celebrate in 1997 when Steward will reach its 25th year of educational excellence. Already in the planning phase are several events to highlight this milestone in the history of Steward. The Development Office will keep you posted on this exciting time as Steward moves forward. ADMISSION OFFICE
Success in 1996-Looking Ahead to 1997 A big warm WELCOME to all of Steward's new families. What a pleasure it was to work with you throughout the admission process, and we know you will find your educational experience at Steward to be challenging and rewarding.
Those attending were capt ivated by the Fine Arts Ca mp prodUClion ' Oobbysox and Ducktails' .
BLUE
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GOLD CONNECTION
or
Already looking ahead to 1997-98, we are busy again in the Admission Office. It's time for the Class of 2010 to begin the application process. We will be hosting a luncheon/workshop for nursery school directors and teachers in October at which time they will be given materials about Steward as well as materials for their classrooms. If you know of any potential kindergarten families, give them our name. We are also in the beginning stages of creating a Web Page on the World Wide Web in order that potential families and alumni can discover all the happenings at Steward . Web address to follow soon! SUMMER EXPERIENCE
'96
Campus Active with Summer Experience "We had planned to do one session but had to go back for more!"; "Richmond's best kept secret"; lithe staff was extremely professional, well-organized-top-notch"; "great introduction to Steward School" are just a sampling of the written comments received when parents of students were questioned about their children's activities during the 1996 Steward School Summer Experience. In addition to the traditional day camp and academic and enrichment programs, the Summer Experience's newest program, the Fine Arts Camp, introduced campers from the metro area to the talents of the Steward School Fine Arts Department. Watching 111 children engaged in learning, adventure, excitement, and fun was a thrill for all of those involved. No program, however, can be a success without the efforts and support of many individuals. Brenda Turner, Summer Camps and Programs Coordinator, extends special thanks and congratulations to the following counselors, instructors, tutors, and staff who made the Summer Experience "the highlight of our children's summer" : Rugene Paulette, Lynn Zinder, Paula Verkon, Cates by jones, janet Rice, Mary Newsome, alum Ben Swift, jennifer Latourelle, Sara Rossmoore, Welly Sanders, jane Whitely, Ginger Chalkley, alum Ginny Chalkley, Beverley Fox, jane Meadows, Carolyn Brandt, Norva Meyer, Sears Easy Method Driving School, Margaret Maclin, Sandy Shaw, Carolyn McCormack, Page 13
Woody Woodhouse , Linda Dunville, Anita Harbaugh, Mitra Palmer, Sue Drzal, Dave Mueller, Scott Moncure, Gene Sawyer, and the Board of Trustees of The Steward School.
CAMP STEWARD & SPORTS PROGRAMS Camp Steward has just finished another very successful summer after a large increase in enrollment. This was a challenge to our staff and transportation system because of the many new programs on campus this summer. The highlights for the campers were the daily visits to the pool (thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Welly Sanders) and the two trips to Ultrazone. Other exciting activities included visits to Puttaway Coif and to Sunset Bowl. New to Camp Steward this year was a Coif Camp held at Bogey's Sports Park. The clinic was run by
THE FINE ARTS CAMP "We were awesome!" " It was so much fun!" " I had the best time ...please do it again next year!!" These were a few of the many comments heard by the faculty of the newly formed Fine Arts Camp. The campers were very enthusiastic and openly expressed their feelings during each session of the Fine Arts Camp, part of the Summer Experience program at The Steward School. The Fine Arts Camp consisted of three two-week sessions focusing on theatre, music, movement, and the fine arts. Each session produced creative art projects and culminated in a musical theatre production . The enrollment averaged twenty students per session, allowing all students to participate in every facet of the Fine Arts Camp if they chose to do so. The first session art classes produced beautiful jewelry in the wearable art class. Pins, necklaces, and hair bands as well as tie-dye T-shirts were projects enjoyed by all. The students also had fun in pottery class and in designing canvas floor mats reminiscent of colonial America. "The Creat Race, " based on a revised version of Aesop's fables, was fun for all involved . The production included upbeat fifties style songs that had toes tapping in the audience. The students worked together with great precision to pull together song, dance and dialogue in just two weeks time. Even the set was student-designed and created, reflecting the rock and roll theme.
Diane Veach, a Fine Arts campers, works diligently at the potter's wheel.
PCA instructors Bill Smith and Jim Barrett. Instruction for the nine golfers started with the basics of golf from the grip, the stance, and swing, and finished with the basic rules and etiquette of golf. The second Camp Steward Tennis Camp was run by the head tennis professional Gonzalo Garcia from Canterbury Recreation Center. This camp included thirteen players who learned to perfect their forehands, backhands, and serves. Camp Director Catesby Jones wishes to thank the parents, campers, staff, and counselors for making Camp Steward such a tremendous success this summer.
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Following the theatre performance, which was open to the public, the campers and guests were treated to a reception and art show displaying all of the many projects created in the two-week session. In session two, all art projects were new and different from the first session and the theatre production, "Charlotte's Web, " presented a new challenge for the campers . This musical, based on E. B. White's book, was full of pages of dialogue, solos, group musical numbers, and choreographed group numbers. It was quite a challenge, but one met head on. Two Charlottes and two Wilburs headed up the cast of twenty-two, and the actors diligently worked to create an outstanding production. The set once again was student-designed and created. Even the reception followed the State Fai r theme with boxes of popcorn, cotton candy, and many other goodies as the guests viewed another wonderful art show. BLUE
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GOLD CONNECTION
The art projects in session two were of great interest to the students. In computer art class, a slide show was created displaying all of the com puter generated art created by the students in that session. The leather craft class motivated the campers so much that many made leather belts and key chai ns for their entire family. Session th~ee ended. with a new set of projects and new creative strategi es. Mosaic pictures were created on slate board and ori ginal hand-pa inted clocks were designed by the campers. The painting class was also a huge success for the students were given the opportu nity to use both wate rcolor and acrylics. Love ly landscapes were created from watercolors and self-portraits we re painted using acryli cs. It was amazing to view the work for we didn't need to ask w ho had done which portrait...they looked very much like their creators. The final theatrical production was "Bobbysox and Ducktails". Again, the fifties theme was embraced; however, this time the settin g was Tilly's Place, a typical fifties diner decorated in black, white, and red. The ba r stools and tables were accented with chrome, and a Wurlitzer jukebox was the focal point of the set. The characters included football players, cheerleaders, a rock star, his agent, Tilly, the owner of the diner, and the Yellow Jacket gang. Even a stage fight was carried off with great precision as a member of the bobbysox group went head on with a Yellow Jacket gang member. In the end, the quarrel was resolved as evidenced in the strong musical numbers presented by both groups. Again, a reception followed the production with ice cream sodas and cupcake ice cream cones for all. The final art show was viewed by a packed house of friends, parents, and campers. These memories were preserved forever as the program was videotaped and purchased by the campers.
ALUMNI
196 Graduates Move Forward Just a few months ago, the Class of 1996 was making its way up on stage to receive their high school diplomas. Today, we are proud to report, each of Steward's 13 graduates is attending college. We offer our congratulations and best wishes to each of them as they continue their studies. Corbin Adamson Catberine Deil Heather Cohn Allison Collier Stephanie Foard Tara Garner Dickie Haskell Shannon Meade Ellis Ann McClung Den Reif Charlotte Sullivan Amanda Wienckowski Kenya Young
Mary Baldwin Virginia Commonwealth Univ. Virginia Commonwealth Univ. Louisburg Virginia Commonwealth Univ. Delaware Valley Virginia Wesleyan Virginia Commonwea lth Univ. Guilford Davis and Elkins Roanoke Averett James Madison Univ.
Where are our Alumni? Please keep in touch w ith us here at Steward and let us know how and what you are doing. Also ...be on the lookout for a specia l alumni ed ition of {he Blue & Cold Connection later this year.
Monday, November 11 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
Many thanks to SallY and luke Newcomb fir the beautifUl baby grand plano they recentlY donated to ne Steward Schill. nls mist genereus giRwill enable our Music Depanment t. perform in "grand stvle." BLUE
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GOLD CONNECTION
Evening Forum: Is Your Child Ready for Kindergarten?
What is an OMER?? More in the next Blue & Gold. Page 15
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THESrEWARDScHOOL 11600 GAYTON ROAD' RICHMOND. VIRGINIA 23233
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