Traditions
Winter 2011
TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
insideTraditions Traditions magazine / Winter 2011 Robert D. Neu Head of School David Yohn Upper School Principal Dann Cleveland Upper School Dean of Students Kerry Palmer Middle School Principal Randy Ragsdale Middle School Dean of Students Tami Shelley Lower School Principal Monica Lott Director of Admissions John Anderson Director of Development Elizabeth Mosley College Advisor Jim Tuley Athletic Director Kathryn Stabler Activities Director Mary Elizabeth Collett Alumni Coordinator Debbie Dorough Business Manager Jill C. Bryan Director of Marketing Traditions Designer & Editor Traditions Magazine is published for alumni, parents, and friends of Trinity School. Alumni and student updates, as well as story ideas, may be emailed along with photographs to mcollett@trinitywildcats.com or by mail. Trinity School 1700 East Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36106
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A Publication for Alumni and Friends
Head of School’s Remarks Bob Neu reflects on the past semester and the upcoming year at Trinity School.
Technology that Facilitates Learning Trinity was the first school in the River Region to implement an Apple 1:1 laptop initiative.
Student Letters from the Mission Field
Students visited Uganda, Nicaragua, and Ecuador on mission trips this past summer.
Faculty Profile: Donna Siebenthaler Donna Siebenthaler attended a seminar supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Boykin Comes Home Trinity celebrated the fourth generation of a family walking down her hallowed halls.
Setting the Mark & Reaching the Goal Mark White and Andy Pappanastos set records playing varsity football for the Trinity Wildcats.
ACADEMICS
From a National Merit Semifinalist to 7th graders participating in the Duke TIP program, Trinity’s students are excelling.
ARTS Winning local art awards, competing in Poetry contests, and a visit from Grayson Russell are just a few of the happenings in the Arts Department. ATHLETICS Softball scholarships received by two seniors and CCC Championships for four athletic teams.
Homecoming Trinity’s homecoming welcomed alumni and friends. A collage of pictures highlights homecoming spirit week. ’Tis the Season From the Christmas Band Concert to the K5 Play, Trinity has the Christmas season covered! CLASSNOTES Alumni updates feature SGA college officers, job promotions, and new births!
WINTER 2011
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2011-2012
Trinity Annual Fund. Their tomorrow starts today. Make your gift online: www.trinitywildcats.com/giving Contact John Anderson (334) 213 2157 or joanderson@trinitywildcats.com
The Annual Fund supports several important needs of the school. The funding priorities are: q Faculty Professional Development/Classroom Enhancements -
seminars and training for the faculty to enhance teaching and learning. q Technology - purchasing additional software and equipment
for all classrooms q Family Tuition Assistance - assisting students and families
with documented financial need who need assistance in order to attend Trinity q Program Enhancements - support for the arts, athletics,
community service, field trips, speakers q Facility Renovations - improvements to enhance facilities
Dr. Frank Young, III President Mr. Jim Edwards Vice President Mr. Todd Parsons Treasurer Dr. David Stanley Secretary Mr. Price Bishop Member at Large Mr. Bob Neu Head of School Rev. Claude McRoberts III Ex-Officio Mrs. Ann Amster Mr. Andy Birchfield Mr. John Bricken
for the academic, arts and athletic programs Mrs. Farrow Burks
These funding priorities have been determined through a careful analysis by the school leadership, with input from the faculty and staff, based on the needs of our students and families. Annual fund gifts made in 2010-2011 assisted in funding family tuition assistance, and purchasing technology equipment for classrooms, new band uniforms and faculty professional development.
Dr. Allen Clark Mr. Bob Farris Mrs. Kim Hall Mrs. Stacie Haynes Mr. David McClinton Mr. Phillip Pouncey
Remember Trinity’s Annual Fund. Honor a special friend or relative and we will send them an acknowledgment card.
Mr. Jimmy Rutland Mr. Troy Teel Mr. Pat Williams
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HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Trinity Community, Greetings from the hallowed halls of Trinity! Our school verse this year is Colossians 3:1-2. In these two verses, Paul speaks of setting your mind and heart on that which is above as a natural response to Christ’s work in our lives. At Trinity we seek to honor the Lord in all we do. We are so pleased you are a part of a school that seeks to glorify God in thought, word and deed. I have been the beneficiary of a wide array of positive comments during this past semester. Here are just a few: “I simply cannot believe how beautiful the new Lower School addition is.” “I am so pleased with my child’s teachers this year. It seems like he is working harder than ever.” “My child’s coach goes above and beyond the call of duty.” “Twas the night was absolutely superb. I enjoyed it from beginning to end.” All of these remarks appear to point in the same direction: an enhanced Trinity education. But our plan is not to stop here. Our desire is to continue to keep Trinity at the top and be all that we can be. Let me tell you about a few things we have been working on in 2011. First of all, we began a strategic plan last winter and the results will be shared with you soon. We are tremendously excited about this three year plan which outlines several improvements in many different arenas of the school. Secondly, as I am sure you are aware of by now, we are moving full steam ahead in the technological world. We currently have two grades doing education with MacBooks, with more on the way, and a variety of carts all over campus. We are already starting to reap the benefits of this addition to our teaching arsenal. After all, how can a more comprehensive, systematic, student-centered approach to learning be bad? Finally, we are working to put together a facilities plan for the next fifteen years. The plan is to have this completed by Fall of 2012, so everyone will know what the next steps are for the school and when we hope they will take place. A comprehensive approach to our facilities will put us in position to be constantly proactive as we consider what is best in the upcoming years. We are thrilled about the future while recognizing Trinity’s rich past. With this in mind, our steps are carefully designed to take Trinity to even greater heights. Please join us in seeking the Lord’s vision for Trinity and pray for wisdom as we seek to follow Him closely. Thank you for being a part of such a great school. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May the Lord make you more into the image of His Son in 2012. Until then... For Christ and His Kingdom,
Robert D. Neu
WINTER 2011 / 3
FEATURE
Preparing Lifelong Learners to Serve a Changing World BY TORI CHANCELLOR - Class of ‘14
R
ecently Trinity launched the Apple 1:1 program with the start of the new school year, and it is proving to be a success. Each student in the seventh and ninth grades were assigned their own MacBook laptop. So far everyone is enjoying the new dimension of learning that has been capable through this new program.
Every century seems to be more different than the last, but it seems as if the 21st century has brought about drastic changes to the way students learn and live their lives. As the newly named “digital” generation continues their progression into adulthood, Trinity is determined to take advantage of this time period and remain steady
q Trinity is the first school in the River Region to implement an Apple 1:1 laptop initiative. q Trinity’s “state-of-the-art” technology program provides students, faculty and staff with the tools they need for the future. q Each classroom features a SmartBoard and video projection system to enhance the learning experience. q Apple Mobile MacBook, iPad2 and iPod Touch Carts allow teachers access to technology where ever it is needed. q Wireless internet connectivity is available throughout the campus.
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in providing the best learning experience for its students. “The 1:1 Program is the best way to capitalize on student learning,” said Trinity Head of School Mr. Robert Neu. “Although the devices that the students use will change throughout the years, the idea of technology will always stay the same.”
Technology That Facilitates Learning
One element that makes this program different is in its approach: instead of dispensing information through a lecture, teachers have found new ways to communicate their lessons to students. Applications such as Keynote and Podcasts have proved to be extremely effective in the classroom. Lectures and classroom learning are still very prominent, but new ways exist to disseminate information. Mr. Neu has high hopes for this program and believes that it will be around for a very long time. Ninth grade English teacher Mrs. Leah Slawson has also found the Apple 1:1 program effective. “This is the way our world works now; technology is everywhere,” she states. The MacBook laptops are essential to the English department. When a teacher wants to proof and grade a student’s paper, it is
much easier to do electronically as opposed to pen and paper, Mrs. Slawson adds, “We’re obligated to prepare our students to be able to engage the world they are entering, and it is simply not a pen and paper world anymore.”
The Apple 1:1 Pro“gram is the best way to capitalize on student learning.
“
MR. ROBERT NEU, HEAD OF SCHOOL
However, the largest impact that the Apple 1:1 program has had is on Trinity’s students themselves; more specifically, the seventh and ninth
graders. It has been a large leap from heavy textbooks to lightweight computers, but the students have embraced the changes. Seventh graders Mary Stuart Tipton and J Payne are especially enthusiastic about the program. “You get to carry around fewer books, and it’s easier to get around to your classes,” they say. “You have fewer papers, some binders, but mostly, our work is files saved on our computers.” The students enjoy creating fun projects with Keynote, and note taking on the laptops is a benefit. The Apple 1:1 program has entirely benefited Trinity, no doubt. Even though the road ahead is long and presents many obstacles, Trinity continues to learn everyday how best to keep the “digital” generation on the right path to success. n WINTER 2011 / 5
Seventh Grade Math has “Flipped Out!” The seventh grade math classes have “flipped out!” In the flipped classroom, our seventh graders watch the teacher’s lecture each evening as homework, take notes, and prepare questions for the teacher. The following day during class, students work problems while the teacher circulates among the students and gives individualized instruction. This method of instruction offers many advantages: students can watch the videos numerous times, small groups can be conducted in class for those who need additional help, and advanced students can be challenged with more difficult problems. Thus, the “flipped classroom” offers students instruction according to his/her needs. Mrs. Long states, “The idea of a ‘flipped classroom’ is so simple; I can not believe I have taught this long without having access to this instructional tool!” n
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FEATURE
AROUND THE WORLD:
Student Letters from the Mission Field
This summer I had the amazing opportunity to go on a mission trip to Nicaragua with my youth group. In Nicaragua, we held a Vacation Bible School for some of the kids in town at local schools. We also took part in local missions such as painting and repairing schools, ministering in nursing homes, and planting a community garden. Overall, this was a life-changing experience. Seeing the love that the Nicaraguans show in their daily lives is inspiring, and I strive to do that in my life as well. It also showed me the impact that even the smallest acts of love can have on someone’s life. Jordie Deal Class of ‘12
I went to Ecuador this summer to work in an orphanage called For His Children. We did a VBS with kids in Quito, the capital, and in Latacunga, a rural mountainous area. We helped paint, organize food, and take care of children. I learned how sovereign God is an how he can use the smallest things to reveal himself. I also learned more about adoption. I w as able to work with these orphans and see how some of them were in the process of being adopted. This showed me more about my adoption in Christ. How he can love me and call me his own despite my flaws is incredible. Skip Portis Class of ‘12
This past summer I had the opportunity to go on a mission trip to Ecuador with my church youth group. While we were there, we went to the jungle and the mountains. In the jungle we worked at a camp with over 200 kids. We were the group leaders at the camp and we had the job of cleaning the kitchen and bathrooms. Next we went to the mountains where we did a 3-day Vacation Bible School. I really enjoyed being able to play with the kids and share the love Christ with them. I would like to encourage everyone to go on a mission trip so they too can enjoy an experience of a lifetime. Tanner Cox Class of ‘13
This year, our church sent a team of fifteen to Uganda-the Pearl of Africa. While in Uganda, we visited orphanages, talked to schools, and supported the local church. Some fun things that we did this year were playing soccer, riding bota-butas (dirt bike taxis), and rafting on the Nile. I hope to go back one day. Daniel Phillips Class of ‘14
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FEATURE
BY BECCA MURDOCH - Class of ‘14
Faculty Profile: Donna Siebenthaler
T
his summer, Trinity Upper School faculty member, Ms. Donna Siebenthaler, attended a seminar supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities. Ms. Siebenthaler was one of approximately twenty teachers chosen to attend. Ms. Siebenthaler spent two weeks in Rhode Island, all expenses paid, at the workshop entitled, The Role of Slavery in New England in the Rise of Commerce, Industry, and Culture to 1860. Ms. Siebenthaler learned about this seminar because she “had previously attended one and (I) heard about this specific one in a professional development magazine.” To attend this workshop, she was required to submit an application and an essay explaining how she would benefit, and how her students would benefit indirectly. Ms. Siebenthaler met top experts on the subject at hand. She stated, “They brought in the top researchers and professors in the field.” During those two weeks, Ms. Siebenthaler gained valuable insight on the role of the North in slavery. “I plan on using this experience to reshape how I teach the Civil War in the coming years. I want to
teach that the North was just as involved as the South in slavery,” Ms. Siebenthaler remarked. Ms. Siebenthaler is a valuable asset to Trinity School. Mr. David Yohn, Upper School Principal, stated, “Ms. Siebenthaler is one of the most effective teachers at Trinity. She challenges students and helps them achieve a level of education they need to reach.” When asked on how parents and students view her, Mr. Yohn said, “She is appropriately rigorous. Her AP students expect a big challenge and she meets that.” With participation at this workshop, the students of Trinity benefit from the gained knowledge of Ms. Siebenthaler. By interacting with other participating teachers, she also discovered new ideas that she has brought back back to Trinity’s community of learning. Ms. Siebenthaler has already done a great service to Trinity by inspiring her students and those around her with a mission of true education and enlightenment in the field of learning. She will take her experiences and insights of this seminar and will continue to brighten the minds of Trinity’s students. n
Ms. Siebenthaler’s AP U.S. History Class on a trip to Sloss Furnaces learned about the history of the furnaces
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and their importance to Birmingham and Alabama’s history.
FEATURE
Donna Siebenthaler talking with fellow faculty member, Frank Parquette in the Upper School Library.
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FEATURE
Coach Boykin Comes Home “ ” He led the starting of a school built and based on Christian principles. BY C H R I S T Y C O L E E - T P S Te a c h e r
O
ne of the marks of the 21st century will certainly be change. With the integration of technology into every aspect of life, from the classroom to the kitchen, things are constantly evolving. One constant, however, in today’s society is the relationships found among friends and family. One of the hallmarks of Trinity Presbyterian has always been generational relationships. Siblings passing each other in the halls, teachers giving their own children a 10 / WINTER 2011
high-five in the classroom, and stopping by to see an aunt after lunch remain a distinction in this multi-generational school. For the first time in TPS history the school is celebrating the fourth generation of a family walking down her hallowed halls. In 1970 Raymond Boykin became the school’s first headmaster. Hired by the predominately Trinity Presbyterian Church led board, Mr. Boykin left his mark in every aspect of this school. Mr. Boykin oversaw the move from the church to its present location at 1700
E. Trinity Blvd. As any Head of School would agree, the role of Headmaster often comes with multi-faceted opportunities to serve. Mr. Boykin was a teacher, coach, maintenance engineer, and even the school’s gardener. He is actually responsible for planting the oak trees lining the front of the school’s property. Although Mr. Boykin retired as Headmaster in 1974, he returned in 1981 to teach Geometry and coach. After his second retirement he remained teaching as a private tutor. Elise Bowden, current TPS teacher,
FEATURE
remembers vividly Mr. Boykin’s tenure here. “He loved the kids, was dedicated, and a hard worker,” she said. Boykin was the kind of teacher and coach that received respect from students, faculty and staff. “Coach” Bowden has known the Boykin family since she was a young girl. According to Bowden he had the strength to step out in faith and do something that hadn’t been done in this area. “He was leading the starting of a school built and based on Christian principles in the community,” said Mrs. Bowden. When Trinity School began, he was among the only educators in the planning stages. He had been a teacher and coach at Lanier High. “He gave the school respect,” she said. “He was so well thought of in the community.” Another unique feature of Mr. Boykin is the relationships he had with his students and faculty.” He gave everybody a nickname,” according to TPS alum Jill Cook Bryan (‘87). She also recalls when Boykin would host seniors in his home for an annual cookout. Mr. Boykin recalls his time at Trinity fondly and remembers what he considers to be his high and low points. In the early days finances were a great concern for the headmaster. One particular year money was especially tight and the Board met to discuss the future of the school and whether or not they could continue the way they thought they were being led. At the meeting, Mr. Boykin revealed that the school was many thousands of dollars in the red. With the summer months ahead, generally a “down” time for recruiting new students, there was definite concern. At the meeting, the Board suggested that they pray about the situation. Each member stood and prayed that God would give them guidance and direction. Mr. Boykin remembers returning to his home that night and telling his wife that even though the situation was dire, he felt that things would be
alright. That summer, amazingly, Mr. Boykin’s phone “rang off the hook.” Many people requested admittance to the school, and by the end of the summer the school was $20,000 in the black. Mr. Boykin stated that that was the “turning point of Trinity Presbyterian School. That was the most amazing and bravest board I ever saw in my life.” During this year’s Homecoming celebration, Trinity was privileged to spotlight and honor this special family during the pre-game festivities. Head of School, Bob Neu transported Mr. Boykin out on the field to celebrate the family’s dedication to the school for four generations. Mr. Boykin was accompanied by his daughter, Tutta Rogers and her husband Mac. His granddaughter Betsy Rogers Reaves, celebrating her 20th reunion, was with her husband, Will, and their children Lizzie Crum and Pelzer. Class of ‘94 grandson Aduston Rogers was also present with his wife Stacy and their children, Lallie and McPherson. McPherson, Mr. Boykin’s great-grandson, is a member of the first K4 class in Trinity’s history. McPherson has already enjoyed his time at Trinity. He said that his favorite thing about TPS is the “football field” and he loves his classroom. n
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FEATURE ACADEMICS
Setting the M ark... Mark White accepts the game ball from Athletic Director Jim Tuley
BREAKING A RECORDS AT TRINITY lthough he is short in stature, Mark White has a large presence on the football field. During his three years as a starter, White became the favorite receiver of Trinity’s quarterbacks. Standing at only 5’8” he may not seem like he would be a dangerous receiver, but his impressive stats beg to differ. In 2008, when Mark was put at the position of receiver for the first time, his coaches realized his talents. The next year (Mark’s sophomore year) he had a breakout year putting up huge numbers. He racked up almost 1,500
yards and 20 touchdowns as well as setting the Alabama single season reception record. His junior season he surpassed his reception record by catching 113 passes for 1300 yards. This season during the Catholic game Mark officially broke Nick Threlkeld’s ten year old Alabama State career reception record with his 261st catch. During numerous interviews Mark has humbly given all of the credit to his team, the coaches, and God. n
312 Mark White, Trinity (2008-present)
260 Nick Threlkeld, Hubbertville (1998-2001)
243 Tim Castille, Briarwood Christian (1998-2002) 227 Todd Ingle, Lynn (1991-93)
218 Josh Moten, Cedar Bluff (1999-2002)
206 Tim Hawthorne, Homewood (2002-05) and Abril Sheppard, Speake (1991-93) — Source: AHSAA
WHITE’S RECEPTIONS
2008: 8-92 yards, 2 TDs
2009: 106-1,414 yards, 19 TDs 2010: 113-1,260 yards, 10 TDs 2011: 85-602, 2 TDs
BY T H O M A S S TA L L I N G S - C l a s s o f ‘ 1 3
TOTAL: 312-3,368 yards- 33 TDs As of 12/10/11
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G
FEATURE
...and Reaching the G oal
Senior kicker Andy Pappanastos, the man with the golden leg, kicked field goals of 24, 37, 41 and 44 yards during a 40-21 homecoming victory over Montgomery Academy to break the state-record with 46 field goals. The previous record was 43 (a national record at the time) by Philip Doyle, a 1985 high school AllAmerican at Huffman (Birmingham). As a junior, he kicked his longest field goal—a 52-yarder. Andy also put 85 percent of his kickoffs into the endzone. Andy has been kicking since he was five. He has been was the kicker for the Trinity Wildcat football team for 4 years and also played safety. His current record of 48 field goals is 2 behind the national record, currently held by Oklahoma Sooner Kicker, Jimmy Stevens. Jimmy actually contacted Andy and told him “Good luck on the record” and “stay positive and keep doing your thing.” Andy’s dad has been the man behind the scenes. When Andy was 5, his dad built him and his brother a field goal post out of PVC pipe. He used it for the next 7 years, until he began kicking over his two story house. Andy still has the goal post at his home, and plans on giving it to his kids one day. Though he has been very successful, he gives credit to the offense and the line for great blocking on field goals. He also gives credit to Coach Ragsdale and Coach Tuley for allowing him to kick in so many situations. Andy plans on playing at the next level and hopes to be kicking at the University of Alabama. n
Y
B Y PAY N E J E N N I N G S - C l a s s o f ‘ 1 3
Andy Pappanastos makes a 42-yard field goal to break the state record
ACADEMICS
Kelsey Henderson Named NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALIST Congratulations to Senior Kelsey Henderson for being named a National Merit Semifinalist! She is among an elite group that rep resents less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors. About 1.5 million students in high schools across the country enter the program by making a high enough score on the pre-SAT. The group of 16,000 semifinalists will go on to compete to become finalists in the scholarship program.n
2011 Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) Forty-four of Trinity Presbyterian School’s 7th graders were selected to participate in the Duke TIP Talent Search based on their scores at the 95th percentile or higher on one or more of the subtests on either of their two most recent standardized achievement, aptitude, or mental ability tests. The 7th Grade Talent Search helps educators and families find out how advanced their students’ abilities truly are and what level of educational challenge is appropriate. Eligible 7th graders are invited to take either the ACT or SAT college entrance exams, which allows them greater insight into their abilities and also provided them with valuable benefits and resources. Those students are: Anne Macon Adams, Carolyn Ann Albritton, Samuel Jennings Ames, Sydney Nicole Bassett, Randy Barnett Blake Jr., Kaleigh Michele Brown, William L. Coleman Brown, Claudia Grace Collins, Joseph Luke Curtis, Adam Bacque DuCote, Ethan Patrick Gentry, Aubrey Wayne Grant, William Tyler Hale, Mary Carmen Haynes, William Michael 14 / WINTER 2011
Heartsill, Bailey Grant Hope, Charles Cooper Humphrey, Ashley Brooke Kendrick, Robert Milton Lewis, Andrew Christopher Martin, Matthew Lawrence Neu, Samuel Dickinson Nunn, Edward Scott Parma Jr., John H. Payne V, John Luke Phillips, Elizabeth Hadley Powell, Catherine Cooper Price, Alexandra Beasley Ramsey, Mary Todd Romanowski, Brian Gregory Roth, Jackson Walker Sharpe, Thomas Alexander Sluis, Mary Virginia Stabler, Mary Conley Teel, Abigail Kaitlyn Tinney, Kacey Alexandra Tinney, Mary Stuart Tipton, Madison Denise Tylicki, Ella Brannen Walker, Cooper Allen Waller, Julia Grace White, William James Wilder, Phelps Wade Williams, and William Roland Windham. n
ACADEMICS
Have you ever heard of a Pirtle, a Skunkey Doodle, a Flutterfly, a Mird, a Draculent, or a
Have You Ever Heard of a Pirtle, a Skunkey Doodle, or a Flutterfly?
Queen Bumble Pig? Well, the fourth graders at Trinity have! After completing a chapter in Science on “Adaptations,” the students participated in a pumpkin project, which involved creating an animal (that doesn’t exist) using a pumpkin for part of its body. In class, the students drew their pumpkin animal on paper and began to think about what their animal would look like and what it would be called (scientific name). They also had to determine the animal’s body part and behavior adaptations (such as migrating, hibernating), the animal’s environment, the animal’s predator and prey, the
diet of the animal, as well as it’s instincts and learned behavior. Time was spent in the Mac Lab typing each of these parts that would later be arranged on a poster that each child turned in detailing the adaptations of their animal. Much thought and planning went into this entire assignment. Each student introduced their animals in class. n
Cole DeBardelaben (current 9th grader) set a national Accelerated Reader record by earning 3,004.8 points with 20,389,302 words read during the 2010-11 school year. Cole has generously offered to help encourage the Middle School students to read more. He will be issuing a list of books that he recommends every two weeks to be posted in the Library and online. He is getting suggestions from Cassie Felder, who had the 2nd most AR points, to include books on the list that the girls might like. Cole broke the AR record while maintaining a high grade point average, playing in the Trinity Wildcat Band, and competing in Track and Field events with the Wildcat track team. Other students are already hard at work in the hopes of meeting or breaking Cole’s record. He is sought after by other students for “good read” recommendations. It is impressive to see how this young man has established a life pattern of seeking excellence when setting personal goals, developing strategy to achieve those goals, and meeting and exceeding those goals. n
Cole DeBardelaben Breaks National Accelerated Reader Record
WINTER 2011 / 15
ACADEMICS
Youth Judicial Team Chosen to Represent Alabama at National Competition Stone Phillips, Turner Griffin, Tucker Helms, Taylor Lollar, Ashley Ann Adams, Jackson Britton
Trinity’s Youth Judicial Team— Taylor Lollar, Turner Griffin, Stone Phillips, Tucker Helms, Jackson Britton, and Ashley Ann Adams—competed in the Alabama Youth in Government Competition and were chosen to represent the state of Alabama at the National Mock Trial Competition to be held in Albuquer-que, New Mexico on May 3-6, 2012. The team came in 2nd place overall and won the very prestigious Hugh Maddox award. This is the top award of the conference named in honor of former Alabama Justice Hugh Maddox, who began the entire Youth Judicial conference.
Trinity’s freshman youth Judicial Team—Phelps Romanowski, Carter Vance, Caroline Lee, Madison Cornett, Annelise Patterson, and Grant Keith—placed 3rd place on the Prosecution side in the Premier League (1st year) of the program. They were under the direction of Mr. Gibson Vance as their Lawyer Coach. Trinity had 60 students participate in Youth Judicial. They all learned something new, had a great time, made connections with other students from around the state, and represented their families and school very well. n
Jackson Britton is Youth Governor Jackson Britton was elected as Alabama Youth In Government Governor. He recently attended the Youth Governor’s Conference in Washington with other Youth Governors from across the country. They lobbied on the Hill and also had the opportunity to meet Trinity Alumna, Congresswoman Martha Roby as well as Senators Shelby and Sessions. n 16 / WINTER 2011
Lauren Kingry Selected as Chief Justice
Lauren Kingry was selected as Alabama Youth in Government Chief Justice. She will preside over the Supreme Court at Youth Legislature and over next year’s Youth Judicial Conference. n
ARTS
Middle School Students Win Local Art Awards 7th Grade: Montgomery Humane Society Holiday Card Contest 3rd place Montgomery Schools: Sydney Bassett Honorable Mention Montgomery Schools: Mary Carmen Haynes
Carmen Haynes & Sydney Bassett
6th Grade: DAR Constitution Week Poster Contest 1st place Montgomery Private Schools: Mac Parsons 3rd place Montgomery Private Schools: Christopher Howard Honorable Mention Montgomery Private Schools: Thomas Helms, Lauren Millo & Jessica Wilson First and Second Place Teacher Winner: Mrs. Jennifer Bricken
Front row: Lauren Millo, Jessica Wilson Back row: Mac Parsons, Christopher Howard, Thomas Helms
Child Actor Grayson Russell Visits Theatre Arts Class Child actor Grayson Russell spoke
for Marley in Marley and Me: The Puppy
to Trinity’s Upper School Theatre Arts
Years. Students had the opportunity to
Class, taught by Dale Lawrence.
ask Grayson several questions, includ-
Grayson has been in several movies,
ing “What’s it like being a Christian
including Talladega Nights: The Ballad of
and acting in Hollywood,” as well as,
Ricky Bobby, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and
“How do you balance your studies with
The Rainbow Tribe. He is also the voice
work?” n
New Offerings in the Arts for Lower School—Lessons in Piano, Cello, Violin, Dance and 5th grade band WINTER 2011 / 17
ARTS
Wildcat Pride Marching Band Earns Superior Ratings
Avery Draper & Caroline Stewart
The Trinity “Wildcat Pride” Marching Band earned Superior Ratings for Band, Color Guard, Drum Major, and Percussion at the Prattville Hearts of Dixie Competition on Saturday, October 8. The band was awarded Best in Class Percussion and Best in Class Band. They also earned Superior Ratings in Band, Color Guard and Percussion and an Excellent Rating in Drum Major at the Huntington Marching Invitational on Saturday, October 1. The band was also awarded Best in Class Color Guard and Best In Class Percussion. The band participated in the Phenix Invitational Marching Festival on Saturday, September 24. The band earned Superior Ratings in Drum
Major, Color Guard, Percussion, and Band. The band was awarded Best in Class Percussion and Best in Class Band. Trinity School’s Symphonic Band, directed by Gene Butler, gave a concert in honor of Veterans Day at First Baptist Church on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Dr. John Long, former band director at Robert E. Lee High School and Troy University was the featured guest conductor. Along with Guest Soloist, CW3 Mark Mills, the Guys and Dolls Choir also performed. n
Ahna’s Angels Perform at Holiday Market Ahna’s Angels performed at the Montgomery Junior League Holiday Market. Students in the first grade classes of Mrs. Etheredge, Mrs. McNelley, and Mrs. Morrison participated. A large crowd gathered to watch the choral group, directed by Mrs. Ahna Baggett, as they sang many songs, including My Father’s Angels and My Two Front Teeth. n 18 / WINTER 2011
Avery Draper and Caroline Stewart Take First & Second Place in Poetry Out Loud Competition Avery Draper placed first and Caroline Stewart second in the “Poetry Out Loud” Competition. Both will go on to compete in the school-wide competition. The National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation partnered with U.S. state arts agencies to support Poetry Out Loud, a contest that encourages the nation’s youth to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about their literary heritage. Poetry Out Loud uses a pyramid structure that starts at the classroom level. Winners advance to a school-wide competition, then to a regional and/or state competition, and ultimately to the National Finals. The state winner’s school receives a $500 stipend for the purchase of poetry books. The first runner-up in each state receives $100, with $200 for his or her school library. A total of $50,000 in awards and school stipends is awarded annually at the National Finals. n
ARTS & ATHLETICS
Emma Paramore, Reed Grice, and Cassie Felder Place in Literary Arts Competition Emma Paramore (9th grade) placed first; Reed Grice (9th grade) placed second; and Cassie Felder (9th grade) won honorable mention in the Roxie Lancaster Literary Arts Competition, which is sponsored by the Arts Council of Montgomery, the City of Montgomery, and the No Name Literary Club. Each student submitted a narrative essay. n Cassie Felder, Emma Paramore, and Reed Grice
Kayla Hale and Caroline Wilder Sign Softball Scholarships
Kayla Hale and Caroline Wilder
Trinity Senior, Kayla Hale, signed a softball scholarship with Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM). Trinity Senior, Caroline Wilder, signed a softball scholarship with Samford University. Kayla has been on Trinity’s Softball Varsity Team since the 8th grade. Between 9th-11th grade years, she scored 28 runs, 9 homeruns, 68 hits, 13 doubles, 1 triple, 46 walks, 54 RBIs, .327 batting average, .529 slugging percentage. As a pitcher, she had 34 wins and 28 losses and 456 strike outs. She played pitcher and first base. Caroline Wilder has been on the Trinity’s Softball Varsity Team since the 7th grade. Between 9th-11th grade years, she scored 78 runs, 3 homeruns, 116 hits, 32 doubles, 9 triples, 21 walks, 85 RBIs, .443 batting average, .668 slugging percentage, and 41 stolen bases. She played second base, third base, short stop (main position at Trinity), outfield, & pitcher. n
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ATHLETICS
MIDDLE SCHOOL Volleyball Record 16-6
CCC CH
HAMPS!
ATHLETICS
JUNIOR VARSITY Volleyball Record 24-3
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ATHLETICS ACADEMICS
Middle School Football Record: 5-0-1
CCC CH 22 / WINTER 2011
ACADEMICS ATHLETICS
Junior Varsity Football Record: 5-0
HAMPS! WINTER 2011 / 23
ACADEMICS
Homecoming@Trinity
‘Tis t he Season SEASONAL
Symphonic Band Concert Kicks Off Christmas Season at Trinity Christmas Season was officially kicked off with the Christmas Concert on Tuesday evening, Nov. 29th and encore performances for the Lower and Upper School Wednesday, Nov. 30. The 5th and 6th Grade Beginning Band entertained with their rendition of “Up on the Housetop,” while the Middle School Concert Band performed “Santa Meets Sousa,” “Silent Night,” and “At the Feast of Stephen.” The Symphonic Band concluded the concert with familiar melodies including “Fanfare and Procession” on an “Old English Carol,” “Still, Still, Still,” and “A Christmas Festival.” n
Trinity’s Show Choir Sings During State Christmas Tree Lighting
Middle School Collects Toys for Montgomery Families in Need The Middle School students collected toys on Friday, December 2 for the “Toy Sale” for Montgomery families in need. These toys will be included in the 3rd Annual Toy Sale of Montgomery! n
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A Savior isBorn! SEASONAL
K5 Performs Christmas Play for School and Parents
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Merry Chr istmas SEASONAL
Visual & Performing Arts Departments Perform Twas the Night Trinity School’s Visual and Performing Arts Departments performed “Twas the Night” Thursday evening, December 1 to a full-capacity Willett Hall with encore performances for the Lower and Upper School on Friday, December 2. This year’s performance was held in conjunction with a fundraising event, “The Empty Bowls Project,” which reflects Trinity’s commitment to community service.
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Trinity’s Brass Quintet provided live music which greeted guests as they perused over 100 ceramic bowls made by Trinity art students. The Dance Department continued its tradition of bringing a series of collaborative performances of Trinity dance students across all levels to the stage in this annual holiday event. The Show Choir performed a “Gospel Christmas” along with other Christmas
medleys. Two members of the Forensics department performed two interpretive pieces of poetry and prose. Guests made cash donations in exchange for a one-of-a-kind ceramic bowl made by a Trinity art student. The bowls served as a reminder of the widespread hunger and “empty bowls,” not only in the world, but right here in our Montgomery community. Money raised was given to the Montgomery Area Food Bank. n
s
CLASSNOTES
ClassNotes 1977
Elizabeth Hill Kuchers and her husband are serving Christ with Campus Crusade for Christ in Ohio. They minister at Ohio Weslyan University at Ohio State (Athletes in Action) and in their local community. Three of their children attend Ohio State University.
Museum of Art student exhibit, a solo show at the What’s on Second Shop, Art in the Gardens, Artwalk, Ross Bridge Art on the Green, the Montgomery Museum of Art gift shop, and the Birmingham Museum of Art gift shop, Alabama Designer Craftsmen Show.
Paul K. Walker was recently named
Monica Rogers McDougall lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband Alec and three children—Ellie (13), Wylie (11), and Rogers (7).
1990
Jill Marlar is an artist, actress, singer, and teacher. She was recently selected as the Leeds Arts Council’s Artist of the Month. She is a teacher at Independent Presbyterian Church and owner of Music Makers, which teaches art, drama and music to children as an after-school activity. She is also known for her work on stage, including turns in “Lend Me a Tenor” and “Doubt,” which played at Terrific New Theatre. Since 2008, she has exhibited in many area shows including the Birmingham
William “Clay” Teague took over his father’s law practice, the former Law Office of Barry E. Teague, in 2010. The business is now the Law Office of William “Clay” Teague. Lucy McKee was born on July 5, 2011. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Graves Mckee (Anna Cook ‘98). She is in the picture with her big brother Ellis.
1988
Senior Vice President and Commercial Banking Group Manager of Iberiabank Paul is actively involved in the community where he serves as a member of the Board of the Britton YMCA and the River Region Chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association. He and his wife, Barton, have 2 daughters enrolled at Trinity—Ella Brannen (7th grade) and Drue (5th grade).
1998
JILL MARLAR
1991
Amy Kotouc Turner enjoys living with her husband, David, and three children—Alex (10), Thomas (7), and Anna (1) in Jackson, Mississippi. She is a past president of New Stage Theatre in Jackson and current member of Woodland Hills Garden Club.
1996 Trussell Foy son of Dr. and Mrs. Ben Foy (Emily Clements ’96) and Mary Clark Norris daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. Trey Norris (Trey ’96 and Kim Campbell ’92).
1999
Andrew Harwell is the Campus Director at the University of Southern Mississippi for Campus Crusade for Christ. He lives in Hattiesburg with his wife, Elizabeth and their son, Wilson (1).
Britton Henig and his wife, Lindsey, have two sons—Pollard (2) and Penn (7 months). Britton recently joined the Frazer Lanier Company working as an Investment Banker.
2001
Allison Adams DeJarnette received a Juris Doctorate at the University of Arkansas and currently resides in Fayetteville, Arkansas with her husband, Ryan. WINTER 2011 / 29
CLASSNOTES
2002 Dr. Frank Aman went to jail on September 22, 2011 for the MDA Lock Up. He raised $1,662.00, which will send two children with muscular dystrophy to camp next summer. Frank is a Veterinarian with Montgomery Veterinary Associates.
2003 Webber Woodruff is doing great ministry work through her employer, Warren Averitt Kimbrough and Marino, CPA’s in Birmingham. Working with Compassion International, an organization that works with companies to provide unique opportunities to help children living in poverty, Webber traveled to Rwanda this past summer. Below is a brief update from Webber:
I have sponsored a little boy through Compassion's child-sponsorship program for a little over a year and was now getting to meet this precious 9 year old that I had established a relationship with through the exchange of emails and gifts. I will never be able to fully put into words the way my heart felt when I hugged Samuel for the first time. To see where my money and letters were going and actually get to see him, love on him and meet his family, was one of the most rewarding things I have ever experienced. I spent 2 weeks in Rwanda getting to know Samuel and serving the children in the child-sponsorship program. Having the opportunity to serve, love on and show Christ to the needy, poor and orphaned was such a blessing and will have an eternal impact on my life. I encourage anyone and everyone to sponsor a child or give in some way through Compassion International.
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2004
Star Boswell Parnell joined a group of University of Alabama alumni to form a kickball team in Washington D.C. The National Capital Chapter of the Alumni Association became part of the D.C. Colonial League, a kickball organization that pitted the UA chapter team against various other squads, some from other universities. Star and her teammates had the opportunity to play on the National Mall this past summer. By playing on their team, “Kick It and Flip It,” Star and her husband have met several people from Alabama.
2007
Laura Waters is currently pursuing a Doctor of Psychology degree at Wheaton College Graduate School.
2011
Shea Summerlin is currently pursuing a degree in Chemistry at Samford University. She is a member of Alpha Delta Pi social sorority and was selected as a member of Samford’s Freshman Forum.
2006
Ashlyn Stallings attended Samford
Lyndsay Ewing, Logan Powell, Julie Trumbull and Taylor Tylicki made SGA at Auburn University. They interviewed for Tiger Tuesdays, which is Auburn Student Government Association for Freshmen. Each student went through a series of interviews to be considered for these positions.
University where she received a BA in Journalism and Mass Communications. She is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Alpha Delta Pi Sorority in Atlanta, Georgia. She is also a member of the Junior League of Atlanta and the Georgia Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America.
Karlin Beck received her LPGA card in December 2011. She was the lone female golfer on the golf team at Trinity School and signed a scholarship to play at the college level.
If you have something you would like to submit to Classnotes, please email Mary Elizabeth Collett, Alumni Coordinator at mcollett@trinitywildcats.com or update your information at trinitywildcats.com/alumniupdate.
If you are not receiving the Trinity e-newsletter, please update or add your email to Edline. If you are an alumni and would like to receive it, please email Mary Elizabeth Collett at mcollett@trinitywildcats.com.
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TRINITY’S 2nd ANNUAL
Run the Race 5K and Fun Run/Walk
Trinity School / March 10th Look for registration information and sponsorship opportunities soon.
BASKETBALL SCHEDULES S TARTING JANUARY 2012 Middle School Girls Basketball
Junior Varsity Girls Basketball
Varsity Girls Basketball Fri, Jan 6, 12 Home vs Catholic 6:00 pm
Sat, Jan 7, 12 Home vs MA 10:15 am
Sat, Jan 7, 12 Home vs MA 9:00 am
Sat, Jan 7, 12 Away vs Mobile Christian 2:30 pm Tue, Jan 10, 12 Home vs LAMP 6:00 pm
Tue, Jan 10, 12 Away vs Southside MS 5:00 pm
Fri, Jan 13, 12 Away vs MA 6:00 pm Tue, Jan 10, 12 Home vs LAMP 4:00 pm
Thu, Jan 12, 12 Away vs Saint James 7:15 pm
Sat, Jan 14, 12 Away vs MLK Tournament Tue, Jan 17, 12 Away vs Catholic 6:15 pm
Thu, Jan 12, 12 Home vs Saint James 6:00 pm Fri, Jan 13, 12 Away vs MA 4:30 pm
Fri, Jan 20, 12 Away vs LAMP 6:00pm Sat, Jan 21, 12 Home vs BTW 3:30 pm
Fri, Jan 20, 12 Away vs LAMP 4:00 pm Tue, Jan 17, 12 Away vs Catholic 5:00 pm
Fri, Jan 27, 12 Home vs MA 6:00 pm Sat, Jan 28, 12 Home vs Faith Academy 3:30 pm Tue, Jan 31, 12 Home vs Stanhope 5:00 pm
Thu, Jan 26, 12 Home vs St James 6:00 pm
Thu, Jan 26, 12 Away vs Saint James 7:15 pm
Fri, Feb 3, 12 Away vs St James 6:00 pm Sat, Feb 4, 12 Home vs Autaugaville 4:30 pm
Sat, Jan 28, 12 Away vs CCC Tournament TBA
Sat, Jan 28, 12 Home vs CCC Tournament TBA
Mon, Feb 6, 12 Away vs Area Tournament Fri, Feb 17, 12 Away vs Sub Region Tue, Feb 21, 12 Away vs South Regional Tournamnet Tue, Feb 28, 12 Away vs State Tournament
Middle School Boys Basketball
Junior Varsity Boys Basketball
Varsity Boys Basketball Fri, Jan 6, 12 Home vs Catholic 7:30 pm
Thu, Jan 5, 12 Away vs St Jude 6:00 pm
Thu, Jan 5, 12 Away vs St Jude 7:15 pm
Sat, Jan 7, 12 Away vs Mobile Christian 4:00 pm Tue, Jan 10, 12 Home vs LAMP 7:30 pm
Sat, Jan 7, 12 Home vs MA 9:00 am
Sat, Jan 7, 12 Home vs MA 10:15 am
Fri, Jan 13, 12 Away vs MA 7:30 pm Sat, Jan 14, 12 Away vs MLK Tournament
Tue, Jan 10, 12 Home vs LAMP 4:00 pm Tue, Jan 10, 12 Away vs Southside 6:15pm
Tue, Jan 17, 12 Away vs Catholic 7:30 pm Fri, Jan 20, 12 Away vs LAMP 7:30 pm
Thu, Jan 12, 12 Home vs Saint James 7:15 pm
Sat, Jan 21, 12 Home vs BTW 5:00 pm Fri, Jan 27, 12 Home vs MA 7:30 pm
Thu, Jan 12, 12 Away vs Saint James 6:00 pm Fri, Jan 20, 12 Away vs LAMP 5:15 pm Mon, Jan 23, 12 Home vs St Jude 6:00 pm
Sat, Jan 28, 12 Home vs Faith Academy 5:00 pm Tue, Jan 31, 12 Home vs Stanhope 6:30 pm Fri, Feb 3, 12 Away vs St James 7:30 pm
Mon, Jan 23, 12 Home vs St Jude 7:15 pm
Sat, Feb 4, 12 Home vs Autaugaville - 6:00 pm Fri, Feb 10, 12 Away vs Area Tournament
Thu, Jan 26, 12 Home vs St James 7:15 pm
Thu, Jan 26, 12 Away vs Saint James 6:00 pm
Mon, Feb 13, 12 Away vs Area Tournament Fri, Feb 17, 12 Away vs Sub Region
Sat, Jan 28, 12 Away vs CCC Tournament TBA
Sat, Jan 28, 12 Home vs CCC Tournament TBA
Tue, Feb 21, 12 Away vs South Regional Tournament Tue, Feb 28, 12 Away vs State Tournament
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At Trinity, we believe every student should have access to quality Apple laptops. That’s why Trinity is the first school in the River Region to implement a grade-wide laptop initiative. Combined with SmartBoards in every classroom and wireless internet school wide, our students are taking a bite out of the future every day.
webelieve.
Apples aren’t just for teachers anymore.
TrinityWildcats.com | Contact Monica Lott 334.213.2137
Nondiscriminatory statement as to students: Trinity admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational policies, scholarship programs and athletics, and other school-administered programs.
WINTER 2011 / 33
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