THE MAGAZINE OF BENCHMARK SCHOOL | SUMMER 2019
Ralph Wales: Reaffirming the Agreement Going Deep on Innovation Report of Gifts
Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019
CONTENTS
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Benjamin B. Rogers ’95, Chair Mark Thorburn, Vice Chair Adam W. Watson, Treasurer Wendi Chase, Secretary Charles J. Bramley W. Gregory Coleman Dr. Betsy Cunicelli Anthony DiMichele Nicholas B. M. Kemp, Jr. Howard R. Marcus, Ph.D. Jami Wintz McKeon Leroy (Lee) Nunery II, Ed.D. Andrew B. Rogers ’93 Charles E. Ryan James Viner
Going Deep on Innovation 3
Louisa Hanshew, Ex-Officio Irene W. Gaskins, Ed.D., Head of School Emerita & Trustee Emerita Ralph L. Wales, Interim Head of School •••• Alyce Callison, Director of Marketing & Communications Megan Craven, Design
Why I Teach 5
Alumnus Profile 6
Kim Graham, Emma Mattesky, Contributors
A Message from the Interim Head of School.....................2
••••
Going Deep on Innovation.......................................................3
ON THE COVER Every summer, Benchmark Camp helps kids increase their self-confidence. One of the great traditions of the program is taking on the 40-foot high, 250-foot zipline, as a culmination of their camp experience.
Why I Teach: Scott Pfautz........................................................5 Alumnus Profile: Zac Arch '07.................................................6 Campus Snapshots.....................................................................7 2019 Graduates............................................................................9 Portfolio Review.........................................................................13
BENCHMARK SCHOOL
2107 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA 19063 610-565-3741 • BenchmarkSchool.org Benchmark School is accredited by Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools, which is a member in good standing of the National Association of Independent Schools’ Commission on Accreditation. Benchmark School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender and sexuality diversity, age, or against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability, in its admissions and financial program, in the administration of its educational program, or in its employment policies. Benchmark School is a tax-exempt organization as provided by IRS regulations and is registered as a charitable organization within the State of Pennsylvania. The official registration and financial information for Benchmark School may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Middle School Musical..............................................................13 Alumni Updates..........................................................................14 Tribute to Dr. Gaskins................................................................15 Report of Gifts............................................................................17 Facebook.com/BenchmarkSchool
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A MESSAGE FROM THE INTERIM HEAD OF SCHOOL
Reaffirming the Agreement By Ralph L. Wales
My much-loved Uncle Ralph, now 95 years old, still holds the title of the longest-licensed lobsterman in the coastal town of Nahant, Massachusetts. From age 12 to age 82 when he retired from this seasonal ritual, he plied the waters surrounding the town, pulling his traps from the ocean floor. As far back as I can remember, the two of us had an unspoken understanding which we dutifully maintained until he pulled his last trap. I would catch him fish for his traps and he would supply me with several dozen free lobsters. Indeed, for me, the real onset of summer was the day my uncle hauled his traps, ropes and buoys to the shoreline, set the mooring for his fourteen-foot wooden boat and began his trade. We did not discuss our ritual much. When the day came to initiate our partnership, I would awake at sunrise with the crunching sound of my uncle’s steps on the smooth gray beach stones as he headed toward his work. Fishing rod in hand, I followed. As I stepped on the beach, we were separated by a hundred yards but all it took was eye contact and a quick nod, and we had reaffirmed our agreement. He needed bait. I needed to fish.
to unlocking a child’s understanding of how they learn best. Today, our school’s daily effort remains imbued with our founder’s conviction and is fueled by time-tested practices. Our work together mixes strong feelings and intelligent, considered action to create and sustain the trust that is the foundation upon which children grow and thrive. When Labor Day rolled around at season’s end and my uncle pulled his lobster gear back to the shed where he mended his traps and refreshed the paint on his buoys during winter’s stormy months, I would find myself surrounded by friends and family at a large dining room table. The big bay window facing the sea would be dark, the ocean invisible. But in the middle of the table lay a tray of two dozen steaming, red lobsters ready for consumption—the product of a partnership based on love and trust. In our Benchmark world, our mutually shared purpose is triggered by the metaphorical ring of a school bell in the drier, cooler air of September. We anticipate its peal and the good work that lies ahead.
I believe that the success of the best schools rests on time-tested, often unspoken rituals like this. As I have talked with teachers and parents this summer, I have felt the strength of the partnership at Benchmark, an educational intimacy that is palpable, gritty, and real. All schools promise a culture of trust and connection. Benchmark delivers it and has authentically done so for almost fifty years. Indeed, the power of a school’s practice is often found in its initial purpose. In our case, that purpose sprang from Irene Gaskins’s passionate commitment
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FEATURE
GETTING INNOVATIVE Going Deep on Innovation
When Benchmark School was founded in 1970, it was revolutionary. From that time through to the present moment, Benchmark’s methods of teaching students with learning differences through a variety of robust programs have remained relevant through decades of educational and cultural change. In education today, innovation is the buzzword. So what does this mean for a school that’s always been innovative? What’s different now? Technology is rapidly changing; it is an integral part of contemporary life. Creativity and collaboration are desirable and even demanded competencies in the workplace. As the realm of education adapts to the ebb and flow of society, we are acutely aware of what we must do to support the next generation. Schools have taken the first and most immediate step of building innovation labs and makerspaces, and Benchmark School’s newly launched Innovation Lab is at the forefront. Our Innovation Lab space is generative by design. It houses technology, building tools, and maker supplies. The movable chairs and tables allow students and teachers to transform the space to suit their purposes on-demand. This isn’t just for fun; this intentionality in flexible design supports metacognitive frameworks used to expand creative and critical thinking. Form follows function. When you visit the lab, you immediately notice its sleekness, with its bins of colorful supplies, high-end equipment, and open space. Beyond the modern look is explosive opportunity for creative teaching and learning. It is the place in our school where critical experimentation in interdisciplinary, cross-curricular learning is
put to practice on a daily basis. Our Innovation Lab represents the future of school—a movement away from the siloed framework of individual, standalone subject areas—to a kind of thinking that reflects the complexity of the real world.
How has Benchmark approached this work? Benchmark has created a program that adds deep, lasting value to the high-quality teaching and learning that is at the core of a Benchmark education. We know that this work requires opportunities for teacher collaboration and we are committed to making that happen in ongoing and meaningful ways. We are positioning the Innovation Lab to reflect our strengths and support our vision for the future. Our Director of Innovation Emma Mattesky explains, “The Innovation Lab at Benchmark is unique. It is not a separate class, rather a space that directly enhances the learning in the classroom. With their expertise in strategy-based instruction, Benchmark teachers are very adept at incorporating the methods of design thinking and maker education into their daily pedagogy.” In its inaugural year, the Innovation Lab hosted more than sixty learning experiences, from two-week build sessions to forty-five minute divergent thinking exercises. “Teachers and students have begun to see the lab as a true resource, and they will often pop in to work out an idea or design an expansion of classroom work,” Emma
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FEATURE
says. “One of the strengths of the Benchmark experience is that our teachers and students are so well versed in the practice of reflection, which greatly reinforces the concept of iterative, process-based learning. This year, I have integrated myself into some of our regional professional networks, and I have found that the Benchmark instructional approach puts us ahead of the curve. It’s a natural fit.” For example, last year Jesse North and Alexis Caporizzo devised a project with eighth grade students, asking them to think beyond standard content area study and meld the typically unrelated disciplines of physics and social studies. In science, students learned about forces, fluids, and speed. Concurrently, they studied World War I. To reinforce both thematic areas, students designed boats that could hold weight while traversing the English Channel. Using their research about Dunkirk, the Royal Navy, and fishing boats, students constructed prototypes and tested them on a simulated English Channel. Jesse and Alexis fused the Benchmark strategy-based instruction with the design and engineering process in the form of engineers’ notebooks. At the end of each day’s work, students recorded short videos, reflecting on successes, failures, and plans.
What’s Next? “Our plan is to build upon the foundation we established last year,” says Emma. “With our community of educators, we will create a shared instructional language around design thinking and Benchmark strategy-based instruction. It’s about building opportunities for teachers to innovate and develop groundbreaking projects in maker education and design thinking.”
What is Design Thinking?
Design thinking is a tool, a system to help students manage their thinking as they navigate through real-world, human-centered problems. The design thinking process, similar to the design and engineering process, focuses on the needs of the user. At its root is empathy. Students observe, interview, research, and inquire about the needs of others in order to uncover insights and deeply consider the context of a problem. Once they understand the person or people for whom they are designing, they ideate, prototype, test, and get feedback on their solutions that help to address the core needs of the user. Design thinking projects or challenges often involve real-world context, and are shaped in the form of a “How might we…” question. Some design thinking challenge questions we explored this year were: How might we design the perfect lunch box? How might we reimagine the experience of getting caught in the rain? How might we design a way for a mother to carry her young children and groceries up a flight of stairs? Some design questions we explored through curriculum were: How might we construct sustainable homes for people living in extreme climates? How might we enhance an ancient Sumerian tool to be more useful? How might we design a game to play during indoor recess time?
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FACULTY PROFILE
WHY I TEACH: Scott Pfautz
Scott Pfautz’s classroom has plants, a cozy nook, and soft lighting. It’s a calm space, intentionally so. Making a comfortable, safe space for his students, and meeting their needs individually, is a hallmark of his teaching style. Scott, a Lower School head teacher focused on writing, reading, and social studies, has found in his three years at Benchmark that this school affords him the freedom both to teach and support students emotionally in a way that no other school has. He says, “I am much more calm when I teach. I don’t feel an internal or external pressure to get things covered. There’s a sense here that education is not just intellectual, it’s emotional too, and we’re seeing kids as who they are as people. There’s more to them than their dyslexia, or ADD. I’m also more purposeful. I can slow myself down, so I can dive deeper. That makes me feel good." Scott also loves the freedom to work with kids individually, and to find creative ways to help kids feel supported in the classroom. To find effective strategies, Scott explains, “It’s a combination of my professional experience and seeing what works and what doesn’t work. I teach kids to be reflective; I ask ‘Is this working for you?’ It’s a tool that allows kids a voice in the process.” Sometimes students are surprised by Scott’s willingness to create unconventional solutions. Scott recalls, “Last year, I had two kids that were having a hard time self-regulating their emotions. One of the boys wanted a code word that he could say to me to let me know when he needed a time out. We made a plan together for what he would do to cool himself down, which was to walk five laps around the library. When he needed to use that code word, he’d take a walk. It’s all about having the arsenal [of strategies] and working with the student.” Scott has long known that he wanted to be a teacher. “I was fortunate to have so many good teachers throughout my career. Every teacher gave me something of value. I always knew that I wanted to teach and give back. There’s a peace about it, and I really like to follow where there’s peace.” Scott teaches at Benchmark Camp during the summer as well, which sometimes means that he’ll meet kids in the summer who will later be in his classroom during the school year. “That’s a good thing,” Scott says. “I also do Guided Study after school, and get to know the kids in the other parts of the school. I like to cross the middle school/lower school line.” In the upcoming school year, Scott is planning a new way to make sure his classroom is a peaceful and supportive space. “I want to be more intentional about having morning meetings every day. It’ll be a purposeful meeting, just about fifteen to twenty minutes, where we’ll check in on how students feeling, and discuss empathy.”
TELL US ABOUT
YOURSELF Where did you go to college and what did you study? I attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I earned a Bachelors in Elementary Education. Not related to teaching, I earned a Masters of Divinity with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Evangelical Seminary. What would you like to go back to school for? I am close to finishing my Masters in Special
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Education from Eastern University. After that, I would like to go back to school for a degree as a Reading Specialist or Child Counseling. What is your favorite memory from your school years? I fondly remember my third grade teacher, Mr. Shear, taught a science lesson where he brought in a cow’s brain and eye for us to observe. I remember holding the eye and being completely awestruck. What was your favorite thing (subject or theme) to study when you were in school, and why? My favorite subject to study was the ocean and sea life. I’ve always been fascinated by the underwater world.
Tell us about the teacher who most influenced you when you were a student. My elementary school librarian, Mr. Collins was the best! As a kid, I struggled to make sense of reading. Mr. Collins helped me to love reading because he made it fun. The books he read, the stories he told, and the way he made the library appear inviting all helped me love reading. What is your favorite book? As a teacher, I really enjoy reading The Wayside School series by Louis Sachar to my classes. My personal choice is a book written by Mike Yaconelli called Messy Spirituality. What is your favorite inspirational quote? “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis
ALUMNUS PROFILE
ZAC ARCH '07 Outside the Box
Learning differences can form the foundation of a career and a passion. That’s what Zac Arch ‘07, who is the CEO of a video production company called Outside the Box Productionz, found to be a surprising self-truth. Benchmark profoundly shaped Zac’s life, and the lessons he learned about himself here have shaped his business and continue to provide him with a unique professional advantage. Zac works with a range of clients in his company, and he explains, “It’s not only because of my ADD, but having multiple clients, and working in multiple voices, allows me to keep an interest in my work. This was purposeful on my part—I knew I wanted to be constantly stimulated. Creatively speaking, my experience at Benchmark allows me to look at things from lots of different angles, in a way that my peers don’t. I have a lot of openness to learn from other individuals, and to bring it in to my own work, and that comes from Benchmark. If I see something I like in another business’s culture, I try to implement it to ours.” Zac spent eight years at Benchmark, entering Mrs. Cress’s class in 1999. Mrs. Cress exposed Zac to the motto that would make a lasting impression. He says, “‘Take what you know to figure out what you don’t know’ is my number one mantra, and one of the first things I learned at Benchmark. It’s such an outside the box way to teach and learn, and it changed my life. Beyond that, I carry with me that reading comprehension is important enough to take the time. At Benchmark, I felt comfortable raising my hand, and I asked questions. The culture of Benchmark is helpful for learning, and learning at your own pace.” Zac’s educational trajectory carried him to the Shipley School, where Zac says he felt “very well equipped to take on high school. I had really matured as a student. I learned that
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Zac and Hayley Karp, who is Zac's girlfriend and Chief Communications Officer. I needed to go about my learning differently, and Benchmark equipped me with those tools.” From Shipley, Zac went on to Temple University, where he played soccer (until his sixth concussion put an unfortunate halt on his career). At Temple, Zac studied media and communications with an emphasis on business and entrepreneurship, and he says, “I knew I wanted to start my own company. I started in audio engineering, and then I fell in love with video and documentary.”
Zac is passionate about the effect his Benchmark education has had on his life, and he has hopes for Benchmark’s future as well. He says, “I want to see more awareness of Benchmark. I want more people to understand how it’s an I learned that I needed to go about my learning amazing place. I want people to know that Benchmark is a Garden of Eden for differently, and Benchmark equipped me with people who learn differently. I want to those tools. see the stigma of ADD changed because of Benchmark. It’s important for people —Zac Arch '07 to understand that it’s just a difference that needs to be addressed early so you can figure it out.”
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CAMPUSs snapshot
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1: Family ties run deep at Benchmark! Nine of this summer’s campers have parents who are Benchmark School alumni. • 2: As part of their investigation of non-renewable energy sources, fifth grade science students measured how the chemical energy of a candle is converted into heat energy. The experiment simulated the burning of fossil fuels to heat water to steam in order to spin a turbine and generate electricity. • 3: We welcomed nearly 200 guests to our annual Grandparent & Special Guest Day. • 4: Annual “30 Days Out Breakfast” honored our 32 graduates as they entered their final month at Benchmark. • 5: Participants raised a recording-breaking $13,829.68 in the Mini-THON for Four Diamonds, whose mission is to conquer childhood cancer by assisting children treated at Penn State Children's Hospital. • 6: On Field Day, our fields were a sea of green and blue competitors...with a hint of tawny fur. • 7: Sixth grade science classes grew lettuce in Benchmark’s aquaponics systems. Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019 8
GRADUATES
CONGRATULATIONS To Benchmark's 2019 Grads!
Orion AstorgaWister Years at Benchmark: 5 What’s the most important reason you think a parent should consider sending their child to Benchmark? Benchmark teaches your child how to accommodate for their learning issue and turn it into a strength. My favorite Benchmark memory is… My favorite memory was the play of 2018.
Rylee Barnhart
Matthew Becket
Luca Bevilacqua
Faith Blackwell
Years at Benchmark: 2
Years at Benchmark: 7
Years at Benchmark: 5
Years at Benchmark: 4
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
What makes Benchmark special?
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
I have grown tremendously in my writing confidence and my problem-solving is a lot better than it’s ever been.
It will always be the place where I learned to love school and use my love of learning successfully to my advantage.
My favorite Benchmark memory is…
What advice would you share with younger students?
It taught me a lot about how I learn as a person. I have learned to think on a more critical level and pay attention to deeper meanings.
Benchmark has helped me realize my strengths and my roadblocks; they have helped me find out what my learning style is.
Every morning Dr. Gaskins waiting at the front door of the building greeting everyone.
Work hard and don’t even try to make excuses—they will know!
What will you remember most about your time at Benchmark?
What makes Benchmark special?
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My friends.
They have the patience to help kids that need a little more than just the basics.
GRADUATES
Jaden Chulan
Ben Czachor
Chris Ellison
Adon Gross
Years at Benchmark: 5
Years at Benchmark: 7
Years at Benchmark: 6
Years at Benchmark: 4
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
What makes Benchmark special?
What advice would you share with younger students?
What advice would you share with younger students?
It has made me a better student and has made me start to enjoy aspects of learning.
You can meet new friends that have the same learning differences as you and you won't feel like you're the only kid that has trouble learning.
There is a lot of homework but it’s okay. Here you have more people that will help you than you can imagine!
Always be ready for change.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself? I have the ability to overcome challenges and become stronger.
My favorite Benchmark memory is…
What is a favorite Benchmark memory?
My favorite Benchmark memory is… When I first met my friends.
My favorite memory is saying “four dollar” in Oklahoma!
A favorite memory is the play, because it was really funny and good.
JJ Guillaume
Jon Hanway
Emma Heckmann
Jason Henderson
Years at Benchmark: 3.5
Years at Benchmark: 7.5
Years at Benchmark: 4
Years at Benchmark: 2.5
What makes Benchmark special?
What makes Benchmark special?
What is a favorite Benchmark Memory?
The teachers are always available for every student and are always willing to help, and are very flexible in how they teach.
They help kids, and there are always teachers there to help when you need it.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself?
What advice would you share with younger students? Be hardworking and don’t give up, just keep pushing through the hard times.
My favorite Benchmark memory is… Making a lot of friends, and going on the Dorney Park trip with the whole middle school.
I need to have written directions for assignments because I am a visual learner. What advice would you share with younger students? Think about the bigger picture. It may seem tough at the moment, but don’t let that stop you from moving forward.
Dr. Gaskins greeting every kid in the morning every day. What advice would you share with younger students? Always ask for help if you're confused.
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GRADUATES
Philip Himmelreich
Joey Hofmann
Tony Ireland
Sophia Juarez
Years at Benchmark: 7
Years at Benchmark: 5
Years at Benchmark: 4
Years at Benchmark: 5
What’s the most important reason you think a parent should consider sending their child to Benchmark?
What makes Benchmark special?
What makes Benchmark special?
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
The teachers at Benchmark are special and unique.
They have their own techniques and they give extra time on reading.
Benchmark helped me learn how to read, write, spell, and do homework.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself?
What advice would you share with younger students?
They provide you with the tools and strategies for success. It’s a very supportive community. What impact has Benchmark had on you? They actually made me enjoy learning and provided me with a safe environment.
Brooks Larsen Years at Benchmark: 7 What impact has Benchmark had on you? I can read now, and they have taught me to use many different strategies. What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself? I am able to do equally good work as those around me. I just take longer to do it.
What will you remember most about your time at Benchmark? I will remember every teacher that helped me, and everyone in my class.
I need to take more breaks when I am working on something that takes a while.
Don’t put your homework off. It will bite you later.
Jeremy-Nathaniel Willie LeBreton
Sean McGovern
Patrick McKeever
Years at Benchmark: 7
Years at Benchmark: 3.5
Years at Benchmark: 4
What advice would you share with younger students?
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself? I learn differently and I’m teachable. What advice would you share with younger students? If you keep up with your homework, you will be more successful.
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You won’t get overwhelmed since the level of the work slowly goes up over the years. What will you remember most about your time at Benchmark? The reflections portfolio. I learned more about the way I learn.
It’s okay to have a learning difference and I’m proud of it because it makes me different and I don’t really care what people say about me. My favorite Benchmark memory is… Building icebergs in 6th grade.
GRADUATES
Michael McNulty
Colin Mount
Gabby Paolella
Jacob Sallari
Years at Benchmark: 4
Years at Benchmark: 7
Years at Benchmark: 6
Years at Benchmark: 5
What’s the most important reason you think a parent should consider sending their child to Benchmark?
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
What advice would you share with younger students?
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself?
Don’t let anyone get you down, have fun, and learn to be a great self-advocate.
In order to succeed, you must keep trying even after you fail and learn from your mistakes.
Your child will grow and be excited to learn. Kids at Benchmark are also prepared for the future.
Benchmark has helped me learn how to write properly and read properly. I have learned to solve problems on my own and if I am stuck, I will ask for help.
My favorite Benchmark memory is…
My favorite Benchmark memory is…
Being with my friends every day and having fun while learning.
The musical Oklahoma!
My favorite Benchmark memory is… The play. Kids work together to bring something amazing together.
What advice would you share with younger students? Do not procrastinate.
Ashley Maria Schnyder
Nikki Scirrotto
Erica Seelaus
Nicholas Silvers
Years at Benchmark: 7
Years at Benchmark: 7
Years at Benchmark: 5
Years at Benchmark: 7
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself?
What advice would you share with younger students?
What is a favorite Benchmark memory?
Benchmark didn’t just impact me as a learner, but as a person.
I have learned that I am very persistent and I can do anything and can get over any obstacles.
Be yourself and shine on!
What will you remember most about your time at Benchmark?
What advice would you share with younger students?
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
I’ll remember the people who made it such a friendly and positive community, especially all my friends.
Be organized, and don’t worry about grades.
What will you remember most about your time at Benchmark? Easily what I’ll remember most are my relationships with teachers and classmates, and their sense of humor.
The play this year, at the end, when I felt accomplished and happy with how it turned out. What will you remember most about your time at Benchmark? As I'm walking out for graduation, I can read, write, advocate, and organize my stuff.
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GRADUATES
DO YOU KNOW AN OUTSTANDING ALUM?
Submit a nomination for Benchmark School’s Outstanding Alumnus Award on the "Alumni" section of our website.
Finley Strine
Natalie Wherry
Paul Ziegler
Years at Benchmark: 5
Years at Benchmark: 3
Years at Benchmark: 5
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
What is a favorite Benchmark memory?
What impact has Benchmark had on you?
It has made me more reflective and in every sense better.
When I came to shadow at Benchmark and got to meet a bunch of people who I would soon be friends with.
It has transformed my life and empowered my success.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about yourself? I need to force myself to do things or I won’t do them.
What will you remember most about your time at Benchmark? How much I grew.
What advice would you share with younger students? Take full advantage of what Benchmark has to offer.
KEEP YOUR NEWS COMING! We love to hear about your academic achievements, what school teams or clubs you are involved in, if you are engaged or married, if you’ve had a baby, changed jobs, or any news you’d like to share! Submit your news and photos via the"Alumni" section of our website, or send your news to marketing@ benchmarkschool.org.
Portfolio Review On Tuesday, June 11, we said farewell to 32 of our favorite students. We launched the celebration with the annual tradition of Portfolio Review, where graduating students shared their journey and growth as learners. After the Portfolio Review, it was time for Graduation. Former Head of School Robb Gaskins spoke powerfully about adversity as a critical element to any good story. Calling on the archetype of the hero's journey (present in great tales throughout time, up to and including Harry Potter), Dr. Gaskins explained, "One of the key elements of Benchmark School is that we prepare you to overcome adversity. Willingly or not, you embarked on this journey....You emerged confident and with an incredible set of tools that you'll use throughout life." Students from sixth, seventh, and eighth grade spoke about their learning journeys, sharing about Benchmark's culture of acceptance, learning to focus, self-advocacy, and more. Each graduate was presented with their diploma and a pink rose for the students to give to their parents, in thanks for their support, encouragement, and love.
Middle School Musical After months of practice, hard work, and dedication, the middle school students delighted audiences as they performed Oklahoma! The 27th Annual Middle School Musical, directed and choreographed by Dr. Eric MacDonald, brought down the house with three performances in May. The musical is a vital part of the middle school experience at Benchmark School and a source of great pride for our students, parents, staff, and community. We’re so proud of our students for collaborating and appreciating one another—and for putting on a great show!
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ALUMNI UPDATES
CLASS NOTES '01
Jonathan DeLone studied horticulture and landscape design at Colorado State University. He has been working for the US Forest Service, and started his own landscape design business. Jonathan says, “Benchmark taught me to face my challenges head-on with tenacity and without fear. I can approach problems differently and still get a positive result.” Chelsea Iobst recently completed a M.Ed. degree in Student Personnel in Higher Education at the University of Florida, where she also works as a Learning Specialist at the University Athletic Association. Chelsea says, "I have always loved to be a learner, which is why I went back and pursued an additional degree. I love attending sporting events and enjoy getting to beaches in the sunshine state of Florida."
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Paige Gembala is at Temple University pursuing a Master of Education degree in Adult and Organizational DevelopMacauley Kistler '05 was living in Austin, Texas for five years after graduating from West Chester University. She moved to colorful Colorado in June 2018 to work remotely for Walker Luxury Vacation Rentals, where she is now the Director of Operations. Looking back on Benchmark, Mac says she values the "friendships I made, building confidence, and the tools to learn how to give and receive feedback."
ment. Paige is working full time as a care services coordinator for adults with disabilities. She is in her sixth year as an active member of the Union League of Philadelphia and has served as a board member of the library committee. Delaney O'Shea '09 graduated from Davidson College and is looking for work in Washington, D.C. Early in her college career, she ran Division I Cross Country and Track & Field. After the 2016 election, she decided to shift her focus to politics, and started her school’s chapter of Planned Parenthood Generation Action, which was ranked 3rd in the country in 2017.
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Michael Schwartz is attending University College London to obtain a master’s degree in management, and will graduate this fall. This summer, Michael had a fellowship at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, and plans to work in the energy industry.
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Alexa Remise Casimir Green spent the spring of 2019 as a Disney College Program intern, where she felt “honored to become part of the magic that is known worldwide.” Alexa attends Xavier University of Louisiana, studying political science and mass communication.
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Jacob Newmark will joining the class of 2023 at Tufts University. At Harriton High School, Jacob is a member of the International Baccalaureate diploma program. and has been able to take advanced chemistry courses, which
David J. Bloom, JD, CFP, '80 is Senior Vice President at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. David graduated from Villanova University, and obtained his J.D. from Widener University School of Law. David says, “The teachers at Benchmark School unlocked my true potential by helping me learn to read and write on grade level. That transformative experience drives my philanthropic endeavors. Children's Literacy Initiative (where I serve as Board Chair) is a leading national non-profit that helps to solve one of education's most important challenges: ensuring all children can read and write on grade level.” inspired him to major in chemistry. He is a involved in theater and environmental club, and chairs a student council committee. Jacob has interned at Penn for the past two summers, studying acute myeloid leukemia.
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Sloan Petersohn is attending Harriton High School, where she was nominated to attend HOBY Leadership Conference at Albright College. Sloan says, “I learned many new skills I plan to integrate into my life.” She reflects, “I wouldn’t be succeeding academically without the skills I learned at Benchmark. Thank you.”
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Izzy DelTergo is working on getting an internship for medical practice. She plays rugby, soccer, and football and will soon be traveling to Germany. Izzy recalls, "Some of the teachers I had pushed me but it all was good in the long run. They helped me get good grades in my classes and create a bond with my teachers this year." Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019 14
DR. GASKINS Thank You There was quite the party on the green top on Thursday, June 6 when hundreds of members of the Benchmark community came together to celebrate the tenure of Dr. Robb Gaskins as Head of School. While Robb has led Benchmark with enthusiasm, dedication, and humility for the last twelve years, his service to the school began well before that. In Robb’s teenage years, he could easily be found during summer camp as a “chipper” or playing with his band in the gym for the last day celebration. As Robb pursued his own educational career, he returned to Benchmark many times and in many roles: as a summer Language Arts teacher and supervisor, a Benchmark trustee, and eventually Associate Head before becoming Head in 2007. Robb will always be remembered for the great impact he had on Benchmark in many ways, including (but not limited to) the addition of the Benchmark School Innovation Lab and the integration of technology, design thinking, and innovation across the curriculum; the creation of a strategic plan that presents Benchmark’s vision for boldly moving into the future; and—most importantly—for setting the tone of caring and kindness every day while providing an example of facing adversity with determination, positivity, and grace. We at Benchmark will always be grateful for Robb's service.
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1: Dr. Gaskins joined Chico's Vibe on stage for a few songs. • 2: Benchmark Board Chair Ben Rogers '95 prepares to toast Dr. Gaskins. • 3: Lower School Head Sally Laird expresses her appreciation for Dr. Gaskins’s leadership. • 4: Physical Education Teacher and Facilities Manager Wayne Reichart shares just a few of the memories he has with Dr. Gaskins. • 5: Robb and Jennifer Chan Gaskins - a powerful team for Benchmark. • 6: Benchmark Parents Association Co-President Kristin Yerger shares a heartfelt thank you from Benchmark parents. • 7: Benchmark faculty Jesse North and Alex Templeton enjoyed some time with current parents Greg LeMar and Michelle Bogosian. • 8: Alumni parents Elsie & Sandy McAdoo enjoyed some refreshements under the tent. • 9: Current parents Robert Bendix and Jennifer Kerbeck were just a few of the parents in attendance to honor Dr. Gaskins. • 10: Benchmark alum Stephen Chase '06 expressed appreciation on behalf of Benchmark's thousands of alumni. • 11: A portrait of Dr. Gaskins that will be hung within the school was unveiled as part of the evening's festivities. • 12: In addition to recognizing Dr. Gaskins, Ben Rogers also presented Jennifer Chan Gaskins with a beautiful bouquet of flowers to recognize her valuable contributions to the school. • 13: Many Benchmark faculty members—both past and present—were in attendance, including: Holly Blair, Laura Carrington, Melissa Savage, Beth Melfi, and Kevin Canney. • 14: Current parents Pete and Kai Seelaus had a moment to catch up with Linda Lattif, Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management. • 15: Current parents Loren and Jenn Shaw joined over 250 guests who enjoyed the evening.
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In recognition of the tenure of Robb Gaskins, the Benchmark School Board of Trustees created The Dr. Robert W. Gaskins Student Success Initiative to benefit the students whom Dr. Gaskins cared for so deeply. At the onset, an anonymous donor agreed to match all gifts to the Initiative up to $25,000. Through the generosity of the donors listed below, that match was met and exceeded—raising a total of almost $75,000. Susan Arabia Mary & Dick Auchincloss The Ayres Family Bonnie Barnes Mary Lee & Harris Bass Dolly & Bill Baumann Karen Berry The Besa Family The Blackwell Family The Blum Family The Brandow Family The Brogan Family Anthony P. Checchia David Chikowski '12 Maggie Churchville Marcia & Greg Coleman Dianne & Don Cooney Megan Craven Joan M. Davidson Eleanor L. Davis Susan Deakins Lisa, John & Kevin '07 Dombroski Mr. Tony Edmonds & Ms. Christal Mockenhaupt Bob Emery & Pat Hacik Betty & Vic Esposito Anna Everetts Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Firth Charesse Ford Patricia Ralph Fowler &
Gordon Fowler Paula & Bruce Fuhrmann Wendy & William Gaunt Ann & Maurice Glavin Lynn & Bill Gonzalez Ingrid & Don Graham Kimberly Felts Graham Linda & Mike Graham The SMV Hamilton, Jr. Family Ellen & Ed Hanway Missy & Ed Hanway Susan Hatch Sara Hill Mary Jo, Andy & Max '08 Hopton Judy Horn's Grandparents Ann Jones The Jones Family (Michael '14) Kathleen B. Junod Susan D. Keith Kari & Ken Kurtz Helen A. Lawrence Mildred S. Levine Cynthia A. Liberi Sandy Madison Valerie Maerker Dr. & Mrs. Howard R. Marcus Elsie & Sandy McAdoo Wendy Miller Mitch's Mowing Karen Munin
Winifred & Bruce Murray Dr. & Mrs. Michael Naso Margaret C. Naugle Duffy Keith Nichols '87 Marcia & Neal Niznan Jesse North Joyce Ostertag The Joey Pozzuolo Family Foundation Melinda Rahm Carolyn Robbins Barbara & Jim Rogers Rebecca Rosenstock Rosalma SaadĂŠ Amaral Jerry Sabatina Bernard E. Schaeffer & Nanci Olivere Weber Grandparents of Ashley Schnyder '19 Irene & Morris Schnyder Theresa Scott The Seelaus Family The Semon Family Judy Sennett Regina M. Smith & Charles R. Smith, Jr. Pam & Dave Stitely The Walsh Family Roberta West Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Whitehead Bill Williams Anonymous
Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019 16
REPORT OF GIFTS
LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR Dear Friends, Over the short tenure of my time as Chairman, I am humbled by the community of donors and volunteers who give so generously to Benchmark School. This past year will be remembered as the capstone of Dr. Robb Gaskins’s time as Head of School. Robb left an indelible mark on Benchmark, and as we look towards our future, it will be important for us to focus on Benchmark’s core mission of helping bright students who learn differently reach their full potential and rise to the challenges of the modern world. Together, we help to deliver on Benchmark's promise. Our instructional programs simply would not be possible without the generosity of our donors and volunteers. Each gift, large and small, is essential to the operations of Benchmark. To each donor and volunteer, you have my heartfelt thanks for helping to nurture and strengthen this vital and growing community of learners. Benjamin B. Rogers ’95 Chair of the Board of Trustees
Report of Gifts THE 1970 SOCIETY OF LEADERSHIP DONORS Named for the year Benchmark began, The 1970 Society of Leadership Donors recognizes those donors who have made a gift or pledge of $1,000 or more to the school between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019. While the members of this group represent various parts of the Benchmark community, their goal is the same: to strengthen, enhance, and continue an unparalleled Benchmark experience for our students today and learners to come. The Founders $25,000+ Benchmark Parents Association
Nicholas Romeo ’04 Alumni
Patricia Ralph Fowler & Gordon Fowler Alumni Parents
Charles Ryan Alumni Parent & Trustee
Beth* & Pete Goodhart & The Goodhart Family Alumni Parents & *Board Chair
Wendi* & Charlie Chase Alumni Parents & *Board
Randi & Randy Sellari & The Sellari Family Fund Current Parents
Missy & Ed Hanway Current & Alumni Parent
Marcia & Greg* Coleman *Former Staff & Trustee
Cheryl & Thomas Sawyer Weir Alumni Parents
Steven C. Graham Family Current Parents
Loralee West & Alfred P. West, Jr. Alumni Parents
Ellen & Ed Hanway & The Hanway Family Family of both alumni and current students
The Scholars $15,000+ Kathy & Bob Elias Alumni Parents
The Boudinot Foundation/Carol A. Atterbury* *Alumni Parent
Patti Karolyi & Michael Semerjian Current Parents Caren Lambert Alumni Parent Mondrian Investment Partners Matching the gifts of Michael Semerjian & Patti Karolyi, Current Parents Kelly & Michael Perillo Current & Alumni Parents
17 Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019
Mrs. & Dr. Jennifer & Samir Mehta Current Parents Kendra & Jim* Viner Current Parents & *Trustee The Visionaries $10,000+ The Curran Foundation Made possible by Evie & Phillip Dutton, Alumni Parents
Mr. John F. Hollway & Ms. Jami W. McKeon* Alumni Parents & *Trustee Sheri & Ken Resnik Alumni Parents Cindy Haveson Veloric & Michael Veloric Alumni Parents The Pioneers $7,500+ The Joey Pozzuolo Family Foundation Made possible by Sharyn & Joe Pozzuolo, Alumni Parents The Innovators $5,000+ Susan T. Deakins Alumni Parent Dawn & Nick* Kemp Alumni Parents & *Trustee
REPORT OF GIFTS
The Larsen Foundation Current & Alumni Family Kimberlee & Robin Orth Alumni Parents The Slye Family Current Parents The Trailblazers $2,500+ Lisa & John Barnes Alumni Parents
The Mentors $1,000+ Bonnie Barnes Former Staff The Becket Family Foundation Current Family The Blum Family Current Family Leslie Rogers Blum Current Grandparent
Michelle Bogosian & Greg LeMar Current Parents
Mr. & Mrs. Isaac H. Clothier IV Alumni Grandparents
The Solomon & Sylvia Bronstein Foundation Made possible by the Broker Family, Alumni Family
Comcast
Mr. & Mrs. John Connolly Alumni Parents Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Dunn Current Parents Jennifer Chan Gaskins* & Robb Gaskins** *Staff & **Head of School Exelon Generation Lynn* & Bill Gonzalez Alumni Parents & *Staff The SMV Hamilton, Jr. Family & The Hamilton Family Foundation Alumni Family Ann Jones Alumni Grandparent Dr.* & Mrs. Howard R. Marcus *Trustee & Former Staff Emily Schwarz Newmark & Brian Newmark Alumni Parents Northwestern Mutual Foundation Matching Gifts Program Matching the gifts of the Kemp Family Paula & Paul Olson Current Parents Nancy & James Schwartzman Alumni Grandparents Margot & Philip Sullivan Alumni Parents Jeralyn & Peter Svanda Alumni Grandparents
MaryJo, Andy, & Max ’08 Hopton Alumni Family Celeste & Richard Ill Current & Alumni Grandparents Henry L. Kimelman Family Foundation Made possible by Mr. and Mrs. Donald Kimelman, Alumni Parents Sally* & Rob Laird *Staff Sandra & Robert Lichtenstein Alumni Parents
Barbara & Martin Czachor Current Grandparents
The Mary Daly MacFarland Foundation in memory of Mary Daly MacFarland & of her daughter, Elizabeth A. Wilson Made possible by the Ellison and Wilson Families, Current Families
Barbara & David Erskine Alumni Parents
The McAllister Family Alumni Family
Betty & Vic Esposito Current Grandparents
The Robert A. Micheletti Family Charitable Fund of Vanguard Charitable Alumni Family
Carole M. Filtz Alumni Parent Mark Fiss & Marissa Schnelle Current Parents Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Fowler, Sr. & The Fowler Family Fund Alumni Grandparents Irene W. Gaskins Head of School Emerita & Trustee Emerita Ann & Maurice Glavin Alumni Parents GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Matching the gift of Gary Marks & Sharon Sweinberg, Alumni Parents
NASDAQ Employee Giving Matching the gift of Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Dunn, Current Parents Sandy & John Nesbitt Current Grandparents Michelle & Mark Noble Current Parents Daphne Hawkins Parker & Michael Parker Current & Alumni Parents Mr. & Mrs. Thomas H. Patterson Alumni Parents Suzanne B. Perot Former Staff & Alumni Aunt
Ingrid & Don Graham Current Grandparents
Amy* & Jim Petersen Alumni Parents & *Former Trustee
Louisa Hanshew Staff
Joshua Petersohn & Nuriye Uygur Alumni Parents
Bob Himmelreich Current Parent
Ilana Reisner, DVM, PhD & Susan Stehman, VMD Alumni Parents
Janet S. Holcombe Alumni Parent Elana Honig & Baltazar Juarez Current Parents
Barbara* & Jim Rogers Alumni Parents & *Former Staff Ginny & Jim Russell Friends
Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019 18
REPORT OF GIFTS
The Seelaus Family Current & Alumni Parents The Sunflower Foundation Made possible by Christena & Ken Waldman, Current Parents Pam & Dave* Stitely *Former Trustee Benjamin Szathmary '18 Alumnus Lois Veale Current Grandparent, Alumni Grandparent, & Alumni Parent Adam Watson*/BBD, LLP *Trustee Mary & Bruce Wilson Current Grandparents Anonymous (2) DONORS Gifts to Benchmark come from parents, grandparents, alumni and alumni families, faculty, and friends who have seen the impact of a Benchmark education for a student who learns differently. Benefactors $500+ Mr. & Mrs. Robert Benedix III Marilyn & Al Blatter Michele & Charles Bramley The Brandow Family Dr. B. Gerard & Mrs. Barbara Bricks Citizens Charitable Foundation The Civil War Trust David B. Crowley Linda & Kevin Czachor Eleanor L. Davis Eleanor Gensemer Lewis F. Gould, Jr. Sandy Griffin & The Anthony M. & Ann C. Ricci Memorial Fund Karen K. and Thomas B. Helm and the Thomas B. Helm Charitable Fund, a Donor Advised Fund of The U.S. Charitable Gift Trust Jennifer & Timothy Hornickle Karen & Joseph Iobst Sallie & Tom Jackal Jay Lankford – Lankford Acquisition Company Sue & Mark Lankford - Lankford Automotive Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Louis J. Mayer Trisha & Stewart McCallum The McGowan Family Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Pante William Pawlowsky '96 Becky & Doug Pyle
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Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Rogers '95 David P. Sullivan '00 Kate & Mark Thorburn Vanguard Matching Gift Program The Walsh Family Lisa & Paul Welch Roberta West Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Whitehead Sponsors $250+ Mary Lonergan Adams Susan Arabia Mary & Dick Auchincloss AXA Foundation Sasha Ballen & Dee Spagnuolo The Barrera Family Janine Barsoum, DO & Jeff Butcher, MD Joanna Bell-Merriam & William Merriam The Bonvicini Family Marisa & Jim Bruder Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Caruso Dianne & Don Cooney Astrid Davis Heidi Davis Lisa, John & Kevin ’07 Dombroski Lorraine & Anthony Drake Betsy & Michael Dubin Amy Eads Tony Edmunds & Christal Mockenhaupt Richard Fox The Gerrity Agency Dr. & Mrs. Scott Goldstein Andrea & Richard Gottlieb The Guillaume Family Martha Hill Sara Hill Kate & Vince Horn Thomas Hurster Virginia & David Laird Linda M. Lattif Adam Lemisch Elsie & Sandy McAdoo R. Barry McAndrews Sarah & Don McCarren Robert A. McClung ’81 Janet & Paul McGovern Patty & Brooke McMullin Melissa '03 & Erin '06 Murphy Dr. & Mrs. Michael Naso Amanda Nehring Marcia & Neal Niznan Mr. & Mrs. Raymond J. Nudy Colleen O'Hara Janine & Michael Pawlowsky PNC Matching Gifts Program Susan Ravenscroft Kim Riley Liz & Pete Schofield Theresa Scott Kathryn & David Shields Kim & Mark Sylvester Janine & Robert Tabas
David J. Thorpe, Sr. Lesli & Peter Verdi Robin & Andy Watson Wells Fargo Foundation Educational Matching Gifts Program Patrons $100+ Robin Abell & Jonathan Doh Carol & Douglas Allan The American Online Giving Foundation/ Benevity Dolly & Bill Baumann Betsy & Charles Bemis Dory Hamilton Benson '94 Karen Berry The Besa Family Amara & Jason Briggs The Birchler Family The Biscardi Family Nicole & Trip Black The Blackwell Family Dr. Richard Bocchini Josh Bricks '88 John C. Brogan Calvin College History Department Susan & James Carr Linda B. Carrington Janice & Joel Chanen Maggie Churchville Mr. & Mrs. Charles P. Collings Countryside Consulting Megan Craven The David Family Roseanne & Robert DeLucca Barb Demos Jessie DiNome, MD J. William Draper Lindsay & Jerry duPhily The Durkan Family Carol G. Dyer Susan & Michael Effgen Caroline Ellison Mark Fenstermacher Mary R. Foster Jan & Don Frisch Paula & Bruce Fuhrmann Jamie & Will Gaskins Wendy & William Gaunt Joan S. Gocke Julie & K. David Graham Kimberly Felts Graham Linda & Mike Graham Kimberly Gross Kristin Hall Crawford Hamilton '01 Miles Hamilton '07 Samuel M.V. Hamilton III '98 Suzanne & Matthew Heckendorn Nakia & Jason Henderson Lynn & David Heyman Julie & Alan Hochman Barbara & Dennis Hoffman
REPORT OF GIFTS
Betty & Charlie Hottenstein Judy Horn’s grandparents Louise & Joe Huber Estelle Izzard Ellet Kidd Jones Kathleen B. Junod Gavin Kaiser '01 Susan D. Keith Ruth Kelemen Mary & Ed Kelly Raine Kelsall Amy & Michael Kopelman Mary Beth & Rob Kowalski Ellen Kraftsow-Kogan & Mark E. Kogan Barbara & Al Kurtz Kari & Ken Kurtz Joyce & Barry Levin Joanne Levy Mildred S. Levine Susan & John Louchheim Franne & Robert Lytle Sandy Madison Valerie Maerker Gail & Len Magargee Mr. & Mrs. James M. Maloney '04 Patricia & Richard Maloney Maria & Anthony Martin Kitty & Steve Mattesky Michael Mazzola Colin C. McAdoo '98 Beth & John McCarthy Wendy Miller Mitch’s Moving Marjorie Y. Mitchell Mosaic Society of Philadelphia Mark Muehl National Financial Services LLC Margaret C. Naugle Jesse North Joyce Ostertag Ruth Payne Lauren W. Pederson Pam Phillippe Margot Powell '81 Beverly Prince Melinda Rahm Wayne Reichart Carolyn & Tom Robbins Paula & Andy Rosen Judy & Larry Rubin Rosalma Saadé Amaral Julie & Mike Samuels Bernard E. Schaeffer & Nanci Olivere Weber Debbie & Ron Schnelle Dr. & Mrs. Gregory Schwartzman The Sciole Family The Semon Family Judy Sennett Regina M. Smith & Charles R. Smith, Jr. Marianne Smith Joanna & Phil Solomon Jessica & Robert Spencer Cindy & Scott Towers
Sharon V. Townley April Triggiani Elizabeth & Michael Wahl Jessica & Doug Waltman F. John White Bill Williams Carol Wolfington Megan Wonderland Kristin & Stephen Yerger Elizabeth T. Ziegler Stephany & John Ziegler Friends Up to $99 Holly P. Ayres Bank of America Charitable Foundation Sara Barton & Hentzi Elek Mary Lee & Harris Bass Rebecca Ann Bemis Abbey Breslin Jackie Brodo The Brogan Family David Chikowski ’12 Coca-Cola Give Corning Incorporated Foundation Faith Cost Sherry Cress Rosanne Crowe Christopher Crowley '94 Joan Davidson Jane & Ernest Dellheim Kathy Dinella Kay A. Draper Pat Duffy Merril & John Dutton John Dyitt Bob Emery & Pat Hacik Anna Everetts Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Firth Dorothy A. Flynn Charesse Ford Lauren Frantz Stefanie Frayne Francesca & Noah Gans-Pfister Marianne Gellert-Jones & Andy Jones John Glowacki Nettie Green Terry Grosso Mr. & Mrs. Robert Grubbs Gray & Phil Handwerk Susan Hatch Helene & Jeff Herman Amy & Dirk Hinterleiter The Jones Family (Michael ’14) Anthony Kamara Hedy Karbiner Leslie Komarnicki Dolores Kowalski Daniel Kurtz '12 Helen A. Lawrence Cynthia A. Liberi Judith & Andrew Lins Katherine Lins '06
Marian B. & J. Dirk Lorenz Eric MacDonald Jennifer Malone Mike Maloney Laura & Mark Matika Julie Mattaliano Emma Mattesky Drew McCorkell Brysen McMullin '12 Karen Munin Winifred & Bruce Murray Duffy Keith Nichols ’87 Susan North Mary Lewis & Robert Orsatti Kennie Opdenaker Laura Ouladdaoud Scott Pfautz Nancy Powell Gina Rignati Rebecca Rosenstock Adair & Jim Ruff Phil Ruth Evelyn G. Sabatina Irene & Morris Schnyder Tobey & Sanford Schreiber Jennifer A. Scirrotto Cordelia M. Seeley Ben Seligsohn '09 Virginia W. Sharpless The Shaw Family Jessica Siso Debbie & David Snyder The Sofish Family Zeffie Spirokostas Leslie Stein Alex Templeton Ted Thomas '81 Trish Tribit Laurie Veacock Heather Warley Teri Watkins Mr. & Mrs. Robert Whitehead Anonymous (2) NAMED FUNDS Benchmark is the grateful recipient of numerous gifts to several named funds – all of which provide invaluable support for the school. We are most appreciative for the philanthropy, vision, and commitment of these individuals. Innovation Lab Building Fund AXA Foundation Barrera Gutierrez Family Dr. Richard Bocchini The Boudinot Foundation/Carol Atterbury Janice & Joel Chanen Wendi & Charlie Chase Maggie Churchville Citizens Charitable Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Isaac H. Clothier IV Countryside Consulting, Inc. Jessie DiNome, MD
Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019 20
REPORT OF GIFTS
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Dunn Lynn & William Gonzalez Julie & K. David Graham The Hanway Family Estelle Izzard Patti Karolyi & Michael Semerjian Dawn & Nick Kemp Joyce & Barry Levin Franne & Robert Lytle Kitty & Steve Mattesky Sarah & Don McCarren Mrs. and Dr. Jennifer and Samir Mehta Mondrian Investment Partners NASDAQ Employee Giving Margaret C. Naugle Amanda Nehring Northwestern Mutual Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Rogers '95 Liz & Pete Schofield Jeralyn & Peter Svanda Cindy Haveson Veloric & Michael Veloric Fund Anonymous (2) The Joey Pozzuolo Memorial Scholarship Sharyn & Joseph Pozzuolo The Peter B. Deakins Memorial Fund Susan T. Deakins The Promising Scholars Fund Wendi Chase & Jeralyn Svanda Caren Lambert Nicholas Romeo ’04 Anonymous Sawyer Henry Weir Scholarship Award Cheryl & Thomas Sawyer Weir GIFTS IN KIND Gifts in Kind of goods and services extend Benchmark’s mission and strengthen our school. We are thankful to these donors for their generosity. Dianne & Don Cooney Sarah McCarren GIFTS IN MEMORY Benchmark School is deeply appreciative of gifts given by our donors in memory of friends and loved ones. It is our privilege to remember the individuals listed in bold type. James Bemis '86 Betsy & Charles Bemis Margaret Brogan John C. Brogan Ellen Chan Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins
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Invadran Desti Elizabeth & Michael Wahl Judahia Dyitt Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Thorne Elliot Calvin College History Department Richard C. Gaskins, Sr. Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Peggy Gottschall Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Tracy Elizabeth Hottenstein Betty & Charlie Hottenstein Mary Daly MacFarland & her daughter, Elizabeth A. Wilson The Mary Daly MacFarland Foundation Barbara Mistichelli Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Kristina Murphy Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Gregory Seamon Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Roberta West Joseph Standen Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins GIFTS IN HONOR Benchmark joins with the following generous donors who have chosen to celebrate the individuals listed in bold type with gifts to Benchmark School in their honor. All Teachers Wendy Miller Andrew & Jayson Blum Leslie Rogers Blum Stephanie J. Bogutz '08 Mary Lewis & Robert Orsatti Liza Kurtz Bragin '93 Barbara & Al Kurtz Edward Chan Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Child & Family Support Services Adam Lemisch Dianne Cooney Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Betsy Cunicelli Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Amy Cuthbertson Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Ben Czachor ’19 Barbara & Martin Czachor Rachel Dellheim '93 Jane & Ernest Dellheim Barb Demos Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Scott Draper ’04 J. William Draper Reese & Taylor Dyson Gina Riganati Lucas Elek '09 Sara Barton & Hentzi Elek
Christopher Ellison '19 Mary & Bruce Wilson Megan Fiss Mark Fiss & Marissa Schnelle The Gaskins Family Ginny & Jim Russell Irene Gaskins Dr. Richard Bocchini Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Mildred S. Levine Robb Gaskins Jamie & Will Gaskins The McAllister Family Joshua Petersohn & Nuriye Uygur Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Irene W. Gaskins Melinda Rahm Eleanor Gensemer Susan & John Louchheim Seamus Glavin '12 Ann & Maurice Glavin Lynn Gonzalez Megan Craven Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Terry Gonzalez Adair & Jim Ruff Beth Goodhart Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Gracie Gottlieb '09 Andrea & Richard Gottlieb Mary Kate Grubbs '12 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Grubbs Ben Holcombe’s ('04) MBA from Duke Janet S. Holcombe Carly Hottenstein '16 Betty & Charlie Hottenstein Samantha Kopelman Kari & Ken Kurtz Sally Laird Susan Hatch Jeremy I. Lorenz '87 Marian B. & J. Dirk Lorenz Sarah McCarren Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Elizabeth McCarthy '05 Beth & John McCarthy Jane '17 & Margaret McKenzie Celeste & Richard Ill Michael McNulty ’19 R. Barry McAndrews Isabelle Merriam Paula & Andy Rosen Kim Munday Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Tamar Reisner-Stehman '09 Ilana Reisner, DVM, PhD & Susan Stehman, VMD Barbara B. Rogers Suzanne B. Perot Carol Rydel Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins
REPORT OF GIFTS
Ashley Schnyder ’19 Maria A. & Anthony Martin Jacob Sellari’s ('19) Graduation Randi & Randy Sellari Cameron & Casey Shields Mary R. Foster Jess Siso Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Kelly Sullivan '05 Jessie DiNome, MD David Thorpe Estelle Izzard William Veale Bill Williams Robin Watson Gray & Phil Handwerk Roberta West Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins The Ziegler Boys – Paul ’19 & Michael Carol Wolfington EDUCATIONAL IMPROVEMENT AND OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP TAX CREDITS (EITC & OSTC) The Benchmark community greatly appreciates the support of the companies listed below who gave more than $370,000 to Benchmark’s Scholarship Fund through Pennsylvania’s EITC and OSTC programs. These programs allow businesses to receive up to a 90% tax credit in exchange for their gifts to Benchmark. Over the past 19 years, more than $3.1 million in tuition assistance has been awarded to Benchmark families through these programs. For additional information on how your company can participate in the EITC or OSTC programs, please contact Director of Development Louisa Hanshew at 610-5653741, ext. 150 or louisahanshew@ benchmarkschool.org. Brock Premier Culinary Services The Bryn Mawr Trust Company Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools (BLOCS) Made possible by Kelly & Michael Perillo and Sheri & Ken Resnik The Glenmede Corporation HSC Builders & Construction Managers Made possible by the Viner Family Huff Paper Company Made possible by the Sullivan Family Pro-Tech Floors LLC Made possible by Bob Himmelreich
Ryan Advisory Services Made possible by Charles Ryan Silverback Educational Foundation for the Arts, Dance, & Athletics Made possible by the Steven C. Graham Family Tax Westmarc Cable Holding Inc. UHS of Pennsylvania, Inc. UHS Recovery Foundation, Inc. Veterans Financial Made possible by Emily Schwarz Newmark & Brian Newmark 2018-2019 Benchmark Parents Association Committee Chairs Co-Presidents Suzanne Heckendorn & Kristin Yerger Treasurer Joanna Solomon Secretary Amy Kopelman Book Fair Cintya Carr & Robin Watson Library Coordinator Ylva Kelsall New Parent Coffees Lisa Schreiber New Parent Coordinator (Lower School) Lisa Schreiber New Parent Coordinator (Middle School) Nakia Henderson Ice Cream Social Cintya Carr & Kelly Perillo Back to School Hospitality Jennifer Scirrotto Breakfast Buddies Sara Whitehead Fundraising Steering Amara Briggs Art Goes to School Jennifer Kerbeck, Elizabeth Vandiver, & Robin Watson Spring Social Committee Chairs Michelle Bogosian, Marisa Bruder, Elise & Mario Carsello, Farah Kapoor, Gina Riganati, Kate Semon, Vicki Smith, Joanna Solomon, Kim Sylvester Grandparent & Special Guest Morning Michelle Bogosian & Kate Horn Middle School Activity Chairs Missy Hanway, Karen Hofmann, Kai Seelaus & Robin Watson Social Activities Jennifer Kerbeck & Sara Whitehead Sports Outings Karen Hofmann Staff Appreciation Week Liz Blum, Michele Breslin, & Kelly Perillo
Visiting Authors Cintya Carr & Elizabeth Vandiver Spirit Wear Jennifer Kerbeck Rebate Coordinator Sara Whitehead 2019 Spring Social Chairs Wine Joe Caruso & Lexi Quinn/FOCUS Photo Booth Kelly & Mike Perillo, Kathryn & Dave Shields, Robin & Andy Watson Movie Posters Suzanne & Matt Heckendorn, Kate & Vince Horn Rubik’s Cube Challenge Sara & Edward Connolly, Patti Karolyi & Michael Semerjian Invitations Michelle Bogosian/The Camera Shop Music Elise & Mario Carsello, Jennifer Chan Gaskins & Robb Gaskins Video Games Cintya & Mike Carr, Gretchen Larsen Decorations Joanna Bell-Merriam & William Merriam, Gina Riganati Food Bobby Benedix & Jennifer Kerbeck, Brock & Co., Nudy’s Cafe & Family Beer Farah & Rahul Kapoor, Patti Karolyi & Michael Semerjian Benchmark is grateful to the many BPA Spring Social donors and volunteers who made the 2019 BPA Spring Social such a success and for the tremendous support it provides to our students. Thank you! All of the members of our community listed here made a gift or pledge to the school between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019. Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of this list. If there are additions, corrections, or omissions, please accept our apologies and contact Louisa Hanshew, Director of Development, at 610-565-3741, ext. 150 or louisahanshew@ benchmarkschool.org. Years listed following the names of our Benchmark alumni indicate the last year they attended Benchmark or graduated.
Benchmark Magazine | Summer 2019 22
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