BUCCANEER THE
From Roots to Wings:
A Comprehensive Curriculum That Nurtures Lifelong Learners
BENJAMIN SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Mr. David C. Faus, Head of School
Dr. Kristen Sheehan, Assistant Head of School
Mrs. Margaret Granados, Head of Lower School
Mr. Charles Hagy, Head of Middle School
Mr. Fletcher Carr, Head of Upper School
Mrs. Deanna Ball, Director of Finance
Mrs. Leslie Downs, Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operating Officer
Mr. Juan Carlos Fanjul '93, Chief Development Officer
Mrs. Amy Jablonski, Director of Enrollment Management
Mrs. Patti Maiselson, Director of Human Resources
Mrs. Jessy Padon '01, Director of Communications
Mrs. Susan Poncy, Director of Student Services (PK3-8)
Mr. Ryan Smith '93, US Director of Athletics/Director Of Transportation
Mr. Russ Tepper, Chief Technology Officer
2024-2025 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Sasha Klein, Chair
Tom Zaccagnino, Vice Chair
Eric Glasband, Treasurer
Kori Searcy, Secretary
Nicole Bessette
Joe Costa
Kyle Crockett
Jonathan Diamond
Rebecca Kujawa
Paul Lawler '02
Dr. Thomas Matese, Jr.
Kimberly Odom
Greg Savidge
Honorable Caroline Shepherd
Dr. Gray Smith
Shannon Smith
Amity Swank
Aaron Yeary
David C. Faus, Head of School (ex-officio)
TRUSTEES EMERITI
Nancy Benjamin*
Kevin Kenny*
Martha Kenny*
Barbara Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus
*deceased
BUCCANEER THE
Marti Lotman ’06
Managing Editor
Jeremy Ferris Photographer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tracey Benson
Sawyer LeFevre ‘25
Christine Magee ’11
Jessy Padon ’01
Erica Sousa
ADVANCEMENT OFFICE STAFF
COMMUNICATIONS
Jessy Padon ’01 Director of Communications
Marti Lotman ’06
Assistant Director of Communications
Jeremy Ferris Digital Media Coordinator
DEVELOPMENT
Juan Carlos Fanjul ’93 Chief Development Officer
Samantha Atkinson Director of Annual and Leadership Giving
Sydney DeVogt Development and Special Events Coordinator
Mike Maiselson Development Database and Donor Services Manager
Kristin Maltese Director of Special Events
Ashley Simmons Urena '05
Alumni Relations and Development Manager
Lindsey Warren Database Specialist
ON THE COVER
Explore Benjamin’s comprehensive curriculum that spans three divisions, providing a foundation for lifelong learning and future growth opportunities.
Letter from the Head of School
Dear Members of The Benjamin School community,
Welcome to the Spring issue of The Buccaneer magazine! I’m excited for you to see in the forthcoming pages how our school’s curriculum, from early childhood through graduation, prepares students for success–however they may choose to define it.
At Benjamin, an exceptional education includes more than the pursuit of excellence–it helps shape character, foster curiosity, and equips students with the tools to be lifelong learners and changemakers in a rapidly evolving world.
The appointment of Dr. Kristen Sheehan as Assistant Head of School has helped us strengthen the interconnectedness of this alignment across all three divisions.
From the moment our youngest Buccaneers step foot onto campus, they are given the support to succeed in an academically rigorous environment as they learn foundational skills that form the backbone of their educational journey at TBS. This support continues through their middle school careers, travels with them over to Grandiflora Road, and extends beyond graduation.
This intentional design helps nurture our 12 Benjamin Values in a college preparatory environment with opportunities that extend beyond the four walls of the classroom. Our students have the opportunity to participate in a wide swath of extracurriculars including field trips, internships, and international travel.
Our alumni are not only ready for life beyond Benjamin but are well-equipped to affect meaningful change in the world! You’ll read about one such alumna in the Alumni Spotlight.
Thank you for your continued support along this exciting educational journey. The opportunities at Benjamin are not only boundless but “Out of this World.”
In Community, Dave Faus
Campus Features
From Roots to Wings: A Comprehensive Curriculum That Nurtures Lifelong Learners
At The Benjamin School, our educational philosophy emphasizes a commitment to providing a challenging college preparatory curriculum in a nurturing, supportive environment to students across all three divisions. This Fall, Dr. Kristen Sheehan took the helm of curricular alignment as part of her new role as Assistant Head of School.
In her position, Sheehan works to ensure the school’s philosophy is embedded in our curriculum from early childhood and into the Upper School.
“Our aim, across all three divisions, is not just to educate but to foster a love for learning and a commitment to helping others,” Sheehan said of the school’s philosophical tenets.
LOWER SCHOOL: FOUNDATIONS OF LEARNING AND CHARACTER
In the Lower School, the roots of lifelong learning are planted.
“Our Lower School curriculum is comprehensive and integrates art, music, three world languages, and physical education,” Sheehan said.
Beginning with our Worlds of Wonder program for our youngest Bucs, students are encouraged to learn through play while actively engaging with their peers.
“We prioritize character building and begin instilling our 12 Benjamin Values, developing students not just academically but socially, emotionally, and as future global citizens,” Sheehan said.
Lower School Academic Dean LeeAnne Sampson, who is celebrating her 24th year on the Lower School faculty, said one of the Division’s goals is to inspire students to become capable and confident individuals ready to take on future challenges.
Sampson said her time at TBS has only grown her “pride and passion” for the Benjamin community.
“Our faculty inspires a lifelong love of learning in children, helping them build a strong foundation in reading, writing, and math, all enriched by music, art, world languages, and physical education. The Lower School emphasizes strong character and values, ensuring a well-rounded education for all our students,” she said. "By the time students complete their journey at The Benjamin School, they emerge as capable, confident individuals, well-prepared for whatever lies ahead.”
Pre-Kindergarten teacher Ms. Kathy Murphy echoed that sentiment, saying she wants to send
students to Kindergarten “equipped with essential social and emotional skills, a solid foundation in literacy and numeracy, and the confidence to explore their potential.”
“Most importantly, we want to send our Pre-K students to Kindergarten as confident, independent, and curious learners. We encourage them to be compassionate and confident individuals. We challenge them as much as possible and let them know that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process,” she said. “Our students are encouraged to embrace challenges with the mantra, ‘You can do hard things!’”
"Beginning in third grade, students are exposed to a variety of new curricular elements including the study of cursive writing.
Third grade teacher Mrs. Megan Nocella said she believes her students eagerly anticipate learning cursive at the start of each fall semester.
"It's fun and rewarding to watch their handwriting skills develop and their confidence grow. As they become proficient, their personal style comes out in their writing," she said.
MIDDLE SCHOOL: TRANSITION AND INDEPENDENCE
Middle School marks a pivotal transition for students as they begin to gain independence and develop a stronger sense of self. The school’s curriculum is designed to prepare students not only for the challenges of high school but also for life beyond.
“We focus on building a love of learning while giving students the tools to succeed in an academically rigorous environment,” Sheehan said.
Middle School Academic Dean Heather Nappi highlighted the cohesion that exists within the middle school curriculum.
“Denise Ponchock and Chrissie Ferguson have worked together to create a humanities program for our students by aligning the English and history curricula for sixth grade students. They have lined up what they will teach and when so that students develop a deeper understanding,” she said.
The pair have worked together to align their curricula so that the English books fall in line with the history course, both in timing and in content.
“Rigor and challenge are expected parts of our curriculum. Our educators provide the support and scaffolding students need to be successful.”
- Dr. Kristen Sheehan, Assistant Head of School
Students read Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank during their Holocaust unit. “The goal is to create a cohesive, enriching experience for students,” Nappi said.
Nappi also highlighted the division’s work to integrate STEM into classes across the curriculum, with the hiring of a new STEM Coordinator.
Nappi said her favorite part of being part of the Benjamin community is working with dedicated and hardworking colleagues.
“They are passionate about what they teach and are always looking to challenge and engage our students. I am lucky work with teachers in every department and help support what they do for our students. I love how excited our teachers are as they work to create new opportunities for our students,” she said.
As part of the excitement in this division, students also enjoy experiential learning opportunities in the form of field trips that enhance their classroom instruction. Sixth graders experience St. Augustine, Florida, while 7thgraders travel down to the Florida Keys and the eighth grade class goes to Washington, D.C.
“Our middle school, like all three divisions, serves as a ‘home away from home,’ ensuring that students feel safe and supported during this crucial developmental stage,” Sheehan said.
UPPER SCHOOL: PATHWAYS TO ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Upper School Academic Dean Andrew Curtis said there are many pathways to success at the high school level.
“We do not want to lock students into one academic program but instead, offer them the chance to find on-ramps and offramps that suit their needs and interests as they grow within the school,” he said.
Curtis said the upper school’s solid academic foundation “means that the bones are good” and he’s enjoying “building on the strength of the school” during his first year in his new position.
At the high school level, students have a chance to develop deeper connections to a variety of academic disciplines and explore those various “on-ramps” and tailor them to their interests and aspirations.
“Our curriculum offers flexibility, allowing students to find the right fit for their educational journey. Graduation requirements are designed to challenge and engage, with numerous Advanced Placement (AP) options available,” he said.
Curtis said students are encouraged to explore their interests and engage critically with complex concepts while being guided by a nurturing faculty that helps them develop the skills necessary for success in higher education and beyond.
AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS: EXPANDING HORIZONS
ACE Director Nila DePalo has spent this past year transforming the lower school’s afterschool programming options. The evolution has marked an exciting period of growth in the enrichment offerings for lower school students.
“We’re thrilled to provide an expanded variety of new options that inspire creativity, learning, and personal development, ensuring there’s something for every student to explore and enjoy,” DePalo said of the offerings that range from cooking, to gardening, and martial arts.
STEM
Middle school students have STEM during directed studies twice a week where they learn skills including teamwork, critical thinking, and planning. The middle school also formed a Robotics Club in the Fall with the hopes of having a competitive robotics team in the future.
STEM education at Benjamin culminates with the opportunity to earn a capstone Engineering Certificate senior year. The certificate serves as the culmination of an academic course of study for students interested in the STEM fields. The curriculum consists of classes designed to provide students with exposure to the fields of engineering and design as well as provide an opportunity to learn from experts in those fields. The course requirements include six semesters of extracurricular involvement and a senior capstone project.
Engineering begins with our youngest Bucs who have the opportunity to begin to explore the world of STEM. Additional STEM projects in the lower school include:
Kindergarten - Building wind proof houses; marble roller coasters, and bird nests that hold an egg.
1st Grade - Building a bird feeder.
2nd Grade - Paper structures, wind proof houses; volcano proof houses.
3rd Grade - Flinkers; Marble roller coasters; 3D printing chocolate molds from Maker's Empire.
4th Grade - Catapults, Tinker Labs, paper cargo airplanes.
5th Grade - Tinker Labs; Bridges.
STRINGS
The school’s Strings Program begins in lower school, as students learn to expand their imagination, explore their creativity, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the fine arts with the opportunity to participate in strings. Our Middle School Strings program offers students the opportunity to play in the school’s orchestra. Classes include violin, viola, cello, and bass, and students have the opportunity to perform for both the school and the community at large. Our students develop their individual playing skills while growing as ensemble musicians. These opportunities continue into the upper school where students engage in music performance courses including chamber music for strings. Students perform on stage in Benjamin Hall during the Winter and Spring music festivals.
1
Titles of Note
Zach Rubiano ‘17 Upper School History Teacher
A Game of Thrones George R.R. Martin
A Game of Thrones, and by extension the whole series, is probably the most impactful book I’ve read. Given the fact that there is a huge cultural phenomenon associated with this series, I find the books provide the same story (if not better than the show) but with all the benefits of reading. Engaging with these outlandish worlds with grounded characters in a world of gray choices, and realistic and relatable conflicts, the series is a rollercoaster of emotion that would definitely make this a fun weekend read!
2
Fahrenheit 451 Ray Bradbury
Fahrenheit 451 is one of those books that really sticks with you. The overtones of an Orwellian society set in a pseudo-modern world are really accessible for people of all ages. In the age of information, where people don’t really consider what information they’re digesting, this is a must read. Plus, Ray Bradbury totally predicts Airpods and how they dominate many of our lives!
3
All Quiet on the Western Front Erich Maria Remarque
All Quiet on the Western Front tells such a compelling story grounded in hardships that many do not understand. The core themes of this novel, specifically as a backdrop for the smallness of man in the grandeurs of war, is just so fascinating, specifically as it highlights soldiers fighting on the other side and how their experiences were similar to that of our own. This is definitely a darker tale, but one worth reading.
Meditations of Marcus Aurelius Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius 4
Meditations by the great Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius is by far one of the most fascinating reads for both history nerds and modern young people. The writing is by no means particularly advanced, and the themes are not overly complex, however the Stoic philosophy of Marcus Aurelius is as useful today as it was over two millennia ago. The concepts of never letting yourself be defeated, that there is always hope in life, and that we can control our lives both in the reality of them and the narrative we tell ourselves is powerful. I think all young people should read this book, if only to see that people two thousand years ago had the same struggles that we have today, and how to deal with them.
The Prince Niccolo Machiavelli
My last, and probably one of my favorite reads is The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli. Simplistic in nature, short in length, yet powerful messaging. The Prince is as useful in dealing with the political landscape as it is a manual on how to run a business. If you can get past the specific and sometimes obscure anecdotes taken from the states of Renaissance Italy, the messages will lead you to greatly beneficial information. The core themes of Machiavelli’s work run true, and if you’re intending to run for office, build a business, or walk into any leadership position, this is the book for you. I can safely say that the core themes of The Prince play a role in almost every day of my life, and it is definitely worth the read.
Faculty Spotlight: Rebecca Tepper, Kindergarten Teacher
Peter and Jody Graham Distinguished Teacher Recipient 2024
Q. How long have you worked at Benjamin?
A. I began working at TBS when my older son, Ken, was in WOW during the 2010-2011 school year. Ken is now a senior and a member of the 15 year club. He will be graduating this year with the Class of 2025! And my younger son, James, is a junior who will be graduating with the Class of 2026. That means I have been teaching at TBS for 13 years now. I love teaching where my children go to school. Also, my husband Russell, is the Chief Technology Officer at TBS, so we really are a complete Benjamin family!
Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
A. I have loved working with children since I was old enough to take care of those younger than me. My first official job as a teen was at a church nursery watching the children during services. During my years in elementary school, I was lucky enough to have some of the most wonderful, caring, and inspiring teachers. I think I have carried a little piece of those amazing people in my heart to this day. All through college, I was fascinated with child development and the process by which children learn at different stages of their lives. Early childhood is where I have found my purpose, and Kindergarten is an amazing place to be!
Q. What is the most rewarding part of your job?
A. I really love teaching. Guiding a child through a difficult time, whether they are struggling to learn a new skill or dealing with challenging emotions, is very rewarding to me. When the light bulb goes off and the student finally sees their perseverance and hard work pay off, I feel privileged to be a part of their journey.
I also love getting to know all about each student individually; their family, their pets, their favorite things, and things they don't like so much. Building relationships and making my classroom a real home away from home with a loving family of students and teachers is a fabulous way to spend each day. Reading stories aloud to my class and hearing their thoughts and ideas is another wonderful part of teaching. I also love singing, dancing, and being silly sometimes too.
Q. What do you hope your students learn during their time in Kindergarten?
A. Mistakes are an important part of learning. We all make mistakes sometimes and that is okay! You cannot become a lifelong learner if you are afraid to make mistakes. I hope to help my students develop the confidence in their abilities to work through problems and come out with a greater understanding. Another important lesson I hope my students learn is to be flexible. Things don't always go as expected, and it is important to be able to deal with change in a positive way and go with the flow. I hope my students learn that kindness is extremely important and it can be shown in big and small ways. I encourage kindness in
my classroom and hope that my students take that with them as they go out into the world. While they are on the road to follow their dreams, I hope they always remember to be kind.
Q. If you could describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?
A. Dedicated, Loving, Enthusiastic
Q. What's something that people would be surprised to know about you?
A. Growing up in New York, I was the first chair french horn player in Suffolk County–I qualified to play in the All-State Band, and qualified to sing in the All-State Chorus.
"Currently, my family has a 40 foot motorhome and I love to drive it! We take our rig camping whenever we can and I love being the driver!"
Middle School Students
Celebrate Heritage Day
Sixth-grade students honored their families’ ancestry during the Middle School’s annual “Heritage Day” celebration this Fall. The festivities, spearheaded by English teachers Mrs. Ponchock and Mr. Kane, invited students to research their families’ origin story and create a “Coming to America” journal during their English classes.
“As part of the ‘Coming to America’ unit in history class, students participated in a cross-curricular project which allowed them to recreate the emigration of Hans and Margaret Rey, author and illustrator of the children’s book, Curious George, from Paris to New York in 1940,” said Head of Middle School Charles Hagy.
Their journals were on display in the gym during a culminating celebration that invited families to campus to enjoy a meal together, including traditional dishes from students’ respective cultures. Scan the QR Code to view how students used Sphero robots to learn about the Reys’ journey to America.
'Hate Ends Now'
Cattle Car Presented to Middle, High School Students
inSIGHT Through Education provided Benjamin middle and high school students with the unique opportunity to view The Hate Ends Now Cattle Car exhibit on the upper school campus. The unique Holocaust education tool is set within a replica WWII cattle car, with video elements projected on all four walls for a 360 degree effect.
The immersive traveling exhibit, along with artifacts from the Holocaust displayed in Benjamin Hall, helped bring students’ WWII studies to life.
Faculty Expertise Hour
Sho
wcases Hidden TBS Talents
The Benjamin spirit of collaboration and continuous learning was fully embodied this Fall with the introduction of “Faculty Expertise Hour,” launched by Lower School Academic Dean LeeAnne Sampson.
The initiative, woven into late-start Wednesdays, provides a space for faculty and staff to share their unique talents and skills with their peers in an informal setting.
There were a boundless number of sessions that faculty and staff could choose to attend, from yoga with sound bath to scrapbooking and matball.
“I launched Expertise Hour to create a space for faculty and staff to showcase their talents — both hidden and not-so-hidden,” said Sampson. “As someone dedicated to fostering meaningful professional development, I wanted to provide an opportunity for our Benjamin community to learn from one another in a fun and engaging way.”
Additional sessions included “Wellness and Nutrition,” taught by middle school Physical Education Department Chair Erica Lazarus.
Digital Media Coordinator Jeremy Ferris, who attended the session, said it was insightful and included useful tips for maintaining healthy eating habits.
“The session emphasized how small lifestyle changes can lead to big health improvements, and we all shared our own strategies for staying healthy,” he said. “Overall, it was an informative and motivating experience.”
Another highlight of the morning was a yoga and sound bath class led by Head Library Media Specialist Danielle Griffis and second grade teacher Buckley Griffis. Their session allowed faculty to unwind and reconnect with themselves amidst their busy schedules.
“Dani and Buckley were in perfect harmony as they led the yoga and sound bath class and gave us a great dose of morning zen,” said attendee Ami Reece, lower school administrative assistant.
Sampson said expertise hour has become a valuable platform for the community “to connect, laugh, and grow together.” The next Expertise Hour will take place in the Spring.
“I cannot wait to see who our next experts will be,” Sampson said.
14/15 Year Club
PERFORMING ARTS
SHOWCASE
Upper School Play 'The
39 Steps'
Middle School Play
'Cooking Can Be Murder'
National Honor Society Fall Induction
AP Scholars Honored During Inaugural Breakfast
Upper School AP Scholars were honored, alongside their families, with an inaugural breakfast to recognize their high level of academic achievement.
Head of School Mr. Dave Faus and Upper School
Academic Dean Andrew Curtis offered brief remarks at the outset of the program honoring those students for their AP Scholar designations–AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Distinction, and AP Scholar with Honors.
Benjamin received a Platinum level AP School Honor Roll recognition, which makes the school one of only 1,049 (7% of eligible schools in the United States and Canada) to receive the highest merit conferred by the AP.
Director of College Counseling Anna Wright also recognized the school’s National Merit recipients with a letter of commendation.
Each AP Scholar will receive a graduation pin as a token of recognition from the school in a forthcoming ceremony.
Upper School Highlights
Pep Rally Club Fair
Middle School Highlights
Lagoon Drift Study
Dancing with Robots Spirit Week
Palm Beach Dramaworks Presentation
Middle School Volleyball Champions
Pep Rally
Lower School Highlights
Lower School Book Fair
Lower School Spirit Week
Grandest Friends Day
Grade 1 Scavenger Hunt
Buddy Reading
Circle F Dude Ranch Field Trip
HR Launches 12 Benjamin Values Initiative
The Benjamin School’s Human Resources Department undertook a new initiative this Fall to recognize faculty and staff who quietly live out the 12 Benjamin Values every day at school.
In recognition of this commitment to good citizenship, the Spirit Committee asked members of the Benjamin community to nominate their fellow colleagues who went out of their way to display one, or many, of the school’s 12 values.
Here are a few examples of their Buccaneer spirit in action:
Dan Merrill - Facilities
PERSEVERANCE – “Dan is never too busy to help with even the craziest last minute request. He is a hard worker and does it all with a smile on his face.”
Lisa Glogower- Kindergarten Teacher
KINDNESS – “She always takes time to help everyone even when she is super busy. She is caring and always checking on others and helping wherever she can. She is truly second to none!”
Marion (Mama) White - Upper School Student Services
ALL 12 VALUES IN ONE – “Marion is an unsung hero here at the Upper School. On any given day she can be overheard sharing her advice, expertise, kindness and laughter as she teaches life lessons. We call her the ‘knower of all things’ as she can help a student with World History followed by another who needs help writing a paper on The Great Gatsby…. She has a gentle spirit about her, yet she pushes and challenges students to grow in ways they never thought possible. I love having a front-row seat to the "magic" that happens under the guidance of Mama White.”
Henry Bernuy -Middle School World Language
COMPASSION – “Whether he is teaching or coaching, he always approaches his work with students thoughtfully and with great care. He is mindful of the quality of his programming and the safety of his students and his athletes.”
Matt Morrow - IT Integration Specialist
KINDNESS – “I can ask Matt any tech question, at any time, and he is pleasant and always kind. He is helpful and finds an answer to any kind of tech issue. It's amazing! I really appreciate it.”
Sara Misselhorn - Upper School Social Studies Department Chair
INTEGRITY – “Sara Misselhorn exhibits every single one of the Benjamin values. She is an excellent teacher, coach, moderator and human! She brings joy to school each day!”
2024–2025
Board of Trustees
Sasha Klein
2024-2025 Chairperson
"Our well-designed cohesive curriculum from preschool through high school fosters the development of outstanding individuals both personally and academically! Imagine our curriculum as a magnificent three-layer cake. Lower school forms the foundation, Middle school builds on this base, and Upper school completes it. Individually, each layer is good, but combined, they deliver something extraordinary. Over the years I have witnessed this impressive design in action, by watching my children, Xander and Audrey, develop from their early years starting in WOW to now my eldest in high school. Benjamin nurtures excellence."
Three fun facts about me:
Sasha Klein, Chair
Tom Zaccagnino, Vice Chair
Eric Glasband, Treasurer
Kori Searcy, Secretary
Nicole Bessette
Joe Costa
Kyle Crockett
Jonathan Diamond
Rebecca Kujawa
Paul Lawler ‘02
Dr. Thomas Matese, Jr.
Kimberly Odom
Greg Savidge
Honorable Caroline Shepherd
Dr. Gray Smith
Shannon Smith
Amity Swank
Aaron Yeary
Dave Faus, Head of School (ex-officio)
TRUSTEES EMERITI
Nancy Benjamin*
Kevin Kenny*
Martha Kenny*
Barbara Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus
*deceased
1. In high school, I was voted most athletic and remain an enthusiast of adventure activities, including rock climbing, snowboarding, and other pursuits that provide an adrenaline rush.
2. In law school at Vanderbilt, I ran my first half-marathon in under an hour and a half.
3. I am a child of a parent orphaned at 9 months old during WWII who immigrated to the US in the 1970s after his professional boxing career ended. His journey inspired my passion for family and education.
2024 GIRLS GOLF DISTRICT CHAMPIONS
LOW RES IMAGE 2024 BOYS CROSS COUNTRY DISTRICT CHAMPIONS
2024 GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY DISTRICT CHAMPIONS
2024 VARSITY BOYS GOLF DISTRICT CHAMPIONS
Saunders ‘03 Leads Track Program to New Heights
Head track coach and alumnus Barrett Saunders ‘03 has played a pivotal role in creating a powerhouse boys and girls track and field program at Benjamin. A former standout student-athlete, Saunders began his role as Head Coach of the boys team in 2018.
“Benjamin has had some talented track athletes over the years, but not a lot of sustained success at the state level until recently,” Saunders said of the team that won three District Titles in the early 90s and another in 2003 that the program clinched with Saunders competing on the team his senior year.
Saunders and Jackson Hamilton ‘24, who Saunders now coaches, are the only people in the school’s history to win two field events at a single state championship meet.
Upon graduating from TBS, Saunders continued his athletic career at the University of Kansas, where he became a Big 12 champion and an All-American in
the long jump.
He eventually transitioned into the role of coach, and in 2019, his second season as Head Coach, the boys captured the district title — a first in 14 years — and they have not looked back since.
“We have won the District Championship every year since then. In 2022, we won the county, regional, and state championships, which was the first time any Benjamin boys' track team had won any of those meets. The county championship meet we won that year was the first time in county history that a private school had ever won the boys' county
championship meet. We have won all three of those meets (County, Regionals, State) for three years in a row and are the only sports team in Benjamin's history to have won three straight state championships,” Saunders said.
The success of the boys' program has been mirrored by the girls' team, which Saunders began leading as Head Coach in 2021.
“We have won the District Title every season,” he said. “Last year, we won the first county championship in Benjamin girls' track history. We also finished 2nd at regionals and 4th at State, which is the best finish for a Benjamin girls' track team in school history. This year's girls' team is one of the favorites to win a state title, which would be the first track and field state championship in school history for a Lady Bucs track team.
In a full-circle moment, Saunders is now coaching the very student-athletes who are breaking his former records.
“Since I took over as Head Coach, every boys' school track and field record but two have been broken. Fourteen student-athletes combined have won individual state championships.
We have had five All-Americans and won a combined four county championships, and a combined 10 district championships,” he said.
Saunders, though too humble to admit it, has continued to make some new records himself.
He has been named Palm Beach County Coach of the Year eight times and State Coach of the Year five times.
“Being able to bring multiple state championships to my alma mater has been a wonderful experience, but most importantly to me, being able to coach so many wonderful kids has truly been the highlight. Our kids are second to none and it has been an honor to play a small role in helping them reach their potential on and off the track,” he said.
THE 4TH ANNUAL ALUMNI
MONDAY, MAY 12, 2025 • LOST TREE
CLUB
1:00PM SHOTGUN START
ALUMNI, PARENTS OF ALUMNI, PARENTS, AND FRIENDS OF TBS
JOIN US FOR A FUN DAY OF GOLF!
Includes boxed lunch, 18-hole private course, beverages on and off the course, silent auction, goodie bag, carts, cocktail awards reception, Hole-In-One Challenge and other on-course games.
GENERAL
$3,000 Foursome
$750 Single Player
TBS ALUMNI
$2,500 Foursome
$625 Single Player
The purchaser and at least one player must be a TBS alumnus
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
COCKTAIL RECEPTION
$100 per guest
This is a separate ticketed event for non-players. One ticket is included per sponsor.
REGISTER YOUR TEAM OR BECOME A TOURNAMENT SPONSOR AT: WWW.THEBENJAMINSCHOOL.ORG/ALUMNIGOLF
A Special Thank You to Tournament Chair, Colin Hickey, TBS Class of 2007, Co-Chair, Sam Cohen, TBS Class of 2004
2025 GOLF SPONSORS
As of December 1, 2024
For more information, contact Ashley Simmons ‘05 at ashley.simmons@thebenjaminschool.org Benefiting The Benjamin School’s Alumni Legacy Families Endowment. TBS is a 501(C)(3) Non-Profit Organization.
Alumni and Parents of Alumni Events
Parents of Alumni Tent at the Homecoming Football Game - Oct 4
FSU/UF Game Watch Party - Nov 30
Alumni Holiday Party
Alumni Legacy Parent Mixer - Nov 21
Alumni Legacy Parent Mixer - Nov 21
Blake Erdmann Lacrosse Game - Nov 29
Alumni Spotlight: Deborah Parizek ‘84
Executive Director, Henry Ford Learning Institute
Q. What is your favorite memory from your time at Benjamin?
A. For me, it’s hard to come up with any single memory that counts as a favorite. From a holistic perspective, the fact that we had a small learning community (small school, small class size, overall understanding that school was for learning) with teachers who knew us as human beings rather than students identified by numbers or a grade was significant. I felt that in most of my classes, the focus wasn’t on generic content and discipline skills, but on helping me become a strong version of myself –prepared to tackle challenges, pursue an ambitious career path and make contributions through my role in future organizations.
Q. Are there any skills (soft or hard) that you learned as a TBS student that have served you well in your career?
A. The skill I use every single day and which was a core experience over my seven years at TBS is writing. I was able to handle college assignments more easily than many, teach English as a Second Language for incoming grad students and many when I studied abroad, become a strong writing teacher for my own high school students because of how I learned and the practice we had every year and now share our nonprofit stories of impact with funders, partners and the national education ecosystem with clarity and focus.
Q. Who was your favorite teacher?
A. I have two teachers who stand head and shoulders above the rest: Mr. Ridgway and Dr. Busse. At the time, I appreciated their deep content knowledge and commitment to us as students in all the ways you want iconic independent school teachers to engage young people – intellectually, ethically, socially and academically. Each had their own unique “extra.” With Mr. Ridgway, it was his signature waxed mustache and the compelling
stories he would use to bring American History to life during class–while also demanding that we think critically about the course of our nation’s narrative. Dr. Busse had his neckties–a different one for each day of the year. His commitment to phenomenadriven science learning meant that the really, really difficult (for me) subjects of chemistry and physics had more meaning and kept me working hard. I continue to see and hear them when I strive to be a better teacher or coach others in developing their practice with and for students.
Q. What three adjectives would you use to describe yourself?
A. Curious: There is always more to learn, a new perspective or story to explore, a community to visit and engage with.
Innovative: My focus started after college and continues to be on how can we redesign tools, strategies, practices and experiences in education that promote stronger learning, teaching and leading for all.
Adaptive: Strive to remain comfortable in ambiguity while working to make progress, provide clarity to others and lead with grace.
Q. What is something people may not know about you?
A. My varsity letter from TBS is from the men’s wrestling team – I did all the stats for 4 years. I chose it to meet guys from other schools, but our team made sure that the other teams thought I had a boyfriend, so no one talked to me. That non-athletic option also meant I could keep up with my out-of-school club gymnastics much more easily.
Q. Tell me about founding the Henry Ford Learning Institute. What did that process look like? What inspired you to take this path?
A. In the mid-1990s, Michigan passed a law allowing a new form of public school to be established: charter schools. In 1996, I joined the design team that created Henry Ford Academy (HFA) (est. 1997) which become the first public school developed in partnership with an internationally-recognized museum (The Henry Ford), a global corporation (Ford Motor Co), a public university (Michigan State) and a public school entity (Wayne County RESA). This unprecedented school, located on the campus of The Henry Ford, was and is focused on providing a high quality high school education for students from Detroit (historically marginalized and facing horrific academic outcomes) that prepared them to succeed in college, pursue a career of choice and develop the ability to think critically and address complex challenges innovatively. We are now 27 years old. As part of our plan, HFA would be the first in a national network of schools and enable educational transformation as part of the larger movement to respond to the political charge outlined in A Nation at Risk. HFLI is the nonprofit that, at the time, was tasked with going beyond SE Michigan to establish new partnerships in new locations for those HFAs, then influence policy to ensure continued access, growth and change moving forward. We have successfully launched and ensured high quality educational opportunities for young people in Dearborn and Detroit MI, Chicago IL and San Antonio TX.
"I
felt that in most of my classes, the focus wasn’t on generic content and discipline skills, but on helping me become a strong version of myself–prepared to tackle challenges, pursue an ambitious career path and make contributions through my role in future organizations."
I came to design and launch the first HFA after being a teacher in a local district that was frustrated by what we couldn’t do in service of young people, ready to put in the work personally to do things differently, and willing to join a new, somewhat controversial and untested direction in order to make education better for the kids who needed it most in my area.
I moved to HFLI when I left school administration to first lead the instructional work for HFAs, then the full nonprofit in 2002.
Q. Tell me about the Learning Institute’s non-profit arm and the work the Institute is doing
A. Currently, we have broadened HFLI’s focus beyond designing, launching and sustaining a network of charter schools, realizing that our nation doesn’t need more schools, we need better ones with educators prepared and supported to meet the needs of their students and greater communities. Through our programs, professional development coaching, educator fellowships and nonprofit leadership engagement, we work to advance equity and excellence in education for all–focusing on working directly with and in service of historically marginalized communities. Our approach is grounded in a framework we call Deeper Learning by Doing® which brings together three methodologies to frame learning, teaching and leading (humancentered design, culturally responsive and restorative principles and high leverage instructional practices).
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I AM PARTICULARLY PROUD OF OUR EFFORTS IN FOUR KEY AREAS:
The Deeper Learning by Doing® Allies Program engages educators seeking to strengthen their teaching and leadership practices within a small cohort of participants serving young people in SE Michigan. Allies work together to understand the distinct challenges they and their students face in today’s classrooms and schools, address those challenges in partnership with their students rather than “teaching at” them, undertake personal action research projects to ground their practice in data and analysis, and provide both support and accountability to each other. Launched in 2022, we have facilitated 3 cohorts and will add a fourth in 2025.
Latina Leaders by Design engages Latinas ages 15-21 in an extended summer design challenge in which teams work to address a community challenge they observe or experience. Through their experience, they develop deeper confidence with culturally-centered leadership, social entrepreneurship and future of work readiness competencies. We are entering our 4th year of programming in three locations.
Ford Law Career Academy provides an intentional, sequenced 3 or 4-year course of study for students in high
"Our nation doesn’t need more schools, we need better ones with educators prepared and supported to meet the needs of their students and greater communities."
school to build their understanding of law professional opportunities and careers, develop skills specifically needed for success in this pathway, nurture learning partnerships with local attorneys, judges and policy makers and provide unique, immersive experiences in daily legal practice. Focused on engaging black and brown students where the need for meaningful representation is the greatest, Ford Law is set to graduate its second class of seniors in June 2025.
The Henry Ford Academy schools’ network is 27 years old; HFLI is 25 years old. Our place in the world of transforming education is never still as we continue to evolve to meet the needs of young people and the adults who serve them. Our legacy is in the lives of our students, their families, friends, coworkers, communities and beyond. I am grateful for that opportunity.
Q. What advice would you give to Benjamin graduates as they head off to college and beyond?
A. Honestly, I am not comfortable giving advice to individuals I don’t know–it is a personal message that truly needs to be grounded in that person and a relationship I would have with them. Maybe, that is the advice, to be human-centered in the work you do, the life you lead and the change you wish to see happen.
Spotlight: Parents of Alumni Association
Dawn
Crawford, President, P ‘22, ‘19, ‘18
What is the goal(s) of the POAA?
The goal of the POAA is to keep parents connected to one another and to the school after graduation. We have heard from so many parents, through the years, that it can be challenging to stay in touch with other parents once the kids head off to college and go in different directions. So many of these parents, like myself, were also involved at Benjamin and really missed having that connection with the school. The official mission of the POAA is to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between the school and its parents of alumni; to continue a sense of pride in and commitment to the outstanding qualities of the school, the education it provides, and to develop programs, events and fundraisers that benefit the school and the parent community.
How long has the organization existed?
The organization was started with a steering committee in 2021 by David Craven, a past President of the Benjamin Parents Association, in response to the feedback he was receiving from current senior parents and parents of recent graduates who didn't want to lose touch with the school or the Benjamin community. It became official in 2022 with an executive board and council.
How long have you been President and what inspired you to pursue this position?
I became the President in 2022 along with David Craven as Vice President and Kim Odom as Secretary. I was inspired by David's passion for the community and love for the school and wanted to be part of keeping that going. The Benjamin School was not just a special place for my boys, but for me as well. The administrators, faculty and staff pour so much of their time and energy into our students and families, and I feel it's important to continue to give back to them by keeping our commitment going long after our kids graduate. Just as the Alumni Association is an essential part of the school community, we now have the Parents of Alumni Association for socializing, networking, fundraising, and volunteering.
How do interested parents join?
Membership in the Association is automatic for parents once a student graduates from The Benjamin School.
What type of activities have you put on in the past/what's on the agenda for next year?
The POAA has had several different types of events in the past including: happy hours, lunch & learns, parent panel discussions, parent college Zoom Q&A, and a college coffee chat series.
And let's not forget, we also have several volunteer opportunities such as Admissions Open House events, BucFest, BASH Gala, Junior Jumpstart Interviews, Alumni Reunion Weekend and the Alumni Golf Classic.
We have a great line up of events in 2025:
January 11 – Pickleball Tournament
April 25 – Spring Cocktail Happy Hour to usher in the new Parent Class of 2025
May 5 – 4th Annual Alumni Golf Classic, Lost Tree Club
May 19-23 – College Coffee Chat Series
Alumni Return to Campus for Inaugural Reunion Weekend
Benjamin alumni, whose graduate years span decades, returned to campus for Reunion Weekend to reconnect with old friends, revisit their former classrooms and teachers, and enjoy homecoming weekend.
“Our reunion weekend was a great success and we are already excited to see how it will grow each year,” said Alumni Council Member Zoe Sullivan ‘11 who helped organize the weekend.
“We had record-breaking alumni turnout at the Homecoming Family BBQ on Friday evening at the Upper School campus, and it was fantastic to welcome everyone back on campus to cheer on our Buccaneers,” she said.
Alumni had the chance to revisit the Lower School Campus Saturday where they enjoyed campus tours, lunch, and reconnected with former teachers. For some, it was their first time stepping foot back on the campus since graduation, and the nostalgic walk down memory lane was filled with reminiscing and storytelling. The weekend concluded with a happy hour at Topside at the Beacon in Jupiter.
“This weekend allows classes to plan milestone reunions around these anchor events, while also giving all alumni, regardless of year, the chance to reconnect with the school,” Sullivan said.
2nd Grade Polar Express
Upper School Holiday Assembly
Lower School Holiday Card Winner
Kindergarten Holiday Show
Alumni Class Notes
Anneke Scott '98, and Ronald Khayat, born in Lebanon, were married on July 24, 2024, in Beverly Hills, CA. After Benjamin ’98 and Vanderbilt ’02, Anneke built her career as an assistant director in Los Angeles managing Film and Television sets. She is a member of the Director’s Guild of America and some of her recent credits include Shrinking on Apple TV (with Harrison Ford), The Santa Clauses on Disney+ (with Tim Allen), Book Club, AntMan 3, and Captain Marvel. Also, She has a special relationship with Mega Producer/Showrunner Ryan Murphy working with him on Glee, Impeachment, Versace, The Watcher, The Prom, Grotesquerie, Ratched and the upcoming All’s Fair (with Kim Kardashian), and The Beauty (with Ashton Kutcher) to name a few. A full list of her work is on her IMDB page.
Recently, Anneke directed an award-winning short film called Secrets Not Buried debuting in the 2024 Film Festival Circuit, and hopes to transition into directing more projects. Secrets Not Buried has already been featured at an Academy Award Qualifying Festival and won 3 awards including “Best Short Film” at the Syracuse International Film Festival where Anneke has been asked to be a judge for the 2025 lineup. Her favorite genre to direct is "musical", likely influenced by her time in The Benjamin School’s dance and theatre programs with Sara Salivar.
When not on the set, she makes content for her YouTube travel channel: @Ronneke. Ron and Anneke document their travels through education and satire.
Sarah Cohen ‘01, owner and founder of Sarah’s Slow Jam, was a vendor at the Benjamin Holiday Bazaar. Sarah’s Slow Jam sells gourmet jams and jellies and won first place at the South Florida Fair for its Blood Orange Pepper Jelly.
Morgan McRoberts Evers '03 is married to Matt Evers and together they have two children, Hinton Reece (10) and Finley Cay (5). They live in Tallahassee, where Morgan now runs her own consulting firm that she established in 2020 called FINACIOUS. Morgan works with clients across all sectors who build programs and projects to influence positive change directly affecting populations of young children, youth, and families. Her work cradle to career keeps her busy in Tallahassee, but she also travels all over Florida to speak and bring a variety of life initiatives. An outlet Morgan enjoys is graphic designing for Your Sparkling Event (Jenna Wittbold '07) and Maren Events (Maren McRoberts '11). She says population and systems changes take a long time, but creating something wonderful to hand off to be enjoyed for a good cause is an immediate feel-good return on investment. When she is not consulting or graphic designing, you can find her on fishing adventures with her family.
Sam Cohen ‘04 and his wife, Alie, welcomed their second daughter, Leigh Joelle, on June 19. Big sister Joanna has enjoyed getting to know her new playmate and the family is doing well. Sam is currently an attorney at Critton Luttier Coleman LLP in West Palm Beach, FL.
Frances (Sorgini) Lockwood ‘04 and her husband, Jay, welcomed a second son, Holden Charles, on February 16, 2024. The family, including big brother James, lives in Aiken, South Carolina.
Chris Bedoya ‘06 is a general dentist who has recently joined Gardens Family Dentistry in Palm Beach Gardens. After graduating from Boston College, he earned his degree in dentistry from NYU College of Dentistry and completed his general practice residency at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. After practicing for several years in New York City, Chris is excited to be back home and looks forward to reconnecting with the community. Chris and his fiancée, Ally Dawson, are engaged to be married in 2025.
Colin Hickey ‘07 and his wife, Carly, have welcomed Quinn Sullivan Hickey to the world. She was born in May 2024.
Sonny Gold ‘07 – Hannah Eloise Gold was born on 10/25/24. She surprised us by arriving 4 weeks early and rumor has it, originally took Lindsey Sachs ‘07 room at Jupiter Medical which pushed her delivery a day later. Growing up as such close family friends with the Sachs for so many years, it was such a nice treat to have Lindsey and her family as hospital roomies popping over to ask parenting questions from us first timers and helping us put in the car seat. We are excited about the potential for them to become future Buccaneers together!
Kristina Bentz '10 completed her 10th year dancing for the Lyon Opera National Ballet in Lyon, France.
Ellie Jamison '14 received her MBA in May from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. During her time in business school, Ellie founded a pickleball paddle and lifestyle brand called Play Henry. Play Henry offers high-quality, aesthetic paddles as well as custom pickleball paddles for clubs, events, and corporate gifting programs.
You can read more about Ellie's entrepreneurship journey and how you can shop Play Henry here
Briley Crisafi '21, is dancing professionally with Demetrius Klein Dance Company and has also danced this season with Amy Jordan's Victory Dance Project of NYC at the Kravis Center. Briley instructs and choreographs for the Maltz Jupiter Theater Conservatory and teaches Spanish, ballet, and theatre at Veritas Florida. She is currently serving as assistant director on her seventh full-length student production, this time for Christmas in Comfort at First Presbyterian Church in North Palm Beach. Briley also joined the creative team at Andy Andrews' Wisdom Harbour Studios last summer. She is in her senior year at Southeastern University and looks forward to continuing each of these professional endeavors after graduation.
Hannah Eloise Watson
