D-E Today 2021-2022 v1

Connecting Community Through Language: The D-E English Department A Look Back: 2020-'21 Featured Speaker Presentations Overview Start of School 2021 Highlights

today 2021-2022 Volume I

Contents A Message From The Head Of School...................................................................... 4 Welcome Back! Start of School 2021 Highlights ................................................ 6 Head Of School Dr. De Jarnett June 2023 Retirement Announcement......... 7 D-E today is published by Dwight-Englewood School Communications and Publications, in partnership with the Advancement Office.

“Think Again: The Power Of Knowing What You Don’t Know” .............................. 8

Our Mission

Spotlight On The English Department.................................................................... 11

As a community of learners, Dwight-Englewood School strives to foster in each student a passion for life-long learning. We seek excellence, honor integrity, and embrace diversity in order to develop the skills, values, and courage to meet the challenges of a changing world and make it better.

Comments are always welcome.

Please address them to:

“Think Like A Rocket Scientist”........................................................................................ 9

Write Night Featurette................................................................................................... 13 Stephen Bailey, “Beyond Empire”................................................................................ 15 “Throw Your Precious Opinions Out The Window!” ............................................ 16 Meredith Garcia, “Apocalyptic Lit” & “Globalization, Literature, & Film” ..... 16 Student & School Publications ................................................................................. 17 Darby Lee-Stack ’23, D-Econews.................................................................................. 17 Rachel Brainin, Librarian, 3rd Grade Teacher, D-Escribe..................................... 17 Steven Cui & Asher Cohen ’25, MS Papercut.................................................. 18

Editor: D-E Today 315 East Palisade Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 Phone: 201-227-3117 Fax: 201-567-1676 Email: tausne@d-e.org

Catalina Mahe ’22, Parnassus.......................................................................... 18

Editor: Director of Communications and Publications Liz Tausner

The Annual Bulldog Bash............................................................................................. 19

Contributors:

New Hires 2021-2022.................................................................................................... 23

Copyediting: Leslie Virostek

Sunaya Mueller ’22, Teen Vogue...................................................................... 18 D-E Annual Alumni-Faculty Winter Party ............................................................... 19 Epic Reunion 3x - June 10-12, 2022......................................................................... 19

In-Person Fall Traditions Return To D-E ................................................................. 22

Arts Highlights.................................................................................................................. 27 “Being A Designer Is Awesome!” -Erica Sellers ’08 of Studio SII.................... 27

Graphic Design: Bartosz Klemensowski

The Arts Come Alive! ..................................................................................................... 28

Photography: Joel Lee; DaYoung Jung; Bartosz Klemensowski; John McCabe. Additional photography supplied by D-E student and parent, faculty/staff, and alumni submissions.

Parent Education Events Highlights ........................................................................ 29

Printing: Print Solutions, Englewood, NJ

2021-2022 Athletics Forecast..................................................................................... 32

On the Front Cover: Lower School Students on Leggett Field during the All School Opening Assembly.

Athletics Highlights........................................................................................................ 31 A Look Back: Spring 2021 Athletics Highlights..................................................... 32

Commencement Memories 2021............................................................................... 34 Club & Activities Fall 2021 Highlights ................................................................... 38 Tech & Innovations Highlights................................................................................... 38 Alumni Remembrances: In Memory Of 9/11/01................................................... 39 Looking For Alumni News? Class Notes Is Here!.................................................. 39

A Message from the Head of School Head of School Dr. De Jarnett welcomed the entire student body and all teachers and staff to the new 20212022 academic year by hosting an All-School Opening Assembly on Leggett Field. The weather was ideal for this ‘back to school’ gathering which featured inspiring words from “Dr. D” to remember our mission to “make it better” and included reflections on three key themes that will be central to this year following the challenges of the COVID pandemic: “Engagement, Participation, and Belonging.” Student Government President Catalina Mahe ’22 also added her own motivational words (see page 26), and student club and fall sports team leaders each provided perspectives on what to look forward to this new year.

D

RA

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TIO

D-

4

DI

N

Live music segments by students from all three divisions... including virtuoso instrumental performances, pop and contemporary vocal music ballads.... as well as original prose and poetry readings, rounded out a memorable experience for everyone. After the assembly, everyone was treated to a delicious outdoor BBQ, thanks to the culinary talents of D-E’s Chef Alex Stanko and the D-E Dining Services crew from Cater to You. Welcome back to school everyone! It is great to see you!

Dear D-E Families and Friends, With regard to conversation, this fall has also introduced new listening initiatives. You may have heard me say that it is through listening to understand, rather than to react, that we can learn how to improve the community and ourselves. Last spring, I asked the faculty and staff to reflect on these last 18 months and answer a set of questions based on what I needed to learn more about to help guide us forward. Their feedback was honest, forthcoming and extremely helpful in my planning for this fall.

And yes, we’ll implement many of the suggestions they made to help us be better this year.

The beginning of a new academic year traditionally is one of the most exciting times in the life of the School and the start of ‘2021-2022’ was especially exciting. Welcoming all our students as well as parents back to campus has been one of the most gratifying and fulfilling experiences for me and all our faculty and staff, since COVID began in March 2020.

Of course the pandemic is by no means behind us. You will see masks in most photos of this magazine; a requirement when indoors in all our buildings. Ongoing weekly testing in our Lower School of our youngest students, and our teachers and faculty who engage with them, continues. I remain encouraged by how vaccinating, and now booster shots and new approvals of possible vaccinations for our youngest students, are helping to address COVID variants. And as our current families and students are aware, my weekly Email updates regularly reflect numbers within our community as well as all efforts taken to keep us as healthy and safe as possible.

By adopting a growth mindset that views challenges as new opportunities, certain pandemic restrictions, such as distancing requirements, are enabling incredibly innovative new ways of connecting our community. Witness our blended Zoom and “in real life” assembly gatherings, and eating ‘al fresco’ under the tent on Leggett Field, by far the most popular lunchtime and Coop snack destination for our Middle and Upper School students.

This issue of D-E Today, which has been recently redesigned, aims to capture the energy that has remained palpable on the campus since September despite the pandemic. In addition to providing highlights from early fall, and the first of a series of departmental-specific editorial overviews, we provide a comprehensive ‘look back’ at where the School has been over the past year — in particular with regard to special presentations to “D-Efine our community through conversation” (see Pages 20-21).

As I have shared before: The simple phrase in our Mission “embrace diversity” is tangled in a nationwide conversation about how to do that well. It’s a simple phrase that our country has struggled with since the beginning, and it’s a phrase our country continues to struggle with, today. Our “D-E Voices” listening project, about which you are hopefully already aware, includes a survey and two forms of online focus groups to give the survey ‘voice.’ I also look forward to expanding (maybe formalizing) a process I’ve done throughout my tenure at the School: Opening ‘my door’ to listen, so that I can help make our school better by always improving our ‘what’ and ‘how’. .. expanding, in a way, the more formalized process I followed with our faculty and staff last spring that will help us this fall. Suffice it to say, the world is a challenging place right now, for parents, as well as students.

I look forward to these opportunities to learn more from each other and work together to ensure we can be the very best we can be.

In closing, I ask that we all reflect again on our Mission (see below) and realize that to live to its standards, we must commit ourselves to constant change because the world is changing — and so are we. Our Mission also requires that we listen — that we invest ourselves to learn from each other as we also do from current research and best practices.

“As a community of learners, Dwight-Englewood School strives to foster in each student a passion for life-long learning.

We seek excellence, honor integrity, and embrace diversity in order to develop the skills, values, and courage to meet the challenges of a changing world and make it better.”

Warmly, Dr. Rodney V. De Jarnett Head of School

5

WELCOME BACK! START OF SCHOOL 2021 HIGHLIGHTS As Noted by Head of School Dr. D, the first day and starting weeks of school this September were even more exciting than usual!

Beyond the typical post-summer break reunions, many students and teachers who were not in-person last year returned to the campus. Despite ongoing mask requirements and constant attentiveness to COVID health and safety guidelines — including social distancing and regular testing of our youngest students and those working with them — being together this year has made all the difference.

Dining under the Leggett Field Tent is a popular lunchtime dining and coop-snackeating destination, and our fully vaccinated, “APVs” (approved parent volunteers) are especially enjoying channeling their creativity and energies on-campus (Hint: D-E parents - see Page 29 for details and to get involved!).

SEEK EXCELLENCE HONOR INTEGRITY EMBRACE DIVERSITY

Support D-E Annual Fund 2021-2022 VISIT WWW.DE.ORG/GIVING

6

Head of School Dr. De Jarnett June 2023 Retirement Announcement In September 2021, Dr. Rodney V. De Jarnett announced his plans for retiring in June 2023 after having served for more than 16 years as Head of School for Dwight-Englewood (D-E). Dr. De Jarnett’s leadership during his tenure has been exceptional; his legacy — in the words of Board of Trustees President Rob Miller — has evolved the School into “one of the leading independent schools in the Tri-State area with an elite faculty, administration, and an extraordinary student body whose academic and extracurricular achievements are only matched by its diversity.”

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO

RA

TIO

DDAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

DI

HONOR INTEGRITY

N

D

Over the coming months, as the Search Committee conducts its work for D-E’s next Head of School, you will find updates on their process and progress on the new Head of School search webpage.

SEEK EXCELLENCE

When you see this symbol, scan the QR code to find online-exclusive D-E Today content!

EMBRACE DIVERSITY

Support D-E Annual Fund 2021-2022

VISIT WWW.DE.ORG/GIVING

Earlier this fall, Head of School Dr. De Jarnett introduced to the D-E community two books that he found extremely relevant and timely, and both of which were shared with parents, faculty, and staff.

In the words of Dr. D:

Knowing What You Don’t Know

“You have read or heard me describe that the ‘why’ we are together as a community is our Mission. Our Mission lies at the foundation of ‘why’ we are all here. The ‘what’ we do at school (the program, content, skills, activities) continues to change as we help prepare students to meet the ever-changing challenges of the world in which we live. ‘How’ we do what we do, also changes as faculty and staff learn better ways to do ‘what’ they do...as they learn more from course-work, conferences, on-campus professional development, learning from their peers, and learning from listening to the experiences of their students. “

Think Again by Adam Grant offers us context to reflect upon our own D-E Mission. As we strive to adapt and educate in an ever-changing world, Grant challenges us to lean into rethinking and unlearning as part of the growing process.

“Well, the world continues to change, so it makes sense to me that we should continue to rethink about what we do and how we do it... the natural process of growing, learning and improving.

This process of ‘rethinking’ is at the heart of this book by Adam Grant: THINK AGAIN. I have discussed aspects of Adam Grant’s research and thinking with our faculty and staff in our Opening Days’ meetings, and I am sharing his book with all of our faculty and staff as well as one copy to each of our families. “ “Yes, I think this book might be that helpful to all of us… and I believe that faculty, staff, parents, and many of our older students can learn a lot from Adam Grant. I encourage you to read this book, early in our academic year, and share ideas in your family discussions. As a community, reading a common book like this may help bond us in our conversations and our work together.

Enjoy, discuss, reflect, and share your thoughts about THINK AGAIN with your family, with others at our school and with friends and colleagues. “

Think Again: The Power of

8

“Being wrong is the only way I feel sure I’ve learned anything.”

- Adam Grant In 2030, 2040, even 2050, what we know now may be proven false. Preparing ourselves to “think again” is more important than ever before. With the pace of our globally-connected world and so many voices, we are challenged to listen intentionally and with integrity.

“It takes confident humility to admit that we’re a work in progress. It shows that we care more about improving ourselves than proving ourselves.”

As we learn how to improve on what we do and how we do it, our Mission stays the same. However, Grant provides a fresh framework to reimagine what success looks like and how being wrong may lead to more and better discoveries for the future.

An Excerpt of a Letter from Head of School Dr. De Jarnett introducing Ozan Varol “... always looking for inspiration and new ideas when life and work are especially challenging, I have found Ozan Varol’s book to be one of the best books I have read of late.

Think Like a Rocket Scientist!

This fall, Head of School Dr. Rodney De Jarnett hosted a special Zoom assembly presentation for Middle and Upper School students with the best-selling author Ozan Varol (Think Like a Rocket Scientist).

So who is this author Ozan Varol? Borrowing from various online resources including his website page (ozanvarol.com/about), he IS (actually) “a rocket scientist, award-winning law professor, and author of non-fiction books. A native of Istanbul, Turkey, Ozan grew up in a family of no English speakers. He moved to the US by himself at 17 to attend Cornell University and major in planetary sciences. While there, he served on the operations team for the 2003 Mars Exploration Rovers project that sent two rovers to Mars. He later became a law professor to influence others to make interplanetary leaps on this planet. Varol has written numerous award-winning articles that are taught in colleges and graduate schools. His work has been featured in domestic and foreign media, including BBC, Time, CNN, Washington Post, Slate, and Foreign Policy.”

It’s wor th pointing out too that reviewers and fellow authors of note — including Dan Pink (A Whole New Mind) , Adam Grant (Think Again) and Malcolm Gladwell (The Tipping Point) — all have also raved about Varol’s book. “

All parents/guardians of D-E students were also invited and encouraged to attend.

On the right are excerpts from a letter sent

by Dr. De Jarnett to introduce Varol to our community prior to this memorable virtual gathering.

RA

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TIO

D-

To enjoy the Zoom recording of Dr. De Jarnett's D-E MIddle / Upper School Assembly with Ozan Varol, please scan this QR Code.

DI

N

D

To learn more about Ozan Varol and his book, Think Like a Rocket Scientist, visit www.ozanvarol.com

9

10

Lisa Quirk Lisa Quirk, who began her tenure as English Department Chair last year, sat down with D-E Today to discuss how the department strives to foster creative thinkers, analytic readers, and empathetic people. In this interview, lightly edited for length and clarity, Lisa reflects on the past hybrid year, the curriculum’s dynamism, and

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO

RA

TIO

DDAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

DI

N

D

departmental goals for the future.

11

Q What has been your primary focus as English Department Chair, and what does the department hope students will gain from their

A

learning experiences?

I sort of have my own mission statement for the English Department. I believe that our goal should be to help students build empathy through an understanding that when you read and you write, those are acts of connection.

A

presented by the pandemic?

I think my greatest feelings of pride this past year were when the kids really showed their resiliency and their hope.

I was teaching Apocalyptic Literature last year, and due to COVID, it was hybrid. It was all about contemplating these horrific scenarios that [related to what] we were living in real life. We ended by read-

At the core, we want students to be able to “read” the world around

ing Margaret Atwood’s Oryx and Crake. It‘s about a young man who

them, no matter what the text is. We want them to be able to know

is living in a world on the precipice of apocalypse. The final project

how to think. Knowledge is important, but in our department, it’s

was to develop an independent school that could have existed

not all about content. We teach these cool electives, but at the end

when this kid was an adolescent. Students had to create foundation

of the day, whatever text we’re teaching, we’re teaching skills. So

documents for this school like the mission statement, the profile of

I think if we can develop empathetic readers who are able to put

a graduate, and what would a student graduating from this school

themselves into another person’s experience that is either like or un-

do. It had to address the novel’s problems, so here’s how we’re going

like their own and be able to come out of it, question it, talk about

to solve it through a mission-driven institution. I had a student

it, and write about it in a way that increases their own self-knowl-

who created a school for empathy. It was so idealistic and hopeful. I

edge, I think we will have done a good job.

thought, “If this can be happening with everything that is going on,

Q How did COVID and hybrid and/or remote learning affect your A

Q Were you proud of how your students responded to the difficulties

department’s ability to deliver on skills and content?

I think a lot of the department members found different ways to assess the year. We’re a skills-based department, so we can still teach reading and writing, no matter what’s going on. But I think there was a lot more flexi-

we’re going to be okay.”

Q Write Night, a traditional English department-hosted gathering, was on Zoom last year. How did that go?

A When our Write Night Spring 2021 (see next page) event was scheduled, I didn’t know how this was going to work on Zoom. Then it happened,

bility in terms of being able to provide feedback to students because there

and I thought, “This is so awesome!” It was so lovely and so therapeutic to

wasn’t the time pressure, [the pace was slower and] even the deadlines

hear people read poetry. No, we weren’t together in-person in the library,

were very fluid and flexible. I think teachers felt like they were really able

but it was still a lovely way to spend an hour and a half. Even in a pandem-

to engage with students’ writing processes one-on-one, like going through

ic, we’re going to keep doing this because it is important.

several iterations and teaching kids about revision. If there’s creativity in slowing down, I think we took that slowing down to heart.

[In our digital world] there’s this emphasis on reading for information and the scroll-constant-scroll [mentality], and that’s what we’re in many ways, fighting against. We say, “Hey, slow down, let’s

Q How do you ensure that the creative and fictional kinds of writing

taught in English classes feel relevant to students and applicable to the real world?

A I know we tend to separate analytical writing from creative writing, but in

critically digest, ask questions, make inferences about the aesthetics,

truth, all writing is both analytical and creative. Much of the personal nar-

the form, the structure, and so on.”

rative writing students do in the years leading up to their tenth grade writ-

I think those are the skills that we’re trying to teach in terms of reading. Writers benefit from learning a standard formula, which we teach, but we really do try, once they’ve got it, to open them up to different essay forms and learn to be independent and creative in their expression by reading widely and then trying to imitate it themselves.

ing portfolio helps them learn more about themselves and the different facets of their identities. That kind of exploration is always valuable. We also teach creative writing in the Upper School. I recently watched Dr. Abbey Morgan teach her students about seven different types of conflict that can exist in a story, but she entered that lesson by asking students to write about an internal or external conflict in their own lives. Learning to write a story is going to help you understand what it means to be human just as much (maybe more!) as reading one will.

12

Write Night Featurette: Despite a pandemic, one of the core traditions of the English department, Write Night, was held over Zoom this past April 2021. Founded by former English chair, Fred Daly, Write Night has been a special community gathering for students and faculty to share original writing and poetry twice a year since 2012. The spring Write Night is hosted in April in honor of National Poetry Month. Especially in these unprecedented times, Write Night is a reminder of poetry’s power to reflect on the past, imagine new futures, and hold space for the present.

Q How has the English Department changed over the years you’ve been at D-E?

A I thought the English Department was really strong when I got here [in 2006], but I think we’ve done a lot of work.

We’ve [made an effort to] increase the diversity and plurality of voice and experience in the curriculum. Like when [the protest and aftermath of ] Charlottesville, VA, happened. I think [former English Department Chair] Fred Daly motivated the department to take that as an opportunity for us to overhaul and re-think all our curriculum. Students need to be able to see themselves and their own experiences in the curriculum and see others not like themselves.

The Middle School has been a leader in this by adding more choice to the curriculum. When you have a student choice unit, you can offer multiple text options. If a student wants to connect with an experience that they feel like they might identify with in some way,

To listen to audio highlights from Write Night Spring 2021 please visit d-etoday.org/write-night-podcast/ or scan the QR Code provided.

they can write about it. Conversely, they may be thinking, “I have seen myself in many of these stories already, so I’m going to go for something that seems very different from me.”

I think adding choice units in the tenth grade [along with the Middle School grades] is a way to increase those kinds of options. It also encourages us, as a faculty, to read because we’re always looking for new books to either teach or allow students to read.

We also overhauled the ninth and tenth grade curriculums. We have really grown the global elective requirements. I think it’s like a badge of honor that a lot of teachers can say, “I’ve developed three new electives, and they can just go on rotation.” I think the department has very much tried to move itself forward in those areas and make sure that there are windows and mirrors in the curriculum.

I can’t take the credit. Fred [Daly] led the charge in the overhaul. It began with the ninth grade faculty [evaluating] their texts around coming of age stories. They made a really concerted effort to draw globally. For example they used to use, First Sightings, which was a short story collection that they’ve been reading for a long time.

Then they decided to choose an anthology that is called Coming of Age Around the World. So the emphasis is already drawing from very different experiences.

The tenth grade did a similar thing. The tenth grade explores “what does it mean to be an American?” Then we tried to rephrase it a 13

little bit to say “what are the American narratives and who writes them?” We aimed to open up that idea for a long time. There can be a very mainstream, white, cisgendered American experience, so that is where these texts are coming from. We need to make that

To watch video highlights from this D-E Assembly Zoom event with Richard Blanco

more complex.

I think one of the takeaways we wanted students to get is that there are people that didn’t get to write their American narrative. They’re just writing them now and many of them are, in a way, a response to everything that came before.

I just like it because it’s dynamic. I appreciate this idea of a proactive rather than static curriculum.

sive pedagogical philosophy?

please visit d-etoday.org/rblanc/ or scan the QR Code provided.

we still have work to do. Vertical integration of our curriculum, for exam-

Please note, LogIn to MyD-E is required

Q How does each grade’s curriculum build off of each other into a coheA This is one of the things where I think that we’ve done so much work, and ple from the Lower into Middle Schools, can continue to be strengthened and expanded upon. While I am chair of Grades 6 through 12, there is an emphasis on needing to make sure that our curriculum has a K through 12 scope and sequence. We’ve applied overhauls to our offerings in the ninth grade and the tenth grade. Now that we’ve made all these big changes that are unique to each grade level, we need to zoom out and look at the whole scope. So that will be part of our departmental work in the next few years.

As a starting point example, we met together with teachers from fifth through twelfth grades. [Lower School learning specialist] Ashley Gray was one of our facilitators during this collaborative meeting. The Lower School has done a lot with the [Columbia University] Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, and they worked with a consultant. It was great to hear what they were

The Middle School sequence from eighth to ninth grade can be challenging. We’re having those transition conversations, which I think is good. We’ve done a lot of work already, and again, I think we can continue to zoom out a little bit and look at the whole scope and sequence.

Q What do you see the department continuing or expanding upon?

A We [hosted presentations by] all these poets in last year, and I credit [former Director of Inclusion & Equity Engagement] Dr. Mirangela Buggs for a lot of that. She brought in Poet Laureate Richard Blanco*, which was amazing.

doing so that we could figure out how we can build on that in sixth,

It made sense to be reading poetry, focusing on poetry, hearing peo-

seventh, and eighth grades.

ple talk about poetry. It was like a balm for what was going on. And

As another example, sixth grade teacher Sarah Macone teaches students how to write an essay––that is the focus: even though you’re only in sixth grade, you’re going to be analytical writer. It’s great because the students feel very independent and scholarly. Seventh graders do a lot of creative assignments. For example, after the Biden inauguration, the students did an Amanda Gorman “The Hill We Climb” response poem. There’s a little bit more expressive exploration in seventh grade. And then in eighth grade, the goal has been to help them develop into student leaders, with the opportunity to 14

showcase their views with the MAD [Making a Difference] project.

so, I would love to talk to the department and to students about the ways in which language, poetry, and written expression can be therapeutic because I think a lot of people are also going to need to heal next year and rebuild. I would like to continue using poetry and writing and reading as a way to continue that process.

English Department Electives “Up Close”

With dedication and care, the English department faculty strive to expand students’ worlds through literature.

Literature is a point of genesis and inspiration. Faculty members Stephen Bailey and Meredith Garcia speak on their excitement for this year’s electives.

Stephen Bailey, “Beyond Empire” The genesis of “Beyond Empire” comes from a personal place. As a first-generation American of Trinidadian immigrants, who came to the US amidst Trinidad’s independence from the UK, Stephen Bailey finds that it is imperative to trace these stories. The central questions of the course ask, “What is it to move beyond empire? How do people understand themselves in a new context? How do you reacquire or reinvent yourself?” What underlies the curriculum is the belief that through investing in the literary worlds of other cultures, students can be world scholars and compassionate readers.

Stephen emphasizes reading a breadth of literary styles like poetry, fiction, non-fiction, etc. to think critically about how language is used. With challenging material from authors and playwrights like Tayeb Salih and Lynn Nottage, Stephen asks for courage from both his students and himself; the courage to ask hard questions and to listen to different voices and opinions.

“That is where true inquiry begins!”

15

“Throw your precious opinions out the window!”

Meredith Garcia, “Apocalyptic Lit”, “Globalization, Literature, & Film” Meredith (“Mimi”) Garcia had the unique challenge of teaching “Apocalyptic Lit” amidst the COVID-19 hybrid year. Still, the central questions of the course remained, “Will the apocalypse bring total annihilation, transcendence, bloodthirsty zombies, or all of the above? Will it bring people together or tear them apart?” As a medium, fiction allows for distance from both the material and reality, enough to critically engage with the text.

Despite the fantastical, sci-fi qualities to apocalyptic literature, Mimi stresses that each text, from The Walking Dead to Kazuo Ishiguro’s Never Let Me Go, speak to questions of human nature and of hope.

Mimi’s new course offering, “Globalization, Literature, & Film”, investigates how globalization and media have come to shape each other and our everyday lives. The course utilizes films like Akira Kurosawa’s Rashomon (1950) and Walter Salles’ Motorcycle Diaries (2004) to discuss how politics, history, and cross-cultural encounters come to manifest in film. Mimi notes that the entire film industry and how we have come to watch film also plays a role in how we analyze and reflect on the relationship between literature and media—to be both critical of the past and the present. Most importantly, Mimi hopes that students come with their own interpretations of what they consume and contribute to conversations about film’s legacy and power. To be both critical of the past and the present.

16

That philosophy guides the Ethics Department Chair, Sr. Joseph Murphy, for his first-time tenth grade students. Sr. Murphy explains that, “they [students] think of opinions somehow like it's property that they ‘own it’ somehow, but they really don't own it fully until they can argue for it. Knowledge in a certain sense is a process, and you have to arrive at a conclusion through a process.”

Over this past Summer 2021, Ethics Department Chair Sr. Joe Murphy contributed a chapter within the anthology Intentional Disruption: Expanding Access to Philosophy (2021) published by Vernon Press. The anthology edited by Stephen Miller outlines how educators in philosophy have implemented the discipline at the precollege level.

Students are always “in process” in class, formulating their ideas, at times, only in Spanish. Joe Murphy’s chapter “Once a Philosopher-In-Hiding: Teaching Philosophy in Spanish in the USA” details his journey from being the language department chair to trailblazing the now expansive ethics department curricula. He is one of few educators to integrate second language education with philosophical inquiry emphasizing that, “language is a way that we identify ourselves. When we talk and when we use language, it's one of the ways that we make sense of the world.”

Philosophical education in high schools is often attributed as “critical thinking”. Sr. Murphy argues that what precedes the idea of “critical thinking” is first philosophical inquiry. He has seen what it provides in little moments: parents amazed with how their children have learned to discuss hard questions over the dinner table. Sr. Murphy hopes and implores other schools, administrators, and philosophers-in-hiding to take the leap.

After all, they will become the philosophers and leaders of our future.

Student & School Publications: Academic and student literary work are one of the hearts of creativity at D-E. They exemplify a breadth of voices from our littlest ones to our Upper School Seniors. With the encouragement from faculty and staff, students expand upon new literary horizons. Each publication inspires another generation of writers and changemakers.

Darby Lee-Stack ’23, D-EcoNews Amidst a busy hybrid year, rising Junior, Darby-Lee Stack ’23 saw an opportunity when she joined the Upper School Environmental club.

Inspired by other established student publications like Parnassus and Calliope, Darby learned from ground-zero how to publish a magazine using InDesign.

She positions herself as an intersectional environmentalist, emphasizing how climate change and other environmental issues affect communities differently. From the effects of fast fashion to the emergence of vertical farming, Darby is passionate about raising awareness and making lasting change.

“A lot of people think that just doing the small things, like buying almond milk instead of regular milk won’t do anything. Maybe it doesn’t do anything. Maybe it does. However, it is really looking at the big picture, looking as a community about what we do. It’s about individual progression, definitely, but as a community, that’s what really matters. That’s going to be reflected about what we do for the environment, but also ourselves.”

Rachel Brainin, Librarian, 3rd Grade Teacher, D-Escribe Our youngest ones have so much wisdom to offer us. Former librarian and now 3rd grade teacher, Rachel Brainin carries on the legacy of Sheila Sienicki and maintains the publication’s spirit. Rather than having students strive to be published, D-Escribe is an open opportunity to explore writing prompts and styles. Teachers mainly submit work from the Units of Study, while also offering students creative prompts to play with style and content.

“Writing is sometimes very prescribed, so the open-ended prompts provide us with more exciting stories. I had a kid who didn’t like to write but then couldn’t stop writing about dinosaurs. In any free moment he had, he would say, ‘can I work on my dinosaurs?’”

Rather than having students strive to be published, D-Escribe is an open opportunity to explore writing as an artistic medium. Rachel hopes to continue to build upon D-Escribe’s wonderful history and to continue to inspire young students.

17

Steven Cui & Asher Cohen ’25, MS Papercut The genesis of D-E Middle School’s first newspaper, Papercut, began with then 8th graders Asher Cohen ’25 and Steven Cui ’25. They were eager to connect with other students through the publication and give more opportunities to explore their interests. With the help of Ms. Zahra Mamdani and Ms. Jessica Roth, Papercut released a whopping total of eleven issues within their first year and have over fifteen consistent columnists. As they say goodbye and move up to the Upper School, Asher and Steven have grown not only as writers but also editors.

“It’s like almost stepping into the role of a teacher in terms of having so many students with different experiences and backgrounds. The biggest thing that makes a good editor is someone who is willing to listen. Peer editing is not about checking off a box; it’s really about how you can help others. and understanding how you would want someone to help you. It’s like the golden rule of treating others the way you want to be treated.”

- Asher Cohen ’25

Catalina Mahe ’22, Parnassus P a r n a s s u s i s a h o m e t o m a n y.

Integrating disciplines like visual arts, foreign language, and English, senior Catalina Mahe ’22 is ecstatic to be one of the lead editors for the magazine.

As a prospective ninth grader, Catalina saw it as an opportunity to expand her love for first language, Spanish–– n ow l e a r n i n g b o t h F r e n c h a n d Spanish in her last year. The club allows students to explore their creativity outside of the classroom and gain exposure from peers’ experiences and writing. Meanwhile, Catalina and her senior co-editors (Sunaya Mueller ’22, Charles Spitzley ’22) spend months curating the magazine with advisor Sra. Abby Kanter. Catalina hopes that the upcoming year will inspire new writers and languagefanatics towards the magazine’s community.

18

“Parnassus does have a very family-club feel. I think one of the benefits of writing in another language, the most obvious thing, is just practicing the language. I’ve got to read all of the pieces in Parnassus, regardless of what language they’re in. It has inspired me to write a lot of my own pieces and to look into reading more literature in other languages.

I finally got to share pieces that spoke about what it’s like being Colombian for me. I got to write about what the food, and what my family is like, and I got to express that in Spanish. “

Sunaya Mueller ’22, Teen Vogue Sunaya Mueller ’22 has been a journalist for more than six years. Beginning as a member of the Scholastic News Kids Press Corps. in middle school, Sunaya found her beat as a writer. She found, a passion for telling untold stories from teens and upcoming changemakers. Journalism became a means to build her confidence and unique voice. Her most recent article in Teen Vogue, “What Long COVID Looks Like in Teens and Young Adults” spotlighted the long term effects of COVID from national experts and affected teens. Before her debut in Teen Vogue, Sunaya wrote for Ms. Magazine, The Terrier, The 74, & Mid Hudson News. She credits her journey to her editors and is inspired by the peers she’s been able to meet through journalism. Most recently, she was awarded as the Grand Prize Winner of The Boston’s Globe Young Reporter’s Competition In Partnership with Apple TV+ in June 2021.

“I think there is actually the strength to be way younger than anyone else in this field. I feel like in this era of fake news to be pursuit of truth is becoming less common. In journalism, that’s what’s supposed to happen. You are in the pursuit of truth.

I’m really happy that I get to do this because there’s not many other jobs where you get to propel other voices forward or other information to the forefront, especially as a teenager fighting for other teenagers. Having that focus in mind is the most important to me because we are the future, and we are the now.”

SAVE THE DATES!

D-E Annual Alumni-Faculty Winter Party Wednesday, January 19, 2022 (snow date Thursday, January 20, 2022) Alumna Home in Englewood, NJ. Registration and Details to follow soon.

Questions? Email Maria Sanchez Gardner at sanchm@d-e.org

The Annual Bulldog Bash Saturday April 30, 2021!

Want to get involved? Contact Linda Binder, D-E Special Events Director at bindel@d-e.org or call 201-227-3110

Epic Reunion 3X - June 10-12, 2022: SEEK EXCELLENCE

Celebrating major reunion milestones for class years ending with 0, 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7.

HONOR INTEGRITY EMBRACE DIVERSITY

Support D-E Annual Fund 2021-2022 VISIT WWW.DE.ORG/GIVING

19

20

During the 2020-2021 school year, as part of D-E’s growing program to engage students, faculty-staff, and parents in learning and reflection, D-E extended invitations to educators, scholars, writers, journalists and some students to offer conversations in our community. Faculty-staff began the year with the leaders of “Making Caring Common” at Harvard University. They were engaged in a series of conversations designed to help them reflect upon the historical impact of race and racism as part of professional learning for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

RA

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TIO

D-

To get a closer look at this past year’s incredible speakers and panelists, use the QR code here to learn more.

DI

N

D

In the fall, students across the divisions were offered a series of “Election Reflection’’ conversations in advance of the 2020 Presidential election. After the election, the “D-Efining” series continued with guest speakers and panel discussions about politics, investigative journalism, identity politics and more!

21

In-Person Fall Traditions Return to D-E Senior Rock painting, the Lower School’s Fall Fest and LEAD (Literary Explorations & Adventures Day) Parade, and the live performance of the Upper School Fall Play “Ghost Light” (written by former D-E Theatre Director Greg Cummings) were all vivid examples of how campus life has returned (somewhat) to pre-COVID conditions this fall.

D

RA

S CA N M E F O

TO

DAY.O RG

22

N A L CO N T E N

E TO

*Editor’s Note: Spirit Week 2021 fundraising resulted in more than $7000 raised and 70+ care packages for senior citizens displaced by Hurricane Ida events -- historically high results! Scan the QR Code to enjoy a Spirit Week 2021 highlights video!

TIO

D-

Themed apparel days including the traditional “PJ” and “D-E Spirit” Days literally brightened-up campus. Spirited games in soccer, basketball, and SpikeBall generated palpable on-campus excitement.

Congratulations to the Class of 2022; the seniors won the most points in the class competitive events.

DI

N

Spirit Week in the Middle and Upper Schools this fall exceeded everyone’s expectations and was another vivid reminder of how far we’ve come since the pandemic began.

Welcome to Our D-E Community New Hires 2021-2022

N A L CO N T E N

TO

Preeti Fibiger, Lower School Principal Colgate University, BA, Bank Street College of Education, MS Preeti Fibiger serves as the new Lower School Principal in Drapkin Hall, and her 26 years in independent school education is paired with her deep commitment to social justice. Before arriving at D-E, she taught at the Center for Early Education, Germantown Friends School, and the Ethical Culture Fieldston School.

E TO

RA

TIO

Gene Batiste arrives at D-E after serving as the Executive Director at Independent Education at the Association of Independent Schools of G r e a te r Wa s h i n g to n ( A I S G W ) , V i ce Pr e s i d e n t f o r Pr o f e s s i o n a l Development and School Field Services & Equity and Justice and Justice Initiatives at the National Independent Schools (NAIS) and much more. We look forward to Gene’s impact on our community.

DDAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

DI

Wiley College, BS, M.Ed, North Texas State University, EdD, University of Pennsylvania

N

D

We welcome new faculty and staff as Bulldogs! We are amazed by the diversity in talents, experience, and knowledge of this cohort. We look forward to this 20212022 academic year. Use the QR code to head online to learn more about our new faculty and staff.

Gene Batiste, Assistant Head of School for Engagement

SEEK EXCELLENCE

HONOR INTEGRITY

EMBRACE DIVERSITY

Support D-E Annual Fund 2021-2022 VISIT WWW.DE.ORG/GIVING

23

Catherine M. Augustine, STEM

Joel Lee, Writing and Media Associate

State University of New York, BA, New Rochelle, MS, Montclair State University, MA

Gallatin School of Individualized Study, New York University, BA

Catherine has been the Girls’ Field Hockey and Lacrosse coach since 2019 and has been the Assistant Director of D-E Summer Connections 360º since 2018! Catherine’s career has spanned from being Program Evaluator at Montclair State University to the 4th Grade teacher at Saddle Brook Schools.

An alum and lifer of D-E ‘17, Joel returns as the Writing and Media Associate in the Communications department after assisting hybrid-learning during the 2020-2021 school year. During his time at NYU, he cultivated a passion for journalism and photography, writing for the Washington Square News, Patch.com NJ, and NewFest: NYC’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival.

Nicole Bellmay, Athletics Assistant

Yi Li, LS Science

Rutgers University, BA

Nankai University, BA, Columbia University, MS, Brown University, MA

Nicole Bellmay received her Bachelor’s in History with a minor in Human Resource Management. Having worn multiple hats in her career, Nicole has directed at the Cabaret Theatre at Rutgers University, has been an archivist at its university archives, and has been inducted into the National Society for Collegiate Scholars.

First receiving her BA at Nankai University in Chemistry, Yi Li has since conducted and published research on science education and multicultural modeling in pedagogy. She has worked extensively in the New York-Metropolitan area, previously holding the Lead Teacher position at the Ramaz Lower School and Harlem Link Charter School.

Sophia Brumby, LS Learning Specialist MS University of Virginia, BA, University of Pennsylvania, MS A native to New Jersey and New York City, Sophia Brumby has taught and mentored elementary school students at Pine Street School and Girls Prep Lower East Side Elementary School. As our new Learning Specialist, specializing in literacy, Sophia implements several pedagogical and developmental education certifications like the Wilson Fundations and Teachers College Units of Study.

Emmanuel Daughtry, LS Recess Coach

Joseph M. Lucci, MS/US Latin Boston College, BA, MA, University of Pennsylvania, MA, PhD Hailing from Worcester, Massachusetts, Joseph Lucci joins us after teaching Latin at Ridgewood High School in NJ. He is certified in NJ to teach Social Studies and Latin and has previously instructed at Northern Highlands Regional High School. His degrees in History, Latin, and doctorate in Classical Studies ground his pedagogy.

Bertin Mboko, MS French

William Paterson University, BA

Universite Marien NGouabi (Congo), BA, Monroe Community College, AS, Rochester Institute of Technology, BA, University A graduate of William Paterson University, Emmanuel Daughtry Bradford, MA, Clarkson University, MAT (French) serves as one of our LS Recess Coaches. He is also a talented radio-aficionado and church leader.

Receiving his MAT in French at Clarkson University, Bertin previously taught at the Mont Pleasant middle school in Susana Hidalgo, LS Recess Coach Schenectady, New York. Bertin has served as a community organizer for the United Nations Commission, assessing the need Emigrating from the Dominican Republic and now a NJ native, for HIV/AIDS education in refugee populations, and he now joins Susana Hidalgo has previously worked with elementary school us as a Middle School advisor and French teacher. students in daycare at the YMCA.

Hyo Kim, 8th Grade Science SUNY Binghamton, BA, CUNY Lehman College, MsEd Having worked at the New York Botanical Garden, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, the Brooklyn Friends School, and Trinity School in New York City, Hyo is an expert in creating engaging projects and curricula for elementary and middle school students with several certifications to match. She is also proud member of the Asian Independent Educators NYC. 24

Sabine Millariaux, MS/US French Paris III University, BA, MA, PhD With a breadth of pedagogical experience from the Bronx Community College to most recently the Ramaz School in Manhattan, Dr. Sabine Millauriaux has over 35 years in teaching French. Over the course of their career, Dr. Millauriaux has been a leader in providing middle and high school students with the tools they need to succeed in French, and we are thrilled to have them on-board.

Join the D-E Parents’ Association!

TIO

N A L CO N T E N

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TO

D-

RA

DI

N

D

Looking to get involved? Connect with other enthusiastic parents and families through volunteer opportunities. Support the Book Fair. Join an Affinity Group.

Volunteer with Admissions and much more. Sign up now with the QR Code.

Spanish Teacher at the Holy Trinity School in Hackensack, NJ and Saint Joseph Academy in Bogota, NJ respectively.

Nefdt Shefali, US Science University of Allahabad, India, BS, University of Sheffield, MA, Goddard College, MA Since first teaching science at the American School of Lusaka, Zambia in 2001, Nefdt Shefali has tremendous experience working in international School. Having taught IB Level Chemistry and Biology IB in Germany and Kenya. Shefdt is incredibly adept at teaching in communities with diverse backgrounds.

Kelly M. Sutton, Director of College Counseling University of Pennsylvania, BA, Columbia University, MA Since 2010, Kelly Sutton has served on the Admissions teams of Baruch College, Marymount Manhattan College, Barnard College, and the Teachers College at Columbia University. She has also worked at the United Nations International School as the Associate Director of College Counseling.

Julia Tazelaar, 8th Grade Math/Science, University of Virginia, BA A former SAGA fellow and Math teacher at Success Academy Charter Schools, Julia Tazelaar is our incoming 8th Grade Math/ Science teacher. Julia is known for her comprehensive curriculum building and love for crossword puzzles.

Dominic Vendell, US History Carleton College, BA, University of Chicago, MA, Columbia University, PhD, Dominic Vendell joins after completing his PhD in History from Columbia University. In academia, he has been the Academic Director of the Great Books Summer Program, has assisted in the Department of History at Columbia University, and has tutored students at Brownstone Tutors in Brooklyn, NY about ancient and medieval history.

Ryan Vettoso, LS Assistant Teacher Montclair State University, BA

Diana I. Sanchez, LS Spanish CIDCA College, BS, New Jersey City University, MA, Saint Peter’s University MA

Adept at wearing multiple hats, Ryan Vettoso returns to D-E as one of our LS Assistant Teachers as well as US Athletics Coach for soccer, JV basketball, and track and field. He previously taught English at the Saint Mary’s High School.

Having trained in Computer Science, Education, and Education Technology, Diane Sanchez is adept at utilizing digital tools and technology to foster an engaging classroom environment.

She has previously been a Computer Technology instructor and 25

Launch your planes with all of the excitement, passion, and fire that I see in you today and cherish the ride — watch them soar high and above —` and trust that together, we will reach our perfect destinations.

I realized that flying paper airplanes wasn’t for the title of champion or fastest plane. It was for the experience. For the joy of launching your creation and seeing it soar, no matter the result.

RA

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TIO

D-

26

DI

N

The All-School Opening Assembly, held outdoors on Leggett Field for all students and faculty/staff, was a welcome experience after the constraints of COVID last year. Head of School Dr. De Jarnett provided welcome remarks (see Page 4), and Catalina Mahe ’22, D-E Student Government President, spoke to her classmates about being a community back together on the campus and the opportunities for learning through challenges with apt analogies to flying paper airplanes. Excerpts from Catalina’s remarks are provided here, and this photo collage aims to capture the energy and joy of this traditional D-E event experienced in a whole new way. For our Opening Assembly Highlights video, scan the QR Code provided.

D

If there’s anything that the COVID pandemic has shown us, is that as much as we’d like to believe we can predict the future, we never really do know what will happen next. We can’t control what happens along the way — what happens after the plane leaves our hands. We can only control our own actions .

Look around and record what you see -- your beautiful friends around you, the teachers that care for you, the stunning campus you sit on, and then think about what you feel. Store this simple moment, one where you’re surrounded by people you love and people who love you, as one you’ll always remember when you think of Dwight-Englewood.

Arts Highlights “Being a Designer is Awesome!”

-Erica Sellers ’08 of Studio SII

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO

RA

TIO

DDAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

DI

N

D

We welcomed Erica Sellers '08 and her par tner, Jeremy Silberberg, to speak on "Creative Freedom: Being a Designer is Awesome" to our Middle and Upper School students. Based in Brooklyn, Erica and Jeremy run Studio SII, a design firm based in Brooklyn, NY. They spoke on their journeys as product, interior, and furniture designers and their experience competing in Ellen Degeneres' design show, "Ellen's Design Challenge". Taking inspiration from anime, biology, and even climate change, Erica and Jeremy take design to new heights. A selection of their artworks can be viewed in person at the Swartley Art Gallery until early-mid November.

27

The Arts Come Alive!

We are overjoyed at the return of in-person arts this fall season. After more than a year of successful virtual and hybrid events, we are thrilled to see Orchestra, Jazz Rock, African Drumming, and more back on campus.

RA

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TIO

D-

28

DI

N

D

For all arts-related programs and a look back at virtual performances during 20202021 including our D-E Virtual Arts Showcase, visit www.d-e. org/arts. Please note, some content and videos require logging-in to MyD-E.

Fostering & Inspiring our “Community of Learners”: Parent Education Events Highlights D-E Parents’ Association has hit the ground running (see next page for photos!) including hosting thus far this year two special virtual parent education events. “D-Esigned” to spark conversation and encourage discourse on timely topics, these events improve overall understanding of our students and families, by extension. For news of future parent education events please visit pa.d-e.org.

Peggy Orenstein: “Let’s Talk About Sex” NY Times Best-selling author (“Boys & Sex”; “Girls & Sex”) Peggy Orenstein Zoomed with Middle and Upper School parents in October, skillfully combining her extensive research with the voices of both boys and girls (as well as those between or beyond genders), discussing the impact of students’ sexual scripts of mainstream media, social media, changing expectations around consent, the diversity of sexual orientations, gendered power dynamics. and more. As summed-up by Zoom moderator, child psychologist, and D-E Parent Dr. Trish Brown, “Peggy helped encourage our parents to be more comfortable with discussing what can be a difficult topic, illuminating new ways to be empathetic, honest, and frank when talking with our children about sex.”

Dr. Lisa Damour: “Finding Mental Health Equilibrium” Psychologist and critically-acclaimed journalist Dr. Lisa Damour (“Untangled”, “Under Stress”) Zoomed with D-E parents to discuss her research on the “underappreciated value of stress and anxiety and how to reframe them.” Dr. Lamour, who also held a fascinating professional development Zoom with faculty/staff prior to the start of the next 2021-2022 school year, talked about how we can better understand and help our children and ourselves with emotional well-being.

29

Highlights from Parents’ Association Volunteer Kick-Off Event!

We are thrilled to invite parents back to campus. The school spirit couldn’t have been higher at the Parents’ Association Volunteer Kick-Off Event! After a word from Pat Boig and Head of School Dr. Rodney De Jarnett, the Parents’ Association Executive Committee welcomed returning families and new parents to the Bulldog family.

With volunteer and community initiatives opportunities at every division, there is something for everyone to get involved! Come be a part of the magic of the Lower School Book Fair or Talent Show! Spend time with fellow parents and be a part of the school day at the Coop. Spread the word about Admissions and Annual Fund. Foster cultural-awareness and community as a Parent Affinity Group member.

RA

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TIO

D-

30

DI

N

D

Ready to be part of the Bulldog parent community? Use the QR code to register now!

Athletics Highlights After an unpredictable year of school sports, D-E Athletics is back in action! School spirit has never been stronger.

Go Bulldogs!

31

A Look Back: Spring 2021 Athletics Highlights

2021-2022 Athletics Forecast

ME

AD

D I T I O N A L CO N

TE

ON

LINE

S CA N

OR

NT

F

Amidst the challenges of last year, D-E was proud to have a short but strong winter season and an even stronger full season of Spring sports. Huge milestones were made by our Bulldog athletes from Dylan Gallagher ’22 winning the Bergen County Golf Individual title to goalie Gabby Carballo ’21 having ranked 10th in Bergen County for Girls’ Lacrosse.

To see a full recap of the Spring 2021 Athletics season, use the QR code for the onlineexclusive content. Go Bulldogs!

CHRISTIAN SCHMID, Director of Athletics: “A big part of going into this year were the lessons we’ve learned last year in preparing our coaches and our students with the procedures and protocols: wearing masks indoors and on bus rides, vaccinations, and contact tracing. Those challenges are still there. Coming out of last year with no Middle School sports, and a limited Upper School program had us worried about how we were going to adjust back to a much larger program. We’ve come out of what will be our first full year of sports very, very strong.

There’s a sense of normalcy, yet, this is still a transition.

We’re excited that we are able to provide these programs, and we love to hear the laughter and to see the kids socializing, enjoying each other, and getting back into athletics. When you speak to kids when they graduate, they often talk about the bus rides, the practices, all the things they experienced, that go along with athletics, I think that’s the greatest thrill.”

GREIBIN AGRAMONTE, Associate Director of Athletics: “To see that the kids are happy, that they’re meeting and making new friends, is what’s great about Middle School sports. Kids are practicing with other kids in different grade levels, which builds relationships and our community.

ME

D I T I O N A L CO N

TE

LINE

S CA N

AD

ON

32

OR

NT

F

The focus is for the kids to have fun. In the end, it is not so much at the Middle School level about the wins and losses. We are so thankful to have this opportunity: that we can go out, play, and compete. If you look around the world, kids don’t have this opportunity. I think that will be the continuous focus for us as we move forward and transition back to normal athletics.”

Finally, you may already know about and ‘follow’ our weekly D-E DogPound Update social media posts, with games highlights and clips. If you’ve missed any of our D-E DogPound Updates, you can view the most recent and past editions online: click here or on the animated image at left.

33

COMMENCEMENT MEMORIES 2021 Commencement 2021 will be known as a historic achievement and event. Despite the pandemic’s onset and unprecedented challenges, the Class of 2021 succeeded in overcoming these obstacles.

Head of School Dr. Rodney V. De Jarnett welcomed families, friends, and faculty under the tent to celebrate the graduating class. Robert Miller, President of Board of Trustees and parent of David Miller ’21 recognized the resilience required to stand on the Commencement stage, while Upper School Principal Joe Algrant commended the class for their role model leadership and courage.

As Commencement Speaker, epidemiologist and alum Dr. Shira Doron ’91 spoke of her own struggles throughout the pandemic in healthcare. Dr. Doron assured the class that they were not alone in their journey through this year, and that the past year has shaped them into strong leaders and characters.

Senior Class Reader Ryan Levine ’21 and Senior Class Speaker Adia Guthrie ’21 gave moving remarks, and Adia quoted Disney’s “Moana,” remarking that they’ve reached, “where the sky meets the sea” now arriving at the commencement stage. As they set off to greater heights, Joe Algrant reminded the graduating class to appreciate the small moments and those who have supported them to where they are today.

SEEK EXCELLENCE HONOR INTEGRITY EMBRACE DIVERSITY

34

Support D-E Annual Fund 2021-2022 VISIT WWW.DE.ORG/GIVING

35

D-E 360º SUMMER CONNECTIONS MEMORIES: After a pause of in-person programming during Summer 2020, D-E 360º Summer Connections returned for a spectacular summer! Director of D-E 360º Dr. Sherronda Brown warmly welcomed campers back to campus, promising a Dr. Seuss-inspired summer. Our littlest campers in Adventures and Discoveries spent plenty of time in the sun, engaging in weekly themes like Summer Olympics, Under the Sea, and Race to Space. D-E 360º’s youngest campers even got to participate in the Enrichment Immersive Program’s production of “Seussical JR.”!

The Enrichment Program comprised a variety of Immersive programs like Art Camp Young Visionaries, Strings Camp String Society, and STEM Leadership and Environmental Conservation. Campers used their imaginations to critically solve problems and experiment with new materials and skills. Each Immersive culminated with a finale showcase, demonstrating their amazing talents.

In the meantime, high school students enrolled in Scholars Advancement Courses like Algebra, Chemistry, Computer Programming, and Physics. By the end of the summer, students were able to acquire credit for the upcoming year.

Thanks to the dedicated D-E 360º team, students were able to play, laugh, and learn and make new wonderful memories.

RA

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

TIO

D-

36

DI

N

D

For more information on this past summers’ activities, check out de360.d-e.org.

37

Club & Activities Fall 2021 Highlights After more than a year of online clubs and limited gatherings, D-E is excited to have clubs and activities return to campus this year. Club leaders are eager to dive right back into the community projects, initiatives, and leadership opportunities that make our school unique and strong.

Director of Student Activities & Community Service, Debbie Murphy ’11, is excited for this fresh start ahead, “I hope that all students can become engaged in some programming and get involved because that is what makes our community thrive.”

With over 70 clubs active and an expansive list of community service opportunities, D-E is in full swing. The philosophy of community service is to “serve with” rather than to “serve for”.

To “serve with” speaks to a sense of ongoing partnership and investment into the diverse communities we inhabit. For continuous updates on school life, go to www.d-etoday.org.

Tech & Innovations Highlights

D

RA

E TO DAY.O RG

S CA N M E F O

D-

38

N

STEM Research, Projects, and initiatives are a burgeoning cultural scene at D-E. Thanks to our incredible Technology Center staff and faculty, D-E students have a plethora of opportunities to explore their STEM interests and apply them readily to competitions and challenges like the Bergen Science Challenge.

Students ideate, design, and collaborate with each other to make complex robots, insightful research theses, and new inventions that serve our community and beyond. Use the N A L CO N T E N TO TIO QR code for more online-only content and be inDI spired by our young inventors and changemakers!

D

TIO

N A L CO N T E N

TO

E TO

RA

DI

DDAY.O RG

The D-E alumni community across the generations are thriving! Head to Class Notes 2021-2022 Vol. 1 online and see what alumni are celebrating in milestones. Get a closer look at the architecture and film industries from our Alumni Profiles of renowned architect Danny Forster and trailblazing producer Lucy Fisher. Find all Class Notes issues here at alumni.d-etoday.org. Be sure to use the password, “connect” for full access.

N

During the Opening Assembly (see Page 4) Head of School Dr. De Jarnett had everyone take a moment of silence to remember all those who lost their lives on 9/11/01. This being the 20th anniversary of that nowhistorical, tragic event, we take a moment here to remember in particular those lost from our D-E community.

Looking for Alumni News?

Class Notes is Here: S CA N M E F O

Alumni Remembrances: In Memory of 9/11/01

• Jennifer Fialko, Field Hockey Coach • Jeremy Glick, Brother of Jennifer Glick ’83 • Jorge Leon, Father of Nikki Leon ’02 • Garry Lozier ESB ’72 • Frank Reisman ’78 • Rajesh Mirpuri ’88 • Martin Wohlforth, Brother of Priscilla Wohlforth D’68

Reunion 2022 | June 10-11, 2022 Registration will open in April 2022.

Reunion 2022 will celebrate all 2020, 2021, and 2022 class milestone reunions, we will honor an unprecedented number of milestones in 2022!

Class year reunions include: • 50-Year Club: all class years from 1969 and back

• 30th: 1990, 1991, 1992

• 50th: 1970, 1971, 1972

• 20th: 2000, 2001, 2002

• 45th: 1975, 1976, 1977

• 15th: 2005, 2006, 2007

• 40th: 1980, 1981, 1982

• 10th: 2010, 2011, 2012

• 35th: 1985, 1986, 1987

• 5th: 2015, 2016, 2017

• 25th: 1995, 1996, 1997

BECOME A REUNION VOLUNTEER Make your class reunion the best one yet: become a Reunion volunteer!

It’s fun, rewarding, vital to the Reunion program, and can be done from home (regardless of where you live).

If you are part of a class listed above that plans to gather in 2022 (listed or not) and you want to volunteer, please complete the Reunion form located on the D-E alumni website www.d-e.org/alumni. The link explains how volunteers can help drive attendance and provides space for you to sign-up. You will be contacted by someone in the Alumni Office to start planning in the fall of 2021.

Contact Maria Sanchez Gardner ’78, Director of Alumni Relations by phone 201227-3111 or by email sanchm@d-e.org if you have any additional questions about Dwight-Englewood School’s Reunion programming.

39

Dwight-Englewood School 315 East Palisade Avenue Englewood, NJ 07631

Dwight-Englewood School kicked-off the 20212022 year with an All-School Outdoor Assembly on Leggett Field. See inside for details!