Evergreen Country Day students to and to inspires and prepares THRIVE CREATE A BETTER WORLD.
LETTER FROM KABE
Dear Evergreen Country Day School Community,
As I pause to reflect on the past school year, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all we have accomplished together.
A YEAR OF GROWTH, INNOVATION, AND COMMUNITY
This summer we celebrated the opening of our new Next Innovation Lab, a space that embodies our commitment to forward thinking education. Students will explore electronics and coding in meaningful ways, and our expanded Elementary Destination Imagination program will give younger learners new opportunities to solve real problems with creativity and teamwork.
We strengthened our outdoor education curriculum as well. Middle school students experienced Panama and Sea Camp for the first time, two programs that deepen their connection to nature and build curiosity, resilience, and confidence in their language skills. We also increased our community service opportunities, ensuring that students learn the value of kindness, responsibility, and service to others.
ACADEMIC STRENGTH AND COMMUNITY VITALITY
Our academic outcomes remain a point of pride. Students performed strongly on national assessments and demonstrated consistent growth across all divisions. We had record enrollment and maintained excellent retention. The sense of energy on campus has been unmistakable. It is visible in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and community events. Our school feels vibrant, connected, and joyful.
CELEBRATING RECOGNITION AND EXCELLENCE
This year our work received meaningful recognition. We were named the top independent school in Colorado by Education Insider. The Canyon Courier honored our community with awards for Best School, Best Volunteer Organization, Best Teacher, Best Summer Camps, and
Best Boss. Congratulations again to Angie Brekke for being named Best Teacher. These recognitions reflect the dedication and spirit of our entire community.
We also celebrated athletic success. Our volleyball program, led by Coach Steph, earned back-to-back league championships. The victories were inspiring, and the teamwork and confidence our athletes displayed were even more meaningful.
WHY THIS MATTERS FOR OUR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
We believe that education at its best is an experience of curiosity, growth, connection, challenge, and joy. This year we expanded opportunities for students to explore new fields, deepened our commitment to outdoor education, strengthened academic programs, and fostered a close knit community where children feel known and supported. These efforts shape confident learners who are ready for the future.
To our donors and supporters, thank you. Your generosity allows us to invest in what matters most. You make it possible for our students to learn in innovative spaces, participate in transformative experiences, and be guided by exceptional teachers.
LOOKING FORWARD WITH HOPE
As we look ahead to the coming year, we do so with optimism and ambition. With your continued support, we will keep building a school that prepares students for lives of purpose and possibility.
Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey. Together we are creating a community where every child can thrive.
With deepest gratitude,
Kabe ErkenBrack Head of School
THE NUMBERS
FUNDRAISING
2024-2025
$874,210
EARNED REVENUE 2024-2025
$6,197,385 EXPENSES 2024-2025
$6,501,933 $624,572
$728,059 GIFT TO GIVE
$141,151 GRANTS
$0 RESTRICTED
$5,000 TUITION
$5,109,724 SUMMER CAMPS
$327,696
$302,933 INTEREST & OTHER INCOME
$457,032
$195,435 PROFESSIONAL FEES $178,195 ADMIN SUPPLIES $71,330 ADVERTISING $31,431
& FOOD SERVICES
$231,270
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE EVERGREEN COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
CLASS OF 2025
In the last five years, our Graduates have gone on to attend:
Colorado Academy
Fountain Valley High School
Kent Denver High School
Mullen High School
St. Mary’s Academy
Valor Christian High School
Conifer High School
D'Evelyn High School
Denver School of Science and Technology
Evergreen High School
Golden High School
Lakewood High School
GIFT TO GIVE
Each year, our Annual Giving Program brings together a community of families, alumni, and friends who believe in our mission and are committed to making a difference. Dollars raised provide flexible tuition support, professional development for our faculty, and innovative program enhancements like shop, robotics, Destination Imagination, and writing club that make Evergreen Country Day among the best independent schools in Colorado.
WISH 2025
WISH is our annual spring gala. The 2025 theme, The Roaring 20s, was an unforgettable evening full of amazing 20s-themed outfits, casino games, and dancing! We are so grateful to our ECDS community for the donated auction items, volunteer hours, and financial contributions that supported the establishment of the new Innovation Lab.
SOFIE COCHRAN
I graduated from ECDS in 2016. My time at ECDS provided me with friends, mentors, and memories that I will cherish forever Whether returning to ECDS to hang the girls' soccer banner or just to bother my old teachers (sorry, Mr. Betts and Mr. Olson), ECDS continues to provide me with a sense of community even 10 years later. I encourage all the students there to soak in all the support, kindness, and guidance that ECDS provides them with. It is truly a special place.
ECDS was the first place where I was inspired to advocate for my community. I continued this advocacy in a meaningful way through my Bachelor's degree in Applied Psychology. Now, I am pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regis University. This has given me the amazing opportunity to support mental health, advocate for marginalized communities, and continue to grow self-awareness. I am now starting my clinical experience and am working directly with clients in a school setting as a play therapist. This has combined my passions for hands-on learning, social inclusion, and mental health. Through Regis, I am also working directly with a professor to research and test the best pedagogical framework for teaching multicultural counseling skills. Our research has enabled me to present at the Colorado Counseling Association conference and further strengthen the public speaking skills fostered at ECDS. Ultimately, my academic and professional work has pushed me to ensure the best care for diverse communities.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
In my free time, you can find me spending time outside, traveling, attending Denver sports games, catching up with friends and family (many of whom are ECDS alumni), and continuing my learning through reading and research.
CLASS OF 2016
Anytime I return to ECDS, I leave with a sense of gratitude and nostalgia. I never thought I’d be the adult saying, “enjoy it while it lasts,” but, cherish spending time with your friends every day Appreciate the wise words your teachers share with you. Recognize the nerves and fulfillment you feel after your Ted Talk or a big presentation. Support students across the building and in different grades. Push yourself in both academics and personal interests. And truly, enjoy the present moment.
FAMILY SPOTLIGHT THE PISULA-LITOFFS
Our family joined the Evergreen Country Day community in 2013. By the end of this year, we will have spent thirteen academic years here — twenty-two cumulative years for our three children.
Dora (Class of 2017) entered in 5th grade, Pearce (Class of 2020) started in second grade, and Arthur has been here all his life. At first, toddler Arthur was part-time, but one morning he looked at us and said, “You’re broking my heart,” when we kept him home. From that day forward, he was full-time at the Nest.
After ECDS, Dora attended Kent Denver and then Georgetown University, graduating this past May. Pearce is now a freshman at the University of Denver. Both girls have returned to Evergreen Country Day over the summers to work at school in different capacities. Nadja has served on the Board and Jim on the Finance committee.
We came to Evergreen Country Day because of the close-knit community, the excellent teaching, and the joy that exists in every division. Each of our children has had special relationships with teachers, staff, and administrators across the school. We’ve always appreciated how ECDS meets each child where they are, while still encouraging them to grow. We are especially grateful for the hands-on learning, the travel experiences, and the crosscurricular approach that has shaped each of our children.
Outside of school, as a family we love to travel, ski, cheer for the Colorado Avalanche, watch cozy mysteries, and take care of our beloved rescue dogs and cats.
It is hard to believe this is our last year at Evergreen Country Day. It is very bittersweet. We have so many happy memories, and our children have grown so much here — not just academically, but as people. This community has been a home for us, and we are deeply grateful.
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT ANGIE BREKKE
ANGIE WAS VOTED BEST OF THE BEST TEACHERS IN EVERGREEN BY READERS OF THE CANYON COURIER FOR 2025!
People often ask me what I like most about teaching and I have two responses: I love teaching because I believe that each day, each student can do more than they thought they could when they walked in the door to my classroom. And second, I love teaching at Evergreen Country Day School! This school environment of faculty and families makes me feel supported, encouraged, and free to blossom as a teacher. Awesome, right?!
I have been at ECDS since before our current building was here. I watched this building go up as I taught 3rd grade in a modular unit on the field. I’ve taught many years of 3rd grade, 7th grade, and 8th grade In total, I’ve been a teacher for 19 years and 16 of those have been at ECDS!
The greatest teachers in my own life have been my three children. Grace is 29 years old, lives in Chicago, and is getting her MBA from Northwestern. Jack is 27 and is a biologist in Seattle working in vaccine manufacturing. Mark is 25 and owns a thriving ecommerce coaching business in Miami. They all learned so differently that I was constantly adjusting my teaching and parenting style! Now, I spend most of my free time traveling to visit them
In my heart, I’m a Southern girl who loves the Rocky Mountains. I’ve lived in Evergreen for 23 years and have enjoyed all that this town offers. I spend my free time cheering for my Georgia Bulldogs football team, hiking with friends, trying to wear out my playful Golden Retriever “Thor,” and reading. I also love to travel and one of my favorite trips recently was to my family’s hometown of Voss, Norway and to the Paris Olympics. I’m honored to teach and to make a difference each day! Go Dawgs!
NEXT INNOVATION LAB
The world is changing rapidly, and the skills our students need to succeed go far beyond traditional academics. The ability to design, prototype, and iterate is becoming just as important as reading, writing, and math. Our Tech & Maker Space will provide students with opportunities to develop critical thinking, collaboration, and perseverance through hands-on, project-based learning. This new initiative aligns seamlessly with our mission of preparing students for the future by fostering creativity, adaptability, and a love of lifelong learning. By engaging in handson projects, students develop the resilience and confidence needed to solve complex problems and turn their ideas into reality.
Our new space is a blend of technology, engineering, and creativity, empowering students to engage in a variety of activities, including:
· Coding & Robotics: Hands-on programming challenges with LEGO robotics, microcontrollers, and real-world coding applications.
· 3D Printing & Design: Learning the principles of digital modeling and bringing ideas to life through 3D printing.
· Engineering Challenges: From bridge-building competitions to real-world problem-solving exercises, students learn to think like engineers.
· Woodworking & Fabrication: Opportunities to safely use tools to construct and design physical projects.
· Entrepreneurship & Innovation: Students work on projects that address real-world challenges, pitching ideas and creating prototypes.
The Performing Arts program at Evergreen Country Day inspires students to express themselves, build confidence, and collaborate with peers through music and theater. From public speaking to musical performance, students engage in activities that nurture creativity, teamwork, and selfassurance.
In theater, students develop essential skills such as creative thinking, public speaking, and team building through games, activities, and performances Each grade has opportunities to perform for the school community several times a year, with beloved productions like A Christmas Carol and the annual middle school musical becoming cherished traditions.
Elective Offerings: Robotics | Wood Shop | Two/Three-Dimensional
Art | Entrepreneurship | Philosophy & Debate | Green Team
ROCK BAND THEATER
In music, our Middle School Rock Band invites students, new and experienced musicians alike, to learn, collaborate, and perform. Students explore instruments such as piano, guitar, drums, and more, with their hard work culminating with a performance at the annual Holiday Fest concert. With options for both beginner and advanced bands, the program ensures that all students can grow their talents and perform with confidence. Through the Performing Arts, students at Evergreen Country Day experience the joy of creative expression while developing lifelong skills in communication, collaboration, and perseverance. Whether on stage or behind an instrument, our young artists thrive in an environment that celebrates their talents and hard work.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
At Evergreen Country Day, we believe that the ability to communicate effectively and professionally is a cornerstone of future success. From public speaking to professional etiquette, our program equips students with the soft skills they need to thrive in high school, college, and beyond. Beginning in the early grades and continuing through 8th grade, students practice presenting their ideas clearly and confidently in a variety of settings. Whether delivering a TED Talk at Town Meeting, participating in classroom debates, or sharing insights during Socratic Circles, our students develop poise and clarity in front of an audience.
A highlight of our program is The Amazing Shake, an exciting event where students navigate real-world scenarios that test their communication, social etiquette, and problem-solving skills. From mastering a confident handshake to participating in mock interviews and elevator pitches, students engage in hands-on challenges that prepare them for professional interactions. This unique competition emphasizes the importance of first impressions, emotional intelligence, and adaptability. Students leave the experience not only with enhanced skills but also with a sense of accomplishment and readiness for future opportunities.
JOURNEYS PROGRAM
The great outdoor how to survive and how to thrive along life’s path. Journeys, our Toddler-8th grade outdoor education program, strives to utilize Colorado (and beyond!) as our campus. We aim to graduate students with a deep appreciation for the outdoors, a deep understanding of themselves, and a deep conviction to utilize their gifts on behalf of others.
Journeys marries expeditionary learning with social emotional learning in inspiring ways. Designed as a journey in and of itself, trips include Field Trips around Colorado, 100 Elk Outdoor Education Camp in Buena Vista, Sea Camp in San Diego, Boston, Washington D.C., and international Journeys expeditions move our students incrementa and from me to we.
OUR SUPPORTERS
David and Lara Layton
Sally and Bruce Rogers
Anthony Davies and Lauren Shapiro
Jeremy and Leslie Hamilton
Kerry and Megan Hicks
Mark Sexton
Anonymous
LEADERSHIP
$20,000+-$24,999
Jameson and Madeline Parker
EVERGREEN
$10,000+-$19,999
Gregory and Devon Patton
Kevin and Sally Neher
Mike and Katie Robinson
James and Nadja Pisula-Litoff
Zane and Jessie Jobe
Rob Gary and Chris Watney
Mark and Lucy Ramirez
Lance and Amanda Little
Spencer Family Foundation
James and Kristie Trevey
Shawn and Angela McDanal
Mark Root and Lacy Houstoun
Adam and Emily Hatton
Andy and Megan Sandquist
Anonymous
EAGLES
$5,000+-$9,999
Matthew and Jennifer Filippini
Gabe and Tiffany Behr
Jeremy Micley and Anna Norregaard
Carter and Whitney Rose
Tom and Barb Scripps
Jourdan Adler and Jessica Devine
Rick and Christine Zimmerman
Mary Hatfield
Sean and Amy Dickerson
Michael and Jennifer Tansey
Anonymous (2)
KINDNESS TREE BLUE
$1,000+-$4,999
Steve and Laura Garran
Connor and Allison Larr
Eric Kissinger
Denis and Roxane Curran
Carey and Leah Sullivan
Rodger and Regan Daley
Donald and Stephanie Sutherland
Ryan and Joleen Polk
Pete and Allison Musser
Bryan and Melissa Williams
Leland and Sarah White
Chris and Ashley Sykora
Mike and Sara Brannon
Suzanne Rivera
Campbell Levy and Courtney Housam
Kabe and Jamie ErkenBrack
Cooper and Madison Perkins
Calvin and Julia Ames
Derek and Elizabeth Nelson
Jonathan and Gretchen Sparling
James and Robyn Gourley
Scott and Deanna Overdyke
Robert and LaRona Kitzinger
Danny and Genevieve Randa
Andre Suissa and Meryl Wolff
Benjamin and Christiana Hamlin
Zach and Julie Winters
Tamil Singh and Amy Kelmenson
Brenda King
Mark Graybill and Belqui Gutierrez
Douglas and Debra Dennis
Anonymous (3)
$50-$999
Adam and Rachel Teeples
Mark and Ashley Preston
Bradley and Mindy Lamprich
Elise White
Travis Cook and Elizabeth Arnold
Shane and Laura Vorster
Jay and Maggie Wolfgram
Jeffrey and Hilary Sillik
Adam Stroul and Toni Trauer
Travis and Carly Dziubla
S&D Law
Patricia Garcia III
Darren and Carolina Kirkwood
Scott and Jessica Kern
Kurt and Lindi Rucker
Mike and Mona McIntosh
Tyler and Whitney Wood
Joseph and Meagan Reeves
James and Liesel Hunter
Coral Herrin
Graham Geiselman and Andrea Cunningham
Alexander Sadighi and Jordan Botjer
Seth and Jen Gallaher
Yasmin Young
Freeborn and Jen Mondello
Shad and Claudine Phillips
Garth Graham and Katharina Pfaff
Adam and Stacy Wright
Jessica Bryan
Christopher and Larissa Bowen
Christine Clark
Emmett Rice
Davey and Michelle Randa
Jordan and Kristen Betts
Nancy Gary
James Wood and Felicity Hannay
Anonymous (4)
PEAK stands for Partners
Encouraging Amazing Kids and is a parent-based volunteer community whose goal is to support the needs of the students, teachers, and parents of the school. PEAK organizes and supports community-building events and activities that enhance the overall educational experience.
2024-2025 OFFICERS
RobynGourley&LindiRucker Co-Presidents
ElizabethNelson
Vice President
LeslieHamilton
Treasurer
JordanBotjer
Secretary
PEAK EVENTS IN THE LAST YEAR INCLUDE: PEAK PROVIDES VOLUNTEERS AND FUNDING FOR THE FOLLOWING:
Parent & Alumni Pickleball Tournament
The Amazing Shake Book Fair
Fall Festival
Holiday Fest-Bake Sale
Holiday Decorating
Field Day & Color Run
Teacher Appreciation
Parent Education
Donuts with Dads
Muffins with Moms
Room Parent Support
TTRANSFORMATION: We believe our purpose is not merely to fill a child’s head with facts. Rather, our purpose is decidedly more idealistic: to transform children with the deep knowledge, the realworld skills, and the authentic self-awareness they need to live lives of peace and purpose.
HEADS, HANDS, HEARTS: We believe that every lesson should challenge our students’ big brains, utilize their active hands, and capture their huge hearts. We engage our students cognitively, physically, and emotionally whether in a classroom or on top of a 14er.
RELATIONSHIPS: We believe in the exponential power of relationships and cherish the idea of community. In our small-bydesign classes and within our warm campus culture, we emphasize interpersonal collaboration, foster vertical student friendships, and embrace parent-teacher-child dynamics.
I V E
INSPIRATION: We believe the best schools light a fire within each child, not under them. We continually seek new ways to excite students not just about their studies, but also about the limitless power of knowledge, the beauty of discovery, and the wonder of the world around them.
VIGOR: We believe that transformative education requires vigor, not just rigor. Far from rote memorization and the antithesis of standardized tests, our high-caliber academics flourish within a dynamic learning environment that cultivates critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE: We believe in the importance of emotional intelligence. Within a culture of kindness, we help students develop self-awareness and a deeper understanding of interpersonal dynamics. We believe that EQ + IQ = a person who learns well, loves well, leads well, laughs well, and, ultimately, lives well.
2024-2025
Board of Trustees
Emily Hatton, Chair
Jeff Knupp, Vice-Chair
Barb Scripps, Treasurer
Leslie Hamilton, Secretary
Lara Layton
Lance Little
Maggie McConnell
Shawn McDanal
Mike McIntosh
Mark Ramirez
Madison Rogers Perkins
Sally Rogers
Megan Sandquist
Mark Sexton
