2016-17 Annual Report
The pages in this Annual Report reflect a day in the life of our students at Good Hope Country Day School – and our efforts to provide students of St. Croix with a worldclass education. We thank all of you for your continuous support!
Contents Our Impact 2 Our Resources 4 Our Progress 6 Your Support 8 GHCDS Leadership
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Letters from Head of School and Board Chair
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GHS and CDS Reflections
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Financials
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Summary of Fundraising
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Annual Fund
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Key Improvements Financial Aid
Black & Gold Gala
Parents’ Association
Our Amazing Volunteers 43 Alumni
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In Memoriam
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GHCDS Class of 2017
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Legacy
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Ways to Give 53 First graders Priscilla Sharmouj and Ella Chewning discover the joys of reading in the GHCDS primary library reading room. Photograph by Lindsay Kammerzelt
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Our impact:
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we have a major impact on st. Croix & the us virgin islands
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Our resources: How do our resources compare regionally and nationally? These charts and graphs provide important context for our financials. Three key points are:
•GHCDS currently spends slightly more per student than the average public school in the United States, less than our regional peers and the V.I. public schools, and significantly less than a comparable stateside private school.
•GHCDS’ assets (largely physical plant, furniture/fixtures/equipment, and endowment) are significantly less than those of our regional peers.
•One of the top 20 private schools in the U.S. is not even included in the graphs because its resources are astronomically greater.
*Based on 990’s from 2015 and 2016 as well as the U. S. Department of Education website.
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We have fewer resources than other schools Spending ($) Per Student
Net Assets ($) Per Student
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Our progress: • Increased faculty compensation two consecutive years (3% in 2016-17, 2% for 2017-18) after more than five years with no increase. • Renovated pavilion, library, and main office. • Significantly reduced perpetual flooding in gym, library, pavilion, upper school, middle school, lower school, and main office. • Installed new, expanded wireless network, including fire alarm and intercom. • Expanded board to include three more alumni. 6
despite comparatively limited resources, we have made great headway!
• Provided laptops to nearly all faculty. • Adopted new math curriculum for lower school (Bridges) and middle school (College Preparatory Math), and have provided excellent professional development for math, writing, and literacy. • Created Mini-Gusto Reflections book to showcase student learning. • Produced Annual Reports and monthly Alumni News profiling alumni, former faculty, and current faculty. • Held off-island alumni receptions in New York City, Washington D.C., San Francisco, and Miami. 197
your support:
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your investment is critical for A world-class education
THANK YOU! We are so grateful for your continued investment in our faculty and our school. Every gift, regardless of size, makes an impact! 9
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Photo: High school students become certified lifeguards after taking the American Red Cross Lifeguard course . Photograph by Lindsay Kammerzelt
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Our Core Respect
Scholarship 2017-18 Board of Trustees John Harper, Board Chair George Ashley, Co-Vice Chair James Benton, Co-Vice Chair, Treasurer Ricky Evangelista, Secretary
Rhea Abramson Michael Bourque Nellon Bowry Nesha Christian-Hendrickson Joseph Croney Michelle Dizon Honnie Edwards Gerry Groner Cesar Guerra Jed JohnHope Cathy Mares Laurence Richards David Ridgway Kye Walker
Honorary Trustees Joan Darooge Imelda Dizon Toni Lyerly Jeffrey Prosser
Ex-Officio Trustees Susan Gibbons, Business Manager Kari Loya, Head of School Kathleen Graham-Adams, Faculty Rep. Angel Tirado, P.A. President
School Leadership Kari Loya, Head of School Dawn Grey, Upper School Head Denise Blanchette, Lower & Middle School Head
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Photo: 2017-18 GHCDS Trustees welcome five new board members at the annual Board of Trustees retreat. Photograph by Nicole Canegata
Values Integrity Citizenship 2016-17 Board of trustees John Harper, Board Chair George Ashley, Co-Vice Chair James Benton, Co-Vice Chair, Treasurer Ricky Evangelista, Secretary Michael Bourque Nesha Christian-Hendrickson Michelle Dizon Honnie Edwards Tarah Graham-Hodge Gerry Groner Winthropp Hector Semaj Johnson Hans Lawaetz Cathy Mares Brenda Pedersen Laurence Richards David Ridgway Kye Walker
Honorary Trustees Joan Darooge Imelda Dizon Toni Lyerly Jeffrey Prosser
Ex-Officio Trustees Susan Gibbons, Business Manager Kari Loya, Head of School Roger Summerhayes, Faculty Rep. Angel Tirado, P.A. President
School Leadership Kari Loya, Head of School Dawn Grey, Upper School Head Denise Blanchette, Lower & Middle School Head Photo: GHCDS Trustees Honnie Edwards and James Benton work with consultant Bob Hallett, former head of school of St. Paul’s Friends and former executive director of the E.E. Ford Foundation, at this year’s Trustee retreat. Photograph by Nicole Canegata
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Head of School Dear Parents, Graduates, and Friends: When we talk about providing students on St. Croix with a world-class education, what do we mean—and why is that important? A world-class education means that we use what’s around us to give students something better than nearly everywhere in the world. When our upper school students dissect lionfish after a field trip to Salt River and a discussion of Columbus, coral conservation efforts, and marine predators, they are getting a world-class education. When our fifth and sixth graders spend a week visiting a mosque, synagogue, temple, church of latter day saints, and other places of faith as part of a comparative religion unit, they are getting a world-class education. Tapping the Island’s natural beauty and diversity are critical to our efforts—but equally critical is assessing all parts of our school and determining how we can be better, if not among the best. Why is this important? The world has changed in the last few decades, especially on the global educational landscape. Top doctors, entrepreneurs, executives, and investors who might consider calling St. Croix home are not comparing GHCDS to other schools on Island. They are comparing us to top schools in Florida, Connecticut, Texas, the Caribbean, and elsewhere. To attract top talent to St. Croix—individuals and families who can have a significant economic impact on our Island— we need to provide a world-class education. World-class does not mean “for the affluent only.” Summit Schools in California, Bronx Science in New York, and KIPP throughout the country are examples of world-class schools serving students largely from low socioeconomic groups. At GHCDS, nearly 50% of our students receive financial assistance. We currently spend just $13,000 per student, about the same as the national public school average. Yet, our Valedictorian last year turned down Stanford, Harvard, Princeton, and Yale - not many school can say that. Imagine what we can achieve as we bring more resources to the School! On that note, we are enormously grateful for your generous support—you have been instrumental in our progress so far. We hope you and your friends will continue to invest in our efforts to provide a world-class education for the children of St. Croix. Onward! Kari 14
Photo: Head of School, Kari Loya and Board of Trustees Chair, John Harper collaborate on how to advance the mission of GHCDS. Photograph by Nicole Canegata
Mission Statement Good Hope Country Day School cultivates reflective, creative, and compassionate students who are critical thinkers prepared to excel in college and empowered to better their island and the world.
Board Chair Dear Parents, Alumni, and Friends: Can you imagine St. Croix without Good Hope Country Day School? This was one of the questions posed to us at our Board of Trustees retreat last August, which 18 of our 19 trustees were able to attend. The facilitator was Bob Hallett, former head of the Friends School in Baltimore and former Executive Director of the E.E. Ford Foundation, the only private foundation in the United States focused exclusively on grants to independent schools. Bob knew the history of St. Croix well since years ago he had reviewed proposals from both St. Croix Country Day School and Good Hope School. One of his close friends is Dick Bartlett, the former head of Collegiate School in New York City, who earlier served as one of three off-island educator trustees of GHS (the legendary Earl Harrison of Sidwell Friends was another). Bob is also currently helping the Antilles School on St. Thomas with their strategic planning. In short, none of us could imagine St. Croix without GHCDS. We are all incredibly proud of the impact the School has already had over the last five decades—and we are excited about and committed to the journey ahead. On that note, I’d like to highlight a few key points: •We have gained new energy, perspectives, and ideas from our six new board members over the last two years (Michael Bourque, P ’25, ’24; Rhea Abramson, GHS ’93; Doug Capdeville, P ’20, ’20, ’20, ’20; Joe Croney, P ’26, ’24, ’20; Cesar Guerra, CDS ’96 and P ’26, ’23; Jed JohnHope, GHS ’99). •Thanks to Honnie Edwards’ leadership of the Advancement Committee, we received a record 35 leadership gifts of $1,000 or more to our annual fund this year—these have had a major impact on our programs and reflect a strong belief in our mission and confidence in our efforts. •Thanks to George Ashley’s chairing of the Buildings & Grounds Committee, we have made significant headway with infrastructure projects. •Head of School Kari Loya, continues to provide inspiring leadership to bring out the best in all of us. We thank everyone for donating time, talent, and treasure to help make Good Hope Country Day School a world-class institution. We look forward to working with you in the year ahead! Fondly, John Harper Chair, Good Hope Country Day School Board of Trustees
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Photo: Tenth graders match quadrilaterals with their definitions for Geometry class using an online resource called Desmos. Photograph by Jolynn Grace
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GHS Head of School History John Leyden 1967-1974 Barry Bunting 1974 -1984 Harry McKay 1984 -1986 Tanya Nichols 1986-2002 James Cantwell 2002-2003 James DiSebastian 2003-2004 Carole Everett 2004-2006 Michael Mongeau 2006-2009 Raquel Cedano 2009-2013
Reflections on The Good Hope School As told by Mary Jane Provost, former Director of Upper School at GHS from 1989 to 2003. Driving west on the highway each morning at 7 am, I was often gifted by the sight of a rainbow that seemed to end at Good Hope School. During my 14 years there (1989-2003) as math teacher, college counselor, director of upper school, many treasures came into my life and remain with me still. The incredible natural beauty of the 32-acre campus with its fiery flamboyant blossoms framed by the particular shade of blue-green of the Caribbean created a sense of joy and peace. One morning as I pulled into the parking lot, children from ages four to eighteen were running back and forth from the beach to the computer building carrying something. A nest of baby turtles, newly hatched during the night, had ambled toward the school lights instead of toward the sea. “We’re saving their lives,” an excited kindergartener announced proudly. Indeed. Being part of an active preK-12 school community was a unique opportunity for growth and appreciation of others. Each year about six upper school students would walk their primary grade siblings to class before homeroom. The little ones became known by name to the upper schoolers who would cheer them on in their mile races and Christmas concerts. In return, the adoration and respect of the middle schoolers helped the upper school students restrain their sometimes wilder impulses. Reading together, mentoring, staging productions, Earth Day celebrations, all strengthened those bonds. Sarah Otis, director of lower school, and Luther Renee, director of middle school, always promoted those interactions. One aspect of Good Hope that I only gradually came to appreciate was its commitment to the arts. Tanya Nichols, Head of School, was definitely dedicated to rigorous academics; yet, she fully ensured that the fine arts department had the time and budgetary support needed to provide an extraordinary opportunity for our students to explore, discover, and develop their creative side. The size of the band, the pit orchestra, and the chorus was amazing for such a small school. The spring musicals, a school-wide event, rivaled any on island and provided students experience in set production, lighting, sound, make-up, and stage management as well as acting and singing. “South Pacific” and “The King and I” involved children from third grade up. It was a Good Hope legacy. So too was the choice of the dramatic plays and the musicals. Local authors, such as Lorraine Joseph, were given priority. Racial and cultural diversity were honored. Each year the Good Hope School changed. Students and faculty turnover brought new people with new gifts. Good Hope was fortunate to attract a cadre of young, smart teachers from excellent universities. Their youth, idealism, and creativity gave our students great role models and a window into their own future. Available to mentor them were seasoned faculty members; meeting with each new teacher for one period each week, I was impressed by their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs. The welfare of their students was the focus of some extraordinary efforts on their part to make them think. I have often thought that Netflix could make a captivating original series based on the Good Hope School. There was no shortage of drama; then again, no shortage of compassion. It was a place where parents like Beryl Shaw sent her children (Rashida ‘95 and Shakuwra ‘00) with this advice: “There are many ways to heal the world. Choose wisely and do it your way.” That was Good Hope.
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CDS Head of School History 1964-1969 1969-1974 1974-1979 1979-1980 1980-1997 1997-2006 2006-2013 2013-2015
Marshall Lovett Thomas Radic Dr. William deColigny Kim Barton Marge Boulanger James Sadler William Sinfield William Sinfield (GHCDS)
Reflections on Country Day School As told by Cecile Roth, former Head of Upper School, from 1990 to 2015. Guy and I arrived on St. Croix on a sultry August afternoon, 11 months after Hurricane Hugo. With our two little girls in tow, Chip Adams and John Kimbrough chauffeured us to Christiansted in Chip’s seemingly ancient Jeep Renegade – a vehicle he would drive for at least another 15 years. We were among a significant number of souls hired to replace those whom Hurricane Hugo had chased away. This included two fresh-faced, highly energetic, right-out-of-college “kids”– Nancy Pomroy and Tim Newmeyer teaching PE. Also among the new crew were Pat Bessette (math), Tina Tobias (nurse), Denise Blanchette (elementary), Joel Ramsdell (music), and Ron and Mary MacKay. The MacKay’s were actually returning to CDS after having left a few years earlier. A decade later, they left again. Mary stayed north and never returned, but Ron repeatedly came and went - rehired so frequently we presented him with a boomerang at one of his many farewell parties. I began teaching 8th grade “core” – a 90-minute class combining English and Social Studies, but after three years, I moved to the upper school, and found myself as teacher and advisor to the same students I had taught in 8th grade. As juniors, they carried the awesome burden of paying for the junior-senior prom. Seniors gave the orders; juniors were expected to pay for and implement every sensationally awesome over-the-top wish. This caused more than a slight amount of tension between the classes. Juniors struggled to raise funds primarily through food sales and booths at the annual CDS Carnival. My students, the Class of ‘95, were an entrepreneurial bunch and several were well connected to island wholesalers, and so it wasn’t long before they were selling myriad treats on a daily basis. They provided the Class of ’94 with a lavish prom, which of course upped the ante for their own expectations on what they felt they deserved from the class of ’96. Roger Summerhayes was a vocal critic of the juniors-pay-for-prom tradition. Correcting this flawed system, however, required that he find a class willing to pay for two proms – once as juniors and then again as seniors thereby creating the new “tradition” of seniors paying for and taking control of their own prom. The Class of ’96 gave him that rare opportunity. Graciously following Mr. Summerhayes’ advice, they changed the way CDS proms were executed, bringing blessed peace to the upper school landscape. Mr. Summerhayes still counts this among one of his proudest achievements. For better or for worse, my first CDS class – ’96 can claim the snack shack as one of its major contributions to CDS traditions. While juniors struggled, seniors raised funds from the ultimate cash cow - soda sales. Woe to the senior advisor who inherited that miserable leaking, constantly buzzing, rectangular box - about 6 feet long, 2 feet wide and 3 feet high – which kept the sodas chilled. And woe was me as I followed my juniors into their senior year. In addition to the sodas, the class continued with the sale of countless goodies. In time my room seemed as much 7-11 as it did pedagogical temple. It was no way to run a classroom, and so after a short stint in the small storage area next to room 9, Marge Boulanger tasked Maintenance Supervisor Norm Nielsen to construct a room on the Upper School Patio. That’s how the Snack Shack came to be.
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Photo: Second graders celebrate 100 days of school and Valentine’s Day by counting, measuring, building, and writing valentines. Photograph by Lindsay Kammerzelt
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ghcds financial summary
Revenues
2015-16
2016-17
Gross Tuition and Fees Less Student and Faculty Grants Net Tuition and Fees Auxiliary Services Rental Income Fundraising & Donations Interest and Other Income
5,005,531 961,070 4,044,461 85,708 37,070 379,350 31,088
5,097,103 968,513 4,128,590 67,715 6,370 437,803 161,650
Total Revenues
4,577,677
4,802,128
Expenses
2015-16
2016-17
Instructional General Administration Operating and Maintenance Auxiliary Services Development Expenses
2,520,390 1,105,110 622,327 69,852 140,529 4,458,208
2,598,290 1,242,606 734,959 43,015 145,248 4,764,118
119,469
38,010
Total Expenses Excess of Revenues over Expenses
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ghcds rEVENUES 2016-17
ghcds eXPENSES 2016-17
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Photo: Ninth grader Douglas Capdeville poses in front of a mural on the Art building painted by GHCDS students and advisors during MiniGusto 2017. Photograph by Carlos Van Gurp
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Summary of Fundraising 2016-17 The Annual Fund is the backbone of our fundraising efforts and the most efficient way for supporter dollars to benefit our students. We are grateful to the 148 donors who contributed to this year’s Annual Fund. The Gala is a fundraising and friend-raising event. It consists of a live and silent auction and other forms of entertainment. Dollars raised at the event support financial aid.
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* Gross proceeds 26
Photo: Students practice strumming techniques to get the best sound from their guitars during a “fret works� elective. Photograph by Lindsay Kammerzelt
ANNUAL FUND GIVING 2016-17
bLACK & GOLD GALA 2016-17
Photo: Erin Andrews and Uchenna Ferris explore archery during Mini-Gusto 2017, a week of internships, travel, service projects, and other meaningful experiences. Photograph by Lindsay Kammerzelt
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key improvements: reduce Flooding on Campus
Flooding and leaking have long been impediments to faculty productivity and student learning at GHCDS. Thanks to a major gift from the Waterfall Foundation and the hard work of the Buildings & Grounds Committee (George Ashley – Chair, Jimmy Adams, Doug Armstrong, Rene D’Adamo, Jarred Dean, Steve Garner, and Larry Richards), the school has sealed all roofs, including the gym and pavilion, and created significant swales, catch basins, and other drainage conduits. More work is still needed, but GHCDS has significantly reduced the problem.
In the fall of 2016, Head of School Kari Loya debriefed kindergarteners on the upcoming flood mitigation plans.
On Senior Prank Day, Seniors created and displayed the following poster on the entry sign depicting Mr. Loya as Bob the Builder. Loya quipped, “According to my research, they’ve paid me an unfair compliment. Bob the Builder seems to complete his projects every 30-minute episode—but our projects go on and on and on…”
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key improvements: UPGRADE technology
Under the leadership of new technology director, Steve Minten, and the generous support of the technology committee (Joe Croney – Chair, Doug Armstrong, Rich Mackay, Bill McCormack, and David Thompson), GHCDS has made significant improvements to its technology infrastructure to enhance faculty productivity and student learning. This has included: New, faster wireless network for stronger connections across campus • • • •
25 10-Gigabit fiber switches 45 wireless access points with audio (PA system) 1 Gigabit per second router (985 Mbps) Network monitoring system for all components
New computers for faculty and students to provide speed and mobility • • • •
20 Dell Latitude laptops for upper school teachers 25 iMacs for lower school lab and art department 25 HP desktop computers for Upper School lab Windows 10 installed on all computers
New interactive projector in library for effective meeting presentations •
Epson Bright Link 695wi
New Artboard LCD touch TVs and fixed SmartBoards for presentation capability in all classrooms Migration of all 12 servers to Amazon cloud for greater reliability and lower long-term costs
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In 2017-18, Good Hope student body nearly $1 million or tuition
Summary of financial aid Financial Aid Purpose:
Good Hope Country Day School provides significant financial aid each year to families who could not otherwise afford to send their children to the School.
Tuition Remission Purpose:
Good Hope Country Day School provides tuition remission for faculty children to help the School retain top teachers and strengthen the overall community.
Scholarship Funds:
GHCDS currently manages the following endowed scholarships:
•Robert B. Goodman Scholarship •Andrew Ross Scholarship
If you are interested in endowing a scholarship, please contact the Advancement Office at 340.778.1974 or lstamperkeularts@ghcds.org.
30 Photo: Middle school students concentrate during their science exam. Photograph by Kiomie Pedrini
47% of the Country Day will receive in financial aid remission.
testimonial by angel tirado What is your first memory of GHCDS as a parent? My first memory of GHCDS was arriving at school with my sons and not being sure that our family would fit in. It might seem like a small thing, but I was concerned we may not fit in to the culture of the school as my family was raised Hispanic/Crucian. When we arrived, the teachers were very welcoming … the parents were super welcoming… the Deans and even the Head of School were so welcoming, and the variety of cultures, religions and backgrounds that we experienced was refreshing and comforting.
What are your two greatest memories about the school as a parent? My greatest memory was when the school did the Olweus bully prevention program and we had the talent show in which all the kids had to do something that represented bully prevention. The talent show was so well put together. The songs, the performances, the students, even the Head of School at the time, performed. It was amazing. The quality of performance, the content, and the message were spectacular. The Olweus bully prevention program was important because as a parent I wanted to make sure that my kids were in a safe learning environment. I felt comfortable dropping them off in the morning knowing that they were safe.
What do you like most about the school today? I love the dedication of the staff. I spend a lot of time behind the scenes on Parents’ Association projects so I get to see first-hand the faculty and staff spending extra hours and coming on their days off. It’s priceless… people giving of themselves putting the students first even before their own personal lives. In this world that is rare.
Why do you give to the annual fund? I support the annual fund so that the school can provide financial assistance to many families who otherwise could not afford a GHCDS education.
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Photo: Cast of The Drowsy Chaperone take a final bow after the spring musical performed at The James C. Savage Center for the Performing Arts. Photograph by Kiomie Pedrini 32
Our 35 leadership represented annual
Annual Fund Summary 2016-17 Unrestricted and Restricted
LEADERSHIP GIFTS
$25,000 + Bob Halk & Elizabeth Armstrong GHS’85 $10,000 - $24,999 Benjamin Gant Jamil Jacobs-El GHS’83 The Faile Foundation David A. Thompson $5,000 - $9,999 Tracy Birdsall Michael & Emma Bourque Kirk & Leah Chewning Jeffrey & Cynthia Crook Cesar CDS ‘96, & Annaly CDS ‘97, Guerra John & Theresa Harper Kohl Foundation Thomas Peil
$500 - $999 Sackett Cook for Josh Canning Joseph & Laura Croney Chris CDS ‘85 & Kerri Hanley Gary & Cathy Mares Shelley Rahe CDS ‘84 Sandra Robb UVI RT Park 34
$2,500 - $4,999 Douglas GHS ‘81 & Liz Armstrong Deepak & Viviana Bansal Discover Fund Management LLLP Kari Loya & Ximena Allub $1,000 - $2,499 William Allen & Christine Meck Carl Beckstedt & Christine Pauly Mark & Julie Eckard Jeffrey & Ileene Fisher Susan Gibbons Gerald Groner & Lisa Yntema J. Benton Construction Lindquester Fund in Honor of Jack & Isabelle Bohlke Donald & Shelley Myers Suga Savage Smith GHS ‘91 Valance Co. Inc Nate & Jamie Werner Mike & Najat Yusuf
OTHER GIFTS $250 - $499 Denise Blanchette Nellon & Oran Bowry Elizabeth Gladfelter
Up to $249 James & Kathleen Adams Anonymous Christopher Ashley Tavia Babb CDS ’93 Kate Baker Suenita Banwaree
Photo: Tenth grader Alinah Hamed takes a self- portrait for her photography class. Photograph by Alinah Hamed
gifts totaling $157,560 93% of our total giving.
Up to $249 cont’d Joseph Barnwell Maurice Barrant GHS ‘84 Amanda Beach CDS ‘03 Rita Bicette Phyllis Biddle Jack & Jean Bishop Mark & Wanda Bishop William CDS ‘00 & Laurie Bohlke Josh & Wendy Canning David & Olga Capriola Mario Capriola ‘17 Amy Carter Stephen Chapman Nesha Christian-Hendrickson CDS ‘00 Laurie Cipriani CDS ‘93 Meriweather Clark in Memory of Phillip C. Clark Hailey Coates ‘17 Jane Coles Clarissa Cooper Kevin Creese CDS ‘93 Julie Crisler John Dema CDS ‘05 Theodora D’Eramo ‘17 Laurie Dunton Lorraine Durand Jeff & Sara Dykstra Luther Edwards Deandra Erysthee ‘17 J’had Ferris ‘17 Chris Fletcher CDS ‘01 Christopher Floyd CDS ‘06 Mike Fraebel CDS ‘93 Daniel Garriga-Cerni ‘17
William & Melissa Gibbons CDS ‘11 Jolynn Grace Esron & Dawn Grey Kira Griffith ‘17 Kathryn Groner CDS’01 Chloe Hayden-Phillips ‘17 Casey Hensley GHS ‘ 00 Scott Hensley GHS ‘01 Pat & Patty Hensley Eileen Hill GHS ‘95 Sherry Hotter Aaron & Olga Hutchins Noelene Jeffers GHS ‘02 Kioshirah Pedrini CDS ‘93 Benjamin Keularts GHS ‘99 Larry & Joan Kupfer Gwen Lake Megan Lambert GHS ‘99 Princess Lanclos CDS ‘09 Hans Lawaetz Felix Lima Mark & Bry Locher Emma Logan ‘16 Savannah Logan CDS ‘10 Stuart & Florence Logan Tracy Lossaso-Lackman CDS ‘93 Shauni Lustig ‘17 Samuel Mares CDS ‘05 Sasha Marohn Cindy Mault Matthew Mays ‘17 Marshall McCormick ‘17 Steve Minten Dante Molloy ‘17
Sylvana Montealegre Hutchins ‘17 Ricardo D. Nieves CDS ‘13 Mead Norton CDS ‘93 Daisy Pelovitz Tim Pitts GHS ‘00 Mary Jane Provost Carl T. Punzenberger CDS ‘93 Edward Raub CDS ‘00 Matthew Raub CDS ‘03 Robin Reed GHS ‘75 Jesse Repp CDS ‘93 Jessica Resinger Brice & Malia Richards Laurence & Nataki Richards Amanda Ringer CDS ‘93 Izhani Rosa ‘17 Scott Salinas CDS ‘93 Laurie Schill Faith Snow ‘17 Jason & Heidi Snow Isabelle Stamper ‘17 Aiden Stevens ‘17 Sonja Sundaram Roger Summerhayes Eva Taylor ‘17 Nancy Thatcher Jonathan Thomas ‘17 Tina Thompson Angel & Jessica Tirado Angel Tirado ‘17 Britta Victor CDS ‘06 Briana Watson CDS ’08 Lea Wilson Leah Wineman CDS ‘93 Linda Yoder
Photo: Eleventh graders Caroline Flavia and Webster Bozzo develop a model for constant velocity in Physics class. Photograph by Nicole Canegata
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Thank you to sponsors whose accounted total
Black & Gold Gala Thank you to everyone who supported the GHCDS Black and Gold Gala! This premiere event was held on February 25th at Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort & Spa. The event grossed $186,880 for financial aid for students regardless of their socio-economic background. The magical evening included a elegant dinner, live auction, silent auction, and student performances. Thank you to all who were a part of this stellar event!
Platinum Sponsor ($10,000) Doug & Jeannine Schrock The Buccaneer Hotel
Gold Sponsor ($7,500) Tuthill Corporation
Silver Sponsor ($5,000)
Ben Gant Exigo On Demand, LLC Marshall & Sterling Insurance
Bronze Sponsor ($2,500)
Baker Magras Bert Smith & Co. Calabash Real Estate/ Honnie Edwards Centerline Car Rentals Cruzan Viril Dylan Genest ‘09 & Marley Genest ‘11 Gerry Groner & Lisa Yntema Innovative Island Heritage Insurance John & Theresa Harper Lee Rohn & Darrel Jackson Pinnacle Services, LLC
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Copper Sponsor ($1,000)
American Venture Capital Bank Anonymous BPPR Cane Bay Partners, LLC Denali Asset Management Dr. & Mrs. Chui Dr. & Mrs. Ralph DeChabert Dr. Antonio & Mrs. Imelda Dizon Dr. Michelle Dizon Drs. Wook Suh & Chung Kwan George & Donna Ashley Groundwater & Environmental Services HH Tire & Battery In Memory of Atty. Eric Moore Jim & Connie Arena Nesha Christian-Hendrickson & STX Athletics Plessen Medical Group Progressive Veterinary Clinic Steve & Katherine Hardee Team Consultants VI Recycling
Photo: GHCDS Black and Gold Gala at Carambola Resort. Photographs by David Berg
our 38 event support for 50% of our revenue.
Donation
Café Fresco Dick & Kelly Schierloh Kasey Canton The Palms at Pelican Cove Caribbean Adven. Tours Kayak Dr. Antonio & Mrs. Imelda Dizon Caribbean Sea Adventures Richard Grant & Rita Dudley Grant Carlos Furniture David & Sue Ridgway Centerline Car Rentals La Reine Chicken Shack Dr. & Mrs. Chui George & Donna Ashley Cibone’ Yvonne & Alexander Hanschen Club Comanche Gerry Groner & Lisa Yntema Coastal Air John & Theresa Harper Crucian Gold Cruzan Rum In-Kind Donation Cueros 40 Strand Eatery Deep End Bar & Grill Rhea Abramson Don deWilde Adorn Diageo Adventures in Diving STX Duggan’s Reef Restaurant Ricky Dean Andrews Chef Ron DuPrat Annaly Farms Eden South ArtFarm Equus Rides Asha Roberta Etienne Baci Wanda Evangelista Balter Jim & Susan Fagan Baked Cafe Pamela Fagan Hutchins Beach Shack & Mermaid’s Art Room Food Town Beeston Hill Rehab. & Fitness Center Franklin’s Bellows International Freedom City Surf BES Cocktails Scott & Carol Fricks Ahna Biddle From the Gecko Jean Bishop Ft. Christian Brew Pub Blue Moon Fusions Blue Water Terrace Galangal Bohlke International Airways Gallows Bay Hardware Bottles Reimagined Gallows Point Resorts Budget Car Rentals Luca Gasperi Kurt Buska, DDS Gecko’s Island Adventure Cache of the Day Barbara Gelardi Café Christine Susan Gibbons
Glass 2000 Kelly Greer Steven & Katherine Hardee Simon Hendrickson Eduardo Hermida & Hera Psaros Kendall Holmes Jackie Holt Hot Heads ib designs Imperfection Jewelry Island Girl Charters Ivy Moon JKC Communications Jolly Roger Charters David Johnson Joan Rivers International Joyia Inspirational Jewelry Kristen Kelbe KMH Designs Patrick Kralik Alexis Lavine Laced Legacy Lindsay Kammerzelt Photography Lost Dog Pub Lynn’s Nails Lyric Sails Marriott at Frenchman’s Reef Bruce Marshack & Amelia Headley Lamont Medical Air Services Association Merch Carnival Merchant’s Market Robert & Michelle Molloy Molly’s Boutique Molly Nadler Don & Shelley Myers Nicole Canegata Photography No Bones Café 37
Thank you to donors who such a
In-Kind Donation (Cont.)
Panache Peach Can Gallery Pointe Dance Academy Potter & Claeys Progressive Veterinary Clinic Frank & Katherine Pugliese Quality Food Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort & Spa Rhythms @ Rainbow Beach Gail Riggs Rum Runners Sandcastles Savant Seaborne Airlines Seahorse Republic Seaside Market Sharkey’s Bait Stand Shoreline at Chenay Bay Shupe’s Heidi Snow
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S.C.U.B.A. Steele’s Smokes & Sweets Regina Stevens Kevin Stewart Digby Stridiron Sugar Mill Veterinary Center Drs. Wook Suh & Chung Kwan Surya Sweet Lime Furnishings Taste of St. Croix Tatum Tavern 1844 Teroro II The Bistro The Blue Moon The Blue Mutt The Bombay Club The Beach Shack The Buccaneer Hotel The Color Bar The Courtyard
The Frame Up The Galleon The Hideaway Spa The Mermaid Restaurant The Palms at Pelican Cove Steve Thomas TLC Kitchen Trends Boutique Tropical Bracelet Company Turtle’s Deli Twin Cities Un Amore Undercover Books Julie Vaughn Villa Morales Restaurant Vision Center Joyce Wakefield Wanderlust West End Water Sports You Are Here Bar & Grille Ziggy’s Gas Station Zion Modern Kitchen
the 165 in-kind made this event success!
Event VOLUNTEERS Maya Acosta Michael Armendariz Joseph Barnwell Maurice Barrant David Berg Jack Bishop Jean Bishop Nadia Bougouneau Ingrid Camacho Thays Canegata Josh Canning Wendy Canning Mario Capriola Olga Capriola Amy Carter Hailey Coates
Kimberly D’Eramo Nina D’Eramo Thea D’Eramo Sophie Dean Garfield Doran John Eland Mark Eckard Darean Ellison Wanda Evangelista J’had Ferris Christopher Floyd Carolyn Forno Susan Gibbons Dawn Grey Rose Langley Felix Lima
Emma Logan Savannah Logan Marshall McCormick Aldo Pedrini Heidi Snow Elise Stamper Ethan Stamper Aiden Stevens Regina Stevens Roger Summerhayes Nancy Thatcher Edgardo Torres Angel Tirado Christopher Tirado Jessica Tirado Joyce Wakefield
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Photo: 100-yard dash on lower school field day to celebrate Panther Pride and School Spirit! Photograph by Quiana Adams 41
Parents’ Association Every parent at Good Hope Country Day School is a member of the Parents’ Association. The goal of the Parents’ Association is to create a stronger School community by involving and engaging parents in meaningful ways. We look forward to all parents in every grade volunteering their time and participating in PA events.
The Parents’ Association currently organizes the following:
2016-17 Parents’ Association Angel Tirado, President Wanda Evangelista, Vice-President Nancy Torres, Secretary Tamara Rayner, Treasurer
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•Back-to-School BBQ •Back-to-School Coffee & Registration •Talent Showcase and International Dinner •Dance Party for Parents •Halloween Tailgate and Bonfire •Father-Daughter Dance •Teacher Appreciation Week •Student Art Show Refreshments •BINGO (winter and spring) •Postage for alumni care packages
Top Photo: Parents’ Association volunteers welcome families back on the first day of registration. Bottom Photo: Parents’ Association Back to School BBQ. Photographs by Kiomie Pedrini
Our Amazing Volunteers! Thank you to our many wonderful volunteers who gave the School their time and talent.
Mini-Gusto
Tasnim Khan Elizabeth Armstrong Mike & Bridget Klein Kate Baker Gwen Lake Suenita Banwaree Latitude 17 Maurice Barrant Clema Lewis Amanda Beach Mark Locher Carl Beckstedt Savannah Logan Beckstedt Law Rob Low Rita Bicette Whealan & Kris Massicott Phyllis Biddle Greg Moorman Nathan & Therese Bishop Neighborhood Pharmacy Denise Blanchette Nelthropp and Low Kelly Boring Petrichor Brian Brady Plessen Medical Group Ed & Molly Buckley Jackie Robak Kisha Butcher Michael Rogers Josh Canning Senator Sammuel Sanes Olga Capriola Laurie Schill Caribbean Kayak Adv. Tours STX Animal Welfare Center Jane Coles St. George Botanical Gardens Crucian Gold S.C.U.B.A. Therese Donarski Roger Summerhayes Laurie Dunton Superior Court of the VI Chris Fletcher Jan Tawakol Jessica Gallivan The Buccaneer Hotel Marisol Garcia The Women’s Coalition Lisa Gay Vision Center Jolynn Grace Lindsy Wagner Kathleen Graham-Adams Amanda Warehime Annaly Guerra Williams Chiropractic Clinic ib designs Jay Williams Island Therapy Solutions Letisia Williams Jolly Roger Tours Michelle Williams-Ballantine
PE Department Jessica Archambault Malerie Gleason Kelly Green Nancy Hasson
After School Care Lisa Bass Laura Croney Dee Forno Malerie Gleason Aaron Hutchins Kathy Mackay Amanda Warehime
Drama
Michael Armendariz Elizabeth Armstrong Joseph Barnwell Denise Blanchette Nadia Bougouneau Thays Canegata Olga Capriola Lisa & John Coates JKC Communications Melanie Conhoff Dulcie & David Crowther Sophie Dean Kim D’Eramo John Eland Wanda Evangelista Carol Fricks Jalen Frorup Valerie Geer Dawn Grey
Photo: Wendy Minten, Emma Bourque, and Pam Turk, parent volunteers work tirelessly to keep the campus looking beautiful! Photograph by Nicole Canegata
Sherry Hotter Felix Lima & Crew Savannah Logan Mary Ann Mahoney Cathy Mares Sasha Marohn Paradise Plumbing, Inc. Aldo & Kiomie Pedrini Elise Stamper Linda Stamper-Keularts Rick Starr STX Animal Welfare Center Angel & Jessica Tirado Ike Turner Joyce Wakefield Bob & Brandy White Lea Wilson
Middle School Frances Benjamin Brian Boring David Crowther Roberta Etienne Katherine Hardee Felicia John Barbie Kohl Megan Littlefield Stephanie Mann Trevena Moore Allison Peters Nataki Richards Marva Weekly Jamie Werner
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Photo: Fourth grader Nico Forno-D’Adamo signs his class charter, a document created by students and teachers as part of Yale’s RULER program, outlining how they aspire to treat each other. Photograph by Nicole Canegata 44
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We are thrilled annual fund 70 alumni -
Alumni! Over 2,000 graduates of The Good Hope School, St. Croix Country Day School and Good Hope Country Day School now span the globe. We were delighted in 2016-17 to profile many of them in our Alumni News, connect with many of them at our on-island and off-island events (Washington, D.C., New York City, and Miami), and receive a record number of annual fund contributions. We look forward to a great year ahead. Visit http://ghcds.org/alumni/alumni-news/ to learn more.
Alumni Annual Fund Gifts Douglas Armstrong GHS ‘81 Elizabeth Armstrong GHS ‘85 Christopher Ashley ‘17 Tavia Babb CDS ‘93 Maurice Barrant GHS ‘84 Amanda Beach CDS ‘03 James Benton CDS ‘95 William Bohlke CDS ‘00 Kasey Canton CDS ‘91 Mario Capriola ‘17 Nesha Christian Hendrickson CDS ‘00 Laurie Cipriani CDS ‘93 Hailey Coates ‘17
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Kevin Cresse CDS ‘93 John Dema CDS ‘05 Theodora D’Eramo ‘17 Deandra Erysthee ‘17 J’Had Ferris ‘17 Jeffrey & Ileene Fisher Christopher Fletcher CDS ‘01 Chris Floyd CDS ‘06 Mike Fraebel CDS ‘93 Daniel Garriga-Cerni ‘17 William & Melissa Acevedo Gibbons CDS ‘11 Kira Griffith ‘17 Kathryn Groner CDS ‘01
Top Photo: New York City Alumni Reception. Bottom Photo: Miami Alumni Reception.
to have received gifts from Thank You !
Cesar CDS ‘96 & Annaly Babb Guerra CDS ‘97 Chloe Hayden-Phillips ‘17 Chris Hanley CDS ‘85 Casey Hensley CDS ‘00 Scott Hensley GHS ‘01 Eileen Hill GHS ‘95 Jamil Jacobs-El GHS ‘83 Noelene Jeffers GHS ‘02 Benjamin Keularts GHS ‘99 Megan Lambert GHS ‘99 Princess Lanclos CDS ‘09 Tracy Losasso Lackman CDS ‘93 Savannah Logan CDS ‘10 Shauni Lustig ‘17 Samuel Mares CDS ‘05 Matthew Mays ‘17 Marshall McCormick ‘17 Dante Molloy ‘17 Sylvana Montealegre Hutchins ‘17 Ricardo D. Nieves CDS ‘13 Mead Norton CDS ‘93
Top Photo: Washington, D.C. Alumni Reception. Bottom Photo: GHCDS Alumni Brunch Group Photo.
Kiomie Pedrini CDS ‘93 Tim Pitts GHS ‘00 Carl Punzenberger CDS ‘93 Shelley Rahe CDS ‘84 Edward “Ted” Raub CDS ‘00 Matthew Raub CDS ‘03 Robin Reed GHS ‘75 Jesse Repp CDS ‘93 Amanda Ringer CDS ‘93 Izhani Rosa ‘17 Scott Salinas CDS ‘93 Suga Savage Smith GHS ‘91 Faith Snow ‘17 Isabelle Stamper ‘17 Aiden Stevens ‘17 Eva Taylor ‘17 Jonathan Thomas ‘17 Angel Tirado ‘17 Britta Victor CDS ‘06 Briana Watson CDS ‘08 Leah Wineman CDS ‘93
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iN MEMORIAM A Reflection On Asa O’Neal by Jordan Lake’16 Teammate, Classmate, and Friend
Although it is not easy for me to speak about such a painful loss, I always find joy in reflecting on Asa, the good that has been done in his honor, and the greatness that has yet to come. The resilience and unity from both the GHCDS and O’Neal family have been the most empowering forces I have met. Both have been there for me and for each other.
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The connection and friendship we built during high school and the energy he brought into my life was a blessing I was glad would be continuing as we both ventured on to Howard University. From the time we started to go to school together in 10th grade we clicked. We seemed to always be on the same vibe and we shared similar perspectives. Positivity was more than just an outlook, it really was who Asa was and how he lived. His aura had a way of touching everyone he shared a space with for the better. Asa could walk into any room and bring smiles to people’s faces, even at the most grueling hours of the day – the early morning before my first class – seeing Asa walk into my room to get his laptop, books, or hoodie or during the most serious times, like during a close Volleyball game, when he would do an original celebration on the court. More importantly, I could always place my faith in Asa to be there for me and the people around me. Nothing short of insightful, Asa consistently managed to dig deeper and pitch intelligent perspectives that many would overlook or not think about. Naturally, these stimulating interactions helped me develop a stronger thought process and generally become a more thoughtful person. There were many times in our senior year that conversations with Asa made me pause realizing that he had given much thought to the topic at hand. I remember one night before my birthday, what started as Asa asking me a few questions about his political science homework transitioned into a powerful discussion about political schemes and theories. This conversation stood out for me because even after he had left my room I continued thinking about how great that discussion was, I even tweeted (for once) “Me and Asa making breakthroughs in social thought”. Many others can attest to this; at the candle light vigil for Asa at Howard, a fellow classmate described a similar experience of delving into a meaningful conversation with Asa, and he is inspired to carry that energy with him and impact others in the same way Asa impacted him. Whether you knew Asa for four months or his whole life, it is clear that Asa made an impact on those around him. He continues to inspire us and bring about positive change through community service projects done in his honor, a humanitarian award and scholarship dedicated in his name and an overall awareness “that life is so short, it ain’t that serious”. Asa’s reach and impact is breathtaking and I am so thankful for having Asa and his family in my life. My dear friend, you continue to amaze me. Love and miss you every day.
Our Inspiration GHCDS Class of 2017
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Photo: Lower school band performs during the Holiday Choral and Band Concert held in the GHCDS Pavilion. Photograph by Lindsay Kammerzelt
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legacy The Faile Foundation In the early days of the School, John “Jack” Faile along with a number of other dedicated folks began laying plans for what would eventually be known as St. Croix Country Day School. Jack and his wife, Pixie, were involved during the time the school was still operating out of the Moravian Church. They would have a key role in two decisions that would play a major part in the eventual identity of the school. First, they knew that their work at the school was gaining the attention of a growing number of families and required more space so they began the arduous task of finding a location and securing the funding. Jack, a structural engineer, designed each of the original buildings to optimize air flow and withstand hurricane force winds and conditions. The school would end up being built on the plots in Concordia where it remains to this day. This move split the original school and its leadership into St. Croix Country Day School and The Good Hope School. Later, their daughter Toni would casually spark an ember that remains a core value for our school today, citizenship. Toni asked her mother what the school could do to help all the less fortunate children on St. Croix, and from that conversation, it would become a tradition for students to participate in community service projects like My Brother’s Table and the Queen Louise Home. Jack served as board chair for many years and eventually left St. Croix in the 80’s, but never forgot his special attachment to this school. His family foundation, The Faile Foundation, would continue to award funds to both Queen Louise Home and St. Croix Country Day School. Jack Faile’s early plans and continued support solidified for the island two institutions that have changed the landscape and services on St. Croix. Jack was modest about his generosity, and it was only after his passing that it became clear to his family the lengths of his philanthropic support. Many organizations came out of the wood work to say “Thank you and what a difference his support made over the years.” John B. Faile is considered a founding father of St. Croix Country Day School and we are so grateful for his legacy and continued generosity.
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Photo: Portrait of John Faile and special recognition plaque on campus in front of the GHCDS Administration building.
Ways to Give Below are numerous ways to contribute to Good Hope Country Day School and help us provide a world class education.
Cash
All cash (including check and credit card) gifts are fully tax-deductible. To make a credit card gift online, go to http://ghcds.org/supportghcds/ways-to-give/ and click on the Donate button.
Securities
A gift of appreciated stock which has been held for more than one year allows you to avoid the capital gains tax on the appreciation. It also qualifies you for an income tax charitable deduction based on the fair-market value of the stock on the date you make the gift. For more details, download our Securities Transfer Form at http://ghcds.org/supportghcds/ways-to-give/ or contact Linda Stamper-Keularts, Director of Advancement, at lstamperkeularts@ghcds.org or 340.778.1974 ext. 2113.
Matching Gift
Matching gifts are an easy way to increase the value of your contribution. If you and/or your spouse work for a company with a matching gift program, please obtain the necessary form from your personnel office and send it along with your gift to Good Hope Country Day School, Attn: Advancement Office.
Make a Pledge
Pledges can be fulfilled with one payment or multiple payments and simply need to be completed in full by June 30, 2018.
Planned Gifts
GHCDS is grateful to those who have the vision and generosity to include the School in their estate plans. Through planned giving, you and your family can make a significant gift to GHCDS while also benefitting your own financial and estate planning. For more information, please contact Linda Stamper-Keularts, Director of Advancement, at lstamperkeularts@ghcds.org or 340.778.1974 ext. 2113. Photo: Fourth grade panthers enjoying comraderie during language arts. Photograph by Nicole Canegata 53