Clippings is a publication of the Communications Office in partnership with other offices of Green Hedges School.
Jessica Wadlow Chair, Board of Trustees
Peter A. Barrett
Interim Head of School 2025-2026
Reka Keller Director of Communications & Marketing
Lisa Gibb Director of Philanthropy
Writing, Editing, and Photography
Reka Keller
Design
Catalone Design Co.
Our Mission
We inspire young people of talent and promise to develop clear values, a desire for wisdom, and an appreciation for all endeavors that broaden the mind and enlighten the spirit.
Your comments and suggestions are always welcomed and may be emailed to communications@greenhedges.org.
Green Hedges does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, or national origin in the administration of its education policies.
Note from the Editor
When I joined the Green Hedges School community just over a year and a half ago, I was immediately struck not only by the exceptional quality of the educators and administrators around me, but also by the strength of the school’s values and spirit. Everywhere I looked, I saw individuals—whether teaching phonics to Montessori learners, guiding Grade 2 writers through the power of a comma, planning a lesson on how to write and solve compound inequalities for Middle School mathematicians, running laps with Grade 4 during PE, or sketching a backdrop for the next school performance—pushing themselves to elevate what was already excellent and make it extraordinary
This drive, which is woven into the fabric of Green Hedges, is sustained by the generosity and encouragement of our community—parents and guardians, alumni, and faculty and staff alike. In the pages that follow, you’ll see the tangible outcomes of that collective dedication and feel the strength of that support, which lifts Green Hedges School and its students to their fullest potential.
I would also like to take a moment to acknowledge the people who inspired this issue of Clippings, from those who give back generously through the Green Hedges Fund and gifts of time and service to the extraordinary educators—past and present—who pour passion and heart into their work on behalf of our students. This issue honors each of you. You help Green Hedges take what is already excellent and transform it into something extraordinary.
Thank you for your trust, enthusiasm, and belief in what we can accomplish together. As you read ahead, you’ll see the impact of Green Hedges’ shared commitment—how generosity, vision, and countless daily acts of care continue to shape the student experience and strengthen our future.
Warmly,
Reka Keller
Director
of
Communications & Marketing
Writer and Editor, From Excellent to Extraordinary Edition Green Hedges School
Individual Educators Made Green Hedges Excellent—and Continue to Make It Extraordinary
A CONVERSATION WITH FORMER FACULTY OF GREEN HEDGES SCHOOL
EDITOR’S NOTE Since the original writing of this article, we were deeply saddened by the death of Marion Beckett Rhode on November 28. We have chosen to share this piece as originally written, in honor of her life and legacy.
Each community is a sum of its parts, and the one Green Hedges has cultivated over time is filled with fondness, joy, and a wealth of memories. Among the most cherished threads in this tapestry are our former faculty members. Each year, Kilmer Hall welcomes back these familiar faces—teachers and administrators who stop by to visit a friend, catch up with current staff, or witness the new lessons unfolding in our classrooms. Some visits are planned—such as this past summer, when former teacher and Assistant Head of School
Marion Beckett Rhode was invited to speak during our opening Faculty & Staff Meeting—while others arrive with delightful spontaneity, like the bright smile of former math teacher Syamala Chenulu as she makes her way to Kilmer House to say hello, or the warm embrace of longtime Montessori-Grade 2 teacher Sherry Dart as she shares her latest run-in with a Green Hedges alum in the wilds of Vienna. Whether expected or unexpected, these visits always remind us that once a Dragon, always a Dragon.
During our opening meetings in August—a time when all faculty and staff return before students to prepare for the year ahead— Marion arrived, as she always does, more than 15 minutes early. She spent her first moments back on campus moving through
classrooms, greeting familiar faces, and introducing herself to the new ones she didn’t yet know. When she stepped to the front of the Multipurpose Room, remarking with a smile on how much it still resembled the space she knew as the Assistant Head of School, she looked out over a room of curious faces, eager to hear the stories that have shaped Green Hedges across generations. Marion opened by rooting us in the school’s founding principles, anchored in the “morals, ethics, and standards not found
In 1976, when
Marion Beckett joined Green Hedges, there was only one building, the Stable (unrenovated), and there were only 63 students!
RIGHT Marion Beckett Rhode (various photos)
“Every student needs to feel, see, hear, touch, and taste wonder and awe in every aspect of life. Green Hedges does this—and helps students to learn the truth of everything.”
MARION BECKETT RHODE
“I believe that teachers are still looking for the good in students here today, and that is what makes Green Hedges the best place.”
SHERRY DART
in the then-segregated school systems,” guiding us across nearly 85 years of history. She highlighted enduring themes that still define our educational philosophy today, such as “slowing down to wonder, to explore, and to appreciate.” Marion most importantly reminded us of Green Hedges’ foundational role as the first interracial school in Virginia and of Frances and Kenton Kilmer’s work to create the Patrick Henry Library in Vienna, one of the first desegregated libraries of its kind. Many traditions that meant so much to her—the Halloween Parade, Openings, and Closings— still thrive in our community today. Marion concluded by reflecting on our schoolwide theme of rooted in wonder, reminding us that “every student needs to feel, see, hear, touch, and taste wonder and awe in every aspect of life. Green Hedges does this—and helps students to learn the truth of everything, especially as we go further and further into a world dominated by AI.”
Another beloved former faculty member, Sherry Dart, is a familiar presence in our halls. Sherry fondly recalls her first experience with
Green Hedges when, at 33 years old, she had already taught at 10 schools across the country due to her husband’s career as a reporter. Having recently arrived in Vienna with her young son, Sherry, who had familiarity with earlychildhood education, sought out a school for her family. Kathleen Battaglia, the Green Hedges Head of School at the time, welcomed them with open arms and, during the mid-year tour, told Sherry her son was welcome to stay the morning if he enjoyed the program. After a morning of play and exploration, Kathleen returned Sherry’s son to her with a single question posed to the young boy, “Do you have any questions for me?” This moment cemented Green Hedges as a place that put students at the center of its work, from Sherry’s perspective.
Soon thereafter, Sherry began her many years of teaching at Green Hedges. She often described it as the type of place that “met the children where they are and brought them along,” referring to students as a part of the greater garden of Green Hedges. This idea of belonging was important to Sherry during her time as a teacher, and she refers to her time with students as “watering the seeds of wonder.” As we spoke about her time, Sherry paused, thoughtfully tapping her chin before sharing that her favorite part of teaching were the quiet moments in-between
lessons. Sherry reflected on a particularly special moment to her when she had been reading Charlotte’s Web to her Grade 2 students and, during a scene where the rat Templeton referred to the fair as a rat’s paradise, one student raised her tiny hand and thoughtfully remarked, “Green Hedges is a people’s paradise.”
This spirit of helping students feel “seen and known,” as Kathleen Battaglia once put it, is the thread uniting generations of educators like Sherry Dart, Marion Beckett, and so many former faculty members who shaped our school. After our conversation, Sherry walked the halls, peeking into classrooms and greeting teachers she met along the way. Before leaving, she shared, “I believe that teachers are still looking for the good in students here today, and that is what makes Green Hedges the best place.”
Did you know that Kenton Kilmer participated in the March on Washington with Martin Luther King Jr. in 1963?
RIGHT Sherry Dart, Interim Head of School Peter Barrett, and student
Sherry Dart (various photos)
LEFT Symala Chenulu and Sherry Dart
CAMPUS HAPPENINGS
In the first months of school, students enjoyed a Book Fair, International Day of Peace, and more!
CAMPUS HAPPENINGS
Students enjoyed field trips to various locations this fall, including the Capitol, JK Community Farm,
and more.
Echo Hill, Math Meets,
CAMPUS HAPPENINGS
Green Hedges students had a busy start to the year with the Middle School Fall Dance, DragonFest, a visit from the Town of Vienna Mayor, the Halloween Parade, Veterans Day, International Day, and many more great opportunities for learning and fun!
CAMPUS HAPPENINGS
Check out our performances, including Grade 4’s Jungle Book, Grade 5’s Myth-Guided, Jazz Band, and various winter concerts.
Cross Country had major contributions in all four of their meets from Collin, Greysen, Carlos, Charlie, and Sophia.
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
TRANSFORMATIVE FIELD TRIPS AT GREEN HEDGES
Who doesn’t remember the sense of joyful anticipation upon hearing it was time for a class field trip—the thrill of a potentially unknown destination, the lively bus ride with friends, and the freedom of learning beyond the four walls of a classroom?
At Green Hedges, that excitement moves to the next level. Our students don’t just go on field trips—they experience immersive overnight retreats; they don’t just hang out—they embark on program-related expeditions and team-building adventures; and they don’t just travel
an ecology-based experience on the Chesapeake Bay. These overnight trips are designed not only to spark outdoor exploration and deepen science learning, but also to nurture personal growth—building resilience, adaptability, self-confidence, leadership, and communication skills. Students treasure these experiences, such as Grade 5’s recent reflection on their trip to Echo Hill: “It was so cool! We explored a swamp, went on a night hike to a beach to build a dam, and even studied garbology, the study of trash to understand human consumption.” Students even reminisced about the giant swing at Calleva the year before, oohing and aahing over the experience.
locally—they go on international, week-long Spring Break trips. Every off-campus experience at Green Hedges is thoughtfully designed to reflect our mission of cultivating capable, confident, and conscientious young adults who contribute meaningfully to the greater world.
Students begin taking off-campus field trips in Lower School. While in our younger grades these may look more like a day-trip to JK Community Farm to pick fruits and vegetables for food-insecure communities, or a visit to the Capitol to learn about governmental structure, starting in Grade 4 students begin to participate in at least one overnight trip per school year. These trips are to places like Calleva, an innovative outdoor education and adventure program, or Echo Hill Outdoor School,
Meanwhile, our Middle School students participate in at least two overnight retreats annually, beginning as early as September. This year, students kicked off the school year with a two-day retreat to Sandy Hill Camp and Retreat Center on the Chesapeake Bay. Grade 8 student Soraya shared, “Since we have such a tightknit Middle School community, we really get to know each other on the retreats.” Her sentiment is echoed by many students who enjoyed activities like ropes courses, kayaking, fishing, rock climbing, and hiking—all chosen to strengthen teamwork and cultivate a unified Middle School community. Even new students feel included; Grade 6 student Zoe noted, “I got to know everyone, and
being the new student, it made the first day of school feel easier.”
Sometimes, even though a trip can be challenging for students experiencing their first time away from home, the personal growth is remarkable. As Grade 6 student Julia explained, “It was really hard at first because it was the beginning of the year and I’d never done anything like that, but once I got there it was so much fun, I didn’t even think about home.” While retreats provide a jumpstart for team-building, these opportunities continue throughout the year, with crossgrade activities that further foster collaboration and lasting friendships.
said, “When we went to Montreal, it was amazing because we got to spend a week with friends in a new country, tour and explore a city, and even do activities like a photography studio.”
This year, the 15 or so students who head to Santa de Dota, Costa Rica, will focus on community engagement rather than sightseeing, including a visit to a coffee cooperative, work with a local school and elderly facility, and activities centered on ethical environmental stewardship—all while strengthening their Spanish skills. Grade 7 student Mo noted that even local trips, like an advisory group visit to Vienna’s Food for Others pantry, can feel adventurous and eye-opening: “Field trips
Field trips at Green Hedges extend well beyond the Greater Washington area. Each spring, Grades 6–8 are offered the opportunity to travel to destinations with unique educational experiences. Some trips focus on specific academic subjects: Grade 8 student Blaise, who visited the Bahamas last year, said, “It was so cool—we learned about marine biology and swam at the beach. Overall, it was a fantastic bonding experience.” Other trips emphasize language, like the French Immersion trip to Montreal, or service learning, such as this year’s journey to Santa de Dota, Costa Rica. Students shared that international trips allowed them to try experiences they wouldn’t have otherwise. Noah, a Grade 8 student,
at Green Hedges are really fun because you get to meet and interact with students outside your grade or friend group.”
Green Hedges is a place for curiosity and exploration and, while every grade level experiences a variety of opportunities to deepen their understanding of the world, field trips are a particular activity where learning truly comes alive. These experiences, whether around the corner or across the globe, are what make Green Hedges not just excellent, but TRULY EXTRAORDINARY .
FROM BEAKERS TO BIRD MIGRATION
Inspiring Science Education
Under the bright lights of the Kilmer Hall Science Lab in Room 7, a group of students is eagerly gathered around a table, staring at a glass beaker filled with liquid. As they examine the bubbling mixture quizzically, they ask Grades 4–8 science teacher Laura Woodcock, “Well, what happens if we add more of the liquid? Will it react by bubbling more or will it stop bubbling?”
Questions like these are commonplace for Ms. Woodcock, who joined the Green Hedges faculty this year, bringing with her years of teaching experience in the science classroom.
Ms. Woodcock’s passion for science started at a young age and was fueled by experiences such as working for the New England Aquarium in the penguin colony
exhibit, performing Mexican Spotted Owl occupancy surveys with the Bird Conservancy of the Great Rockies, and using ArcGIS with the Massachusetts Center for Wildlife and Fishery to track habitat disruptions of raptors. Obviously, Ms. Woodcock is for the birds— meaning extraordinary, of course.
Since stepping into her role, Ms. Woodcock has helped our
LEFT Grade 5 students enjoy an experiment in the Science Lab
science curriculum truly take flight. She observes, “Handson learning is essential when it comes to chemistry and indoor sciences. But it’s more than just being hands-on—I want students doing physics and chemistry labs, using the equipment we have at Green Hedges, which is extensive! Students need to get their hands on things, know the names, and get outside to explore all the nature on our campus.”
Students have been engaging in these hands-on experiences from the very start of the year. Labs in September introduced them to the various science room materials and equipment so they could become comfortable using them. Grade 7 students examined plants and animal cells under microscopes, noting the differences in cell walls at various magnifications, while Grade 6 students learned to dissect flowers and pinecones and explore their inner workings, and Grades 4 and 5 worked on noting changes both physical and chemical. Grade 8 students, after two-plus years of experience with the materials, completed refresher labs to review natural and artificial materials and learn to split substances before planning, creating, and executing their own experiments comparing natural and artificial substances,
“[Earth Day is] a natural way for students to examine the world around them and enhance their connection to conservation and the habitats in Virginia.”
MS. WOODCOCK, GRADES 4–8 SCIENCE TEACHER
such as beet juice versus Red 40 or honey versus corn syrup. These unique opportunities are made possible by small class sizes and teachers who are deeply passionate about their work.
Ms. Woodcock is continuing to expand the exciting initiatives in the Science Lab with her latest project on bird migration—a topic that, one could say, has really come full circle! This cross-grade, crosscurricular project aims to promote bird conservation as part of Earth Day, incorporating elements from the arts, math, physical education, and science.
The Great Migration project took flight this year with our Grades 6 and 7 students. Early in the fall, alongside their study of binomial nomenclature, each student was assigned a Virginia migratory bird from one of four categories— songbird, raptor, shorebird, or waterfowl. Their birds ranged from the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird to the Northern Shoveler and the Ruddy Turnstone, launching a rich,
multidisciplinary investigation into bird behavior, migration patterns, and conservation.
After working with 2D visual references, students began collecting recycled materials to construct 3D models of their birds. While they gathered supplies, they also studied evolutionary changes and natural selection through resources like Darwin’s Finches and hands-on explorations such as a chicken egg dissection. These experiences help prepare them to analyze how their birds’ adaptations have developed over time and how these features support survival in specific habitats.
Ms. Woodcock shared that this project originally began as an Earth Day activity inspired by her own experiences in and beyond college—explaining that she has “always been in the bird realm.”
Once the 3D models are complete, Grades 6 and 7 will present them
RIGHT Students work on their 3D construction of birds
to students in Grades 4 and 5, who have been assigned birds from the same categories. Grades 4 and 5 will then research their birds independently before collaborating with a Grade 1 student to design a costume that represents the species. These costumes may showcase distinctive features such as the long yellow legs of the Greater Yellowlegs or the vivid red eyes of the Canvasback.
In the weeks before Earth Day, students across these grade levels will join together to study the migration routes of their assigned birds. On April 20, families will have
the chance to watch as our 3D birds and costumed Grade 1 students “take flight” in a schoolwide migration celebration. Students will share fascinating insights into their birds’ adaptations, diet, nesting habits, and more.
Ms. Woodcock looks forward to Earth Day each year as the culmination of this immersive project, noting that it offers “a natural way for students to examine the world around them and enhance their connection to conservation and the habitats in Virginia.” She also uses this moment to remind our community of simple
but meaningful steps we can take to support bird populations: “If you’re using pesticides and herbicides, be conscious of where and how much. Organic landscaping and natural habitats help the birds more than anything else you can do!”
PAGE TO PEN
Inviting Authors to Bring the Writing Process to Life
At Green Hedges, reading isn’t just a skill—it’s a passion, a community, and a way of life. Our students don’t just open books; they dive into them, explore them, and live within the worlds they contain. Librarian Helena Powell, one of the many educators fueling this love for stories, believes that “providing students with a diverse selection of books and stories and connecting students to the authors who write them helps to foster a lifelong love of reading.”
One of the most magical ways we spark curiosity is by bringing authors into the heart of our classrooms. Over the past two years, our students have met storytellers who open doors to imagination: Leah Moser, whose book I Am a Thundercloud helps young children navigate big emotions; Henna Khan, author of More to the Story, Drawing Deena, and Amina’s Voice,
whose work amplifies underrepresented voices; Dusti Bowling, author of The Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus, who transported students to the vast Southwestern desert she adores; and poet Meg Day, who unveiled the enchanting process behind her verses.
These visits are far more than special events—they plant roots, roots that light the path of wonder from reading to writing, from curiosity to creation. From Montessori students forming their first letters to Middle Schoolers refining self-reflective speeches for Grade 8 Graduation, every student catches a glimpse of what it truly means to be a writer: Telling their own story, exploring their own voice, and joining a community that celebrates the power of words.
Students see firsthand that writing can be both challenging and exhilarating. Dusti Bowling shared that one of the hardest parts of being a writer was learning to handle rejection—from people and literary agents who didn’t connect with her work. When she asked students to guess how many times an agent rejected her before she was published, guesses ranged from “five”
to “thirty”—but the truth was more than one hundred. Dusti also shared that her writing process can take years of going back and forth between herself and the editor. An initial draft is really the beginning of the writing process! These lessons are invaluable for young writers learning to navigate feedback. As Middle School English teacher Hilary Huse notes, “Writing requires the perseverance and determination that you have a story to tell, and it can be truly eye-opening for students to know this.”
Even our youngest learners feel the magic. During Leah Moser’s visit, students discovered the joy of onomatopoeias and rhythmic verses. Soon, Montessori classrooms echoed with shouts of “BOOM!” and “ROAR!” as children explored I Am a Thundercloud, turning the story’s energy into their own creative writing emblazoned with onomatopoeias and playful repetition across the pages.
Moments like these—connections with experts in their fields who inspire, challenge, and delight—are just one of the ways Green Hedges helps students go from excellent to extraordinary. Through these experiences, students hear voices that matter and witness the
LEFT Authors Leah Moser and Henna Khan at Green Hedges
IMPACT REPORT 2024-2025
Serving with Gratitude
By Jessica Wadlow, P’24, Chair of the Board of Trustees
When my daughter Grace graduated from Green Hedges School in 2024, I knew our family’s connection to the school wouldn’t end there. Grace’s years at Green Hedges shaped her in profound ways—academically, socially, and as a young leader. She left with a strong sense of purpose, a deep appreciation for community, and the confidence to step into the world with curiosity and compassion. As a parent, I couldn’t have asked for more. Now as an alumni parent, I am happy to continue to give back to Green Hedges so that others can have a similar experience for years to come.
Today, I am honored to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees not only out of gratitude, but out of a deep belief in the mission and future of Green Hedges. This school is a rare and remarkable place—where children are known, challenged, and celebrated for who they are. It’s a community that fosters both academic excellence and character development, preparing students not just for the next grade, but for life.
Serving in this role means giving of my time, energy, and resources. It means showing up— to listen, to lead, and to support the incredible faculty, staff, and administrators who make Green Hedges what it is. It means engaging with fellow Trustees and families to ensure that our decisions reflect both the school’s values and its vision for the future. And it means giving financially, because I believe gifts to the Green Hedges Fund are an investment in the next generation of students, in the educators who guide them, and in the programs that make Green Hedges a place of excellence and belonging.
I serve because I’ve seen the impact of a Green Hedges education firsthand. I serve because I want every student—now and in the years to come—to experience the same sense of belonging, growth, and possibility that Grace did. And I serve because I believe that when we give generously of ourselves, we help build something lasting.
Being part of this community—especially in a leadership role—is one of the most meaningful ways I can express my gratitude. And when we serve together, we are paying it forward for families to experience Green Hedges in the future, just as those that came before us did. Thank you for the trust you have put in me to serve as Board Chair—it is both an honor and privilege.
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW 2024-2025
The information and data shared in this Impact Report are presented in good faith and are accurate to the best of our knowledge based on available information at the time of reporting.
Through their generosity, the following donors directly benefited our students and faculty and staff with contributions to the Green Hedges Fund. As the cornerstone of philanthropy at Green Hedges, the Green Hedges Fund supports every student every day in the classroom, on stage, and on the athletic field. It is with tremendous gratitude that Green Hedges acknowledges the individuals listed on these page.
THE GREEN HEDGES FUND
Founders Society
$10,000 and above
Sally and Sameer Agrawal
Lisa Beaudoin
Charene and Neil Potts
Head of School Society
$5,000 - $9,999
Chrissy and Mark Farquharson
Jenna Bythrow and Bill Gehrig
Evie and Kenneth Gudorf
Heather and Drew Howell
Tracy and Mike McCarty
Lynn and Amer Saba
Jennifer and Jon Shore
1942 Society
$2,500 – $4,999
Hind Benjelloun and Marc Foglia
Lisa and John Gibb
Carl Hutzler
Anna and Mike Shaw
Jessica and Ray Wadlow
Jessica and Chris Young
Tan Nguyen
Green & White Club
$500 – $2,499
Peter Barrett
Katie and Hagan Barnett
Jennifer Bohnen
Jessica Edwards-Brandt and Kevin Brandt
Julie and Chris Caputo
Gingy Dixon ’08
Tony Fadool
Beth and Mike Foster
Carla and Darryl Franklin
Vicki and Jason Freier
Xin Wang and Peter He
Lindsey and Alexander Johnston
Traci and David Lattimore
Dorothy Campbell-Lotspeich and Karl Lotspeich
Carol Leggett Kassity and Tai Mai
Georgia and Tom Mast
Blaire Osborn and Geoff Birchard
Jessica El-Hosni Pedersen and Jeffrey Pedersen
Wendy and Bucky Peterson
Heather and Brad Pontz
Yasamin and Amir Rasool
Anastasia and Shawn Swearingen
Nehal Gandi and Ashit Vora
Angie and Chris Walker
Ann and Mike Wyborski
Emily and Bill Yosmanovich
Laura and Matthew Nugent
Caroline and Tavita Pritchard
Shamsah Dhala and Alnoor Jamal
Patricia and Michael Shaw
Dragons Club
Up to $499
Mahendra Agrawal
Crystal Ai
Julie and Samuel Barnett
Jane and Wayne Beale
Jean Bergwall
Sabine and Andrew Bergwall
Christin Blyumin
Michael Borbacs
Ian Brady
Karl Bittner and Will Brenninkmeijer
Barbara Brown
Kimberly and Lee Burlison
Dawn Carrato
Fallon Chase
Jinene Christian
Yolande Christie
Patty Cidone
Aaron Cahn
Gerard Conway
Jessica Costa
Stephanie and Joe Costello
Anne Craig
Mary Margaret Daly
Astrid de Winter
Laura and Simon Dixey
Daniel Donohue
Trish Dougherty
Bethany Douliery
Diane Duran
Nikki and Billy DuVal
Kate Emmerson
Kathleen English
Audrey and Brian Eversmann
Susan Fajon
Rachel and James Feeney
Elena and John Fratta
Jennifer Fratta
Joanna and James Galante
Carolina Gebuis- Hoek
Hilary Huse
Elizabeth Gersh
Dominic Godine
Wanda Green
Valerie and Chuck Hannigan
Phill Harris
Sharon Hoorwitz
Hailey Hansen
Zaiba and Zafar Hasan
Sandra de Winter and Harald Hoek
Hilary Huse
Mary and Marc Hutchison
Corey Ingham
Ingrid Willenz-Isaacs and Barry Isaacs
Rachael and Slade Jones
Ardass Khalsa
Siri Khalsa
Reka Keller
Rocky Kidwell
Neda and Pete Kovacevic
Kristin Kvasnyuk
Karla and Juan Lacayo
Danielle Lee
Deb and Jay Lechtman
Christi Thorn and Chris Leggett ‘87
Crystal Lewis
Jesse Llewellyn
Mary and Matthew Looby
Susan and Tony Lucas
Tony McCann
Alicia McGuire
Dhira and Mukund
Mehta Victoria and Bob Moll
Robin Moroney
Haley Murphy
Alison Nichols
Wendy and Jason Noker
Monique and Yahmin Norwood
Sahil Oberoi
Urmila and Rohan Oberoi
Rebecca and Brian Orban
Nancy Palacios
Sid Pandit
Valerie Park
Amy and Wif Petersburger
Carissa and Andrew Peterson
Kerry Phipps
Rado Pletka
Christiane and Joe Popperwell
Margaret and Michael Porzio
Helena Powell
Nancy Powell
Nazly Raafat
Samara Rahman
Greg Raiffa ’03
Marion Beckett Rhode and Storm Rhode
Meghan and Matt Rogers
Katie Roski
Angela Rovegno
Tyler Rushforth
Sholeh Sabeti
Victoria Sabo
Isabel Salas
Linda and Jim Salazar
Danielle Sarver
Carlijn and Rick Schrijner
Bruce Shirck
Sarah and Adam Shirck
Kristin and Chris Simons
Min Kim and JooHyun Son
Hongoro Khurelbaatar and Zolbayar Springirth
Erin Stewart
Olga Norwood and Jason Stoner
Siddharth Subramanya
Anuradha Subramanya
Venkat Subramanyam
Cristina and Matt Tallent
Stacey Vagoun
Katherine Vazquez
Lindsay and Tom Velarde
Pritika Chandiramani and Anand Vora
Lindsay and Ryan Ward
Lydia Warsaw ‘10
Liz Williams
Perry Williams
Rendell Williams
Robbie Williams
Abigail and Kris Wong
Eric Wong
Karen Wong
Diana Woodley
Hannah and Derek Woodley
Wayne Woodley
Rachelle and Stuart Work
Li Qu and Fei Xiong
David Yaffe
Hannah Yi
Megan Zamyatin and Boris Zamyatin
Corporate Gifts
Benevity
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness
Microsoft
Paypal Giving
Alumni Who Gave
Chris Leggett ‘87
Greg Raiffa ‘03
Gingy Dixon ‘08
Lydia Warshaw ‘10
Board of Trustees 2024–2025
Jessica Wadlow, P’24
Chair
Peter A. Barrett
Lisa Beaudoin, P’17, 19
Jennifer Bohnen, P’21 Ex-Officio, Head of School
Jessica Edwards-Brandt, P’24, ’26
Anne Craig Ex-Officio, Faculty Representative
Gingy Dixon ‘08
Darryl Franklin P’27
Heather Howell P’30, ’35
Alnoor Jamal P’32, ‘35
Karl Lotspeich P’12, ‘17
Tracy McCarty P’25
Neil Potts P’25, ‘26, ‘33
Amir Rasool P’33, ‘35
Jon Shore P’27, ‘30
Ashit Vora P’24, ‘30
RAISE THE PADDLE
EQUITABLE EXPERIENCE FUND
The Equitable Experience Fund (EEF), established in the fall of 2020, aims to ensure that all students have the same opportunities and experiences, helping to cover non-tuition costs, including (but not limited to) class trips, school uniforms, and educational testing. For some families, these fees are minor expenditures. For others, they may pose a barrier to the full Green Hedges experience. Thank you to those who have donated this past year.
Jennifer and Scott Melchior | Jessica and Chris Young
GALA AUCTION SPONSORS
Corporations
Kalix Marketing Group
Celebration Sponsor
Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness
Lantern Sponsor
Virginia Tire & Auto
Festival Sponsor
Fastest Labs
Festival Sponsor
Odin Feldman Pittleman
Festival Sponsor
John Marshall Bank
Festival Sponsor
Individuals Farquharson Family
Celebration Sponsor
Lattimore Family
Reunion Sponsor
Potts Family
Moonlight Sponsor
Schwartz Family
Festival Sponsor
Thank you to those who raised their paddle at this past year’s 2025 Annual Gala and Auction to support the purchase of new Clevertouch boards in our classrooms.
$2,000
Ryland and Carl Hutzler
Cristina and Matt Tallent
$1,000
Jenna Bythrow and Bill Gehrig
Neda and Pete Kovacevic
Lynn and Amer Saba
Heather and Brad Pontz
Heather and Drew Howell
Tracy and Mike McCarty
Christi and Gerald Farquharson
Carla and Darryl Franklin
Anna and Michael Shaw
$500
Pritika Chandiramani and Anand Vora
Nehal Gandhi and Ashit Vora
Traci and David Lattimore
Urmila and Rohan Oberoi
Jessica and Raymond Wadlow
$250 and above
Marion Beckett Rhode and Storm Rhode
Laura and James Nugent
Rachel and James Feeney
Jessica and Chris Young
$100 and above
Anne Craig
Cara and Anthony Fratta
Lisa and John Gibb
Michelle and Brian Hauser
Lindsey and Alexander Johnston
Dorothy Campbell-Lotspeich and Karl Lotspeich
Olga Norwood and Jason Stoner
Helena Powell
Katherine and Harris Vazquez
Coming Home to Green Hedges— A Legacy of Gratitude
By Virginia Dixon, ‘08, Chair of Philanthropy Committee
It has been one of the great joys of my adulthood to serve Green Hedges School again, this time in the role of Trustee (since 2021) and now as Chair of the Philanthropy Committee. I graduated in 2008 as a “lifer,” and throughout my high school, college, and graduate school years and beyond, I still return to my GHS foundation daily. Those 11 years saw me from BOB books to Charles Dickens, but they more crucially shaped my sense of self, my critical-thinking skills, and my duty to be a thoughtful member of my community locally and globally.
Returning to the Green Hedges community–supporting it with my time, effort, and money–makes me even prouder of the education I received and the community that feels as warm and special as it did 27 years ago when I first joined it. What a gift to reconnect with the school and help enact the vision of its future while being a touchstone of the past! This incredible place works because of all the wonderful people who dedicate themselves to enriching children’s lives, whether that be in the classroom, volunteering at DragonFest, donating to the Green Hedges Fund, or attending an Opening or Closing.
In the pages of this issue, I hope you’ve learned about the myriad ways community members help shape Green Hedges and allow us to keep envisioning a future that reflects the spirit of the school we love. We call ourselves a “small wonder,” which also encapsulates the Philanthropy team’s belief about giving: Every contribution, regardless of size, is a small wonder that helps us grow from excellent to extraordinary.
While I love all the schools I’ve attended, giving back to Green Hedges has been extra-fulfilling because I can tell my impact is greater. Seventeen years on from graduation, I’ve never felt more passion for the treasure of calling myself a GHS alum and having a reason to call it home. I hope wherever you are reading this and whatever your connection to the school, you too might feel called to strengthen your own relationship to Green Hedges. This is a place that never leaves you. What more of an impact could you ask for!
Photo of author during her time at Green Hedges School
DRAGONS OF 2025
This year, we asked our recent 2025 graduates to share a bit about their first semester of high school and what lessons, skills, or values from Green Hedges helped them to navigate this new chapter of their lives.
ADAM POTTS
Flint Hill School
“Green Hedges taught me how to be yourself and how to overcome challenges when things are tough. So far, Flint Hill has been a fun and enjoyable experience!”
ELEANOR PONTZ
Phillips Exeter Academy
“The values I learned at Green Hedges like empathy and community have stayed with me through my first few months at Exeter. I also have kept my sense of bravery to try new things. I love GHS and miss you guys!”
TYLER MCCARTY
Sidwell Friends School
“Advocating for yourself is a big lesson I learned at Green Hedges, starting in Ms. Vagoun’s fifthgrade class. Learning how to properly communicate with teachers and effectively tell your perspective is one of the main skills that Green Hedges emphasizes, and it has certainly paid off in high school. This goes hand-in-hand with making positive relationships with teachers; in a small community like Green Hedges, it was easy to develop the skills to create good relationships with my teachers. Finally, learning how to plan schedules with homework time and study time is another skill I learned at Green Hedges that I took into high school. Especially during the first quarter, when I played both school and club soccer, I had to use the time-management skills and organization skills, such as using a planner, that I developed at Green Hedges.”
The Madeira School
“I have met many new people, and I’ve learned lots of new things while exploring the Madeira campus. Green Hedges taught me to respect my fellow peers while also teaching me to have intellectual curiosity in and out of the classroom. I’ve used so many skills that I learned at GHS so far and I’m thankful for that.”
OWEN TALLENT
Flint Hill School
“High school has been good for the most part, but I just have a lot more homework each night and I’m a little more busy with athletics too. I think it is a little harder than expected but also a little better than I thought. The values that stayed with me the most are to respect others and honesty!”
CLARA SHAW
ALUMNI NOTES
In September, Lucy Mason Green Hedges ‘17, Holton-Arms alumna, and recent Magna Cum Laude graduate of Davidson College with a BA in Classical Languages and Literature— reached out to our current Latin teacher, Kristin Kvasnyuk, with a simple question: “Would you be interested in doing an informational interview with me?” Ms. Kvasnyuk was touched. She had never taught Lucy, as Lucy graduated before Ms. Kvasnyuk joined the Green Hedges faculty. After a coffee on a cold October morning, during which the two discussed Lucy’s work at an auction house and Ms. Kvasnyuk’s own work in classics in both the United States and Rome prior to her time at Green Hedges, Ms. Kvasnyuk shared that she felt “so honored that I could share my experiences with her and truly talk about options for her future career. She also shared some of her experiences at Green Hedges, which only made me love the school more.”
This exchange was a meaningful reminder that Green Hedges is here for all of our alumni, whether or not we taught you directly. Once a Dragon, always a Dragon!
Stay tuned for more alumni events throughout the rest of the school year!
Alumni this fall have visited campus and enjoyed DragonFest and an Alumni Breakfast
