Good News Magazine – 2025 Volume II by Good Shepherd Episcopal School

THE GOOD SHEPHERD EPISCOPAL SCHOOL MAGAZINE

ROOTED IN PURPOSE, READY FOR WHAT’S NEXT

By Dr. Julie McLeod Head of School

It has been an exciting year with groundbreaking and construction of our new gym, Classroom of the Earth space, and storm shelter! Even while making adjustments on campus as we “live for a year without a gym,” we continued wonderful traditions, such as our Middle School athletics and field days. Our year concluded with our graduation service for the Class of 2025.

As you remember, last year, the Board of Trustees approved a suite of updated foundational documents that reflect who we are and where we are going: a new Vision Statement, a reaffirmed Mission, refreshed school Values (highlighted in the Winter magazine), and our new Portrait of a Graduate. This work has been instrumental in sharpening and deepening our focus on what we believe and how we fulfill our mission to learn with confidence, serve with compassion, and lead with courage each day.

The purpose of a Portrait of a Graduate is to establish a vision of the knowledge, skills, characteristics, and habits of thought that the school wants students to possess and carry with them long after graduation.

The Portrait of a Graduate guides educators in their daily decisions and also communicates clearly to parents and prospective parents what we value. Our graduates will:

• Value all voices

• Respect the environment

• Thrive with confidence and character

• Embody a servant’s heart

• Embrace intellectual curiosity and creativity

Like our other formational documents, the Portrait of a Graduate was created collaboratively, with input from our faculty, staff, parents, and the Board of Trustees. It aligns with and strengthens the foundation we’ve already established, ensuring consistency and clarity in our shared vision for every student’s journey.

Each student embodies the Portrait of a Graduate in their own unique way. One such example is a student described by his teachers as someone who

“helps his friends when they do not understand something, accepts feedback graciously, and uses time wisely. He has a good sense of humor, but is very respectful with both friends and adults. He is trustworthy, and because he works really hard, he is confident in what he knows.”

This is just one of many beautiful examples of how Good Shepherd nurtures the qualities in the Portrait of a Graduate.

We will continue to use the Portrait of a Graduate as a daily guide—informing classroom decisions, shaping student life, and enriching the way we walk with students through their Good Shepherd journey. We invite you to explore this issue of the “Good News” as we take a closer look at the Portrait of a Graduate in action. ·

PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE

students leave Good Shepherd equipped and eager to make a meaningful impact on the world around them

VALUE ALL VOICES

At Good Shepherd, graduates learn to celebrate diverse perspectives, listen with empathy, and build relationships grounded in mutual respect. They actively contribute to inclusive communities where every voice matters.

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT

Our graduates develop a deep appreciation for the natural world, learning to observe, respect, and understand the environment around them. Through exploration and discovery, they cultivate a sense of wonder and responsibility for the world they inhabit.

THRIVE WITH CONFIDENCE AND CHARACTER

Good Shepherd graduates are self-assured individuals who lead with integrity and courage. Equipped with a strong moral compass and resilience, they approach challenges with a growth mindset and inspire others through their example.

EMBODY A SERVANT’S HEART

Guided by compassion and humility, Good Shepherd graduates are committed to lifting others through service. They act with purpose to meet the needs of their communities, embodying God’s love in action.

EMBRACE INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY AND CREATIVITY

Fostering a lifelong love of learning, our graduates explore the world with curiosity, critical thinking, and a spirit of innovation. They are prepared to adapt and excel in an ever-changing global landscape, driven by a passion for discovery.

Tippy Balady is a 3-minute storyteller. Whether it be a song about pirates, fairies, or scuba diving, no subject is off limits. She is motivated by music’s innate ability to connect people both physically and emotionally together, striving to create songs that function as a diary for the public eye and have a sound that can be listened to time and time again. Coming off her first tour in March 2024, Tippy graduated from University of Southern California this past spring with a B.A. in Popular music and an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame through USC’s Thornton School of Music Scholarship Award. She continues to write and perform in and around Los Angeles, and has plans to drop her debut EP, “Taming of a Wendy Bird” later this year.

WHAT’S WITHIN YOUR POWER

2025 keynote graduation speech

By Tippy Balady Class of 2015

When my parents told me that I would be switching schools and going to Good Shepherd for my middle school years, I was devastated. I cried and wallowed and begged them not to send me here, and was resentful of them through the first few months of school. You see, at the time I hated change. I was the type of kid who would wake up in the morning and immediately notice that a stuffed animal had been misplaced from my bed or would spiral if my family missed a Christmas tradition or birthday ritual. For me, change implied ideas of growing up and youthful fancies fading away. I wasn’t mad at Good Shepherd, I was upset by the idea of potentially forgetting important parts of myself I had grown to love in elementary school to make room for new parts that I didn’t want and didn’t ask for.

Of course now, creativity and a playful spirit go hand-inhand with my career as a performing artist and songwriter, but at the time, it felt like moving schools was reshaping my identity and taking away everything I had grown accustomed to. Dramatic I know, but at 11 years old, when the constants in my life became more inconsistent, and there was nothing I could say or do to change what was already in motion, I felt helpless. That was, until that very same terrible change I dreaded so much, cheekily tapped me on the shoulder in fifth grade math class.

Witt Chambers, a sporty boy with flippy, dirty blond hair, was the incoming change in question. I looked over my shoulder and in his extended hand was a folded note with

‘For Tippy’ written on the outside. I unfolded the paper to reveal the message, “Do you wanna be in our band?” complete with a pencil sketch of Witt, Will Roberts, and me rocking out on stage. Underneath the image, two classic checkmark boxes labeled ‘yes’ and ‘no.’ He and Will, a buddy of mine since childhood, were looking to form a band for the school talent show. I checked ‘yes,’ and in doing so, unknowingly signed myself up for years of performances, future friendships, and fantastic memories to come.

We began passing more notes back and forth, excitement building with each new discovery within our little group. “What’s our band name?” InToIt. “What song are we gonna perform?” “Grenade” by Bruno Mars. “What should we wear for the show?” etc., etc. I started learning chords for the first time at my piano lessons with the fabulous and supportive Karla Perry, former GSES first grade teacher and perpetual pink enthusiast, while attending weekly band practices after school. Suddenly, a new door opened in my life, and as I became enamored with the possibilities this newfound love of music could bring, the more manageable and less intimidating the changes around me seemed to become. I made room for music.

After the talent show, InTolt kept performing and creating with one another, and with the support of teachers in and out of school, and the nurturing of our musical interests by our families, we eventually began playing gigs all over Dallas. Although it’s a bit unorthodox for sixth-eighth

graders to play at school carnivals and in bars ranging from Deep Ellum to downtown Dallas, I look back on those times with so much gratitude as they introduced me to new experiences and people that encouraged us to experiment and grow as individuals together.

With each new performance, I found self-confidence and assuredness in who I wanted to be, quickly realizing that music meant much more to me than just an after school activity. I began writing my own songs, finding solace and satisfaction with each new piece, and decided I wanted to attend Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts to pursue my passions further. There, I continued maturing and expanding my musicality, laying the foundation for my core beliefs, and learned how to maintain faith in my individuality and artistic vision. I carried forward the collaborative knowledge I had gained from my middle school band days, to my high school ones, where I continued to play shows and release music, even into my college years.

Fast forward to studying songwriting and popular music at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music. Last spring, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and was inducted into the American Songwriters Hall of Fame. I now live in Los Angeles full-time, pursuing a career as an independent artist and living hand-in-hand with creativity every day.

Hindsight really is 20/20, though. Of course I wasn’t aware of the MASSIVE, life altering ripple that checking ‘yes’ on that note in class would create. If I had allowed myself to respond from a place of fear, rather than taking that tiny leap of faith I did over 10 years ago, who knows what my story would be today.

Class of 2025, as you enter into this new chapter of your life, I challenge you to walk into situations with an open mind and a glass half-full mentality. You’ll find that positive outcomes will present themselves to you more often than not. When you go on your way and leave middle school behind, I encourage you to lead with curiosity rather than judgment. It can be a hard task to accomplish but the sooner you learn to cast aside preconceived notions of fellow peers, the sooner you will find common ground and maybe even learn to grow from one another. It becomes

much harder to cast judgment when you’re actually having earnest conversations and asking each other genuine questions.

My eighth grade year, instead of taking my favorite music or art classes, I chose to step out of my comfort zone and enroll in SPARQ Space (inside the library). Many of the students in the class weren’t kids I usually hung out with, but by staying curious about both the new curriculum and my classmates’ personal interests, I began to form friendships outside my usual circle. When you lead with sincerity and an open mind, you create space for others to feel safe enough to share their own stories with you.

Seek out hobbies or creative outlets simply because they bring you joy. For me, that joy is music. It became a way for me to reconnect with my younger self at a time when playing pretend was no longer socially acceptable. Through lyrics and melody, I found a way to reintroduce bits of whimsy and wonder back into my life. Writing songs helped me hold on to precious memories and feelings of contentment I had always worried I would forget.

Whatever it is that nourishes your soul and reminds you to have fun when things feel out of your control—stick to it. Sometimes doing something solely for the sheer happiness it brings you, is reason enough to do it. That little bit of joy will end up filling your bucket in more ways than one.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed I’m not as fazed by change as I once was. I’ve actually become moved by the idea that at any moment when you’re being courageous and trying something new, you may be stumbling into a new life calling, best friendship, or something even as simple as finding a new favorite dish at a restaurant you’ve gone to time and time again but have never tried before. I’ve begun to realize that life itself is a constant state of transition, which yes, can be overwhelming and scary at times, but can also lead to endless wonderful worlds of possibilities. No, you can’t stop change from happening, but I’ve learned there’s immense power in how you choose to react to the change. Because who knows? For every new unknown, there is an equal possibility of something or someone good reaching out and tapping you on the shoulder. ·

On May 22, 2025, Good Shepherd Episcopal School celebrated the 60 students of the graduating class of 2025. The convocation featured a welcome by Dr. Julie McLeod, Head of School, and Mrs. Lori Rolke, Head of Middle School. Alumna Tippy Balady ‘15, returned to campus to share her inspirational story of embracing the unknown. As our graduates look ahead to high school in the fall, they proudly carry with them not only the warm memories gained, but the traditions of service and scholastic excellence we hold dear at GSES.

Charlie Street will attend Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas next year as a member of the Class of 2029.

CLASS OF 2025

Charlie Street

Following graduation, three eighth grade students were invited back to campus to reflect on their years at Good Shepherd at the Board of Trustees sponsored luncheon for faculty and staff on May 23. Excerpts of their speeches appear on the following pages.

My parents tell the story that when I was little, I was so quiet and shy I couldn’t even look an adult in the eye, let alone speak in front of a whole room full of them like I am today. They told me the day they were touring Good Shepherd, looking for the right school for me, an excited little Pre-K student ran right up to them, shook their hands, and welcomed them to the Good Shepherd Pre-K Cottage. They wanted the same confidence and courage for me and knew immediately that this was where I needed to be.

Throughout my 10 years at Good Shepherd, I have learned many things. I’ve learned that I’m good at math. I’ve learned that despite my teachers’ best efforts, my art skills are still quite lacking. I’ve learned a whole other language (gracias Sra. Sparks, Mr. Lampl, y Sra. Uribe), and I’ve learned that Mr. Peters’ seventh grade English class is no joke.

But one of the most important things that I have learned is how to Lead with Courage.

At Good Shepherd, I felt safe and supported and was never afraid to make mistakes. Because I was taught that my voice mattered and was encouraged to share my thoughts, that quiet, shy 4-year-old, who couldn’t look anyone in the eyes, became a fourth grader who sang a completely impromptu solo line during the end of a Lower School music sharing. He became a fifth and sixth grader who played lead roles in theater productions, played in the drum ensemble, and was brave enough to play for the seventh and eighth grade soccer team as a sixth grader. He became a seventh grader who organized a prayer circle with Akiba Yavneh Academy before a soccer match, to show support for the Jewish students there struggling with the conflict between Israel and Gaza. He then became an eighth grade House Leader (Go Water!), and an incoming freshman at his dream high school.

It is hard to describe what Good Shepherd means to me when I have no memories of a time before being here. But I know this; I will always be thankful for all the lessons Good Shepherd has taught me. Good Shepherd has helped me to become the person that I am today and has prepared me to Lead with Courage into the future, and through all of life’s challenges to come. ·

Julia Grant will attend The Episcopal School of Dallas next year as a member of the Class of 2029.

CLASS OF 2025

Julia Grant

I’ve spent practically my entire childhood at Good Shepherd; 10 years full of adventures, experiences, and memories that helped me build my confidence and form amazing friendships. (My earliest memories include) writing “I like dog” on any assignment I could in Mrs. Powell’s kindergarten class, and visiting Ms. Hackney’s farm in Primer to see her chicks and have my first sleepover. In first grade I broke my arm playing soccer—the first of many injuries over the years—and sat with another student in PE who had also broken his arm. During the Mother’s Day “Ma Spa,” I painted my mom’s nails about a hundred times, layering on polish. (Outside of it being) fun, it showed how Good Shepherd makes room for joy and traditions that bring people together.

In second grade, I made cookie brownies to sell at the Christmas market in Mrs. Neuschafer’s class. It's no surprise that desserts are still my favorite. Third grade (brought) COVID-19 right before the States Fair project...I remember emailing Mrs. White to say I was “too busy” to do my work. She told my mom, and it turned out I wasn’t really that busy after all. That year taught me that I can persevere through hard times and find joy in simple ways.

In fourth grade…we had the Wax Museum, food trucks, and the fourth grade parade. Parents drove by with oversized cutouts of our heads hanging out the windows. Everyone’s pictures were of them smiling, but my mom chose one of me making a crazy, shocked face. Thanks, Mom.

Middle school felt like it came out of nowhere. I had the best advisors—Mrs. Mason, Mr. Lampl, Mrs. Ormsbee, and Mr. Weber—who supported me and challenged me to grow. My favorite COE trips were to Big Bend and Colorado not only because of their challenging hikes, but the s’mores and the chocolate chip pancakes at base camp made the effort worth it. Backpacking is not something I would have tried on my own, but I grew in confidence as I accomplished hikes that I never thought possible through forests and mountains.

Playing on the girls’ winter soccer team for three years (was a highlight) of my GSES years. We won two TAPPS Championships. Even when I had severe foot burns, (or was sidelined after) getting thrown off a horse, I still showed up and supported my team. I learned what it really means to be a team player, and Coaches Roney and Garcia always pushed me to give my best.

From COE to chapel, from soccer to “Newsies Jr.,” I’ll always remember the friendships and what it was like to grow up at Good Shepherd. The confidence and independence that I’ve gained here will stick with me as I head into high school and college. (I’d encourage future) students to always give your best in class and on the field, and to try the things that scare you—you’ll be amazed by what you can do with help from teachers and friends. ·

will attend Parish Episcopal School next year as a member of the Class of 2029.

Abigail Epker

CLASS OF 2025

Abigail Epker

I have been at Good Shepherd for nearly a decade, and in that time, I’ve had many unique experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.

One of the biggest parts of my GSES experience has been Classroom of the Earth. COE is when we go on a trip as a grade—one every year—(growing) more involved each time. COE is all about connecting with nature, overcoming challenges, and building grit. (This can mean anything from climbing a mountain to eating chicken out of a bag.) Our eighth grade COE was mostly spent backpacking, which helped us bond with people we might not have otherwise known. Being on the move in Colorado’s wilderness for nearly a week, led us to appreciate the luxuries of daily life. If you spend five days sleeping on the ground, you will never take showers for granted again—I promise.

COE also inspired me to go on a month-long trip last summer in Northern California through Adventure Treks. With no parents and no phones, we hiked, rafted, backpacked, and climbed as a group; cooking, cleaning, and navigating rapids together. Many of us, myself included, have signed up for another trip this summer in British Columbia. (The confidence and collaboration I’ve learned) on these trips started with COE, and…the skills I learned in the wilderness…will stick with me throughout my life.

Another way GSES has impacted me is through Faith Studies…I don’t consider myself religious, but the class created a comforting environment to learn about each other, different cultures, and ethics. I’ve learned just as much in Faith Studies as in more traditional subjects. One project that stood out was when we made posters to send to schools affected by the California wildfires. I have friends in that area, and it felt like a small but meaningful way to help.

Another (meaningful experience) started in first grade when I noticed the caterpillars [we were raising in science] were in little cups, not on plants like they were in my backyard. This led my mom and me to start a butterfly garden by the Middle School carpool line...We later planted a wildflower patch in a barren spot left by power line construction. Today, it is blooming with color and has been a great help to urban insects and animals. When I walk past the gardens, I am proud to have been a part of something lasting.

Looking back, I’m so grateful to have attended GSES. The experiences I’ve had and the students and teachers I’ve met will stay (with me)...This place has made me more hardworking, independent, and curious, and I know I’m on the right path. ·

Congratulations! CLASS OF 2025 GRADUATES

GREY ADERHOLD Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ANDREA ARCE Ursuline Academy of Dallas

MAYA BLANKENSHIP The Episcopal School of Dallas

VEDA CAGLE Ursuline Academy of Dallas

BROOKE BACKOFEN The Hockaday School

HENLI BEHAN Bishop Lynch High School

PEYTON BRADY Ursuline Academy of Dallas

RUTH BRUNO Ursuline Academy of Dallas

TEMPLE BYARS June Shelton School

NINA CANALES Ursuline Academy of Dallas

MARIA CHARALAMBOPOULOS Ursuline Academy of Dallas

AVA CHUNG The Hockaday School

LILLY DUNBAR The Episcopal School of Dallas

WALKER CLARO Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

PHOEBE CURLETTI The Episcopal School of Dallas

HARPER DICKSON Ursuline Academy of Dallas

BEN DURGIN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ABIGAIL EPKER Parish Episcopal School

KATE GONSOULIN Ursuline Academy of Dallas

JULIA GRANT The Episcopal School of Dallas

MICHAELA HENDRICKS Ursuline Academy of Dallas

WILLIAM HIDELL Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

JOHN HOUSSON Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ADAM JENSEN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

NATE HUDDLESTON Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ISABELLA JOHNSON Ursuline Academy of Dallas

WILLIAM KENNEDY Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

CHARLIE KIRK Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

WYATT KIRKPATRICK Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

MATTHEW KRAUSS Bishop Lynch High School

YVIE LAMPL Ursuline Academy of Dallas

AVERY LONG Ursuline Academy of Dallas

CHARLOTTE MARTIN Ursuline Academy of Dallas

CAROLINE MCAFEE Ursuline Academy of Dallas

KATE MCALEXANDER Ursuline Academy of Dallas

JACKSON MCCABE Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

STELLA MCCLATCHY Parish Episcopal School

GAGE MCCOMBER Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

LILY MOORE Ursuline Academy of Dallas

EVA NOVAKOWSKI Ursuline Academy of Dallas

CISY OISHEI North Lake Early College High School

EVIE RODAKIS Highland Park High School

CHRISTINE SALMASSIAN Greenhill School

MIRAI SHIBAGAKI Ursuline Academy of Dallas

COOPER VELTKAMP Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

JOHN SIKES Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

CHARLOTTE SMITH Ursuline Academy of Dallas

ELLIS STARR The Hockaday School

CHARLIE STREET Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

NIA TAVERAS Ursuline Academy of Dallas

ELLIOTT THOMAS Ursuline Academy of Dallas

STELLA THOMPSON Ursuline Academy of Dallas

TREY TOMASO Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

WYATT VELTKAMP Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

CHARLIE WARLICK Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

CABOT WEBB Cistercian Preparatory School

CHARLOTTE WILLIAMS Ursuline Academy of Dallas

EMILY WITRY The Episcopal School of Dallas

SEAN YIN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

NICOLE ZBILJIC Hillcrest High School IB Programme

Class of 2025

PROUDLY ACCEPTED TO THE FOLLOWING HIGH SCHOOLS

Bishop Lynch High School · Cistercian Preparatory School

The Episcopal School of Dallas · Greenhill School · Highland Park High School

Hillcrest High School · The Hockaday School

Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

June Shelton School · North Lake Early College High School

Parish Episcopal School · Ursuline Academy of Dallas

FACULTY & STAFF MILESTONES

2024-25 school year

RETIREMENT AWARDS

2 YEARS

CiCi Petty

Language Arts Teacher

9 YEARS

Shelley Kosarek

Enrichment & Math Specialist

SERVICE AWARDS

5 YEARS

Kim Christopher

Lori Clapp

Jennifer Fierro

Paige Hutchinson

Christina Jarke

Edward Mendez

Danielle Miller

Alicia Mirizzi

Kristen Munoz

Rachael Nogueras

Stacy Santellan

Norma VanMarel

10 YEARS

Jessica Grant

Carley Hackney

Amy Musselman

Mary Claire Roberts

15 YEARS

Emily Girard

20 YEARS

Cindy Barnes

Mark Bilecki

Mary Powell

CLASS OF 2021

College Bound!

California

San Diego State University Stanford University

Oregon

University of Oregon

Kansas

Kansas State University McPherson College

Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma (4)

Texas

Rice University

Southern Methodist University

Stephen F. Austin State University

Colorado

University of Colorado at Boulder (2)

Iowa

Missouri

Texas A&M University

Texas Christian University (4)

The University of Texas at Austin (2)

The University of Missouri (2) Washington University in St. Louis

Arkansas

Grinnell

CONGRATULATIONS ALUMNI!

The class of 2021 heads off to college this year. We are so proud of our graduates! Here are some of the colleges and universities they will be attending:

Indiana

Massachusetts

New Jersey

North Carolina

South

M Á S QUE PALABRAS

how the gses Spanish Competition builds confidence, culture, and community

CELEBRANDO EL ESPAÑOL

Each spring, the Good Shepherd campus transforms into a vibrant hub of language, creativity, and culture as it welcomes middle schoolers from across the Dallas area for its annual Spanish Competition. Now in its third decade, this signature event showcases “más que palabras” (more than words), highlighting the enduring vision of the Good Shepherd Spanish Department and the collaborative spirit of local independent and magnet schools.

“Years ago, our students did very well at a local Spanish competition,” Middle School Spanish teacher Brent Lampl recalled. “When we weren’t invited back the following year, it inspired us to create our own event—one that celebrates student achievement and encourages a lasting love for the Spanish language for everyone involved.”

EL EVENTO

The Spanish Competition brings together more than a hundred students for a day of language celebration and cultural expression. What sets this event apart is that participation is entirely student-driven. Students must sign up on their own and choose their event categories independently; parents are not allowed to register on their behalf.

Rather than competing by grade, students are grouped by fluency level to ensure a more equitable and meaningful experience. Event categories include memorized poetry (students select one of three poems to recite from memory), literary readings (where students learn three different excerpts and are then handed one to read aloud on the spot), as well as a spelling bee, testing of their verbal fluency through simple conversation, and performancebased presentations such as songs, skits, instrumental pieces, and traditional dances. Participants also have the option to bring in culturally relevant culinary dishes prepared at home.

LA VISIÓN

The Spanish Competition was born during the tenure of former Head of School Bob Kohler, who made Spanish a Signature Program at Good Shepherd. His belief in the importance of language education helped plant the seeds for what has become one of the school’s most distinctive academic and cultural events.

“When I started here, the Spanish department stood out,” Middle School Spanish teacher Julieta Sparks said. “We were strong, we were unique. Bob [Kohler] really made this department what it is. He believed in and appreciated how important a second language is to student development.”

Since its inception, the competition has steadily grown in both scope and participation. While the event has retained many of its original features, the GSES Spanish team continues to fine-tune the experience year after year, reviewing feedback, updating materials, and introducing new elements to keep it engaging and relevant.

Participating schools in 2025 included Alcuin School, The Episcopal School of Dallas, The Hockaday School, and William B. Travis Academy.

“We’re proud to offer something that connects students across different campuses through a shared love of the Spanish language,” Spanish faculty team lead Marcela Uribe said.

EL ESPAÑOL EN VIVO

With categories ranging from memorized poetry to dramatic skits, vocal and instrumental performances, and traditional dances, the competition goes far beyond grammar drills and vocabulary quizzes. Students demonstrate not only fluency but also their understanding of the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

Events are designed to inspire confidence and encourage students to take risks in a supportive environment. Whether

it’s their first attempt at public speaking in Spanish or a carefully rehearsed salsa performance, students are met with warmth and encouragement.

Each participant receives a certificate along with written feedback from their judge—a personal note that reinforces effort and celebrates progress.

“You always see their smiles and their eyes light up when they see what the judges said,” Sparks said.

The judging system reflects this philosophy of growth. Students aren’t ranked against one another (with the exception of the spelling bee), but instead earn ribbons based on their performance: Blue for Outstanding (95–100), Red for Excellent (90–94), Yellow for Very Good (85–89), and a Certificate for a score of 80–84. Judges are bilingual professionals from a variety of Spanish-speaking countries, hand-selected for their linguistic expertise and cultural knowledge.

“Walking into a room is initially very intimidating for a sixth, seventh, or eighth grader because you have two people who are staring at you,” Sparks said. “They’re adults and they speak the language really well. Everything is done absolutely in Spanish.”

UNA COMUNIDAD EN COLABORACIÓN

Pulling off an event of this scale requires months of careful planning and the collaborative efforts of many. GSES Spanish teachers begin preparations in the fall, creating new registration forms, contacting schools and judges, curating reading materials, finalizing score sheets, and selecting the yearly art theme—this year’s was “Celebrando la Cultura a Través de la Música” (Celebrating Culture Through Music).

On competition day, a team of Good Shepherd faculty, staff, and student docents welcome over a hundred participants and guests.

“The energy and the atmosphere is one of the best,” Lower School Spanish teacher Maria Brito said of competition day. “It’s like magic—the big day has arrived.”

Early Childhood Spanish teacher Mary Beth Duke added, “The [students] are very serious about what they’re doing and you can tell they have really prepared. The one thing I love seeing is when they’re standing in the waiting room, practicing with each other. There’s teamwork involved, which is great.”

To mark the occasion, the Spanish department creates a custom T-shirt each year, which includes the logos of all participating schools. GSES even dedicates a Spirit Day for students to wear their competition tees. “[The T-shirt symbolizes] pride; pride that they have been able to participate in the competition and pride in their language skills,” Sparks said.

UN IMPACTO DURADERO

The event’s impact reaches far beyond a single day. It reflects Good Shepherd’s deep commitment to intellectual curiosity, respect for the dignity of others, and the celebration of global cultures. For students, it’s a day that showcases academic growth and authentic connection. Whether reciting a poem, playing a traditional melody, or sharing a dish from their heritage, students are invited to express themselves in ways that feel both meaningful and empowering.

For some, it’s the first time they’ve had the chance to share their voice, or their talents, in another language. And for many, the confidence they gain from that experience stays with them long after the final ribbon is awarded.

“After participating in the Spanish competition for many years, I [look back and] am reminded of how much progress I had made and that I could speak Spanish [more fluently] than I originally thought,” William Wayne '22 said.

Wayne, who participated in the competition during his time in Middle School, said the competition showed him what he was capable of and encouraged him to continue studying the language in high school.

“It gave me a much greater sense of confidence in myself as a Spanish speaker and pushed me to keep improving and using the language outside the classroom.”

For Good Shepherd and its partner schools, the Spanish Competition exemplifies how authentic experiences can deepen language learning and spark lasting cultural appreciation. What began over 20 years ago as a response to an off-campus competition has grown into a cherished tradition and a highlight of the academic year for schools across the region. ·

Good Shepherd students and faculty who participated in the 2025 Spanish Competition.

FROM CARNIVAL TO COUGAR COMMONS a year of impact

By Stephanie Stoutner GSPO VP of Communications

Imagine the buzz of kids lined up for snow cones, parents chatting over coffee, and volunteers in matching shirts making it all happen—that’s the Good Shepherd Parents’ Organization (GSPO) in action. At its heart, the GSPO exists to build a strong community in support of our children’s school. Every GSES parent is automatically a member—no sign-ups, dues, or time requirements. We’re united in our commitment to Good Shepherd, and how we come together to celebrate our community and enhance the school experience for our students, faculty, and staff. Whether you’re cheering at an event, lending a hand at a fundraiser, or just showing up with a smile, your presence makes a difference.

The GSPO Board is composed of approximately 50 parent volunteers. Each leadership position is a one-year appointment, however, some of the more involved positions have an “elect” year, allowing volunteers to shadow the current chair before stepping into the lead role the following school year. The GSPO Board is led by the GSPO Executive Board, made up of a President and four Vice President roles, with all Board positions serving under one of those VPs.

There is a reason why many refer to the close of one chapter and beginning of another as “bittersweet.” As we have now wrapped up our term, the 2024-25 GSPO Exec Board is incredibly proud of all that was accomplished together—and we’d like to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you and a very enthusiastic congratulations on a phenomenal year of fundraising and community building. This success was made possible thanks to our dedicated chairs, tireless volunteers, and exceptional faculty and staff partners.

Each year, the GSPO sets an annual fundraising goal to give back to the school. For the next two school years, all funds raised by the GSPO will support the Fit For Our Future comprehensive campaign, which includes the replacement of Trinity Hall Gymnasium.

As announced this spring, the 2024-25 GSPO funds have proudly gone toward dedicating the lobby of our beautiful new gym. With the naming competition now complete, we are excited to gather as friends, fans, and teammates in Cougar Commons when the space officially opens in 2026!

Thanks to your generous support and spirited participation, we are thrilled to report that we not only met—but far exceeded—our fundraising goal, reaching 150% of our original pledge. From our Fall Carnival, to our Super Dads Golf Tournament and Car Show, to countless social FUNdraisers and our Palm Royale Auction (just to name a few!), none of this would have been possible without you, our amazing community!

But our work wasn’t just about fundraising! Over half of the GSPO Board is made up of our Activities team, whose purpose is to create fun, engaging, and memorable events and experiences that bring families, faculty, and staff together. From our Back to School Bash, to our Faculty & Staff Appreciation Luncheons, to our annual Angel Tree collection, and monthly Birthday Table celebrations, the GSES spirit of connection was alive all year long. Students who participated in our Read-A-Thon also read nearly 45,000 minutes across all divisions, and for the first time ever, we introduced GSPO Cares, a new initiative to support our community in times of celebration and need.

While we’re signing off as your Exec Team, we’re incredibly excited to pass the torch to the 2025-26 GSPO Board. They’ve already hit the ground running, and we know they’ll deliver our best year of programming yet!

To our new families: we can’t wait for you to jump in and help make a difference at our school!

With immense pride, we wish you a happy summer! ·

2024-25 GSPO EXECUTIVE BOARD

Celeste McClatchy, President

Elizabeth Bilton, VP Fundraising

Riley Greer, VP Finance

Jenny Landry, VP Activities

Stephanie Stoutner, VP Communications

LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR WHAT’S NEXT

Since breaking ground in January, we’ve seen steady progress—piers being dug and put in place, and the foundation poured. Soon, structural steel will rise, giving visible shape to a space that will serve generations to come. This fall, beams and walls will climb skyward, and by spring 2026, our new regulation-size gymnasium and Category 5 storm shelter will open its doors.

But this isn’t just about construction. It’s about creating a space where students will grow in strength, character, and community.

BUILT FOR THE

SPACES THAT REFLECT OUR VALUES

The Fit For Our Future comprehensive campaign is rooted in more than infrastructure—it’s rooted in identity. Every element supports the Portrait of a Graduate, shaping students who are confident, curious, compassionate, courageous, and connected.

Strength and Spirit: The Gym & Storm Shelter

A hub for competition, celebration, and resilience. Here, students will learn to lead, collaborate, and persevere—on and off the court.

A Campus That Cares: Security Enhancements

Curiosity in the Wild: The COE Base Camp

A dedicated home for Classroom of the Earth will spark hands-on discovery and stewardship, helping students connect deeply with the natural world.

Campus-wide safety upgrades honor our community’s shared commitment to dignity, belonging, and peace of mind.

THE FUTURE

POWERED BY PEOPLE

Steel and concrete may build the structure—but it’s people who build the spirit. Families. Alumni. Faculty. Donors. Volunteers. Every gift is an act of belief in the mission of Good Shepherd and the future we’re shaping together.

THE VISION AHEAD

As we lay the physical foundation, we’re also laying the foundation for the next generation of leaders, learners, and servants. Our work is guided by a bold vision—and supported by a community that believes in it.

With $8.8 million raised toward our $11.4 million goal, we’re getting closer every day. The finish line is in sight, and every contribution brings it nearer.

Let’s build this future—together. · fitforourfuture.org

The Portrait in Action

When third grader Takumi S., inspired by the ongoing campaign and visible campus construction, chose to donate a portion of his Cub Scout popcorn fundraiser earnings, he did more than give, he lived the Portrait of a Graduate. His gift—modest in size but mighty in meaning—shows what it looks like when a student begins to practice stewardship, awareness, and generosity.

Takumi’s choice reflects not just a servant’s heart, but a deep sense of shared responsibility. His contribution reminds us that every act of giving—whether time, talent, or treasure—helps shape the spaces where current and future students will grow.

This is what we’re really building: not just facilities, but futures.

WAYS TO GIVE, AND WHY IT MATTERS

“We’re proud to support the Fit For Our Future campaign because we believe in the importance of creating a space where all students can grow, play, and thrive. Investing in the new gym is about more than just a building—it’s about supporting the well-being and development of every child at Good Shepherd, including our daughter Charlotte. We’re excited to be part of a project that will serve the school community for generations to come.”

— The Li Family (Jiyang, Shuyi, & Charlotte ‘33)

“God has blessed our family with treasures and talents. We teach our daughters about stewardship as we steward these gifts. As members of Good Shepherd, our donation to the Fit For Our Future campaign serves as a meaningful way for us to invest in a brighter future for this community.”

—The Moncrieff Family (Scott, Stephanie, Eleanor ‘33, & Madeline, PDO)

“We chose to support the new gym project because of how much we value the foundation that Good Shepherd gave to both our children. Classroom of the Earth and the lessons that Tad Long taught have influenced so many young people. It is our hope that other alumni families will consider honoring Tad and Good Shepherd by contributing to this new building that will help the school community for years to come.”

—The Walker Family (Reid, Stacey, Gus ‘14, & Annie ‘16)

2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR

Middle School Awards

Middle School students are eligible to earn a special recognition award in core, fine arts, and exploration classes. These awards are based on a variety of factors including academic performance and efforts, growth and progress shown throughout the course, and a demonstration of excellence in specific assignments, projects, or tests. Behavior, leadership qualities, and a student’s character are also considered. Awards are determined by teachers for their individual classes.

8TH GRADE AWARDS

Head of School Award

Athlete of the Year Award

Bob Kohler Citizenship Award

PHOEBE CURLETTI NATE HUDDLESTON CAROLINE MCAFEE JACKSON MCCABE

HARPER DICKSON

MARIA CHARALAMBOPOULOS

JOHN HOUSSON SEAN YIN

BROOKE BACKOFEN WALKER CLARO

ADAM JENSEN YVIE LAMPL

ELLIOTT THOMAS CHARLIE WARLICK

The eighth grade citizenship award was named in honor of Bob Kohler, Good Shepherd Headmaster from 1995-2011.

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS

Scholastic Achievement Award

NINA CANALES

For excellence in Faith Studies, Music, and Spanish

MARIA

CHARALAMBOPOULOS

For excellence in Art, English, Science, and Social Studies

PHOEBE CURLETTI

For excellence in English, Music, and Science

KATE GONSOULIN

For excellence in English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Spanish

CHRISTINE SALMASSIAN

For excellence in Faith Studies, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

ANDREA ARCE

Outstanding Achievement in Faith Studies and Spanish; Significant Achievement in Science and Social Studies; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

BROOKE BACKOFEN

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish; Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

MAYA BLANKENSHIP

Outstanding Achievement in Science

PEYTON BRADY

Outstanding Achievement in Art

RUTH BRUNO

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

VEDA CAGLE

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

NINA CANALES

Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

MARIA CHARALAMBOPOULOS

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

AVA CHUNG

Outstanding Achievement in English and Social Studies

WALKER CLARO

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

PHOEBE CURLETTI

Significant Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

HARPER DICKSON

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

LILLY DUNBAR

Significant Achievement in Art

BEN DURGIN

Outstanding Achievement in English and Mathematics; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

ABIGAIL EPKER

Outstanding Achievement in Art; Significant Achievement in English and Faith Studies; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

KATE GONSOULIN

Significant Achievement in Music; Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

JULIA GRANT

Outstanding Achievement in Faith Studies and Mathematics; Significant Achievement in English and Spanish; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

MICHAELA HENDRICKS

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies; Significant Achievement in Mathematics; Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

WILLIAM HIDELL

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

NATE HUDDLESTON

Significant Achievement in Art;

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

ADAM JENSEN

Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

ISABELLA JOHNSON

Significant Achievement in Mathematics

CHARLIE KIRK

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

WYATT KIRKPATRICK

Outstanding Achievement in Art; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

MATTHEW KRAUSS

Outstanding Achievement in Music; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

YVIE LAMPL

Outstanding Achievement in Theater; Significant Achievement in Faith Studies, Mathematics, Science, and Spanish; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

AVERY LONG

Significant Achievement in Spanish; Excellence in Math Bootcamp; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

CHARLOTTE MARTIN

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

CAROLINE MCAFEE

Outstanding Achievement in Theater; Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

KATE MCALEXANDER

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

JACKSON MCCABE

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish; Significant Achievement in English; Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

STELLA MCCLATCHY

Outstanding Achievement in Faith Studies and Science; Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

GAGE MCCOMBER

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

LILY MOORE

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

EVA NOVAKOWSKI

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

CISY OISHEI

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

EVIE RODAKIS

Outstanding Achievement in Science and Theater; Significant Achievement in Spanish

CHRISTINE SALMASSIAN

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

JOHN SIKES

Outstanding Achievement in Theater

CHARLOTTE SMITH

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish; Significant Achievement in English and Music

8TH GRADE

ELLIS STARR

Outstanding Achievement in Art; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

CHARLIE STREET

Significant Achievement in Mathematics; Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

NIA TAVERAS

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

ELLIOTT THOMAS

Outstanding Achievement in Music; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

STELLA THOMPSON

Significant Achievement in Theater

TREY TOMASO

Significant Achievement in Spanish and Theater; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

CHARLIE WARLICK

Outstanding Achievement in Music; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

CHARLOTTE WILLIAMS

Outstanding Achievement in Theater; Significant Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish

EMILY WITRY

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics; Special Recognition for commitment to “Newsies Jr.”

SEAN YIN

Significant Achievement in Faith Studies

NICOLE ZBILJIC

Significant Achievement in Science and Social Studies

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS

Citizenship Award

Scholastic Achievement Award

AVA GRIFFITTS

For excellence in English, Mathematics, Music, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

MILLAN BAKSHI

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class and Podcast Power Exploration Class

CAMRYN BAZAN

Significant Achievement in English

CASEY BLANKENSHIP

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

PIPER BLANTON

Significant Achievement in Music; Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class

SEBASTIAN GROVER

For excellence in Art, Music, Science, Social Studies, and Theater

KATE MCCULLOUGH

For excellence in English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Spanish

CHARLOTTE BROCK-UTNE

Significant Achievement in Theater

EMILY CAMPBELL

Outstanding Achievement in English; Excellence in Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class

LANDON CARROLL

Excellence in Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class

CODY COCOTOS

Significant Achievement in Art; Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class and Podcast Power Exploration Class

SAWYER PLATT

For excellence in Art, English, Mathematics, Music, Science, Social Studies, Spanish, and Theater

CAROLINE DILLARD

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

EMMY DUNWOODY

Significant Achievement in Mathematics; Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class and Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class

JORDAN ELDER

Outstanding Achievement in English; Significant Achievement in Social Studies

GUS FLUME

Excellence in Math Bootcamp and Podcast Power Exploration Class

EMILY CAMPBELL AVA GRIFFITTS JJ MOSER

SAWYER PLATT JACKSON ROWLEY KINLEY WELSH

TATE FOSTER

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish; Significant Achievement in Social Studies

ZEKE FRANKLIN

Outstanding Achievement in Music; Significant Achievement in Mathematics; Excellence in Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class

HOLDEN FRAZIER

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

ZOIE FREESE

Significant Achievement in English; Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

AVA GRIFFITTS

Excellence in Literature, Speech, and Rhetoric Exploration Class

SEBASTIAN GROVER

Excellence in Literature, Speech, and Rhetoric Exploration Class, Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class, and Math Bootcamp

MICHAEL HAAS

Outstanding Achievement in Science; Significant Achievement in Spanish; Excellence in Literature, Speech, and Rhetoric Exploration Class

LAYLA HAMBERLIN

Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class

ARCHER JOHNSON

Outstanding Achievement in Theater

ELLIOTT KOPPA

Significant Achievement in Science

RYAN MA

Significant Achievement in Music; Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

AARUSH MANIKANDAN

Significant Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish

KATE MCCULLOUGH

Excellence in Literature, Speech, and Rhetoric Exploration Class

MEG MORSE

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class and Math Bootcamp

JJ MOSER

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class and Math Bootcamp

SAWYER PLATT

Excellence in Literature, Speech, and Rhetoric Exploration Class

NICOLE RAMOS

Outstanding Achievement in Art; Excellence in Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class

YASH REDDY

Significant Achievement in Art

GRACE RICHESIN

Outstanding Achievement in English and Spanish; Excellence in Math Bootcamp and Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class

SEBASTIAN RIOS

Significant Achievement in Science

JACKSON ROWLEY

Outstanding Achievement in Science and Social Studies; Excellence in Literature, Speech, and Rhetoric Exploration Class and Math Bootcamp

AGNES RUMBAUSKAS

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

7TH GRADE

GEORGIA SECKER

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

OWEN SECKER

Outstanding Achievement in Art

EMMA SERBER

Outstanding Achievement in Science; Significant Achievement in Theater

MAX SINGLEY

Outstanding Achievement in Theater

LUCAS SZYGENDA

Significant Achievement in Art and English; Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

FINLEY THOMPSON

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics; Excellence in Numbers and Beyond Exploration Class

GRAHAM TOWNSEND

Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class

ELLA VICK

Outstanding Achievement in Theater; Significant Achievement in English

CHARLIE WADDELL

Outstanding Achievement in Music

KINLEY WELSH

Significant Achievement in Music and Spanish; Excellence in Literature, Speech, and Rhetoric Exploration Class and Math Bootcamp

HUNT WILLIAMS

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

HUDSON WOODS

Significant Achievement in Theater

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS

Citizenship Award

Scholastic Achievement Award

JONNY DOYLE

For excellence in English, Social Studies, and Spanish

JAY LANDRY

For excellence in Music, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Spanish, and Theater

HUNTER FLORENCE

For excellence in Music, Science, and Theater

MCKEE

For excellence in Art, Mathematics, and Social Studies

FINN GAFFORD

For excellence in Art, Mathematics, Music, and Spanish

ATHAN NAHATIS

For excellence in Art, Mathematics, and Spanish

For excellence in Art, English, and Science

For excellence in English, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

BRYNLEY BROOKS CHARLOTTE BUTTS

JONNY DOYLE

ANDREW ENOCH

JAY LANDRY SALMA SALVAGGIO

NAOMI LANDIS

CAROLINE

HANNAH SUIT

RYAN APPLEBY

Outstanding Achievement in Science

ARYA BILECKI

Outstanding Achievement in Music and Theater; Significant Achievement in Social Studies, Science, and Spanish

JAMES BRADSHAW

Outstanding Achievement in Physical Education; Significant Achievement in Spanish

BRYNLEY BROOKS

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Science; Significant Achievement in Spanish

EMILIA BRUNO

Outstanding Achievement in English

CHARLOTTE BUTTS

Outstanding Achievement in Science; Significant Achievement in Social Studies and Theater

ZOE CONCORS

Outstanding Achievement in Science; Excellence in Hispanic Culture Exploration Class

WELLS DILLARD

Outstanding Achievement in Theater

JONNY DOYLE

Excellence in Hispanic Culture Exploration Class

ANDREW ENOCH

Significant Achievement in Mathematics and Science; Excellence in Math Bootcamp

HUNTER FLORENCE

Excellence in Innovations through the Ages Exploration Class

IRIS FLUME

Significant Achievement in Spanish

FINN GAFFORD

Significant Achievement in Theater; Excellence in Math Bootcamp

ANNIE GAVIN

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

LENA HARVEY

Significant Achievement in Spanish

MAKENNA HEIL

Outstanding Achievement in Music; Significant Achievement in Mathematics; Excellence in Hispanic Culture Exploration Class

ZAHIN HUSSAIN

Outstanding Achievement in Theater; Significant Achievement in Science

MACY KIRK

Significant Achievement in Science

BROOKE LONG

Significant Achievement in Art and Science; Excellence in Innovations through the Ages Exploration Class

SOPHIA MAHTANI

Outstanding Achievement in Science

CAROLINE MARSHALL

Significant Achievement in Science

AUDEN MCCABE

Outstanding Achievement in Physical Education; Significant Achievement in Art

ATHAN NAHATIS

Significant Achievement in Science

DREW PARKER

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

6TH GRADE

FINNEGAN POTTS

Significant Achievement in Art, Mathematics, and Spanish; Excellence in Math Bootcamp

LILY RODRIGUEZ

Outstanding Achievement in Science

CATHERINE SALMASSIAN

Significant Achievement in Mathematics

SALMA SALVAGGIO

Outstanding Achievement in English and Social Studies; Significant Achievement in Science and Spanish; Excellence in Math Bootcamp

WELLS SIMMONS

Significant Achievement in Spanish

ABIGAIL STILES

Excellence in Hispanic Culture Exploration Class

HANNAH SUIT

Excellence in Hispanic Culture Exploration Class

JACKSON TRESE

Outstanding Achievement in Science

CONNOR VOLKMAN

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish; Significant Achievement in Social Studies and Theater; Excellence in Hispanic Culture Exploration Class

CHRIS WOODS

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics; Significant Achievement in Spanish; Excellence in Innovations through the Ages Exploration Class

WILL WRIEDT

Outstanding Achievement in Art

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS

Citizenship Award

Scholastic Achievement Award

For excellence in Mathematics, Music, Science, and Spanish

For excellence in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

LEVI BLANTON ALLIE GROVER

JULIA HOUSTON LIAM LYDA PARKER NEUSCHAFER HATTIE WORKS-LEARY

MADDIE WINFORD

LEVI BLANTON

ERICA BARNES

Outstanding Achievement in Art

CAROLINE BILTON

Excellence in Passion Pursuit

Exploration Class

LEVI BLANTON

Significant Achievement in Language Arts

HADLEY BLOUNT

Significant Achievement in Science

HARDYN BLOUNT

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies

MADELINE BRAUN

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

HANNAH CANETE

Outstanding Achievement in Art and Science; Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

SLOANE CARRICO

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

CAROLINE COATS

Outstanding Achievement in Language Arts and Spanish

AUGUST DAUWE

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

JOHN DICKSON

Outstanding Achievement in Art; Significant Achievement in Language Arts

COOPER FLORENCE

Outstanding Achievement in Music

ALLIE GROVER

Outstanding Achievement in Language Arts and Music; Significant Achievement in Art; Excellence in Passion Pursuit Exploration Class and STEM Exploration Class

GEORGE HODGES

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

SAM HODGES

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Social Studies

JULIA HOUSTON

Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

ZACK JENSEN

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish; Significant Achievement in Language Arts

ANSON KAHN

Significant Achievement in Art; Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

CATHERINE KENNINGTON

Significant Achievement in Art

SCARLETT KOCH

Significant Achievement in Spanish

LIAM LYDA

Significant Achievement in Mathematics; Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

MADELINE MARTIN

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies

ROWAN MCAFEE

Outstanding Achievement in Science

LUKE MIKULA

Excellence in Passion Pursuit Exploration Class

NOAH MORALES

Excellence in Math Bootcamp

5TH GRADE

WILL MORGAN

Outstanding Achievement in Science and Physical Education; Significant Achievement in Language Arts

MIKAELA NAVARRO

Significant Achievement in Mathematics

PARKER NEUSCHAFER

Significant Achievement in Art; Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

WAVERLY OGDEN

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

NICO REYES

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

HAWKINS ROBOTTOM

Outstanding Achievement in Physical Education

ALEX SHAHEEN

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

SHERIDAN SNYDER

Significant Achievement in Mathematics

ALYSSA STEPHENSON

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

CAROLINE STREET

Significant Achievement in Science

CLAIRE STREET

Outstanding Achievement in Music

BECKETT WCISLO

Outstanding Achievement in Physical Education

HATTIE WORKS-LEARY

Significant Achievement in Science; Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

2024-25 GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOLARS

Good Shepherd Scholars are sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students who maintained their place on the Head of School Honor Roll for all three trimesters of the 2024-25 school year.

This major accomplishment demonstrates self-discipline, conscientious attitude, and dedication to intellectual inquiry. Congratulations!