Good News Magazine - Summer 2023

THE GOOD SHEPHERD EPISCOPAL SCHOOL MAGAZINE

REFLECTIONS from the Head of School

Inspiring & Inspired

This spring, we witnessed the Good Shepherd experience through a new lens.

But it all honestly began last December, when we were introduced, virtually, to a small group of dedicated educators from St. Vincent Girls’ High School in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The school, which attracts the brightest female minds in the country, is best known for their students’ top scores on national exams. Yet the country’s overall educational system is quite traditional, which has encouraged more progressive teachers to seek out alternative ways to instruct and lead.

The teachers’ disciplines were STEM-related, including a mathematics teacher, a science teacher, and an IT teacher. Having heard about maker spaces as a means to teach students about STEM topics in an interactive, exploratory, and compelling way, the teachers scoured the internet to study these spaces from across the world. Ultimately, they decided they wanted one modeled after our very own SPARQ space!

Thrilled and honored to hear this, after a few more Zoom meetings with their faculty, we decided it would be best if they came to the United States to visit our campus in person. So, for one week in March, a total of eight students (aged 11-15) and five adults made a life changing trip to Midway Road.

When the visiting group first arrived on campus the morning of Monday, March 6, several of our eighth grade students waited in front of their bus to embrace and greet them. That encounter marked the first of many for our middle school students to get familiar and form bonds with our international guests.

Dr. Julie McLeod

Even our youngest learners were able to impress the visiting group and their teachers! Our first grade students dazzled with their Main Street project, which includes the study of both community and economics.

Besides their time on our campus, the group also visited other local schools, businesses, and maker spaces around the city; all while learning from inspiring and successful adults in the STEM field.

On their last day, we held a joint assembly program inside Kincaid Pavilion while Zooming with their school. This was a treat as it provided a chance for us to get a taste of their home, school, and culture. During the program, the visiting students shared individual reflections consisting of highlights from their week at Good Shepherd. They spoke of the skills they learned, the new friendships and memories they made, and how they wanted to visit our school again in the future. These reflections served as a valuable reminder of how special, unique, and impactful our school community really is.

It was truly evident by the week’s end, the students from St. Vincent had fallen in love with Good Shepherd and we had fallen in love with them! They shared that we were their favorite experience during their time in Dallas, and they certainly had some amazing ones! Our students, teachers, community, and mission of inspiring children to learn with confidence, serve with compassion, and lead with courage were all cited as reasons for their exceptional experience.

As a valued member of our welcoming and belonging Good Shepherd community, we are beyond grateful for you! Thank you for being a part of our past, and even more importantly, thank you for remaining a part of our future. As our new international friends can now attest, the work we do here is significant.

Respectfully,

Julie McLeod, Ph.D. Head of School

REFLECTIONS Graduation Speaker 2023

Sofia Babool ‘14

Imagine your palms sweating, sweat dripping down your forehead profusely as you stand up to spell the word “turban” in front of the entire school - “T-U-R-B-A-N”; that was the word that I eventually spelled to win the seventh grade spelling bee in 2013, and I remember it like yesterday. Moments like that made up my Good Shepherd experience. Although they were filled with moments of fear to give a presentation or shoot a 3-pointer on the basketball team, my time at GSES will forever and always be cherished to my core.

To all here today: faculty, staff, eighth grade graduates, friends and family! Thank you for being here on this most exciting occasion to celebrate the graduates for the Class of 2023. As an alumni from the Class of 2014, my most memorable educational experience took place within the walls of this school. Whether it was giving speeches in Mr. Burgess’ class or on the court with Ms. Paroo for basketball, Good Shepherd taught me some of the most important lessons that I still use to this day.

me tell you a bit about my life. After graduation from GSES, I went to Greenhill School followed by the University of Texas at Dallas on a full scholarship.

During my time there, I majored in neuroscience and eventually was admitted into medical school. During my senior year, however, I decided to begin a startup called Bright Owl, a K-12 ed-tech platform that would enable struggling students to connect with college mentors for academic and personal mentorship. Today, this company accesses students from Canada, Tajikistan, Singapore, and of course, the United States. So here’s my first lesson:

This speech was originally written and read by Sofia Babool ’14 at the Good Shepherd Eighth Grade Graduation Ceremony held on Thursday, May 25, 2023.

...beopentochange.Letyourinterests change,grow,andevolve.Oftentimes,inthe leastlikelyways,wefallintounexpectedsituations,developuniqueinterests,andcatch thewrongtrain;buthere’sthecoolestpart ofitall-thosechangesinyourjourneyare probablytakingyouexactlywhereyouare meant to go.

I started off wanting to be nothing but a doctor, but today, I’m going to medical school and will continue fueling my interest in entrepreneurship that seeks to change the way we respond to academic struggles and neurodivergence.

As your time at GSES comes to end, remember that this new chapter will bring just as many successes as it will challenges, but your attitude, your response to each of those moments matters more than anything. Viktor Frankl once said, “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” So, if I were to end with any piece of advice, it’s this:

...makechoicesthathelpyouriseabove challenge,makechoicesthattrulybringout yourbestself,andelicitgreatnessinothers asyoudevelopyourown.

As a student in Mr. Burgess’ speech class, I was afraid to give public talks or even raise my hand. After multiple conversations after school, I decided that I was going to try;

after leaving GSES, I’ve given two TEDx talks, one of which was at Harvard University. I can unequivocally say that the nervousness behind my participation in the spelling bee, or during science competitions was simply an opportunity to bring out my best self and get uncomfortable.

Here’s another thing about me you have to know: I have a brother who is obsessed with Marvel. In the last scene of “Captain America: Civil War,” there’s an incredible quote that I think is important to mention as you walk into this next phase of your life:

“Compromisewhereyoucan.Whereyou can't,don't.Evenifeveryoneistellingyou thatsomethingwrongissomethingright. Evenifthewholeworldistellingyouto move,itisyourdutytoplantyourselflikea tree,lookthemintheeye,andsay,'No, youmove'.”

As you graduate, stand firm with the values and ethics you have learned here, at home and amongst your friends. Stand for compassion, stand for humility, and stand for whatever you believe is right. We all have the power to move this world toward greater kindness. Ultimately, it's what you choose to do with each day, each action, and each word that entirely makes the difference. With faith at your back and as a GSES graduate, there is nothing you cannot do.

Thank you!

Sofia Babool ‘14

Kian Esfahani will attend Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas next year as a member of the Class of 2027.

REFLECTIONS from the Class of 2023

Kian Esfahani ‘23

It is hard to believe my poor parents have been driving my sister and I to Good Shepherd for 16 years. Sixteen years of Halloween parades, carnivals, and music sharings. Sixteen years of new uniforms, school projects and racing to get assignments completed.

As a family, Good Shepherd has been a huge part of our lives. However, graduating this year has made me see Good Shepherd is more than a place to drive to and from everyday…

The greatest things I will take away from Good Shepherd are the relationships I built with my classmates and teachers.

TeachersatGoodShepherdarealwaysready tohelp,whetherit’sanhourbeforeschool starts,oreventwominutesaheadofatest.I willalwaysremembertheamountofattention and kindness the teachers and GSES communityhavegivenme.

Good Shepherd has allowed me to learn both inside and outside of the classroom. Classroom of the Earth (COE) has been a truly life changing experience and has also allowed me to strengthen relationships with my classmates. COE gave me the opportunity to learn respect and gain an appreciation for the part of the world called the outdoors.

I’vealwaysappreciatedthesaying“friends becomeourchosenfamily,”andGoodShepherd has allowed me to create those friendshipsthatwillhopefullylastalifetime,asI headtohighschool.

For the past 16 years, Good Shepherd has encompassed more than just a school to my family and I. Good Shepherd has been a place which taught us to Learn, Serve, and Lead. I will take these major lessons with me to high school and on my future academic journeys. It’s been an absolute pleasure to be a Good Shepherd Cougar, and I will miss the drive.

Siever McCullough will attend Ursuline Academy of Dallas next year as a member of the Class of 2027.

REFLECTIONS from the Class of 2023

Siever McCullough ‘23

When I arrived at Good Shepherd in first grade, I’m pretty sure I could read, write my name, and maybe even tie my own shoes. What I couldn’t do was express what I was feeling to my teachers. So for a while, I just cried. I missed the people I had spent every day with at my old school. My teachers, Mrs. Roberts and Mrs. Neuschafer, taught me how to be in control of my emotions, and to take a minute if I felt overwhelmed.

Flash forward to seventh grade, when things got hard. Not only with academics but with relationships. Dealing with your peers during middle school can be tricky, trash talk is popular and has the result of many hurt feelings. When it happened to me, I was crying every day, but my advisor, Coach Roney, taught me one of the most important lessons; I don’t have to let what anyone says affect me. This lesson has taught me how to let comments go in one ear and out the other, and keep living my life.

Another lesson I learned, and this one is my favorite, is from Ms. Schmitt. Her words of wisdom are: “Ingesting radium is bad for you.”

As I prepare to head to high school, I realize what I love about Good Shepherd is the people.

WhenIwalkthroughthehalls,seeingthe smilesonmyteachers’faces,I’mreminded howmuchthesepeoplecareforme.

I know my teachers truly want to see me succeed, and for that I’m grateful. The laughter and tears I’ve shared with my classmates over the last eight years are moments I will never forget. From singing as loud as we can in chapel, to tears of joy after winning track championships, to sneaking into different advisories “seeing” what they have for breakfast, we’ve been through it all.

AsItakemyfinalstepsthroughtheGood Shepherdhalls,I’mgratefulfortheteachers whocaredenoughnotjusttoteachmehow towriteandadd,buthowtobecomfortable inmyownskin.

I’m thankful for my friends who really listen to me. This school has become a place where I can be myself, and has given me the tools and the confidence to succeed not only in high school, but also for the rest of my life. I also know, no matter where I go, Good Shepherd will always be my home.

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2023!

PROUDLY ACCEPTED TO THE FOLLOWING HIGH SCHOOLS

Bishop Lynch High School

Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts

Christ School

Culver Girls Academy

The Episcopal School of Dallas

Greenhill School

Hillcrest High School

The Hockaday School

Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

Parish Episcopal School

St. Mark’s School of Texas

Trinity Christian Academy

Ursuline Academy of Dallas

Village Tech

CATE BAKER The Hockaday School

MADDIE BAZAN Ursuline Academy of Dallas

MORGAN COHEN Village Tech

SAMUEL DIMARCO Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

STEFAN BROCK-UTNE Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts

ANTHONY CASTRO NAVARRO Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

BRANCH DALLMAN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

JACK DAVIS Bishop Lynch High School

MIA DE MONET Ursuline Academy of Dallas

PAYTON ELDER St. Mark’s School of Texas

KIAN ESFAHANI Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

DEAN GAFFORD Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ASHLYN HABIMANA Parish Episcopal School

JACKSON GAIR Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

WYATT GAIR St. Mark’s School of Texas

KENDALL GOOSTREE Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

MILES HENDRICKS Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

HOLDEN HIGGINBOTHAM Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

NATHAN HOFMANN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

LAUREN HOPKINS Bishop Lynch High School

ANNIE HOUSSON Ursuline Academy of Dallas

DEVIN HOWARD Bishop Lynch High School

AHAN JAIN Greenhill School

REED KLINE Hillcrest High School

PRIDEAUX JOHNSON Culver Girls Academy

MARY ELINOR LANCASTER Ursuline Academy of Dallas

LAUREN LEE The Hockaday School

KATHRYN LUDWIG The Episcopal School of Dallas

KATE MALLAD Ursuline Academy of Dallas

SIEVER MCCULLOUGH Ursuline Academy of Dallas

VIRGINIA MCKEE Ursuline Academy of Dallas

KIAANA MEHERALI Ursuline Academy of Dallas

SAMANTHA MOSELEY The Hockaday School PIERCE OXFORD Bishop Lynch High School

JAY POTARAJU Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

WINSTON QUINN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

HARRY RAHN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ALEX REICH Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts

TRISTAN RICHARD Christ School

HENRY RICKETTS Bishop Lynch High School

FORD ROBERTS Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

OLIVE RUIZ Ursuline Academy of Dallas

SARA SAKAMOTO The Hockaday School

WILL SCHARDIN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ELOISE WARD Ursuline Academy of Dallas

HENRY SCHULZE Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

LEVI SECKER Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

PIPER SEELY Trinity Christian Academy

JACK SISK Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

OLIVIA TOMASELLI Ursuline Academy of Dallas

GREYSON TOWNSEND Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ALEXA TUROFF Ursuline Academy of Dallas

ANDRES VANN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

ELIZABETH WAYNE Ursuline Academy of Dallas

NELSON WEBB Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

NOLAN WHALEN Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

JULIA WOODS Ursuline Academy of Dallas

SIENNA WRIEDT Ursuline Academy of Dallas

KIRIN ZEIKUS Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

On May 25, Good Shepherd Episcopal School congratulated the 59 students of the graduating Class of 2023. As they 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.

Congratulations! CLASS OF 2023 GRADUATES

FROM THE STACKS A Year in Review

Lauren Younger, Library & Information Specialist

It will be no surprise to anyone who knows a Good Shepherd student that our library is one of the busiest places on campus! Our students and teachers are voracious readers, and their love of learning from, and being entertained by, books is contagious. But the library is more than just a place to read; it is a learning commons where students create their own media, perform academic research, and grow as digital citizens. I hope you enjoy this snapshot of a year in the Good Shepherd library.

How many library books were written by students?

Second grade student Cade and fourth grade student Salma both impressed me during October’s library Pumpkin Contest by creating their own original texts to accompany their pumpkin entries. Salma authored a nonfiction book with her sister about beating anxiety, and Cade crafted a trilogy of adventure stories. Second grader Riley created a coloring book as part of her class’s economics unit on supply and demand. The coloring book is one of 34 unique books written by Good Shepherd students that can be borrowed from the library.

many board games have we created?

Catherine Scott’s Design Thinking elective challenged eighth grade students to create original board games that will build community using empathetic design principles. Her students came up with more than 30 unique games, and some utilized a 3D printer to craft their pawns.

30 board games

How many author visits have we had?

This year, the library hosted author visits from 2 authors who also illustrate their own books. Our first grade and primer students shared a Zoom call with Geisel Award winner James Yang. Mr. Yang taught our students how to illustrate a snowy scene with movement. Our second through eighth grade students enjoyed a lively presentation by New York Times bestselling author Nathan Hale. Mr. Hale shared the true story of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the fascinating history of President James Garfield.

Which teacher reads the most?

The employee who checked out the most library books this year was kindergarten teacher Debbie Cummings, who borrowed 197 books from the library to share with her students. That’s more books than there are days in the school year!

Which student reads the most?

Second grade student Rahil, with 240 library checkouts, has even Mrs. Cummings beat as our biggest reader at Good Shepherd. Rahil says, “I like reading because books take me to a different world, and I like reading when I am bored.”

closely by “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” Our top nonfiction title was “Pokemon Deluxe Essential Handbook: the Need-to-Know Stats and Facts on Over 700 Pokemon.”

books read by one student

What library book has the most checkouts?

The book with the most checkouts this school year is the graphic novel “Guts” by Raina Telgemeier. The author’s book “Sisters” came in second place. Third and fourth place went to “The Baby-Sitters Club Claudia and Mean Janine” and “Dawn and the Impossible Three.” “Smile” by Raina Telgemeier came in fifth. Our top fiction book was “Pax” by Sara Pennypacker, followed

podcasts created

How many podcasts have we recorded?

Between our seventh grade podcasting elective, helmed by Kim Campbell, and various class projects, our students have created more than 180 podcasts this school year. Our students both inform and entertain as they write, rehearse, record, and edit. Other classes utilizing our two podcasting rigs are Lisa Coats’ social studies students, Don Jung’s fifth grade Passion Pursuit elective, Amy Melle’s eighth grade Media Arts class, and some of you who joined us for recordings during Grandparents’ Day.

What is our employee book club reading?

Our faculty and staff book club enjoyed “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig and “Atlas of the Heart” by Brené Brown this year. In the fall, the club will read “Life in Five Senses: How Exploring the Senses Got Me Out of My Head and Into the World” by Gretchen Rubin.

How many digital citizenship lessons have we completed?

Middle School students have completed 14 digital literacy activities in the library this year, and many more in their classrooms, through the WIN at Social program from The Social Institute. They are learning skills that will help them navigate technology and social media in the real world throughout the rest of school and into adulthood.

Which homeroom or advisory reads the most?

This school year, Tiffany White’s third grade class took the top prize, with a whopping 923 books checked out. Mrs. White says, “My students discovered the excitement of reading books that are part of a series. “Harry Potter” and “A Series of Unfortunate Events” were two favorites. Graphic novels were also a hit with “Dog Man” and “The Baby-Sitter’s Club” being the most popular. I loved seeing my students discussing their favorite books with each other!”

As a whole, Good Shepherd third graders borrowed 2,413 book titles in 2022-23, and our top six homerooms were all second and third grade classes. When asked why second and third graders are such strong readers, second grade student Cora philosophized that, “A good reader never puts down a book without finishing it.”

How many green screen videos have we created?

Under the leadership of our Educational Technologist Amy Melle, students have created more than 182 green screen videos this year inside the library’s recording studio. Our first graders were transported to the country they researched for their cultural parade project, second grade students wrote and starred in commercials to promote their Christmas Market goods, and fifth grade students in Don Jung’s Passion Pursuit elective used the green screen to create their class presentations.

GSPO Building Community

As we look toward a new school year and welcome many new families to campus, we thought it would be a great time for an overview of what the Good Shepherd Parents’ Organization is and what we do!

What is the GSPO?

The Good Shepherd Parents’ Organization (GSPO) helps support the school each year in valuable community and fundraising efforts, bringing the best to our students, faculty, and staff!

Who are the members?

Each parent at GSES is automatically a member of the GSPO. You don’t even have to sign up!

What is the GSPO “Board” and how is that different from the GSPO “Executive Board” and the GSES Board of Trustees?

All GSPO events and activities are spearheaded by members of the GSPO “Board.” There are typically around 50 parent volunteers that comprise the GSPO Board. Each volunteer holds a particular office in the GSPO for one school year. The GSPO Board meets monthly to plan events for the school/community.

The GSPO Executive Board consists of the GSPO President and Vice Presidents. All GSPO board members fall under one of these VP categories. For the 2023-24 school year, the executive board members will be:

President: Amanda Koch

Vice President of Fundraising: Alice Case

Vice President of Activities: Izabela Florence

Vice President of Finance: Lauren Dunwoody

Vice President of Communications: Jill Blanton

The GSES Board of Trustees is entirely different, and separate from the GSPO. The GSES Board of Trustees is comprised of up to 22 elected individuals; parishioners, non-parishioners, current parents, past parents, and members from outside the Good Shepherd community. They represent the governing body of the school and are responsible for the wellbeing of Good Shepherd into the future.

What does the GSPO do?

• Raises money for school improvements via large-scale fundraisers such as Carnival and the Spring Auction, and smaller events like grade-level social FUNdraisers, Super Dads opportunities and the used uniform closet.

• Raises money that goes directly to GSES employee Christmas bonuses through the annual Christmas Collection.

• Raises money that goes directly to faculty/staff to support projects, ideas, and professional learning opportunities that extend beyond the traditional budget via Read-A-Thon.

• Celebrates faculty/staff via appreciation luncheons and trimester treats.

• Organizes outreach and service projects, like the Angel Tree Toy Drive.

• Promotes school spirit and community building by planning events such as the Back to School Party, Guest Speaker series, monthly birthday table and end of year grade level parties, and assists with Festival of the Arts and pep rallies.

• Hosts the spring seventh and eighth grade dance and celebrates our eighth grade graduates with individual portrait gifts for each family.

How do GSPO’s fundraising efforts, listed above, differ from the GSES Annual Campaign and Legacy Gift?

The Annual Campaign fundraising effort is run by the GSES Advancement Office and supported by a committee of parent volunteers. Every year, the Annual Campaign supports a specific need at the school. Past campaigns have funded projects such as the remodeling of Nichols Hall, scholarships, and the courtyard turf at the center of our campus. For the 2022-23 school year, the GSES Annual Campaign raised money for improvements to our theater, studio art, and music departments. The Legacy Gift is part of the Annual Campaign that is designated from eighth grade families to the school. Eighth grade students vote on the project to be funded each year as their legacy.

What has the GSPO raised money for in the past?

Past GSPO projects include turf in the courtyard, activity buses, a community garden, and the recent renovation of the CCL lobby including privacy pods!

This all sounds great! How can I get more involved with the GSPO?

The GSPO needs volunteers all year long to assist with various events and initiatives. To sign up to volunteer, scan this QR code. We invite you to join us in this special part of our school community!

A WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION

Elizabeth Schmitt, English & Theater Teacher

In one of my favorite films, “Shakespeare in Love,” the theatrical manager, Philip Henslowe, describes putting on a production as, “...one of insurmountable obstacles on the road to imminent disaster” that ultimately “...turns out well.”

When asked by someone unfamiliar with the process how that happens, his response is simply, "I don't know. It's a mystery." In approaching any directing assignment involving students, that final phrase reminds me that everything will be okay on the day of the performance.

For the second year in a row, three of our fine arts teachers, along with our educational technologist, collaborated to produce our eighth grade musical, “Willy Wonka, Jr.” Allow me to share how those four teachers directed, guided, and coached 59 students to sing, dance, build sets, create props, design lighting, and get in touch with their inner Oompa Loompa, all in 21 class periods (not counting auditions). The annual production is not only an opportunity for our students to shine creatively, but also a capstone project that embodies Good Shepherd’s mission to learn, serve, and lead.

is 95% of the battle for any production. Students were given the choice to audition or work behind the scenes. In an attempt to identify whose vocal range and personality would be best for each role, Mrs. Grant taught a short song to those auditioning. It takes a lot of confidence to sing in front of an audience, especially one made up of your peers. The audition process allowed us to hear students individually and fully consider which roles would best suit their singing range, their ability to incorporate a character voice, and their desire for a leading or supporting part. A short scene

involving multiple characters allowed us to see how flexible students could be in a variety of roles, and more crucially, how well they took direction. While several students had some experience dancing, singing, or acting, for the majority of our eighth grade students, this was their first full-length musical performance. Making sure everyone knew basic theater terminology – stage left from stage right, which way was upstage as opposed to down, and how to “cheat out” – these skills had to be demonstrated and learned quickly. This musical also needed a strong performer for the title role of Willy Wonka, and we were blessed to have Alex, a student with years of acting and singing experience (who is headed to Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts) play the role. Alex quickly learned the music, dialogue, and choreography, serving as a leader for the company.

During casting, Ms. Foster (middle school art) and Ms. Melle (educational technologist) divided backstage responsibilities. These jobs ranged from constructing large set pieces, to building props, to designing and testing makeup, lights, sound, and visual projection. Ms. Foster’s students took on specific design tasks. One of the show’s signature pieces, the pink candy boat, was constructed primarily out of old boxes by eighth grade students Harry and Anthony. Upon completion, the boat measured over 15 feet. Meanwhile Sara, another student involved in the production, pieced and sewed together a quilt top blanket for the grandparents’ bed. Without a backstage area or stage wings for storage, every rehearsal the design team had to move much of the set between classroom and stage. Thankfully, however, shortly before the performance date, we were able to acquire two pipe and drape stands. These simple poles and

curtains allowed us to create backstage areas on stage left and stage right, while keeping actors and crew hidden from view.

Ms. Melle joined our production team to supervise the use of Kincaid Pavilion’s new audio/visual equipment, installed as part of the 2021-22 Lights, Camera, Action Annual Campaign. “The tech team was amazing,” she stated. “A few of the students had worked on the lights/soundboard earlier in the year for a smaller production, but most were new to the team and jumped right in.” Since the school had just purchased a brand new, complex system with many advanced features, this was a learning experience for all. None of them skipped a beat. “I was especially impressed with both Levi and Winston’s ability to figure the technology out so quickly. Levi worked earnestly to make sure all of the mics were set and ready to go before each rehearsal and performance - including the complicated task of EQ’ing them for each individual actor. Winston created some amazing lighting scenes - most notably the one for the infamous boat ride scene - I think it really surprised and impressed everyone! Jay’s initiative in creating individualized video wall scenes really added to the backdrop of the show and helped to make the audience feel like they were immersed in the action. It was a lot of fun watching these students truly excel in their areas of interest. They did an amazing job and I am so proud of them.”

The rehearsal process is a time for the cast to cohere, try ideas, and find moments to shine. One such moment came after blocking a duet between Charlie and his father, “Think Positive.” It needed something. Eloise, who played Mrs. Bucket, was one of the show’s three student choreographers. She volunteered to work with Kendall (Charlie) and Holden (Mr. Bucket) during WIN time. Eloise created one of the production’s memorable moments in the father-son number

complete with a kickline to guaranteed applause.

Small touches can also make a huge impact. Ahan, as Augustus Gloop, relished using padding under his costume to help make his character both obnoxious and hilarious, while Lauren, as Mrs. Gloop, transformed with a last minute addition of a pair of designer sunglasses for our evening performance. That one accessory suddenly defined her character. I also try to add something personal to each show I direct. This time it was a pair of steampunk goggles for Willy Wonka (Alex) that belonged to my daughter. My classroom cart was also transformed into the candy cart used by the Candy Man (Dean) with the aid of purple glitter spray paint and lots of cardboard candy. These items help me leave my mark on a production (and I have a sparkly purple cart!).

A milestone for any show is the start of dress and technical rehearsals. It’s like the flipping of a switch for the company. Before our first audience, which happened to be the Lower School, we had one rehearsal to coordinate lights, microphones, set changes by crew members, projections on the big screen, and entrances/exits off the Kincaid stage. I compare the process to planning a military invasion without the benefit of the map and toy soldiers.

Theatre also has its rituals. Before each performance, the entire company meets in Mrs. Grant’s room for circle, essentially the traditional pre-show pep talk. We all hold hands, the teachers say some “wise” words, a student leads a prayer, a final huddle moment of hands in, “theater tribe on three!” and then it’s time for places. At that point, the show is in the students’ hands; the adults are there only as a safety net. Our stage manager, Will, had “the book” - a binder with all the stage and tech cues. Being a stage

manager requires knowing where everything is supposed to be and when it is supposed to be there, the ability to command the respect of peers, and to problem solve on the fly. As both a student-athlete and House Leader, Will was an excellent stage manager, encapsulating all of those qualities.

With all of Lower School in attendance, the crew poised for the first set change, the actors in our makeshift wings, Alex stepped on stage as Wonka with the spotlight focused on him (thank you, Henry!). As he sang the opening words, the audience was transported to a world of “pure imagination.” From the applause and laughter, we could feel the cast (and crew) become more energized. After this performance, Lower School students had the opportunity to take pictures with the cast while they were still in costume. This was especially fun for their third grade Community Buddies.

After the adrenaline rush of the initial performance, it was time to clean up and get ready to do it all again that Friday…twice! Set pieces needed to be repaired, problem areas worked through, makeup brushes cleaned, and the art room transformed back into a working classroom.

The true test of a company is how they react when one or more of those “obstacles on the road” make an appearance. Friday morning, as students arrived for our 8 a.m. performance, we learned that one of our company had an emergency and would not be at school. Without

hesitation, Alexa, our assistant stage manager, calmly said, “Well, I guess I have to go on.” And she did. With 30 minutes to prepare, she got into costume and makeup, reviewed the script, and walked through the scenes with the other actors. Alexa stepped up like a trouper. During the show, entrances were missed, props “vanished,” a candy oar broke (and was quickly repaired), but still the show went on because it must, and the audience, as we had reminded the company, did not know the difference.

By the evening performance, our greatest “problem” was not having enough chairs. We had to wait 10 minutes until everyone could be seated. I spent much of the last show in the wings watching the cast cheer and applaud each other. They were a true theater tribe, supporting and encouraging each other.

Many of these students will never set foot on a stage again. Others hope to work backstage, while some plan to audition for their high school productions. A few want to pursue a career in the arts. All of them now have a deeper understanding of the opportunities to express themselves through theater. In a reflection about their experience, the majority encouraged our rising eighth graders to enjoy the ride, take a chance, and not be afraid to look ridiculous because it all goes by so quickly.

After the evening performance, several parents came up to me in disbelief that it was their son/ daughter up there on the stage. “How did you do it?,” they asked. It’s a mystery.

Utah

Utah State University

Colorado

California

Loyola Marymount University

University of California, Los Angeles

Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma (4)

Oklahoma State University

Texas

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Texas Christian University (2)

Trinity University (2)

The University of Texas at Austin (2)

Congratulations Alumni!

The GSES Class of 2019 heads off to college this year. We are so proud of our graduates! Here are just some of the colleges and universities they will be attending:

Michigan

Michigan State University

Massachusetts

Boston University

New York

Columbia University

Parsons School of Design

Indiana

University of Notre Dame

Tennessee

Rhodes College

Sewanee: The University of the South

Alabama

Auburn University

Louisiana

Tulane University

Arkansas

University of Arkansas (4)

2023 MIDDLE SCHOOL

Head of School Award

Athlete of the Year Award

Bob Kohler Citizenship Award

Scholastic Achievement Award

PAYTON ELDER

Scholastic Achievement in Faith Studies, Mathematics, Music, and Spanish

KATE MALLAD

Scholastic Achievement in Art, Faith Studies, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

VIRGINIA MCKEE

Scholastic Achievement in English, Music, Science, and Spanish

ELIZABETH WAYNE

Scholastic Achievement in Faith Studies, Social Studies, and Spanish

Scholastic Achievement in Art, English, Mathematics, and Social Studies

CATE BAKER BRANCH DALLMAN PAYTON ELDER ELIZABETH WAYNE

MADDIE BAZAN MIA DE MONET NATHAN HOFMANN HARRY RAHN OLIVE RUIZ KIRIN ZEIKUS

KATE MALLAD JACKSON GAIR

SAMANTHA MOSELEY ANDRES VANN

SIENNA WRIEDT

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS

8th Grade Awards

CATE BAKER

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

STEFAN BROCK-UTNE

Significant Achievement in Theatre and Spanish

ANTHONY CASTRO NAVARRO

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

BRANCH DALLMAN

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

JACK DAVIS

Significant Achievement in Art

MIA DE MONET

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

SAMUEL DIMARCO

Significant Achievement in Music

PAYTON ELDER

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

DEAN GAFFORD

Significant Achievement in Music

JACKSON GAIR

Outstanding Achievement in Science

WYATT GAIR

Outstanding Achievement in Science

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

KENDALL GOOSTREE

Outstanding Achievement in Music

Significant Achievement in Science

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

ASHLYN HABIMANA

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

HOLDEN HIGGINBOTHAM

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

NATHAN HOFMANN

Significant Achievement in English

ANNIE HOUSSON

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

AHAN JAIN

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

PRIDEAUX JOHNSON

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

REED KLINE

Outstanding Achievement in English

Significant Achievement in Spanish Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

MARY ELINOR LANCASTER

Significant Achievement in Mathematics, Science, and Theatre

LAUREN LEE

Significant Achievement in Art

SIEVER MCCULLOUGH

Outstanding Achievement in English and Mathematics

Significant Achievement in Faith Studies

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

VIRGINIA MCKEE

Significant Achievement in Faith Studies

KIAANA MEHERALI

Significant Achievement in Art

SAMANTHA MOSELEY

Outstanding Achievement in Science

Significant Achievement in English and Mathematics

WINSTON QUINN

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

Significant Achievement in Spanish

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

HARRY RAHN

Outstanding Achievement in Art

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

Excellence in Design Thinking Exploration Class

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

ALEX REICH

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

TRISTAN RICHARD

Significant Achievement in Theatre

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

HENRY RICKETTS

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

OLIVE RUIZ

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish

Significant Achievement in Faith Studies

SARA SAKAMOTO

Outstanding Achievement in Science

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

2023 MIDDLE SCHOOL

8th Grade Awards continued

WILL SCHARDIN

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

HENRY SCHULZE

Significant Achievement in Science

LEVI SECKER

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

7th Grade Awards Citizenship Award

OLIVIA TOMASELLI

Outstanding Achievement in English and Faith Studies

GREYSON TOWNSEND

Outstanding Achievement in English

ANDRES VANN

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies

Scholastic Achievement Award

ALEX DOUGAN

Scholastic

Achievement in Music, Science, and Spanish

FINN GAULT

Scholastic

Achievement in Art, Mathematics, and Spanish

LIAM HOWARD

Scholastic

Achievement in English, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

ELOISE WARD

Significant Achievement in Music

NOLAN WHALEN

Significant Achievement in Art

JULIA WOODS

Outstanding Achievement in Faith Studies and Social Studies

Excellence in Media Arts Exploration Class

Special Recognition for commitment to “Willy Wonka Jr.”

CARTER LONG

Scholastic

Achievement in English, Mathematics, Music, Social Studies, and Spanish

REX NELSON

Scholastic

Achievement in English, Mathematics, and Spanish

BRYNN SMITH

Scholastic

Achievement in English, Science, and Social Studies

ALESSA CAMU JET COCOTOS FIELD COLLINS KATE LANDIS CARTER LONG SERENA SACHEDINA

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS 7th Grade Awards

ANNA ALBERT

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish

Significant Achievement in English

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

CAROLINE BRADSHAW

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies

DEVEN CAGLE

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

JET COCOTOS

Outstanding Achievement in Science

FIELD COLLINS

Significant Achievement in Music and Spanish

MASON COOK

Outstanding Achievement in Art

Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class

LEAH CROFFORD

Outstanding Achievement in Science and Social Studies

Significant Achievement in English, Music, Mathematics, and Spanish

ALEX DOUGAN

Significant Achievement in Mathematics and Social Studies

Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class and Speech Exploration Class

LUKE FOGEL

Outstanding Achievement in Music

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

FINN GAULT

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class and Speech Exploration Class

CARTER GAVIN

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

Excellence in Speech Exploration Class

ELIZABETH GROEN

Significant Achievement in Music

HUNTER HAGEN

Significant Achievement in Spanish

HENRY HODGES

Outstanding Achievement in Music

LIAM HOWARD

Significant Achievement in Mathematics

Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class and Sport & Exercise Psychology Exploration Class

CLAIRE JACKSON

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

ELI JONES

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

JUNE KAHN

Significant Achievement in Spanish

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

HADLEY KRUEGER

Excellence in Speech Exploration Class

DAX LENNOX

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics and Science

Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class and Sport & Exercise Psychology Exploration Class

CARTER LONG

Excellence in Speech Exploration Class and Sport & Exercise Psychology Exploration Class

MARISA MASICA

Outstanding Achievement in English

Significant Achievement in Music

PRICE MEYERS

Significant Achievement in Science

REX NELSON

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

Excellence in Sport & Exercise Psychology Exploration Class

MIETTE NOURALLAH

Significant Achievement in Art

NICOLAS RAMOS

Outstanding Achievement in Art

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

WALKER ROBERTS

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

LILAH ROTTER

Significant Achievement in Spanish

CAMY RUSSELL

Excellence in Financial Literacy Exploration Class

SERENA SACHEDINA

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

Excellence in Counting for Kindness

Exploration Class and Speech Exploration Class

WILLIAM SCOTT

Excellence in Podcast Power Exploration Class

2023 MIDDLE SCHOOL

7th Grade Awards continued

GRACE SELLS

Significant Achievement in English

BRYNN SMITH

Excellence in Sport & Exercise Psychology Exploration Class

HUDSON STILES

Significant Achievement in Art

6th Grade Awards Citizenship Award

ANDREW SZYGENDA

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

EVI TAYLOR

Significant Achievement in Art, Science, and Spanish

Scholastic Achievement Award

JACKSON MCCABE

Scholastic Achievement in Language Arts, Music, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

LILY MOORE

Scholastic Achievement in Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Spanish

CHRISTINE SALMASSIAN

Scholastic Achievement in Art, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

MADELINE THOMAS

Excellence in Sport & Exercise Psychology Exploration Class

CAROLINE WOLKOWICZ

Excellence in Counting for Kindness Exploration Class

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS 6th Grade Awards

ANDREA ARCE

Significant Achievement in Art

BROOKE BACKOFEN

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

MAYA BLANKENSHIP

Outstanding Achievement in Music

Significant Achievement in Science and Spanish

RUTH BRUNO

Significant Achievement in Theatre

MARIA CHARALAMBOPOULOS

Outstanding Achievement in Language Arts and Physical Education

Excellence in Innovations through the Ages Exploration Class

AVA CHUNG

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

VANCE CLINE

Excellence in Ukulele Exploration Class

PHOEBE CURLETTI

Outstanding Achievement in Art and Science

Significant Achievement in Language Arts, Mathematics, and Social Studies

HARPER DICKSON

Outstanding Achievement in Physical Education and Science

Significant Achievement in Art and Spanish

LILLY DUNBAR

Significant Achievement in Mathematics

BEN DURGIN

Significant Achievement in Science and Social Studies

ABIGAIL EPKER

Outstanding Achievement in Science

KATE GONSOULIN

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies

JULIA GRANT

Significant Achievement in Science

NATE HUDDLESTON

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

Significant Achievement in Art and Mathematics

Excellence in Innovations through the Ages Exploration Class

ADAM JENSEN

Significant Achievement in Language Arts

SANTI JORBA

Outstanding Achievement in Science and Theatre

Excellence in Innovations through the Ages Exploration Class

WYATT KIRKPATRICK

Significant Achievement in Music and Science

Excellence in Ukulele Exploration Class

YVIE LAMPL

Significant Achievement in Science

AVERY LONG

Significant Achievement in Music and Theatre

CHARLOTTE MARTIN

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

Excellence in Ukulele Exploration Class

KATE MCALEXANDER

Outstanding Achievement in Language Arts and Spanish

Significant Achievement in Mathematics

STELLA MCCLATCHY

Outstanding Achievement in Music and Theatre

GAGE MCCOMBER

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

EVA NOVAKOWSKI

Outstanding Achievement in Art and Social Studies

Excellence in Innovations through the Ages Exploration Class

EVIE RODAKIS

Significant Achievement in Spanish

CHARLOTTE SMITH

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

Significant Achievement in Music and Spanish

ELLIS STARR

Outstanding Achievement in Art

LORELEI STONE

Outstanding Achievement in Science

CHARLIE STREET

Outstanding Achievement in Physical Education

Excellence in Ukulele Exploration Class

2023 MIDDLE SCHOOL

6th Grade Awards continued

STELLA THOMPSON

Outstanding Achievement in Music

Significant Achievement in Science and Theatre

Excellence in Ukulele Exploration Class

5th Grade Awards

Citizenship Award

CHARLOTTE WILLIAMS

Significant Achievement in Music

EMILY WITRY

Significant Achievement in Language Arts and Science

Scholastic Achievement Award

TATE FOSTER

Scholastic Achievement in Geography, Mathematics, and Spanish

ZEKE FRANKLIN

Scholastic Achievement in Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science

AVA GRIFFITTS

Scholastic Achievement in Physical Education, Social Studies, and Spanish

SEAN YIN

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

GRACE RICHESIN

Scholastic Achievement in Geography, Language Arts, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Science, and Spanish

FINLEY

Scholastic Achievement in Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science

EMILY CAMPBELL CODY COCOTOS JONES DALLMAN JORDAN ELDER LAYLA HAMBERLIN GRAHAM TOWNSEND

THOMPSON

ACADEMIC & CLASSROOM AWARDS 5th Grade Awards

MILLAN BAKSHI

Significant Achievement in Social Studies and Theatre

PIPER BLANTON

Significant Achievement in Language Arts

Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

EMILY CAMPBELL

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

LANDON CARROLL

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies

JAMES CASE

Outstanding Achievement in Physical Education

Significant Achievement in Language Arts

CODY COCOTOS

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

JONES DALLMAN

Outstanding Achievement in Science

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

CAROLINE DILLARD

Significant Achievement in Art

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

JORDAN ELDER

Outstanding Achievement in Language Arts and Spanish

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

TATE FOSTER

Significant Achievement in Language Arts and Science

ZOIE FREESE

Significant Achievement in Mathematics and Spanish

LAYLA HAMBERLIN

Significant Achievement in Mathematics and Science

GIGI KENNINGTON

Significant Achievement in Theatre

AARUSH MANIKANDAN

Outstanding Achievement in Spanish

MIERS MCCREA

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

KATE MCCULLOUGH

Outstanding Achievement in Language Arts and Music

Significant Achievement in Spanish

Excellence in STEM Exploration Class

MEG MORSE

Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics

RAEGAN NEUHOFF

Outstanding Achievement in Science

Significant Achievement in Art and Theatre

GRACE RICHESIN

Significant Achievement in Social Studies

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

SEBASTIAN RIOS

Outstanding Achievement in Art

JACKSON ROWLEY

Significant Achievement in Science and Spanish

AGNES RUMBAUSKAS

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

MADI SCOTT

Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies

GEORGIA SECKER

Outstanding Achievement in Art

OWEN SECKER

Outstanding Achievement in Art and Social Studies

AVA SHAHEEN

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

GRAHAM TOWNSEND

Outstanding Achievement in Music

Excellence in Reflections and Connections Exploration Class

ELLA VICK

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

KINLEY WELSH

Outstanding Achievement in Music

Significant Achievement in Geography and Mathematics

2022-23 HEAD OF SCHOOL HONOR ROLL

Good Shepherd Scholars are 6th, 7th and 8th grade students who maintained their place on the Head of School Honor Roll for all three trimesters of the 2022-23 school year.

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

6th Grade

Brooke Backofen

Nathan Bisrat

Ruth Bruno

Veda Cagle

Maria Charalambopoulos

Ava Chung

Phoebe Curletti

Ben Durgin

Abigail Epker

Kate Gonsoulin

Nate Huddleston

Yvie Lampl

Kate McAlexander

Jackson McCabe

Stella McClatchy

Lily Moore

Kinley Mosley

Eva Novakowski

Evie Rodakis

Christine Salmassian

Charlotte Smith

Lorelei Stone

Charlie Street

7th Grade

Anna Albert

Caroline Bradshaw

Field Collins

Mason Cook

Leah Crofford

Finn Gault

Liam Howard

Dax Lennox

Carter Long

Marisa Masica

Rex Nelson

Brynn Smith

8th Grade

Cate Baker

Mia de Monet

Payton Elder

Wyatt Gair

Miles Hendricks

Devin Howard

Reed Kline

Siever McCullough

Virginia McKee

Samantha Moseley

Olive Ruiz

Henry Schulze

Eloise Ward

Elizabeth Wayne

Nelson Webb

Julia Woods

A LOOK BACK Spring at Good Shepherd

CLASSROOM OF THE EARTH

Spring 2023

2022-23 FACULTY & STAFF MILESTONES

Retirement Awards

27 YEARS

Toni Luciano

22 YEARS

Debbie Cummings

Yollima Freeman

18 YEARS

Karen Gunter

17 YEARS

Becky Rambin

20 YEARS

Rhonda Shannon

15 YEARS

Gayle Renaud

Amy Raney

10 YEARS

Brent Lampl

Tony Peters

Megan Sanders

Catherine Scott

5 YEARS

Zulaikha Alharthy

Christina Bell-Macher

Marie Buckley

Sarah Hammontree

Keith Pantalion

2022-23 LEADERSHIP TEAM

Dr. Julie McLeod

Head of School

Laura Cole

Director of Advancement

Candie Esch

Director of Marketing & Communications

Liz Fleskes Head of Early Childhood

Toni Luciano

Director of Human Resources & Chief Communications & Marketing Officer

Casey Martin

Head of Lower School

Jennie Marx

Assistant Head of Middle School

M. May

Director of Community & Belonging

Amanda Medina

Chief Financial & Operating Officer

Jennifer Meyers

Director of Admission

Lori Rolke

Head of Middle School

Elaine Sanders

Director of Administrative Support Services

Catherine Scott Director of Curriculum

2022-23 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Catherine Bowe President

Elizabeth Todd, Ph.D. Vice President

Paula Hart Secretary

Scott Matheson Vestry Representative

The Rev. Michael Mills Rector

Dr. Julie McLeod Head of School Ex-Officio Member

Erik Bruno

Shilpa Cagle

Rebekah Gardner

Michael Grabham

Julie Hagood

Julie Harvey

Becky Hopkins

Libby Jackson

Santiago Jorba

Justin Kimble

Matthew McCabe

Chip Miller

Ben Mimmack

Andrea Shurley

Jason Winford

Good Shepherd Episcopal School

11110 Midway Road

Dallas, Texas 75229-4118

gsesdallas.org