Discoveries: High Meadows School Year-in-Review Magazine

DISCOVERIES High Meadows School Year-in-Review Magazine

2024-2025

INSIDE 03 Welcome Letter 04 Photos from the Year 10 2/3 Blast from the Past 12 4/5 Tremont Trip 14 Alumni Spotlight: Lily M '21 16 Pre-K Reflections 18 Middle Years World Peace Game 20 Faculty Spotlight: Kate Stoessel 22 Organic Play by Lori Kennedy 24 Debate Champs!

26 4/5 Ellis & Angel Island Simulation 28 Middle Years Special: Mini-Courses 30 Happy Birthday HMS!

32 33 34 35 36 38 44 45 46 48 50 52

Faculty & Staff Milestones Share High Meadows School Counselor Corner In the HMS Barn 4/5 Exhibition Night Meet the Class of 2025 Remembering Marge Magee Alumni & Former Faculty Updates News from the Class of 2021 Board Chair Transition 2025 Heroes for High Meadows Gala 2024–2025 Annual Report

Welcome Letter | Lisa Baker

Dear High Meadows Community, After an epic, fun-filled 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2023-24, we made it a priority to stay in touch this year through a relaunch of The Tire Swing newsletter and a new website. Now I am thrilled to share our most robust edition of our annual magazine. The magazine is entitled Discoveries and is the official year-in-review magazine of High Meadows. Every day at High Meadows School, students experience joy, wonder, and discovery, and this magazine will allow you to “discover” an inside look at High Meadows.

High Meadows School and its mission are critical to our world. We celebrate and perpetuate each individual’s quest for knowledge, skill, sense of wonder, and connection to the natural environment. The articles and stories found in this magazine provide a reflective view of High Meadows from multiple voices and perspectives — from curricular highlights to alumni news. You’ll also find our Annual Report, which emphasizes our fundraising initiatives, including the High Meadows Fund and Anniversary Campaign. The Anniversary Campaign was our first-ever capital campaign and a $2.37 million initiative to build Meadow Hall, the first academic building in nearly 30 years! The report highlights the truly incredible donors who have supported High Meadows School & Camp.

Any school can provide education for its students. What differentiates High Meadows is our ability to deliver on our discrete mission and vision while holding clear values. At the heart of this work is our community of learners, past and present, and all the “grownups” who support them on their journey. At High Meadows we recognize that this partnership, this deep care and appreciation for one another, is a huge part of our students’ growth and learning. We make each other better every day.

Whether you are a current or alumni family, staff, or faculty member, I hope these stories provide a glimpse into how High Meadows is thriving as we begin our 52nd year. Kudos to the Strategic Communication team of Laura McKie, Kraig Doremus, and Karen Kane for their work in crafting all of these communication updates this year.

If you are a High Meadows alum, I want you to know that we are proud of you, and we want to hear from you.

Come back and see us! If you have an update to share – a new job, a marriage, birth of a child, or other fun news, please email alumni@highmeadows.org so we can include your news in the next edition of our magazine.

Let’s stay in touch,

Lisa Baker Head of School & Camp

Year in Review | High Meadows School 3

To parents or guardians considering an independent school for your child, I would love to welcome you to our 42acre campus and show you what makes High Meadows School so wonderful.

Memorable Moments | Favorite Photos

A YEAR TO REMEMBER AT HMS

4 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Enjoy some of our favorite photos!

Favorite Photos | Memorable Moments

Year in Review | High Meadows School 5

The Year in Photos | 2024—2025

2024—2025 | The Year in Photos

Academics | 2/3 Blast from the Past

HAVIN’ A BLAST FROM THE PAST 2/3 students learn about indigenous history.

10 High Meadows School | Year in Review

High Meadows School begins every gathering with a land acknowledgment that honors the Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) people and pays homage to the native ground that the school sits upon. The acknowledgment resists the erasure of Indigenous histories and sets the tone for thoughtful, inclusive learning. This year, second and third graders did their part to ensure those histories remain alive, celebrating the traditions of the Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) people through the Blast from the Past event.

The event was part of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme Unit of Inquiry on Indigenous cultures, which focused on the beliefs and customs of Native American tribes and the role of natural resources. During the unit, High Meadows students embrace their own cultures and practice being open and responsive to others as engaged, curious learners.

“Blast from the Past is an inclusive and progressive way of exploring the traditions and culture of the Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek),” said teacher Ani Hildebrandt. “We wanted our students to connect with the culture and appreciate it. We celebrated the historical

heritage and learned how Native Americans are still active.”

and were involved in the entire process—from food preparation through tasting.”

In October, students gathered for cooking, fire-building, games, crafts, and storytelling. A popular game called Chunk involved rolling a stone disk and throwing a spear. The competition provided a window into the daily lives of the tribes by simulating what hunting was like.

The Three Sisters Salad consists of corn, beans, and squash.

Native Americans planted those vegetables together in the garden because they help each other grow. The “three sisters,” as they are called, also provide a nutritious meal.

“Cooking was another highlight,” mentioned teacher Christie Stalvey.

“Students made Three Sisters Salad

To enrich the experience, the teachers partnered with the Atlanta History Center, which

2/3 Blast from the Past | Academics

brought authentic artifacts to campus, giving students a tangible connection to the past and emphasizing that Indigenous history is not just something to study— it’s something to respect, honor, and keep alive.

The event’s impact is still at the forefront of students’ minds even several months later. “We learned about and celebrated the people on the land before us, and it was fun,” said Tallulah, a third grader.

Year in Review | High Meadows School 11

Instead of a simple lecture and worksheet, High Meadows School provides students with an active, multi-sensory experience. “We wanted the event to be engaging,” said Ms. Hildebrandt. “If it’s not hands-on and engaging, then students won’t connect with it.

We focused on bringing the story of the Cherokee and Muscogee

(Creek) to life in a way that was authentic and accurate.” By honoring indigenous history through immersive learning, HMS and its second and third graders honored the past while shaping a more inclusive future. The students did not simply study history, they lived it, connected with it, and are carrying it forward with curiosity and respect.

4/5 Off-Campus Learning | Tremont Trip

BECAUSE OF TREMONT 4/5 students share their reflections.

I connected

!

with nature

I put my he ad under a waterfall!

12 High Meadows School | Year in Review

In April, fourth and fifth graders traveled from Roswell, Georgia to Townsend, Tennessee to visit the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.

Students spent time in the wilderness exploring nature, examining some of the smallest creatures in the river and forest, studying the ecosystem, writing reflections while perched on rocks overlooking a stunning waterfall, and even dipping their toes in cold water ... or maybe their entire head under the waterfall! At High Meadows, connection to nature is at the heart of what we do. This trip provided our students not only a chance to learn and explore, but also to make lasting memories!

“We learn about each other on a deeper level on these trips,” noted 4/5 teacher Jennifer Kraften. “It’s the age of independence and the first overnight school adventure for the students. Being away from home for multiple days prepares them for the week-long Middle Years trips in an uplifting way and is something they remember for a really long time.”

I spent two nights away from home!

od t really go a d a h I

rip!

Tremont Trip | 4/5 Off-Campus Learning

h! o muc s d e n I lear

I made NA RT (Nature A rt)!

nt in

a riv er!

gs!

bu I studied

I st and udied cr the i ecos tters yste m!

I enjoyed being outs ide!

Year YearininReview Review | | High HighMeadows MeadowsSchool School 13 13

ow my n k o t !

I got better s d n e i fr

I we

Alumni Spotlight | Lily Mosbacher

LILY M '21 THRIVES AFTER HMS

14 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Lily received 18 Under 18 honors from the AJT.

For more than 50 years, High Meadows School has helped students grow into ethical leaders, and Lily Mosbacher ’21 is no exception. Recently recognized by the Atlanta Jewish Times with the prestigious 18 Under 18 distinction, Lily earned the honor through her dedication to advocacy and community impact. During her time at High Meadows, she was empowered by a progressive education to take authentic action and become a catalyst for change within her community.

Lily is in three honor societies at a local public high school and was named a 2024 AP Scholar with Distinction, but how did she wind up at High Meadows School for third through eighth grade?

It all started with her family seeking a better educational experience for her and an unforgettable shadow day that Lily called “the best day of school ever.” Her parents chose High Meadows because their values aligned with progressive education.

Lily put into action what she learned at High Meadows and took one of the biggest risks of her life at just 16 years old. Equipped with confidence, passion, and a love for storytelling, she contacted the Atlanta

At HMS, Lily was encouraged to inquire, have an active voice in her learning, take risks, and apply knowledge in real-world applications, both in the classroom and throughout the school’s woods, forests, and beautiful rolling meadows.

Journal-Constitution’s Maureen Downey and asked to author a guest column. Her advocacy paid off, and she published a piece on banned books entitled Censoring Our Reading Lists Does Not Protect Us. It Stunts Us.

High Meadows allowed Lily to discover more about herself and the world around her in a way that made her happy and celebrated her childhood curiosity.

Lily Mosbacher | Alumni Spotlight

Through joyful experiences, meaningful relationships, a connection to nature, and deep thinking, students gain valuable insights, skills, and preparation for future pursuits.

“In public school, I was always tired,” Lily said. “In elementary school, you should not be tired from doing busy work. You should be exhausted from fun activities and learning in an enjoyable way. At High Meadows, I was excited to learn, and I did not dread it anymore.”

Lily flourished at High Meadows School and received the tools she needed to succeed thanks to the school’s caring, compassionate faculty, who encourage students to advocate for their needs and allow student inquiry to drive lessons. “There’s no doubt that my peers and I received what we needed to learn best,” she recalled. “In some schools, you may have to work extra hard to advocate, but at High Meadows, the teachers partner with you to help you succeed.”

Reflecting on her HMS experience, Lily recalled the emotion of graduation and had a heartfelt message for

parents considering an independent school for their child’s next school.

“Definitely send your child to High Meadows,” she said. “You will have a special human living in your house.

They will be well-rounded, ready to face challenges head-on and not shy away from them. They will advocate for themselves.”

Lily will attend Elon University and plans to pursue a career as a journalist. She is the person she is today — a risk-taker, advocate, writer, and lover of learning and connecting with nature — in part because of her time at High Meadows School.

If you or someone you know is looking for a school home, inquire about High Meadows today by emailing info@highmeadows.org or calling the Admissions Office at (770) 993-2940.

Year in Review | High Meadows School 15

HMS Pre-K Program | Family Reflection

REFLECTIONS FROM PRE-K

Read a message from Parent Rachel LaForce.

Dear High Meadows Community, I’m just going to get right to it, there is no place greater than High Meadows. There is no place more dedicated to inclusion and community than High Meadows. There is no place I have been in all my 39 years of life that holds the magic of learning like High Meadows.

16 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Choosing where your child spends more time away from home than at home is a daunting task for any parent, and High Meadows has made that an easy choice. Our son was the youngest of his Pre-K class, and he really struggled to regulate his emotions the first few months of the year. All my fears came rushing in; “He wasn’t ready.” “They are going to ask us to leave.” “They’ve never experienced someone like my son before.”

I laugh a little, looking back. High Meadows was the perfect place for my son to learn how to be in a classroom, how to be patient, when to express himself, and when to listen to others.

I quickly began to see that the entire Lower Years staff are so well educated and perfectly suited to “handle” the ride of being three. We really worked as a team to help our son adjust. Seeing his growth has been such a gift, and I have High Meadows, in part, to thank for

that. My husband and I joke that we aren’t sure who enjoys being on campus more--our son or us! I don’t know everything that lies ahead, but knowing our son and our family will continue to be supported and surrounded by other creative, loving, and like-minded families is truly a dream come true.

With gratitude for HMS and excitement for the years ahead,

Rachel LaForce

We want to hear from you!

We love to hear first-person reflections from our High Meadows School community. If you have a story, anecdote, or life update about your family's time at High Meadows, please share it with us!

Want your family's HMS story to be featured on our website and social media accounts? Please reach out to us via social media or email.

To schedule a time to share your family's love for High Meadows School, please email the marketing office at communications@highmeadows.org

Year in Review | High Meadows School 17

Mini-Courses | World Peace Game

WORLD PEACE GAME AT HMS

18 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Middle Years students resolve world crises.

World peace is a lofty goal and High Meadows Middle Years students are up for the challenge thanks to the World Peace Game facilitator training that Anne Lovatt received in Dallas, Texas. The 12hour, 798-mile drive and solid week of training was worth it as it gave Ms. Lovatt the background she needed to guide students through global conflict scenarios in pursuit of world peace and prosperity.

mini-course and features 18 hours of gameplay. Created by educator John Hunter in 1978, the game is a hands-on political simulation that challenges players to resolve dangerous economic, social, and global crises and the threat of war.

During gameplay, High Meadows students practice ethical leadership principles and explore how to be upstanders for people and the planet within their role.

World Peace Game at High Meadows is taught as a six-week

The goal of the game is to achieve prosperity with limited military

intervention. If it sounds simple, hear it from Ms. Lovatt, the game takes time to grasp. “The facilitator training was a full week, eight hours per day,” she said. “Four hours per day were spent watching students play and solve the crises.

Adults facilitate, but they are not allowed to help students during gameplay.”

Now 47 years old, the World Peace Game isn’t something you can buy at a store or order online.

Each board is handcrafted and

World PeaceWorld GamePeace | Mini-Courses Game | Mini-Courses

uniquely designed by its facilitator, though all boards must include sea, undersea, land, and air zones with set dimensions. The creative interpretation, however, varies by school, and even within a school from year-to-year.

“Michael Rhodes helped build the board,” Ms. Lovatt noted. “You can’t buy it, and there is limited guidance. For example, we had bottle caps representing cities, but another school may use a different element. All boards look slightly different for each game.”

Students must negotiate, strategize, make declarations, and take action, all of which directly impact the course of the game.

“Everyone, regardless of their role, helps solve problems. Leaders emerge throughout the game, and it’s interactive. This year’s group achieved global prosperity, and I am proud of their hard work. It’s

an intense game, but they handled conflict well and worked together.”

The World Peace Game will take place on campus again during the 2025-2026 school year, and a new group of students will take on the challenge, advocating for peace and navigating the game through a fresh lens.

Following a full day of setup, play begins in the Steppen Wolf Cabin. Each student receives a crises document and a role. Four countries and four agencies, each armed with a budget must buy, sell, and trade resources to navigate 23 intense and interconnected crises.

Alongside the nations, roles such as the UN Secretary General, World Court, World Bank, Arms Dealer, and Weather God add new layers of challenge and diplomacy.

Year in Review | High Meadows School 19

Conflicts quickly emerge. One country may claim land and have documentation, but a neighboring country might contest that claim. The discovery of oil and an endangered species further complicates the current crisis as environmental values and survival needs collide. An eco-friendly country would want to save the organism, but a resource lacking country’s focus is solely the oil.

MS. STOESSEL'S STORY Her path to HMS was 2,457 miles.

The Stoessel File Role: 4/5 Teacher Years at High Meadows: 7 Favorite Subject: Writing Favorite Activity: Morning Meeting Favorite School Event: Exhibition Favorite Season: Fall Favorite Holiday: Halloween Grew Up In: New York City Dream Vacation: Greece

20 High Meadows School | Year in Review

When I’m Not Teaching: You can find me being a parent, sewing, reading, and hanging out with my husband and son.

Advice for current HMS Students: The gift of High Meadows is being empowered to find your passion.

When Hurricane Harvey flooded Kate Stoessel’s husband’s business in 2017 and caused the family to relocate to Georgia, Ms. Stoessel made a beeline for where she wanted to work – High Meadows School in Roswell, Georgia.

At HMS, she found a place where teaching does not feel like a job, but where education comes alive through the school’s progressive and inquirybased learning model.

“When I knew we were moving, High Meadows was the only school I wanted to work at,” Ms. Stoessel recalled. “I heard about HMS through the Progressive Educators Network and had friends who had visited.

Lori Kennedy and former Early

Years Principal Margaret Jones were surprised at my excitement.”

Ms. Stoessel received her teacher training at Bank Street College of Education, a renowned progressive master's program tied to the Bank Street School for Children, a progressive school located in the heart of New York City.

“I fell in love with how students construct their own learning in authentic and meaningful ways.

Students understand why we are learning something because they have asked for it. Students are not raising their hands asking why we are learning about something.”

Kate Stoessel | Faculty Spotlight

For her seven years at HMS, Ms. Stoessel has inspired students, both in the classroom and across the school’s 42 acres of woods, rolling meadows, and forests. The inquiry-based learning model, where students are encouraged to ask questions that pique their curiosity, drives Ms. Stoessel's passion and ongoing enthusiasm for teaching.

“What makes me love teaching here is that students are empowered to ask real questions,” she said. “So often, there is no place for kids to investigate their questions, but within our nurturing environment, we give them the space to ask questions and find ways to answer them. I have had students advocate in front of legislators for bills they want to pass, and the legislators are shocked because they have never spoken to school-aged children before. High Meadows students know how to use their voice and are encouraged to speak up for what they believe in.”

Ms. Stoessel finds joy in every day at High Meadows and appreciates that the administration gives her the freedom to be proactive and meet students’ needs. “I have the responsibility to see who is in the room and what we need to do to be successful that day. We can adapt and change lessons if we need to.”

Joy, wonder, and discovery are present each day in Ms. Stoessel’s class. “Our students learn everything you want elementary school students to learn, but it’s in a joyful way and a way that tells them they are valued.”

Ms. Stoessel remains committed to and excited about nurturing curiosity, creativity, and confidence in her students. Whether through writing, advocacy, or exploration in nature, she continues to foster the kind of learning that leaves a lasting imprint on their minds and hearts. Perhaps the example she sets as an author will inspire her young students to write and share their own stories.

HMS students have a special fondness for the kind of learning that takes place both in the classroom and outdoors, especially during Meadow Time. Whether it is putting their hands in the dirt and gardening, constructing a fort with friends, or engaging in creative writing, students stay engaged across the school’s expansive property.

Ms. Stoessel, a published author of Elements of Power, a fantasy novel for young adults and middle schoolers, has a deep love for writing, which is also her favorite subject to teach.

Year in Review | High Meadows School 21

“I love writing. It is one of my passions,” she said. “It is important for children to see adults being creative and doing what we love. We build writers and support them through skill development and allow their creativity to shine. We want their creativity to shine and their imagination to fill up the page. We do quick prompts, free writing, and even explore different books. Writing is such an important part of the fourth and fifth grade curriculum.”

Thought Leadership | Organic Play

ORGANIC PLAY BY LORI KENNEDY Play is a main ingredient at High Meadows.

In my role as High Meadows School Lower Years Principal, I always love when I have the opportunity to play with kids in different classrooms.

One morning, I dropped in on some first graders who were playing with Duplos — the large Legos — and quietly began building a tower.

Almost immediately, the kids began to ask what I was building and if they could help. Together, we set out to create a tower "taller than Ms. Kennedy."

22 High Meadows School | Year in Review

The activity began to garner attention from other kids, and several began working together, sharing the blocks, adding to one another’s work, complimenting each other on what they had achieved, helping one another as the tower grew, and giggling excitedly. Once the tower was taller than I was, we created a mini math lesson by counting how many rows it took to make the tower.

That same afternoon, I spent Meadow Time with fourth and fifth graders in the Gaga pit. Gaga ball is played in a fenced-in circle with a rubber ball. You can start the game with any number of people — whoever wants to play! The object is to avoid getting hit by the ball from the waist down. To be honest, I was the first person out in round

Organic Play | Thought Leadership

one. I wasn’t adept at scurrying around, watching carefully, etc.

But there was also a group of players who had the goal of getting me out. Then, in round two, a whole collection of girls took on the task of protecting me and keeping me from getting out. It really was fun playing, and as I reflect, I realize all of the benefits that came from it. I saw groups of children developing teamwork, communicating with each other, and thinking through strategies.

Free to Learn

We provide children ample free play where they learn to make friends, overcome their fears, see from others’ perspectives, negotiate differences, solve their own problems, and generally take control of their own lives. As they

play, children practice and acquire the physical and intellectual skills that are essential for success in the culture in which they are growing.

When Peter Gray visited us at High Meadows, he emphasized how play is self-chosen, selfdirected, motivated by means more than ends, guided by mental rules, and includes a strong element of imagination.

Gray noted that he saw more play among kids of different ages at High Meadows than at other places and commented,

“I’m really happy your kids get to go here.”

After two successful days with the High Meadows community, which included a spin on the Tire Swing, Gray said, "You must really love working here." Yep!

Year in Review | High Meadows School 23

At High Meadows, unstructured play and exploration are built into every day. In his book Free to Learn, Peter Gray says, “Children must feel safe and cared for in order to devote themselves fully to exploring and learning, and children learn best from those with whom they have caring, trusting relationships.”

HMS teachers care about what kids know, who kids are, and what makes them feel safe, happy, and ready to thrive. It’s the relationships we develop within the community that contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals. “No human being survives without being able to connect with other people,” said Gray.

Middle Years | Debate Championship

HMS DEBATE WINS STATE TITLE

24 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Ava and Naomi won the team championship!

There is no debate that Isaac Wolf is one of the most influential people in High Meadows School history. Among active debate coaches in Georgia, he is revered.

You would be hard-pressed to find someone who has won more than his 21 state championships, the latest of which came in March 2025. Mr. Wolf's legacy as a debate coach spans more than two decades, and he has guided the High Meadows program since its inception in 2003.

Even legendary programs have an origin story. As with many

great ideas at High Meadows, the thought for a debate program began with students. It was not Mr. Wolf or a school administrator who had the concept of a debate program in mind. Rather, two seventh grade students advocated for a team.

thinkers, leaders, good humans, and great debaters. The driving point is process and development, but the competitive outcomes are a byproduct. It speaks to what we do at a progressive school. When you focus on the process, the outcomes fall into place.”

“Peyton Lee and Jennifer Armstrong went to my mother, Pat, who served as middle school principal at the time, and said High Meadows should start a debate team,” Mr. Wolf recalled. “I was a sophomore at Emory, and Mom asked me to help. I visited High Meadows two or three times per week and taught debate, but Peyton and Jennifer were the catalysts for launching a program.”

Hundreds of students have come through the debate program, and this year, the program had 21 students who actively competed.

Since 2009, Mr. Wolf has taught novice and advanced classes, allowing students like Mae Charles, who was among the top 40 honorees in the JV speaker division at the 2025 state tournament, to gain the skills at an appropriate grade-level pace. Eighth graders in the advanced class served as teacher assistants for the novice class.

It's fitting that Peyton and Jennifer captured the school’s first state championship in the program’s second year, but championships are not the driving force of the High Meadows team. Instead, Mr. Wolf focuses on the process and on helping debaters become exceptional critical thinkers, communicators, and collaborators.

“What’s important at a school like HMS that has an inquirybased approach to learning is the process,” he said. “I want our debate students to be critical

This year, Atlanta Urban Debate League (AUDL) participants debated the same topic: Resolved: The United States federal government should significantly strengthen its protection of domestic intellectual property rights in copyrights, patents, and/or trademarks. In debate, one side affirms the resolution, and the opposing side negates the resolution. Teams alternate debating both sides at tournaments

Debate Championship | Middle Years

and spend hours preparing to argue both perspectives. At the state tournament, Ava and Naomi hoisted the trophy in the team division as HMS won its 21st overall state championship.

Amongst teams, Kijani and Keelan finished a close second behind the state champions. Individually, five

High Meadows speakers placed in the top 10 – Naomi (2nd), Kijani (3rd), Ava (4th), Keelan (6th), and Elodie (10th).

“To do what Ava, Naomi, Keelan, and Kijani did this year requires commitment. They have to lock in, learn the evidence, and work on their craft,” said Mr. Wolf.

“Debate season is a roller coaster.

How do you respond to adversity when a tournament does not go the way you expected? What adjustments do you make? The margin for error, especially at the state championships, is razor thin.

It requires near perfection. For our teams to achieve what they did and deal with the pressures in a fastpaced environment is an accomplishment.”

Debate gives High Meadows students the chance to compete against a diverse group of students across the state and develop a greater understanding of current events and policy issues while they make lifelong friendships. Stay tuned to see what the 2025-26 debate team accomplishes!

Year in Review | High Meadows School 25

“When they announced our names as champions it was thrilling,” Ava and Naomi said. “We were happy for our success and also for the school’s success. It’s less about the physical trophy, but more about the intangible feeling you get when you have accomplished something you’ve worked so hard for. The moment they called our names and the entire debate team hugged us and celebrated us was the best moment of all. It’s been a truly incredible journey.”

Mini-Courses | Middle Years Programming

WELCOME TO AMERICA

4/5 Ellis & Angel Island experience

26 High Meadows School | Year in Review

During the Ellis & Angel Island simulation, the fourth and fifth grade teachers desired to bring history to life. “We wanted to make sure students could have an authentic experience while also being respectful of the past,” said Ms. Stoessel.

To begin the simulation, students were assigned a country and began their voyage on an HMS bus from the Lower Meadow to Ellis Island. Upon arrival, they met Mr. John Dovic, who ran the baggage room. He delivered an introduction in multiple languages. “Students experienced what it was like to come off the ship and not understand instructions,” Ms. Stoessel explained.

Strict workers detained immigrants who failed to comprehend the next steps, but non-detainees proceeded to medical examinations. Students knew

this was simulated but had studied primary sources to understand the real process. Passing the exam meant students proceeded to more stringent checkpoints.

Legal interviews were an intense part of the simulation.

Many students were initially detained and had to interview twice. Students used detailed, self-created backstories for their personas. They had to know basic family details, how much money they carried, and also their occupation. After all, a job was also required for entry. If approved, they celebrated with a photo beside Lady Liberty, portrayed by Head of School Lisa Baker.

“It was a wonderful morning,” said Ms. Stoessel. “The amount of work the students put into understanding life in 1912 and developing their character, wowed us and gave them a historically accurate framework.”

Year in Review | High Meadows School 27

Middle Years | Mini-Courses

MINI COURSES, BIG IMPACT

28 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Mini-courses highlight students interests.

In a crowded metroAtlanta middle school market, some schools struggle to define clear differentiators, but it’s easy to point to the many things at High Meadows that make us special. Picture a student planting vegetables in a school garden, a seventh grader bringing an outdoor structure on the Lower Meadow to life with a vibrant mural, and her classmates dreaming up a functional city that exists 100 years in the future. These aren’t homework assignments, and you won’t find projects like these anywhere else. They’re only in the Middle Years mini-course program.

“Generally, every middle school has an elective program, but they’re often smaller than ours,” said Middle Years & Connections Principal Matt Nuttall. “Our biggest difference is the menu of mini-course offerings.

We have classes that aren’t happening at other schools.”

Mr. Nuttall believes in helping students uncover their passions, while also respecting full-year commitments like band or debate.

“We want our students to have a wide breadth of experiences,” he said. “A student might explore a

wide variety of options in sixth and seventh grade and then hone in on a special interest like theatre arts to focus on it year-round.

Students rotate through ten minicourses in a school year, and each session they are asked to rank their top three choices before Mr. Nuttall completes placements. The beauty of mini-courses is that they honor student voice and choice and allow the kids to have an active role in their Middle Years experience.

Mini-courses highlight the diversity of interests and talents within the

Mini-Courses | Middle Years

Middle Years program at HMS and put students at the center.

“Students are doing challenging and fascinating things that celebrate creativity and ingenuity,” Mr. Nuttall said.

Students choose from a variety of courses that change every six weeks. New options often emerge based on student and faculty passions. This year, a new mural adorns the PE Shed on the Lower Meadow, thanks to a seventh grader named Molly. Passionate about art, she researched murals, identified a faculty sponsor for the course, and worked alongside her peers to bring the mural to life. Students’ ideas and passions are at the heart of the High Meadows experience.

“Mini-courses are a big part of what we do. If someone asked me about what makes our Middle Years program special, there is no question that our mini-courses are a foundational differentiator and a space where we can have the most impact on our students.”

— Matt Nuttall

At High Meadows, middle schoolers don’t just learn, they experience.

Middle school years can seem like a blur in a student’s academic history, yet most students tell us that their time at High Meadows stands out as a highlight in their educational journey. That’s because High Meadows faculty and staff embrace students’ natural creativity, exploration, and purpose. Minicourses place an exclamation point on that student-centered approach that makes us so different.

Mini-courses aren’t just electives, they’re launching pads to joining high school clubs, selecting college majors, pursuing careers, and chasing lifelong dreams.

Year in Review | High Meadows School 29

Additionally, teacher Kimberly Reingold introduced a new engineering course tied to the multifaceted Future City competition, a global STEM program in which middle school students imagine and create sustainable city concepts. This year, HMS students designed “Turlantis,” a turtle-shaped floating city set 100 years in the future. The floating city is modeled after a turtle and includes residential, commercial, recreational, and industrial zones, all protected by a shell. Built with eco-friendly, recyclable materials and a budget under $100, the project featured a scaled model, an essay, and an oral presentation to judges. This year, the team finished in the top-20 in the state.

Anniversary Campaign | New Building

A 50 BIRTHDAY GIFT FOR HMS TH

30 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Thanks to your support we raised over $2.3 million!

It’s hard to believe that less than two years ago, the Board of Trustees gave us the go-ahead to begin planning the first new academic building at High Meadows School in more than 25 years. We set an ambitious goal of raising $2.3 million to bring this vision to life and create a beautiful 50th birthday gift for High Meadows through our Anniversary Campaign.

Thanks to your incredible generosity, belief in our mission, and deep love for High Meadows, we officially surpassed our goal — raising $2.37 million for the campaign! This is a truly transformational milestone, and it’s all because of community members like you! The Anniversary Campaign consisted of 117 donors, and 28 contributors earned lead

donor status, giving $25,000 or more to the campaign. Nine families made a heartfelt investment of more than $100,000. What a testament to the difference a High Meadows education makes in students' lives. We are thankful!

Our beautiful new two-story building, Meadow Hall, features over 6,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed interior space and a 1,000-square-foot patio. The upper level serves as a vibrant hub for Environmental Sustainability classes, while the lower floor houses two Middle Years classrooms. The building also includes a flexible, multi-purpose gathering area. A spacious, multilevel deck provides direct access to a new wetland teaching area

— connecting students to nature in powerful new ways.

Passion for the school fueled the campaign and the results speak volumes. Community support ensures that High Meadows will continue to thrive and grow stronger for future generations.

We can’t wait to open the doors of this extraordinary space when the 2025–26 school year begins. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in what we do and who we serve. This is your legacy, and we are so excited for what’s ahead!

Please join us for our Ribbon Cutting on July 31, 2025 at 6:45 p.m.

Anyone is invited to attend! We can't wait to celebrate with you!

HIGH MEADOWS

Anniversary Campaign | New Building

Year in Review | High Meadows School 31

Faculty Highlights | Years of Service

FACULTY & STAFF MILESTONES Years of service are recognized every five years!

Jennifer Lott

Isaac Wolf

Extended Care Director 40 Years of Service

Physical Education Teacher 30 Years of Service

Lisa Baker

Anna Haworth Pre-K Teacher 5 Years of Service

Middle Years Principal 5 Years of Service

Mary Schuman

Shannon Wright

Yumeka Young

Head of School 5 Years of Service

32 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Karen Allen

Lower Years Counselor 5 Years of Service

Middle Years Counselor 5 Years of Service

Middle Years Teacher 20 Years of Service

Matt Nuttall

Support Teacher 5 Years of Service

SHARE HMS with prospective families

Current families and alumni families are our biggest referral sources! Do you know a friend, neighbor, or family member looking for an independent school for their child? Tell them about High Meadows School! We can't wait to meet them!

Applications open October 1, 2025.

Schedule a tour at www.highmeadows. org/visit

www.highmeadows.org

— HMS Parent

Year in Review | High Meadows School 33

We chose High Meadows because of its reputation for high academic performance and progressive, outdoor-based education.

We also value the school’s focus on inclusion and exposure to a variety of cultures and backgrounds.

Counselor Corner | Ms. Schuman

COUNSELOR CORNER WITH MS. SCHUMAN Building Belonging Through Positive Discipline

34 High Meadows School | Year in Review

At High Meadows, we believe that social-emotional learning is vital in shaping confident, compassionate, and capable learners. Our school is grounded in the principles of Positive Discipline, a framework rooted in mutual respect, encouragement, and the belief that children do better when they feel better.

Positive Discipline is not about rewards and punishments. Instead, it’s about fostering connection, teaching problem-solving, and helping students build the tools they need to become resilient, empathetic, intrinsically motivated, and responsible community members. In classrooms across campus, you might hear teachers asking curious questions like, “What’s your plan?” or “How can

we solve this problem together?”

These moments are opportunities to build skills in self-regulation, collaboration, and accountability.

Throughout the year, we partner with HMS teachers, parents, and students to bring these ideas to life in meaningful and developmentally appropriate ways. Classroom routines such as class meetings allow students to listen, reflect, and make decisions together. In guidance lessons, our students practice identifying their emotions, using calming strategies, and working through conflicts with kindness and respect. We also offer parent workshops, creating space for caregivers to reflect,

learn, and connect around shared parenting challenges.

Perhaps most importantly, Positive Discipline helps us center belonging and significance in every interaction. When students feel seen, heard, and valued, they are more willing to take risks, repair relationships, and contribute to their learning community. We celebrate the many ways our High Meadows students grow as learners and as the individuals they are becoming. Our continued commitment to Positive Discipline ensures that every child is nurtured in an environment that is rooted in kindness, connection, and trust.

Campus Life | Barn Updates

HMS BARN UPDATES

Fond Farewells & Warm Welcomes The 2024–2025 school year brought many updates from the High Meadows School Barnyard. We said heartfelt goodbyes to a pair of beloved animals and welcomed multiple new friends.

We mourned the loss of Lulu the sheep in September. Lulu spent 12 years as a member of our community. In February, we said goodbye to Cinnamon, our sweet nine-year-old Rex bunny.

MAPLE

MINT C H I C K S

To keep Willow the sheep company, two Katahdin Lambs, Maple and Mint, joined the animal crew. Did you know that they are a breed of sheep that have hair instead of wool?

Most recently, students in the Middle Years Avian Embryology Mini-Course welcomed newly hatched Bantam, Brahma, Easter Egger, and Turken chickens, marking a sweet end to the school year!

If you haven’t been on campus lately, please plan to stop by and visit our Barnyard. We can always use your extra produce to feed our growing farm family.

OLLIE

L U L U

Year in Review | High Meadows School 35

C I N N A M O N

We also welcomed a Quarter Horse named Ollie to the barn. He quickly became a favorite among our students. You’ll often spot him exploring the Lower Meadow or giving pony rides.

4/5 | Exhibition Project

INNOVATING FOR IMPACT

4/5 Students Design Actionable Solutions.

Imagine a country where RVs are used to provide housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, a state that uses renewable energy to tackle plastic pollution and protect the world’s waterways, a beach with turtle tunnels that allow them to get to the ocean without any bright lights, or a website that becomes an extension of the Amber Alert notification to allow for community collaboration and ensure that missing children are found safe.

36 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Those are student-generated ideas that stemmed from Exhibition for fourth and fifth graders at High Meadows School.

High Meadows students are ethical leaders, and as part of the school’s inquiry-based learning model, student questions drive lessons, projects, and sustainable solutions.

Nowhere is this more visible than Exhibition, which is a cornerstone of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). Exhibition provides a chance for students to dive deeply into meaningful research and to share their learning with the broader community and apply it to real-life challenges.

The fourth and fifth grade teachers began Exhibition by collaborating to

identify a theme for the project.

This year, the teachers selected “Innovation” as their overall theme.

The central idea is that reflection leads to innovation, and innovation contributes to changes in societies.

In the Elementary Years Commons, students gathered to break down the theme into four subcategories — crime prevention, environment, health and access, and technology and transportation.

actionable problem and design a prototype that addresses it in a impactful way that benefits their industry of study.

“We want the students to find a problem that is actionable where they can make a difference.

Students have initial thoughts and ideas of where their innovations might end up, but with design thinking, they talk to experts and

“We wanted to include the students when picking categories that were central to innovation,” said 4/5 Teacher Sam Spelsberg. “They sorted all the ideas and identified broad themes within the topics.”

Each student then selected a niche within one of the subcategories.

For example, two students studied access to service dogs, while another pair looked into fire investigation methods. Those are just two of the many topics presented during the annual Exhibition Night.

Exhibition is far more than a research project. Each year, students study scholarly sources to build foundational knowledge, but they go beyond written research and conduct interviews with experts in their field of study. Their objective is to identify an authentic,

realize that the problem is different than how they first defined it,” stated 4/5 Teacher Jenise Lindo.

“Exhibition opens their eyes to the importance of looking at things in different ways.”

After conducting interviews, students developed creative,

Debate Championship Exhibition | Middle ProjectYears | 4/5

testing, and producing a final version in advance of an exciting night of presentations.

“The experts made suggestions, and the students took that feedback and incorporated it into their final design,” Ms. Lindo noted. “The goal is for the students’ prototypes to meet the needs of the people they are serving.”

Year in Review | High Meadows School 37

The Primary Years Programme places a powerful emphasis on inquiry, which makes it a perfect

Year in Review | High Meadows School 37

practical prototypes. At many elementary schools, the process might end with a single design and feedback from the teacher. Not at High Meadows. Here, students engaged in multiple rounds of critique from teachers, peers, and the same experts they interviewed before refining their designs,

The cross-disciplinary curricular framework of the IB PYP model allows High Meadows students to learn about the interconnectedness across traditional subject areas while encouraging them to take action with their knowledge through projects, advocacy, and service.

companion to the HMS model.

In mid-May, Exhibition concluded with a celebration night showcasing student work and presentation skills. From “The Well Woman Robot,” a robot that collects health data from women for use in hospitals to a battery-powered stuffed animal that can smell a seizure, 2025 Exhibition was full of creative ideas that will change not only the community but also the entire world.

Class of 2025 | Student Spotlight

HIGH MEADOWS CLASS OF 2025

38 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Graduates share their favorite things about HMS.

Debate Championship | Middle Years

Waylon Carr

Carson Cohen

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School

Roswell High School

Riverwood International Charter

“I loved how we would sometimes go outside and learn or study just because it was nice to get out of the classroom.”

“My favorite thing about High Meadows was the ability to spend the majority of my childhood outside and the relationships I had with all of the teachers and staff.”

“I loved the people our class had around us and the help that we received from the community.”

Naomi Cray

Sophie Cuellar

Kijani Davis

Campbell High School IB Program

Roswell High School

Centennial High School

“High Meadows School was a wonderful, magical, amazing experience for me. It was transformational in all the best ways possible. The campus is a beautiful, surreal place. Fresh air and being outside is an essential for children, and I am grateful that I go to a school that realizes this.”

“Ms. Lovatt continued my love for history and different cultures.

Without her having a fun and engaging class in sixth and seventh grades including those topics I don't think my capstone topic would be what it was. Cherish every moment, your time here is over before you know it.”

“My biggest mentor was my mother who teaches Kindergarten. Every morning we would talk or listen to an audiobook to get ready for the day ahead.”

Year in Review | High Meadows School 39

Ben Baker

40 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Class of 2025 | Student Spotlight

Isabel Estrella

Jackson Gosma

Miles Gray

Walton High School

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School

Cambridge High School

“I love the tire swing. When I first came to tour High Meadows I rode the tire swing and it made me feel so happy and free. It was such a lovely experience.” ”

“Enjoy your time and be grateful for High Meadows. I enjoyed learning outside and going on the school trips, especially the three Middle Years trips.”

“High Meadows raised me. I've known Willow the sheep and Little Moon since I was smaller than each of them. High Meadows has a beautiful approach to childhood and learning. I love High Meadows!”

Gracie Hall

James Hong

Charlie Jaffe

Roswell High School

Wheeler Magnet

Pope High School

“High Meadows School will always have a special place in my heart.

It is such an outstanding school.

It teaches you to be yourself, no matter the odds. It teaches you that YOU MATTER. High Meadows' motto is ‘What School Should Be.’ And it was.”

“My favorite thing about High Meadows was the supportive & friendly community because everyone looks out for each other.”

“My favorite thing about High Meadows was the student-toteacher and teacher-to-student connection. Do not take your time at HMS for granted.”

Debate Championship | Middle Years

Keelan Kraften

Jacob Lala

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School

Riverwood International Charter

Walton High School

“The teachers are all so kind. Don’t be afraid for eighth grade. I know it can be scary in the long run, but once you start, you’ll never want to go back!”

“I liked the freedom of curriculum and the ability to learn what you want to through mini-courses.”

“The curriculum was never fixed, and that allowed the student body to have even more discussions in class. Try to get ahead on work and to not stay in one fixed mini-course throughout your experience.”

Raleigh Lin

Conor McCraw

Lucy Parker

Innovation Academy

Milton High School

The Galloway School

“My favorite thing about High Meadows was the outdoor environment because it gave us a lot of freedom at lunch and more space to learn!”

“I enjoyed having the freedom to expand my learning journey in a loving community that knows and shares my interests. Find your place in this community so that you can enjoy the most of what High Meadows has to offer.”

“My favorite things about High Meadows were the chances and opportunities. You can follow interests and passions while also learning and trying new and fun things. Follow your interests and always try to find something new.”

Year in Review | High Meadows School 41

Audrey Koch

42 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Class of 2025 | Student Spotlight

Zach Robison

Beni Sasson

Willa Sweeney

Innovation Academy

Weber School

Paideia School

”My favorite part of High Meadows School was playing with all my friends and learning new and interesting things.”

“My favorite thing about High Meadows is the brilliant, caring teachers because they are always there for you and it's a blessing not many other schools have.”

“My favorite thing about High Meadows is the sense of community and willingness to embrace curiosity. Treasure every day you have at High Meadows.”

Victoria Tuskowski

Ava van Zyl

Sebas Warrington-Reed

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School

Walton High School

Pope High School

“There were so many amazing things that I loved about High Meadows, but I would have to say my favorite thing was the fact that kids are able to have a balance of learning time and outside time. The teachers have the ability to teach each kid hands on and help them understand the material.”

“One thing that makes me feel like I see the world through rose colored glasses, one piece of High Meadows that is my undeniable favorite, is the people. I can only hope that the people will always be the constant of High Meadows. They are the water drops that make all the flowers bloom in vibrant grace.”

“I enjoyed the journey throughout middle school with all my friends.

It was fun, and they helped me through all the stressful times.”

Debate Championship | Middle Years

Liza Watford

Jordan Wells

Theo Willig

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School

Pope High School

Milton High School

“I enjoyed spending time in nature and all of the school trips like Camp McDowell Farm, Jekyll Island, and Williamsburg. Live in the moment and be grateful for your time here.”

“I liked the Meadow because most schools don't have an area for play like this.”

“I liked the High Meadows campus and how free it was.”

Graduate Reflection

— Gracie Hall, Recognition 2025 Speech

Year in Review | High Meadows School 43

“I don’t think there are enough words to describe how much High Meadows means to me, but here I am trying to describe in two minutes what I could describe in two hours . . . or maybe five. Even as a young child, I loved High Meadows. I cherished the snow, the dewy mornings on the Meadows, and the fact I would look out the window and there would be a sheep or a horse staring at me. The teachers at High Meadows taught me to love learning. They don’t teach you basic memorization, they teach you how to understand the world. They see your potential and gently push you to go further. The school motto is ‘What School Should Be,' and this school was. Thank you for everything.”

In Memoriam | Marge Magee

REMEMBERING MARGE MAGEE

44 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Marge served students at HMS from 1973-1998.

“Marge has always been our champion of play in the lives and learning of children. She has reminded us with words and deeds that children learn through play, that it is their birthright, their most effective channel toward learning and selfrespect. She makes us remember that to put achievement ahead of the right of children to explore in play is to cheat them of understanding and of a playful attitude to being alive.”

— Jody Holden, Founder of High Meadows School describing Marge during the 1997-98 school year.

Community Updates | Alumni & Former Faculty

COMMUNITY UPDATES Alumni & Former Faculty News

Gabrielle Wilkinson

Isobel “Arc” Wilkes

Class of 1995 & Current Parent

Class of 2012

Class of 2013

Nicole had a very successful career of nearly 25 years at Insights Global.

She passed away on April 30, 2025.

Gabrielle earned a Masters of Divinity from Emory University and works with the Ga. Tech Wesley Foundation.

Isobel published research on cockroaches and is a project Coordinator at GlideFast Consulting.

David Houser

Kelsey Guziel

Kate Deskey

Class of 2015

Class of 2016

Class of 2017

David recently began a new job in business-to-business sales with Cintas Corporation.

Kelsey works for In Good Company, a female-owned catering company that serves Primrose Schools.

Kate graduated from Northeastern University with a BA in Journalism and is a content associate at Fuseideas.

Parker Nicholson

Candy (Wilson) Merritt

Caryn Silverman

Class of 2022

Former Teacher

Former Teacher

Parker is beginning his senior year of high school and runs his own cardetailing business.

Candice taught at High Meadows for 33 years. She passed away on February 11, 2025.

Caryn, a former HMS teacher, passed away on March 18, 2025.

Year in Review | High Meadows School 45

Nicole (Greathead) Curran

HMS CLASS OF 2021 Where are they now?

46 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Lily Alford Elizabeth Babiar Nicholas Bakke Tanner Begin Elissa Borak Dillon Callen Isabella Corradini Eliana Crenshaw Maria Escalera Matia Figueiredo Cedar Furniss Noah Godhard Jillian Gordon

Jackie Hong Maddie Janzen Kyle Klotz Leo Miranda Lily Mosbacher Muzyq Najm Gavri Newman Rocco Pavlovich Kyson Phillippi William Ramsey Kate Rinehimer Fiza Sewani Zain Sharma

Noah Sherwood Nathan Soganich Darren Spano Elizabeth Stamey Mei Strother Ethan Swallow Bruno Villa Gianna Volpe Nathaniel Warrington-Read Kate Weiner Dodge Zaccara

Lily Alford Walton High School Haverford College “The capstone project gave me a lot of experience in researching and writing which definitely paid off in high school.”

Elizabeth Babiar

Isabella Corradini

Maria Escalera

Wheeler High School Georgia Institute of Technology

Walton High School University of Iowa

Riverwood International Charter University of Tampa

“My time at HMS helped me develop an inquisitive and creative mind that guided me through difficult classes in high school.”

“My time at High Meadows helped me grow into the person I am today. I was able to create strong foundations for independence, self advocacy, creativity, and so much more. These skills aided me all throughout my high school career.”

“I learned many skills and core concepts at HMS that prepared me for higher level courses in high school. I learned most of these in seventh and eighth grade.”

Debate Championship | Middle Years

Jillian Gordon

Lily Mosbacher

The Walker School Kennesaw State University

Walton High School Auburn University

Pope High School Elon University

“High Meadows School helped me learn how to be myself for the first time without any fear. Going to HMS paved the way for me to feel more comfortable in high school.”

“High Meadows taught me how to study in ways that would help me succeed.”

“During my time at HMS, I learned how to be authentically myself.

When transitioning into high school, despite high academic standards and peer pressure, I always stayed true to myself, my educational needs, and my values.”

Gavri Newman

Elizabeth Stamey

Gianna Volpe

Midtown International School Rochester Institute of Technology

Roswell High School Georgia Southern University

Innovation Academy Georgia Southern University

“At High Meadows, I learned how to study and plan projects.”

“Going to High Meadows put me ahead in most of my classes, even though I was taking honors and AP. High Meadows also gave me some of my closest friends that I will remain friends with for the rest of my life.”

“High Meadows made me into the person I am and helped me make lifelong friends.”

Year in Review | High Meadows School 47

Matía Figueiredo

WELCOME THERESA ROBISON Theresa is the new board chair.

My name is Theresa Robison, and I’m honored to begin serving as chair of the High Meadows Board of Trustees. I’m a proud parent of three boys who have thrived at High Meadows, including my eldest, Zach, who graduated this May. Now entering my sixth year on the board, I’ve previously served as governance chair and vice chair, and I step into this new role with deep appreciation and enthusiasm.

High Meadows has been more than just a school for our family — it has been a wellspring of joy, grounding,

48 High Meadows School | Year in Review

48 High Meadows School | Year in Review

New Board Chair | Theresa Robinson

and growth. It is a place where children are truly seen, encouraged to ask big questions, and supported in becoming curious, confident, and compassionate individuals.

I want to express heartfelt thanks to our outgoing chair, Javier Estrella, for his remarkable leadership over the past five years. Javier’s thoughtfulness, humility, and deep commitment to High Meadows have shaped the board’s work in meaningful ways. He leads by listening, encouraging reflection, and consistently guiding the board to keep the needs of the school

community front and center — a true model of servant leadership.

I’m excited to continue this important work alongside a dedicated and thoughtful board of trustees — fellow parents, alumni, and friends — who share a deep commitment to stewarding the mission of High Meadows. Together, we will continue to support and strengthen the long-term vision of a community that deeply embodies its values.

Warmly,

Theresa Robison

Javier Estrella | Letter of Thanks

THANK YOU, JAVIER!

Javier Estrella served as chair for five years.

With full confidence, I now pass the torch to my friend and trusted colleague, Theresa Robison. She is a thoughtful and capable leader, and I know High Meadows will continue to thrive under her guidance.

When I first became board chair, my predecessor Lisa Tilt remained on the board to offer mentorship and wisdom, which was invaluable to me. I intend to do the same for Theresa and continue supporting this community however I can.

Thank you, High Meadows community. It is a pleasure to serve High Meadows School & Camp.

Sincerely,

Javier Estrella It has been an honor to serve as chair of the board over the past five years. I’m deeply grateful to my fellow trustees for their partnership and dedication as we worked together through some very meaningful milestones in High Meadows School & Camp’s history.

HMS has been a place where I’ve had the opportunity to serve and grow as a leader, and more importantly, it’s a place that has shaped the lives of my daughters.

This past May marked my final Recognition ceremony as board chair, but the true highlight was watching Izzy deliver her speech and be celebrated alongside her peers. In just two years, I’ll have the joy of experiencing that moment again when our youngest daughter, Ariana, graduates.

2024-25 Board of Trustees Javier Estrella, Chair Theresa Robison, Vice Chair Tanya Squire, Treasurer Margaret Lamb, Member At Large Lisa Baker, Head of School Zachary Prescott, Secretary Leigh Borda, Member at Large Derek Deskey Katie Johnson Bud Lichtenstein John Monahan Mital Patel Kate Pearson Brian Waldman

Year in Review | High Meadows School 49

We navigated the challenges of COVID-19 together, and most recently raised more than $2.3 million to fund the construction of Meadow Hall, a new academic building and a 50th birthday gift to High Meadows.

High Meadows will always hold a special place in my heart.

High Meadows Gala | 2025 Recap

HEROES FOR HIGH MEADOWS Celebrating a night that supports HMS

50 High Meadows School | Year in Review 50 High Meadows School | Year in Review

The 2025 High Meadows Gala by the Numbers

213 112 auction items, teacher treasures, and classroom art pieces were auctioned.

thousand dollars were raised at the Heroes for High Meadows Gala on March 28, 2025.

32

thousand dollars were contributed to Fund-a-Need for campus-wide furniture and more!

2025 Recap | High Meadows Gala

2025 GALA SPONSORS Brilliant Fine + Custom Jewelry — Jaffe Family Jewelry Sponsor Summit Coffee — Logan Family Music Sponsor Catamount Constructors, Inc. Platinum Table Sponsor Barnett, Bobbitt, Kaufman, Lovatt, Mitchell, Phelps, & Valera Families Platinum Table Sponsor Latitude Flexible Legal Talent — Hartnett Family Gold Table Sponsor Lindsey, Greenway & McIntire CPA Advisors — Lindsey Family Gold Table Sponsor Skewed Orbit Studios — Gettlin/LaForce Family Gold Table Sponsor

Auction Item Donations Jennifer Margolis Jody Holden Kimberly Reingold Main Event Malibu Norcross Marietta History Center Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art Marta & George Garcia Mr. Freeze Mechanical Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia Oli+Ve Oriental Trading Company Patrick Killam Publishing Pretty Little Tacos Robbins & Co Home Ruby Falls Salt Factory Pub Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center Schoolhouse Fare Sears Pool Management Six Bridges Brewing Six Flags Over Georgia Snape's Ridiculorum Sugar Polish Nail Bar Tellus Science Museum The Albertalli Family The Austin/Vann Austin Family The Blanchard Family The Campbell Family

The Chapman/Bothwell Family The Elliott Family The Freeman Family The Fringe at Area 51 The Gettlin/LaForce Family The Hall Family The Harris Family The Hibberd/Ayotte Family The Johnson Family The Kerner Family The Kucharski/Michel Family The Lamb/Eldridge Family The Lingvall Family The McCraw Family The Mill Kitchen & Bar The Oja Family The Prescott Family The Richardson Family The Robison Family The Rogers Family The Sheen Family The Slota Family The Summers Family The Woelz/Marlow Family Total Wine & More Variant Brewing Zest on Canton Zoo Atlanta

Year in Review | High Meadows School 51

Alliance Theatre Angela Lockard Bogoev Ascot Diamonds Atlanta Ballet Atlanta Botanical Garden Beat the Bomb Bella Medspa Beth Bristow Tutorial Services Boll & Branch Booth Western Art Museum Butter & Cream Cartecay Vineyards Center for Puppetry Arts Chattahoochee Nature Center Cherry's Liquor Dad's Garage Theatre Company Delta Flight Museum Fernbank Museum of Natural History Flour Power Cooking Studio Funk Heritage Center G&E Studios Photography Gate City Brewing Company Georgia Aquarium Great Wolf Lodge Half Price Books High Museum of Art Hot Wheels Skate Center Ipp's Pastaria & Bar James Cox

Annual Report | 2024-25

HMS ANNUAL REPORT

2024-2025 school year High Meadows Fund

The High Meadows Fund is the school's annual giving campaign that raises critical philanthropic dollars to support the daily operations of the school. Thank you to the following donors whose generous support during the 2024-2025 academic year helped every student at High Meadows School.

Key

Leadership Society Levels

B = Board Member/Founder P = Current Parent A = Alumni/Alumni Parent G = Grandparent F = Friends S = Faculty/Staff

White Oak Red Oak Fig Juniper

$10,000+ $5,000-$9,999 $2,500-$4,999 $1,500-$2,499

52 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Red Oak

Nicole (Greathead) Curran John Dimatos & Kristen Taylor Ken & Donna Hall Yash & Shreya Patel Steve & Carlyn Romeyn

Fig

Brian & Becky Albertalli Lisa Baker & Kristi Fielder

Magnolia Persimmon Sycamore Beech

$1,000-$1,499 $500-$999 $250-$499 Up to $249

*Those who contribute $1,500 or more are recognized in our Leadership Society. Donors at this level are invited to special events throughout the year.

White Oak Jared Austin & Amanda Vann Austin Brian & JoBeth Connerat Rich & Jessica McCraw Kumar Menon & Rohini Khanduri Roger Mitchell & Tameka Phillips Zachary & Julia Prescott Amit Saxena & Smita Pawar Scott & Grace Shickler

Circe of Friends

Juniper P P P P P BP PA A

PA P P P A

P S

Michael & Leigh Borda Steve & Geralyn Brennan Brandyn Chapman & Ashley Bothwell Chapman Gordie Howe Julie Johnson & Kristi Mulchahey-Johnson Steven & Tracey Kaplan Steven & Tereza Kros Steven Kucharski & Larissa Michel Dustin & Brooke Logan Stuart & Carolyn Lumsden Chris Parker & Mariana Pinango Parker Taylor & Theresa Robison Mark & Dorota Sedgley Marshall & Katherine Sweeney Chris Watford & Mary Ann Sardone-Watford

BP P P P P P PA P P P P BP PA PA PA

Preston Ashworth & Alissa Abello P Al Batts & Sarah Lippincott P Russell & Ivory Blanchard P Javier Estrella & Sonia Baez BP Jon Feenaghty & Erica Torres PA Ryan & Allison Goodrich P Jimmy & Megan Gosma P Billy & Whitney Harper P Ryan Hefner & Heather Summerville P Steven & Valerie Hong PA Mark & Jennifer Johnson P Zain & Rebecca Kaj P Nikhil Kodilkar & Archana Chaudhar P Steve Barnard & Margaret Lamb BA William & Sarah Lindsey P Neil & Melissa Marini A Ryan & Claire McAden P Frank Olszewski & Jessica LaRocco-Olszewski P

Annual 2024-25Report | Annual | 2024-25 Report

John & Debbie Patton G Matthew & Lea Riznyk P Evan & Cadence Roosevelt P Rebecca & Doug Sandberg SP Caitlin Steenstrup & Kevin Rezai P David Strother A Jon & Alexis Valera P Brian Waldman & Samara Kaufman BP

Magnolia

Anton & Elvira van Zyl P Carlos Andrade & Marinelly Pinango P Michael & Hailey Barnett P Michael & Pam Giles G Dylan Goldblatt & Elicia Lair P John & Kathleen Hraba G Chas & Rachel D’Huyvetter P Lori Kennedy S John Monahan & Lily Moore-Coll BP John & Linda Monahan G Jake & Heather Patton P James Stockelman F Donna Stuhrman G Alan & Jannah Thomas P Kenneth & Keiko Yeung P

Persimmon

Sycamore G

Andres Bernal & Sandra Merino James & Helayne Bilenker Jorge Brito & Ana Chavez-Brito Neil & Susannah Campbell Eugene & Lori Caraus Duane & Amour Carthy Zach & Lindsay Chapkin Connie Ericsson Lee & Larisa Gilbert Tom & Stephanie Harris Chuck & Kate Herndon Todrick & Carolyne Hilton Jody Holden Jyoti & Shashee Joshi Christian & Lyndey Kelly Andrew & Ania Lackey Shep & Jessica Lawrence Allen & Jan Lazzara

P G G P P P P G A P P P B G P P P G

Sergio Luiz Messias Da Silva & Cecilia Malta Campos Steven & Laura McKie John & Lynda Nuttall Rick & Molly Parker Jeff & Julie Pearlman Tom & Katelyn Rainey David & Sommer Rogers Sallie Samuels

P SPA G P P P P F

Matt & Erica Sartorio Lauren & Ashley Sheen Phil & Starr Snead Matt & Ginger Summers

P P F P

P G S P SPA

Beech S SA P P P G P P S P SP P P SA G SP S S P F P S P A S P P S S P S G S SA F G SP

Year in Review | High Meadows School 53

Anonymous (2) Arthur & Learline Beaty

John & Heather Tuskowski Shannon Waldner Tracy Wisdom Tomer Woelz & Lauren Marlow Isaac Wolf & Jennifer Larson

Year in Review | High Meadows School 53

Anonymous (1) Brandon & Lauryn Bissell P Ryan & Sarah Bobbitt PA Seth Conrad & Indra Contreras Conrad P Silverio & Beatrice Cuellar G John & Lauren Damouni P Derek & Barbara Deskey BA Matt Empey & Soojin Kang P Mark & Alicia Freeman P Daniel & Brooke Gray P Michael & Allison Hartnett P Rob & Amy Hogan P Jared Huller & Kelly Costa Huller P Gaurav & Neha Khanna P David & Liliana Kintner G Ryan & Andrea Landers P Bud & Kathleen Lichtenstein B Juan Carlos & Haley Mencias P

Mital & Ankit Patel BP Ben & Kate Pearson BP Al & Kimberly Reingold SA Kirk & Krish Shanks P Nate Slota & Jennifer Harper P Helder Stanquini & Juliana Mazziero P Sherry Wilkinson A John Wilson & Dana Jackson AF Pat Wolf AG Eric & Shannon Wright S

54 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Annual Report | 2024-25

Katie Johnson & Kat Shreve B Jonathan & Katie Kerner SP Laura Kollar P Ken & Jennifer Kraften SP Fabio & Monica Laub P Jason & Jenise Lindo SP Mary Jo Lombardo S Jennifer Lott S Anne Lovatt SA Ludwig Soren P Shelley Maaske S Jennifer Margolis S Davina Marraccini P Mario & Ana Maria Martinez P Tricia McDaniel S Mark & Eleanor Miller G Marisa Moore P Jane Murphy SA Matt & Sarah Nardi P Marius & Christy Nel P Dona Nimer S Matt & Robin Nuttall SP Michael & Amy Oeschger SP Cam & Kristen Oja P Iris Otley S Randall Paniagua & Eugenia Rojas P Marion & Burma Parker G Leah Pence F Christen Ericsson-Penfold P Danny & Mary Phelps P Susan Polise & Kelly Tracy P Michael & Wendy Rhodes SA Jonathan & Hillary Rogers P Elido & Dalena Ruiz Jr. P Sam Spelsberg S Gintas & Elena Sarkus P Corey & Mary Schuman SPA Anders & Maria Schwartz P Markee & Tanya Squire BA Christine Stalvey S Jack & Kate Stoessel SP Kate Stonebraker SA Sarah Sullivano S Liz Thompson S Sarah Topper S Santos & Nikki Vega P

Rich & Pat Ward Alex & Kat West Jimmy West Donna Wiley Danielle Wright Rachel Wynn Kelly Yount Sandy Zilka

G P S F S S SP F

The Annual Report is published to express gratitude to those who have generously given to the school during the fiscal year (June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025). Every effort has been made to ensure that each contributor's name is properly listed. Please accept our apology if your name was omitted, listed incorrectly, or misspelled.

Please advise us of the error by emailing development@ highmeadows.org.

Matching Gift Companies AT&T Cigna Coca-Cola E.W. Scripps Element Solutions Equifax F5 Networks Goldman Sachs

Impact Foundation Marsh & McLennan Microsoft T-Mobile Truist Twilio WarnerMedia Wells Fargo

SUPPORT HIGH MEADOWS

A gift to the High Meadows Fund changes lives!

“I give to the High Meadows Fund so that I am able to contribute as much as I can to give back to the school that will provide so much in the coming years for my children.”

— HMS Parent

The High Meadows Fund supports six areas that are vital for success:

Overall Needs

Teachers

Technology

Connections & The Arts DEIJ

Greens & Grounds

Year in Review | High Meadows School 55

There are many things that are distinct about a High Meadows School education. Spending time with barnyard animals, the Halloweenie Roast, hayrides, minicourses, Community Gatherings, off-campus trips, and more. Gifts to the High Meadows Fund ensure we continue offering these experiences and add additional opportunities!

The Fund is our school's top giving priority because it directly supports the two most important aspects of the HMS community — our students and teachers. Your donations help sustain the programs and experiences that define HMS for today’s students and generations to come. We invite you to join current parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, and friends in making a gift to the High Meadows Fund. Scan the QR Code to donate today.

Financial Information | Operating & Gratitude

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Operating Budget Information Operating Income

Operating Expenses

56 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Thank you to the following Donors Jennifer Armstrong Ted & Pat Wolf Financial Aid Endowment Pat Wolf Ted & Pat Wolf Financial Aid Endowment Jennifer Armstrong General Endowment Pat Wolf General Endowment Ashby Foltz Campership Creighton & Kelly Frommer Campership

Thank you to our HMF Grade Chairs Leigh Borda Larissa Michel Claire McAden Brian Connerat Mital Patel Mariana Pinango Parker Leigh Borda

Parent Chair Pre-K & 2nd/3rd Grade Chair Kindergarten Chair 1st Grade Chair 4th/5th Grade Chair 6th/7th Grade Chair 8th Grade Chair

Georgia GOAL Tax Credit | Donors

The state of Georgia has set aside $100 million for taxpayers to redirect a portion of their state tax liability to provide tuition assistance to students matriculating into independent schools from the public school system. Thank you to those who have participated in the Georgia GOAL Tax Credit Program.

Your support makes a positive difference for families within our community, and your contribution will continue to strengthen our school in countless ways. The additional financial aid funding created by the tax credit program frees up High Meadows School’s operating budget for other important initiatives.

As a result, every High Meadows School student is positively impacted. Thank you to our 2024-25 Georgia GOAL participants!

Extracurriculars Co. - Dustin & Brooke Logan

Rory & Jenifer Friedman Dylan Goldblatt & Elicia Lair Stephen Goldsmith & Deanna Fetsch Jimmy & Megan Gosma Jan & Rachel Grindrod Mark & Reina Grundhoefer

Ken & Donna Hall Lori Hannan Todrick & Carolyne Hilton Gordie Howe Rich & Diana Hoyt Judd & Sharanne Johns Sam & Marisa Joshi Tom & Janet Junod Lori Kennedy Jonathan & Katie Kerner Ken & Jennifer Kraften Lamb/Eldridge Family Jason & Jenise Lindo William & Sarah Lindsey Dustin & Brooke Logan Davina Marraccini Ryan & Claire McAden Rich & Jessica McCraw Jeff & Tricia McDaniel Laura McKie John Monahan & Lily Moore-Coll Eric & Karla Munder Jane Murphy Matt & Sarah Nardi Michael & Amy Oeschger Mital & Ankit Patel Zachary & Julia Prescott Nick Prince & Melanie Mueller Prince Al & Kimberly Reingold

Michael & Wendy Rhodes Taylor & Theresa Robison Steve & Carlyn Romeyn Katlyn Sammons Sallie Samuels Rebecca & Doug Sandberg Gintas & Elena Sarkus Matt & Erica Sartorio Ed Scholl & Janet Kamikihara Scholl Corey & Mary Schuman Kirk & Krish Shanks Howard & Faith Shatzman Nate Slota & Jennifer Harper Markee & Tanya Squire Scott & Catherine Strobeck Mike & Lisa Tilt David & Sarah Topper Brian Waldman & Samara Kaufman Chris Watford & Mary Ann Sardone-Watford Tracy Wisdom Issac Wolf & Jennifer Larson Pat Wolf Danielle Wright Eric & Shannon Wright Rachel Wynn Kelly Yount Adrianna Zambrano

Year in Review | High Meadows School 57

Gene & Kristen Atkins Lisa Baker & Kristi Fielder Rex Baker & Megan McRoberts Dick Black & Ronda Brooks Russell & Ivory Blanchard Mark & Mary Bleichner Eftim Bogoev & Angela Lockard Michael & Leigh Borda Brilliant Fine + Custom Jewelry — Jamie & Katie Jaffe Mark & Tracy Brown Neil & Susannah Campbell Travis & Caroline Carr Archana Chaudhary & Nikhil Kodilkar Brian & JoBeth Connerat James & Kendra Cox Ed & Darlene Coyne Derek & Barbara Deskey John & Kristen Dimatos Kraig Doremus John Dovic Javier Estrella & Sonia Baez

Annual Report | 2024-25

ANNIVERSARY CAMPAIGN

Meadow Hall is a 50th birthday gift to HMS! Campaign Giving Levels Visionaries Innovators Creators Sustainer

$250,000+ Builders $100,00-$249,999 Supporters $50,000 $99,999 Contributors $25,000-$49,999

$10,000-$24,999 $5,000-$9,999 Up to $4,999

Lead donors gave $25,000+

Visionaries

Anonymous (1) Jay Dickerson Rich & Jessica McCraw Scott & Grace Shickler

Innovators

Jared Austin & Amanda Vann Austin Brian & Jo Beth Connerat Lamb/Eldridge Family Drew & Natasha Maloney Colt & Amy Whittall

Creators

58 High Meadows School | Year in Review

Zachary & Julia Prescott Steve & Carlyn Romeyn Mark & Dorota Sedgley

Sustainers

Lisa Baker & Kristi Fielder Russell & Ivory Blanchard Nicole (Greathead) Curran Dana Jackson & Jim Rawls William & Sarah Lindsey Ryan & Claire McAden Andrew & Tracy McConaghie Mital & Ankit Patel Sallie Samuels Rebecca & Doug Sandberg

Amit Saxena & Smita Pawar Maria Shickler Mark & Mary Jo Shickler Michael & Lisa Tilt Jeff & Lilly Waller Lloyd & Patricia Whittall Pat Wolf

Builders

Gene & Kristen Atkins Michael & Leigh Borda Mark & Tracy Brown Charles D'Huyvetter Gregory & Christi Fisher Todrick & Carolyne Hilton Roger & Tameka Mitchell

Supporters

Chris Baker & Karen Schwartz Derek & Barbara Deskey John Dimatos & Kristen Taylor Javier Estrella & Sonia Baez Ken & Donna Hall Amy Jewett Dustin & Brooke Logan Matthew & Lea Riznyk Hayden Shickler Jaxson Shickler Marshall & Kate Sweeney

Brian Waldman & Samara Kaufman

Contributors

Dick Black & Ronda Brooks Colin & Jackie Blackshear Joseph Bosso & Sarah Lovatt Steve & Geralyn Brennan Chris & Ashleigh Brito Neil & Susannah Campbell Travis & Caroline Carr James & Kendra Cox Joe Crowley & Phil Mack Margo Davis Kraig Doremus John Dovic Christen Ericsson-Penfold Jon Feenaghty & Erica Torres Rory & Jenifer Friedman Rich & Liz Gembecki Dylan Goldblatt & Elicia Lair Ryan & Allison Goodrich Mark & Reina Grundhoefer William & Whitney Harper Anna Haworth Ryan Hefner & Heather Summerville Buddy & Lynn Henry Ani Hildebrandt Rob & Amy Hogan Jody Holden

2024-25 Annual | Annual ReportReport | 2024-25

Katie Johnson & Kat Shreve Jonathan & Katie Kerner Nikhil Kodilkar & Archana Chaudhary Ryan & Andrea Landers Shep & Jessica Lawrence Bud & Kathleen Lichtenstein Angela Lockard Bogoev Mary Jo Lombardo Danny & Marisol Maldonado Jason & Serena Marcus Jeff & Tricia McDaniel Steven & Laura McKie

Iris Otley Randall Paniagua & Eugenia Rojas Chris Parker & Mariana Pinango Parker Ben & Kate Pearson Al & Kimberly Reingold Taylor & Theresa Robison David & Sommer Rogers Gintas & Elena Sarkus Markee & Tanya Squire Christine Stalvey Joby & Jennifer Titus John & Heather Tuskowski Chris Watford &

John Monahan & Lily Moore-Coll Julie Johnson & Kristi Mulchahey-Johnson Matt & Sarah Nardi Matt & Robin Nuttall Cam & Kristen Oja Frank Olszewski &Jessica Larocco-Olszewski

Mary Ann Sardone-Watford Jim & Hope Wells Jimmy West Tracy Wisdom Danielle Wright Rachel Wynn

Matching Gift Companies Amalgamated Cencora Crum & Forster Goldman Sachs Microsoft

Travelers Twilio Verizon Westrock

Thank you to all of our Anniversary Campaign donors! We did this thanks to you!

Thanks to your incredible support, we raised more than $2.3 million. This fundraising effort fully funds our new classroom building, Meadow Hall, which will welcome students starting in the 2025-26 school year.

This 50th birthday gift to High Meadows will support the next 50 years of learning, exploration, and community on our beautiful campus.

Year in Review | High Meadows School 59

We are so grateful for each and every one of you who contributed to the campaign. Thank you for your support of High Meadows School & Camp!

1055 Willeo Road Roswell, GA 30075

60 High Meadows School | Year in Review

2024-25 School Leadership Team Lisa Baker, Head of School John Dovic, Director of Camp & Auxillary Programs Lori Kennedy, Lower Years Principal Laura McKie, Director of Enrollment & Strategic Communication Matt Nuttall, Middle Years & Connections Principal Michael Rhodes, Director of Technology Rebecca Sanderg, Director of Finance & Operations Danielle Wright, Assistant Lower Years Principal & DEIJ Director Angela Lockard, Associate Director of Development Tracy Wisdom, Executive Assistant to the Head of School