2025-2026
A Year in Review
HMS Magazine & Annual Report
&
Contents 1
Message From the Board Chair
2
Welcome New Leadership
4
Welcome New Faculty & Staff
6
Fond Farewells
7
A Year to Remember
14 In Memoriam 18 8th Grade Trip to Colorado 22 Family Association 24 Faculty & Staff Milestones 26 Meadow Hall Spotlight 28 Class of 2026 32 Class of 2022 36 Alumni Reflection 37 Alumni Spotlight 38 2025-2026 Annual Report
Message from the Board Chair Dear High Meadows Community, One of the simple pleasures of a High Meadows summer is walking across the Meadow on any given morning. You hear it before you see it. The whoop of a camper cheering a friend across the field. The thwack of an arrow finding the target. A splash and a squeal from the pool. All summer this campus was alive with laughter and running feet: arts and crafts, green woodworking and pioneering, guild and lore, and we even had three campers knighted this year. For more than 50 years, camp has given children a place to try new things, take risks, and discover what they are capable of, all in an atmosphere of pure fun. Some of our High Meadows students spent the summer here at camp; others were at different camps, at home, at the pool, visiting cousins, or happily doing nothing at all. However they spent these months, I hope our students are returning to the Meadow with joy, ready for the familiar hums and rhythms of the school year and all the fall favorites ahead. This year, we are delighted to welcome Ben Hebebrand as our Interim Head of School & Camp. Ben brings more than 30 years in independent schools and a deep belief in the kind of whole-child education that has always defined High Meadows. He spent time on campus this summer, watching our camp program in action and beginning to get to know our community. His priority for the year ahead is a simple and fitting one: to listen, learn, build relationships, and steward this community thoughtfully. Ben joins a faculty and staff who make the magic of High Meadows happen every day — people who are knowledgeable, strong, capable, and compassionate, many of whom have poured their love and energy into this place for years. The Board has every confidence in them, and in Ben, to lead our community in the year ahead. We are genuinely excited for this new year and for all the opportunities in front of us. We begin from a position of strength. Our mission, vision, and values are well defined. Our financial position is sound. Our students are engaged, learning, and thriving, both here and as they move on to high school and beyond. With that foundation, the Board will focus on preserving what makes High Meadows uniquely special while strengthening our school and camp for the future. The ongoing work of caring, assessing, and improving is exactly how a great school stays great. The year ahead is also full of the things we love most. The Fall Festival, the Meadow Mile, the Halloweenie Roast, A Walk Around the World, Emphasis, Living Museum, Eighth Grade Recognition, and the particular corners of this campus that each hold a memory or a hope. These traditions carry our mission from one year to the next, and they are waiting for our students to fill them again. Almost twelve years ago, I walked onto this campus for the first time, and I believed then what I believe just as strongly today: High Meadows truly is what a school should be. It is a place that treats childhood as something to be valued, not rushed, where children are trusted to be curious, to take risks, and to learn at their own pace. In a world that fixates on the grade and the next flashy achievement, the confidence that grows here is the real kind: thoughtful, compassionate, self-assured children who genuinely enjoy learning. Those are the values that drew our family in, and they are exactly what this community holds dear.
Wh�th�r yo� ar� a cu�re�t fa�il�, an al�m, a gr�nd�ar�nt� or a lo�gt�me fr�en� of Hi�h Me�do�s, th� pa�es th�� fo�lo� offer a ch�nc� to lo�k ba�k on a re�ar��bl� ye�r an� a gl�mp�e of th� ye�r ah��d. I ho�e yo� en�oy th�m. I ho�e yo�r su�me� he�d so�e wo�k, so�e pl�y, so�e im�gi�at�on� an� ev�n a li�tl� bo�ed�m, an� th�� ou� st�de�ts re�ur� to th� Me�do� re�dy to le�rn� gr�w, an� pl�y. He�e'� to th� ye�r ah��d. Th�re�a Ro�is�n Bo�rd Ch�ir
Welcome New Leadership Be� He�eb�an�, In�er�m He�d of Sc�oo� & Ca�p A Ro�e Th�t Br�ng� Hi� Ba�k to Hi� At�an�� Ro�ts For Ben Hebebrand, arriving at High Meadows School & Camp is both a new beginning and something of a homecoming. More than four decades ago, Ben arrived in the United States from Germany as a teenager with limited English and little understanding of the American culture at his large Florida high school. “I learned what it feels like to be surrounded by people and still feel invisible,” he recalls. “You can attend a school every day without ever really feeling that you belong to it.” A year later, Ben’s family moved to Atlanta, where he enrolled at The Paideia School. Teachers and students took an active interest in helping him become part of the community. That transformative experience helped form a conviction that has guided him throughout more than three decades as an educator and school leader. “Education is relational,” Ben says. “Before children can fully engage in learning, they need to know that they are seen, that they are valued, and that they belong.” Ben began his education career at Atlanta International School as a German teacher and later served as dean of students and head of middle school. His career subsequently took him to independent schools across the Midwest, where his leadership encompassed gifted education, International Baccalaureate programs, inquiry-based curriculum, bilingual and international communities, faculty development, enrollment, fundraising, and campus expansion. Most recently, Ben served as interim head of The Pathfinder School in Michigan, a progressive, nature-based Pre-K–8 school with an experiential learning philosophy and Forest Kindergarten program. The experience created a meaningful bridge to High Meadows. “There is something powerful about a school that views the outdoors not as a place children visit during recess, but as part of the classroom itself,” he says. “Nature invites observation, experimentation, imagination, and wonder.” As he begins his interim year, Ben plans to listen and learn while being visible in classrooms, on campus pathways, at events, and in conversation with students, employees, families, alumni, and friends of the school. “An interim year is an act of stewardship,” he says. “My responsibility is to understand what makes High Meadows special, support the people who bring that mission to life every day, and help the school move confidently and thoughtfully toward its next chapter.” After a career that began in Atlanta and took him through a remarkable range of schools and communities, Ben has returned to a place where relationships, inquiry, nature, joy, and belonging come together. That makes High Meadows an especially fitting place to come home.
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Th� He�eb�an� Fi�e ool & Camp
Role: Interim Head of Sch
Years in Education: 30+ College; Georgia Education : Warren Wilson State University , biking, skiing, Favorite Activities: Hiking sic mu live and ll, theater, baseba and hotel concierge Previous Careers: Journalist adult children Family: Wife, Joy, and five , and conversational Languages: German, English Spanish and French s Cheers For: The Chicago Cub d for German Olympic Side Gig: Worke Atlanta Games 6 199 the television during son Zachary “Garcia,” Concert Companion: His named after Jerry Garcia Leadership Philosophy: ership.” “Trust is the currency of lead
hmeadows.org.
Read more about Ben at hig
Ga�y Br�wn� Mi�dl� Ye�rs & Co�ne�ti�ns Pr�nc�pa� Hi� Jo�rn�y to Hi�h Me�do�s Sp�ns Th�ee Co�ti�en�s Before joining High Meadows as Middle Years & Connections Principal, Gary spent fifteen years in engineering and software development before making the move into education full-time. He spent four years teaching high school before that chapter, so the classroom was never far from his mind. Over the past 12 years, he has taught middle school mathematics in Atlanta, Singapore, and Rome. "I kept coming back to young people," he says. "The energy, the curiosity, the way a student looks when something finally clicks — I couldn't find that anywhere else. And, if I'm honest, I fell in love with pedagogy and the fact that how we teach can have a dramatic impact on student learning and personal growth." That instinct has taken him across three continents, and his family — wife Rachel and three daughters, now 26, 24, and 22 — has called those places home along the way. It is, by any measure, an unconventional path. But when Gary arrived at High Meadows this summer as the new Middle Years & Connections Principal, something about it felt like the destination the whole journey had been pointing toward. "What strikes me most about High Meadows is the consistency between what the school says it believes and what you actually see and feel when you're here," he says. "The students are engaged and joyful. The teachers speak about their work with genuine enthusiasm. The families are deeply
Th� Br�wn Fi� e
Role: Middle Ye
ars & Connectio ns
Years in Educati
Principal
on: 15+ Favorite Subjec t: Mathematics Favorite Activity : Hiking & Back packing Previous School s: Westminster (Atlanta), American Overs eas School of Ro me (Italy), International Co mmunity School (Singapore) Literary Heroes : G.K. Chesterto n, C.S. Lewis, Charles Dickens
Cheers For: Man
chester City and Lionel Messi Grew Up: Woods tock, GA Lived In: United States, England , Singapore, Italy When I'm Not at School: Backpacking, re modeling old ho mes, playing disc golf, and sp ending time with my family Advice for HMS Students: Be curious … all the beauty and joy lay hidden in the “how” and “w hy.”
connected to the community. That kind of alignment is special." Gary spent eight years at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, where he taught mathematics and co-directed MayATL, a two-week experiential learning program. "The Connections and Mini-Course programs reflect something I believe deeply — that some of the most important learning happens outside the traditional classroom," he says. But ask Gary what he is most looking forward to at HMS, and the answer comes quickly. "Honestly? The students," he says. "Middle schoolers are curious, funny, occasionally chaotic, and deeply capable of growth when the adults around them get it right. They are endlessly interesting.” When he is not on campus, Gary can often be found on a trail. Recently, he
Gary with his wife, Rachel, and daughters
completed the GR-20 — a legendary 112-mile route through the mountains
Frances (26), Charlotte (24), and Margaret (22).
of Corsica. At home, he loves woodworking and home renovation projects, a natural complement to Rachel's eye for design. The two recently celebrated
Gary in 7th grade. He shared this
28 years of marriage.
middle school memory that helps
For Gary, the through line connecting engineering, teaching, international living, and mountain trails is not as unlikely as it sounds. "All of it comes back to curiosity," he says. "What can we figure out? What happens if we try? That's what I want HMS students to feel every day — that their questions matter and that this is a place where they get to find out." High Meadows feels like exactly the right place at exactly the right time.
him relate to students: “In seventh and eighth grades, I was placed in an advanced program — and I was embarrassed about it. I didn't want anyone to know. So, every day, I walked all the way around the building just to slip into the classroom without being seen.”
Welcome New Faculty & Staff! Merry Bentley-Barlow, Grade 1 Teacher - Merry is teaming up with returning teacher Gracie Marques (Yoder) in first grade this year. Merry has a master’s in early childhood education from Boston University and a bachelor’s in human development and family studies from Cornell University. Merry is a familiar face here at High Meadows as she substituted in various classrooms last year. She has almost 20 years of teaching experience and believes in teaching with creativity, divergent thinking, and responsive teaching methods that align with High Meadows’ progressive, play-based approach. Merry brings a joyful spirit and a playful energy to all that she does.
Leslie Cardenas, Grade 2/3 Teacher - Leslie Cardenas is teaming up with returning teacher Barbara Jorgenson to teach second and third grade. Leslie has deep ties to High Meadows; she is an alumna, her mother taught here, and she was a long-term substitute for us last year. Leslie holds a bachelor’s in education from the University of Alabama. She brings a decade of teaching experience in diverse educational settings, including neurodevelopmental classrooms in preschool and early elementary. Leslie loves project-based learning and inquiry-driven instruction and is excited to be formally joining the faculty this year.
Savannah Clark, Support Teacher - Savannah Clark is joining the Support Department, working with Middle Years students. Savannah holds a bachelor of arts from Georgia College & State University and a master of arts from Valdosta State University with certifications in middle grades general education (language arts and cumulative) and special education (language arts, math, reading, science, and social science), Savannah has worked in both private and public schools. Her passion is for building relationships with students that develop the mutual trust and respect necessary for learning.
Darlene Coyne, School Nurse - Darlene Coyne officially joins our Health Center team as a part-time nurse, but she is a familiar face to many, having served as a summer camp nurse and frequent support staff for our Health Center. A skilled nurse with many years of health care experience, she brings warmth, expertise, and a caring presence to our community. Darlene is also the proud grandmother of Emma T., one of our current eighth graders. When she's not caring for others, you'll likely find her on the pickleball court!
Ashley Ely, Grade 4/5 Teacher - Ashley is joining the fourth and fifth grade team this year. She holds a master of arts with distinction in special education and a bachelor’s in elementary education from California Polytechnic State University. Ashley has worked at rural, urban, suburban, and international schools and is a former Peace Corps volunteer in China, where she learned to speak conversational Mandarin Chinese. She has prior IB/PYP experience and has almost two decades of experience teaching in a variety of classroom settings. Ashley has a passion for teaching and a commitment to holistic education.
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Evan Friedman, After School Care - If you've spent any time around High Meadows over the last decade, there's a good chance you've already met Evan Friedman! A graduate of the University of Central Florida with a degree in integrated business, Evan is a lifelong baseball enthusiast who played competitively from age six through 18. This year, you'll find him working with our students at Stay ‘n Play and as a substitute teacher. A familiar face thanks to his mom, one of our beloved preschool teachers, Evan has been part of the High Meadows community for years, volunteering in classrooms and spending the past four summers as a camp counselor. We're thrilled to officially welcome him to the team!
Sonja Knighton, Pre-K Teacher - Sonja is joining returning teacher Zoe Buffington in Pre-K. Sonja has a varied background of working with children, from classroom teacher to director of a preschool. She holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education with a minor in science and language arts. Sonja is committed to the Reggio Emilia philosophy and a nature-based approach for young children. When Sonja was a substitute teacher at HMS last year, her nurturing personality provided a calm and respectful environment for children.
Stephanie McPherson, Grade 4/5 Teacher - Stephanie has 16 years of teaching experience and holds a master’s in education administration from Texas A&M University and a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University. Stephanie was drawn to our project-based instructional approach, the opportunity for collaborative group work, and our holistic approach to educating children. She is excited to join the fourth and fifth grade team and our inclusive school community.
Megan Phillips, Grade 1 Teacher - Megan is returning to reunite the dynamic duo of Phillips/Steen in first grade. Megan holds a master of education in curriculum and instruction from Valdosta State University and a bachelor’s in early childhood education with a concentration in special education from Georgia State University. Megan is looking forward to returning to a co-taught classroom and using the campus in her teaching. She is so excited to be returning!
Jason Weinberger, Environmental Sustainability Program Lead & Teacher (K-8) - Jason joins the High Meadows faculty as our environmental sustainability teacher and program lead — a role that feels tailor-made for someone who has spent his career bringing the natural world to life for young people. He holds a degree in biology education from Kennesaw State University with an aquatic ecology certification and has taught science across a range of settings, from community schools in Georgia to nature interpretation programs in Colorado. A former Eagle Scout, current Ocoee River Guide, and Wilderness First Aid certified, Jason brings an authenticity to environmental education that is hard to manufacture — he genuinely lives what he teaches. Many in our community will recognize him from his time as a substitute science teacher at HMS last year, as well as his work at High Meadows Camp.
Fond Farewells Pl�as� Jo�n Us in Ce�eb�at�ng th� Co�tr�bu�io�s Th�se Co�mu�it� Me�be�s Ha�e Ma�e to Hi�h Me�do�s Lisa Baker - High Meadows thanks Lisa Baker for her six years of dedicated service as Head of School and Camp. Lisa became Head of School and Camp during the challenges of the pandemic and led our community with steady, thoughtful leadership. During her tenure, High Meadows strengthened its financial foundation, launched the 50th Anniversary Campaign and opened Meadow Hall, continued the success of our summer camp, and strengthened the school leadership team to support the future. We appreciate Lisa’s contributions to High Meadows and wish her all the best in her next adventure.
Andrea Ianzito - Andrea Ianzito is retiring after 21 years of sharing her gifts as an educator and guide to children at High Meadows. As a teacher, teaching partner, and parent of High Meadows alumnae Kika and Elena, Andrea has long embodied the school’s mission and values. In addition to nurturing and supporting countless children, she has been a devoted contributor to the Barnyard program, regularly caring for the animals on weekends and during school breaks. We are tremendously grateful for Andrea’s two decades of service and the lasting impact she has made on the High Meadows community.
Margaret Jones - Throughout her years at High Meadows, Margaret Jones has made invaluable contributions in many leadership roles, including Lower Years Principal, Interim Middle Years Principal, Associate Head of School, and Professional Development Liaison and Instructional Coach. Most recently, she played an instrumental role in welcoming and supporting new faculty and strengthening instructional practices across the school. Margaret’s wisdom, expertise, and commitment to educators and students will be deeply missed. As she begins her well-earned retirement, we wish her much happiness in the years ahead.
! l l e w e r a F & u o Y T hank Laura McKie - Since joining High Meadows in 2011, Laura McKie has spent 15 years leading the school’s admission, marketing, and communications efforts. For many current families, Laura was their first connection to High Meadows, welcoming them with warmth and guiding them through the admission process with thoughtfulness and care. Her family’s connections to the community run deep: her children, Parker and Lula, are both school and camp “lifers,” and her stepsons, Parker and Cooper, have worked at High Meadows Camp and School, respectively. With Lula graduating from eighth grade, Laura’s own “graduation” marks a meaningful full-circle moment for her family. We are grateful for all she has contributed and wish her the very best in what comes next.
Matt Nuttall - Matt Nuttall joined High Meadows as Middle Years and Connections Principal during the uncertainty of the pandemic, bringing steadiness, flexibility, and care to a time of tremendous change. Over the past six years, he has made a meaningful impact on both programs, supporting faculty and advancing the student experience with creativity and innovation—all while his son, Oliver, attended High Meadows alongside him. Never afraid to try something new, Matt truly embodies what it means to be a risk-taker. We know Savannah Country Day School will benefit from his leadership and passion as he begins his new role as Middle School Head.
Liz Thompson - Liz Thompson has worn many hats during her decades-long connection to High Meadows. She first joined the community as a parent when her son, Case, attended and later graduated from the school. She then became a member of the faculty, serving as an impactful Lower Years teacher for 19 years. Across many ages and grade levels, Liz has touched countless lives through her care, expertise, and thoughtful guidance. Her calm, nurturing approach to educating children has influenced generations of students, and her contributions will continue to be felt for years to come. We are deeply grateful for Liz’s many years of service and the enduring impact she has made.
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 6
A Year to Remember at HMS En�oy So�e of Ou� Fa�or�te Ph�to�!
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In Memoriam Hi�h Me�do�s Lo�es Tw� Im�or�an� Li�ks to th� Sc�oo� an� Ca�p'� Fo�nd��g
Jay Dickerson (1930-2026) They never planned for it to go this far. When Jody Holden, Bill Crawford, Mike Drake, and Jay Dickerson purchased the land that became High Meadows, they just wanted to make a summer camp that was enjoyable for both kids to attend and staff to work at. The sprawling property full of cleared meadows, a couple of old barns, some well-worn farmhouses, and acres of deep shade forest must have looked ripe with possibilities. And it seemed a great place to start a little preschool, too. But this preschool would be a little different. Jody would see to that. They had worked together before, and each was a seasoned camp counselor and educator. Jay secured the loans from the big-time bankers in Buckhead, Mike handled the paperwork, Bill handled the business, and Jody ran the school. As High Meadows got its start, Jay played more of a background role. He was busy as a teacher at Westminster and then at Lovett and spent his holidays and summers running his own travel-camp excursions all across the U.S. Jay and friends took children to explore the beaches of Florida, ski in Colorado, visit Disneyland in California, fish in Jackson Hole, and perhaps most special of all, paddle and portage through The Boundary Waters of Minnesota and Quetico Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada. In the classroom, Jay ran a tight ship. But in his travels with young people, his teaching methods naturally shifted. Successful group trips require collaboration, creative problem-solving, flexibility, and care. While his classroom might reflect a top-down model, he understood that camping trips work best on more of an east-west axis, where both children and adults are empowered and involved. Jay continued to visit High Meadows, helping with special events, mowing with the tractor here and there, and frustrating the full-time staff with his aggressive, haphazard pruning—quixotic attempts to make High Meadows neater and more orderly. Around the time Jay retired from teaching, the founders decided to sell the school and camp, and the parents decided to create a nonprofit and purchase it. Rather than his involvement waning, Jay’s interest in and attention to High Meadows only grew. He co-directed camp with Bunny Sheffield (aka Mother Nature), ensuring that High Meadows Camp maintained its culture and caliber, and he helped chaperone school camping trips to Bogg’s Creek and Cumberland Island. The more he observed what was happening at High Meadows, the more his ideas about education began to change. He saw that experiential approaches were effective, and he liked it. He began to realize that a school can be as dynamic, empowering, and enjoyable as a camp. That mutual trust and respect build relationships that help students learn and grow. He learned from the teachers, counselors, and children of High Meadows.
Seeing Jay Dickerson atop the Massey Ferguson Tractor was a familiar site through the years.
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And Jay kept on checking in. Each May before camp began, as predictable as the pollen, Jay came to visit John Dovic to find out how everything was going. And each February on Jekyll Island, for the past 16 years or so, Jay visited our sixth grade class trip somewhere on the island. His friends would report our location, like the sighting of a rare bird, and Jay would track us down. He was always so pleased to hear that High Meadows students had impressed his friends with their curiosity and respectful behavior. He really believed that trips are extraordinarily important to the development of children. In his later years, as a man with no children of his own, it became clear that High Meadows was Jay’s child, and we were his family. And he was really proud of us. In his heart, he had a huge desire to see this place continue, which kept him checking in and ultimately inspired him to make a generous financial gift. From a simple idea, a camp and a school that would be good for people of all ages, to 53 years later and a continuing legacy of exceptional child stewardship, Jay, like each of the founders, couldn’t have imagined the profound impact High Meadows would have on so many people.
He ha� ac�ie�ed su�ce�s wh� ha� li�ed we�l, la�gh�d of�en an� lo�ed mu�h; wh� ha� ga�ne� th� re�pe�t of in�el�ig�nt me� [a�d wo�en� an� th� lo�e of li�tl� ch�ld�en� wh� ha� fill�d hi� ni�he an� ac�om�li�he� hi� ta�k; wh� ha� le�t th� wo�ld be�te� th�n he fo�nd it…wh� ha� ne�er la�ke� ap�re�ia��on fo� ea�th�s be�ut� or fa�le� to ex�re�s it� wh� ha� al��ys lo�ke� fo� th� be�t in ot�er� an� gi�en th� be�t he ha�…
— Bessie A. Stanley
The best way to honor Jay is to continue supporting the work of High Meadows through the High Meadows Fund.
At the Founder’s Dinner on July 17, 2026, friends, family, and those closest to the founding of High Meadows gathered for an intimate celebration of the remarkable life, legacy, and enduring impact of Jay Dickerson.
Pictured from left to right: Pat Wolf, Bill Hamby, Jay Dickerson at 85 on his bicycle, Anne Lovatt, and David Engbritson from a sixth grade Jekyll Island trip in 2015.
Mike Drake (1946-2026) Dr. Mike Drake was a scholar and a gentleman who challenged generations of students to think critically, pursue excellence, and never stop learning. Mike’s connection to High Meadows runs long and deep. He was a student of Jay Dickerson at Westminster, alongside Jeffrey Johnson, who later became the architect of the Barn Theatre, Crawford Cabin, and Middle Years buildings. As a young adult, Mike became a counselor at Camp Chattahoochee, where he connected with Jody Holden, Bill Crawford, and his former teacher, Jay. He also met Mardi, his wife of nearly 53 years. When the camp faced closure, Jody, Bill, Jay, and Mike—the “four fearless founders”—bought the property that became High Meadows School & Camp. As Bunny Sheffield (aka “Mother Nature”) explained, “We count the people who were the financial components as founders. But there were a lot there at the beginning making it all happen.” There was a lot to do, and everyone pitched in. While Mike and Bill shared responsibility for directing the camp, they hired schoolteachers who understood child development to lead swimming, sports, performing arts, nature lore, horseback riding—which Mardi led—canoeing, photography, wilderness camping, and other activities High Meadows continues to offer today. During the school year, Mike taught and coached at a school in Nashville, Tennessee, but he spent his summers with his family (Mardi, Sandi, and Martha) at High Meadows Camp. Bunny shares that he was “endlessly cheerful and abundantly capable, an enormous influence on High Meadows through its first two decades.” Benson Crawford, son of founder Bill, recalls Mike as one of his first camp counselors. “He and my dad ran camp as a team and took care of all day-to-day needs.” Whether that was morning bug juice prep, shuttling kids to canoeing classes, or cooking for overnights, Bill and Mike were omnipresent at camp and made it all work. While Bill handled the business side, Mike handled the paperwork and record-keeping. Everything was done by hand: Mike created counselor and camper schedules and recorded Knighthood achievements on beautifully printed cards. Then, as now, campers chose the classes they most wanted to take, and Mike made the logistics work. He was meticulous, encouraging, and fair; kind but firm, likable, and witty. Mike’s careful work helped build the foundation for High Meadows Camp. Campers became counselors who taught new generations of campers, and the magic and legends of High Meadows grew.
Mike at High Meadows Camp with staff and friends.
Tributes by Anne Lovatt with special thanks to Benson Crawford for sharing his stories with Bunny Sheffield (“Mother Nature”), and to Bunny, for generously sharing her memories, words, and wisdom.
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Mike in the early years of High Meadows Camp. “Endlessly cheerful and an enormous influence on High Meadows through its first two decades.”
Mike’s influence extended beyond camp. His example inspired countless others to become educators. When Benson needed teacher training classes to instruct AP U.S. History, he asked the College Board if he could skip the standard courses and instead get his instruction from Dr. Mike Drake while working at the camp. Mike was a passionate teacher of AP U.S. History for many years and an ideal mentor. They agreed, and Benson still teaches AP History today, building on that invaluable summer alongside Mike. Benson emphasized the impact that Mike, as an educator and lover of history, had on him and his fellow counselors, many of whom became history teachers themselves. When High Meadows became a nonprofit in 1990, the
Mi�e sp�nt 55 ye�rs of se�vi�e as an ed�ca�or� An� it wa� an ac� of wh�le�ea�te� se�vi�e. Th�us�nd� of st�de�ts� te�ch�rs� ad�in�st�at�rs� an� ot�er� we�e po�it�ve�y affec��d by hi� an� hi� le�de�sh�p ro�es at sc�oo�s ac�os� th� So�th�
founders entered the next chapters of their lives. Mike then became more involved in the Georgia Association of Independent Schools, where he was executive director for eight years from 2001 to 2009. In total, Mike spent 55 years of service as an educator. And it was an act of wholehearted service. Thousands of students, teachers, administrators, and others were positively affected by him and his leadership roles at schools across the South. Mike, Jay, Bill, and Jody could not know what would be reaped when they planted the seeds for High Meadows back in 1973. We get to live in their harvest. And we are indebted to each of them, to their families, and to the earliest teachers and camp counselors of High Meadows. One of the best ways to honor Mike Drake is to teach a child something true, send a kid to camp, or strive to be a role model. Mike’s last visit to High Meadows Camp.
8th Grade Trip to Colorado Mi�e-�ig� Me�or�es Ask any alum to recall their most memorable school experiences at HMS, and you will undoubtedly hear about the eighth grade trip to Colorado. This annual trip, which has been occurring since the mid-1990s, is a rite of passage that provides soon-to-be graduates a week away in the beautiful Rocky Mountains to strengthen relationships across their graduating class, enjoy outdoor adventures, and build new skills. Anne Lovatt, who was on the very first HMS Colorado trip in 1996, shares, “This trip is a celebration of the students’ full experience at High Meadows, and a time for them to relax and celebrate after a rigorous eighth grade year of academics. By the end of eighth grade, students are more mature and socially ready for the challenges of this kind of intense travel, hiking, and living together.” Each May, a couple of weeks before their Recognition ceremony, the entire eighth grade class plus a number of enthusiastic faculty chaperones pack their bags and fly to Denver before driving to their final destination: Estes Park, Colorado. The group stays together in the lodge at the YMCA of the Rockies for a week, where they take turns cooking, cleaning, playing, and reflecting. Days are spent on long and sometimes challenging hikes in the surrounding mountains, and downtime is spent making music, playing games, and preparing Recognition speeches. HMS Music Teacher and Band Director Jimmy West regularly participates in the Colorado trip as a chaperone. When asked about the importance of this trip for High Meadows students, he responded that “This field trip is the culminating trip for eighth grade students to experience the natural world, be risk-takers, and to spend time creating meaningful relationships with others. One of the ultimate goals is to have a shared sense of responsibility as a group. Everyone has an important role to play during the day, whether that be cooking breakfast, making lunches, cooking dinner, or cleaning up the kitchen.” Sarah Topper, HMS math & science teacher, also enjoys her role as a chaperone on this trip. She shares, “The reason trips like this are important, now more than ever, is for the children to be in a big group without the distractions of everyday life: cell phones, social media, homework, a million scheduled activities, and they can just be themselves, play the piano, sing along to music, be goofy, cook together, clean together, hike together, and generally bond with one another.”
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We asked this year’s chaperones to share what distinct skills and knowledge are developed on the Colorado trip. This is a summarized compilation of their responses: Students on the Colorado trip learn how to: Be flexible, responsible, and persevere Prepare for and hike in inclement weather and challenging terrain Apply ‘Leave No Trace’ ethics to hiking in a large group Meal-prep, cook, grocery shop, and get creative with ingredients Clean, vacuum, do dishes, and be accountable for your belongings Entertain themselves without any electronic devices Include everyone in games and activities They also learned: The importance of sun protection and staying hydrated To look out for themselves and each other to keep everyone safe To share the load, offering a helping hand when it looks like someone needs it The power of volunteering That everyone has something to offer
8th Grade Trip to Colorado Mi�e-�ig� Me�or�es
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 20
Mr. West summarizes the value of the trip by sharing, “As we prepare students to go into the real world, it's important for them to have the opportunities to try things and fail forward. From cooking to taking a different path on a trail, students should feel empowered to take risks and make mistakes. This is where growth and experience will help them learn how to handle future challenges. It's also important for their parents to be out of the picture during this trip. Trusted teachers and mentors help guide students through challenges on this trip. Students find out what they are made of when they are "on their own" without their parents in close proximity. When challenges arise, students also come together and rely on each other. This sense of community, building empathy, and problem-solving are big steps in adolescent development.” Thank you to Mr. West, Ms. Lovatt, Ms. Topper, Mr. Barron, and Mr. Nuttall for their care, leadership, and contributions as chaperones on the 2026 Colorado trip!
FAHMS Fa�il� Su�po�t Fo�te�s Co�mu�it� Co�ne�ti�ns Behind every great independent school is a cohort of deeply invested parents and family members who roll up their sleeves to support people, processes, and community building. Since the earliest days at High Meadows School, that group has been our parent association, FAHMS (formerly S.H.A.R.E). FAHMS (the Family Association of High Meadows School) participates meaningfully in everything from event planning, employee appreciation efforts, volunteer coordination, and serving as a communication conduit between school and home.
FA�MS is a co�li�io� of vo�un�ee�s wh� wa�t to br�ng a li�tl� ex�ra fu� an� ap�re�ia��on to th�se wh� do so mu�h fo� ou� ki�s. We su�po�t ou� te�ch�rs an� st�ff by he�pi�g wi�h ac�iv�ti�s an� ev�nt�, ce�eb�at�ng bi�th�ay�, an� co�rd�na�in� cl�ss fa�il�es fo� a va�ie�y of ce�eb�at�on� bo�h on an� off ca�pu�. We su�po�t ou� co�mu�it� by bu�ld�ng re�at�on�hi�s wi�hi� an� ac�os� gr�de ba�ds th�ou�h ba�k-�o-�ch�ol ev�nt�, sc�oo�-w�de pl�yd�te�, an� Ti�e Sw�ng Tu�sd�y. I be�ie�e a co�ne�te� co�mu�it� ha� a mu�h hi��er ch�nc� of be�ng a he�lt�y an� th�iv�ng co�mu�it�. — FAHMS President Jennifer Titus
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 22
FAHMS Family Association High Meadows School
The invitation to participate in FAHMS is open to all High Meadows parents and guardians. There’s no formal process to join—all families are already members of FAHMS! Most people choose to actively participate out of a desire to share their child’s educational experience alongside them, and to find meaning in supporting the school’s efforts. As a school rooted in community, FAHMS is a necessary component to what makes the High Meadows magic possible. FAHMS member and former president Susan Cuellar reflects, “When our oldest child started in Pre-K at High Meadows, we were new to Georgia, new to HMS, and new to being parents to a school-aged child. The list of things we didn’t know felt overwhelming! The people we met here were so kind, and our daughter loved school so much, it felt natural to look for ways to connect with the community. Volunteering in the classroom made me feel more comfortable on campus and that led me to seek out more ways to get involved. I started with signing up to bring items to events, then helping at events, then serving as a room representative, and from there stepped into leadership roles as the needs and opportunities arose. An active, engaged community that works with a common purpose is a community that is modeling for our children how to engage with the world around them.” When asked what advice they would share with new HMS families looking for ways to get to know one another, Susan and Jennifer both emphasized jumping in and getting involved! “FAHMS is a great way to get started because there are opportunities for engagement and people to help you find a way to connect with something that fits you. Come to a meeting and hear about things happening on campus, or read about upcoming events in the Meadow Messenger. One of the fastest ways to find your people here is to sign up to help with something that sounds like fun to you,” shares Susan. Whether you’re a new or returning High Meadows family, there is a right-fit engagement opportunity for you at High Meadows. Jennifer encourages, “be a risk taker yourself and coordinate a meet up! It can be as simple as inviting your class to a local playground. You’d be surprised who else is looking for something to do with their family.” There are opportunities for extroverts, introverts, planners, and people who want to be part of the action on the day of an event. The culture of HMS is special because it’s a place for the whole family to learn together. There are so many opportunities for families to participate in and celebrate their students’ learning. Emphasis, Exhibition, and Capstone presentations, conferences, concerts, plays, picnics, festivals, sporting events, and more. FAHMS is one path to being part of these many experiences. Have questions about how to get involved? Email FAHMS leadership at FAHMS@highmeadows.org
Faculty & Staff Milestones A Ti�e to Ce�eb�at� Each year, High Meadows faculty and staff gather to celebrate the close of another successful school year. This special event honors the dedication, collaboration, and lasting impact of our entire team. The annual gathering is filled with laughter, appreciation, and recognition of milestone years of service. We honor and reflect on the talent, passion, and commitment that make High Meadows such a special place to learn and grow.
5 Ye�rs
10 Ye�rs
15 Ye�rs
20 Ye�rs
Marisa Joshi
James Cox
Laura McKie
Andrea Ianzito
Jennifer Kraften
Christina Lababidi
Lisa Williams
Tricia McDaniel
Sarah Topper Linda Wise
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 24
Share HMS wi�h pr�sp�ct�ve fa�il�es
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, 2026 Schedule a tour at highmeadows.org/visit
Hi�h Me�do�s Sc�oo� pr�vi�ed ou� ch�ld wi�h an en�ir�nm��t to be hi�se�f an� di�co�er hi� in�er�st�. Th� cu�ri�ul�m pr�vi�ed am�le ti�e fo� hi� to ex�lo�e th� 42 ac�es ar�un� hi� wh�le al�o pr��ar�ng hi� fo� ac�de�ic su�ce�s at a ri�or�us hi�� sc�oo�. We ar� so th�nk�ul fo� Hi�h Me�do�s Sc�oo�! — HMS Parent
Please share you love of High Meadows School & Camp with your friends and family via social media and word of mouth.
Me�do� Ha�l SPOTLIGHT
Completed in 2025 through the generosity of donors, Meadow Hall is a lasting investment in the future of High Meadows School & Camp. As the first new academic building on campus in nearly 30 years, it brings together classrooms, environmental learning, collaboration, and community under one roof. Each week, Meadow Hall is filled with learning, exploration, and discovery for hundreds of students while also serving as a welcome gathering place for families, faculty, and the broader community. Meadow Hall stands as a testament to what is possible when a community comes together to invest in future generations.
Me�do� Ha�l ha� be�n in us� fo� a fu�l ye�r! He�e ar� a fe� bu�ld�ng hi��li�ht� an� ho� we�ve pu� th� ne� sp�ce to go�d us�.
CL�SS��/D�Y
ST�DE�TS�WE�K
MI�I-�OU�SE�
PA�EN�/F�HM� ME�TI�GS
Active learning happening all day, every day.
Provides a dedicated home base for Environmental Sustainability classes.
Hands-on learning. Big ideas. Real-world impact.
Building community and connection.
VO�UN�EE� AP�RE�IA��ON BR�AK��ST
Thanking the hearts that help our school shine.
HI�� ME�DO�S CO�MU�IT� EX�HA�GE GA�HE�IN�
Sharing, learning, and growing together.
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 26
PR�FE�SI�NA� AN� CO�MU�IT� GA�HE�IN�S
Welcoming organizations to meet, learn, and connect
DO�OR EV�NT
Honoring generosity. Inspiring the future.
8T� GR�DE DE�SE�T RE�EP�IO�
Celebrating our 8th graders and their Recognition Program.
A pl�ce to le�rn� ga�he�, ce�eb�at�, & gr�w to�et��r.
De�ig�ed fo� Le�rn�ng� Bu�lt fo� Co�mu�it�.
CL�SS�OO�S
OU�DO�R LE�RN�NG SP�CE�
ME�DO� HA�L
OF�IC�S
HA�K’� NE�T GA�HE�IN� SP�CE
HMS Class of 2026 Our 2026 eighth grade graduates reflect on “What skills, knowledge, passions, or abilities did you learn at High Meadow that you will be taking with you to high school?”
Owen Albertalli Roswell High School
Davis Bigler The Galloway School
I will be bringing with me a passion for music (Shoutout to Mr. West!). HMS improved my public speaking skills and gave me the confidence to interact with adults as equals.
I began HMS in Kindergarten. I played in creeks, learned outside, and loved being free. I still have a passion for being outside and exploring. I am so grateful for the experiences.
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 28
Isla Blackshear Blessed Trinity Catholic High School HMS has prepared me for high school, both academically and socially. It gave me confidence to meet new people and make new friends, while always being true to myself.
Olivia Bobbitt
Pope HS Globalization Academy
Ross Hooge The Cottage School
Lydia Johnson Blessed Trinity Catholic High School
HMS taught me how to be a confident speaker, how to interact positively with my peers, and treat all with respect. Not knowing many people next year in high school makes these things feel very important.
I learned the importance of incorporating nature into our everyday lives.
Molly Johnson The Walker School
Gabe Koneful Haddon Township High School
Lily Martinez Marist School
HMS has helped me develop critical thinking skills, the ability to complete long projects, and the confidence to speak and answer questions in front of others.
I will bring my passions for playing basketball and running cross country into high school, along with my love of science and social studies. I have learned so many great things!
HMS has prepared me both academically and socially. It has also been incredibly supportive and flexible with my rigorous athletic schedule, allowing me to pursue my goals both inside and outside the classroom.
My favorite thing that HMS taught me was how to properly advocate for myself.
Diego Rei Misawa The Walker School
Dylan Moore Hillgrove High School
Hannah Muller Sprayberry High School
I learned how to communicate in classes. From asking questions to guided discussions, the school helped me a lot with my voice.
I came to HMS in sixth grade not knowing many people. I was welcomed so warmly, and HMS taught me to appreciate the love and support that I have around me.
My time at the barnyard has taught me to live my life how I want to and not try to change it or live up to someone else's expectations. Also, I know HOW to study now!
Lula Nicholson River Ridge High School
Elodie N. Innovation Academy
Oliver Phelps North Springs High School
I learned almost everything at HMS but two of the most prominent things were building and sustaining relationships and having social confidence.
I learned the value of perseverance and how to find joy in every situation.
I developed a passion for science throughout my eighth grade class with Mr. Stephens, and am excited about the learning opportunities that are coming in high school.
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 30
Olivia Rivera-Garwick Pope HS Globalization Academy
Ari Sandberg Rivers Academy
Raj Saxena Walton High School
HMS is such an amazing school. It opened up many new doors for me and I learned so much. Eighth grade was such a great experience because of this wonderful school.
I learned about passion, appreciation, empathy, and awareness for both nature and people. I value all these traits, and will carry them wherever I go.
My favorite things about HMS are the opportunities we were given to be outdoors playing football and studying. I developed my passion for music here. And most importantly, I made a couple of good friends.
Natalie Schuman The Walker School HMS taught me how to connect with others, build meaningful friendships, and communicate with confidence. It also gave me the skills to be an effective learner, think critically, and present my ideas with confidence.
HMS Alumni Class of 2022 Class of 2022 alumni were asked, "What skills, values, and habits did you learn at High Meadows that you have found beneficial during your high school experience?"
Class of 2022 alumni James Sorensen, Frank Eldridge, Jackson Kaul, Jack Schuman, Alec Harvey, Jake Sedgley, and Joseph Parker.
Frank Eldridge Blair Academy Wake Forest University
Ella Farmer Blessed Trinity University of Georgia
Alec Harvey The Walker School Georgia Tech
I learned independence, adaptability, and how to be a good overall person.
At HMS, I learned a strong work ethic, which helped me succeed in high school!
HMS gave the opportunity to learn by being outside and playing with our friends. It made learning exciting, which continued to help me in the long run.
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 32
Lexi Kaul The Mount Vernon School Miami University, Ohio
Parker Nicholson Woodstock High School Berry College
HMS taught me how to balance my studies with my social life. Learning to put time into different areas helped me develop strong habits, which allowed me to succeed.
My time at HMS gave me a strong academic foundation that helped me excel throughout high school.
HMS showed me the value of a small, caring school community. Also, my love of the outdoors .
Jack Schuman The Walker School Miami University, Ohio
Zachary Schwartz Riverwood Charter School University of Georgia
Lila Suddeth Sprayberry High School University of Alabama
HMS taught me to ask questions and try things, confidence which made it easy to speak up for myself and start things, and freedom, and how to use it well.
The joy of learning.
I learned keeping an open mind will lead you far in life. HMS teaches us to always be inclusive, and never pass up an opportunity to try new things.
Jackson Kaul Milton High School University of Southern California
New Traditions—Senior Sunset This spring, High Meadows launched a new tradition with Senior Sunset. Alumni from the classes of 2018 and 2022 were invited to the Meadow to reconnect with classmates, teachers, and the place where so many lifelong memories began. The evening was filled with laughter and shared stories as alumni wandered the campus, dined together, roasted s’mores, and reflected on how far they’ve come since graduation. As the sun set over the Meadow, it served as a reminder that the sense of community fostered at High Meadows continues to guide our alumni wherever life takes them. Senior Sunset was more than an evening of joy, connection, and camaraderie. We look forward to welcoming future high school and college graduating classes back to campus each year as we continue this new tradition and celebrate the enduring spirit of High Meadows.
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 34
Co�gr�tu�at�on� to th� al�mn� cl�ss of 20�2: Niyah Amezqua Nola Brown Hudson Carey Carlos Carrillo Jr. Larson Collier Haley Cooper Maggie Daly Frank Eldridge Ella Farmer Lottie Feurer Sage Gowin Sloane Guinn Tucker Happel Alec Harvey
Piper Hoffman Abby Irwin Angel Juarez-Tenorio Lexi Kaul Jackson Kaul Joslyn Mahoney Kiefer Melanson Ariana Mirsalimi Maya Misawa Kira Nadler Parker Nicholson Joseph Parker Nellie Parker Amelia Peterson
Clementine Plummer Clyde Plummer Jack Schuman Zachary Schwartz Jake Sedgley Sadie Shapiro James Sorensen Rachael Strobeck Marlene Sturz Lila Suddeth Vivi Uhlenbrock Ava Watford Whitaker Williams Elijah Zabala
A Reflection of Gratitude from Lexi Kaul ’22 Na�e: Hi�h Sc�oo� At�en��d: Co�le�e At�en�in�:
Al�xa (L�xi� Di�nn� Ka�l Th� Mo�nt Ve�no� Sc�oo� Mi�mi Un�ve�si�y in Ox�or�, Oh�o
My name is Alexa Dianne Kaul, but my High Meadows teachers
Thank you, Ms. Spinola and Ms. Scala, for teaching me that
know me as Lexi or Lex, and Mr. Wolf loved to call me Kaul. I
language isn’t about memorization but about the culture and
recently graduated from the Mount Vernon Upper School with
language you immerse yourself in.
honors and will be attending my dream college, Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, on a four-year full scholarship. I plan to major in
Many thanks to Mr. Stephens, for without his science class I
art therapy and fashion, with minors in Spanish and psychology,
would not have gone into three different high school science
something that will probably surprise none of my old teachers.
classes having already learned well over half the material, or been able to teach my entire class how to do stoichiometry
My time at HMS gave me a strong academic foundation that
when my teacher could not figure out how to explain it.
helped me excel throughout high school. The study skills, organizational habits, and learning strategies I developed here
Because of Ms. Lovatt, I am able to answer any question about
consistently put me ahead of my peers and gave me confidence
hunters and gatherers by going back and remembering my time
in the classroom.
in the forest where we built and foraged to learn firsthand. (PS. If there is still corn growing in the forest, it’s because our baby
One of the biggest advantages was the Spanish program.
seed sack died.)
Because of the coursework I completed at HMS, I qualified for Spanish III as a freshman in high school. I later became a
Dr. Babiar remains the single best math teacher I ever had and
teacher’s assistant for two of my Spanish teachers and was
had me answering calculus questions the first day of class when
honored with an Academic Honors Award in Spanish at
no one else could.
graduation. Finally, to Mr. Wolf, my debate coach, my teacher, and the Beyond specific subjects, HMS taught me how to be an effective
beginning of my obsession with behavioral psychology. To his
student. The habits I learned not only helped me succeed
debate class, without which I would not be the public speaker or
academically but also allowed me to help friends develop
writer I am today. To his outlines that I swore I would never do
stronger study skills of their own. I attribute much of my success
again but now do for every single class as my main study habit.
in high school, and the opportunities that have led me to college,
To him standing over my shoulders glaring when I was reading in
to the foundation I received at HMS. The education and skills I
his class. And to him always knowing I could be more than I
gained there gave me the tools to challenge myself, pursue my
thought I was and never losing faith and remaining in touch to
goals, and become the best student I could be. Not to mention
check in, I thank you.
the friends I made at HMS, who I am still in touch with on a regular basis.
It is th� te�ch�rs an� co�mu�it� at Hi�h Me�do�s th�� I gi�e cr�di� to fo� my su�ce�s in hi�� sc�oo� an� co�le�e. Ma�y find th�ir mi�dl� sc�oo� da�s di�as�ro�s, bu� th�nk� to yo�, mi�e we�e ma�ic�l. To th�s da�, I st�ll find my�el� wi�hi�g I co�ld go ba�k, wi�h th� sa�e te�ch�rs an� th� sa�e st�de�ts� an� do th� ei�ht� gr�de Co�or�do tr�p al� ov�r ag�in�
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 36
Alumni Spotlight—Alec Harvey ‘22 Na�io�al Me�it Fi�al�st Al�c Ha�ve� ’2� Cr�di�s Hi�h Me�do�s wi�h Bu�ld�ng Co�fide�ce an� a St�on� Ac�de�ic Fo�nd�ti�n National Merit Scholarship Finalist Alec Harvey ’22 would love the opportunity to speak with the four co-founders of High Meadows School & Camp. “I’d like to thank them,” he said, reflecting on his years at the school. “I want to say thank you for the opportunity to be on a campus where we could learn by being outside and playing with our friends. It was all fun and made learning exciting, which continued to help me in the long run. It put me in the position I am in today.” A graduate of The Walker School in Marietta, Alec is majoring in mathematics at Georgia Tech. His passion for the subject began in seventh and eighth grade at High Meadows in Dr. Babier’s math classes. “That’s really what made me enjoy math,” he said. “I had a chance to keep doing math at a strong level. Dr. Babiar was an amazing teacher.” Alec also credits Mr. Wolf’s eighth-grade class with teaching him academic habits he continues to use. “I learned how to be prepared and do outlines,” he said. “Even today, I still use those methods.” At Walker, Alec pursued interests well beyond the classroom. A former High Meadows Hawks basketball player, he was on Walker’s varsity baseball team and served as the public address announcer at Friday night football games. Academically, Alec was named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist based on his PSAT/NMSQT performance, academic record, and essay.
I wa� pr��ar�d ac�de�ic�ll� as I mo�ed fr�m Hi�h Me�do�s to Wa�ke�. Th� te�ch�rs he�pe� me su�ce�d an� ta�gh� me to sp�ak up fo� my�el�. Ev�n as ea�ly as fift� an� si�th gr�de� I kn�w I co�ld go up to my te�ch�rs an� ta�k to th�m. My co�fide�ce wh�n ta�ki�g to pe��le is a gr�at sk�ll I ho�ed at HM�.
Having attended High Meadows from kindergarten through eighth grade, Alec remembers time with friends on the Meadow, writing books in kindergarten, and exploring the woods and forests. “Everything I remember about the Early Years was just pure fun,” he said. “Kids enjoy their time and still get the learning experience.” That balance of joy and preparation remained important throughout his High Meadows education. “High Meadows is a great way to set you up for success,” Alec said.
2025-2026 Annual Report Hi�h Me�do�s Fu�d 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 2025-2026 academic year helped every student at High Meadows School.
Giving Levels: Leadership Society*
Circle of Friends
White Oak
$10,000+
Magnolia
$1,000 to $1,499
*Those who contribute $1,500 or more are
Red Oak
$5,000 to $9,999
Persimmon
$500 to $999
recognized in our Leadership Society. Donors
Fig
$2,500 to $4,999
Sycamore
$250 to $499
at this level are invited to special events
Juniper
$1,500 to $2,499
Beech
Up to $249
throughout the year.
Key: $10,000 & Above
Kumar Menon & Rohini Khanduri Roger Mitchell & Tameka Phillips Yash & Shreya Patel Zachary & Julia Prescott Scott & Grace Shickler
P P P B, P A
$5,000-$9,999
Lisa Baker & Kristi Fielder Ken & Donna Hall Stuart & Carolyn Lumsden Steven & Carlyn Romeyn
S P, A P A
$2,500-$4,999
Anonymous Donors (1) Michael & Leigh Borda Stephen & Geralyn Brennan Donn Chambers Ed & Laila Fedak Jonny & Brittany Howard Gordie Howe Steven & Tracey Kaplan Gaurav & Neha Khanna Ryan & Claire McAden Brent & Katherine Nobles Ryan & Kara Pernice Taylor & Theresa Robison Doug & Rebecca Sandberg Stephanie Smith David Strother Marshall & Kate Sweeney
B, P P P P P P P P P P P B, P, A S, P S A A
Brian & Becky Albertalli Bharat Vadlapatla & Sri Aluri Michael & Caitlan Bavely Hunter & Kavitha Bradley Nikhil Kodilkar & Archana Chaudhary Javier Estrella & Johane Baez Michael & Pam Giles Ryan & Allison Goodrich James Harrington Todrick & Carolyne Hilton Amy & Rob Hogan
P P P P P B, P, A G P G B,P P
$1,500-$2,499
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 38
B = Board Member/Founder P = Current Parent A = Alumni/Alumni Parent G = Grandparent F = Friends S = Faculty/Staff
$1,500 - $2,499 (cont) Kathleen & John Hraba Andrew & Summer Huggins Mark & Jen Johnson Zain & Rebecca Kaj Matt Empey & Soojin Kang Dylan Goldblatt & Elicia Lair Steven Barnard & Margaret Lamb Ryan & Andrea Landers Frank Olszewski & Jessica Larocco-Olszewski Jane MacFarlane Neil & Melissa Marini Leigh Martin Rich & Jessica McCraw John Monahan & Lily Moore-Coll John & Linda Monahan Nirav & Brittany Patel Ankit & Mital Patel Doug & Helene Romine Ed Scholl & Janet Kamikihara Scholl Jeff Shulman K.C. & Jamie Smith Marcia Spiller Caitlin Steenstrup & Kevin Rezai Ricky & Julianne Taft Jon & Alexis Valera Patrick & Mandi Winders Neal & Mel Zaher
G P P P P P B, A P P G A G B, P, A B, P G P B, P G P G P B P P P P P
$250 - $499 (cont)
$1,000 - $1,499 Michael & Hailey Barnett James & Helayne Bilenker Brett & Ashlei Boron Brooke & Dan Gray Lori Kennedy Allen & Jan Lazzara Mary Long Matt Oja Chris Parker & Mariana Pinango Parker Evan & Cadence Roosevelt Jacob & Erin Shulman Donna Stuhrman Ryan Hefner & Heather Summerville Alan & Jannah Thomas Kenneth & Keiko Yeung
P G P P, A S G G G P, A P P G P P P
G P F P G G P, A P P G P P S P P G G B S, P, A P G P S, A P P P B, A P S, A G, A
$250 - $499 Anonymous Donors (3) Rafael & Margo Balderrama Michelle Bertoli Lynn Bilski Travis & Caroline Carr Zach & Lindsay Chapkin Jeff & Stacie Cook Silverio & Beatrice Cuellar Brian & Jennifer DeCuir Mathew & Sarah Gitchell Dan & Susan Grundhoefer Jody Holden
G G P G F P P P P P F F S S, P, A G
Up to $249
$500 - $999 Anonymous Donors (2) Arthur & Learline Beaty Colin & Jackie Blackshear Rachel Buckner Shawn Lee & Minjin Choi Ed & Darlene Coyne Connie Ericsson Jimmy & Megan Gosma Jan & Rachel Grindrod Michael & Allison Hartnett Nick & Catherine Impalli Jarvis Jones Sarah Jones Margaret Jones Ryan & Sarah Kerzner Peter Gaciri & Regina Kihato David & Liliana Kintner Ed & Pam Lair Bud & Kathleen Lichtenstein Laura McKie Steven Kucharski & Larissa Michel Marion & Burma Parker Ben & Kate Pearson Al & Kimberly Reingold Kian & Laura Sadri Gintas & Elena Sarkus Lauren & Ashley Sheen Markee & Tanya Squire Alex & Kat West Jeff & Lisa Williams Pat Wolf
Kevin Johns Jyoti & Shashee Joshi Christian & Lyndey Kelly Dayle Moore Moxie Burger Charles & Elisabeth Myerson Tom & Katelyn Rainey David & Sommer Rogers Matt & Erica Sartorio Anders & Maria Schwartz Diane Tutt Whit's Frozen Custard of Roswell Tracy Wisdom Isaac Wolf & Jennifer Larson Sandy Zilka
Up to $249 (cont)
G P G S, P, A P P G P P G B
Anonymous Donors (23) Mooni Abdus-Salam Ryan Brenn & Garrick Aden-Buie Wilfred Alexander Svetlana Arkhipov Jerry & Tasha Babiar Juan Baez Billy Barron Kiki Bethea James & Amy Bigler Brandon & Lauryn Bissell Dick Black & Ronda Brooks Andy Blackstock & Mary Kathryn Harrington Mark & Mary Bleichner Carli Blomquist Jim & Cathy Bobbitt Angela Bogoev Craig Bowie Zoe Buffington Neil & Susannah Campbell Charise Chambers Katie Coe Jeremy & Alice Collins Ryan Conley Theresa Corbin Thomas Cox James & Kendra Cox Clive Davis & Yvette Cupid Eli & Amy Dawson Joel Deitch & Corey-Jan Albert Emilie Dempsey Kraig Doremus Diane Doster Joanne Dunbar J.D. & Erin Easley Frank Eldridge Jeff Engle Christen Ericsson-Penfold Laurel Frazer Larry & Marsha Freudenberg Jenifer Friedman Marta Garcia Elliott & Maggie Gordon Jerry & Jennifer Grammer
S P G F S, A G S S P P P P P P G S S S P, A S S P A G P S, A S, A P A S S S S P A F P S, P G S F A S, P
Mark & Reina Grundhoefer P William & Virginia Hamby A Lori Hannan S Tom & Stephanie Harris P Alex Chavez & Leigh Hellrung P Norman Hillestad G Evan & Katie Hillestad S, P Hot Wheels Skate Center F Ty & Elizabeth Houston P Clarrissa Hulett S Michael & Andrea Ianzito S, A Roshni Ismail S Judd & Sharanne Johns S, P Katie Johnson & Kat Shreve B Douglas & Tracy Kelly G Katie Kerner S, P Adam & Holly Kintner P Jessica Kirsch S Ken & Jennifer Kraften S, P, A Christina Lababidi S Andrew & Anna Lackey P Mike & Shirley Landers G Jason & Jenise Lindo S, P Mary Jo Lombardo S Jennifer Lott S Anne Lovatt S, A Shelley Maaske S Julia Madsen G Carla Maia S Jennifer Margolis S Sam Mason S Jeff & Tricia McDaniel S, A Cooper McKie S Josh & Tori Milenthal F Marisa Moore P Matt & Sarah Nardi P Dona Nimer S Matt & Robin Nuttall S, P Michael & Amy Oeschger S, P Arely Orta S Sarah Pannell P Ronald & Renee Pearlman G Jeff & Julie Pearlman S, P Danny & Mary Phelps P John & Pam Pluschau G, A Edward & Wava Prescott G Michael & Wendy Rhodes S, A Matt Ackerman & Melody Richardson P Paulyna Rivera P Jonny & Hillary Rogers P Steve Saphos G Cynthia Scala S Corey & Mary Schuman S, P, A Vanda Spinola S Christie Stalvey S Elisabeth Steen S Sandy Stefani F Jack & Kate Stoessel S, P David Stone G Sarah Sullivano S Matt & Ginger Summers P Taylor Thomas S Liz Thompson S, A
2025-2026 Annual Report Up to $249 (cont) Danielle Tonguet Sarah Topper Gary & Sharyn Troeger Alex Glover & Sarah Turner Derek Underwood Anne Verville Alex Viola
S S G P G S S
Jen Volkers Shannon Waldner Rhett & Kristen Walker Kate Walsh Rich & Pat Ward Shaffiq & Amynah Welji Jimmy West
S G P S G F S
Linda Wise Helmut & Sarah Woelz Rachel Wynn Gracie Yoder Tia Young Kelly Yount
Financials Operating Income 79%
Tuition & Fees
15%
Camp & Auxiliary Programs
3%
Contributions
2%
Investments
1%
Other
Operating Expenses 61%
Salary & Benefits
11%
Camp & Auxiliary Programs
11%
Administration
7%
Financial Assistance
5%
Interest & Depreciation
3%
Instructional Materials/Supplies
2%
Buildings & Grounds Maintenance
*The 2025-2026 Annual Report is published by the Development Office to express gratitude to those who have generously given to the school during
Thank you to the following donors
the fiscal year (June 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026). Every effort has been made to
Ted Wolf Memorial Scholarship Fund - Jennifer Armstrong, Jackie Wolf, Pat Wolf
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.
HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL | A Year in Review | 2025-2026 40
General Endowment - Jennifer Armstrong, Pat Wolf Campership - Amy Arendt, Bill & Sandra Crawford, Creighton & Kelly Frommer
S G S S G S, P
Thank you to our High Meadows Fund Grade Chairs for their passionate support.
Matching Gift Companies
High Meadows Fund Grade Chair Committee Leigh Borda & Claire McAden - Co-Chairs Leigh Borda - Pre-K Grade Chair John Dimatos & Zachary Prescott - Kindergarten Chairs Claire McAden - 1st Grade Chair Carolyne Hilton, Larissa Michel, & Theresa Robison 2nd/3rd Grade Chairs Brian Connerat - 4th/5th Grade Chair Caitlan Bavely - 6th/7th Grade Chair Laura McKie - 8th Grade Chair
Some donors are able to increase the value of their donation by utilizing an employee matching gift benefits program at the company where they work. Thank you to the following companies who provided matching gifts to HMS. Hiscox Foundation USA Impact Foundation Intuitive Surgical Invesco Holding Company Microsoft Matching Gifts Program Moody's Corporation
T-Mobile Travelers Truist Twilio United Health Group Williams Gas Pipeline
Georgia GOAL Tax Credit Program The state of Georgia has set aside $120 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 2025-2026 Tax Year Contributors. Gene & Kristen Atkins Lisa Baker & Kristi Fielder Dick Black & Ronda Brooks Mark & Mary Bleichner Michael & Leigh Borda Brilliant Fine + Custom Jewelry - Jamie & Katie Jaffe Mark & Tracy Brown Neil & Susannah Campbell Travis & Caroline Carr Kyle & Grace Carter Nikhil Kodilkar & Archana Chaudhary Brian & JoBeth Connerat James & Kendra Cox Ed & Darlene Coyne Justin Czerniawski & Sabrina Phillips Kraig Doremus John Dovic John & Erin Easley Javier Estrella & Johane Baez Rory & Jenifer Friedman Alex & Sarah Glover Dylan Goldblatt & Elicia Lair Jan & Rachel Grindrod Mark & Reina Grundhoefer Christian & Ashleigh Hack Ken & Donna Hall Lori Hannan Todrick & Carolyne Hilton Gordie Howe Val & Diana Hoyt Mahamood & Roshni Ismail
Denise Jackson Judd & Sharanne Johns Jonathan & Margaret Jones Sameer & Marisa Joshi Tom & Janet Junod Steven & Tracey Kaplan Lori Kennedy Katie Kerner Ken & Jennifer Kraften Steven Barnard & Margaret Lamb Frank Olszewski & Jessica LaRocco-Olszewski Jason & Jenise Lindo Eftim & Angela Bogoev Dustin & Brooke Logan Davina Marraccini Ryan & Claire McAden Rich & Jessica McCraw Jeff & Pat McDaniel Steven & Laura McKie Sachin & Nasrin Menon Andres Bernal & Sandra Merino Nick Prince & Melanie Mueller Prince Eric & Karla Munder Jane Murphy Matt & Sarah Nardi Brent & Katherine Nobles Michael & Amy Oeschger Ankit & Mital Patel Yash & Shreya Patel Jeff & Julie Pearlman Ryan & Kara Pernice
Zachary & Julia Prescott Al & Kimberly Reingold Michael & Wendy Rhodes Paulyna Rivera Taylor & Theresa Robison Jonathan & Hillary Rogers Steven & Carlyn Romeyn Sallie Samuels Doug & Rebecca Sandberg Gintas & Elena Sarkus Matt & Erica Sartorio Ed Scholl & Janet Kamikihara Scholl Corey & Mary Schuman Kirk & Krish Shanks Howard & Faith Shatzman Alex Desiderio & Stephanie Smith Kate Stonebraker Scott & Catherine Strobeck Mike & Lisa Tilt Joby & Jennifer Titus David & Sarah Topper Alex Viola Alex & Kat West Tracy Wisdom Isaac Wolf & Jennifer Larson Pat Wolf Danielle Wright Rachel Wynn Gracie Yoder Kelly Yount Adrianna Zambrano
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Our Mission To celebrate and perpetuate each individual’s quest for knowledge and skill, sense of wonder, and connection to the natural environment. We empower each to be a compassionate, responsible, and active global citizen.
High Meadows School & Camp 1055 Willeo Road | Roswell, GA 30075 highmeadows.org | 770.993.2940