Norwood Magazine - Fall 2022

Head of School

Annual Report Editor

Abigail Betts ’92

2022-2023

Board of Trustees

Josh Spencer, Chair

Matthew Gould, Head of School

Michelle Fling, Vice Chair

Serge Learsy, Treasurer

Mary Pat Alcus, Secretary

Tyson Bellamy

Jeff Carswell

Alicia Davis

Lee Anne Jillings ’78

Sonji Joyner

Don Koch

Tolu Lawrence Amanda Levin Alex Nephew

Elinor Scully

Jen Sides Jeff Spigel

Our Mission Norwood School’s childcentered program inspires confident, compassionate, independent, and creative thinkers who embrace lifelong learning.

Matthew A. Gould, Ph.D. Magazine Editor Leanne M. Gill

Photography Norwood Faculty & Staff Norwood Parents Leanne M. Gill James Kegley

No matter what path we choose and where life’s journey takes us, it is important to learn from our failures and keep going.”

MATTHEW GOULD, HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear Friends,

As many of you know, I love children’s literature. I rarely miss an opportunity to share a favorite children’s book, whether it be with students or the adults in our community. Back in June, during our Commencement ceremony, I told the Class of 2022 that they would have to endure one more story from me. They graciously smiled—not that they had much choice in the matter! The story I selected for our graduates was What the Road Said by Cleo Wade.

What the Road Said is an uplifting picture book with an aspiring message for all of us, at any age. It reminds us that no matter what path we choose and where life’s journey takes us, it is important to learn from our failures and keep going. One of the many things I love about Norwood is that it provides a safe and supportive space—a truly caring community—for students to make mistakes and fail. Creating opportunities for failure is not something most schools would brag about, but I am proud of our faculty’s ability to incorporate failure and mistakes into the normal part of the learning process.

Making mistakes is good for learning! We gain so much knowledge from our mistakes. We figure out what works and what doesn’t. We discover creative ways of thinking and doing. We develop empathy and compassion—the understanding that no one is perfect, that to fail is human. We also develop patience and the ability to persevere. I believe that the struggle to pull yourself

through a challenge, come to terms with your shortcomings, and labor to overcome them is exactly what is missing for so many students—even at academically excellent schools.

Now, don’t get me wrong, when I write about “failure,” I am not talking about monumental failures. I am talking about small setbacks that children can and do work through to overcome. Small doses of failure, I believe, are important for children and are exactly what parents mean when they say, “I want my child to be challenged.” But I worry that our obsession with success and our fear of failure has trickled down to our children at great cost to their psychological well-being. Maybe learning to persevere and deal with setbacks is part of the secret to success and to leading a happy, meaningful, and productive life.

Author John C. Maxwell, in his book Failing Forward, asserts that the difference between average people and achieving people is their perception of and response to failure. By teaching our children to deal with failure without fear or judgement, we are preparing them to use setbacks to keep pushing forward on the journey of life. In What the Road Said, the main character asks, “What if I go the wrong way?” The Road answers, “Do not worry. Sometimes we go the wrong way on our way to the right way.”

Learning is fun, exhilarating and gratifying, but it is also daunting,

exhausting, and sometimes discouraging—just like life! I might argue that this is a central paradox of contemporary parenting: We have an acute, almost biological impulse to provide for our children, to give them everything they want and need, to protect them from dangers and discomforts both large and small. And yet we all know—on some level, at least—that what children need more than anything is a little hardship: some challenge, some deprivation that they can overcome, even if just to prove to themselves that they can.

Norwood School is a unique and wonderful place for children to grow, learn, and, yes, fail. I truly believe that there are very few institutions quite like Norwood in the entire country. Because we create a nurturing environment, children feel safe and confident. When children are confident, they will take risks. Because risk-taking is inherent in learning, the possibility of failure exists. However, perhaps our success can be defined when our students are comfortable with failure and have the life skills to overcome obstacles. Maybe the secret to our success is, at least in part, learning how to fail well.

Yours sincerely, Matthew A. Gould, Ph.D. Head of School

AT NORWOOD

As we emerge from two and a half years of tremendous disruption and uncertainty, our nation enters a period of reflection, recovery, and, at Norwood, a great sense of renewal. “Certainly, we are experiencing a renewed commitment to community and nurturing the vital connections for children within that community,” said Matthew Gould, head of school. “Additionally, we are uplifted by all that is new at Norwood this year.”

Matthew is referring to the new building that opened at the end of August, the newly renovated spaces in the Middle School, new acreage added to our campus, and the launch of a new five-year strategic plan. Read more about these exciting new developments that bring a great sense of joy and optimism as we begin a new school year and look to the future. >

New Building!

After a one-year delay of the groundbreaking, followed by 18 months of construction, the Marriott Early Childhood Building is finally open and filled with the joyful, child-centered learning for which Norwood is known. The beautiful 25,000-square-foot building was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting event for donors on August 24 and with a celebration for students, faculty, and staff on September 9.

Looking back, the vision for the new building was first outlined in Norwood’s previous five-year strategic plan, launched in 2016. At that time, Norwood launched an ambitious $15 million capital campaign to raise funds to support two important goals: 1. Increase the School’s endowment, and 2. Build a new building for our youngest learners.

“It has been quite a journey getting to where we are today, traversing several

years, involving dozens of volunteers, and even launching a couple of false starts,” remarked Matthew at the ribbon-cutting event. “However, through commitment, a strong strategic plan, and a sharp focus on the children in our care, we have persevered and done something great together.”

The new building provides the flexible learning spaces needed to support and enhance Norwood’s child-centered program and to best support teamteaching model, a highly successful teaching technique that delivers a host of benefits to a child’s learning experience: greater opportunities for small, differentiated groups; seamless instructional time; greater sense of community in the classroom; and increased support and observation.

“It took the entire Norwood community— both past and present—to make this dream come true,” said Matthew. “The Marriott Early Childhood Building is a tribute to the strength of the Norwood community and its love for this remarkable school.”

New Middle School Spaces!

When students in grades 5-8 returned in September, they discovered a whole new look to the first floor of the Middle School Building.

New flooring was installed throughout the entire floor, the highlight being the Cohen Common Room where Norwood’s signature green leaf is emblazoned on the new gray and white tiles. The Middle School Office has a more open and welcoming entrance; the lobby now features a more professional gallery for displaying artwork; and the Technology Department occupies a significantly larger room and office, providing the space needed for the Robotics Team to meet, create, and prepare for tournaments.

The most significant improvement are the new classrooms for the middle school music program. The strings classroom relocated from its cramped space behind

The new gallery space that leads from the Steuart Building to the Marriott Early Childhood Building features a permanent display of student-created self-portraits. Each year, the portraits will be updated as part of Norwood’s identity curriculum so every child in the Lower School feels seen and known.

Self-portrait Gallery

the faculty workroom to a much larger classroom next to the Marsh Gym. Choir and handbell students also enjoy a new larger classroom in the same hallway. Additionally, the band room relocated to the old choir room, now newly renovated, opening up extra space in the Cohen Common Room for lunch and gatherings. Best of all, the new music rooms include much-needed storage space for instruments, which means the hallways are clear of racks.

“It’s great seeing all these improved spaces being enjoyed by our students and music teachers,” said Dennis Campbell, head of middle school. “Music is an important piece of the full middle school experience, and we’re thrilled that our talented music team can now deliver the program in classrooms that elevate their teaching and enhance the experience for our students.”

See pages 8-10 to learn more.

New Land!

financial gift to the School, we were able to purchase the property.”

The house will be demolished, and a landscape designer has been hired to develop a beautification plan for what will become a new green space, expanding the Norwood campus from 38 to 40 acres.

New 5-Year Strategic Plan!

After a year-long collaborative process, Norwood completed a new five-year strategic plan, Your Journey Starts Here, and, this fall, launched the critical work to support the five key priorities outlined in the plan.

The overarching goal of the 2022-2027 strategic plan is to put the programs and resources in place to equip Norwood students with the tools they need to become empathetic, ethical, and self-aware leaders who contribute meaningfully to their communities. The following priorities were identified to achieve this important goal over the next five years.

4. Positioning Norwood as a premier educational employer by offering compelling compensation, benefits, and professional growth opportunities that meet the needs of our faculty and staff.

5. Developing long-term sustainable systems that will propel Norwood’s mission, strong PK-8 reputation, and financial foundation.

Work is currently underway on this next chapter in the School’s history. “We accomplished a tremendous amount during the last strategic plan—the prekindergarten program, new branding, significant endowment growth, and, of course, the new building,” Matthew said.

“Our journey to support the new plan starts here, and I can’t wait to see the many ways it will enrich the educational experience of Norwood students today and in the future.”

There’s even more to love about Norwood! On July 6, 2022, the School added two acres to its campus footprint with the purchase of the house and land at 8888 Bradley Boulevard (the southeast corner of River Road and Bradley Boulevard), which had been on the market since 2020.

“While the purchase was not part of our original master planning process, a wise and generous person in our community stepped forward and said, ‘Norwood needs to move on this opportunity,’” shared Matthew Gould. “And so, with an incredibly generous

1. Fortifying Norwood’s identity as a national thought leader for child-centered PK-8 education.

2. Engraining Norwood’s commitment to diversity, equity, and belonging into the fabric of the community.

3. Leveraging our expansive campus as an outdoor classroom and learning lab, further elevating Norwood to a regional leader in environmental education.

VIEW THE FULL STRATEGIC PLAN AT: www.norwoodschool.org/ strategicplan

NEW!

In the Music Classrooms The reviews are in!

Norwood’s middle school music teachers reflect on how their spacious new classrooms are enhancing creative teaching opportunities, as well as elevating the learning and performance experiences for students.

hen Norwood expanded from sixth grade to eighth grade in 1998 and a year later opened the new Middle School Building, a music education program was developed as a signature component of the overall curriculum— a decision that aligned with one of Frances Marsh’s guiding philosophies. “Music, art, and literature are the foundation on which the academic skills are built,” she said. Today, nearly 25 years after the expansion to eighth grade, the middle school music program is more robust than ever.

In fact, you could say that the program is bursting at the seams. “During the past few years, it has been clear that the middle school music ensembles—band, strings, choir, and handbells—had outgrown their spaces,” said Head of School Matthew Gould. As the program

grew, the classrooms became less than ideal for running the performancebased program. Choir and drama shared the same space; the strings room was tucked behind the faculty workroom; and the band room was in some ways an extension of our lunch and gathering space.

All that changed at the start of the 2022-2023 school year when Norwood completed a significant renovation of the first floor of the Middle School Building, which included all new classrooms for the music ensembles. “Even though we were all on the same floor before the renovation, we were quite isolated on different parts of the floor,” said Max Nolin, seventh- and eighth-grade choir and handbells teacher (and also middle school dean of students). “And we never had the space to combine ensembles.” >

Stephen Czarkowski with 7/8 strings students.

The new music classrooms have been a game-changer for the ways music teachers communicate and collaborate. Band teacher Joe Cunliffe, whose previous classroom was adjacent to the Cohen Common Room (middle school lunchroom), is thrilled to be closer to the action—and farther away from lunch trays and chatter! “We now have formed the ‘performing arts hallway’ where collaboration is easily facilitated between all middle school music ensembles,” he said.

This collaboration was already in the works when, over the summer, Joe and strings teacher Stephen Czarkowski joined forces on a special professional development project that involved compiling a collection of musical works to be played in a combination band/strings setting.

When they returned to campus in September, they were able to use the new classroom spaces to mix ensembles in all kinds of creative combinations.

Norwood believes that music gives students an outlet for creativity, personal expression, and individual uniqueness. Music education

venues. “To me, that is where the real magic takes place,” said Stephen. “Yes, I enjoy performances, but I especially love seeing students learning new music and understanding it.” When running rehearsals, music teachers now have the flexibility to set up chairs and choral risers to reflect an actual concert arrangement. In addition, the band room’s open floor plan allows for a permanent percussion set-up, and there is finally enough space in the strings room for musicians to explore a full bow trajectory without bumping elbows.

Speaking of trajectory, it’s clear that the middle school music program is on a great one. The new classrooms have reenergized the program, expanded creative teaching opportunities, and enhanced the ways in which students explore and appreciate music. Teachers agree that it has been both exciting and rewarding to have the freedom to create the music spaces of their dreams, ones that reflect and express their unique teaching styles.

“We as music educators feel the support of the entire Norwood community,” said Joe. “Each day, I feel energized and inspired to try innovative ideas and to create exciting and enriching band classes that expand upon my unique teaching methods and philosophies.”

UPCOMING CONCERTS:

GRANDPARENTS & SPECIAL GUESTS DAY CONCERT

November 22, 2022

MIDDLE SCHOOL WINTER CONCERT

December 14, 2022

is also a powerful vehicle for connecting students to different cultures. At the middle school level, students are presented with opportunities for greater responsibility as a valuable member of an ensemble, as well as a greater sense of purpose knowing they have to work together toward a common goal, especially when preparing for a concert.

With performance being an integral part of the Norwood music experience, the music classrooms are important rehearsal

Teachers and students aren’t the only winners here. The entire Norwood community will benefit as audience members at upcoming concerts and performances, including the always-impressive Grandparents and Special Guests Day Concert, this year on November 22, and the Winter Concert on December 14. The renovated classrooms have given teachers and students the space to stretch their wings, and we can look forward to watching them soar!

Cue the applause.

“Each day, I feel energized and inspired to try innovative ideas and to create exciting and enriching band classes that expand upon my unique teaching methods and philosophies.” -joe cunliffe, band teacher

Abigail Betts ’92 FullCircle with

Some of you may be familiar with Norwood’s Two Hat Club, a gathering of faculty and staff members who are also Norwood parents. Well, it looks like Norwood will need to up its game and establish a Four Hat Club just for Abigail Betts—Norwood alumna, former staff member, current staff member, and current parent! >

Abigail rejoined Norwood this summer as director of development after 16 years working in the advancement office at her “other” alma mater, Holton-Arms. We’re thrilled to have this Norwood enthusiast back in The Nest, the place where she grew up and where she started her career in institutional advancement as database manager and development assistant back in 2003.

It’s been 30 years since you were a Norwood student and 16 years since you were a Norwood employee. What lured you back?

At this time last year, I had just applied my daughter for kindergarten. During the admission tour, my memories came flooding back. I have always held Norwood in special regard, but all was affirmed when, during the tour, so many students confidently looked me in the eye and asked if they could tell me about their work. It felt like home.

I loved my 16 years at Holton-Arms, particularly working with donors and overseeing the most recent seven-year comprehensive campaign that concluded June 30, 2022. I had no intention of leaving Holton—ever! But after attending the Accepted Parent Reception at Norwood in March, I immediately emailed the director of development to ask her to count me in as a volunteer for The Norwood Fund. She told me she was relocating and that her job would be posted the following week. I nearly fainted to think that returning to Norwood could be a possibility. Talk about a “pinch me” moment! So, here I am. I have been on campus since July and could not be happier!

What still feels like the Norwood you knew back in the 1980s and early 1990s? Norwood remains a happy place of learning filled with art and music. I was thrilled to

see that the morning handshake tradition lives on, as does morning chapel. After so many years, somehow the words to the chapel songs came flooding back—and the birthday blessing! There is something very special about coming together as a community to start the day. And some of my teachers are still here! Mr. Hollander, Mrs. Lostoski, Mr. McCune—it is an honor to work beside them.

I love walking into the Murray Arts Building. As a child, I’m sure I took for granted the natural light and the vast resources to expose us to all aspects of art: paper mache, printmaking, drawing, painting, sewing, and clay. The space is happy and takes me back to my beloved art classes with Ms. Kopper and Ms. Williams.

What feels different?

There is the wow factor of the Marriott Early Childhood Building and the expanse of the Middle School. I remember signing the I-beam during the impending construction of the Ewing Building. It felt like that was a big deal then, and I think about that moment every time I walk through the building. Another difference— in 2022, thanks to COVID, students can now choose whether to shake hands or to fist bump. I often wonder (with a laugh) how Mrs. Block or Mrs. Marsh would handle fistbumping the students!

What are some of your favorite Norwood memories from when you were a student?

I have wonderful memories of Mrs. Block. I can still picture her shoes, the pig hood ornament on her Volvo, and hear her voice first thing every morning. I think about how talented Mrs. Lutterman was with her creation of Living History. I can still sing the songs, which helped me with my historical knowledge in high school and college. I often wonder if we realized what a big deal these productions were. In 1987, Norwood School received a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to develop three children’s musicals to make U.S. history come alive for other students. Mrs. Lutterman, who taught music at Norwood from 1975 to 1993, was the project director and composer.

As a smaller child, I recall running down the Norwood Hill with such speed it actually felt like I could fly. And I remember looking forward to seeing the holiday village created by librarians Mrs. Maples and Mrs. Schroder when they read The Polar Express to us.

I had three classmates (1992, you know who you are) who rhythmically recited/ rapped the poem Xanadu by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. They were allowed to present their artistic rendition one morning during

“I believe that Norwood was and still is the best foundation for a young person’s academic, social, and emotional growth.”

-abigail betts ’92, director of development

chapel. I never saw Mrs. Block laugh so hard. I still remember each line of the poem, and I challenge my classmates to see if they do too.

As Norwood’s new director of development, what are your main goals during your first year?

While Norwood is so familiar, I look forward to fully integrating back into the community, current and former. Three decades have passed since I graduated from sixth grade. I hope to engage fellow alumni and former community members to connect back to Norwood. The School continues to be cultivated by child-centered educators who truly know each student. I believe that Norwood was and still is the best foundation for a young person’s academic, social, and emotional growth.

I also look forward to implementing and supporting the rollout of the new strategic plan. The last strategic plan, which spanned 2016-2021, created a roadmap to increase endowment and to build the Marriott Early Childhood Building. I look forward to being

a part of the many exciting things to happen during this next chapter.

And, of course, I am ready to meet and exceed our monetary and participation goals for The Norwood Fund, but I am going to need everyone’s help!

You’ve spent your entire career in independent schools. What do you like most about working in a school environment?

What’s not to love? Schools are communities of growth, perpetual learning, and joy. Since the moment I first stepped through the doors of the Steuart Building, I loved school. I loved the school day, the routine, the traditions, anticipation for holidays, special events, school spirit, snow days, breaks, summer, and matriculating to what’s next! As a grown-up, you are forced to “outgrow” little things that brought you joy as a child. Spending my life in independent schools, and two schools that I love deeply, has allowed me to savor that childhood excitement. At Holton, I felt like a perennial senior. Now at Norwood, I get to be a perennial kindergartner at heart.

You’re also a new Norwood parent. What are you most excited about for Rosemary as she begins kindergarten at Norwood? My office window overlooks the Steuart Courtyard (what I remember as the front circle). There are points during the day when I can hear Rosemary’s laugh. I look up from my desk and see her skipping and smiling. I hope she develops a love of learning, the desire to seek opportunity, and the appreciation that comes with being a Norwood student. I can already see Norwood’s guiding principle—how you lead your life matters—taking hold. After the first day of school, she thanked me and my husband, Jeff, for taking her to school and enrolling her at Norwood.

What is Rosemary most excited about?

According to our most recent after-school commute, Rosemary is most excited about “the way everyone is so kind to one another and art.”

Where can we find you when you’re not at Norwood?

Jeff, Rosemary, and I live in Silver Spring with our two rescue dogs, Maggie and Betty. A kindergartner and two active dogs keep us busy, but I relax through cooking, family time, trying new restaurants, walking, and best yet, retreating to Ocean City, Maryland, in any season and as often as possible.

Abigail joins five other Norwood alumni who work at Norwood: Elena Lostoski ’12, Fourth Grade Teacher; Abigail; Mallory Polak ’03, Summit Director; Sandra Engle Gichner ’78, Latin Teacher; Jonathan Korns ’07, Pre-Kindergarten Assistant Teacher; and Beanie Sidey Burr ’73, Lower School Coordinator.

Abigail and daughter Rosemary, Class of 2031, on the first day of school.

Celebrating the Class of 2022!

The Class of 2022 has a lot to say! Class Day at Norwood is a special celebration to commemorate the graduating class as they share memories, receive awards, and enjoy a few final performances on the Norwood stage. This year’s Class Day, held June 7, 2022, featured an unprecedented number of student speeches—nine in total, each one reflecting upon special Norwood memories, experiences, teachers, and friendships, as well as hopes and plans for life after Norwood. The poise and confidence of each speaker was indeed impressive, and we look forward to seeing the many ways they use their stellar public-speaking skills in the future.

MACY BRILL

The Norwood community is unlike any other I have seen—everyone is so inclusive, welcoming, and friendly. Additionally, I am so appreciative of all the incredible teachers who have taught me throughout my years at Norwood. You have guided me when I was ready to give up, taught me to have confidence in myself, and how to ask for help. I am so thankful for all my teachers who put up with me for six years, and I feel ready to go off to high school with a strong academic foundation.

McKENNA CARSWELL

My time at Norwood has been amazing. I’ve made so many unforgettable memories and had so many teachers I will be forever grateful for. It’s been a pretty crazy six years, but I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ve been here since third grade, and I’m very sad that I will be departing from Norwood. But I’m also content with this fact because I’m excited to move on and be off to high school.

JEREMY CHUD

I don’t know what my future holds, but I do know that whatever it is, I will be ready, which is fully thanks to the knowledge and values that I have acquired here. Norwood has not only done a great job at getting people into and prepared for high schools, but it also has prepared us to be people comfortable with the fact that we are all moving on. Norwood has helped shape the types of people we are and strive to be as we begin to shape our own lives. Although Norwood is not in my future anymore, it will always be part of me.

CONNOR GRAHAM

When you walk into your new school, you’ll have a bit of an idea as to what’s waiting for you, but you don’t know everything. In fact, you’re only a freshman, and you’ve got a lot to learn. There’s no need to impress everyone, to be the coolest kid there, but just to be yourself. Being you is being not just any freshman but a freshman who’s spent nine years at Norwood.

ANGEL SARAVANAN BABU

…Norwood helped me grow my interests while pushing me to try something new and take risks. I can diversify my time to focus on my interests ranging from the performing arts to the sciences and playing sports. One day I could be a forward in a soccer game, the next, I could be at rehearsal for the spring musical, and the next day I could debate carbon offsets. But more importantly, I can build a community of people with similar interests and create meaningful connections with my peers. That is what I will miss most about Norwood: the community.

CHLOE GAO

The Norwood community…has blessed me with so many opportunities for which I will be forever grateful. In my eight years at Norwood, I have overcome my shyness and made new friends, most of whom I will still hopefully be in contact with throughout high school and beyond. I have met teachers who have had an impact on me, the way I learn, and the way I lead my life.

LAUREN HEMANN

…when we do leave this world of Norwood School behind us, I am asking each of you here on the stage with me today to please promise to keep in touch. Not just through a silly photo of half of your face or your shoe on Snapchat, but rather a real conversation and an inquiry into how we are doing and what we are up to. I promise I will do it, and hope that you will too. I will miss you all so much and look forward to many more fun times together in person.

OSEWE OGADA

During my eight years at Norwood, I’ve come to love the School. The beautiful campus, the engaging curriculum, the exciting field trips. There are three specific aspects, however, I cherish most about Norwood. First, the expertise of the faculty and staff. Second, the endless opportunities. Third, the endearing community. Whether it be the faculty or the staff, I have not met anyone that was not dedicated to creating a prosperous environment for all people at Norwood.

SOPHIE KOROMA

To the seventh grade class, we are passing the baton to you to be the leaders of this school. You have big shoes to fill because I am biased to say that my class is pretty awesome. But you can do it! Come together as a class, and partner with the teachers, administrators, and coaches to be a unified class that represents the School well—inside our walls and out. Don’t forget that all the other classes look up to you, so take that seriously and set great examples.

Watch the entire Class Day program: bit.ly/NorwoodClassDay2022 (pw: grad2022)

View more Class Day photos at: norwoodschool.smugmug.com/ June-2022

Class Day Awards

The Faculty Prize for Leadership and School Spirit

Lauren Hemann

Aiden Ledbetter

Tejis Lodato

Ellie Wilson

The Head of School’s Prize for Academic Excellence

Emma Canan

Francesca Dennis

Taylor Gaines

Lauren Hemann

Madeline Katz

Aiden Ledbetter

Angel Saravanan Babu

Sam Spencer

Lukie Watkins

The following awards were presented at the Middle School Athletic Assembly on May 26, 2022:

Coaches’ Spirit Award

Francesca Dennis Reid Webber

Summit Award

Aiden Ledbetter

Athletes of the Year

Adam Grumet

Lauren Hemann

L. Pakaluk Community Service Award

In 2006, Norwood established the Ronald B. Goyette Community Service Award in memory of former business manager, Ron Goyette, who passed away in 2005. Ron’s life of service to others was—and continues to be—an inspiration to the students and adults in the Norwood community. This year, on Class Day, Matthew Gould announced that the award will now include the name of another member of the Norwood community who cares deeply about service to others and leading a life that matters: Debbie Pakaluk.

Since the School’s expansion to eighth grade in 1998, Debbie shaped and cared for the incredible service-learning program that remains a highlight of seventh and eighth grades at Norwood. She established meaningful and productive partnerships with nonprofit organizations throughout the Washington, D.C., area, such as the Armed Services Retirement Home, Poplar Springs Animal Sanctuary, and the Katherine Thomas School. This year, on Class Day, Matthew Gould announced that in honor of Debbie’s exceptional 30 years of service to Norwood, the award

will now be called the Ronald B. Goyette and Debra L. Pakaluk Community Service Award.

As Debbie reflected on her three decades at Norwood, she said, “I loved teaching science to the little kids and later guiding our oldest students to think scientifically. But what I appreciate most about Norwood is the attempt to address the character of our students, to help guide them to be the best people they can be. The parts of my job over the years that have been the most satisfying have been my work on diversity issues, green initiatives, being an advisor, and especially my time involved with service learning.”

The Ronald B. Goyette and Debra L. Pakaluk Award will be presented annually to graduating students who best exemplify a sense of commitment, responsibility, and respect towards others. While there were no recipients this year due to the pandemic sidelining our service-learning trips, we look forward to resuming our regular program in the coming school year and announcing the first recipients of the newly named award on Class Day 2023.

At press time, we learned that Debbie passed away peacefully on November 2, 2023, after a nine-month battle with brain cancer. Norwood School is a better place because of Debbie. Her incredible legacy as a teacher, colleague, friend, and service leader will serve as an inspiration for many years to come.

The Ronald B. Goyette & Debra

“What I appreciate most about Norwood is the attempt to address the character of our students, to help guide them to be the best people they can be.”

-debbie pakaluk

Class Day Performances 9 PERFORMANCES 16 MUSICIANS

The Class Day stage was alive with the sound of music! Our graduating eighth graders presented nine different performances involving 16 musicians. There were piano, violin, ukulele, flute, trumpet, and saxophone performances, as well as a variety of songs sung by soloists and ensembles. Altogether, it was an incredible program of music showcasing the poise, confidence, and talent of our graduates.

On the morning of Wednesday, June 8, 2022, the 50 members of the Class of 2022 enjoyed their final hours together as Norwood students. Before the start of the Commencement ceremony, they posed in front of the Steuart Building for the traditional class photo; they walked down to the playground to ring the Norwood Bell once last time; and they walked together to the doors of the Rales Athletic Center where family, friends, faculty,

and students in grades K-7 awaited their arrival with great excitement and anticipation. Yes, it was bittersweet,

these impressive students take their final bow on the Norwood stage.

staff,

but it was mostly celebratory as we watched

“Every day I am continually impressed by your maturity, poise, intellect, and kindness of spirit. You are truly a remarkable group of young men and women.” -MATTHEW GOULD, HEAD OF SCHOOL

Celebrating the Class of 2022!

BY DENNIS CAMPBELL, Ed.D., HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

Commencement Remarks: The Importance of Being Present

Good morning and welcome, Norwood students, faculty, staff, family members, and guests. A special good morning and welcome to the Class of 2022.

Now, every graduating class is unique, special, and possesses its own character. The Class of 2022 has navigated the past couple of years with flexibility, resilience, and joy. If the New York City trip is a barometer, then here has been an abundance of joy in what has been a year filled of challenges and unknowns. Here you all sit beaming and ready with anticipation for what comes next.

During yesterday’s Class Day celebration, many of the speeches touched on the importance of being present. Let’s pause for moment and consider what being in this moment means. There is an African proverb that I am fond of: You cannot build a house for last year’s summer. In other words, do not dwell on the past, learn from it.

I want to share a few thoughts about grounding yourself in the present moment. Yes, you have completed eighth grade and will be starting high school in the fall. Whether Norwood has been your home since kindergarten or for the past couple of years, you will find yourself in a liminal space. For all you students in Mrs. Gichner’s Latin class—the word liminal comes from the Latin word “limen” meaning threshold. To be in a liminal space means that

you are at the precipice of something new but not quite there yet. Author and Franciscan Friar Richard Rohr describes this state of being in the following way:

…where we are betwixt and between the familiar and the completely unknown. There alone is our old world left behind, while we are not yet sure of the new existence. That’s a good space where genuine newness can begin. Get there often and stay as long as you can by whatever means possible…. This is the sacred space where the old world is able to fall apart, and a bigger world is revealed. If we don’t encounter liminal space in our lives, we start idealizing normalcy.

To put it simply, you are leaving middle school and anticipating what high school will be like. Once you leave here today, you will be in your liminal space. You will be at your threshold and precipice because you are no longer a middle schooler, and yet you are not quite a high schooler.

So, what does liminal have to do with remembering to be present? Being present means fully embracing the moment that you are in. Here are a few tips I hope you will consider:

n Be patient with yourself and others.

n Be flexible. Remember that few things in life occur in a straight line, so though you may have expected one thing to happen, be open and ready to pivot.

n Make more time to talk with each other. Challenge yourself to occasionally engage your peers in person, free of social media.

n Notice your surroundings. Take time to notice physical environment. Remember, where your focus goes your energy flows.

A final thought: Your Norwood teachers have prepared you well for your next community of learning. You have worked hard this year to apply the skills you have developed at Norwood. Be fully present in this moment today and embrace tomorrow’s liminal space.

Class of 2022, as we celebrate this moment with you, we are all brimming with pride. We are overjoyed in this moment because we know a small piece of Norwood will be present in some way as your path unfolds.

Congratulations, graduates! As you learn from the past and work toward the future, remember to enjoy all of your moments to come and the many spaces in between.

Celebrating Our Graduates

Family-Style!

One of the best things about Commencement is seeing our graduates celebrated by their younger Norwood siblings and their older alumni siblings. It’s always a fun family affair when The Nest is brimming with Blue Hawk siblings!

8 Graham Webber ’19 and Reid Webber ’22 with their parents Andrea Webber and Mark Webber 9 Matthew Dennis ’25 and Francesca Dennis ’22 10 Noah Magsino ’22 and Nyah Magsino ’24

Lukie Watkins ’22 and Ben Watkins ’24 12 Gavin Vaughn ’17 and Trevor Vaughn ’22 13 Emily Marsteller Duguid ’09 (cousin), Lilly Elmore ’22, and Church Elmore

Kindness Rocks!

The Class of 2026 finished their time in the Lower School last spring by spreading an abundance of kindness and encouragement in a very special way. They painted rocks with special messages and placed them in a kindness rock garden located under a tree in front of the Steuart Building. What a perfect way to demonstrate that they embrace Norwood’s motto— how you lead your life matters—as they prepared to begin their time in the Middle School.

8th Grade Trip to New York City: Back On!

One of the highlights of the eighth grade year at Norwood—and perhaps the entire PK-8 journey— is the three-day trip to New York City that comes just a week or so before graduation. After two years on the sidelines, the muchanticipated trip was back on, May 31-June 2, with a packed itinerary.

“I’m aware of how disappointed our graduates from the classes of 2020 and 2021 were to have not been able to enjoy this fun trip,” said Head of Middle School Dennis Campbell, who just completed his first year at Norwood. “I had heard so much about it and was so excited, and relieved, when we learned we could make the trip happen for this year’s eighth graders.”

The group, which included eight faculty members, enjoyed a picnic in Central Park, a docent-led tour of the Museum of Modern Art, a cruise around Liberty Island, a visit to Ellis Island and the National Museum of Immigration, a walk through Ground Zero, dinner at Eataly, and an open-top bus tour that came with a surprise thunderstorm!

Of course, no trip to New York would be complete without a

22

visit to Broadway. The eighth graders and their advisors saw the hit musical Come from Away, the true story about the welcome 7,000 passengers received while stranded in a small Newfoundland town after 38 planes were grounded there following the September 11 attacks.

“It was great to be able to visit so many New York landmarks, but truly one of the best parts of the trip was just being together, especially with graduation just days away,” remarked Dennis. “We are thrilled that they can add this special trip to their Norwood memories.”

8TH GRADERS MAKE A SPLASH FOR THEIR CLASS CHARITY: Project Hope

Each year, eighth graders research and select a charity to support throughout their final year at Norwood. The Class of 2022 chose Project Hope because of the organization’s focus on providing medical supplies and care to communities in crisis, including refugees from Ukraine. Project Hope is committed to empowering health care workers around the world with the support they need to heal the people who need it most.

The eighth graders’ main fundraiser was a raffle where the coveted prize was the chance to “ice bucket” a teacher. Students in both divisions purchased raffle tickets for $1 each, and then, on June 6, 2022, with the entire school community gathered outside, raffle tickets were drawn, and each winner came forward to dump a bucket full of ice water on their teacher’s head. We are grateful to the 11 teachers and administrators who bravely volunteered to get iced: Ms. Aiken (third grade), Ms. Chall (middle school math), Mr. Cunliffe (middle

3

school band), Ms. Donofrio (third grade), Ms. Egan (first grade), Ms. Gallagher (student support), Mr. Gould (head of school), Ms. Hashem (pre-kindergarten), Ms. Lostoski (fourth grade), Mr. Nolin (middle school music and dean of students), and Ms. Taterway (fourth grade).

How you lead your life matters, even if it means taking an ice bath for the team!

1

The Blue Hawk athletics program returned to its full glory this past spring with a successful season for lacrosse, baseball, softball, track, and Summit. A special congratulations to Varsity Boys Lacrosse on an undefeated season!

We were especially happy to be able to hold a simplified version of the annual

Middle School Athletic Banquet on May 26, 2022, which excluded the banquet but included lots of great athletic highlights, a fun slideshow, and awards for the Class of 2022 (see page 15). The assembly provided the perfect venue for Athletic Director Mitch Weisbrot to reflect on the year and share stats from the 2021-2022 year (see sidebar).

Lower School Students Shine at Spring Showcases

For the third year in a row, COVID-19 restrictions put a damper on the traditional spring programs performed by our lower school students on the Murray Arts Building stage. Instead, teachers and students brought a version of the shows outside to the Steuart Courtyard where parents enjoyed a live (finally!) musical performance, as well as a showcase of classwork and artwork. “It’s very Norwood 2022 to rethink, readjust, and make things happen, all with a little construction noise going on in the background,” joked Mike Risen, associate head of school and head of lower school.

In late May and early June, each lower school grade enjoyed their moment to shine at one of five spring showcases. Fourth graders, in their final lower

school performance, confidently performed a few favorite songs from the “Jazz” program; third graders entertained with several Broadway show tunes; second graders shared songs from the “Japan” program; first graders were charming with songs from the “Bugs” program; kindergartners sang tunes from “A Day on the Farm” (with some enthusiastic cock-a-doodledoos); and pre-K students were an absolute delight showing off their skills on the drums and with rhythm sticks. After the performances, students proudly shared some of their most recent writing and artwork with parents.

“While we very much look forward to the time when we can hold our usual class performances on stage in the Murray Building, we were thrilled to find a way for each lower school grade to perform live for their parents,” said Mike Risen. “The spring showcases were a wonderful and fun way to celebrate all that they accomplished during the year.”

Strike up the band...

AND HANDBELLS, STRINGS, AND CHOIR, TOO!

Each spring, during Arts Week in early May, the middle school concerts are two eagerly awaited signature events that showcase the exceptional music program in grades 5-8. This year, the concerts were especially welcomed as the band, strings, handbells, and choir ensembles had not performed live on stage since December of 2019.

“Unfortunately, music education has been one of the most difficult programs to navigate during the pandemic,” said Head of School Matthew Gould. “I’m really proud of how our music teachers and students found ways to be creative and problem solve to keep the curriculum moving forward during

the past two years. They braved cold days holding class outside; they played together virtually. It hasn’t been easy, but they made it work.”

They certainly did! On May 10 and 12, Norwood’s middle school musicians and their teachers— Stephen Crisp (5/6 Choir), Stephen Czarkowski (Strings), Joseph Cunliffe (Band), and Max Nolin (7/8 Choir and Handbells)—performed in two concerts that demonstrated their incredible progress, confidence, and poise with a wide range of musical choices, from pop favorites to classical pieces.

“Wow, this is incredible!” exclaimed band teacher Joe at the start of the band and strings concert. “I’ve been waiting all year for this.” Judging by the palpable energy and enthusiasm in the room, so was everyone else!

1 Pre-kindergarten students show off their drumming skills at their spring showcase event in June. 2 A first grade author shares his book with an adoring fan at the spring showcase in May. 3 & 5 Middle school musicians put on a great show at the spring concerts on May 10 and 12. 4 Kindergartners performed a sampling of songs from “A Day on the Farm” at their showcase event.

“I’m really proud of how our music teachers and students found ways to be creative and problem solve to keep the curriculum moving forward during the past two years.”

-MATTHEW GOULD, HEAD OF SCHOOL

View more photos: norwoodschool.smugmug.com/May-2022

Watch the show: vimeo.com/norwoodschool

Spring Musical: Shrek Jr.

EVERYONE’S FAVORITE OGRE COMES TO THE NORWOOD STAGE

“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek....” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude, and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand, and his name is Shrek.

In early May, Norwood’s seventh and eighth graders presented four outstanding performances of Shrek Jr., a storybook adventure that brought all the beloved characters from the Oscar-winning film and outrageous Broadway musical to life on the Norwood stage. The audience watched as everyone’s favorite ogre led a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Of course, a fairy tale wouldn’t be complete without a few twists and turns along the way, and the Norwood production provided plenty, as well as a powerful message for the whole family.

As always, we thank the Norwood theatre family for their talent and dedication in working with the cast and crew: director Mia Fisher, assistant director Craig Hollander, music director Max Nolin, technical director Kirby Mahoney, as well as costumers, set designers, and props managers Marie Darling, Karen Harvey, and Stephen Crisp.

NEXT UP!

FALL PLAY: HOODIE November 17-19, 2022

Campus News: Faculty

Summer Learning for Norwood Teachers

Norwood has long believed that a strong professional development program is essential to sharpening skills, maintaining best practices, infusing classrooms with innovation, and energizing teachers. While Norwood teachers experience professional development throughout the year, the summer months prove to be a busy time for diving into rich and varied PD experiences. “The strength of the Norwood program comes from our teachers, and I am consistently impressed with their drive and determination to make every child’s educational experience at Norwood the best it can be,” said Head of School Matthew Gould.

Here’s a sampling of professional development activities for the summer of 2022:

Grades PK-2: Attended OrtonGillingham Training (phonics instruction).

Grade 3: Continued work on integrating the RLA and social studies curricula.

Grade 4: Developed DEI lessons for reading, writing, and social studies curricula.

Grade 5: Augmented grammar and vocabulary curriculum.

Grade 6: Reviewed the social studies curriculum to identify opportunities for cross-curricular work.

Grade 6: Revitalized the evolution and diversity of life units in science to deepen instruction on a current environmental issue and make use of our beautiful campus.

Grades 7 & 8: Compiled a collection of musical works that can be played in a combination band and strings setting.

Grade 8: Reexamined literature taught in English class, looking specifically for project-based assessment opportunities, differentiated instruction strategies, and diverse authors and subject matter.

Henderson Grants to Czech Republic where Stephen Czarkowski attended an international conducting workshop; Costa Rica where Victoria Wilbur explored regional animal habitats to enhance the sixth-grade endangered species unit; and Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and London where Virginia Murphy deepened her knowledge to enhance the fourth-grade reading and social studies curricula.

Celebrating Milestone Years at

1 Victoria Wilbur gets up close and personal with an American crocodile during her Henderson Grant trip to Costa Rica. 2 Matthew Gould congratulates history teacher Craig Hollander on 40 years of service to Norwood.

1

outstanding educators and staff members who in 2022 reached milestones in their years of service to Norwood School. The following faculty and staff members were celebrated at an all-school chapel on May 20, 2022, with a special gift and enthusiastic applause.

5 Years

Laini Bettencourt Physical Education Teacher

Kelly Carr

Sixth Grade Homeroom Advisor

Dana Egan

First Grade Homeroom Teacher

Holly Simpson

First Grade Homeroom Teacher

10 Years

Chris Giles

Physical Education Coordinator

Claudia Logan Science Teacher

Sue Tischler

First Grade Homeroom Teacher

2

15 Years

Kenora Lim

Accounting Director

Laura Prosen Middle School Counselor

Kevin Rechen Director of Auxiliary and Summer Programs

Karen Saxe Science Teacher Bill Teachum

Director of Finance and Operations

20 Years Aafia Talib Middle School English Teacher and Advisor

30 Years Debbie Pakaluk Science Teacher

40 Years

Craig Hollander Middle School History Teacher and Advisor

Norwood!

We are so appreciative of the talent and dedication of these

New Trustees

New Trustees Named to the Board

Norwood is fortunate to have an outstanding board of trustees that works tirelessly to support the School’s educational program and mission. This year, the board is pleased to welcome five new trustees, each of whom brings valuable expertise, knowledge, and a love for Norwood School: Tyson Bellamy, Sonji Joyner (ex officio), Don Koch, Tolu Lawrence, and Amanda Levin.

Tyson Bellamy is the founder and CEO of FEFA, LLC, a consulting firm with offices in Maryland, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Texas. Prior to starting FEFA, he served as CEO of a financial management firm in D.C. Tyson’s professional affiliations include service on the boards of Montgomery County’s Committee for Ethnic Affairs, Office of Community Partnerships, and the American Small Businesses Association. He has also served on numerous panels and was the small business representative during the National Institutes of Health and FDA’s Office of Acquisitions and Grants Services Business Symposium. He participates in mentorship programs, encouraging new business owners to follow their passion in entrepreneurship. Tyson received a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from Villanova University. He and his wife, Mika, are parents of Tyson ’25 and Brandon ’29

Sonji Joyner (ex officio, Parents Association President) is the communications and marketing manager and an adjunct professor in communications at Prince George’s Community College. Additionally, she is the co-founder and principal of J + D Legacy Consulting, director of marketing and public relations at First Baptist

Church of Glenarden, and, for nine years, worked in a variety of roles at Black Entertainment Television, including manager of network specials and creator/producer of the 2010 BET Awards “Who Wore What Show.” Sonji is passionate about spearheading diversity and inclusion efforts by creating content, marketing, and promotions for African American, Hispanic, and Indigenous people of color so they can see themselves and their stories authentically. She holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Johnson and Wales University and master’s degree in strategic communications from American University. She and her husband, Andre, are parents of Addison ’27.

Don Koch is vice president and chief investment officer responsible for managing the endowment of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). He provides leadership and expertise to optimize the performance of HHMI’s investment portfolio and serves as a strategic partner to the president’s office in support of the Institute’s mission to advance the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge. Prior to joining HHMI in 2009, Don worked as an investment analyst at Lane Five Capital Management, where he was responsible for individual stock and credit investments. He started his career as an investment banker at Morgan Stanley and then worked at Gryphon Investors evaluating private equity investments. Don earned an MBA with honors from Columbia Business School and a

BBA in finance and accounting from the University of Michigan. He and his wife, Brigitte, are the parents of Sydney ’27, Colter ’29, and Lucas ’29.

Tolu Lawrence is the managing director of programs and partnerships at JUST Capital, where she leads the creation and management of partnerships across sectors to influence markets and engage business leaders and stakeholders on key issues the American public identifies as most important when it comes to just business behavior. Tolu has over a decade of experience bringing together leading nonprofits, foundations, social enterprises, and brands to develop and support mission-driven initiatives that further social good and help shift public narratives. Prior to joining JUST Capital, she led the expansion of the Workplace Advisors program at Promundo and led strategic partnerships at The Representation Project. Tolu holds a J.D. from American University Washington College of Law and is a member of the California Bar. She and her husband, Mack, are parents of Zoë ’27 and Stellan ’30.

Amanda Levin brings a lens of organizational health and safety and perspective as a parent and pediatrician to Norwood’s board of trustees. Currently, she is a physician in pediatric critical care

at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center and an assistant professor in the Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine. Additionally, she holds leadership roles as the medical unit director for quality and safety in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, the program director for the Pediatric Critical Care Medicine fellowship program, and director of medical student and resident education in her department. Amanda was active in COVID-19 organizational efforts and patient care during the pandemic. She holds a B.S. in biochemistry and a medical degree from Michigan State University. She and her husband, David, are parents of Brady ’25, Ian ’26, and Sasha ’29.

IN APPRECIATION

We are deeply grateful to the following departing trustees for their exceptional service, countless contributions, and unwavering dedication to Norwood.

Andrew Kay

Del Renigar

Nisreen Schneider

Frazier Schulman

Melissa Zettler

Class Notes

1964

Chip Heartfield reports that five Norwood grads were present at a family reunion in Green Pond, New Jersey, in August: Chip’s sisters, Sarah Heartfield Meiring ’66 and Betsy Heartfield ’69, as well as his children, Robbie Heartfield ’07 and Meredith Heartfield ’09 One of the weekend’s projects was to sort through old family photos, among which were several of Mrs. Marsh and the Norwood’s former home at St. John’s Church.

1971

Deana Washburn still has wonderful memories of her years at Norwood. Knowing that Norwood continues to flourish while remaining true to Mrs. Marsh's original mission has always been most heartening but learning of Matthew Gould's appointment as head of school was truly a wonderful surprise In the 1990s and early 2000s, Mr Gould was the assistant head of Far Brook School, the school her children attended in New Jersey and where many of their most rewarding experiences paralleled hers at Norwood. She is thrilled to know that Norwood is in such capable and familiar hands!

In the 1970s, Deana attended Holton-Arms School with several of her Norwood classmates, eventually going on to Ethel Walker School in Connecticut, and from there to Dartmouth College She has lived in the NJ/ NYC metropolitan area since 1984, working as an advertising copywriter for 25 years, including a decade at Macy's. She transitioned from copywriting to managing her husband's clinical and forensic psychology practice to have more flexibility and time with her two daughters and son. She lost her daughter to a rare

cancer at 22, a loss she and her husband continue to grapple with seven years later. They do take some comfort in preserving Ali's legacy and her love of dance with a non-profit (Alessandra LoConte Memorial Fund) they established to support dance education in New Jersey and to enhance the performing arts program at Ali’s high school. These days, Deana is babying her three terriers, as well as volunteering as a court advocate, working with and for children in the foster care system in New Jersey.

1978

Betsy Kingsley moved to Tampa, Florida, several months ago from Seattle She reports that it is so

nice to wake up to sunshine and palm trees every day!

1980

Ed Forgotson spent most of the past two decades working at CBS Sunday Morning. In 2016, he and his family moved back to Maryland from New York City This fall, his son, Jerome, joined Norwood’s Class of 2026! He would love to hear from any classmates, here in D.C. or further afield. Ed is a Facebook holdout and says it’s best to reach him at edforgotson@gmail.com.

1987

Isabel Gonzalez recently moved back "home" to D.C. after living

abroad and in Greenwich, Connecticut, for 20 years. Her three children currently attend Georgetown University. Isabel is working in the admissions office at Madeira School and is very much looking forward to connecting with former Norwood classmates and friends.

Carin Rosenberg hosted a local gathering of 1987 classmates living in the DMV area this past summer. Another gathering will be held later this fall.

1990

Katie Uhre Gregorio visited Norwood on September 13, 2022, to speak with seventh and eighth graders about her recently

published book, The Double Life of Katharine Clark, which is based on her great-aunt’s career as a foreign correspondent in Europe during the height of the Cold War. She also had the opportunity to tour the campus with her Norwood teacher Craig Hollander

1992

Abigail Betts is over the moon because her daughter, Rosemary, is a member of the Class of 2031 (kindergarten)! When she received the wonderful news last spring that Rosemary would be attending Norwood, she immediately texted Anne Nicolaysen Bubb and Christina Barry, her two oldest friends, who shared her excitement. Rosemary joins Michael Bowen’s daughter, Magnolia, who is also a Norwood kindergartner In other Norwood small world news, Abigail ran into Mara Gandal-Powers ’94 at Rosemary’s first tennis class in September Turns out Mara’s son is in the same tennis class. And that’s not all! Abigail rejoined

the Norwood community not only as a new parent but also as the School’s new director of development. Congratulations to Abigail! Read more on page 11.

1993

Alexandra Moravec has been living in Seattle for over a decade with her husband, Andy, and their six-year-old daughter. They love exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest—it has not grown old yet! Careerwise, she works for JPMorgan Chase, providing financing for construction of affordable housing. She hopes the Class of 1993 is doing well and would love to connect with other Norwood alums living in the PNW

1996

Thayer McGregor is the proud parent of a new Norwood student. Her son, Peter, has just started kindergarten with the Class of 2031!

Michael Gandal recently moved to Philadelphia with his wife,

Morgan, and children Eli (7) and Sophie (3). Mike joined the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where he directs a neurogenetics research laboratory, studying how genetic factors coordinate brain development and contribute to neuropsychiatric disorders.

1997

Dan Simon, with his wife, Lisa, recently reconnected with the Norwood community as his son, Gabriel embarked on his Norwood journey as a member of the Class of 2032, the first pre-kindergarten class to enjoy the new Marriott Early Childhood Building.

Jay Buchman currently lives in New York City, where he is a tax lawyer at K&L Gates. This has been an exciting year for Jay—he became a partner at the firm, and he and his wife, Jane, found out that they will be having their second child, a baby girl, this fall. They currently have a two-and-ahalf-year-old son, Andy

2000

Lizzy Doyle is living in Bethesda with her husband, Jacob, two daughters, and a little boy coming this spring. She looks back on her years at Norwood with such fond and joyful memories. Three of her dearest friends today are members of the Class of 2000

2003

Mallory Polak is the new Summit program director at Norwood this year. She has had a very busy year! She started working at Norwood in November of last year as the assistant Summit coach. In February, she moved to Falls Church, Virginia, with her then boyfriend. She then accepted a position working at Norwood’s Adventure Camp In June, her boyfriend proposed at their 15-year high school reunion at Mercersburg Academy. They are planning a fall 2023 wedding.

Mike Ticehurst is a data scientist/ management consultant living in Jersey City After 10 years putting in his dues as a business strategy and data science consultant, he made up his mind that it was finally time to do something more satisfying. Mike decided to try his best to make the world a better place by empowering parents to raise happy, emotionally healthy children. Along with his business partner, who Mike describes as a “super nanny to the stars,” Mike founded Village Childcare Experts (villagecce.com), which connects parents with parenting experts to get personalized guidance via interactive, one-on-one video conferencing sessions. Mike is expecting to launch Village in mid to late November

and is currently accepting parents on a waitlist.

1 Sarah Heartfield Meiring ’66, Betsy Heartfield ’69, and Chip Heartfield ’64 at a family reunion in New Jersey over the summer. 2 Alumni from the Class of 1987 at a summer gathering in D.C.: (back row, left to right) Isabel Gonzalez, Kate Winder, Carin Rosenberg, Torie Castiello; (bottom row) Lexa Castiello and Brooke Wolvin. 3 Katie Uhre Gregorio ’90 and history teacher Craig Hollander during Katie’s visit to Norwood on September 13 to speak with middle school students about her new book. 4 A family photo, taken over the summer, from Lizzy Doyle ’00. 5 She said yes! Mallory Polak ’03 was engaged in June and is planning a fall 2023 wedding. 6 The Jahns enjoyed a fun family sail during a trip to Cannes, France, to attend a family wedding this summer: Charlotte Jahn ’05 with husband Charley Benhase, Viveka Jahn ’03, former staff member and alumna Kathy Johnston Jahn ’69, and Peter Jahn.

New Online School Store!

Show your Norwood pride.

Norwood has a new online school store. No more having to come to campus to pick up your purchases. Everything will be shipped directly to your door!

Shop today for your Norwood spiritwear, including tees, sweatshirts and sweatpants, shorts, and more! Then sit back and let the Blue Hawk do the rest.

1 Athena Diligenti ’09 lives in Maine and works as a medical care manager for people living with HIV/AIDS. 2 Emily Marsteller ’09 surrounded by Class of 2009 classmates at her wedding on June 25: (left to right) Caroline Webster, Kate McPherson, Margaret Gill, and Meredith Heartfield. 3 Sophie Bloom ’14 graduated from Penn State this spring and is now teaching at the Goddard School of Gaithersburg 4 Sajan Mistry ’13 completed a 252-mile bike ride to raise money for Alzheimers (Ride to End ALZ) in July. 5 Blue Hawk alumni from the Class of 2018 gathered at a Georgetown Prep graduation event in May (left to right) Taylor Steuart, Sheldon Mills, Nick Heiss, Sam Schulman, Church Elmore, and Alan Zhang.

2006

Emily Gubish Bucheimer received a master’s degree in social work in 2015 and started working as a mental health therapist. She is now the director of an outpatient mental health clinic in Montgomery County. She lives in Frederick with her husband, and they are expecting their first baby in March.

2007

Margaret Morrison recently graduated with a master’s degree in environmental management from Duke University and is moving back to the D.C. area next year to work on ocean policy issues at the federal level as a Sea Grant Knauss Fellow. In the meantime, she is enjoying being an aunt to her three-monthold niece, Maeve (daughter of Katherine Morrison ’02).

2009

Emily Marsteller married Jamie Duguid on June 25, 2022, at the Chevy Chase Club Caroline Webster was the maid-ofhonor and Margaret Gill was a bridesmaid. Emily graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law in May and started as an associate at King & Spalding in Washington, D.C., in late September. Keeping it in the Blue Hawk family, Emily works for Norwood trustee Jeff Spigel P’16, P’19, who heads the firm’s antitrust practice. Emily’s husband, Jamie, was recently ordained as a minister at Wallace Presbyterian Church in College Park and is a Ph.D. student in Egyptian and Semitic Languages and Literatures at Catholic University. The busy couple resides in Washington, D.C.

Meagan Klebanoff graduated from Duke University in May with a dual degree of her MBA

and Master of Environmental Management, concentrating in energy finance. She has since moved to Charlottesville, Virginia, where she works as an energy marketing associate at Apex Clean Energy She also got engaged over Labor Day weekend and is excited to get married next fall!

Athena Diligenti graduated from University of Maine with a B.S. in social work in 2017. The beautiful outdoors and tight-knit communities in Maine made her decision to stay post-graduation an easy one! She works at Health Equity Alliance, a non-profit social service agency that engages in harm reduction, sexual health and wellness, and HIV/AIDS care management. She serves as a medical care manager for people living with HIV/AIDS. When she’s not doing that, she’s hiking, cooking, snowmobiling, or digging her car out from three feet of snow.

WELCOME BACK, CLASS OF 2018!

We were thrilled to see so many alumni from the Class of 2018 and their parents back on campus on May 4, 2022, for a fun reunion before their high school graduations. There was lots of excitement in the air as they shared summer plans and college destinations.

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES CHOSEN

BY THE CLASS OF 2018

Adam Blayney

Indiana University

Sumner Bradley Louisiana State University

Christopher Brown University of Colorado at Boulder

Bob Burr Washington & Lee University

John Bailey Butswinkas

New York University, Stern School of Business

Briana Byrd University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Alida Camper University of Chicago

Catherine Carroll American University

Louisa Cave

Wake Forest University

Reina Chiang San Diego State University

Claire Coleman Georgetown University

Anna Curran Skidmore College

Alex Delistathis Princeton University

Church Elmore Boston College Ava Eszenyi Boston College

Annie Evans University of Wisconsin, Madison Avi Fruman Indiana University

Ainsley Ganti Rice University

Ryan Groban Wake Forest University

Lucas Harazmus University of Alabama

Nick Heiss Boston College

Sammy Hemann Wake Forest University

Mallory Herron University of Michigan

Riley Herron Washington University in St. Louis

Jack Holland University of Virginia

Serena Hong Columbia University

Deon Johnson University of Pittsburgh Will Kay Cornell University

Mira Khera New York University, Tisch School of the Arts

Maggie Koonce Boston College

Gretchen Lamkin Kenyon College

Danae Latham University of Kentucky

Trip Latimer

Wake Forest University (Fall 2023)

Ryan Lee University of Miami

Dylan Luchsinger Colorado School of Mines

Daniel Lustbader

Dartmouth College

Bea Marcus University of Michigan

Linnaea McGuinneess Brown University

Sheldon Mills Georgetown University

Sophia Papademetriou George Washington University

Jack Parsons

University of Maryland, College Park

Katie Posner University of Maryland, College Park

Ally Ramirez University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Charlie Schulman Middlebury College

Sam Schulman Georgetown University

Kyle Share St. Andrew’s School (Delaware) - PG Year

Rebecca Share University of California, Los Angeles

Julia Sherman Columbia University

Tali Smith

Harvey Mudd College

Taylor Steuart University of Tennessee

Caitlyn Topercer Purdue University Bella Trizzino Virginia Tech

Emma Vaughan Dartmouth College

Gavin Vaughn University of Central Florida

Maguire Wentz University of Southern California

Oakley Winters Tufts University

Noah Yanowitch Wesleyan University

Alan Zhang

University of Maryland, College Park

CLASS OF 2022

CLASS OF 2022 REUNION:

OCTOBER 14, 2022

Just four months after their Norwood graduation, the Class of 2022 was back on campus for a fall reunion and the opportunity to tour the Marriott Early Childhood Building. It was great to see everyone and hear all about their high school experiences!

WHERE OUR 2022 GRADS ARE GOING...

Macy

Emma

McKenna Carswell St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

Jeremy Chud Landon School

Amariah De Souza Walkersville High School

Francesca Dennis Holton-Arms School

Blake Dworken Bullis School

Lilly Elmore Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School

Nick Evans Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School

Taylor Gaines Holton-Arms School

Chloe Gao National Cathedral School

Phoebe Gordon Walt Whitman High School

Connor Graham Sidwell Friends School

Coco

Gabbi

Sam

Angel

Theo Schwarz The Field School

Laney

Lauren

Madeline Katz

Osewe

Ben

Charlie

Sam Spencer Potomac School

Trevor Vaughn Bullis School

Catherine

Lukie Watkins The Gunston School

Reid Webber St. Albans School Ellie Wilson Barrie School

Logan Winters Potomac School

Justin

Aiden

Dain

Jake Rubin Bullis School

Brill Bullis School

Canan Sidwell Friends School

Declan Griffey

Andrew’s Episcopal School

Adam Grumet

Andrew’s Episcopal School

Harsanyi Our Lady of Good Counsel School

Tejis Lodato Walt Whitman High School

Mackay St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

Noah Magsino Landon School

Mandov Winston Churchill High School

Ben Mattison Winston Churchill High School Mia McBrady Walt Whitman High School Emersyn McNamara

Friends School

Ogada

Friends School

Palma St. Albans School

Palma St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School

Phillips St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

Cole Piraino Mercersburg Academy

Rubin Bullis School

Saravanan Babu Holton-Arms School

Ward Winston Churchill High School

Yarborough Sidwell Friends School

Maddie Freed lives in Boston and is enjoying the fall New England weather transition. She works, primarily remotely, doing cybersecurity consulting for a company called Veracode, supporting the Canadian client base

Christina Sturgeon is in her last year of law school and will be returning to the D.C. area upon graduation.

2012

Elena Lostoski is in her third year working at Norwood and her second year as a fourthgrade homeroom teacher. She is loving it!

2013

Sajan Mistry lives in South Carolina and works as an

engineer designing tools for Ryobi power tools, most recently working to develop the Ryobi whole stud finder In his free time, he runs and bikes. In July, he completed a 252-mile bike ride to raise money for Alzheimer's, and a couple weeks later, he ran his first 50-mile run!

2014

Sophie Bloom graduated from Penn State in spring 2022. She started a new job in June as a lead teacher at the Goddard School of Gaithersburg.

2018

Anna Curran was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout last year. She is part of the first group of female Eagle Scouts in the nation! Anna’s Eagle project was rehabilitating the porch furniture at the Clara Barton House in Glen Echo, Maryland.

She worked in collaboration with Daughters of the American Revolution and the National Park Service on her project.

2019

Grayden Mitchell was in last year’s televised season of It’s Academic, and he is also learning to fly in a WWII T-6 Texan fighter plane!

2020

Piya Scielzo, founder of Pops by Piya (popsbypiya.com), recently organized her third Children's Business Fair in Chevy Chase, which featured 30 young entrepreneurs representing over 20 small businesses. Look out for the next fair organized by Piya in December of 2022.

Join Norwood’s New Linkedin Group!

Connect with members of the Norwood School community, past and present, via our new LinkedIn group—a great way to engage with one another and to connect across industry and expertise. This group is a trusted place for our community to share knowledge, resources, and to help and support one another professionally.

Connect with us today!

1 Emma Vaughan ’18 (right) and Daniel Lustbader ’18 (left) celebrating the end of freshman orientation at Dartmouth College with a twilight ceremony. 2 Anna Curran ’18 is part of the first group of female Eagle Scouts in the nation. 3 Norwood alumni with their sibling graduates at Commencement on June 8, 2022: (left to right) Church Elmore ’18, Lilly Elmore ’22, Julian Yarborough ’19, Justin Yarborough ’22, Graham Webber ’19, Reid Webber ’22, Emersyn McNamara ’22, Ethan McNamara ’19, Charlie Palma ’22, Lucy Palma ’19, Ben Palma ’22, Michael Hemann ’21, Lauren Hemann ’22, Sammy Hemann ’18, Trevor Vaughn ’22, Gavin Vaughn ’18, Thomas Ogada ’20, and Osewe Ogada ’22. 4 Piya Scielzo ’20 at her third Children’s Business Fair on September 17 in Chevy Chase.

The collective resources of the Norwood Community are vast.

Renewal and Optimism

Renewal and optimism are setting the tone for the 2022-2023 school year Gifts to The Norwood Fund play a significant role in uplifting the programs and resources for every student and teacher in the current school year As always, The Norwood Fund is the cornerstone of all fundraising programs, contributing 4% of the School’s annual operating budget. Your gift provides direct funding for educational initiatives that tuition alone does not cover.

For more information, contact Abigail Betts ’92, Director of Development, at 301-841-2203 or abetts@norwoodschool.org. All gifts received by June 30, 2023 will be recognized in our Annual Report, published in the fall.

2022

November 17 & 18, 2022 @ 7:00pm Fall Play “Hoodie”

November 19, 2022 @ 2:00pm Fall Play “Hoodie”

November 22, 2022 8:00-11:30am Grandparents and Special Guests Day

December 14, 2022 @ 7:00pm

Middle School Winter Concert

December 16, 2022 @ 8:30am

Lower School Winter Concert

2022-2023 Events

We invite the full Norwood community, past and present, to the following upcoming events:

2023

January 21, 2023 @ 10:00am

Blue Hawk Playdate for Alumni and Children

February 11, 2023

Norwood Rocks the ’80s Annual Fundraising Event at AMP by Strathmore March 9, 2023 5:30-7:30pm Norwood Reunion March 17, 2023 2:30-3:45pm Multicultural Festival

April 27, 2023 @ 6:00pm Spring Reunion for the Class of 2019 May 4 & 5, 2023 @ 7:00pm Spring Musical

May 6, 2023 @ 2:00pm Spring Musical

May 9, 2023 @ 7:00pm

Middle School Choir and Handbells Spring Concert

May 11, 2023 @ 7:00pm

Middle School Band and Orchestra Spring Concert

May 12, 2023 @ 8:05am

Founder ’s Day and Faculty/ Staff Milestones Chapel

June 6, 2023 Class Day

June 7, 2023 Commencement

June 20, 2023 Summer at Norwood Begins

If you are receiving multiple copies of the magazine, please contact the Development Office at 301-841-2205 or developmentoffice@norwoodschool.org.

ALUMNI EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

Blue Hawk Alumni Playdate

January 21, 2023, 10:00 a.m.

Marsh Gym

Alumni, bring your children to the Marsh Gym to run off cold winter day energy, while you get to see the Norwood of today and catch up with old friends.

Norwood Reunion for All Class Years

March 9, 2023, 5:30 p.m.

Norwood Campus

We invite alumni, former parents, and former faculty/staff for an evening of nostalgia, friendship, and a tour of the new Marriott Early Childhood Building.

Spring Reunion for the Class of 2019

April 27, 2023, 6:00 p.m.

Marriott Early Childhood Building

We look forward to hosting alumni and parents from the Class of 2019 for an evening of reconnecting and reminiscing before the busy high school graduation season is upon them!

Don’t miss your invitation to these and other Norwood events! Contact Kate Barnes at kbarnes@norwoodschool.org to update your information today.