MAYPOLL 2016-2017
M AY F I E L D J U N I O R S C H O O L O F T H E H O LY C H I L D J E S U S
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | A
Our Mission Mayfield Junior School, a Catholic independent school founded and sponsored by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, implements the philosophy of the Holy Child Schools which is based on trust and reverence for the dignity of every person. We are committed to the religious and educational development of each child and to maintaining a sense of community and family spirit that welcomes people of diverse backgrounds. At Mayfield each child is challenged to reach his or her potential. We encourage our students to respond to the needs of our time with compassion, integrity and confidence in God and in their own gifts.
B | Mayfield Junior School
MAYPOLL 2016 – 2017 Headmaster
Joseph J. Gill Administration
Table of Contents 02
Bridget Kelley-Lossada
From the Headmaster
Laura Kennedy
04
Middle School Director Lower School Director
Anna Longstaff
Director of Advancement
Lauren Marlis
Director of Enrollment
Thomas Stafford
Director of Marketing and Communications
Kathryn Sweeney
Director of Finance and Operations
Editor
Kristina Martinez de la Torre Contributors
Christine Goethals Paige Hobey Bridget Kelley-Lossada Laura Kennedy Kathryn Mechaley ’18 Jason Wolfe Design
Caroline Halili Photography
Adrienne Bononi Rick Davitt Karen Limongelli Kristina Martinez de la Torre Kara Snider
Board Notes
06
Mustang Baseball
08
Mission Effectiveness: Living the Goals
24
On Stage
28
Design Thinking in the D-Lab
32
Graduation
38
Events
44
Alumni Events
46
In Memoriam
48
My Mayfield Life
The Maypoll is published annually for the community and friends of Mayfield Junior School. We welcome your comments and suggestions. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. Please direct any questions, comments or corrections to Kristina Martinez de la Torre, Mayfield Junior School, 405 South Euclid Avenue, Pasadena, California 91101, kmdelatorre@mayfieldjs.org Non-Discrimination Policy
Mayfield Junior School does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid or other schooladministered programs or activities. Accreditations and Associations
Mayfield Junior School is accredited by the Western Association of Colleges and Schools (WASC), Western Catholic Education Association (WCEA) and the California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).
For more information about Mayfield Junior School, please visit our website at www.mayfieldjs.org
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 1
Our collective work to care for children is at our core and can only be accomplished if we remain undaunted and singularly focused on their needs. JOSEPH J. GILL, Headmaster
2 | Mayfield Junior School
From the Headmaster The pursuit of excellence, and addressing the challenges associated with achieving a significant and meaningful goal, is a process that requires careful attention. Experience shows us that there is a reasonable chance of missing a desired target if one sets out without an established sense of balance and clarity. For example, a carpenter can attest to the fact that keeping a project square is based on a premise of starting with a true 90-degree corner. If one begins with a skewed or biased position, there is a very good chance it will only result in more of the same. In our effort to sustain and improve Mayfield Junior School, we constantly look at the needs of our students, best practices in education and the standards of our Mission and Holy Child Goals. We never lack for ideas or opportunities that may lead us to create a more effective and comprehensive educational experience across the nine grade levels. However, before moving forward, it is imperative that we center ourselves, focus on what is true and relative, and then act accordingly. Responding to influences that are misleading or misdirected will only complicate things and detract from the intended progress. To that end, we strive to collect and consider input that can be used to help us adapt and direct our school program to best suit the needs of the students. The recently completed Holy Child Network of Schools Mission Effectiveness process gives us an objective and insightful look at how we present the legacy of Mother Cornelia’s vision. Our exhaustive self-study and subsequent peer review from other Holy Child
educators, the report of which is expected soon, help guide us as we strive to improve. We are confident that the report we receive will be balanced and clear, providing us additional confidence to move forward. The thoughtful and sincere feedback from faculty, staff, parents and students, also contributes to guiding our pursuit of excellence. I personally appreciate and respect the candid comments of community members who sincerely share insight and observations that support our school. Strengthening the partnership necessary to help our children develop into happy and healthy individuals is an ongoing pursuit that demands honest and open communication. Our collective work to care for children is at our core and can only be accomplished if we remain undaunted and singularly focused on their needs. We publish this Maypoll with the intention of presenting and celebrating a few of the wonderful stories associated with Mayfield Junior School. I hope that after taking a few minutes to review the contents, those of you in our extended community will reflect on some of your own personal memories associated with the school. Each story or experience, not just those reported here, is precious and essential to the collective legacy of the institution. We see it in the eyes of our students in the D-Lab and hear it on the sidelines at our games. Our parents show the connection on the first day of kindergarten all the way to graduation day. When you step back and take a careful look, it is clear that Mayfield Junior School is a very special place. Blessings, Joseph J. Gill
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 3
Board Notes The Board of Trustees provides support and leadership to Mayfield Junior School. The Board is responsible for the financial viability of the school, long-range planning and adherence to the Mission and Philosophy. At the final meeting for the 2016 - 2017 year, retiring members Alison Gamble ’83, Chris Jacobs and Diana Nixon were recognized for their service, contributions and fellowship. Each retiring member has demonstrated a commitment to our School and embodied our motto, Actions not Words.
Outgoing Board Alison Gamble ’83 As a second-generation Mayfield alumna and current parent, Alison brought a unique perspective to her work as a trustee and extended herself as a leader on many important board discussions. She was a member of several committees including Buildings and Grounds, Executive and Committee on Mission. Alison also served as committee chair of Finance and Audit, Investment Sub Committee and Committee on Trustees, and held the position of Vice-Chair of the Board from 2015-2017.
Chris Jacobs Chris was a valuable member of the Board, bringing his sense of humor and thoughtful insight to every meeting. He served on a number of committees including: Committee on Mission, Finance and Audit, Risk Management, Buildings and Grounds, Committee on Trustees and chaired the Investment Sub Committee for two years.
Diana Nixon Diana’s energy and enthusiasm for Mayfield and Holy Child education was evident in her work as a trustee. She was a member of five committees: Development, Committee on Mission, Ad hoc Marketing (chair 2013-2015), Committee on Trustees, and Finance and Audit Committee. Diana’s daughter Paige is an MJS alumna, Class of 2016.
4 | Mayfield Junior School
Welcome to our New Director of Marketing and Communications Thomas Stafford Thomas Stafford joined our administration team this July as our first Director of Marketing and Communications. With 16 years of strategic marketing experience in the educational, governmental, and professional sports sectors, he brings knowledge, insight and leadership to advancing our mission and strengthening our MJS identity. In addition to marketing and communications, the depth of Thomas’ experience covers advancement, admissions, administration, media relations and athletics. During his career, Thomas has helped elevate educational communities, nonprofits and organizations. He most recently served on the senior leadership team as Director of Marketing and Admissions at Junipero Serra High School in the South Bay where he led all aspects of the Catholic school’s marketing and admissions program. Thomas has also served as Director of Marketing and Communications at the nationally recognized Orange Lutheran High School,
Director of Communications and Program Manager at Transtech, a government consulting firm, and assisted the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Dodgers in marketing and community relations. He received his bachelor’s in business administration from Loyola Marymount University. “I look forward to joining the team, being part of the MJS community and supporting our students’ educational experience. What Mayfield provides—the Holy Child education it provides—has a significant and life-long impact on students. It’s a tremendous gift, responsibility and opportunity to guide and mentor young people in a community grounded in faith.” A native of the San Gabriel Valley, Thomas attends St. Philip the Apostle Church and in his free time enjoys helping run a collegiate summer baseball team.
New Members Ryan Brist Ryan Brist is Head of Global Investment-Grade Credit and Portfolio Manager at Western Asset, a globally integrated fixedincome manager. He has 23 years of experience in finance. At Mayfield, he has extended his expertise as a member of the Finance and Audit Committee. Ryan received his bachelor’s in finance from Indiana University and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. He has four children, three currently at Mayfield, Fred ’20, Avery ’22 and Vivian ’25.
Rob Tolleson Rob Tolleson is founder and CEO at CPO, a leading online tool retailer. He serves on several boards in the community including Foothill Family Services and was a founding Board member of the National Monuments Foundation. At Mayfield, he has been a valued member of the Technology and Facilities Committee. Rob received his bachelor’s from Washington and Lee University, and earned an M.B.A. from Harvard. He has three children, Emeline ’17, Henry ’19 and Ridley ’21.
Keith Thorell Keith Thorell is a partner in the law firm of Korshak, Kracoff, Kong & Sugano, LLP representing clients in all facets of labor and employment law. He holds bachelor’s degrees in political science, and in social sciences and communications from the University of Southern California. Keith earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School. At Mayfield, Keith has shared his knowledge and counsel as a member of the Risk Management Committee. He is the father of three: Taylor ’17, Charles ’19 and William ’23. 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 5
Mustang Baseball Keeping the Winning Streak Alive! It was 4-3 Mayfield in the bottom of the 7th with two out, the tying run on first and Poly’s best hitter at bat. Coach Tuttle sent relief pitcher Jack Clougherty to the mound as tension grew. The pressure was on – the first two pitches popped up and fouled – the next seemed to slow down as Mustang fans held a collective breath. A swing and a miss! Strike out – Mustangs win!!
It was a nail biter down to the final out but Mustang spirit prevailed for the final game of the season. Mayfield took the League title once again achieving a record nine years as undefeated champions! Congratulations to Coach Tuttle and the team!
6 | Mayfield Junior School
Thank you Coach Tuttle! The close of the 2016-2017 school year was bittersweet as it came time to say good-bye and good wishes to longtime MJS Mustangs hero—Coach Bob Tuttle. In his 32 years on the sidelines calling plays, behind the grill cooking sausages or monitoring the rope at the Blue & White tug-of–war, Bob handled it all with a knowing smile, a great sense of humor and a commitment to encouraging each student to do his or her best. Nearly 1,600 students – many who met him first in kindergarten PE, benefited from his quiet optimism and his confidence in their ability whether learning teamwork and sportsmanship, building skills and game strategies or winning championships. Thank you for every coaching moment, every perfectly cooked hot dog, every undefeated season and every championship. Friend, advisor, colleague—Coach.
We will miss you!
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 7
8 | Mayfield Junior School
Mission Effectiveness:
Living the Goals As a member of the Holy Child Network of Schools, Mayfield Junior School is committed to the Goals for Schools of the Holy Child Jesus. The Goals are principles by which we teach children, and in doing so perpetuate our heritage. Every six years each school within the Network participates in a self-study process surrounding the Goals called Mission Effectiveness.
Mayfield Junior School began our fourth self-study in the spring of 2016, and completed the process following the visit of an evaluation team of Holy Child educators in April. Mission Effectiveness is a wonderful time of celebration and allows the school the opportunity to witness and reflect on how strongly the Goals are lived daily in our programs and community.
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 9
Goal 1 Faith
Holy Child Schools foster a faith commitment that engenders a joyous personal relationship with God in addressing the challenges of the world. When I came to Mayfield in 2013, I had some preconceived notions about private education. Specifically, some of my favorite literary works by Joyce, Salinger, Sittenfeld and others, filled my head with an idea that select schools, among other things, set out to mold their students into a very specific type of person. The portrait of a graduate as it were. A few years later, I think this objective of forming students into an explicit mold still exists at many schools. What struck me four years ago, and continues to inspire me today, is that at Mayfield Junior School we do not seek to cultivate a single brand of student. Instead, if there is one distinguishing trait, one characteristic that we hope to bring out of a Mayfield student, it is his or her unique self. The spiritual foundation and development we seek for our children are authentic, it is not a one-size fits all approach. Our journey is grounded in realizing the uniqueness of each child, and helping he or she establish a personal and joyful relationship with God. From a personal relationship with God comes the ability to navigate our lives through any circumstances. At the intersection of major decisions, instead of asking, what should I do, a
Mayfield student examines, what is God asking of me? Moreover, we do not seek to answer the question for students, but rather equip them with the life-long tools to discern the answer themselves. A compass rather than a code. Perhaps the best measure is the joy that springs from students in all corners of campus. Each smile or laugh is evidence that God dwells in every child. While the curriculum will change through the decades and innovation ever moves us in a new direction, it is our spirit that remains constant and undeniable as the foundational characteristic of Mayfield Junior School. In the end, I suppose you could say the portrait of a Mayfield student is a smiling face. Jason Wolfe, Faith Formation Leader and Director of Extended Programs
10 | Mayfield Junior School
At Mayfield, we are blessed with a community that is comfortable and engaged in prayer. We are a prayerful community that expresses love and care for the less fortunate, hope and inspiration for those facing challenge, and understanding and empathy for those suffering. We don’t wait for Lent or Easter to pray. Rather, we extend our faith-filled conviction to God each and every day. JOSEPH GILL, Headmaster
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 11
Goal 2 Community Holy Child Schools live, learn, and worship as a dynamic Christian community. Our family moved to Pasadena from Chicago in 2006. We didn’t know anyone in the area, and we needed to find a school for our son who was ready for kindergarten. When we visited Mayfield, we immediately felt that unique spark of an engaged, joyful community. The faculty clearly loved their jobs and the children they taught. The parents were warm and welcoming. Even the layout of the school, which centered around the courtyard used for Morning Prayer, facilitated a sense of collaboration and connectedness. It
felt like a place where our children could grow up being inspired by learning and supported by an extended school family of peers and teachers. So, we took a leap of faith. Eleven years later, we’re so grateful for the dynamic community that has allowed our children to thrive and led to lifelong friendships for all of us. Mayfield is a school where people care deeply. Teachers instill a passion for curiosity, serving others and lifelong learning. Parents volunteer enthusiastically and juggle busy schedules to attend the Book Fair and Benefit, grade-level parties and plays. Masses and prayer services bring everyone together in worship. Eighth graders lead school families and manage the Harvest Festival with grace and respect. School leadership—the administration, faculty, Board of Trustees and Parents’ Association Board— help maintain the current vibrancy and guide the school forward with thoughtfulness and care. We’re raising our kids at a challenging time. It’s such a blessing they can begin their journeys within the nurturing community of MJS. Paige Hobey P ’16, P ’19 | Parent Association President 2016-17
School Families Through a Student Activities Program called School Families, the students at Mayfield Junior School live and build upon the tenets of Goal 2. Each School Family is comprised of one student from each grade level, beginning in first grade, with an eighth grade student as the head of the Family. Families gather on Friday mornings for an organized meeting and remain a unit throughout the school year, participating in special projects and often sitting together during a mass or special assembly or competing on the same team for Blue & White Day. Before the first meeting, the eighth graders make phone calls to the parents of their family members to formally introduce themselves and explain the program to any 12 | Mayfield Junior School
new families. They also take the time to personally meet the first and second graders to help them feel more comfortable. Although there is often a bit of shyness at the first meeting it is short lived, and by the middle of October each family has already established its unique dynamic. As the head of their family, each eighth grader is responsible for gathering everyone together, leading the group in prayer and including each member in discussions. While the challenge of keeping seven young people happy and responsive while under one’s care and guidance can be daunting, the eighth graders take their jobs seriously. Some may help a shy student feel more self-confident or an outspoken child realize the power of patience and kind words.
Building Relationships Across Grade Levels K-Pals The K-Pals program was created five years ago to build relationships through reading. For twenty minutes on Friday afternoons kindergarteners and 6th graders pair up and take over the Primary Courtyard to share a moment together with a good book. Both age groups so look forward to Friday afternoons that time flies by, friendships grow and memories are made. The K-Pals program has been so successful, activities have expanded in the past two years to include a half-day retreat together, a partnership in service learning projects and a morning traveling back to ancient Greece for the K-pals Olympics.
K-Pals Olympics! Sixth graders and their kindergarten pals traveled back to ancient Greece for the K-Pals Olympics. A collaboration between the history, P.E., drama and English departments offered the K-Pal pairs rotations of games including chariot races, wrestling, a javelin and discus throw, relays and even a moment of mythology with dramatic readings of Pandora’s Box. Laurel wreaths optional!
With the goals of working together to help others, listening to each other and sharing good times, the school families thrive, building friendships across age groups and developing the idea of community in even the youngest students.
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 13
Goal 3 Learning Holy Child Schools offer an intellectually challenging and creative program of study that develops a love of learning and academic excellence.
Alert and Ready to Learn
Learning From Experience: The Shadow a Student Challenge Teachers and administrators participated in a “Shadow a Student Challenge” this spring. The Challenge encourages school leaders to spend an entire uninterrupted day following a student, with the goal of gaining a fresh perspective with empathy and understanding on the school program and culture. Participants spend the day fully immersed in the student world – going to classes, playing games at recess, sitting at lunch with friends – all to find meaningful opportunities to create change, small or large, to benefit the student experience.
Nicole Wirth, Teacher and Professional Growth Liaison
My day as a fifth grader was a great experience for me as a middle school teacher. At Mayfield, fifth grade is a major transitional year as students become more independent and adapt to a departmentalized curriculum. Right away I noticed that while it is stressful traveling from class to class as a 10 year-old, students seemed be handling it with ease by the middle of the year. Resilient and resourceful, many had developed strategies to help them get to class more quickly. For instance, they leave their books in the Spanish classroom during recess to avoid stopping at their lockers between drama and Spanish. I made a note to allow this in my own classroom, and to dismiss students two minutes early to ease the transition. Probably the most interesting observation I made concerned energy level. I imagined the opportunity to play and be outside would boost my energy level, but even though I played foursquare during recess, I was exhausted by fourth period. This was a revelation for a teacher who struggles with student attention in the middle of the day. Foursquare is the
14 | Mayfield Junior School
most popular game for 5th and 6th graders and yet it does not provide the cardiovascular activity needed to get the blood flowing for the next three classes. Physical education class later in the day gave me the energy I needed but it was too late! I know now that I have to give students a chance to get the blood flowing so they are alert and ready to learn. Jumping jacks before class everyone!
A Look Inside: My Day as a Fifth Grader My day as a fifth grade student involved being active and busy all day. Active listening and singing in music, the mile run in PE, collaboratively solving an equation puzzle in math, meditating and reflecting in religion, and don’t forget the fire drill and four square during both recesses. English was the least physically active but wasn’t boring. I realized the entire English period was devoted to providing the symbols and tools for me (the student) to learn empathy through engaging with a literary text. Education of hearts and minds is a collective effort. It does take a village. The life of a middle school student is a story of group learning. Of learning to fly. Of peer-to-peer dynamics. On a cloudy day in mid-May, I shadowed a fifth grade student and lived to tell the tale. The experience was humbling, exciting, and engaging in countless ways. Though I was exhausted, I knew by the end of the day I wanted to come back for more of this engagement. Though I consider that my own ‘student’ learning has never ended, most has been private, online, and
Bridget Kelley-Lossada, Middle School Director
at this point in my life, a solo journey. In contrast, the journey of a middle school student is firstly social. While it is true that teachers and advisors are present to guide and instruct students about the important elements of content such as the thorough reading of a text, critical writing, and valuable math and science concepts, the simple fact of the matter is that school is a social learning lab. In the first five minutes of my experience as a student, wearing dark shorts and an MJS uniform top, I had an immediate revelation that I had little to no agency or control in my life in this role. My decisions about clothing and hair accents were not my own. Memories of my own middle school days flooded back to me in the simple act of putting on the uniform. However, also in the first five minutes of advisory, I was quickly welcomed as one of the advisee students. It was a hearty welcome, and an immediate training for my future day ahead. Here is where to go, what to do, and what should be brought to class. Did you forget? Don’t worry we got your back. The village of students Goal 3 continues >> 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 15
Fully Immersed
Laura Kennedy, Lower School Director spent the day as a fourth grader
From foursquare and food waste revelations to classroom interruptions and engaging learning activities, my day was filled with insightful moments and positive validations. The friendship and respect between students and their enthusiasm for learning was palpable. I was thrilled to see how wonderful our teachers are in action and how well the day flowed overall. Everyone was kind, calm, organized and really trying to make all of the learning purposeful and engaging. They all gave frequent feedback and recognized and cared for the students as individuals. And the day was active! Teachers use games, movement, technology, partner work and more to keep the learning interesting.
A Look Inside, continued took over, stepped up and engaged with the new student in their midst. Nothing worth learning happens in a vacuum. Students have a unique language and code created through bonding (whether they be friend or foe) while together. There is a dialog in each section and class, an undercurrent of conversation. There is a collective understanding of the rules that govern student lives and what one needs to do to get by at school. I am not talking about the teacher’s rules in this case, but the rules of the social structure within the class. This is an essential part of student development, and as such is as significant, if not more so, than any academic content provided. Students are trying to create meaning with their peers moment to moment, and it is mostly unconscious or subconscious in nature. They are tittering about uncertainties in the day-- would the mad drizzle of the May weather cancel the muchanticipated mile run? (uh, no). And the electricity of conversation that wound its way like a snake through the field during the fire drill was a sight to
16 | Mayfield Junior School
behold. Its power compelled even me (a supposed adult administrator) to converse with my fellow ‘peers.’ At that moment, I was part of the fifth grade student body. It was magical and invigorating. School is group and social learning-- in other words, citizen-of-the-world making at its best. A playground for practicing adult interactions, for making a few solo flights, and for being buffeted by many guides, both peer and adult. This has always been true over the centuries, though the aim and end result of schools have changed over time. From the training field and factory skills of yesterday, to now practicing the art of problem solving, designing for change and collaboration is key. At the end of the day, however, the conversation is everything. As the drizzly day culminated, I promised myself and the students that I would be back shadowing in the fall with my fellow colleagues and peers, and that I would use my epiphanies from the day to continue the perennial quest of making the best middle school for the students. Onward!
Let us love one another and be filled with the charity of God. ~ CORNELIA CONNELLY
Goal 4 Compassion Holy Child Schools work for Christian principles of justice, peace, and compassion in every facet of life.
Compassionate Perspective “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view … until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” Atticus Finch, To Kill a Mockingbird
Mayfield Junior School’s eighth grade participated in an interactive experience in January designed to provide insight and perspective on the reality of life as a refugee. Advisors and several teachers collaborated on the all-day program as a cross-curriculum component of the eighth grade service-learning project. They began with the question: How do we engage students so they understand and act with compassion? Encouraging our students to look beyond themselves and to be aware of the world around them is perhaps the most important thing we do. The worldwide refugee crisis is one of the greatest challenges facing the international community. It would be remiss in their education for our students to remain ignorant of its proportion and its effect. According to the UN High Commission on Refugees, nearly 34,000 people a day flee their homes due to persecutions and violent
conflicts, and 21.3 million have become refugees. The activities and experiences of this day as a refugee focused on empathy, reaching across differences and building bridges of trust instead of walls of fear. To prepare, students studied front page headlines in history, read about a teen’s migration to America in Spanish class, considered prejudice in the story and characters of “To Kill a Mockingbird” and began learning lines for their spring musical, Shrek that includes banishment and exile in the story line. The day began with an introduction using rationed doughnuts to demonstrate the inequalities of resources in regions throughout the world. Before breaking into groups, students were given folders with the identities and stories of real individuals Goal 4 continues >> 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 17
profiled on the United Nations website. The profiles provided glimpses into a refugee’s personal struggle such as the dangerous conditions that forced them to flee, the challenging journeys of hope or the uncertainty of acceptance in a new land. Students rotated through several activities including team challenges that portrayed the harrowing and arduous travel many refugees endure on both sea and land, and small group role-play based on the emotional choices and difficult personal situations families encounter. In one activity they spun a “wheel of fortune� to demonstrate the unknown consequences and the random fate of timing or a decision. Many students were deeply affected when they understood a single spin could mean hopeful opportunity in a new country or years in a camp with little hope.
18 | Mayfield Junior School
At the end of the day, students participated in a panel discussion with community members including attorneys, immigration counselors, advocates with human and civil rights agencies and caseworkers from aid organizations including KIND, Caracen and International Rescue Committee. The informative and honest discussion painted a real world picture of this ongoing crisis for the students. The impact of Refugee Day was profound and students remained connected to its lessons as they researched their own immigrant backgrounds, visited the Museum of Tolerance, and used design thinking to develop products and resources to provide a service or assist with refugee survival. Items representing the year-long experience were exhibited in May during the Service Learning Expo.
I finished reading my poem, and a round of applause erupted from the crowd. I grinned from ear to ear, feeling accomplished and appreciated. My face was bright red like a ripe tomato as I walked off the stage, hands fluttering at my sides. I was so thankful that everyone embraced my individuality. One of the best parts of Mayfield is the encouragement from the community to grow as a unique person and strive to be the best version of you possible. At Mayfield, no one tells you who you’re required to be. Instead, everyone is inspired to be different and told that these differences make you captivating and beautiful. Throughout my eight years at Mayfield, I’ve had numerous experiences that have morphed me into the person I am today. Many teachers have assisted me along the way, helping me learn and pave the path to becoming who I’m meant to be. I’m so grateful for the positivity that radiates off our supportive community at Mayfield. The above-described moment was one of the most prominent experiences where I was motivated to showcase my unique talent. In 5th grade we were asked to write a poem to create a vision of the world where crucial problems were nonexistent as described in Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech, “I Have a Dream.” Everyone in the grade wrote a poem and I was one of two people who got to read my poem in front of the entire middle school, along with my good friend, Tara Randall. For this particular poem I was especially passionate about the subject, which inspired my writing. The commencement of my poetic journey began in 4th grade. That year we were focused on poetry and were assigned to write a short haiku. These haikus were submitted for review with the understanding a select few would be published. My poem was one of the few that were published, which made me ecstatic and improved my confidence about my distinct poetic talent. My poem was related to the beauty of nature, which really resonated with my passion and love for the environment. Having the opportunity to be recognized at such a young age encouraged me to believe that my love of writing was a gift from God worth pursuing. Kathryn Mechaley ’18
Goal 5 Individuality Holy Child Schools create a learning climate based on trust and reverence for the dignity and uniqueness of each person.
At Twilight
By Kathryn Mechaley ’18 (written in 2014)
The owl swooping at twilight, With its yellow eyes glowing bright. A large wingspan and knife-like claws, Watching his surroundings left and right. The grey, howling wolf Knows the moon will be up soon. He climbs up the mountain top, To see the glaring moon. The glowing group of fireflies Brightening up the night. Flying up to the stars, Making an ornate sight. The field mouse scurrying by Gathering seeds for a bite. His little face staring at the sky, Eyes drooping, ready to sleep for the night.
Goal 5 continues >> 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 19
Transformation in Glass
The Mayfield Minute: More Than News They have covered sports, school events, MJS traditions, even the weather. The Mayfield Minute is a weekly news video, produced by a rotating team of fifth graders. Although there is a format to follow, a template and even a tagline, each production has a personality and a unique viewpoint on the topic at hand. Created by drama teacher, Lisa Byrne to enhance the fifth grade drama curriculum three years ago, the project has given students the opportunity to not only learn technical filming and editing production, but also develop their unique voice and storytelling skills. Can I tell this story better with photos or do I need an interview? Will a voiceover or music improve this section? From choosing a topic to final cut, students are challenged to consider these options plus prioritize, collaborate, condense and for those in front of the camera, speak with confidence. The best part? Each week as students work on their short films they create connections, expand perspective and celebrate differences – all in a Mayfield Minute. 20 | Mayfield Junior School
Stained glass artisans at Judson Studios welcomed our seventh graders to their South Pasadena studio in March for the final step in a cross-curricular religion/art project surrounding the Gospel Evangelists. Earlier in the month a team from Judson met with students on campus in the D-Lab for an introduction to the fused glass process and working with the material. During this initial session the students presented drafts of their original artwork and learned about creating a design that will give them freedom to explore with the art glass medium. At the Judson facility the line drawings of each student’s final art were transformed into crafted squares of colorful glass ready to be fused. The students were guided through a three step process from tracing the image with paint, stacking colored pieces of glass to follow and enhance the line, and finally covering it with a top layer of frit, a fine porous glass. The creative energy as students worked was extraordinary! The finished 8x8 squares then awaited the firing stage for the transformation to be complete. Judson Studios delivered the finished art in time for a Grandparents’ day exhibit.
Be yourself but make that self just what Our Lord wants it to be. ~ CORNELIA CONNELLY
Goal 6 Personal Growth Holy Child Schools promote the personal growth and development of all who participate in the life of the school.
Smart Decisions In just a few short years, social media has become an ever-present companion in our lives—especially in the lives of tweens and teenagers. Applications and websites are an easy way to communicate, celebrate and even learn, but can also lead to poor decisions and misguided mistakes. Helping others make smart choices when it comes to social media was the goal of a special sixth grade digital citizenship lesson and exhibition. In small groups sixth graders were tasked with creating a presentation on an assigned application’s appropriate use, benefits and hazards and then to exhibit to both fourth and fifth graders. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, Instagram, Pinterest as well as blogs were examined in detail. A long list of questions was researched including: How does the application work? Who can share what you post?
What are the limitations? Can you sell goods or make money somehow? What can you do to stay safe? Besides the official capacity and rules for each application students highlighted a few street smart tips and real life consequences for misuse. They also incorporated personal opinion on the value or usefulness of the application. Students were challenged to think outside the box and to work collaboratively within their group. The presentations were creative and built within the application featured. In addition to educating themselves and younger students on the relevance and perceived value of social media, the project gave students the opportunity to reflect on personal responsibility as digital citizens in a fast moving world. Making smart choices now—and when the next thing comes along.
Goal 6 continues >> 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 21
Keep Calm and Learn Something New The creation of our D-Lab on campus has sparked a new turn for faculty professional development at Mayfield. Learning to create and push comfort zones is imperative as teachers are encouraged to ask the same of their students. Throughout the year faculty and staff participated, as both teacher and student, in a professional development series called ‘Keep Calm and Learn Something New.’ Drawing from the tenets of our Holy Child Goal 6: “Holy Child Schools promote the personal growth and development of all who participate in the life of the school”, the series focused on growth – both personal and professional, and challenged teachers to cultivate their own growth mindset with new experiences. In October the first round of classes was set up either before or after school with opportunities to explore mindfulness, learn to sew or develop improvisational skills. On Friday, November 11, a full day was set aside to take things a little deeper and celebrate the connection to Goal 6. In the morning teachers and staff both led and participated in creative activities such as weaving lessons, gardening, music exploration and tinkering in the D-Lab while also taking a few moments to make sandwiches for the eighth grade outreach with the St. Francis Center. Time for new ideas and growth remained a focus as the series continued with additional classes and workshops each month such as restorative yoga, prayer circle, fitness boot camp and macramé. A couple classes were led by students such as hair braiding and Rubics Cube, and teachers discussed strategies and new ideas in “Lunchtime chats” – with topics like curating student work, field trips and writing instruction. The program really resonated with the faculty, many commenting at the end of the year how the opportunity to learn new things or collaborate with others left them feeling refreshed and revitalized. Nicole Wirth, who as professional development liaison coordinated the series, summed it up, “The more time we spend trying new things ourselves, the more open we will be to try new things with our students.”
22 | Mayfield Junior School
Goal 7 Holy Child Holy Child Schools ensure the continuation and growth of Holy Child mission and philosophy in the School.
How do we meet the wants and needs of the age while sustaining a bright and joyful spirit into the future? As Cornelia Connelly said, “Actions, not words.”
make it better. We continually educate ourselves through classes, observations, seminars, webinars, blogs, books and conversations to ensure that we meet the needs of every type of learner.
We do what Holy Child Schools have done well from the start, remaining true to the mission of the Sisters of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus: “help others believe that God lives and acts in them and in our world, and to rejoice in the divine presence.” We celebrate the dignity and uniqueness of each child and keep the wellbeing of all at heart with every decision we make.
MJS students are steeped in an awareness of their gifts and responsibilities as world citizens. Daily lessons invite and challenge them to look outward and not only pray for the less fortunate, but also to respond to the needs of others. Service learning and reach out projects allow our children to take immediate action. At graduation each year, we send compassionate, independent thinkers, problem-solvers and innovators into the world. They leave MJS with the confidence and skills to carry on the Holy Child mission and watch it grow.
As educators, we experiment with new ways of presenting material, and constantly reconsider which content is essential. We rethink every completed lesson and wonder how we might
Christine Goethals, Middle School English
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 23
On Stage
24 | Mayfield Junior School
Lessons from an Ogre in “Shrek, the Musical” The Class of 2017 invited the MJS community to “let their freak flag fly” in four performances of “Shrek, the Musical” March 31-April 2. Strong vocals, confident characterization, and great comedic timing showcased the unique talents, collaboration skills and commitment of this class. Irreverent, but authentic, the story of a lonely ogre who finds his home invaded by banished fairytale misfits and discovers a better version of himself in the challenges he faces, was purposefully chosen to connect with the social justice theme in the eighth grade service learning curriculum. Whether serving the homeless at the St. Francis Center or understanding the struggles and hardship faced by immigrants and refugees, the class focused on empathy for others who, just like the displaced fairy tale characters in this show, were searching for safety and kindness. 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 25
Aladdin Kids: Workshop Production Develops Confidence and Skill With minimal sets and costumes, the fifth grade used their bodies, voices and imagination to bring the story of Aladdin and the characters of “The Arabian Nights� to life in a workshop production of Aladdin Kids. Featuring instrumental musical performance and acting, the workshop production focused on process over product. Students were allowed to experiment with choreography, instrumentation and even a little costume creation in the D-Lab as they worked together as an ensemble to tell this magical tale.
26 | Mayfield Junior School
Spring Concert 2017: Student Voice and Choice Mayfield Rocks! Spring Concert 2017 was a celebration of Student Voice and Choice where a love of music rocked the house! Family and guests filled the Hayden Performing Arts Center for the highly anticipated annual concert. Fun, energetic performances by the 4th grade choir, 6th grade, Concert choir, Chamber choir, Rock Band and the new 7th grade Ukulele Ensemble, highlighted student talent and a collective passion for music.
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 27
New D-Lab Inspires a Design Mayfield Junior School is committed to providing the best learning environment and resources for today’s students. Last summer a classroom underwent an “innovation renovation” to become a center for design thinking and constructivist learning – the MJS D-Lab. The D-Lab is a multi-functional, flexible space designed to encourage, supply and highlight student creativity.
28 | Mayfield Junior School
In its first year the D-Lab has hosted students from all grades K-8 and has been a partner to core content and curriculum. With found materials and crafts, sewing and textiles, and digital fabrication tools (laser cutter and 3D printer), students experienced the many educational benefits of the D-Lab.
An “Egg”cellent Experiment
Recycled Shoe Engineers
Seventh grade IDEA Lab students tested their ingenuity in the great Egg Drop experiment. Using their creativity and the extensive collection of resources within the D-Lab, students were asked to design a lightweight vessel that would absorb the force of a fall and protect an egg. Working in teams they presented their projects (which were appropriately named) to classmates who predicted egg survival based on structure and materials used. Then it was time to test their creations - would Cup O’ Egg, Snuggle McPuffs and Storm Cloud achieve success?
IDEA Lab students followed the process of design thinking as they teamed up to explore life as a shoe engineer. Students considered elements such as wear, tread, flexibility, comfort and design. After interviewing their partners to establish empathetic perspective, each team developed shoe prototypes solely (no pun intended) out of recycled materials. The project culminated with the added challenge of students wearing the shoes outside at recess.
Thinking Mindset
The IDEA Lab is one third of an enrichment rotation for seventh graders that also includes courses in music and health and wellness. The course challenges students to question, design, collaborate and think critically in an atmosphere of choice and flexibility.
Solution Quest IDEA Lab students took creativity up a level with a design game called The Extraordinaires. Using concepts, questions and prompts to boost imagination, the game guides students through elements of the design thinking process such as empathy and resilience. Students developed products to provide a solution for some extraordinary characters and situations. Super hero hydration pack? Ninja sleeping space? Rapper wardrobe selector? From concept drawing to construction engineering with recyclables and D-Lab resources, students collaborated with out of the box ideas and creativity soared. 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 29
D-Lab Inspires cont. 6th Grade Egyptian Golf Course In a math and history collaborative project, students in the sixth grade were challenged to create Egyptian themed miniature golf course holes for Mayfield’s 2016 Golf Classic. To prepare for the project, students visited a local miniature golf course to examine materials and measure holes for angle and distance. Small groups worked together to design and create scale models to present to a panel of judges. Three teams were selected to create the life-size version of their holes for the golf tournament.
Pixie to Pen: Cross Designs
New Faculty Position for the 2017-2018 Year Innovation and Design Mentor Innovation is essential for educational intuitions like Mayfield Junior School to meet the dynamic and evolving needs of an excellent 21st century school. With the success of the D-Lab and design-thinking curriculum across grade levels, Mayfield has created a new faculty role for the 2017-2018 school year: Innovation and Design Mentor. The Innovation and Design Mentor will continue to build a culture of exploration and experimentation among teachers and students, and inspire the faculty community to model and support best practices in innovation, integration, and curricular research. In partnership with school leadership, this new role will develop and implement a strategic vision for instructional design, crosscurricular integration initiatives and academic technology. 30 | Mayfield Junior School
Second grade students designed crosses in technology class using a program called Pixie. The Pixie cross design was used as a pattern to build an actual cross using a 3D pen.
Weaving Workshop Third graders spent a day in the D-Lab experiencing the ancient skill of weaving with science teacher Sara Crepaux. From patiently building the frame loom to sketching a design and choosing colorful yarn, students were engaged in a combination of creativity and detailed work requiring focused concentration.
Dream Adventurers It was busy in the D-Lab when kindergarteners set to work creating items to take on a dream adventure. Backpacks, binoculars, armor, animal traps, wings and wands were just a few of the wildly imaginative items made completely out of recycled materials such as cereal boxes, paper towel rolls, egg cartons, bubble wrap and bits of cord and string.
Speed Challenge in the D-Lab After studying the water cycle fourth graders tested their knowledge in a speed challenge. Could they create physical representations of the different cycles using repurposed materials and the tools available in the D-Lab? In only 35 minutes? Creative resourcefulness meets atmospheric science - if only they could make it rain!
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 31
Graduation
Celebrating the Class of 2017 Parents, family and friends gathered on Friday, June 2 to celebrate the 63 members of the Class of 2017. The traditional ceremony highlighted the achievements and talents of the class with major awards, a choral presentation from the spring play, “Shrek, Jr” and sage advice from several speakers including Headmaster Joseph Gill, MJS Alumna Perry Hotchkis ’12, and Mayfield parent, Ed Richmond. In her address, Student Body President, Hayes Sullivan noted the class shared a special connection with Headmaster Joe Gill declaring, “Mr. Gill is an honorary eighth grader!”
32 | Mayfield Junior School
Both had joined the Mayfield community in 2008, the class as wide-eyed kindergarteners and Mr. Gill as the new headmaster. Mr. Gill also acknowledged the special link he would always have with this class and asked them to reflect on all they have learned, “the last nine years have indeed been important and will be incredibly influential to how the next 90 years unfold.” Each year graduation is a joyful event for many reasons – the excitement of the day, the promise of the future, the coming of age and the culmination for many of nine years growing up together. Friendships made, experiences shared, whether nine years or two, it is significant to watch these graduates leave childhood and become accomplished and strong young men and women. Join us in congratulating the Mayfield Junior School Class of 2017!
Remember, you do not have to follow the crowd, follow your heart. Do the right thing, especially when no one is watching you. Study hard and remember that you are investing in yourself with every test you take, every book you read and every hour you put into community service. Ed Richmond, Graduation address
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 33
Graduation Awards The Christina L.C. Patel Prize in Religion Established in honor of a young girl who achieved a great deal in her short life, the Christina L.C. Patel Religion Award is given annually to a deserving 8th grade student who represents the ideals of Christian life.
Sarah Ryan
The Resa Baratta Citizenship Award
The Mayfield Award
Presented by the faculty and administration in honor and memory of former faculty member Resa Baratta. Resa modeled service and citizenship in her work at Mayfield and the community. She consistently taught her students that treating others with respect and dignity was as important as any other action. This award is presented in her memory each year.
Representing the highest goals and ideals of Holy Child education, the Mayfield Award is given annually to one or more eighth grade students who have shown outstanding evidence of character, cooperation, loyalty and service.
Andrew Richmond and Hayes Sullivan
Diego Guerrero
The Colleen Nickerson Memorial Award Established in honor of former faculty member Colleen Nickerson, this award is given to an eighth grade student who has demonstrated perseverance, commitment to growth and dedication to purpose.
Taylor Thorell
The Highest Academic Average for the 2016 - 2017 school year. Caitlin Huntsman
‌your Holy Child education is far more than the academic lessons of the classroom and experiences of the co-curricular programs. It is also a chance for you to accept into your heart and mind, that the teachings of a loving God are the foundation of our lives. Joseph J. Gill, Headmaster’s address
34 | Mayfield Junior School
Baccalaureate Awards and Family Recognition Academic Excellence and Distinguished Achievement English: Academic Excellence: Taylor Thorell Distinguished Achievement: Sophia Labrador and Gabriella Wrighten
History: Academic Excellence: Caitlin Huntsman Distinguished Achievement: Sophia Cotman and Ryan Nishiyama
Mathematics: Academic Excellence: Caitlin Huntsman
Honors at Entrance
Mayfield Senior School: Frances Burton, Ellery Hotchkis, Sophia Labrador, Alexandra Lewis, Katherine Limongelli, Chloe Powell, and Taylor Thorell St. Francis: Joseph Adams, Boyd Oliver, Henry Peutet, and Ryan Ramos
Family Recognition
It is a tradition during the Baccalaureate Awards ceremony to honor a family whose youngest member is graduating after many years at the school. This year we recognized the Attwood Family for 17 years as a Mayfield Family.
Victoria 2009, Caroline 2011, Thomas 2013, John 2017
Distinguished Achievement: Isabella Gerhardt, Brooke Porter and Emeline Tolleson
Science: Academic Excellence: Sophia Cotman, Caitlin Huntsman and Taylor Thorell Distinguished Achievement: Frances Burton, Sophia Labrador and Marshall Smith
Spanish: Academic Excellence: Sophia Cotman and Caitlin Huntsman Distinguished Achievement: Diego Guerrero and Hayes Sullivan
The Cornelia Connelly Award for the Arts Presented to students who have made outstanding contributions to one or more of the fine arts: drama, art and music (both choral and instrumental). These students have demonstrated the creativity, skills, self–discipline and growth characteristic of successful artists.
Visual Art: Camilla Nelson and Owen Smith Choral Music: Sophia Labrador Instrumental Music: Elliot Eaton Drama: Joseph Adams
Legacy Families
Following the Baccalaureate Mass several families were recognized for their multigenerational Mayfield connection. Seven graduates now share the role of MJS alumni with their parents (and grandparent!).
Dennis Clougherty ’89, Kirsten Larsen Clougherty ’89, Jack ’17 Maggie Hayden ’86, Abbey Dietz ’17 Victoria Vaillancourt Livingstone ’57, Pamela Livingstone Halferty ’87, Charlie ’17 Paul Hoffman ’76, Katie ’17 Katie Hayden Marsh ’82, Will ’17 Katharine Brown Nicassio ’84, August ’17 Greg Peutet ’86, Henry ’17 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 35
Class of 2017 *Joseph Conrad Fisher Adams St. Francis High School *John Richard Attwood St. Francis High School Sara Rose Baker Pasadena High School
*Caitlin Akiko Huntsman Polytechnic School
*Andrew Wesley Richmond Loyola High School
*Eliza Sweeney Jacobs Mayfield Senior School
Martin S. Rogers St. Francis High School
*Frances Claire Hyun Burton Mayfield Senior School
*Julia Rose Ying Kezele Mayfield Senior School
*Margaret Yvonne Ryan Mayfield Senior School
*Aidan Douglass King Polytechnic School *Sophia Oloteo Labrador Mayfield Senior School
*Sarah Isobel Ryan Polytechnic School *Michaela Anne Sinclair Mayfield Senior School
*Alexandra Rose Lewis Mayfield Senior School
*Marshall Roy Smith Flintridge Preparatory School
Katherine Cecilia Limongelli Mayfield Senior School
*Owen Robert Smith Flintridge Preparatory School
*Ethan Lo St. Francis High School
*Theodore Hanford Smith Salisbury School
*Ryan Lo Flintridge Preparatory School
*Audrey Jackelyn Suarez Mayfield Senior School
*William Hayden Marsh San Marino High School
Eliza Hayes Sullivan Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy
*Jack Robert Modrzejewski Loyola High School
*Taylor Ann Thorell Mayfield Senior School
*Camilla Louise Nelson Mayfield Senior School
*Emeline DeMouy Tolleson Flintridge Preparatory School
*August Spencer Michael Nicassio St. Francis High School
*Ian Christian Walker St. Francis High School
Alexi Ann Callinicos Mayfield Senior School Gregory Michael Camacho II St. Francis High School *John Anthony Clougherty St. Francis High School *Sophia Gabriella Cotman Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy *Julio Indalecio Cruz Loyola High School Elisa Skye Defoe La Salle High School *Abigail Margaret Dietz Mayfield Senior School *Elliot Harrison Eaton Thacher School *Luke Patrick Garrity St. Francis High School *Isabella Diana Gerhardt Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy *Sofia Daniella Gonzalez Flintridge Preparatory School *Diego Perez Guerrero Flintridge Preparatory School James Charles Halferty St. Francis High School *Sean Casey Hall St. Francis High School *Lauren Elizabeth Hazel Flintridge Preparatory School Sullivan Scot Henney Loyola High School Katherine Marie Hoffman Polytechnic School *Ellery Carter Hotchkis Mayfield Senior School 36 | Mayfield Junior School
*Ryan Ichiro Nishiyama Loyola High School Boyd Austin Oliver St. Francis High School Henry Gordon Peutet St. Francis High School *Brooke Taylor Porter Flintridge Preparatory School *Chloe Lynn Lew Powell Mayfield Senior School *Claire Katherine Pratt Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy Ryan Xavier Ramos St. Francis High School *William Harrison Repstad St. Francis High School
Natalie Marie Watson Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy *Deven James Williams St. Francis High School Mason Thomas Williams Loyola High School *Emma Willingham Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy Milo Woods Polytechnic School *Gabriella Ann Wrighten Flintridge Preparatory School Emma Marie Yates Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy * Attended MJS since kindergarten second generation Mayfield graduate
This class is made up of scientists, artists, athletes, and more than a few comedians. I look at my grade as one giant puzzle, each piece a different shape and size. And yet we all came together to form the beautiful picture that is the Class of 2017. Hayes Sullivan, Class of 2017 Student Body President address
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 37
Spring Events
Benefit 2017: Bahamian Rhapsody Despite the rare stormy day, the MJS community spent the evening of Saturday, May 6 in paradise for Benefit 2017: Bahamian Rhapsody. It was a beautiful evening — an elegant dÊcor with a relaxed and welcoming feel set the mood for a night of fun and fellowship all in support of our MJS endowment. Following the exciting live auction featuring Hamilton tickets and a priceless Dodger experience, a special paddle raise for a new state-of-the-art campus playground was a record breaker as guests pledged gifts ranging from $100 to $5000. Many thanks to our Benefit chairs, Pamela Halferty and Julia Smith, and the entire Benefit committee for bringing it all together for a truly successful night!
38 | Mayfield Junior School
Play is Serious Learning! New Playground and Multi-Activity Center A new state-of-the-art playground will greet students when they return to school this year. The playground was made possible through the generous donations of families and friends during a paddle raise at the 2017 Benefit. Months of research went into the project. Lower School Director Laura Kennedy worked with faculty and reviewed proposed designs and equipment with students to make the best design and equipment choices. The result, as the finishing touches are put in place, is a welcoming space with a combination of classic equipment such as swings and slides paired with contemporary climbing and balance apparatuses.
Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood. Fred Rogers
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 39
40 | Mayfield Junior School
A Place at the Table With prayer hands held to happy hearts, the second graders received the Sacrament of First Eucharist on Saturday, April 29. As the children prepare for First Eucharist, they are reminded that it is a sacrament of initiation and is part of what makes them members of the Catholic Church. Although not every second grader is Catholic, all are invited to share in the preparations and participate in the ceremony. It was a joyous and beautiful event and the children showed tremendous grace and reverence. As they completed this yearlong journey of faith and renewal, the entire Mayfield community shared in the celebration.
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 41
2017 Honoree Mass Generations of Mayfield families and friends gathered on May 21 for the 2017 Honoree Mass. All were present to show their appreciation for the extraordinary careers of our Faculty Emeritus recipients, Elena Hermanson and Kathy Holtsnider, and the inspiring achievements of Alumni Holy Child Award recipient, Mary Ellen Jebbia ’02. Following the mass, Headmaster Joe Gill spoke briefly about each of the honorees sharing his admiration for Elena Hermanson’s love for teaching, Kathy Holtsnider’s unwavering commitment to her faith and sustaining the Catholic identity of Mayfield, and Mary Ellen Jebbia’s focused life journey to make a difference.
Faculty Emeritus Recipients
Mayfield Junior School of the Holy Child Jesus has been blessed with teachers, staff and administrators, both Sisters and lay professionals, who have inspired generations of students and shepherded the school to be joy-filled, spiritual and academically challenging. These individuals have imparted the Holy Child philosophy and have touched the lives of students and their families. The Faculty Emeritus honor recognizes those whose service to the school is most noteworthy.
Elena Hermanson As both teacher and parent, Elena Hermanson saw the school change and grow over her many years at MJS. In her 14 years as a fourth grade teacher, she is remembered for inspiring many of her students to serve others through Reach Out with Villa Esperanza, leading the wonderful 4th grade play (including square-dancing!), for the challenging, frequent and fun class projects, the meaningful magic circle discussions, and her tireless support for all her fourth grade students and their parents.
Kathy Holtsnider In her 35 years at Mayfield Junior School, Kathy Holtsnider served as director of religion, middle school teacher and advisor. Whether teaching the Old Testament to sixth graders or algebra to eighth graders, Kathy Holtsnider was perhaps the most comfortable with her students. Patient, fair and caring, she was committed to each child’s success, recognizing their strengths and embracing their weaknesses to make learning and understanding easier and more fulfilling in any way she could. 42 | Mayfield Junior School
Alumni Holy Child Award Recipient
The Alumni Holy Child Award is bestowed on alumni of Mayfield Junior School who demonstrate Holy Child character in their adult life.
Mary Ellen “Jem” Jebbia ‘02 Jem attended USC where she earned a bachelor of arts in religion and East Asian languages and cultures and a bachelor of science in business administration. She speaks six languages including Japanese. During her time at USC, Jem served as the president of USC’s Interfaith Council, and completed fellowships with the Interfaith Youth Core and the Tony Blair Faith Foundation. Jem was also involved with USC Moneythink and the Latino Business Student Association. She organized a hub of young interfaith leaders to spread awareness and raise over $10,000 for Project Muso, an organization that empowers female health workers in Mali. She also led a group of student leaders to found the first annual Student Multifaith Leadership Conference (SMLC), bringing together over 100 students from local colleges and universities to learn best practices in interfaith engagement and service. Six years later, the conference still takes place at a different college in Southern California each year, and the Interfaith Youth Core has begun funding other regional interfaith conferences around the country modeled after the SMLC. Jem has been a contributing writer for the Huffington Post, publishing articles such as In Heaven, We Feed Each Other, and was a contributing writer for Kissing in the Chapel, Praying in the Frat House where her essay “We are All Prophets” references her Mayfield second grade classroom. After USC she attended the University of Chicago
Maureen Shea Memorial Tennis Tournament The 32nd Maureen Shea Memorial Tournament was held on Sunday, April 30. For long time tennis coach and tournament organizer, Jon Wood, one of the most appealing parts of the Tournament is witnessing the growth of the alumni players and the energetic optimism of the younger student players who are participating for the first time. This year’s tournament was a wonderful example with eleven first-time participants and nineteen returning veterans, including eight former champions. Each year the Shea family opens their home and their hearts to build appreciation for relationships within the extended Mayfield community.
Elena Hermanson, Mary Ellen “Jem” Jebbia ‘02, and Kathy Holtsnider
“A” Division: Winner: Trip Smith and Halsey Smith Runner-up: Luke Garrity and Amy Garrity
“B” Division: Divinity School where she received The John Gray Rhind Award, which is awarded to an advanced student in the ministry program whose excellence in academic and professional training gives notable promise of a significant contribution to the life of the church. Currently, Jem serves as the Senior Assistant Director in Northeastern University’s Center for Spirituality, Dialogue and Service. She directs the Global Citizenship Project, one of the university’s premiere leadership development programs and advises the Northeastern University Interfaith Council (NUIC) as well as several religious and spiritual groups on campus.
Winner: Owen Smith and Melissa White Runner-up: Rebecca Leiva and Matthew Leiva Consolation Winner: Marshall Smith and Jeff Smith
“C” Division: Winner: Grace Gamble and Alison Gamble ’83 Runner-up: Kaylee Young and Mark Young
Donna Martin Alumni Division: Winner: Matthew Bea and Jeff Niedermeyer Runner-up: Jacqueline Baggott and Lauren Panajotovic Consolation Winner: Britt McConnell and Christina Hoffman 2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 43
Alumni Events Senior Send-Off Members of the MJS Class of 2013 reunited on campus in early June for mass and the opportunity to celebrate all they have accomplished in high school. We wish them well in college and beyond!
Young Alumni Night at Mijares A great group turned out for our annual Christmas gathering!
Alumni Blue & White Day In June, alumni enjoyed new games and some old favorites at our second Alumni Blue & White Day.
A Royal Visit We were proud to welcome 2017 Rose Court Princess (and Class of 2013 MJS alumna) Shannon Larsuel to campus in mid-December. Shannon spoke briefly at Morning Prayer and visited the kindergarten classrooms. The students eagerly shared a few lines from their Nativity Play with Shannon (especially when they found out she had played the role of Angel Gabriel when she was in kindergarten) and were excited to learn the official princess wave! Shannon graduated from Mayfield Senior School this June and will be attending Yale University.
44 | Mayfield Junior School
Mayfield Junior School Class of 2013 Colleges and Universities We are proud to share the exceptional colleges and universities the MJS Class of 2013 will be attending this fall. We wish them great success and joy in this next stage of their educational journey. Arizona State University Barnard College of Columbia University Boston College Bucknell University California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Colorado College Colorado State University Columbia University DePaul University Fordham University (3) Georgetown University Hawaii Pacific University Loyola University Chicago New York University Northwestern University (2) Pepperdine University Santa Clara University Southern Methodist University Southern Utah University
Syracuse University Texas Christian University (3) Tulane University University of Arizona University of California, Berkeley (2) University of California, Irvine University of California, Los Angeles (3) University of Colorado at Boulder (2) University of Notre Dame University of Oregon University of Redlands University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Southern California (3) University of Wisconsin Villanova University Yale University (3) Yale University – Shanghai
Members of the Class of 2013: Costa Aguirre, Thomas Attwood, Jacqueline Baggott, Matthew Bea, Anthony Becerra, Sofia Bennett, Richard Berry, Lindsay Bowen, Diego Cacho-Sousa, Jasper Chew, Megan Clancy, Beau Detchemendy, Lauren Diehl, Christopher Dinkel, Orla Diver, Henry Dominguez-Letelier, Andrew Eaton, Annaliese Everett, Alessandra Flaherty, Declan Floyd, Alejandro Garcia, Bridget Garrity, Annabel Genton, Angelina Grego, Justis Guardia, Catherine Gutierrez, Emily Huntsman, Michael Kelly, Shannon Larsuel, Kaetlyn Liddy, Lauren Lo Coco, Matthew Maechling, Jacob Marmolejo, Yves Martinez, Luke McKenna, Nicolas Meyer, Brianna Miller, Rachel Min, Skyler Modrzejewski, Pilar Montanez, Julia Mozilo, Aidan Murray, Grant Nelson, Jonathan Partamian, Audrey Perry, Sofia Raptis, Eleanor Reardon, Carlos Rico, Paul Riedel, Isabel Sandford, Nicholas Settelmayer, Trejon Shelton, Michael Sweeney, Christopher Tan, James Tsuchiya, Jack Webster, Andrew Wilmot, Patrick Woodsome
Congratulations !
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 45
In Memoriam Mayfield Junior School extends its deepest sympathy to those members of our community who have recently lost loved ones. The following individuals have their names inscribed in the Mayfield Junior School Chapel Memorial Book and will be perpetually remembered in the prayers of the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus.
Rkia Amziene, grandmother of Sofia Kartite ’21 and Sara Kartite ’25 Marjorie Bahr and Fred Von Bohland, grandmother and step-grandfather of Sonora Miller ’06, Cole Miller ’10 and Violet Miller ’15 Lorna Barry, grandmother of Lorna Baggott ’03, Bob Baggott ’06, Sarah Baggott ’07, Mary Baggott ’10 and Jacqueline Baggott ’13 Donald Brogan, grandfather of Chase Brogan ’98, JT Brogan ’00, Larkin Brogan ’01† and Abbey Brogan ’05 Tom Bruner, husband of staff member Bonnie Onken Julia Collins, aunt of Thomas Collins ’78, Maria Collins Stolpe ’79, Carolyn Collins Mansour ’81 and Michael Collins ’86 Emilia de Guzman, grandmother of Sean Torres ’25 Thomas Dixon, grandfather of Mia Dixon ’16, Lucas Dixon ’19 and Olivia Dixon ’21
† deceased 46 | Mayfield Junior School
Jane Fong, grandmother of Isabella Villavicencio ’21 Ezell Theodore Hayes, grandparent to Kenji Swanson ’18, Luke Swanson ’20, and Julia Swanson ’23 Louis Hegedus, grandfather of Eva Borncamp ’24 Andres Holdo, step-grandfather to Samantha Sohl ’11 Olivia Huntsman-Trout, grandmother of Emily Huntsman ’13 and Caitlin Huntsman ’17 Reed Jenney, father of faculty member Rebecca Seymour Lizzie Kuhl, grandmother of faculty member Clara Juczak Phyllis Mozilo, grandmother of Michael Mozilo ’11 and Julia Mozilo ’13 John Pike MS ’40, former Trustee and father of Kathy Pike Narum ’72, Sharon Pike McKenzie ’77, Michaela Pike Ueland ’78, Liesl Pike Moldow ’79 and Sara Pike Wilczeski ’82 John Ryburn, grandfather to students Baylor Buchanan ’18, Caleb Buchanan ’19 and Tessa Buchanan ’20
Ines Sarni, grandmother to Jessica Sarni ’11 and Angela Sarni ’14 Dr. Gary Sechler, father of Melia Sechler Crousore ’83, Melani Sechler Atkinson ’83, Shana Sechler Hayden ’87, Erin Sechler Clougherty ’90 and Gary Sechler ’92 and grandfather of Grace Hayden ’18, Emma Hayden ’20 and Wyatt Clougherty ’22. Thomas Smith, father of Mike Smith ’76 and grandfather of Sean Smith ’12 and Cinnia Smith ’14 Jeanette Webster, grandmother of Jack Webster ’13 and Jenna Webster ’16 and Justin Webster ’19 John Wickman ’61, brother of Patti Wickman ’73 and uncle of Clare Hawkinson ’18 Melinda Winston, mother of Melissa Winston Alfieri ’79 and Sam Winston ’81 and grandmother of Alexis Alfieri ’06, Austin Alfieri ’10, Avery Alfieri ’12, Winston Alfieri ’14
Create your Legacy at Mayfield Junior School Planned Gifts to Mayfield Junior School enable the school to prepare for its future and ensure that a Holy Child education will be possible for many generations to come. The Euclid Society was established in 2007 to recognize and honor current parents, parents of alumni, alumni and friends who have remembered Mayfield Junior School of the Holy Child Jesus in their estate or financial plans.
Visit our website for details on how you can create your legacy at MJS. Learn about: Including MJS in your estate plan Avoiding capital gains
Visit www.mayfieldjs.plannedgiving.org
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 47
My Mayfield Life Laura Kennedy, Lower School Director
Several days every week my day begins with unlocking the gate to the field and supervising the many students who choose to run around before the bell rings for Morning Prayer. If I’m not there at 7:45 am sharp, little faces appear in my window patient but hopeful I am on my way. I truly enjoy those mornings and seek opportunities to spend time with students. Although administrative tasks like managing the budget, reviewing report cards, and sitting in meetings take up a great part of my day, it is their energy and inquisitive minds that inspire me and remind me daily why I became an educator. Every day can be different in the life of a school but I love that about my job. I usually try to do “rounds” each day, visiting classrooms to see teaching and learning in action. Rounds give me good insight and perspective on curriculum success and classroom dynamics. I’ll spend anywhere from five to twenty minutes with a class, sometimes participating in the activities and other times just observing. I value the student interaction and getting to know them as they overcome a challenge or become excited about a concept. Often I will take a photo or two and post it on Twitter. Sometimes a teacher will need to be off campus for an appointment or take a parent meeting and I always volunteer to substitute when I am free. Art class is my favorite, but I enjoy every grade and subject. Many, if not most, administrators stop teaching when they move out of the classroom. I feel it is so important to keep teaching to be able to lead other teachers, and to gain insight on what works through classroom interactions. I teach a fourth grade advanced problem-solving math class called Math Olympiad, lead reading sessions with small groups of kindergarteners, and last year I was able to bring one of my passions—golf—into my weekly routine by co-teaching a golf elective every 48 | Mayfield Junior School
Wednesday to seventh and eighth graders. It was a real learning experience developing lesson plans and teaching golf skills with no golf course nearby! My office is at the back of Connelly Hall with a large window facing the primary courtyard. Even as I work at my desk I can watch the day’s progress as classes transition or witness the happy exodus when the bell rings for recess. Daily interruptions are a given for any school administrator and many I enjoy. Often students show up at my door waving a “green slip.” Green slips allow teachers to recognize positive student behavior that goes above and beyond. As they stand in my office beaming with the recognition and the opportunity to sign a “golden book,” I love chatting with them about how their day is going. I’ll mail a postcard home to parents after their visit. I also have a whiteboard outside of my office and I love reading the notes that students leave for me, which range from the serious “I need to talk to you” to the enthusiastic “I cut my hair!” From field duty in the morning to helping out at afternoon carpool, my days at Mayfield are busy, active and so incredibly fulfilling. I wake up every day eager to get to school to see what interesting learning will be taking place and leave campus every day happy that our children are so well cared for and thriving.
Holy Child Awards Grade 1 Charlie Cloud Jacqueline Zhao
Grade 2 Ceili Byrne Carson Porter
Grade 3 Esmé Bower Nate Ridl
Grade 4 Sari Gonzales-Smith Ethan Park
Grade 5 Louis Parise Alyssa Romero
The “Holy Child Award” is a visible representation of all the children at Mayfield and represents the qualities and values we cherish.
Grade 6 Ellie Baribault Henry Tolleson
Grade 7 Adrian Lossada Drew Valentino
2016-2017 MAYPOLL | 49
MAYFIELD JUNIOR SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD JESUS 405 South Euclid Avenue • Pasadena, CA 91101 www.mayfieldjs.org
Parents of Alumni Please forward this publication. If your son or daughter no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumni Office of his or her new mailing address at 626.229.2117 or alumni@mayfieldjs.org.