Maypoll 2013-2014 Headmaster Joseph J. Gill Lower School Director Laura Kennedy Middle School Director Bridget Kelley-Lossada Editor Tina Halpin ’78 Director of Communications
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Contributing staff Alumni Relations Manager, Liv Amend Associate Director of Development, Barbara Carlberg Assistant Director of Development, Parent Programs and Events, Kirsten Tellez Development Coordinator, Bonnie Onken
Goals for Schools of the Holy Child Goal 1 Holy Child Schools foster a faith commitment that engenders a joyous personal relationship with God in addressing the challenges of the world.
Contributing writers Alec Babikian ’15 Samantha Covey ’15 Christine Goethals Lily Maechling ’15 Tommy Mix ’15 Alexxa Riley’15 Annie Tighe ’15 Reese Turknette ’15
Goal 2 Holy Child Schools live, learn, and worship as a dynamic Christian community.
Goal 3
Photography Liv Amend, Deborah Fath, Tina Halpin, Mi & Mo Photography, Jen O’Sullivan Photography, Chelsey Page
Holy Child Schools offer an intellectually challenging and creative program of study that develops a love of learning and academic excellence.
Design Deborah Fath Scott Ford (for twerp.com)
Goal 4 Holy Child Schools work for Christian principles of justice, peace, and compassion in every facet of 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.
Goal 5 Holy Child Schools create a learning climate based on trust and reverence for the dignity and uniqueness of each person.
Please direct any questions, comments or corrections to: Tina Halpin, Director of Communications at thalpin@ mayfieldjs.org 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 school-administered programs or activities. Mayfield Junior School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and 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).
Goal 6
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Holy Child Schools promote the personal growth and development of all who participate in the life of the school.
Goal 7 Holy Child Schools ensure the continuation and growth of Holy Child mission and philosophy in the school.
10 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.
32 In This Issue
44
♦♦
Board Notes
page 4
♦♦
Graduation 2014
page 10
♦♦
Hearts and Minds
page 20
♦♦
Student Profiles
page 28
♦♦
iPhoneography
page 30
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On Stage
page 32
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Alumni News & Events
page 37
♦♦
Senior Send Off Mass
page 40
♦♦
In Memoriam
page 42
♦♦
Perspectives
page 44
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First Notes
Faculty Emeritus recipients Jeanne Marie Hatch, SHCJ, Stephanie Griffin and Jane Roach, SHCJ with Headmaster Joseph J. Gill
The educational path for children today is evolving beyond what was available to them just a few years ago. “School” is starting to look dramatically different to those of us who are more accustomed to seeing rows of children listening passively to a teacher in front of the room. Students are now being motivated by selfawareness, purpose and discovery, rather than limited by institutional standards and general expectations that have been more restrictive in nature. We are on the brink of a very exciting time in education.
enthusiastically adopting methods to better advance the creative talents of children.
Teaching Our Children
In order to arrive at this advanced place, educators have explored and discovered aspects of teaching that have not only improved their work but have also added new rigor and enthusiasm to the learning process. A few of the factors that have contributed to this movement are: an increased understanding of how the brain works in regard to learning, embracing the reality about the diverse learning needs of individuals, and
The formula for improving the educational experience for children is something that has been debated in the public forum for decades, yet has been an integral part of the teaching and learning landscape at Mayfield Junior School for years. Our faculty have actively and purposefully met the “wants of the age” by offering a diverse, challenging and contemporary curriculum that is integrated and supports our Mission. We move forward each day in order to discover and then implement the most effective way to serve our children, and fulfill our obligation to helping them reach their personal potential. Within the complicated world of “educational reform” we see and hear an endless stream of initiatives, ideas, standards and promises from an untold number of conflicting interests. In the midst of all this
complicated and sometimes divisive debate, leaders too often look past the basic responsibility of placing the needs of the children as the singular focus and value of the work we do. A “student-centered” program is just that, dedicated and directed specially for the interests of the children in our care. Nothing more, nothing less. I am so proud of our faculty and staff for the way they embrace the spirit of Cornelia Connelly in sustaining a school where opportunity, challenge, success and joy are all equally important. The charge to lead the students forward is something that motivates and rewards the women and men who connect with each boy and girl at Mayfield Junior School. To support our teaching team we have crafted guidelines for being an “Exemplary Holy Child Teacher,” a carefully established Professional Growth Review process, and created an active and engaging Grade Level Leadership model. These elements, along with the individual dedication and commitment of each faculty member, have contributed to creating a robust community of learners. The momentum we are experiencing through effective professional growth and development feeds into an ongoing discourse and stimulates initiatives that improve and strengthen our educational program across all nine grade levels. This educational vitality on our campus sets a tone for everyone and contributes to making Mayfield Junior School such a wonderful place to learn. Mayfield Junior School students learn by doing. We are able to weave together challenges for all the children that contribute to their success and happiness. Every day we witness another group of students addressing the community at Morning Prayer. The students find their voices in presenting science project findings, performing on stage and wearing the Mustang uniform in athletic competition. An emphasis on cross-curricular collaboration has opened up many exciting areas of discovery for our kids while keeping learning relevant and fun. Our program is taking steps beyond the basic “project based” learning model and is moving into a true stage of learning integration. Our community is blessed with a Mission that directs and allows us to serve our students as individuals. Our work was affirmed last spring by two different but very profound reviews. The first instance was attributed to collective sentiment of the three former heads of school who met after our Honoree Mass. After spending a few days in and around our School, they shared a
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Mayfield Junior School students learn by doing. We are able to weave together challenges for all the children that contribute to their success and happiness. Every day we witness another group of students addressing the community at Morning Prayer. The students find their voices in presenting science project findings, performing on stage and wearing the Mustang uniform in athletic competition.
delight as to how our children were full of joy and the Holy Spirit. It was clear to Stephanie, Sr. Sheila, Sr. Jane and Sr. Jeanne Marie that schoolwork at Mayfield was a living balance with our foundational responsibility to bring our children closer to the goodness that God represents. In a more objective context, it was affirming to receive such a positive and supportive review from our accreditation team representing CAIS/WASC/WCEA. After a thorough self-study process our visitors came to campus and found that indeed our school program not only meets the expectations established by our Mission, but also exceeds them. Our School is deeply appreciative of the valuable feedback we received and proudly accepted a full seven-year accreditation term. We live in a fast changing and complicated world that includes the ever-present challenge of how we teach our children effectively. No matter what shifts occur in trends, techniques or content we will stay true to what our school is about and remain steadfast to the commitment of doing so as well as we can. The beacon of our Mission and the need to serve the children will be our goal each and every day. In order to be successful in education, we must look to those professionals, our faculty, who step forward daily, to guide and care for the children of Mayfield Junior School. The pages of this Maypoll serve as a glimpse of what is happening at Mayfield and I feel very proud sharing it with you. I know Mother Cornelia would be pleased! Blessings, Joseph J. Gill Headmaster
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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. Along with the Headmaster, the Board understands and values the school’s history and heritage, while strategically guiding it into the future.
Mayfield Junior School Honors Retiring Trustees and Welcomes New Trustees at May Meeting Retiring Members
“More than anything, it has been a privilege and a joy to serve on a Board with so many committed, intelligent and purposeful people who all share and live my goal of insuring that a vibrant and relevant Mayfield Junior School will continue to thrive for many generations to come. The energy and focus among the Trustees was always at a high level in our Board and committee meetings, and we all got along so well! As a result, we accomplished some amazing things, of which I’m very proud.” — Allyson Simpson
Paul Pernecky, Margaret Greco, Rev. Greg Goethals, SJ, Allyson Simpson
Mayfield Junior School honored four outgoing trustees at the final board meeting and reception on May 28. In their six years of service on the board Margaret Greco, Paul Pernecky, Allyson Simpson and Father Greg Goethals, SJ have graciously given their time and talent on behalf of our school. Margaret Greco’s deep belief in Holy Child education was evident in her work on several committees including the Committee on Mission, the Committee on Trustees and the Development Committee, and she was an important member of the Ad hoc Head of School Transition Committee. Paul Pernecky, in addition to serving on many board committees also chaired the Buildings and Grounds Committee in 2009 and 2010, Development Committee in 2011, and the Committee on Trustees in 2013, all with patience, humor and a deep sense of responsibility. Fr. Greg Goethals was an inspirational spiritual leader to the board offering invaluable perspective and insight. Allyson Simpson was recognized for her “calm and articulate manner” in all she did for the Board whether contributing to Risk Management discussions, supporting the growth of the School’s endowment as chair of the Ad hoc Endowment Committee or looking to the future as chair of the Strategic Design Committee. Mayfield Junior School has been privileged to have such committed and generous leaders. We are grateful for their counsel and multiple contributions.
New Members
New Members Walter Conn, Pamela King, Msgr. Clement Connolly, not pictured Brett Foy
Mayfield Junior School is proud to announce our new Trustees for the 2014-2015 school year. The professional and personal background of these individuals will ensure the tradition of service and leadership to Mayfield Junior School.
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Walter Conn ’81 After graduating from Mayfield Junior School in 1981, Walter Conn, attended Loyola High School and continued on to Gonzaga University where he received a B.A. in journalism. He is currently president of Charles Dunn Company’s brokerage services, working closely with ownership and stakeholders to create and implement operating strategy and oversee day-to-day operations for the firm. Walter began his career at Charles Dunn Company as Director of Marketing in 1995, after racing professionally and managing national corporate sponsorship campaigns for several NASCAR truck series teams. Prior to that, Walter co-managed a successful residential brokerage office of 47 agents in Spokane, WA as an affiliate for Better Homes & Gardens. Walter resigned from Charles Dunn Company in 2005 as Chief Operating Officer to found a commercial mortgage brokerage firm. His company, Figueroa Capital Group, became closely aligned with Charles Dunn Company in 2009, advising clients, property managers and the sales force in dozens of transactions. As a Mayfield Junior School alum Walter served as Alumni Council chair for two years, 2012-2013 and 2013-2014, contributing to a significant growth in alumni participation in annual giving and event attendance. He has two children, Isabella ’19 and a preschooler, Tucker.
Monsignor Clement J. Connolly Born in Ireland, Msgr. Clement J Connolly graduated from St. Patrick College in Thurles, Ireland and was ordained to the priesthood in June 1964. Missioned to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles he served as secretary for two cardinals. He was the pastor of Holy Family Church in South Pasadena, California from 1984 until 2010. He now serves as director of spirituality at Holy Family. He has assisted the Archdiocese in a number of ways. From 1970 to 1981, he was director of insurance for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Between 1996 and 1999, he was chair of the Editorial Council of The Tidings, the Archdiocesan newspaper. Msgr. Connolly was an elected member of the Priest Pension Board of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles from 1994 to 2001. He has been on the Board of Trustees at Mount St. Mary’s College since 2003. He served on the Mayfield Senior School Board of Trustees from 2004 to 2012. He is now on the Board of Directors for MUSE/IQUE in Pasadena.
vice-president and general counsel to Las Vegas based Laurich Properties, and was an associate with the law firm of Allen, Matkins, Leck, Gamble and Malllory. Brett is the father of three children, Charlie ’14, Harry ’16 and Frances ’20.
Pamela King, Ph.D., M.Div. Pamela King graduated from Stanford University with a B.A. in psychology, received a Master of Divinity and Doctorate in Family Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary, was a visiting scholar at Cambridge University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University, Center for Adolescence. She is currently Associate Professor of Marital and Family Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary. Pamela joined the Fuller faculty in 2008, after serving as an adjunct and research professor beginning in 2000. She was instrumental in the establishment of Fuller’s Youth Institute (previously known as the Center for Youth and Family Ministry). An accomplished writer, Pamela’s primary academic interests are positive youth development and spiritual development in young people. She is co-author of The Reciprocating Self: Human Development in Theological Perspective and co-editor of The Handbook of Spiritual Development in Childhood and Adolescence. She has also served on the editorial boards of Developmental Psychology, the Journal of Positive Psychology, and Applied Developmental Science and has also published articles in the Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Journal of Early Adolescence, Encyclopedia of Applied Developmental Science, and Encyclopedia of Spiritual Development in Childhood and Adolescence. Pamela is a member of Division 36 of the American Psychological Association and the Society for Research on Adolescents. Ordained in the Presbyterian Church (USA), she has led high school and college ministries and regularly speaks and consults for various community organizations and churches. Pamela has three children at Mayfield, Aidan ’17, Rhys ’20 and Jocelyn ’22.
“It’s an honor and privilege to partner with the Board of Trustees to continue to discern what it means for Mayfield
Brett Foy
Junior School to further become a learning community in this
Brett Foy graduated from Stanford University with bachelor’s degrees in economics and political science and received his J.D. from UCLA School of Law. He is currently co-president at Zelman Development Co., a commercial real estate development company headquartered in Los Angeles where he is primarily responsible for joint venture structuring, entitlements and retail project management. Prior to joining Zelman Development Co., Brett served as
day and age--not only where children learn, but where our children can become who God created them to be. Building on the Holy Child mission, I look forward to supporting Mayfield’s nurturing the competences and character of our young people in the complexities of our current culture.” — Pamela King
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Honoring Our Legacy Mayfield Junior School introduces the Faculty Emeritus Designation at inaugural Honoree Mass The extended Mayfield Junior School community celebrated the extraordinary contributions of several former heads of school at an Honoree Mass held Sunday, March 23. We were blessed to have four honorees in attendance, Sr. Jane Roach, Sr. Jeanne Marie Hatch, Sr. Sheila McNiff and Mrs. Stephanie Griffin, who, in a short ceremony during the Mass, all received the special designation of Faculty Emeritus. The title of Faculty Emeritus was established by the administration in the fall of 2013 to officially recognize those whose service to the school has been most noteworthy. It
was truly a joyful celebration. Monsignor Clement Connolly presided and led the assembly in a special blessing over the honorees. Chris Arial ’10 served as guest cantor joining an Alumni Choir and the MJS Honors Choir in sharing their beautiful voices in song. Following the Mass many members of our extended community including alumni, parents of alumni, former faculty, current families and former board members enjoyed breakfast on the Holy Child Courtyard. The MJS Alumni Council hosted the Honoree Mass and plans to continue the gathering as an annual event.
Those honored and recognized as Faculty Emeritus this year are: ♦♦
Mother Mary Hildegarde Toohey
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Mother Mary Borromeo Bennett
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Mother Marie Madeline Amy
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Mother Mary Gerard McGauran
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Mother Mary Canisius Sutterly
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Mother Mary Francis Wagner
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Mother Mary Wilfred Yore
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Mother Mary Everard (Elizabeth Ward, SHCJ)
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Mother Mary Frederick (Louise Smith, SHCJ)
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Mother Thomas Mary (Elizabeth Fitzmaurice, SHCJ)
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Mother Mary Concepta (Jane Roach, SHCJ)
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Mother Joseph Anne (Mariellen Whelan)
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Elizabeth Butler, SHCJ
♦♦
Sheila McNiff, SHCJ
♦♦
Margaret Mary Bell, SHCJ
♦♦
Jeanne Marie Hatch, SHCJ
♦♦
Stephanie Griffin
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Benefit 2014 – Mustang Round Up! On Saturday, May 3, more than 370 members of the Mayfield Junior School community put on their best bib and tucker and moseyed on over to the “Mayfield Ranch” for the 2014 Benefit “Mustang Round Up!” Benefit chair, aka “Head Honcho” Shelly Reisch and her dedicated posse worked hard all year long to create a good ol’ time to celebrate our school and raise funds for the MJS endowment. Cowboys and cowgirls were welcomed to the barn with blue grass music from the Brad Colerick Trio and invited to “belly up” to the Whiskey Bar to sample Dr. Bob’s Potions! There was plenty of bidding in the Silent Auction on experiences such as a trip to the Del Mar Races, a Katy Perry concert and tickets for the Dodger Dugout Club, as well as many other exciting items donated by MJS families and friends. The beautiful hand-sewn quilts created by each grade were a big success with the bidders as well. When it was time to visit the chuck wagon Dearmore’s BBQ catering had the grills blazin’ and The Spot Gourmet created the perfect side dishes for every cowboy and cowgirl to get plenty of grub! Once everyone was in the “barn” the Live Auction began and quickly became a rootin’ tootin’ affair with lots of bidding on vacation homes in Deer Valley, Mexico and Lake Arrowhead as well as a hunting trip and a private party at madport wine lounge. Of course, the MJS personal wine cellar was a big hit in the auction as always. Even after the amazing live auction, the generous spirit of everyone in the room continued as paddles were lifted to raise over $73,000 for the Stephanie Griffin Scholarship Fund. At last it was time for all the cowhands to kick up their heels until the cows came home! A shindig like this takes a lot of dedicated partners and our thanks go out to Shelly and everyone on the Benefit Committee. Their work throughout the year ensured that the event was a success, raising over $320,000 for the Mayfield Junior School endowment, our investment in the students of today and tomorrow.
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2014 Maureen Shea Tennis Tournament The Maureen Shea Memorial Tennis Tournament has always enjoyed a multi-generational roster of players and this year was no exception. Fourteen first-time participants joined with seven former champions and a draw that included players from seven different decades of life on a perfect day for tennis.
“A” Division:
“B” Division:
“C” Division:
Winner: Harry Foy and Brett Foy
Winner: Trip Smith and Halsey Smith
Winner: Luke Garrity and Tim Garrity
Runner-up: Carly Hall and Stephanie Hall
Runner-up: Sean Hall and Stephanie Hall
Runner-up: Lily Brogdon-Mitchell and Mark Mitchell
Consolation Winner: Lauren Panajotovic and Eric Panajotovic
Consolation Winner: Matthew Leiva and George Leiva
Donna Martin Alumni Division: Winner: Shea McConnell and Nick Philo Runner-up: Maureen McConnell and Christa Ellis Consolation Winner: Linda Hubbard and Abbey Deckop
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“In a world driven by test results, data analysis and competitive comparisons, at Mayfield Junior School we actually determine our success by the quality of the individual human beings walking off this stage today. You are the true testament of the wonders of a Mayfield Junior School education.” — Headmaster Joseph J. Gill
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GRADUATION 2014
12 | Mayfield Junior School
“Every generation makes an impact on the world. Recently, my grandfather told me that his parents were the greatest generation to ever live, mainly because not only did they fight and die for our freedom but for other countries’ freedom as well. Will our generation be as great? Possibly. But how? We can make an impact on the world by finding solutions to problems such as global warming or world hunger. My point is not to fix those specific problems, but to make an impact on our world in our own way. To be the greatest generation, requires dedication and hard work. It is not impossible to make a difference. So as I say goodbye to my fellow graduates, my advice is to continue your hard work and remember nothing is impossible with God.” — Charles Foy ’14, excerpt from Student Body President address
With a few tears, many smiles and great pride, the Mayfield Junior School community said its farewells, final accolades and best wishes to the 60 members of the Class of 2014 on June 6. In his remarks, Headmaster Joe Gill reminded the class that a “Mayfield Graduate steps forward in life with that fundamental concept in his or her heart and mind to make a positive difference in the lives of others” and that they are true examples of what a Holy Child education is all about. On behalf of the Alumni Association, Abby Deckop ’07 officially welcomed the class as alumni and offered three simple challenges for the next stage in their lives. Finally Mayfield parent Gail O’Rane (Corey ’14) shared a collected top 10 list of advice for high school and beyond in her graduation address. Filled with moments of humor, expressions of gratitude, the sharing of memories and words of wisdom, the ceremony was a joyful tribute to the spirit of this unique and talented class.
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Graduation Awards The following students received special recognition at graduation: 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. Angela Sarni and Michael Sullivan The Resa Baratta Citizenship 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. David Johnson 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. Charles Johnson The Highest Academic Average for the 2013-2014 school year. Myria Chen The Mayfield Award 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. Charles Foy
Baccalaureate Awards Academic Excellence and Distinguished Achievement Mathematics: ♦♦
Academic Excellence – Myria Chen, Michael Sullivan
♦♦
Distinguished Achievement – David Evans, Joseph Tuck, Alysse Urbach
Science: ♦♦
Academic Excellence – Myria Chen
♦♦
Distinguished Achievement – Michael Sullivan
History: ♦♦
Academic Excellence – Shane Dilbeck, Carmen Mascarenhas
♦♦
Distinguished Achievement – Will Tayback
English: ♦♦
Academic Excellence – Emily McLane
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Distinguished Achievement – Alana Weiss
Spanish: ♦♦
Academic Excellence – Emily Mclane
French: ♦♦
Distinguished Achievement – Gisele Chu
The Cornelia Connelly Awards for the Arts Presented to students who have made outstanding contributions in the arts while students at Mayfield. These students have demonstrated the creativity, skills, self–discipline and growth characteristic of successful artists. ♦♦
Drama: Sophie Collins
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Visual Art: Annika Bohanec
♦♦
Music: Sunny Malhotra
Honors at Entrance ♦♦
Mayfield Senior School – Carmen Mascarenhas, Kathryn McCullough, Angela Sarni, Alysse Urbach
♦♦
St. Francis – Joseph Tuck
Scholarships ♦♦
Archdiocese of Los Angeles Academic Junior High Decathlon – Robert Asmar, Alessandro Behney, Myria Chen, Shane Dilbeck, Charles Foy, Cory Luk, Carmen Mascarenhas, William Tayback, Alana Weiss
♦♦
Black Catholic Association of Altadena and Pasadena – Corey O’Rane-Ealy
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Mayfield Senior School - The Holy Child Merit Scholarship The Holy Child Merit Scholarship is the highest award presented to an entering Mayfield Senior School student. The Merit Scholarship Committee designated six Holy Child Scholars for the incoming class of 2017. This award is granted to outstanding students enrolled in Catholic elementary schools. This award is also granted to those who best embody the spirit of the Holy Child philosophy, which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of others. – Carmen Mascarenhas and Kathryn McCullough
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“You have to be willing to stand up for what you believe in no matter how small it is. Be true, be unique, be you. Who you are is what makes you special, don’t change for anyone...where there are choices to be made, make the one you won’t regret. Know that your opportunities are only restricted by the power of your imagination and the strength of your will. As long as you stay true to who you are and follow your own path your potential is limitless.” — Gail O’Rane, excerpt from Graduation address
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CLASS OF 2014
♦♦ *Sebastian James Allen-Goldthwait Flintridge Preparatory School
♦♦ Will Sandberg Freeark Loyola High School
♦♦ *Corey Lamar O’Rane-Ealy Loyola High School
♦♦ *Isabel Rose Williamson Andersen Westridge School
♦♦ Robert Matthew Gabriel III La Salle High School
♦♦ Alana Marcela O’Reilly Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Robert George Asmar Loyola High School
♦♦ Caroline Noelle Hall Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Elisa Anne O’Reilly Mayfied Senior School
♦♦ Emma Hope Baker Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Laura Munro Haskin Santa Catalina School
♦♦ *Madeline Davey Pernecky Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy
♦♦ *Alessandro Giuseppe Behney Loyola High School
♦♦ *Andrew Allen Hatch Loyola High School
♦♦ *Madison Mae Reed Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ *Annika Mariella Bohanec La Salle High School
♦♦ Berin Bradley Hunter St. Francis High School
♦♦ Gabriela Carina Rico La Salle High School
♦♦ *Troy Cadwalader Bonde Loyola High School
♦♦ *Charles Thaddeus Johnson Loyola High School
♦♦ *Kelly Taylor Sarkisian Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Cibella Angelica Borges Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ *David Hampton Johnson St. Francis High School
♦♦ *Angela Nadine Sarni Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Sara Alejandra Butcher The Webb Schools
♦♦ *Katerina Michelle Lingenfelser La Salle High School
♦♦ *Cameron Webster Schiller Harvard-Westlake School
♦♦ Isabella Angela Canani Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ *Carolyn Ann Lo Coco Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ *Thomas Fitzgerald Settelmayer Harvard-Westlake School
♦♦ *Myria Arista Chen Harvard- Westlake School
♦♦ Cory Luk Westridge School
♦♦ *Cinnia Alyce Smith Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy
♦♦ Gisele Chia-Yu Chu Westridge School
♦♦ *Sunny R. Malhotra St. Francis High School
♦♦ William August Smith Loyola High School
♦♦ Sophie Amalia Kananen Collins Providence High School
♦♦ Maxine Nicole Mangubat Flintridge Preparatory School
♦♦ *Michael David Sullivan Loyola High School
♦♦ *Alexander Jason Deckop Loyola High School
♦♦ *Carmen Shonali Mascarenhas Mayfielld Senior School
♦♦ *William Christopher Tayback Flintridge Preparatory School
♦♦ *Shane Fitzgerald Dilbeck Loyola High School
♦♦ *Kathryn Ann McCullough Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ *Sophie Davidson True Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Jalen Christopher Dove Polytechnic School
♦♦ Cameron Delano McFarlane Polytechnic School
♦♦ *Joseph Johnson Tuck St. Francis High School
♦♦ Jaxon Joshua Drake Loyola High School
♦♦ *Emily Veronica McLane Westridge School
♦♦ *Alysse McCailyn Urbach Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ *Anne Margaret Evans Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Elena Melehani Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy
♦♦ *Austin McLeod Urbach Harvard-Westlake School
♦♦ *David Christopher Evans Loyola High School
♦♦ *John Henry Moore La Canada High School
♦♦ *Alana Wen-ling Weiss Flintridge Preparatory School
♦♦ Charles Henry Foy Polytechnic School
♦♦ *Michelle R. New Mayfield Senior School
♦♦ Nicholas Ruben Yvanez Loyola High School
*attended MJS since kindergarten
second generation graduate
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Hello My Name is Change A Day of Professional Development Highlights Deeper Learning and the Maker Movement. Both on campus and off, MJS teachers spent Monday, March 3 collaborating, creating, reflecting and strategizing – all to improve student learning. One group attended the Southern Regional Meeting for CAIS schools held at Campbell Hall, which offered many workshops and opportunities for teachers from all over Southern California to share ideas, knowledge and expertise. Another group stayed on campus for a mini-conference titled “ Hello My Name is Change” that addressed strategies to best meet the needs of 21st century students. “Hello My Name is Change” took teachers through three hands-on sessions focused on new ideas in education such as Deeper Learning and Maker Education and how to purposefully implement them into lesson plans and classroom dynamics. The opening session, which included a viewing of the video “Austin’s Butterfly,” covered deeper learning concepts such as active engagement and the role of inspiration, confidence and intrinsic motivation in the student learning experience. In another session titled “Dive into Deeper Learning,” teachers engaged in a timed menu planning exercise that challenged participants to use many of the skills associated with deeper learning including problemsolving, evaluation and creativity. The activity not only provided an example of how to incorporate deeper learning into lesson plans with small adjustments, but also how to create an atmosphere of “academic mindset,” a core component of deeper learning that promotes growth, success, belonging and relevance in the student learning experience.
Professional Development: Inspire the Teacher, Inspire the Student A second session was an opportunity for collaboration and idea sharing as it directly focused on examples of how to boost the lesson plans with learning resources such as Kagan Structures, differentiation strategies and technology. Teachers were challenged to think about what they desired to improve or enhance in their existing lesson plans and even wore motivational nametags such as “Outta the box” and “Kagan Princess.” Following lunch, teachers got creative in a Maker Movement session. The Maker Movement, with its focus on applying practical skills in creative ways to encourage invention, challenges teachers to create an environment that inspires this sort of learning. A “Cardboard Challenge” activity took “out of the box” thinking to a new level as grade level groups worked together to turn ordinary cardboard boxes with a little tape and a lot of ingenuity into a game that provided a fun way to learn a concept in math, science or any subject. From a French lesson ring toss to a “Trip to the Zoo” wildlife board game, teachers not only had fun with the concept but also witnessed its potential. The day ended with a great deal of positive energy and enthusiasm for concepts explored and finding ways on how to bring purposeful innovation and change to the student learning experience. A quote shared with the group from a letter Albert Einstein wrote to his son summed up why this is important. “ That is the way to learn the most, that when you are doing something with such enjoyment that you don’t notice that time passes.” Ask any MJS teacher and they will say we wish to lead the students to this place.
A Visit with Pat Bassett MJS Faculty and staff welcomed former NAIS president Pat Bassett in October for two days of professional development. Mr. Bassett met with administrators to share insight and discuss marketing strategies and best practices for independent schools, and talked with both the Board of Trustees and Parents Association about current trends and their impact. In a presentation to all faculty and staff, he spoke about the big shifts in education such as the shift from knowing to doing and the construction of meaning vs. the consumption of information. He also encouraged teachers to fully embrace the 4Cs + 1 (Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking and Character) and spoke about the benefits of student-centered classrooms that emphasize project-based learning, skill building and engagement in real-world problem solving.
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Mayfield Writes! Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart. ~ William Wordsworth Inspiration and process go hand in hand when it comes to writing well. For some the ideas are endless but putting them on paper is frightening. For others the mechanics come naturally but finding inspiration is hard. With a little guidance, training and strategy however, the art of writing - with passion, insight and expression – is possible. This was the focus of a special two-day writing workshop held for faculty and staff at the start of the 2013-2014 school year. Nine professional authors were invited to campus to lead three-hour sessions engaging teachers with unique tools, activities and exercises all designed to spark creativity. The goal: inspire the teacher, inspire the student and in doing so energize and strengthen all types of writing, across all disciplines, from a kindergartener’s beginning marks on paper through advanced essays for various genres and purposes. The results: writing increased dramatically across all grade levels and in every subject, from Math to PE and everything in between. From kindergarten up to third grade, students were engaged in writing on various relevant topics. In PE, students were writing about healthy habits and new rules for games. In Math, there were journal entries explaining what one would do if they won a major money prize (budget included). In subjects like English and Social Studies where writing is common to the content, the teachers breathed energy into writing by providing new activities or used writing in such ways that students approached it as new, relevant, and worthwhile. From turning brainstorms into found poems, responding to meaningful quotes, joining group discussions online, annotating novels and reflecting on the Stations of the Cross, students and teachers were actively engaged in the writing process for the entire year.
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munication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking
Hearts and Minds
Hearts and Minds
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Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication
Two Heads are Better than One…
Second Graders Turn “Trash to Treasure”
The old proverb might apply in more ways than one when studying the role of government in our lives. Take a fifth grader just finishing up a year of studying early American history and the development of democratic ideas, and a second grader who has read his or her way across America finally reaching Washington DC. Those two heads put together make learning about the role of government fun! That is exactly what happened when the fifth grade spent the afternoon in second grade to help teach a lesson on the United States government. Three rotating lessons had fifth graders sharing their knowledge through games, song and good old-fashioned conversation. A video game explained the checks and balances built in to our three government branches and discussing the qualities of a good leader led to a “name the Presidents” challenge. Remember School House Rock? The old classic still explains the Preamble to the Constitution really well, especially when elaborated on by enthusiastic fifth graders. Lessons learned. Memories made.
A lesson in recycling and taking care of our planet has become a highly anticipated tradition in second grade. For several years now the “Trash to Treasure” Earth Day project has second graders looking at trash differently and thinking like recycling engineers with incredibly creative results. Plastic bottles are painted and cut like flowers to become charming string lights; milk cartons become birdcages and Easter bunnies, and a jumbo laundry detergent container is assigned a new job as a sock monster! The students present their crafts not only to their classmates but also allow the first grade to tour and ask questions. This tour proves very inspiring and the first graders can’t wait for their turn to show their ingenuity when they move up to second grade. What could you make?
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munication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking Celebrating Pasadena The third grade celebrated the history of Pasadena with a creative re-enactment of the first Rose Parade held in 1890. Colorful handmade costumes and props highlighted important landmarks like the Colorado Street Bridge, early businesses like Vroman’s Bookstore and the wonderful climate that attracted so many people to move here. While the parade made its way across campus, fellow classmates added to the joyful procession with instrumental accompaniment on the recorder, tambourine and drum.
Seventh Graders Build a Natural History Museum of Their Own How well do we know our local history and environment? How do our personal histories, experiences and interests fit into the bigger picture? Mayfield’s seventh graders were tasked with exploring this connection and creating Mayfield’s first Natural History Museum for their 2014 Culminating Project. To focus their research and collect and organize materials as the curator of an interactive exhibit, the students first identified a personal “encounter” they had with either an ecological or historical element in the local environment. This experience then became the departure point for uncovering the historical, cultural or environmental context behind it. Using the web and printed materials to start, many extended their research to primary sources at museums or libraries, one-on-one interviews and experimentation. Once their research was complete, students built and assembled exhibits that featured a written element, graphics and an interactive portion to engage visitors. For two days the Hayden Performing Arts Center became Mayfield’s own Natural History Museum as the seventh graders shared their work with the student body, teachers and parents. The range of topics explored was extraordinary and included the physics of dance and the evolution of Hip Hop, the history of GMOs and the value of organic foods, parrot populations in Pasadena, World War II aircraft, wave photography, Lebanese and Syrian immigration, pentimenti and many more.
A Hands.. and Feet-on, Interactive Experience! Lower school classes had the opportunity to get up close and personal with North America courtesy of National
Geographic Giant Traveling Maps program. The 26’ by 35’ map offered a fun and physical way to understand latitude and longitude, the relationship of geography to population growth, and the difference between an ocean and a sea.
Sixth Graders Develop Confidence in Public Speaking As part of their drama class curriculum for the fall semester, students learned techniques and strategies to boost confidence and deal with feelings of fear or anxiety when speaking before a crowd, presenting in class or acting on stage. Through writing and performing both planned and impromptu speeches on multiple topics for a variety of audiences, students acquired a “toolbox” of strategies including principles for effective communication and the benefits of practice and preparation to become effective and dynamic speakers. See all they learned in a short video at www.mayfieldjs.org/sixth!
Dedication and Teamwork Bring Success They did the research, read volumes and studied hard. After weeks of preparation the MJS Decathlon team competed on Saturday, March 1 with 112 Catholic schools at the LA Archdiocese Junior High Decathlon taking 16th
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Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication overall – a school best! In addition, team members brought home 6 individual subject medals.
Native American Open House
Fourth Graders Give Radio Drama a Try
The third grade hosted a Native American Open House in February. Wonderful 3D projects depicting the homes and culture of various Native American tribes were displayed across three classrooms and the students shared their research via iPad presentations to parents and guests.
They listened to an original episode of “Little Orphan Annie” and then were given radio play scripts from the 1930s and 1940s to record on iPads using GarageBand software. Students layered in sound effects and musical underscoring. The project allowed the students to work on vocal expression, tell a story using sound, and develop their audio recording skills.
Real Life Experience
Taking the Book Report Up a Notch
In its second year, the Mini MITS (Media and Instructional Technology Services) is a team of fourth grade students who help their classmates and teachers in grades K-4 with technology-related problems. Trained by eighth grade student council Commissioners of Technology, the Mini MITS gain invaluable knowledge, real life experience and build problem-solving skills.
Traditional book reports ask students to summarize the plot and present it from the point of view of the main character(s). To make things more interesting, English teacher Chris Goethals encouraged her fifth grade students to get creative. Using video made with iMovie, Minecraft and other applications such as Puppet Pals and Keynote, their book reports became skill-building interactive projects engaging the entire class.
A Partnership with Local Museums In the fall eight seventh graders trained as junior docents and led tours for the Huntington Library’s exhibit “Junipero Serra and the Legacies of the California Missions.” This was the first junior docent program at the Huntington Library and Mayfield was proud to be a part of it. Three training sessions included a personal tour of the exhibit with Steven Hackel, one of the curators and author of a new Serra biography, and touring techniques. In addition, three seventh graders participated in a docent program with the Pasadena History Museum. The girls trained extensively learning details about Pasadena history and life in the Fenyes Mansion, and led several tour groups in the spring.
3D Printer Sparks Maker Mentality I can print that. Sixth grade students printed items of their imagination via a new MakerBot 3D printer. With help from eighth grader Cameron Schiller, Student Council Commissioner of Technology, students learned 3D printing requires a different set of rules and new state of mind. Students considered factors such as size, surface area and stability while being asked to create something that serves a greater physical purpose beyond the print job.
Technology Aids Lessons in Instrumental Music An iPad application called Pano Tuner has been utilized for skill development in instrumental music. With the interactive app students visually understand if their instrument is in tune or out of tune, learn how to tune it independently, stay on pitch, and even grasp the difficult concept of transposition.
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munication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking New Friends Now in its second year the K Pals activity builds relationships through reading. For twenty minutes on Friday afternoons kindergarteners and sixth graders pair up and take over the Primary Courtyard to share a moment together with a good book.
Our Local Natural World Following the success of the Outdoor Habitat Design Challenge last year, the third grade science curriculum continues to explore ecosystems and the natural world. This year the focus was on the drought and sustainable landscaping with less water. Students became familiar with the plant life on campus, using iPads to look up the plants they discovered, and documented their location. They then created a recommended plant list with the following criteria: drought tolerance, California native and broad biodiversity on campus.
Honors Music Program Expands
Mayfield Rocks
Talented Middle School grade string, band and percussion students became Mayfield’s first Honors Symphony Orchestra this year. The group performed several times during the school year and joined members of the Honors Choir at the 2014 Anaheim Music Festival.
MJS singers and musicians took to the stage in May for the annual Spring Concert. From a rockin’ version of “Treasure” by Bruno Mars to Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” it was an amazing show featuring the Pop/Rock Band, Middle School Honors Choir, fifth and sixth grade musicians and singers and the Honors Symphony Orchestra. Charming student hosts kept the party lively and each performance highlighted the talent and hard work of everyone on stage. Cornelia Connelly would have been dancing in the aisles!
An Hour of Code Grades 3-8 took part in the Hour of Code national campaign put on by Computer Science Education Week with the goal of showing that anyone can code. Students spent their hour learning how to manipulate familiar characters, such as Angry Birds, through a maze using code.
Sharing Knowledge An experiment in collaborative learning brought grades 4 and 7 together for a science lesson. The seventh graders were studying genetics and heredity, learning about recessive and dominant traits, chromosomes and DNA. To help cement the concepts they had learned the students were tasked with explaining to the fourth graders what traits are, how randomness figures into it and how DNA is structured.
Green is Good! An Arts Month feature was the first grade spring play “ Green is Good.” This original musical written by Bryan Bowen, based on the book “Dear Children of the World” by Schim Schimmel, brings all the animals in the world together to teach a simple lesson of sharing the earth and protecting her beauty and resources by making conscious choices. With lively music by Tom Chapin sung with happy voices by the first grade class, cameo performances by middle school students and fourth grade musicians, the musical was truly a celebration of the collaborative spirit of the arts at Mayfield.
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Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication Recycling Efforts On Campus Increase
Debate Team
Students in grades three and six, with the help of an after school Green Team, worked extra hard this year to do their part in sustaining the environment. Paper, cans, bottles and other recyclables were sorted and delivered to recycling centers regularly. 1343 pounds of recyclables were collected!
The MJS Sixth Grade Debate Team, comprised of 10 students, competed against four local schools in May and came home victorious. Winning 2 of their 3 matches they had the best winning percentage of the participating schools. They were able to showcase their ability to research a topic, work as a team, practice public speaking skills and use critical thinking. The team will compete next year in the Rancho California Debate League.
The Spirit of Giving The eighth grade hosted the 2014 Reach Out Assembly on Wednesday, May 28. It was an emotional and uplifting experience for all who attended. The students presenting shared stories and spoke with gratitude about the organizations receiving donations from their yearlong Reach Out efforts, and the people in their lives (many of whom were present) who inspired them. The class had raised the money through multiple events and activities such as the Harvest Festival, Student Council snack bars, and ticket sales to the eighth grade play, Bugsy Malone, Jr. and in the spring began researching organizations, causes and foundations to receive the donations. Each one of the organizations selected had special significance to a member of the class. Children’s Hospital, The Joyful Foundation, American Heart Association, Holy Child Africa, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Phase One Cancer Research and many others had all made a difference in the MJS community. The Class of 2014 was happy to give back.
Those in Need This year the sixth Graders devoted their Reach Out efforts to Our Lady of Guadalupe Rose Hills Elementary School (OLG), which serves a particularly low-income community. Each week students packed non-perishable foods into backpacks for students of the school and delivered them on Fridays. In addition to this weekly commitment, the sixth graders put their hearts and heads together to organize a sports equipment drive for the school’s PE department, collect gently used books for the school’s library and plan a Christmas party.
Therapy for the Elderly First graders contributed their joyful voices to the Music therapy program at Regency Park Oak Knoll in three singing performances and teamed up with a “Senior Pal” at the Pasadena Senior Center this year. At the end of the program each Senior Pal received a handmade “Then and Now” book capturing the stories they had shared together.
Dirt Detectives Fifth Graders experienced the complex challenges faced by archeologists and learned a thing or two about observation and note-taking skills in a special cross-curricular project called Dirt Detectives. They started with building an archeological dig about themselves – a shoebox filled with items that relate to their lives and a personal culture bag that helped draw connections to the items in the shoebox. While students presented their personal culture bag to their classmates, the shoeboxes had no identifying marks. After a shuffle of the boxes, everyone took one to “excavate” by analyzing and documenting each artifact uncovered. By taking good notes during the presentations and connecting any clues found in the shoeboxes, the students then matched the artifacts to their classmates.
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munication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking Taking it on the Road: Christmas Concert at Saint Andrew Church Students in grades 1-6 raised their voices in holiday song at the annual Christmas concert on December 17. Mayfield was blessed with the opportunity to hold the concert at the glorious St. Andrew Church. Parents, grandparents and friends enjoyed a mix of classic and contemporary Christmas songs from the children in the stunning architecture of the 86-year-old church with spectacular lighting and lovely holiday décor.
Project Period: An Experiment in Design Thinking Seventh graders focused on teamwork and collaboration in a project–based learning class this year. Students were assigned specific jobs for each project simulating real-life work responsibilities such as management, public relations, documentation, assessment, tech support etc. As a final project the teams were tasked with designing a future library for the school with a projected opening date of 2020. Use of space, organization, sustainable elements and even building names had to considered and incorporated into the design with a goal of meeting the needs of a 21st century learning environment.
Peace and Joy Alafia at Ayo! Pace e Gioia! Mir I radost’ vam! Throughout January, students, faculty and staff wished “peace and joy” to each other in a variety of different languages as part of our second annual Mosaic Month, a celebration of diversity. At Morning Prayer throughout the month members of the MJS community generously shared the language and perhaps a favorite prayer from their cultural heritage. This year the languages presented included Russian, Italian, Korean, Hindi and even Tagalog. As a special treat, the students had the opportunity to learn a song in Yoruba from the Superior General of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, Sr. Veronica Openibo, who is a native of Nigeria, during her brief visit to Southern California.
Creativity in Action With a possible 12 sports and over 30 teams Mayfield students have many opportunities to participate in competitive sports. However while many thrive in team sports, opportunities to learn a skill or be a part of a small team in a non-competitive activity or sport have been embraced by students who either consider themselves non-athletic or are just interested in trying something new. MJS coaches try to keep it fun. If the goal is to keep everyone active and engaged, fun is the operative word, and on a campus where space is at a premium, a little creativity goes a long way. A little zumba perhaps? Street hockey? Hula Hoops? All of the above apply. Recently a winter scavenger hunt presented multiple challenges for the kids to be imaginative, collaborative and quick on their feet.
A Banner Year for Mustang Sports Ten league championships, impressive teamwork and focused participants at all levels: an amazing year for Mustang Sports. League wins with undefeated seasons included: Girls Volleyball (4th year), Boys Football (3rd year), Girls Soccer and most recently Boys Baseball who have extended their streak one more year with an unbelievable six years as undefeated champions. The Tennis team went undefeated for a first League win in over a decade. Boys Track and Field and Swimming achieved first place wins at League meets and the championship fever didn’t stop with Boys Soccer, Volleyball and Basketball also taking home League wins. Go Mustangs!
The Kinder Alliance Knowing that imaginative play is an essential way to engage early learners, kindergarten teacher Arianne Heupler decided to try a superhero theme in her classroom. After a discussion on how superheroes do the right thing through good deeds and kindness, students created personas and made capes, cuffs and masks to wear when taking on the superhero role. The opportunities to build knowledge around the theme were many. The question, “Can a superhero fly” introduced research and finding information. At Christmas and Easter, learning about Jesus, the ultimate superhero, was a powerful connection. Art and storytelling came to life as students created illustrated books and puppets to tell their own superhero stories. Even learning subtraction was fun using a super hero’s cape for a “great take away” activity.
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Creativity Collaboration Communication Critical Thinking Creativity Collaboration Communication
30 |  Mayfield Junior School
Now in its third year, the 7th and 8th grade elective program continues to bring a new dynamic and creative curriculum to inspire the unique interests and talents of each student. This year courses encouraged observation and understanding in nature, kindled a passion for reading and much more including expanding perspective in an iPhone photo editing course called ...
IPHONE Photography: Alexa Zuch Photo editing: Madison Zuch
Photography and editing: Robert Asmar
Outside the Box
OGRAPY
Photography: Maddie Lewis Photo editing: Madison Zuch
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Photography: Maeve Davitt Photo editing: Maddie Lewis
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Bugsy Malone Jr The Mayfield Junior School Class of 2014 presented “Bugsy Malone Jr” April 4-6 to sell out crowds. Based on the 1976 Alan Parker film, the story is a tongue-in-cheek tribute to classic Hollywood crime movies. This multitalented class jumped into the show with great enthusiasm. From their initial auditions in which they had to memorize and perform a monologue, sing a show tune, and learn original choreography, to tech week when they performed live music, ran light and sound boards, and did hundreds of quick changes backstage, this class really rose to the challenge. With professionalism and a bit of humor, the Prohibition era and the world of wouldbe hoodlums truly came to life in the production. Two rotating casts and crews gave everyone a chance to shine both on stage and behind the scenes. The eighth grade play has been a tradition at MJS for over 35 years. Each year it is both a creative opportunity and a bonding experience for the class.
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California Missions and More! The fourth grade premiered “California Missions… and More!” to family and friends on Wednesday, May 7. The play, which supports the 4th grade social studies curriculum, is set in 1920s Hollywood and takes the audience to the soundstage of a blockbuster movie in the making. Director JB and a cast of characters bring the history of California to life, from the fate of the Native American tribes and the building of the missions through the gold rush and western expansion and finally statehood. Of course it wouldn’t be a blockbuster in the making (or a Mayfield play) without a little singing, dancing, humor and talented musicians thrown in, and this fourth grade class handled it all like pros. The play was a new updated version of the traditional California History play, adapted from an original play by Ron Fink and John Heath and expanded by MJS teachers David Hemak and Lisa Byrne.
On Stage
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Chris Arial ’10
Sophie Kaminski ’08
What are you doing now in the performing arts?
What are you doing now in the performing arts?
I just recently finished a production of “Kiss Me, Kate!” in which I played the role of Paul, and I am now working on a production of “Next to Normal” for the Hollywood Fringe Festival, which is basically L.A.’s biggest celebration of the performing arts. “Next to Normal” is a modern musical with a rock score. It’s a really fun production to be a part of.
Right now I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Voice at The Juilliard School in New York City. The program emphasizes classical training, so I’ve been studying a lot of operatic and art song repertoire.
How about past projects and performances? My first show, at the age of ten, was “Grease.” Since then I have been in a variety of shows. One of my favorites was a Loyola High School production of “Queen Hamlet.” My director took the famous Shakespearean story of Hamlet and conveyed the story through Queen songs. Another highlight was performing at Disney Concert Hall. I got to perform an original song composed by one of New York’s most well known composers, Francisco Núñez. It was a really neat experience! What are you working on now?
How about past projects and performances? One of my favorite performance memories is when I sang Hodel in MJS’s version of “Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.” in the eighth grade! Since then, I’ve performed Hodel again in high school, and also sang the Countess in Mozart’s “Le Nozze di Figaro” during my time at LA County High School for the Arts. This past year at Juilliard, I had the privilege of performing the role of Cherubino in their production of “Le Nozze di Figaro”. I’ve performed in recital at the Colburn School and several times during my past two years at Juilliard. What are you working on now?
Right now I am mainly working on improving my singing and performing skills. I am trying to get more modern and current with my repertoire of songs before I go off to college.
I’m preparing to go to Austria where I’ll be studying in a program centered on German art song. I have a lot of songs to learn before I leave, but I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to study abroad and look forward to finding new opportunities to grow as an artist.
What are your plans for the future?
What are your plans for the future?
I hope to get involved with some type music group in college. I am really into a cappella music and I think it would be a really cool experience to have in college. After “Next to Normal,” I think my theatre career may come to an end. Although I love certain aspects of musical theatre, my passion lies more with music.
I plan to continue my studies at Juilliard and focus on becoming a better musician. Regardless of where my education takes me, I am very grateful to have the support of my family and friends that enables me to pursue what I am most passionate about.
(continued on page 36)
On Stage
(continued on page 36)
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Mustangs On Stage Alumni Q&A
Allie PIlmer ’10
Marie Sadd ’11
What are you doing now in the performing arts?
What are you doing now in the performing arts?
I am currently in this odd and unusual period of not being very busy. Usually my days are filled with school and then long rehearsals, but currently I have neither of those. I just finished my senior year at Mayfield Senior so I have no more long school days, and my show “Titanic” recently ended as well. Although I am not in a show right now, I am still working hard with my coaches and preparing for a vocal performance I have at the end of June. The funny thing is that even when I don’t have a show or performance, the work never stops. You can never stop practicing or rehearsing or things will change. If there is anything I’ve learned, it is that your vocal chords are muscles, and just like athletes, they need exercise and training!
I started out this summer by going to London and paying homage to Shakespeare. I visited his grave in Stratford-Upon-Avon, saw two Shakespeare plays by the Royal Shakespeare Company and toured the theatre afterwards, and had to opportunity to perform a scene from As You Like It on the 400 year old stage of the Rose Theatre.
How about past projects and performances? Well, I don’t know if you would like to know my whole back-story, but why not. For most of my life I played sports and really wasn’t very interested in performing at all, but then my older brother Andrew (MJS Alumni ’07), began performing. I was inspired by him so in eight grade I began to take voice lessons. My first performance was at MJS in the [8th grade play] “Rockin’ 80s” show. My freshman year I auditioned for “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” at Saint Francis High School. After that, I did every single show at Saint Francis for the rest of my time in high school. That included: “Beauty and the Beast,” “Phantom of the Opera,” “Burnt Part Boys,” “West Side Story,” “A Few Good Men,” and “Titanic”. Outside of Saint Francis I was in Oklahoma! and Oliver!. I was also a finalist in the Michael Feintstein American Songbook competition. (continued on page 36)
Now, I am working as the teaching assistant for Mayfield Senior’s summer theatre course. I will be traveling to Ashland, Oregon. I have been accepted to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s Junior Seminar, and will spend two weeks in an intensive Shakespeare program with other students from around the nation. How about past performances or projects? Unsurprising to those who knew me at Mayfield Junior, I continued to follow my passion for theatre. My first year at Mayfield Senior, I became involved in the performing arts during the summer. I was Grizabella in CATS. I then became a member of the Theatre Conservatory at Mayfield, and have remained a devoted member. Freshmen year, I was Ensemble and Ernestina understudy in Hello Dolly, and Balthasar in Romeo and Juliet. Sophomore year, I was Sorin in Anton Chekov’s The Seagull, Stage Manager for Charlie’s Aunt, and various roles in Dead Man Walking, part of the Dead Man Walking School Theatre Project. The summer before junior year, I attended a Shakespeare program at the Idyllwild Arts Academy, where I took part in Titus Andronicus. Most recently I was Puck in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Ensemble in “Evita,” and Napoleon in a masked production of “Animal Farm”. (continued on page 36)
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Chris Arial
Sophie Kaminski
Allie Pilmer
Marie Sadd
Of what are you most proud?
Of what are you most proud?
What are you working on now?
What are you working on now?
I would have to say I am most proud of my growth and dedication to the arts. I don’t believe everybody knows just how much goes into a production or performance. There are countless hours of practice and perfecting. There were some days during tech week when I would get to school at 7 and wouldn’t leave till 2am.
I think I am most proud of the sense of perseverance I’ve developed, particularly over the past two years at college. I try to remember that all you can do is your best on any given day, and as a performer, you are your own biggest competitor. I have received some wonderful opportunities, and I always try to make the best of them.
I am currently working on perfecting my technique and abilities, while teaching myself it is ok to relax sometimes.
Right now, I am preparing monologues for both the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and college auditions. I am also preparing for auditions for Mayfield’s fall productions of “Cyrano de Bergerac” and “Antigone”.
Who are your heroes/ who inspires you?
Who are your heroes/who inspires you?
I don’t really have one hero in particular that always speaks to me, but I think the real heroes of any production are the backstage hands. They rarely get noticed, but there hard work is very clear to me.
I don’t think I would have had the confidence to pursue singing without the support and leading examples of many of my teachers throughout the years. Looking back, some moments in school that I viewed as uncomfortable or painful were the times when a teacher was encouraging me to act on abilities that I wasn’t willing to bring out on my own. I will always be grateful to my many teachers who invested so much time and energy into ensuring that I got the best out of my education.
On Stage
What are your plans for the future? Next year I will be attending Loyola Marymount University as a theatre major. I plan to participate in a lot of productions through the theatre program and different student productions as well. The theatre program at Loyola works with the film program a lot, so I am really hoping to get involved in student films!!! Of what are you most proud? I am most proud of my dedication. I am extremely dedicated to being the best I can possibly be (which can sometimes be a bit difficult). I am proud of the drive I have to work, and my passion for loving to learn. Who are your heroes/who inspires you? I don’t really have one specific person who is my hero or who inspires me. Of course I have performers I love, like Bernadette Peters and Beyonce (haha I know they’re totally different), but I just find a lot of different things inspire me every single day.
What are your plans for the future? I am considering a BA in theatre and a major in English history and finding a career that combines my love of theatre with my love of history. Of what are you most proud? I am most proud of my work in A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Puck/ Robin Goodfellow. My dream role has been Puck. I poured my heart and soul into that role. Who are your heroes/who inspires you? A director does more than tell the actors where to go or how to move onstage. They give guidance, and leave an imprint on their actors’ hearts. I have had the honor of working with two such directors. The first is Ms. Byrne, at MJS. Now at Mayfield Senior, I look up to my director Sam Robinson. Mr. Robinson has been my mentor for the past three years, and has taught me lessons that apply to both theatre and everyday life.
Alumni Events
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Young Alumni Reception at Mijares This December college age alumni gathered at Mijares Restaurant in Pasadena for food and festivities. This popular annual event draws a growing crowd every year and has become something that our young alumni look forward to when they are home for the holidays.
Alumni Easter Egg Hunt In April, we welcomed MJS alumni and their young children to campus for an Easter Egg Hunt. The group enjoyed breakfast, crafts and the kids found over 200 eggs hidden all over campus.
Mustangs in the Big Apple! MJS alumni who live in New York City and the tri-state area attended a happy hour at Public House in Midtown. Headmaster Joe Gill updated the group about current happenings at MJS and everyone enjoyed catching up.
Don’t miss our alumni events! Do we have your current address and email? Contact Liv Amend, Alumni Relations Manager 626.229.2117 or lamend@mayfieldjs.org
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The MJS Class of 2010 returned to campus in May for the Senior Send Off Mass. This mass and brunch brought this close-knit class together to reconnect and to celebrate high school accomplishments before they head off to college. More than fifty alumni and their families were in attendance.
Senior Send Off Mass
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Mayfield Junior School Class of 2010 Colleges and Universities ♦♦ Ana M. Acosta Georgetown University
♦♦ Francesca Ferri Texas Christian University
♦♦ Lauren Nelson American University of Paris
♦♦ Austin Alfieri University of Arizona
♦♦ Brian Finnegan Texas Christian University
♦♦ Reid Newman University of Puget Sound
♦♦ Daniella Argueta University of Southern California
♦♦ Kathleen Floyd George Washington University
♦♦ William Newman Claremont McKenna College
♦♦ Christopher Arial Loyola University Chicago
♦♦ Leah Freeark Penn State
♦♦ Kate Newton University of San Diego
♦♦ Mary H. Baggott Catholic University of America
♦♦ Tyler Gangi University of Colorado
♦♦ Paul Pelentay University of Colorado
♦♦ Brian J. Baldocchi New York University
♦♦ Sydney Gronroos Loyola University Chicago
♦♦ Alexandra Pilmer Loyola Marymount University
♦♦ Frederick Balian California State University, Northridge
♦♦ Emma Horne Boston University
♦♦ Jack Poulsen University of Southern California
♦♦ Matthew Johnson Vanderbilt University
♦♦ Mary Poxon University of Alabama
♦♦ Natalie Johnson Notre Dame University
♦♦ Lavan Rajan Rice University
♦♦ Courtney Kelly Notre Dame University
♦♦ John Reardon Wyotech
♦♦ Sean Kilmer Notre Dame University
♦♦ William Riedel Penn State
♦♦ Lindsay Ladd Villanova University
♦♦ Robert Sinclair Loyola Marymount University
♦♦ Chelsea Larsuel American University, DC
♦♦ Cadence Stark University of Southern California
♦♦ Bretton Laudeman Clemson University
♦♦ Remy Traglio Northwestern University
♦♦ Emily Markese University of Colorado
♦♦ Alessandra Tsuchiya Brown University
♦♦ Madeleine McCrimlisk Tufts University
♦♦ Tyler Urbach Fordham University
♦♦ Jacqueline McGreal Chaminade University, Hawaii
♦♦ Harrison Wagener Davidson College
♦♦ Lora McManus Pitzer College
♦♦ Nathaniel Young Washington University in St. Louis
♦♦ Isabela Becerra Stanford University ♦♦ Andrea Bennett DePaul University ♦♦ Sophia Brahos Notre Dame University ♦♦ Elise Burton Washington University in St. Louis ♦♦ Santiago Cacho-Sousa Gonzaga University ♦♦ George Calle University of Pennsylvania ♦♦ Olivia Connolly University of Southern California ♦♦ Matthew Culhane Cal Poly San Luis Obispo ♦♦ Abagail Durkan-Simonds University of Redlands ♦♦ Deirdre Durkan-Simonds University of Redlands ♦♦ Amari Evans studying abroad in Brazil for a year
♦♦ Maxwell Meyer Boston College ♦♦ Babe Angelo Micalizio Humbolt State University ♦♦ Cole Miller University of Oregon ♦♦ Emily Monroe Santa Clara University
42 | Mayfield Junior School
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. Barry Abell, father of Matthew Abell ’98, Patrick Abell ’00, Sean Abell ’00 and Timothy Abell ‘02
William Leiva, grandfather of Matthew Leiva ‘15, Rebecca Leiva ‘18 and Sarah Leiva ‘21
Hon. Ann Baker, grandmother of Emma Baker ‘14 and Sara Baker ‘17
Natalie Lewis, cousin of Lauren Kezele ‘15 and Julia Kezele ‘17
Darlene Bowden, sister of MJS faculty member, LaVerne Holman
Jaime Lopez, grandfather of Brooke Porter ‘17 and Carson Porter ‘23
Isabel Cacho-Sousa, grandmother of Santiago CachoSousa ‘10 and Isabela Cacho-Sousa ‘16,
Stuart MacLaren, grandfather of Craig MacLarenSwan ‘17 and Arden MacLaren-Swan ‘19
Ken Colborn II, father of Ann (Colborn) Pizzinat ’80, Matthew Colborn ’84 and Katherine (Colborn) Ugoretz ’85
Serafin Martinez, grandfather of Ethan Cano ‘19
Margaret Crago, grandmother of Abigail Deckop ‘07 and Alex Deckop ‘14 Dr. John Davitt, grandfather of Maeve Davitt ‘15 Frank Di Fronzo, grandfather of Matthew Di Fronzo ’18 and Francesca Di Fronzo ‘20 Mary Morris Durkan, grandmother of Abagail DurkanSimonds ‘10 and Deirdre Durkan-Simonds ‘10 Margaret Ann “Peg” Hatch, grandmother of J.P. Hatch ‘12 and Andrew Hatch ‘14 Emma Hazel, grandmother of Lauren Hazel ‘17 Michael Joseph Krum, uncle of Maxwell Raymond ’12 and Ava Raymond ‘16 Thomas Knight Jr., grandfather of Becket Knight ‘18 and Peter Knight ‘20 Judy Lee, grandmother of Candace Huang ‘19 and Melody Huang ‘18
Margaret Mary Howard Miller, grandmother of Brendan Miller ‘94, Kevin Miller ‘96, Brian Miller ‘98 and Grady Miller ‘02 Enid Reeves, grandmother of John Reardon ‘10 and Eleanor Reardon ‘13 Louis Sablom, uncle of Louis Lanchantin ‘71, Mary Ann Lanchantin Smith ‘75, Ed Lanchantin ‘78 and Morgan Lanchantin ‘87 Thomas Viola, grandfather of Kevin Finnegan ’06, Brendan Finnegan ’09, Brian Finnegan ’10 and Caroline Finnegan ‘15 Doreen Young, grandmother of Nathaniel Young ‘10 and Kaylee Young ‘18
Dr. Steven Bertch, father of Christie Bertch ‘01 and Michael Bertch ‘06 The Bertch Family has established a fund in Dr. Bertch’s honor to benefit the Boy Scouts of America. Contact: San Gabriel Council- BSA
Mary Joel Scully, SHCJ We remember our dear Sr. Mary Joel who passed away on Monday, September 9, 2013. After taking her final vows in August 1952, Sr. Joel came to Mayfield and taught at the elementary grade level throughout the 1950s. She remained a beloved figure on campus for many decades to follow.
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44 | Mayfield Junior School
Perspectives one’s meaning is lost (or if it’s sent by your child’s English teacher)… Technical advances have provided us with so many devices meant to help with communication, and yet so often the machines seem to render our words meaningless. “Friend” is now a verb, like “Google” (see above). Text messages get re-interpreted, and distractions find us multitasking. Between autocorrect and slips of our fingers, “See you at eight” might become, “Aww you ate right.” It happens.
The Value of the Written Word Christine Goethals
Middle School English “Actions, not words,” said Cornelia Connelly. But let us not forget, “In the beginning was the word.” Before this school year began, MJS faculty and staff participated in a daylong writing workshop to kick off a year of Writing Across the Curriculum. Since we would be asking students to write in every subject, from science to P.E., it seemed like a good idea to get some practice. For this English teacher who likes to write, the experience was more revealing and cathartic than expected. It made me stop to think about why we write. If you Google, “Why is writing important?” you’ll get over five hundred million responses. A post by Marquette University addresses the question with a long list of bullet points, including the following: ♦♦
Writing is the primary basis upon which your work, your learning, and your intellect will be judged—in college, in the workplace, and in the community.
♦♦
Writing expresses who you are as a person.
♦♦
Writing is portable and permanent. It makes your thinking visible.
When we write, we reveal an intimate part of ourselves: our thoughts. We don’t want our thoughts misinterpreted, so we edit ourselves, and rely on the kindness of others to help clarify meaning. No one wants to send a message with where spelled wear, but it isn’t a big deal unless
Like technology and all other things, language evolves. In fact, according to the Global Language Monitor (languagemonitor.com), “there is a new word created every 98 minutes, or about 14.7 words per day.” Keeping up requires diligence, and endurance, but don’t panic. Shakespeare spelled many-a-word differently than we do today, and yet we still manage to grasp his meaning. Context is the key to understanding. When it comes to reading and writing, the first draft, or first words that pop out of our mouths, may not be the best, but we’re usually able to revise. The visible thinking we do on paper helps us examine and interpret our actions as we analyze, synthesize and recreate the world around us. The word is a mighty and awesome thing. May we all choose each of ours with care, and may our meanings be understood as intended. Also, don’t forget to proofread, for the pen is only mightier than the sword, and one would not want to accidentally cut oneself on a wrong word.
Another year in service to the Holy Child… While the last day of the school year brings mixed emotions for both students and teachers, the Closing Mass is always nearly buoyant with happy energy. This year was no exception as smiling students filled the gymnasium revealing feelings of anticipation, pride and a blissful relief that summer had finally arrived. As a community we celebrated with gratitude the blessings the year had brought us, said farewell and thank you to retiring teachers Mrs. St. John and Mrs. Holman and cheered for our Holy Child award recipients.
A Fond Farewell: Retiring Faculty Mrs. Holman and Mrs. St. John “As you move into the next stage of your life,
First Grade: ♦♦
Tyler Hedman
♦♦
Sissy Scout Page
Second Grade: ♦♦
Shea Ridl
♦♦
Jeremy Tan
remember that while you may not be in our classrooms next fall, the joy and love you have left with our school and children will last forever.” — Joseph J. Gill
Third Grade: ♦♦
Isabella Huizar
♦♦
Santiago Goldthwait
Fourth Grade: ♦♦
Elizabeth Lira
♦♦
Dario Rock
Fifth Grade: ♦♦
Audrey Bland
♦♦
Henry Bunt
Sixth Grade:
Holy Child Awards The “Holy Child Award” is a visible representation of all the children at Mayfield and represents the qualities and values we cherish.
“In the midst of math, art, history and all the learning
♦♦
Ryan Nishiyama
here at MJS, our true obligation is centered on feeding
♦♦
Claire Pratt
the heart and soul. All the education and knowledge in
Seventh Grade:
the world is of no value unless each child has the kind-
♦♦
Kathryn Gerhardt
ness, compassion and love in his or her heart to use it
♦♦
Jack Onufer
wisely.” — Joseph J. Gill
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2013 - 2014
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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