Footsteps summer 2017 final v3 8 8 17

footsteps SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Our Mission At Marin Primary & Middle School we make education meaningful, while encouraging pride in self, respect for others, and enthusiasm for learning. we treasure childhood.

We honor and enjoy children’s natural curiosity, competence, and exuberance.

we teach to reach children.

Using teams of teachers and educational methods tailored to how children learn best, we connect with our students, build trusting relationships, and make learning relevant, memorable, and fun. we teach children to reach.

Asking not “how smart is the child” but “how is the child smart,” we guide our students to see their full potential, and we equip them to pursue it with passion and purpose.

we inspire children to make a difference.

We value academic excellence, personal integrity, and community action and encourage our students to become informed, engaged, and ethical global citizens.

c letters 4

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Julie’s Letter

around campus 6

School Happenings

features 10

A Global

Approach 12 Community Connections 14

International Day

16

A Roadmap for a

Digital Age

18 Congratulations!

20

A Fond Farewell

21

Heartfelt Tributes

23

Have You Met

Our Newest

Trustees?

24

College List

25

Alumni Reunion

26

PA Update

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Each year in the life of a school moves so quickly, especially over the final weeks leading up to our traditional year end celebrations, Stepping Up and Graduation. This year, as our community came together to appreciate the accomplishments of our students and recognize the importance of this transition in their lives, I was especially aware of my deep gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this very special school.

Looking through the pages of this edition of Footsteps

The effective learning environment created by these new

brings back memories of the year we’ve just ended, as

programs and spaces serves to challenge and support

well as reflections on the many ways in which our school

students, particularly as they become innovative 21st

has evolved over the years. From the activities of the

century thinkers and leaders who have the confidence to

youngest preschoolers to those of our graduates and

take risks and meet challenges.

alumni, the pages that follow highlight the many aspects

Just a few short weeks ago at Stepping Up, I was

of school life that contribute to the strong, healthy and

honored to join two soon-to-be graduates in ringing the

vibrant educational community in which our students

gong to close the school year. After a final week with

thrive.

teachers and the leadership team, this letter is one of

In just a few more days, incoming Head of School

my last opportunities to share my deep gratitude for the

Andrew Slater will be happily settled in his office and a

many ways in which all of you have helped create this

new chapter in the life of the school will begin. Andrew

wonderful school community. We’ve had some great

and I have enjoyed the many chances we’ve had to spend

adventures together over these years as our school has

time together following his appointment in the fall. He

grown and changed, and I have thoroughly enjoyed

will be supported by the talented faculty and staff and

spending my days surrounded by the students, teachers,

will benefit from the initiatives and projects completed

and families of Marin Primary & Middle School. Enjoy this

over the past year, including the program and structure

look back on the year, and know that I leave with a heart

changes of Middle School 2.0 and the construction of the

filled with amazing memories from these past years and

expansive and innovative new science spaces – as well

great excitement about the school’s future.

as the creative use of the renovated cage enclosure as a space for STEAM and project-based learning activities.

school happenings on and around campus

Project Night Night

The Imaginary Invalid

Fourth graders participated in a wonderful community

In keeping with tradition, this year’s eighth grade

service project for the children’s charity Project Night

performance of Moliere’s “The Imaginary Invalid” was the

Night. Project Night Night provides 25,000 homeless

result of a full trimester of study and practice. The MP&MS

children each year with an age-appropriate book, a stuffed

JK-eighth grade drama program instructs students in

animal, and a cozy blanket, all tucked in a new canvas tote

the skills of storytelling, project based collaboration, and

bag. This national charity works with tens of thousands

elocution. Every graduate is well prepared to leave with

of volunteers each year who offer their time and talents

the ability to appear before others with confidence and

to make our world a better place, and our fourth graders

poise, and the eighth grade play is a natural conclusion of

were among those making an impact. They spent time

this training. It is a study in theatre practicum: students

working in small groups to create handmade fleece

read and discuss the play, its history, and its relevance to

blankets, which came in all sorts of decorative and fun

its age and to ours; they rehearse and perform the play;

patterns and were included in these care packages for

they are responsible for their costumes, the sound, lights

children in need. As global citizens engaged in important

and programs. This play is chosen for a variety of reasons,

community action, our fourth graders helped make a

including its comedic and satirical value, as well as the way it

difference in the lives of other children with this inspiring

dovetails with the eighth grade study of United States Civics.

project that was both fun and rewarding.

While many students may never participate in another play again, this experience helps them gain the understanding and confidence that they can do it, because they have done it at a formative time in their lives within the safe, supportive environment of their peers and teachers at MP&MS.

Ancient Civilizations

Science Lab Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Sixth graders deepened their analysis of the seven

On April 25, the long-awaited ribbon cutting for the new

characteristics of a civilization through an inquiry-based

Science Lab took place among trustees, faculty, parents, and

ancient civilization project. In small groups, students

special guests. This informal event featured brief speeches,

selected an ancient civilization they wanted to research,

a tour of the new labs, coffee, and breakfast treats. Both

then worked together to generate both essential and

Julie Elam and incoming Head of School Andrew Slater

characteristic questions about the culture, society, and

were present for this important milestone, which marks

peoples they were exploring. They spent weeks immersed

the opening of a state-of-the-art facility that will bolster

in this research phase and designed innovative, interactive

an enhanced and advanced curriculum across grades.

and original ways to share what they had learned with

Designed to support an innovative and nimble program that

others. The projects demonstrated 21st century learning

can respond to changes in our rapidly evolving world, the

skills such as collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and

labs have both indoor and outdoor spaces adjacent to the

communication. The exhibition of student work was a

Outdoor Education Center, art studio, and music room, and

vibrant and unique display of projects, including live action

will provide opportunities for integrated projects, research,

gladiator training, mosaic making, a Viking training video, a

and experiments.

cooking demonstration, and a Viking myth reenactment.

school happenings on and around campus

Dream Flag Project

Stepping Up & Graduation

The Dream Flag project is an international movement that

The community marked the milestones of preschool

brings people of all ages together to send positive dreams

graduation, Stepping Up, and eighth grade graduation

and hopes out into the world. In March, JK-eighth grade

by recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of

students participated in this meaningful project, which was

our students. At the Barn and Zoo graduation, preschool

originally based on the poetry of Langston Hughes and

families watched proudly as their little ones were called

displayed on fabric similar to that of Tibetan Dream

by name and performed a song (and even danced!). At

Flags. This widely popular movement aims to reach people

Stepping Up, JK-eighth graders each shared a meaningful

and communities across the globe to spread goodwill

class performance before moving to the seats for their

and generate positivity. This powerful group activity

next grade. To conclude Julie Elam’s final Stepping Up

was a way for our students to express their wishes and

ceremony, the community presented her with a book of

desires both for their communities and for the world at

heartfelt tributes and photos marking her many years as

large. Technology Integration and Innovation Specialist

an inspirational and beloved educator and leader. Finally,

Jesse Swagerty created a short video of the students

eighth graders celebrated with engaging presentations

participating in this project, which you can find on our

and performances at their graduation ceremony. Together

website at www.mpms.org.

with their families, teachers, and members of the MP&MS community, the graduates looked back on all they had accomplished during their years at 20 Magnolia Avenue and looked forward to the next exciting step in their personal and educational journey.

Athletics

STEAM – Project-Based Learning

The athletics program at MP&MS had a winning year of

Can you code your robot to solve this maze? Sequencing,

accomplishments and sportsmanship! The middle school

measurement, and geometry are all important parts of

boys fall flag football team had an undefeated season,

third grade math. In this project, students were challenged

with a perfect 5-0 record. In the winter, the Varsity

by Technology Integration and Innovation Specialist Jesse

boys and Junior Varsity boys basketball teams won the

Swagerty to put these concepts and skill sets together

championships in their divisions, while the Varsity girls

in order to find the steps necessary to code their robots

took sixth place and the Junior Varsity girls came in third

to travel through a maze. They learned about constants,

place in their divisions. In the spring, the track team did a

variables, duration, heading, and distance in this integrated

terrific job competing in events with great pride and effort.

STEAM project-based learning opportunity. By seeking

Jon Hull remarks, “As a teacher and coach, I couldn’t be

out new ideas and meaningful projects to integrate into

more proud of each and every student’s effort at the track

existing programs, Jesse helps students and teachers

and field meet.” Twelve MP&MS students were assigned to

consolidate the school’s technology and utilize it in

various events as helpers, and they all received high praise

curriculum-driven ways. As they learned how and why

from the coaches they assisted. At the track and field

technology works and how to manipulate it, these third

championship meet, MP&MS had nine first place finishes

graders enjoyed a perfect example of the fun and

and one fourth place finish. Congratulations MP&MS

effective integration of science, technology, engineering,

athletes, and many thanks to coaches Jon Hull

art, and math.

and Whitney Sutak for an outstanding year in sports!

S

AL CITIZEN B O GL

gio w illia m

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c

ole

a global approach Our partnership with Colegio Williams in Cuernavaca,

At the end of the week the completed projects

Mexico continues to blossom and flourish. In the fall, MP&MS

were displayed for the parents of second and fourth

sent a team of teachers to carry on the teacher educational

graders. The presentation ended with both grades

exchange that began in 2008. Included on this trip were

singing “You Can Count on Me” by Bruno Mars. We

Ellen Abrams, Nora Bailetti, Silvia Vasquez, Peter Eldredge,

chose this song because it focuses on friendship and

and Meike Wanberg. Our school team worked in Colegio

kindness and it is a favorite sing-along at our own

Williams’ second and fourth grades, and many of the fourth

MP&MS assemblies. With smiles of joy we concluded

graders were students we had worked with two years ago

another great exchange with our friends at Colegio

as second graders. It was greatly rewarding to see first-hand

Williams.

the wonderful progress these students had made.

This year’s second grade project brought children’s

In the spring, MP&MS welcomed four teachers from Colegio Williams to our campus as part of this

literature and performance together. We adapted Kathryn

exchange. We were thrilled to host Montserrat Flores

Otoshi’s picture book, entitled "One," into a play. The book

Biosca (Montse), the Primary School English Director

was chosen because it explores the universal themes of

who oversees the English section of their bilingual

bullying, being an ally, and the idea that one person can

program, in addition to teaching art. Also joining us

make a difference in the world. Using a reader’s theater

was Vero López, a third grade Spanish teacher, who

format, each child was given a few lines and simple

came back to MP&MS for a second year. In addition,

choreography to memorize. We rehearsed the play all week,

Barbie Quintero, a second grade English teacher who

first in small groups and then as a whole. The entire play

has been a part of this exchange program since its

was performed for the second and fourth grade parents.

inception, was happy to return to MP&MS. Finally,

Meanwhile, the fourth graders embarked on a journey

Benjamin Guerrero Lara, a preschool art teacher and

of art and poetry to deepen their English skills. Oil pastels

art therapist, joined the group. These educators spent

were used to create self-portraits. We discussed shapes of

a week with our second and fourth graders, leading

faces, eyes, noses, mouths, and all the components that

and participating in various projects that helped our

make each of us unique. Then each table group received

students learn about Mexican culture. Among the

a set of oil pastels and black construction paper and the

highlights was a project focused on learning traditional

masterpieces quickly evolved. In addition to the self-

Mexican games and the vocabulary around them.

portraits, a writing component was introduced in the form

MP&MS students had the opportunity to share what

of a poem that described each artist, such as the following

they learned in a wonderful presentation to their

example;

primary and middle school peers.

Vanessa Creative, crazy, funny, cool and beautiful Sister of Valeria Who loves her family, friends, dogs and a mirror Who feels good about having close friends at school Who needs to be less grouchy with her brother Who gives attention to her teachers Who fears spirits and death Who would like to meet Polinecios Who dreams that unicorns exist A student of words and the Roji News

From this exchange program, both MP&MS and Colegio Williams students gain language enrichment and long lasting friendships with their pen pals in second, third, fourth and fifth grades. They practice their skills with conversation (making videos), reading, and writing letters. The students’ Spanish/English skills improve tremendously through the years, which helps each group develop an appreciation for learning a second language. This cultural immersion helps our students understand global citizenship firsthand, and we look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership.

community

connections

Empathy is a critical skill that children need in order to successfully address the challenges of their world in and beyond school. The seeds of empathy are planted in our youngest students when they first begin to notice and put language to their own feelings, which leads to a deeper awareness of and sensitivity to the feelings of others. Through emerging language skills and an ensuing ability to problem solve, children begin to develop an understanding of self and other.

At MP&MS, teachers model and reinforce these important concepts with intention, and this helps to create a safe environment for children to flourish in their ability to connect and empathize. In all of our preschool classrooms, helping the children understand how to connect and care for each other, and for our communities, is a common goal. Through field trips, neighborhood walks, special guests, and the Buddy Program, our youngest students experience the joys of connecting with and positively impacting the world around them.

Preschoolers connect with the

Preschoolers connect with the

Preschoolers connect with the

student and parent community:

local community:

global community:

Preschoolers enjoy lunches through

There is so much for preschoolers to

As global citizens, preschoolers

the Buddy Program, making

see and absorb in our local community.

take part in a variety of celebrations

valentines, and counting seeds for

They take bus trips, go on buggy rides

and activities that open the door

Harvest Festival as they learn to

to local parks, and play on the bike

to a world beyond MP&MS. From

become integrated into the larger

path. They enjoy walking field trips

participating in the Lunar New Year

school community. Special events

to Dolliver Park for outdoor nature

Parade and celebration to making

are always a great opportunity for

exploration and learn about Larkspur

flags for International Day, these

students to connect with each other.

through visits to the library, the bank,

young students enjoy a range of

For example, on Cesar Chavez Day,

the post office, the barbershop, and

opportunities to learn about other

Panther Pals groups enjoy reading

Mag’s! Whether preschool students

peoples, cultures, and causes.

and playing together. But it’s not just

are creating their own model town

Through Marine Mammal Center’s Sea

special events that keep our littlest

out of recycled materials, working on

to School Bus, they learn about caring

students connected; as they travel

a FLAGship bus book drive, or visiting

for our oceans; through Wildcare,

through the halls to library, music,

the Petaluma pumpkin patch, they

they learn care and compassion for

and the playground, they interact

are engaged learners and community

ill or injured animals, and they even

with older children daily. From Winter

members. One of the highlights of

have a chance to bring in “stuffies”

Holiday Celebration to Student of

their community outreach this year

from home to practice caregiving

the Week, reading in class or joining

was “random acts of kindness.”

through dramatic play. Embracing a

on field trips, parents and students

Preschoolers baked and handed out

sense of empathy and responsibility

can find countless opportunities to

over 80 heart-shaped cookies to

for the earth and nature, preschoolers

connect with each other on campus.

construction workers, mechanics,

can be seen turning classrooms into

firefighters, sanitation workers, shop

“rainforests,” hatching chicks, and

owners, and neighbors on Valentine’s

studying the butterfly life-cycle before

Day. They also made 35 bookmarks to

releasing them into the garden.

bring to the Larkspur library to share with local patrons and handed out flowers to neighbors as they walked towards town.

international day On May 19, the community celebrated MP&MS’s 15th annual International Day. This special multicultural festivity began with a parade leading into the amphitheater, followed by performances by preschool, primary, and middle school students. Parents and guests enjoyed a wonderful morning of celebration highlighting rich cultural traditions. Later in the day, students and teachers participated in a range of activities representing cultures around the globe and enjoyed a scrumptious international lunch. Specialty dishes included quesadillas, churros, guacamole, samosas, curry, jollof rice, rigatoni, fresh garlic bread, tea sandwiches, scones, fried chicken, fruit punch, plantains, pupusas, sausages, and more. This favorite MP&MS tradition is an important opportunity for our students to learn more about the cultures and countries represented within our own community as well as others around the world.

MP&MS faculty and staff have roots from around the globe… here are just some examples of our heritage • Caitlin Nassar was born in Canada • Cinthia Chacon was born in Bolivia • Darinee Hoonsuwan’s parents immigrated from Thailand • David Gottlieb’s mother was born in Canada • Dylan Turner was born in Canada • Ferenc Dobronyi’s father was born in Hungary • Helen Pogrel was born in Wales, and her parents were born in England • Johanna Hall’s mother is from Holland, her father is from Canada • Madeline Mendelsohn’s mother is from Germany and her father is from Romania • Margot Koch’s father was born in Germany • Mario Moran’s parents were both born in Mexico • Marisa Aversa’s parents are from Italy • Mary Russell was born in Ireland • Meike Wanberg was born in Montreal, Canada and raised in Germany • Mia Munson was born in Sweden • Michael LoRusso’s father was born in Italy • Nora Bailetti was born in Argentina • Paige Missamore’s mother is from the Phillipines, and her paternal ancestor came to America on the Mayflower • Sam Eskandaripour was born in Iran • Sarah Westmoreland’s parents were born in England • Silvia Vasquez is from El Salvador

ROADMAP FOR A DIGITAL AGE

parenting, technology, and middle school students Middle school is a time when children are experimenting

interaction, yet also presents obstacles to the normal

with new ideas, skills, relationships, and responsibilities.

development of 10-15 year-olds. That challenge is the

During this period, students also experience their most

attraction of the apps embedded in the technological tools

dramatic growth physically and cognitively. This time is

that have become an important part of our lives. Social

often referred to as the most challenging and demanding

media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat,

in one’s life. Marin Primary & Middle School’s mission, which

and more have become the avenues that many of us now

begins with the premise of Treasuring Childhood, embraces

use to connect to family and friends. While having many

the idea that middle school students thrive when allowed

benefits, left unchecked, these tools can also be detrimental

to learn in a safe environment with ample opportunities for

to the healthy development of young adolescents.

creativity and critical thinking, while also becoming resilient, independent learners and caring community members.

Today’s middle school students are faced with a new challenge, one that embraces creativity and social

Recently, MP&MS fifth grade students and parents decided to address this challenge by developing shared values that allow for each child’s experience with technology to be a healthy one. The students met with

their teachers and MP&MS Media Literacy instructor Junia Ziblay to create a set of technology guidelines to which each student could agree. Later that same week, fifth grade parents gathered to learn more about the challenges and changes associated with adolescent development, and to use the students’ suggested guidelines to help the entire class apply best practices for themselves when managing technology outside of school.

One of the suggested guidelines was that “the fifth grade students will refrain from sending text messages between 8:30 p.m. and 8:30 a.m.” This allows our students to spend the evening interacting with their families, reading, and in general taking time to reflect on the day without the constant demand of social interaction with peers. Because all fifth grade students agreed to this guideline, they no longer need to worry about the infamous Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) that impacts so many young adolescents during this time of development, when one’s sense of identity can be dependent on one’s interactions with peers.

Another suggested guideline was that “all devices will be charged outside of each child’s bedroom.” This helps

SUMMER READING

each child to get the highly recommended nine to ten

Do you know what summertime means?…

hours of sleep each night. Sleep is a time when a young

plenty of time to read! Here are a few helpful

adolescent’s brain and body reorganize and regenerate

tips for a summer of great reading:

in order to support a rapidly changing body. Not getting enough quality sleep can have a dramatic impact on a

• Read on your own

child’s ability to attend in class, and to develop healthy

• Read to your child

relationships with one’s peers as well as with one’s self. A

• Read as a family

fatigued child begins the day at a disadvantage. Charging

• Listen to a book on tape while taking a

devices outside of bedrooms removes a distraction that can sabotage restful sleep.

These two suggested guidelines, and others developed

long car trip • Encourage your child to read something new or try a different game

by the students and parents, have had a positive impact

• Find a favorite new place to read

on the daily experience of the students and families. As

• Create a reading ritual

the class continues to move through the middle school

• Share your favorite book with your family

years, the guidelines will be adapted to match the growth of the students. Our goal is to ensure a developmentally appropriate approach that allows students to experience

and friends • Start a book group, and remember to visit your public library

the benefits of technology, while also taking time to read, have face-to-face interactions with friends and family, and

If you would like a curated reading list

to experience the all-important downtime. Our success

prepared just for your child (or even

will be defined by the skills and self-awareness these

yourself!) please email MP&MS librarian

students will apply as they transition to high school upon

Junia Ziblay anytime during the summer

graduation in 2020. The participation of our students, in

at jziblay@mpms.org. You can also visit

collaboration with parents and school personnel, reinforces

Common Sense Media at

our school’s mission and supports the development of a

www.commonsensemedia.org for

safe and creative environment for our students to continue

trustworthy and inspiring ideas on digital

to develop, grow, and thrive.

literacy, summer reading, and more.

CONGRATULATIONS SPEECH CONTEST PARTICIPANTS This year, MP&MS students were given the opportunity to

ation and articulation). They chose from different forms of

participate in the largest speech tournament for middle

expression, including dramatic interpretation, impromptu

schoolers in Marin County, the Margie Burke Speech Con-

speeches, original prose and poetry, and persuasive

test, which was held at Ross School in April. Spearheaded

speaking. After a trimester of diligent practice in public

by Margot Koch, MP&MS’s involvement in this contest has

speaking, four of our nine contestants took home medals

flourished, and this year’s participating students represent-

in the areas of dramatic interpretation and impromptu

ed an impressive increase from 2016, when we entered just

presentation. Remarked Margot, “All of our participants

one brave sixth grader. With over 180 participants in all,

gave so much of themselves in preparing for the event,

nine students volunteered to represent MP&MS. In collabo-

and the real prize was the discovery that they can each

ration with teacher Charlie Queary’s seventh grade drama

stand up and speak for themselves.” Thank you to Margot,

program, students were coached on elocution (the skill of

Charlie, and Junia Ziblay for preparing our students so

clear and expressive speech, focusing on distinct pronunci-

well, and congratulations to this year’s team!

CONGRATULATIONS MP&MS CLASS OF 2017 On June 15, this talented group graduated from MP&MS and set out to pursue high school careers at a range of impressive schools. In the 2017-2018 school year, MP&MS graduates will be engaged in academic, athletic, and extracurricular pursuits at the following high schools: • Archbishop Riordan High School

• Marin School of the Arts

• Stuart Hall High School

• Convent of the Sacred Heart

• Novato High School

• Tamalpais High School

• Drew School

• Redwood High School

• The Bay School of San Francisco

• Lick-Wilmerding High School

• Sir Francis Drake High School

• The Branson School

• Marin Academy

• Sonoma Academy

• The Marin School

• Marin Catholic High School

• St. Ignatius College Preparatory

• University High School

A FOND FAREWELL On June 4, the MP&MS community gathered together to celebrate and honor retiring Head of School Julie Elam. Current families, alumni, trustees, faculty, staff and friends enjoyed a light brunch while children played on the playground and friends old and new had a chance to connect. After a warm welcome by Board Chair Sam Cross, the program included heartfelt remarks by Dave DeMartini (Middle School Director), Cameron Taylor (eighth grade student and Student Body President), Molly Gamble (fifth and eighth grade parent), and Lucinda Lee Katz (Head of School, MCDS). The celebration also featured beautiful musical presentations by Lucille Rieke (seventh grade student), and Sadie Briggs and Mariette Forney (third grade students). Julie’s eloquent and thoughtful farewell was a reminder of how much her leadership and presence will be missed at MP&MS. We wish Julie the very best as she moves on to her next gratifying adventure – retirement!

heartfelt tributes Our family came to Marin Primary at the same time that Julie Elam did, and now we say goodbye at the same time. I know very little about people, almost nothing about education, and not much about leadership either, but Julie’s example inspired me to help out as much as I could. I served on MP&MS’s Board of Trustees for nine of our family’s eleven years at the school, stumbling through a variety of roles and witnessing Julie’s leadership firsthand.

Julie treats everyone with respect. She solves problems instead of assigning blame, and she listens better than anyone I’ve ever met. Julie is the best leader I know. When I launch a spaceship to colonize Mars I’ll put Julie in charge.

– Mark Slavonia, Former MP&MS Board Chair

As I reflect on Julie’s eleven years as the Head of MP&MS, I am grateful for her incredible dedication to our students, faculty, staff, parents, and extended community. She has dedicated her life to eduI stand in the middle school courtyard and watch as Julie suggests that two

cation and for decades has

students stop hanging from the basketball hoop. She turns and talks to a teacher

impacted the lives of count-

who comes to her side with a question. I blink and Julie is greeting a parent. A

less students as a teacher

group of fifth graders walks by and Julie acknowledges each one. All this hap-

and as an administrator. She

pens in a moment, and I know it is only one of many moments that make up

has led the transformation

Julie’s day. She is always present, always available, and always involved. Julie

of MP&MS from a wonderful

knows each student by name and their associated grown-ups, invites former

local gem into one of the

students to stay in touch, frequents our plays and events, gives speeches, and

leading primary and middle

tends to our community tirelessly. You can find her in her office, in a costume, on

schools in the Bay Area. I am

the playground, in the library, in a budget meeting, out in the hall, observing a

sincerely appreciative of her

class, or in the middle school courtyard. You can always find her because she is

leadership and the foundation

always willing to be found. Julie gives her attention to each aspect of the school,

she has laid for the MP&MS of

nurturing all; administration, curriculum, the facility, and most importantly, its

tomorrow.

inhabitants. And that’s really the main bit — she gives her attention. She gives, all

– Sam Cross

day, every day. Julie has been an extraordinary head of school and a role model for us all. I am proud to be stepping up with her this year. Thank you Julie. We are forever grateful.

– Julia Pearl-Styles, Eighth Grade Student

MP&MS Board Chair

In many ways, I feel I was adopted by the MP&MS family, and by Julie in particular. While working for a family to integrate their child into middle school, I shortly became part of the Learning Resource Center. In my years here, I have worn a variety of “hats” in addition to being part of the LRC, including co-teaching, helping to develop the middle school advisory program, and being a co-advisor. Julie has offered me opportunities and has supported me in every role. We share a special education background and, because of that, I have felt heard and understood. Among the millions of tasks on her plate, she was always accessible and made me feel valued. Thank you, Julie. Your hard work and dedication are beyond compare. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of rest, relaxation, and a wonderful retirement!

– Kelly Checo, Learning Resource Center Specialist

In my nearly twenty years at Marin Primary & Middle School, I’ve had three heads of school, and one temporary one. Through Julie’s practical and visionary leadership, the school

I have never been a fan of goodbyes; I tend to offer my own interpretation. Of-

has been taken to new

ten, I say “until next time,” or “see you sooner than soon.” When I am faced with

heights of professionalism

the task of saying goodbye to someone, I reflect on moments I shared with that

and development, all while

person. I think about how this person has both impacted me in the past and

keeping the warmth and

present, but also how this person may impact my life in the future. When Julie

nurturing spirit on which it

informed us that she would be retiring, I wept. Not only did I weep sad tears,

was founded. We will sorely

but tears of joy and happiness for Julie. I wept thinking about the sacrifices that

miss Julie’s wisdom, kind-

she has made for not just myself but for her family, and the countless families,

ness, and positive presence,

students, and teachers’ lives whom she has dedicated her life to. I wept with a

and wish her all the best!

smile. I wept with admiration. I wept for her past, her present and her future.

– Kristi Durst,

I also wept for the growth that Julie has helped flourish both here at MP&MS

Third Grade Teacher

and within myself. I am inspired and honored to have learned from such an incredible human being and to have spent some of my most trying personal and professional moments with. Someone like Julie who could help guide my listless fears, and flourish my ambitions. That is why saying goodbye to Julie just doesn’t work for me. There is no goodbye, there is only thank you, thank you and until then see you soon!

– Dan Harrison, Preschool Teacher

have you met our newest trustees?

Anna Davis is a senior

Danny Dias and his wife, Liz,

Jeanne Heath is a senior

Hilary King holds a BS in

urban planner at AECOM.

have two children at MP&MS,

product manager with IBM

Accounting from Lehigh

She has a BA from Colgate

Ollie in kindergarten and

Digital. She has a BA from

University and has worked

University and a Masters

Daphne in preschool. Danny

Vassar College and an MBA

in public accounting and

in Regional Planning from

is a graduate of Harvard Uni-

from Yale University, and is

the hedge fund industry. At

the University of North

versity and is the co-founder

an alumna of MP&MS. Jeanne

MP&MS Hilary has served in a

Carolina, Chapel Hill. Anna

and CEO of Lightkeeper, LLC,

and her husband, Peter

range of volunteer roles, most

and her husband, Lewis

a provider of portfolio ana-

Conklin, have two children at

recently as President of the

Kaufman, have a daughter,

lytics tools for the alternative

MP&MS, Alice in sixth grade

Parents Association. Hilary’s

Rae, in first grade.

investment community.

and Edmund in third.

son Cooper is in sixth grade.

Don Pillsbury is a graduate

Brian Taylor received a BA

Kirsten Goff has a BA

of Yale University. He also

in Philosophy from the Uni-

from Connecticut College

holds an MBA from Kellogg

versity of Michigan and an

in English, an MSW from the

Graduate School of Man-

MBA from the University of

University of Michigan, and a

agement. Don is Head of

Chicago. He founded Kernel

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Customer Loyalty and Re-

Season’s Popcorn Seasoning

from George Washington

tention at American Giant,

and is currently focusing on

University. Kirsten is an

an ecommerce company.

the launch of Thinkspan, a

active volunteer at MP&MS

Don and his wife, Skye, have

digital archiving platform.

and will serve as Parents

two children at MP&MS,

He and his wife, Katie, have

Association President next

Clark in fourth grade and

two children at MP&MS,

year. Kirsten and her hus-

Annika in second grade.

Olivia in second grade and

band, Jon, have two children

Avery in kindergarten.

at MP&MS, Graham in fourth grade and Rory in JK.

Confidence. Competence. Empathy. Resilience.

Success. MP&MS graduates are actively engaged and academically prepared for their college careers at leading institutions around the country and abroad.

MP&MS graduates are attending a variety of colleges and universities, including:

American University

Savannah College of Art & Design

Babson College

Scripps College

Berklee School of Music

Skidmore College

Brown University

Smith College

California College of the Arts

Southern Methodist University

Cal Poly, Pomona

Southern Oregon University

California Polytechnic State University

Stanford University

California State University, Chico

Texas A&M University

Chapman University

Texas Christian University

Claremont McKenna College

Trinity College

Clemson University

Tufts University

Colby College

Tulane University

Columbia College, Chicago

University of Arizona

Colorado College

University of British Columbia

Cornish College of the Arts

University of California, Berkeley

Dartmouth College

University of California, Davis

Dickinson College

University of California, Irvine

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

University of California, Los Angeles

Emily Carr University of Art & Design

University of California, San Diego

Emory University

University of California, Santa Cruz

Exeter University, England

University of Colorado

Fordham University

University of Denver

George Washington University

University of Illinois, Urbana

Hamilton College

University of New Hampshire

Harvard University

University of Massachusetts

Lewis and Clark College

University of Michigan

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

University of Oregon

Northeastern University

University of the Pacific

Oberlin College Conservatory

University of Puget Sound

Oregon State University

University of Southern California

Parsons School of Design

University of Victoria, Canada

Pitzer College

Washington and Lee University

Pomona College

Washington University

Queens University, Canada

Willamette University

Rhode Island School of Design

Whittier College

San Diego State University

Worcester Polytechnic University

Santa Clara University

alumni reunion On May 31, nearly 70 MP&MS alumni gathered in the middle school courtyard for the long-awaited reunion. Old friends relished the chance to catch up with each other and visit with former classmates, staff, and faculty. The record-setting attendance at this reunion was an inspiration for everyone who came, including the countless teachers who stayed long after the school day had ended just for the chance to see their former students. Many stories and adventures were shared, and our alumni are busily engaged in everything from veterinary medicine to taekwondo, environmental research to language studies, physics to performing arts, mountain biking to gap year travel.

The excitement about recent high school successes and college plans was thoroughly contagious. While our campus continues to evolve and our alumni keep spreading their wings, everyone agreed‌ there’s nothing like coming back home to MP&MS!

parents association update

The 80’s Bash On Saturday, April 1, the MP&MS community came together at the Peacock Gap Clubhouse in San Rafael. It was a night for connecting with friends, meeting new people, and supporting the school at the Parents Association’s biggest fundraiser of the year… the annual auction! Both parents and school staff embraced the ‘80s Bash theme and came as prom queens, Robert Palmer girls, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Ferris Bueller, the decade’s biggest MTV rock bands, and even the Where’s the Beef? lady. It was an incredible night of bidding and dancing as well as some spontaneous karaoke!

The Silent and Live Auctions offered some fabulous and highly coveted packages. One favorite auction item was The First Grade Luau, which was filled with food, games, music, crafts, Hawaiian wear, and tons of fun!

And who could forget The Stuffy Tea Party luncheon in the library, which was a very special treat for some lucky students and their favorite stuffies. As Head of School For The Day, Anna, JB, and Riggins each enjoyed calling the shots alongside Julie Elam. These fun crowd pleasers were offered in addition to some incredible VIP packages that included concert tickets, luxury vacations, sporting events, and more! The net proceeds of the auction fund Parents Association activities and contribute to the MP&MS operating budget.

The most exciting part was that we set a record by raising our paddles to fund an Art Deck in honor of Julie Elam. This year’s Raise the Paddle included donations from alumni parents and former Trustees, in addition to our current parent and grandparent community.

Thank you to the team of volunteers, sponsors, donors, and community businesses who made our event possible!

Marin Primary & Middle School 20 Magnolia Avenue Larkspur, CA 94939

SAVE THE DATE FOR: GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS DAY! Friday, November 17, 2017 • 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.