MVPS Summer Magazine 2011

Page 1

The Magazine

Summer 2011

In Touch with the Future Class of 2011: Giving the World Our Best

contents SPEED.

4 11 21 37 46

my perspective

AGILITY. RESILIANCE. COMMMUNITY. the story

mustang feed

highlight reel

HEAR OUR THUNDER

the arts

MOUNT VERNON MUSTANGS

Mount Vernon Presbyterian School is a community dedicated to academic excellence, physical development and spiritual enrichment. Grounded in Christian values, the School seeks to develop leaders who will use their unique abilities to think, serve and live their lives with wisdom and moral integrity.

students, parents, faculty, alumni and friends of Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. For more information about Mount Vernon, please call 404.252.3448 or visit our website at www.mountvernonschool.org.

My Perspective, 4

The Story, 11

Mustang Feed, 21

Highlight Reel, 37

The Arts, 46

Dr. Brett Jacobsen, Head of School, shares his insights on the fourth graduating class at MVPS.

Eight leading members of the graduating class depart from Mount Vernon and start life in college.

A collection of the latest news events and achievements at Mount Vernon.

A recap of recent Mustang athletic accomplishments.

A look at the selfportraits of our 8th graders and the work of our Preschoolers and Kindergartners.

Disclaimer: Mount Vernon Presbyterian School makes every effort to ensure that all names and listings are accurate and complete.

The Mount Vernon Magazine, published annually by the Office of Advancement, is mailed free of charge to

If a name has been omitted, misspelled, or listed incorrectly, please accept our sincerest apologies.

Commencement, 7 | Arts Wrap-Up, 35 | Interim Term, 43 | Get to Know Me, 44 |

Mustang Rally, 51 | The Point, 53

Tribute to the Class of 2011 Dr. Brett Jacobsen

Is the world ready for...

you?

Welcome to the 4th Commencement Ceremony at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. Mount Vernon completes its 39th year as a Christian college preparatory institution. :H DUH D VLJQLÀFDQWO\ GLIIHUHQW VFKRRO IURP ZKDW we were four years ago because of your leadership, creativity, talent, and service. We want to bear witness to your legacy, and we celebrate the contributions and achievements of the Class of 2011. As a class, you emerged through a vigorous progression that included great families, great faculty and great IULHQGV RI WKH 6FKRRO 7KH\ PDGH JUHDW VDFULÀFHV to give you this experience of a lifetime. And they have encouraged you to embrace the full range of opportunities within Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. Also, they embraced the School’s hope and promise that ultimately our greatest gift to you is Christ and as He did, to increase in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man. Over the years at MVPS, you have enriched all of our lives in a tremendous way. I think we can all agree that you are an exceptional and diverse class with a keen sense of humor.

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throughout the country. To date, this class of 52 has earned more than $1.7 M in merit scholarships which does not include the HOPE Scholarship and athletic scholarships.

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But, you are also class committed to competing. UĂŠ Ă•Ă€ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠÂŤ>ĂƒĂŒĂŠvÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠĂži>Ă€Ăƒ]ĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠÂ…>`ĂŠ 41 state team playoff appearances; UĂŠ/ĂœÂœĂŠĂŒi>Â“ĂŠĂƒĂŒ>ĂŒiĂŠĂŒÂˆĂŒÂ?iĂƒĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠÂ“i˜½ĂƒĂŠL>ĂƒÂŽiĂŒL>Â?Â?Æ UĂŠĂˆĂ“ĂŠ>Â?Â?ĂŠĂ€i}ÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂƒiÂ?iVĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠ>˜`ĂŠÂŁĂ“ĂŠ>Â?Â?ĂŠ state selections; UĂŠ ˜`ĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠÂ…>Ă›iĂŠiˆ}Â…ĂŒĂŠÂœvĂŠĂžÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠVÂ?>ĂƒĂƒÂ“>ĂŒiĂƒĂŠ participating in college athletics. You are a class active in the arts. You explore and express your talents and abilities in various and unconventional ways – paintbrush, instrument, movement, action, potter’s wheel. You entertained through the acapella chorus, the GUDPD SHUIRUPDQFHV RI ´$QWLJRQH Âľ DQG RXU Ă€UVW Upper School musical, “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.â€? You inspired us through the Praise Band and your work in the Art Gallery showcased your creative mind and talent.

5 | The Magazine

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Academically, you devoted yourself to four years in a rigorous college preparatory program. UĂŠĂ“ĂŽĂŠÂœvĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠ>Ă€iĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ >ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ Honor Society; UĂŠ"˜iĂŠ >ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ iĂ€ÂˆĂŒĂŠ-VÂ…ÂœÂ?>ÀÊ>˜`ĂŠ ĂŠ "˜iĂŠ >ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ iĂ€ÂˆĂŒĂŠ œ““i˜`>LÂ?iÆ UĂŠxä¯ĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ Â?>ĂƒĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠĂ“䣣ĂŠÂ…>Ă›iʓ>ÂˆÂ˜ĂŒ>ˆ˜i`ĂŠĂŠ ĂŠ a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher; UĂŠx{ÂŻĂŠÂœvĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠÂ…>Ă›iĂŠĂŒ>ÂŽiÂ˜ĂŠ>`Ă›>˜Vi`ĂŠÂŤÂ?>Vi“iÂ˜ĂŒĂŠĂŠ ĂŠ ĂŠ VÂœĂ•Ă€ĂƒiĂƒĂŠ>˜`ÊÇ£¯Ê…>Ă›iĂŠĂŒ>ÂŽiÂ˜ĂŠ ÂœÂ˜ÂœĂ€ĂƒĂŠVÂœĂ•Ă€ĂƒiĂƒĂŠĂŠ ĂŠ throughout your Upper School career. As a result of your perseverance through athletics, your passion for performing, and your intellectual pursuits, the Class of 2011, you have been admitted into great colleges and universities all across this country. Inside of the commencement program, families and friends, you will notice that this class will attend 29 different universities in 12 different states. Additionally, let me give some information that you may not know. Applying to colleges and universities in 20 different states, the Class of 2011 received acceptance to 175 colleges and universities

However, this journey has not been about completing a four year plan, receiving a collection of credits, winning state championships, writing a unique college essay, or even performing perfectly on stage. I conclude that one of your greatest contributions at Mount Vernon has been your willingness to serve others. The Class of 2011, you have immersed yourself into the community and have had quite an impact on the world in ways that most will not know. You participated in more than 10,000 hours of service during the last four years. In fact, most of us here did not see when you served the people of New Orleans, ministered to those at the Atlanta Union Mission, or raised donations to support the people of Haiti, Japan, and our own right here in Georgia.

Instead of asking are you ready for the world, we should be asking, “Is the world ready for you?â€? Because of your experiences, your success, your growth here at Mount Vernon, I leave with the words of the Apostle Paul. ´<RX KDYH EHHQ Ă€OOHG ZLWK WKH NQRZOHGJH RI +LV ZLOO LQ all spiritual wisdom and understanding. So, you will be able to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord to please Him in all respects bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with all powers according to His glorious might, joyously giving thanks to the Father.â€? Today’s commencement represents that your work KHUH DW 0936 LV Ă€QLVKHG EXW +LV ZRUN WKH ZRUN will continue far beyond the walls of this institution. Use these experiences at Mount Vernon as a launching point for the rest of your life. We are proud of you, we are honored to know you, and we are blessed to be a part of God’s plan for your lives. We celebrate you, the Class of 2011!

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2011 BACCALAUREATE AND COMMENCEMENT

The weekend of May 20 marked Baccalaureate and Commencement for Mount Vernon Presbyterian School’s Class of 2011. This was Mount Vernon’s fourth graduating class since the addition of the Upper School. The Valedictorian, Kitt Peterson, delivered a thoughtful speech about achieving success in life while the Class 6DOXWDWRULDQ =DFN &RRN DUWIXOO\ UHà HFWHG XSRQ

his experience as well as on many of the seniors’ accomplishments and adventures. The commencement address was given by Alan Williams, one of the leading voices in youth sports and author of Teammates Matter: Fighting for Something Greater than Self, who inspired the class to treasure relationships throughout their lives.

Congratulations seniors! You will be missed.

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THE CLASS OF 2011: ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND DESTINATIONS

Jaylan Damon Adlam *‡ Campbell University

Meredith Ann McConnell

Clemson University

Adeola Oluwatoyin Ajayi Wells College

Kiara Lashawnda McIver

Hampton University

Charles Jeffrey Almond *‡ Auburn University

Pfeiffer Kyra McRae

Sean William Barry University of Mississippi

Sungwook Min

Emily Nicole Blevens *‡ University of Alabama

Judith Chandler Moses *‡

Hannah Marie Bray Valdosta State University

Lotanna A. Nwogbo

Sean Kodama Brunson *‡ University of Georgia

Jaekyu Oh *‡

Madison Rashid Burton Reinhardt College

Robert Oletubo Funto Ojeah Aiken Junior College

Yongjin Choi Syracuse University

Christian Charles Osberg

Zackary Hunt Cook *‡

Abigail Ione Parnell *‡ Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology

Caroline Marie Derrick * Samford University

University of South Carolina

Pratt Institute Auburn University

Undecided

Georgia Institute of Technology

Mercer University

Whitney Ann Dickson * Auburn University

Christopher William Peterson *‡ Georgia Institute of Technology

Taylor Michael Doyle *‡

Adelaide Ann Placido *‡

Emily Todd Fant

University of Alabama

Christopher Daniel Porter

University of Alabama

Ella Rachel Ferguson *‡

University of Georgia

Christopher Michael Fraser Mary Hannah Fuller

Jacksonville State University

Alex Napoleon Head

Matthew Robert Reid *‡

Samford University

Ê iÜÊ9 À Ê1 ÛiÀÃ ÌÞ Kennesaw State University

Katherine Lynn Schnetzer *‡ Clemson University

Sewanee: The University of the South

Pieris Christopher Hodges

University of Montana

Giancarlo Rodriguez *‡

University of Alabama in Birmingham

Auburn University

Coleson Edward Randall

Daniel Rhee ‡

Georgia College and State University

Jovan Armani Hanna *

University of Georgia

Clark Thomas St. Amant

Morehouse College

Stetson University

Jordan Alexander Johnson ‡ Kennesaw State University

Elizabeth Ashley Standifer

Cason P. Jolly

Caroline Frances Steffens *‡

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Charles Kemp Justus

LauraClara Louise Kirkpatrick Kristopher Lee Kolb *‡ Holly Anne Lane * Jae Woo Lee *‡

Lauren Camille Taylor *‡

University of Alabama

Miracle Pe’llar Toliver

Mercer University

Texas Christian University

College of Charleston

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University of Georgia

Jasmine Sarah Jacqueline Major

23

University of Georgia

Wake Forest University

University of Georgia

Daniel Winship Mamone

Stetson University

College of Charleston

University of Alabama

National Honor Society Members

50%

1 Maintained a 3.5 GPA or Higher

National Merit Scholar

1

National Merit Commendable

54

Percent Participation in Advanced Placement Courses

175

$1.7m

University Acceptance Letters

in Merit Scholarships, not including HOPE and Athletic awards

71%

Participation in Honors Courses

29 Universities in 12 States

Senior Snapshots

Eight Members of the Class of 2011

One of the most dynamic qualities of Mount

we highlight the achievements of some of them,

Vernon Presbyterian School is the student body—

and while there are certainly a multitude of

the School is brimming with talented young people,

stories to tell, here is a glimpse at their Mount

and perhaps no place was that more evident than

Vernon experience and how it prepared them

in the Class of 2011. Inside the next eight pages,

for their future.

Chandler: “Don’t let your character change color with your environment. Find out who you are and let it stay its true color.”—Rachel Joy Scott Daniel: “May your life be like arithmetic: joys added, sorrows subtracted, friends multiplied, and love undivided.” Kris: “You see things and you say, ‘Why? But I dream things that never were; and I say, ‘Why not?”—George Bernard Alex: “During your life, never stop dreaming 11 | The Magazine The Magazine | 12 No one can take away your dreams.” –Tupac Lauren: “To be nobody but yourself in a world that’s doing its best to make you somebody els to fight the hardest battle you are ever going to fight. Never stop fighting.”—E.E. Cummings Chandler: “Don’t let your character change co

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J. Chandler Moses, Student Life Prefect and a member of the Colt Club, has been at Mount Vernon for 13 years since 1998. As an animal lover, she plans to be a veterinarian. Chandler’s teachers and peers describe her as a true friend, very organized, and dependable. The Interim Term experience she had on the heels of hurricane Katrina was her most meaningful experience helping many people in need. AP Physics and AP Environmental Science have been Chandler’s favorite classes along with the labs where she learned a wider understanding of an ecosystem. She has enjoyed softball, cheerleading and baseball at Mount Vernon and will miss the family-like friends she has developed at the School. In the fall she will attend Auburn University.

Student Life

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Zack Cook Described by his teachers as analytical, strong-willed, and intensely curious, Zack Cook, the Class of 2011’s salutatorian, has embraced a variety of opportunities at Mount Vernon. As captain of the varsity football team, he remembers the feeling of triumph when WKH 0XVWDQJV FOLQFKHG LWV ÀUVW UHJLRQ ZLQ Zack also supported his classmates by starting a peer tutor organization, and found outreach

13 | The Magazine

and service to be extraordinarily rewarding when he worked with the group, PAWS Atlanta, dedicated to helping abused and abandoned animals. This year he was selected as the Star Student Award recipient and the Atlanta Journal Constitution Cup winner, both awards recognize outstanding academic achievement. Zack’s future plans include attending Georgia Tech, where he is also a Dean’s Scholarship recipient.

The Magazine | 14

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Kitt Peterson Kitt Peterson, will attend Georgia Tech next year. While his teachers describe him as quiet, they say he is also very surprising and will be remembered for his analytical approach to his studies. He has attended Mount Vernon since 2005 and says one of the things he has enjoyed most at Mount Vernon has been video production. His most valuable experiences have been in computer programming and designing programs. Selected among 15,000 seniors from across the United States, Kitt was chosen as a National Merit Scholar this year. He has enjoyed playing on the School’s soccer team, and his math classes with teacher Danielle Heintz. As he heads off to Tech in the fall he says he will miss his friends and classmates the most.

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IULHQGV I would like to continue my education at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York City while DOVR ZRUNLQJ DV D ÀHOG UHSRUWHU IRU a news organization...

However, if things really turn out well, I would love to see myself on Broadway or with a record deal!

Crediting Melody Cannon as one of the most influential teachers in her life she asserts, “She has been so supportive, seeing my potential and fostering it.�

I believe we are all a product of our environment. Providing a safe, Christian learning environment, Mount Vernon taught me compassion and a love for Christ, and because RI WKH IDFXOW\ VWDII DQG VWXGHQWV , DP D FRQĂ€GHQW and happy person with an extremely bright future.

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One of the most challenging experiences was AP Chemistry

Looking back, she recounts Ă›ÂœÂ?Ă•Â˜ĂŒiiĂ€ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ>ĂŒĂŠ ĂŒÂ?>Â˜ĂŒ>½ĂƒĂŠ Union Mission as one of the most rewarding experiences.

15 | The Magazine

The Chemistry labs we tackled ZHUH GHĂ€QLWHO\ KDQGV RQ DQG were a huge part of the class.

The Magazine | 16

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Alex Head Known by his peers and teachers for working hard, supporting others, and for always being a gentleman, Alex Head is a shining star from Mount Vernon’s Class of 2011. Alex also is known for his talent both on the IRRWEDOO Ă€HOG DQG ZUHVWOLQJ mat, and this year he became WKH Ă€UVW VWDWH FKDPSLRQ LQ varsity wrestling for the Mustangs. This fall he will attend Sewanee The University of the South and play football for the Sewanee Tigers. Academically, Alex credits Ron Jones, MVPS Literature teacher as having the most LQĂ XHQFH RQ KLP VD\LQJ â€œâ€Śeven though I didn’t like (QJOLVK KH KDG FRQĂ€GHQFH in me and helped me improve my writing a lot.â€? Alex says math was his best subject and plans to someday be a computer engineer.

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Caroline Steffens After being a part of the Mount Vernon family for eleven years, Caroline will attend The University of Georgia this fall. Her time as a Mustang includes vivid memories of cheering on the varsity basketball team as they won two state titles, actively participating on a School mission trip to New Orleans, and the time she spent both inside and outside of the classroom with her AP Literature classmates and teacher, Ms. Melody Cannon. Caroline says it’s Ms. Cannon who had a big impact on her life at Mount Vernon‌� She prepared

17 | The Magazine

me in more ways than one for my transition to college. She has taken the time to read over my college essays, has helped me work through any and every concern , PD\ KDYH KDG DQG KDV WUXO\ EHHQ D PRWKHU Ă€JXUH throughout my day at school.â€? As she prepares for the next chapter of her life as a Georgia Bulldog, Caroline says, “I will miss the close-knit community that I feel at Mount Vernon. The comfort that we feel, perhaps in excess, on a daily basis will be tough to match at a large university.â€?

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cover story

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Daniel R hee

came from Seou l, Korea to attend Mou nt Vernon for his jun ior and sen ior years. His teachers describe him as art ist ic and determine d. He says the small cla ss VL]H KDV EHHQ YHU\ EH QHÀFLDO WR KLP EHLQJ DE OH to get to know everyon e in the School includ ing the teachers and stude nts. He sa id his most reward ing ser vice expe rience was work ing in a thrift shop boxing up used cloth ing where he realized the value and importance of these ite ms to people in need. He has enjoyed AP Biolo gy and AP Ca lcu lus, and beginning each day wi th Band helped him get a great start to his da y with music. In the fal l, he wi ll attend New York Un iversity. Daniel pla ns to ret urn to Korea to be with his fam ily aft er college. “I am prob ab ly going to miss my two years at Mount Vernon , where I had the best sch ool experience in my life so far…”

Kris Kolb

Kris Kolb has attended Mount Vernon since the fourth grade and will be attending Wake Forest next year. His teachers describe him as hardworking, compassionate, and thoughtful. When asked what he will miss most about Mount Vernon he shared, “I will miss Mount Vernon’s inviting community, where the teachers have a passion for educating and are invested in their student’s growth and success.” Learning the principles of servant leadership he says have shaped him as a person. The community service experience that he had at Camp PEOTSI working with children with sensory integration issues was the most rewarding. He enjoyed English and Literature and believes the recent integration of writing into all aspects of academic life at Mount Vernon is of tremendous value preparing for college.

CAMP PEOTSI The Magazine | 20

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MUSTANG FEED During this past school year, the Mount Vernon community explored what it means to be a School that embraces the skills students need to be successful in the 21st century: problem-solving, ethical decision making, communication, creative thinking, collaboration, and innovation. Here are the highlights and demonstrations‌

//ĂŠ* / ,-" ĂŠ ĂŠĂ“䣣ĂŠ / " ĂŠ , /ĂŠ - " ,- *ĂŠ, * / Mount Vernon senior Kitt Peterson was named a National Merit Scholarship Recipient IRU $OO ZLQQHUV DUH VHOHFWHG IURP D SUHVWLJLRXV Ă€QDOLVW JURXS EDVHG RQ WKHLU academic performance and accomplishments. Approximately 1,000 students nationwide ZHUH VHOHFWHG DV ZLQQHUV IRU WKLV SUHVWLJLRXV DZDUG 4XDOLI\LQJ VWXGHQWV DUH LGHQWLĂ€HG through exceptionally high scores on the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. In addition to having a record of high academic performance, they are endorsed by WKHLU 6FKRRO DQG HDUQ KLJK 6$7 VFRUHV FRQĂ€UPLQJ WKHLU HDUOLHU TXDOLI\LQJ WHVW SHUIRUPDQFH Kitt is also the Valedictorian of the Class of 2011. Congratulations Kitt!

1 ",Ê / " Ê " ",Ê-" /9 The Junior National Honor Society Inductions took place during the Winter Academic $VVHPEO\ IRU WKH 0LGGOH 6FKRRO 7KH LQGXFWHHV WRRN DQ RDWK WR XSKROG WKH ÀYH characteristics of a Junior National Honor Society Member which are: Scholarship: commitment to learning Service: ZLOOLQJQHVV WR ZRUN IRU WKH EHQHÀW RI WKRVH LQ QHHG ZLWKRXW monetary compensation Leadership: resourceful, good problem solvers promoters of school activities Character: upholds the principles of morality and ethics, is cooperative, demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability, shows courtesy, concern and respect for others Citizenship: understands the importance of civic involvement, has a high regard for freedom, justice, and democracy The following students were inducted into the Junior National Honor Society: Mary Alvis, Peri Block, Ryan Boykin, Chris Braswell, Rachel Carlson, Rachel Carney, Drew Caruthers, Ross Clay, Drew Dickson, Haley Foushee, Alexis Fuller, Jack Ganter, George Gavalas, Connor Gladney, Elizabeth Hartinger, Sam Herrick, Andrew Hill, Jeff Hooks, Virginia Howard, Anna Jacobson, William Harrison Jones, Kam Jordan, Katherine Day Kent, Melanie Lane, Bliss Mallory, Elizabeth McLochlin, Lily Mecke, Sierra Middleton, Matthew Nall, Cole Notermann, Matthew Oliver, William Pahl, Bradleigh Pierce, Merisa Riggio, Annie Rounsaville, Cameron Scheele, Evelyn Sharkey, Amanda Shepherd, Sarah Shepherd, Anna Shuford, John Stupek, Arden Tahtinen, Chad 7DZÀN *LOOLDQ 9DFFDUHOOL .DWKHULQH :DUG +XQWHU :KLWQH\ 3DUNHU :LOOVH\ -HVVLFD :XUVW Hannah Zenas 21 | The Magazine

Mount Vernon Presbyterian School is proud to announce and congratulate the 11 students inducted to the Spanish, French and Latin honor societies on February 18. The inductions were organized by Gretchen Snyder, Richard Sommers and Mitzi Kintz, from the Spanish, French and Latin language departments. “Language is an important part of the diverse education we provide at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School,� said Dr. Brett Jacobsen. “It is a skill our students will be able to rely on and utilize in both their future careers as well as personal endeavors. We are especially thrilled for all those who have reached above and beyond to become part of these honor societies.� The School congratulates the following students for their achievements in language development. Inducted into the Spanish Honor Society: Megan McBryde, Blythe Coward, Abby Parnell, Daniel Rhee, Corey Knapp. Inducted into the Latin Honor Society: Claire Parnell, Clark St. Amant. Inducted into the French Honor Society: Chandler Moses, Addie Placido, Kris Kolb, Charlie Almond

/ " Ê " ",Ê-" /9Ê 1 / " Mount Vernon inducted new members into the School’s National Honor Society. Each spring sophomores and juniors are tapped for the following year. Inductees signed the National +RQRU 6RFLHW\ ERRN ZHUH SLQQHG DQG UHFHLYHG FHUWLÀFDWHV EHIRUH WDNLQJ WKH 1DWLRQDO +RQRU 6RFLHW\ 3OHGJH 4XDOLÀFDWLRQV IRU WKH Honor Society require a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, exemplary moral behavior, involvement in community service at School and in the community, and leadership among their peers and community. Mount Vernon’s annual blood drive is organized and run by the School’s National Honor Society. The 15 new inductees are: Trent Ballard, Jonathan Barnard, Anna Blevens, Emmy Bowman, Alex Butler, Alex Chambers, Hannah Kate Ferguson, Corey Knapp, Emily Marquis, Megan McBryde, Remi McRae, Claire Parnell, Olivia Rounsaville, Evan Tucker and Davis Williams. The School congratulates these students for their dedication to academics, service, leadership and character. Upper School teacher, Mr. Ron Jones was also inducted as an honorary member for his service to the group.

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Congratulations to the 2011-2012 Upper School Prefects: Head Prefect: Alex Butler. Spiritual Life Prefect: David Eun. Student Life Prefect: Alex Chambers. Environmental Prefect: Robert Barclift. Outreach Prefect: Hannah Kate Ferguson. Unity Prefect: Ryan Moore. Ambassador Prefect: Miles Mallory The Mount Vernon Prefect System is comprised of seven outstanding seniors. Prefects serve our School by contributing in every phase of student life through admissions, campus tours, communications, publicity, service, spiritual life, “green� life, and the overall quality of experience that makes Mount Vernon so special. Prefects are student The Magazine | 22

leaders chosen based on their high character, exceptional integrity, commitment to the mission DQG FRUH YDOXHV RI 0RXQW 9HUQRQ OHDGHUVKLS LQ WKH FODVVURRP RQ WKH DWKOHWLF ÀHOG DQG EH\RQG All applicants were required to submit an application, complete a series of essays, and were interviewed by a faculty panel nominated by this year’s senior class. Each of the applicants did DQ H[FHSWLRQDO MRE DQG PDGH WKH VHOHFWLRQ SURFHVV H[WUHPHO\ GLIÀFXOW

6 /", Ê Ê- 1/ /", Ê Ê FOR THE CLASS OF 2011 Kitt Peterson and Zack Cook were named the Valedictorian and Salutatorian, respectively, for the class of 2011. Kitt Peterson is a National Merit Scholarship recipient. Kitt is also a member of the National Honor Society, a huge competitor DQG OHDGHU RQ WKH VRFFHU ÀHOG DQG LV H[WUHPHO\ SURÀFLHQW with computers. Kitt began attending Mount Vernon in the seventh grade. In his junior year, Kitt was a Furman Scholar DQG DOVR WRRN ÀUVW SODFH LQ WKH &OD\WRQ 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ IT Competition. Kitt has committed over 100 hours of volunteer work with the MVPS IT department and has coached seven to ten year old youth soccer teams for three seasons. According to his English teacher, Melody Cannon, he is a poet at heart but in the style of William Carlos Williams who is succinct and to the point. Kitt will be attending the Georgia Institute of Technology this fall studying electrical engineering. Zack Cook is not only Mount Vernon’s Salutatorian for the class of 2011 but he was also chosen as Mount Vernon’s Star Student award recipient this year. Zack has attended Mount Vernon since the third grade. He is a member of the National Honor Society and was involved in student government. Zack was a captain of the football team this year and was also instrumental in the organization of this year’s annual school blood drive. This year Zack founded a tutoring program on the Glenn Campus that helped fellow students with SAT prep and subject material. Zack’s teachers describe him as a student who was a joy to teach and has a true love of learning. He will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology in the College of Management as a recipient of the Dean’s Scholarship.

< ĂŠ "" ĂŠqĂŠ-/ ,ĂŠ-/1 /ĂŠ 7 , ĂŠ, * /ĂŠ ""- -ĂŠ HIS STAR TEACHER Senior, Zack Cook, earned the Mount Vernon Star Student award by achieving the highest SAT score of the senior class. Each year the Star Student award recipient chooses a Star Teacher. Zack Cook chose Mrs. Krista Parker, Upper School Science Teacher, as his Star Teacher. Zack says, “Going in to high school, if someone were to have asked me what my least favorite subject was, I probably would have said science. But, thanks to three years with Mrs. Parker, it is now one of my favorites. She has a unique way of making every day of class fun and exciting. She loves teaching. She loves us, and she makes every day a joy to learn. For that, I am honored to have had the opportunity to give this honor to Mrs. Parker.â€? Congratulations to both Zack and to Mrs. Parker.

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1** ,ĂŠ- "" ĂŠ " ",-ĂŠ -- 9 Highlighting the academic success of Mount Vernon’s Upper School students, on May 13 faculty, staff and parents celebrated student achievement at the annual Honors Awards Assembly. Many students were honored for their accomplishments during the 2010-2011 academic year. DEPARTMENT AWARDS English ‡ WK 'DULDQ %HQGHU ‡ WK +DQQDK .DWH )HUJXVRQ ‡ WK $OH[ %XWOHU ‡ WK .ULV .ROE Math ‡ WK $OH[ .ROE ‡ WK &ODLUH 3DUQHOO ‡ WK 5REHUW %DUFOLIW ‡ WK .LWW 3HWHUVRQ Science ‡ WK -RVHSK 0DUWLQ ‡ WK &RUH\ .QDSS ‡ WK %UHRQFD +DFNQH\ ‡ WK =DFN &RRN Social Studies ‡ WK $QGUHZ 'REELQV ‡ WK &ODLUH 3DUQHOO ‡ WK $OH[ &KDPEHUV ‡ 12th Caroline Steffens Computer Science: Kitt Peterson. Spanish: Abby Parnell. French: Kris Kolb. Latin: Claire Parnell. Visual Arts: Adeola Ajayi. Instrumental Music: Daniel Rhee. Praise Band: Holly Lane. Chorus: Lauren Taylor. Drama: Joseph Martin. SPECIAL AWARDS National Award Scholar Recognition: Kitt Peterson Presbyterian College Fellows: Robert Barclift Furman University Scholar: Robert Barclift Rhodes College Book Award: Breonca Hackney Regis College Book Award: David Eun Vanderbilt University Book Award: Alex Butler Scholar Athlete: Jaylan Adlam The Mustang Spirit Award: Chandler Moses Star Student Award: Zack Cook Star Teacher Award: Krista Parker Recognition of Colt Club Honorees*: Holly Lane, Pfeiffer McRae, Lauren Taylor, Emily Blevens, Addie Placido, Chandler Moses, Sean Brunson, Cason Jolly, Whitney Dickson The Prefect Award: Zack Cook and Abby Parnell The Atlanta Journal Constitution Cup: Zack Cook * The “Colt Clubâ€? is a group of seniors who have remained dedicated to Mount Vernon since becoming Mustangs in Preschool or Kindergarten.

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7KH 0936 %XVLQHVV &OXE KRVWHG LWV ÀUVW %XVLQHVV 3ODQ &RPSHWLWLRQ RQ 0D\ %XVLQHVV &OXE members pitched their ideas for a summer business to a panel comprised of MVPS Trustees and leaders in the business community. Winners were competing for funds to start or expand their businesses. Donated by an anonymous donor, the generous gift provides the seed money to jumpstart these young entrepreneurs’ business plans. Each winner will report back to the Business Club in the fall about the success of their summer enterprise. Best Overall Business Plan: Chris Fraser, $300 Best Marketing Plan: Miles Mallory and Matt Shelden, $200 Best Expansion Plan: Robert Barclift, $200 Best Honorable Mention: Alex Butler, $100

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Many Middle School students were honored and recognized at the Middle School Honors Assembly May 18 for their academic accomplishments during the 2010–2011 school year. Pictured above is Seventh grader, Erin Huff and Language Arts Teacher, Maggie Menkus. Erin received recognition for submitting an essay in a national contest sponsored by the Fox Business Network’s Stossel in the Classroom. The essay was titled, “What’s Great About America?�

Kindergarten students took part in a lesson on kindness in honor of Valentine’s Day. The students made a giant Hershey’s Kiss collage by cutting out pictures of people showing kindness to one another. They also cut out words and phrases that are examples of kindness. Fourth graders Kelly D. and Katie H. also helped the kindergartners with this lesson.

Art: Katie Ryan, Katherine Ward. Band: Haley Todd, Hunter Whitney. Chorus: Jordan Engle, Anna Shuford. Computer: Paige Ladd, Gillian Vaccarelli. Drama: Devin Gladney, Bliss Mallory. Old Testament: Carson Mullen. New Testament: Hannah Zenas. Physical Education: Gabby Panos, George Gavalas. French: Chandler Grove, Jessica Wurst. Spanish: Clay Patrick, Savannah Rettig. Latin: Erin Huff, Evelyn Sharkey. Language Arts: Claire Cummiskey, Evelyn Sharkey. Mathematics: Pre-Algebra–Gabby Panos. Algebra–Anjana Anundkumar, David Adams, Sierra. Middleton, Anna Shuford. Geometry–Katherine Ward. Science: Ryan Scirocco, Clayton Parnell, Andrew Hill. Social Studies: Madeleine Williamson, Hunter Whitney. Prefect Award: Caroline Corley, George Gavalas. Head of Middle School Award: Haley Todd, Cameron Scheele. Mount Vernon Board of Trustees’ Caring Spirit: -RUGDQ (QJOH &KDG 7DZĂ€N The following students were recognized for the service to the Middle School Student Council: Student Council President–Hannah Zenas, 8th Grade Vice President–George Gavalas WK *UDGH 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW²+DOH\ 7RGG 6HFUHWDU\²0DWWKHZ 1DOO WK *UDGH *UHHQ 2IĂ€FHU²%UHQW 5H\QROGV WK *UDGH *UHHQ 2IĂ€FHU²$QMDQD $QDQGNXPDU $VVLVWDQW *UHHQ 2IĂ€FHU²*DUHWK 7UHPDGJH $VVLVWDQW *UHHQ 2IĂ€FHU²$QGUHZ %URZQ 7UHDVXUHU²&ROH 1RWHUPDQQ WK *UDGH Chaplain–Melanie Lane, 7th Grade Chaplain–Jordan Engle The following students were recognized for their participation in the Duke TIP program: David Adams, Camilla Almond, Anjana Anandkumar, Shelby Boykin, Ken Brunson, Gina Gardner, Chandler Grove, Kinsey Harvey, Erin Huff, Paige Ladd, Taylor Leroy, Gabby Panos, Clayton Parnell, Clay Patrick, McLean Slayden, Will Thompson, Haley Todd, Margaret White, Madeleine Williamson

1 ,9ĂŠ* / ,"* ĂŠ " / " In January Mount Vernon focused its philanthropic collection on new or “gently wornâ€? coats, hats, scarves, gloves/mittens, and socks. During the time when the weather is cold and resources are stretched thin at most help agencies; there is tremendous need for these items and often a lack of supply to accommodate the demand. Mount Vernon students donated close to 1,000 items of winter weather clothing to be given to a local charity.

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The Upper School National Honor Society hosted a Red Cross Blood drive. Many students, teachers, parents, and staff gave blood. 42 pints of blood were collected and 54 people donated their time and blood. Thank you to all who gave. You helped to save a life!

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--ĂŠ ĂŠ " * -- " Exemplifying Mount Vernon’s focus on Christianity, a group of 4th and 5th grade students were selected by their teachers to serve as “ambassadorsâ€? of kindness for the Lower School. Forming what is called the Kindness and Compassion Club, these students were selected because of their commitment to the School DQG EHFDXVH WKH\ DUH FRQVLGHUHG D SRVLWLYH LQĂ XHQFH DPRQJ WKHLU peers and the younger children. The purpose of the KC club is to promote an environment of compassion in which students will be trained in peer mediation so they are prepared to help others ZKR PD\ EH JRLQJ WKURXJK D GLIĂ€FXOW WLPH 7KH FOXE KDV VWDUWHG D virtual chain of kindness through a blog: http://mvpsvirtualchain. wordpress.com/. Students, staff, and parents have been recording entries or AOKs (acts of kindness) whenever and wherever they see them. Inspired by the Rachel’s Challenge program, the entire School is participating in this virtual chain of kindness.

-1**",/ Ê * Touched by the devastating images caused by the massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Mount Vernon students, parents, faculty and staff raised money to help with relief efforts. Showing support for the country, students came dressed in red and white, the colors of Japan’s à DJ $OO RI WKH PRQH\ UDLVHG ZDV GRQDWHG WR :RUOG 9LVLRQ D &KULVWLDQ KXPDQLWDULDQ JURXS focused on disaster relief. The School raised $6,365.91, demonstrating that as a community, coming together can make a difference.

* - ĂŠ , ĂŠ*," /\ĂŠ ĂŠ // ,ĂŠ ," ĂŠ/ ĂŠ "1- ĂŠ 9 On behalf of our whole family, we’d like to thank all the students, faculty, and staff at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School who helped support “Cranes for Japan.â€? Through a truly impressive combined effort, we produced over 2000 origami cranes and raised over $4,000 to donate to the American Red Cross to aid relief efforts after the earthquakes in Japan. We are proud and thankful to be part of such a generous and compassionate school community. Best Wishes, Todd, Debbie, Kanna, and William House The Magazine | 26

/ ĂŠ, -/", / " ĂŠ*," / Many of Mount Vernon’s high school juniors had the extraordinary opportunity to work directly with Sandy Springs historian, Kimberly Brigance. Brigance, the director of historical research at the Heritage Museum of Sandy Springs, visited the school to guide students in researching many of the deceased families buried at the Sandy Springs First Baptist Cemetery. In what English Department Chair, Melody Cannon dubbed as “The Restoration Projectâ€?, students learned about the history of the cemetery, how to approach historical research, and became more familiar with the history of Sandy Springs. Enhancing the educational experience, students shared their Ă€QGLQJV ZLWK WKH 6DQG\ 6SULQJV )LUVW %DSWLVW &KXUFK &KXUFK RIĂ€FLDOV VD\ XQIRUWXQDWHO\ DQ\ cemetery records that were preserved have disappeared over the years, making The Restoration Project meaningful in the church’s history.

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The American Revolution came to life this spring for Mount Vernon’s fourth graders. Making a stop at the Cobb Youth Museum, students learned more about our country’s Pathways to Independence. The students acted out scenes and dressed up in costumes from the Revolutionary time period. The experience highlighted three main components: the events leading to war with England, The Revolutionary War, and the writing of the Constitution. Students also watched a puppet show about Benjamin Franklin’s accomplished life.

"/ ,É- ",Ê 1 " Mothers of the Class of 2011 enjoyed a beautiful luncheon in March with their seniors who graduated this spring. The annual event kicked off the commencement season for this year’s graduating class. Before the mothers and seniors enjoyed an elegant lunch, head prefect, Matt Reid delivered a heart-felt blessing. Sharing their talents, seniors Lauren Taylor and Whitney Dickson sang a beautiful song honoring the mothers.

- 8/ ĂŠ , ĂŠ6 - /-ĂŠ/ ĂŠ , ĂŠ 1- 1 Learning the sad history of The Holocaust, Mount Vernon’s sixth grade students toured WKH :LOOLDP %UHPDQ -HZLVK +HULWDJH 0XVHXP 2Q WKH KHHOV RI Ă€QLVKLQJ WKH ERRN 'HYLO¡V Arithmetic, a historical novel about life at a Nazi concentration camp, this hands-on experience at the museum was powerful for students. As a part of it, museum docents shared personal accounts, even hearing from one Holocaust survivor who told his unforgettable story. Sixth grader Jay M. shares the experience saying, “We learned about the struggles of the Jewish people during World War II. One of the most interesting items in the museum was the amazing thought in the architecture, by architect Benjamin Hirsch. The reason it was amazing was because the designer planned the room to how he felt during the Holocaust. One part has red tiles on the Ă RRU UHSUHVHQWLQJ WKH EORRG ORVW ZKHQ WKH 1D]LV VWDUWLQJ DWWDFNLQJ WKH -HZV $QRWKHU SDUW KDG railroad tracks on the ceiling. This represents how the world felt ‘upside down’ to the Jews during this time.â€? Located in Midtown, the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum opened in 1996.

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0RXQW 9HUQRQ¡V Ă€IWK JUDGHUV YLVLWHG WKH $QQH )UDQN ([KLELW LQ 6DQG\ 6SULQJV WKLV VSULQJ During the guided tour, students learned about Anne Frank’s life and the Holocaust. They immediately recognized that prior to the Nazi invasion; she enjoyed a very normal, happy childhood. They also learned she was a profound thinker who used writing as an outlet to express herself. Her world-renowned book has allowed millions to know her and understand a YHU\ SHUVRQDO VDJD UHODWLQJ WR WKH +RORFDXVW 5HĂ HFWLQJ RQ WKH H[SHULHQFH VWXGHQWV XVHG ZULWLQJ to express what they learned and thought about their visit.

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*, ĂŠ 9ĂŠ" ĂŠ- ,6 In April, each class from PreK-12 took part in the April Day of Service. While Preschoolers PDGH GRJ FRRNLHV IRU 3$:6 $WODQWD ² D VKHOWHU IRU KRPHOHVV GRJV DQG FDWV WKH Ă€UVW JUDGHUV made spring placemats for Mount Vernon Village residents. The third grade volunteered at The Community Action Center (CAC), where they toured the facility, brainstormed new names for CAC, and sorted library books, canned goods, diapers, and school supplies. Students in the Upper School ventured out to various locations throughout the city, including Signature Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta Union Mission, Atlanta Wild Animal Rescue, City of Refuge, MUST Ministries, Fur Kids, Open Hands Atlanta, Liberty Thrift Store, Wildlife Sanctuary, Piedmont Park Conservancy, Centennial Olympic Park, Big Forest Tree Preserve, Keep Sandy Springs Beautiful, St. Vincent de Paul and Chastain Park. This year Upper School students logged nearly 2800 hours of community service—making a tremendous difference during the inaugural year of the Outreach program.

"1 /ĂŠ6 , " ĂŠ-/1 /-ĂŠ , / ĂŠ " 9ĂŠ7 The week of April 18, Mount Vernon students gathered together in celebration of Holy Week. Preschool and Lower School students celebrated the resurrection of Jesus in their weekly Wednesday chapel. Mrs. Plumer’s sixth grade Jesus said to her, “I am the class led students in prayer during resurrection and the life. the service. Singing songs of praise and celebration, the He who believes in me will children were reminded of the live, even though he dies; HYHQWV OHDGLQJ XS WR WKH FUXFLĂ€[LRQ and the Easter Story. On the Glenn and whoever lives and Campus, Middle and Upper School students participated in chapel each believes in me will never die.â€? day of Holy Week and worshipped John 11:25-26 with the Praise Band. The School invited a guest speaker, Nick Persons, youth director at Northstar Church in Kennesaw, who shared with students the immense love that God has for us.

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Mrs. Stavropoulos visited the second grade classrooms to help them with interactive math centers. Finishing up a unit on fractions, the centers gave students an opportunity to put what they had learned to the test. During the school year, one center used the Promethean %RDUG DQG VWXGHQWV ZRUNHG WRJHWKHU WR ÀQG HTXLYDOHQW IUDFWLRQV ZLWK GLIIHUHQW QDPHV VXFK as 1/2 and 4/8. Another center involved the use of iPads and iTouches. Working independently, the children moved fractions to the correct place on a number line that went from 0 to 1. Additionally utilizing laptops, students selected one of two fraction games, in which they practiced critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, oral communication, and analyzing information.

Inventors in the making! Powerfully demonstrating Mount Vernon’s commitment to 21st century learning, Andrea McCranie’s 4th graders presented iDesign projects—one of the many outcomes of Mount Vernon’s Center for Design Thinking. With this project, students created dynamic smart phone apps (applications). One titled, I School Me, helps students of all ages in their coursework and with interacting virtually with their teachers. The other app, titled MatchMe College KHOSV VWXGHQWV LGHQWLI\ WKHLU EHVW FROOHJH ÀW $V D SDUW RI WKH GHVLJQ thinking process, students consulted with Upper School students asking questions about what sort of criteria they look for in a university or college. They also had the privilege of learning from one of the student’s parents, Vince Thompson, an DGYHUWLVLQJ H[HFXWLYH ZKR VSHFLDOL]HV LQ EUDQGLQJ 6WXGHQWV VD\ WKH ÀQDO VWHS LQ their project will be ensuring that these apps become a reality. Take note of the student faces on the large screen behind the group of 4th grade inventors. Two students missed school the day of the presentation because they were not feeling well but they didn’t miss the presentation. They each used Skype and participated virtually from home.

- " ĂŠ , ĂŠ6 - /-ĂŠ/ ĂŠ/1 ĂŠ- / ĂŠ , ĂŠ "1- The 2nd grade recently visited the Tullie Smith Farm House located at the Atlanta History Center. A plantation house built in the 1840s by the Robert Smith family, Tullie Smith Farm, also known as the Smith Family Farm, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally located east of Atlanta, outside the city limits, the house survived the near-total destruction of Atlanta in 1864. Tullie Smith House is surrounded by a separate open-hearth kitchen, blacksmith shop, smokehouse, double corncrib, pioneer log cabin, and barn, as well as traditional vegetable, herb, and Ă RZHU JDUGHQV 7KH VWXGHQWV OHDUQHG from the costumed interpreters while they performed activities typical of nineteenth century rural Georgia.

££ 6 Ê /-Ê/ Ê / ,Ê ",Ê - Atlanta’s NBC station, 11alive, recently spent the morning in Mount Vernon’s Center for Design. Through video, the station producers expertly captured what design thinking means and why our students love this method of learning. Based on a model developed by Stanford University Institute of Design, better known as the d.school, Mount Vernon students are identifying real world issues, collaborating through research, testing their results, and producing prototypes to impact the world. To see the video, go to www.mountvernonschool.org.

*, - "" ,-Ê "Ê" Ê Ê Ê/"Ê "" Ê ",Ê-*, Recently taking learning outside the classroom, Miss Elissa’s three year olds class went on a nature hike. The children had fun walking around campus looking for signs that spring really is here. The students saw à RZHUV EORRPLQJ ELUGV à \LQJ DQG NLGV playing. After the hike, they ate a snack and enjoyed their time playing in the spring sunshine.

"1 /ĂŠ6 , " ĂŠ 1 ĂŠ , / -ĂŠ* ,/ ,ĂŠ 6 ĂŠ " ",On May 18, Partner level donors gathered for a luncheon to celebrate the success of the Mount Vernon Fund and thank Chairs, Margot and Robert Shuford, for their outstanding work on behalf of the School. More than 150 donors contributed to the Fund at the Partner level ($1,000) or higher this year. Through the generous support of all of the donors in the School community, the Mount Vernon Fund will exceed the budget goal. Funds raised are being used on many school projects including the development of the cross country track, the purchase and installation of a new sound system for the Glenn Campus, investment in new laboratory equipment for science labs, professional development opportunities for faculty and enhanced programmatic offerings for students. $W SUHVV WLPH WKH SDUHQW SDUWLFLSDWLRQ VWDQGV DW 7KH 6FKRRO FDQ FRQĂ€GHQWO\ VKDUH WKDW Mount Vernon is one of the only schools in metro-Atlanta with a parent participation rate this high. Thank you to the Mount Vernon community. 29 | The Magazine

", ĂŠ-/ / ½-ĂŠ "ĂŠ 1This spring, students in Mrs. Parker’s Biology and Advanced Placement Biology classes experienced first-hand what is often portrayed on popular, crime scene TV shows like CSI. Georgia State’s Bio-Bus Program made up of college students and professors from GSU brought the science of forensics to the classroom. In the forensics unit, students participated in crime solving activities including finger print analysis and fingerprinting on model windows. They also learned about blood coagulation tests that narrow down suspects and DNA analysis through gel electrophoresis, both key to ultimately identifying the final suspect and solving the crime.

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*, - "" Ê- Ê 8 / / The three-year-old classes in the Preschool were recently visited by The Science Excitement Team. The visit and lesson focused on dinosaurs. In this photo the VWXGHQWV DUH WU\LQJ WR ÀJXUH RXW ZKLFK LV ELJJHU a human or a Protoceratops.

/ ĂŠ , ĂŠÂˆ - ĂŠ , 0RXQW 9HUQRQ¡V Ă€IWK JUDGH VWXGHQWV DSSURDFKHG GHVLJQ WKLQNLQJ IURP DQ HQYLURQPHQWDO perspective by creating a working, organic garden on the Lower School campus. Planting beats, cabbage, and peas students have plans to grow enough vegetables to make ongoing donations to the Atlanta Food Bank’s Plant a Row for the Hungry. Students also are composting using vegetables, fruit scraps, and coffee grounds from the School’s cafeteria kitchen. Broadening the experience, the class consulted with local urban homesteader, Sylvia McAdam, to learn about composting, healthy soil, and garden design.

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7KH VHFRQG JUDGH WRRN D ÀHOG trip downtown to tour CNN. The students began by riding the world’s largest free standing escalator. Afterwards, they went behind the scenes to tour CNN to learn how the large news organization works. The students were fascinated to learn how many countries CNN is broadcast in. During the tour, they experienced breaking news of Egypt’s democratic movement, making the experience especially memorable.

Ê- "" Ê-*, Ê/, *The week before spring break, Middle School students participate in learning experiences away from the classroom. Traveling by bus, the seventh graders began their trip visiting The Georgia Music Hall of Fame and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in Macon, Georgia. Afterwards the students traveled WR VXQQ\ )ORULGD 7KH ÀUVW VWRS ZDV WKH .HQQHG\ 6SDFH &HQWHU where they toured and watched two IMAX movies produced by NASA, exploring the space program. The next two days, the seventh grade visited Epcot Center and Sea World in 2UODQGR 7KH ÀQDO GD\ ZDV VSHQW LQ &ROXPEXV *HRUJLD where students visited the historic National Infantry Museum DW )RUW %HQQLQJ DQG FRQFOXGHG WKH YLVLW ZLWK DQ ,0$; ÀOP RQ the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

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The eighth grade trip was a wonderful learning experience. Eighty-two students, along with six chaperones, toured our nation’s capital. Roaming the battle grounds of Gettysburg, the sweets IDFWRU\ RI +HUVKH\ DQG WKH KLVWRULF FLW\ RI 3KLODGHOSKLD FRQVXPHG WKH ÀUVW WZR GD\V RI WKH trip. In Washington, students took a guided tour through the National Cathedral, participated in a photo opportunity at the White House (a favorite sight was the war protestor who has been camped out across the street from the White House since 1980), ate lunch at Union Station, and toured the Capitol. The trip also included visits to six national monuments: World War II, Vietnam, Lincoln, Korean, Jefferson and Iwo Jima. The students visited the American History Museum, Arlington Cemetery (changing of the guard and the Kennedy gravesites), and had an emotional experience at the Holocaust Museum. The trip concluded with a fun dinner/ dance on a riverboat cruising down the Potomac. When asked what their favorite sites and/or destinations were, each 8th grader had a different preference, making it a memorable trip for all.

AUTHOR VISIT Tenth and eleventh grade English classes were honored to have author Clare Adkin, of the novel Quiet Guilt come for a day of discussion and discovery. In preparation for his visit, the students read his novel and engaged in discussions about character and plot development. During his visit, 0U $GNLQ H[SORUHG WKH UHVHDUFK SURFHVV D UHTXLUHPHQW IRU D ZRUN RI KLVWRULFDO ÀFWLRQ DV ZHOO DV WKH SURFHVV RI FUHDWLQJ FKDUDFWHU FRQà LFW DQG PRWLYDWLRQ 3UHYLRXVO\ D WHDFKHU 0U $GNLQ QRZ focuses on researching, writing, and presenting at numerous state and national conferences. He serves on the North Carolina Council on Economic Education and the Global Association for Teachers of Economics. Mount Vernon students gave Mr. Adkin rave reviews, and especially appreciated the time he took to speak with each student about their own personal stories and writings.

, ,/ ĂŠ 6 ĂŠ -/",9 The Kindergarten classes were visited by a Civil War soldier. A Mount Vernon Kindergarten parent, Keith Tudor, performs living history as a Civil War reenactor. He spoke to all four of the Kindergarten classes about the Civil War and shared “hard tackâ€? for each child to eat. Hard tack is the most famous American Civil War staple food. Wearing a Union Soldier uniform and bringing a Confederate uniform, Mr. Tudor talked about the life of a soldier during this time period. The visit coincided with a unit that the Kindergarten classes have been studying titled, “Red, White, and Blue.â€?

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/ , Ê , Ê "6 Ê , / " Ê/ ,"1 Ê- 9* Mrs. Brown’s third grade class participated in a Skype and novel celebration with their pen pals in Austin, Texas. The two classes have been reading In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson alongside one another. For the past several weeks, Mrs. Brown’s class and Ms. Notthingham’s class in Texas have participated in online conversations about the plot, characters, and connections on a blog. The celebration consisted of student interviews about the story. Keeping with the theme from the book, Mrs. Brown’s class created Chinese lanterns and enjoyed delicious moon cakes.

"1 /ĂŠ6 , " ĂŠ* ,/ ,-ĂŠ7 / ĂŠ- "" ĂŠ ĂŠ< Infusing real world experiences into the School’s Global Learning Initiative, Mount Vernon students will soon have the extraordinary opportunity to partner with students from the Helen DeVos Christian School in Zambia. Serving children living LQ SRYHUW\ VSHFLĂ€FDOO\ RUSKDQV DQG FKLOGUHQ IURP =DPELD The Helen DeVos Christian School serves an area where education is a luxury. Barbara and Tom Hughes, who are grandparents of Mount Vernon lower school students as well as members of Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church, have made the partnership a reality. Recently they generously donated $10,000 to fund computers, internet service, as well as back-up generators for the Zambian school so their students can communicate virtually with Mount Vernon’s students. Barbara Hughes notes, “What “...Generally, children this partnership will provide is only know what they a better understanding about what life is like for students are exposed to through from both sides. Generally, children only know what they images from the media, are exposed to through images from the media, however however having the ophaving the opportunity to meet one another through portunity to meet one Skype and listen to each other’s stories will truly expand their understanding.â€? Though the virtual communication anaother through Skype GRHVQ¡W RIĂ€FLDOO\ EHJLQ XQWLO QH[W \HDU 0RXQW 9HUQRQ¡V /RZHU >˜`ĂŠÂ?ÂˆĂƒĂŒiÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠi>VÂ…ĂŠÂœĂŒÂ…iĂ€½ĂƒĂŠ School parent volunteers and students haven’t wasted any stories will truly expand time embracing the partnership. Recently they boxed up and shipped a variety of reading books, curriculum, and school their understanding.“ sports uniforms to the students in Zambia. More information about the Helen DeVos Christian School can be found at www. childreneverywhere.org.

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/" -/ -/ ,-Ê Ê/ Ê Ê AT THE LOWER SCHOOL Demonstrating the School’s commitment to teaching and learning 21st century skills—past Head of Lower School, Kelly Hilton-Green, recently concluded an 8-week public speaking class for students. The idea was introduced by a parent, and shortly thereafter Mr. Hilton-Green began offering the class after school. Each week students practiced their oratorical skills in front of their peers and by the end of the course, they HDFK GHOLYHUHG WKHLU ÀQDO VSHHFKHV LQ IURQW RI ERWK SHHUV and their parents. As a part of the experience, students ZHUH DZDUGHG FHUWLÀFDWHV LQ RXWVWDQGLQJ SXEOLF VSHDNLQJ and were treated to a pizza dinner with their families in the Lower School Media Center. Congratulations to Stroud P., Robin M., Cameron S., and Liliana Y. for their achievement and to Mr. Hilton-Green for his leadership.

‡ ‡ Ê , -/ 0RXQW 9HUQRQ 3UHVE\WHULDQ 6FKRRO ZDV SURXG WR SDUWQHU ZLWK &KLFN ÀO $ DV D KRVW VLWH IRU WKH &KLFN ÀO $ /HDGHUFDVW &KLFN ÀO $ /HDGHUFDVW LV D RQH GD\ OHDGHUVKLS GHYHORSPHQW RSSRUWXQLW\ EURDGFDVWHG OLYH throughout the world. While other leadership events offer valuable leadership principles, few conferences engage all of your senses and provide a truly experiential and applicable day of leadership training. This year’s line-up included Seth Godin, Dave Ramsey, and John Maxwell as well as many other internationally-acclaimed thought leaders who are rich in practical content, making the experience engaging and applicable.

,-/ĂŠ , ĂŠ<""ĂŠ ĂŠ* /ĂŠ- "*ĂŠ " -/, / -ĂŠ

1, "- /9ĂŠ ĂŠ / " Taking study and research to a whole new level, Sherri .LUER¡V Ă€UVW JUDGH FODVV UHVHDUFKHG DQ DQLPDO RI WKHLU choice and then created the Kirbo Zoo and Pet Shop in the Lower School media center. The students made their research come to life, setting up the Zoo and Pet Shop so that people could walk around as if they were at an actual zoo, learning interesting facts about each animal. Many friends, parents, students, faculty and grandparents came to the zoo to learn about different animals.

Mrs. Rothbard’s second grade class had a great time collaborating recently with Mrs. McCranie’s fourth grade class. Integrating a writing unit and the second grade iDesign project about healthy eating, the students participated in a FABLE DAY. The fourth grade students read famous fables as well as ones that they have written over the last few weeks. Mrs. Rothbard’s second graders did a wonderful job of guessing the moral of each fable. Relating the fables to the second graders iDesign Project was easy, as there are quite a few fables written about healthy snacks. The students listened as their teachers read these fables and then enjoyed these healthy snacks: The Boy and the Almonds–almonds, The Fox and the Grapes–grapes, The Ant and the Grasshopper–ants on a log (celery, peanut butter, and raisins). 33 | The Magazine

The Magazine | 34

/ Ê ,/-Ê /Ê "1 /Ê6 , " Ê Spring Wrap-Up

4

1 5

2 The performance was fun, unusual,

6 4 The Tempest Was a Hit!

3

7 7 Another First for the MVPS Allstars: The Shuler Hensley Awards

art students currently in high

was competing in the festival walked

A storm of a show closed out the

school. Held in historic Forsyth

LÞÊ ÕÀÊ}À Õ«½ÃÊÜ À Ê> `ÊV i Ìi`Ê

MVPS Allstars inaugural theatre

Park, thousands of participants

admiringly, “This must be the work of

season. The Tempest was a rousing

from across the state and southeast

VÕÀÀi ÌÊ- ÊÃÌÕ`i Ìð»Ê

crowd pleaser for the Mount Vernon

came to make drawings and attend

grade students performed the show

the Emperor, and four played the

community. Staged outdoors

the festival.

before a packed audience of families.

Empress. Everyone played multiple

under the stars, the evening of

In addition to the challenging

characters. This was also the first

- > iëi>Ài½ÃÊÀ > Ì VÊ> `ÊV i` VÊ

Competing against several hundred

In May, nearly 500 parents and

} ÌÊ ÕÌÊ>ÌÊ i À} >½ÃÊ«Ài iÀiÊ

rehearsal schedule, students and

time that a Lower School play was

fantasy combined the forces of

high school students from across

friends attended the 7th annual

awards ceremony for excellence

parents also helped build the set

performed in the round, allowing

the Middle, Upper School, faculty,

the region, Mount Vernon was well

Mount Vernon dance recital.

in musical theatre arts, The Shuler

during several Saturday work days.

for much more engagement with

staff and parents in all aspects of

represented with Adeola Ajayi taking

The Mount Vernon dancing program

Hensley Awards! Our first musical,

Seussical is a musical by Lynn Ahrens

the audience.

the production. From prologue

2nd place and Avery Fisher receiving

featured 118 students from Preschool

You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown

to epilogue, it was a tempestuous

honorable mention for their fantastic

through Grade 7. The theme for this

was nominated and earned two

success.

drawings. Katie Schnetzer, Sarah

Þi>À½ÃÊÀiV Ì> ÊÜ>Ãʺ > V }ÊÌ À Õ} Ê

honorable mentions, one for Best

Buck, Sarah Hall, Cory McLaughlin,

the Seasons.” Teacher for the three

Costume and another went to Best

Addie Goins, and Sean King also

year olds program, Elissa Harbuck,

-Õ«« ÀÌ }Ê VÌÀiÃÃ]Ê > >Ê i Ê

competed and were recognized for

choreographed the entire show.

who portrayed Lucy.

their outstanding contributions as well.

She is also the director of the All of the dance students were

exquisite Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on April 26 and

1 Suessical Mount Vernon Presbyterian School

fascinating, and entertaining.

ÜiÀÊ-V Ê À> >Ê«ÀiÃi Ìi`Ê

Each of the twenty actors played

Seussical during the month of May.

the part of Peter the Tailor at some

Thirty-five spectacular third-sixth

point during the show. Four played

and Stephen Flaherty based on the Ü À ÃÊ vÊ À°Ê-iÕÃðÊ/ iÊÃÌ ÀÞÊVi ÌiÀÃÊ

3 Middle School Chorus

around Horton the Elephant, who

/ iÊ `` iÊ-V Ê À ½ÃÊ ÀÕÃÊ

finds himself faced with a double

participated in the Southern

challenge, not only must he protect

Star Music Festival in May at the

his tiny friend JoJo (and all the

ÕL iÌÀiiÊ Ìi Ê Ê >À iÌÌ>Ê> `Ê

5 Upper School Students Shine at SCAD Sidewalk Chalk Arts Festival

6 Students “Dance Through the Seasons”

Õ ÌÊ6iÀ Ê*ÀiÃLÞÌiÀ > Ê-V ½ÃÊ new upper school theatre troupe, the MVPS Allstars capped their debut theatre season with a gala

invisible Whos) from a world of

took home the Silver. This was an

naysayers and dangers, but he must

opportunity for them to perform for

Kunath and his wife Rosie led a

/ iÀiÊÜ>ÃÊ>ÊV ÃÌ> ÌÊÃÌÀi> Ê vÊ- Ê

also guard an abandoned egg.

three experienced judges, and to

group of eight Mount Vernon Upper

faculty and staff members, college

more than excited to show their

take part in an on-stage clinic with

School students to Savannah recently

and high school students, and festival

parents and friends the routines

was filled with student thespians,

one of the adjudicators. The girls

for the annual Savannah College

attendees that stopped to take

they had practiced throughout

directors, teachers, and family.

Many families, friends, students

also participated in the “Race for

vÊ ÀÌÊ> `Ê ià } Ê­- ®Ê- `iÜ> Ê

pictures and ask questions about our

the year. The annual recital was

A total of 41 schools competed and

and teachers came out to enjoy the

the Cure” for their service project,

Chalk Arts festival and competition.

students and school throughout the

an entertaining and professional

24 were selected from an extensive

Lower School performance

where they raised $2000 for breast

The competition was divided into

day, making it a great day for Mount

program exuding loads of talent

panel of judges representing a

of The Emperor’s New Clothes.

cancer research.

three categories: alumni, current

Vernon both in Savannah and back

from all the performers.

wide range of professional and

- ÊÃÌÕ`i ÌÃ]Ê> `Ê«À ëiVÌ ÛiÊ

home. One high school student that

2 The Emperor’s New Clothes

35 | The Magazine

Õ ÌÊ6iÀ Ê > ViÊ*À }À> °ÊÊ

Upper School art teacher Hank

The ceremony was held in the

educational disciplines. The Magazine | 36

causing turnovers and jumping on the score

Congratulations to Alex Head for becoming

board. They were leading 15-10 at the half.

the first State Champion in Varsity Wrestling

Walker would prove that they belonged in

for the Mustangs. The team had nine of

the finals as well, challenging every ball and

its twelve qualified wrestlers make it to the

pressing on every possession chipping away

second day of the tournament (ensuring

at the Lady Mustangs 21-14 lead, they moved

them a top eight finish), and had six wrestlers

ahead 22-21 with four minutes remaining.

advance and earn medals. Seniors Alex Head

It was then that Coach Stiles called a time

and Sean Brunson advanced to the finals,

5

championship title. The girls came out strong

HEAR OUR THUNDER BASKETBALL

1

in the first half, hustling after loose balls,

Senior Alex Head Became First State Wrestling Champion for MVPS

against the Walker School for the NAML

1-/ HIGHLIGHT REEL

out to settle the girls; she challenged them

where Sean lost a hard fought match, and

to stay with the game plan and play to win.

Alex pinned his opponent to become Mount

GISA Region 1AAA and State Tournaments,

The girls regained composure and Captain

Vernon’s first State Champion. Sean Brunson,

and finished the season ranked #1 GISA and

Autumn Burnette ran the floor hitting two big

State Runner-up finished with an impressive

Top 15 in the State. These achievements

shots to regain the lead. Bliss Mallory’s speed

record of 33–4, while Alex finished the season at 30–0. Other medal winners

Mission Accomplished, Championship Won.

were quite an accomplishment and the team

was essential on defense and Rachel Carney

ultimately demonstrated with hard work and

had some big points. Both teams played

included: Staten Hicks, 4th place; Robert

This team started out at the beginning of

dedication great things can happen.

extremely hard in the fourth quarter. The

Barclift, 5th place; and Andrew Dobbins

game was still close until the Lady Mustangs

Girls Basketball

and George Gavalas each placing 6th.

brought home the victory with Rachel

At the State Traditional Tournament hosted

The girls had another successful season,

Carlson’s free throws sealing a 30-25 win.

by Tattnall Square Academy in Macon,

been a failure for this group

finishing with a 22-6 record overall. They

Congratulations to the lady Mustangs on a

the team placed 5th with a team point total

of young men. With those

were also were undefeated, 12-0, in Region

great season and a well-earned championship.

of 136. This is the highest place and point

kinds of expectations,

play. Capturing the region championship in

there was a lot of room for

the 1AAA region tournament, the women

the season with one thing in mind and 2

that was to win a championship. Anything less would have

total for the team, and was a total team effort

row. Four players made the 1AAA All-Region

hung in there and pulled from

as every wrestler contributed team points.

WRESTLING

made the state playoffs for the 3rd year in a

disappointment. The players

FOOTBALL

each other to make it the

team, and they were senior Kiara McIver,

most distinguished season

senior Ashley Standifer, senior Abby Parnell

Mustang Wrestlers Have Successful Season

in Mount Vernon basketball

and junior DeAsia Carter. Senior Ashley

The wrestling team completed its fourth

history. The team put together

Standifer made the GISA AAA All-State team

year, and like the three previous seasons,

Jaylan Adlam Signs with Campbell University

for the second year in a row. Aristotle said,

the team’s accomplishments kept growing.

On National Signing Day, Mount Vernon’s

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence

The Mustang grapplers started the season

varsity receiver, Jaylan Adlam signed with

then is not an act, but a habit.” This is

with high expectations led by senior captains,

Campbell University, a Division I school

the record of

definitely a habit the team embodied the

and 2010 state medalists Sean Brunson

in North Carolina. Jaylan also earned

the team two

entire season.

and Alex Head. As the season unfolded, the

a $50,000.00 merit scholarship with the

a record of 35 wins and two losses for the year eclipsing

years ago of 34-

4

6

team grew in experience and confidence and

university. LaGrange College and the College

peaked for the region and state tournaments.

of Wooster actively recruited him, and other

Eighth Grade Girls Win NAML Basketball Championship

Finishing as a Region 1 champion and as

schools expressing interest included The

Tournament, Placed 3rd

Congratulations to the eight grade girls

3rd at the state dual tournament, the Mount

University of the South and Centre College.

in The Glendale Classic in

basketball team for winning the NAML

Vernon program is poised to reach even

Springfield, Mo., won the

Championship. The girls’ team played

greater heights next year.

3

2. They won the Tattnall Christmas

1

2

3

4

5

6

The Magazine | 38

players who went to State—for the girls,

times they faced them; the first,

Girls’ Varsity Team

Katherine Kent and for the boys who played,

an exciting victory and the second,

Emily Blevens (12)

Charlie Almond, Alex Butler, Trent Ballard,

a stong 8-1 win. This year’s seniors will be

Emmy Bowman (10)

Winter Cheerleading

Jonathan Barnard, Jae Lee, and Cason Jolly,

missed tremendously, but the program

Sarah Buck (10)

Basketball season for the Mustang

who qualified.

CHEERLEADING 7

Cheer Squad brought a few adjustments. A new coach took the reins and the squad

TRACK & FIELD

welcomed six new members. Led by veteran senior cheerleaders, the young women basketball team. Cheering and dancing to

Track & Field Team Gains Footing

the beat of the drum line, these girls were

9

were enthusiastic supporters of the varsity

Shayla King (11) Allie Tucker (8)Jessica Wurst (8)

SWIMMING

Girl’s JV Team Margaret White (7)

Mount Vernon Track and Field took

Mustang Swimming Performs Well at the State Meet

Sean King (10)

an inspiration to the players, coaches, and

tremendous steps this year. The team grew to

Mount Vernon’s swim team had an excellent

Jake Snipes (11)

fans as they helped to cheer the basketball

15 members, with 13 young men and women

season. In just its fourth year, this came as

team to its second GISA Division AAA

qualifying at the state level. The group was

no surprise considering the hard work and

Boy’s JV Team:

championship. In addition to cheering on

referred to as a “tight-knit army” because

dedication of each and every swimmer.

Steven Butz (6)

the basketball team, the squad performed

of its tremendous impact at regional track

For five months, the team woke up four

Drew Caruthers (8)

new and daring quarter and half-time shows

meets. Etching a new state record in the

mornings a week and attended practice at

John Courtney (6)

that excited the crowd, and had fans looking

School’s history again, the team received high

5:45 am, as well as attending practices and

Charlie Goldman (7)

forward to not only seeing the game but what

praise from a neighboring school coach who

a training session over Christmas break.

James McGuire (6)

the cheerleaders would be doing next. It was

congratulated Mount Vernon’s team saying,

The never ending dedication not only touched

11

their coach, but had a great impact on their

“We were very impressed with you and your

a season of growth that included successful accomplishments for the cheerleaders individually and the squad as a whole.

team at the Heritage Meet and we certainly

performance in the water. Over the course

think you all add a great deal of credibility

of the season, the team had 23 members perform and 15 swimmers qualify and

at our meet.”

compete in the GISA State Championship

TENNIS 8

looks forward to the returning players for another exciting season next spring.

meet in February. Out of the 26 teams

BASEBALL

in attendance, Mount Vernon’s Women’s Team placed 5th and

Solid Showing at State 10

Varsity Tennis found its consistency

Fourth Straight Playoff Season

the Men’s Team placed 6th.

a major asset at the end of the season.

With outstanding leadership by the senior

Girls JV placed 11th

Good sportsmanship on the courts was

class, the varsity baseball team once again

and JV boys placed 2nd.

always a given. What made this season great

had a successful season. For the fourth

The Women’s Relay team

was the team’s desire to listen and learn.

consecutive year, the baseball team qualified

placed 5th in the Freestyle,

Players were often committed to practicing

for the state playoffs. Each member of this

and Shayla King was once

longer. They enjoyed themselves on the

year’s team showed great improvement as

again a state champion.

court, while still maintaining a serious attitude.

the season went along. Finishing 3rd in the

Players who were newer to the game made

region, there was not one region game where

real strides with skills and strategy. There was

the team was not competitive. The players

a great cap to the season with competitive

faced region champs Dominion Christian,

play at the Region Tournament, which led

coming down to the last out in both games

to a number of players going to the State

against them. They beat the number two

competition. Special congratulations to the

team in the region, Loganville Christian, both

7

39 | The Magazine

8

9

10

11

Boys’ Varsity Team

FALL CHEERLEADING

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Mustang Award: Chandler Moses

Mustang Award: Kiara McIver

BOOSTER CLUB AWARDS

Most Valuable Player: Ella Ferguson

Most Valuable Player: Sassy Kirkpatrick

Service Award: Judy Porter

MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS A-TEAM WINS NAML CHAMPIONSHIP

CROSS COUNTRY

BASKETBALL CHEERLEADING

Girls Mustang Award: Ella Ferguson

Congratulations to the Middle School Girls

Girls Mustang Award: Claire Parnell

Mustang Award: Hannah Bray

Boys Mustang Award: Matt Reid

Soccer A-team for winning their second

Girls Most Valuable Player: Emmy Bowman

Most Valuable Player: Katie Schnetzer

consecutive NAML Championship versus

Boys Mustang Award: Robert Ojeah

Hebron. They lost to Hebron during the

Boys Most Valuable Player: Jordan Johnston

SOCCER 12

Hall of Fame Award: Jane Dye

COACHES OF THE YEAR SWIMMING

Mike Edmonson and Reggie Burnette

JV Mustang Award: Margaret White

regular season and did brilliantly during the championship game to come away

FOOTBALL

JV Most Valuable Player: James McGuire

GIRLS MOST VALUABLE PLAYER

with a 1-0 win. Way to go lady Mustangs.

Mustang Award: Alex Head

Girls Mustang Award: Sarah Buck

Ashley Standifer

Most Valuable Player: Jaylan Adlam

Girls Most Valuable Player: Shayla King

AWARDS & HONORS

BOYS SOCCER

Boys Mustang Award: Jake Snipes

BOYS MOST VALUABLE PLAYER

Boys Most Valuable Player: Sean King

Alex Head

Mustang Award: Kitt Peterson Most Valuable Player: Taylor Doyle

13

MVPS ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT AND

WRESTLING

Varsity Athletic Awards Dinner

Mustang Award: Robert Barclift

More than 300 students, faculty, parents

SOFTBALL

and friends attended the 2nd annual Varsity

Mustang Award: Ally Schnetzer

Athletic Awards Banquet. Students and

Most Valuable Player: Addie Goins

Most Valuable Player: Alex Head BASEBALL Mustang Award: Coleson Randall

coaches were celebrated for their Mustang athletic accomplishments during the fall,

VOLLEYBALL

winter, and spring seasons of the 2010–2011

Mustang Award: Mary Alvis

academic year. The following awards were given:

Most Valuable Player: Remi McRae

Most Valuable Player: Charles Justus GOLF Mustang Award: Alex Butler

BOYS BASKETBALL

Most Valuable Player: Drew Wagner

Mustang Award: Matt Reid Most Valuable Player: Madison Burton

TENNIS Girls Mustang Award: Meg Buchanan Girls Most Valuable Player: Katherine Day Kent Boys Mustang Award: Jonathan Barnard Boys Most Valuable Player: Charlie Almond TRACK Girls Mustang Award: DeAsia Carter Girls Most Valuable Player: Nnenya Hailey Boys Mustang Award: Evan Tucker Boys Most Valuable Player: Jaylan Adlam

13

41 | The Magazine

The Magazine | 42

Mission work at Orphanage Emmanuel in Honduras

Meet Mount Vernon’s new division leaders for the 2011–2012 School year. Head of Preschool, Krissy King, Head of Lower School (K–4), Shelley Clifford, Head of Middle School (5–8), Jennifer Conrad, and Head of Upper School (9–12), Tyler Thigpen. They will officially begin their new roles July 1. The School community enthusiastically looks forward to what these new administrative team members will bring to Mount Vernon.

Interim Term

2011 Interim Term is an exciting and unique program to Mount Vernon students as they experience learning outside the classroom for an entire week. These dynamic hands-on opportunities are some of the most memorable and enriching programs the school offers. Career Exploration

Domestic Cultural Tour

Twenty- six seniors took part in career exploration internships. The internships ranged from: engineering, veterinarian, YLGHRJUDSK\ HGXFDWLRQ ÀQDQFLDO KHDOWKFDUH EXVLQHVV pharmacy and realty. Senior Abby Parnell interned with Spaceworks, www.spaceworkseng.com, and recounts her experience:

Embarking on a domestic cultural trip, a group of students traveled to New York City and were treated with all of the sights, sounds and excitement of The Big Apple. The group had a tour guide daily who took them to some of the greatest attractions, some of which included: 5th Avenue, Central Park, Ground Zero/Freedom Towers, Lincoln Center, Lower Manhattan, Soho, Chinatown, a Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Top of the Rock Rockefeller Center, Trinity Church, and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. Students also saw two Broadway shows, Million Dollar Quartet and Phantom of the Opera.

>Â˜ĂŠi˜}ˆ˜iiĂ€ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠVÂœÂ“ÂŤ>Â˜ĂžĂŠĂŒÂ…>ĂŒĂŠĂœÂœĂ€ÂŽĂƒĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠ - ĂŠ>˜`ĂŠ other companies that develop new space vehicles. They knew I was interested in biomedical engineering and they assigned me a project to do research on an area of study in which biomedical and aerospace engineering could overlap, which I thought was really interesting. – Abby Parnell

Georgia College Tour Preparing for life after high school, a group of students went on a Georgia College Tour and visited nine colleges around the state. Another group of students went on a Regional College Tour and stopped at nearly 10 colleges throughout South Carolina, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Students on these trips were able to get a glimpse into college life and they developed interests in schools that they might not have discovered otherwise.

Mission Trips Demonstrating the School’s commitment to community Service and outreach, students and staff participated in two separate mission trips. One to Cosby, Tennessee where

KMe now

What would we be surprised to know about you?

students were able to help families in the area through an organization called Sunset Gap Community Center— dedicated to relief, education, and hope. The second mission trip involved a group of sixteen students as well as faculty who traveled to Honduras to do mission work with Orphanage Emmanuel. Those who participated on this trip served God by loving the children in the orphanage and making a lasting impact on their lives.

9iĂƒĂŒiĂ€`>ĂžĂŠĂœ>ĂƒĂŠÂ“ĂžĂŠwĂ€ĂƒĂŒĂŠ`>ÞÊ>ĂŒĂŠ-ÂŤ>ViĂœÂœĂ€ÂŽĂƒ]ĂŠĂœÂ…ÂˆVÂ…ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠ

Getting to

Enrichment On campus, students took part in eight different courses that expanded their knowledge in areas they do not encounter in daily coursework. The courses included Large Scale Painting, Money Management, SAT/ACT Math Prep, SAT/ACT Verbal Prep, The Science of Sports, Wearable Art, Skiing/ Snowboarding, and You Are What You Eat, Food and Culture.

My first teaching job was in a special needs

them. One of my most memorable students was

preschool classroom. I spent the first three years

Grace, a blind, autistic child who was also echolaelic.

of my career working with children with autism,

Hearing her sing Amazing Grace back to me every

cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and a variety of

day warmed my heart. Teaching and caring for

Head of Preschool

other physical and mental challenges. I absolutely

these children helped me to realize how fortunate

Krissy King

fell in love with these children. Many of them relied

I am and have always been. These children taught

on me to feed them, carry them, and even speak for

me to be grateful and to enjoy each day.

(Trusted Mentor)

What is your passion in life? People are my passion in life. Creating and

hardships too, and friends provide the strength

maintaining great relationships brings me joy. Life

to endure such times. I love getting to know and

has so much to celebrate: health, beautiful weather,

learn from people of all stages and walks of life.

births, marriages, promotions, a new home, a new

Taking time to talk to some elderly people in my

puppy, a new idea. I enjoy having people around

neighborhood has been some of the most valuable

with whom to celebrate. Conversely, life can bring

time I have spent.

Shelly Clifford (Servant Leader)

Tell us about your love for the middle school students.

Head of Middle School

Jennifer Conrad (Bridge Builder)

I would describe the middle school years as

other days they will resemble younger children.

the infancy of adulthood. This is one of the last

Middle school students are going to try on different

opportunities we will have to help shape the kind

“hats� to see which one “fits.� One week they may

of adults our students will grow into. Students

be the athlete, the next week the intellectual, and

entering this phase of their life are experiencing

then a tormented artist. It is so satisfying to watch

tremendous social, physical, and intellectual

them grow intellectually, discover hidden talents,

development. Their teachers understand that they

realize they can make a difference in the world, and

are going to experience mood swings; some days

achieve more than they thought possible.

they will be very adult like in their interactions, and

Describe the Harvard experience. Attending Harvard was an absolutely bizarre,

research, and ideas in education), and attending

remarkably beautiful, and unquestionably life-

events featuring thought leaders. In addition to

changing experience.

attending class, I led and facilitated seminars,

Service Further exemplifying the School’s commitment to weaving community outreach with academics, many students were involved in service projects in Atlanta, as well as experiences that focused on the sciences. Students who volunteered SDUWLFLSDWHG LQ KRXUV RI VHUYLFH LQ D YDULHW\ RI QRQ SURÀWV DURXQG WKH FLW\ 6FLHQFH DURXQG $WODQWD WRRN VWXGHQWV WR ÀYH different locations, each one science-based and they were: Atlanta Botanical Gardens, the CDC Museum, the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, and the Bodies Exhibition and Dialog in the Dark.

Head of Lower School

including “The Greening of America’s Schools: Throughout the year, I had the privilege of organizing

Intersections of Environment and Education Policy,�

events for my classmates (with various MIT, Harvard

“Mayors and Superintendents Working Together,�

Business School, and Harvard Education School

“A Conversation with Vicki Phillips, Education Director

counterparts), co-chairing the Education Professional

for Gates Foundation,� and “Christian Humanism:

Interest Council (a group committed to connecting

The Christian Grounds for Living an Authentic

Harvard students interested in education with leaders,

Human Life.�

Find out more about our new division leaders online at: www.mountvernonpresbyterianschool.org

Head of Upper School

Tyler Thigpen (Strategic Thinker)

The Magazine | 44

Section name

The Arts

Revealing Creative Thought During the spring semester at Mount Vernon, we all enjoyed the many and varied artistic installations captured by the students that were on view. It’s always exciting to pass by and see WKH QHZ H[KLELWV 7KH ÀUVW H[KLELW WR IROORZ LV WKH creative self portraits of the eight grade students, shown alongside current photos of the artists, bearing their incredibly accurate interpretive likenesses. The second exhibit is a startlingly mature view of the world from the perspective of Preschool and Kindergarten students.

45 | The Magazine

The Magazine | 46

Dillon Briggs Ross Clay

Katherine Ward

Chad Tawfik

8 grade th

self portraits Under the direction of Upper School Art teacher Frank Shelton, the 8th grade self-portraits were a study in design, color theory, and creating the illusion of form through the use of contrasting values. The students looked into a mirror and drew a larger than life-sized line drawing of themselves on cardboard. Limited to a few colors, the students used acrylic paints to complete the self-portrait masterpieces. 47 | The Magazine

Sierra Middleton

Katie Erwin

Matthew McCahan

The Magazine | 48

art spotlight

Art and Innovation: Preschool & Kindergarten

Fresh Eyes

Preschool and kindergarten see the world in new ways Chris Voith

Brandon Snow

Eli Maulding

Jessica Wurst

Parker Buchanan

Gareth Tremege

49 | The Magazine

In the Preschool and Kindergarten studio this year, students have had much success interpreting the visual world around them. One of the joys of this age group is their ability to be RSHQ DQG FRQÀGHQW DERXW WKHLU artwork. But with this said, RQH RI WKH PRVW GLIÀFXOW WDVNV RI WKH WHDFKHU LV ÀQGLQJ ZD\V to motivate and teach habits of self-learning.

Most of the students are very motivated to solve the “problemsâ€? because it includes a visual narrative. Two main themes covered in the Kindergarten this year were “Around the World,â€? which showcases art and crafts for various cultures across the globe, and “Meet the Artist,â€? which introduces students to artists, their work, techniques and inspirations. One recent Kindergarten lesson about American VFXOSWRU 'DYLG 6PLWK H[HPSOLĂ€HV KRZ VWXGHQWV can gain access to the art world through the process of observation, critiquing, and creation. With little intimidation by Smith’s abstract, welded pieces of steel, students observed how Smith laid out a design starting with sculptural paintings and eventually added a third dimension. Wow, that’s a lot like how we do a sketch EHIRUH RXU Ă€QDO DUWZRUN Soon students were selecting, cutting, and arranging pieces of cardboard on the tables, Ă la David Smith, with a sense of discovery and design. “Would this balance?â€? “That piece to too small.â€? They considered each others’ creations. “That looks good, that would work.â€? They gave their support. With all pieces decided on and glued down, students painted the negative space around the cardboard to highlight the “sculptureâ€? itself. It was like adding another dimension, as students mixed and blended their acrylics, they blended the ideas of David Smith and their world.

Soon students were selecting, cutting and arranging pieces of cardboard on the tables, Ă laĂŠ >Ă›Âˆ`ĂŠ-Â“ÂˆĂŒÂ…]ĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠ>ĂŠĂƒiÂ˜ĂƒiĂŠ of discovery and design.

The Magazine | 50

Beginning a new tradition at Mount Vernon, the entire School community came together on April 15 for the

Thank you for supporting the inaugural

Mustang Rally!

inaugural Mustang Rally. Supported by more than 100

THE MOUNT VERNON FUND 2010 – 2011

corporate and family sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor BB&T, event Chairs Nancy Calhoun and Elizabeth Jones

Thank you for your gift to the Mount Vernon Fund. Through the support of the Mount Vernon community, the School reached a new record of parent participation – 90%! Mount Vernon Presbyterian School thanks our parents, grandparents, alumni and friends for their generous support. Your gift allows the School to create an exceptional educational experience and is an investment in the students and faculty of Mount Vernon.

and their team of volunteer leaders created an outstanding and memorable day for students and their families. Students in Preschool through Grade 12 participated in a parade, field races, a family picnic and outdoor concert, power and powder puff games from Upper School students and an over-the-top carnival. All proceeds from the Mustang Rally will fund technology in classrooms throughout the School.

GEORGIA TAX CREDIT PROGRAM

Save the date! 2012 Mustang Rally – Friday, April 27!

Give yourself some credit.

In 2010, the Mount Vernon community embraced the challenge: ‡ $ SHUFHQW LQFUHDVH RI IXQGV UDLVHG RYHU ZLWK UDLVHG ‡ IDPLOLHV SDUWLFLSDWHG DQ LQFUHDVH RI IDPLOLHV IURP ‡ 19 students received financial aid across lower, middle and upper school divisions

GEORGIA TAX CREDIT PROGRAM

Hundreds of Mount Vernon Presbyterian School families have already participated in this annual program since its inception in 2008. The Georgia Tax Credit Program allows you to redirect a portion of your Georgia state taxes to Mount Vernon to support financial aid for deserving students. This opportunity is available to anyone in our School community – parents, grandparents, friends, and employers – who pay Georgia state income taxes. In 2011, the Mount Vernon community can lead the growth: The $50 million state cap was almost met for the first time last year. The word is out and more schools are participating, which means the cap will be met – probably as early as fall 2011. Act now to participate for the 2011 calendar year. 2011 forms are available on our website: www.mountvernonschool.org/ga.tax.credit.

MUSTANG RALLY The final numbers are in and the Mustang Rally exceeded expectations by raising more than $110,000 for technology needs at the School. Through the support of more than 100 family sponsors, 13 corporate sponsors and the entire School community, we raised funds to support the technology needs of our students and faculty while enjoying a wonderful family day at the School! The funds will be used to purchase and install interactive white boards in classrooms, provide teachers with upgraded laptops, and purchase necessary network and server upgrades.

For more information about Development programs, contact the Development Office at 404.252.3448.

51 | The Magazine

The Magazine | 52

The Point For the past seven years we have had the privilege and honor to serve on the Board of Trustees, the last four as Chair and Vice Chair. Looking back over the years, it is remarkable to remember the exciting, rewarding and challeng ing road growing from a PS–8th “feeder” school to the highly compet itive, well-respected PS–12th environment for educational excellence

By Dave Kolb, Chair and Paula Fisher, Vice Chair, Board of Trustees

In the fall of 2006, classes commenced on the Glenn Campus, ushering in a historic milestone for MVPS. The Class of 2008 entered the Clock Tower for the very first time as Juniors. Later that School year, in 2007, the School received both its accreditation for the new grades, and reaccred itation for the established grades.

In the summer of 2008, the Board established a search committee to find a new Head of School. In early 2009, Dr. Brett Jacobsen was unanimously approved In the beginning of our first term under David by the Board of Trustees as our new Head of School. Barclift’s leadersh ip as Board Chair, conversations were Dr. Jacobsen was highly credent ialed and experienced already taking place at the executive committee level as Head of a large and successful private PS–12 school to expand, as the result of growing interest within the in the heart of Houston. School community to It was his vision, faith, have a high school. rship, leade sen’s Under Dr. Jacob integrit y, collaborative You will hear many leadersh ip, drive, reputation, the School has experienced wave of us refer to the track record, initiative, generosity of the after wave of accomplishments. emotional intelligence and Glenn Family in wisdom that made him the Visions have been emboldened, partnering with the ideal choice to lead Mount School to build the faculty and staff empowered, Vernon on the path to Glenn Campus. , tened heigh ards becoming the best private programs and stand college preparatory Christian In 2004, modular communication strengthened, school in the world. classrooms were and h Churc the een relationship betw installed on the Under Dr. Jacobsen’s School knitted without seams, and Lower School leadersh ip, the School has campus parking dreams are becoming reality. experienced wave after wave lot which housed of accomplishments. Visions the very first have been emboldened, faculty and staff empowered, 9th grade class, soon to claim the honor as Mount programs and standards heightened, communication Vernon’s inaugural graduat ing Class of 2008. The very strengthened, relationship between the Church successful “Imagine” Capital Campaign was in full and School knitted without seams, and dreams are swing. In the summer of 2005, an additional modular becoming reality. complex of classrooms and administrative offices was built on the parking lot of the Independent Method ist Leadership opportunities for faculty, staff and students Church, while construction of the Glenn Campus have been initiated, creating fertile ground for potentia l was in full gear. To make things even more exciting, to be maximized in people and programs. Faith is being the Board was in the middle of a five-year strategic deepened, music is being heard, students are growing planning process, timed for complet ion in concert one another, and communities around the world are with the School’s reaccred iting and newly accredit ing being touched by Mount Vernon’s heart for missions. process to include the high school.

that Mount Vernon is today.

We are excited about the future of our School. And we are equally as confident in its leadersh ip. The Board and Session have unanimously approved Lisa R. Drake, M.D. as Board Chair. Lisa is an Anesthesiologist/ Partner with Ambulatory Anesthesia Specialists, LLC. She and her husband, Dr. Brian Thomas, have two sons, Alex (9) and Carson (6), who both attend

2010–2011 Board of Trustees David Kolb-Chair Paula Fisher-Vice Chair Mike Watkins-Treasurer Steve Ray- Secretary

Mount Vernon. Brad Allison

As a Board Member, Lisa has provided incredible leadersh ip and wisdom as co-chair of the Strategic Thinking Committee. Her leadersh ip in this breadth of huge responsibility has demonstrated and affirms how extremely well-respected she is among colleagues in all the communities she represents. Lisa is inheriting a very strong governing Board, postured intentionally with strength in key areas of leadersh ip constituency

Joy Carden

representation.

Bill McCahan

In closing, we want to pay a very special tribute to the other two members of the Executive Committee … Steve Ray and Mike Watkins … whose dedication, leadersh ip, wisdom and friendsh ip made this journey one we will treasure for all the years to come. We are so grateful for your loyalty, dedication and commit ment. And to all of the Trustees, both present, past and future … and to each member of the Mount Vernon community … while our term on the Board comes to a close, our loyalty to you and to Mount Vernon will forever remain. We celebrate with all of you, knowing that each harvest, no matter how great or small, is the culmination of every seed ever planted.

Carla Corley Lisa Drake Aubrey Forlines Bruce Hagenau Brad Hahn Mark Huff Christy Pierce Bill Porter Todd Rounsaville Robert Shuford Jim Snave Dan Turner Ex-Officio Dr. Brett Jacobsen Rev. Joe B. Martin 2011–2012 Officers Lisa Drake, Chair Todd, Rounsaville, Vice-Chair

May God richly bless you and your family in all the years to come.

Steve Ray, Secretary Dan Turner, Treasurer

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The 2011–2012 school year marks an important time in Mount Vernon’s past and future as the School celebrates its 40th Anniversary. :KLOH WKH HQWLUH \HDU ZLOO EH D WLPH RI UHÁHFWLRQ and celebration, the anniversary festivities will culminate during a week-long celebration November 13–19, 2011.

Main events include: Sunday: Ladies Tea | Monday: Men’s Prayer Breakfast | Tuesday: Arts Showcase (visual and performing) | Wednesday: School-wide Chapel Celebration | Thursday: Founder’s & Friends Reception | Friday: Pep Rally, Lunch on the Green, Ice Cream Social | Saturday: Grand Finale Birthday Bash (live band, dancing)

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