MOUNT VERNON P R E S BY T E R I A N S C H O O L
THE MAGAZINE
WINTER 2011
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS PRESCHOOL THROUGH GRADE 12
ACADEMIC INNOVATION AT MOUNT VERNON:
EMPOWERING
the Next Generation of Leaders – PAGE 26
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. The Mount Vernon Magazine, published twice annually by the Office of Advancement, is mailed free of charge to 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 web site at www.mountvernonschool.org. Disclaimer: Mount Vernon Presbyterian School makes every effort to ensure that all names and listings are accurate and complete. If a name has been omitted, misspelled, or listed incorrectly, please accept our sincerest apologies.
winter 2011
2 MY PERSPECTIVE Dr. Jacobsen announces launch of the next strategic pro roce cess ss. 10 CAMPUS NOTES Latest news, events, achieveme men nts hi nts high ghli ligh ght th thee Mo Moun untt Ve Vern non comm munity. mu mu 26 COVER STORY Twenty first century educa caati tion on proovi vid des des es st stud students u ts w ud with the skills to lead in the future. 41 ANN NNUA UAL REPORT Office of Advanc ncem em men nt spotli otli lig lights ig the generosity of the School community. 53 MOU 53 OUNT NT VERNON FELL LLOW OWS S Gr Gran nts allow dreams d to come true for faculty. 56 THE POINT OF OF TH THE HE STTOR ORY Y Cl Clas ass of 2010 as 011 alumnus talks about his MVPS preparation for college.
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DR. BRETT JACOBSEN Head of School
The Next 40:
Designing Innovation
TODAY for a Sustainable
TOMORROW Mount Vernon Presbyterian School stands at the intersection of the second decade of the 21st century and the celebration of 40 years as a strong Christian educational community in August. At Mount Vernon, the air is charged with possibility as we seek to be the best 21st century Christian college-preparatory school in the world.
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
This is a
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BOLD VISION but we do not apologize for it. While we are proud of our rich history, there is real excitement as we look to the future of our School. The School is on the verge of a new era of exploration and innovation, under the guidance of an energized staff, Board and faculty leadership as well as a committed and connected parent community. Established by four strong pillars of the School – Learning, Leadership, Service, and Spiritual Growth – Mount Vernon officially launches the next strategic planning process for the future of the School and most importantly, our students. Exhorted by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), “With the financial crisis easing in most areas, how do independent school leaders, tackle the next phase of building strong, financially sustainable schools, able to prepare students for success in an ever-changing world?” What are the critical factors the School needs to know at this pivotal moment in time to be the most effective, innovative Christian college preparatory school in the world while sustaining the rich history of core values and tradition as an independent school? We all recognize the need for a 21st century education for our students; one that blends the rigorous academic standards of traditional curriculum but also focuses on 21st century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, adaptability, effective communication and leadership. Business leaders, researchers and experts in the field of education, including the President of NAIS Patrick Bassett, are challenging schools to design their classrooms around these skills, which are vital for success in the 21st century. Mount Vernon embraces this challenge, and seeks to set a new standard for independent school education. While we strive to reach new heights of excellence, we remain committed to providing a nurturing environment where each student is known. Over the next year, the Strategic Planning Committee appointed by the Mount Vernon Board of Trustees will involve parents, teachers, students, grandparents, the business and philanthropic community as well as higher education to position the School for the future. Through this community-wide conversation, the Committee will commence into a period of thorough research and thoughtful dialogue about Mount Vernon’s foundational assumptions, core convictions, and academic themes based on a strategic framework recognized by NAIS and other focal points identified by MVPS. It is the stewardship of our mission and resources that allows the School to seize this moment of possibility and to advance our mission of academic excellence, physical development, and spiritual enrichment. THE MAGAZINE
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Guiding
Principles
Upon my arrival in June 2009, I asked, “What is our DNA?” You overwhelmingly responded, “MVPS is a Christ-centered preparatory school; with committed Christian faculty that nurtures a safe atmosphere for kids; an academically challenging preparatory school; not your average Christian school; students don’t get lost here; extension of Family; a place where teachers are called to invest their lives in your child; and this school loves my child.” The essence of Mount Vernon Presbyterian School is community – community of
faith, school community, neighborhood community, and community of relationships that last forever – dedicated to academic excellence, physical development and spiritual enrichment. Grounded in Christian values, we seek to develop leaders who will use their unique abilities to think, serve and live their lives with wisdom and moral integrity. As one leading scholar asked, “Why have schools and colleges sacrificed their noble, idealistic, and spiritual missions for a practical, cynical indifferent alternative?” Focusing on our future during the strategic planning process, Mount Vernon Presbyterian School will not sacrifice our mission, our identity for a practical, cynical, generic, or indifferent alternative. However, our mission is anchored by strong guiding principles established under the 2006-2011 Strategic Plan. William Bowen, former president of Princeton, asserted that a great educational institution “is always under construction.” In the midst of this “construction,” our community must be agile and adaptable to a fast-paced digitally-based global marketplace. As a community we will address some basic questions: Where have we been? Where we are now? Where
The guiding principles will support the strategic framework during the planning process over the coming year.
Mount Vernon Presbyterian School… Provides a college preparatory environment dedicated to developing students who are motivated to excel in life.
Inspires all students to pursue academic excellence, take pride in their work, develop leadership skills and celebrate their achievements.
Creates an atmosphere where students enjoy learning, have fun and develop lifelong relationships.
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Motivates students to become independent thinkers, to set and achieve goals and to be accountable for their actions.
Compliments the academic program with a wide range of activities to develop the mind, body and spirit of each student.
Believes that diversity and global awareness enrich the learning experience.
Expects and encourages all faculty, staff and students to lead lives of honor, integrity and high moral character at all times.
Provides a Christian environment where students are encouraged to develop their own personal faith and spirituality.
Demonstrates a concern for the welfare of others through grade appropriate outreach programs.
Respects the unique value of each member of the school community.
MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
In the inaugural publication, 2010-2011 Trendbook for Independent Schools, NAIS provides independent schools like Mount Vernon timely research to consider:
Economic uncertainty in the United States and abroad will require independent schools to be even more attuned to those factors affecting markets and constituencies, especially regional and local trend data such as employment, housing, income, demographics, competition, etc.
Schools on the leading edge emphasize both traditional and innovative instruction that can be differentiated, experiential, immersive, and blended.
The American demographic landscape is shifting. The continued growth of our population, its racial and ethnic diversification, its aging, and its uneven educational attainment were major issues that impacted our country in the first decade of the 21st century.
In the current economic environment, anticipating the degree to which schools’ financial aid budgets and policies need rethinking will depend largely on local economies and income distribution, housing markets, tuition levels, and competitive alternatives for families.
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Strategic
Framework
Schools are growing their use of social media tools to nurture relationships with constituents more effectively and to advance organizational objectives.
While it is important to take a comprehensive approach to global education, schools may find it useful to tackle individual elements – a quick way to measure how global a school is through the elements of curriculum, including language teaching, international students and faculty, exchanges, sister schools, service learning, and other trips abroad, and digital partnerships with schools in other regions.
Questionable content sources and the sheer number of education options available will raise concerns about the quality and validity of online content and learning experiences and create demands for quality assurance.
Schools are paying more attention to energy efficiency, green buildings and renovations, which has resulted in schools achieving LEED certifications for both new construction and rebuilds.
we are going? and How will we know when we get there? Therefore, through this lens, the framework for the Strategy Planning Committee will touch every facet of Mount Vernon. Viewed as interdependent parts, the Committee will initiate a constructive conversation and conduct a deep analysis of the following areas recognized by NAIS and other important components identified by MVPS: (a) Christian Education, (b) Faculty, (c) Economic Outlook and Conditions, (d) 21st Century Education, (e) Philanthropic Outlook, (f ) Physical Plant and Resources, (g) Demographics and Diversity Outlook, (h) Financial Aid Outlook, (i) Marketing Communications and Social Media, (j) Global Education, (k) Arts and Athletics, (l) Education Technology, and (m) Environmental Sustainability. Guided by core convictions and academic themes, this strategic framework will require the Committee to ask a number of questions and to receive input from the MVPS community as a way to gather an accurate amount of research for setting goals, objectives and strategies.
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Community
Conversation
At Mount Vernon Presbyterian School, we are in the business of ideas. The true power of ideas comes from their implementation, and that cannot happen without vision, leadership and community. In the same way, Mount Vernon’s potential cannot be realized without communal action. Your support will bring us closer to our vision and help us seize the great moment of possibility we have worked so hard to achieve. Throughout the coming year, the entire Mount Vernon community will be encouraged to participate in a variety of ways through committee work, online input and responses, surveys, small and large group coffees, and/or individual conversations. In summary, the planning process will include research utilizing the components of the strategic framework, community input to committee work, synthesis and analysis of research and feedback, draft, final plan, and implementation. As a contextual part of the conversation, a resource the School encourages all members of the community to read is The Global Achievement Gap by Tony Wagner. Wagner’s educational research reflects the changes of the educational landscape p and its impact on the global marketplace and technology. Wagner asks, “In light of the fundamental changes that have taken place in our society in the last twenty five years, what does it mean to be an educated adult in the twenty-first century? Whatt do we think all high school graduates need to know and be able to do to be well prepared for college, careers and citizenship? And, d, since we can’t teach everything, what is most important? What are the best ways to know whether students have mastered the skills that matter most? How do we create a better assessment and d accountability system that gives us the information we need to ensure that all students are learning essential skills? What do we need to do in our schools to motivate students to be curious and imaginative, and to enjoy learning for its own sake? How do we ensure that every student has an adult advocate in his or her school who knows the student well?” During the spring semester, the faculty and staff will be discussing the book and its implications on Mount Vernon.
Follow Our
Progress
As the 2006-2011 Strategic Plan comes to a close and the School embarks on its future, the Strategic Planning Committee will provide updated progress throughout the process linked from the homepage of the Schools web site, www.mountvernonschool.org. The document will be more than a checklist of “to dos” and will become a live, agile document with measurements to track our progress in the future. In conjunction with the planning process, Mount Vernon will be conducting a self-study to prepare for re-accreditation for April 2012. As you know, the School maintains dual accreditation through SAIS-SACS. If you have questions or comments about the Strategic Planning process, please email strategicplan@mountvernonschool.org. Someone said, “Extraordinary times call for extraordinary schools.” I strongly believe Mount Vernon is an extraordinary school – the dedication of highly qualified teachers who are fervent about the education and Christian nurture of students, the unwavering
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myperspective passion of committed parents, the enthusiastic spirit of achieving students, the availability of technology for communication, learning and teaching; and the accessibility to excellent facilities. This is an energizing and exhilarating time to be a part of the Mount Vernon Presbyterian School community. Embracing the rapid innovations that will define the 21st century while aggressively and strategically focusing on the future, MVPS is an extraordinary school with extraordinary opportunities ahead. The School has highly ambitious goals for the future, and continual assessment and improvement of all facets
Extraordinary
Opportunity
of MVPS will ensure an uncompromising commitment to and achievement of excellence throughout every arena. May the Mount Vernon community “be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk 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 power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father� (Colossians 1). Rooted in tradition and focused on our future, I am proud to consider myself a part of a vibrant, innovative community. I love my school!
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Thought-Provoking Documentaries Spark Thoughtful Discussions Launching Mount Vernon’s Strategic Planning Process During the months of November and December, faculty, staff, trustees, students, and parents were invited to participate in the beginning stages of the School’s strategic planning process by analyzing three well-publicized documentaries regarding American education. Dividing into three groups, participants watched Race to Nowhere, Two Million Minutes, and Waiting for Superman and afterwards discussed the implications of the films and their potential impact on the future of Mount Vernon. Thoughtful questions, observations, and common themes emerged, and much of the analysis is synthesized here. Perhaps more importantly though, the films started an important dialogue about the goals of education and what those goals might mean and look like for Mount Vernon’s future. We look forward to more thoughtful discussion as we plan for the future with you.
RACE TO NOWHERE REACTION: Thought-provoking
TWO MILLION MINUTES REACTION: System is more focused on the holistic approach
Beginning of a discussion Kids are overscheduled No homework was overkill
WAITING FOR SUPERMAN REACTION: Film makes viewer sad, bitter Problem is too big for a simple fix
Academics are balanced with extracurricular activities
Schools are losing great teachers
Having choices allows students to have input into their career choices
QUESTIONS: What needs to be done to fix tenure issues?
Systems in China and India are very focused on academics
What is the solution?
Keep student anxiety and expectations in mind Teach kids differently – inspire them to love to learn.
Strong emphasis on math and science QUESTIONS: Do we have higher expectations of kids than in generations before? Isn’t life really homework – being prepared? SUMMARY: Manage the pressure to perform
Limited choices offered to students and families impact career path SUMMARY: Film emphasized America is lagging behind in education
SUMMARY: Strong communities build strong schools and vice versa SKILLS: Independence, initiative, motivation, innovation, technology, reading and math proficiency, writing and computer literacy, comprehension, strong work ethic, accountability, critical thinking, leadership, problem solving
American schools are not consistent in quality Rethink the model Education is not one size fits all SKILLS: Resilience, resourcefulness, collaboration, strong social skills, critical thinking, problem solving, technological, imagination, creativity, leadership, integrity, discernment, listening
SKILLS: Communication, collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, life-long learning skills
RESOURCES: Authentic learning experiences Teacher support
RESOURCES: Technology (media and digital communications)
VALUES: Respect and accountability
Hands-on experience
MISSION: Mission should always put students first
RESOURCES: Schools that teach these skills Support as they learn skills 8
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RACE TO NOWHERE Real-world applications
TWO MILLION MINUTES
WAITING FOR SUPERMAN
VALUES: Christian values
PASSION: Give students the resources to learn and excel
Faith and humanity
BEST: Students are striving to be the best
Technology savvy VALUES: Christian values Strong moral compass Commitment to service to others and community MISSION: MVPS can set our own course MVPS can be a leader in changing the educational model PASSION: Foster students’ unique needs and passions Build programs that build quality kids
MISSION: School mission statement is appropriate for our students PASSION: Ensure that students are offered opportunities to serve and lead BEST: Are we preparing our students to be the “best in the world” for 21st Century? RESOURCE ENGINE: Are we connecting our families to the future?
LEAD: Need a better understanding of “Millennial Generation” and their needs and expectations
How will we measure excellence?
Prepare students to succeed in challenging economies, global markets, expanding communication technologies
LEAD: Be leaders in technology and innovation INNOVATE: Preserve flexibility and autonomy School has Do not be afraid to try new things- we need a culture of trying ADAPT: Improve communication Teach students needed skills Enforce basic reading and writing skills Adopt best practices from research and peers
INNOVATE: Build on success of Writing Initiative and iDesign Lab – utilize a technology lab with multiple applications
LEAD: Decide what we are known for – what educational niche we will fill in the marketplace
Provide professional development to faculty to provide leadership to students
Lead by educating our parents and teachers on how we will get there
ADAPT: Provide guidance on time management
Be an open community – dialogue between all stakeholders
science EExpand Ex xpa p ndd math math atth and and ssc an cie ienncce opportunities opppo oppo port rttuunnititie i s
INNOVATE: Dialogue about what we are trying to build in our students
RESOURCE ENGINE: Focus on teacher development to further students – they are directly related
Be open to global learning
BEST: How do we define academic excellence at MVPS?
RESOURCE ENGINE: MVPS has strong momentum and direction – so how do we get there: Find a balance for students in all of the components of the mission
Success is an expectation
IIntegration In nte tegr grat attio ion of io of additional addit ddittio dd ionnaal foreign fore fo fore reig ign languages lang la lang ngua uaggees to uage to curriculum cu urr r icul iccul ulum um um
Brainstorm on the design of the rooms, the curriculum, the metrics of learning Engage the students – let them lead and teach ADAPT: Consider varied educational approaches and measurements Create a learning environment that is not about “what is on the test” Incorporate project-based learning and portfolio assessment
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CAMPUSnotes Excitement and Smiles
ON THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL As students began to arrive on campus on August 24, the faces were filled with excitement and smiles and maybe a few butterflies to start a brand new school year. With new teachers, new friends, new challenges and new activities in their horizons, the students all took their places in their classrooms and jumped right in! The all school Convocation was the first event of the day. Students, faculty and parents joined together on the Glenn Campus to hear Dr. Brett Jacobsen’s inspiring speech about no reserves, no regrets, and no retreats. Following Convocation the Middle School faculty, staff and students gathered together for an official ribbon cutting ceremony to dedicate the opening of the Middle School Academic Building as another step was taken in our growth process as a Preschool through Grade 12 School. As the first day came to a close, students went home with a sense of excited anticipation for an amazing and knowledge provoking 2010-2011 school year.
Community Service
AND OUTREACH PROGRAM We are pleased to introduce the new Community Service and Outreach Program to MVPS. The Lower School has one organization per grade level that they collectively commit to throughout the year. Each class within the grades will be a “small group” to really foster community and a sense of family in the service process. Depending on the organization chosen, these grades go collectively at one time or in smaller groupings on different days. Throughout Class Notes, you will see many examples of the Community Service and Outreach Program at work in our classrooms and in our community.
LOWER SCHOOL STUDENTS VISITED BY
Canine Assistants Organization On August 30 the third grade classes were visited by a Labrador Retriever from the Canine Assistants organization. The students learned about service dogs and how they assist people who are disabled. On Helping Hands Day, September 10, the Kindergarten classes were visited by a Canine Assistants dog. The Canine Assistants Organization is a non-profit organization that the Kindergarten is partnering with this year through the new Community Service and Outreach Program.
Head of School Address More than 400 parents, faculty and staff gathered on the Glenn Campus on August 31 to hear the Head of School Address given by Dr. Brett Jacobsen. He enthusiastically spoke about the Year of Design and how it pertains to Mount Vernon as an educational environment in the 21st century. The 21st Century Design Initiative that Dr. Jacobsen addressed highlights the importance and implementation of teaching the following skills: character, creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, real-world problem solving, communications, public speaking, teaming, leadership, and design thinking. As Mount Vernon seeks to be the best Christian college preparatory community in the world, it also seeks to be a leader in educating young people in the 21st century. Choosing to be a part of Mount Vernon and its future is a wise choice and Dr. Jacobsen’s Head of School Address served to underscore this.
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CAMPUSnotes
Supply Drive
ALL SCHOOL Several Upper School prefects spent time in September counting the number of items that were collected in the All School Supply Drive. Mount Vernon students collected 4,123 items during the drive! What a fantastic start to the philanthropy piece of the new Community Service and Outreach Program that Mount Vernon began this school year. The items were donated to several schools right here in our Sandy Springs community. Many local students benefitted from the generous giving of Mount Vernon students. MVPS REMEMBERS
September 11 2217 hours, 739 students, 29 places and acts of service; this is what Mount Vernon students took part in on September 10 during Helping Hands Day. Beginning in 2006, Helping Hands Day became a school-wide day of service during which all Mount Vernon students, along with faculty and staff, step out of the classrooms and reach into the community. Preschool through third grade students participate in projects held on campus while fourth through twelfth grade students volunteer on site with Atlanta-based non-profit organizations. The goal is to provide support to our community while teaching our students the value of selflessness, compassion and responsibility. Ultimately, this day each year is dedicated to and honor those that lost their life on September 11.
Sixth Grade
RETREAT The sixth grade had a fabulous day on their fall retreat. On September 2, 2010, the sixth grade class traveled to Simpsonwood Retreat Center in Norcross. This retreat was a team building event and service project combined into one incredible experience. Students were grouped into teams of 8-10 participants, and then worked together as teams to overcome a series of challenges to build a child’s bicycle with supervision. The sixth grade donated the bicycles to a local charity. The challenges were a combination of proven, high-energy, problem-solving initiatives and mental challenges that helped our sixth grade students identify and learn the behaviors of optimum teamwork.
Concert ON THE GREEN On September 11, an overwhelming amount of families, students, faculty and staff came out for the Concert on the Green. Jay Memory, from legendary band, Memory Dean performed several sets of music. There was even a set of music for the younger children, which got the kids up and dancing; even some of the older students joined in on the fun. The Concert on the Green was a fantastic event that brought all areas of Mount Vernon together for a fun and memorable evening with friends, fun, food and music.
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Technology
IN THE CLASSROOM Lower School and Middle School students have been very excited this year about utilizing new forms of technology inside the classroom for conducting research, developing presentations, completing assessments, collaborating on projects, etc. The School technology program addresses three major areas inside the classroom: (1) access to technology; (2) applicability; and (3) integration. The Glenn Campus is a completely wireless campus with Smart Boards in every classroom, and the Upper School has a 1:1 laptop program where all students purchase a laptop computer as they begin their ninth grade year to use throughout their Upper School experience for daily learning and research. There are more than 50 laptops accessed by Middle School students as well as 10 Promethean ActivBoards that are inside all Middle School classrooms. The Lower School is a completely wireless campus as well. There are more than 100 laptop computers and 12 Promethean ActivBoards throughout the Lower School classrooms. Preschool students are included too – with iMacs in each classroom.
PRESCHOOL
Movie Night
On September 18 the Upper School Unity Prefect, Caroline Steffens, and a group of over 18 Upper School students hosted a movie night for our Prekindergarten, Young Fives, and Kindergarten students. More than 60 young students attended to watch Toy Story, enjoy pizza and play games. It was a great evening for all involved.
GRADES 9-11
Retreat
Grades 9 – 11 ventured to the beautiful mountains of Ocoee, TN for their annual retreat. While at Horn’s Creek Resort the students participated in a wide array of activities including paintball, an obstacle course/mud relay, group competitions, a skit/talent show, breakout sessions, and a few other “community” times looking at spending their lives well. It was a great opportunity for the students to grow deeper in their relationships with each other and their faith, connect with students across grade levels, and to be poured into by the senior leaders. The entire weekend was arranged and planned by the Upper School Prefects and their committees.
FIFTH GRADE AND THE
Atlanta Food Bank The fifth grade has partnered with the Atlanta Food Bank this year through the new Community Service and Outreach Program. On September 21, Linda Colbaugh’s fifth grade class visited the Atlanta Food Bank. The following is a summary of what they did; written by fifth grader, Mark, “Today we went to the Atlanta Food Bank. We were sorting and packaging foods. The things I packaged were canned good and cereals and snacks. I must have made 20 boxes. During this I learned how to estimate weight. We packaged four thousand pounds and three thousand meals. Although it was work, it was still fun and I would like to go again.”
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CAMPUSnotes
FIRST GRADE VISITS
The Center for Puppetry Arts The
first grade took a trip to the Center for Puppetry Arts on October 5. The students saw a performance of the puppet show, Charlotte’s Web. First graders then were able to take part in the Create-A-Puppet Workshop. This was a hands-on, curriculum-based workshop. The students became puppet makers as they each created a puppet to take home. Learning activities and the puppet correlated with the show theme. A unique and treasured program at Mount Vernon is the cultural arts program for the Lower School. Last year Lower School students participated in 39 different field trips. These trips included visits to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Alliance Theatre, Oakland Cemetery, the Cyclorama, and the Atlanta History Center. The students greatly enjoy the hands-on opportunity to learn outside of the classroom. Another component of the cultural arts program at Mount Vernon is the variety of programs that come onto campus for presentations. This includes performances by “Young Audiences”, the Woodruff Arts Center School program, and science activities presented by “Science Excitement.” Preschool students also take part in some of the cultural arts programs that come to campus. Last year students were given the opportunity to see 28 different programs that came to the School to foster the cultural arts.
National Merit Scholarship
AND AP SCHOLAR AWARDS In spring of 2010, Kitt Peterson and Addie Placido received notice, as a result of their junior PSAT scores, that they were Commended Students in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program. They were recognized for their exceptional academic promise demonstrated by their outstanding performance on the qualifying test used for program entry. Over 1.5 million students took the 2009 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSTA/NMSAQT) last October and entered the National Merit Program, which is a nationwide competition for recognition and awards. The 50,000 highest scorers were offered the College Plans Reporting Service. In September the number was further culled to 16,000 of the high performers who were designated Semifinalists; Kitt Peterson was among that select group. He will advance to Finalist standing by meeting a number of additional requirements. The other 34,000 high performers were named Commended Students on the basis of a national Selection Index score. These commended students, including Addie Placido, placed among the top five percent of 1.5 million students who entered the 2011 competition and represent some of the most academically talented students in our country. In addition, Mount Vernon Upper School students have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition for their exceptional achievement on AP Exams. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program provides willing and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. Weichao Kong, a class of 2010
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CAMPUSnotes
graduate, qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with scores of 3 or higher. Weichao is currently a freshman at Carnegie Mellon University. Kitt Peterson qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Congratulations to these students for their dedication and hard work!
PRESCHOOL PARENT
Share Program
The Parent Share program in the Preschool is an opportunity for parents to come in and visit all of the Preschool classes (Three Year Olds through Young Fives) to share something about themselves with students. This can be about careers, interests, travel, culture, etc. So far this year the Preschool students have been visited by an airline pilot, a guitarist, a nurse, and several other parents who have come to share their interests.
Eighth GRADE RETREAT On October 3 and 4, our 8th grade students ventured to the Georgian FFA/FCCLA Camp in Covington, GA for a retreat planned and led by Upper School students. While in Covington, the students were divided into 7 teams and competed in a wide array of activities ranging from an obstacle course/relay and station competitions to trivia and skit games. They attended sessions where they learned about the Upper School Advantage. Students were given words of encouragement from members of our Middle School faculty and administration. It was a great time of strengthening current friendships, growing as a broader class, and being poured into by extraordinary senior leaders.
6TH GRADE TO
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
On October 6, as part of the Cultural Arts program at Mount Vernon, the sixth grade traveled downtown to watch a performance by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra entitled The Soundtrack of Your Life.
GISA ALL SELECT
Band
Three Mount Vernon students were named to the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) All-Select Band and performed for the GISA conference on October 31 at Holy Spirit Preparatory School in Atlanta. Congratulations to Jonathan Moore (9th), Parker Thiel (9th) and Corey Knapp (10th).
Homecoming
2010 Homecoming 2010 proved to be one spirited week at Mount Vernon – a display of class colors and hallway decorations, class competitions, pep rallies, cookouts, and much more. The evening before the game, the School community enjoyed a picnic and concert with Jay Memory. For the Homecoming game, the Mount Vernon Mustangs took on Dominion Christian with a come from behind victory, 29-28. Congratulations Mustangs! Also, congratulations to Charlie Almond and Ella Ferguson for being crowned Mount Vernon’s 2010 Homecoming King and Queen. Homecoming was a wonderful way for the School community to enjoy a week full of school spirit and Mustang pride.
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CAMPUSnotes
Sports Wrap-Up
MIDDLE SCHOOL FALL MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL:
The Mount Vernon Middle School Football team hosted the NAML Championship on October 21. The Mustangs took home the championship beating Wesleyan 24-20. This was the first NAML Championship in Middle School football for Mount Vernon. It was a nail biter with the Mustangs coming from behind to win the game. Congratulations to the team, coaches, cheerleaders, fans and parents who were all there to cheer these boys all the way to victory!
MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCCER: The Middle School boys soccer team made the NAML Championship game for the first time in Mount Vernon Presbyterian soccer history. While they did not win the championship, the boys showed great improvement throughout the season and conducted themselves very well on and off of the field. Congratulations on a great season! MIDDLE SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL: The Middle School volleyball team took home the NAML Championship this fall! On October 7, the Middle School team took on the undefeated team of Fellowship Christian. Mount Vernon won the first set while Fellowship Christian won the second set. The girls played to win and won the last set by 10 points and left no doubt as to which team was the champion. Congratulations to all of the ladies of the Middle School 2010 Volleyball team! MIDDLE SCHOOL SOFTBALL: The Middle School softball team completed its season with a record of 5-5-1. We made significant progress in building the program this year. The team will miss their 8th grade players as they move up to varsity, but wish them well. There is a lot of talent in the current 6th and 7th grade players, and the 2011 season promises to be a great one for the Middle School softball Mustangs. MIDDLE SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY: The Middle School cross country team finished an amazing season in 2010! All of the runners’ times improved dramatically from the beginning of the season to the end. Two boys, Steven Butz and David Adams, broke fifteen minutes this season and female runner Haley Foushee, broke sixteen minutes in the two mile race. Two of the female runners, Haley Foushee and Katherine Ward, went on to run with the varsity cross country team in the regional meet and ran in the varsity state meet on October 23. Congratulations on a fantastic season!
On The Road Again
LOWER SCHOOL On October 7, the 2nd grade students traveled to the Chattahoochee Nature Center. The students experienced a guided forest hike, an up-close animal encounter with one of the non-releasable wildlife, and a guided tour of the Discovery Center. On October 15, the 5th grade students traveled to Oakland Cemetery and to the Cyclorama. At the Cyclorama students saw the sweeping panorama of the Battle of Atlanta, fought on July 22, 1864, during the American Civil War. At Oakland Cemetery, students were able to see some of Georgia’s most famous legends and where they are laid to rest in Atlanta’s oldest and most scenic cemetery. They visited the gravesites of Gone with the Wind author Margaret Mitchell and golfing great Bobby Jones. They also explored the Jewish grounds, as well as the historic African American section. They were able to wander through the final resting place of nearly 7,000 Civil War soldiers.
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Patrick Coheley Wins Award AT THE GEORGIA
THEATRE CONFERENCE On October 14 the MVPS Allstars traveled to Savannah for the Georgia Theatre Conference. At this conference, the students debuted Antigone Now. They received great feedback from the adjudicators on the show, and Pat Coheley was awarded the All-Star cast award. Clark Taylor, Performing Arts Director, said “I think that is very cool how Patrick’s award reflects our troupe name.” Also the troupe traveled to Emory at Oxford on November 3 for their second and final competition with GISA and then returned for the debut public performance November 4 and 5 at School.
Grandparent’s AND SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY A poem about Grandparents: Grandparents are special people with wisdom and pride.
They are always offering love and kindness and are always there to guide. They often make you feel so confident and strong. Their arms are always open no matter what you did wrong. They try to help out in every way that they can. They love all their grandchildren the same whether you’re a child, woman or man. They are always there to listen and to lend a helping hand. They show you respect and they try to understand. They give their love, devotion and so much more, that’s easy to see. Grandparents, what perfect examples of the kind of person that we should be. – Author: Stacy Smith Students at Mount Vernon welcomed their grandparents and special friends to the School on October 29. Students put on performances for their grandparents and special friends. It was a lovely day and the students were excited to show off their classrooms, friends, teachers, and school to their special guests and grandparents. Thank you to all who helped put on this wonderful event and thank you especially to the grandparents and special friends who attended.
ALL SCHOOL
Canned Food Drive
The all school canned food drive took place from November 1-5. More than 2500 cans of donated food went to the Sandy Springs Community Action Center. Students from both campuses began their celebration of the holiday season by giving to those in need.
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LOWER SCHOOL
Fine Arts Performances
On October 28, the 5th and 6th grade band and chorus put on their fall performance for parents, teachers, friends, and grandparents. They shared what they have been practicing and learning this year. The newly formed Honor Chorus is made up of fourth through sixth grade students who dedicate their time after school to rehearsing a variety of music. The Honor Chorus performed popular songs by Jason Mraz, Mika, and Journey, as well as a setting of the spirituals, “Elijah Rock,” “Rock-a-My-Soul in the Bosom of Abraham,” and “Joshua Fit the Battle,” and a song written by Jars of Clay. On the evening of October 29 many parents, grandparents, staff, friends and students came to watch the performance of The Day the Rooster Didn’t Crow. This play was especially interesting because most of the main parts were played by two different actors. The standout performance was from sixth grader, Sarah Anne DeFreese, who learned the lines in just ten days and played the main character, Reginald Rooster. Also, more than thirty parents and students helped construct and paint the set and construct the “chicken hats” worn by most students. The drama productions would not be possible without the tireless efforts of parents and students. Many thanks for all your work.
Model UNITED NATIONS In Model UN, students step into the shoes of ambassadors from UN member states to debate current issues on the organization’s agenda. Students make speeches, prepare draft resolutions, negotiate with allies and adversaries, resolve conflicts, and navigate the conference rules of procedure - all in the interest of mobilizing “international cooperation” to resolve problems that affect countries all over the world. On October 18-19 seven Upper School students attended this year’s Georgia Tech Model UN Conference. Created in 1998, this conference has worked to bring international affairs to the high schools of the Southeast. Run by Georgia Tech students from a variety of disciplines, GTMUN offers a large range of committees discussing today’s pressing issues for high school students to enjoy. Mount Vernon students represented the country of Peru at the conference. Andrew Dobbins, 9th grader commented, “I worked on decolonization in Peru as well as human rights assembly of Peru.” The Model UN Club from Mount Vernon consists of ninth graders Judge Jones, Darian Bender, Andrew Dobbins, tenth grader Emmy Bowman, and eleventh grader Matt Shelden. The faculty advisers are Dr. Greg Hite and Ron Jones.
Red Ribbon WEEK Red Ribbon week took place in October and is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the country. The Lower School students, Kindergarten – 3rd grade, received “Paws”-itively Drug Free dog tags to wear during Drug Free Week and 4th – 6th graders wore “Celebrate Red Ribbon Week” wristbands. All Lower School students received “Sock It to Drugs” stickers and wore crazy socks with their uniforms; they also wore red shirts with their uniforms. Upper School students were visited by Patrick Lloyd from the band One Tree Hill. Patrick brought a member from his band and they played songs that Patrick has written that reflect on his relationship with God, the path he has taken in his life, and the lessons that he has learned. His message was an impactful one.
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GEORGIA NATIONAL FAIR
Award Winners
Hank Kunath’s Upper School art students entered some of their amazing artwork into the 2010 Georgia National Fair’s Youth Art competition. Participating students were ninth grader Darian Bender, and twelfth graders Adeola Ajayi, Robert Ojeah, Chris Min, Meredith McConnell, and Ella Ferguson. Chris Min received two awards. He received an Honorable mention in the Graphic Drawing category and he also received first place and overall best in category in the Two Dimensional Design category. Congratulations to Chris and to all of the students who were chosen to send artwork in for this competition.
LOWER SCHOOL
Field Trips
On October 26 the fourth grade traveled to the Alliance Theatre for the performance of Middle School the Musical. This show was an improvisational guide for “tweenagers.” It’s not easy being a tween. Thankfully, a team of four middle school students took the stage and – through music and improv – helped guide the audience through the maze of locker rooms, dances, book reports and cafeteria blues. This survival guide for tweens was conceived over the course of the last year and born out of real life stories of middle school students. Framed as an orientation assembly for kids new to middle school, it featured 15 scenes and songs which focus on constructive and humorous ways middle school children can work through the issues they face in the “tweenager” years.
On November 2 the sixth grade traveled to the Michael C. Carlos Museum located on the campus of Emory University. The Carlos Museum has grown to become one of the Southeast’s premier art museums with major collections of art objects from ancient Egypt, Nubia, Near East, Greece, Rome, ancient Americas, Africa, and Asia, as well as a collection of works on paper from the Renaissance to the present.
TINA LOWREY
Tech Fair
On November 9, Mount Vernon held its annual Tina Lowrey Tech Fair. There were over 439 entries! There were 55 Web 2.0 Entries from Blogs to Prezis. All of the volunteer judges were impressed with our students’ command of their technology skills.
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MOUNT VERNON HONORS
Veterans’ Day
On November 11, the Middle School and Upper School students were visited by retired naval commander, Mike Campbell. Officer Campbell served as Assistant Navigator of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm and he led aerial combat operations in Iraq and Bosnia. He was also a member of the elite Navy Blue Angels flying team for 2 years. He spoke to the students about his experiences serving in the military as well as what it takes to be successful in life.
DISTRICT V
Honor Chorus
Seventh grade student Jordan Engle was selected to perform with the Georgia Music Educators Association District V Honor Chorus. The performance took place the first weekend of November. This ensemble is made up each year of a very select group of singers from Fulton County and the Atlanta Public School System.
MOUNT VERNON STUDENTS
Accept Rachel’s Challenge On November 17 Mount Vernon hosted “Rachel’s Challenge” on both the Lower School and Glenn Campuses for a series of programs aimed at promoting kindness and compassion in our school. Rachel Scott was one of the tragic victims at Columbine, and her family launched this initiative as a way to honor her life. Their mission is to prevent further tragedies by connecting students and valuable resources, promoting open communication, and providing a framework for effective encounters to occur. Students from the Lower School saw a presentation that showed them that a little kindness can definitely go a long way. After the program students signed a Rachel’s Challenge banner to accept Rachel’s Challenge to show kindness and compassion to one another. After the Glenn Campus assembly, students also signed the banner and members of the student body met for a 90 minute student forum with “Rachel’s Challenge” presenters to discuss and develop a plan for Mount Vernon. Also on November 17, parents, teachers, and community members came to hear the Rachel’s Challenge presentation in the Glenn Campus Gym. The entire day was impactful and very inspiring.
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NOVEMBER 12
Day of Service
On November 12, students on both the Lower School and Glenn Campuses took part in the second Mount Vernon community outreach day. Almost 400 students were sent out into the community to serve in a wide variety of ways. Kindergarten students made cards (with a group of 8th graders) to thank the volunteers from Canine Assistants. First grade made Thanksgiving placemats for the residents of Mount Vernon Village. A second grade class visited the Ronald McDonald House and made batches of brownies for the house guests, put together toiletry bags for the guests, and made cards for the children in the hospital and the house guests. A third grade class loaded the items from the food drive at school and unloaded them at CAC. They also made decorations for the boxes that were to be distributed to those in need at Thanksgiving. A fourth grade class went to Chastain along with Middle and Upper School students to clean up the park. They cleared litter from the creek and nature area. Two sixth grade classes went to the Interfaith Outreach Home and sorted clothing, shoes, and accessories that had been donated. Glenn Campus students served in a variety of locations from Fur Kids to the Elaine Clark Center, Chastain Park Conservancy to Signature Healthcare of Buckhead, The Georgia Coalition to Books for Africa, Atlanta Union Mission to St. Vincent DePaul, Piedmont Park Conservancy to Centennial Olympic Park, and Liberty Thrift Store to Autrey Mills. It was a great day of helping hands being used throughout the Atlanta community.
3RD GRADE
On the Road On October 30, Mount Vernon’s third graders attended a performance at the Tarpley Theatre in Jonesboro, Georgia. Slim Goodbody taught the students about the importance of taking care of their bodies. They sang songs and learned about the heart, muscles, brain, skeleton, and digestion. Mount Vernon students were even picked to be volunteers by Slim during the presentation! The timing of this field trip was perfect, as students were learning about anatomy in science class. On November 9, the third grade went on a fieldtrip to the Roswell Cultural Arts Center to see the play, Ramona Quimby. The play took the students through the life of 3rd grader Ramona Quimby. They learned about life on Klickitat Street, how the Quimby family was faced with adversities, and how their family worked through them. The main theme that the students learned was that having a positive outlook and supporting one another will help us all get through the struggles in life.
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VARSITY FALL SPORTS
Wrap Up VARSITY FOOTBALL: The varsity football team finished their first winning season with an impressive win against in-city region rival, Holy Spirit Preparatory School, on senior day. The Mustangs jumped out to an early lead on the Cougars of HSP with touchdown runs by freshman Elijah Burnette and senior Jaylan Adlam and a touchdown reception by senior Javon Hanna. The Mustangs led 21-6 at halftime. The Mustangs continued to execute on offense in the second half scoring four more touchdowns on runs by Adlam, senior Madison Burton, Burnette and a reception by sophomore Evan Tucker. The Mustangs finished the game with their first win over Holy Spirit Prep in five seasons, with an impressive 47-21 final. The Mustangs finished the season with a 7-4 record. Five players placed on the 2-AAA All-Region team. Seniors Jaylan Adlam, Charles Justus, Alex Head, Jovan Hanna and freshman Elijah Burnette were named to the team. The team was led by eight seniors who provided great leadership on and off the field all season. The 17 underclassmen on the team competed hard all season and will be expected to continue and be an example of the standard set in terms of excellence, commitment and sacrifice in making the football program an elite program in the state. Thanks to all the coaches, parents, faculty/staff, cheerleaders and Mount Vernon family for all your support this season!
VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY: Mount Vernon Cross Country had some memorable runs on and off the race course in fall 2010. Each week new runners for the Boys team made their foray onto the Cross Country course to help lift the squad to new levels at each race they entered. The Boys team found great running talent among Mount Vernon basketball players. Based on times, the boys discovered their rabbit in senior Jordan Johnson, followed by senior Matt Reid, senior Robert Ojeah, senior Pieris Hodges, junior Jake Roeland, and senior Lotanna Nwogbo. The boys lent some fresh air to the whole team with their good cheer and hard work at races.
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Girls Cross Country gained runners throughout the season, leading to a strong team as they approached the Region Meet. The Girls team is young and full of great potential and talent. They accomplished some wonderful team and individual victories throughout the fall, one of the greatest being their team qualification for the State Cross Country Race. As they did throughout the season, the Lady Mustangs improved their individual times in this final race, many of them eclipsing their personal best performances by 0:30 to 1:30. This stellar running allowed the girls to accomplish a highly estimable goal. Among region teams this season, the Lady Mustangs finished second out of the four teams who won Region placement at the State Meet. The accomplishment of qualifying for State was a first in Mount Vernon Cross Country history. The Girls were led throughout the season by sophomore Emmy Bowman. Other positions on the Varsity team were traded competitively race to race. At the State Meet, running strong behind Emmy were freshman Emily Thomas, 8th grader Hailey Foushee, sophomore Claire Parnell, freshman Nia Roberts, 8th grader Katherine Ward, and freshman Emma McCarthy. Stepping out beyond previous goals and standards set in prior seasons, the girls have set a precedent for great Cross Country running at Mount Vernon.
VARSITY BOYS SOCCER: The fall 2010 season was a transformational season for the Mount Vernon Mustangs Varsity soccer team. The team had a large senior class in addition to new players who worked together for a successful season. The veteran players meshed well with new players. Without the leadership and experience from the seniors or the athleticism and enthusiasm from new players MVPS would not have had such a competitive team. After a difficult spring season last year, the team individually and collectively decided to become more focused and dedicated. As the 2010 season progressed, the team continued to improve. The last two regular season games were the most significant of the season. Wins in the last two games secured the highest place ever in the state playoffs for the Varsity Mustangs. At the end of the season, it was clear that the young men on the Varsity soccer team had learned to be confident in their own skills and strengths. Great season, guys.
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VARSITY SOFTBALL: The inaugural season for Varsity Mustang Softball was an outstanding journey for a group of athletes who had yet to learn their potential. The team started small in number of players but continued to grow throughout the season. Every practice and game the girls learned more about how to play on an individual level and how to play together as a team. The final record was 6-8 which gave them a third place finish in the region. The team batting average was just under .300, outstanding for a tenured team not to mention one that is in its first season. Varsity Softball also had two girls make All-Region, Addie Goins and Chandler Moses, showing that their skills were noticed by other coaches in the region this season. The hard work and dedication these young athletes put into this season was outstanding. They came to practice ready to learn a game that many of them had never played previously. They implemented what they learned at practice during games. They stretched themselves athletically and were put in positions they had not played in the past. The inaugural season will always be remembered for both the success of the team, of the willingness of the girls to get the program off the ground, and pave the way for the program for the future.
VARSITY VOLLEYBALL: The Varsity Volleyball team finished the season in the Elite Eight of the state tournament. The Lady Mustangs had a great run and were recognized with 4 players receiving All Region awards. 8th Grade Libero Mary Alvis, 8th Grade Right Side Hitter Ryan Boykin, Sophomore Setter Remi McRae, and Senior Outside Hitter Ashley Standifer. Standifer also received a nomination for All State and then was selected to the All Star Senior Match where Georgia’s best seniors play against South Carolina’s best seniors.
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MOUNT VERNON BAND PLAYS
Georgia Tech Band Day As part of Georgia Tech’s Band Day on November 20, over fifty Mount Vernon Upper School band students performed at the halftime show of the Georgia Tech/Duke football game. This was the third consecutive year for our school to participate in this event. They performed on the field alongside 1,000 other musicians in front of 50,000 fans.
LOWER SCHOOL
Book Character Day
On November 23 many Lower School students in Kindergarten through Grade 4 participated in the annual Lower School Book Character Day. This is a beloved tradition that has taken place at Mount Vernon for many years, and students look forward to dressing up as one of their favorite book characters to promote reading.
Georgia Tech FCA Director
VISITS MVPS FCA The Georgia Tech Fellowship of Christian Athletes campus director, Taylor Stewart, spoke to Mount Vernon’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was accompanied by Georgia Tech football players, Sean Bedford and Zack Fisher, who shared with MVPS students as well. They all spoke about obstacles they have faced in life and how their faith is a cornerstone in their lives.
1ST GRADE CELEBRATES
Native American Awareness Month On November 17, the first grade was visited by Chipa Wolfe and his Rolling Thunder Dance Company. This is the second year that the dance company has visited the Lower School campus to teach students about Native American life and culture during Native American Awareness Month. Students learned about the lives of Native Americans and especially how children in Native American culture are taught to observe nature and live in nature.
MOUNT VERNON AND
the Atlanta
Hawks On December 1, the Atlanta Hawks hosted a school spirit night for Mount Vernon. A combined Lower School, Middle School and Upper School chorus sang the national anthem before the game. They were also joined by several of the third grade students who accompanied the singers with sign language. This was a great night for coming together as a school community and for supporting our students in singing before the game.
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Toys For Tots On December 8 all Mount Vernon students, from Preschool through 12th grade, gathered in the Sanctuary to attend the annual Toys for Tots Assembly. Faculty, staff, and students brought approximately 1200 toy donations to the front of the Sanctuary to give to local children in need. Reverend Joe B. Martin spoke to students about the first Christmas and the gifts that were brought to baby Jesus by the wise men. The United States Marine Corps representative arrived after the assembly to take all of the toys to be distributed to the needy.
Cookies AND CAROLS On December 2 many students, parents, friends, faculty and staff attended the Cookies and Carols Fine Arts Showcase. Christmas performances included the Lower School Chorus and Band, the Lower School Honor Chorus, the Middle School and Upper School band and choruses, and the Praise band. After the concert, the participants and attendees enjoyed a festive Christmas reception.
Using Skype
TO TEACH 21ST CENTURY SKILLS On December 1, several Lower School classrooms had a Skyping bonanza with a variety of teachers incorporating different lessons using Skype. Mrs. Plumer’s sixth grade class and Mrs. Moras’ and Mrs. Adam’s first grade classes collaborated on redesigning Santa Claus’ suit. Together, the students discussed how Santa felt about not fitting in his suit, why he was left cookies, and how could they design a more 21st Century styled suit. Students’ ideas included a glow in the dark suit, a fireproof suit, a self-cleaning suit and a temperature sensitive suit. Mr. Hilton-Green used Skype to communicate with Ms. Shirley’s first grade class concerning their runaway Gingerbread Men. The students were given a ransom note clue and a Skype call from a live Gingerbread Man which led them to Mr. Hilton-Green’s office. The students saw clues and investigated his office for the runaway. For some curious reason, Mr. Hilton-Green could not see the Gingerbread Man even though the students saw him several times sneaking behind his chair. The students spent some time in the i.Design lab building traps to catch the sneaky and very fast cookies.
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ACADEMIC INNOVATION AT MOUNT VERNON:
EMPOWERING the Next Generation of Leaders
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HOW DO WE EDUCATE OUR CHILDREN TO TAKE OUR PLACE IN THE ECONOMIES OF THE 21ST CENTURY, GIVEN THAT WE CAN’T ANTICIPATE WHAT THE ECONOMY WILL LOOK LIKE AT THE END OF NEXT WEEK? — Sir Ken Robinson, expert in the field of creativity and innovation in business and education
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INNOVATION IN ACTION:
COVERSTORY
What does learning look like?
In today’s difficult job market, which candidate is most appealing, the one who received a perfect SAT score, or the one that can offer the most creative solutions to a complex problem, such as stopping the spread of oil along the Gulf Coast? – Ann My Thai, Assistant Director, Joan Ganz Cooney Center
Up until recently, young people were told if they went to school, got into college, and graduated college, they would have a good job. That was a tried and true theory for a very long time and what Baby Boomers and those that preceded them relied upon fairly successfully. But, it is not true anymore for Millennials and Gen Xs and our kids know it. And if they know it, how do we, as educators and parents, convince them that school is important? How do we make it interesting, engaging and relevant? How do we deal with the innovations of technology and the changes in styles of communication and the immediate availability of information and how to effectively process all that information? How do we ensure that they will not only get into the best colleges and universities but graduate into thriving careers, have personal economic stability and lead fulfilling lives where they impact the world around them? Our students will not be measured solely by standardized tests or a student’s ability to memorize and recite lesson plans. Rather, Mount Vernon will teach individuals to think deeply and creatively, equipping them for a lifetime of learning and success in our digital age. MVPS has adopted an interdisciplinary framework and is vertically assessing our curriculum across all divisions through a 21st century skills lens. The end result is that Mount Vernon students are 21st century learners and leaders. A traditional academic focus is enhanced by weaving critical themes including global awareness, entrepreneurship, civic literacy, and environmental sustainability throughout the curriculum. At Mount Vernon, the skills drive the content, and our commitment to innovation drives the School.
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More than ever, Mount Vernon is committed to instilling a lifestyle of learning, leadership, service and spiritual growth. Academic rigor remains a must, but adding a focus on 21st century skills enhances our students’ education. Rather than being passive consumers of information, we are teaching our students to be actively involved in solving complex problems, with a growing emphasis on project- and team-based learning. The defining characteristic of a 21st century classroom is that it is student centered, focused on what the student needs to learn and succeed in today’s global, digital age. In addition to the core subjects of math, English, social studies and science, MVPS is teaching the five Cs, what Patrick Bassett of President of NAIS refers to as the “commonly agreed upon skills and values the 21st century will demand and reward: character (integrity & compassion), critical thinking (and problem-solving), creativity (and entrepreneurship), collaboration (teaming & leadership), communication (writing, speaking, networking, technology).”
THE CENTER FOR DESIGN THINKING:
i.Design Lab Open for Business
The Mount Vernon Center for Design Thinking is based on a model developed by Stanford University’s Institute of Design. This visionary approach to problem solving teaches students to combine analytical thinking and research skills with empathy and creativity, resulting in the production of innovative solutions to real-world problems. MVPS is the only school in Atlanta – and one of just a few nationally – to utilize design thinking in the K-12 setting. All projects utilize the D.E.E.P. (Discover, Empathize, Experiment and Produce) Design model. The impetus for the i.Design Lab evolved last year when fourth grade students designed and created the model on which the lab is based. Information was gathered from fellow students concerning wall colors, furniture, seating, technology, and learning styles. Bold colors, flexible learning spaces and optional seating along with access to technology via 1:1 computers and ActviBoards, utilization of Web 2.0 applications to create and express their work, and community style learning were the results of their findings for this pilot 21st century classroom. Students identify a real life issue and begin the D.E.E.P. design process as they are guided by teachers on how to experience empathy for their chosen topic. During the initial discovery phase, students gain a deeper understanding of their topic and work toward letting go of any prejudices and/or preconceived notions which allow a better understanding of the circumstances. The next step involves empathy as students begin to figure out the problem they are tackling and the real life impact it has on the local and global community. By walking in the footsteps of another, our students will acquire compassion and then constructively and creatively move into the experimentation process. Through experimentation, students creatively imagine how to do things differently. Risk taking is encouraged during this process, and the mission is to embrace the difficult. Students create prototypes, test their products and move into the final stage of the D.E.E.P. Design Thinking process – Produce. Producing involves putting the students’ design into reality and sharing it with others. During this step students open themselves up for feedback and evaluation.
COVERSTORY
During the fall semester, many students have had the opportunity to create in the i.Design Lab. Examples of Lower School D.E.E.P projects: Utilizing an engineering concept, Kindergarten students baked gingerbread men who ran away and students are brainstorming to build traps, seek and solve clues to result in the captures of the runaways. First Graders are working on the “Secret Project” to give their families the gift of being together by designing a special family experience. Second Graders are focusing on healthy eating and are designing their own solutions to choose healthier and more nutritious food options. Third Graders are designing video storybooks for children with hearing impairments as part of their sign language program. Fourth Graders are designing apps for smart phones. Fifth Graders are designing and sustaining a Community Organic Garden.
Mary Cantwell, Design Thinking Coordinator states “With risk comes great reward, and through the D.E.E.P. Design Thinking Process our students are learning the value of taking risks.” THE MAGAZINE
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COVERSTORY
COLORS, TEXTURES, PATTERNS:
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Writing at Mount Vernon Following an in-depth analysis of the curriculum in Preschool through Upper School, Mount Vernon has made writing the top academic priority. Our vertical learning program will help develop creative and sophisticated thinkers for the 21st century who are adept at both oral and written communications. At Mount Vernon, writing occurs in all areas and is a means of encouraging critical thinking, leadership and collaboration.
What do students need to know? How should schools teach to ensure that students are prepared for 21st century living? What skills should children be able to demonstrate as a result of their education?
Like a complex musical score that intertwines multiple chords and sounds or an intricately woven fabric that is dependent on a variety of colors and textures to weave complex patterns, the Writing Initiative and its multiple threads are woven into the total fabric of Mount Vernon. At a recent conference, a parent commented that “Mount Vernon is really teaching students not just to memorize, but to take things apart, dissect, and to think deeply.” To which the teacher responded, “This is the direction of our school, and not just our school, but how your child will need to be equipped for life.” The process of writing as a means of weaving in 21st Century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, initiative, effective communication, creativity, and leadership into Mount Vernon is evident throughout all grade levels. In the Lower School, students use ActiveBoards to develop skills in sentence construction and to enhance creativity and collaboration through story creation and learning activities. Students in the second grade continue to develop strategies to express their ideas and to think critically
— National Association of Independent Schools, 2010-2011 Trendbook
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COVERSTORY specials teachers and friends in other states or countries. Writing has become the cohesive link meshing our curriculum together.” In 9th grade History and English classes, students engaged in a study of the GrecoRoman judicial system and Euripides’ classic play, Medea. After learning about Ancient Greece and the Greco-Roman culture in History, students then read Medea in their English class and put the main character on trial. Each “legal team” developed persuasive opening and closing statements, cross examination questions for the play’s main characters, and creative pieces of testimony to develop their case. Most recently, in History class, students honed their analytical skills even further by researching and writing about the Plague of Athens, which devastated the Athenian population during the Peloponnesian War, and they discussed its relevance to the current infectious disease questions being raised by the Global Initiative.
about content. For example, using the framework of animal habitats, they gathered and analyzed information, created drafts, proofread, and presented their findings to an audience of their peers. In the 4th grade, by implementing and focusing on writing in all curricular areas, the students have seen a greater connection between subjects. Recently the fourth grade integrated the Native American project to include all core disciplines as well as an art project. Students were able to feel as though they were part of their respective tribes as each wrote from an Indian’s perspective, researched living conditions, built a model to represent the tribe, and videotaped narrative descriptions to share with parents and friends. At the same time, students in the 6th grade were preparing debates on important topics ranging from children owning cell phones to children on Facebook. Their debates led to persuasive writing in both Language Arts and in Science. In the 7th grade, while studying the novel Johnny Tremain, the students also explored in history the leaders as well as political and social events that led to the American Revolution. The Writing Initiative has not only caused students but also teachers to work more creatively and collaboratively. According to Andrea McCranie, fourth grade teacher, “The Writing Initiative has greatly impacted our collaboration as a team of teachers and students. The fluidity of integrating writing has developed naturally as we are collaborating with THE MAGAZINE
In the 10th and 11th grades, as students explored the emerging laws and culture of ancient Sumeria in their History classes, students in English classes delved into the intricacies of the heroic epic and how the political, religious, and social beliefs of a culture impacted the ancient tale of Gilgamesh, the historical king of Uruk in Babylonia, whose exploits were written on clay tablets around 2000 B.C. As students in the 11th grade read The Alchemist, an allegorical tale set in Spain and in Africa, they were constantly making connections to religious studies, science, and history. There were many engaging discussions about the philosophical implications about the novel’s message. Integrating the theories of artistic design, the 12th graders examined how visual design elements such as line, shadow, or perspective were used to enhance the experience of the epic poem, Dante’s Inferno.
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COVERSTORY
What is the crisis in American education all about? Why should independent schools be concerned?
Because of the importance of writing as a means to encourage reflective and critical thinking skills as well as leadership and collaboration, writing at Mount Vernon occurs in all areas. For example math classes and math labs are incorporating writing to encourage problem solving. Science classes are continuing to encourage and expand exploration through scientific journals, lab analyses, and questions that utilize higher order thinking skills; likewise, art classes are using critiques and character analyses to explore artistic intention and personal growth. This spring, students in the Upper School will participate in a weekly writing lab called Write Now to empower a community of writers. Through this experience students will write consistently, think analytically, and fully embrace the objectives of the Writing Program at Mount Vernon. Furthermore, it will provide a sense of community and build a culture of writers who can think deeply and communicate well. It is not to be considered an addendum to or something outside the scope of the classroom; rather it is an integral part of the classroom experience and an opportunity for students to delve deeply into writing, identify themes as well as explore the ideas they have discovered in class. The Writing Initiative at Mount Vernon is helping to weave a pattern that is vibrant and that will prepare our students to be original thinkers, provocateurs, and people who care and who are ready to compete in the future.
— Tony Wagner, Harvard University, Global Achievement Gap
UPPER SCHOOL SCIENCE:
The New Fashioned Way Science as a discipline lends itself to Design Thinking and key 21st century skills that employers are seeking. Critical thinking and problem solving have always been the cornerstone of science. Oftentimes it is the failed experiments that lead students and teachers into some of the best design thinking (analytic reasoning) and which most effectively demonstrates the authentic application of science at work. Collaboration is another 21st century concept that is an integral part of any science curriculum. Students must work together during laboratory experiments. Oftentimes they must figure out a way to get several tasks completed in a short time period. This gives students the opportunity to develop teamwork skills as well as communication skills. The students are required to present data, cause and effect, and results in both an informal manner such as class discussions as well as in formal lab reports. The collaboration, the problem solving, the creativity, and the analysis of data necessary to be successful in an Upper School science class at Mount Vernon help prepare students for the future. It is one of the goals of the science department not only to produce students with a strong background in the discipline but to also prepare them for what is to come. Students are discussing topics such as genetic engineering, molecular biology, protein therapy, cloning, and bioethics. Krista Parker, Science Department Chair adds, “We owe it to our students to make sure they are scientifically literate in today’s world. The amount of information available and presented on a daily basis continues to grow, and it is one of our goals to develop students who are able to process this information in a thoughtful manner.” Mount Vernon Presbyterian School purchased a significant amount of new science equipment for the Glenn Campus. The science department has invested in lab equipment that enables students’ laptops to be fully integrated into a set of experiments across the
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COVERSTORY Middle School and the Upper School science curricula. The School chose Vernier Software and Technology as the vendor because they are able to provide a full range of products that connect to the students’ laptops through a common interface. Emphasis has been placed on physics-oriented products, together with other specific products for biology, chemistry, and environmental science. Many of the probes can easily be adapted for use in physical science, life science, and earth science in the Middle School. Initially, a program for the three different levels of physics offered in the Upper School will be developed. The various sensors and probes that were purchased span the entire range of experiments for Upper School physics and for AP physics – from simple position vs. time plots to sophisticated measurements of magnetic fields generated by passing a current through a Slinky. The students love it. Within reason, they get to design many of their experiments. For example, one experiment that students conducted involved an experimental observation of Newton’s Second Law, Force = mass x acceleration. The probes used include a device for measuring force and a device for detecting the amount of acceleration. When these are attached to a cart, the students can apply a wide range of forces in two different directions
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and observe directly the relationship between the two. The interface combined with the laptop enables the collection of hundreds of data points – clearly showing how one can determine the mass of the cart. Obviously, lab work is essential in science – most science is experimental in nature. Lab work also meets the needs of students with different learning styles. What sets this new equipment apart is that it enables students to use the more traditional – analog, if you will – in conjunction with the digitized version that incorporates the technology of today. This combination provides the best of both hands-on kinds of experience.
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COVERSTORY In the short term, the School acquired state of the art physics, biology, and environmental science lab equipment. The long term goal is to design an integrated science curriculum that although nominally formatted as traditional biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science course work, draws heavily from prior exposure. Thus chemistry will draw from biology, physics from both chemistry and biology, etc. Having a common laboratory platform that is used across the traditional disciplines will enormously facilitate this integration. In this way faculty will be preparing students in analytical and collaborative thinking that will benefit them in their post-secondary experience and in being productive in the workplace.
What can managers at the 132-year-old industrial giant learn from Google? A corporate mind-set that prizes “constant entrepreneurship.” — Jeffrey Immelt, Chairman and Chief Executive, General Electric
The world is increasingly digital. Working with this kind of equipment, and with computers becoming a more integral part of both the educational and employment world, will tie together the conceptual aspects of science education and the omnipresent need to utilize the latest technology. The ability to think analytically is of paramount importance in the modern world. One of the goals in teaching science is to foster this ability – as well as to introduce students to the beauty and structure of the world of science. The science department as a whole has embraced this mission and is excited about being able to implement it at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School.
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION:
How the Integration of Technology Accelerates Learning in Lower School Classrooms Our students have never been without a computer or access to the Internet. They will have jobs we’ve never heard of using technologies we can’t even imagine. They are not the same students we were—should we teach them the way we were taught? At Mount Vernon, we say no. In an effort to become more globally aware, each first grade classroom chose a different country to study. Among the many activities they completed, they used Google Earth to “fly” from our school to their chosen country on their Promethean boards. They were able to view the country as a whole and then zoom in to get a closer view of the main cities. Some were even able to get close enough to see a street view so that they could feel as if they were actually there. Sixth graders reading Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech were able to improve their financial/economic/business/entrepreneurial literacy when they created their own tour guide company. Following a teacher created webquest, students used their netbooks to choose and research one of the 26 day hikes offered in Yellowstone. They had to determine the distance, find out about local wildlife, and study weather patterns. Then they created a tour package including a promotional flyer for advertisement. In addition, sixth graders also became archaeologists in their social studies classroom. While studying the ancient civilization of Catal Huyuk, students put their critical thinking skills to the test. Upon entering the classroom one morning, students discovered an excavation site. Working in pairs, the students dug through dirt and sand to excavate a relic from this ancient civilization. They discussed what their object was and then went to their netbooks to
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
COVERSTORY
research it using a website on the excavation of the real Catal Huyuk. After discovering what their relic was and what it was used for, the students wrote a newspaper article about their discovery. They finally added digital photographs and put their articles together to create a class newspaper. Civic literacy has gone digital at Mount Vernon. With their passport in hand, Third and Fourth Graders completed a webquest that taught them the ins and outs of using a computer and the internet. Everything from ‘What does the back button do?’ to ‘How do you stay safe online?’ was covered. As they completed each step, they received a stamp on their passport. After visiting each of the seven continents, the students have truly become digital citizens of the world. Fifth grade students learned about proper communication skills through blogging. Each student researched a biome using websites, books, and encyclopedias. Then, using the information they gathered, they each created a blog where they wrote from the perspective of actually living in that biome. In their blog entries, they are describing the biome as well as the plants, animals, and people who live in the biome with them. They are also posting pictures and videos of the biome. In addition to their own blogs, they are commenting on each other’s blogs by asking questions, offering advice, or just congratulating their classmates on doing a good job. Second grade students wrote progressive stories through collaboration with other schools. Each second grade class joined a story group with other classes around the world. As the story traveled from class to class within the group, the classes would add a paragraph or two THE MAGAZINE
to the story. By the time it traveled to all of the classes in the group, it was a complete story. Once the story was completed, each class created an illustration for their part of the story. The illustrations were compiled into a Voicethread which was then narrated by students from each class. With the availability of so many different kinds of mass media, students need to learn how to navigate, assess, and use the tons of information at their fingertips. Being able to create projects using various forms of media and technology is becoming as important as being able to read and write. Sixth grade students honed their information skills by learning about how to evaluate websites. Before starting on a science project involving researching viruses, the students got to see some very interesting websites that were completely made up (ever heard of the North Pacific Tree Octopus?). They discovered that 35
COVERSTORY
One aspect of flexibility and adaptability is teaching the students to process feedback effectively. First, second, and third grade students have all been videotaped presenting on various topics. After reviewing the videos, they reflected on ways in which they excelled and ways in which they could improve. As the year progresses, they will continue to record themselves in order to incorporate the feedback they received during their first attempts. By the end of the year, they will be able to look back and see how much they have improved since that very first time. information on the internet is not always accurate. In order to prepare them for research, they learned the 4 Ws of Website Evaluation: Who wrote it? What kind of information does it provide? When was it written? Where is it located? With background knowledge of how to evaluate a site, they can feel more confident in the sources they use for information. It is exciting to be a kindergartener at Mount Vernon! They have been working on their technology skills since day one. Every day our kindergarteners are using their Promethean boards in every way
imaginable. From practicing writing on a screen that looks like giant lined paper to playing a game making patterns, our kindergarteners have been jumping at the chance to experiment with their boards in new ways. Kindergarteners are also practicing their technology skills by taking advantage of their classroom computers on an individual basis. They are learning to use a mouse and navigate around the keyboard during their computer center each day. We can’t forget one of their favorite activities using the technology in their classrooms— Skype! The kindergarteners love to Skype with people. They especially love when Mr. Hilton-Green Skypes with them. The last part of the 21st century skills framework is life and career skills. We are not teaching students how to learn for a test, we are teaching them how to learn for life. Life and career skills are important because our students will run the country one day and they need to be ready to do it. The life and career skills we are teaching our students are flexibility and adaptability, initiative and self-direction, social and cross-cultural skills, productivity and accountability, and leadership and responsibility.
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COVERSTORY
MBA:
Mount Vernon Style Miles Mallory, MVPS Junior, had a vision for starting a club at Mount Vernon and he has since founded the Mount Vernon Business Club. The mission of the Business Club is to learn about the best business practices. The club brings a variety of different speakers to club meetings, they visit companies or business events twice per semester, they compete with other business club members on investing in the stock market, and they have discussed creating a school-wide competition on starting a summer business. The Business Club has had several speakers to their meetings. The first speaker was Miles’ father, Tom Mallory. Tom, a Harvard graduate, is president of Acadia Associates. He discussed the elements of success in business. The next speaker was Mark Dunaway , the managing partner at The Atlantic Partners as well as former CEO of six other companies. Mark discussed with the students the lessons he has learned from leading six companies throughout his career. The club asked another speaker to take a little bit of a different approach when coming to speak to the group. The speaker was Colonel Alex Perwich, president of Contained Energy. Colonel Perwich was a U.S. Army Airborne Ranger and commanded thousands of soldiers. He was also a former teacher at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Colonel Perwich was also the past president of two other companies before becoming the president of Contained Energy. He spoke about how leading in the military relates to leading in business. Mount Vernon’s very own Bruce Morine, CFO of Mount Vernon, THE MAGAZINE
spoke with the students of the Business Club. He discussed investing and introduced an investment competition in which the students take part in and compete with each other on investing in the stock market. Team members can invest in anything that is publically traded such as stocks, bonds, commodities, mutual funds, etc.
Ann Revell-Pechar, president of Revell-Pechar Marketing spoke about how companies sell their products. Bill Nussey, CEO of SilverPop, spoke at the Harvard Business School Club breakfast. Students from the Mount Vernon Business Club heard him speak. On November 16, the Business Club was able to go to the SunTrust of Buckhead and they were given a tour of SunTrust’s Worldwide Trading Operations. The tour was given by John Rhett, Chairman of SunTrust Investment Services. The Business Club also has a business plan competition proposal. The written plan can be no longer than two pages. Members can start their business plan any time. The date for submission to judges will be in early April 2011. The contest gives money for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. The prize for 1st place is $200, for 2nd place it is $100 and for 3rd place it is $50. The money must be used to help start the summer business that was proposed. After the summer, the three winners must write a short summary describing their business, how much money they made from it, and what they learned from the experience.
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DESIGN THINKING AND MUSIC:
Theory into Practice Chris Willoughby, Preschool and Lower School music teacher, recently completed his Master of Music Education at Boston University. To complete his degree, he was required to write an extensive curriculum for the music classes taught at Mount Vernon. Willoughby states: “While music has been an important part of Mount Vernon’s curriculum from the beginning of the school in 1972, there has been no unified curriculum or overarching pedagogical approach. One of the purposes of my paper was to present overarching pedagogical approaches for Preschool and Kindergarten Music and Fifth- and Sixth-Grade Music and Technology Classes.” His thesis commenced with extensive demographic and ethnographic surveys of the School and the surrounding communities. Not unexpected was the result that most students prefer popular music forms over all others. Very few selected classical or jazz, for example, as favorite musical forms. As a result, Willoughby recommended that the music curriculum be adapted to include popular music at all levels. “Students will now be more engaged with the inclusion of popular music forms in cultural arts programs and in expanding the curriculum to include music technology (recording, editing, composing). We will also provide experiential, hands-on music creation and music business concepts interwoven with typical music education themes resulting in a more well-rounded, interactive, and real-world application into music education.” The most substantive change that came out of Willoughby’s research, and as applied at Mount Vernon, was the
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
addition of a new Music and Technology class for fifth and sixth graders. “Students will have the opportunity to work with music technology (Midi, Garageband, recording, editing, and composing). This will also give students who play guitar, bass, piano, and other instruments not traditionally part of Concert Band the opportunity to play and perform. This class will facilitate more teacher-student dialogue and allow for the development of more independent musicianship. Music and Technology classes will be organized using Frank Abrahams’ “Sonata Form.” Each lesson will begin with the “Exposition,” the opening dialogue between teacher and students. The teacher will begin by introducing new concepts and terms. Special care will be taken to relate new concepts with knowledge that students currently hold. The second part of the “Sonata Form” is “Development.” Here students improvise on the lesson theme. The final part of each lesson is “Recapitulation,” when the teacher and students critique and assess the day’s or week’s activities. The teacher and students offer critiques without fear of shame or embarrassment, including critiques of the teacher’s point of view.” Additionally, fifth and sixth grade Music and Technology classes have discussed emotional themes in pop music, created songs with loops, recorded and edited podcasts and recently composed and recorded original songs. One example is, “The Way He Moved,” by Fifth Graders, Juliana, Mary Frances, Kathleen, and Emily. These are all very exciting examples of how teaching Music at Mount Vernon has embraced 21st Century Design Thinking. Willoughby emphasizes, “I appreciate the School giving me the opportunity to study these valuable concepts and complete a Master’s degree. I hope my research will aid us as we continue to build an outstanding and unique music program at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School.”
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GLOBAL LEARNING INITIATIVE:
The CDC Partners with Glenn Campus
The kickoff session for the 2010-2011 Global Learning Initiative, which is a study of global infectious disease led by Don Sasso, Head of the Upper School, was held on September 16, 2010. Middle School and Upper School students were addressed by two speakers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. W. Goodly Archer from the Division of Global Disease Detection and Emergency at the CDC spoke about the CDC’s global emergency response strategies and procedures using the recent tragic earthquake in Haiti as the example of how the CDC mobilizes to respond to such an event. Also, Ramu Kaladi, a Health Policy Analyst from the CDC, spoke on how the CDC’s Center for Global Health monitors on a 24 hour basis worldwide global health issues and crises so that proper response strategies can be developed in a timely fashion.
How can your school make the cultural shift from a good but cautious school to an innovative school committed to excellence and relevance in a rapidly changing era? — Lee Burns, Head of Presbyterian
The second Global Learning Initiative session occurred on October 14. Dr. Louisa Chapman, Senior Medical Officer at the CDC, addressed the Middle School students regarding Yellow Fever. Yellow Fever was the topic of a Middle School summer reading book from this past summer. The book entitled Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson chronicled a devastating outbreak in 1793 in Philadelphia, PA. Also, Dr. Jon Towner, scientist and researcher at the CDC, will address Upper School students regarding the Ebola and related Marburg viruses which were topics featured in the Upper School summer reading book entitled The Hot Zone by Richard Preston. This book related the true story of a potential outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus in the early 1980’s in Reston, VA. The Global Learning Initiative will continue throughout this school year with additional expert speakers from the CDC, and potentially other world class institutions like Emory University and the Carter Center.
Day School, Memphis, TN; Jamie Baker, Reverb Consulting
CONTRIBUTORS TO THE ARTICLE: Melody Cannon Mary Cantwell Nancy Eder Krista Parker Tom Rounds Amanda Stravopoulos Chris Willoughby
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MOUNT VERNON IS BLESSED WITH ENERGIZED LEADERS WHO RECOGNIZE AND CHAMPION THE UNIQUE PROMISE OF OUR STUDENTS AND SCHOOL COMMUNITY. The School faculty and staff have galvanized the School to embrace innovation, think creatively and strive to be a school focused on 21st century standards of excellence. The innovative initiatives adopted in the past year only deepen our mission to develop leaders who use their unique abilities to think, serve and live their lives with wisdom and moral integrity.
MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
ANNUAL REPORT 2009-2010
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2009 - 2010 Board of Trustee Members David Kolb - Chairman Paula Fisher - Vice Chairman Steve Ray - Secretary Mike Watkins - Treasurer
Sister Mary Rosina Bayliss Joy Carden Carla Corley Aubrey Forlines Bruce Hagenau
Brad Hahn Mark Huff Bill McCahan Christy Pierce
Trustees Bill Porter Tom Price Todd Rounsaville James Wallace
REVENUE
EXPENSES $ 108,000
$ 278,000
$ 260,000
$ 432,000
$ 288,000
$1,100,000
$ 540,000
$1,974,000
$9,518,000
$6,930,000
$10,714,000
$10,714,000
INVESTMENT INCOME
INTERFUND TRANSFERS
EXTENDED DAY
CONTRIBUTIONS & FUND RAISING
TUITION
TOTAL REVENUE
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Ex-Officio Members Dr. Brett Jacobsen Joe B. Martin
DEBT SERVICE
OFFICE & DEVELOPMENT
CLASSROOM & INSTRUCTIONAL
OCCUPANCY & DEPRECIATION
SALARIES & BENEFITS
TOTAL EXPENSES
MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
A LETTER FROM THE FUND RAISING TASK FORCE
Dear Mount Vernon Community, During the first quarter of 2010, a Fund Raising Task Force was convened consisting of Board members, parent volunteers, administrators, and faculty and staff representatives. We served as Co-Chairs of the Task Force and would like to take this opportunity to share with you the goals and primary recommendations that were outlined. The Task Force reviewed all activities that were currently being utilized to raise incremental funds outside of annual tuition. We assessed existing activities, evaluated potential new opportunities, and sought input from key stakeholders and volunteers. Ultimately we developed a comprehensive strategy to maximize fund-raising revenues from diverse sources while balancing volunteer and staff resources. The Task Force recognized the need to prioritize funding efforts to enhance future fund raising at the School. As Mount Vernon continues to grow and expand curriculum, athletics and arts programs, the need to thoughtfully and strategically grow philanthropic funding becomes increasingly critical. The key recommendation of the Task Force dealt with launching “The Big 4”. These are the four annual funding initiatives central to Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. I hope that you are having the opportunity to participate in each of them – making a gift to the School through the Mount Vernon Fund; redirecting a portion of your Georgia state income tax dollars to support financial aid; participating in the sold-out Mustang Golf Classic and first-ever Junior Mustang Golf Challenge, which alternates each year with The Benefit; and supporting the upcoming Mustang Rally (April, 2011) with your attendance and a Family sponsorship. While these initiatives may seem very different, they all serve an important role in the life of our School. All of the funding initiatives encourage school unity and spirit, foster a sense of community in our School families, and raise necessary funds to support the curriculum and programs that are a key part of the educational experience at Mount Vernon. On behalf of the Task Force, the Board of Trustees and administration of the School, we appreciate your support of “The Big 4” this school year. Working together and looking toward the future, we can do amazing things at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. Thank you, Bill McCahan Fund Raising Task Force, Co-Chair Board of Trustees, Member
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Todd Rounsaville Fund Raising Task Force, Co-Chair Board of Trustees, Member
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THE BIG FOUR THE MOUNT VERNON FUND
THE MOUNT VERNON FUND
Support of the Mount Vernon Fund is vital to the School’s mission and bridges the gap between the total cost of operating the School and tuition revenue. Participation in the Mount Vernon Fund is important and every gift, no matter the size, is meaningful and appreciated. The Mount Vernon Fund supports the educational experience of every child in every grade. Our goal is to receive 100% support of the Mount Vernon Fund from our School families.
GEORGIA PRIVATE SCHOOL TAX CREDIT PROGRAM The Georgia Private School Tax Credit Program allows eligible individuals and corporations to redirect a portion of their Georgia state income tax dollars to support financial aid for gifted students transferring to Mount Vernon from public schools. The redirected tax dollars permits Mount Vernon to attract some of the best and brightest students currently attending public schools by providing significant financial aid support. This unique opportunity benefits Mount Vernon and enables the School to secure its share of these sought-after financial aid funds.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH EVENT The community outreach events, The Benefit and the Mustang Golf Classic, alternate every other year. These events give the Mount Vernon community the opportunity to participate in a wonderful social event, have fellowship with school families and raise funds to support the School. During the 2009 – 2010 school year, The Benefit raised more than $130,000 to fund the inaugural class of Mount Vernon Fellows. During the 2010 – 2011 school year, the Mustang Golf Classic and Junior Mustang Golf Challenge raised $25,000 from the tournament which was designated as seed money for the construction of a Field House for the School.
THE ALL SCHOOL EVENT The Mustang Rally is the first of its kind at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. The event will be an exciting day where all students in Preschool through Grade 12 will come together to build school spirit, increase campus unity and create pride in individual and group achievement. On Friday, April 15, 2011, students will participate in an all-school parade and opening ceremonies presentation. The culmination of the year-long blue/gold spirit competition will be decided during the student field races and games. Families will enjoy a picnic on the lawn that features a live band. There will be a full carnival and a silent auction. All proceeds raised from the Mustang Rally will go directly to fund technology in the classroom and throughout student spaces on the Lower School Campus and Glenn Campus.
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
2009-2010 MOUNT VERNON FUND Visionary
Educator
$25,000 and above
$2,500 to $4,999
Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Brooks, Jr.
Anonymous Brad and Julie Allison AXA Financial Carla and Paul Corley Robert and Catherine Derrick Gray and Michelle Dobbins The Herrick Family Resource Planning Group Mark and Paige Huff Dr. and Mrs. Brett Jacobsen Lillian and Jimmy Maurin Louise and Bill McCahan Mike and Nancy McConnell Angela and Michael Nagy Mr. and Mrs. John Notermann The Pahl Family The Parnell Family Steve and Shelly Ray Todd and Melody Rounsaville Roger and Julie Steffens David and Myra Stromquist Candace and Paul Stupek Brett and Anne Taylor Guy and Patty Tucker Dan and Kim Turner Evan S. and Jennifer Van Metre Jose and Valerie Vargas
Founder $15,000 to $24,999 Susan and David Kolb Jim and Lisa Wallace Watkins Christian Foundation
Leader $10,000 to $14,999 Anonymous Steve and Jennie Ferguson
Mentor $5,000 to $9,999 BB&T Buckhead Uniforms The Coca-Cola Company Mr. and Mrs. Joseph L. Fant Dr. Nishan Fernando and Dr. Carolyn Weaver Elizabeth and Randall Guyton Ed and Carol Hays Doug and Kenna Kruep David and Deanne McDougall Todd and Maureen Pierce Robert and Margot Shuford Dr. Lisa Drake and Dr. Brian Thomas Mr. and Mrs. John F. Watkins Chris and Judy Weathers
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Partner $1,000 to $2,499 Joe and Ardy Adams Judy and Jim Agnew Jeff and Melanie Almond Mr. and Mrs. Jose Alvarez Andy and Kelly Anderson Jon and Julie Barber Mr. and Mrs. Chad M. Brooks
Why give to the Mount Vernon Fund? Annual support of the Mount Vernon fund is vital to the School’s mission. The Mount Vernon Fund bridges the gap between the total cost of operating the School and tuition revenue. Tuition alone cannot fund the entire cost associated with a private education at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School or any independent school. Because tuition only covers 88% of our annual operating budget, the School relies on gifts to the Mount Vernon Fund to sustain excellence in teaching, enable enrichment opportunities for students, and provide support for emerging needs. Gifts to the Mount Vernon fund allow our administration to say “yes” to new ideas, enhanced equipment and technology and new opportunities for our students and teachers.
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2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Giving to the Mount Vernon Fund
makes us feel like we are further strengthening a community that will positively influence our children’s character throughout their lives. – Angela and Michael Nagy Parents of Tabitha 2021 and Adam 2023
The Brooks Family Charitable Fund Nancy and Steve Buck Jack and Nancy Calhoun Win and Tracy Carroll Jack and Anne Chambers Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Chastain Chick-fil-A at Perimeter Pointe Mike and Christine Cooper Tracey Cota John and Sherlyn Crandall / Amelia Bay Mrs. Elizabeth Crosby Mike and Christy Dickson Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Duncan Beth and Thad Ellis Kevin Engle Kristen L. Engle Eugene M. Clary Foundation Inc. Family of David Eun Lisa and Steve Fendrich Kate and Frank Fenello Paula and Quinton Fisher Karen and Dennis Flynn Aubrey Forlines Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Gallinaro Brad and Amy Garner Georgia Natural Gas Michael and Tiffany Glover Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Goetz Lauri and Emanuel Grubb Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Hagenau Brandon and Jennifer Hayes Lisa and Andy Hiles Mr. and Mrs. L.B. Hodges, III Lisa and Jerry Humphries Ellie Hunt The Jefferson Family Dennis and Amy Kanderis Bob and Mary Kesterton Hank and Rosie Kunath Debbie and Bill Lampe John and Ginny Layman Mr. and Mrs. Kang Lee Lennox International Inc.
John and Nanci LeRoy Sally Love Connally William and Shari Lotz Bob and Charlotte Madderra Tom and Eleanor Mallory Mark and Lisa McGuire Chris and Wendy McWilliams Hannah, Maggie and Mike Menkus Dale and Bruce Morine Mount Vernon Presbyterian Foundation, Inc. Mo and Nilo Nikain David and Cari Ouderkirk Bruce and Justine Peddle Andrew and Debra Peterson Christy and Jim Pierce John and Zoe Pilgrim Judy and Bill Porter Patrick and Lesley Posey Heather Propst (Peyton and Harper) The Prudential Insurance Company of America Publix Supermarkets Mike and Beth Reese Steve and Rhonda Robinson Mr. and Mrs. Tyler Ross Mr. and Mrs. Michael Roush RSUI Group, Inc. Susan and Christopher Schnelle Dr. and Mrs. Robert Slayden Scott and Elizabeth Slayden Bhaskar and Jayanthi Srinivasiah Stanley Works Ann and Michael Thompson Greg and Beth Thornton Alex and Beth Tyler Robert and Rhonda Tyrrel Jan and Charles VanWynbergen Verizon Foundation Steven David and Susan Satterwhite Weber XL America Allison, Mike, Jordan, and Tyler Yager
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Donor $500 to $999 Anonymous Mike and Tracie Adams Ms. Lisa Alexander Roger and Linnea Ashley Alice and Bob Bender Mike and Kathleen Braswell Ms. Laura Bridges Ann and Dave Brooks Mr. and Mrs. Edward S. Brown Carlton and Joy Carden Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Carney The Cook Family Denise Coward Mr. and Mrs. Brian Craver Mark and Laura Dames Lenny and Lisa Daniels Ragan and Lollie DeFreese Susan and Terry Doyle Gina Elowe Lisa Ford and Chip Emerson Equifax Evan, Marianne, and John Fears Fidelity Investments Dr. Marcella E. Flynn Letty and Stewart Gibson The Gladney Family Stuart and Maria Harvey Charlotte and Scott Hayes Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Hedrick Ms. Joanne B. Helmke Melissa and Scott Hinchman Todd and Deborah House Michael and Christina James Pradeep and Becki Jolly Raj and Mini Jose The Kesterton Family Alicia and Gary Lovell Mr. and Mrs. William McBryde Jim and Amy McLaughlin
IN THE THE MAGAZINE
John and Wendy McLeod Thomas and Cynthia Meade Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Middleton Gary and Denise Minor MMC Martha and Chris Moore Allen and Melanie O’Brien Michel and Lesley Panos Burt and Dawn Patrick Bev and Bob Ricks Don and Jan Sasso Tom and Debbie Schnetzer Paul and Laura Sims Traci and Andrew Smith Mr. and Mrs. Randal Snipes Bill and Barb St. Amant Sun Microsystems Mr. and Mrs. Craig Sweeterman Mr. and Mrs. Jason Tawfik Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Ward Chuck and Kay Waters Don and RoseMary Weber Mr. and Mrs. Lamar White Jack and Tara Winters Kevin and Cheryl Wyckoff
How much are families expected to give? Each family is asked to give to the Mount Vernon Fund based on their circumstances and blessings. Mount Vernon Presbyterian School has received generous support from parents, grandparents, faculty and staff over the years and it is this generosity that paved the way for the opportunities we have today. The collective effort of individual
Sponsor
donations from $15
Up to $499
to $15,000 or more make a big impact.
Anonymous (5) Jennie I. Adams Mr. and Mrs. John Adams Suzanne B Addicks Greg and Trisha Addicks Mr. Bobby P. Antony Mr. James E. Arnett Fred and Ellen Ballard Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Barber Debbie and David Barclift Stacey and Laura Barnard Family of Sean Barry Cathy and Cliff Barshay
We ask that each constituent give as generously as possible within his or her means and gifts of every size are appreciated.
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2010 ANNUAL REPORT
We have been blessed to be part of the Mount Vernon family for many years. Although there are many reasons for this sentiment, we feel particularly blessed by the teachers. Every year we have experienced teachers who genuinely care not only about the academic progress of our three children, but also take a sincere interest in their overall well being. That interest continues long after they have moved on to another grade. It is hard to put a dollar value on that type of commitment and care, but that value is certainly tangible and real. The Mount Vernon Fund provides an opportunity for us to help sustain this value in the present and for years to come. – Mike and Nancy McConnell Parents of Meredith 2011, Morgan 2014 and Michael 2017
Sister Mary Rosina Bayliss Curtis and Jacqueline Berry John and Carol Bethell Chris and Christy Betz Ken and Alta Birdsong Mr. and Mrs. Brooks Blair Mr. and Mrs. Michael Blair Peter and Suzanne Block Dr. and Mrs. Ward Bourdeaux Sarah O. Bowman Box Tops for Education Heather and John Bradford Rick and Lisa Brady Christopher and Ruth Ellen Bridgers Kris and Tee Bridges Al Briggs Ms. Nannette K. Briggs Mitch Brock and Eileen Flynn Meg and Matt Brown Keith and Christine Bruno Jay and Lexie Bryan Anne and John Buchanan Ron and Robbin Buchanan Reggie and Sharon Burnette Steve and Anne Butz Jeff and Laura Nall William J. Campbell Melody Cannon Mary and John Cantwell June and Eric Carlson Mr. and Mrs. Donmark Carman Mr. Russell Carter Mike and Marilyn Casey Laura and Jimmy Chambliss Mrs. Helen Chapman Molly Christian Paul and Sandra Clay James and Terry Clayton Cindy S Coe Patrick and Marguerite Coffield David and Sharon Coheley Ronn Colanino Linda Colbaugh
Tracy A. Cole Suzanne Couvillion Mr. and Mrs. John B. Cumming Jenny and Brian Cummiskey Ray and Erin Davis Jody de la Motte Hurst Dell Direct Giving Campaign Margaret H. Dempster Larry and Leslie Dove Lena Lawson Duncan Sr. Mariela and Ty Duval Mr. and Mrs. Mike Dye Brent and Kelly Eastwood Mrs. Kimberly Edmonson Michael Edmonson Rena Edwards Sam and Roula Elias Kate Emling Entertainment Publications, Inc. Era Michelle Erling Michael S. Farry Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fenech Ginny Ferguson Samantha and Jon Flowers Jaymie and Karl Forrest Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Fowler Mr. and Mrs. Marc Fraser Chris and Linda Galanek Lorelle, Bryan, Courtney, and Dylan Gantt Glenn and Traci Garde Mike and Peggy Gardner The Gavalas Family Lisa and Gary Geurts Lindsey and Warren Gilmer GlaxoSmithKline Cindy Glueckert Stacie Shattles Goins Bill and Emily Goldman Mr. and Mrs. David M. Green Dr. and Mrs. James E. Greene Jr. Ms. Susan A. Greene Lindsay Griffin Mr. and Mrs. Jim Griswold
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
2010 ANNUAL REPORT Jan Clary Gross John and Debbie Grove Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hackney Brad and Tracy Hahn Ms. Traci B. Haigler Jason and Eileen Hall Cheryl Hammen Mrs. Elaine Harber Elissa Harbuck Pat and Buddy Harrell Scott Hartinger Lisa and Michael Hartman Jeff and Tracey Harvey Ken and Mary Beth Heaghney Danielle Heintz Mark and Kelly Heiser Kelly, Taina, and Pippa Hilton-Green Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Howard Dan and Suzanne Huff Nancy and Steve Ike Industrial Developments International ING Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Irlbeck Dr. Jeff W. Jackson Tim and Mary Beth Jeffrey Maria Jenkins Angela Johnson Kirstin and Carter K. Johnson Mrs. Virginia Johnson Katharine Jones Richard and Elizabeth Jones Don Paul and Rixey Jones Robin and Steve Jones Ron and Jennifer Jones Michael and Suja Joseph Lisa and Scott Justus Cindy Kaisharis Dianne and Kevin Kaseta Mr. and Mrs. James Kauffman Laura and Jeff Kauffman Mr. and Mrs. Scott Keller Bill and Cathie Kelly Mr. and Mrs. G. Marshall Kent, Jr.
IN THE THE MAGAZINE
Patrick and Trina Keuller Lisa King Krissy and Will King Mitzi Kintz Sherri Kirbo Beatrice Kirkland Mike and Dorothy Kitchens James and Jeanne Knap The Knapp Family Kae and Ted Koski Patrick Kotora and Madeline Kotora Tom and Karen Kurtz Brett Ladd Mr. and Mrs. Stan Lambert Peggy Larson Kandy Lau Mr. Kelly B. Laughlin Michael A. Lawings John and Flo LeRoy Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Lewand Dale and Tamara Lewis Peter and Ashley Lewman Eunice Lockhart-Moss Elizabeth Long Julie and Lang Lowrey Dr. and Mrs. Christopher W. Lucius Mrs. Champ Lyons Reverend Joe B. Martin and Reverend Jodi Martin Chris and Megumi Mathison Kat Mattimoe Carolyn S. McAlister Gary and Gwen McConnell Kyle and Andrea McCranie Patricia McGuire John and Jeannine McLaughlin Kathleen McLean Ashley and Brad McLeod Ed and Sheila Menkus Jon and Allison Mercer Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. Bob and Patricia Metcalf Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Mette Cara and Brad Mills
Why is participation a priority for the Mount Vernon Fund? A high rate of participation indicates trust in the School and strength in our community of families and friends. Participation is also the primary statistic foundations and corporations request in determining how much financial support to offer our school. The higher the participation, the more likely an outside donor is to see our school as a worthy investment.
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2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Mount Vernon is a part of our family and we know that our grandchildren are receiving a strong foundation for their lives. We know that our gift to the Mount Vernon Fund is an important investment in our grandchildren, their teachers and ultimately in the School’s future. – Carol and Andy Heyward Grandparents of Elizabeth McLoughlin 2015 and Michael McLoughlin 2019
A DAY 50
Rebecca and T.J. Miniscalco Chris Mirro Mark and Nancy Mitcham John and Wendy Moreland Josh and Ann-Marie Morrill Mrs. Gloria Mountain Linda and Richard Munger Judy Nalley Harry and Irene Nelson Jeff and Kelli Nesseth Mr. and Mrs. David Nickell Jenny Novoselsky Ms. Lisa C. O’Dell Dan and Kimberly Oliver Once For All Trust OneCause John and Susan Osberg Shirley and Horace Pahl Chris and Maria Pappadakis Edward L. and Krista C. Parker Steve and Angie Patnode Bobby and Valerie Pavloff Dawn Payne Joey and Christy Payne Ms. Julia-Leigh Pelt Jim and Mary Jack Persons Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Perticone Mark and Janet Pfeifer Larry and Sandra Pipkins Tom and Cathy Pitchford Ann and Bill Plumer Tommy and Marsha Powell Ms. Diane Prince Mr. and Mrs. Frank Prince Suzanne Rackley Doc and Babs Raines Sean G. and Patty D. Randall Pie and Bo Rankin Suzanne and Rob Rankin Brent and Darcelle Reid Mrs. JoAnne Rickman-King Jamie and Elizabeth Riddle Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ritch
Jeffery H. and Wendy Ritchey Mr. and Mrs. John Robert Rizzo Mr. and Mrs. John Rose Melissa Rothbard Dr. Tom Rounds Nancy Rounsaville Laurie and Jeff Rummel Mitzi and Mike Rummel Julianne M. Ryan Mark Ryan and Kay Loerch Mr. and Mrs. David Sadd SAP Charles and Leigh Scarborough Brandon and Molly Scarbrough Joan and Ed Schaeffer Teresa and Chris Scheele Mr. and Mrs. Carl Schuessler The Seeber Family Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Seel Mr. and Mrs. Jim Shanks Jim and Sheila Shanks, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Sheats Frank Shelton Mark and Della Shepherd Mary J. Shirley Harold and Mary Rae Showalter Wynn and Lane Sims Elaine Sirota Robin Sloan Elizabeth Small Karen and Jim Snave Mr. and Mrs. Stein E. Soelberg Richard Rhode Sommers David Song Cindy Spivey Dan and Angela Staley Nick and Amanda Stavropoulos Amber Stewart Arlene and Mark Stovall Lynne Strickland Bengt and Emily Stromquist Ms. Mary Beth Struble Garry Sullivan
IN THE MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
2010 ANNUAL REPORT Target- Take Charge of Education Program Dennis Taylor Ms. Niniva Taylor John and Carol Thomas Ms. Tracey Thompson Dr. and Mrs. W.L Tillett Mr. and Mrs. William J. Tingue Bob and Gail Todd Amy and Russell Todd Marvin and Lila Toliver Don and Jody Travis Kris and Jane Turnbull Mike Turner Beth and Jim Tuttle Matthew and Jennifer Tyler Barbara and Bob Van Metre Mr. and Mrs. Brent Van Putten Jean and Joseph Vitko Tom and Sheryl Vrieze Wachovia Corporation Eddie and Kathy Waller Dan and Caroline Ward Lucy Ward Rod and Gail Warren Mr. and Mrs. Charles Watson Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Watson, Sr. Jim Weathersby The Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Charles S. Weaver Elaine O’Neil Whalen Stacey and Pat Whalen John and Mary Jane White Steven and Maria White Stan and Leslie Whitlock Dr. Brooks A. Whitney Heather H. Whitney, M.D Kevin and Mary Ann Whitson Bob and Joanne Wilcox Paul and Ginny Williams Mr. and Mrs. R. Williams Shan and Chris Willoughby John and Susan Wurst Kim Nicole Wuttke Robin and Warren Yearns
Mr. and Mrs. James Young Mr. and Mrs. Rainer Zeck Dr. and Mrs. Walter Zeck Brent and Amelia Zelnak Cindy and Dan Zenas
What is a matching gift and how can I ensure MVPS receives one?
Grandparents Anonymous Anonymous Joe and Ardy Adams Suzanne B Addicks Judy and Jim Agnew Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Barber John and Carol Bethell Ken and Alta Birdsong Mr. and Mrs. Brooks Blair Dr. and Mrs. Ward Bourdeaux Ms. Laura Bridges Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Brooks, Jr. William J. Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Chastain John and Sherlyn Crandall / Amelia Bay Mrs. Elizabeth Crosby Margaret H. Dempster Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Fowler Mrs. Elaine Harber Ellie Hunt Mrs. Virginia Johnson Katharine Jones Mr. and Mrs. James Kauffman Bob and Mary Kesterton James and Jeanne Knap Kae and Ted Koski Tom and Karen Kurtz John and Ginny Layman Mr. and Mrs. Kang Lee John and Flo LeRoy Eunice Lockhart-Moss Lillian and Jimmy Maurin Carolyn S. McAlister Louise and Bill McCahan
Many employers will match, double, and in some cases, triple charitable contributions made by their employees or retirees. To find out if your company has a matching gift policy, determine if Mount Vernon Presbyterian School qualifies and to obtain a form, please check your company’s website or Human Resources department. The form is then provided to the Advancement Office at MVPS along with your gift. Both will be processed and the form will be mailed to your employer to confirm receipt of the gift.
LIFE THE MAGAZINE
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2010 ANNUAL REPORT Gary and Gwen McConnell Patricia McGuire John and Jeannine McLaughlin Ed and Sheila Menkus Harry and Irene Nelson Shirley and Horace Pahl Larry and Sandra Pipkins Mr. and Mrs. Frank Prince Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ritch Nancy Rounsaville Mr. and Mrs. David Sadd Joan and Ed Schaeffer Jim and Sheila Shanks, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Sheats Harold and Mary Rae Showalter Dr. and Mrs. Robert Slayden Bengt and Emily Stromquist Mrs. Bengt Stromquist Mr. and Mrs. William J. Tingue Bob and Gail Todd Barbara and Bob Van Metre Jean and Joseph Vitko Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Ward Mr. and Mrs. John F. Watkins Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Watson, Sr. Don and RoseMary Weber Elaine O’Neil Whalen Wanda and Lamar White John and Mary Jane White Bob and Joanne Wilcox Mr. and Mrs. James Young
Faculty Anonymous Anonymous Jennie I. Adams Mr. Bobby P. Antony Debbie and David Barclift Curtis and Jacqueline Berry Heather and John Bradford Rick and Lisa Brady Mike and Kathleen Braswell Christopher and Ruth Ellen Bridgers Meg and Matt Brown Reggie and Sharon Burnette
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Melody Cannon Mary and John Cantwell Mr. Russell Carter Molly Christian Cindy S Coe Patrick Coffield Ronn Colanino Linda Colbaugh Tracy A. Cole Mike and Christine Cooper Suzanne Couvillion Ray and Erin Davis Jody de la Motte Hurst Mike and Christy Dickson Brent and Kelly Eastwood Michael Edmonson Rena Edwards Gina Elowe Era Michelle Erling Michael S. Farry Mr. and Mrs. Jon Flowers Cindy Glueckert Stacie Shattles Goins Lindsay Griffin John and Debbie Grove Ms. Traci B. Haigler Cheryl Hammen Pat and Buddy Harrell Danielle Heintz Mark and Kelly Heiser Kelly, Taina, and Pippa Hilton-Green Dr. and Mrs. Brett Jacobsen Maria Jenkins Angela Johnson Richard and Elizabeth Jones Don Paul and Rixey Jones Ron and Jennifer Jones Raj and Mini Jose Michael and Suja Joseph Cindy Kaisharis Laura and Jeff Kauffman Lisa King Krissy and Will King Mitzi Kintz Sherri Kirbo Beatrice Kirkland
MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
2010 ANNUAL REPORT Hank and Rosie Kunath Tom and Karen Kurtz Peggy Larson Kandy Lau Reverend Joe B. Martin and Reverend Jodi Martin Kat Mattimoe Kyle and Andrea McCranie Kathleen McLean Hannah, Maggie and Mike Menkus Rebecca and T.J. Miniscalco Martha and Chris Moore Dale and Bruce Morine Mrs. Gloria Mountain Judy Nalley Jenny Novoselsky Edward L. and Krista C. Parker Ms. Julia-Leigh Pelt Ann and Bill Plumer Tommy and Marsha Powell Suzanne Rackley Pie and Bo Rankin Suzanne and Rob Rankin Steve and Rhonda Robinson Melissa Rothbard Dr. Tom Rounds Laurie and Jeff Rummel Don and Jan Sasso Frank Shelton Mark and Della Shepherd Mary J. Shirley Elaine Sirota Elizabeth Small Richard Rhodes Sommers David Song Cindy Spivey Nick and Amanda Stavropoulos Lynne Strickland Ms. Mary Beth Struble Garry Sullivan Don and Jody Travis Mike Turner Tom and Sheryl Vrieze Lucy Ward Stacey and Pat Whalen Shan and Chris Willoughby
THE MAGAZINE
Foundations and Corporations Anonymous AOL Time Warner Foundation AXA Financial BB&T BellSouth Box Tops for Education The Brooks Family Charitable Fund Buckhead Uniforms Chick-fil-A at Perimeter Pointe Cingular Wireless The Coca-Cola Company Dell Direct Giving Campaign Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation Entertainment Publications, Inc. Equifax Eugene M. Clary Foundation Inc. Fidelity Investments General Mills Foundation Georgia Natural Gas Goldman Sachs Hewitt Associates IBM Corporation Industrial Developments International ING Foundation Key Foundation Lennox International Inc. Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. MMC Mount Vernon Presbyterian Foundation, Inc. National Starch and Chemical Foundation, Inc. Once For All Trust OneCause Pitney Bowes The Prudential Insurance Company of America Publix Supermarkets RSUI Group, Inc. SAP Stanley Works Sun Microsystems SunTrust Bank Atlanta Foundation Target- Take Charge of Education Program The Dannon Company
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2010 ANNUAL REPORT The UPS Foundation Verizon Foundation Wachovia Corporation Watkins Christian Foundation XL America
Memorial Gifts Dianne and Kevin Kaseta In memory of Maryann T. Garalis Mary J. Shirley Given for Morgan and Will Shirley
2009-2010 Mount Vernon Fund Volunteers Sara and Joe Fant – Campaign Chairs Mie and Andy Brunson – Upper School Representatives Brenda and John Noterman – Middle School Representatives Elizabeth and Randall Guyton – Lower School Representatives Maureen and Todd Pierce – Preschool Representatives Ardy and Joe Adams – Grandparent Representatives Kat Mattimoe – Faculty Representative
Fund Raising Strategy Task Force Nancy Calhoun Marilyn Casey Nancy Eder Elizabeth Jones Bill McCahan Martha Moore Bruce Morine Krista Parker Kathleen Parnell Beverly Ricks Todd Rounsaville Amanda Stavropoulos Paul Stupek Guy Tucker Chris Willoughby
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
2010 MOUNT VERNON FELLOWS
FOR THE SUMMER OF 2010 six members of our faculty were awarded fellowships to broaden their experience as educators and to expand the learning environment for the students at Mount Vernon. In their own words they share some of the highlights.
Mary Cantwell, Lower School Science Teacher My fellowship consisted of traveling to Ecuador to volunteer for two weeks at a biological preserve, La Hesperia. I worked a variety of job assignments that ranged from milking cows, building pasture fences, cleaning trees, to helping setup a classroom for the preserves new school. I also spent a week exploring the flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands. Through trekking into a live caldera of the volcano Sierra Negra, hiking into the highlands of Floreana to observe Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat, and snorkeling with sea turtles, sea lions, and white tipped reef sharks, I experienced firsthand the awe and amazement of Galapagos.
MY FELLOWSHIP ALLOWED ME TO FULFILL A LIFELONG DREAM... THE MAGAZINE
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Amanda Stavropoulos, Ed.S., Media Specialist My fellowship was hosted by the National Association of African American Studies. It was called “How to Teach Students Who Don’t Look Like You.” It was about multiculturalism and how to connect with students who have come from different backgrounds and cultures than you.
I EXPERIENCED FIRSTHAND
...HOW TO CONNECT WITH STUDENTS WHO HAVE COME FROM DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS AND CULTURES...
Maggie Menkus, Seventh Grade English Teacher My fellowship took place at the Summer Institute of the Master’s Program of Storytelling at East Tennessee State University to understand how teachers can incorporate storytelling into the classroom. This teaching strategy can transform classroom environments and engage students’ imagination to connect with them on a deep and meaningful level. I learned to facilitate classroom discussion because it is, by design, a co-creative process that involves the listener. Through presentation, as well as working together one on one, and in larger and smaller groups, I learned to shape personal experience into tales that enhanced a sense of community within the classroom by reinforcing the strong social web that binds teller and listener. This is the power of storytelling, the world’s oldest yet still-greenest tool for education and communication.
THE AWE AND AMAZEMENT OF GALAPAGOS.
...THE HARKNESS METHOD PLACES STUDENTS ON THE “FRONT LINES” OF LEARNING...
Kat Mattimoe Lower School Art Teacher My Fellowship allowed me to fulfill a lifelong dream of visiting the New Mexico region where my college mentor, Sr. Eugene deCleene, O.P. and Georgia O’Keefe (preeminent American artist) were inspired to create. I had the opportunity to paint en plein air while staying at the Presbyterian conference center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Ghost Ranch.
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MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
Brandon Scarbrough, Dean of Upper School Students My fellowship took place at the Exeter Academy Summer Humanities Institute in Exeter, New Hampshire. Exeter developed a methodology that is commonly referred to as the “Harkness” Method - despite the humility and desire for anonymity of the benefactor. More than just a different model for discussion, the Harkness Method places students on the “front lines” of learning by having them do the research, shape and lead both the direction of the course (within certain parameters) and the breadth and depth of the conversation. Students are not passive recipients of information distilled and provided by an instructor, but instead assume the role of creative design experts and cooperative instructors building from the collective wisdom and questions of the group. The method requires students to heavily interact with a wide variety of texts and other resources, fully and actively participate in the discussion, add to the conversation with their insights or queries for greater understanding, and take ownership of the success of the course.
THEIR ULTIMATE GOAL IS TO PREPARE STUDENTS TO LIVE ETHICAL AND REFLECTIVE LIVES IN RAPIDLY CHANGING ENVIRONMENTS.
I LEARNED TO FACILITATE CLASSROOM DISCUSSION BECAUSE IT IS, BY DESIGN, A CO-CREATIVE PROCESS THAT INVOLVES THE LISTENER.
THE MAGAZINE
Tracy Haigler, gler, Fifthh Grad Grade Teacher My fellowship hip too took place acce ea att tthe Harvard Graduate School of Education where I attended “Proj “Project Ze Zero, The Future of Learning.” This program invites ero ro, Th educators to e examine what, x ne wha at where and how children and adults should learn in order to thriv thrive in the 21s 21st century. When teachers embrace learning for the future, they nurture competencies such as expert thinking, collaboration, ture co and entrepreneurship. They pre rene ne hip ip.. Th The e foster intercultural understanding, environmental stewardship, and citizenship. They invite students to understand ip, a n global oba ball ci cit complex problems, create quality work, and express themselves through rob ble lem crea ate q traditional an new di digital media. Their ultimate goal is to prepare students to and dn digi g ta gi tal m live ethical and nd rreflective cttivve lilives ive v in rapidly changing environments.
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the POINTof the STORY We Catch Up with a Recent MVPS Grad To say you know college is going to be hard, and then to experience it for yourself are two completely different things.
DREW CLAYTON Class of 2010
I AM CURRENTLY AT THE GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY.
The classes are hard, the professors are strict, and on top of it all I am currently pledging a fraternity. I am busier than I have ever been in my entire life, and yet somehow I feel like I can still handle everything. Many of my friends had a wake up call and realized that they were actually going to have to work hard to do well, but I already had that ingrained into my thought process. My strong work ethic and attitude to succeed are both due to the development I went through as a student at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. I have so many thanks to all of my teachers and mentors for the time and compassion they put into my life to prepare me for what was ahead. It was teachers like Ms. Melody Cannon, whose junior and senior English classes make my English class in college a walk in the park. While my classmates are amazed at the magnitude of our assignments, I simply look back to the eleventh grade and laugh at how easy I have it now. My classes are going great, and I expect my GPA will show that. I still have a lot of work ahead of me, but I feel confident with the backing I developed at Mount Vernon. There is not doubt in my mind that I will be able to attain all of the goals I have set forth.
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2011 SUMMER PROGRAMS AT MVPS Exciting athletic, arts, and academic programs for Preschool, Lower, Middle, and Upper School students. Details coming soon at www.mountvernonschool.org.
MOUNT VERNON
NON-PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #8321 ATLANTA, GA
P R E S BY T E R I A N S C H O O L 471 Mt. Vernon Highway, NE Atlanta, GA 30328
MOUNT VERNON P R E S BY T E R I A N S C H O O L 471 Mt. Vernon Highway, NE 510 Mt. Vernon Highway, NE Atlanta, GA 30328 (404) 252-3448 www.mountvernonschool.org
Mount Vernon Presbyterian School is a community dedicated to academic excellence, physical development and spiritual enrichment. Grounded in Christian values, we seek to develop leaders who will use their unique abilities to think, serve, and live their lives with wisdom and moral integrity.