Bulletin Fall 2023 by New Canaan Country School

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL

The Future of Teaching How It’s Changing

Fall 2023

New Canaan Country School

Bulletin Fall 2023 Head of School: Aaron Cooper Editor: Kent Findlay ’80 Design: Good Design, LLC gooddesignusa.com Printer: J.S. McCarthy Printers jsmccarthy.com Photography: Kent Findlay ’80 Meaghan Mallin Julie Porter Chi Chi Ubiňa Torrance York Address Changes: communications@countryschool.net On the cover: Henry Ewing, Huck Dickinson and Grade 3 classmates find just-right books and cozy spots on the rug to enjoy them. (Photo credit: Chi Chi Ubiña)

Our Mission

We create an active, joyful learning environment where children are challenged to think deeply, question confidently, and act generously, so that they may lead lives of impact and purpose.

Our Values

Community: We seek, respect, and celebrate diversity and ignite a sense of belonging so everyone thrives. Courage: We take risks, make mistakes, assume responsibility, and champion those around us. Curiosity: We explore, investigate, and discover — inspiring a life devoted to endless learning. Kindness: We foster a culture of compassion through our daily words and actions.

CONTENTS 2

From the Head of School

The Future of Teaching + How It’s Changing

Class of 2023 Closing Exercises

Extra Programs, Extra Hours, Extra Fun at NCCS!

Academic Adventures

Arts in Action

Celebrating Our Community

Horizons

Class Notes

The Al Perry Scholarship Fund

A Community of Support

In Memoriam

A Look Back

STAY CONNECTED WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! @nccountryschool

Board of Trustees President: F. Tucker Golden ’90 Vice President: Arman C. Gokgol-Kline Treasurer: Michael J. DiBiasio ’90 Secretary: Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88 Members-at-Large: Tara J. Coniglio John M. Ryan Heidi Locke Simon Aaron C. Cooper, Head of School Christopher M. Bogart Arlety Bowman Alex Figueroa Mauricia L. Gardiner Michael M. Godina Lauren W. Greig Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98

Jennifer L. Kline Matthew F. LeBaron John V. Ricotta Douglas A. Ryder Elizabeth Schmitt Jawanda P. Staber Rebecca C. Thornton ’92 Darby E. Webber Parents’ Association Executive Council President: Jennifer Kline Secretary: Lauren Ryder Treasurer: Jennifer MacLear VP Inclusion: Lisa Pannone VP Community Service: Nancy Israelov VP Community Fundraising: Nicole Harder VP Parent/Guardian Education: Andrew Greig VP Community Engagement: Sarah Vrabac

Alumni Council President: Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98 Vice President: Taylor Gould ’06 Caryn Antonini ’87 Richard Colligan ’01 Michael DiBiasio ’90 Marshall Johnson ’04 Taryn Jones Laeben ’95 Westy Charlson LeConey ’93 Suzanne Gibbons Owen ’94 Caitlin Maguire Patel ’04 Elena Kavanagh Phillips ’91 Andres Soto ’10 Sanny Burnham Warner ’88

Emeritus: Steven Bloom ’03 Carl Brodnax ’76 Hugh Halsell ’59 Paula Kennedy Harrigan ’81 Carl Rohde ’66 Stephanie Bowling Zeigler ’81 Ex Officio: Aaron C. Cooper, Head of School Ryan Smith, Senior Director of Advancement Holly Donaldson Casella ’04, Director of Major Gifts & Alumni Affairs Brooke Cavanaugh Reed ’01, Advancement & Alumni Associate Tucker Golden ’90, Former Alumni Council President

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from the

HEAD OF SCHOOL Dear Country School Community: “Country School is a Circle.” This song many of you may

Our Horizons Program will turn 60 years old in July, and it

remember, written by longtime NCCS educators Nancy Ziac

has never been stronger, educating over 400 students between

and Gail Gundelach, was in large part the inspiration for our

its K–9 summer and K–post-secondary school year programs

Kindergarten teachers, Jess McKinney, Tracy Spain and

this past year. We are excited to celebrate this milestone

Darby Webber, to suggest the circle as a school-wide theme

anniversary on April 27 in the Athletics & Wellness Center.

for 2023–2024. Anchoring us in this theme is the book

Our Apprentice Teacher Training Program, which has

The Circles All Around Us by Brad Montague, a children’s

launched hundreds of teaching careers over the years,

book promoting a sense of community in concentric circles,

continues to flourish, and a new fund in honor of two

starting with the individual and stretching beyond.

longtime teachers, Sue Speers and Pat Stoddard, is in place

NCCS reflects the spirit of community found in circles, and there is plenty within these pages to illustrate that sentiment.

to support its further growth. In this issue, many of our teachers and leaders share their thoughts about the future of education given their experience prior to and through the pandemic, observing those elements that are changing and those that remain stable. And we continue to improve our campus and our program to ensure that the children in our care are able, in the words of former Headmaster Henry Welles, to live this integral time in life fully and happily. I hope you also get a sense of the very many educators and NCCS community members that make these experiences come to life. Indeed, the concentric circles at Country School are broad and wide, and that makes all the difference for our students. With best regards,

Aaron Cooper, Head of School

Read “Letters from Aaron” a weekly column online at www.countryschool.net/lettersfromaaron

◂ “Circles”: A collage by Visual Arts Teacher Mark Macrides

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

Wellness Garden

Through the generosity of the Class of 2023, we now have a beautiful new Faculty & Staff Wellness Garden to provide a space

Thank You!

A tree honoring Country School

for all to pause and breathe, decompress,

parent Sarah Irwin for her

contemplate and be closer to nature. Thank

dedicated service on the Board

you to Caroline Del Percio of Kathryn Herman

of Trustees (2017–2023) and

Design for the beautiful design, and to

as the board president, has

NCCS Landscaper Marc Keneally for planting

been planted near the

it with care and setting the trees and large

garden for all to visit.

boulders with such expertise. Read more on the inside back cover.

The Future of Teaching HOW IT’S CHANGING

The pandemic challenged educators everywhere to rethink the very concept of school. We asked Country School educators how they see education changing, where it is headed, and what is needed most today for teachers and students. Some very clear themes emerged: the importance of relationships as the foundation of a good education, a focus on wellness for both students and teachers, the need to invest in the next generation of teachers, the value of partnership with parents, and the pros and cons of technological advances, to name a few.

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How has TEACHING CHANGED? Technology has continued to evolve over the past few years. From Zoom to generative AI, there are new tools to become acquainted with, to understand and to embrace. There has also been a focus on wellness and well-being. We understand that in order for students to be available for learning they must feel safe and supported. We also know that students need to learn how to recognize their emotions and regulate them; this goes for social skills, too. Schools are looking closely at their social-emotional programming as well as the student support teams and resources available for the growing needs of students. NCCS was at the forefront of recognizing the importance of soft skills (teamwork, creativity, flexibility, communication, etc.) There has been growing awareness more recently about their importance in school and life beyond. It is critical that our

The social emotional needs of students have increased greatly since the pandemic. Students require far more support in the realm of emotional regulation. We particularly see an uptick in anxious tendencies, even among our youngest students.” —MEAGHAN MALLIN, Head of Early Childhood and Lower School

students have explicit instruction about and practice and rehearsal with these over the years for their own preparedness. Teacher burnout and stress have also increased exponentially.” —KIRSTEN ROSOLEN, Head of Middle and Upper School The pandemic accelerated the use of certain technologies into classrooms and routines

I try to remember that the

— some of which have

bottom line is keeping students

proven exceptionally helpful

safe, physically and mentally. Once those needs are met, that’s when learning can happen.”

for our learners. For vulnerable learners, assistive technologies allow for critical repetition of content and facilitate multimodal

—LIZ FERRAN, Visual Arts Teacher

learning opportunities. And, for our most independent learners, the incorporation of certain technologies and platforms stretches learning to new heights. The pandemic pushed teachers, including myself, to consider the

Since COVID, kids seem to be getting to later grades with

many tools at their disposal and to become

more and more needs, especially in the area of executive

experts in many. I’m grateful for that necessary

functioning skills. Teachers are having to spend more

nudge, as it’s improved access and experience.

time explicitly teaching children to plan, organize, study,

Additionally, while NCCS has always supported

problem solve, and how to advocate for themselves. We

the whole child, the mental health challenges

are also encountering more students with greater social-

faced by so many children over the past few

emotional needs as well as mental health challenges.

years has reinvigorated our commitment

While we are no longer acting as nurses and sanitizers,

to supporting students in and out of the

teachers still need to put on their therapist and counselor hats

classroom. Without tending to all aspects of a

with little to no training. The limited access to mental health professionals is

child, learning can’t happen. NCCS recognizes

definitely apparent in the post-COVID education scene. It can take us longer

that, and I’m grateful it does.”

to get through content and skills because when students are not mentally available to learn, it is fruitless to attempt to push forward in our curriculum.” —LACEY RAMSEY, Director of Apprentice Teacher Training Program and Learning Resources Teacher

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

—LAUREN ROMEO, Assistant Head of Upper School and Co-Director of Secondary School Counseling

What are the MOST PRESSING NEEDS of students and teachers today? With all the pressure that our culture, social settings, social media and the individual place on this age group, we must equip students to navigate self-image and self-perception in a healthy manner. We must equip them by sharing messages

A year ago, the

and acts of love, nurture, structure and challenge to engage

MIddle School teachers

the whole child. Additionally, we must remind these students and ourselves to embrace late childhood

answered the question, What are the two most important skills

and early adolescence for its unique nature of

we can teach to students right now?

introspection, doubt and discovery.”

If I were to bucket the responses, they

—JARVIS WYCHE, Assistant Head of Middle School

would fall into the following categories: social skills, self-regulation and selfmanagement. I think that these still hold true as important priorities — and know that they are areas that we continue to focus upon in our work with students.” —KIRSTEN ROSOLEN, Head of Middle and Upper School

What EXCITES you about teaching? I’m excited that NCCS honors children and offers them a chance to reflect upon their behaviors — the good and the bad — and empowers them with

No day (or year) is the same.

strategies to move forward. It feels modern and

There is lots to love about

responsible and much less passive than other forms of

being in the daily company

student management.” —LAUREN ROMEO, Assistant Head of Upper School and Co-Director of Secondary School Counseling

of Middle and Upper School students. I especially enjoy what I refer to as the in-betweens … those moments of connection

In this profession, no two days, weeks or years are the same, and that, to me, is incredibly exciting. Teachers have to adapt and be stewards of their own learning. I view teachers as lifelong learners who are always making an effort to expand their knowledge in order to best meet the needs of the students that are in front of them. This involves continued research to stay up to date with best practices, as well as fostering a strong personal connection with students and families so that you can truly know your students on an academic and individual level. It excites me to know that through teaching I will be able to create meaningful relationships with my students, as I get to be a part of their educational journey.” —LAUREN CATALANO, Grade 2 Lead Teacher

in the hallway, at a lunch table, during WINN (What I Need Now), at recess.… It can be two minutes or 20 minutes of getting to know, checking in, answering questions and hearing what’s on someone’s mind. These are my favorite. Relationships, relationships, relationships — the three most important words in education!” —KIRSTEN ROSOLEN, Head of Middle and Upper School

What WORRIES you?

For me, the biggest worry is seeing the amount of pressure students are putting on themselves. I unfortunately

Two things: First, homework. It puts too much pressure

see this throughout every age range,

on children these days and doesn’t allow for ‘downtime’

from Beginners through 9th. Students

to pursue their own passions. Most children spend eight

are becoming more and more concerned with

hours a day, five days a week, being ‘on,’ only to

the idea that they need everything in their lives to be

go home and spend another few hours

perfect. They need to make the top teams, have the lead

doing the same thing, without a

role in the play, be in the advanced classes, etc. And if they

moment to relax and just have fun.

are not, then they ‘failed’ in their eyes. Students are not

Second, the fast-paced changes in

understanding that resilience is one of the most important

technology can present challenges

skills they can acquire, and that it is impossible and

in ensuring that these changes are

actually unhealthy to go through life and never experience

used to enhance learning rather

disappointment or something feeling uncomfortable.

than distract from it.”

Those are the situations that keep us going and make us

—ARON BACK, Co-Director of Technology

better and stronger. It worries me that this pressure is not sustainable, especially at such young ages.” —BETH LENHARD, School Nurse

The teacher shortage in this country worries me deeply. Our country needs strong teachers, but due to burnout, being caught in the political crosshairs, school violence and other complex factors, teaching has become less and less compelling of a profession. It saddens me deeply, as our teachers

The economics of being a career educator in the U.S. do not seem sustainable. And the polarized socialpolitical landscape that dominates the media is not good for kids. It makes teaching and learning more complicated.” —RESHAN RICHARDS, Director of Studies

deserve better, and our children deserve to have teachers of the highest caliber along their educational journey.” —MEAGHAN MALLIN, Head of Early Childhood and Lower School

I worry about the negative culture that exists in the United States right now, the poor behavior that’s displayed by so many, and

Mental health challenges that this

I’m very worried that students

generation of students face. There is

aren’t going to speak-up for fear

more anxiety than ever.… In addition,

of being canceled. In education,

there are intense social needs at present.

voices from all sides deserve a platform.

Social skills have taken a hit because of

That’s how we grapple with ideas, that’s how we

the pandemic. This has impacted other

broaden our perspectives, and that’s how we build

typical developmental milestones

respect for varying viewpoints. I hope students can

as well — there is a gap that

feel empowered to authentically share their voices

exists right now.”

while at NCCS and respectfully listen to their peers.

—KIRSTEN ROSOLEN, Head of Middle and Upper School

Communities thrive when composed of heterogeneous viewpoints, experiences and identities.” —LAUREN ROMEO, Assistant Head of Upper School and Co-Director of Secondary School Counseling

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What would you want PARENTS TO UNDERSTAND about teaching and learning today? Parents of young children in As a learning resources teacher, I focus on skills,

today’s world have a variety

specifically for reading and writing, at these early

of essential considerations

stages of development. Those skills are only one piece

to keep in mind to ensure

of a larger puzzle. A child’s availability for learning

their children’s healthy

starts with their emotional well-being and skills that

development, well-being

will help them be successful in life — confidence,

and success. Here are some

empathy, self-control, curiosity and perseverance. In

key areas to focus on:

early schooling years teachers must not only teach academic skills, but also try to foster these life skills in our classrooms. We also must acknowledge and honor the individual learning cycle for each student. Understanding what each student needs to be successful is not a simple task, but it is the essence of our job. Communication with parents starts with observation and connection around the common goal

• The importance of high-quality early education: Early childhood education plays a significant role in laying the foundation for future learning. Parents would be wise to seek out programs that provide a robust and diversified multi-sensory approach within the context of meaningful relationships. • Play and creativity: Encourage unstructured play

of knowing and supporting each child. Teaching and

and creativity, as they are essential for cognitive and

learning is a team effort between all adults in

imaginative development. Limiting overscheduling

the school community and families working

and providing ample time for play are crucial.

together to help our children thrive.” —CINDY THOM, Assistant Head of Early Childhood and Lower School for Teaching and Learning

• Communication: Maintain open lines of communication and be present with your child. Create an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their feelings, thoughts and concerns. This approach will also lend itself well to fostering a strong foundation for reading and language development.” —JEANNIE STAUNTON BEAN ’83, Director of Early Childhood

I believe it is important for parents to understand that teaching and learning do not

our parents were in school — and thank goodness

start and stop within the

for that! Teaching and its practice should never remain

boundaries of the school,

static. What we now know about students’ learning and

and understanding and

their brains, what we’ve learned from a multitude of

alignment about how kids learn

longitudinal studies published over the past decade, and

and humans develop are essential

the new technologies that have been introduced to the

to contributing to more or all students’

profession have allowed us to better our

fulfillment and success. These days, there are so many

craft and refine our delivery of content

contexts in which people exist: home, work, school,

in critical ways. So, if teaching and

online, offline, activities, camps. But primarily for kids,

learning in today’s schools looks

it’s home and school, where there are adults who are

different than it did in the 1980s or

(ideally) fully committed to the child’s growth. When

’90s, celebrate those differences.

there is dissonance or even conflict between how one is

The alternative would point to a

at home versus at school, it puts a huge burden on the

shocking lack of progress.”

child to make sense of their own place in the world.” —RESHAN RICHARDS, Director of Studies

Teaching and learning have evolved since the days

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

—LAUREN ROMEO, Assistant Head of Upper School and Co-Director of Secondary School Counseling

What is important for parents to understand about SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING TODAY? Social-emotional learning does not take place solely in one SEL class, nor is it separate from academic learning. Given that human beings are wired to connect with others and to have emotions, the skills we use to manage all of this permeate everything. Children grow their social-emotional skills through countless interactions and experiences within supportive settings and relationships, and these skills are integral to our well-being. It would be unreasonable to expect children to just absorb the skills they need to deal with intense feelings or manage a tricky conflict with a friend without making mistakes. Young people will gain what they need to be resilient in the face of difficulty when adults foster opportunities for them to tackle challenges independently, while also allowing them to make mistakes and learn from them in a supportive way.” —JACKIE BRITT-FRIEDMAN, Middle and Upper School Psychologist

Social-emotional learning is critical to developing the whole child and foundational to our mission. The magic of Country School is that SEL is not separate or apart from academic learning; it is intentionally integrated within everything we do.” —KELLY SIEGRIST, Early Childhood and Lower School Psychologist

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What keeps you INSPIRED? So much keeps me inspired! Science

The students and faculty keep me

has given us a wealth of information

inspired. I love to be in the presence of a

about how we can promote the well-being

child wondering and discovering something

of youths and adults, which we continue to

new. That spark of knowledge creation or

utilize at NCCS. While these past few years

meaning-making is most exciting to witness.

have not been easy, I am confident that the

Observing the teacher nurturing and

school’s commitment to taking further steps

facilitating that discovery

to support the well-being of community members,

process inspires

combined with the incredible dedication of the faculty and staff,

and energizes

will help make our community stronger. I am particularly

my creativity.”

excited about our work to increase our students’ sense

—JARVIS WYCHE, Assistant Head of Middle School

of belonging and connectedness, which will serve as a protective factor for their mental health.” —JACKIE BRITT-FRIEDMAN, Middle and Upper School Psychologist

The joy of working with children never dims. There is nothing better than watching a child gain competence and confidence. To see a child’s face light up when they feel a sense of success and pride makes all the hard work worth it. The teachers at NCCS also keep me inspired — their willingness to go above and beyond time and time again for their students is simply beautiful to witness. We are all so lucky to have our children with these phenomenal and dedicated educators.” —MEAGHAN MALLIN, Head of Early Childhood and Lower School

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

I am motivated by having the opportunity to instill courage in my students as they are growing into who they are as learners and individuals. Being a teacher is just as much about teaching students academic skills as it is about teaching students how to be kind, decent people, and I feel equally passionate about both of those responsibilities. I am also continuously inspired by Country School’s community. The kindness and

I enjoy helping others get better at the things they want to be better at, while also helping them discover possibilities they may not have considered (and then want to pursue and get better at). This is the same for children as it is for the adults with whom I work.” —RESHAN RICHARDS, Director of Studies

curiosity that flow throughout Country School’s student body are truly palpable. It is inspiring to be a part of such a strong, welcoming and kind community.” —LAUREN CATALANO, Grade 2 Lead Teacher

Seeing how young children gain knowledge and skills fascinates me. There are so many ways educators present information and curriculum, but what inspires me most is the innate way children seek out learning for themselves. When children are given opportunities to lead, play, design and cultivate ideas, they are energized and prone to action. They learn best by doing, and in that “doing,”

My two careers, one as

naturally resourcing others to solve problems through mental

a journalist and one as a teacher, share at least one feature: not knowing where the ‘day’ (events or students) might take me. That makes going to work so enjoyable. In my message of introduction to parents before the start of every school year, I write, ‘Each September, I look forward to my annual journey, hopeful that the caravan includes inquisitive travelers.’ I love traveling, in part because one never knows what serendipity awaits.” —BART FREDO, Upper School English Teacher

Working with kids as they begin their learning journey is so inspiring. Their thirst for knowledge, new experiences and connection is palpable. I’ve become passionate about helping to understand a child’s learning profile in these early years and supporting individual growth in the best way we can. Research in our field is ongoing, and it’s fascinating to learn more about the brain and shift our practices based on new information.” —CINDY THOM, Assistant Head of Early Childhood and Lower School for Teaching and Learning

and physical engagement. Recognizing and supporting these natural tendencies is important to facilitate meaningful learning experiences that empower children to become confident individuals.” —JEANNIE STAUNTON BEAN ’83, Director of Early Childhood

What has NCCS done (in your experience) POST-COVID TO ADDRESS THE NEEDS of students and teachers today? NCCS has We were cognizant from the beginning of the

acknowledged

pandemic that there would be a widespread social-

and taken steps to

emotional impact on children. We are fortunate

increase support for some

that our teachers have such expertise in child

of our younger students who

development and that our school has always had

were preschool age during the

a strong social emotional curriculum in place. In

pandemic. Not only did they

Kindergarten through Grade 4, our teachers are

miss out on a more normative

trained in Responsive Classroom, which is an evidence-

school experience but they

based approach to teaching that focuses on engaging academics, positive

were also incredibly young

community, effective management and developmental awareness.

when all of the adults around

However, we knew that we had to increase our efforts in the SEL realm as we

them were under immense

saw how impacted our students were. Since the pandemic, our teachers have

stress and worry.”

received professional development in occupational therapy strategies for the classroom, strategies for supporting emotional regulation, and we have

—RESHAN RICHARDS, Director of Studies

continued to devote time to honing our Responsive Classroom practices.” —MEAGHAN MALLIN, Head of Early Childhood and Lower School

Teachers have demonstrated tremendous flexibility and responsiveness to the individual needs that have emerged. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, teachers strive to meet students where they are — emotionally, socially and academically — and positively and supportively nudge them forward.” —LAUREN ROMEO, Assistant Head of Upper School and Co-Director of Secondary School Counseling

Talking about wellness and focusing on how we can continue to best support, nurture and guide our students in the SEL area. We have identified needs in the teacher realm as well.” —KIRSTEN ROSOLEN, Head of Middle and Upper School

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

What are the needs post-COVID for our youngest learners? WHAT DO TEACHERS NEED? At Country School, we First and foremost, our youngest learners need to live out the full expression of their childhood. They need time to move and engage in unstructured play, to regularly experience wonder and awe, to spend quality time with their families, and to learn and discover by engaging in the world around them. Allowing childhood to unfold as it should enables children to develop the social emotional and regulation skills that will serve them as they grow. This equips them to learn and develop the academic foundation that will prepare them for their years ahead in school and beyond.” —JEANNIE STAUNTON BEAN ’83, Director of Early Childhood

are fortunate to have deeply dedicated educators who are true professionals with high levels of experience and expertise. In turn, they need to feel a true sense of trust and support from families and from school leadership. They need the opportunity to partake in meaningful and effective opportunities for professional growth, of which NCCS does a great job. They also need their personal time and off-hours to be protected and respected. Our teachers are always so willing to be responsive, but we know that protecting their off-hours is key to preventing burnout.” —MEAGHAN MALLIN, Head of Early Childhood and Lower School

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WHAT IS NEXT? How must schools evolve? Schools must commit to not only educating and developing

Schools must

great children, but also educating

continue to

and supporting the development

meet the evolving

of great parents and guardians.”

needs of our

—RESHAN RICHARDS, Director of Studies

students. We need more mental health professionals who can meet the needs of our students, and more learning specialists so students with learning challenges can receive intervention in very

Schools in general must take more care to nurture a

small, individualized groups. We cannot use a

child’s emotional well-being. Often teachers are so

one-size-fits-all model, so we must tailor our

focused on delivering content that they neglect

faculty and classes in response to our current

other needs in the classroom. Those needs

and prospective students. Of course, we need

have become abundantly clear over the past few years. Our nation’s children are anxious and depressed, and it’s our responsibility as educators to tend to more than content. If not, students won’t be able to access learning.” —LAUREN ROMEO, Assistant Head of Upper School and Co-Director of Secondary School Counseling

to balance this with providing academic excellence and maintaining a competitive amount of rigor. It’s not an easy feat, but with the right people and structures in place, we can make it happen.” —LACEY RAMSEY, Director of Apprentice Teacher Training Program and Learning Resources Teacher

Teachers need schools to increase access to support staff (counselors, psychologists, etc.) who have specialized expertise and knowledge to best support students. Ongoing professional development to continue to build their ability to support these areas, especially with how the pandemic has affected this generation of students, is helpful and important, too. We need to be mindful of stretching teachers to the point of overload — that only furthers the worry of teacher burnout and stress and the cycle of teachers leaving the classroom.” —KIRSTEN ROSOLEN, Head of Middle and Upper School

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in education, including for the youngest learners. As we look at the needs of students post-pandemic, several key areas emerge:

Educators must embrace the evolution of our society

• Social and emotional well-being: Young children

and culture. As our society

have missed out on vital social interactions due

becomes more sophisticated

to lockdowns and remote learning. There’s a need

and complex in accessing

for focused efforts on rebuilding social skills, emotional

information and knowledge,

regulation and peer relationships. As a result, there is a need for play-

educators and school

based learning. Play is essential for the development of young children.

leaders must lean into the

There’s a need for a renewed emphasis on play-based learning that

pathways students utilize

fosters creativity, problem-solving and social engagement.

to gain understanding and

• Personalized learning: The pandemic highlighted the importance of personalized learning. Teachers have increasingly needed to tailor instruction to individual needs, taking into account the diverse learning paces and styles of young children. • Outdoor education: Outdoor learning environments provide fresh air, physical activity and opportunities for hands-on exploration. Schools need to prioritize outdoor activities and celebrate nature to promote

information. Educators should embrace new ways of nurturing the student’s wonder, discovery, creativity, and joy.” —JARVIS WYCHE, Assistant Head of Middle School

holistic development. • Teachers’ needs: Teachers working with young students need ongoing professional development to effectively address the unique needs of early childhood education, especially in the context of post-pandemic challenges. Teachers need time together to collaborate and share their experiences and knowledge with one another.” —JEANNIE STAUNTON BEAN ’83, Director of Early Childhood discover more countryschool.net

WHAT ARE SECONDARY SCHOOLS LOOKING FOR, AND how does that inform our Upper School program? Schools are looking for students who are strong self-advocates, are involved community members and have a strong, broad base of academic skills. They are also searching for students with strong ethical foundations and, now more than ever, possess coping skills to manage the stresses that come along with being a teen in 2023. As such, they are seeking NCCS students, who transition onto campuses seamlessly, leveraging the many skills that they acquired throughout their formative years. Our alums are celebrated by secondary schools because they are community leaders, classroom contributors, extracurricular participants, and good friends and allies. Our teachers and administrators are constantly looking to reflect upon and improve our curriculum and programming so that Country School students continue to gain the skills and traits that will prepare them for many possible paths.” —LAUREN ROMEO, Assistant Head of Upper School and Co-Director of Secondary School Counseling

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

What teacher training/professional DEVELOPMENT TRENDS DO YOU SEE? There are two paths people are looking for, and what some don’t realize is that they really are quite similar. There is one group of people who want to go straight to public school where they are ‘really helping people in need’ and another group that wants to join an independent school community that is resourcerich, community-oriented and able to claim academic excellence. What the latter group doesn’t realize is these communities have people in need, too. The needs may be different, but all teachers are helpers, by nature and definition. More generally speaking, today’s aspiring teachers are looking for a real work-life balance. Gone are the days when teachers want to go home and spend their entire evenings planning lessons, answering emails and preparing materials. In reality, many are still doing that, but more than ever, new teachers are setting hard boundaries when it comes to emails, and they are bringing work home less and less. In addition to this self-governed detachment, aspiring teachers are looking for more fair compensation. As they watch their business school friends go off to finance firms and their sales friends

It has been great to see increased interest in learning sciences as they relate to instructional and classroom design. The more that educators understand — both scientifically and experientially — the complexities of human development, the better they are equipped to be great teachers to more students.” —RESHAN RICHARDS, Director of Studies

receive six-figure starting salaries, they question their decisions to go into education, even though they know the difference they will be making in the world. Finally, aspiring teachers want support. I remember walking into my first ‘real’ classroom at a public school in New York City, and I had literally no idea what I was doing. I had a master’s in teaching and three different certifications, but my only real classroom time had been during a semester-long student teaching stint. The principal barely stepped foot in my classroom, and there was no one assigned to support me throughout my first year. Everything I learned, I learned through trial and error. New teachers don’t want that. They want to be taught what to do, how to do it, and they don’t want to fail. Who is drawn to our profession now? It’s a pretty good mix. This year in our Apprentice Program we have career changers from the worlds of finance, recruitment and various environmental endeavors. But as always, we have people who knew from a young age they wanted to be teachers. From what I’ve seen, one past or one story does not yield a better teacher than another. I have yet to meet someone new to the profession who is joining to ‘get the summers off,’ something I used to hear about. Today’s teachers seem to really want to be teachers. They know it’s hard work, and they choose it anyway.” —LACEY RAMSEY, Director of Apprentice Teacher Training Program and Learning Resources Teacher discover more countryschool.net

APPRENTICE TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAM A Brief History We launched our Apprentice Teacher Training Program in 1953 as only the second of its kind nationwide. It is modeled after a teacher training program originally created in 1928 by Katherine Taylor, Head of the Shady Hill School of Cambridge, MA. Country School Headmaster Henry Welles (1938–1963) had begun his career apprenticing for Taylor. Later, he sought to emulate the program. The Apprentice Program was designed to give beginning teachers the experience and training needed to go out and lead classrooms of their own. Nearly 1,000 apprentices have come through NCCS, and many have gone on to live impactful lives as educators. The program has evolved, but remains true to its original

mission. As many as 21 apprentices every year work alongside

An investment in our Apprentice Teacher Training

mentor lead teachers in our Early Childhood, Lower School and

Program is an investment in the future of education.

Middle School divisions. Our apprentice teachers get invalu-

Many incredible teachers have left their mark at Country

able on-the-job training and mentoring from our experienced

School over the decades, and our apprentices have gone on

teachers, as well as the opportunity to coach and participate

to teaching careers across the country in public and private

in specialized professional development. We even provide

schools, several currently holding leadership roles as heads

funding for graduate school programs to further hone their

of school and principals, including many in our own leadership

teaching skills, exposure and experience. Our students gain

here. Through new programs, courses or just the daily care

additional individual and small group learning opportunities

they put into teaching, these teachers are the heart and soul

and an infusion of enthusiasm, fresh ideas and approaches in

of our mission, and shape who we are as a school and who our

our curriculum and classrooms.

students become as alumni.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

SPEERS-STODDARD Apprentice Teacher Fund The Speers-Stoddard Apprentice Teacher Fund supports the growth of the Apprentice Teacher Program at Country School. The fund was established in 2022 by the Speers and Stoddard families in honor of longtime NCCS teachers Sue Speers (Upper School Humanities 1967–1992) and Pat Stoddard (Upper School Humanities 1968–1978). Both Sue and Pat were trailblazing teachers, ahead of their time in many ways, and embodiments of the school’s mission and commitment to great teaching. They pushed students to tackle hard topics and advocated for the school to take risks with new curriculum and approaches. Education and teaching are important to both families, and this fund provides enhanced training for the next generation of teachers at NCCS and beyond. It is a critical time to educate future teachers. Gifts to the Speers-Stoddard Apprentice Teacher Fund support the continued growth and innovation of the NCCS Apprentice Teacher Program, including salaries, housing and professional development, as well as new evolutions like a multi-level structure to better serve associate-level teachers and a partnership with the Horizons at NCCS Teaching Assistants Program.

To learn more about supporting this fund, please contact Holly Donaldson Casella ’04

at hcasella@countryschool.net or (203) 801-5687, or scan QR code at right. Please see page 58 for more about the Al Perry Scholarship Fund.

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“Make a Difference with the groups with which you work, and do it in a purposeful manner that betters the group’s work. You know about these skills. You have practiced them here, and you are ready to use them in the future.” — Aaron Cooper, Head of School

At Closing Exercises on June 9, Head of School Aaron Cooper encouraged the members of the Class of 2023 to draw upon the many strengths they developed during their tenure, particularly the skill of building stronger work teams. The members of New Canaan Country School’s Class of 2023 (from left to right): Caroline Coniglio, Louisa Gosk, Harry Jellinek, Samantha Aliapoulios, Lillian Back, Capone Andrade, Charlotte Cooper, Larson Johnson, Celia Baliotti, Grady O’Connor, Julia Coniglio, Joseph Calio, Consuelo Bowman, Andrew Burr, Eleanor Levinson, Peter Goodyear, Ella Charron, Jayden Liu, Itzel Llamas, Jonathan Gavidia, Charlotte Mannix, Octavio Calderini, Blaire Williamson, Andres Catano, Katherine Johnson, and Daley Keogh.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

More on the Website! Photos, videos and full speeches available: countryschool.net/2023

discover more countryschool.net

Best of Luck!

Class of 2023 Secondary School Destinations Samantha Aliapoulios ��New Canaan High School

Jonathan Gavidia �� Rye Country Day School

Capone Andrade ��Greens Farms Academy

Peter Goodyear............................................New Canaan High School

Lillian Back............................................................ Greenwich Academy

Louisa Gosk �� St. Paul’s School

Celia Baliotti �� Miss Porter’s School

Harry Jellinek .................................................Greens Farms Academy

Consuelo Bowman �� Hopkins School

Katherine Johnson ��Greens Farms Academy

Andrew Burr �� Berkshire School

Larson Johnson �� Kent School

Octavio Calderini �� Berkshire School

Daley Keogh......................................................... Greenwich Academy

Joseph Calio �� Berkshire School

Eleanor Levinson �� The Hotchkiss School

Andres Catano ��Calhoun School

Jayden Liu �� Avon Old Farms

Ella Charron �� The Hill School

Itzel Llamas........................................................... Greenwich Academy

Caroline Coniglio ��St. Luke’s School

Charlotte Mannix ��St. Luke’s School

Julia Coniglio ��St. Luke’s School

Grady O’Connor �� Berkshire School

Charlotte Cooper �� The Hotchkiss School

Blaire Williamson ��Sacred Heart Greenwich

Class of 2024 Destinations

While 28 students returned for ninth grade, others are currently attending the following secondary schools: Katya Bank.......................................................... Emma Willard School

Tyler Jefferson................................ Durham Academy (Durham, NC)

Molly Barr ��St. Luke’s School

Lillian Kanter........................................... The Loomis Chaffee School

Jack Beauclair �� Hopkins School

Katie Karpik ��King School

Eric Behr.............................................Greenwich Country Day School

Bennett Kurtz ��St. Luke’s School

Max Behr............................................Greenwich Country Day School

Brooke LeBaron ��Greens Farms Academy

Nico Benett.................................................Phillips Academy Andover

Annsley Leclerc............................... Ensworth School (Nashville, TN)

Michael Bria................................................Phillips Academy Andover

Myles LeConey �� Canterbury School

Teddy Briggs �� Darien High School

Logan Mackey...................................Greenwich Country Day School

Zoe Brody ��St. Luke’s School

Luke Mathews ��St. Luke’s School

Whitney Brooks �� Millbrook School

Claire McCormick �� Greenwich Academy

Kaitlyn Buda......................................................... Westminster School

Maggie Newport...............................Greenwich Country Day School

Jack Busby....................................................New Canaan High School

Liany Otero......................................................... The Hotchkiss School

Camilla Calderwood ��Greens Farms Academy

Kat Palmer............................................................ Greenwich Academy

Finn DeGulis......................................Greenwich Country Day School

Anders Palmgren ��Forman School

Rhett duPont �� Salisbury School

Ridley Phillips ��Pomfret School

Sydni Francis....................................................Greens Farms Academy

Oliver Sellschop ��Greens Farms Academy

Henry Frost.................................................... Rye Country Day School

Rowan Stewart ��St. Luke’s School

Cooper Gendason.............................Greenwich Country Day School

Jayne Visokey...............................................New Canaan High School

Aubry Grant �� Hopkins School

Lucy Ward �� The Hill School

Jack Harrington ��St. Luke’s School

Blake Williams.................................................Greens Farms Academy

Walker Harvey...........................................Cardigan Mountain School

Keane Zorub �� Brunswick School

Conner Havens................................................Greens Farms Academy

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

See page 54 for Class of 2020 college destinations

Extra Programs, Extra Hours, Extra Fun at NCCS! Through play-based, hands-on experiences, our intentionally designed auxiliary programs cultivate each child’s expanding knowledge, love of learning and natural inclination for forming social relationships. discover more countryschool.net

a Success!

We welcomed 132 campers to one or more of the four week-long sessions between June 14 and August 18. Led by members of our faculty and staff, campers ages three through Grade 9 enjoyed a range of activities and educational offerings.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

“Summer@CountrySchool was the highlight of our summer! My son had a blast with new and old friends, and each day was a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor fun. Our only regret is that we didn’t sign up for more sessions. We can’t wait for next summer!” —PARENT OF SECOND GRADER

#livelovecamp Join us Next Summer! For more information please visit countryschool.net/summer or scan QR code above or contact summer@countryschool.net.

Plus Program New Canaan Country School’s Plus Program offers before- and after-school programming for all students in Early Childhood through Grade 9. For an additional fee, the program provides options for enrichment and fun in a nurturing environment: Beginners Connections, Early Birds, Extended Day, Enrichment Classes, Homework Central and Music Academy. Our after-school programs are fully staffed until 5:30 p.m.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

Sample Enrichment Offerings • Art Explorers • Athletic

Development Basketball • • Cartooning • Chess • Coding • Dance • Engineering • Golf • Robotics • Sewing • Soccer • Squash • Wellness • Yoga

Contact our team at plusprogram@countryschool.net

to learn more about our Plus Program.

Need space for your special event? For more information about our facility rental program, rates and availability, please contact Mark Macrides, Director of Community Engagement, at mmacrides@ countryschool.net.

discover more countryschool.net

Academic Adventures

Problem Solving + Design Thinking Lower School students collaborated on a group project sitting atop a suspension bridge designed, engineered and built by a group of eighth and ninth grade students.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

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2 6

4 5

Academic Adventures Cultivating Voice Students in all grades practiced becoming confident speakers. Pictured: Valentina Mendoza-Silva.

Fighting the Trojan War The fourth grade study of ancient Greece, early democracy and the origins of “Justice for All” incorporated Greek myths and the Odyssey and culminated in a multidisciplinary presentation. 3 7

Esprit de Corps Fifth graders invited parents, teachers and younger students to an experiential simulation of the Lewis and Clark Expedition as a culmination of their social studies unit. The students created an array of visual displays, short speeches and essays to showcase the Corps of Discovery Expedition. Pictured: Cali Locke Youngman.

Tapping into 100-Year-Old Trees: A Long Legacy & Sweet Treat Beginners 3/4 students were introduced to the craft of maple sugaring at NCCS.

Game Day Smiles Middle School student athletes learned sports-specific skills, sportsmanship and how individual commitment makes a team work. Pictured: Members of the 5th & 6th grade field hockey team.

Clear as the Writing on the Wall Upper School algebra students multiplied binomials using all available spaces. Pictured: Ella Charron.

Lady Liberty Sparks Student Imagination Third graders experienced what it might have been like to immigrate to America at the turn of the 20th century during a trip to Ellis Island and a hands-on learning simulation, part 9

of their cultural identity study on the “Peopling of America.” Pictured: Bella Sosler, Rosie Mallin, Emmy Sosler.

Who’s Your Buddy? Older and younger students were paired into buddy teams and met several times throughout the year for community-building activities and friendship. Pictured: Members of the Classes of 2023 and 2034.

Celebrating Cultural Traditions First graders celebrated the Lunar New Year with a dragon parade, a fan dance, songs and a skit at their weekly Lower School Assembly. The performances and fanfare were a part of their study of China. discover more countryschool.net

Academic Adventures “Snow” Much Fun! Students enjoyed recess sledding behind the Lower School Welles Building. Fun fact: When they built the new Athletics & Wellness Center, land movers were asked to protect the famous double dip sledding hill that has served students for over 100 years.

The Circles All Around Us Kindergarteners used concentric circles to illustrate their understanding of their place in an ever-expanding world. The Circles All Around Us, by Brad Montague, is the school’s 2023–2024 Community Book Read.

Fall is for Football! Fall is the perfect time for the flag football unit in Phys. Ed! Pictured: Teddy Huber and William Kramer.

Building Community Through Games Students in Grades 1–4 rotated through a fun-filled day of events designed to build camaraderie, foster relationships and promote teamwork.

Who Let the Dogs Out? On any given day, there could be around 35 faculty and staff dogs joining us on campus, making our school community feel just a bit more like home. Pictured: Charlotte Parker and Snoopy.

Playing on the National Stage! Members of the varsity team once again competed in the U.S. Squash Team Nationals at the Arlen Specter US Squash Center in Philadelphia. Pictured: Conner Havens, Jack Engle, Tyler Jefferson, Eric Behr, Aditya DebNath, Andrew Riccardi.

Exploring Our Natural World Beginners visited Millstone Farms as part of their study of the natural world. By interacting and caring for a variety of animals, children began to understand the needs of living things.

Bringing Coding to Life First graders watched their virtual coding turn into tangible learning experiences in real time as their Dash robots interacted with and responded to surroundings.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

13 16

15 17

2 4

Arts in “The Rocky Road Trip”

action Middle School Shares

Fifth and sixth grade performing arts students presented

Fifth and sixth graders showcased their considerable

their original play to audiences of Middle School class-

artistic talents in group and individual performances at

mates, family, faculty and staff during performances held in

“Middle School Shares,” an hourlong production created

the school’s auditorium on June 2 and 5.

by the students, for the students. Part confidence-making,

The production was entirely written, choreographed, designed and performed by the ensemble cast of

part courage-practicing, part celebration of the performing arts, this event is always 100% amazing.

32 students over the course of the spring trimester. Singing, dancing, flashbacks and comedic relief punctu-

Dancing In the Moonlight

ated the sophisticated storyline, keeping the overall tone

The Arts Assembly finale was a fanciful dance sequence set

alternatively whimsical and profound.

in a garden at midnight, featuring illuminated tambourines, glow sticks and pieces of gossamer-like fabric, with choreography set to the 1970s hit song, Dancing in the Moonlight.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

Arts Electives: A VARIETY OF CHOICES Upper and Middle School students participated in arts electives, including:

• 3D Animation • 3D Printing • Architecture • Boat Building • Cartooning • Ceramics • Collage • Ceramics • Choral Ensemble • Digital Photography • Dramatic Arts • Duck Decoys

• Ukulele • Garage Band • Guitar • Jewelry • Mandalas • Mixed Media • Muraling • Painting • Printmaking • Short Film • Woodworking

Muraling. Pictured: Charlotte Tocks Guitar. Pictured: Caroline Coniglio 6

Extra, Extra … Read All About It!

Music & Movement

Seventh through ninth grade drama students performed

The Lower School Arts Assembly is a beloved tradition, a

the musical Newsies for members of the school community,

kind of creative rite of passage for students in which first

family and friends in the school’s auditorium during three

and second graders create and choreograph all of the

showtimes all held on Feb. 27.

dances themselves for a one-hour performance.

The 20-member cast and crew also worked on choreography, set design and construction, solo and ensemble

Singin’ in the Rain

singing, positional awareness, pacing and scene transitions.

Third and fourth grade chorus students performed the

The performance of Newsies was the culmination of a

classic “Singin’ in the Rain.”

trimester-long study of the production of a musical and provided students opportunities to further their vocal,

Hitting All the Right Notes

dance and acting skills.

All Middle and Upper School students participated in a performance ensemble, either chorus or band, and there were several opportunities to perform for the community. discover more countryschool.net

Celebrating Our

Community Our Favorite Day of the Year:

Grandparents & Special Friends Day! We were delighted to have more than 600 grandparents and special friends come to campus on May 5 to experience a day in the life of a Country School student.

SAVE THE DATE TO JOIN US NEXT YEAR,

FRIDAY, MAY 3

1. Head of School Aaron Cooper welcomes grandparents and special friends to the Thacher Early Childhood Building. 2. Annie, Finn, Declan and George Thom 3. Leonard and Elizabeth Banco 4. Sina Tangen and Bettina Drummond-Hay 5. Bonnie Rettew and Boden Mae Westendarp 6. Bard and Maryann Jones, Amaya Laeben 7. Grandparents and students play Four Square. 8. Jack and John Ricotta 9. Petronila and Ella Agulay 10. Joanna, Grady and John O’Connor 11. Vesper Hokin and Joan Grabe 12. Darius Binda, Paula Bryan and Jinelle Hinds 13. Stella, Paul and Christabel Vartanian 14. Ashley Teles and Bob Gibbons

3 5

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

7 9

11 13

GROW together Parents’ Association Hosts Amazing Community Party & Record-Breaking Auction

More than 300 parents, faculty and staff gathered in the school’s Athletics & Wellness Center to celebrate at Grow Together, the school’s biennial auction, on April 29. Highlights of the evening included dancing to live music performed by Perry Rossi and his orchestra, as well as remarks from Board President Sarah Irwin and Head of School Aaron Cooper. Flowering cherry trees on the bar, exquisite centerpieces and floral-patterned attire set a casually elegant, garden party-inspired tone. Auctioneer Erin Ward

kicked off the live auction with Rangers tickets and a Zamboni ride, followed by several unique NCCSmade items and experiences, including bottles of Country School maple syrup, a walk around campus with goats led by the third grade teaching team, and a “Football is Life” soccer tournament and celebration hosted by Lower School Spanish Teacher, Girls’ Varsity Soccer Coach (and Ted Lasso fan), Señor Robb. The silent auction also featured a round of disc golf with fifth grade teacher Andrew Bevan, “Sweet Treats” cooking lessons with Middle School teachers Abby Cali and Lindsay Frey, and a trip to Sky Zone for an entire class chaperoned by first grade apprentice teachers, among others. Special thanks to Parents’ Association event Co-chairs Colleen Overlock and Ryan Marie Brooks and their teams of parent, faculty and staff volunteers. It was, to date, the most successful auction the school has held in terms of money raised. Proceeds support the school’s financial aid program.

ILLUSTRATION©ANNETKUZMINA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

2 3

Celebrating Our

Community

1. Committee Chairs: Holly Donaldson Casella ’04, Sarah Vrabac, Natalia Milla, Ryan Marie Brooks, Colleen Overlock, Emily O’Donovan 2. Daniel Wang and Barbora Wang Maliskova, Bridget and Sean Kelley 3. Tara and Anthony Coniglio, Jennifer Kline 4. The live auction was a huge success. 5. Ryan Stroud and Chandler Bewkes Stroud ’97, Mead Rust 6. Alison Marcell, Mary Marcell, Marada West, Diana Holdtman 7. Kara and Head of School Aaron Cooper 8. Victor Milla, Jona Martinez and Gabby Pozo, Edite Juarez-Lace and Stu Juarez 9. Jennifer MacLear and Sarah Irwin 10. Brett and Cathy Jefferson, Arlety Bowman 11. Shane Roth, Lauren Stannard, Taryn Sonesson 12. Sean Robb and Devon and Michael Suozzi toasted the fun-filled evening.

9 10

More than 900 members of our school community joined together for the 76th annual Frogtown Fair! Ninth graders led a variety of midway games designed to entertain the young-at-heart, and everyone enjoyed an afternoon of food, fun and friendship. Thank you to our amazing Parents’ Association who created a day of homespun fun, food and friendship for our NCCS and Horizons community.

Creating a

Culture of Community In countless ways large and small, our

Parents’ Association helps us to sustain a welcoming and inclusive school community.

PA EXECUTIVE COUNCIL 2023–2024 President: Jennifer Kline Secretary: Lauren Ryder Treasurer: Jennifer MacLear VP Inclusion: Lisa Pannone VP Community Service: Nancy Israelov VP Community Fundraising: Nicole Harder VP Parent/Guardian Education: Andrew Greig VP Community Engagement: Sarah Vrabac

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

Celebrating Our

Community

Head of School Aaron Cooper offered special thanks to exceptional Parents’ Association event chairs Jennifer Kurtz, Devon Burger and Sarah Vandekerckhove.

Tucker Golden ’90 and Gwen Golden, Arlety Bowman, Anthony and Tara Coniglio

Celebrating Our

Community

Farewell to Our Dear Colleagues Jake Alrich joined us in 2011 as a

Isadora Gacel Machado Lecuona held

faculty member in the Performing

many roles during her 11 years at NCCS,

Arts department, serving for a time

including teaching Spanish and art to Early

as department chair. He taught music

Childhood and Middle School students,

and performing arts in every division

serving in the Plus Program and assisting

and led countless student performances,

in a Kindergarten classroom. In addition,

arts assemblies, Middle School drama productions, Early Childhood sing-alongs

she also taught at Horizons for 20 years and served as an Admission interviewer for NCCS in 2023.

and Faculty Chorus. Whether riding through campus on his bike, with his beloved dog, Buster, by his side, or whistling and singing through the corridors, Jake brought music to every

Margaret Mackey joined us in 2015

part of our community.

and served as a Lower School assistant science teacher, Middle and Upper School lead science teacher, and Upper

Jean Beecher first joined NCCS in 2019

School advisor and athletic coach. She

as a member of the Apprentice Teacher

notably developed a sixth grade water

Training Program. She then transitioned

unit and helped to identify potential

to Upper School where she taught math,

curricular tie-ins to our native bird garden.

coached squash, chaperoned trips and acted as an advisor. Jean now attends Boston University where she is pursuing a

Abigail Manny Newport ’89 joined

master’s degree in mathematics education.

the faculty in 2007. During her 16-year tenure, she served the school community in countless ways including as a Grade

Lucyna Graham served as a Plus

2 Lead Teacher, faculty representative

Program staff member since 2008. She

on the board of trustees, DEI facilitator

was known for keeping a close eye on the children in her care in the after-school

and volunteer on multiple professional, parent and alumni committees and task forces.

program, sharing her passion for baking with the students and creating yummy snacks for all to enjoy.

Karl Palmgren joined us in 2019 as Head of Upper School and accomplished much in four years. He redesigned the

Charles Khuen joined the Upper School

academic schedule twice; to help navigate

in 2011 as a humanities teacher and

necessary COVID protocols and to allow

active member of the Upper School

the school’s program to flourish. He

community, serving as a soccer and

re-imagined the school’s overnight trips

lacrosse coach, seventh grade dean,

and off-campus experiences, a hallmark of the Upper School

advisor and trips chaperone. Charles

experience. He also initiated student government, developed

also helped develop the Ninth Grade

and taught a class in leadership, and worked with faculty to

Capstone Project.

develop the Ninth Grade Capstone Project in which students pursue a topic of interest from their course of study in the spring of their final year.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

Building Brighter Futures Since 1964 Hosted at New Canaan Country School

In 1964, New Canaan Country School Headmaster George Stevens had the bold idea, in an uncertain time in history, to make good use of the summer months and open the empty campus of the Country School to under-resourced students. Today, Horizons at NCCS has grown from a summer program working with 20 students to a year-round program which today serves over 400 students

SAVE THE DATE!

Celebrating 60 Years!

from kindergarten through post-secondary, primarily from Norwalk and Stamford. In addition, Horizons has grown into a national movement, now serving over 7,100 children each year at 71 sites in 21 states around the country, including eight in Connecticut alone.

For more information, please visit www.horizonskids.org. discover more countryschool.net

Class Notes

Please submit your news and updates to Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net or on our website. You can also submit notes via mail using the enclosed return envelope. Share your own news, or tip us off to milestones, news and achievements of classmates, children or others in our community!

1949

Dr. James H. Hammons of Wallingford, PA, passed away Aug. 29, 2023. His son shared, “He was at home where he wanted to be and had been receiving compassionate hospice care for a week. He chose to donate his body to science, which is fitting for a former professor of chemistry. He will forever be in our hearts and will be missed.”

1953

Allen Holloway writes, “Hi to all of us that still remain!! I have been fortunate with my health, and I continue working as a doctor, now part time.... I do wound care for patients in their homes and institutions. I still find it rewarding, so will continue to do it as long as I can. Living in Arizona for 35 years now has worked well for me both professionally and for life overall. I have also been fortunate to have traveled over most of the world, both professionally and for enjoyment … many interesting experiences. In looking back, I feel very fortunate to have had the life that I have had. I send best regards to those of us who are still here.” Jennifer Robbins Manocherian writes, “I wrote a book during COVID that comes out in September 2023. Titled Alpha Bette. Publisher Weekly BookLife called it “a heartwarming story of a matriarch, her family, a parrot and life itself.” Guy “George” Robinson shares that he and his wife, Elizabeth Stribling, will be at their house in Paris, April through June, per their annual spring outing. He says, “The weekend used to be known by the more felicitous moniker ‘Frogtown Fair.’ Scads of happy memories. More recent news, we are in the process of moving from Brooklyn Heights, NYC, simultaneously to rural Roxbury, Litchfield Co., CT, and to the historic district of Savannah, GA.”

1954

Dodie Hayes Anderson writes, “Here is a quick update on a lifetime and a request. After graduating from college, I married Bruce Anderson from Darien, CT. We had three children — Jon, Billy and Kate. Bruce died in 2013, and Billy, my middle son, who was born with Down syndrome, died in 2019. Jon is a software

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

engineer, and Kate is a clinical professor at Cornell School of Veterinary Medicine. When I was in my mid-20s, I developed a passionate interest in nutrition and have been a nutritionist now for over 50 years. I spent much of that time researching human physiology and nutrition and met my important mentor, Raymond Peat, PhD., in 2004. I have taught in lectures in New England, California, and Western Europe. I have a request. Since we were born about 10 years before the surge of processed foods, if any of you have memories of what you ate before you were 10 years old or shopping with your parents in grocery stores or any special memories of food during the 1940s, I would love to hear from you. My email is dodie@metaboliced.com. Thank you.”

JOIN US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK! @nccountryschool

1 John Beattie ’63

1956

Don Burnes is the co-author of a new book, When We Walk By: Forgotten Humanity, Broken Systems and the Role We Can Each Play in Ending Homelessness in America. It will officially hit the streets on November 7, 2023.

1957

Daphne Walter Bransten writes, “So many of my wonderful pals are gone. I see Rick on Facebook and he is always responsive and a treat to connect with. COVID put us all in isolation and now need to leap out. Still in travel. Business company acquired by JP Morgan Chase. Love to plan for any and all. Living in the same house in San Francisco.”

1958

Prudence “Prue” Bull Smith of Portsmouth, RI, passed away in December 2021. Childhood friends shared that Country School was a very happy place for Prue: “The woods and wildlife were a joy,” she told them.

1959

Liz Davidson Kidder writes, “More and more I realize how my time at New Canaan Country School prepared me for Concord Academy and then Barnard College. For me, education is key to so many of the problems facing civil society. I think fondly of my time at NCCS and the friends I made there.”

2 Audrey Holden Charlson ’63 and Jim Goulard

1963

The Class of 1963 celebrated their 60th Reunion in May! In attendance were Lucy Adams Billings, Jane McCall Politi, Connie Wootton Nichols, Jon Lanman, Peter Marschalk and Reg Morgan. See next page for pictures from Reunion. 1 John Beattie visited Beacon Island to see the eclipse. 2 Audrey Holden Charlson unfortunately could not attend the reunion but sent a photo of her and husband Jim Goulard — “Happy Summer!”

Pamela Pollock Howard writes, “I live in Portland, OR, and have been here since 1996, with a brief hiatus in Houston. Before that, I was in Marin County, California, for 20 years. We have three daughters and three grandchildren. I keep in touch with Janie McCall Politi and when fortunate, catch up with Lee Martin De Young too. It is funny what memories stick

Alumni Reunion

Save the Date! MAY 17–18, 2024

with you over the years. I remember Mr. Burns (who I always associate with Winnie the Pooh) putting our first Latin sentence on the board, “agricola amat puellam.” I don’t remember Madame Liotard’s postcards, but she would be happy to know that she was the introduction to my college major.” Kirby Wilcox writes, “I have lived in Northern California since 1972. I was an employment lawyer for 41 years, and retired four years ago. I have been married to my wife, Amy, for 14 years and have two stepdaughters from her first marriage (and two grandchildren in the Boston area). My first wife died of cancer many years ago. Amy and I now run a tutoring program in reading and math for second, third, and fourth graders at a local Title I (special needs) school.” Betsy Jones Zwick writes, “I married again in 2013. I play golf several times a week at the Valley Club of Montecito. It has become a passion. I’m still active in my real estate career and it has been a wild ride. My husband and I are going to the UK in August and to Japan in the fall. I play a little pickleball along with the rest of the world, and am organizing my archives of thousands of photographs. Both of my children are married, and I have three beautiful

1. Head of School Aaron Cooper, Mickela Mallozzi ’97 and former teachers Al Perry and Michael McNaught 2. Reg Morgan ’63, John Beattie ’63, Lucy Adams Billings ’63, Jane McCall Politi ’63, Jon Lanman ’63 and Connie Wootton Nichols ’63 3. Tom Reed ’73, Tony McDowell ’73, Rick Childs ’72, Steve MacKenzie ’73 and Nick Childs ’73

granddaughters who I just can’t get enough of. I would love to hear from anyone who would like to touch base. We were all quite blessed to have had the strong educational foundation we were given by attending NCCS.”

1964

3 Whitney Neville Harvey ’65, Sam Scott ’67,

Peter Carter, Connie Kniffin ’65, King Carter ’66, Gary Bensen ’63 and spouses Lorna Carter and Dorothy Carter gathered at the Bowdoin College vs. Williams College hockey game in January 2023.

1966

David O’Hara writes, “After 23 years at FactSet Research Systems, I have finally retired. It has been a great run and lots of fun, but I am ready to spend more time enjoying sailing, fishing, hunting, golf, travel and grandchildren. I owe much to NCCS for the inquisitiveness and confidence they helped reinforce in my upbringing. Best to all.” Karl Whitmarsh writes, “My wife, Jamie, and I have come back to New Canaan to stay with my mom, who will be 100 years old in November, and it will be 75 years in the same house where I grew up! We will be returning to our home in Ireland now and then.”

3 Whitney Neville Harvey ’65, Sam Scott ’67, Peter Carter ’64, Connie Kniffin ’65, King Carter ’66, Gary Bensen ’63.

1968

Mary Rohde writes, “Living in Dixfield, ME, which is an hour from my son and his family and wonderful. Still working as an RN. Hoping to see Jane Watson Stetson soon. Would love to hear from any of my NCCS classmates/ friends. Love to all.”

1971

The Classes of 1971, 1972 and 1973 celebrated a joint 50th Reunion this May. In attendance were Nick Childs ’73, Sarah Salant Gleason ’73, Steve Mackenzie ’73, Tony McDowell ’73, Tom Reed ’73, Rick Childs ’72, Bob Baldridge, Sarah Finnie, and Jamie McDowell. See above for pictures from Reunion.

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4 Dan Stoddard ’71, Sarah Finnie ’71, and Robert Crary ’71 and wife Pia Crary

4 Sarah Finnie writes, “Micro-reunion with Dan Stoddard, Robert Crary and Pia Crary in June 2023! We met for a fabulous lunch and tour of the new wing at the American Museum of Natural History, where Dan has been engineering financial flows for decades. A very fun time. Conversation included reviving the grand concept of a Class Reunion. I moved home to New Canaan during high COVID, and my grandson Johnny Rockwell entered NCCS for Kindergarten in fall 2023!!”

1982

Jennifer Cohen Zonis has been elected to the New Canaan Town Council. A parent of Maia Zonis ’15 and Charlotte Zonis ’12, Jen’s first foray into politics was at NCCS, where she was elected president of the student government — thought by faculty to be the first female up until that time to do so. Following her graduation from NCCS, she went on to attend New Canaan High School and Harvard College.

And the Alumni Award Goes To...

Environmental Activist Lisa Pike Sheehy ’83 Reflects on the Importance of Environmental Activism and Climate Awareness

The New Canaan Country School Alumni Award is presented each year to honor an alumna or alumnus who has had the courage and confidence to make a positive contribution to the world. This year, the honor went to Lisa Pike Sheehy ’83. In her 20th year at Patagonia, the outdoor clothing and gear company, Senior Environmental and Philanthropic Advisor Lisa Pike Sheehy ’83 works to publicize environmental issues, mobilize the brand’s customers, and implement the company’s international environmental grants program, which gave away over $20 million last year to grassroots environmental organizations worldwide. Sheehy returned to campus May 19 to share with Middle and Upper School students her professional and personal journey beyond Country School and answer questions. Introduced by her childhood classmate and close friend, Director of Early Childhood Jeannie Staunton Bean ’83, Sheehy recalled vivid NCCS memories of tapping maple trees for syrup, hiking the Appalachian Trail on the Outdoor Action Trip, and most importantly, the sense of community. “When I look back, I’m really struck by how much the school felt like a community. The teachers, kids and parents were supportive of us and each other,” she said. Going forward, she explained, it was that strong sense of

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

community she sought to replicate in her educational and professional experiences, right up to her current tenure at Patagonia. After Country School, Sheehy attended Miss Porter’s, then Colorado College, and received her master’s in environmental policy from Tufts in 1997. Summers spent in the Jackson Hole Valley early in life ignited a passion for wilderness and wild open spaces. In her first job after college, Sheehy returned to the region that inspired her, working with the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance on public lands and wildlife protection. She then worked for the Sierra Club in Washington, DC, and with the Environmental Grantmakers Association in New York City for five years before joining Patagonia, located in Ventura, CA. “Patagonia is in business to save our home planet, and I’ve been fortunate to work for a company and with colleagues aligned with my values in a desire to fight for people and the planet,” Sheehy said. Sheehy lives in Montecito, CA, with her daughter, Alice, and son, Truett.

SEND US YOUR

Nominations! We welcome your suggestions for future Alumni Award candidates. To make a nomination or to find out about previous New Canaan Country School Alumni Award recipients, visit www.countryschool.net/ alumniaward or scan the QR code at left.

Class Notes 1983

Christina and Bill Stoops ’78, Nina Stoops ’18, Bill and Louise Stoops

According to her obituary, Suzanne Lynch lost her battle with cancer on July 14, 2023. Anyone wishing to post a memorial message, please visit her tribute wall under obituaries at the website of Peter P. Dohanich Funeral Home: www.cremationsandburials.com.

1984

Kristen Gustavson writes, “This summer, I moved back to New England after 10 years in Wisconsin. I’ve landed in the Portland, ME, area to be close to my mom and extended family. The best thing that came out of COVID for me is that I have been able to keep my entire caseload of patients with me virtually, so KWG Counseling has continued without missing a beat.”

1986

5 Josh Ziac and Neil Nair ’04 co-taught an EMT Region 1 EPT Active Shooter/ Hostile Event/Tactical Emergency/Casualty Care 8-hour course in Greenwich, CT, this year.

5 Josh Ziac ’86 and Neil Nair ’04

1991

Jamie Vanderbilt was the executive producer for the 10-part Netflix series The Night Agent which aired March 23, 2023. The series is based on the Matthew Quirk novel of the same name.

1993

Natascha Sherman Hess is the chef and owner of The Ginger Pig in Denver. She was a contestant on Chopped, which aired on the Food Network in 2023.

1998

6 Larry Waldman reported that since leaving Microsoft, he is doing well and enjoying his new job at Doordash.

2001

7 Kate Ashforth Hurley and husband Sean Hurley welcomed their third son, Colt Andrew Hurley, on May 25, 2023. 8 David Mandler married Megan Ashforth on Sept. 17, 2022, in Vermont with many NCCS classmates, friends and family members in attendance.

6 Larry Waldman ’98 with his wife and two children.

7 Jack, Finn and Cole, sons of Kate Ashforth Hurley ’01

8 Back Row, left to right : Katie Rohn ’07, Galen Rohn ’09, John Weiss ’97, Michael Sachs ’97, Rob Dudley ’01, Thomas Reed ’01, Parker Richey ’01, Nick Rohn ’12. Middle Row left to right: Brooke Cavanaugh Reed ’01, James Dunning ’97, Caroline Mandler ’98, David Dunning ’01, BZ Reed Altchek ’02, Kate Ashforth Hurley ’01, Tom Reed ’73, Kit O’Brien Rohn ’78, Connan O’Brien Ashforth ’74, Carrie O’Brien Thomas ’81. First row left to right: Willy Oppenheim ’01, David Mandler ’01, Megan Ashforth Mandler.

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2002

9 Annie Rauscher Kennedy and BZ Reed Altchek with their daughters Sophie Kennedy and Gwen Altchek ’32 in Nantucket, MA, in July.

Caroline McKenna shared that she is a mother of three in Washington, DC, where she works as an individual and couples therapist and is a small business owner. After graduate school for social work, she worked in foster care and adoption in New York. She and her family have lived overseas for her husband’s work with the U.S. Department of State. They have lived in Brazil, Columbia and Israel.

NCCS GETTING MARRIED? Let the Alumni Office know so we can send you an NCCS banner for photography! Contact Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at (203) 801-5687 or hcasella@countryschool.net.

10 Rishonda Thomas Puffett and Cory Puffett were married in a micro-wedding ceremony at Duke University Chapel in Durham, NC, in July. Jasmine Nelson ’08 was the matron of honor, and Rishonda’s mother, Michele Nelson Wilkins, and Danielle Nelson (Horizons ’00) were in attendance. Gerrard Evans ’96 also joined virtually. The couple now lives in Maryland, just outside of Washington, DC.

2003

9 Annie Rauscher Kennedy ’02 and her daughter Sophie, BZ Reed Altchek ’02 and her daughter Gwen Altchek ’32

11 Carolyn Silverman Crisafulli and husband Pete welcomed their second daughter, Daphne, on March 1, 2023. Daphne joins older sister Weezie. 12 Lindsay Luke Gates and husband Scott welcomed son Charlie Anderson Gates on Nov. 18, 2022. Charlie joins older sister Grace. 13 Carolyn Beinfield Nally and husband Kevin welcomed twins Madeline “Maddie” Miller Nally and Isabelle “Elle” Mae Nally on April 4, 2023. The twins join proud big sister Coco!

11 Daphne, daughter of Carolyn Silverman Crisafulli ’03

10 Rishonda Thomas Puffett ’02 and Cory Puffett at their wedding

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

12 Lindsay Luke Gates ’03 with daughter Grace and son Charlie

Allison Williams starred as Gemma in the horror/thriller film M3GAN which premiered on January 6, 2023.

13 Carolyn Beinfield Nally’s ’03 twin daughters, Maddie and Elle, and big sister Coco

Class Notes

14 Kelsey Craig ’04 and husband Dan Birney

17 Mara Upson ’06 and Greg Mulvaney at their wedding

15 Kelsey Craig ’04 with sisters Taylor Craig ’08 and Mackenzie Craig ’01

16 Taylor Gould ’06 and wife Amy Mattucci at their wedding in June

2004

2006

14 15 Kelsey Craig married Dan Birney on

Sept. 17, 2022, at a beautiful ceremony in Montgomery, NY. Many NCCS alumni were in attendance, including sisters Mackenzie Craig ’01 and Taylor Craig ’08, Jane Stoddard Williams ’72, Alex Stoddard ’75, Doug Williams ’06, Heather Wegner Wald, Holly Donaldson Casella and Jessica Hartford ’01.

2005

Allie Cavanaugh received her master’s degree in Childhood Special & General Education from Bank Street College of Education in December 2022. Emory O’Donnell Hall released her debut collection of poetry, Made of Rivers, on June 21, 2023. In 2021, following the birth of her first child, Emory returned to writing as she navigated this new chapter of life. Emory’s work explores the feminine, grief, loss, love, motherhood, and transformation.

16 Taylor Gould married Amy Mattucci June 10, 2023, in Martha’s Vineyard. Alumni in attendance included Taylor’s siblings Alex Gould ’07, Charlotte Gould ’10, and Cameron Gould ’13, and Ben Tabah, Olivia Tabah ’08, and Chloe Tabah ’04.

18 Mara Upson’s wedding to Greg Mulvaney included Stuart Upson ’72 and Emily Upson ’10.

17 18 Mara Upson married Greg Mulvaney on Dec. 3, 2022, in New Canaan, CT. Alumni in attendance included her father Stuart Upson ’72, her sister Emily Upson ’10, Caleigh Forbes, Jackson Logie ’07, Emily Old ’10, Caroline Wood ’10 and Ryan Logie ’10.

2007

19 Paige Gonye Thacher and husband Ryan welcomed a daughter, Lake Anderson Thacher, on Feb. 8, 2023.

2008

Johnny Luke married Caroline “Liney” Smith on Dec. 10, 2022. Alumni in attendance included siblings Lindsay Luke Gates ’03 and Betsy Luke ’07 and Holly Donaldson Casella ’04. 19 Lake Anderson Thacher, daughter of Paige Gonye Thacher ’07

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25 Former Head of School Tim Bazemore and son Luke Bazemore ’13

23 Hadley Merrill MacCallum ’10 and husband Will MacCallum 20 Leo Jay McKee, son of Katherine Schultz McKee ’08

Andres Soto writes, “I just moved across the country to the San Francisco Bay Area. I’m currently living in Mountain View, CA, and have a nice nine-minute bike ride or car ride to the office. The commute is so nice, and the office feels like I’m peeking into the future. I feel incredibly inspired, excited and pumped to come into work every day.”

2011

Daniel Klingenstein received his master’s in Performing Arts Administration from New York University Steinhardt. Mathew Pendo is currently attending Baylor University for his medical residency following his graduation from Florida International University, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. 24 Emma Merrill ’10, Emily Upson ’10, Phebe Wong ’10 and Hugh McGlade ’10 at the wedding of Hadley Merrill MacCallum ’10

20 Katherine Schultz McKee and husband Clyde McKee welcomed son Leo Jay McKee on Aug. 17, 2022.

21 Melanie Silverman ’08 and husband

Ethan Taylor

21 22 Melanie Silverman, alumna and former Apprentice Teacher, married Ethan Taylor in New Canaan on July 2, 2023. Alumni in attendance included siblings Carolyn Silverman Crisafulli ’03, Alex Silverman ’05 and Olivia Silverman ’12, and Danny Serrano ’09, Taylor Craig, Carrie Merrill Rowley and Kerri Santero ’09.

2010

22 At Melanie Silverman’s wedding, siblings Carolyn Silverman Crisafulli ’03, Alex Silverman ’05 and Olivia Silverman ’12

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

2013

25 Luke Bazemore and his father, former Head of School Tim Bazemore, climbed Forbidden Peak in the North Cascades, WA. A graduate of Middlebury College, Luke is currently on the Gap Year faculty at the High Mountain Institute in Leadville, CO, where he leads climbing and backcountry skiing trips. Tim is in his 10th year as head of Catlin Gabel School in Portland, OR.

2014

Maddy Culpepper graduated from the University of Cambridge, completing her Master of Philosophy in American History in July 2022. While in the process of applying to doctoral programs in the U.S. and exploring professional opportunities outside of academic study, she has been substitute teaching at The Tower School in Marblehead, MA.

23 24 Hadley Merrill MacCallum married Will MacCallum on Sept. 10, 2022, in New York City. Alumni in attendance included Emma Merrill, Emily Upson, Phebe Wong, and Hugh McGlade.

Eva Murphy completed a two-year research fellowship at Yale School of Medicine and is currently enrolled at Tulane University School of Medicine to pursue her M.D. degree.

Emma Merrill is currently working in the therapeutic riding program at The New Canaan Mounted Troop.

Lily von Stade is a partnership marketing account executive at the National Hockey League.

TELL US WHAT WE’VE MISSED!

Information was gathered through a variety of sources, including from secondary schools, media outlets and responses to alumni surveys. Please reach out to Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net to share additional news.

Alumni Spotlight Kate Barnard ’20 Honored by Bedford New Canaan Magazine 26 Hayden Critchell ’17 and Walker Stevens ’15

2015

Nick English graduated from Colby College with a B.S. in computer science and was inducted into the national honor society, Pi Beta Kappa, at their Prize Day ceremonies, held May 2, 2023. Nick also rowed on the Colby men’s crew team. Kathryn McCaughey started her Master of Arts in Human Rights Studies at Columbia University in fall 2023. Since graduating from the University of Michigan in 2022, she has worked at a startup founded by fellow alumni of Phillips Exeter Academy.

2016

Christina Halloran has been named women’s ice hockey captain for the 2023–2024 season at Williams College.

2017

26 Hayden Critchell and Walker Stevens ’15 enjoyed time together at a Colby College lacrosse game.

Kate Barnard ’20 was named one of the “18 Under 18” accomplished teens featured in Bedford New Canaan Magazine’s September/October 2023 issue. Kate was recognized for her kindness, hard work and ability to create positive communities. “Kate has won practically every ‘sunshine’ award there is. Where she truly shines, however, is when she is teaching a group of younger children to ride, to skate, to be kind, to work together, to persist, to improve, to enjoy what they are doing. Everyone is better for having been around her.”—Teacher “In her role as captain, Kate is tasked with teaching the younger kids who are in her shift not only about horse care, but also about completing barn chores, working together and making it fun for them while doing so. Kate’s experience at Troop has developed her sense of community, shaped her as a leader, and created awareness of the concepts of ‘paying it forward’ and a greater good.”—Mounted Troop of New Canaan “Kate works hard in everything she takes on, has a positive attitude and cheers on her peers. She is the epitome of a good citizen and brings a strong work ethic, care and compassion to everything she does.”—Teacher “Kate personifies the core values of our school mission: community, kindness, courage and curiosity. I am so pleased to see her honored for these attributes.”—Head of School Aaron Cooper

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College Destinations

CLASS OF 2020

Gracie Agulay ��Vassar College Jackson Alpaugh ��Gettysburg College Dean Ambrose �� Dartmouth College Trevor Anfindsen ��Union College Jaeon Anglin................................ Southern Connecticut State University Maeve Baker �� Stanford University Kate Barnard �� Santa Clara University Jackson Benett......................................... Southern Methodist University Cameron Besaw �� Villanova University Walker Blair ��Lehigh University Fiona Burton..................................................... Southern Illinois University Charlotte Calderwood ��Davidson College Garrett Cannon......................................... Southern Methodist University Ben Capelo...........................................................Michigan State University Alex Capelo....................................................... Carnegie Mellon University Sam Cherry............................................ United States Air Force Academy Orchid Coffin �� New Hampton School ’24 Ellie Collier �� Santa Clara University Brian Collins �� Wake Forest University Sasha Coughlin...................................... Case Western Reserve University Carsen Critchell �� New Canaan High School ’24 Matthew Edwards �� Taft School ’24 Jasper Engle.................................................. New Canaan High School ’24 Miles English �� Colby College Will Erdmann �� University of Virginia Annabel Fenwick �� University of South Carolina Shawna Ferraro ��Middlebury College Daisy Fichthorn �� University of Denver Thatcher Findlay �� Clarkson University Maren Frey ��Barnard College Daniela Galik ��New York University Hugh Gardiner ��Virginia Tech Charlie Gaynor �� Brunswick School ’24 Lila Gianukakis �� Elon University Ava Gizzie ��Swarthmore College Alanna Gribin �� Seton Hall University Benjamin Herdeg �� Brown University Justin Higgins ��Davidson College Brayden Hogue.........................................University of Colorado Boulder Chloe Humphrey �� University of North Carolina Sasha Intile ��American University Calvin Jacob ��St. George’s School ’24 Christian Jacob ��St. George’s School ’24 Will Johnson �� Texas Christian University Charlotte Johnson ��University of Wisconsin Beau Johnson ��Pomfret School ’24 Parakram Karnik �� Georgetown University Payton Koch ��Chapman University Lilly Krongard �� Princeton University Amelia Lancaster �� University of Virginia Katie LeBaron �� Santa Clara University Ari Lerner ��Indiana University Annika Mannix �� Colby College Andrew Mayock �� Arizona State University

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

Lexi McCall �� Denison University Hunter McCarthy �� University of Kentucky Paige McDonnell ��College of Charleston Rebecca McKee ��Wheaton College Megan Mitchell �� Northeastern University Darla Moody.................................................Phillips Academy Andover ’24 TJ Moody.......................................................Phillips Academy Andover ’24 Huett Nelson ��St. Luke’s School ’24 Cole Nightingale.......................................University of Colorado Boulder Mimi Sue Novak �� Bucknell University Abby O’Brien................................... University of California, Los Angeles Sofie Petricone �� Georgetown University Charlotte Price �� Mount Holyoke College Riya Punjabi �� Drexel University Cece Purkiss ��Colgate University Maxwell Raabe �� Yale University Matt Riccardi ��Boston College Ashley Rodgers �� Millbrook School ’24 Tyler Rosolen �� Gap Year Mac Ryan �� St. Paul’s School ’24 Cece Salvatore �� Taft School ’24 Paul Schilcher.................................................. Phillips Exeter Academy ’24 Henry Scott..................................................... University of South Carolina Caleb Seiden �� Villanova University Luke Sosnow �� Millbrook School ’24 Alexander Sotirhos �� Deerfield Academy ’24 Jamie Staniar ��Tulane University Ryland Strine �� Bucknell University Andre Suaid �� Unknown Mark Taubner ��University of Georgia Cassie Warren ��St. Luke’s School ’24 Rett Zeigler ��Colgate University

CLASS OF 2019

Alex Almeida �� Georgetown University Andrew Almeida �� University of Miami Caroline Blouin �� Georgetown University Stanley Bright...................................... National Collegiate Development Conference (ice hockey) Niko Cadoret ��Lehigh University Cody Comyns �� University of Virginia Ravi Conway ��Columbia University Jack DeGulis �� Providence College Peter Diorio ��St. Lawrence University Duke Hagen..................................University of California, Santa Barbara Logan Johnson ��University of Rhode Island Gigi Morgan �� Elon University Mason Pratt ��University of Michigan Ella Schoonmaker �� Georgetown University Niki Sulkowski �� Yale University Ellie Walker ��Williams University Ella Zea.................................................................. Northwestern University Mason Zea ��Middlebury College

Class Notes 2018

Sophie Bajaj shares that she is at Bucknell University majoring in English. She often sees fellow NCCS alumni Carter Alvord and Grace English, both of whom plan to graduate in 2025. Audrey Magnusen was elected a Sophomore Policy & Outreach Coordinator (grade-level advocate for the Class of 2025) at Boston College. Cassidy Nash was named co-president of One Love at UCLA, a nonprofit, student-run organization whose mission is to educate and spread awareness about healthy ways to love in order to eliminate relationship abuse/ harmful relationship practices and create a more informed student body.

27 Mason Pratt ’19, Dean Ambrose ’20, Lilly Krongard ’20, Caleb Seiden ’20 and Matt Riccardi ’20

Alexis Rodgers has been named captain of the 2023–2024 Colgate equestrian team. David Wagstaff is a student at Drexel University, a hockey player, photographer, videographer, and everything in between. He is based in Philadelphia, PA and Atherton, CA.

2019

Caroline Blouin graduated from Greenwich Academy where she received the Molly H. King Award (leadership, character, exemplary role model) during their prize-giving ceremonies. Stanley Bright graduated from the Berkshire School where he received the Coaches Award for boys’ varsity hockey at the winter athletic awards on March 26, 2023.

28 Kate Barnard ’20, Gigi Morgan ’19, Charlotte Calderwood ’20, Cole Nightingale ’20, Fiona Burton ’20, Abby O’Brien ’20 and Daniela Galik ’20

have taken at least three advanced courses. Nominees must be multi-sport athletes who were honored as All-League FAA athletes within the past 12 months.

2020

27 Five NCCS students were inducted into the Cum Laude Society at St. Luke’s School: Dean Ambrose, Lilly Krongard, Mason Pratt ’19, Matt Riccardi and Caleb Seiden. In addition to being Cum Laude inductees, they all participated in the school’s Scholars Symposium.

Macy Millones graduated from St. Luke’s School where she was the president of the student government and received the Teddy Balkind Memorial Award in girls tennis (teammate honor for commitment and effort).

28 Kate Barnard, Gigi Morgan ’19, Charlotte Calderwood, Cole Nightingale, Fiona Burton, Abby O’Brien and Daniela Galik graduated from Greens Farms Academy. Cole was Class Salutatorian.

Mason Pratt graduated with academic honors from St. Luke’s School where he was inducted into the Cum Laude Society and distinguished himself in athletics, receiving the Herbert Upson Memorial Award in boys’ basketball (sportsmanship, dedication, overachievement, and intense desire to succeed) his senior year. He was also one of 20 students in the league to receive the FAA Scholar-Athlete Award. To qualify for this accolade, a student-athlete has to rank in the top 10% of their senior class and

Walker Blair graduated from New Canaan High School where he received the Student Leadership Award (presented by the CT Association of Boards of Education) and the Walter DeTour Memorial Scholarship (excellence in lacrosse). Walker also served as captain of the school’s football team. Walker committed to continue his academic and athletic career at Lehigh University.

29 It was an NCCS mini reunion at the April Greens Farms Academy vs. Rye Country Day School tennis match! Charlotte Calderwood ’20 (GFA) is flanked by sisters Sofie ’20 and Anna Petricone ’22 (RCDS).

29 Charlotte Calderwood graduated from Greens Farms Academy where she distinguished herself academically and earned accolades in tennis, including All-New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) 2023 Girls Tennis choice, the first team from Greens Farms Academy. Charlotte committed to further her academic and athletic career at Davidson College.

Ava Gizzie graduated from Choate Rosemary Hall where she distinguished herself academically and was also girls’ varsity soccer captain her junior and senior years. Ava committed to continue her academic and athletic career at Swarthmore College.

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Alumni Spotlight Wave Walters ’21 Going Boldly Wave Walters ’21 spent a third consecutive summer touring with the Paul Green Rock Academy, this year, for 35 days around the UK and Europe. Wave joined Jon Anderson of YES onstage in Madrid and headlined at festivals in Germany. Pictured above: At the Herzberg Festival in Breitenbach Am Herzberg, Germany, with an audience of 7,000, on July 29. (Photo credit: rainer sander | nh24)

Chloe Humphrey was named the nation’s No. 1 lacrosse player in the girls’ Class of 2023 by Inside Lacrosse and High School Girls’ Player of the Year by USA Lacrosse Magazine. A student at Darien High School, Chloe helped lead her team to the Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic (FCIAC) Championship with a gamewinning goal with 1:13 left in the game. Chloe committed to further her academic and athletic career at University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, where she hopes to help them defend their national championship. Parakram Karnik graduated from Brunswick School where he distinguished himself academically and was inducted into their Cum Laude Society in February 2023. 30 Cole Nightingale ’20

Annika Mannix graduated from Miss Porter’s School where she distinguished herself academically and was the captain of the varsity field hockey and ski teams her senior year and the tennis team both her junior and senior years. A talented athlete, she received the 2023 Players Award for varsity spring sports and the Dotty Morrell Coleman Award for special achievement in athletics. She also headed the Photography Club. Annika committed to further her academic and athletic career at Colby College. 30 Cole Nightingale graduated from Greens

Riya Punjabi ’20, Tyler Rosolen ’20 and Sasha Coughlin ’20 at graduation from Greenwich Country Day School.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

Farms Academy where he distinguished himself academically and was chosen to be Class Salutatorian at graduation ceremony.

Matt Riccardi graduated from St. Luke’s School where he was inducted into the Cum Laude Society and received the Teddy Balkind Memorial Award in boys’ ice hockey (teammate honor for commitment and effort). Tyler Rosolen graduated from Greenwich Country Day School where he participated in a unique senior year internship: seeding, transplanting and harvesting fresh food for the GCDS dining hall in a freight container garden as part of a Sustainability Program. Cece Salvatore received academic honors at The Taft School, was named by the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council to the All-NEPSAC rosters for the 2022–2023 Winter Athletics Season for girl’s squash, and was the Taft team captain. Luke Sosnow received academic honors at Millbrook School, was the recipient of a Gold Key Scholastic Art Award (Photography) for his work titled Baroque Portrait, captained the boys’ varsity tennis team and played varsity squash. Alex Sotirhos was named captain of Deerfield Academy’s 2024 varsity boys’ lacrosse team. Rett Zeigler received the Edwards Prize (scholarship, athletics and school spirit) and the Founders All-League Award for boys’ varsity lacrosse (sportsmanship, hard work and character in the spirit of competition and fair play at the varsity level) at The Hotchkiss School.

Isobel Goldberg ’21 studied in Viterbo, Italy, for the first semester of her junior year with School Year Abroad.

2021

31 Mackie Coffield ’21

John Bajaj “had an outstanding season and projects to be a top bullpen arm this year, as a sophomore he has a 6-foot-4 frame and great control of a strong three-pitch mix,” wrote the New England Baseball Journal on Feb. 23, 2023. 31 Mackie Coffield was elected president of the Greenwich Academy Dance Corp for 2024. 32 Elsa Franks played the lead role (Sophie) in Choate Rosemary Hall’s spring musical, Mamma Mia.

Oliver Jellinek played the leading role (Karen Smith) in Millbrook School’s 2023–2024 winter musical, Mean Girls. Henry Warner distinguished himself academically at Westminster School where he also received the All Founders League Award (sportsmanship, hard work and character in the spirit of competition and fair play at the varsity level) for varsity ultimate frisbee.

2022

Katie Barr was voted 2023 All-New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) for girls lacrosse at Greenwich Academy. Brendan Buda was elected Third Form (ninth grade) student government representative at The Canterbury School.

32 Elsa Franks ’21

Vy Cullen earned All-New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) 2023 girls tennis choice, Honorable Mention from Greens Farms Academy. Reed Ghriskey received Westminster School’s All Founders League Award for boys’ varsity golf (sportsmanship, hard work and character in the spirit of competition and fair play at the varsity level) and was voted the 2023 Scull Most Valuable Golfer. Oliver Johnson received the Upson Prize at The Hotchkiss School (scholarship, athletics

and citizenship) and distinguished himself in swimming, medaling at Founders League Championship, earning an All-New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Honorable Mention for distance swimming at the New England Championships, and for the second consecutive year was awarded the Nelson S. Talbot ’11 Cup (most valuable, effort, performance and spirit). Colin Mackey was nominated for Fairchester Athletic Association (FAA) All League Honors in boys’ ice hockey at Greenwich Country Day School.

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The Al Perry Scholarship Fund Former Upper School Teacher Al Perry (1982–2003) remained close with many in our community — an honored guest at reunions and school events, lunches with former colleagues at the Apple Cart, wishing alumni happy birthday on Facebook, walking with former Upper School Teacher Tom Giggi (1981–2021) on the Waveny Trails, and, of course, keeping tabs on all things baseball! A friend to many, we are proud to call him the ultimate “Super sharpie’’ and “A true ballplayer,” to borrow two of his ever-cheerful catchphrases. In 2022, Mr. Perry established the Al Perry Scholarship Fund to provide financial aid for deserving students and families who would not otherwise be able to afford an NCCS education. Mr. Perry’s dedication to making learning fun is at the heart of the NCCS mission — and thanks to this fund, his impact will continue to be felt by future generations of Country School students.

To learn more about supporting this fund, please contact Holly Donaldson Casella ’04

at hcasella@countryschool.net or (203) 801-5687, or visit www.countryschool.net/the-al-perry-scholarship-fund or scan the QR code at right.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

A Community of Support We create an active, joyful learning environment where children are challenged to think deeply,

We are deeply grateful for friends who have made Country School their philanthropic priority. We celebrate those who have given so generously, and we thank, in abundance, those who continue to help to ensure that NCCS’s future remains bright.

question confidently and act generously so that they may lead lives of impact and purpose.

Every family has something to give. Parent participation offers myriad opportunities for connection and provides valuable support to school programs while modeling for our children the school’s ideals of lifelong learning and giving back. There is truly a role for everyone in this warm and vibrant community where each contribution is valued and appreciated.

What Do Annual Fund Dollars Support? Annual Fund gifts help to make the NCCS experience possible for our students by supporting our dedicated teachers, our engaging curriculum, tuition assistance, educational technology and equipment, arts and athletics at all grade levels, sustainability initiatives and facility maintenance.

Scan to make a gift today!

www.countryschool.org/give

In Memoriam

We offer the deepest condolences to the family and friends of the following members of our extended school community. You may submit a notice on the website or contact Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net directly.

Alumni

David Harrel ’55

Faculty & Staff

William Helm ’38

Arthur Sachs ’56

Christopher Davenport

Katharine Wadsworth Wilson ’43

Prudence Bull Smith ’58

Joyce Peterson Thurmer ’45

Pamela Morgan ’59

James Gaston ’46

Suzanne deLima Knowles ’61

(NCCS 1966–1988) Garret Gifford (NCCS 1971–1992)

Lee Schreiber Donovan ’47

Peter Kraemer ’63

David Ingalls (NCCS 1994–1995)

John Erdmann II ’47

Donal C. O’Brien III ’73

Al Perry (NCCS 1982–2003)

Robert Wilkes ’48

Suzanne Lynch ’83

Tim Rivlin (Horizons 1978–2023)

James H. Hammons ’49

Christopher Kirk ’84

Louise Clark Smith ’51

Trustees

Robert Morgan ’52

Jonathan Isham Sr.

Margaret Oliver Hedeman ’53

Sue Ramsuer

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Fall 2023

A LOOK BACK

Within These Walls By Mark Macrides, School Archivist

The corner of Frogtown Road and Ponus Ridge has always been a destination. Grace Hill, as “our corner” came to be known in 1900, was an excellent location for Manhattan’s Grace Episcopal Church to build a summer home for parishioners, many of them widowed or orphaned as a result of the Spanish American War, allowing them to experience the simple joys of life in the country. Hiking, picking wildflowers in the meadows, and fishing and swimming in the streams and ponds were all favorite activities. In fact, Grace House in the Fields became busy enough to require the building of an additional structure dubbed “Sweet Briar Cottage” that housed a group of college-aged girls to manage the main house and tend to the gardens. These “Cottage Girls” happily added themselves to the diverse and growing list of people gravitating toward this unique corner of the world. In 1936, that very same corner was an ideal place for a burgeoning but spacerestricted school to land when the need for larger academic buildings and acreage to develop a robust athletic program reached a critical juncture. New Canaan Country School quickly adapted the buildings for school use and developed the fields for football, baseball and field hockey. Sweet Briar Cottage, renamed Far House (it was the farthest building from Grace House), became the first Lower School. It was no accident when, in 1967, Far House was removed to make way for a larger building; the original stone foundation walls were saved and converted to a large sandbox. These walls and the powerful memories they evoked became a landing place of their own within the broader destination of the growing school. Eventually, the practicality of managing a sandbox that size, particularly once the local cat population became accustomed to using it, became too much of a challenge, and the walls welcomed the John-Christophe Schlesinger ’89 Reading Garden, built in memory of an NCCS student. The ability for children to transition from using the space for play to using it for quiet reading was comforting and quite appropriate. The renovated Schlesinger Garden, which will continue to offer a sanctuary for quiet reading, will also honor the NCCS faculty and staff and their dedication through the global pandemic by offering a space to contemplate the concept of restorative wellness. Inside the boundaries of the larger campus, as well as these more intimate, defined locations, we are able to honor the diverse array of people who have felt a tug toward this place and were able to create opportunities to build a life, a living and a community within our walls. As those stone walls flex yet again to embrace a renewed garden, we are eager to continue to offer the time machines of the future, the many wonders contained within the corner of Ponus and Frogtown.

635 Frogtown Road New Canaan, CT 06840 Address Service Requested

ADDRESS CHANGES Please help us reduce our mailing costs and our carbon footprint by sending address changes to communications@countryschool.net.

Save the Dates! FRIDAY, MAY 17

SATURDAY, MAY 18 Alumni Weekend & Frogtown Fair