Pantherbeat Fall 2016 Issue

PARISH EPISCOPAL SCHOOL NEWS

FALL 2016

Pantherbeat Feature: New Grandparent Socials and Tours help Parish grandparents connect with our School and each other > Story on page 3

National Junior Honor Society presents anti-bullying campaign to Lower School students, as captured by student reporter Chris Van Buskirk ’17 WISDOM

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See the full story at https://vimeo.com/182997798

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PARISH PANTHERBEAT

Parish Online

parishepiscopal.org Lower School One Read Lower School students had a surprise for year two of the Lower School One Read. Greta from “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” stopped by to read a chapter and play on the playground. https://twitter.com/AndiRyan6/status/781158844160352256

@AndiRyan6

Middle School Peer Counselors 7th grade students stopped by a 4th grade classroom to present on having a positive self-image. https://twitter.com/ BoghetichTweets/ status/788753304012460032

James and the Giant Peach The Middle School cast “shook it up” and performed a number from their fall musical. https://goo.gl/t3HZCl

Parish Facebook

Bed of Nails Michelle Lyon, Provost & Head of Upper School, lowers the hammer, and Dave Monaco, Allen Meyer Family Head of School, gets into a nail-biter during a live physics demonstration https://vimeo.com/181056726

Parish Vimeo

Cub Club Visits the Volleyball Team

Parish Facebook

The ParishLeads project for Jack Bell ’17 brings Cigarroa Elementary students to Parish for a special field day.

Several sports teams, including volleyball, have hosted clinics this fall for Cub Club members and the Athletic Booster Club. https://www.facebook.com/parishepiscopal/posts/10154683203006151:0

Instagram Takeover

Parish Instagram

Jennifer Wilson, Head of Lower School, took over Instagram and covered Parish Life at both the Hillcrest and Midway campuses. https://www.instagram.com/p/BLRjYt2hH4E

https://twitter.com/ parishepiscopal/ status/789213167909867520

New Addition:

MAC Groundbreaking Thanks to generous donors and dedicated volunteers, a new multipurpose activity center is under construction at Parish Episcopal School. Parish revealed the Gene E. Phillips Activity Center during a groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, September 2.

Construction on the 20,000 square foot center is part of Reimagine School and the Capital Campaign to grow and enhance the School for all students. The activity center will provide more meeting spaces and updated facilities that match the level of programming and student talent.

“Parish Episcopal means a lot to our family, and we wanted to contribute to the future of the School in a meaningful way,” said Gene Phillips.

“By contributing early and making a foundational donation to the campaign, we are excited to address a pressing need for the long-term vision of the School and help extend its capabilities for the next generation of students.”

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PARISH PANTHERBEAT

FALL 2016 | PAGE 5

Mr. Monaco’s Update: Letter of Gratitude Who is on your thank list?

While this is an appropriate question for this time of year, around Thanksgiving and before the Christmas season, I actually posed it to students in a chapel homily in May 2015, hopeful to promote their gratitude for teachers as the school year concluded. In the spirit of our tenet of Honor, we frequently remind ourselves of the abundant blessings which surround us and the need to pay homage to God and those who have made such rich provisions possible.

The question of a “thank list” is actually not a rhetorical one. It is a call to action and articulation for which I can take no credit. Actually, I stumbled upon the thank list exercise quite inadvertently and from a surprising source: American Greetings - the people who sell us all those cheesy cards in the store! (You can learn more about it here: http://www.thanklist.com/create).

In the hustle and bustle of our lives, it can be a struggle to find time to answer the “thank list” project’s primary charge: to write down the names of people who have had the most dramatic influence on your life, this year or at any time in your past, then pen them a letter of gratitude.

Not only is this kind – in the proverbial sense that we teach our children to say “please” and “thank you” – but research actually tells us that the very act of writing down what we are grateful for triggers

Mr. Monaco with Lower Students at 2016 Homecoming celebration

a feeling of gratitude within us. And gratitude, we have come to find, is good for us. Research has linked it to everything from better performance in school, to happiness, to good health.

Researchers at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center say gratitude is the “feeling of joy associated with the knowledge that another person has instrumentally benefitted you.” Their research has found that our brain thinks of gratitude the same way it does something that brings us pleasure or joy, like listening to a favorite song or eating a lot of chocolate chip cookies. A chemical in our brain, dopamine, is released when we undertake an act of gratitude.

Our brain loves dopamine, so it actually directs us to do the things that release it more often. The good news is that showing gratitude can become a habit. We just need to start doing it!

So, in the spirit of building a healthy habit of gratitude, this Pantherbeat and online 2015-16 Annual Report (http://wwwparishepiscopal.org/annualreport) serve as our own “thank list” of sorts. Here, we profile those whose time, talent and treasure have enriched the experiences of the students at Parish.

We extend to them, in writing, our gratitude for making Parish a recipient of their giving.

Obviously, this format affords us limited space. Through those profiled in this issue, may I extend my deepest gratitude to the many of you -- present students and parents; alumni and alumni parents; grandparents; faculty & staff; and friends – who give of yourselves to make Parish the special place that it is.

I feel healthier already!

Career Services for Alumni

Founders’ Day Service Award Recipients

L to R: Karen O’Rear - Special Recognition Award for 35 years of service, Matthew Willis - Distinguished Alumni Award, Kathy & Bryan Pershern Special Recognition Award for Loyalty of Giving as Parents & Grandparents

Parish Alumni Notes

2016-17 Alumni Board President: Scott Pershern, PDS ‘88 Vice President: Meredith McLean, PDS ‘95

Treasurer: David Haines ‘08

Secretary: Lauren Ware Henderson ‘07, Advancement & Alumni Relations Coordinator Krissy Daniel ‘08 Bart Freeman, PDS ‘80 Marissa Gonzalez ‘08 Chris Hamrick ‘07

Judy Morris Martin ‘10 Ryan Pearlman ‘11 David Van Amburgh ‘11

it’s all about who you know.

Whether you’re in college or you’ve already started your career, meeting professionals in your field is a huge benefit.

ParishConnect introduces you to Parish Episcopal community members who work in your desired field, and who can help you build your network and further your future.

To learn more, contact Lauren Henderson at LHenderson@parishepiscopal.org.

Diane Webber, Director of Alumni Relations

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PARISH PANTHERBEAT

FALL 2016 | PAGE 3

Pantherbeat Feature

Parish Episcopal School Grandparents get social

Bob Marshall (Ryland ‘21 and Avery ‘24) and Stacey Angel (Chase ‘21) join in the fun at the first Grandparents’ Social of the year

Parish Episcopal School grandparents are learning more about our School and each other through Grandparent Socials and special campus tours. It’s a chance to meet new people and stay up-to-date on the latest programs, events and technology offerings that their grandchildren are experiencing at Parish every day.

“I think the grandparents loved the first grandparent social,” said Webber. “They made a catapult from the MAKERplay kit, and they loved it! We had several grandparents write an email or note telling us they enjoyed it.”

“I was very impressed,” said Dottie Freeman, Parish grandparent (Abby ‘24) and alumni parent (Bart Freeman PDS ‘80, Laurel Freeman Trussell PDS ‘82, Bethany Freeman Baer PDS ‘85).

“It was fun to get together,” noted Freeman. “There’s camaraderie between the grandparents. I feel like I’m making friends with the grandparents that I hadn’t known before.”

Freeman recently attended a grandparent social and toured 5th and 6th grade classrooms at Parish.

“I was amazed at the reach the kids had with their instruction and their classes,” added Freeman. “The kids were so involved and so interested in what they were doing.”

Many grandparents are engaged and active in the lives of their grandchildren, driving them to activities and helping them with homework. They’ve also been generous with their time, serving on committees, the Board of Trustees and supporting Parish financially. The special school tours and socials are aimed at giving these dedicated grandparents another avenue for involvement and inclusiveness in the Parish community.

“I think it’s a good idea,” commented Glenda “Gigi” Wycoff, Parish grandparent (Ben ‘23 and Parker ‘27) “You get to meet some of the other grandparents, plus you get to see what students are doing outside the classroom.”

Nearly 40 grandparents came to the fall grandparent social in late September.

Dave Monaco, Allen Meyer Head of School, talked about the boundless opportunities students have today and how the focus of education has changed since grandparents were in Grandmothers Sandra Lindemood the classroom. Grandparents (Matthew ‘23) and Gigi Wycoff also learned how to access library resources at Parish and received more details about our STEM and robotics programs. They even got a chance to explore MAKERplay, a new program that provides STEM based activities to pediatric patients facing extended hospital stays. As part of our tenet of Service, Parish students pack and distribute these kits (Learn more about MAKERplay at https://vimeo.com/189782270.)

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Parish students lead grandparents in MAKERplay activity

Grandparents will have another opportunity to visit with one another during the winter Grandparent Social on February 1. They are invited to enjoy a light lunch and hear more about the new Gene E. Phillips Activity Center, which is currently under construction. Additionally, they can learn more about the fine arts program at Parish and watch a scene from the Upper School musical, Nunsense.

Although the students don’t attend the socials and tours, grandparents will get a chance to visit with their grandchildren and see their classrooms during Grandparents’ Visiting Days on April 27 at Midway and April 28 at Hillcrest.

To schedule a tour and RSVP for the Grandparent Socials contact Diane Webber at dwebber@parishepiscopal.org or 972.852.8847.

Hillcrest Grandparent Campus Tour Dates

T O U R DAT E S

“I hope the socials inform grandparents about what type of education their grandchildren are receiving and reassure them we are taking good care of the total child by allowing them to follow their passions through academics, athletics and arts,” noted Diane Webber, Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events. “Our goal is to have the socials highlight the many innovations we have going on at Parish.”

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October 24, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

November 30, 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.

December 7, 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Midway Grandparent Campus Tour Dates October 18, 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.

November 4, 8:00 – 9:30 a.m.

December 1, 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.

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Tim is in his fourth year on the Board of Trustees and has been involved with the capital campaign since its inception. His background as an executive in building construction has made him an invaluable asset to the School as it has navigated the planning of the new facilities.

“Kathy and Tim are literally helping us build new traditions at Parish,” said Dave Monaco, Allen Meyer Family Head of School. “Their investment at such a critical time for the School speaks volumes to me about their commitment to this community. It is truly an honor to have their endorsement of our vision.”

The Ellers identify the School’s balance between legacy and innovation as one of the reasons they continue investing both time and treasure in the School.

Pantherbeat Story

Kathy and Tim Eller Give $1 Million to Campaign When Kathy and Tim Eller sent their two sons to Parish Day School more than 25 years ago, they had no idea they were starting a legacy. Tim now serves as Board of Trustees Chair, and one grandchild is learning from her dad’s former teacher. Next year, her younger brother will join his sister on the Hillcrest campus.

Now, Kathy and Tim are adding to that legacy with a $1 million investment in the potential of Parish and its students. The gift supports both the new Gene E. Phillips Activity Center, now under construction, and the future Performance & Community Center.

“This campaign opens up all kinds of possibilities for Parish, some of which we can’t even begin to imagine,” said Tim Eller. “I have always admired the upbeat and dynamic energy here, and these new facilities will give the School and the students the space, both literally and figuratively, to express that in new directions.”

“We love that the Parish community continues to honor Gloria Snyder [HOS 1980-2009] and the course she set, yet it also embraces innovation and possibility under the leadership of Dave Monaco,” said Tim. The Ellers believe this balance and the School’s positive atmosphere have defined Parish since their sons attended.

“At the time [when Parish went only through 6th grade], we wished our sons could have continued at Parish through upper school,” recalled Kathy Eller. “Now we delight in seeing how engaged our granddaughter is and the kinds of possibilities that will be open to her and her brother in their future years through high school.”

Knowing that their grandchildren are benefiting from the generosity of the parents and grandparents that came before them, they believe now is the time to give back.

“While our alumni support continues to grow, Parish needs the support of parents and grandparents. Now is our time to build on Parish’s remarkable legacy and innovate for the future,” added Kathy.

Ask Pete I can see we are building the MAC – which we are so excited for – but when will we start the PACC? The groundbreaking for the Performance & Community Center (PACC) is currently scheduled for 2020 – with an 18-24 month build – dependent on the rate of community support.

The PACC will be a focal point of Parish community events, expand student exploration of the arts, and enhance opportunities to bring top-tier speakers and events to the School. The PACC will also provide a new resource that brings flexibility to scheduling, enhances learning opportunities and broadens the exposure of our community to the talents of our students and staff.

The Multipurpose Activities Center (MAC), which is currently under construction (see New Addition pg 2), will open to the Parish community for the 2017-18 school year.

If you are interested in learning more about our destination and what role you can play in getting us there, please contact Amanda Meter, Associate Director of Development & Campaign Coordinator: ameter@parishepiscopal.org or 972.852.8757.

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Alumni profile:

Student Service Spotlight:

Matthew Willis ‘12

Mallory Richards

Matthew Willis was recently awarded Parish’s Distinguished Alumni Award (see pg 5). He attends UT Health Science Center at San Antonio where he is a first year med student. He graduated in May 2016 from Baylor University with a B.S. in biology.

Biggest accomplishment so far?

Medical school. This year was one of the most competitive admission years, so I am very proud.

Biggest lesson learned to date?

Time management, and maintaining a steady source of fun and learning life skills by engaging in activities outside the classroom.

It can be quite challenging juggling everything from academics, intramurals, extracurricular organizations, part time job, etc. - all in the same semester. I learned a lot about how I operate and how I study. If I use my time effectively, I open up more opportunities for more enjoyable activities . . . [such as] time with my friends. The relationships and memories that I’ve made shaped me into a more mature individual, and I will carry those for the rest of my life.

Would you like to give a shout out to anyone at Parish?

Coach Savage – he has a unique passion for teaching and that passion certainly overflowed into my own life. He guided me through my time at Parish, and I am very grateful for all that he did to foster my love for science, which has now led me to achieving my dream job.

Any advice to Parish Seniors?

Recognize the value of education. Learning for the sake of learning is increasingly lost amongst our generation. Yes, grades will matter, but do not forget to challenge yourself. Do hard things. Do not be afraid to fail. Maintain your focus, perform well on your studies, but above all, do not forget to enjoy your time in college. Those years have the potential to be the best of your life. Do not let the world pass you by while you have your nose in a book.

PARISH EPISCOPAL SCHOOL NEWS

Theatre has always been important to student Mallory Richards ’18, but it is medicine for the soul of sorts when it comes to dealing with her type 1 diabetes (T1D).

“Being able to become a different person and character on stage when I’m having a bad day with my diabetes helps me escape and feel free for even just a small amount of time,” said Richards. “I owe it to theatre for creating a second home to express myself and let go of everything else around me!”

Richards is among the millions of people worldwide living with T1D, which strikes suddenly in children and adults and causes dependence on injected or pumped insulin for life. It cannot be prevented and currently there is no cure. Richards received her diagnosis at the tender age of six. T1D changed her life forever, but she has found tremendous support through the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Now, the teen is thrilled to use her love of theatre to help the organization with its goal of finding a cure.

“They’ve done so much for me, and now it’s my turn to give back to them,” added Richards.

As part of her Leadership Institute project, Richards is the musical director for the 5th Annual Parish Family Performs – a Broadway revue featuring Parish parents, faculty and staff. In her role, and in coordination with ParishServes, she is helping to raise awareness and money for JDRF. For those who don’t like the spotlight, but still like to support a great cause and enjoy a good show, don’t miss Parish Family Performs December 8 – 9 at 7 p.m. in the Black Box Theater.

Learn more at goo.gl/jYme0u

FALL 2016

Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Heather Mills Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Heather Behrens Digital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Courtney Joyner Contributor and Annual Report Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amanda Meter Annual Report Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jacque Wallace Alumni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lauren Ware Henderson Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amy Ariagno Photographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wiley Williams Intern reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chris Van Buskirk ‘17

What’s inside: FEATURE ARTICLE: Parish Episcopal School Grandparents get social . . . . . . . . . 3 Parish Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 New Addition: MAC Groundbreaking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Get On Board! Campaign Update: Kathy and Tim Eller Give $1 Million to Campaign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Ask Pete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Mr. Monaco’s Update: Letter of Gratitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Founders’ Day Award Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Alumni Notes: 2016-17 Alumni Board and Parish Connect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Alumni Spotlight: Matthew Willis ‘12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Volunteer Spotlight: Mallory Richards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Pantherbeat is the magazine of Parish Episcopal School | 4101 Sigma Road | Dallas, Texas 75244 | parishepiscopal.org

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