Brooks: The PBS Alum Newsletter • Spring 2024

FROM THE ADVANCEMENT TEAM

As we all know, one undeniable constant in life is change It shapes our experiences, challenges our perspectives, and pushes us forward on our individual and collective paths. As we look to the end of the year when our Head of School Scott Erickson will step down from his Headship and hand over to Diane Rosenberg as our Interim Head of School, we’ll embrace change as an opportunity for learning and growth Whether it be new students on our campus each year, new faculty, or evolving curriculum, at PBS we constantly approach change with a spirit of adaptability and resilience In this issue, you’ll read more about the enduring changes Scott Erickson has spearheaded during his 13-year tenure, certainly with many more to come in the future of our school.

Change is most fruitful when it builds from a strong advancement foundation. Later in this issue, you’ll be invited to join us for our annual Spring Benefit for Financial Aid, as well as alum events this spring, crafted just for you We sincerely hope you will join us, as new or renewed connections can serve positive change. As we look towards the future, we extend a warm invitation to you, our alum, to join us in our journey of evolution Your experiences, insights, and contributions are invaluable as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of education Together as a community, we’ll embrace change as a catalyst for progress. And, we will never forget to keep having FUN along the way!

Hello again, it’s me, Brooks, your friendly PBS mascot! Since I saw you last, lots of things have been happening - our Annual Fund has raised over a million dollars, thanks to the generosity of our community of donors! It’s never too late to join them.

You can contribute at: phillipsbrooks.org/supportpbs/annual-fund.

We also hope you’ll read our loving tribute to Dr. Scott Erickson, our Head of School who will departing from PBS at the end of this school year. In other news, I tried my hand (er… paw) at the monkey bars, but I fell on my tail. But it’s OK I’m fine! If you have any ideas for me, please email alum@phillipsbrooks.org

Amanda Tachis, Armando Cerrillo and Scott Hunt, Advancement Team

CELEBRATING THE LEADERSHIP OF DR. SCOTT ERICKSON

In the realm of education, some leaders leave an overwhelmingly positive mark on the schools they serve. Dr. Scott Erickson is one of those exceptional individuals. Over the past 13 years, in partnership with the Board of Trustees, he’s been the driving force behind Phillips Brooks School, steering it with unwavering dedication and a profound commitment to knowing and loving every single PBS student.

By no means did Scott come by his compassionate leadership role at PBS by chance - it began during his first teaching role at St Paul’s School, a boarding school in New Hampshire, where his fervent commitment to intellectual engagement, emotional intelligence, trust, and inclusivity took root. These guiding principles continued to flourish as he ventured to a senior administrative role at the National Cathedral School for Girls in Washington, D.C., before ultimately assuming the role of PBS’s 5th Head of School in 2011. And now, as Scott prepares to hand over the reins to the next Head of School, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on his remarkable impact.

When he took on the role in 2011, Scott and the Board of Trustees recognized the need for a strategic overhaul to position PBS for the future. Leading the charge on a comprehensive rebranding effort, Scott breathed new life into PBS, modernizing its image and solidifying its status as one of the most sought-after elementary schools in the Bay Area. Says Scott:

“At the time, a big challenge was that what we loved about our school was well known internally, but those things were not well known in the external market. The rebranding helped us message what we love about PBS and what makes our school excellent. Early in my tenure, I heard people describe PBS as ‘the best kept secret in Silicon Valley.’ That was not good because we needed PBS to be the ‘best known excellent school in the Bay Area.’ Our rebranding helped us move away from being a secret.”

Beyond rebranding, Scott’s vision continued to propel PBS forward. He worked to secure the school's land lease until 2062 and ushered in a new era of innovation, implementing groundbreaking initiatives such as the school’s first formal curriculum review process, a review of our technology program, using student performance data to inform instruction, and the creation of PBS’s first full-day Early Learning Center.

Perhaps one of Scott’s greatest challenges came as the COVID-19 pandemic hit Scott provided steady guidance and unwavering community support, and together with Olana Khan and the Board, launched the COVID Fund to help the PBS community navigate unprecedented challenges. Scott’s three focus areas were the implementation of a high-quality distance learning model, a safe and expeditious re-opening of campus, and keeping campus open, all of which were achieved. He reflects:

“I am also proud of my virtual weekly Head of School Office Hours as a way to keep the community together and united during this difficult pandemic time, giving people a forum to ask questions. I am not aware of another school that did this in the same way we did. ”

Other stewardship challenges are less universal than navigating a pandemic, but no less motivating to Scott, who regularly furthers the mission of our school off-campus, featuring as a presenter at national educational conferences such as the CAIS Trustee-School Heads Conference, the NAIS Annual Conference, and CASE-NAIS Independent Schools Conference, where he presents PBS case studies to peer educators and continues to pursue his own lifelong learning. His most recent presentation topic explored the unique complexities of leading during times of overlapping issues and challenges, and when asked about the biggest changes to educational leadership over a 13-year span, reflected:

“The complexity in leading through and managing overlapping issues, problems, and concerns at the same time: I have been hearing this from many other heads and schools, so I know it’s not just PBS. I think this is the biggest change in educational leadership that I would identify in 2011 vs. today. ”

CELEBRATING THE LEADERSHIP OF DR. SCOTT ERICKSON (CONT’D)

In 2022, Scott further solidified his legacy by spearheading a five-year Strategic Plan, now making strides particularly in the area of championing faculty excellence and recognition. In a region with high living costs, Scott’s approach has been instrumental in attracting and retaining top-tier faculty members But perhaps Scott’s greatest legacy lies in his unwavering belief in the worth and individuality of every student, staff member, parent and guardian, as evidenced by his smiling presence and greeting in the morning car line nearly each and every day. Scott’s weekly tradition of GATHER, our Friday morning time to come together as a full community to learn from one another, has been a cornerstone of the PBS experience, and he reflects:

“It means a lot to me that I have had this ‘classroom’ of GATHER available to me. I miss being a classroom teacher, and GATHER helps because it gives me a place where I am not only offering a public presence, but also being a teacher and a learner. ”

His compassion and empathy have shaped PBS, inspiring generations of students to become compassionate leaders and lifelong learners When asked what he is most proud of, Scott’s answer is clear and simple:

“I’m so proud that the team that I have been a part of building has made many changes, additions, and improvements over the years – and have weathered many challenges –yet the beautiful essence of our school has remained the same.”

Now, as Scott prepares to step down as Head of School in June, his impact will leave everlasting marks throughout our leafy campus. His unwavering belief in the intrinsic worth of every individual has shaped countless lives, inspiring courage, community, kindness, and a lifelong love of learning

Dr. Scott Erickson

UPDATE FROM THE BOARD

The Board has announced that Diane Rosenberg will serve as our Interim Head of School for the 20242025 school year Diane is a recognized and distinguished Bay Area independent school leader, having most recently served nearly two successful decades as Head of School for The Nueva School from 2001-2020 Under her visionary and studentcentered leadership, the school increased enrollment by almost 300% and expanded the diversity representation of the students, faculty, and staff. She transformed the school as it secured a second campus, opened a high school, and led three capital campaigns raising well over $100 million. Diane also held numerous leadership positions with Princeton Day School and The Park School of Baltimore and is a graduate of Kalamazoo College in Michigan

Diane has served on the PBS Board of Trustees since 2022 Her deep knowledge of our school and relationship with Dr Erickson will be of great benefit and ensure a smooth transition. An educator to her core and with expertise in strategic planning, major fundraising, and fiscal management, she is ideal to guide PBS through this period of change. We are confident she will bring a fresh perspective grounded in PBS’s mission, core values, and a firm focus on support for our students, families, faculty, and staff.

While the search for a permanent Head of School for PBS continues, Diane will have a steady hand on our day-to-day operations as Interim Head of School starting July 1, 2024 She will remain in the interim role through June 30, 2025, just before our new Head of School begins July 1, 2025.

Diane looks forward to joining the community later this spring. Diane and her husband, Bob, have two grown children and three grandchildren.

Diane Rosenberg, Interim Head of School, 2024-2025

CLASS NOTES

Let’s take a look at what some of your classmates have been up to! If YOU would like to contribute a note for the next edition, we’d LOVE to hear from you! Please contact: alum@phillipsbrooks.org

Max Depatie ‘10, an accomplished photo retoucher and skilled freelance photographer, has recently showcased his work in Apple’s latest commercials and completed his first billboard retouching project for Flickr near the Bay Bridge Experienced in landscape, cityscape, and portraiture, Max’s passion for photography is evident in his captivating images. Currently a Senior Retoucher at Restoration Hardware, he continues to excel in both retouching and photography, with a promising future ahead

Elizabeth Horve Clark ‘03, co-owner of Brendon Clark Performance Horses, embodies a commitment to excellence in equine training and care. Elizabeth and her team provide top-tier training programs tailored to individual needs Elizabeth also leads Elizabeth Horve Breeding Management & Equine Services, offering comprehensive breeding management for elite performance horse mares. Elizabeth’s passion for horses traces back to her days at PBS, making her journey in the equine industry a lifelong pursuit fueled by genuine love and dedication.

Caroline Conner ‘98, has embarked on an exhilarating journey in the world of wine, now flourishing as an esteemed sommelier in Lyon, France. As the founder of Lyon Wine Tastings, she offers an immersive wine experience that unveils the rich tapestry of Lyon’s wine regions leveraging her 15 years of expertise in the industry Caroline’s passion transcends boundaries as she engages in a myriad of endeavors, from hosting tastings and teaching at the prestigious Institut Paul Bocuse to producing captivating content on her podcast and YouTube channel.

Elizabeth Horve Clark ‘03

Max Depatie ‘10

Caroline Conner ‘98

ALUM SPOTLIGHT: ROBIN ENAN ‘93

PBS Parent and Former PBSA President

Robin Enan has lived in the Bay Area since she was five years old, and attended PBS, graduating in ‘93 As an only child, Robin’s experiences and relationships from her time at PBS shaped her greatly, and her friendships have endured to this day. We asked Robin to tell us more about her deep passion for the PBS community, and why she and her husband chose to entrust their children to the school community which has been such an integral part of her own life.

Can you tell us a little about growing up, your years at PBS and what they meant to you?

Growing up, I had no nearby relatives so the PBS community truly became my extended family. I often say that what I love most about PBS as a parent is that my children are truly known for who they are as individuals-and that was how I always felt there as a student Did I receive a great education at PBS? Absolutely. But more important to me was the feeling of security, love, and support every day when I walked on campus.

Can you tell us a little about how you feel your years at PBS supported and influenced who you are today?

PBS is where I discovered my love of writing, which became and has remained a core part of my identity. One of my earliest memories is having my own section of the chalkboard and dedicated handwriting teacher in kindergarten because I was the only leftie in the class I also remember feeling completely safe and encouraged and to be myself at all times. I was able to arrive at middle school with a level of confidence and selfawareness that a lot of my peers were still trying to develop Finally, and just as importantly, some of the friendships I made at PBS have proven to be lifelong connections. The same best friend I used to play with on the Big Toy stood by my side as maid of honor at my wedding.

Robin Enan ‘93

Robin circa 1993

What have you been up to in the intervening years between leaving PBS and today?

I graduated from Crystal Springs Uplands School and Princeton University, and spent the first part of my career as a journalist, mainly covering public policy and politics. Right before the pandemic, I began a career switch to the mental health field, and in 2022 I received my master’s in clinical psychology. Since then I have been working as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at public middle schools in the Bay Area I have also tried to stay very active within the PBS community and served as President of the PBSA in 2022-23. My current hobbies are running, playing piano, attending live music concerts, and posting funny stories about my kids on Instagram.

Why did you choose PBS for your own children, and how is their experience the same as yours, or does their experience differ?

My own experience at PBS was so special and positive. I always knew it would be a leading contender for my own kids’ education. But what really sold me was observing PBS students at local parks and playgrounds when I used to take my oldest child out as a baby and toddler. I didn’t need to see the uniform to know which kids came from PBS—they were unfailingly the kids who were respectful to adults, kind to younger children, and engaging in activities that were both creative and inclusive. That’s the kind of human PBS sends out into the world, and I knew that’s the model I wanted for my kids

Robin Enan and Family

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: ARIEL PETERSEN

1st Grade Lead Teacher

Ariel Petersen, a native of Milpitas, CA, joined the PBS faculty team in 2015. As a child and young adult, teaching wasn’t on Ariel’s radar. She initially had her sights set on becoming a medical examiner or a forensic anthropologist, earning a masters in Forensic Anthropology from Boston University. However, upon returning to California after grad school, she became a substitute teacher, and landed a long-term placement in Kindergarten at PBS. Ariel realized how much she was learning and enjoying the role, and re-directed her focus to teaching as her career yet never lost her own love for learning. Ariel returned to school to earn her teaching credential and has recently completed her doctorate, with a focus on social-emotional learning.

First, can you tell us what’s most special about teaching in the PBS community?

I remember from the first day I started, even as a substitute, I was greeted and welcomed like I belonged. Students were so eager to share their passions and ideas, and I just remember how much fun I had I think that’s what makes PBS special to me the connections. Some of my closest friends are the ones I’ve met through working here. I think it stems from a genuine desire to know and understand others and their unique lived experiences This is such a strength that is not shared by most communities, let alone workplaces.

Ariel Petersen

Can you tell us why you felt that expanding your own education is important, and your work toward your EdD?

I have always been a lifelong learner, and so even when I think I am done with school, I keep going back. Getting my doctorate was important to me because I wanted to have an advanced degree in education to show my professional dedication, as my masters is in forensic anthropology. When I found an EdD program specifically in social-emotional learning, I knew that was the direction I wanted to go because of the important role SEL has played in my personal and professional journey.

Can you tell us about the importance of social-emotional learning, and why you chose it as a focus?

As an adult who did not have the explicit SEL instruction that our students are provided, most of my learning about myself has occurred on my own time. Teaching is an inherently unpredictable profession, and learning how to not only support students but stay regulated yourself is so important to preventing burnout. It is for these reasons that I chose to research the impact of professional development, specifically including SEL for adults, on wellbeing and classroom practice. The more guidance we provide for adults to regulate, solve conflicts, stay flexible, and set boundaries, the more those teachers will have the ability to explicitly teach and model those behaviors.

I’m proud to work at a school that values the importance of SEL for both adults and students, and that demonstrates those values in the investment in Fly Five, an explicit SEL curriculum, which is in its third year of implementation

PHILANTHROPY:

The 2023-2024 Annual Fund, with its remarkable success in raising over a million dollars, plays a vital role in supporting various programs and initiatives that enhance the educational experience for our students and strengthen our PBS community We are deeply grateful to our community members for their generous contributions. The dedication of our supporters has been inspiring! We extend a heartfelt thank you to our Co-chairs, Alex Albert and Mariam Breeding, and our Annual Fund Class Captains, for their efforts in rallying support. If you haven’t already donated, please consider contributing to help us continue supporting our students and community Give at phillipsbrooks.org/support-pbs

For more about philanthropy at PBS, please read Inspire, the 2022-2023 Impact Report at phillipsbrooks org/support-pbs/inspire

Gifts made to the Annual Fund cover a wide range of programs and support We encourage you to contribute at any level that inspires you Give today!

The Annual Fund enhances the educational experience for our students.

ANNUAL FUND

Alex Albert and Mariam Breeding, Annual Fund Co-chairs, with Olana Khan

The Annual Fund strengthens our community

PHILANTHROPY: SPRING BENEFIT “CASINO ROYALE”

You are invited to experience the thrill of Casino Royale, this year’s Spring Benefit for Financial Aid!

This year ’ s Spring Benefit welcomes a unique and inspired celebration as we honor Dana Doolin, Stan Drake, Scott Erickson, and Margie Tully, for their combined 115 years of service to PBS!

All proceeds from the Spring Benefit directly support our need-based financial aid program

We would love all alums (age 21+) to join us for an unforgettable evening of excitement and celebration of honorees that you know and remember well at…Casino Royale!

Tickets and underwriting opportunities are available now by visiting phillipsbrooks.org/support-pbs/spring-benefit

norees: Margie Tully, Scott oolin and Stan Drake: 115 combined service!

HAPPENINGS ON CAMPUS: EVENTS

Our students lifted family spirits high as voices were raised in song at the PBS “Nighttime Reverie” Winter Concert It’s an annual winter tradition and one that is, safe to say, one of our very favorites together our students’ love of music and joy of performance just before our school community pauses to enjoy Winter Break family time

Our PBSA Community Kindness team partnered with There With Care, a local organization providing assistance to families facing critical illness. Our volunteers created fun and creative coloring-kit packages for young patients! It’s wonderful to see our PBS families rallying support for the larger neighborhood that makes up our local community.

The rhythmic beat of drums filled the air in our Multipurpose Room, while students gathered in excitement, enjoying the vibrant colors and graceful movements of the Lion Dance, in celebration of Lunar New Year.

Amidst a garden of laughter and petals, faculty and staff were treated to all the blossoms they could gather to create colorful, fragrant bouquets to take home or decorate their classrooms as the PBSA showered them with Valentine’s Day love and appreciation at the “Appreciation in Bloom” event

Appreciation in Bloom PBSA Event

ALUM EVENTS ‘24

These events are crafted just for you We hope you will join us!

Seeking Class Agents

Young Alum Homecoming Picnic

Calling all PBS Classes of 2016 through 2023! Get ready to reconnect and reminisce at our Young Alum Homecoming Picnic (formerly known as Young Alum Gathering) on April 19, 2024!

Date: Friday, April 19, 2024

Time: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Location: PBS Campus

PBS Alum Deviled Eggs Society

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the PBS Alum Deviled Eggs Society, our official PBS Alum Association (21+) social meet-up group! The PBS Alum Deviled Eggs Society aims to foster meaningful connections, provide valuable resources, and facilitate lifelong learning and growth for our alums worldwide.

Date: Thursday, May 30, 2024

Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: Dutch Goose, Menlo Park

Keep in Touch