The Crest
The Crest
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Simon Owen-Williams
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & EDITORS
Tara Askeland
Colleen Burke
Vincent Catapano
Simon Owen-Williams
Allie Probst
Rachel Reeves
Neil Rigg
Ryann Supple
Jane Zisa
2023-2024
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Donald D. Wilson, President
Shawnée Warfield, Vice President
David Schamis, Vice President
Joel Friedman, Treasurer
Donna Burke, Secretary
Claude A. Bahnik ’90, Honorary Trustee
Lindsey Barnett
Peter Guo
Yong Lee
Amy Littman
Teddy Lynn
Dr. Luis Marcos
Dr. Kevin Mercier
Katie Rotolo
Stephen Strauss
Harry Taylor ‘92
DESIGN
Square Spot Design
PRINTING
The QMC Group
PHOTOGRAPHY
Noah Barker, Wavelight Photography
Allie Probst
Susan Simon
Various Contributing Faculty
OUR MISSION
Portledge School offers a competitive college preparatory program in a warm, inclusive community. Students are inspired to realize their individual potential by developing the critical thinking skills and moral courage necessary for lifelong learning in an increasingly complex world. Portledge School defines Moral Courage as: Acting with Kindness, Purpose, Honor, and Respect while recognizing such actions may not be easy.
KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS are encouraged to ask big questions as they begin building a foundation of genuine academic curiosity.
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Lower School News: Portledge Seeks to Expand Our IB Program to the Lower School
This year, Portledge was named a Primary Years Program Candidate School as we began doing the work to expand our IB curriculum to the Lower School.
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Honoring Tradition, Inspiring Tomorrow: Portledge Turns 60!
Six decades of kindness, honor, purpose, and respect. In the 2024-2025 school year, Portledge will reflect on the last 60 years while we look ahead to our future.
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2024 Spring Musical: Chicago, Teen Edition
The Black Box Theater was transformed into Roaring Twenties Chicago this April, as Upper School students gave five awe-inspiring performances!
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Alumni Profile: Finding Your Happy with Jongnic Bontemps, Class of 1992
Returning to his alma mater, Jongnic shared his journey from student to scoring films. He spent an inspiring day at Portledge with Middle and Upper School students.
Happy Birthday, Portledge
Birthdays are important milestones, permitting us to reflect on the many beautiful things that create a proud heritage and providing us with the opportunity to look forward with great optimism.
Since our inception, Portledge has been dedicated to providing educational excellence for students. Our founders had a clear vision; they strived to consider the whole child and foster an environment where close-knit relationships and productive bonds between students and faculty would thrive. The ideals they espoused remain rooted in our mission statement.
While new rituals and ceremonies have been added, each tradition brings a sense of belonging that unites us.
As only the fifth Head of School at Portledge, I am mindful of the significant contributions of those who preceded me. Mary Jonathan held the reins for a brief
but vitally important period when the school opened its doors. David Staples guided the school through noteworthy expansion as grades were added, with the first class graduating in 1976. Next, Huson Gregory led the school for more than 30 years and remains our longest-serving Head. Under his beloved guidance, the school continued to evolve, adding new buildings to accommodate the burgeoning school. This period solidified Portledge’s unique position as a leading school on Long Island and witnessed the school’s college preparatory program strengthening. Steve Hahn followed by broadening the school’s environmental curriculum and heightening our sense of civic duty. Each made a powerful and long-lasting impact.
During the twelve years I have had the privilege of being at the helm, I have endeavored to honor the work of my predecessors while managing the school through a significant period of growth. Through the incredible generosity of our community, enrollment has almost
“THE PORTLEDGE EXPERIENCE FOSTERS INDIVIDUAL GROWTH AND OUTREACH, ENCOURAGING LEADERSHIP AND INCLUSION WITHIN OUR PILLARS OF KINDNESS, HONOR, PURPOSE, AND RESPECT.“
-SIMON OWEN-WILLIAMS, HEAD OF SCHOOL
tripled, educational choices have increased, and campus facilities have expanded, culminating in the construction of the new Athletic and Wellness Center, set to open this fall.
The future of Portledge looks bright. We are fortunate to have a strong Board under the capable leadership of Don Wilson, who has shepherded the school to financial stability and has implemented clear strategic goals. Our world-class faculty remains at the core of everything we do, and I am proud to say that our faculty and administrators are among the strongest the school has ever had. Let us commit to commemorating those who brought us to this point while we prepare to celebrate the future.
Happy Birthday, Portledge. You are 60 years young!
Simon Owen-Williams Head of School
Portledge Seeks to Expand the IB Program to the Lower School
By Colleen Burke, LS Science Teacher and PYP Coordinator
This year, Portledge embarked on an exciting journey towards becoming an official International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) school. The PYP is a dynamic and globally recognized educational framework created for students aged 3 to 12 that focuses on the development of the whole child. Key elements include fostering inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and a love for knowledge using a transdisciplinary, studentcentered approach.
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The Lower School proudly earned the title of PYP Candidate School this year. As a team, we have seamlessly woven the PYP principles into various aspects of our educational approach. Teachers have been an integral part of this work, creating transdisciplinary units that follow the six fundamental themes.
Collaborative planning has introduced a transformative pause into the whirlwind of a teacher’s daily routine, offering a moment to step back from the fast pace of classroom life and engage in a collective pursuit of something greater. We are channeling our energies towards a shared vision of enriching student learning experiences. This camaraderie, support, and exchange of ideas have benefited each teacher. As a result, planning sessions leave us revitalized, equipped with renewed inspiration and a sense of purpose, ready to make a profound impact within our classrooms and beyond.
Fostering community support for our PYP journey is paramount. The partnership between home and school is crucial to the PYP framework. It enhances the educational experience for students while creating a supportive environment in our community. We encourage parents and loved ones to join in our learning experiences. For example, this World Day, Kindergarten parents and grandparents donated their time and helped the students learn about US National Parks.
One key highlight of this work is the emphasis on inquiry-based learning.
We encourage students to ask probing questions, explore diverse perspectives, and construct meaning through handson experiences. Already, there is a desirable shift in student engagement and motivation. Students are fully committed to ownership of their learning and go above and beyond to showcase their knowledge. A prime example of student agency took place during our very first transdisciplinary theme of “Who We Are.” The 3rd-graders showcased their incredible creativity as they tackled environmental issues close to their hearts. Students came up with innovative strategies and solutions for environmental challenges that they are passionate about.
As teachers, we are committed to regular self-assessment exercises to identify areas of strength and areas for growth, guiding our strategic planning efforts. As we progress along our candidacy journey, we’ve diligently worked towards meeting the rigorous standards set forth by the International Baccalaureate. From aligning our curriculum with the PYP framework to implementing effective professional development initiatives for our educators, every step has been aimed at ensuring the seamless transition toward full PYP authorization.
Our candidacy journey has been a labor of dedication and innovation. With each step forward, we move closer to our mission of providing an educational experience that empowers students to become leaders of tomorrow and prepares them to thrive in an increasingly complex world.
THE PYP JOURNEY
As a PYP Candidate School, LS students explore the ten learner attributes established by The International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme that are designed to foster well-rounded, globalminded learners. These photos represent events and assignments students completed throughout the year with those Learner Profile attributes in mind. The ten Learner Profile attributes are Inquirers, Knowledgeable, Thinkers, Communicators, Principled, Open-Minded, Caring, Risk-Takers, Balanced, and Reflective.
WORLD DAY
This year, we unveiled a fresh twist on a Lower School tradition, World Day, aligning it with the PYP framework and the theme of “Peace Across the World.” Students explored the USA, Iceland, Brazil, Argentina, Thailand, and France through immersive exhibits and experiences. Students were given a passport to travel with while earning stamps at each destination.
STEAM ASSEMBLY
Early Childhood and Lower School showcased creativity and collaboration through weekly plays and assemblies. Highlighting their commitment to STEAM education, students eagerly participated in a special STEAM assembly where each student experimented and presented a unique project to the entire Lower School community.
PORTLEDGE PRESS RELAUNCH
Extra! Extra! Read All About It! The Portledge Press returns with a fresh format. Now, an exciting digital publication crafted by students, for students. Spearheaded by sophomores Kyle L., Mason L., and Caroline M., this dynamic initiative prioritizes student voices and delivers content tailored to the Portledge Community.
MIDDLE SCHOOL WINTER CONCERT
Each year, our Middle School students take center stage, demonstrating their tremendous talents and skills in an outstanding event. With hard work, time, effort, and consistent practice from the musicians, the entire room sang along and clapped with each piece. Students’ artwork was also showcased, and the creativity was certainly a sight to see!
MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATRE FALL PLAY
In October, a magical performance unfolded on our picturesque campus, showcasing the talent of our 7thand 8th-grade students. Transforming our 63-acre landscape into a stage, outdoor stations brought to life the essence of the Portledge Pillars. Our students shone as brightly as the sun, illuminating our campus with their talent and creativity.
UPPER SCHOOL COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP EXPERIENCE (CPE)
Upper School students ventured into the community as part of our CPE program. Students in grades 10-12 spent the day either rejuvenating the trails in Coffin Woods, spending time at AHRC Nassau, aiding in the construction of homes for the less fortunate with Habitat for Humanity, or enjoying games, heartfelt conversation, and even karaoke at the Glen Cove Senior Center.
THE PORTLEDGE PILLARS IN ACTION
Middle School Advisory
The Middle School Advisory program at Portledge School stands as a cornerstone in the holistic development of students, nurturing their academic, social, and emotional growth. This program is meticulously designed to foster a supportive community where each child feels valued, heard, and empowered.
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KINDNESS INITIATIVES
MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS...
Wrote letters to the Farmingdale students who were impacted by the devastating bus accident in September
Created a “Kindness Tree” bulletin board
Wrote letters to the children at St. Jude’s hospital
Fundraised for our military veterans
Partnered with Lower School classes where they played games and read to the younger children
Mailed home thank you letters to their parents
Participated in the “Valentines for Veterans” program
Wrote “Words of Wisdom” cards to the fifth graders as they prepare to leave Lower School
“PORTLEDGE HAS TAUGHT ME FOUR VERY IMPORTANT LESSONS: KINDNESS, HONOR, PURPOSE, AND RESPECT.”-MARINA Z. ’29
Students are assigned advisors in sixth grade who help them transition into Middle School. Beginning in seventh grade, students are then assigned an advisor who will stay with them for the next two years. Advisories meet every day for a 30-minute block, and once a week, there is an Extended Advisory. “The Extended Advisory sections are typically character development lessons,” Mrs. Ferruggia, Middle School Science Teacher and seventh-grade Advisor, explains. “We work on preparing them for conferences, and this year we did skits. Each advisory had to do a skit on a different pillar. We chose Kindness.”
Over the past two years, the Upper School Community Service program has blossomed into the Community Partnership Experience (CPE), featuring partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Middle School students begin to prepare for their future CPE trips in advisory. This year, Mrs. Ferruggia implemented the Acts of Kindness initiative for Middle School Advisories. Students sent thoughtful and encouraging letters to the Farmingdale students who were impacted by the devastating bus accident in September. They also created a “Kindness Tree” bulletin board, wrote letters to the children at St. Jude’s hospital, fundraised for our military veterans, partnered with Lower School classes where they played games and read to the younger children, mailed home thank you letters to their parents, participated in the “Valentines for Veterans” program, and wrote “Words of
Wisdom” cards to the fifth graders as they prepare to leave Lower School. By actively engaging in these projects, students learn to navigate challenges, collaborate effectively with their peers across different Divisions, and advocate for causes they believe in. “I think kids learn life skills best from other kids. And I think it’s one of the best things that came out of it,” Mrs. Ferruggia says. “They’re making a difference where they didn’t think they could.”
Ultimately, the Middle School Advisory program at Portledge School plays a pivotal role in shaping well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also compassionate, resilient, and socially conscious. “I’ve been at Portledge for a long time, and not once have I seen negativity spread throughout our campus,” Logan L. ’29, one of Mrs. Ferruggia’s advisees, explains. “From the Lower School to the Upper School, everyone always looks up to those pillars.” Marina Z. ’29 noted that this advisory program is essential to her experience at Portledge. “Portledge has taught me four very important lessons: kindness, honor, purpose, and respect,” she says. “These are the pillars that inspire me to help our Portledge community and the community outside of Portledge with the help of our wonderful teachers.”
We look forward to watching the Acts of Kindness Initiative grow as our seventh-grade students move on to eigth grade and beyond.
KINDNESS HONOR
PURPOSE RESPECT
PORTLEDGE AND MILL NECK MANOR SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
Forge An Inclusive Partnership
The collaborative Upper School elective American Sign Language (ASL) program between Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf and Portledge School is a testament to our shared commitment to inclusivity and cultural understanding. What started as a conversation blossomed into a cooperative program that allows four Portledge senior students to engage in Mill Neck Manor’s academic ASL programs, fostering deeper connections with the Deaf community.
“BY EMBRACING ASL IN OUR CURRICULUM, MY FELLOW PEERS AND I ARE NOT ONLY LEARNING ANOTHER LANGUAGE BUT OPENING UP OUR MINDS TO NEW WAYS OF CONNECTING WITH OTHERS.” -NATASHA P., CLASS OF 2024
Portledge students visit the Mill Neck campus for about one hour per week, immersing themselves in the school’s culture and ASL teaching practices. They are taught by Mill Neck faculty members, gaining firsthand experience and insights into Deaf culture and communication. Conversely, Mill Neck teachers provide ASL instruction at the Portledge campus for over two hours a week, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive learning experience for all participants. As Assistant Director of Upper School Francisco Lameiro says, “This collaboration represents a tremendous opportunity for our students to develop a real and vibrant relationship with the Deaf Community. Learning American Sign Language is an incredibly important and authentic way
to connect with an entire segment of our society and community. This true partnership is starting small with only a few seniors this school year, but we have no doubt that it will blossom into a larger and more robust union that will serve as true evidence of our commitment to our Mission and Pillars.”
This collaboration not only enriches the educational experiences of our students but also promotes empathy, respect, and cross-cultural communication. Natasha P., class of 2024, says, “Words aren’t just sounds; with a simple gesture, we can paint pictures and evoke deep feelings. The film CODA, directed by Sian Heder, was a revelation. It inspired me to immerse myself in online courses to learn sign
language and establish an ASL club at my school. Films like CODA remind us of the transformative power of stories, and taking ASL reminds us to commit to amplifying such voices through empathy and understanding. By embracing ASL in our curriculum, my fellow peers and I are not only learning another language but opening up our minds to new ways of connecting with others.”
This partnership demonstrates a genuine interest and commitment from the hearing community at Portledge to learn sign language skills, paving the way for future collaborations and understanding between hearing and Deaf communities.
CELEBRATING
60 YEARS!
Honoring Tradition.
In May 1965, the trustees of the Alice K. Coffin Fund, Inc. gave 63 acres of the Alice S. Coffin estate, Portledge, and all the buildings on this land, to the adjoining Miss Stoddart’s School for Very Little People to establish a coeducational college preparatory day school.
In September 1965, sixty years ago, Portledge School opened under the guidance of Headmistress Mary Jonathan, with 100 children enrolled in Nursery through 2nd Grade.
Since its inception, Portledge has expanded enrollment and facilities, broadened its academic programs, and identified strong educational leaders, all in furtherance of its reputation for excellence.
The vision of those at the helm over its years—Mary Jonathan, David Staples, Huson Gregory, Steven Hahn, and Simon Owen-Williams—has led Portledge to create a rigorous academic program preparing students for entrance into elite colleges and universities while maintaining the community feel established during the school’s inception.
At present, Portledge is a community of approximately 500 students in PreNursery through 12th Grade.
Today, Portledge is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, the New York State Association of Independent Schools, the Green Schools Alliance, and the College Board. Portledge has its absolute charter granted by the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York, is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools, and is registered as an approved, accredited secondary school by the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York. Portledge is also an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme School.
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS
“BEING ONE OF THE EARLY CLASSES WAS JUST CRAZY. THE JOY OF BEING PART OF THAT IS SOMETHING I WILL NEVER FORGET. WE FELT LIKE WE WERE PIONEERS MAKING WAY FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL EXPERIMENT TO OCCUR, AND IT KEPT GROWING WHILE WE WERE EXPERIMENTING.”
-Dot Thomas ’77
“PORTLEDGE HAS EXPANDED IN MANY DIFFERENT WAYS, AND I LOOK FORWARD TO CONTINUING THAT TRAJECTORY. I KEEP REMINDING MYSELF THAT NO MATTER WHERE WE GO, WE MUST ALWAYS STICK TO OUR PILLARS AND MISSION STATEMENT.”
-Don Wilson, President of the Board of Trustees, current parent, and alumni parent.
Inspiring Tomorrow.
As Portledge celebrates its remarkable 60-year journey, we stand at the threshold of an exciting future brimming with possibilities. With the inauguration of our state-of-the-art Athletic and Wellness Center, the hiring of a Department Chair for Health and Wellness, and the development of this curriculum, we are poised to elevate the student experience regarding their physical and mental health.
We are thrilled to expand our International Baccalaureate (IB) program and are currently a Primary Years Program (PYP) Candidate School. If successful, this expansion will provide our youngest students with a globally-recognized curriculum that fosters critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and a lifelong love for learning, empowering them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Moreover, we are embracing innovative approaches to teaching and learning through our master teaching program, which nurtures exceptional educators and promotes excellence in the classroom. We recognize the immense benefits of hands-on experiences in nature for student engagement, creativity, and well-being. As such, we are researching and developing opportunities to increase programmatic offerings in outdoor learning.
In honoring the legacy of our campus, we will create an environmental campus master plan that will focus on developing and replanting our green spaces. The preservation and stewardship of our cherished cherry trees remain a top priority.
As we embark on this journey into the future, we are inspired by the collective vision that has defined our school community for six decades. With unwavering determination and boundless enthusiasm, we look forward to shaping the next chapter of our school’s history and empowering generations of students to realize their fullest potential.
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS
Congratulations to the Class of 2024!
CHICAGO : TEEN EDITION
The Upper School’s spring musical rendition of “Chicago: Teen Edition” dazzled audiences with its electrifying performances, vibrant choreography, and soulful renditions of iconic songs. Students showcased their talent and dedication through captivating portrayals of characters like Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, capturing the essence of the Roaring Twenties with flair and authenticity. Student-thespians transported viewers to the gritty streets of Prohibition-era Chicago, leaving them spellbound by the energy and passion emanating from the stage over the span of five shows in April! Congratulations, Mr. Dula, Ms. Balan, and Mr. Reese, and Bravo to the cast and crew for a phenomenal production!
The Black Box Theater was transformed into Roaring Twenties Chicago, as Kyla C. ’24 (Roxie Hart), Autumn G. ’26 (Velma Kelly), and their peers in the cast of “Chicago” wowed the audience in this classic tale of murder, love, jazz, and jealousy. Assistant Head of School Karen Crowley was overjoyed by the performance, proclaiming it:
“THE BEST PRODUCTION AT PORTLEDGE SINCE I’VE BEEN HERE!”
Conference Championship Dynasty:
Girls Hockey Celebrates Consecutive Titles
For the first time in Portledge history, the Girls Varsity Hockey team (9-6-0) clinched consecutive back-to-back Women’s Interscholastic Hockey League of the Mid-Atlantic (WILMA) championships by defeating Morristown-Beard School 4-1, establishing themselves as accredited athletes in women’s high school hockey.
Their Championship banner hangs proudly in the Commons for all of Portledge to appreciate. Head Coach Taylor Holze ’09, the architect behind this triumph, speaks proudly of the team’s journey. “Winning back-to-back championships is a testament to the talent level we have here on the island and to these girls who believed in each other and what this school has to offer them as players, students, and people,” she declares.
She also credits Coach Phil Hills, stating, “None of this would be possible without Phil Hills and his immense effort to get out in the community, find the right fit of players and families, and be a true steward of Portledge. We are both very proud of the accomplishments of this particular group and even more so of the foundation they have set for the future of the program.”
The Lady Panthers’ championship reign has not only elevated the school's athletic legacy but also set the bar for future teams to continue to build and improve their level of play. Captain Kindred H. ’24 reflects on the profound impact of the team's success. “I think the most impactful part of winning back-to-back championships was the bond our team had,” she shares. “My coach, Hillsy, who has been my advisor since freshman year, and especially Taylor, whom I’ve been lucky enough to have grown up with as a mentor and coach. Also, having a handful of teammates with whom I’ve grown up really made the moment extra special.”
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2024 WILMA CHAMPIONS, HEAD COACH HOLZE ‘09, AND COACH HILLS.
Portledge School Boys Varsity Soccer: A Season of Triumph, Tenacity,
and Team Spirit
In the realm of high school sports, few narratives captivate the heart, quite like that of a team rising from the depths of challenge to showcase resilience and skill on the field. Such is the tale of the Portledge School Boys Varsity Soccer Team.
Under the guidance of Coach Michael Cipriano and Assistant Coach and Upper School Assistant Athletic Director Daniel Kapps, the Portledge Panthers exhibited a brand of soccer characterized by finesse, teamwork, and unwavering dedication. “One of the most important factors was maintaining a high team morale,” senior cocaptain Nate H. explains. “Every loss made us want it more, and every win allowed for that momentum to stack. Our team bonding was second to none this year. We wanted to play and win for each other.”
A top moment of the season, and a moment both Coach Cipriano and Coach Kapps noted as a highlight, was watching co-captain Franklin E. ’24 break the Portledge record for most career goals with 75! “Franklin has been playing varsity soccer since 8th grade, and I have been coaching him since he was eight years old,” Coach Cipriano beams. “So to see him have so much success over the years was really great to witness.” However, when asked about his standout moments this
season, Franklin humbly notes senior night vs. Stony Brook as his most memorable moment. “Both teams left everything on the field. With 5 minutes left in the game, Aidan D. ’27, a future star for Portledge Boys Soccer, was able to win a beautiful foul right outside the box. He stepped up as a freshman to take a very important cross. Effortlessly crosses the ball perfectly to me for the game-winning goal off a header.”
At the end of the season, the Panthers entered the NYSAIS Tournament. After defeating the top seed in the tournament, The Dwight School, in the quarter-finals, the boys went on to make Portledge history, advancing to the semi-finals for the first time in school history. Despite their valiant efforts, victory remained out of reach as they narrowly lost the title in a hard-fought contest versus Stony Brook.
Though the season did not culminate in the ultimate triumph they had envisioned, the team showed resilience, unity, and unwavering determination every step of the way.
EMPOWERING EXCELLENCE:
Professional Development Initiatives at Portledge School
Professional development at Portledge School is a cornerstone of our commitment to excellence in education. We recognize the vital role that ongoing learning plays in enhancing the skills and knowledge of our faculty and staff, ultimately enriching the student experience.
This year, we are proud to report that more than 30% of our faculty and staff took the initiative to participate in additional outside professional development opportunities. This significant engagement underscores our team’s dedication to staying current with best practices, innovative teaching methodologies, and emerging trends in education.
The impact of this commitment ripples throughout our school community, benefiting students in various ways. First and foremost, when educators engage in continuous learning, they bring fresh perspectives and updated expertise into the classroom. This translates to more engaging lessons, tailored instructional approaches, and the ability to adapt teaching strategies to meet diverse student needs effectively.
Moreover, faculty and staff who participate in professional development opportunities serve as role models
for our students. By demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning, they instill in students the value of curiosity, growth, and self-improvement.
Additionally, professional development fosters a culture of collaboration and shared learning among our educators. When teachers engage in workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects, they bring back valuable insights and strategies to share with their colleagues. This collective knowledge exchange strengthens our teaching community and promotes a collaborative environment focused on student success.
In essence, investing in faculty and staff professional development is not just about enhancing individual skills; it’s about elevating the overall educational experience we provide at Portledge School, ensuring that our students receive the highest quality education that prepares them for future success.
JEFFREY SUZDA, MUSIC DEPARTMENT CHAIR
The NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) research committee selected three action-research projects to be funded for teachers to do music research in their classrooms. The project Mr. Suzda proposed was to look into the neural activity of Portledge music students while they are playing in order to discover activities that unlock the creative centers of their brains. The grant allows Portledge to purchase an fMRI machine to be used for other STEAM projects as well. Mr. Suzda will write and publish a paper for The School Music News and present the findings at the annual New York State School Music Association winter conference.
A SELECTION OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT UNDERTAKEN BY OUR FACULTY & STAFF
Upper School Curriculum Alignment
IB Biology Course
AI Course
Executive Function Course – 6th Grade
Geology & Egyptian Studies
Mental Health First Aid
Guiding and Publishing Student Writing
NYSAIS Conferences
NYSAIS Accreditation Visits
DANNY NELSON
Being awarded a summer curriculum grant allowed me to prepare for our new IB Digital Society course launch. I am grateful for the summer grant as it allowed me to expand on some of the remote PD I did during the school year and dedicate time over the summer to write and review my detailed lesson plans, diving deeper into best practices for delivering the new curriculum for the 2023-2024 academic year.
ELAINA SCHROEDER
This year, using Professional Development funds, I created a curriculum for a newly developed 6th-grade Study Skills class. Using an executive functioning curriculum, students learned skills to practice time management, planning, organization, and metacognition, among other things. There was a strong emphasis placed on working memory, which included study strategies, reading comprehension, annotating, and note-taking.
LOWER SCHOOL IB PYP
In June 2023, the Lower School participated in a professional development program given by the International Baccalaureate to prepare us for our new endeavor, the PYP (Primary Years Programme). ”Making the PYP Happen” was a three-day professional development workshop that focused on immersing teachers in the PYP framework. Teachers gained insight into what learning and teaching look like in this transdisciplinary, inquiry-driven curriculum and were guided on what the PYP could look like at Portledge.
TARA ASKELAND AND RYANN SUPPLE
Tara Askeland, Director of Development, and Ryann Supple, Director of Communications, attended the CASE NAIS Conference in Austin, Texas, in January. Together with designer and marketing expert Lisa Leidy, they presented to peer professionals at schools all over the country about the recent brand refresh work they spearheaded at Portledge.
THE PORTLEDGE GALA
The Portledge Gala, celebrated on April 11th, was a terrific night for our community! Each year, dollars raised from this event strengthen our unique community by further supporting school initiatives throughout the year to benefit our students!
WE ARE DEEPLY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR UNWAVERING SUPPORT, WHICH ENABLES US TO THRIVE AND FULFILL OUR PURPOSE.
Finding Your Happy
WITH JONGNIC BONTEMPS ’92
“YOU CAN FIND YOUR HAPPY. IT DOESN’T MATTER HOW OLD YOU ARE. NEVER BE AFRAID TO INVEST IN YOURSELF BECAUSE YOU ARE THE BEST RETURN.”
-JONGNIC BONTEMPS ‘92
Born in Brooklyn, raised in Long Island, an undergraduate at Yale, a 15-year career in Silicon Valley, and then off to the University of Southern California to study music—it’s been quite a journey for Jongnic Bontemps ’92. Now an award-winning composer and musician, Jongnic found his passion at Portledge.
Jongnic grew up with a piano in his living room and played at church regularly. At Portledge, he was able to build upon that foundation and foster his passion. “I remember going down into the basement of the Lower School for our music classes with Mr. Fuller,” Jongnic remembers. “I just took off with everything music here. I was in various music groups. I think we started a jazz band that hadn’t existed before. With a couple of friends of mine, we started our own little rock band, and we would basically write our own music. I would play for assemblies and accompany various singers.”
The support he received at Portledge gave Jongnic the confidence to explore his musical voice when he decided to shift careers after 15 years working in Silicon Valley. After attending Yale University, a decision Jongnic made because of the University’s commitment to community and civic service, Jongnic took a job in Silicon Valley. But he never felt fulfilled. Eventually, he gave in to the voice in his heart, and with his family, he moved to Southern California to study music at the University of Southern California.
This spring, he spent the day meeting with our Middle and Upper School students. He presented on his journey from Portledge to professional musician and spent time with our IB Music Theory students. His goal was simply to remind them to follow their passion. “You can find your happy,” he says. “It doesn’t
matter how old you are. Never be afraid to invest in yourself because you are the best return. I ended up going back to school for music and eventually went to USC for film scoring. My wife and I left our jobs in northern California, sold everything, and moved to Los Angeles. Literally, by the time we were done with USC, we had nothing. But I ended up creating a new life where I married software and music.”
Jongnic has worked on over 100 projects, from documentaries to feature films, and most recently wrote the music score for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, which received the inaugural NAACP Image Award for Outstanding TV/Film Score and was nominated for a Hollywood Music in Media Award for Outstanding SciFi/Action Score. “On the surface, I would say Transformers is my biggest professional accomplishment yet,” he says. “I’m the first African-American to score a blockbuster film, a film that grossed over $400 million worldwide. But I would say the score that I’m probably most proud of, a project that is really meaningful to me, is My Name is Pauli Murray, which is a documentary about Pauli Murray. I’m a civic-minded, civil rights-minded person. The freedoms that I enjoyed as an AfricanAmerican in this country were architected by the arguments that Pauli Murray made. And many people don’t know who Pauli is. Pauli is an American hero. And I am so proud to be part of telling Pauli’s story.”
We can’t wait to see what Jongnic does next!
A Message From the Alumni Council President
ALUMNI COUNCIL MEMBERS
Eve Shapiro ‘13, President
Elizabeth Beaton ‘08
Matthew Butler ‘15
Julian Daniels ‘00
Maurice Freedman ‘87
Max Gould ‘20
Ben Lobley ‘12
Dr. Alexander Meshel ‘14
Alex Steinberg ‘05
Robyn Worrall ‘10
It has been an honor for me to serve as the head of the Portledge Alumni Council for the past two years. Portledge holds a special place in my heart, and giving back to the community has been incredibly rewarding. I join the other members of the Alumni Council in celebrating the school’s renewed commitment to its alumni, and I am eager to see the alumni program continue to grow and expand in the coming years.
The Alumni Council comes together with the shared goal of building a stronger network of Portledge alumni. We are well positioned to represent the Portledge alumni community, as its members are graduates across thirty years of the school’s tradition. Through consistent and thoughtful communication, we have connected alumni with each other and with the school community, fostering long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships. In particular, we have implemented various initiatives to promote opportunities for career development and social interaction among current students and alumni.
As we celebrate Portledge’s 60th anniversary, we are excited to continue strengthening the bond between the school and its alumni network. I encourage you to follow Portledge on social media and stay updated on upcoming events throughout the year. Through your connection and support, we can ensure that future generations of students can also benefit from the exceptional education the school provides.
The entire Alumni Council and I look forward to working with you to make Portledge’s 60th year its best and most successful year yet.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or the Alumni Office.
Eve Shapiro ’13 Alumni Council President
CLASS NOTES
1976
CLASS AGENT: AMY WAGNER
Amy Wagner
I continue to live in Paradise, otherwise known as St. Thomas, USVI. Through the use of teletherapy, I can see clients in 40 states through my practice of lifecycle therapy, working as a clinical psychologist and marriage and family therapist. I am grateful to swim every day in the beautiful Caribbean sea and volunteer as much time as possible at the Humane Society of St. Thomas. I welcome visitors from Portledge anytime and am happy to send one of our “Coconut Retrievers” to a stateside home with an Alumni!
1977
Colonel Adrian Bogart III
I am completing my three-year tour of duty as Commandant of the Virginia Military Institute. This follows thirty-eight years of service in the United States Army, of which six and half years were in combat and I am retiring as a Colonel Special Forces.
1978
CLASS AGENT: BRIAN ORENSTEIN
Brian Orenstein
I’m happy to report that I am celebrating five years at Davidov Financial Coaching LLC Registered Investment Advisors.
1980
CLASS AGENT: CLINTON BOGART
1981
Ashleigh Danker (formerly Nancy Danker)
I retired in 2022 after 34 years of practicing law in Los Angeles.
1985
CLASS AGENT: MIKE VANDERBILT
1986
CLASS AGENT: SETH GOTTESMAN
1987
CLASS AGENT: MAURICE FREEDMAN
1988
CLASS AGENTS: ANDREW HUGHES, JEAN-MARIE LOVETT, WENDI (BLACK) STRIER
1992
CLASS AGENT: GREGORY PECK
Jongnic Bontemps
Following his success in writing the music score for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, Jongnic returned to Portledge in February and presented to the Middle and Upper School students before working with IB Music students. Read more about his visit in the Alumni Profile on page 32.
1993
CLASS AGENTS: MICHÈLE BAHNIK MERCIER, ALEXANDRA CARTON
1994
CLASS AGENTS: TIM HOYLER, CHRISTOPHER MASOTTO
1995
CLASS AGENT: TERRENCE WOOLF
2000
CLASS AGENT: CHRISTINA VILLECCO
Emily Lavelle
After six weeks of training and learning a little bit of what it takes to become a police officer on the tough streets of NYC, I graduated from the NYPD Citizen Police Academy. I left with a new perspective and knowledge that I will share and carry with me throughout my life.
Colonel Adrian Bogart III ‘77 (Left)
Jongnic Bontemps ‘92
Emily Lavelle ‘00 (Center)
2005
Alexander Steinberg
Alex was selected as one of America’s top 200 lawyers by Forbes and named in the Sports Business Journal‘s Forty Under 40 class of 2024.
2006
CLASS AGENT: DAVID GOLDBLUM
2008
CLASS AGENT: MIYUKI MIYAGI
2009
CLASS AGENT: ZAIDAT ANIMASHAUN
2010
CLASS AGENTS: BEN SHAPIRO, ROBYN WORRALL
Jonathan Brailsford
Jonathan was promoted to Vice President of Prime Brokerage, Quantitative Client Coverage at Morgan Stanley.
Monique (Kelly) Colaizzo
Monique is working at Portledge as a math teacher in the Upper School. This fall, Monique and her husband, Joey, welcomed a baby boy, Luke.
2011
CLASS AGENT: ADEOLA ADEGBITE
2012
CLASS AGENT: MARTINE KROWN
Alyssa Barker
I moved to the Washington, DC area last year after 10 years in Orlando, FL, and am working for the American Chemical Society’s publications division. I’m enjoying all of what DC has to offer with my nine-year-old dog, Bailey.
Martine Krown
I’m thrilled to share that I’ve started a new position in a new and very exciting space at Vitamin Well Group, working with Nocco and Barebells!
Isabella Benter Muratore
I got married in 2023, and in 2024, I started a job as an Assistant Professor of Biology at the US Naval Academy.
Matthew Sullivan
Matthew was awarded his Navy fighter pilot gold wings and is now flying the F/ A18 Super Hornet.
2013
CLASS AGENT: EVAN ADONAILO
Evan Adonailo
Evan and Jessica Pollock got engaged on Sunday, March 24.
Teddy Haggerty
Teddy was featured in Inc. Magazine, along with the company Defender Safety, for his work in the consumer safety field.
2014
CLASS AGENT: PAT CAVANAGH
2015
CLASS AGENTS: SELBERN NARBY IV, OLIVIA PILUSO
Matthew Butler
Matthew joined C Street Advisory Group as a Vice President, focusing on leading alternative investment firms to develop and implement long-term public positioning plans.
Koorosh Leibowitz
I started a new job this past summer in government administration. It's been nice running into old classmates over the past year at the alumni events, local bars, and even the gym! Hard to believe it's been nearly a decade since graduating from Portledge. If you‘re still in the New York area, I would love to reconnect!
Julianne Mauriello
I am excited to share that I‘ve started a new role as an Account Executive at the SAP Academy for Customer Success! I'm thrilled to begin this journey of professional development, personal growth, and continuous learning.
2016
CLASS AGENTS: AARON WELLER, LEAH ZAFRA
Antonia Bentel
After bopping around Dublin and Paris, I moved to London in 2022, where I’ve been ever since (and hope to stay for the long haul)! I am a writer and journalist, working on personal essays and pieces covering design, food, travel, and fashion. Even with an ocean between us, I’m still obsessed with my lovely, amazing, fantastic, and fabulous Portledge friends (hi guys) and, of course, my greater Portledge family. Come visit!
2017
Jeremy Berger
Jeremy started a new job as an airline pilot with Delta Airlines.
Matthew Sullivan ‘12
Alexander Steinberg ‘05
2018
CLASS AGENT: FLIP KIRIKIAN
John “Flip” Kirikian
I am extremely excited to announce my acceptance into the MS in Sports Management program at the Columbia University School of Professional Studies!
Carly Kleinwaks
I’m pleased to share that my team, Creative Services, won the Campus Partner Award at this year’s Student Engagement and Development Awards Ceremony at the New York Institute of Technology. This award was presented to us for providing outstanding support to members of the New York Tech student body. I was proud to accept the honor on behalf of my team.
2019
CLASS AGENT: BRIANNA DICAMILLO
Brianna DiCamillo
This year, Brianna DiCamillo started a position as a data scientist in the business intelligence department of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. She was also elected to be on the Board of Advisors for The Tilles Center for The Performing Arts and plans on creating a legacy in the entertainment industry. Brianna will continue to support Portledge School annually and looks forward to becoming more involved in the community.
2020
CLASS AGENT: MAX GOULD
2021
CLASS AGENT: MAHAN MOSTAFAVI
Matt Levine
I am thrilled to announce that I will be joining Paramount as an MTV Entertainment Development Intern this summer in New York!
Olivia Mooney
I am thrilled to share that I will be joining J.P. Morgan Private Bank as a 2024 Asset & Wealth Management Summer Analyst in Greenwich, Connecticut.
Zachary Qureshi
I will be continuing my expedition in the music business by joining Warner Music Group as an Emerging Talent Associate in spring 2024 in their New York office. On my quest, I will hastily contribute to and work alongside the frontiers at Atlantic Records in the Sales and Streaming team.
2022
Arianna Brown
It was with great excitement that I share that I have been accepted to the Harvard Undergraduate Women in Entrepreneurship inaugural Female Founders Circle!
Ines Juguet
I am pleased to announce my entrance to Syracuse University’s School of Architecture’s Dean’s List for the fall semester of 2023!
2023
Luke Foley
Luke has been a regularly featured film critic for the University of Notre Dame Observer, the university‘s student-run online and print newspaper, where he channels his passion for the arts through his love of writing while pursuing a double major in ND‘s Mendoza School of Business. Luke was also named to the Notre Dame dean's list for outstanding academic scholarship in his first semester.
Dan Shalam
I will join the Saugerties Stallions in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball league as the lead play-by-play broadcaster for the 2024 summer season!
Interested in being a class agent?
We are looking for class agents for the following class years:
If you are interested in becoming a class agent email alumni@portledge.org
Dan Shalam ‘23 (Left)