A
2025 Report on Philanthropy
Great efforts have been taken to ensure the accuracy of this philanthropy report. If there is any error or omission, please accept our apologies and contact kerri@psone.org so that future reports and permanent records reflect all gifts correctly.
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Board Chair and Head of School Column
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Report on Philanthropy
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Celebrating Our Alumni
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Professional Development
THE PERISCOPE
Volume 35, Number 3
Editor: Amanda Perla
Designer: David Mellen Design
PS1 Pluralistic School 1225 Broadway Santa Monica CA 90404 (310) 394-1313 (310) 395-1093 fax
To learn more about our school, visit our website www.psone.org
PS1 Advancement Team 2025/26
Kerri Speck, Interim Director of Advancement
Amanda Perla, Director of Communications & Marketing
Beth Kemp, D irector of Admissions
David Ramos, IT Manager
Evelyn Cazún, Associate Director of Admissions
Tina Andrews, Development Manager
Tisa Habas, Advancement Associate for Alumni Relations & Events
Dear PS1 Community,
In a world that is constantly evolving, our ability to grow and innovate as a school is essential. We are deeply grateful to our entire community for helping support PS1 as it has embraced meaningful change. Together, we’ve welcomed new leadership and introduced key initiatives to better prepare our students to be the living embodiment of our mission. And our mission is clear: to spark curious and critical thinkers who confidently contribute to their communities.
We want to share some of the ways your gifts have helped support the school’s mission and our work in helping all of our students become the best version of themselves. Because of your generosity, we’ve been able to invest not only in new programs and resources, but also in the people and traditions that make PS1 such a vibrant and joyful place to learn. These enhancements directly touch the lives of our students every day and ensure that our school continues to grow stronger while remaining true to its roots.
At the same time, we’ve remained committed to preserving the traditions and spirit that make PS1 so special. Over the course of 2024–2025, we celebrated with our beloved first-day bubble ceremony, the Fall Family Festival and Book Fair, Thanksgiving Gratitude Circle, Open House, the Spring Fundraiser’s Rhinestone Rodeo, All School Camping Trip, Moving Up Day and Graduation, as well as culminating class projects that showcase student voice and creativity. These joyful traditions, both big and small, continue to knit our community together. And we remain equally committed to ensuring that our faculty and staff have the tools, resources, and support they need to inspire and guide our students every day.
While tuition makes much of this possible, it does not cover the full cost of the PS1 learning journey. Each year, it is through the generosity of the Annual Fund that we are able to deliver on our mission. The donors to the 2024-2025 Annual Fund are listed in this Report on Philanthropy, and we are grateful to each of you. Your generosity continues to inspire us to imagine new ways to provide the best possible education for our students and we look forward to
sharing the work of the 2025-2026 school year with you next year. Thank you, in advance, for your support of that work.
In addition to the Annual Fund donors, you will see the many other ways that members of our community contribute to PS1. On behalf of the PS1 Board of Directors and the Administration, we want to express our gratitude to each of the donors and volunteers listed here and thank our leadership, faculty, and staff for their commitment to the success of our students and the future of PS1.
With gratitude,
Jen Brown, (Spencer ’25 & Parker ’28) 2024–2026 Board Chair
Susannah Wolf, Head of School
Last year we made the following enhancements to our programs: Your support allows us to continue providing these resources:
• Launched a World Language Program and hired a full-time Spanish teacher.
• Adjusted teacher-to-student ratios by adding a classroom and hiring two additional teachers, ensuring that class sizes are better equipped for academic success.
• Completed a comprehensive curriculum audit and built into our schedule more time for teachers to collaborate and plan a consistent curriculum within and across clusters.
• Adjusted our daily routine with an earlier start time to increase instructional hours, while also expanding before-school care to better meet the needs of families.
• Philanthropic support allowed us to breathe new life into an underutilized corner property, creating a welcoming garden environment that enriches student outdoor experiences.
• Two full-time, lead teachers in each classroom.
• Professional development opportunities including Orton-Gillingham training, Orff curriculum workshops, the Imaginative Inquiry Advanced Practicum, Centering Teaching and Learning on Big Ideas in Mathematics (Contexts for Learning Mathematics), and Illustrative Math. These programs keep our educators at the forefront of innovative teaching and learning.
• Classroom resources, from hands-on math manipulatives and art supplies to library materials that spark curiosity, along with improvements like the new music room floor that enhances sound and enriches the learning environment.
• Technology and tools, including iPads, instructional platforms, and 3D printers that bring creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration into our classrooms.
• Community programs such as field trips, outdoor education, and camping experiences that strengthen connections, deepen learning, and build lifelong memories.
PS1 extends its sincere gratitude to our departing Board members for their years of dedicated service. Through your leadership, vision, and steadfast commitment, you have strengthened our community and advanced the mission of PS1. We honor your contributions and lasting impact on the life of our school.
Welcome, new Board members!
2024/25 Members:
Jenefer Brown, Chair
Nisreen Al-Bassam
Michelle An
Halina Avery
Yehudi Gaffen
James Hicks
Rosalia Ibarrola
Jeffrey Inaba
Mychal Johnson
Elizabeth Kendall *
Tawny Laskar *
Anthony Lewis
Elizabeth Redman
Anna Reyna *
Kerri Speck
Stacey Staples
Zaahir Syed
Bryan Wolff *
Eric Zabinski
Gabriel Zaldivar
* departing
Deirdre Gainor
Deirdre Gainor joined the Board in 2025. She is a PS1 alumni parent, teacher and administrator. Deirdre recently stepped down from her position as Director of Teaching and Learning at PS1 where she enjoyed the wonderful work of developing and coordinating curriculum with the PS1 faculty and staff. She has held many positions at both public and private schools in the LA area and helped start The Archer School for Girls and Girls Athletic Leadership School. Deirdre holds a B.A. from Brigham Young University, a Master’s in Education from The University of Alberta in Calgary, Canada and a Master’s in Fine Arts from Spalding University in Louisville, Kentucky.
Elise Loehnen Fissmer joined the Board in 2025. She has two sons—one is a PS1 alum and the other is a current student. Elise is a New York Times bestselling author who has written and co-written more than two dozen books (On Our Best Behavior, Choosing Wholeness Over Goodness, True and False Magic) and is the host of the podcast Pulling the Thread. Elise also serves as a consultant to largescale businesses and sits on multiple for-profit boards. Formerly, Elise was the chief content officer of goop and the editorial projects director of Conde Nast Traveler. Elise holds a B.A. from Yale in English and Fine Arts.
Brad Meyers
Brad Meyers joined the Board in 2025 and has one child who attends PS1. Brad is a CPA and Business Manager with his own practice based in Los Angeles.
Administration & Finance
Bryan Wolff, Chair
Budget Subcommittee
Bryan Wolff, Chair
Nisreen Al-Bassam
James Hicks
Elizabeth Kendall
Tony Lewis
Zaahir Syed
Eric Zabinski
Susannah Wolf *
Jess Cano *
Audit Advisory Subcommittee
Bryan Wolff, Chair
Susannah Wolf *
Jess Cano *
Tyler Fenelon †
Investment Management Advisory Subcommittee
Alexander Kendall, Chair †
Bryan Wolff
Susannah Wolf *
Jess Cano *
Alex DeFeo †
Adrian Fairbourn †
Rob Eloff †
Risk Management Advisory Subcommittee
Toby Kennedy, Chair †
Eric Zabinski
Susannah Wolf *
Jess Cano *
Advancement
Kerri Speck, Chair
Michelle An
Halina Avery
Jenefer Brown
James Hicks
Jeffrey Inaba
Elizabeth Redman
Stacey Staples
Zaahir Syed
Susannah Wolf *
Alan Ball *
Real Estate Advisory Subcommittee
Kerri Speck, Chair
Nisreen Al-Bassam
Yehudi Gaffen
Jeffrey Inaba
Susannah Wolf *
Alan Ball *
Jeremy Rogers †
BJ Turner †
Strategic Planning Advisory Subcommittee
Stacey Staples, Chair
Susannah Wolf *
Executive
Jenefer Brown, Board Chair &
Executive Committee Chair
Elizabeth Kendall, Vice Chair
Rosalia Ibarrola, Secretary
Bryan Wolff, Treasurer
Susannah Wolf *
HOS Evaluation, Support & Success
Anna Reyna, Chair
Jenefer Brown
Mychal Johnson
Tawny Laskar
Elizabeth Redman
Governance
Nisreen Al-Bassam, Chair
Michelle An
Jenefer Brown
Rosalia Ibarrola
Elizabeth Kendall
Eric Zabinski
Gabriel Zaldivar
Susannah Wolf *
Buildings & Grounds
Jeffrey Inaba, Chair
Halina Avery
Yehudi Gaffen
Tony Lewis
Stacey Staples
Susannah Wolf *
Brad Shimada *
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Master Planning Advisory Subcommittee
Kerri Speck, Chair
Jeffrey Inaba
Yehudi Gaffen
Susannah Wolf *
Alan Ball *
Tawny Laskar, Chair
Rosalia Ibarrola
Mychal Johnson
Elizabeth Kendall
Anna Reyna
Kerri Speck
Gabriel Zaldivar
Susannah Wolf *
Legend:
* PS1 Administration
† Non-Board member, non-Admin
As the 2024/25 Annual Fund Co-Chairs, we wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire PS1 community for another incredibly successful Annual Fund campaign. This gratitude is on two counts: The school wouldn’t be able to operate at full-sail without this community’s generous donations, for one, and also: So many families volunteered their time and energy to help us meet our goals.
One of the many things that makes PS1 unique is that we do our annual fundraiser quickly—and with close to 100% participation. (Many schools make their fundraisers a year-round endeavor.) The speed and full participation signals the community’s unyielding commitment to the school and our mission, our teachers and staff, and our kids. As the world continues to become increasingly complex and chaotic, we are ever grateful to PS1’s commitment to ensure that each one of our children develops the critical academic and emotional skills required to become confident leaders, compassionate citizens, thoughtful listeners, and powerful contributors to the global community.
As you all know, the Annual Fund is a critical part of PS1’s annual budget— our collective philanthropy fills a budget line item that supports the dayto-day operations of PS1. The school counts on our generosity to support the school our kids know and love. The Annual Fund also enables the school to stretch and grow. The 2024-25 Annual Fund enabled many critical investments for PS1’s future, which include:
• The maintenance of a world language program, specifically Spanish
• The addition of a 10th classroom, allowing for more individualized instruction for Olders students
• Professional development opportunities for every teacher and staff member on campus
• Enhanced learning spaces of all specialists, including a new shaded outdoor art awning
• Ongoing assistance in attracting and retaining an incredible, dedicated teaching team
In the fall of 2024, we asked you to join us in supporting Our Kids. Our School. Our Future. Each of you answered the call. As you read through this year’s Report on Philanthropy, we hope you’re inspired by the dynamism and dedication of the PS1 community and its devotion to our kids—and by extension, our collective future.
Warmest regards,
Elise Loehnen Fissmer Kelli Mahoney Johnson
Max ’25 and Sam ’28 Keegan ’25
This past year’s Annual Fund volunteer team was led by current parents Elise Loehnen Fissmer (P’28 & ’25) and Kelli Johnson (P’25). We are grateful to Elise and Kelli for their creative spirit, dedication to helping our Annual Fund reach new heights, and for their incredible attention to detail. Each member of the Annual Fund team served our community well, and raised awareness of the importance and impact of philanthropy in our school.
Coordinated by:
Kelli Johnson and Elise Loehnen
Co-Chairs of the 2024-25 PS1 Annual Fund
Alan Ball, Director of Advancement
Tina Andrews, Development Manager
Tisa Habas, Advancement Associate for Events and Alumni Relations
Susannah Wolf, Head of School
Committee:
Nisreen Al-Bassam
Sarah Ali
Matt Auron
Jason Barrett
Emma Bing
Ben Buadu
Dominique Dawkins
Kim DeGeorge
Zoe and Adrian Fairbourn
Rosita Farag
Lauren Ferrari
James Hicks
Stu Holden
Jennifer Humphrey
Rosalia Ibarrola
Kelli Johnson
HK Kang
Jamie Keeton
Soraya Kelly and Jon Wax
Toby Kennedy
Heidi Krilanovich
Liz Leknickas
Elise Loehnen
Brad Meyers
Liz Redman
Gabrielle Rose
Hanna Shin
Tia Shung
Crystal Skapars
Eugenie Smith
Stacey Staples
Wendy Sugarman
Stacey Verk
Bryan Wolff
Parents, Alumni, Board and Former Board members, Alumni Parents, Grandparents and more allow us to be and do our best. We are grateful to all for their kindness and generosity. This year, we had tremendous support of both the Annual Fund as well as the PS1 Tuition Assistance Endowment. Total support of the past fiscal year is reflected below. The following lists represent a community committed to philanthropy at PS1.
Anonymous (40)
Kelli & Peter Abraham
Beth & Stephen Abronson
The Al-Bassam & Rasromani Family
Lucia Alcantara-Chibane
Amgen Inc.
Dr Charles An
Tina Andrews
Apple Inc.
AstraZeneca
The Atik Family
Patricia Auron
Halina Avery & Kimberley Stead
Raymond Bakaitis
Alan Ball
Jason Barrett
Susan Baskin & Richard Gerwitz
Lain Becker
Matthew Behr
Jordana & Dan Belke
Edet Belzberg
Friederike Biggs
Boston Scientific
Dolly & Judge Brar
Tracy & Adam Bromwich
Jen & Tony Brown
Meghan Brtnik
Pippa Bryan
The Buadu Family
Genevieve & Carlo Cabanilla
Victor Cachoua & Maria Lopez
Josh Caffrey & Sarah Ali
Alexander Cameron & Vanessa Sunshine
Kim Campbell
Jessica Cano
Julie Cantor & Ken Baum
Capital Group
Yvonne Carrillo
Evelyn Cazύn
Vanessa Chow & Graeme Craven
Eugene Chu & Julie Wu
Kirstina & Michael Collins
Diana & Roy Conovitz
Karen & Ryan Craig
Courtney & Alex DeFeo
Kim & Marco DeGeorge
Margot & Laurent Desserrey
The DiMauro Family
Ortavia & Ebson Dixon
eBay Inc.
ECOLAB Inc.
Joanna & Andy Edstrom
Michael Egner & Rosalia Ibarrola
Laurie & Rudi Ekstein
Elizabeth Davis Fund at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation
Sherry Ellms
Caroline & Marcos Escalante
Susana Escalante
Kayla Estrada
Zoe & Adrian Fairbourn
Emily & James Farrell
Shabnam Fasa
Adam & Anna Fee
Linda Fenner
Billie & Steven Fischer
Elise & Rob Fissmer
Leslie Fissmer
Lauren & Austin Fite
Justin Fleischer & Kendra Tolentino
Daijhanae Flonnoy
Nadia Fokova & Oleg Fokov
Marianne & Randy Frankel
Holly & Judd Frazier
Andrew Fried & Kristin Martin
Kay Seymour-Gabriel & Richard Gabriel
Pam & Yehudi Gaffen and S hayna Gaffen & Seth Baglin
Deirdre Gainor & Brenda Goodman
Christina Garcia
Jennifer & Eric Gaynor
Carissa Gibson
Henry Giddings
Carlos Gonzalez
Good Box Organics
Tisa Habas
Brandon Hall & Jessica Foster
LiAnne Hall
Amer Hamdan & Leen Kawas
Buzz Harris
Amy & Jeffrey Harrow
Ann Haskins & Hugh Harrison
Carol Ann Heath-Baglin & Gary Heath
Diane Heller & Matthew Behr
Heidi Hendrix & Ken Wimer
James & Ally Hicks
Gary Hicks
The Highley Family
Avery Hill Breuer
Andrea & Scott Holtzman
Laurel Hubert
Billy & Rose Huynh
Jeffrey Inaba
Beryle Jackson
Rob Jacobs & Ann Gentry
Gina Jang
Britt Johansson & Jeremiah Knight
Kelli & Tyler Johnson
Mychal & Valencia Johnson
The Jordan Family
Jennifer Kalish
Bridget Kanashige
Hyosung Kang & Chloe Choi
Charles & Jo Ann Kaplan
Loren Kaplan & Scott Packer
Nicolina Karlsson
Valarie Kaur & Sharat Raju
The Kemp Family
Elizabeth & Alexander Kendall
Richard & Lisa Kendall
Tobias & Breana Kennedy
Lisa & Hans Kim
Yejin & Hyun Kim
The Koo Family
Justine Kragen & Scott Bendar
Abby Kuhns
Paula & Fred Kuhns
Sam Kuhns
Chris Kuzina
Ellen & Fritz Laird
Jose & Niya Larios
Michaelle Larracuente
Judith Larsen
Laura Siegel Larson
The Laskar Family
Joey Lee
The Leknickas Family
Anthony Lewis & Heidi Krilanovich
The Lima Family
Caroline Lindqvist
The Lis Famiy
Luke Lutz
Tessa Lydic
Susan & Michael Mahoney
Dana & Patrick Maloney
Norma Maloney
Aashini Master & Spandan Daftary
The Maya Family
Karen Mayeda
Jazzi McGilbert
Francisco Medina & the Farag-Medina Family
Gili Meerovitch & Robert Levine
Keith & Michelle Megna
Brad & Gina Meyers
Linda & David Michaelson
Bree Miller
Nancy & Steve Mindel
Howard & Esther Moggs
The Morikawa Family
Victor & Diana Moseley
Genevieve Mow
Keith Muenze & Jamie Keeton
Heidi & Erik Murkoff
Lizzie & John Murray
Miya Nambiar
Priya & Sanjay Nambiar
Uma Nambiar
Netflix
David Newhouse
Meg & Joe Newhouse
Chauncey Nichols & Jennifer Kane
Zilong Nie & Sarah Liu
Amelia & Jason Ning
Amber Ojuri
Pedro Ortega
Courtney & William Pade
Carol Pantuck
The Parry Family
Gretchen Patch
Eleanor & Joel Pelcyger
Amanda Perla & Josh Gelfand
Abbie & Howard Perttula
Salil Phadnis & Meghana Mudiyam
Rufina Piche
The Pitts Family
Jeffrey & Lauren Platt
Janine Poreba & Paul Lieberstein
Emily Procter
Yong Qi & ChangSheng Guo
Erika Radich & Len Fleischer
David Ramos
Leslie Rayos
Gabriela Recinos
Liz & Andy Redman
Ken & Chris Reinhard
Anna & Jeffrey Reyna
Richard & Suzanne Kayne Charitable Fund at the Jewish Community Foundation
Erica M. Rivera & Brick Rucker
Evelyn Rivera
Andrea Robinson & Steen Strand
Jennine Rodriguez & Scott Hevesy
Justin Rodriguez
Jeremy Rogers & Ann Singhakowinta
Cinzia Romoli
Gabrielle Rose
Maggie & Mort Rosenfeld
The Rosenthal Family
Judy Ross
Eva Salamanca Ortega
Rae Sanchini & Bruce Tobey
Aletta J. Schaap
Jason & Jessica Schwarz
Chris & Emily Seet
Kenneth Seplow
Joseph & Marie Serra
Gil & Kate Seton
Andrew & Betty Sew Hoy
Ravi Shah & Kanan Bhatt-Shah
Matt Sherman & Gina Kelly
Brad Shimada
Hanna Shin & David Shao
Elaine & Alex Shing
Shorman Di Cillo Trust
Vicky Shorr & John Perkins
Rochelle & Ian Siegel
Bria & Evan Silbert
The Silver Family
Danone & Mark Simpson
The Skapars Family
Eugenie & Oliver Smith
Kerri Speck
Kimberly & Sal Stabile
Sharon Stanley & Sky Hansen
Stacey & Will Staples
Aaron & Amanda Stein
Brandon & Shaula Stephenson
The Stevens Family
Liam Stevens
Misty Stinnett
Christopher & Philadelphia Stockwell
The Sugarman Family
Sadie Sugarman
Sam Surloff & Joanne Van Emburgh
Holly Swope & Phil Hayes
Zaahir Syed & Faizah Malik
Kevin M. Tamaki
Scott Tamaki
Jonathan Tang & Grace Jeon
Nylah Tehrani
Maren Thomas
Michael Tovar
The Truino Family
Jennifer & Jack Tsai
Plummy Tucker & Mario Ontal
Heather & Richard Turner
Laurel & BJ Turner
Watson Turner
Jeanette & Marko Vasiljevic
Jonathan & Staci Verk
John Waldman
The Wallfisch Family
The Walt Disney Company
Nancy Wamai
Esther & Ryan Watkins
Maria & Jeff Wauer
The Wax Family
The Weiss Vogel Family
Alan Wertheimer
Sharon Wertheimer
Allyson & Andrew Wesman
Dr. & Mrs. Robert Wesman
Leland Williams
Linda Williams
Ford Wilson
Susannah Wolf
Quay & Tim Wolfe
Bryan & Melanie Wolff
Nasimeh & Mahdi Yazdani
McKendree Yeager
Eric Zabinski & Sharon Dai
Anita & Anthony Zaldivar
The Zaldivar Family
Madeline Zardoya
Sierra Abronson ’20
Lain Becker ’14
Avery Hill Breuer ’06
Pippa Bryan ’23
Henry Craig ’22
Izzy Escalante ’22
Jonathan Guo ’26
Haley Hansen ’18
Maya Hansen ’18
Halle Jacobs ’11
Walker Jacobs ’15
Ali Kazemi ’22
Oliver Knight ’22
Abby Kuhns ’09
Sam Kuhns ’11
James Larson ’03
Michael Larson ’00
Joaquin Margaziotis ’25
Jazzi McGilbert ’00
Miya Nambiar ’19
Uma Nambiar ’19
David Newhouse ’83
Justin Rodriguez ’14
Daniel Seplow ’13
Rachel Seplow ’11
Bodhi Seton ’19
Liam Stevens ’08
Scott Tamaki ’04
Nylah Tehrani ’23
Monty Turner ’23
Watson Turner ’23
Ford Wilson ’23
Jonah Wimer ’22
Lily Wimer ’25
Abbi Hertz and David Krauss
Maggie and Morton Rosenfeld
Laurie and Michael Seplow
Sharon and Eric Zabinski
This list represents recent donors whose first gift was made 25 years ago or more.
Raymond Bakaitis
Capital Group Co. Charitable Foundation
Alicia and Mike Cortrite
Laurie and Rudi Ekstein
Lauren and Austin Fite
Deirdre Gainor and Brenda Goodman
Eric and Jennifer Gaynor
Richard Gerwitz and Susan Baskin
LiAnne Hall
Ann Haskins and Hugh Harrison
Chris Kuzina
Laura Siegel Larson
Robert Levine and Gili Meerovitch
Robin and Greg Maya
Nancy and Steve Mindel
Meg and Joe Newhouse
Carol and Eugene Pantuck
Joel and Eleanor Pelcyger
Abbie and Howard Perttula
Maggie and Mort Rosenfeld
Judy Ross
Brad Shimada
John Perkins and Victoria Shorr
Bria and Evan Silbert
Kevin Tamaki
John Waldman
Maria and Jeff Wauer
Alan Wertheimer
Sharon Wertheimer
Party Book Hosts
Shane Barach & Jennifer Daly
Scott Bendar & Justine Kragen
Jenefer & Tony Brown
Kim Campbell
Alex DeFeo & Courtney DeFeo-Gertler
Kim & Marco DeGeorge
Joanna & Andy Edstrom
Marcos & Caroline Escalante
Zoe & Adrian Fairbourn
Shayna Gaffen & Seth Baglin
Anna & Steve Gordon
Ally & James Hicks
Kelli Johnson
Hyosung Kang & Chloe Choi
Breana & Tobias Kennedy
Liz & Po Leknickas
Caroline Lindqvist
Michelle & Keith Megna
Amelia & Jason Ning
Shannon & Michael Parry
Elizabeth & Andrew Redman
Jeremy Rogers & Ann Singhakowinta
Emily & Chris Seet
Matt Sherman & Gina Kelly
Aaron Stein & Amanda Tong
Shaula & Brandon Stephenson
Wendy & Matt Sugarman
Stefanie Truino
Jenn & Jack Tsai
Soraya Kelly Wax & Jonathan Wax
Donna Weiss & Lorin Vogel
Darien Williams
Bryan & Melanie Wolff
Eric Zabinski & Xiaorong Dai
Committee Chairs
Book Fair/Book Share
Courtney DeFeo, Caroline Escalante, Keith Megna, Janine Poreba
Clubs
Carlo Cabanilla, Lauren Ferrari, Ann Rogers
Communitee Coffees
Jamie Keeton & Keith Megna
Community Services/PS Serves
Karalyn Holden, Elaine Shing
Day of Volunteer Coordinator
Courtney DeFeo
Family Festival
Dominique Dawkins, Wendy Sugarman, Staci Verk
Library Support
Faustin Carter, Jen Humphrey
Networking Happy Hours
Chloe Choi, Alex DeFeo, Gina Kelly, Soraya Kelly
New Parent Liaison
Vanessa Chow, Heidi Krilanovich
One From the Heart
Kim DeGeorge, Shayna Gaffen
Party Book
Jenny Daly, Anna Gordon, Shannon Parry, Melanie Wolff
Room Parents
Vanessa Chow
School Spirit
Kim DeGeorge, Breanna Kennedy
Special Event Treats
Courtney DeFeo, Emily Farrell, Shayna Gaffen, Karalyn Holden
Spring Fundraiser
Emily Farrell, Lauren Ferrari, Shayna Gaffen, Wendy Sugarman
Staff Appreciation
Ally Hicks, Amanda Tong
Staff Birthdays
Kim Campbell & Amelia Ning
Staff Gift Program
Melissa Cruise, Dominique Dawkins
Yearbook
Vanessa Chow, Melissa Cruise
Sarah Ali
Ben Buadu
Josh Caffrey
Vanessa Chow
Mel Cordiero
Melissa Cruise
Leila Fenelon
Gina Kelly
Soraya Kelly
Meghana Mudiyam
Erica Rivera
Darien Williams
Michelle An
Shannon Broyles
Julie Chu
Dominique Dawkins
Mike Egner
Dominique Ferrari
Anna Gordon
Julie Grosman
Ally Hicks
Karalyn Holden
Rosalia Ibarrola
Alison Jordan
Gina Kelly
Breana Kennedy
Heidi Krilanovich
Elise Loehnan
Keith Megna
Mari Morikawa
Chauncey Nichols
Amelia Ning
Gretchen Patch
Jennie Peters
Teresa Pitts
Anna Reyna
Lisa Serra
Tania Sew Hoy
Hanna Shin
Amanda Stein
Carolina Thompson
Staci Verk
Nancy Wamai
2024/25 Operating Budget
Total Contributions: $799,318
Income Expenses
A PS1 GRADUATE IS:
SELF-AWARE
Demonstrates a strong sense of identity and resilience as an individual and a learner
RESPECTFUL
Exhibits kindness, consideration, and mindfulness of others
EXPRESSIVE
Confidently articulates thoughts, ideas, and emotions
INQUISITIVE
Eagerly satisfies curiosities and acquires new knowledge
COLLABORATIVE
Considers others’ ideas and points of view to deepen understanding
PROBLEM-SOLVING
Investigates problems, sets goals, and develops solutions encompassing multiple perspectives
CONNECTED
Balances needs of self and others; contributes meaningfully in community and society
PROACTIVE
Embraces responsibility to stand up to exclusion, prejudice, and injustice; advocates for change
PREPARED
Intrinsically motivated to meet the challenges of middle school and beyond
Class of 2025 Graduates will continue their educational journey at the following schools:
The Archer School for Girls
Brentwood School
Campbell Hall School
Crossroads School
Geffen Academy
Harvard-Westlake School
John Adams Middle School
Marlborough School
Milken Community School
New Roads School
New West Charter School
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Turning Point School
Wildwood School
Windward School
32nd Street/USC Media Arts and Engineering
Magnet School
Adam Smiley > Chapman University
Alejandra Torrez > University of Michigan
Aman Granados-Puvvula > University of California, Berkeley
Ariel Ojuri > Tuskegee University
Bianca Hayutin > Washington University in St. Louis
Bodhi Seton > Loyola Marymount University
BoJameson Ebeling > New York University, Tisch Clive Davis Institute
Ciahna McNairy > University of California, Berkeley
Dillan Robins > Graduated high school in 2024, now working as a successful entrepreneur, game designer, and crypto investor.
Enzo Fraga Simas Lopes > Chapman University
Esme Roberts > New York University, Tisch School of Drama
Ian LaPorta > Gap year
Kye Suggs > Gap year
Lauren Weiskopf > Williams College
Luisa De Lorenzo > Penn State University
Max Langer > Fordham University
Maya Acutt > Tulane University
Noah Brandy > Grambling State University
Olivia Rose > George Washington University
Pablo Court > Berklee College of Music
Phoenix Vinar > Santa Clara University
Ronan Holtzman > Colorado College
Sam Greenberg > University of Michigan
Sophia Bromwich > Carleton College
Tanner Goldstein > Gap year, then Willamette University
Miya Nambiar > Marist University
Uma Nambiar > Tulane University
William Stratton > University of Miami
Zachary Schwab > University of California, Santa Barbara
The Graduation Ceremony is a PS1 rite of passage. Each year, each graduate stands in front of parents, teachers, and fellow students to address the crowd. Olders teachers read individual Moving Up Day words for each graduate and our Head of School introduces each child with honorings from the faculty and staff. We were thrilled to host our ceremony under the oak tree on June 6, 2025. This experience was incredibly moving as the graduates shared their words of wisdom before heading off to middle school. These are brief excerpts from their speeches:
Lennox Ali
“When the pandemic ended, I put my mind to it and made friends. These became some of the happiest days of my life. Now I can’t say I want to leave, and I can’t say I won’t miss all of you, but I know PS1 has prepared me in every way I could imagine. PS1 taught me, nurtured me, and gave me some of the happiest memories ever—and those will follow me everywhere I go.”
Beckett Barach
“When I first walked into PS1, I was like a young bird—my wings still growing, and I was not yet ready to fly. But year after year, my wings became stronger, through friendships, leadership, and learning. And now, I’m a Grad. My wings are fully grown. It’s time for me to leave the nest, and soar into what comes next.”
Greta Barrett
“My time here wasn’t always easy and sometimes I just felt like giving up. But guess what—I never did! If PS1 taught me anything, it’s to just go for it and step out of my comfort zone. Now I can do things I never thought I could, like algebra and geometry. I hope I’ve been a mentor to others the way older kids once were to me. Today isn’t the end, but the start of a new beginning.”
Spencer Brown
“My Grad year was not at all how I imagined it would be. But I didn’t let it overcome me or change me, instead it made me stronger and more proud of the person I’ve become while here… a person 5-year-old me couldn’t have even imagined. I am an upstander, a confident student, an ambitious leader and a good friend. I am ready to walk out of the Brown Gate for the last time as a PS1 student and take on the world.”
Naya Caffrey-Ali
“My time at PS1 has given me the confidence to do many new things. From acting in Shakespeare to advocating for myself and others, I’ve grown in ways I never expected. My teachers challenged me, my friends lifted me up, and my family supported me every step of the way. These small moments remind me how lucky I am to be part of such a thoughtful community.”
Malia Dawkins
“To every teacher, voice, and guide, who stood with me and walked right by my side. Your words echo in my ear whenever I try, your faith in me will never die. Now doors swing wide, a bigger world awaits. This isn’t just a last goodbye, but an opportunity to spread my wings and fly. My past is proud, my future is bright, and I’m ready to step into the light.”
Henry DeGeorge
“What I’ve learned at PS1 goes far beyond reading and math. I’ve learned how to speak up, how to be an activist, how to support my community, and how to keep going, even when things get tough. When we found out Shakespeare might not happen this year, the students came together, used our voices, and made it happen. In the end, the play became one of the highlights of the year—something we built together.”
Max Fissmer
“In a way, this speech has been a chance for me to take myself apart and see how I work. PS1 gave me the freedom to explore—from dissecting a sheep brain to fixing a white noise machine—and to discover how much I love learning by taking things apart. Be it a problem in algebra or something I haven’t yet imagined, I look forward to continuing to learn from this curiosity.”
Dylan Fried
“On my first day, I was also amazed, but because I thought bubbles on your first day were pointless, foolish, and definitely not needed. If you look up what a bubble is, it will say something like, ‘A bubble is a spherical mixture of soapy water that has been filled with air.’ But at PS1 it means more than that. It means, ‘Welcome, come join the community.’ Because just like bubbles, the PS1’s community lifts you up and helps you soar.”
Westley Gordon
“My PS1 journey has been like my journey to Hawaii—full of adventures. From making best friends my first year, to learning about history, dissecting a cow’s eye, and even running a mock election, PS1 gave me experiences I’ll never forget. Like a good vacation, eventually it has to come to an end. I will always remember PS1, the amazing memories I made here, and I am looking forward to my next journey.”
Otto Inaba
“My learning experience at PS1 is like the branches on the oak tree above me. From a small twig, nervous on my first day, to a strong branch ready to keep growing, each year added knowledge, confidence, and courage. Looking back, I see how far I’ve come—but I know my branch is not done growing yet.”
Keegan Johnson
“Thanks to my time here I’ve gained confidence. I feel better asking questions, which monumentally boosted my overall understanding of every subject to fly way past my self-inhibited limitations. Before, I used to always try to avoid talking on stage, but I’ve changed extraordinarily. Surprising even myself, I played Julius Caesar last year and Lysander this year—without even a hint of stage fright. The community at PS1 gave me a sense of comfort knowing that I would be supported all the way.”
Eleanor Kemp
“Have you ever stopped to think about the structure of a book? My time at PS1 has been like a story, from the introduction of making new friends, to the climax of Covid, and now the resolution—graduation. Along the way, I learned that challenges don’t last forever, and that joy, laughter, and friendship always carry us through. Goodbye PS1, hello Windward!”
Grad GIft: $2,535
Thank you, Class of 2025 for the funds you raised and your generous gift of a lithograph printer for the Art Room.
Alex Koo
“I remember when I first came to school, I was shy and questioned whether I could do the things being asked of me. But over time, through every challenge, I grew. I realized that being shy wasn’t a weakness—it was part of the process. Each time I faced something new, I took small steps forward, and slowly I understood that growth doesn’t happen all at once, but in the moments when you decide to keep trying.”
Leon Muenze
“All of the friends, teachers, and staff have led me down this magnificent path. I am sad that I have to go, but I will miss all of you—that’s something you should know. From plays to specialists to playing on the grass, my journey at PS1 has been filled with fun, creativity, and friendship. Now my time here is done, but I’ll always carry these memories with me.”
Adelola Ojuri
“When I started PS1 seven years ago, I was scared. But now I know, being scared was just the start. With encouragement from my friends, I jumped off the Leap of Faith on our Olders retreat—and it helped me realize that with support, I can overcome my fears. Over the years, my teachers helped me be respectful, collaborative, proactive, and self-aware. All of these things will help me on my journey at New West Middle School. Thank you, PS1, I will miss you!”
Remi Schwarz
“As I look back on the first day, I was scared and unsure. But as I stand here today, I’m confident, capable, and ready for what’s next. Every single challenge, every memory, and every laugh has shaped me into who I am. I’m proud—not just of what I’ve done, but of who I’ve become. That’s because of the people who believed in me, stood by me, and reminded me of my worth when I forgot.”
Regan Shao
“Looking back now, I realize that all my teachers encouraged me to take little risks, and pushed and challenged me throughout my journey here at PS1. It makes me want to continue to push my own boundaries and not be afraid when I go to middle school. I am so grateful for the PS1 community who has supported me the whole way. These are memories I’ll always cherish.”
Kelly Sherman
“When you’re just a blob of clay, you’re bound to become a beautiful clay pot in the end—and that is what PS1 has done to me. From being wobbly and nervous on twig legs my first day, to becoming confident and creative, PS1 has shaped me into who I am today.”
Inigo Smith
“PS1 is a school that I’ve only been at for two years but will always have a special place in my heart. I’ve had some of the best teachers I’ve ever known, made great friends, and created memories I’ll always carry with me. People come and people go—now it is my time to leave. I will remember all of you, and I hope that you will remember me.”
Norman Thompson
“Each day at PS1 came with new adventures and fun memories, and I’m sad to see this go away. But even though my journey here is done, I’ll always remember the friends, teachers, and staff who made it so special. So I guess this is bye—but not forever. I’ll come visit, and remember that I’m your favorite grad.”
Bowen Turner
“I began as a student who barely spoke a word. Earlier this week I recited 25 lines as Oberon in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and I am here reciting this speech to you. Now I have a lot to say. The best thing I have learned during my years at PS1 is to be confident— and I will carry this skill with me on my next journey in middle school.”
Hannah Zabinski
“At PS1, we don’t only learn about things we can find in books and computers, but also what we find when we look inside ourselves. I’ve learned to step out of my comfort zone—like when I played piano on stage this year—and to collaborate with classmates and be kind to my community. I would not be the confident girl I am today without the support of my teachers, friends, and family.”
This year’s Grandparents and Special Friends Day was a joyful celebration of community, learning and our planet! In a special twist, we combined this cherished tradition with Earth Day festivities, making for a truly memorable experience.
Our guests were welcomed into classrooms to witness the vibrant, hands-on learning that happens at PS1 every day. They enjoyed lunch and recess alongside their students, explored our Specialist classrooms and interactive stations across campus and, of course, posed for keepsake photos at the always popular photo booth.
The day concluded with a heartwarming Earth Day Circle Time Celebration and performance that showcased our students’ creativity and commitment to the planet. We were also honored to hear from PS1 Trustee and grandparent speaker, Yehudi Gaffen, whose words inspired all in attendance.
A huge thank you to everyone who helped bring this meaningful day to life as it was a celebration to remember!
At PS1, we believe that teaching and leadership are lifelong learning journeys. Just as we encourage curiosity and growth in our students, we know that teachers and administrators deepen their practice when they engage in professional development. These opportunities allow us to expand our skills, explore innovative approaches, and bring back new strategies that strengthen our community.
Last year, our entire faculty was professionally trained in Contexts for Learning Mathematics and Imaginative Inquiry. We also hosted a series of workshops for both staff and faculty with Anthony Witte on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging during which we deepened our understanding of cultural competency, learned about planning through an equity lens, and worked collaboratively to bring to light the unwritten rules of PS1.
In addition, staff members pursued independent training over the course of 2024 and 2025. Below is a look at the diverse and inspiring professional learning our faculty and staff have participated in over the past year.
• Asynchronous Phonological Awareness Course
• Orton Gillingham Plus Course
• Orton Gillingham Morphology Plus Course
• Psychology of Human Learning / UCR – Techniques of Educational Therapy
• Orff Curriculum
• World Language Summer Seminar
• ACTFL Conference 2025
• Illustrative Math 6–12 Math Teach & Learn Virtual Professional Learning
• Fluency Matters: Reimagining Mathematical Learning
• Imaginative Inquiry Workshops
• Imaginative Inquiry Advanced Practicum
• New Perspectives on Learning: Centering Teaching and Learning on Big Ideas in Mathematics (Contexts for Learning Mathematics)
• Greater Good Science Center Educator Workshop - Kindness in Schools
• SoCal POCIS Speaker Series
• Understanding Learning Differences
• The Now Conference with The Art of Education University
• Pollyanna Workshop - Exploring Gender in 2024 and Beyond
• Integrating SEL with Academic Instruction
• Cornell University Brand Management
• Transforming Your Enrollment Strategy: A Five-Part Series
• Cal-ISBOA Facilities Workshop
• CAIS Annual Board of Trustees and Head of School Conference
• World Leadership Salmon River Program
• Thrive: NAIS Annual Conference
• CAIS Annual Meeting for Heads of School
• CASEL SEL Workshop
PS1 Mission Statement
How
The guiding principles we hold dear:
Children learn through unbridled curiosity, abundant questions, and opportunities to learn from failure. We embrace that spirit and understand learning journeys are not a means to an end, but one stage in lifelong exploration.
Students need safe environments where they can develop self-awareness, responsibility, and connection. We cultivate open minds and hearts so every learner can embrace challenges as opportunities, lead with empathy, and thrive in a complex world.
Our individual identities unite and enrich us. We respect diverse strengths, talents, and experiences and seek to understand how we each show up in the world, knowing we are stronger because of our interactions.
We encourage everyone to be part of something bigger than themselves, make connections, and see themselves as contributors to the PS1 community and the world beyond.
To learn more about our school, visit our website: www.psone.org