Kids. Love. Learning. Campaign Impact Report

Ambitious academics rooted in abiding Christian values For children age 2 through grade 8

2300 Willowick Road • Houston, Texas 77027 713.623.6938 • www.robs.org

KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

MAILING Indicia

IMPACT REPORT

IMPACT REPORT

Kids.

Love.

Learning.

Introduction

River Oaks Baptist School leaders initiated a strategic planning process in 2012 that set into motion a vision to transform the School into a model for contemporary and classic education. That strategic plan guided a thorough assessment of the curriculum and its subsequent realignment within a skills-driven, STEAM-focused learning model.

We quickly realized that our traditional classrooms were not built for the active, project-based learning happening inside of them. A bold vision to create a place where kids learn best was born.

The KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. capital campaign set out to finance a new Middle School building, leadership center, and underground parking garage. Between April 2015 and December 2018, six hundred and seventeen families contributed $65,047,459. The Keith and Alice Mosing Middle School, Sarofim Leadership Center, and underground parking garage is projected to open just ahead of the 2020-21 school year.

We share this report with gratitude for those who invested in this bold vision and with hope and high expectations for our children, whose minds and hearts we seek to expand.

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Letter from Head of School

Through Every Step of this Capital Campaign, We Knew God Was in this Place

When we broke ground on the Keith and Alice Mosing Middle School last fall, we were certainly celebrating what God has made possible. As the Apostle Paul wrote in Hebrews, “For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.”

Two students pledged a portion of their allowance each month for five years to support the campaign.

From the start of the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign, with a bold vision and lots of prayer, we have been amazed at how the pieces have fallen into place. The timing, the planners, the property, the church support, the architect and builder, the volunteers, the donors, the leaders… it has all worked together beautifully, with God as our ultimate architect.

The focus of this project has always been our students, and our goal was to build a spectacular learning environment that encouraged them to think bolder and dream bigger about ways they could positively impact the world.

This project symbolizes the distinctive culture we have at ROBS – a culture that respects its children by listening to them and equipping them to seek solutions to their problems. Just the concept of the new building inspired us all to think big, and our dedicated faculty and talented students did not wait for the building – and all its new features – to get started.

Volunteers gave of their time and shared their expertise over multiple years, led by our exceptional, gracious campaign chair Susan Cox. Every faculty member contributed to the campaign – which inspired generosity among our students. Two students pledged a portion of their allowance each month for five years to support the campaign.

KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. also highlighted the legacy of support we have from River Oaks Baptist Church, the wind at our back as we strive to improve while holding fast to our core values.

Supporters gave to this campaign at record levels – well beyond anything we could have asked or imagined when we began – and the gifts came in with God’s perfect timing.

We are so grateful for the Petersens’ amazing initial gift, the Mosings’ historic gift, the Hildebrand challenge match that energized us near the end – and for the hundreds of generous gifts at every level.

ROBS families realize that “to whom much is given, much is expected” from a perspective much deeper than funding. Our students will be expected to make the world a better place, and together, we are giving them the environment and the tools to do so. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for each of you.

Our middle schoolers built an urban garden behind the school. A rising 7th-grader spent the summer working with Jackson+Ryan Architects as they designed the building. Another seventh grader provided key insights for the design of our maker space.

Head of School

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5

We are building a place

to inspire learning.

In 2015 ROBS acquired contiguous property (formerly Walgreens at 3900 Westheimer) which allowed for the campus expansion. With this new

Distinctive New Mosing Middle School Will Prepare Students for a Rapidly Changing World Robots, driverless cars and seismic shifts in medicine

facility, our students will experience the best of both worlds. The studentteacher ratio in Lower and Middle School classrooms will decrease.

are just a few of the changes today’s ROBS second-

At the same time, the student

graders may experience when they graduate from

population will increase by about 10

college in 2032 and begin careers. Thanks to many

students per grade level. This modest change enables ROBS to strengthen

generous supporters of the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

programming by making more sports

campaign, ROBS’ new, innovative Keith and Alice

offerings and enrichment activities

Mosing Middle School Building is designed top to bottom with a focus on the future: our children.

“The academic team had a clear vision for the kind

feasible. As an added benefit, it will alleviate some of the pressure in the highly competitive admission process. With the added learning space, we can give more kids

of learning environment students today need to

access to what I believe is the best

prepare for tomorrow,” said Leanne Reynolds, ROBS

education in the city.

Head of School. “We traveled far and near to find someone doing all of it, and we only found two who

Jacques Hodges Chair of the River Oaks Baptist Board of Trustees

were close. Our thought was this: ‘If implementing our entire vision is good for the kids, why would we only give them a part of it?’ ”

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Discover.

In the new building, designed by architects Jackson+Ryan, each grade from fifth to eighth will have a floor to themselves, creating self-contained learning environments that enhance class identity and community. Each grade cluster will include classrooms that change purposes on various days; a science lab with age-appropriate tools for experimentation, robotics and 3D printers; a large, flexible, multi-purpose space; smaller areas for meetings and collaborative work; outdoor learning space; and faculty office space.

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9

Create.

Coming soon In 2018, KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. was the largest capital campaign in the country for a school ending in eighth grade

> A new Middle School building with learning communities for grades 5 through 8 > A state-of-the-art rehearsal and performance space for choral and instrumental instruction

Dr. Todd Herauf, ROBS Associate Head of School for Academics, was recruited from a Texas school that successfully implemented this type of learning.

“Children become stronger thinkers when they are active learners, and we designed the new Middle School building with this in mind,” said Herauf. ROBS is building on its strong, foundational curriculum to create an even richer academic experience focused on problem solving, connections across disciplines, creativity and innovation, cultural intelligence, and character and social skills through collaborative work. “Think of it as an academic adventure course.

> A blue-box theater for drama productions > A graphics/robotics lab, maker space, and outdoor learning areas for enhanced programming > An artificial turf practice space with a lacrosse wall > A leadership center with a new main entrance and administrative offices that will allow for further renovation of current spaces to expand Lower School facilities and programs

Kids will be able to get messy in a workshop, build large objects like robots and competition fields, and have access to ongoing projects for long periods.”

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> An underground parking garage that will include 150 spaces for faculty

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Campaign Totals by Year

The Creative Commons on each floor will be large

Total number of gifts: 617

enough for all the students, tools for collaboration will be readily available, and every floor will have

2018

$65,047,459

access to outdoor learning areas. Shared learning spaces include a Bible classroom, a blue box theater

2017

$48,968,600

for drama productions, spaces for choral and instrumental music, a graphics/robotics lab, and fine arts spaces for painting, sculpture, ceramics,

2016

$26,287,800

and a Prayer Garden—a focal point of the new space.

Reynolds said it is designed for reverence and

2015

$2,245,000

(continued on page 24)

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KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

Letter from Campaign Chair

Photo

When I was considering whether to chair this campaign, a guest speaker at a local event asked us this question: “When you are gone from this place, will it matter that you were here?”

That question echoed in my mind as I watched current and past parents and grandparents, friends from the community and the ROBS faculty and administration give generously to transform the ROBS learning environment – for the students of today and for future students most of us will never know.

The generosity of time and resources of every single person made a difference to the success of the record-setting, $65 million KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign. The future of ROBS will be better because – together – we rose to the bold challenge set before us.

Everyone stepped up at just the right time.

The Steering Committee and staff, with excellent consultants, set our foundation and the roadmap for success. The Honorary Committee members outperformed their honorary status, dedicating themselves fully to the fundraising process – with many opening their homes for events, making phone calls, setting donor meetings and so much more.

People never waned in their belief that we would be successful

We watched as committee members and other volunteers gave of their time, month after month and year after year, encouraging one another in love – in times of fun and excitement and times of steady persistence. People never waned in their belief that we would be successful.

When we neared the end, and we weren’t quite sure how to close the final gap, we watched the entire community rise to the challenge placed before us by the Hildebrands. Their matching gift energized the final months of the campaign, and we reached a goal higher than any other school of our type in the nation.

If you ask people why they gave to this campaign, they always say, “for the children.” Every person who has been a part of KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. can forever say that when they are gone from this place, it will matter that they were here.

Our family is so grateful to be part of such a loving, generous community, and with full hearts, we say, “Thank you for your legacy.” May God bless you and keep you.

With sincere appreciation, Buddy and I already loved this joyful school, which provided an academic and faith foundation for Elizabeth ’18 and is a daily blessing for Catherine ’22. We have been engaged here since day one, and our involvement with this campaign has deepened our respect for ROBS leaders and our love for this special place focused on ambitious academics rooted in abiding Christian values.

During the campaign, we saw the passion of early contributors like the Mosings and Petersens, both of whom made transformational gifts that will impact the school forever. We saw the loyalty and faithful dedication of the faculty and staff as 100 percent of them contributed to both Annual Giving and the campaign.

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Susan Cox Chair, KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

C a m p a i g n Vo l u n t e e r s

2018-19 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Jacques Hodges, Chair Jaime Casas Nell Frances Connally Susan Cox Josh Davis Tim Day Jim Donnell Angie Gildea Molly Glotfelty Scott Hill Terry Huffington, Emeritus Mark Jones Brandt Leibe Butch Mach Nkem Omebere-Iyari Joe Poff Dax Sanders Katie Stanton ’90 Gail Stewart Lois Wright, Emeritus Randy Wright Ex-officio Leanne Reynolds Martus Miley

KIDS.LOVE.LEARNING. VOLUNTEERS Campaign Chair Susan Cox Honorary Committee Mo & Ric Campo Jeanie & Tommy Carter Kelty & Rogers Crain Terry Huffington & Ralph Dittman Sidney & Ab Fay Mindy & Jeff Hildebrand Ned Holmes Anne Kinder Carmen & Butch Mach

Cora Sue & Harry Mach Joella & Steve Mach Kim & Scott Martin Alice & Keith Mosing Gary Petersen Kathy & Ed Segner Elizabeth & Peter Wareing ’95 Randa & Charlie Williams Campaign Steering Committee Board Division Chairs Jim Donnell Jacques Hodges Faculty & Staff Division Chairs Janet Atkins Khen Hechanova Susan McDaniel Rachel Scranton Holly Tindel Sally Walker Eleanor Zook Parents Division Chairs Lucy & Fowler Carter Anne & John Freeman Reed & Billy Wareing Past Parents & Grandparents Division Chairs Robin & Danny Klaes Linda & Steve Webster Alumni Division Chairs Andrea & Michael Soper ‘81 Foundations & Friends Division Chairs David Underwood Sarah & Duncan Underwood ‘85 Church Division Chairs Mignon & Steve Gill

Parent Division Committee Shanna & Eric Bass Kim & Stewart Black ’83 Debbie & Kent Chenevert Mary Rebecca & Cody Dick Staci & John Donovan Margaret & Bryant Fitts Anne ’91 & Cary Goss Margaret & Thad Hill Allison & Zach Jordan Dawn & Chris Krieg Melissa & Michael Mithoff Melissa & Logan Moncrief ’96 Elizabeth & James Whitehead Building Committee Butch Mach, Chair Laif Afseth Susan Cox Josh Davis Molly Glotfelty Burdette Huffman Scott Martin Mike Poe Fred Wilson Glenn Woo Finance Committee Josh Davis, Chair Laif Aseth Brian Bravo Jaime Casas Angie Gildea Scott Good Scott Hill Hank Hilliard Chris Miller Kim Petersen Joe Poff Dax Sanders Connie Simmons Taylor

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Mosings Create Lasting Legacy Keith and Alice Mosing believe River Oaks Baptist School offers something rare and remarkable. “When you step into this school, you feel the positive energy, the goodness, the kindness, the generosity,” Alice said. “You feel a palpable difference here, and it’s wonderful.”

ROBS. “We talked to Leanne about some special learning needs Nicolas had when he was a preschooler at ROBS. She was on the phone immediately helping us arrange for him to attend a school that better suited him, for now. We cannot say enough kind things about the exceptional leadership at ROBS.”

The Mosings are dedicated to the children of ROBS, helping provide them unique learning experiences. Keith, an aviator for 52 years and owner of Western Airways, hosted a group of ROBS Middle School students at the airport to teach them about the complexities of air travel, even allowing the students into the control $65M tower so they could experience the takeoff total and landing processes firsthand. Alice said raised they also have invited students out to their ranch, about an hour from the city, where $36.1M raised the students have fished, witnessed live animal births, and studied earth and natural science outside of the classroom. “What impresses us about ROBS is that, we are just one of many ROBS families offering authentic Current Parent learning experiences,” Keith said. “This is a very Participation giving, very engaged community.”

The Mosings, parents of ROBS second-grader Marshall and his twin brother Nicolas, demonstrated their love and admiration for ROBS by donating $10 million during the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign – the largest gift in the school’s history. Because of their generosity, the new building will be named the Keith and Alice 617 Mosing Middle School. “Alice and I have been total totally blessed in life,” Keith said. “God has gifts blessed us in so many ways, and we wanted to give back, to create a legacy we can be 313 proud of while helping create a state-ofgifts the-art school for our kids to enjoy today.”

Keith and Alice served on the campaign Honorary Committee, and their gift and encouraging words led others to give back, as well. The Mosings gave early in the campaign, which created momentum in the largest fundraising effort in the school’s history.

“While the school has great academics, we love it because they care about the whole child.

It’s more than a slogan.”

Head of School Leanne Reynolds did not expect to discuss a legacy gift with Keith the day he stepped into her office. He was on campus for another meeting, and they were discussing what mattered most to Keith and Alice as they thought about their lives. Keith said he wanted to leave a legacy – to do something that would really matter, not just today, but for decades to come.

Reynolds suggested he name the Middle School for $10 million – and he agreed! “Don’t you need to talk to your wife first?” Leanne asked him. “Well, of course I’ll talk to my lovely bride,” Keith said, “but we are usually on the same page about these sorts of things.” Turns out, he was right. Alice was delighted to join Keith in supporting ROBS in this special way.

“We are having an amazing experience here,” Keith said. “While the school has great academics, we love it because they care about the whole child. It’s more than a slogan. ROBS is teaching our children to be good citizens and good people with real empathy for others.”

Keith and Alice also are impressed with the school’s commitment to do what is best for each child, even if it means they don’t attend

The Mosings noted how meaningful it is to look down and see the bricks people have donated in honor of or in memory of others, showing pride and setting an example. They were especially impressed during the campaign with the financial commitment of the ROBS faculty. “They see the importance of what they do here, and they truly love this school and their students,” Alice said.

They also have been impressed with how proud families are to be a part of the ROBS community. “While Houston has many great private schools, ROBS truly stands out; people are happy here, their children are happy here, and they are proud to be ROBS families.”

While children have been at the heart of most of the Mosings’ philanthropic giving through the years, ROBS is a high priority for them. “We’re just blessed there’s a school like ROBS and that we’re here,” Keith said. “It is our goal and dream to continue to give back to this school, for all the kids. And I want to be clear: we’re not finished. A gift to this school is a gift that keeps giving forever – a priceless investment that impacts our future. I think it would be a shame to leave this world without doing something to make a difference, and this is where we want to make ours.”

KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

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Explore.

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Generous

DONORS

$10,000,000 and Above

$250,000 - $499,999

Keith and Alice Mosing

Lexie White and Jason Dunahoe The Geib Family Lisa and Michael Holthouse The Mach Family Kim and Scott Martin Denise, Jennifer, and Will Monteleone Laurence and Henry Bragg/ Kathy and Harry Phillips

$5,000,000 - $9,999,999 Anonymous Sheridan and Sebastian Frantz Hildebrand Foundation The Petersen Family Susan and Fayez Sarofim

$1,000,000 - $4,999,999 Anonymous The Brown Foundation The Campo Family Jeanie and Tommy Carter Lacy Crain and Joe Galloway Huffington Foundation The McCord and Goss Families Leigh Anne and John Raymond

We gratefully acknowledge the donors listed here who contributed to KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

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$500,000 - $999,999 Greggory and Pat Burk Terry Huffington and Ralph Dittman The Fondren Foundation Ned and Kay Holmes Lisa and Josh Oren Linda and Steve Webster

Scurlock Foundation Michele and Dheeraj Verma Elizabeth and Peter Wareing Meg and Dick Weekley

$100,000 - $249,999 Anonymous (3) Kristy and Chris Bradshaw Margaret and Brian Bravo Rosangela and David Capobianco Whitney and Jaime Casas The Coneway Family Susan and Buddy Cox Hilda and Greg Curran Kelty and Rogers Crain Cathy and Alex Cranberg

73 ool: h sc

Sc

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Gary, managing partner of EnCap, said he has been blessed in his business, and he and Elizabeth wanted to give back. “We couldn’t think of a better way than to enhance this amazing school that means so much to our family.”

The Petersens’ gift supported the creation of a new performing arts facility, to be named the Petersen Blue Box Theater.

Stephanie and Josh Davis Elaine and Tim Day Mary Rebecca and Cody Dick Donna and Jim Donnell Sophia and Ivor Ellul Sidney and Ab Fay Carrie and Tom Field Mignon and Steve Gill Deborah and Richard Harper Karen and David Haug Margaret and Thad Hill Kara and Hank Hilliard Suzie and Larry Johnson Allison and Zach Jordan Anne Lamkin Kinder Colleen and John Kotts Ruth Lilly Philanthropic Foundation Mithoff Family Foundation Shanell and Walker Moody Janice and Rick Moore Kari and Khalid Muslih Jennifer and Kyle Roane Melanie and Scott Rothwell Kathy and Ed Segner Andrea and Michael Soper

The Petersens said parents constantly talk about ROBS. “They share how happy their kids are, how much they love the Christian aspect and how positive the spirit Mi d is here. Our twins’ teachers have been wonderful since preschool – first rate, across the board. All the people at ROBS are fabulous… humble, very from appreciative, full of joy.”

Gifts School Families*

er

Their generosity was so inspiring that close friends Keith and Alice Mosing contributed $10 million, and Gary’s persuasive calls and meetings with other potential supporters resulted in $8 million more during the three-year campaign.

“If you believe in the program and mission, you want to share that vision with everyone,” Gary said. “It takes a village to complete a $65 million campaign, and I wanted my friends to join in so we could bring the school’s plans to life.”

Lo w

“This was a gift from the heart,” Gary said. “It’s rare to get to a chance to give to something that helps your own children now, in a meaningful way, and also provides the best education for future generations.”

After the Hildebrands made a generous matching grant in late spring 2018, Gary joined Cox to attend every back-to-school parent meeting to encourage families to help wrap up the record-setting campaign.

ool: 156 Sch dle

When Gary and Elizabeth Petersen, parents of ROBS third-graders Margaux and Meyer, made a $5 million gift to help kick-start the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign, it was the largest gift in the history of the school.

“Our whole family loves the arts, and our daughter, in particular,” Elizabeth said. “The new theatre will provide more creative opportunities for the kids, and we were thrilled to be able to provide this on-campus facility.”

“Key supporters came in early in the campaign and energized everyone,” said Susan Cox, campaign chair. “Gary and Elizabeth and the Mosings played key roles in getting things rolling in a big way. Gary’s active role on the Honorary Committee made a huge difference, beginning to end.”

Pre

Petersen Family Gift Kicks Off Cascade of Generosity

ol: 18 9

Gary said he spoke to many parents and grandparents who no longer have children at ROBS, but who continue to support the school because they love it.

“I encouraged them to think about all the special experiences their children had at this school, and to ensure ROBS will be better than ever for their grandchildren and for other families,” he said. “They gave willingly because we’re all leaving a legacy of love.” *Families in multiple divisions counted multiple times

Amie and Jeff Springmeyer The Stanton Family Carolyn and Garry Tanner John and Erika Toussaint Christine and David M. Underwood, Jr. Reed and Billy Wareing Jenny and Blake Webster Elizabeth and James Whitehead

$25,000 - $99,999 Anonymous (3) Merrie and Laif Afseth Frances and Ben Alexander Holly and Ellis Arjmand Chris and Merrell Athon The Avery Family Kitty and Jerrod Bain Amy Baird Francine and Westy Ballard Lauren and Richard Barker Julie and Seth Barrett Kari and David Beck Lisa and Kolby Beich Bette Benton/Gina and Geoff Angulo/ Vaughn Foundation

Kim and Stewart Black Danya and Clint Bogart The Bohn Family Bosarge Family Foundation Rebecca and Thomas Brandt Ting and John Bresnahan Joanna Barrett and Todd Brooks Teresa and Hoyt Brown Courtney and Jeff Butler Grace and Aaron Byrd Jane and Robert Cabes Sarah Jane and Ross Canion James, Colleen, Hannah ‘17, Emma ‘20, and James Chang Debbie and Kent Chenevert Betty and John Clarke Jacquelyn and Collin Cox Jane and Stephen Dabney Diane and Jim D’Agostino Nancy and Javier de Anda Ryann and Brett Detamore Staci and John Donovan Carter and John Dugan Sally and Jim Easterling Theresa and Jeff Eaton

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Practice.

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(continued from page 13)

reflection: “On their break during the day, students

Current Middle School classrooms will become

or faculty can come to the Prayer Garden to turn

available to grades K-4, allowing them to spread

things over to God – from sharing sadness that

out and use the spaces more flexibly. The current

their family pet died or giving thanks for a hard-

administrative offices will move to the Sarofim

earned win. We want the centrality of this space to

Leadership Center, which will become the new

remind our community that contemplating God’s

entrance to the School and offers space to teach

word and applying it to contemporary life are

professional skills or leadership classes. To free up

central to our school’s mission.”

on-ground parking for the campus, the campaign also supported 150 underground parking spaces for faculty and staff. (continued on page 30)

$25,000 - $99,999 Continued Margaret and Bryant Fitts Caroline and Jeremy Finkelstein Allison and Adam Flikerski The Fox and Tolbert Families Anne and John Freeman The Freeman Family, Joshua ‘21 Will and Debbie Garwood/Laura Garwood Kerry and George Gerachis Angie Gildea Rachael and Paul Goydan Erin and Scott Grace Christi and Keith Guerrini Nicole and Trey Hadnott Lauren and Herschel Hamner Anna Claire and Richie Hankamer Scarlett and Scott Hankey Alice L. Harcrow Claudine and David Hartland Carrie and Jacques Hodges Ronda and Taylor Holladay Melissa and Jason Holton Julie and Richard Howell Monica and Burdette Huffman Lori and Chip Johnson

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Kristi, Corey, Cameron, and Craig Johnson Drs. Jakeen and Garfield Johnson Erika and Peter Johnson Angela and Jody Johnston Laura and Steve Jones Jenna and Harris Junell Robin and Danny Klaes The Kugle Family Minna Hong and Paul Kwauk Allison and Geoff Leach Sarah and Bryant Lee Katie and Bryan Leonard Helen Holmes Maxson Sara and Duston McFaul Alisa and Drew Mengwasser Rachael and Toby Miclette Kimberly and Chris Miller Hallie and Tyler Moore Melissa and Logan Moncrief The John D. Nicholson III Family Eloise and Andrew Novotny Elaine and Carter Overton Chelsea and Matt Pacey Kavitha and Devesh Pandya Kim and Randy Petersen

Kelly and Steve Provenzano Amy and Jordan Pincu Sarah and Richard Punches Nancy and David Pustka Melissa and Robert Rabalais Leanne and Keith Reynolds The Riser Family Jennifer and Steve Roberts Caroline and Andrew Roeser Kara and Dax Sanders Stephanie and Scott Sanders Stephanie and Mark Schwausch Elizabeth and Benjamin Smith LB and Reid Springmeyer Gail Stewart Meredith and John Stilwell Natalie and Ryan Synnott Courtney and Bill Toomey Susan Vaughan Foundation Ulises and Kara Kinder Vidal Misty and Tyson Weihs Reagan and Mike Wellins Laura and William Wheless III Laura and William M. Wheless IV Ursula and Kevin Williams

Laurie and Mike Wood Lois and Brad Wright Andrea and John T. Young, Jr. Cindy Hu and Bin Yu

$10,000 - $24,999 Anonymous (2) Lauren and Bryan Athon Margot and John Athon Hayley Edwards and Faris Aziz Courtney and J. Scott Blair Jill and Stirling Bomar The Buchanan Family Nell Frances Connally Haydeh and Ali Davoudi Collette and Michael DuBose Laura and Quinn Fanning Barb and Rob Fowler Drs. Lindsay and Will Fox Julie and Robin Goytia Dr. Dawn M. Hanson and Dr. George K. Hanson Caroline and Larry Heard The Holcomb Family Elizabeth and Richard Husseini

Kriki and David Jesulaitis Kate Crenshaw and Giji John Ronda and Mark Jones Katherine and Matthew Kardesch Elizabeth and Dash Kohlhausen Dawn and Chris Krieg Cheyanne and Brandt Leibe Peigi Liu and Jian Li Paige Martin Julie Oliver and Tim Meiss Cynthia and Thomas Mixon Lauren and Matt Moncrief Melissa and Matt Morris Kimberly and Michael Murphy Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Nguyen Cara and Knox Nunnally Katie and Kenny O’Donnell, Jr. Henley and Carter Old Bola and Nkem Omebere-Iyari Kristin and Michael Poe Renee and TJ Pool Brandy and Stephen Ray Holly and Jonathan Ross Mary Catherine Sharman Christie and Mark Sullivan

Candace and Brian Thomas Ashley and Matthew Trauber Karen and Trevor Turbidy Stacey and Andrew White Christian and Odell Winn Jessica and Jeff Wood

$9,999 and Below Anonymous (18) Judy and George Adams Katie and Steven Alaniz Claire and Thomas Amonett Kathy and Gregory Asaf Adonica Aston Janet and Isaac Atkins Cindy and Buddy Bailey Karen and Frank Bangilan Christen and Henry Barrios Claudia and Jesse Barrios Caroline Best Melanie and Chris Bibb Julie and James Blackwell Melanie and Graham Blair Jane and Doug Bland Meghan and Eddy Blanton

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Hildebrand Summertime Finish Line Challenge Challenge Sparks Record Giving to Complete Capital Campaign Late last spring, a bold matching grant of $5 million from past River Oaks Baptist School parents Mindy and Jeff Hildebrand energized supporters to give the funds needed to complete the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign.

“ROBS created many lasting memories for our family,” Mindy said. “The school equipped our children with the holistic skills to achieve success and accomplish great things. We were delighted to serve as the catalyst to push the campaign over the finish line.”

“I knew finding that last $12 million by August would be tough.”

Mindy said. “Our Campaign Committee had exhausted much of the donor base raising the first $53 million, and the parents were ready to see a building underway.”

The Hildebrands have participated in every campaign since 1999.

They made the football field possible with a gift in 2006 – and even endowed the field in 2011. Now they have helped launch a new Middle School building, leadership center, and underground parking garage.

As a result, the board of the Hildebrand Foundation considered – and ultimately awarded – a matching challenge grant. “We wanted people to know that every dollar mattered – that we would match $25 as happily as $2,500,” Mindy said. “We believed the match would challenge and motivate people to dig a little deeper, and we hoped it would inspire some to give who had not done so previously.”

Mindy shared ideas with ROBS about ways to reach families during the summer, when many Houstonians travel to cooler climates.

Throughout the campaign, ROBS benefited from her exceptional board experience, including her past service as Episcopal High School board chair and her current work with the Development Board at the University of Texas, among others. “When we set the match, I believed this community would make it happen,” Mindy said. “I had no doubt.”

Head of School Leanne Reynolds is grateful to Mindy and Jeff for their many years of dedicated leadership and support on behalf of ROBS. “When Mindy commits to something, she sticks with it and makes it better,” Reynolds said. “Our community caught the excitement of the Hildebrand Challenge, and it made all the difference.”

Hildebrand Challenge IMPACT Parent Participation

6/1-8/31

51%

*public phase begins

By the August deadline, the ROBS community met and exceeded the challenge. “Mindy was engaged throughout the campaign in extraordinary ways, but the challenge grant changed the game in those last crucial months,” said Susan Cox, Campaign Chair, and parent to Elizabeth ’18 and Catherine ’22. “She and Jeff stepped up in a big way, as they have on so many occasions.”

1/1-5/31

63%

of gifts to the campaign came during the Hildebrand Challenge

26%

19% The Hildebrands’ engagement in the ROBS community began in 1999 when their oldest daughter Brittany ’06 began school there. She graduated from Texas A&M in 2014. Their son Jeffrey ’10 graduated from the University of Texas in 2018, and J.T. will graduate from UT in 2020.

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1%

2015

6%

2016

2017

2018*

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Huffington Foundation giving spans 25 years

ROBS Trustee Emeritus Terry Huffington now lives in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, but she carried her passionate dedication to River Oaks Baptist School with her there.

“I just love ROBS, deep, deep, deep in my heart,” said Huffington, owner of Elkstone Farm and trustee for the Huffington Foundation. Terry and her husband Dr. Ralph Dittman are the parents of ROBS graduates Sydney ’03 and Lindsay ’05, and Terry served on the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. Honorary Committee. “ROBS was an amazing place – perfect for both of my children, even though they are very different in their interests and learning styles.”

Early in the campaign, the Huffington Foundation generously committed $2.5 million. As the campaign neared the end, the Hildebrand Foundation made a significant matching gift, which inspired Huffington to personally donate an additional $500,000 to help ROBS take the campaign over the finish line.

$9,999 and Below Continued Priya and Ranjit Bhosale Kerry Levine Bollmann Dee and Bobby Bowdon The Brantley Family Caroline and Ward Brantley Erin and Michael Breen Linden and Stephen Brewer Margaret and Stephen Brewer Maryanne and JC Brewster Carlisle and Cullen Brock Bob Brooks/BPM Group Catherine and Temple Brown Suzanne and Luke Bryant Cristina and Jim Buaas Emily and Brad Bucher Michelle and Wayne Bunch Lauren and Ken Burke Shonte Byrd Susan Seybold and Rhett Campbell Staci and William Carlson Shannon and Clay Carroll Kevin Cassidy The Catic Family The Caughey Family

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“I thought that large match was so generous and amazing of the Hildebrands,” Huffington said. “I met them when our kids were there, and we worked together in past campaigns. It was the most effective match I have ever seen, leading lots of people to step up to the plate again or to give for the first time.”

ROBS Head of School Leanne Reynolds said Terry is a special person whose contributions go back farther than the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign. “Terry has engaged in truly transformative ways with ROBS for many, many years – as a parent, board member, campaign leader and advisor on strategic planning and fundraising,” Reynolds said. “Terry’s leadership helped create the campus that our students enjoy today.”

While Huffington was chair of the ROBS Development Committee (1995-2002), ROBS opened the Huffington Library Media Center, formalized processes to strengthen the ROBS Endowment Fund, and launched the Expanding Our World campaign.

The Chavez Family Melissa Chavez Susie and Ott Chin Mary Stewart and Cotton Clark Leigh Clarke Walker Clarke Stephanie and Reagan Cocke Katherine and Peter Coleman Kathleen and Patrick Connelly Anne and Tom Conner Sally and David Cooper Betty Cox Margaret Vaughan Cox and Jonathan Cox Cindy and Jonathan Craft Kimber and Brett Crandall Gayla Crawford Casey and Anthony W. Croley Vickie and Mark Croley Emelia R. Curry Katie and Charles Davis Nicole and Kenady Davis Christi and Timothy DeSpain Joanne and Ronald Dickey (+) Margie Dickerson Sarah and Todd Dillingham

Brittney Dotson Susan Draper The Ducote Family Cynthia Duffey Mary Dunn Dr. and Mrs. Edward Earle Eryn and Stephen Ebaugh Catherine Ebbs Lindsee Eddy The Edens Family Kathy and Daniel Ellwood The Steve Erikson Family Connie Eslinger Sara and Clark Edgecomb Jan Edwards Kathy O’Neil and Philip Ferguson Sarah Payne Ferguson Dana Thomas-Fisher and Rashad Fisher Alison and Jason Fleming Beth Foltz Maria and Phillip Franshaw Mary and Matthew Frazier Gina and Carlos Free Mary and Robert Furman Kathy and Tom Gaden

28%

That campaign—which Huffington also chaired— ultimately financed the of total raised came Hightower Education Building, renovations to from former parents the Lower School, and relocation of the track and field. Huffington also created a financial aid endowment to ensure students from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds could attend ROBS.

$18.4M

“I have admired the leaders at ROBS since we were first involved there, and they never rest on their laurels,” Huffington said. “While the school continues to evolve its method of educating students and enhance the environment, its core values remain the same.

ROBS will always be special to me and my family. Always.”

Lindsey and Collin Gerry Laura and Carl Giesler Evan Gildea, ‘25 Peyton Gildea, ‘21 Rachel Gillett Lisa Gilmore Judge Vanessa Gilmore Brittany and John Gilmour Bette and Jerry Gips Becca and Russell Gips Linda and Michael Girala The Girard Family Dorrial and Randy Giveans Barbara Glass Rachel Gleitman Molly and Jimmy Glotfelty Anne and Scott Good Sherry and Paul Goydan Cyndi Graham Nicci and Christopher Greeley Melanie and Ronan Gregg Elizabeth and Aaron Griffin Thomas Griffith Tye Griffith Allison Hamff and Gordon Groschl

Pam and Rick Grothe Shelby and Allen Hammer John Hannah Susan and Dick Hansen Luke Harper Louma Ghandour and Patrick Hartigan Heidi Heard Kristinne and Khen Hechanova Alex and Anthony Heins Holly and Todd Herauf Lizzie and Charlie Hermes Mary Martha and Patrick Hesseler Mallory and Marshall Hickey Melanie and Lee Hightower Rhonda and Walter Hill Yvette and Scott Hill Sally and Henry Hilliard Becky and Mark Hobson Ashley and Brent Hodges Kathy and Randall D. Hogan Susan and Michael Honn Shirley and Jason Hou Dee Dee and Aaron Howes Leah and Chad Hughes Anne and Jay Hughes

Katheryn and Richard Hung Claudia and Houghton Hutcheson Michelle and Doug Huth Gabriela Flores Irwin and Raymond Irwin Mary Penelope Jackson Mina and William Jaco Betsy Jansa Jennifer and Blair Jeffery Sue and Mac Jensen Kate and Jonathan Jeter Alison and Craig Johnson Terri Johnson Katherine and Matt Kapinos Kristen and Matt Katz Alexandra Kerensky Judith Kim Theresa and Michael Kinslow Tany and Chaz Klaes Diane and Harvey Klinkerman Alex and Brady Knight The Koen Family Christina and Demo Kouzounis Debbie and Travis Kozar Susan and John Landrum Cecilia de Lankford and David Lankford

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(continued from page 25)

“We never settle for just being good here; we are

Even more important, Reynolds added, ROBS

always trying to enhance the learning experience

will continue encouraging students to embody

we offer students,” Reynolds said. “Our new Middle

servant-leadership and to understand their God-

School is designed around how children learn

given responsibility to care for others. “We have

best. Our desire is to teach our students to think,

the best families and children anywhere. Together,

to build their confidence and to equip them with

we are creating empathetic, values-centered

foundational skills that prepare them for careers

leaders and problem-solvers. It’s the best gift we

that don’t even exist today.”

can give the world.”

August 21, 2018—The impending August 31, 2018 deadline of the Hildebrand Challenge heightened the usual back-to-school excitement. Campaign volunteers joined class meetings to update families on the project, daily fundraising updates flooded parent inboxes, and chatter about the new building permeated the hallways.

Successful completion of the Hildebrand Challenge would allow ROBS to begin construction on the building, for a projected opening just ahead of the 2020-21 school year. The exciting prospect of a new Middle School with a blue box theater and maker spaces even trickled to the students and it became the dinner table conversation among Peyton (ROBS sixth grader) and

Generations of Givers Gildeas give for each other

Evan (ROBS second grader) Gildea. Their mom Angie Gildea, ROB trustee and KPMG Partner, explained the recent impetus for the fundraising urgency. She also shared her favorite fact about the campaign: every single teacher at the School contributed to the new building.

The generosity of the faculty surprised Evan. He asked how much each one of them gave, but his sister Peyton said it didn’t matter. She reminded him of the Bible story of the rich man and poor woman – and the value Jesus placed on the poor woman’s sacrificial giving. Evan jumped up from the dinner table and returned with his piggy bank. Holding it out to his mother, he asked if the money inside would be enough to contribute. He wanted to make sure that Peyton, in sixth grade, would get to enjoy the new building.

100%

Faculty and staff participation

Angie had made a campaign gift early on, but she also understood the sense of purpose that comes with giving on your own. She grew up watching her mother, a single parent and teacher, place a tithe in the offering plate each Sunday. “I realized that if they helped create the new building, they would have a much greater appreciation of it when it opens.”

After a family discussion, Evan and Peyton decided to pledge a portion of their allowance for the next five years to the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign. Each month they hand deliver white envelopes with their donations to the ROBS development office.

“The purpose of this new building is to give our kids the tools and an environment where they can solve problems that matter to their community,” said Head of School Leanne Reynolds. “To see Peyton and Evan put their heads and their hearts into their community like this—it makes my heart sing.”

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ROBS inspires Carter Family’s commitment For the Carters, River Oaks Baptist School is a family tradition and a source of lifelong friendships.

“Three of our children attended ROBS, and Fowler and Lucy’s kids have taken to it like peas and carrots,” Jeanie Carter said. “We believe the school gets better and better, without losing its vital Christian underpinning.”

Jeanie and Tom served on the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. Honorary Committee, contributing $1 million as early supporters and naming the clock tower. Their son Fowler served on the campaign steering committee. “I am so grateful for the Carters’ deep and abiding commitment to the school,” said Head of School Leanne Reynolds.

“As a grandparent, staying involved has been a joy,” Jeanie said. “I feel welcomed to read in the classrooms, to attend soccer games with my poodle Chester, and to be there for my grandkids.”

$9,999 and Below Continued Suzie and Bob LaForge Carolyn and Charles Laquer Sarah and Trip Larzelere Lucy and Kevin Leonard Kristy Liedtke Casey and Jonathan Lin Mary and Chris Livingstone Audrey and Justin Loweth Joy Lord Barbara Luengas Hope and Mark Lum Kristen and Joe Lyons Suzanne Lyons Shawn and Jeff Magee Kealey Malott Kelli and Jesse Martin Rusty Martin Jennifer and Corby Martinez Mylla Marvin Mahsa and Mehran Massumi Emily Matteson Susie and Paul J. Mayhew Lila and Michael Mazzone Carolyn and Larry McConathy

32

Judy and Simon McCloud Susan and David McDaniel Martha McDaniel Marguerite and Samuel McHard Byrdie W. Meeks Alexandra and Parker Meeks Ashley and Andrew Mejia Jessica and Gabe Mena Rachel Merren Jennifer and Mark Miller Kristin and John Misso Francy Mitchell Elizabeth Montz Dennis Montz Lauren LaFollette Morris Dr. and Mrs. Robb Moses Kathy and Derek Munger Natalie and Brian Murdock Colin Murdock Cristina and David Murdock Lauren Murdock Katie and Jeff Musslewhite Karuna and Pravin Nayar Lindy and Larry Neuhaus Judy Ho and Viet Nguyen

Julia Oh and Morgan Norris Kristina and John Norris Laura and Kerry Notestine Karen Oliphant Dana and Tony Olivé Susan and Doug Paisley Lauren and Alfred Park Kilby Hoskins and Paolo Passaro Molly and William Patterson Gay Lee and Kenneth Pearce Allison and Stuart Peck Eleanor Pellegrin Jack Pellegrin Allyson and John Pellegrin Ross Pellegrin Danielle and Anthony Petrucciani Mychelle and Harry Phan Margaret and Michael Pierce Ashley and Al Pratka Sheryl and Jim Pritchett Taryn and Preston Proler Christa and Gregory Pryor Victor Pulich The Quinn Family June and David Rabley

Noel and Roger Rankin Sharon Reardon The Reed Family Rae and Jeffrey Reynolds Michelle and Jeffrey Ritter Charles P. Ripley Family Clay Robinson Linda and Bernie Robinett Anne and Joe Romano Sarah and Austin Rogers Rachel and John Rosson Patty and Kelton Ro-Trock Pam Jolley and Bill Runte Melissa and Scott Santana The Sayers Family Alexis Schadel Rachel and Robert Scranton Laura Sellingsloh Molly and Jeff Shaffer Leigh and Daniel Shipman Ann Elizabeth Shipper Pei-Ching Tai and Tung Shu Elizabeth and Allen Sikes Nadia Fida and Umair Siddiqui Deepi and Sham Sidhu

Though the Carters are active with other organizations, ROBS is special to them.

“The loyalty toward ROBS is way, way off the scale because the school encourages students to aspire to something greater than antiseptic academic goals,” Jeanie said. “It inspires a true concern for the world and a drive to be their best selves.”

46%

of total raised came from past parents and grandparents

$29.9M

The Carters said ROBS prepared their children “to go anywhere,” and they know it will do the same for their grandchildren.

“This place changes your life and grabs your heart,” Jeanie said.

“You remember it forever.”

Kendall Sill Ashley and Andrew Slania Rachel and Michael Smith Ross Smith Sam Smith Sarah Smith Allison and Spencer Stasney Dana and Craig Stewart Andrea and Paul Stewart Susan and Wayne Sullivan Kim and Darrell Sumbera The Talamas Family Kristin and David Thomas Cheryl and Larry Thomas Virginia Baird Thomas Jessica and Kurt Thompson Kelly and Todd Thurber Holly Tindel Joyce Toombs Cecie and Kyle Turlington Lauren and Adrian Turnham Emily and Tyler VanHoutan The Van Roten Family Yone and Shelton Vaughan Gloria and Juan Villagran

Christy and Bill Wade Kirk Wagner Tarsy Wagner Sally and Robert Walker Stacy and Adam Walton Gail Watkins Becca and Philip Weigand Hap and Jennifer Weitzel Leslie and Ronald Welch Timothy Whitten Melinda and Jay Williams Delby and BJ Willingham Meg and Burke Wilson Fred and Stephanie Wilson Amy Womack Kelsey Womack Kristina Sullivan and Luke Wrobel Jennifer Phan and James Wu Mengxian Li and Eric Zeng Chunyan Xie and Wei Zhang Eleanor Zook (+): Deceased

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18%

of total raised came from grandparents

$12.1M

McCords Honor a Legacy of Learning

During the real estate downturn in the 1980s and on the brink of financial ruin, Rick McCord would frequently stop at St. John the Divine Church to pray. The founder of McCord Development was a tenacious dealmaker and a creative visionary, but he was a faithful servant of God first and foremost. This faith guided his passion for educating young people, and both superseded his real estate ambitions (though his drive as a land developer would also serve him well). It was during this challenging time that he helped found Episcopal High School. And he always welcomed his children’s friends in what educators now call ‘authentic learning experiences,’ teaching them to ride horses, fish, shoot a gun, throw a cast net, build lean-to’s, or simply test foul weather gear in a storm.

River Oaks Baptist School was a natural choice for Rick and his wife Jane, who both valued the strong academic program based in Christian principles for their children Meredith, Ryan, and Anne.

Rick and Jane later served on the honorary committee for ROBS’ endowment campaign and Rick helped provide strategic direction on the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign ahead of its launch.

Rick McCord passed away in 2015 but his story was not finished.

Not long after his passing, the opportunity to support the creation of a Middle School designed around how children learn best spoke to Meredith, Ryan, and Anne. They deeply valued their own ROBS

34

education. In fact Anne and her husband Cary and Ryan and his wife Devin decided to send their own children to ROBS… all of whom will learn in the new building.

When Meredith, Ryan, and Anne started talking about a campaign gift, they knew it is what their father would have done.

The memories of his generosity and hands-on service were like a gentle force, a constant presence in those discussions. “A significant gift in our parent’s honor was the right thing to do.

My parents were advocates of great education and Christian values and ROBS does both so well,” said Anne. Meredith agreed, “My brother, sister, and I were in absolute agreement about supporting ROBS in this way.”

With Rick in their hearts and Jane by their side, Meredith, Ryan, and Anne made a leadership level gift in honor of their parents.

Their gift will name a welcoming reception area in the new building, which seems a fitting tribute for the man who invited so many to experience the joy of learning. Ryan said that he didn’t fully appreciate the impact his Dad had made on so many lives.

“It wasn’t until he passed away that we fully understood how farreaching one life could be. Helping to build a learning space where kids can connect with their unique gifts so they can serve the world—that is the legacy of Rick and Jane McCord.”

Sarofim Leadership Center represents opportunity for ROBS students When entrepreneur and community leader Susan D. Sarofim and her daughter Lori were looking for schools for Lori’s girls Lily (ROBS first grade) and Serenella (ROBS Discovery), River Oaks Baptist School appealed to them for many reasons.

“We were drawn to ROBS’ excellent academic program, athletic program, the fine arts and performing arts, and the extracurricular activities,” said Susan, who moved to Houston after Hurricane Katrina. “But we also loved the emphasis on building character and the warm and supportive staff who encourage students to think outside the box and to recognize that differences are good and make each of us unique.”

Susan and Lori were invited by KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. campaign committee member Gary Petersen to meet with him and Head of School Leanne Reynolds to talk about the campaign, and they immediately accepted. “I was confident that if Gary was enthusiastic about the capital campaign, it would be worth exploring,” Susan said. After the discussions, the Sarofim family decided to generously donate $5 million to name the new Leadership Center.

“The idea of contributing to the Leadership Center struck a chord in my heart,” Susan said. “My husband Fayez epitomizes leadership and entrepreneurship, and his life shows that America is truly the land of opportunity – a place where entrepreneurs who dream big and work hard can achieve great success.”

The Sarofims believe an investment in education is one that keeps giving back. “Fayez and I are so pleased to be part of the ROBS community, and we are looking forward to watching ROBS grow, educating and positively influencing young people for generations.”

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ROBS celebrates the beginning of construction.

All thanks to our generous community.

Tuesday, December 4, 2018 was a momentous day in ROBS history as we celebrated the groundbreaking of the Keith and Alice Mosing Middle School and Sarofim Leadership Center. Parents, grandparents, past parents, alumni, Church members, trustees, current and past faculty joined us to rejoice in the success of the campaign. Leanne Reynolds and Susan Cox shared words of praise and gratitude for the hundreds of volunteers and donors that made this all possible. Preschool students lifted everyone up in song while Middle School students lifted us up in prayer. Just as each member of the ROBS community had a hand in the Middle School Faculty: Sarah Larzelere, Katie Coleman, Julie Blackwell, Jeff Reynolds, Betsy Shipper, Jan Edwards

36

building’s conception, so did each guest with a turn on the shovel. “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our

Trustees and grandparents: Gail Stewart, Tim Day, Mark Jones, Brad Wright, Lois Wright, Nkem Omebere-Iyari, Randy Wright

Campaign Volunteers: Cody Dick, Cary Goss, Anne McCord Goss ’91, Billy Wareing ’95, Michael Soper ’81

hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” Psalm 90:17

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Each visual element of the KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING. logo represents themes that guided the School’s strategic vision for growth and the fundraising initiative to support the expansion. The new space will enhance the School’s project-based, skills driven curriculum. Large, flexible areas will immerse students in a world of exploration, experimentation, and design.

The fundraising effort, therefore, supports a place where kids love learning.

The words also carry meaning independent of each other.

KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

Kids – Children are our first and most important priority

Blue seesaw – The seesaw symbolizes the

at ROBS. The campaign was about and for the students.

balance of our two-part mission of ambitious academics

Love – Kids learn better from people they love and

rooted in abiding Christian values.

who love them. It is central to the academic, character, and

Red fulcrum – The fulcrum has two meanings.

faith mission of ROBS. Love of God, self, and one another

The red color and almost heart-like shape signify love,

is the most important thing our kids will ever learn.

upon which everything else is built. The fulcrum itself

Learning – Curiosity sparks authentic learning. We

represents the central role of innovative STEAM (science,

are creating a joyful, inspiring physical environment where students can direct their own learning and solve real-world problems. When intrinsically motivated, kids love learning.

technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics) programming in the new building.

The sun – Like the sun, God’s love is a dependable source of light and energy. And when kids love learning, the sky is the limit.

Ambitious academics rooted in abiding Christian values For children age 2 through grade 8

2300 Willowick Road • Houston, Texas 77027 713.623.6938 • www.robs.org

KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

KIDS. LOVE. LEARNING.

MAILING Indicia

IMPACT REPORT