St. Catherine's Montessori Annual Report 2014-2015

St. Catherine’s Montessori ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015

OUR MISSION

As a Catholic Montessori school, St. Catherine’s is dedicated to an educational experience which awakens in our students the awareness of their gifts and responsibilities as individuals in relationship with Jesus Christ and as stewards of the global community.

“ Free the child’s potential, and you will transform the world.”

–MARIA MONTESSORI

St. Catherine’s Montessori BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Nathaniel Martinez President

Sr. Adrian Dover, OP Vice President

Bob Lunn Treasurer

Alison Jefferies Secretary

Sr. Julie Greig, OP

Sr. Mary Magdalen Hanel, OP

David Marks

Sr. Edna Ann Hebert, OP Ex-Officio; Emeritus

St. Catherine’s Montessori ADMINISTRATION

Susan Tracy Head of School

Laurie Farris Admissions Director

Dione Gaspar Business Director

Violet Perez Advancement Director

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

It is obvious that St. Catherine’s employs individuals who are passionate about their work and embody a desire to be of service to others. Likewise, our parents contribute in a multitude of ways to enrich our school community. But why do we all do this? What are the deeper reasons underlying the generosity and resolve practiced here each day? The 2014-15 school year presented an optimal time for our community to reflect on who we are, why we’ve chosen to be here, and how we can best communicate as we enter the next phase of growth.

Our reflection drove us to revisit our core values and mission, and to gain clarity and unity in our message. After exploring our branding, we transformed our commonly used globe logo to a more unique version of “Bringing Wisdom to Light.” We completed schematic drawings to address our most pressing facility needs, and we stepped into our capital campaign, “Building on the Legacy.” We also prepared our first Annual Report to document the good stewardship of our precious resources.

Also last year, a High School Feasibility Committee began exploring the need and viability of extending our Montessori program through the 12th grade. The strong retention of students from level to level is testimony from parents that St. Catherine’s is working for their children, and we have an obligation to serve our students as they embark upon the final years of adolescence.

Our internal exploration of “why?” has guided us in each of these endeavors and has generated compelling responses from parents, faculty and friends. At its core, St. Catherine’s is a manifestation of love. We exist to help children as they learn to think, as they become active, contributing members of society, and as they discover the gifts and passions that feed their souls. Each child’s journey inspires awe and wonder, and I can’t imagine any experience being more rewarding than the work we do together each day.

Many thanks to all who continue to invest in the future of St. Catherine’s Montessori.

Susan Tracy Head of School

“To stimulate life, leaving it free, however, to unfold itself–

Why do we do what we do?

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Annual Report

St. Catherine’s is the embodiment of who we are trying to become, in terms of being both fully human and fully Catholic in our identity. From the moment you walk through the school doors, you sense peace, serenity and joy as our children discover the richness of their surroundings, their unique passions and gifts, their roles in community, and the abiding presence of God’s love. Providing the environment, guidance and patience to support that journey is the greatest gift we can offer our children, and I am proud and blessed to serve St. Catherine’s and our mission.

As the Board of Directors envisions the future of St. Catherine’s, we aspire to do so with the same curiosity, enthusiasm and collaborative spirit modeled by our children and foundresses. Just as our children grow and “unfold” into the people God intended them to be, so must our school evolve as our community’s needs and abilities change.

Guided by our Strategic Plan, in 2014-2105 St. Catherine’s publicly launched the capital campaign, “Building on the Legacy,” with intentions of expanding our facilities to accommodate growing retention. Additionally, an exploratory committee met to investigate the next chapter in our school’s development—the establishment of a St. Catherine’s high school.

Although facing new and unknown territory, the planning for these projects has been truly invigorating. For many years we’ve had the seed of an idea for a high school, inspired by interest from students and families and sustained through the work of several boards and committees. It is now in our community’s hands to continue watering that seed to ensure its germination.

Our lifelong journey is here. As you read the rest of the report and reflect on your own reasons for choosing St. Catherine’s, I hope you will be inspired to help us further our mission.

Nathaniel Martinez President of the Board of Directors

that is the first duty of the educator.” - Maria Montessori

UNRESTRICTED

Tuition: 82%

Registration & Fees: 9%

Annual Giving: 5%

Other: 4%

EXPENSES

Salaries & Bene ts : 69%

Depreciation: 7%

fi :

Curriculum & Class Activities: 6%

Other Expenses: 5%

Buildings & Grounds: 5%

Utilities: 3%

Insurance: 2%

Technology: 1%

Interest: 1%

Professional Development: 1%

BUILDING ON The Legacy

ST. CATHERINE’S MONTESSORI CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

ST. CATHERINE’S MONTESSORI CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

St. Catherine’s publicly launched the campus expansion project, “Building on the Legacy,” in September 2014. The goal is to raise $5.275 million for Phase I of the project, aimed at addressing the most urgent needs of our growing community, which include: constructing two Elementary classrooms, an Atrium for Elementary and Adolescent Community students, restoring the original library, building a new fine arts center, and adding a central storage facility. Groundbreaking for Phase I is scheduled for June 2017.

We especially wish to thank the families and friends of St. Catherine’s Montessori who have invested in the school’s future as those before us did to create the beautiful campus and community we enjoy today.

“I’m so grateful for all who have believed in the mission of St. Catherine’s Montessori and who have stepped up to bring that vision and mission to reality. This school has changed my children’s lives, and it has changed me.”

Deborah Gremillion Co-Chair Capital Campaign Committee

“The moment I walked through the school’s doors, I was overwhelmed by the sense that this was the school for my daughter. I saw the characteristics I knew to expect in a Montessori school, but it was the feeling, the spirit of St. Catherine’s that simply spoke so clearly to me.”

Kristina Devereux Co-Chair Capital Campaign Committee

COMMITTEE

Roy and Kristina Devereux (Co-chairs)

Rock and Deborah Gremillion (Co-chairs)

Malcolm and Kristin Cogan

Lorenzo Cohen and Alison Jefferies

Randy and Cathy Crath

Andrew Gee and Janella del Mundo Gee

Jonathan Godfrey and Ana Trevino-Godfrey

Steve and Jennifer Grace

David Marks and Mary Grimord

Antonio and Larissa La Matta

Bob and Pat Lunn

Jamie and Shannon Mann

Greg and Rachel Marino

Nathaniel and Elizabeth Martinez

David and Eileen Meinert

Mike and Lynne Morris

Matt and Kim Pacetti

Kenneth and Gretchen Penny

Chan and Mary Tysor

David and Sandra Wager

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Johnny and Mary Beth Arcidiacono

Diane Cain

Paul and Karen Davis

Michael and Carla Deavers

Tom and Gina Fulkerson

Harry Gee, Jr.

Kevin and Krista Kirton

Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, S. J.

Barron Lozano

Juan and Sandra Mangini

Sr. Jane Meyer, O.P.

Glynn and Jean Roberts

Cliff and Michelle Shedd

Steve Stelzer

Rev. Kevin Storey, C.S.B.

LIST OF DONORS

from May 2014 to June 30, 2015

WISDOM TO LIGHT SOCIETY:

$100,000 - $249,999

Randy and Cathy Crath

Charles and Karyn Crisp in honor of Gabriel, Elias, and Caleb Han

Roy and Kristina Devereux

EOG Resources, Inc.

Rock and Deborah Gremillion in honor of Kathy Hijazi

Timothy and Sarah Harvey in memory of Jim and Marilou Harvey

Bob and Pat Lunn

Jamie and Shannon Mann

MONTESSORI SOCIETY: $50,000 - $74,999

Anonymous

Texas Instruments Foundation

TIMBERSIDE CIRCLE: $25,000 - $49,999

Jeremy and Christie Jones

Christopher and Sarah Lewis

Greg and Rachel Marino

David Marks and Mary Grimord

Surena and Misty Matin

Donald and Martha Reid

Cliff and Michelle Shedd

Craig and Michelle Vinson

Aerial view of the campus with Phase I Additions

GOLDEN BEADS PATRON:

$10,000 - $24,999

Anonymous Stewart and Julia Baker

Chevron

John Cogan

Miguel Contreras and Maria Fajardo

Robert and Jessica Croyle

Scot and Cristina Dixon

Jeffrey and Dione Gaspar

Harry and Antje Gee

H. Stephen Grace

Steve and Jennifer Grace

Christopher and Anne Kappes

Robert and Violet Perez

Shell Oil Company Foundation

Susan Tracy in honor of Sr. Edna Ann and in memory of Sr. Shirley Owens

Chan and Mary Tysor

PINK TOWER PATRON: $5,000 - $9,999

David and Laura Anderson

Malcolm and Kristin Cogan

Michael and Carla Deavers

Bernard Dems and Patty Thessen Dems

Jonathan Godfrey and Ana Trevino-Godfrey

Christopher and Megan Jordan

Antonio and Larissa La Matta

Eric and Courtney Lerch

Nathaniel and Elizabeth Martinez

Don and Anne McAdams

David and Eileen Meinert

John and Teresa Molbeck in honor of Alexandra, Madeleine and Malcom Cogan, Jack and Luke Salazar

Mike and Lynne Morris in memory of Sr. Shirley Owens

Nuri Nuri and Lois Ramondetta

Craig and Sarah Scherschel

Robert Smith and Shea Palamountain

St. Catherine’s Parent Service Organization

OWL CLUB: Under $5,000

Carl Allen and Hillary Boswell

Gabriel and Maria Baizan

Baker Hughes Foundation

Mark and Erin Biscone

Eddie Brito and Raquel Rendon-Brito

Jason and Katherine Buchanan

Crown Castle USA, Inc.

Gregston Chu and Hiroko Tanaka

Mary Jo Detweiler

Dominican Sisters of Houston: Adrian Dover, Julie Marie Greig, Edna Ann Hebert and Mary Magdalen Hanel

Pedro Garza and Luz Gascot

Andrew Gee and Janella del Mundo Gee

Bernardo and Ana Goarmon

Isabella Godfrey

Jeff and Lenna Groudan

David and Mary Ann Haberman

Mark and Yvonne Jacobs in honor of Sr. Edna Ann

Hebert and in memory of Sr. Shirley Owens

Romesha and Joseph Jayasundera

JP Morgan Chase

Fernando and Bernadette Levaro

Alan and Amy Lindsey

Jon Moody and Cynthia Blessman

Frank and Patty Napoleon in honor of Edith Napoleon

Thomas and Mollie Osborne

Matt and Kim Pacetti

Kenneth and Gretchen Penny

Erick Ragni and Emily Sing

Eric and Melody Rodriguez

Adrian Segovia and Edith Napoleon

Paul and Kathy Simpson

David and Sandra Wager

Mario Yearwood and Victoria Mata

FRIENDS OF ST. CATHERINE’S

Tom and Gina Fulkerson in honor of Sr. Edna Ann Hebert

“Children must grow not only in the body but in the spirit, and the mother longs to follow the mysterious spiritual journey of the beloved one who tomorrow will be the intelligent, divine creation, man.”

—MARIA MONTESSORI

ST. CATHERINE’S MONTESSORI

Annual Fund 2014-2015

The Annual Fund is the highest fundraising priority for the school because it supports the daily operations fundamental to providing the best faculty, facilities and curriculum at St. Catherine’s Montessori. We are an independent, non-profit school that depends on tuition to cover approximately 90 percent of our operating expenses, making it essential to meet the remaining 10 percent of the budget requirements through charitable donations from our community each year. Our faculty is the school’s most valuable asset—recruiting, retaining and providing continuing education is crucial to our mission.

In 2014-2015, the Annual Fund raised $171,166 with 91% participation from current parents, 100% participation from the Board of Directors, 100% participation from faculty and staff, and generous donations from grandparents, alumni families, corporations and friends of St. Catherine’s.

“Four years into our St. Catherine’s Montessori journey, we have seen our son, Juan Pablo, grow and develop in a welcoming community that is unique and vibrant, with parents willing to share their blessings daily with others.”

Miguel Contreras and Maria Fajardo Chairs

Annual Fund Committee

Classroom Representatives

Infant Community

Claire Yabraian: Michael Liga and Angela Ortega

Primary

Cynthia Blessman: Roberto Pacini and Alejandra Creixell

Katherine Parker: Michael Liga and Angela Ortega

Renee Smith: Robert Hazeltine-Shedd and Kristin Zipple-Shedd

Jennifer Uitenbroek: Alan and Amy Lindsey

Lower Elementary

Jacinta Edussuriya: Miguel Contreras and Maria Fajardo

Tim Snow: Justin Homfeld and Julie McLarry

Ly Thompson: Trey and Teresa Palmer

Upper Elementary

Maggie Dobbins: Angela Henry

Amanda Hughes: Greg and Holly Han

Adolescent Community

Kathy Hijazi, Grant Hughes, Teresa Onofre,

Audrey Speicher: Craig and Sarah Scherschel

Community Representatives

Faculty & Staff: Maggie Dobbins

Alumni: Jessica Croyle

Grandparents: Cliff and Michelle Shedd

Thank you to all of our donors listed below:

GUARDIANS OF LIGHT: $5,000 +

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation

BHP Billiton

Chevron HumanKind

Rock and Deborah Gremillion

Umberto and Tina La Matta

Bob and Patricia Lunn

Harry and Cora Sue Mach

FOUNDERS’ CIRCLE: $2,500 - $4,999

Miguel Contreras and Maria Fajardo

Gregory Han and Holly Crisp-Han

Christopher and Megan Jordan

Fernando and Bernadette Levaro

Christopher and Sarah Lewis

Chan and Mary Tysor

ST. CATHERINE’S OF SIENA SOCIETY:

$1,500 - $2,499

AIG

Roberto and Claudia Contreras

Randy and Cathy Crath

Juan and Carmen Creixell

Scot and Cristina Dixon

Exxon Mobil Foundation

Jeffrey and Dione Gaspar

H. Stephen Grace

Steve and Jennifer Grace

Timothy and Sarah Harvey

Justin Homfeld and Julie McLarry

Jeremy and Christie Jones

Christopher and Anne Kappes

Bill Klein and Jennifer Arnold

Wade and Ivy Koteras

Antonio and Larissa La Matta

Jamie and Shannon Mann

Tyler Smith and Andrea Stewart

David Spencer and Zsofia Intody

Elaine Wendt

VERITAS: $1,000 - $1,499

Michael and Catherine Barber

Anthony and Paulette Chavez

Lorenzo Cohen and Alison Jefferies

Don and Pat Craig in honor of Owen Lowry

Daniel and Heather Crowder

Bob and Ann Croyle

EDF Trading Limited

Pedro Garza and Luz Gascot

Bernardo and Ana Goarmon

Gary Hickok and Monica Tschen

Joseph and Romesha Jayasundera

Charles Kilpatrick and Lubna Chohan

Greg and Rachel Marino

David Marks and Mary Grimord

David and Eileen Meinert

John and Teresa Molbeck

Matthew Morris (‘00)

Michael and Lynne Morris

Richard and Sophia Ou

Bill and Paula Palamountain

Robert and Violet Perez

Edwin and Tonya Rodriguez

Matthew and Gabriela Salo

Craig and Sarah Scherschel

Robert Smith and Shea Palamountain

Phong and Monica Tang

Susan Tracy

Craig and Michelle Vinson

Mario Yearwood and Victoria Mata

Noe and Bernadette Zamora

TORCHBEARERS: $100 - $999

Carl Allen and Hillary Boswell

David and Laura Anderson

Ronald and Burton Bagby-Grose

Baker Hughes Foundation

Peter and Beverly Barber

Francesco and Chiara Beltrami

Margaret Boehrer

Mike and Andrea Boucher

Eddie Brito and Raquel Rendon-Brito

Jason and Katherine Buchanan

Brad and Kellye Burke

Guillermo Canizales and Elizabeth Detweiler

Gregston Chu and Hiroko Tanaka

Alistair and Birgit Clague

TORCHBEARERS: $100 - $999

(continued)

James and Hadley Cogan

Malcolm and Kristin Cogan

Rolando and Edelmira Contreras

Robert and Jessica Croyle

Carlos and Maria de Aldecoa

Michael and Carla Deavers

Bernard Dems and Patty Thessen Dems

Connie Dems

Mary Jo Detweiler

Roy and Kristina Devereux

Paula Dewitte

Audrey Dickie

Maggie Dobbins

Dominican Sisters of Houston: Adrian Dover, Julie Marie

Greig, Edna Ann Hebert, Mary Magdalen Hanel

Jim and Bren Dubay

Gary Dunnam and Sharon Steen

Mark and Keri Dykes

Russell Eddington and Kya Heinen

Helen Engelhardt

Laurie and Anthony Farris

Greg and Carly Filippov

Carlos and Kae Fowler

Nathan and Angela Fowler

David and Jean Frank

Ginger Frederick

Mark and Jessica Fukuda

John and Kylie Galfione

Jim Garrison and Wendy Golden

Andrew Gee and Janella del Mundo Gee

Aziz and Sania Gilani

Zan and Marija Gligorov

Jonathan Godfrey and Ana Treviño-Godfrey

Connie Golden

Alenay Gonzalez and Yaneth Martell-Gonzalez

Jeff and Lenna Groudan

Monica Guidry

David and Mary Ann Haberman

Ed Hanel and Ida Orengo

Barry and Wanda Harding

Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund

Jeff and Caren Hayden

Robert Hazeltine-Shedd and Kristin Zipple-Shedd

Angela Henry

Adrian Hernandez and Rosecler Marmentini

David and Claudia Hertzog

Thomas and Julianna Heyward

Mahmoud and Kathy Hijazi

Eric Jan and Eva Chong

Matthew and Shawna Johnson

Tim and Jamie Johnstad

Ron and Vita Jordan

JP Morgan Chase

Birgit Kamps

Carol Ann Kanewske

Kinder Morgan

Rodrigo Lance Lopez and Gabriela Coronado Gonzalez

Norman Lateef and Yusra Saifuddin

Marshall and Melissa Law

Mark and Mindy LeBlanc

Brian Lee and Michele Yap

Matthew and Mary Lehto

Eric and Courtney Lerch

Ryan and Kathi Lerch

James and Marianne Liga

Michael Liga and Angela Ortega

Alan and Amy Lindsey

David and Melissa Lopez

Ray and LaTanya Love

Josh and Shannon Lowry

Nick and Carol MacMillan

Juan Mangini

George and Jan Marino

David and Nancy Martin

Nathaniel and Elizabeth Martinez

Surena and Misty Matin

Chad Mavity and Tiffany Raczy

Simon and Veronica Mayer

Don and Anne McAdams

David and Carol McLarry

Jim Meyn and Wendy Wight

Megan Monks

Peter and Fan Morris

Susan Morrison

Bruce and Lisa Moses

Frank and Patty Napoleon

Gabriel and Basankoz Nguyen

Paul and Kylie Nguyen

Joel and Corine Noronha

John and Leisa Novak

Nuri Nuri and Lois Ramondetta

Andrew and Brooke Nyberg

Teresa Onofre

Matt and Kim Pacetti

Roberto Pacini and Alejandra Creixell

Roberto and Alicia Pacini

Chris Palamountain

Trey and Teresa Palmer

Gianluca Pascucci and Michela Diotallevi

Oscar Perez and Christine Jaen

Brett and Michelle Perkison

Giao and Gwen Phan

Teresa Pigott

Bill and Roxann Poskey

Michael Poskey

Stephanie Ragni

Marco and Tina Ramirez

TORCHBEARERS: $100 - $999

(continued)

Don and Joanna Reid

Don and Martha Reid

Ebon and Lynne Robinson

Eric and Melody Rodriguez

Stephen and Denise Rodriguez

John and Ann Romero

Eric and Negar Rowe

Richard and Christine Salo

Christian and Leslie Schutz

Adrian Segovia and Edith Napoleon

Maria Kathrina Sevilla

Cliff and Michelle Shedd

Bill and Doris Sing

Ben and Anna Smith

Sandra Smith

Terence and Sharon Smith

Ryan and Renee Smith

Alex and Marilyn Somers

Alex and Nancy Somers

Lias Steen

John and Ali Stewart

Alan and Margaret Svoboda

Emily Tait

Eric Tait and Claudine Johnson

Brooke Thompson

Peter and Nancy Thompson

Travis and Kelley Twardowski

Nathan and Jennifer Uitenbroek

Jorge Villalobos and Alina Nunez

David and Sandra Wager

Bob Wager

Darrin and Jackie Ward

Daniel and Marcella Watkins

Carmen Watrin

Charles Wheatley

Roger and Suzanne White

John Yanosik and Mayra Perez

Francis and Kathy Zipple

FRIENDS: up to $99

Jeff and Emily Blackman

Brad Bath and Catherine Devine

Charles and Joleen Billington

Matthew Chapman (‘90)

Millie Chavez

Joseph and Mary Devine

Maria Diaz

Jacinta Edussuriya

Kosta and Lindy Filis

Reginald and Cindy Fontno

Kelly Fulkerson (‘90)

Alfredo and Ilse Galeas

Klair Grace

Chelsea Grear

Madeline Gregory

Alan and Ethel Groudan

Cliffic and Carolyn Guidry

Maria Hernandez

Warren and Marsha Holleman

Grant and Amanda Hughes

Sr. Carletta LaCour

Joseph Ledet

Michael Lewis and Melissa Meingast

Abbey Marks (‘96)

Jon Moody and Cynthia Blessman

Rachel Moody (‘94)

Theresa Moody

Rose Ann Morello

Benjamin Mull and Heather Kendall

Luis and Sharon Ortiz

Thomas and Mollie Osborne

Stephen and Katherine Parker

Stephen Pierrel

Roger and Carmen Pokluda

Michael Porter and Rebecca Cole

Adriel Posada

Isabel Resendez

John and Catherine Ruff

Annie Sallans

David and LuAnn Sanchez

Mark and Cathy Santos

Mark and Lynn Schmidt

Harriett Smith

Tim and Mindy Snow

Audrey Speicher

Ashleigh Spruell

Wietse and Nira ter Veld

Ly Thompson

Anthony and Desiree Tigner

Don and Mary Tobin

Dave and Carrie Tollar

Cortney Waguespack

Martin and Rachel Wamp

Chelsea Willingham

John Paul and Claire Yabraian

FRIENDS OF ST.CATHERINE’S

Leo and Ellen Linbeck

Gala & Auction

SUPPORTING THE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

The St. Catherine’s community gathered on February 7, 2015 for the school’s biennial Gala and Auction, “A Midwinter Night’s Dream,” held at the Houston Zoo. It was a beautiful, crisp evening under the stars for 287 guests who bid on live, silent and almost-live auction items. This wonderful event raised $83,577 (net) with all proceeds benefiting the school’s capital campaign, “Building on the Legacy.”

“We both feel so lucky every day that our children have the opportunity to grow in a wonderful environment that is a second home to them. The guides, assistants, and staff truly prepare the young minds we bring to them to be curious, independent, and lively, whatever life may have in store for them.”

Christie Jones and Leisa Novak

Co-Chairs

Gala Committee

We thank the following people who helped make this event possible:

Advisors

Cathy Crath, Kristina Devereux, Angela Fowler, Deborah Gremillion, Alison Jefferies, Melissa Lopez, Shannon Mann, Susan Rich, Pilar Uribe

Auctioneer

David Lopez

Baskets & Grab Bags

Alejandra Creixell, Heather Kendall, Patty Thessen Dems, Mary Lehto, Misty Matin, Eileen Meinert, Shea Palamountain

Classroom Art Projects

Annie Sallans, Pilar Uribe, Wendy Wight

Dessert Auction

Rachel Marino, Michelle Vinson

Donation Management

Alejandra Creixell, Heather Kendall, Bernadette Levaro, Alina Nunez, Teresa Palmer, Martha Reid

Event Planning

Eddie Brito, Kristin Cogan, Mindy LeBlanc, Nuri Nuri, Erick Ragni, Wendy Wight

Event Volunteers

Alessandro Cohen, Cathy Crath, Janella del Mundo Gee, Maria Fajardo, Marija Gligorova, Jennifer Grace, Deborah Gremillion, Rose Gremillion, Alison Jefferies, Heather Kendall, Ivy Koteras, Monique Ledet, Bernadette Levaro, Melissa Lopez, Ian Mann, Shannon Mann, Rachel Marino, Julie McLarry, Edith Napoleon, Gabby Novak, Austin Rodriguez, Chloe Rose, Renee Smith, Mary Tysor, Michelle Vinson, Sandra Wager, Michelle Walker

Gala Video

Jocelyn Ochoa, Leslie Schutz, Sandra Wager

Graphic Designer

Robin Meece

Marketing

Cindy Fontno

Proofreader

Sarah Lewis

Registration

Sarah Scherschel

Solicitations

Janella del Mundo Gee, Maria Fajardo, Lindy Filis, Ashley Graves, Deborah Gremillion, Heather Kendall, Mary Lehto, Yaneth Martell-Gonzalez, Julie McLarry, Melody Rodriguez

Sponsorships

Maria Fajardo, Julie McLarry

Table Underwriting

Caren Hayden, Marilyn Somers, Ana Trevino-Godfrey

Wine Event

Cindy Fontno

Wine Pull

Sarah Lewis

UNDERWRITERS

Oberon Table

Randy and Cathy Crath

Bob and Pat Lunn

Titania Table

Shannon and Jamie Mann

Puck Table

David and Laura Anderson, Kosta and Lindy Filis, Jeff and Caren Hayden, Tim and Jamie Johnstad, Christopher and Anne Kappes

Mike and Andrea Boucher, James and Hadley Cogan, Malcolm and Kristin Cogan, Alex and Marilyn Somers, Wietse and Nira ter Veld

Michael and Carla Deavers, Mark and Keri Dykes, Tom and Gina Fulkerson, Rock and Trish Morille, Kenneth and Gretchen Penny

Greg and Carly Filippov, Jonathan Godfrey and Ana Trevino-Godfrey, Christopher and Sarah Lewis, Surena and Misty Matin, Matt and Kim Pacetti

Nathan and Angela Fowler, David and Claudia Hertzog, Alan and Amy Lindsey, Chan and Mary Tysor

Rock and Deborah Gremillion

Cliff and Michelle Shedd

Phong and Monica Tang

Peaseblossom Tickets

Jason and Katherine Buchanan

Lorenzo Cohen and Alison Jefferies

Ray and LaTanya Love

David Marks and Mary Grimord

Eric Tait and Claudine Johnson

Anthony and Desiree Tigner

Donated Faculty & Staff Tickets

Lorenzo Cohen and Alison Jefferies

Roy and Kristina Devereux

Scot and Cristina Dixon

Jeff and Lenna Groudan

Timothy and Sarah Harvey

Antonio and Larissa La Matta

Surena and Misty Matin

David and Eileen Meinert

Robert and Violet Perez

Jason and Michelle Walker

Donations

Chevron

Mark and Jessica Fukuda

Jeff and Lenna Groudan

Megan Monks

Chan and Mary Tysor

SPONSORS

Flowers

Whole Foods Market

Grab Bags

Jackson & Ryan Architects

Special Guests Sponsor

Lisle Violin Shop

Glamour Dogs Salon

Guest Companion Sponsor

Morningside Thai Restaurant

In-kind Contributors

A&E The Graphics Complex

Buffalo Specialties

Houston Zoo

Silent Auction Pro

AUCTION DONORS

Acupuncture Therapeutic & Beauty Center

Adolescent Community

Frank and Karen Altamura

The Amish Craftsman

Amore Reflexology

Annie Marie Designs

Anonymous

AREA

Artmix Creative Learning Center

The Astros Foundation

Banbury School of Dance

Bellaire Pediatric Dentistry

Benjy’s

Bering’s

Big Blue Whale Toys

Cynthia Blessman

Ms. Cynthia’s Class

Braeburn Country Club

Brennan’s of Houston

Eddie Brito and Raquel Rendon-Brito

BRSH

Buffalo Specialties

Buffalo Grille

Brad and Kellye Burke

Cammarata Pediatric Dentistry Group

Candelari’s

Randy and Cindy Carr

Carrabba’s

Millie Chavez

Paulette Chavez

Children’s Museum of Houston

James and Hadley Cogan

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

Cordua Restaurants

Randy and Cathy Crath

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Dallas Museum of Art

Danton’s Gulf Coast Seafood

Paul and Karen Davis

Catherine del Paggio

Bernard Dems and Patty Thessen Dems

Maria Diaz

Disneyland Resort

Scot and Cristina Dixon

Maggie Dobbins

Ms. Maggie’s Class

Dosey Doe

Down House

Jacinta Edussuriya

Ms. Jacinta’s Class

El Meson Restaurant

The Emery/Weiner School

Miguel Contreras and Maria Fajardo

Greg and Carly Filippov

Fort Worth Zoo

Fioza

Reginald and Cindy Fontno

Dr. Bruce Friedman, Dentistry for Children

Friends of St. Catherine’s

Tom and Gina Fulkerson

Galveston Historical Foundation

Harry Gee & Associates, PLLC

Gittings Portraiture

Glassell School of Art

Zan and Marija Gligorov

Steve and Jennifer Grace

Madeline Gregory

Rock and Deborah Gremillion

Patrick and Mollie Gremillion

Gremillion Design Works

Craig Guidry and Ashley Graves

David and Mary Haberman

Caren Hayden Fitness

Healthy Family Skin

Heights Candy Bar

Holocaust Museum Houston

Hotel Zaza

House of Blues

House of Coffee Beans

Houston Scuba Academy

Houston Swim Club

Houston Symphony

The Houston Texans Foundation

Amanda Hughes

Ms. Amanda’s Class

Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa

Impromptu

Incarnate Word Academy

Infant Community

Robin Jackson Photography

James Avery

The Jewelry Project

Jeremy and Christie Jones

Christopher and Megan Jordan

Wade and Ivy Koteras

Antonio and Larissa La Matta

Norman Lateef and Yusra Saifuddin

Paul Latino Art and Design

Laurenzo’s El Tiempo

Nikky LaWell Photography

Brenda LeSage

Michael Lewis and Melissa Meingast

Christopher and Sarah Lewis

Little Napoli Italian Restaurant

Todd and Barbara Link

David and Melissa Lopez

Julie Lorenz

The Mad Potter

Main Street Theater

Frankie B. Mandola’s Catering

Jaime and Shannon Mann

David and Nancy Martin

Greg and Rachel Marino

Brad Marks

David Marks and Mary Grimord

Paul and Tanya Massouh

Rebecca Matthews Image & Style

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

McHugh Tea - Tea Room and Gifts

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

David and Eileen Meinert

Molina’s Cantina

Megan Monks

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Nasher Sculpture Center

Naturally Nourished RD

Natural Expressions

New Living

Niko Niko’s Greek and American Cafe

Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital

No Label Brewing

Norris of Houston Salon and Day Spa

Gabby Novak (‘14)

Olivia Novak

Nuri Nuri and Lois Romendatta

Opera In The Heights

Organizational Bliss

Sharon Ortiz

Page Museum – La Brea Tar Pits

Katherine Parker

Ms. Katherine’s Class

Kenneth and Gretchen Penny

Robert and Violet Perez

Pilates Houston

Prelude Music Classes for Children

Prima Pasta

Pure Body Studio

Quillian Memorial Center

Don and Martha Reid

Fremmiot Rodriguez

Ross Enterprises Insurance Agency

Saint Arnold Brewing Company

Annie Sallans

Sam Houston Race Park

San Antonio Aquarium

David and LuAnn Sanchez

Lucy Sanchez

Sara’s Inn on the Boulevard LLC

Sky High Sports Houston

Skyline Spa Hilton-Americas

Renee Smith

Ms. Renee’s Class

Tim Snow

Mr. Tim’s Class

Alex and Marilyn Somers

SpaceMan Home & Office

Audrey Speicher

Don T. Speck Orthodontics

David Spencer and Zsofia Intody

Squire Livery

St. Agnes Academy

St. Catherine’s Athletics

St. Helena Winery

St. Thomas High School

Stages Repertory Theatre

D. R. Stephens Estate

Strake Jesuit College Preparatory

Studio 3 - The Salon

Studio Tropa

Eric Tait and Claudine Johnson

Taste of Texas Restaurant

Theatre Under the Stars

Ly Thompson

Ms. Ly’s Class

Tiny Boxwoods

Susan Tracy

Chan and Mary Tysor

Uchi

Jennifer Uitenbroek

Ms. Jennifer’s Class

The Union Kitchen

Veritas Catholic Bookstore

Village Plumbing and Home Services

Vine Cliff Winery

Craig and Michelle Vinson

Kathleen Vrabec

Bob Wager

Cortney Waguespack

Jason and Michelle Walker

West U Wellness

Westbury Animal Hospital

Jim Meyn and Wendy Wight

Willow Creek Golf Club

John Paul and Claire Yabraian

John Yanosik and Mayra Perez

Mario Yearwood and Vicky Mata

Yoga Heart Studio

Noe and Bernadette Zamora

Joining Hands TO FULFILL THE

MISSION

ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE

An education respecting the individual gifts of students from infancy through adolescence requires the long-term vision and collaboration of the entire St. Catherine’s community. The Advancement Committee brings together our financial resources and “can-do” spirit to support our children, their guides, and the bonds of our thriving community. The Committee also cultivates relationships with the many foundations and corporate benefactors who have committed to the St. Catherine’s mission. Thanks to the tireless efforts and generosity of our community and partners, St. Catherine’s is well on its way to meeting the initiatives of our most recent Strategic Plan.

Highlights of the 2014-2015 year include:

• Publicly launching the school’s first capital campaign in 10 years, “Building on the Legacy.”

• Defining a plan to commemorate the school’s Golden Anniversary in 2016-2017.

• Improving communication, such as streamlining the Globe , revamping the school’s website, and launching social media communications.

• Publishing St. Catherine’s first Annual Report, documenting the school’s strategic direction and underscoring our strong financial outlook.

• Rebranding St. Catherine’s Montessori, paying tribute to our core values while creating a fresh perspective on our journey going forward.

“It has been my pleasure working with the dedicated members of the St. Catherine’s community and staff as we work toward our Annual Fund and capital campaign goals, and the many other important efforts that help sustain this wonderful community. Many thanks to all who have put in the long hours to place us on the path of growth and sustainability for future generations.”

Melissa Lopez Chair Advancement Committee

Ensuring OUR FINANCIAL FUTURE

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Good stewardship of our financial resources is fundamental to providing students with an outstanding Montessori education. The Finance Committee maximizes our community’s financial effectiveness by minimizing operating costs, managing the funds generated in the capital campaign, and growing scholarship opportunities. As our audited financials illustrate, St. Catherine’s Montessori continues to be a lean organization, directing most of our revenue to the classroom, where it impacts our children the most.

In the 2014-15 school year, major strides were made in reducing the remaining debt from construction of the Timberside campus. Additionally, we transitioned to a 5-year budgeting process that better integrates our school’s long-term financial and strategic goals. Among its many benefits, the broader scope allowed us to identify further resources for maintaining the socioeconomic diversity of our community. As we look to the future, it is crucial that we reach the goals of our current capital campaign to ensure our financial wellbeing as we improve and expand our campus.

“I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve as the Treasurer of the Board of Directors. My daughters attended St. Catherine’s from 1995 to 2008, and Pat and I will always be indebted to the community for the foundation they received here. I wish to thank you, the St. Catherine’s community, for what you do with your time, money and services to enable St. Catherine’s excellent program.”

Bob Lunn Chair Finance Committee and Treasurer of the Board of Directors

Preparing the Environment

THE BUILDING AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE

The Building and Grounds Committee supports the Board of Directors and the Head of School in the long-term planning and development of the St. Catherine’s facilities, infrastructure, and 10.4-acre grounds.

As our Timberside building ages, we must be increasingly strategic about budgeting for repair and replacement costs. The committee’s ongoing focus has been establishing a 10-year facilities plan that anticipates the lifespan and costs associated with components such as appliances, the roof, the AC units, carpets, etc.

Also last year, our partnership with the Texas A&M Agri-Life Extension Program yielded a sharp reduction in the number of active fire ant mounds on campus. By May 2015, active mounds had been reduced by 81%. By September 2015, active mounds had been reduced by 97%. We are pleased to have found an environmentally-sound ant control solution and will continue to monitor mound activity this spring.

“Caring for our facilities is providing a prepared environment for our students, which is one of the foundational pillars of the Montessori philosophy. Our facilities allow St. Catherine’s students to freely explore, learn and be social in an environment that supports these essential parts of their development.”

Alison Jefferies Chair Building and Grounds Committee and Secretary of the Board of Directors

THE POWER OF Our Community

VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

St. Catherine’s Montessori has a longstanding tradition of support from parent volunteers. The culture of philanthropy began in the early days with parents rolling up their sleeves to help our foundresses with whatever the school needed, including maintenance and custodial service. That spirit of collaboration continues today, as parents advance the school’s mission through service and fundraising efforts. Thank you to the many parent volunteers who supported the following fundraisers in 2014-2015, which collectively generated $69,806.23 (gross):

Square 1 Art (Faculty Enrichment)

Rebate Programs, Magazine Drive (PSO)

Hoot for Hoops, Concession Sales, Los Tios and Skeeters Family Dining, Mini Directory (Athletic Booster Club)

Book Fair, Scholastics (Library)

Steps for Students (PSO and Athletic Booster Club)

Sociables (General Operating Fund)

Woodland Edge Project (Grounds Beautification)

“We are more than a school. We really view ourselves as a community, because everything we do is so integrated. Everything the parents do, the guides do, the administrative team does we’re all working together for the greater good.” – Susan Tracy

WHY DO WE DO WHAT WE DO?

“We’re not trying to prepare students to pass a test. We’re trying to prepare them for an unknown future—for adult professions that haven’t been invented yet. We want them to be problem solvers. We want them to think, not only with their head, but also with their heart. Everything we do goes back to those Montessori principles of respect for the individual and this great belief that these students are going to change the world in a positive way.”

– Kathy Hijazi, Adolescent Community Guide

“Montessori says, ‘Let the child lead you.’ Sometimes it’s good to just sit back and face the day, and let the child lead you, and it works.”

– Jacinta Edussuriya, Lower Elementary Guide

“I chose St. Catherine’s because I wanted a school that would allow my children to define their own success by the work of their hands and their piqued curiosities. As an extension of our family, I wanted their school environment to reflect the values for life, community, cultures and the world that we share at home.”

– Cathy Crath, Parent

“Ask the question, what is it to be human, and music and art answer that so easily. Just a little bit of work in music, and you can watch children go off on their own and instantly become creative. I believe all people are naturally musical— what I’m hoping we’re doing at St. Catherine’s is blowing that little flame and nourishing it. Introducing children to the beauty of the world—that’s what we’re shooting for here.”

– Tim Snow, Lower Elementary Guide and Band Director

“I love working with children—I get to work in paradise every day. What draws me each day and allows me to experience things anew is the fact that I’m around children who are creators, who practice grace and courtesy, who are intelligent. A true Montessori school such as St. Catherine’s allows for creativity, brilliance and innovation to soar.”

– Katherine Parker , Primary Guide

“St. Catherine’s is very easy to love. No other school we’ve known is better at meeting its mission—teaching, developing and nurturing children in a warm, stimulating, rich learning environment, while providing structure, encouragement and emotional support and stressing spiritual growth and respect for individuals and the community. Montessori education at its best.”

– Cliff & Michelle Shedd , Grandparent Representatives for St. Catherine’s Annual Fund and Alumni Parents