STRATEGIC PLANNING - THE IMPORTANCE OF ALIGNMENT GROWING TOGETHER WITH OUTDOOR LEARNING THE QUIET GENIUS OF WOODWORKING - MATH IN ACTION
Join us this summer! Summer camps at St. Martin’s Episcopal School provide a variety of child-centered activities focusing on skill building, learning and lots of fun for children in rising Pre-K through 8th Grade. We offer one-week sessions specializing in a variety of activities. Check online for a full list of sessions.
SESSION 1: June 2 - June 27
SESSION 2: July 7 - August 1
Mark McDaniel, Director | mmcdaniel@stmartinschool.org 404.228.0760 3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Road, Brookhaven, GA 30319
Enrollment at St. Martin’s Episcopal School is not required to attend.
The
Embracing Growth
A
Join
Groovin’
The
Max
EDITOR
Kristi Gaffney
CONTRIBUTORS
Michael Albanese
Brittany Bruner
Ryder Clarida, Student Writer
Fr. Brandon Duke
Kristi Gaffney
Maria Croley Madden
Emma Mattesky
Mark McDaniel
Lauren Ramirez
Lauren Sims
Lillian Westmoreland, Student Writer
DESIGN
Stalling Design
ADMINISTRATION
Maria Croley Madden Head of School
LaToyia Hawkins Principal, Early Childhood
Lynne Perry Principal, Lower School
Kanette Fenstermacher Principal, Middle School
Cheryl Doughty
Director of Finance & Operations
Kristi Gaffney
Director of Marketing & Communications
Gopi Shammas
Director of Enrollment Management & Tuition Assistance
Lauren Sims Director of Advancement
Mark McDaniel Director of Campus Safety & Director of Athletics
The Rev. Brandon Duke Chaplain
The Rev. Monica Mainwaring
St. Martin’s Church Rector
Patterns is published biannually by St. Martin’s Episcopal School. Please direct any letters, comments or news items to:
St. Martin’s Episcopal School 3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Rd. Atlanta, GA 30319 (404) 237-4260
St. Martin’s Episcopal School is dedicated to providing a quality education of the whole person in a loving, Christian atmosphere, which fosters lifelong learning.
“With gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead, we invite you to dive into this issue and celebrate all that makes our school community exceptional.”
Happy New Year! As we reflect on the vibrant spirit of our school community, we are delighted to present this edition of our bi-annual magazine. It is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and hard work of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and all those who make our Episcopal school a special place for learning and growth. From outdoor learning in Early Childhood and the magic of the woodworking studio to the invaluable contributions of our alumni, this issue highlights the many ways in which our school thrives—through the passion of our students, the commitment of our educators, and the support of our wider community.
Thinking about the big picture, please enjoy articles on how our strategic planning process and philanthropic giving reflect our commitment to shaping a bright future for our school. As always, we are profoundly thankful to our entire community for the unwavering support and dedication to making our school a place of excellence and joy.
With gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead, we invite you to dive into this issue and celebrate all that makes our school community exceptional.
Gratefully,
Maria Croley Madden
In these pages, we showcase the fiction writing skills of two 8th-grade students by sharing their creativity through a recent classroom assignment. We are proud of their ability to express themselves, and we hope you’ll enjoy reading their “fan fiction” as much as we have enjoyed watching them grow throughout their time at our school.
We also take great pride in the accomplishments and involvement of our alumni. From the continued success of our former students in their academic and personal endeavors to their ongoing connection with our school, they serve as a reminder of the lasting impact of a foundation built on faith, learning, and community.
This issue also shines a spotlight on the incredible work of our faculty, staff and volunteers. Whether through their tireless dedication in the classroom, behind-the-scenes support, or leadership within the community, their contributions are nothing short of inspiring. We are deeply grateful for their service and for the positive influence they have on our students.
In addition to celebrating the people who make our school special, we also share important updates on its safety and security. This issue highlights recent community events that bring us together, such as Feast Day, Fall Festival and Groovin’ on the Green. In November, we welcomed board and church vestry members to campus to participate in our first-ever trustee visitation day, which allowed them time to explore classrooms and experience chapel.
Top: Kindergarten Christmas read aloud
Right: Trustee Visitation Day
Seen + Heard
OPENING CHAPEL SERVICE
Starting the Year Off Right
Lower and Middle School students came together for the Opening Chapel service in the school gym. Father Duke and the religion team blessed all students, faculty and staff. The service and blessing of the backpacks set the tone to kick off the school year!
NEWS AND HAPPENINGS IN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY
OPENING ASSEMBLY
Always Be Proud of Who You Are!
A new tradition, Kindergarteners and 8th graders started the Opening Assembly by parading into the gym together. Eighth-grade leaders set the theme for the school year with a fun dance routine to their chosen song of the year, “Roar” by Katy Perry! They reminded students always to be proud of who they are!
COMMUNITY COFFEE TRUCK
Sip, Smile & Stay Awhile!
St. Martin’s welcomed parents with a community coffee truck after morning carpool to celebrate the first full week of school. It was a morning filled with joy, friends (both old and new) and delicious coffee!
ELECTED OFFICERS
Middle School Student Council
Each fall, every 5th through 8th-grade homeroom elects two representatives to serve on the SMES Student Council. From that group, six students are elected to serve as leadership officers on the executive board. Congratulations to the 2024-25 executive board!
2024-25 EXECUTIVE BOARD:
L-R: VP of School Service Abe Osman, VP of Community Service Scotty Hamilton, VP of Administration Jack McEwan, President Stella House, Secretary Emily Hamm and Treasurer Bodhi Shammas
Middle School Honor Pledge Signing
Middle School students proudly signed the St. Martin’s Honor Code. With this pledge, students promise to always be honest, trustworthy, fair and kind.
FOOTBALL FRIDAY
Game Day Vibes
Football Friday is a fan-favorite tradition at St. Martin’s. In honor of the start of fall sports, students, faculty and staff donned their favorite sports team jerseys and t-shirts. Go, Warriors!
PLEDGE
ST. FRANCIS CHAPEL:
Blessing of All Creatures
In celebration of St. Francis of Assisi, students, faculty and staff gathered for a heartwarming chapel service to honor all creatures, great and small. Students brought their lovies, stuffed animals and pictures of their pets to the chapel service and received a special blessing from Father Duke.
BREAKFAST AROUND THE WORLD:
Celebrating Our Diverse Community
St. Martin’s welcomed over 85 parents, faculty and staff for the 2nd annual Breakfast Around the World event. Guests came together and enjoyed coffee and a delicious feast representing the diverse cultures of the SMES community!
3RD GRADE RECYCLABLE MATERIALS FASHION SHOW:
Runway Ready!
Talented 3rd graders wowed parents, students and faculty at the inaugural Recyclable Materials Fashion Show, showcasing creativity and innovation by turning everyday “trash” into stunning fashion pieces like hats, capes, shirts, jewelry, and more. Students created the pieces in Innovation and Design class and then strutted down the runway for all to enjoy!
HURRICANE SERVICE PROJECT:
Sending Love to North Carolina
St. Martin’s students participated in a service project to shine light and spread love to first responders and hurricane victims in Asheville, N.C. LS students created 181 notecards with words of encouragement, and MS students attached strings to them for easy display throughout the city. EC students created a thumbprint paper heart mural, symbolizing St. Martin’s love and support for those impacted. The notecards and artwork were hand-delivered to Asheville by SMES faculty member Abby Daly.
SMES SPIRIT DAY:
Decked Out in SMES Spirit
St. Martin’s students, faculty and staff donned blue SMES spirit shirts to showcase school pride! It was the first Sports Assembly of the year, and the gym was a sea of blue. Go, Warriors!
DRAMA ONE-ACT FESTIVAL: Bravo!
St. Martin’s drama students performed C.S Lewis’s “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” at the Georgia Jr. One-Act Festival in Gainesville, GA, where the troupe won runner-up for the grand prize. Sixth-grader Sabrina Kulinski won Best Actor, 7th-grader Eli WorrillMeyers received Best Supporting Actor, and 6th-grader West Webb and 5th-grader Addi Clark won All-Star Cast. Bravo, Warriors!
MS RETREATS
A Time to Bond
Middle schoolers had a blast on their fall retreats! Sixth and 8th graders visited Nature’s Classroom in Alabama, 7th graders traveled to Butter and Egg Adventures in Alabama and 5th graders stayed local and visited Sojourn Adventures in John’s Creek and had an on-campus retreat day. From team-building challenges to obstacle courses, it was a great time for students to bond and make unforgettable memories with their class.
Navigating the Digital Age
St. Martin’s welcomed guest speaker Katey McPherson to campus. She guided parents, faculty, and middle school students through the challenges of the digital age and offered insights and resources on the impact of technology on students.
CAMPUS SPEAKER KATEY MCPHERSON
STUDENTS V. ADULTS VOLLEYBALL
Victory for the A Volleyball Team
The gym buzzed with excitement to close out the Feast Day festivities as students, faculty and staff gathered for the highly anticipated Students vs. Adults Volleyball showdown. The matches kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Fresh off their MAAC championship win, the students came out on top. Way to go, Warriors!
Fall Fun!
The PTO Fall Festival was a blast! Festival goers enjoyed games, obstacle courses, bounce houses, face painting, a cake walk and more. A raffle offering an opportunity to pie a faculty/ staff member was a huge hit! Thank you, PTO volunteers, for a wonderful event!
FALL FESTIVAL
Boo-tiful Costumes and Buddies
The annual Halloween Parade is a beloved community tradition at St. Martin’s. Early Childhood, Kindergarten and 8th-grade students wowed the crowd in costumes. Ninjas, princesses, superheroes, Mario characters and many other costumes made for a spooktacular morning. Kindergarteners were all smiles as they paraded around the school with their 8th-grade buddies!
HALLOWEEN PARADE
Thank You for Your Service
Students, faculty and veterans filled the school gym to enjoy the annual Veterans Day assembly. The program was filled with performances, student essay winners’ recitations and patriotic music played by the SMES band. There was a live flag presentation by the fourth grade and two keynote speeches by Major Lawrence Henderson and E6/YN1 Gerri Woods.
VETERANS DAY
EARLY CHILDHOOD/ LOWER SCHOOL GRANDPARENTS’
OR
SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY: Grand Moments
St. Martin’s kicked off the Thanksgiving Break with a heartwarming Grandparents’ or Special Friends’ Day for Lower and Early Childhood families. Both days featured student performances in the gym and chapel for guests to enjoy, followed by classroom tours. Guests received a blessing from the religion team and heard remarks from St. Martin’s Fund grandparent chair Major John M. Croley and Head of School Maria Croley Madden. Students had a blast sharing with their guests what makes St. Martin’s so special!
1ST GRADE
Thanksgiving Service Project
This Thanksgiving, first-grade students made a big impact on our local community. They held a food drive to collect canned goods and non-perishable food. They also visited the Suthers Center food pantry to package items for local families in need.
Dash into The Holidays
The annual PTO Warrior Reindeer 5K & Fun Run brought the St. Martin’s community together for a morning of holiday fun. Runners and walkers of all ages laced up their sneakers to spread holiday cheer. After crossing the finish line, racegoers were treated to a festive celebration with hot chocolate, an awards ceremony, Christmas music and more!
Spreading Christmas Cheer!
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” And that is what second graders did at their Christmas from All Around the World program. Dressed in festive Santa hats and red scarves, they filled the room with holiday spirit as they performed songs like “The Piñata Song,” “Oh Christmas We Greet You,” and “Caroling on Christmas Night.”
2ND GRADE CHRISTMAS PROGRAM
PTO WARRIOR REINDEER RUN:
KINDERGARTEN CHRISTMAS PROGRAM:
Celebrating The First Christmas
Kindergarten students brought the Nativity story to life at the annual Christmas performance. Dressed as angels, shepherds, kings and animals, they filled the stage with joy and Christmas spirit. Their performance was a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.
&
Sweet Treats, Merry Moments
Santa Claus left the North Pole to bring holiday magic to SMES! Students had a wonderful time during story time with Santa while enjoying cookies and other treats. A big thank you to the fantastic PTO parent elves for working their magic in the kitchen to bake delicious goodies for all to enjoy.
2ND GRADE GRINCH DAY:
Grinchmas at St. Martin’s
Second-grade classrooms at St. Martin’s transformed into a whimsical Whoville from Dr. Seuss’s classic “ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” With decorations and plenty of Grinchy fun, students had a blast embracing the holiday magic. It was a day of heartwarming cheer that even the Grinch couldn’t resist!
PTO COOKIES
CAROLS:
Volunteer Spotlight
Caroline and Patrick Bladon
When did your family become part of the SMES community, and what initially made you want to be part of the St. Martin’s community?
Our journey with SMES started in Kindergarten. We liked the size of the school and that they prioritize an individual child’s development within a nurturing space. After our initial visit to SMES, we knew it was the place - an open-minded, holistic school offering both progressive thought in an environment rooted in principles of kindness, uniqueness and friendship.
In what capacities have you volunteered at SMES?
Our most steady roles are with The St. Martin’s Fund and this year’s PTO Executive Committee. We also take any opportunity to help in the classroom. They all provide opportunities to engage with other families, all in an effort to ensure our kids are maximizing their time in and out of school.
Why is volunteering important to you and your family?
We love to help…really. The act of helping others, offering either time, talent or treasure to aid in a common goal, gives us fulfillment. In the case of SMES, we believe in its mission of ensuring children are best prepared to be leaders and contributors of tomorrow. While we cannot help all, we can certainly make an effort to help our community, which involves leaning into these grade school years as best and often as we can.
What are your favorite opportunities for SMES parents to engage with each other?
There are so many great events for a family to engage with either the school directly or indirectly with other parents. The PTO’s social events are a blast and a great way to meet other parents from different grade levels. We really enjoy the winter Fling each year. The school’s Civic Dinners are a perfect way to build pride in our school community and meet parents/ staff from all corners of the school. We also love class parties, lunch visits, and back-to-school orientation. And, we enjoy volunteering for any committee, whether in the classroom or at a PTO event, which allows us to make a visible impact that keeps us engaged.
What is one thing that makes St. Martin’s special to you and your family?
The enthusiasm for school that our child has gives us great joy. Coming home at the end of each day happy and full of confidence is what it’s all about!
We are fortunate to live in a community here in Atlanta, with tons of fantastic school choices for our kids, both private and public. Finding an environment where kids feel safe, can thrive and are happy - these are the most important things. With St. Martin’s, we’ve hit the jackpot!
WE ENJOY VOLUNTEERING FOR ANY COMMITTEE, WHETHER IN THE CLASSROOM OR AT A PTO EVENT, WHICH ALLOWS US TO MAKE A VISIBLE IMPACT THAT KEEPS US ENGAGED.
“We’ve worked hard to embed safety into our everyday practices. It’s not just about responding to incidents but preventing them.”
“Our officers are here not just to protect, but to be part of the community. They’re approachable, they know the families, and they care deeply about our school’s mission.”
– Mark McDaniel Director of Safety & Security
SAFETY FIRST:
A Dedicated Approach to Campus Security
by KRISTI GAFFNEY DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
AS AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL IN 2024, the safety and security of the St. Martin’s community remain central to daily campus life. Every day, a layered framework of well-established practices and recent advancements works in tandem to ensure that safety measures are both proactive and forward-thinking.
One of the most significant upgrades to campus security this year, made possible by a generous donation from the Macauley family, is the installation of an advanced camera system. This comprehensive surveillance enhancement, completed in the fall, offers considerable improvements over previous technology. With expanded coverage and high-resolution views, the new camera system provides the security team with essential oversight across the campus, representing a critical step forward in campus safety. “The Macauley family’s generosity has truly elevated our capabilities,” says Director of Safety and Security Mark McDaniel. “These upgrades enhance our team’s ability to act fast and effectively for the safety of our entire community.”
A Thoughtful, Multi-Layered Security
Strategy
Beginning with a campus-wide safety audit conducted by industry expert Joffee Security Services in 2022, SMES Safety and Security Director Mark McDaniel approached safety and security through a strategic and multi-layered lens. One core element of this strategy is the SchoolPass visitor and carpool management system, a fundamental component for monitoring access to the campus. This system ensures that each visitor undergoes verification at check-in at the main entrance. The system’s visitor management tool stores visitor credentials, maintaining an efficient record of everyone on campus. Recently, a new parent badge feature was added, allowing school families streamlined access. “The parent badge is just one way we’re making things simpler for families while keeping our community safe,” McDaniel notes.
To further secure access, St. Martin’s maintains a two-point entry system at its primary visitor access points, with each guest entry monitored by the school’s front desk team. This additional level of oversight provides the security team greater confidence in managing access while maintaining visibility of campus activity. Communication systems, including an expanded public address system and upgraded walkie-talkies with multiple channels, also bolster real-time coordination, enabling quick, reliable responses from staff and faculty across campus.
St. Martin’s security team also includes two experienced armed officers whose presence goes beyond traditional security roles. From assisting with carpool traffic and conducting regular campus patrols to engaging with students in
friendly ways, these officers are a welcome part of the community. “We see these officers, Demetrius OxyWillis and Brionne Spearman, as trusted members of the school community,” says Head of School Maria Croley Madden. “Not only are they here to keep us safe, but they also contribute to our culture of care by high-fiving students, coaching, participating in games, and adding that extra warmth that helps students feel secure.”
Building a Culture of Safety
Safety is more than a protocol; at St. Martin’s, it’s a core part of the school culture. All faculty and staff participate in annual safety training, including CPR and response readiness courses. “We equip every staff member to handle a range of situations,” says McDaniel, adding that these trainings are designed to keep safety top of mind and give staff the tools they need to act with confidence. The school also conducts monthly safety drills for students, faculty, and staff. These drills cover everything from fire and tornado responses to lockdown procedures, maintaining familiarity with protocols and allowing opportunities for improvement to keep safety practices familiar.
In addition, SMES School Resource Officers undergo professional development to stay abreast of current trends for protecting schools.
Recognizing the importance of well-being to overall security, the school also provides ongoing resources to support students’ emotional needs, ensuring a campus environment where every student feels known, supported and safe.
Looking Ahead
St. Martin’s remains committed to continuously evolving its security measures to meet the needs of a growing and dynamic campus. Future plans include exploring options to bolster campus security further while blending with the natural campus landscape. “Our focus is on a safe and welcoming community environment,” says Madden. “We want families to know that, here at St. Martin’s, safety is never an afterthought but an ongoing commitment.”
With current security measures laying a solid foundation, St. Martin’s remains dedicated to protecting the well-being of every individual on campus. The school’s adaptable, multi-layered approach reflects a deep commitment to maintaining a secure, caring environment—today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
“The safety audit allowed us to see the big picture—identifying where we could bolster our defenses, while also respecting what was already working.”
– Mark McDaniel Director of Safety & Security
“Our safety culture is something we nurture every day. We want our entire community to be prepared and feel empowered, not anxious.”
– Maria Croley Madden Head of School
Understanding how a strategic plan supports everything from budgeting to curriculum development is crucial to seeing it as an essential tool for growth and future readiness.
Strategic Planning: The Importance of Alignment
by MARIA CROLEY MADDEN HEAD OF SCHOOL
Here at St. Martin’s, our mission has always been to provide an exceptional education rooted in Episcopal values, fostering both academic excellence and spiritual growth. As we continue to evolve, we remain deeply committed to ensuring that our school remains a vibrant, dynamic community—one equipped to serve our students and their families for years to come. A critical part of this journey is the strategic planning process that most independent schools engage in roughly every three to five years.
Strategic planning is much more than just a roadmap for the future; it is an essential framework that thoughtfully aligns our vision, goals and resources with the views of the entire community before embarking on programming changes or a larger fundraising project. By pausing to reflect on where we have been and where we are going, we ensure that our programs, operations and initiatives align with our mission.
Last spring, we enlisted a consulting group that works with organizations, such as schools and non-profits, to guide this process, engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including parents, faculty, staff and board members. Together, we explored opportunities, clarified priorities and laid the foundation for the school’s next chapter as we work to ensure the continued success of our school for generations to come.
Many educators and professionals have heard the term “strategic plans,” but the connection between strategy, alignment, and success is not always clear from the beginning. While the idea of a process that aligns a school’s programs with its mission and sets clear steps for success is appealing, how does it connect with daily operations, academic programming, or fundraising? Understanding how a strategic plan supports everything from budgeting to curriculum development is crucial to seeing it as an essential tool for growth and future readiness.
This work culminated in a comprehensive five-year vision for St. Martin’s - one that is both promising and achievable. The plan established clear goals, practical strategies and measurable outcomes to guide our future efforts. This moment is pivotal for our school’s growth and aligns the entire community as we prepare for the next phase of development.
One important priority from the plan is the need for our next capital campaign. Capital campaigns are essential to the life of independent schools, enabling transformative projects that tuition and annual fund dollars cannot cover. They focus on major initiatives like expanding facilities or enhancing programs, often requiring significant community participation and multi-year commitments. This spring, we will launch a feasibility study
to gauge our readiness and giving capacity for such a campaign. Through this process, you will have opportunities to share your voice and help shape the future of our school toward a project or projects that will span a three to five-year giving commitment. Together, we can achieve extraordinary outcomes, ensuring St. Martin’s continues to grow and thrive for generations to come.
CHARTING A PATH FORWARD
This moment is critical for the school’s growth, and our strategic planning process was guided by a thoughtful four-phase approach that ultimately led to a five-year vision for our school that is promising and feasible.
A FOUR-PHASE APPROACH
Align Mission | Project Goals & Identification
• Assemble a project team of key stakeholders representing a variety of constituents
• Ask the right questions and clarify goals
• Ensure mechanisms are in place for all voices to be heard
• Draft a project plan including key dates and deliverables
Build Trust | Community Feedback Collection
• Draft and disseminate surveys (collected 260 digital surveys)
• Host two in-person focus groups (more than 100 people attended)
• Conduct one-on-one personal interviews
• Analyze peer schools around the country to search for commonalities and differences
• Assimilate all data collected
• Conduct an off-site retreat, including division heads and SMES Board of Trustees, to analyze data and set strategic priorities
Refine the Goals | Deep Dive Conversations & Plan Draft
• Hold deep dive conversations to discuss key priorities gleaned from the strategic sessiondiscuss pros, cons, challenges, opportunities
• Craft strategic plan draft
Operationalize the Future | Finalize Draft & Create Operational Plan
• Finalize strategic plan
• Craft a detailed strategic plan for the internal execution team, including timelines, metrics with data sources and measurable goals, along with detailed tactics for each of the goals and strategies outlined in the strategic plan
As we embark on this exciting journey, I am reminded of how special our community is and how meaningful your support has been. Our school is at a pivotal point in its history—a defining moment that will determine what the future can promise for our students and families. And, together, we will ensure that St. Martin’s continues to be a place of exceptional education, strong values and enduring impact.
We look forward to connecting with families, alumni and the broader SMES community this spring as we launch a feasibility study to explore which projects most closely align with our shared vision for the school’s future.
While the room has an inviting warmth, there’s a precision to its layout that hints at something deeper—a silent but steady dialogue between math and creativity.
The Quiet Genius of Woodworking at SMES: Math in Action
by EMMA MATTESKY DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION AND DESIGN
There’s something powerful about seeing where children learn. When I joined St. Martin’s and first walked into the woodshop, I was struck by the space itself—how much it said without anyone needing to explain anything. A space can reveal what a school values, how teachers think, and most importantly, what they want for students. The room, at first glance, feels like a family kitchen. In the center, there’s a large communal table—buckets of pencils, rulers, hammers and clamps scattered about, perfectly within arm’s reach of a child. It’s immediately clear: the student is the decision-maker here. They’re not just learning; they’re building, designing and making.
What struck me most is the intentional blend of subjects this space represents. Eyelevel drawings fill the whiteboard, bursting with numbers and geometric diagrams, reminding me that math lives here just as much as sawdust. While the room has an inviting warmth, there’s a precision to its layout that hints at something deeper—a
silent but steady dialogue between math and creativity. It’s in the tools, the measurements, and the careful angles drawn on wood.
Jeff Parker and Taylor Hall, the woodworking teachers who bring the space to life, do so with such quiet expertise. Their care is apparent not just in the spotless organization but in the way they move through each class—effortlessly guiding students through the blend of creativity and structure that woodworking requires. The genius of the space revealed itself: math was subtly woven into the very fabric of their lessons.
I asked Mr. Parker, “How often do you use math in woodworking?” He grinned at me as if the answer was obvious. “All the time,” he laughed. He started rattling off examples such as measuring, cutting angles and calculating proportions. Woodworking is math in action. Every piece of wood cut, every nail hammered
into place, requires mathematical thought. And in a way, St. Martin’s has naturally blended the two—perhaps accidentally— creating a learning space where math isn’t an isolated subject but something you do while creating.
A striking example of this integration is our first-grade Christmas tree project. While the final product is important, the real magic is in the process. From the moment Mr. Parker introduces the project, he shows students a prototype of the tree. This step—modeling the outcome—sets the tone for everything that follows. The kids immediately get to work, measuring, clamping, and cutting the wood with a partner. The math happens organically: they learn to sand with the grain and create a tree base by cutting a heavier block, all while constantly measuring and adjusting.
Students learn to drill holes and work with patterns that teach ascending and descending order. They learn to find the center of an odd number, a concept that challenges them to think mathematically in ways they might not yet even understand. It’s this organic blend of hands-on creativity and numerical precision that makes the woodshop so special.
Eighth graders are working on crafting a side table with a floating tabletop. This project isn’t just about making furniture but mastering skills they’ve been developing. They use precise measurements to create even shapes and angles. They apply geometry, calculating how to taper legs and figuring out how much material to
cut. They even calculate the clearance for countersink holes, ensuring every dowel joint fits perfectly. Each step reinforces the lessons of math in a way that feels natural. While this precision and focus on mathematical application is critical, there lies a deeper truth. The woodshop isn’t just a space for technical skill; it’s an integration point where creativity, logic, and problem-solving blend seamlessly. This synthesis isn’t new—human beings have been making, building, and creating since the beginning of time. Our ancestors didn’t separate math from making; they couldn’t. And neither should we.
Walking through this space, it’s clear that what students learn here goes far beyond woodworking or math. They’re learning how to think for themselves, to solve problems, and to engage deeply with the process of creating. That’s what makes this space—and the school itself—so special. It’s a reminder that the true measure of a learning community is not in how much it has but in how deeply it engages with what it values.
EMBRACING GROWTH: A HEAD OF SCHOOL’S INSIGHTS ON EDUCATIONAL VALUES
by MARIA CROLEY MADDEN , HEAD OF SCHOOL
In the vibrant landscape of education today, I recently had the opportunity to participate in both a podcast and a webinar aimed at educators and parents. These platforms allowed me to share my perspective and insights on the topical subjects of the unique benefits of our preschool through 8th-grade model and the importance of digital literacy for our students.
The podcast I joined, hosted by Inspiring Schools, invites school leaders to reflect on their leadership journey, and after enjoying previous episodes as a listener, I felt compelled to participate. In addition, The Social Institute (TSI), with which I have partnered for more than five years, hosted a webinar focusing on digital wellness - a key component of our middle school advisory program here at St. Martin’s and at my previous school.
OUR STRUCTURE FOSTERS THE HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG MINDS IN A WORLD THAT OFTEN RUSHES CHILDREN TOWARD THE NEXT STAGE.
INSPIRING SCHOOLS PODCAST
During the Inspiring Schools podcast, I was asked a thought-provoking question about the value of the preschool through 8th-grade educational model. I explained how our structure fosters the holistic development of young minds in a world that often rushes children toward the next stage. By providing a safe and nurturing environment without the pressure of competing with older peers, we create a space where students can fully experience childhood, explore their interests, and develop leadership skills at their own pace.
In this setting, our students are encouraged to be curious, ask questions, and form strong identities in a supportive space. This approach allows them to truly embrace the wonders of childhood and gain a solid sense of self before moving on to the next phase of their educational journey in high school.
THE SOCIAL INSTITUTE WEBINAR SERIES
The Social Institute provides students, families, and educators with the tools and skills needed to navigate the digital world responsibly. In the webinar, I discussed another critical aspect of modern education: digital literacy. As technology becomes increasingly integral to our daily lives, it is essential that students learn to engage with digital tools thoughtfully and responsibly. The webinar highlighted the importance of teaching these lessons as early as grades 3 and 4, helping students understand how to interact with texting, video games, and social media in a safe, informed way.
Our partnership with The Social Institute in middle school fosters meaningful discussions about realworld digital scenarios among students, teachers, and peers. By engaging in these conversations, students not only learn how to use technology wisely but also develop the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate online challenges—both now and in the future.
CREATING A LASTING IMPACT
The insights I shared through both the podcast and webinar reinforce our commitment to cultivating an educational environment that prioritizes the holistic development of our students. By combining the strengths of the preschool-8th grade model with a robust approach to digital literacy, we empower our students to navigate both their academic journeys and the complexities of modern life.
As we move forward, we remain dedicated to fostering a nurturing community that celebrates the joys of childhood while equipping our students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world. These discussions have energized our educators and parents, reaffirming our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and dynamic environment for all our students.
It was an honor to represent St. Martin’s in these important forums. As a lifelong learner, I value opportunities to share growth and knowledge with others, and I am grateful to Inspiring Schools and The Social Institute for creating spaces to connect and share stories. Together, we look forward to continuing this journey of growth and discovery.
Be sure to check out the webinar and podcast links found on St. Martin’s website by scanning the QR code or visiting stmartinschool/about/welcome
Join Us in Making a Difference
GIVING AT ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
Why is there a need to ask for more money? Isn’t tuition enough?
by LAUREN SIMS DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT (AND PARENT OF ALICE AND JACK)
s the proud parent of two St. Martin’s Warriors and the Director of Advancement, I know firsthand the difference charitable contributions make to the school. Yet, despite my background in non-profit fundraising, it still took some time to truly understand the role of charitable giving in an independent school community.
When I joined St. Martin’s and the independent school space in 2020, I brought my professional experience in fundraising but also my parent perspective. Like many families, I initially wondered: Why is tuition not enough? As I learned more, I came to appreciate how philanthropy strengthens our school today while ensuring its future.
The St. Martin’s Fund (SMF), our annual giving campaign, plays a critical role in supporting the daily operations of the school - funding essential resources that tuition alone cannot cover. Last year, your generosity raised over $650,000, directly enhancing our students’ experiences. From adopting new reading and writing curriculum and funding field trips to supporting our state-of-theart woodworking studio and providing professional development for faculty, your gifts had a tangible impact. In fact, annually, the SMF support accounts for 5% of our operating budget, ensuring we can provide the exceptional education we promise and you expect.
The St. Martin’s Fund plays a critical role in supporting the daily operations of the school - funding essential resources that tuition alone cannot cover. In fact, this support accounts for 5% of our annual operating budget.
2023-24 School Year
The St. Martin’s Fund raised $650,000 to fund items like:
• Adopting a new reading and writing curriculum
• Funding field trips
• Supporting our state-of-the-art woodworking studio
• Providing professional development for faculty
Coming Soon - A Capital Idea
As our school continues to grow and evolve, so do our needs. While The St. Martin’s Fund remains vital, we are also preparing for an exciting new chapter - a capital campaign. Capital campaigns are integral to independent schools, addressing long-term needs like facilities upgrades or strategic program enhancements. Unlike the annual fund, which supports daily operations, capital campaigns focus on transformative projects.
Capital campaigns are ambitious endeavors built into the culture and strategic plans of independent schools. They require the community’s collective support and are planned every five to seven years. The execution of a campaign often spans several years and involves multi-year pledge commitments. Importantly, the need for annual giving does not pause during a capital campaign. Both initiatives are vital to sustaining and advancing the school’s mission.
At St. Martin’s, our last capital campaign responded to the urgent need to rebuild after the 2017 arson fire. Now, with the strategic plan (see Strategic Planning article on pp 18) finalized, we are ready to take a proactive approach. The roadmap for our next capital campaign will launch in fall 2025, prioritizing projects that might include:
• Enhancing exterior facilities, such as turfing and resizing/reorienting the athletic field.
• Reconstructing the playground on Lanier Drive.
• Addressing ongoing parking challenges.
• Renovating Warrior Hall’s interior
Building a Culture of Philanthropy
At St. Martin’s, philanthropy goes beyond financial contributions—it’s about connection and shared purpose. Events like Groovin’ on the Green or the back-to-school Community Coffee Truck remind us of the relationships that make our community so special.
Behind the scenes, we work to ensure donors in our community feel connected to their generous gifts throughout the year. We connect in many ways, such as sending out solicitations, asking for parent volunteers, hosting an annual giving day, extending invitations to grandparents and so much more. In addition, we work with the SMES business office and Board of Trustees to ensure every dollar has the greatest impact, directly benefiting our students.
I am so grateful for your generosity and commitment to St. Martin’s. Your support allows us to grow, innovate and remain a school where excellence thrives. Thank you, thank you for being an essential part of this journey.
eBig Give
December 4, 2024
Thank You for Your Support!
We are amazed at the outpouring of support from our annual Giving Day. The parent community raised over $65,000 in less than 24 hours! We look forward to enhancing our campus safety by installing 3M shatterproof film to secure glass doors and windows across campus.
Program materials and resources Curriculum adoptions for reading/writing Student/teacher ratios at a minimum
Fan Fiction
THE ASSIGNMENT: As the 8th-grade students completed their unit on the iconic novel “The Outsiders,” Dr. Ben Kolenda presented an exciting writing challenge: to craft a Fan Fiction piece requiring an alternate ending. Imaginations ran wild as students explored questions like, “What if Johnny had survived his burns?” “What if Dally had been rehabilitated and chose a different path?” or “What if Ponyboy had stayed focused in school?” Through this exercise, students engaged deeply with the characters, creatively reimagining their journeys. Their submissions did not disappoint.
I“Dallas…A New Life”
BY LILLIAN WESTMORELAND, 8TH GRADE
was standing in the empty lot, and I heard the wailing sound of sirens in the distance. As I started to reach for my gun, someone yanked me from behind, and I was on the ground within moments. It was Darry, and he had just saved my life. “What on earth were you thinking, Dally!? You could’ve been killed!” he screamed. “I know,” I replied. He looked at me, puzzled, as the police came running up to us. They clasped handcuffs around my wrists as Two-Bit begged, “Please don’t take him away,” but it was no use. I heard a thud behind me and saw that Ponyboy had just fallen. Sodapop looked mortified and jumped to Ponyboy’s side. “Someone help him!” he screamed. “Quick, get him in the car so we can take him to the hospital!” “You got lucky this time,” one of the cops muttered to me as he unlocked my handcuffs to get Pony in the car. I didn’t feel so lucky. Darry and Soda also got in the car to go to the hospital.
Me, Steve, and Two-Bit walked in through the jagged screen door of the Curtis’ house and collapsed in the living room. Of course they would not mind that we were there. I was exhausted, but not a single part of me cared. I only wanted Johnny to still be alive. Hours later, Two-Bit finally broke the silence. “Do you think Ponyboy will be okay?” he asked no one in particular. “I hope so,” was all Steve could say. All of a sudden I stood to leave; I did not know where I was planning to go, but I knew I needed to leave. Just as I was about to go, Darry and Soda came barging in. Soda announced, “He’s gonna be okay!” A huge sense of relief seemed to fall over everyone in the room. “He probably won’t wake up for a couple of days but that is just because his body is tired,” Darry explained. Then he looked at me. “Where are you going,” he asked. I could only shrug. “Well if you don’t
know then I guess you’ll just have to stay here,” he said, and that was that.
In the morning, I heard the hustle around me as everyone was getting ready to go to work or visit Ponyboy. Steve and Soda asked me if I would go help out around the gas station today. I said yes because I knew they wanted me to get my mind off of Johnny but working on some cars would never do that. On the way there, I saw a red Mustang. It obviously belonged to a Soc, and I would usually seize this opportunity to decimate that car, but I was done with that. As it turns out, Soda, Steve and I make a pretty good team when it comes to fixing up cars. We were able to fix multiple cars, and I even got offered a job. It was all a blur. Before I knew it, multiple weeks had passed, and I was officially off probation for whatever crime I had last committed. It felt good being the new me. I was not always trying to run from cops and I was also not being watched all the time by cops.
A year passed and I have finally gotten my life together. Darry is tutoring me whenever he finds the time, I have a job working at the gas station with Steve and Soadpop, and Two-Bit and I are roommates in our very own apartment. I still miss Johnny everyday but after Ponyboy showed me the letter Johnny wrote before he died, I decided that he would not want me to throw my life away.
“Darry’s Dream”
BY RYDER CLARIDA, 8TH GRADE
ne day, Darry and the crew were playing football in the park. It was a day just like any other. Except this evening, there was a sense that the seasons were about to change. The air felt cooler, and the guys were more excited than ever to release some steam. Their weekly football game had just started and Darry already returned a punt for a touchdown. On the next drive, Johnny threw the ball up to Darry, and he topped Ponyboy for a sixty-yard laser. Darry´s stats were crazy, and it seemed like he was doing what he was born to do. After the game, they were smoking cigarettes and drinking Cokes when a man walked towards them. SodaPop said, “Hey man, can we help you?” The man looked a little nervous and replied,¨ I would like to have a word with the big guy here,” pointing to Darry. Darry approached him slowly, “Who are you, and what do you want?” “I am John Warner, the head coach of the Houston Texans,” he said with a southern accent. “I happened to be sitting on the bench watching your game. You certainly impressed me with the way you play football, tough and physical.” Darry looked shocked but also felt the happiest he had been in a long time. “Thank you. It’s about the only time I feel like myself.” They continued talking about the game of football until they heard Two-Bit call out, “Hey Darry, we are starving. Why don’t you and your new friend wrap it up so we can go eat?” Darry and the man exchanged contact information, and the gang headed out for burgers.
That next week started like any other, with the older boys going to work, PonyBoy and Johnny going to school, and the gang dropping by the house throughout the day, raiding the fridge, watching cartoons, and wrestling. The phone rang, and Darry answered, annoyed, “What?” He listened for a while, nodded, and then hung up. He looked confused and then happy. “Guys, get this. The man from the park wants me to go to a workout with the Texans to see if I can maybe walk on the team.” The gang looked at each other in silence. Darry saw the looks on their faces, and his smile faded.
On the next drive, Johnny threw the ball up to Darry, and he topped Ponyboy for a sixty-yard laser. Darry´s stats were crazy, and it seemed like he was doing what he was born to do.
“Nevermind. It was a silly idea. I have too many people depending on me.” Then he walked outside. Darry was gone for a long time. While he was away, PonyBoy and Johnny wanted to find a way to help Darry live out his dreams. Johnny said, “Hey I have an idea.” He ran to Darry’s room and found a pair of dirty jeans laying in a pile in the corner of the room. He dug inside and found the coach’s card. As the sun was coming up, Darry came home looking tired and defeated. Johnny and Ponyboy were still up making breakfast. Darry slumped on the couch. The boys brought him his favorite blueberry pancakes. “We have something to tell you. We talked to Coach Warner, and he agreed to help us find a place to stay while you try out for the team. He said he would help us any way he can.” Darry’s eyes filled with tears. “You would do that for me?” The boys nodded. “Always,” said Ponyboy. They had a group hug and Darry responded, “Always.”
2ND ANNUAL
by BRITTANY BRUNER , ADVANCEMENT COORDINATOR
The second annual Groovin’ on the Green took place Friday, October 4, drawing 150 enthusiastic St. Martin’s Fund (SMF) donors and faculty and staff for a vibrant community event. With a “Chastain-style” atmosphere, guests enjoyed a night of live music and fellowship on St. Martin’s green space. Despite being postponed due to Hurricane Helene, the event’s spirit remained the same, and the community had a great time coming together.
Parents treated themselves to delicious food options, such as pizza, charcuterie boards and even sushi, along with lawn chairs and blankets for comfortable seating during the festivities. The green space was decorated with fall-inspired decorations, including some ‘hurricane-inspired” touches as a fun way to toast the hurricane that would not hold back the event from happening at its new date.
The evening’s entertainment featured live music by “The Potentials,” who brought the house down with a fantastic set featuring many throwbacks and hit songs. The band’s energetic performance fostered a sense of excitement and togetherness within the St. Martin’s community for the second year. With the continued excitement and support of our SMES community through annual fund donations, we look forward to hosting another great Groovin’ event next school year. n
FEAST DAY
The Lighthouse Effect
SHINING LIGHT ON ST. MARTIN’S
by FR. BRANDON DUKE SCHOOL CHAPLAIN
The National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) hosted its biannual conference in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, last fall. I attended with Maria Madden, head of school, Ed White, religion teacher, and Rev. Monica Mainwaring, Rector of St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church. The conference theme was “Let Your Light Shine,” influenced by Jesus’s famous sermon on the mount and the keynote, “The Lighthouse Effect” by Steve Pemberton. Throughout the conference, Maria, Ed, Monica, and I got to experience the lighthouse effect of each particular Episcopal school represented. Whether it was a boarding school, high school, co-ed, or college preparatory focused, each school was a lighthouse in its own right. What brought all these lights together was our common focus to let the light of Christ shine in our respective communities.
On November 11, St. Martin’s Feast Day showcased key aspects of our Episcopal identity in tangible and inspiring ways. We were lighthouses to our students and the greater community that day, and I am grateful to share some of the light from that day.
Community Life
Before the day’s festivities, middle schoolers were paired with lower school students as their St. Martin’s buddies. Together, they participated in a variety of activities like art, service projects, carnival games, and enjoying time together on the big field. The buddy system is best known as a tradition that kindergarten and 8th-grade students get to experience. Using a similar model, our 1st and 2nd graders had 5th-grade buddies, 3rd grade partnered with 6th grade, and 4th grade paired with 7th grade. This model allowed our middle schoolers to step into leadership roles and to model “being a saint, like Martin,” which was November’s chapel theme.
Like last year’s Feast Day, it began with the Veterans Day Assembly honoring our nation’s soldiers. The uplifting ceremony extended into classrooms when students wrote letters to the troops or when they made holiday ornaments that were shared with the local VA hospital. Combining our school’s Feast Day with Veterans Day extends our community to our Atlanta neighborhood and beyond.
Religious Formation & Study
Another way the buddies got to spend time with one another was in a session taught by our religion teachers, Dr. Taylor Pafford and Mr. Ed White, entitled “What is a Saint?” In the Episcopal Church, saints are significant because their lives reflect how we can all be “friends of God”— a simple yet meaningful definition of a saint. A saint is not unlike a friend. They journey with us and pray for us. Just like you may ask a friend to pray for you, you may also ask our patron saint, Martin, to do the same.
School Worship
The sainthood theme extended into the day’s chapel services, during which Martin’s story was told. Martin, a 4th-century Roman soldier, gave up life in the military when he saw a cold beggar outside the wall of a city. Martin unsheathed his sword, cut off a piece of his cape, and gave it to the poor man. That night, Martin dreamed that it was Jesus Christ who received his cape. Soon thereafter, Martin was baptized and would later be Bishop of Tours, known for how he lived out his spiritual gift of mercy. Students reflected on ways they could be friends of God and support one another through prayer. They also connected that the service project of collecting and distributing coats would mimic Martin’s own mercy.
Belonging and Service Learning
In addition to collecting, sorting, and distributing coats, students made “blessing bags,” which were handed out by The Suthers Center volunteers the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The bags contained simple items like water, crackers, granola bars, socks, and a handwritten note from St. Martin’s students. The beautiful, handwritten notes reflect the connection between service, worship, community and spiritual formation, offering kindness to neighbors we may never meet.
The Feast Day celebration embodied the core values of our Episcopal identity, providing students with meaningful opportunities to grow in community and service. That day, we were lighthouses. Thinking back to the NAES conference, we were living out our mission with other lighthouses around the nation. St. Martin’s is at its best when we let the light of Christ shine.
Growing Together with Outdoor Learning
by LAUREN RAMIREZ MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
At St. Martin’s, the Early Childhood outdoor space is more than just a place to play - it’s a vibrant learning environment where students dive into hands-on activities. From STEAM exploration bins and literacy centers to studying the weather and observing nature, outdoor learning opens up endless opportunities. This fall, Mrs. Kim’s and Ms. Watkin’s Pre-K class took learning outdoors, using their classroom outdoor space to grow lettuce, harvest it and share it with a special St. Martin’s friend, Turbo the Tortoise — a resident of the EC science lab.
Planting the Seeds
At the start of the school year, Mrs. Kim’s class got their hands dirty learning the basics of gardening. They planted lettuce, cabbage and flowers in the outdoor garden while discovering what plants need to grow - sunlight, water, soil and air. Watering the vegetables and flower bulbs became part of their classroom duties, giving each student a role in caring for the garden.
Watching the Magic
The real excitement happened as students watched the vegetables sprout! Day by day, they observed the lettuce and cabbage taking root and thriving in their care. This hands-on experience brought their plant life cycle lessons to life as they watched the garden flourish.
A Feast Fit for Turbo!
The highlight of the project came when the students delivered their freshly harvested lettuce to Turbo. Excitement filled the room when the class gathered to share their gift with Turbo and EC science teachers Mrs. Beckwith and Ms. Burns. The students gathered on the carpet to present Turbo with his feast, and everyone was delighted as he happily munched on his treat. The students also presented Turbo with a picture book they created to celebrate the experience.
Harvest Time
When the lettuce was ready, Mrs. Kim picked it from the garden for the class to see. The students couldn’t wait to admire the results of their hard work! The experience reinforced the importance of patience and responsibility as they waited for their crop to grow and provided a tangible example of the plant life cycle.
From planting vegetable seedlings to feeding Turbo, Mrs. Kim’s class embraced the joy of learning outdoors. Through this experience, they not only grew plants but also cultivated a deeper appreciation for nature and teamwork. n
From Camper to Counselor
FORMER SMES STUDENTS RETURN TO LEAD
SINCE THE START OF THE CAMP AT ST. MARTIN’S, ALUMNI HAVE PLAYED A VITAL ROLE IN THE CAMP’S SUCCESS.
by LAUREN RAMIREZ , MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
Each school year, at the end of May, the hallways quiet down and St. Martin’s transforms into a summer adventure hub. Once filled with textbooks and lessons, the classrooms become spaces of fun and creativity to support The Camp at St. Martin’s. With themes like circus camp, sports camp, culinary, arts and STEM camps and more, St. Martin’s has a little something for everyone! Serving over 1,900 campers in summer 2024, the excitement didn’t end with the kids. St. Martin’s is proud to welcome back many alumni each year as camp counselors. Since the start of The Camp at St. Martin’s, alumni have played a vital role in the camp’s success. This past summer, St. Martin’s employed 32 former SMES students who worked as camp counselors, many of whom were campers back in the day when they were SMES students.
SMES ALUMNI COUNSELORS
Back Row (l-r): Henry Dickert, ‘23, current sophomore at Pace Academy; Lily Branson, ‘24, current freshman at Wesleyan; Ryan Hewitt, ‘24, current freshman at Marist School; Vandy Neumeyer, ‘23, current sophomore at Holy Innocents’; Emily Foster, ‘22, current junior at Mount Vernon School; Georgiana Elwell, ‘22, current junior at Mount Vernon School;
Front Row (l-r): Henry Duke, ‘25, current 8th grader at SMES; Lily Hewitt, ‘25, current 8th grader at Marist School; Luna Ochoa, ‘20, current freshman at Saint Mary’s College; Riley Aronowitz, ‘21, senior at Riverwood High School and Sophia Ocampo, ‘22, current junior at Holy Innocents’.
From junior camp counselors who are rising 8th graders to high school and college students, the camp employs alumni to help out with camps and happenings around campus throughout the summer. Mark McDaniel, Director of Summer Programs, explains, “We’ve had alumni helping out from the very beginning. It’s incredible to see alumni return each year and give the same enthusiasm and leadership they learned as students at St. Martin’s.” To become a counselor, alumni undergo an application and training process with Mr. McDaniel. Throughout the summer, the counselors take on day-to-day responsibilities; they interact with campers, lead activities and even help manage logistics. Whether helping with morning and afternoon carpool or helping with transitions to lunch or the playground, counselors work hard and show nothing but enthusiasm each day.
Being a camp counselor isn’t just about having a summer job for many alums. It’s a chance to develop leadership and life skills. For many alumni like Ryan Akin (‘22), it’s also about the memories and friendships they have made. Ryan explains, “I love working at St. Martin’s in the summer because I can reconnect with old schoolmates.” The close sense of community keeps alums returning each summer to help out. The transition from camper to counselor is a unique experience, allowing former students to lead and assist with summer camps. Riley Aronowitz (‘21) says, “I love seeing the campers’ faces light up during games, crafts and outdoor activities. St. Martin’s summer camp truly feels like a second home during the summer. It’s been so fun to go from camper to counselor, and I hope to spend many more summers at SMES.”
“I LOVE WORKING AT ST. MARTIN’S IN THE SUMMER BECAUSE I CAN RECONNECT WITH OLD SCHOOLMATES. ” —RYAN AKIN (SMES ’22)
The Camp at St. Martin’s is a vibrant and supportive environment for all. It offers a range of activities for young campers but also gives alumni invaluable opportunities to reconnect and lead young campers. With the continued support of St. Martin’s alumni, the camp will only continue to thrive. The camp counselors all agree that St. Martin’s is more than just school; it’s a close-knit community. The Camp at St. Martin’s hopes to welcome alumni back to campus for many summers to come.
SportsWrap-Up
by MARK MCDANIEL SMES ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
and COACH DAVISSON, COACH HICKS, COACH KENNEDY, COACH KOLENDA, COACH LUSK, COACH MILLS, COACH MURPHY, COACH NAMA, COACH VISCO, COACH WHITE AND COACH OXY-WILLIS
A SOCCER
Boys soccer had an amazing season! They worked hard, improved and had a very competitive season. They finished with a record of 4-3-2 and achieved many of the goals they set at the start of the season. The team was determined and showed grit. Their dedication and sportsmanship were constant throughout the season, making it one to remember. Highlights of the seasons included wins over Globe Academy, Cliff Valley School and The Epstein School.
A VOLLEYBALL MAAC CHAMPIONS - GIRLS
The Warriors A volleyball team had a magical season! With only three returning players from last year’s team, the girls worked incredibly hard from the beginning of the season and quickly developed into a strong team. We moved through the season, looking to improve with each match. We finished the season with a 9-1 record and the number one seed in the playoffs. The players lived up to their seeding, defeating Atlanta Classical Academy in the semi-finals and then The Galloway School in the final match to win the MAAC championship!. We finished the season with an amazing 23-2 record in sets played. Special thanks to the
leadership of our 8th-grade players - Stella, Madeline, Katelyn, Addison and Lily. Way to go, Warriors!
B VOLLEYBALL
B team had a great season! They played tough and aggressively and came out with seven wins and one loss. The team’s serves were strong and the girls competed hard in every game. The team worked hard in practice, and this was reflected in each game. They stayed vigilant and made some great plays this season. It was a season filled with growth, teamwork and determination. Way to go, girls!
C VOLLEYBALL
C team worked hard and had a great season! They focused on serves, getting three touches, and being aggressive on the court. The team racked up many aces and made great passes throughout the season. The girls faced some tough opponents but came out with many incredible rallies. They showed growth and passion for the sport each and every game and practice. It was a great season!
CROSS COUNTRY
This Cross Country season, all of our athletes made significant improvements. The girls had a strong season, taking 1st, 2nd and 3rd place as a team at most of our races. The boy’s team was mostly new to running cross country, but we could not be more proud of their continued growth throughout the season. Every runner ran personal records in the final race of the season. This was a great accomplishment that rarely ever happens. We are excited about what we can do next year!
ULTIMATE FRISBEE
Ultimate Frisbee had an outstanding season! The players grew and improved with every game. It was the first year for all the boys, who had never practiced or played as a team. The effort, drive and determination they showed were second to none. They should be extremely proud of how they played, and we’re looking forward to next season! n
Fall Athletic Awards
SOCCER
All MAAC
Albert Hernandez
Warrior Award Will Beauchamp
Warrior Award .......................................... Aidan Shafir
A VOLLEYBALL
All MAAC Award Stella House
Most Improved Addison Cooper
Warrior Award Katelyn Modisett
Warrior Award Madeline Bradner
B VOLLEYBALL
Warrior Award Sienna Oldland
Most Improved Morgan Hubbard
Hustle Award
Emily Tucux
Hustle Award Alix Gerspacher
C VOLLEYBALL
Warrio Bryna Mowrer
Most Improved Madelyn White
Hustle
Bentley Hilton
Hustle Gigi Moreschi
CROSS COUNTRY
Warrior Award
Most Improved
Warrior Award
Broden Spink
Dwight Lewis
Emma Bass
Most Improved Lana Bombalier
All MAAC Ryan Hamilton
ULTIMATE FRISBEE
Warrior Award
Hustle Award
Hustle Award
Jack Moriarty
Wesley Stevens
Blake Debold
Most Improved Daniel Hill
Portrait of a Graduate
SMES graduation year: 2015
High School: St. Pius X Catholic High School, 2019
Mercer University, currently pursuing my master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Hobbies: Pickleball, traveling to coastal towns, yoga, and spending time with my Australian Shepherd, Rocky Current Job: I work at SMES as the Early Childhood Receptionist and as a Toddler - 1st-grade guidance teacher
Most influential SMES teacher and why: Mr. Shafir was my most influential teacher at SMES and continues to be one of my favorite colleagues. He supported all of his students not only academically but also in social and personal realms, which is so necessary for a middle schooler. He has a great sense of humor and outlook on life!
Favorite SMES tradition and why: Faculty vs. Student Volleyball & Basketball games. They are so fun, and it’s exciting to see faculty and students engage in healthy competitions. It is
also a great way for the whole school community to come together and cheer for their teachers and friends. What made you want to work at SMES? During my undergraduate studies at Emory, I decided to work at SMES in the Explorers extended-day program. It was a great opportunity to stay in touch with the school community, which played such a large role in my development, not to mention having an income as a college student was helpful. Working in the Explorers program instilled my interest in working with children and prompted me to pursue a career in child and adolescent counseling. Now that I have graduated, I am here full-time in the counseling department as the Toddlers - 1st-grade guidance teacher and EC front desk receptionist. The transition into this role was seamless and has allowed
Favorite food: Sushi
me to continue making an impact here at SMES while obtaining my master’s and licensure to become a counselor.
Do you stay in touch with any SMES alums? Yes, I actually live with one! My roommate is Sydney Muse (‘14), and she is currently a SMES Kindergarten teacher. I keep up with some friends from my class as well; it is always fun to run into fellow SMES alumni out and about around Atlanta.
Who is a person you’d like to meet? I would love to meet Elton John. I am a huge fan of his music and admire his life journey. He seems to be such a humble and wholesome individual.
Favorite place you’ve visited? I really enjoyed going to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland in the summer of 2019. It is such a beautiful and quaint town nestled in a valley of the Swiss Alps. n
Favorite App: Amazon - I get all my teacher essentials here!
Favorite Book: “The Silent Patient” by
Alex Michaelides
MCKENZIE MILLER
Faculty News
UPDATES FROM OUR FACULTY
Brittany Higgins Kleban, Beginners teacher, married Colton Kleban on June 29, 2024, in Vero Beach, FL. The couple honeymooned in Austria. Their highlight of the trip was The Sound of Music tour!
Raven Triplett Asberry, Toddler teacher, married Jonathan Asberry on Sept. 21, 2024, in Carrollton, GA. The couple will honeymoon in Turks and Caicos this spring.
Stephanie Hong, Beginners teaching assistant, married Phanha Meas on Oct. 12, 2024, in Pendergrass, GA.
Emilie Kostensky, Secondgrade teaching assistant, welcomed baby BradlieGrace Lauren on July 30, 2024. She weighed 5 lbs.15 oz. and measured 19 in.
Jennifer Kim, Pre-K teacher, graduated from Georgia State University in December with a master of arts in teaching, elementary education. Jennifer worked as a substitute teacher and assistant teacher for six years before entering Georgia State’s Urban Accelerated Certification and master’s program to fulfill her dream of becoming a lead teacher.
Kat Free, Kindergarten teacher and her husband Nolan welcomed baby John Nolan Free on June 21, 2024. He weighed 7.1 lbs and measured 20 inches.
Kanette Fenstermacher, Middle School Principal, completed a two-year master’s degree program
in Educational Leadership at Clemson University. Her educational journey also includes a bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies from Georgia State University and a bachelor of science in psychology (industrial-organizational) from the University of Georgia.
LaToyia Hawkins has been named St. Martin’s Early Childhood Principal after serving as Interim Principal since July 2024. LaToyia has been a part of the St. Martin’s community since 2020 and she previously served as the Early Childhood - 2nd-grade Counselor and Guidance teacher and took on the Assistant Director of Explorers role in 2023. She
holds a B.S. in psychology from Florida A&M University and a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Argosy University.
Ed White, Religion teacher, married Sabrina Jones on Saturday, November 23, at a Cuties Citrus farm in Polk City, FL. The couple honeymooned in Puerto Rico during Christmas break.
Heidi McKerley, Director of Speech & Drama, won eight Suzi Bass awards for the production of “Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at the Horizon theater. She brought home Best Director and Best Choreography with her husband, Jeff McKerley, and the show won Best Musical. n
Bradlie-Grace Lauren Kostensky
John Nolan Free
Jennifer Kim
Raven Triplett Asberry
Kanette Fenstermacher
Brittany Higgins Kleban
Ed White
LaToyia Hawkins
Heidi McKerley
Stephanie Hong
Alumni Notes
UPDATES FROM OUR ALUMNI
’01
Hank Wyche and his wife, Brooke Parker Wyche, welcomed the birth of their first child, Henry McKemie Wyche III, on Dec. 1, 2023. They reside in Greenwich, CT.
Lia Hooff and her husband, Robert, welcomed their third son, John, in the fall of 2023. Their oldest sons, Nicholas and Easley, are current students at SMES in Pre-K and 1st grade.
’02
Gordon Wyche married Emily Buchanan Bakhaus on Bald Head Island, NC, on Sept. 29, 2023. Hank
Wyche (‘01) was the best man at the wedding, and Harris Culley (‘02) was a groomsman. Emily and Gordon live in Atlanta’s Garden Hills neighborhood with their Australian Shepherd, Remy. Gordon works for Argonne Capital Group.
’06
Kristi Bates and her husband, Joseph, welcomed their fifth child, Savannah Grace, in June 2024. Kristi, Joseph, their children, and a few chickens live in Athens, GA, where they also homeschool.
’07
Lauren (Godshall) Snider and her husband Riley welcomed their first daughter, Scottie Claire Snider, on Feb. 4, 2024. She is now a Baby Warrior at the SMES High Point campus.
’08
Claire Hamner moved back to Atlanta in 2020 and has been working as a speechlanguage pathologist with Buckhead Speech Specialists. She also works at the Shepherd Center in their multiple sclerosis clinic.
’09
Natalie Chu just finished a gap year to travel the world. She happily returned to her NextEra Energy Resources job in a new role as meter engineer for new utilityscale renewable energy projects. During her time off, she traveled to over 30 countries.
Mary Walker Mixon has lived in Sarasota, FL, for five years and works at IMG Academy. She successfully survived three recent major hurricanes and continues to play USTA tennis and intramural softball.
Kristi Bates, ’06
Lia Hooff, ’01
Gordon Wyche, ’02
Hank Wyche, ’01
Lauren (Godshall) Snider, ’07
Claire Hamner, ’08
Mary Walker Mixon, ’09
’13
David Cooper lives in Tupelo, MS, where he works for Abbott Laboratories in the electrophysiology division as a clinical specialist. David works to create 3D heart models representing circuits to help identify unhealthy heart rhythms in patients. He enjoys supporting Mississippi State sports, playing golf, hanging with friends and spending time with his new duck-hunting dog, Boots!
’14
Ansley Reese will travel to Kibuye, Burundi, Africa,
to serve as a missionary teacher from December 2024 through May 2025 with Serge Christian Missions. Ansley will join the Serge Missionary Team and teach Burundian children English, math and Bible classes.
’16
Mitchell Maloney graduated from Sewanee: The University of the South with a bachelor of science in geology in May 2024. He worked on a cattle ranch in Mato Grosso, Brazil, last summer and started a new job as a GIS technician for Leidos in Atlanta in the fall.
Taylor Rand graduated magna cum laude from Belmont University with a bachelor of science in creative and entertainment industries with a music business minor in May of 2024. Taylor moved to Los Angeles to start her dream career in the film and TV industry as a production assistant for the reality show “Big Brother.” She now works with On-Camera Audiences, America’s #1 television studio audience company, as an Audience Coordinator.
Davis Futrell graduated from Auburn University in December 2024 and earned a B.S. in finance.
Matthew Turner graduated from Piedmont University with a degree in exercise and sports science in May 2024. A three-year Division III letter winner in baseball, he also served as an assistant coach in his senior year. He has now launched his career in medical sales, joining United Orthopedics LLC.
’17
Gerard Hudson is in his senior year at Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio and is playing baseball.
Laura Claxton is set to earn a degree in finance from the University of Georgia, Terry College of Business, in the spring of 2025. She plans to pursue her master’s in accountancy from Terry in the fall. She will intern in forensic accounting with the accounting firm Bennett Thrasher in Atlanta this summer.
’18
Allie Campbell is a junior at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, pursuing a career in sports journalism. Allie co-hosted a daily sports radio show, “Overtime,” on FoxSports Knoxville, where she examined UT athletics, college football, best bets and the NFL. Allie also works for the SEC Network in live production, doing
Gerard Hudson, ’17
Taylor Rand, ’16
David Cooper, ’13
Matthew Turner, ’16
replays, working cameras and creating graphics.
Grant Gaffney will graduate from the Georgia Institute of Technology in May with a degree in computer science. He also works for a software engineering startup and is applying to grad school to study AI.
Will Tuggle is in his third year at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Will interned for Senator Bill Hagerty from Tennessee in the United States Senate. Last summer, he studied abroad in Singapore, and during the next two semesters, he will be studying in London and Argentina.
Ellen Claxton is enjoying her junior year at the University of Tennessee, where she is pursuing her undergraduate degree in speech pathology with
the intent of pursuing her master’s degree in the same field in the fall of 2026.
’19
Austin Scott began attending Emory University last fall to study psychology on the premed track. Austin delayed college after spending a year in the hospital and in and out of therapies after sustaining a traumatic brain injury the day after his high school graduation in 2023. He is thriving as a college student and looks forward to his journey.
’20
Taylor Norris is a freshman majoring in construction engineering at The University of Alabama. Emma Simon is a freshman at the Georgia Institute
We Love to Hear from You
TO HAVE YOUR UPDATE PUBLISHED IN THE NEXT EDITION OF ALUMNI NOTES, PLEASE CONTACT
Michael Albanese
Alumni Liaison
malbanese@stmartinschool.org
of Technology, where she plays for the GT softball team.
’21
Charlie Hildreth is a senior at St. Pius X High School and serves as senior class president and president of the music club. Charlie plans to attend the University of Georgia in the fall. He still hangs out with his best friends from SMES every day.
Aiden Hoath is a senior at The Mount Vernon School and spends his spare time training for mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions.
Madden Berg is a senior at St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, Maryland. He transferred from St. Pius X in Atlanta to St. Frances to play football as their punter. St. Frances is a nationally ranked high school team that travels all
over the US, playing other ranked teams.
’23
Abbie Livingston is a sophomore at St. Pius X and is a football cheerleader. n
Austin Scott, ’19
Madden Berg, ’21
Emma Simon, ’19
Voices
STORIES FROM FACULTY & STAFF
ALEXIS LEIFERMANN
6TH & 7TH-GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER
s a lifelong Episcopalian with a passion for education, I was drawn to St. Martin’s Episcopal School by its strong faithbased curriculum and the opportunity to work alongside talented and dedicated colleagues. After teaching in Atlanta Public Schools for 16 years, I joined the St. Martin’s community in 2013, where I’ve had the privilege of inspiring young minds and nurturing their growth. While at SMES, I have taught 6th and 7th grade social studies and, most recently, World Civilizations to 6th grade and American History to 7th grade.
AOne of the most rewarding aspects of my job is witnessing the “lightbulb moments” when students truly grasp a concept. However, I also cherish the opportunity to build personal connections with my students, which helps me reach them on a deeper level. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that I’m making a positive impact on their lives and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.
Engaging in professional development is another aspect that makes SMES special. The school is committed to enabling staff to pursue training that will benefit their roles. Most recently, I attended the National Council for the Social Studies Conference with my colleague Christine
McAleer. Combined, we teach the 6thgrade curriculum: I teach 7th, and she teaches 8th. Attending a conference with a colleague allowed us to discuss best practices at all levels, incorporate strategies across grade levels, and address areas of the curriculum we felt needed improvement.
As a teacher, team leader, and mentor, I wear many hats. My responsibilities include planning lessons, grading assignments, leading team meetings, and providing guidance to new teachers. While there are challenges, such as time constraints and the ever-evolving landscape of education, I find immense satisfaction in overcoming obstacles and continuously improving my teaching practices.
St. Martin’s Episcopal School is truly a special place. The intimate learning environment and the school’s commitment to professional development create a unique and rewarding experience. As a smaller school, we have the opportunity to build strong relationships with our students, families, and colleagues, fostering a sense of community that sets us apart. This supportive atmosphere, combined with the school’s dedication to academic excellence and spiritual growth, makes St. Martin’s a truly exceptional place to work.
ONE OF THE MOST REWARDING ASPECTS OF MY JOB IS WITNESSING THE “LIGHTBULB MOMENTS” WHEN STUDENTS TRULY GRASP A CONCEPT.
Eighth-grade girls pause to warm up and share laughs during a brisk recess on the green space. Rosy cheeks and good company make chilly days unforgettable.
