Patterns Summer 2020

THE MAGAZINE OF ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

SUMMER 2020

Celebrating The Class of

2020

VOICES - INTERIM ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL LYNNE PERRY CELEBRATING SMES CLASS OF 2020 BUILDING CULTURAL COMPETENCE

faith

kindness friendships uniqueness possibilities milestones growing up

WHOLE HEART

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2-year-olds through 8th grade

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Personalized attention and instruction

n

Unique opportunities to pursue passions

n

Strong spiritual formation

Open House November 8 stmartinschool.org

CONTENTS

THE MAGAZINE OF ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL SUMMER 2020

EVERY ISSUE 3

Letter

4

Seen & Heard

24

From the Head of School

News and happenings in the school community

Student Reporters Stories around campus

Spotlight 29 Volunteer The many hats of Jennifer O’Leary

36 39

Sports Wrap-Up Sports teams complete seasons

Portrait of a Graduate

FEATURES 13 Celebrating the Class of 2020!

8th-grade traditions in a whole new way

20 Building Cultural Competence 30 Book Notes

5 ways children learn to love reading at SMES

32 3rd Grade Transitions The journey to independence

35 Alumni Senior Dinner Zoom style

36 Music to our Ears

Early Childhood music and movement in action

Elizabeth Goines (’14)

44

Faculty News Updates from our faculty and administration

46

Alumni Notes

52

Voices

Updates from our alumni

Lynne Perry, Interim Elementary School Principal

40 Distance Learning

An unexpected spring semester

42

Alumni Red & Blue Dinner Alums gather for February fun

43 PTO News

Farewell notes from 19-20 presidents

ON THE COVER St. Martin’s celebrated its 8th-grade graduating class with a festive car parade on the last day of school.

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EDITOR Kristi Gaffney PRODUCTION MANAGER Sarah Taylor CONTRIBUTORS Lyndsey Berngard Karen Bower Katherine Davis, student Megan Dye Kristi Gaffney Alex Hall, student Melanie Hurley Richard Jaynes Dr. Luis Ottley Lynne Perry Dr. Tiffany Russell Becky Stewart Sarah Taylor PHOTOGRAPHY Kristi Gaffney Adam Linke Sarah Taylor Paul Ward DESIGN Stalling Design ADMINISTRATION Dr. Luis Ottley Head of School Cindy Alexander Principal, Early Childhood Lynne Perry Interim Principal, Elementary School Tony Shaffer Principal, Middle School Cheryl Doughty Director of Finance & Operations Tina Haas Director of Advancement Kristi Gaffney Director of Marketing & Communications Blythe Marsau Director of Enrollment Management & Tuition Assistance Dr. Tiffany Russell Director of Diversity & Inclusion The Rev. Dr. Stefanie Taylor 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 Attn: Kristi Gaffney www.stmartinschool.org kgaffney@stmartinschool.org MISSION STATEMENT: 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.

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HEAD OF SCHOOL

"As I look back to the 2019-20 school year, it is sure to be one for the memory books."

A

s you receive this issue of Patterns, we are just beginning the 2020-21 school year. And like many other milestones that have been upended, 2020 has also interrupted the regular distribution schedule for this magazine.

Due to the pandemic, we intentionally delayed this issue’s scheduled June distribution to ensure we could capture our graduation celebration for the Class of 2020. SMES tradition saves the spring/summer magazine spotlight to highlight the pinnacle of a St. Martin’s experience as students graduate, ready to take on the next step of high school.

And while our work on campus with these students is done, the foundation laid will remain with them throughout their lives. For many, St. Martin’s is the school they will attend for more years than any other school. This responsibility does not go unnoticed, and we will continue to wrap them in love as alumni for years to come.

As I look back to the 2019-20 school year, it is sure to be one for the memory books as our year was abruptly cut short and turned upside down due to the coronavirus. Of course, our new school year also looks very different. Still, we are so thankful to be back on campus, for now, partnering with our families for what will undoubtedly prove to be another exceptionally unusual school year.

The 2019-20 school year wasn’t all about COVID-19 though, there were indeed many great things happening before COVID-19. This issue of Patterns will be a wonderful way to remember some of the many great things that help define St. Martin’s each school year. Please read through the Seen & Heard section to revisit some of the events from the fall and early winter. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore our EC Music and Movement program, learn about all of the intentional transitions that happen during 3rd grade at SMES and enjoy the creative ways we celebrated the Class of 2020 as our 8th graders finished their time at St. Martin’s.

We’re also happy to highlight Interim Elementary Principal Lynne Perry as our Voices spotlight in addition to many other regular features, including volunteer and alumni highlights and a sports wrap-up. Please note the article by Dr. Tiffany Russell, SMES director of diversity and inclusion, discussing cultural competency. This relevant topic has been given new breath on a worldwide level, and we look forward to continuing to intentionally integrate this skill into our curriculum to support one of the key tenets of our Episcopal identity.

We would be remiss to leave out last spring’s distance learning initiative that was mandated on the fly. Despite little opportunity for formal planning, St. Martin’s rose to the occasion to provide distance learning at every grade level for the final two and a half months of the school year.

Check out the article and some of the many ways our faculty provided creative solutions.

Please enjoy this issue of Patterns magazine, and I wish you all the best for the 2020-21 school year!

With love, light and blessings always,

Dr. Luis Ottley Head of School

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Seen + Heard

NEWS AND HAPPENINGS IN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

Geography + Spelling

Bee Smart 8 While many were busy setting New Year’s resolutions, some SMES Middle School students were scouring their globes in preparation for the annual Middle School Geography Bee. Each homeroom held an internal competition to determine the top-12 geography whizzes who then faced off in front of an audience of 3rd - 8th grade peers, faculty and some parents.

The competition was fierce. “These questions may have been the most difficult in SMES Geography Bee history,” said event moderator Neil Conrad. The winning answer was “Lithuania” for, “Which country does not contain part of the Alps: Switzerland, Austria, or Lithuania?” Congratulations to Geography Bee winner Jack Gessner (7th grade) and runner-up Charlie Rohs (7th grade).

A week later, the school’s top 24 6th-, 7th- and 8th-grade spellers gathered before the same audience to test their phonetic skills at the annual Middle School Spelling Bee. Many rounds of competition unfolded, one letter at a time, before Avalana Brock (8th grade) secured first place with winning word “discrepancy” and Ellora Yadav (8th grade) earned second.

Middle School Geography Bee winners, (l-r) Charlie Rohs, Jack Gessner and Dr. Luis Ottley

Middle School Spelling Bee winners, (l-r) Ellora Yadav and Avalana Brock

School Sunday

Our Shared Roots 8 The congregation of St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church welcomed St. Martin’s Episcopal School community members to join them in worship at the annual School Sunday service in February. An important tradition for the whole St. Martin’s community, the service allowed students to participate as readers, acolytes, ushers and Eucharistic ministers, and the school’s combined choruses, composed of 70 students, performed during the offertory.

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SEEN + HEARD

Carmen Deedy

The Power of Story 8 Award-winning children’s author and storyteller Carmen Deedy visited St. Martin’s to share her engaging and playful stories with Kindergarten through 5thgrade students. Deedy came to the U.S. from Cuba as a refugee in 1964 and grew up in Decatur, Ga., where she lives today.

With her dynamic voice, gestures and witty sense of humor, she drew the audience in by telling stories from her own life as well as some of her favorite Cuban folktales.

5th Grade

Record Cookie Sales 8 This year, the 5th-grade class raised nearly $1,000 in support of Georgia’s marine life at its annual Cookie Company project fundraiser. Creativity abounded when each team, or “company,” was challenged to invent a cookie recipe to then market, produce and sell to St. Martin’s students, faculty and staff. Leading up to the sale, 5th graders promoted their products through morning announcements, posters and entertaining commercials — and it paid off with a record-setting number of sales! The spread of delicious products included “Grandpa Walrus Cookies,” “Mighty Mint,” “Nutella Surprise,” “Super Hero S’mores” and more.

Due to the spread of the novel coronavirus, the 5th-grade class was unable to travel to Skidaway Island to deliver their donation to the UGA Marine Extension in person, but the funds made it safely to their destination by mail. The UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant Director Mark Risse gave a special shoutout and thank you to SMES 5th graders in his April newsletter.

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SEEN + HEARD

Honor Society

Recognizing Scholarship, Character and Service 8 The St. Martin’s Honor Society inducted 15 new 8th-grade members to kick off the spring semester. Proud parents, faculty and fellow students gathered in the chapel to recognize the students’ ongoing commitment to academic excellence, moral character and service to others. This 8th-grade milestone requires students to maintain a high standard of academic performance and complete community service hours.

Congratulations to 8th graders (first row, l-r): Elizabeth McCall, Emerson Rand, Ellora Yadav, Katherine Davis, Ansley Granade, Avalana Brock, Riley Vassian, Tulsi Goel, and Katie O’Mara; (second row, l-r) Ian Gaffney, Antonio Shaffer, Charlie Duerr, Brayden Ebert, Christopher Kartsonas, and Alex Hall.

Day of Service

150 5th 4,000

Serving Atlanta’s Youth VOLUNTEERS ANNUAL EVENT SNACK PACKS

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8 More than 150 volunteers attended the fifth annual Day of Service event at St. Martin’s in support of local organizations that provide food for those in need. This year, St. Martin’s partnered with Action Ministries to pack food for distribution to Atlanta school children in need of supplemental nutrition. St. Martin’s Church Rector the Rev. Monica Mainwaring and School Chaplain the Rev. Dr. Stefanie Taylor began the event with a prayer. Together, volunteers packed more than 4,000 “snack packs,” each with a handwritten note inside. This event, held annually on MLK Day, brings together St. Martin’s parents, alumni, students, faculty and staff to celebrate the school’s culture of giving.

SEEN + HEARD

Groundhog Day Tradition

Wildlife Wonders 8 Early Childhood students didn’t have to travel to experience the North Georgia Zoo’s “Wildlife Wonders” exhibit—it came to them! This annual Groundhog Day visit allowed students to see a groundhog up close and pet a number of other smaller animal friends like a giant frog, hedgehog and even a snake! As each animal was introduced, the crowd squirmed with anticipation.

The Wildlife Wonders visit provided active learning on a whole new level for Early Childhood students.

Every year on Groundhog Day, Early Childhood students are visited by a groundhog and other animals from the North Georgia Zoo.

Successes + Strategies

State of the School 8 Head of School Dr. Luis Ottley presented the school’s markers of success and strategic priorities to St. Martin’s stakeholders at the annual State of the School address. Topics included the successful wrap-up of the Together We Rise capital campaign, growth of the new Kairos Learning Center, introduction of the new Infant Program and much more.

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SEEN + HEARD

Open Houses

Welcome to Our Prospective Families 8 St. Martin’s welcomed more than 65 prospective families to campus for two January open houses. Visitors heard from Head of School Dr. Luis Ottley to learn about the magic of the preschool through 8th-grade model and student leader Charlie Duerr recounted how his 11 years as a SMES student has been filled with encouragement for students to grow into well-rounded individuals. St. Martin’s Church Rector Rev. Monica Mainwaring took a moment to reflect on the importance of the community’s Episcopal identity before families set out with student ambassadors to tour the school and meet with teachers in their classrooms.

MS Student Ambassadors

Prospective Early Childhood parents toured the Early Childhood Learning Center’s innovative classrooms and connected with teachers while their children engineered creations in the Tinker Lab, investigated the Science Lab, and explored book nooks and other

spaces designed specifically for young children. The following day, Elementary and Middle School prospective families toured the school’s classrooms, Creation Lab, art rooms and athletic facility alongside student ambassadors who use these spaces every day.

STEAM Saturday

A Hands-On Open House

8 On STEAM Saturday, prospective Early Childhood families enjoyed an interactive tour through the EC Learning Center’s state-of-the-art spaces. Young learners investigated the many animal terrariums and aquariums in the Science Lab; engaged in hammering “nails,” building flower towers, and assembling ramps in the Tinker Lab; and expressed themselves artistically through spin art, drawing and music-making.

While children enhanced their STEAM skills, parents learned about the St. Martin’s experience from passionate teachers and administrators.

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SEEN + HEARD

Cheers to 60 Years

PTO Barnyard Bash

8 The PTO worked hard to make the Winter Social “Barnyard Bash” the party of the year, and they delivered! Parents, faculty and staff put on their best dancin’ boots and enjoyed a night of finger lickin’ barbecue, live music performed by Ian Campbell & The Recruits, a photobooth, silent auction bidding, games and more. Sue and Sean Hewitt won the Tuition Raffle and Director of Advancement Tina Haas won the Faculty Parking Spot Raffle.

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Thanks to the talent and dedication of the SMES PTO, as well as the generosity of the Barnyard Bash sponsors, silent auction donors and attendees, the event was a boot stompin’ success in raising funds for the school.

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This year’s event also served as an opportunity for the school community to celebrate St. Martin’s proud 60-year history of supporting its mission. Many “Cheers to 60 Years” signs complimented the barn doors, hay bales, checkered tablecloths, flowers potted in milk pails and other barn-style decorations.

2020

BARN YA RD NYA B A SH R

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(l-r) PTO Co-President Carrie Ackel, Barnyard Bash CoChairs Alex Livingston and Richelle Terry, and PTO CoPresident Renee Loope

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SEEN + HEARD

Middle School Band

Playing Music at Disney

8 Middle School band students

This year marked the St. Martin’s band’s 7th annual trip to Disney.

traveled to Orlando’s Walt Disney World to perform a concert for a large audience of theme park guests. The band entertained their audience from the Grand Stage at Disney Springs with selections from “Frozen,” “Star Wars,” “Avengers,” “Indiana Jones” and more. When they weren’t playing their instruments, band members enjoyed and explored the parks’ many rides, shows and restaurants.

St. Martin’s Infant Program

They Crawled Right Into Our Hearts 8 In January, 19 new students made school history when they were welcomed into the inaugural St. Martin’s Infant Program. The Hummingbirds (8 weeks to 12 months) and Owls (12 to 24 months) classes are located in two newly renovated classrooms in the Early Childhood Learning Center’s Young Hall. The “Baby Warriors,” as they are affectionately called, quickly rolled, crawled and walked their way into the hearts of St. Martin’s faculty, staff and fellow students.

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SEEN + HEARD

Student Artwork

Celebration of the Arts 8 This year’s Celebration of the Arts was held on Parent/Teacher Conference Day so parents could enjoy their child(ren)’s artwork while on campus to meet with teachers. Student art pieces were displayed throughout the school and showcased various mediums ranging from acrylic paint and watercolor to paper collage and oil pastels. While add-

ing a fun flair to the school’s decor for the weeks following conference day, the artwork, displayed by grade level, illustrated how students’ artistic skills progress during their years at SMES. For example, many were impressed by the Middle School students’ self portraits which required more advanced drawing and painting techniques.

Good Samaritan Health Center

Kids Helping Kids

Mother + Son + Fun

BINGO!

8 Mothers, sons, snacks and a little friendly competition were the perfect ingredients to make this year’s PTO Mother and Son Event one to remember. St. Martin’s moms and their sons gathered in the atrium to enjoy time with each other and friends over several rounds of Bingo. This event was fun for all and included a DJ, delicious snacks and prizes for the lucky winners. There was a great showing from families with younger students, but even a few 8thgrade boys brought their moms out to enjoy some special quality time.

8 For the 24th year in a row, St. Martin’s partnered with the Good Samaritan Health Center to deliver basic medical and personal supplies to underserved families in Atlanta. Fondly referred to as “Kids Helping Kids,” this project educates SMES students on the needs of children and families in their local community and offers them a way to make a direct and positive impact on the lives of local children their own age. This year, students donated 191 books, 84 first aid kits and 88 hygiene kits to be distributed by the Good Samaritan Health Center.

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SEEN + HEARD

Georgia Junior Thespian Conference

The Scores are In! 8 SMES thespians received incredible marks — including six overall Superiors — for their performances at the Georgia Junior Thespian Conference in Columbus. Thirty-three Middle School students from St. Martin’s competed in musical theatre, acting, costume design and sound design. The group musical piece, “We Got the Beat” from the musical “Head Over Heels,” was selected to perform at the conference’s final showcase, and rising 7th-grader Rylie Gardiner

Middle School Fundraising

Green Club Bake Sale

8 In response to the devastating bushfires in Australia, the St. Martin’s Green Club, comprised of environmentally-conscious and passionate Middle School students, planned a bake sale to raise money for animals impacted by the fires. The sale raised more than $250 and boasted tasty themed treats including Koala Cookies, Kangaroo Cupcakes and Dingo Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. Originally, the funds were to be sent to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, an animal welfare organization in New South Wales, but due to complications caused by the coronavirus, the funds were instead donated to Furkids, a no-kill animal shelter in Atlanta.

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received the highest score in the conference for costume design. Also noteworthy, rising 9th-grader Erielle Harris was elected last year to serve as a junior state thespian officer and helped plan, manage and host the conference. During the conference, students enjoyed multiple workshops, saw a show and strengthened their SMES friendships while also bonding with new friends from all over the state.

Those who received Superior scores at the state-level conference were invited to attend the International Thespian Festival, held virtually this year due to COVID-19. The troupe earned two overall Superior scores and four overall Excellents scores, a rare achievement for middle school students at a competition where most participants are in high school.

t ing the a r b e l e C

b y SARA H TAYLOR COMM U N IC AT I ON S COOR D I N ATO R

SMES CLASS OF 2020: WARRIORS TO THE CORE

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hen a global pandemic shook up their final year at St. Martin’s and forced capstone traditions to be reenvisioned, postponed or canceled, the St. Martin’s 8th-grade class of 2020 did not give up. Instead, in true Warrior fashion, students remained strong, united and hopeful through uncertain times.

As the end of the school year was winding down in a virtual format, it was clear that a traditional SMES graduation in May would not be a possibility for the class of 2020. The school surveyed 8th-grade families to help reimagine graduation and the event was intentionally postponed to late July. With COVID-19 safety measures in place, an abbreviated ceremony was planned in the school gymnasium allowing for a proper send-off for the graduates.

On July 30, St. Martin’s welcomed 8th-grade graduates and their families back to campus for the unique ceremony. Parents, siblings and a few grandparents sat in socially distant “pods” of four throughout the gym, filling the space with tangible energy of excitement, love and relief to finally be able to gather in celebration of a truly extraordinary class.

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The event kicked-off with a preview of the 8th-grade video, while graduates took their seats in an appropriately spaced zigzag pattern closer to the stage. To make the inperson celebration possible, all attendees were asked to wear masks, maintain social distance and limit the number in their party. Those who were unable to attend inperson joined the audience via live stream.

St. Martin’s Head of School Dr. Luis Ottley welcomed graduates and their families and emphasized the importance of the event. “While this is not the graduation ceremony anyone envisioned at the start of the school year, the opportunity to have students gathered as a class matters,” he said. “Graduation in 8th-grade marks the culmination of a complete St. Martin’s education, and due to the unique challenges they faced, this year’s graduates may be more prepared than any class before them for high school and beyond.”

Formative Friendships Student Council President Erielle Harris agreed. In her reflection speech delivered via pre-recorded video, Harris described how her class rallied together, leaning on the friendships they had cultivated for years, some even since Pre-K, to overcome the challenges of the 19-20 school year. In her remarks, she gave a personal definition of friendship. “Friendship is the ability for people to come together, sometimes unknowingly, to create a relationship unlike no other, even during hard and uncertain times.”

Harris said that in addition to the value of friendships, St. Martin’s also instilled in her the importance of perseverance. She emphasized the significance of being willing to evolve in the face of unforeseen challenges. Quoting Colin Kaepernick, she said,“‘Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up.

Figure out how to climb it, go through it, and work around it.’” And added, in her own words, “As long as we always have faith and trust in ourselves, we can succeed.”

Look Up Outgoing SMES Board of Trustees Chair and parent of two SMES alums Richard Jaynes challenged the graduates to “look up” at the world around them in his commencement address. “Look up to see ways that you can make the world, your world, better,” he said. “Whether it is your local or global communities, show up, help out and give back.”

In his 12 years as a SMES parent and seven years as a Board of Trustees member, including four as Board Chair, Jaynes

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noted he has never met a more resilient St. Martin’s class. “Your class is more prepared than any 8th-grade class in the history of SMES to persevere during adverse conditions,” he said. “Use this to make the world around you better. Take risks for the common good and leave it, whatever it may be, better than you found it.”

He ended his speech with a quote from Denzel Washington as he addressed the graduating class at the University of Pennsylvania: “I’ve found that nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks.

Fall forward. Every failed experiment is one step closer to success. You’ve got to take risks. You will fail at some point in your life. Accept it. You will lose. You will embarrass yourself. You will suck at something.

There is no doubt about it. Never be discouraged.

Never look back. Give everything you’ve got. And when you fall throughout life, fall forward.” And Jaynes added his sage advice to close out the speech, “and remember...look up.”

Spring Traditions Through a Different Lens On the day in May previously marked for graduation, St. Martin’s celebrated its 8th-grade graduating class

with a heartwarming and high-energy car parade in the SMES parking lot. Graduates and their families were greeted with live music, balloons, signs and cheering from many SMES faculty and staff members who applauded them along the parade route.

Each SMES graduate was announced over a PA system as their vehicle passed under a large balloon arch. Graduates popped out of sun roofs or open car windows to interact with faculty and staff and each student received a special gift bag from the school. More than 40 SMES faculty and staff members were on hand to cheer on the class of 2020.

Honors Assembly COVID-Style Each year on the last day of school, the Honors Assembly recognizes select Elementary and Middle School students for their academic excellence, outstanding character and service to the school.

Some of these outstanding achievements include Duke TIP recipients, honor roll and headmaster’s list, student council and student vestry recognitions along with subject-specific academic awards. This year’s assembly, like all other end-of-year events, was held virtually but was no less special.

On the day in May previously marked for graduation, St. Martin’s celebrated its 8th-grade graduating class with a festive car parade.

The highlight of the event was the surprise virtual 8thgrade clap out video which kicked off the assembly.

The clap out video began with Dr. Ottley ringing the official St. Martin’s bell followed by clips of 1st - 7thgrade classes clapping and cheering on the 8th-grade class as their class photos popped on the screen.

Interwoven were messages of love, encouragement and advice from St. Martin’s faculty and staff to the graduating class.

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Reeder Excellence in Teaching The highest honor a teacher can receive at SMES is the Reeder Excellence in Teaching Award.

During the assembly, 8th-grade student council representatives Zoe Embleton and Peyton Gunnels presented the class of 2020’s gift to the school of a net to go above the fence that separates the green space and the parking lot. The net will prevent balls and other toys from getting kicked or thrown into the parking lot during recess.

Oglethorpe Award The most prestigious award a student can receive during their time at St. Martin's is the Oglethorpe Award, presented each year during the end-of-year Honors Assembly. The award is given to an 8thgrade student who is a good citizen of the school and community and exhibits intelligence, compassion, enthusiasm, responsibility, and common sense.

Faculty members nominate students, and a committee determines the winner. This year’s Oglethorpe Award recipient is Luna Ochoa Hernandez.

Reeder Excellence In Teaching Award winner, Libby Tyler, Elementary and Middle School art teacher.

Luna was awarded Student of the Week and made Honor Roll for one semester. She is bilingual in Spanish and English, and was an active member of the French Club, serving as the club’s president in 8th-grade. She received a silver medal for the National French Test, the 8th-grade French Award, the 8th-grade Chorus Award and the Warrior Award for volleyball during her 8th-grade year. She was also a member of the SOLVE Club, Green Club, Student Vestry, Student Council and served as a Student Ambassador.

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This year’s top teacher award recipient was Elementary and Middle School art teacher, Libby Tyler. This annual award recognizes a teacher who is characterized by positive contributions to the school. Criteria for nomination include a dedicated commitment to students, a positive attitude, loyalty, dedication, flexibility and good relationships with students, parents, administrators and other teachers.

In addition to the honor, the recipient receives a stipend from the Reeder Foundation. The Reeder Award is peer-nominated and previous award winners choose the recipient.

In her 13 years at St. Martin's, Libby Tyler has served as a 1st-grade assistant teacher, 1st-grade lead teacher and since 2015, as the ES and MS art teacher. She works closely with EC art teacher Suzanne Ford to create collaborative cross-gradelevel and faculty and staff projects that inspire unity in the SMES community. From 2009-2017, Libby served as the president of the Faculty Life Committee, spearheading initiatives that fostered connection and fun for St. Martin’s faculty and staff. Her two children, Millie and Miles, are Early Childhood students at SMES. “St. Martin’s has been my home away from home for many years,” says Tyler. “I’m so thankful for the support and appreciation I’ve encountered while teaching here. Receiving this award was truly an unexpected acknowledgement of my commitment and love of our school and community. I’m so thankful for my SMES family!”

Oglethorpe Nominees & Winner

The annual Oglethorpe Award is given to an 8th-grade student who is a good citizen of his/her school, is academically sound and is involved in an extracurricular activity. Congratulations to this year’s nominees and to Oglethorpe winner Luna Ochoa Hernandez.

A NOTE OF THANKS St. Martin's Episcopal School is a very special place, and I have enjoyed my time as a parent, a trustee, and most recently, it has been my honor to serve as chair of the Board of Trustees. I would like to thank the board, Dr. Ottely, the administration, and the faculty for making my job, as chair, an easy one.

Over the past four years there have been many challenges, and SMES has met each and every one of them headon with passion and hard work. While my term as chair may be over, this is not goodbye, as I plan to continue to support SMES and watch it thrive in the coming years.

Katherine Davis

Grayson Leiter

Alexandra Craig

Jack Cunningham

Christopher Kartsonas

Brayden Ebert

Richard Jaynes

Not pictured: Nathan Altiery, Henry Houghton and William Morris

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ON OUR MINDS...

DREAMS, GOALS AND ADVICE FROM OUR 8TH GRADE GRADS

DREAM CAREER THIS OR THAT?

54%

Liam Adcock..........................To enjoy whichever

career I choose Makayli Anochie...................Engineer Marshall Cain.........................Marine Biologist Jack Cunningham................Sports Announcer Charlie Duerr.........................Social Media Influencer Brayden Ebert.......................Engineer Zoe Embleton.......................Special Needs Teacher Ansley Granade ...................Song Writer Peyton Gunnels....................Pediatrician Carter Hathaway..................Marine Biologist Logan Kimberl......................Major League Baseball Player Grayson Leiter......................Game Developer Annabelle McMennamy....Doctor Katie O’Mara..........................Journalist Emerson Rand.......................Designer Ava Turpin .............................Veterinarian Davik Yadav...........................Private Lawyer

FAVORITE ACTIVITY OUTSIDE OF ST. MARTIN’S Nathan Altiery • Sports, Airsoft Alexandra Craig • Tennis Jake Curcio • Tennis Brayden Ebert • Boy Scouts Ian Gaffney • Basketball Skyla Harris • Tsunami Club, Volleyball Carter Hathaway • Airsoft Luke Holbert • Boy Scouts Henry Houghton • Listening to music Drew Linam • Soccer Wesley Lybrook • Baseball John Madden • Golfing, Airsoft Trey Meharry • Karate

46%

William Morris • Drawing Taylor Norris • Guitar Luna Ochoa • Babysitting, Volleyball Antonio Shaffer • Airsoft Laurel Studdard • Volleyball Alex Tracht • Soccer Ellora Yadav • Violin, Fencing

40% 60%

FAVORITE ST. MARTIN’S TRADITION Nathan Altiery—Spirit Day • • • Alexandra Craig—Book Buddies • • • Jack Cunningham—Doing projects that serve others in SOLVE Club • • • Katherine Davis—Boxcar Races, Trips, and the Father Daughter Dance • • • Tulsi Goel—8th Grade Christmas Decorating Competition • • • Erielle Harris— Retreats • • • Christopher Kartsonas—World Cultures Day • • • Anna Loffredio—Lessons and Carols • • • Humphrey May—Feast Day • • • Elizabeth McCall—Late Start Wednesdays • • • Annabelle McMennamy—Crossing the Green • • • Trey Meharry—Yearbooks • • • William Morris— The fieldtrips • • • Katie O’Mara—The dances • • • Lyle Pinson —Ice cream Fridays

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ST. MARTIN’S IN THREE WORDS Avalana Brock

Friendships, Learning, Fun

Henry Houghton An Amazing Commmunity

Marshall Cain

Loads Of Fun

Drew Linam

Fun, Energetic, Homey

Jake Curcio

Fine, Fun, Healthy

Emerson Rand

Educational, Loving, Exciting

Zoe Embleton

Exciting, Challenging, Rewarding

Laurel Studdard Fun, Loving, Stressful

Ian Gaffney

Fun, Boring, Caring

Riley Vassian

Educational, Helpful, Caring

Skyla Harris

Funny, Fulfilling, Active

Ellora Yadav

Interesting, Structured, Busy

Luke Holbert

Amazing, Fun, Caring

Connor Ziegler

Fun, Caring, Awesome

THIS OR THAT?

55% ADVICE TO INCOMING MIDDLE SCHOOLERS

45%

Do your homework and don’t be afraid to ask teachers for help — Makayli Anochie Don’t sweat the small stuff— Charlie Duerr Talk to your teachers if you need help — Tulsi Goel Do your homework— Peyton Gunnels Bring a belt/sweater to all the dances so Ms. P won’t send you home — Alex Hall — Reese Hudson Try hardest in 6th grade— Grayson Leiter Be prepared — Wesley Lybrook

Be nice to everyone

Be yourself, don’t get in trouble. Respect all teachers and students at this school, and help others — Alex Tracht

Keep up with your planner —

John Madden

STUDY! —

26%

Connor Ziegler

Don’t worry that much — Taylor Norris Do your homework — Reece Williams Always do your best and treat others as you would wanted to be treated — Ava Turpin Be independent, don’t rely on others all the time — Davik Yadav

Don’t be scared or nervous —

GOALS FOR HIGH SCHOOL Liam Adcock • To try new things and to be uncomfortable Avalana Brock • Make all A’s Katherine Davis • Stop procrastinating Ansley Granade • Play basketball Alex Hall • My main goal is to be happy Erielle Harris • Valedictorian Reese Hudson • Have fun and stay focused Christopher Kartsonas • To be a good leader and make varsity soccer Logan Kimberl • Make varsity baseball as a freshman Anna Loffredio • Make varsity cross country Humphrey May • Play football Elizabeth McCall • Enjoy it and live to the fullest Lyle Pinson • Earn my driver’s license and private pilot’s license Antonio Shaffer • Stay involved with sports Riley Vassian • Keep all A's, do well in school academically and socially Reece Williams • Make the baseball team

Luna Ochoa

SMES CLASS OF 2020

74%

35% 65%

PATTERNS | SUMMER 2020

19

T he Artistry of Building

Cultural Competence b y DR . TI F FA N Y R U SS E L L D IR E C TO R O F DI V E R S I TY & I N C LU S I O N

Imagine a blank canvas. Picture an artist standing in front of the canvas with tools, various colors of paints on a palette, and paintbrushes. Where do they begin? With a vision for the future, an experience from the past, or a story that builds connection between the artist and viewer?

The act of an artist creating a masterpiece is similar to an individual’s journey toward building cultural competence; it requires vision, reflection, creativity, practice, and lifelong exploration.

Defining

DEFINING CULTURAL COMPETENCE

Cultural competence, loosely defined, is a person’s ability to understand, appreciate, and interact with people from cultures or belief systems different from their own.

Cultural competence is as much about our relationships with other people as it is about understanding our own cultural background and heritage. Like other types of competence, cultural competence is developed over time through training, experience, guidance, and selfevaluation.

The most recent acts of violence and subsequent demonstrations for racial justice have quickened the self-evaluation process on a myriad of levels: individual, communal, and institutional. We are faced with an opportunity to build our competence. We can listen to the stories of the people and communities impacted by racial profiling, discriminatory treatment, and violence and then act in meaningful ways on behalf of them. Or we can do nothing. And, doing nothing is not a choice for us at St. Martin’s. At St. Martin’s we encourage this journey of exploration and reflection. How can we not? As educators and artists, it is our duty to help our students to develop a sense of the world that is expansive, one that should be equitable for all. Most importantly,

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we must encourage our students to ask why this is?

Asking this question alone is the beginning of building cultural competency.

To understand cultural competence, it is important to first grasp the full meaning of the word ‘culture.’

Merriam-Webster defines culture as the values, norms, and traditions that affect how we think, act and make judgments about our world. Culture is the fundamental building block of our identities. Culture also includes the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social group. In other words, culture is represented in our homes, our places of worship, and our schools and many other places.

Relationship building is fundamental to cultural competence and is based on the foundations of understanding each other’s expectations and attitudes, and subsequently building on the strength of each other’s knowledge. It requires trust and vulnerability, so if we mess up along the way, we are forgiven and can learn from the experience.

Our environment determines what we learn, how we learn it, and the rules for living with others. These rules are transmitted from one generation to the next and when we add competence it signifies the ability to understand

and effectively interact with people across cultures while being aware of one’s own beliefs.

For our children, their competency grows with every new book they read, new friend they make, new teacher they meet, field trip or art exhibit they visit, and study abroad or cultural experience they have. Each year, the St. Martin’s curriculum evolves to include more of these experiences to help prepare students to live and work in a diverse world. A noteworthy example is the Panamá Exchange Program, which offers St. Martin’s Middle School students the opportunity to travel to Panamá for an immersive learning experience or to host a Panamanian exchange student in their home.

Another example is the Multicultural Book Nook. The nook, located in Warrior Hall, is a shared resource for all teachers and boasts a full range of books in a variety of reading levels that support social-emotional learning, cultural competency and social justice. There are also less prominent moments, like facilitated conversations in the classroom about the day’s history lesson, participation in student vestry and the missions of both the SOLVE and RELATE clubs, that slowly help build cultural competence in St. Martin’s students.

Art can play an important role in shaping and shifting culture. Artists are the keepers of ancestral stories.

Artists push limits through their craft and help us see the world through different points of view. Artists take risks.

Building cultural competence is like creating a collective masterpiece that is never quite finished, but one that grows with every new contribution. Working together, like artists, members of our school community can create a more vibrant and courageous environment for students and employees one paint brush stroke at a time.

Cultural competence is an ongoing and rewarding process of intellectual curiosity, intentional learning, and critical thinking about one’s own views and the views of others. Taking this approach results in many benefits for the individual and their community. For example, when individuals consider ideas different from their own, stronger relationships and collaboration between people of differing cultures and nationalities within the community can take root. These communities then, grounded in deeper understanding and respect, are better equipped to effectively respond to issues that face the community, and are more likely to support and inspire hope in one another in the face of trying times.

Building

BUILDING CULTURAL COMPETENCE

Unfortunately, cultural competence isn’t something that is ever mastered; there is no ‘checklist’ of guidelines to live by. Rather, the solution is to strive for growth with the hope of improving at it. As communities and the entire world evolve and change, people must be attentive to those changes and find better ways to respond to them.

In practical terms, it is a never-ending journey involving critical reflection, thoughtful responses, and lots of learning along the way.

PATTERNS | SUMMER 2020

21

Cultural Competence

AT SMES

While there is no comprehensive ‘checklist,’ there are questions that we can ask ourselves to see how we are doing on this collective journey. For example, ‘Do I allow myself to be vulnerable with my school community?’

Or, ‘Does every member of the school community feel safe letting me know when I make a mistake — especially when that mistake comes from a lack of cultural competence?’

As a student, cultural competency grows when our students have opportunities to “test” what they learn. When they interrupt bias they witness and when they stand up for a friend, cultural competency turns into action and action creates change. As a student, I might ask, who is being left out and why?

What stories am I missing and what can I do to make sure that I hear these stories?

As a parent, the act of building cultural competence is an active acknowledgment that we do not have all the answers. This is tough. However, we can move closer when we actively engage with others and truly love all who inhabit our school. As a parent, I might ask, ‘How am I modeling that diversity contributes to the richness of our society?’

Likewise, I can teach and model the process to my children by actively gaining knowledge of different cultural practices and world views.

As a teacher, I can explore how I am valuing children’s different capacities and abilities and how I am showing my students that I care about them. I can encourage cultural competence in children by recognizing that central to a child’s cultural competency is their sense of belonging.

This is a sense of belonging within the class and within the larger school.

As an administrator, I might ask myself, ‘How am I helping to create a school community where everyone can show up as their authentic selves?’ Author Ritu Bhasin says, “When we bring our whole authentic selves to our interaction we invite others to do the same.” Additionally, I might ask, ‘How do the policies of the school support a group of diverse professionals to work effectively in multicultural environments?’

As a member of the workforce, whatever role we play we should ask ourselves questions like, ‘Does my workplace have an environment that is welcoming to those of different cultures? Am I seeking out professional development and modeling my active participation in my teams?’

The truth is that any one of us can ask ourselves any of the questions above! Our level of cultural competence changes in response to new situations, experiences, and relationships.

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The Race Must Go On!

8TH-GRADE STEAM CAPSTONE PROJECT: CARTER’S BOXCAR RACE

W

hen COVID-19 forced campus closure and a shift to online learning threatened cancellation of the 8th-grade STEAM Capstone Project: Carter’s Boxcar Race, the 8th-grade faculty rallied to reenvision the project to fit a distance learning structure. From this, the MINI-boxcar race was born.

Each 8th-grade student received a mini-boxcar kit and was asked to employ their STEAM skills to assemble and decorate a mini-boxcar to race against their peers.

The mini-boxcar kit included axles, wheels, screws, weights and a car body. Students assembled their cars using math and physics skills to determine weight distribution for maximum acceleration on race day. Next, it was time to get creative. Students virtually met in small teams to select a theme, design a website and choreograph a team dance video complete with costumes. This year’s themes included Crash Test Dummies, Paw Patrol, Decades, Exotic Farmers and more.

On race day, students, parents and teachers tuned in to YouTube live to watch the mini-boxcar race. A skeleton pit crew of faculty and staff observed social distancing rules to run the races using the SMES Boy Scout troop’s Pinewood Derby track and announced each round of racers and winners for those viewing from home. The race inspired a deep sense of community, with lots of cheering.

Round one was all about speed with winners advancing to the semi-finals in four swift rounds of competition. In the end, team “CAP Air Force” clenched first place, even beating out the 8thgrade faculty “Scooby-Doo” car.

Fifth-grade students and faculty voted to award team “Wii Games” with best theme, and a panel of administrators and teachers awarded team “Exotic Farmers” with best website. Eighth-grade s t u d e nt Ja c k Cu n n i n g h a m received the Carter Davis Spirit Award.

The annual boxcar project was created and named for Carter Davis, son of St. Martin’s 8th-grade English teacher Michele Davis, who passed away in August 2016.

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23

STUDENT WRITER

A Commendable Cart 8 BY

KATHERIN E DAV I S, 8 T H G R A D E

T

he snack cart: a commonly used phrase at SMES to define a cart stocked with an array of food where hungry Middle School students can buy snacks, talk with classmates, and add to the Student Council Charity Fund. At the price of 50 cents, students can buy anything from a crinkly Cheez-It bag to a glossy-red-wrapped fruit roll-up to enjoy outside with others. In addition, whenever a student buys a snack, they are chipping in to help the Student Council Charity Fund.

The snack cart also is a way to catch up with friends. In the line, you can talk to classmates about the morning so far and even lend a quarter or two if other students forgot theirs. But something that adds even more to the cart’s brilliance is the people who give out the snacks. The very workers who help to man the stand are the students themselves. Elected student council representatives each man the stand and give up their snack break to make someone else’s even better. This teaches the students to be dependable and trustworthy as they have to keep track of which day is their “shift.” All in all, the snack cart is very beneficial to the St. Martin’s community because it provides food for the kids, teaches work ethic and trustworthiness, and plays a role in our culture of giving.

For two great decades the snack cart has been feeding hungry students to boost

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their energy and help them pay more attention in class. Seventh-grade math teacher Melissa Grier is the faculty supervisor of the snack cart.

She said, “If you forget a snack, don’t bring enough snack, or know you have an activity after school, it’s nice to know the snack cart is there to save the day! Teachers appreciate being able to stop in and grab a snack sometimes, too.” Mrs. Grier is right, the snack cart is very helpful if a student forgets a snack, especially for after-school sports, because it gives them some energy before practice.

The snack cart is an integral part of St. Martin’s because it promotes good morals and helps students give to others. Twelve years ago, as part of its culture of giving, the Middle School started a tradition to donate the money earned from snack sales to local

charities. The student council has donated money to various charities of the council’s choosing, and in the past four years has raised a total of $23,500 for donation. Just last year, the student council split their earnings of $5,500 between five organizations: the Bella Vista Children’s Home, the Brookhaven Rotary Club Foundation, Episcopal Relief and Development, the Good Samaritan Health Center, and the Suthers Center for Christian Outreach. This yearly tradition has given many students a taste of our culture of giving, outreach, and hard work.

Lastly, it adds something more to our school because instead of just having vending machines, you get to interact with real people. I believe our community is better because of it.

All in all, this tradition has been beneficial to St. Martin’s and our community for two decades, and I’m sure it will continue to be in the future. Giving to communities, teaching hard work, and serving students, the snack cart will always live on as a special memory for St. Martin’s graduates. I hope that in the future we find new ways to make it even better and give the portable shop an even better array of “snackage” for kids. I think that the snack cart is a great addition for the school, and we wouldn’t be the same without it and its contributions to us. The snack cart is a lovely metaphor for our school because it is a place for people who have a hunger and are ready to fulfill it with the help of friends and teachers and also is a place to connect and talk to others and to learn the impact of giving.

STUDENT WRITER

Living Into Our Mission

I will be cared for by my teachers, and be able to laugh and joke with friends too.”

A MAN-ON-THE-STREET INTERVIEW 8 BY

A LEX HA LL, 8 T H G R A D E

lthough I have only been at St. Martin’s for a mere three years, I have learned a lot about the school I am proud to call home. One of the exemplary things I value most about SMES is our mission statement: “St. Martin’s Episcopal School is dedicated to providing a quality education for the whole person in a loving, Christian atmosphere, which fosters lifelong learning.”

It not only describes what SMES strives to be but also what students strive to do. I set out to travel the halls to learn how students experience the St. Martin’s mission every day.

First stop, third grade. I asked a third grader how teachers encourage and incorporate the mission statement in the classroom. Lily Hewitt cheerfully stated that, “Teachers help us learn and grow throughout the day.”

I wasn’t surprised to hear such an answer, and was happy to know that students are living into our mission. In Ms. Hurley’s class, students write in prayer books and are taught to be kind towards one another.

school.” Again, I was pleased with the results of what my peers had to say; they are happy at school, pleased with their work, and think highly of their hard-working teachers.

After finishing up business in Warrior Hall, I passed by several Elementary students of mixed grades. I asked them what they thought of St. Martin’s and the vast majority said they didn’t ever want to leave. I began work again on the top floor of the Middle School building. “We are encouraged by teachers and each other to be kind and to think the best of others,” said seventhgrader Eloise Smith. “I try to be uplifting, compliment people and laugh with my friends a lot.”

Seventh-grader Jack Breen offered his opinion as well, exclaiming that, “Our mission makes me feel more comfortable walking through the school doors, knowing

After my encounters with students, I have come to the conclusion that the St. Martin’s mission is actively present everyday in our school. From Lily Hewitt I learned about the ways SMES creates a “loving, Christian atmosphere.” After carefully listening to statements from Jake McLaren and Brewer Riley I connected their responses to “quality education for the whole person.” Seventh graders Eloise Smith and Jack Breen told me how teachers live out the mission and how the mission made them feel comfortable at school, showing how the school “fosters lifelong learning.” The school does an excellent job of incorporating the mission into our everyday lives, truly showing us how we can learn to live into our mission every day.

When I asked for possible interviewees in the fifth-grade hall, two boys were quick to take me up on the offer, almost trampling me in the process. “We are challenged to think more, instead of one word answers we write sentences and paragraphs,” said Jake McLaren. “I think the teachers are doing a really good job of preparing us for Middle School.”

Brewer Riley said, “[Teachers] work hard to find ways to make learning fun and not boring, [which] makes me feel better at

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Sing, Say, Move and Play b y KA R EN BOW ER EA R LY C HI L D HOOD M USI C & M OV E M E N T TE AC H E R

CHILDREN LEARN AND GROW THROUGH PLAY. Intertwine music with play, and the benefits to a child’s brain development can be exponential, particularly in the areas of the brain used for language acquisition and reading. This harmony between play and musical education is fundamental to the Early Childhood Music and Movement program and is embodied in the program’s four core words—“Sing,” “Say,” “Move” and “Play”—that are prominently displayed in the classroom for all to see.

These four verbs indicate what students experience in each Music and Movement class. Instead of passively consuming musical concepts, St. Martin’s Toddler, Beginner, Pre-K and Kindergarten students comprehend terms such as tempo by dancing to fast and slow songs and rhythm by pounding on drums along with the beat.

While students are actively learning, research shows that they are also developing their young brains, social-emotional skills and motor skills.

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The necessity of music in human brain development has been discussed as far back as ancient Greece. The Greeks believed the three primary areas of education are math for the development of a healthy brain, physical education for the development of a healthy body and music for the development of a healthy emotional sensitivity.

Many schools around the country have decreased the amount of weekly instructional time students spend in music and physical education classes in an effort to increase the amount of time spent on core academic subjects. In contrast, St. Martin’s understands the importance of educating the whole child and schedules dedicated time for its youngest students to engage in song, dance, physical games and more in the form of weekly Music and Movement classes. It is my hope that along the way, students also learn to love music, as I did at a young age.

I grew up in a musical household. My mother was a mu-

sic teacher and my earliest musical memories are of my mother rocking and singing me to sleep at night. As a child, I sang with my siblings on car trips in threepart harmony, attended symphony concerts and was exposed to all genres of music. I started instruction on the piano as a young child, with my mom as my teacher, and eventually switched to the oboe in my middle school years. It was easy to fall in love with making music and being part of an ensemble. I loved the community aspect of making music together, as well as the individual challenge of achieving a high level of mastery.

My passion for music continued to increase through college, so I set my eyes on a career as a professional musician with dreams to perform in an orchestra one day. However, my tune changed in graduate school. I was hired by a local middle school to teach private lessons to their beginning oboe students. I fell in love with teaching and finding ways to motivate children to not only achieve at a high level but to truly love music, much like what my mom and music teachers did for me.

So, I stepped off the stage and into the classroom. My first teaching job was at a public

elementary school in an urban setting. Many of my students struggled both academically and socially and came from difficult home-life situations.

For many of them, music class served as a safe place. This experience struck a lasting chord with me. It taught me even more about the power of music and its role in a child’s life. Music is so much more than a stimulant to intellectual development; it is also vital to a child’s social-emotional growth.

As I grew in my career and then had my own children, I sought to learn more about how musical influences positively affect academic and social growth in the youngest of children. After attending Kindermusik classes with my own two boys, I became certified to teach infant, toddler and preschool music and movement classes and started my own business. It was exciting to see the growth of babies and the bonding that music nurtured between them and their parents.

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT IN ACTION Earlier this year, I took Music Rhapsody’s online Early Childhood Music and Movement certification course and attended a

Music is so much more than a stimulant to intellectual development; it is also vital to a child’s socialemotional growth.

PATTERNS | SUMMER 2020

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The Science Behind Music and Movement

Allowing children at a young age to make music in an active and joyful setting...increases the likelihood that they will continue to engage in musical experiences later in life. live training with Lynn Kleiner, the author of that curriculum. Kleiner is someone who truly makes music come alive for young children, and the lessons I brought back to the classroom have already become some of my students’ favorites.

Pre-K and Kindergarten students love Kleiner’s action song, “Subnivean.” They learn that subnivean means “below the snow” and we talk about which creatures might live there. This type of visual leads to immediate movement ideas for children. Little mice, moles and other creatures suddenly begin “digging” around the classroom, remaining watchful for predators that can hear them, even from far away. This ties in wonderfully to science, where students learn about predators from their homeroom teachers and in

the Science Lab. The scene quickly changes as the children react to the lyrics: “when they are done and they’re looking for fun, they dig to the top and they’re ready to run!” Squeals of delight and a chorus of “can we sing that again, Ms. Bower?” confirm that I have found a good lesson.

In St. Martin’s Music and Movement classes, quite simply, children “do music.” Just as the classroom signs say, everyday we “Sing,” “Say,” “Move,” and “Play.” Allowing children at a young age to make music in an active and joyful setting not only helps to develop their young minds but also increases the likelihood that they will continue to engage in musical experiences later in life when it becomes a choice. This is what I hope for my young students!

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The theories on brain development in young children are as numerous as note combinations on a keyboard. Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences supports the importance of a variety of early learning experiences.

In his book, “Multiple Intelligences,” Gardner suggests that each individual possesses a variety of “intelligences” that function independently of other intellectual attributes. In Early Childhood Music and Movement class, we work to develop both the musical and bodily-kinesthetic “intelligences.”

Preschoolers love music, and they retain music concepts best when paired with movement. Presenting music concepts first from a movement experience prepares their brains to attach those experiences to what they hear. Activities in Music and Movement class are designed to stimulate development in every part of the young child’s brain: hearing, vision, speech, behavior, sensory reactions, memory and emotions.

By combining music with movement, we follow a curriculum that helps preschoolers develop gross and fine motor skills, body awareness and coordination.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Volunteer Spotlight

Jennifer O’Leary When did your family become part of the St. Martin’s community?

Our family joined the St. Martin’s community in 2012 when our oldest of three, Tate, a rising 8th grader, enrolled for Kindergarten. I can’t believe we have been at St. Martin’s for nine years. Time flies!

In what capacities have you volunteered at SMES (in and out of the classroom)?

I love that St. Martin’s provides so many volunteering opportunities for parents. I started off volunteering in smaller roles with the PTO, then spent a few years adding the job of room parent, and later had the pleasure of serving as PTO copresident for the 2017-2018 school year.

Over the last two years, I have also helped coach the girls’ C volleyball team, and I’ve been doing a lot of merchandise buying for the school store. Also, I currently serve on the Board of Trustees.

and I’ve been doing some work behind the scenes to help make it happen. This past year, with the support of our administration, we tackled the roll-out of hooded St. Martin’s sweatshirts, and the effort has been a huge hit! We’ve been amazed by the overwhelming response to these sweatshirts.

To walk onto campus and see all the kids (even in 96 degree weather!) wearing their sweatshirts proudly, made me realize how important our school store was to supplying needed and wanted spirit items. It has made St. Martin’s look and feel like a real school community. I LOVE being out in the broader community and seeing kids proudly wear their sweatshirts outside of school.

Call it school spirit or pride; I think it looks amazing and makes me smile and feel happy to be a part of our special St. Martin’s community.

Joined St. Martin’s community: 2012-2013 Volunteer Areas: • PTO • Room Parent • PTO CoPresident • Coaching Girls’ C Volleyball • Buyer for school store • SMES Board of Trustees

Why is giving back to St. Martin’s important to you?

When I was growing up, I was taught, “you get what you put in.” Giving back my time has allowed me to become more a part of the school community and see first-hand all of the fantastic experiences St. Martin’s is providing to my children. I think it sets an important example for my children to see me giving back to their school community; and outside the community as well. Quite frankly, giving back to St. Martin’s just feels good.

Why is the SMES school store important to the community?

What makes St. Martin’s special to you and your family?

Over my nine years at St. Martin’s, it has been amazing to see the school store slowly expand from selling mostly toys, school supplies and a few t-shirts to selling a wide variety of new apparel and spirit items. The PTO and school administration have had a goal to “update and expand” the school’s sweatshirts and other spirit gear,

St. Martin’s has been such a special place because we have seen our three children really grow, mature, and excel here. Our entire family has met so many wonderful families, and we have made life-long friends.

I am sad thinking about my oldest graduating in 2021 and leaving the school. That feeling is probably one of the greatest compliments I can give the faculty, administration and school community.

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5 Ways Students Learn to Love Reading at St. Martin’s

A

b y B E C KY STE WA R T S ME S L I B R A R I A N

school library is more than a place to check out books.

It is a rich ecosystem of information, technology and special events that together cultivate a lifelong love of reading in its student patrons. At St. Martin’s, the library is a place for students to gather and work independently and collaboratively, research topics within and beyond their curriculum and sit back to relax with a good book. Simply put, it is where children can learn that reading is fun.

1

Check this out:

2

More Than 15,000 Titles The most important way the library inspires a love of reading is through access to an ever-expanding inventory of books. The library’s collection of more than 15,000 paper books and magazines and 12,000 e-books is constantly being updated with the latest and greatest titles to ensure students and faculty can always find what they need for both classroom assignments and personal enjoyment. When a student finishes one book, a school librarian is always ready to point them towards something new whether it’s the next book in their favorite series or to a genre or subject matter they have yet to explore.

Readers CAN Be Choosers When a student feels ownership over their reading life, they are more likely to develop a love for reading. In the library, students are given the opportunity to choose which books they check out (within reason, of course). On occasion, a student will select a book above or below their reading level, but they are always enthusiastic about their choice.

The library is especially effective at offering students a break from structured learning to pursue topics of interest. Offering a student the freedom of choice can not only spark a lifelong love of reading, but also of learning.

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“

HAVING A CONVERSATION WITH A STUDENT WHO IS EXCITED ABOUT A BOOK IS THE BEST PART OF MY JOB AND THE REASON WHY I COME TO WORK EVERYDAY. WE TRY TO MAKE READING FUN. IT IS NOT SOMETHING YOU ALWAYS DO ALONE. WE GIVE STUDENTS A CHANCE TO SHARE WHAT THEY’VE BEEN READING WITH THEIR FRIENDS.

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Something for Everyone With more than 600 student patrons, ranging from infants to adolescents, and faculty members who teach varying subjects and grade levels, it is important for the school library to have a wide array of books to meet the diverse reading levels, interests and needs of its visitors. The library’s collection includes thousands of books and magazines in paper and digital form, but the range of available mediums does not end there. It also provides a variety of audiobooks as well as access to computers and other technologies so students may read books and articles in a myriad of ways. There is something for everyone at the SMES library.

Better Together Sometimes reading is better when it’s done together. To foster a culture of reading at SMES, the library hosts several communitybuilding challenges and events throughout the school year. These include author visits by nationally recognized and award-winning writers and illustrators, surprise parent guest-readers, also known as mystery readers, birthday book parties where students with recent birthdays gather to pick out a book from a special selection and more.

Elementary and Middle School students are even encouraged to read books nominated for the Georgia Children’s Book Award each year.

The students’ favorite event may be the one “borrowed” from college basketball. Every spring, the library hosts a March Madness Book Tournament where students and teachers are invited to vote for their favorite book and see if it can win. This year, the second half of the tournament was held virtually and the winning book was “The Pigeon Has to Go to School” by Mo Willems.

5

Read by Example Another important way library staff teach a love of reading is by example. When children are aware that adults in their lives take time to read and discuss books, they are more likely to do so themselves.

The SMES librarians can frequently be seen discussing their latest reads, talking to students about exciting new books or gossiping about what this or that character did or said in the last chapter.

Reading During Distance Learning When St. Martin’s transitioned to distance learning, the librarians worked quickly to facilitate student, parent and faculty access to the library’s extensive online resources and materials. In response to school closures across the country, publishers and database vendors began to offer their products for free online. As a result, the St. Martin’s library received more than 8,000 free e-books to add to its collection in a single day.

Library class remained part of students’ curriculum throughout distance learning. Librarians offered “storytime” to students through recorded and live videos, and older students continued to develop their research skills through uniquely adapted assignments. For example, in their lesson on primary sources, students recorded their distance learning experiences so that a researcher in the future might be able to look back and understand what life was like for students in 2020. In these and many other ways, the librarians continued to nurture each student’s love of reading and learning from the safety of their own homes.

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Great!

Wow!

Fun!

The Third Grade Journey to Independence b y LYNDS E Y B E R N G A R D, M E G A N DY E A N D M E L A N I E H U R L EY S ME S TH I R D G R A DE TE AC H E R S

“IT IS NOT WHAT YOU DO FOR YOUR CHILDREN, BUT WHAT YOU HAVE TAUGHT THEM TO DO FOR THEMSELVES, THAT WILL MAKE THEM SUCCESSFUL HUMAN BEINGS.” EPPIE LEDERER (ANN LANDERS)

C

hildhood is a series of important t ra n sit ion s . W it hout t hem, children would never learn to walk, talk or make their first friend.

These leaps from one stage to the next, while often challenging and intimidating, are exciting opportunities along each child’s journey of growing up.

At St. Martin’s, 3rd grade is the bridge between the lower and upper Elementary School years and naturally serves as a year of transition, change and growth for students. In the 1st and 2nd grades, the deadlines for homework assignments never overlap and students do not receive formal grades.

However, when students transition to the 4th and 5th grades, they receive homework and grades from multiple teachers and move between classrooms for each subject. This requires 3rd graders to learn to manage their time, balance their workload and become familiar with a grading system before they graduate to 4th grade and beyond.

This shift requires dedication and effort on each student’s part, but there is also extensive scaffolding and support in place to ensure their success.

Students are not expected to make these transitions overnight. The 3rd grade faculty team breaks down each skill into manageable, achievable steps and gradually guides students to a place of more independence over the course of the year.

More Responsibility: Planning, Organization & Grades For the first time in their academic careers, 3rdgrade students are required to use a binder and planner to organize their materials and manage their time. They use these tools to organize notes,

32 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

classwork, study materials and homework for all subjects. While there is a big learning curve for students, they are ready for this level of organization and structure in their school day. The 3rd grade teachers assist students by labeling folders and instructing them on exactly where to place the material for each subject. By the end of the year, 3rd graders have found their rhythm and are organizing their binders successfully on their own.

To help students develop their time-management skills, teachers begin by asking learners to record the day’s homework assignments in their planner.

Then, students are asked to plan out a week and then a month at a time, making note of all their upcoming due dates and tests. At the same time, teachers transition from reviewing each student’s planner daily, to students monitoring one another’s entries and ultimately maintaining their own planner independently.

As they begin to map out their weeks ahead of time, students get in the routine of knowing which days they have extracurricular activities and which days they will have time to study for tests and complete assignments. Students quickly learn the importance

“THE GREATEST GIFTS YOU CAN GIVE YOUR CHILDREN ARE THE ROOTS OF RESPONSIBILITY AND THE WINGS OF INDEPENDENCE.” DENIS WAITLEY

of planning their time and breaking down big projects into multiple days of manageable subtasks. Adopting the daily practice of checking and maintaining a planner enables students to balance their school assignments with their many extracurricular activities, which is a skill they will use for the rest of their lives.

Third grade is also a year where students earn grades and take social studies for the first time. When students discover the connection between the time they put into their studies and the grades they receive, they learn the value of studying and working hard. Third grade teachers make this connection explicit.

For example, they explain to students that it is important to complete all of their homework assignments because homework is ten percent of their grade. Students learn to love grades because they offer an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge of and success in each subject.

Added Perks: Lockers & Recess Some of these “firsts” for 3rd-grade students include perks. For example, 3rd grade students are assigned lockers that they can decorate and use to organize their school supplies. Receiving a locker is very exciting for students. “I love the lockers because we get to decorate them,” said rising 4th-grade student Mila Tagtachian. Having their own

personalized space teaches students how to manage their own materials and keep track of their items. Each day, they are asked to respectfully and efficiently go between their classroom and their lockers to bring in homework, snacks and water bottles. Rising 4th-grade student Lynleigh Nichols said, “I love having a locker because it keeps my desk from becoming over-packed. That way I do not become so overwhelmed.”

Another fun shift 3rd graders enjoy at SMES is the change in recess location: they graduate from the playground to the more grownup turf field and outdoor basketball court area. No longer on the playground, which is pre-equipped with appropriate games and activities, the turf field and basketball court offer a blank canvas for students to invent their own games. In its own way, recess also becomes a place where students can enjoy the process of gaining more independence.

The other big transition in 3rd grade is for the parents. Parents learn over the course of the year that they don’t need to track what is due and when, as the responsibility of tracking assignments and grades now lies with the students. The shift is from the parent telling the student what to do and double checking what they do, to the student informing the parent of what they need to study and complete. This shift allows parents to be their child’s cheerleader versus their conductor.

What 3rd Graders Love Best About 3rd Grade n Super Fun Learning n Teachers are the BEST n Lockers n Friends n Learning New Things n Turf

With the love and support of their parents and teachers, St. Martin’s 3rd grade students learn the critical skills they need to be successful in 4th grade and beyond. Year after year, they prove themselves to be skilled, kind and capable young learners. As they depart 3rd grade and take the next leap in their education, they do it having earned the gifts of responsibility and independence.

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33

“Having recess on thecause turf is really fun be you get to use your e up imagination and mak your own games.”

Lila Botham Rising 4th-grade student

“We get a lot more ivileges responsibilities and pr ade than we did in 2nd gr be us and the teachers help independent!”

Maggie O’Leary ent Rising 4th-grade stud

“The planner helps me know what homework to do each night and stay organized.”

Wyler Webb Rising 4th-grade student

“I love ev about 3r erything d grade!”

Gavin Str

Rising 4t aley h-grade student

Distance Learning for 3rd-Grade Students In a year already peppered with change, the shift to distance learning added a new level of opportunity and challenge to this year’s 3rd grade students. Although it was sad to be away from friends, the 3rd grade team ensured students were still able to connect and share with one another while continuing to reach the rigorous learning goals for this grade level.

In week one, students learned how to use online learning tools like Zoom and how to access their daily teacher videos and assignments on the school website. When students got their bearings, the 3rd grade team began to introduce projects students could do from home

Wacky Hair Wednesday

to incorporate more hands-on learning into the school day. This helped spark student curiosity and sustain student engagement through the end of the school year. One of the students’ favorite projects was Market Day, where they built on their knowledge of economics to create a small business, set up shop on their sidewalk and sell their products to family and neighbors. Teachers also incorporated “Wacky Hair Wednesdays,” virtual field trips to museums and zoos, and “Happiness Bootcamps” to keep students interested and their spirits

Market Day

high. The 3rd grade families and faculty capped off the school year with a car parade through Blackburn Park.

Throughout the distance learning process, 3rd graders didn’t miss a beat in their learning and practiced a variety of organizational and planning skills. They honed their abilities as independent learners and are ready for 4th-grade and beyond.

Thank you to the 3rd grade parents for their invaluable partnership

Biographical Book Report

with the 3rd grade faculty team during the distance learning experience. n

34 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Special guest Skeeter Lee

Alumni Senior Dinner

S

t. Martin’s class of 2016 gathered on Zoom to celebrate their 2020 graduation from high school at the annual Alumni Senior Dinner. Many alums and their parents tuned in to reconnect with each other and SMES faculty and staff members during this fun and heartwarming event.

Special guest and retired middle school principal Skeeter Lee kicked off the program by sharing his fond memories of the class and congratulating them on their impressive college acceptances.

Alumni reminiesced about their favorite SMES memories, ranging from fun events like the fall festival, field day and class trips to special day-to-day moments like art class and playing on the turf field.

The group also took turns recounting their proudest high school accomplishments and shared where they plan to attend college in the fall.

As the evening came to a close, the graduates heard a congratulatory message from Head of School Dr. Luis Ottley and enjoyed a closing blessing by the Rev. Dr. Stefanie Taylor.

SMES CLASS OF 2016 - A SAMPLING OF COLLEGES THEY WILL ATTEND THIS FALL: Florida State University Wake Forest University Lehigh University Georgia Institute of Technology Furman University Auburn University Georgia Southern University Savannah College of Art and Design Indiana University University of Alabama Birmingham Case Western Reserve University Virginia Tech Rhodes College University of Tennessee Georgetown University University of South Carolina Clemson University

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Sports Wrap-Up Due to COVID-19, the spring sports season was cut short. However, in the short time the teams were together, they demonstrated a toughness and dedication to their sports. Each Warrior team would have been a solid contender in their leagues by the end of the season.

I was really looking forward to our spring season. Thanks to all of our athletes for their hard work and determination.

You should be proud of your efforts."

Mark McDaniel SMES Athletic Director

Winter

BASKETBALL The A-girls coaches, Susan Murphy and Zach Leitgeb, taught the team new skills and strategies.

The team dominated on the court and won six of their 11 conference games. They ended the season strong in a tight playoff game against Davis Academy.

The B-girls basketball team completed their season with a 7-1 record and placed second in the MAAC B-league tournament. Coach Amanda Walker and Coach Valentina Lee worked hard with the girls all season, and it paid off. They had success and lots of fun along the way.

A-BOYS BASKETBALL

The C-girls basketball team played hard and had fun all season long with Coach Sarah Taylor. The players improved their skills in all aspects of the game, came together as a team as the season progressed and finished strong with a big win against Epstein.

The A-boys basketball team was young this year and had a slow start to the season. After Christmas break, they went on a roll and finished with a 6-6 record overall, earning a spot in the playoffs. They faced The Museum School in the first round and fought hard the whole way, but unfortunately got knocked out. Coaches Rob Harris and Michael Albanese were proud of the boys’ efforts this year.

The B-boys basketball team was “full of awesome people,” said Coach Mark McDaniel. They worked hard and improved tremendously over the season.

After a slow start, the boys won four games in a row and dominated the end of the season. Every member played a ton of minutes and contributed to the team’s success.

The C-boys basketball team went 4-1, with some close and exciting games. All the boys improved their play over the season and worked well as a team. Coach Spence Camp and Coach Ricky Brown were very impressed with everyone’s effort throughout the season.

36 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

A-GIRLS BASKETBALL

SWIMMING St. Martin’s swim team competed in three meets this year. The swimmers performed well, placing in each of the competitions, despite having fewer participants than any other schools. There were a couple of top finishers, and many of the Warrior swimmers broke their personal best. Hopefully, more swimmers will compete next year and continue the excellence!

SPORTS WRAP-UP

Winter 2019-20 Athletic Awards GIRLS C BASKETBALL Warrior Awards ................................Reese Richardson &

Hannelis Rodas Hustle Awards...................................Anna Mitchell &

Riley Mitchell BOYS C BASKETBALL Warrior Awards.................................Ryder Degitz &

Drew Park Most Improved..................................Mateo Tagtachian GIRLS B BASKETBALL Warrior Award...................................Campbell Fletcher Most Improved..................................Reese Hudson & ................................................................Charlotte Zalenski Hustle Award.....................................Kiley Spink BOYS B BASKETBALL Warrior Awards.................................Quin Brown &

David Albert Most Improved..................................Ian Gaffney

2020 BASEBALL TEAM

GIRLS A BASKETBALL MAAC All Conference Award......Eloise Smith Warrior Award...................................Janie Alexander Most Improved..................................Eva McLaren BOYS A BASKETBALL MAAC All Conference Award......Nathan Altiery Warrior Awards.................................Archer Love &

Luke Williams Most Improved..................................Reece Williams A special thank you to our 8th-grade spring sport athletes. Best wishes for your continued success in high school!

2020 GOLF TEAM

Spring

BASEBALL

Erielle Harris

Wesley Lybrook

Anna Loffredio

Reece Williams

Katie O’Mara

GIRLS SOCCER

BASEBALL

GOLF

Despite a rainy start to the season, the baseball team came out strong and won all three of their league games with a combined score of 48-1. The pitchers did not give up any hits during those three games.

Coach Michael Albanese did a great job of putting together and coaching this top-tier team!

The golf team played two matches, a fourman stroke play, and a scramble event. At both events, golfers played well and worked together to post low scores. Each player represented St. Martin’s well and gained valuable experience. Neil Conrad and Kenneth Alexander coached the team.

Riley Vassian

Jake Curcio Charlie Duerr

Avalana Brock

YOUTH PASSING

Zoe Embleton

LEAGUE

Ansley Granade

Ian Gaffney

Annabelle McMennamy

Peyton Gunnels

Laurel Studdard

Carter Hathaway

GOLF John Madden TENNIS Makayli Anochie

Luke Holbert Christopher Kartsonas Grayson Leiter Taylor Norris

Alexandra Craig Katherine Davis

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TENNIS The tennis team achieved impressive results at the two Hudlow Invitational matches this season. The team finished 6-4 overall in the first match and came away with six wins and three losses in the second.

The team was just getting started and was sure to execute more big wins for the season under the leadership of Coach Chris Nama and Coach Amanda Walker.

SOCCER The A-girls soccer team played a well-fought game against Davis Academy.

The girls played hard and persevered through the final whistle. Although they came up short, Coach Katharine Veal and Coach Maggie Tereshinski could not have asked more from this talented team.

The B-girls soccer team showed great dedication and work ethic, applied the coaches’ suggestions and played aggressively in practice. Coaches Alan Shafir and Michele Davis are proud of the team’s efforts.

2020 TENNIS TEAM

“Thanks to all of our athletes for their hard work and determination. You should be proud of your efforts.”

Mark McDaniel SMES Athletic Director

2020 A-GIRLS SOCCER TEAM

YPL St. Martin’s fielded three talented Youth Passing League teams this season.

Each player gave their best effort and the A2 team came away with a win this season. All three teams had great talent and were a pleasure to coach for Coach Rob Harris and Coach Susan Murphy. n 2020 YPL TEAM

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Portrait of a Graduate ELIZABETH GOINES SMES graduation year: 2014 High School: Riverwood International Charter School College: Georgia Southern University Degree: Bachelor Of Science in Public Relations Currently: Elizabeth is a rising junior at Georgia Southern University (GS) where she competes as a member of the women’s tennis team. As a freshman, she was selected by her peers as the GS “Female Freshman Athlete of the Year.” During her freshman season, her team surpassed expectations and won its way to the Sunbelt Conference Finals, despite being ranked as the conference’s 8th seed.

In addition to playing tennis, Elizabeth and her teammates volunteer at various tennis clinics. She loves and has a lot of fun

coaching, especially with younger kids. This past year, her team helped to organize and run a clinic at Richmond Hill Tennis Center in Savannah. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys hanging out with her friends, going out to eat, and exploring the live-music scene in Statesboro.

Something special you learned at SMES: St. Martin’s taught me how important it is to stay in touch with friends, especially those that you’ve known since you were really young. I have a few friends from SMES that I still keep up with and it is always nice to reconnect with people who have known you your entire life.

Favorite SMES tradition: Definitely the Grand Canyon Trip. It was so much fun!

Most influential SMES teacher and why: My 1st-grade teacher, Mrs. Burnett, because I only have good memories of her. She was a constant part of my life at SMES, and even after. My mom and I ate dinner with her during my senior year of high school when I was playing tennis in Memphis, where Mrs. Burnett now lives.

What is your favorite way to give back?

Every year, my team and I organize a tennis clinic at GS to raise awareness for a cause of our choice. At the clinic, student-athletes that play a sport other than tennis for GS, local high schools or local middle schools come out and have fun participating in various tennis drills. It is always really fun!

The person I’d most like to meet and why?

Robin Roberts because she is an advocate for female college athletes and athletics programs. I also grew up watching her on “Good Morning America” every morning before school, and I think she is really good at her job! n

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Spring 2020 from a Distance

CLOSING OUT THE SCHOOL YEAR AMID A GLOBAL PANDEMIC b y KRISTI G A F F N EY, SM ES D IR EC TOR O F M A R K E TI N G A N D CO MM U N I C ATI O N S

A

s students, faculty and staff eased out for St. Martin’s spring break in early-March, the unexpected happened that would dramatically affect the rest of the school year, and life in general. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was just on the national radar in February, but it became a screaming headline throughout the world just as SMES returned to campus to begin the second part of the spring semester. School was back in session for one week after spring break only to unexpectedly shut down for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year.

Virtual Band Performance

Let’s stay connected!

• Warrior Talent Show (6 episodes strong!) faculty, staff and students of all ages participated • Core Values music playlist curated by SMES faculty and staff • SAGE at-home recipe videos • Coach Walker’s at-home 10-minute HIIT workouts • Coach McDaniel’s athome training exercises for each sport as well as general fitness resources for students and adults

After only one day of planning, teachers and administrators crafted distance learning programs at breakneck speed to bring a St. Martin’s education online. Many families were upended as the city shut down, and parents and teachers were forced to navigate working from home alongside their children. The St. Martin’s community came together in a brand new way, and “connection” was the name of the game.

While planet Earth was rapidly shutting down, like everyone in the workforce, teachers juggled their own families from home working to provide a meaningful experience for their students. Many households juggled everything from on-the-move toddlers to hungry teens and barking dogs while still trying to work - and for many, it was a zoo. The unexpected need for at-home learning wasn’t without hiccups. Still, the bright spots and unwavering can-do attitude by so many made the very best of what was an impossible situation.

Teachers rose to the challenge of providing creative learning solutions from educational ‘packets’ sent home to Early Childhood students with developmentally appropriate at-home projects to carefully crafted video lessons and live Zoom calls to deliver content or checkins.

It wasn’t ideal, but it was filled with love guided by the goal to support a wholehearted education for St. Martin’s students. Were there misses along the way? Yes. Were there unexpected surprises? Yes. Were there successes well beyond expectations? Yes. Distance learning was uncharted territory fraught with both successes and challenges, but underneath it all was heart.

We are happy to be back on campus with well-thought-out safety measures in place but are also fully-prepared to implement a variety of plans for closure should the need arise. Hindsight is truly 20/20 in 2020.

40 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Creativity on the fly!

All School Art Project: Art teacher Libby Tyler invited the SMES community to learn about the color wheel by collecting items of various colors from around their homes and arranging them on the floor in a color wheel.

Middle School Band: Each band member recorded their part of “Onward Warriors” and a video was compiled of them playing the piece together- it debuted as part of the virtual Honors Day assembly.

2nd Grade Special Visit: After a teary Zoom meeting with so many students missing their classmates and teacher, Mrs. Green decided to drive around and visit each of her students’ houses. She waved at them from her car, but let her dog out so they could hug her dog (since they couldn’t hug her).

Early Childhood TakeHome Packets: Educational take-home packets were created by faculty to supplement EC student learning. Each student received two packets of developmentally appropriate materials specific to their grade-level learning goals.

Elementary School Fun Day: A virtual “Fun Day” replaced Field day and was filled with a variety of physical challenges including an obstacle course, basketball tricks, a book walk and more. Teachers filmed demonstration videos of each activity and then students had a week to film themselves doing the activities from home.

1st Grade Reading Fort: In Ms. King’s class, students built reading forts in their homes.

8th-grade “Capulet’s Masquerade Ball”: Students made masquerade masks from home and enjoyed a virtual ball to cap-off their unit on Romeo and Juliet in Mrs. Davis’ English class.

3rd Grade Projects: From “Wacky Wednesdays” on Zoom to Mrs. Hurley’s full-blown book report project - 3rd graders rose to the challenge of distance learning.

Parades: In addition to the 8th-grade celebration parade, Kindergarteners also held a car parade to celebrate their graduation from Early Childhood!

Library read alouds: SMES librarians, Mrs. McKerley and others recorded themselves reading stories aloud so students could still enjoy “story time” which is a normal part of their library curriculum.

4th & 5th Grade Speech & Drama Storytime: Students practiced their presentation skills by reading stories aloud to their classmates -- the videos were later shared with all faculty and staff.

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Alumni Red&Blue Dinner FEBRUARY 13, 2020 St. Martin’s welcomed 90 alumni from the classes of 2017, 2018 and 2019 back to campus for an evening of conversation, food and games.

Now freshman, sophomores and juniors at a myriad of Atlanta high schools, the visitors enjoyed reconnecting with SMES friends and St. Martin’s faculty and staff.

Story swapping, connecting with former teachers and lots of laughter made for a fun evening for everyone.

CLASS OF 2019

CLASS OF 2017

42 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

CLASS OF 2018

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PTO CO-PRESIDENTS

“We are pleased to report another successful

year and express our gratitude to everyone who donated their time, talents, and financial resources to support the PTO.”

W

e are so thankful to have been given the opportunity to lead the St. Martin’s PTO during the 2019-2020 school year. Having been a part of the St. Martin’s community for the past seven years, we have seen the important role the PTO plays in supporting and enriching St. Martin’s. The PTO organizes events to create fellowship among SMES families, raises money to donate to the school, and provides opportunities to show appreciation for our incredible faculty and staff. We are pleased to report another successful year and express our gratitude to everyone who donated their time, talents, and financial resources to support the PTO. We want to give special thanks to our PTO Executive Board: Erin Spink, Jennifer House, Lindy MacPhee, Marianne Zalenski, Julia Hubbard, Kelly Greene, and Kerri Levitt. In addition to meeting weekly to ensure all PTO events were run well and communicated about effectively, they all went above and beyond the requirements of their roles to help make this PTO year as successful as it was.

A special thank you to all our event chairs who worked so hard organizing and planning our 40-plus PTO-sponsored programs and events and to the St. Martin’s Board of Trustees and school staff for their continued support of the PTO. The highlight of our fundraising efforts this year was the $135,000 raised through our Winter Social and Online Auction. The Barnyard Bash-themed event was a huge hit thanks to the energy, imagination, and dedication of our Winter Social co-chairs Alex Livingston and Richelle Terry. The online auction was so successful thanks in large part to the generous item donations from many St. Martin’s families and the many teacher treasures offered by our faculty and staff. The PTO had many other fundraising events throughout the year, which will be summarized in the St. Martin’s Annual Report.

While the 2019-2020 school year started rather routinely, we had no idea the year would end so differently than how it began. As the St. Martin’s community sheltered in place and acclimated to distance learning, the St. Martin’s PTO’s mission of “working together for our children” was never more evident. The parents and teachers worked together like they never had before. While we had to cancel some events and reimagine some others, the spirit of the PTO remained strong.

Again, we are grateful for the support of each of you and the opportunity to lead the PTO this year.

We wish our successors, Jennifer House and Erin Spink, all the best and know that they will welcome and appreciate the same support as they work to make the 2020-2021 school year an even bigger success.

Sincerely,

Carrie & Renee Carrie Ackel and Renee Loope

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Faculty News

UPDATES FROM OUR FACULTY

Julie Ann Stovall

Madeline Lee Fencl

Murray Family

CONGRATS! Advancement Coordinator Jamie Fencl and husband Alex welcomed baby Madeline Lee Fencl on April 17, 2020. She weighed 6 lbs. and was 20.5 in. long.

Kindergarten teacher Andie Murray and husband Justin welcomed their daughter, Bradlee Bea Murray, on Dec. 7, 2019. She was 9 lbs. and 2 oz., and 20.5 in. long.

Sarah Taylor

Fifth-grade teacher Julie Ann Ullmann married Richard Ullmann on Dec. 28, 2019, in Decatur, Ga. The newlyweds honeymooned at the beach.

Communications Coordinator Sarah Taylor is engaged to Tyler Jones.

The couple will marry in the summer of 2022 in Washington state.

In the fall, Lynne Perry will serve as Interim

44 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Lauren Sims

Elementary School Principal, Julie Thomason will transition to the roll of Early Childhood administrative assistant, Brandi Tant will join the 4th-grade team as math teacher, Chinita Allen will be the new Elementary School science teacher, Katie Moussouri will join the Kairos Learning Center faculty team, Cody Ward will be the performing arts technical

Cheryl Doughty

director and Kathryn Hechenbleikner will fill the new roll of Infant Program Coordinator.

WELCOME! St. Martin’s welcomes Cheryl Doughty to the administrative leadership team as the new Director of Finance and Operations.

Cheryl received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in

IN MEMORIAM

accounting from Georgia College and is a certified public accountant. She brings more than 12 years of experience in the accounting and finance field to St. Martin’s. Most recently, Cheryl worked as the Controller at Mt. Pisgah Christian School for five years, and before that, as an auditor for private schools. Welcome, Cheryl!

In addition, St. Martin’s welcomes Lauren Sims to the advancement team as the new Director of Annual Fund. Lauren comes to SMES with 12 years of fundraising experience in the non-profit sector; most recently as the Director of Development for CURE Childhood Cancer.

Welcome, Lauren!

FAREWELLS St. Martin’s bids farewell to Elementary School Principal Dr. Mary McPherson, who has elected to pursue other interests after 22 years of service to the school.

“Dr. Mac,” as she is affectionately known, began her career at SMES in the classroom teaching technology and later served as the Director of Academic Technology and Standardized Testing. In 2009, Mary became Principal for the Elementary School division, where she has led for the last ten years. During her

time as Principal, she managed many important initiatives, including two SAIS accreditations and the evaluation and implementation of critical curriculum changes, particularly in math and language arts. Most importantly, though, Mary's kind heart and unwavering leadership could always be felt by her peers, school parents, and especially the students.

St. Martin’s is incredibly grateful and appreciative of Mary’s tireless work and dedication to St. Martin’s over the years, and wishes her the best in the next chapter of her journey.

Director of Finance and Operations John Cunningham, Jr. retired after six years at St. Martin’s. John first joined the SMES community as a parent in 1991 and served on the Board of Trustees from 1994 to 1997.

His two daughters, Mary Boissoneault and Sarah Cunningham both attended St. Martin’s. John and his wife, Nancy, are building a home near Athens and are excited to begin this next phase of their lives.

After six years at SMES, Kindergarten teaching assistant Cathie Kelly is retiring and shifting to a part-time substitute role for the Early Childhood program. Cathie is excited to travel with her husband, grow her involvement at her church and spend

time with her young grandchildren.

Performing Arts Technical Director & Fine Arts Assistant Spencer Stephens is leaving SMES after 15 years to pursue a new opportunity. In addition to his work supporting drama productions and the Middle School band, Spencer assisted with Warrior TV, coached Ultimate Frisbee, co-chaired the Multicultural Committee and more.

We also bid farewell to Kindergarten lead teacher Courtney Hollis who will be staying home with her children, EC and ES Spanish teacher Jasmine Casilla who will be moving to North Carolina to be closer to family, Kairos Learning Center teacher Joanie Ehlers who is retiring and Early Childhood administrative assistant Julianna McHale and Toddler teaching assistant Vanessa Soto who will be pursuing new ventures.

Rebecca Williams SMES Trustee (1997 - 2003)

Former SMES trustee and parent Rebecca Williams passed away earlier this year after a long-fought battle with cancer. She was deeply devoted to St. Martin’s as a parent and a volunteer. During her family’s time at St. Martin’s, she volunteered in many capacities including serving as a Trustee from 1997 to 2003.

Rebecca served on the St. Martin’s Board of Trustees for six years, from 1997 to 2003, and led multiple school committees. She was loved by her family, friends and co-workers for her optimism, tenacity and dedication to serving the public through her awardwinning journalism career and later as a local political figure.

Her daughters, Clare William Stevens (‘07) and Chase Williams Cooper (‘04) both graduated from SMES. A small, private service was held for family members in mid-March.

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Alumni Notes

UPDATES FROM OUR ALUMNI

Lauren Godshall, ’07

Lillian Haas, ’07

Kristi Oltman Bates, ‘06 and Amy Oltman Zimmerman, ‘04

Amanda Klinger Grim, ’06

Lauren Buss, ’08

’06

three years, received her master’s in public health degree in epidemiology from Emory University and her bachelor’s of science degree in biology from Belmont University.

Edith Woodling officiated the service, and Lillian’s sister, Oliva Haas (‘10), was her maid of honor. Lillian and Jeff live in Athens, Ga., where Lillian works as the annual giving and stewardship coordinator for University of Georgia.

Sisters Kristi Oltman Bates (‘06) and Amy Oltman Zimmerman (‘04) both welcomed new babies on New Year's Day this year. Kristi (left) and her husband welcomed daughter Victoria and Amy (right) and her husband welcomed son John. Kristi lives in Athens, Ga. with her husband and their three children. Amy works as a food scientist for the North Carolina Department of Agriculture in Raleigh, N.C. Amanda Klinger Grim married Palmer Grim in November of 2018.

Palmer’s mother, former St. Martin’s teacher Kelley

Grim, was Amanda’s 3rdgrade teacher.

’07 Sarah Bonaparte works as an epidemiologist for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Specifically, she coordinates the electronic data reporting of U.S. laboratories for the National Rabies Surveillance Program and works with international partners to implement, manage and evaluate incountry rabies surveillance programs and canine rabies vaccination programs. Sarah has worked for the CDC for

46 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Lauren Godshall married Riley Snider on Aug. 1, 2020 at Christ the King Catholic Church in Atlanta.

Riley and Lauren met at the University of Alabama and now live in Atlanta with their two dogs, Asher and Charlie. Lauren is a marketing data analyst for United Postal Service.

Lillian Haas married Jeff Ballance on Dec. 27, 2019 at St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church. Former SMES School Chaplain

’08 Lauren Buss works as a team leader and health policy analyst in the Office of Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Her office provides independent oversight over all HHS programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, Centers for

ALUMNI NOTES

Sarah Johnson (center), ’08

Lindsey Southers, ’08

Melissa Morris, ’08

Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the Administration for Children and Families, ensuring that these and other programs run efficiently and effectively.

With the outbreak of COVID-19, her role has expanded to include monitoring the deployment of workers to areas impacted by the outbreak, focusing on the safety, health and operational protocols in place.

educate communities impacted by the virus.

Sarah has also participated in several COVID-19 testing events around Atlanta.

Sarah and her fiancé David Rayment plan to marry on September 4, 2020 in Atlanta.

Sarah Johnson is a program coordinator in the PRISM Health research department at the Emory Rollins School of Public Health. In response to COVID-19, Sarah and her team have been responsible for developing messaging on mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing to

Melissa Morris married Will Fuller on June 4, 2020 at the Inn at Serenbe in Chattahoochee Hills, Ga. The couple enjoyed an intimate ceremony with immediate family. Will and Melissa will take their honeymoon next year in Lake Como, Italy, where they originally planned to host the wedding ceremony pre-pandemic.

Melissa works with her mother, Becky Morris, at Beacham & Company Realtors. They have been the top performing team within the company for two years.

Natalie Chu ’09

Lindsey Southers married Ray Brown on Sept. 21, 2019 in Atlanta. The ceremony was held at St. James Methodist Church and the reception celebration was held at The Estate. The couple lives in Huntsville, Ala. where Lindsey works as a marketing specialist for 3-GIS and Ray works in sales at a tech start-up.

’09 Natalie Chu is a project manager at NextEra Energy in Juno Beach, Fla., where she works on wind, solar, and battery energy storage projects.

She traveled extensively in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan in 2019.

’10 Maddie Barnett graduated from Kennesaw State University with a master’s degree in nursing and is working in the NICU unit alongside her sister, Alison Barnett (‘08), at Northside Hospital in Atlanta.

Anna Johnson graduated from Louisiana State University with a master’s degree in speech language pathology.

Madison Mischik is in law school at the University of Georgia.

’11 Trey Blasingame graduated from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He works for Stream Real Estate Company in Austin, Texas.

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ALUMNI NOTES

merchandise manager and DJ on tours across Europe and the U.S. Last summer, he planned, coordinated and hosted his first festival, the Peach Music Festival, in Atlanta. Ryan and his work was recently featured in an article by VoyageATL.

’15 Sally Smith ’12

Ryan Connor ’13

Lindsey Smith is a rising sophomore at Georgia Institute of Technology.

She is the online media director for her sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta, and interned with Pace Logistics this summer.

’16 Brittany Walsh, ’12

Robin James, ’16

’12

American studies. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in library science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is also an intern with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Library in Research Triangle Park.

Alexandria Cannon graduated magna cum laude from George Washington University (GWU) with a bachelor’s degree in history. Her honors thesis, “The Washington Family and Native American Slavery,” was highlighted at GWU’s research showcase. Her work is also published on the GWU Mount Vernon website and on display at the GWU Textile Museum.

Alexandria plans to pursue a master’s degree in public administration, public policy or law in the fall of 2021.

Sally Smith graduated summa cum laude from University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in English, minor in history and certificate in Native

Brittany Walsh graduated magna cum laude from Elon University with bachelor’s degrees in psychology and Spanish and a minor in religious studies. This summer, she began a master’s degree program in clinical mental health counseling at Georgia State University.

’13 Ryan Connor promotes and supports Atlanta artists with his company, Blu House Booking. He has worked as a tour manager,

48 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Mollie Albert graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School and will attend the University of South Carolina in the fall.

Mallory Arrigo graduated from Riverwood High School with an International Baccalaureate diploma and will attend Florida State University in the fall.

Henry Bieze graduated from Marist School and will attend Wake Forest University in the fall.

Charlene Bohrer graduated from The Westminster Schools and will attend Lehigh University in the fall.

Ben Brown graduated from Marist School. He was in the Honor Society and won the Most Dedicated Player award for football.

Ben will attend the University of Georgia in the fall.

Lucy Brumbaugh graduated from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal

School and received the Diabetic Swimmer of the Year Award. She will attend Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall.

Bradon Connor will attend Georgia State University’s business college in the fall.

Grant Esler graduated from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School (HIES).

He was captain of the basketball team and won the award for Best Picture at the HIES 2019 Film Festival. Grant will attend Miami University in the fall.

Lee Fenstermacher graduated from Marist School and will attend the University of Georgia in the fall.

Jago Fleming received the St. Teresa of Calcutta Award during his senior year at Holy Spirit Catholic School. This award is given to students who are patient, kind and caring.

Jago will attend Furman University in the Fall.

Skeet Fortner graduated from Marist School. During high school, he won the 9th-grade Theology Award and the 10th-grade Spanish Award. Skeet will attend University of Georgia in the fall.

Virginia Gwin Fortner graduated from Marist School. She served as a peer leader and retreat leader during high school.

Virginia will take a gap year next year.

Davis Futrell graduated from Pace Academy. He was a four-year football letterman, student body president and awarded Mr. Pace Academy. Davis will attend Auburn University in the fall.

Abby Gillin graduated

ALUMNI NOTES

from St. Pius X Catholic High School. She made the honor roll all four years, won the bronze medal for the National French Exam in the 9th and 11th grades and received honorable mention in 10th grade.

Abby will attend the University of Alabama in Huntsville in the fall.

Lauren Goines will attend Georgia Southern University in the fall.

Kyra Graap graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School and will attend Kennesaw State University in the fall.

Margot Haidet graduated from North Springs Charter School and will attend Savannah College of Art and Design in the fall.

Emma Halaburt graduated from The Galloway School and will attend Colorado State University in the fall.

Annette Hall graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School and will attend Georgia Southern University in the fall.

Sara Hall graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School and will attend Auburn University in the fall.

LJ Hamilton graduated from Marist School and will attend Indiana University in the fall.

Reggie Harris graduated from Pace Academy and will attend the University of Alabama in Birmingham in the fall.

Charlie Hawk graduated from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School and will attend Auburn University in the fall.

Robin James graduated

from The Paideia School and will attend Case Western University in the fall. In his senior year, he was named the Georgia winner of the National Federation of State High School Associations’ Heart of the Arts Award.

The award recognizes individuals who exemplify the positive ideals of performing arts and who have overcome adversity or gone above and beyond their peers.

Cale Lennon graduated from Marist School and will attend Virginia Tech in the fall.

Elle Lewis graduated from Charlotte Country Day School and will attend Rhodes College in the fall.

Mitchell Maloney graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School and will attend Sewanee: the University of the South in the fall.

Alumni attending Pace Winter Showcase: (L-R): Win Scott (‘18) Ciara Wilmath (‘18), Austin Scott (‘19), Allie Campbell (‘18), SMES Performing Arts Technical Director Spencer Stephens, Ellen Claxton (‘18), Lindsey Bryson (‘17), Jack Carson (‘17), Jack Schmitt (‘19) and Nicholas Lennon (‘19) at the Pace Winter Showcase. Current Pace students Austin, Allie, Jack Carson, Jack Schmitt and Nicholas performed in the showcase.

attend the University of Tennessee in the fall.

Izzy McNamara graduated from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School and will attend Auburn University in the fall.

Taryn Murphy graduated from Marist School. She was on the Honor Roll and the Dean’s List. She will attend Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall.

Andie Miles graduated from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School and will attend Clemson University in the fall.

Patrick Olmstead graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School and will attend Auburn University in the fall.

Megan Moffett graduated from Marist School. She was the junior varsity volleyball chaplain, a peer leader and a retreat leader. Megan will attend Georgia College and State University in the fall.

William Payne graduated from Marist School and will attend Georgetown University in the fall.

Shannon Murphy graduated from Marist School where she was on Honor Roll and the Dean’s List and received the award for All Around Best Cheerleader. Shannon will

Caroline Perry graduated from Dunwoody High School. She was in the National English Honor Society and the National Social Studies Honor Society and won the seal of biliteracy in Spanish.

Caroline will attend the University of South Carolina in the fall.

Ian Purrington graduated from the McCallie School and will attend Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall.

Ali Rab graduated from Woodward Academy and will attend Clemson University in the fall.

Taylor Rand graduated from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School and will attend Belmont University in the fall.

Ruthie Roberts graduated from Mt. Vernon Presbyterian School. She earned the Spanish Honor Cord, won the Presidential Service Award and was on the Honor Roll for four years. Ruthie will attend Texas Christian University in the fall.

Sydney Royal graduated from Pope High School.

She was in the Spanish Honor Society, the

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49

ALUMNI NOTES

Arden Adams, ’17 Alumni Attend High School Thespian Conference St. Martin’s theatre-loving alumni currently attending Pace Academy, The Mt. Vernon School and Marist School reunited at the Georgia High School Thespian Conference in February.

Alumni photographed include: (front row, l-r) Jack Carson (‘17), Allie Campbell (‘18), Arden Adams (‘17) and Jasmine George (‘17); (second row, l-r) Audrey Holton (‘17), Jack Schmitt (‘19), Nicholas Lennon (‘19), Austin Scott (‘19) and Thomas Kinser (‘19).

Not pictured: Win Scott (‘18) and Marist School students.

Elizabeth Cannon, ’17

Globalization Academy and received an AP Capstone diploma. Sydney will attend Rhodes College in the fall.

Caroline Seelke graduated from Dunwoody High School and will attend Auburn University in the fall.

Connor Soscia graduated from Marist School and will attend the University of Georgia in the fall.

Tiger Turner graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School. He was on Honor Roll for two years and the Dean’s List for two years. Tiger will attend Auburn University in the fall.

Emily Wood graduated from St. Pius X Catholic High School. She was class co-president her sophomore and junior years.

She will attend Auburn University in the fall.

’17 Arden Adams is a rising senior at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School.

She won the English

Speaking Shakespeare Union Contest for the second consecutive year at the Atlanta Shakespeare Company. She later represented Georgia and finished as a semifinalist at the virtual National Shakespeare Competition.

Sophia Costarides is a rising senior at St. Pius X Catholic High School. She runs cross country and track and received the award for Most Improved Runner.

Grace Demba is a rising senior at Pace Academy.

She is the vice president of the Isdell Center for Global Leadership Student Council, a member of the Student Advisory Board and recruitment chair of Miracle Knights. She is also a participant in the Beginners Environmental Leadership Program at the Georgia Aquarium. Grace planned to study painting and graphic design this summer at Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta and Parson School of Design in New York.

May Harvey is a rising

50 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

senior at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. She is a varsity cheerleader and plays varsity soccer.

Elisa Herrera is a rising senior at Marist School.

She participates in horseback riding, dance and the National Honor Society.

Charles Kyle is a rising senior at St. Pius X Catholic High School.

He is on the golf team and also participates in a recreational basketball league.

John Mason is a rising senior at Riverwood International Charter School. He is in the National Spanish Honor Society, Beta Club and Sandy Springs Youth Leadership group.

Bridgett McCarthy is a rising senior at Marist School and manages the wrestling team.

Mena Sarradet is a rising senior at Marist School.

She is on the swim team, made the Dean’s List and is in the National Spanish Honor Society and National Honor Society.

Dunwoody HS rising juniors

’18 Dunwoody High School rising juniors Ross Ackaway, Abby Hughes, Ansley Graves, Annie Quinn and Charlie Seelke attended Dunwoody High School event together.

Paris Adams is a rising junior at Marist and is on the golf team, and plays golf year round.

Drew Chastain is a rising junior at Marist School and plays football and basketball.

Ellen Claxton is a rising junior at St. Pius X Catholic High School. She is a cheerleader, plays lacrosse and dances.

Lydia Davis is a rising junior at Riverwood Charter School. She made the Principal’s List for three semesters and was accepted into the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program for the 11th and 12th grades.

Jack Fry is a rising junior at Marist School. He is on the tennis team, involved with Habitat for Humanity and a retreat leader.

Grant Gaffney is a rising junior at the Marist School and runs cross country and track.

ALUMNI NOTES Ben Hamer is a rising junior at St. Pius X Catholic High School and is on the track team.

Amelia Harralson is a rising junior at Westminster and is on the cross country, swimming and track teams, placed at STATE for the AAA high jump in track. Amelia has art on permanent display at Westminster and has shown at the High Museum.

Virginia Harralson is a rising junior at Westminster and got a Varsity letter in swimming and track, and also runs cross country.

Katie Holmes, Grace Caroline Linam and Ella Cannon teamed up to raise money for a Leukemia and Lymphoma Society fundraising project on team Claws for a Cure, with a goal to raise $30,000.

They surpassed their goal and raised $35,000 for the cause.

School. She is on the cross country and track teams, is an AP Ambassador and is involved with Young Life and student government.

Devon Stewart is a rising junior at Marist School.

She is a junior varsity football and basketball cheerleader and a retreat leader and was the vice president of service and spirituality sophomore year.

Piper Stewart is a rising junior at Marist School.

She plays varsity soccer, is a peer leader, volunteers at L’Amistad and is involved with Young Life.

Will Tuggle is a rising junior at The Galloway School. He plays varsity baseball, is in the French Club, and is involved with the student exchange program with a school in France.

’19

Patton Jaynes is a rising sophomore at Marist School and runs on the cross country and track teams.

Cele Camp is a rising sophomore at Pace Academy. She is a Pace Ambassador and is involved in softball, JV basketball and track.

Joseph McGhee is a rising junior at St. Pius X Catholic High School and is in the marching band.

Devin Fisher is a rising sophomore at the Lovett School and is in the dance program.

Addison Nichols is a rising junior at Greater Atlanta Christian School and was ranked top Offensive Lineman in the state and 6th in the country for class of 2022 by 24/7 sports. Addison is also in the Beta Club, and plays basketball.

Savannah Fleming is a rising sophomore at the Marist School. She is a cheerleader, plays lacrosse and is involved with Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program.

Quinn O’Connor is a rising junior at St. Pius X Catholic School. Quinn was the most valuable player on junior varsity soccer and now plays varsity soccer and is in the Spanish Club.

Annie Quinn is a rising junior at Dunwoody High

Simon Guterman is a rising sophomore at the Galloway School. He is involved with technical theater and plays basketball and golf.

Connor Hawk is a rising sophomore at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School and plays JV soccer.

In February, Dunwoody High School rising junior Annie Quinn (‘18) met at the Georgia State Capitol with 200 other high school students from around the state to push lawmakers for uniform Advanced Placement (AP) credit policies and additional funding for AP exams.

Caroline Koziol is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School. She was on the Presidents List and Honor Roll and plays JV tennis.

competitive gymnast.

Nicholas Lennon is a rising sophomore at Pace Academy. As part of his involvement in theatre, he performed in the Georgia Thespian Conference, the Pace winter showcase and Pace Academy’s school musical. He is also in the pep band and a member of Boy Scouts.

Raven Royter is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School. She is a JV and competition cheerleader, is on the JV tennis team and was a freshman homecoming representative.

Bryant Lisenby is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School and plays football and basketball. Bryant was on Dean's list fall term freshman year.

Ryan Lisowski is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School. He played freshman football, is on the JV soccer team and plays guitar.

Liza Love is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School. She is in the dance program, runs track and is a cheerleader.

Connor McCarthy is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School and is a

Amber Royter is a rising sophomore at Riverwood Charter School. She is a cheerleader and runs cross country.

Jules Schmidt is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School and is a cheerleader.

Jack Schmitt is a rising sophomore at Pace Academy. He is very involved with the theater program and was cast as the lead in the Spring musical “The Music Man.” Peter van der Mandele is a rising sophomore at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School and is on the soccer team, in the Business Club and participates in Model UN. Lucas Voorhies is a rising sophomore at St. Pius X Catholic High School.

He is a member of the symphonic and marching bands and is in the Movie Club. n

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Voices STORIES FROM FACULTY & STAFF LYNNE PERRY

ittle did I know walking into my Introduction to Education class at Oglethorpe University would lead to a 20plus year career at St. Martin’s Episcopal School. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a degree in psychology, I decided to pursue my master’s degree in Early Childhood Education in hopes of teaching elementary school. Sue Astley was the professor of my first education class.

She also happened to be the principal at St. Martin’s.

L

After completing my master’s degree, Sue reached out to see if I would be interested in applying for an assistant teacher position at SMES. I was thrilled when I was offered the job. That assistant teacher position soon led to my dream job of being a first-grade teacher.

Several years later, after my first daughter was born, I decided I wanted to work part-time, and over the next few years, I worked in the SMES public relations office and was later the first Reading Lab teacher. When daughter number three arrived, I made the tough decision to leave SMES to be a stay-at-home mom; however, I never lost touch with the friends I made while working.

I reached back out to those same friends in 2012 when I felt the pull to return to SMES. In 2012, I returned to be a substitute teacher and was excited when I learned of an opening in Student Support Services (SSS). The SSS position allowed me to return to the classroom setting, create lesson plans, and work with students individually and in small groups. In 2016, I became the Director of Student Support Services, and when the Kairos Learning Center (KLC) debuted in 2019, my role and responsibilities expanded once more as I became the Director of the Kairos Learning Center & Student Support Services.

As the Director of SSS, I worked with the principals and teachers in all three divisions of the school to help establish academic support plans for identified students. That support plan may have included matching a student with a tutor, creating a learning profile, or providing referrals to educational experts to undergo further testing.

52 SUMMER 2020 | ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Lynne Perry is the Interim Elementary School Principal for the 2020-21 school year

I was also able to fulfill my love of working with children by overseeing phonics testing with the Elementary students, screening applicants for the Kairos program, and administering informal reading assessments.

When St. Martin’s opened the Kairos Learning Center for the 2019-20 school year, my role as the program’s Director allowed me to work even more closely with our amazing SMES teachers. The Elementary Kairos

program provides intensive instruction to students with dyslexia or language processing differences while allowing them an opportunity to be part of the broader SMES community and participate with their gradelevel peers in co-curricular classes. Students in the Kairos program transition between their general studies classroom and the KLC classroom. This hybrid model requires coordination and cooperation between the general studies teachers and the Kairos teachers. On a typical day, there is a steady stream of teachers coming and going through the Kairos office as they collaborate to support our students.

This collaborative approach is also evident in the Middle School Kairos program, which offers small group executive function support for students. Based on teacher recommendations, students have an opportunity to take a study skills class instead of a foreign language.

The Kairos teachers work closely with core academic teachers and attend weekly grade-level meetings to discuss their students’ progress.

Over the summer, I was offered the opportunity to serve as Interim Elementary School Principal for the 2020-21 school year. I am excited to take on this new role and believe my experience in the classroom and daily collaboration with teachers have prepared me well for the position and the year ahead. As we continue to navigate these unprecedented times as a school and community, I look forward to working closely with our incredible Elementary faculty and families to ensure our students continue to receive the St. Martin’s education they know and love. Furthermore, I am grateful for the warm welcome I have received from parents and colleagues and I am thankful to have an amazing group of teachers to work with.

While this year will look different in many ways, the values that guide St. Martin’s forward will not change.

We are committed to providing a quality education of the whole person in a loving, Christian atmosphere, which fosters lifelong learning.

Igleheart Awards

Christopher Kartsonas Blythe Marsau

During the final virtual chapel service of the year, Dr. Ottley announced the 2019-20 staff and student Igleheart Award recipients. These awards were created in memory of long-time SMES teacher, Tricia Igleheart. The Patricia Ray Igleheart Memorial Fund was established by the Igleheart family to honor Tricia’s legacy as a teacher at St. Martin’s.

The endowment funds a professional development award to a SMES faculty or staff member who embodies qualities that Tricia exuded such as warmth, inclusivity and love. Congratulations to Director of Enrollment Management Blythe Marsau, this year’s recipient of the staff award. The student award was established to honor a deserving student who is curious about the world around them and acts as a friend to all. Congratulations to rising 9th-grade student Christopher Kartsonas, this year’s student recipient.

UPCOMING KEY DATES

SEPTEMBER 7 Labor Day Holiday OCTOBER 9-12 Fall Holiday 16 Parent-Teacher Conferences NOVEMBER 1 Daylight Savings Time (Fall Back) 3 Election Day (School Closed) 8 Admission Open House 23-27 Thanksgiving Break DECEMBER 14-17 Middle School Exams 18-Jan 4 Christmas Break