The Cardinal - Summer 2014

the

VOL. 4 • SUMMER 2014

CARDINAL

ST. JOHN’S LAUNCHES STEAM APPROACH TO EDUCATION | PAGE 8

St. John’s episcopal school Administrative leadership Team

TABLE OF

CONTENTS HEAD OF SCHOOL Michael Pratt

ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL FOR ACADEMICS Melissa Christian

EARLY CHILDHOOD DIVISION PRINCIPAL Patty Stoecker

ELEMENTARY DIVISION PRINCIPAL Monica Barnum

MIDDLE DIVISION PRINCIPAL Cindy Campbell

Year in Review

4

STEAM Comes to St. John’s

New for 2014-15

12

St. John’s Community BUSINESS MANAGER Peter Trist

DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT Kellie Pendergest

Alumni Spotlight - Carter Jenkins ‘11 19

2014-2015 School Committee Members Sean Basford | Assistant Principal of Academics and Curriculum, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Celia Coulter | Executive Vice President, Consumer Lending for Union Bank Patty Cyr | Lecturer at University of California, Irvine School of Law Andrew Flynn | Senior Vice President, TCI Leasing Inc. Kathy Graham | Principal, The Graham Group

Chad Hagle | CEO, Aventine Development Corporation

Michelle Johnson (Secretary) | Client Services Director, Cisco Systems, Inc. Bob Mayer | President, The Robert Mayer Corporation

Pat Patterson (Treasurer) | Sr. Vice President, Ledcor Properties Inc. Meko Price | Product Marketing Manager, Avanir Pharmaceuticals Geoffrey Small | Vice President of Marketing & Operations, Southland Pacific Properties, Inc. Dr. Daniele Struppa | Chancellor, Chapman University Liz Terry (Vice Chair) | Attorney

Michael Vaughn | Attorney, Vaughn Law, Inc.

2

|

www.stjohns-es.org

Alumni Class Notes

Proud to be a Cardinal

Page 23

Jim Chiate | Senior Vice President - Wealth Management Advisor, Merrill Lynch

14

Page 19

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS Beth Anderson

8

Page 8

VICAR The Rev. John H. Taylor

20 23

Dear Friends: am deeply honored to have the opportunity to continue my work at St. John’s. In the year that I have been here, I have been blessed to work with a visionary School Committee, a dedicated faculty and staff, and an administrative leadership team committed to what is best for the students entrusted to our care.

I

I am especially grateful to you, the school community, who have partnered with the School to provide an outstanding educational experience for your children.

I look forward to working with you well into the future to make our School the very best that it can be.

This beautiful edition of The Cardinal is replete with articles highlighting the School’s many successes last year, in addition to exciting improvements to our program and facilities that will benefit all of our students.

Even though the year was marked by signal achievements, for me the heart of the School was captured in graduation. Our 8th Graders shared their musical talent, their reflections on their time at St. John’s, and through the awards presentations, their commitment to learning, service, and ethical behavior. As I reflected on our graduates’ time at St. John’s, I could not help but think about what future graduates will experience. I am excited that all that is good in the School — its values, traditions, and commitment to educational excellence — will be preserved while the program evolves to meet the ever changing world in which our students will live.

As you read the pages that follow, I hope that you will share my pride in how far the School has come, as well as my excitement about the journey ahead.

Sincerely,

Michael Pratt Head of School

Dear St. John’s community: his past June, I had the pleasure of speaking at graduation and took the time to thank the graduates for being fine examples of what it means to “be a Cardinal.” I have been thinking about those words this summer as the School Committee begins executing the latest Strategic Plan and supporting Dr. Pratt in implementing our new and exciting programs. What does it mean to be a Cardinal?

T

Cardinals are excited learners. There is a happy buzz on campus as teachers and children are fully engaged in their education. And the best is yet to come! So much preparation has taken place to implement STEAM. I am so proud of St. John’s for being a leader in applying an approach to learning that is widely reviewed as critical to educating 21st century students.

Cardinals are good people. From small gestures such as holding doors to larger student-led initiatives like Soles4Souls, St. John’s students pay attention to the world around them, making it a better place.

Our Cardinals are well-rounded. From the playing field to Math competitions, St. John’s students stand out, excelling in multiple disciplines and talents.

Cardinals are successful. As our ERB and Fountas and Pinnel scores continue to demonstrate current success in the classroom, our alumni demonstrate how that translates to the future.

I am proud that my children are Cardinals and am looking forward to the year ahead!

Patty Cyr Chair, School Committee Parent, Classes of 2017, 2020, 2022 www.stjohns-es.org |

3

YEAR IN REVIEW

25TH ANNIVERSARY Glasspool cut the ribbon in front of the entire student body, and the parents gathered to officially open the next 25 years of the School’s history.

T

his was a special year for St. John’s as we celebrated our 25th anniversary! St. John’s hosted an anniversary celebration to remember on Thursday, September 19, 2013, twenty-five years to the day that the School first opened its doors to students in 1988. Rancho Santa Margarita Mayor Tony Beall and Orange County Supervisor Pat Bates kicked off the celebration by presenting proclamations on behalf of the local community. Student Council President Jack Barrera and Bishop Mary

St. John’s was founded by the Rev. Canon Ernest D. Sillers, affectionately known by all as Fr. Ern. When the doors opened on September 19, 1988, 270 Preschool through 8th Grade students arrived for their first day of school. A motorhome parked on the curb housed a temporary school office, while classes were held in modular classrooms powered by a gas generator. From these modest beginnings, St. John’s has grown to more than 450 students and gained a reputation for producing students who “do good and do well.” St. John’s is proud of the many impressive accomplishments of the more than 2,000 alumni.

As we look forward to the next chapter of our history, St. John’s is uniquely positioned to take its program to the next level. n

1988

2013

1988-1998

1998-2013

ST. JOHN’S GETS AN UPDATE

W

e’re excited to unveil a new school emblem and bring a fresh look to the next chapter of St. John’s! This marks only the third time in school history that the emblem has undergone a facelift. As we retire our previous emblem, we acknowledge its significance to our community. It represents the amazing memories built during the school’s tradition-rich history, while our new emblem reflects who we are as the St. John’s community of the future.

Curious what it all means? Take a look at the graphic to discover the special meaning behind each part of the emblem. w Jerusalem Cross – Affirming our Episcopal heritage w Torch – Embracing enlightenment and learning

w Peak – Symbolizing our unique community at the base of the Santa Ana

Mountains

w Cardinal – Commemorating our pride as a school devoted to excellence n 4

|

www.stjohns-es.org

2013

25 ACTS OF GRATITUDE

I

n celebration of St. John’s 25th anniversary, students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and St. John’s church members worked together to complete 25 Acts of Gratitude. This unique service campaign was a way for St. John’s to show appreciation and give back to the local community for supporting the school throughout its 25 year history. Connections within our community are central to our mission to educate and build character in our students. This year we were certainly busy making a difference supporting 25 different organizations. We appreciate the efforts of all who participated and extend a special thank you to Melissa Bonhall for coordinating this huge effort! n

Operation Christmas Spirit

I

n December, St. John’s hosted approximately 50 Marines from Camp Pendleton for a memorable morning on campus as the culmination of Operation Christmas Spirit. The Marines were honored and thanked for their selfless service to our country at a chapel service led by Fr. John Taylor, then stayed to visit with St. John’s students.

Through Operation Christmas Spirit, St. John’s students, parents, faculty, and staff adopted 40 Marine families and 40 single Marines, providing gifts, cards of support, and care packages to help make their Christmas extra special. n

Ocean Institute

S

t. John’s 3rd Graders embarked on a classroom expedition to the Ocean Institute in Dana Point along with the 3rd Grade students of Pio Pico, a Title 1 school in Santa Ana, to learn lessons beyond the classroom. The students from the two schools became buddies and exchanged letters in anticipation of the special trip. Once they finally met, the two groups came together to explore tide pools and then set sail on the Sea Explorer to view gray wales in their natural habitat.

St. John’s students and parents raised the funds to host their new friends as part of the Adopt-a-Class Program offered through the Ocean Institute; the first time that one elementary class supported another through the program. St. John’s received media coverage in the Orange County Register, Dana Point Times, and KCAL 9 and was also featured in a video at the Ocean Institute’s annual Gala, helping to raise more than $100,000 for the program. n

25 Acts of Gratitude Partners California Coastal Commission American Red Cross Breath of Hope O’Neill Park Restoration Meals on Wheels Habitat for Humanity Second Harvest Gleaning PurpleStride RSM Food Bank Park Terrace Operation Christmas Spirit Ocean Institute Serra’s Pantry Mission Viejo Animal Shelter Teens for Jeans CHOC Mission Hospital Fight2Breathe NEGU (Never Ever Give Up) Orangewood Children’s Foundation Soles4Souls Catholic Worker Students for Safe Water 3 on 3 for Joey Relay for Life Boys Town

Visit St. John’s YouTube Channel at www.stjohns-es.org/youtube to view videos from this year.

www.stjohns-es.org |

5

YEAR IN REVIEW Athletics Highlights

T

his year our sports teams experienced great success!

The girls’ volleyball team placed 2nd in the PAL Championships, advancing to the finals for the first time in school history. Our girls’ and boys’ basketball teams also had very successful seasons. The girls’ team placed 3rd in the PAL division, and our boys won multiple tournaments and were crowned the 2014 PAL Champions, securing first place with a 47-41 victory over Serra Catholic.

Congratulations also go to the St. John’s Track Team for winning the Large School Division of the PAL Track Championships!

We are proud of all of our student-athletes for their teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the season. Go Cardinals! n

STUDENTS HIT THE STAGE

A

long-standing St. John’s tradition, the School Play has been the highlight of the spring for many years. In March, our fabulous cast and crew of St. John’s students wowed audiences with a delightful performance of Peter Pan. The cast and crew were composed of 60 students, ranging from Kindergarten through 8th Grade.

The gym was transformed into Neverland and audiences were taken into the fantastical world of Lost Boys, Pirates, and more!

A huge thank you to all our parent volunteers who went above and beyond, spending countless hours to bring this play to life. Under the supreme leadership of Music Director Madyson Boyd, all our stars had their moment to shine! n

Faculty and Staff Accolades

O

ur teachers, Head of School, and Vicar all enjoyed well deserved recognition and accomplishments this year! Earlier this year, Amy Hemphill, our 6th Grade English and Writing teacher, and Catherine Sjostedt, our school librarian, were recognized as two of Orange County’s Top 25 Teachers by OC Parenting Magazine! Third grade teacher, Susan Cervantes, published two books, Broken Fairy Tale – Dust to Dust and War of Wizards, St. John’s Head of School, Dr. Michael Pratt, published Crash Course and Fr. John Taylor published his second novel, Jackson Place: A Novel. Our School proudly boasts the accomplishments of our very own impressive educators and published authors. n 6

|

www.stjohns-es.org

2014 Gala – St. John’s on the Silver Screen

O

n Saturday, April 5, over 250 St. John’s parents gathered at the stunning Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa for the 2014 Gala – St. John’s on the Silver Screen, St. John’s annual dinner and auction fundraiser.

The evening dazzled with glitz and glamour as guests donned their finest 1920’s apparel, enjoying a night of fellowship and fundraising. A special portion of the event paid tribute to St. John’s 25th anniversary and the retirement of St. John’s beloved Headmaster, Jim Lusby. You can visit www.stjohns-es.org/youtube to watch “I’m Mr. Lusby,” the moving video that was played at the Gala.

The night also featured an Opportunity Drawing where lucky winner, Jackie Abdi, took home a stunning 18k white gold pendent necklace, dripping with over 5 carats of diamonds. A huge thank you to the Hassine Family and Nuggets and Carats for generously donating this beautiful piece. The 2014 Gala culminated well after midnight as guests danced and sang to entertainment provided by the Dueling Derby Piano Band.

2014 gala

ST.JOHN’S

ON THE SILVER SCREEN 25th anniversary

All in all, the evening was a great success and raised over $350,000 for St. John’s. Thank you to everyone who came out and enjoyed the event in sup-

port of St. John’s, to Event Chair Erika Clemons, and the entire volunteer committee for coordinating this spectacular night. n

YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A DIFFERENCE!

A

huge thank you to all our families who donated to the 2014 Gala Parent Gift and contributed during the 100 Yard Dash.

Through your support we raised nearly $89,000 to go towards our Music, Robotics & Technology, and Athletics programs!

Parent Gift - $83,925

n n n n n n

Instrumental Music Grades 3-8 – Recorders, ukuleles, concert band instruments, music stands, and supplies Teacher Training ECC- Grade 5 – Intensive offsite training for Orff and Music Together Music Together Program ECC – Supplies and materials for each ECC family Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Grades K-5 – iPads, curriculum, supplies Robotics Grades 5-8 – Vex Robotics kits Teacher Training K-8 – PLTW training for Science and Technology teachers

100-yard Dash for Athletics - $5,035

n n n

Uniforms – new uniforms for volleyball and lacrosse teams Records Board – proudly displays records set by track & field team Scoreboard – Repairs and new remote

www.stjohns-es.org |

7

STEAM Comes to St. John’s

F

or more than 25 years, St. John’s has strived to provide the most engaging and effective education to prepare its students for the challenges of the future. After much research, collaboration, training, and planning, the School has embraced an innovative approach to teaching and learning: STEAM. STEAM is the purposeful integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math through project-based learning. Hailed by many leading thinkers as the most effective preparation for success in higher education and the workplace, STEAM will help St. John’s continue to prepare students for the ever-changing demands of our world.

The United States continues to remain stagnant in the global innovation race. According to scores from the Program for International Student Assessment, or PISA, the United States ranks below average in science

STEAM is not a curriculum. It is a framework that builds on and enhances the strengths of St.John’s existing curriculum, regarded by local high schools as among the best in Orange County. Through integration across disciplines, learning is deepened through reinforcement from one subject to another, and the projects draw on all learning styles and modalities. Providing students with multiple ways to learn content has been shown to improve student learning and retention.

Over the past 10 years, growth in STEM jobs was three times as fast as growth in non-STEM jobs.

8

|

www.stjohns-es.org

FULL STEAM AHEAD “Art and science. To those who practice neither, they seem like polar opposites, one data-driven, the other driven by emotion. One dominated by technical introverts, the other by expressive eccentrics. For those of us involved in either field today (and many of us have a hand in both), we know that the similarities between how artists and scientists work far outweigh their stereotypical differences. Both are dedicated to asking the big questions placed before us: “What is true? Why does it matter? How can we move society forward?” Both search deeply, and often wanderingly, for these answers. We know that the scientist’s laboratory and the artist’s studio are two of the last places reserved for open-ended inquiry, for failure to be a welcome part of the process, for learning to occur by a continuous feedback loop between thinking and doing.”

– John Maeda, former president of RISD, leader of STEAM movement (Department of Commerce – www.esa.doc.gov)

Hear more from John Maeda through his TED Talks online at https://www.ted.com/speakers/john_maeda.

and math compared with the 34 industrialized nations in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. As a result, a national emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) has been implemented in education policy and curriculum for public schools to increase global competitiveness, many times at the expense of arts education. This important omission is a missed opportunity, as arts education has been proven to improve academic performance.

STEAM embraces all of the analytical and technical merits of STEM and adds the human element of the arts to create a wonderful balance for a variety of learners. Studies have shown that the arts play a crucial role in the development of the young brain. An arts education stimulates and develops imagination and critical thinking, and refines cognitive and creative skills. Education in the arts has been

shown to inspire creativity and innovation. Students learn to approach issues with a critical mind and a positive attitude toward problem solving. Art also teaches children life skills such as developing an informed perception, articulating a vision, and developing the ability to imagine what might be.

Indeed, a music education especially has been shown to significantly improve children’s academic success.

Children who study music tend to have larger vocabularies, more advanced reading skills, and show greater brain development and memory improvement than children who do not participate in music lessons.

STEAM also ties closely to our new emphasis on technology, science, and music. St. John’s has enhanced these areas in our continued pursuit to provide students with 21st century skills: communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.

U.S. businesses frequently voice concerns over the supply and availability of STEM workers. Over the past 10 years, growth in STEM jobs was three times as fast as growth in non-STEM jobs. STEM workers are also less likely to experience joblessness than their non-STEM counterparts.

An emphasis on STEAM and creative skills will need to be central to K-8 education if we hope to fill critical talent shortages in all fields, not only STEM disciplines, according to Jeanne Beliveau-Dunn, Vice President, Learning@Cisco. “All jobs will be impacted by these changes, even non-high tech roles, regardless of industry. Robotics, automation, Big Data, analytics and security (both physical and cyber security) will become part of all of our daily lives.

Workers of all stripes will need to be trained, skilled and experienced with technology.”

n

www.stjohns-es.org |

9

STEAM AT ST. JOHN’S STEAM Day 2014

S

TEAM Day last spring provided a sneak peek at what STEAM looks like in application. Teachers collaborated to plan cross-curricular lessons in preparation for the final project. Each grade level tackled a different realworld challenge, all culminating in the STEAM Day build.

Small teams worked together to apply their knowledge and build their solution to the assigned problem, turning ordinary supplies such as pipe cleaners and cereal boxes into extraordinary displays of inspired engineering. Parents were invited to attend and witnessed the students in action. Engineers also observed the students’ work and challenged them with questions. While some projects fell short of their objectives, all teams learned from the successes and failures of each other and gained a more thorough understanding of the subject matter and had an experience they won’t soon forget!

St. John’s would like to extend a special thank you to engineers Tim Grogan, Karla Houlihan, Hector Ruiz, Nathan Shuy, Rob Sjostedt, Greg Henk, and corporate sponsors Applied Medical and Sullivan Solar Power for their support.

We are excited to see what the future holds for our students and teachers at St. John’s. Enhancements to our already superior program in the areas of art, science, and technology will strengthen our STEAM focus and provide our students with deeper understanding and learning while at St. John’s.

n

Refer a Friend to St. John’s Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEAM education? Refer a student who enrolls at St. John’s and receive a $500 gift card! Learn more at www.stjohns-es.org/refer. Questions? Contact Beth Anderson at banderson@stjohns-es.org or ext. 212.

10

|

www.stjohns-es.org

LEARNING VENTURES OUTDOORS Because every garden needs a master caretaker, Mrs. Catherine Sjostedt will provide the creative genius necessary to oversee the curricular planning and planting projects for ECC and Elementary. She will be our outdoor learning specialist, charged with the responsibility of ensuring integrated, fun, interesting, and innovative learning experiences in our outdoor STEAM labs. Mrs. Patti Peebles will offer her green thumb as advisor to the newly created Garden Club elective, while Mrs. Cindy Campbell will coordinate outdoor learning curriculum throughout the Middle Division.

Thanks to a $1,000 grant from the National Association of Episcopal Schools, we were able to purchase tools and supplies to help our gardens grow. Middle School students have already planted an assortment of squash and pumpkins, and we look forward to the first harvest in October. In the ECC garden, watermelons and strawberries are thriving!

A

As an additional benefit of the gardens, students will learn the importance of giving back to the community and understanding others’ needs beyond their own. As part of the diocesan “Seeds of Hope” movement, students will grow fruits and vegetables to donate to the local RSM food bank at The Bridge Church. We are hopeful that our crops will be bountiful and our neighbors in need can benefit from the vegetables and fruits of our labors. n

ll divisions of the School now have an opportunity to take learning outside and get their hands dirty in the process. The Early Childhood Center, Elementary, and Middle Division’s students can further apply their knowledge through hands-on experiences and project-based learning in one of two gardens on campus, also known as outdoor labs.

Each grade level will have their own planter bed to grow various fruits and vegetables, and the garden will serve to integrate important educational concepts across the curriculum. For example, students will study plant anatomy and the biological process of photosynthesis in science class while learning about perimeters, measurements, and area as they design the layout of their planter beds in math class. Students will study the history of plants native to California while reading and writing stories about the importance of nature and the environment in language arts. Students will also learn how to plan a garden by seasons, troubleshoot conflicts that occur with the natural elements (i.e. critters, pests, and disease), and will collect data on plant growth to discover the most effective growing methods.

www.stjohns-es.org |

11

NEW FOR 2014-2015

The Rise of the Arts

M

usic at St. John’s is building to a crescendo campus-wide. In the ECC, internationally recognized early childhood music and movement program, Music Together, will be implemented for our youngest learners. Research-based curriculum will develop basic music skills such as singing in tune and moving with rhythm. It nurtures creativity, selfexpression, and confidence and supports social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” - Plato

In Elementary, we will be adding Orff Schulwerk to the curriculum, an approach to building musicianship in every learner through the integration of music, movement, speech and drama. It begins in the second half of Kindergarten with what children do instinctively: play! The Orff Method is a way of teaching children about music which engages their minds and bodies through a mixture of singing, dancing, acting, and the use of pitched percussion instruments (e.g. xylophones) and unpitched percussion (e.g. drums). Lessons are presented with an element of play, helping the children learn at their own level of understanding.

Middle Division students will have the opportunity this year to participate in St. John’s first concert band. Emphasis will be placed on music literacy and caring for one’s instrument. Students will learn proper technique by playing a variety of repertoire, including familiar classics and holiday favorites. This elective is an amazing opportunity for students to develop an appreciation for music and learn dedication, patience, and discipline.

All 6th and 7th grade students will participate in a new Dramatic Arts course designed to expose students to a variety of artistic mediums. Students will have the opportunity to perform and/or create monologues, skits, and scenes, learn to read music, play handbells, and participate in the choir. After learning about career options in fields such as songwriting, performance art, and opera, students will have the opportunity to pursue their specific area of interest through group and solo projects.

Middle Division students will also have the option of Dance as their performing arts elective beginning this year. The course will introduce students to a variety of dance styles including ballet, modern, jazz, and world dance. Students will also be able to design, improvise, and perform movement sequences and produce choreographic projects. Erin Beranek ’99, our Associate Director of Advancement, will teach this course and is excited to be expanding her role at the School. Mrs. Beranek brings 17 years of dance training as well as three years of ballet and jazz teaching experience, and is a proud alumna of St. John’s.

STEM and the arts collide in perfect harmony at St. John’s to create STEAM! n 12

|

www.stjohns-es.org

Get Set for School

H

andwriting Without Tears has evolved into far more than the title suggests. Now, more appropriately named Get Set for School, this curriculum has expanded to include three complete programs: Readiness and Writing, Language and Literacy, Numbers and Math.

Pre-K and JK teachers received comprehensive training in these three key learning areas using the new tools and manipulatives developed specifically for early learners. This enhancement to the existing program will provide readiness skills through active hands-on learning.

In addition to Get Set for School, Pre-K children will continue to enjoy the rich language experiences of Open Court. As with any high quality reading program, comprehension and reading readiness activities are embedded in lessons which promote understanding of quality literature.

In combination, both programs provide the foundations necessary for the children to meet Kindergarten expectations and experience later school success.

Ready, get set, here they come! n

Kindergarten Reading Wonders

Beyond Technology

A

A

The Kindergarten teachers are thrilled with all that this new literacy program has to offer. The latest and greatest features will provide children with an exciting and motivating format while also fostering a life-long love of reading. n

Snapshot will challenge 6th grade students to create a multimedia travel magazine filled with articles that showcase countries around the world. The content of the magazine will focus on social, geographic, and cultural aspects of the selected countries. Through the use of Photoshop Elements, this curriculum will give our students a solid foundation in graphic manipulation and editing skills.

new Kindergarten Language Arts program, Reading Wonders, provides a comprehensive approach to teaching reading and writing. Students will continue to benefit from a differentiated approach, as the program levels content provides the appropriate challenge for each student. Reading Wonders will include a variety of leveled readers, new and interesting stories, and fun activities for guided and independent practice.

Science and Engineering Unite in Project Lead the Way

T

o supplement the current academically rigorous science curriculum, St. John’s has added Project Lead the Way (PLTW), the leading provider of STEM education curricular programs.

PLTW Launch will empower students in grades K-4 to become problem solvers. They will learn to use structured approaches like the engineering design process, employ critical thinking, and practice habits of mind. Learning that it is safe to take risks and make mistakes helps students and teachers learn and discover together, making the lessons far more engaging.

PLTW Automation and Robotics, for grades 5-8, will challenge students in the areas of mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students will use the VEX Robotics platform to design, build, and program real world objects such as traffic lights, tollbooths, and robotic arms.

Mrs. Kolk and Mrs. Hardy both attended PLTW training this summer and are looking forward to bringing this exciting program to our students! n

new and improved technology curriculum, called Beyond Technology, will strengthen technology skills and support STEAM integration for all students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade. Students in the Middle Division will experience a major shift in their technology program, embarking on new year-long projects that will reach across disciplines to develop skills that build upon themselves and culminate in a final product.

In this first year of the program, both 7th and 8th grade students will take on CEO Challenge, focused on developing basic business and computing principles for the real world. Each student will develop a fictitious company and have the opportunity to develop business plans and budgets, create marketing materials, and research competition and target markets. Next year, our 8th Grade will take their business to the next level with a third project, CEO Marketing. This curriculum will build upon the skills learned in CEO Challenge and move into media, advertising, and website production. n

“As we prepare our students for jobs that don’t even exist yet, it becomes increasingly important that they see these connections between disciplines and understand that the world is one big, integrated place.”

— Valerie Strauss, Education Reporter for The Washington Post

Nǐ hǎo St. John’s!

B

eginning in 5th Grade, students will have a half year of Spanish and a half year of Mandarin Chinese. As the students enter the Middle Division they will be able to elect to take either Spanish or Mandarin Chinese. Students will learn communication skills — speaking, listening, reading, and writing — and will also study Chinese culture including calligraphy, painting, customs, folklore, and more. We are proud to be able continually to enhance our students’ opportunity to develop useful skills to succeed in our globalized world. n www.stjohns-es.org |

13

ST. JOHN’S COMMUNITY A Fond Farewell

DR. PRATT NAMED HEAD OF SCHOOL

W

e are pleased to announce that Dr. Michael Pratt has been named St. John’s permanent Head of School. Dr. Pratt’s three decades of educational leadership experience will help to shape the next chapter of St. John’s tradition rich history.

T

Dr. Pratt began his esteemed career as a teacher and Department Chair at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School in Alexandria, VA. He went on to serve as a Program Officer for the National Endowment for the Humanities in Washington, D.C.; Academic Dean of Menlo School in Atherton, CA; and most recently, Head of Brentwood School in Los Angeles before his retirement in 2011.

his June, we said goodbye to Jim Lusby and Diane Stetson who retired this year.

Mr. Lusby served as our Chancellor last year and prior to that was the longtime Headmaster, for a total tenure of 18 years at St. John’s. Known for his bowties, Hawaiian shirts, crazy socks and love of sushi, Mr. Lusby was beloved by students and parents alike for his caring and kindness. His retirement was celebrated throughout the year, culminating with a retirement party held at the Dove Canyon Country Club in May. The Rancho Santa Margarita City Council also presented Jim with a Certificate of Recognition, recognizing Jim for his impact on the local community.

As a member of the founding faculty in 1988, Mrs. Stetson shared her passion with the students of St. John’s as our music teacher for 26 years. Her love of music and teaching was infectious, and we will miss her greatly.

We wish both Jim Lusby and Diane Stetson the best throughout their retirement and hope they thoroughly enjoy this next phase of their lives! n

Dr. Pratt is eager to continue to bring his diverse background to St. John’s and is a true leader who understands and loves our community. We are looking forward to the exciting years ahead! n

We’ve Got Spirit!

C

heck out St. John’s online Spirit Store to stock up on your Cardinal gear! Visit www.stjohns-es.org/spirit to purchase spirit wear today! n

The School Committee Welcomes New Members!

T

he School Committee is pleased to welcome three recently-elected members. Celia Coulter is an Executive Vice President with Union Bank and the mother of two St. John’s students.

Michael Vaughn, formerly with Applied Medical, is now an attorney with Vaughn Law, Inc. He is the father of two St. John’s alumni, and formerly served as Chair of the School Committee. Dr. Daniele Struppa is Chancellor and President Designate of Chapman University and an active member of the St. John’s parish. We look forward to working with each of these new members and to the contributions they will make to our school. To learn more about the School Committee, visit www.stjohns-es.org/schoolcommittee. n 14

|

www.stjohns-es.org

Courter

MEET OUR NEW FACULTY w Austen Courter will be teaching

SAVE THE DATE

Music and Instrumental Music next year. Austen has a B.A. in Music and a M.A. in Teaching Music from University of Southern California.

edwards

w Lisa Edwards comes to us as a

Beitner

5th Grade teacher after 12 years of Elementary and Middle School teaching experience.

w We are excited to welcome Owen Beitner to

our faculty! Mr. Beitner spent time on campus last year as a long-term substitute and will be joining us this year full-time, teaching 8th Grade History, 8th Grade Writing, MUN, and Middle School Physical Education.

liao

Middle School Spanish and has a B.A. in International Relations from University of San Diego.

– 8th Grade Beyond Technology teacher.

Jeanette has a Masters in Educational Administration from Concordia University and 14 years of Elementary and Middle School teaching experience.

An annual tradition at St. John’s, Grandparents Day is a day set aside to celebrate the grandparents in our lives.

Be sure to save the date for this special event!

w 2015 Gala The St. Regis Monarch Beach March 28, 2015

o’keeffe

Maselli

w Yvonne Maselli will be teaching

w Jeanette O’Keeffe will be our Kindergarten

Enjoy a day on the greens with the fellow St. John’s community during the 4th Annual St. John’s Golf Tournament at Tijeras Creek!

All skill levels are encouraged and welcome to play!

w Grandparents Day November 19, 8:30 a.m.

w We are excited to welcome Letitia

Liao to our faculty this year as our 5th – 8th Grade Mandarin teacher!

She will also be our Cheer Advisor and Piano Accompanist.

w Golf Tournament Tijeras Creek Golf Club November 13, 12:00 p.m.

Join us for a night of St. John’s fellowship at our annual dinner and auction fundraiser at the 2015 Gala!

www.stjohns-es.org |

15

NEW ON CAMPUS

O

ur campus certainly got a facelift this summer! In preparation for our first full year of STEAM, rooms in the Enrichment Center were reconfigured to accommodate our new courses including instrumental music, robotics, and Beyond Technology. The Multipurpose Room can add Dance studio to its list of functions and now boasts portable bars and mirrors for our Middle Division Dance elective.

Perhaps the most dramatic transformations occurred in the Early Childhood Center. The bathrooms were updated, and all classrooms were given a fresh coat of paint. New luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring brightened up the spaces and also brings an added element of safety with a higher head injury criterion (HIC) rating than the carpet it replaced. Additional storage was added to the classrooms to accommodate the many supplies and manipulates that are used throughout the day to engage and develop our youngest learners.

From top to bottom, our building received maintenance and repairs. The roofs were recoated to make our buildings more energy efficient and to prevent future water leaks; new flooring was installed in Sillers Hall; and classrooms and hallways were repainted, giving the campus a modernized look and feel. Even the parking lot got a makeover with repaired asphalt and new signage.

Additional improvements will continue into the school year. LED lighting will be installed throughout the campus which will cut our lighting kilowatt consumption in half. Seating and shade areas are planned for the garden. Plans are also in the works to replace the woodchips on the ECC and Elementary playgrounds in the future with rubber mulch, providing a cleaner, safer, and more environmentally friendly play area.

out these exciting renovations when you return to campus, and be on the lookout for more to come. n

A huge thank you to our parents — Bob Burton, Erika Clemons, Gary Heppy, and Matt Miller — who have contributed their time and expertise to help make all of these improvements possible!

We can’t wait to start our school year with a fresh look, so be sure to check

The Buddy Bench

T

hanks to four St. John’s students, Emily Chiate, Ryan Clemons, Olivia Hahn, and Faith Yurkovich, St. John’s now has a Buddy Bench! The Buddy Bench is a movement designed to foster friendship and eliminate loneliness on the playground. Earlier this year, the intrepid 3rd grade girls presented the proposal for a Buddy Bench to the Administration Team, and it received unanimous approval! The girls then collaborated with classmates and enlisted Kendall Wallin to design the bench, and now, the Buddy Bench has officially been constructed. n

16

|

www.stjohns-es.org

SJES ALUMNI

CLASS OF 2014

Congratulations to our Class of 2014! We are so proud of all your accomplishments and know that you are well prepared for the challenges and new adventures of high school!

Natalie Abboud - SMCHS Mitra Alikhani - St. Margaret’s Jordan Alvarado - JSerra Elijah Barney - SMCHS Jack Barrera - SMCHS Emon Bayrooti - SMCHS Riley Bednarczyk - SMCHS Rhys Biddiscombe - SMCHS Quentin Buchman - SMCHS Benjamin Carlson - SMCHS Chandler Champlain - SMCHS Ashley Chow - SMCHS Karina Del Rio - Rosary Dylan Dickerson - Sage Hill Olivia Dochterman - SMCHS Cody Dunn - JSerra Megan Early - OCSA Mark Eaton - SMCHS Macy Ebersole - SMCHS Rylie Edwards - SMCHS Elizabeth Ehrlich - Sage Hill Payton Elliott - SMCHS Garrett Erquiaga - SMCHS Danya Fatehi - SMCHS Alexis Fintland - St. Margaret’s

Kierstin Flint - SMCHS Lauren John Frey - SMCHS Alyssa Fujiwara - SMCHS Maggi Galvanoni - SMCHS Laura Guethlein - Trabuco Hills Sam Guinane - SMCHS Jack Henderson - JSerra Amber Henmi - SMCHS Cody Henmi - SMCHS Alyssa Hepworth - SMCHS Josh Herbst - SMCHS Grace Higgins - JSerra Lauren Jones - Mater Dei Lei Jung - SMCHS Pua Jung – SMCHS Brittany Kaplan - SMCHS Courtney Karp - Mater Dei Katy Latham - SMCHS Aviana Legris - JSerra Maddie Louderback - SMCHS Samantha Lund - Saddleback Valley Christian Dalia Mahmoud - Mission Viejo HS Niko Mancera - SMCHS Sabrina Martinez - SMCHS Jackson Massey - OCSA

Sheradynn McWhirter - SMCHS Harrison Meng - SMCHS Nicole Merritt - SMCHS Sofie Nickell - SMCHS Race Parks - SMCHS Alexis Pletke - SMCHS Emma Rafatjoo - Sage Hill Hailey Rednour - SMCHS Sidney Ruiz - SMCHS Natalie Rule - SMCHS Jake Sanderson - SMCHS Paige Scott - SMCHS Madeline Sharp - Sage Hill Kelley Small - SMCHS Lauren Small - SMCHS Braden Thommarson - JSerra Carly Townsend - JSerra Amanda Tyson - SMCHS Trevor Williamson - SMCHS Taryn Wilson - St. Margaret’s Camille Wold - OCSA Natalie Wolder - Cathedral Catholic Joe Yanez - JSerra Joey Yellen - SMCHS Isabella Zintel – SMCHS

www.stjohns-es.org |

17

SJES ALUMNI

CLASS

OF 2010

Our Class of 2010 is off to college! Congratulations to all of our Cardinal alumni.

We wish you nothing but the best in this next exciting phase of your lives!

Christopher Angelic - The Ohio State University Moriah Becker - The University of Alabama Deanna Bird - Palomar College Ryan Blaalid - California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Sarah Byron - University of Mississippi Brian Campbell - The American University of Paris Jake Carlson - Southern Methodist University Jeffrey Carr - University of Cincinnati Annalise Castner - University of Washington Justin Cheng - University of California, Riverside Emilie Bach Condie - Seattle University Dakota Cook - Miami University, Oxford Tyler Cotner - Boston University Madison Crader – Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky Ryan Davis - Arizona State University Zachary Desper - The University of Arizona Blake Dickus - California State University, San Jose Grant Drivas - Brigham Young University Aubrey Fischer - Loyola Marymount University Francesca Gioiello - University of Colorado Boulder Brooke Goeden - Southern Methodist University Kellie Goff - Xavier University Samuel Herbst - Northern Arizona University Rachel Hinshaw - Saddleback College Edward Hunter - New York University Haley Jezierski - Belhaven University Christina King - Boston College Abigail Leavell - University of Tennessee, Knoxville Taylor LeSage - University of La Verne Kate McNally - The George Washington University Kayleigh Meech - University of Colorado Boulder

18

|

Brittany Mindt - Santa Barbara City College Natalia Molinatti - Washington University in St. Louis Cameron Munoz - St. John’s University - Queens Campus Allison Nishimi - California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Alyssa Perkins - California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Nicholas Pletke - Northern Arizona University Priyen Prema - Texas Christian University Axel Reed - Villanova University Michelle Reed - Irvine Valley College Lauren Reyner - Chapman University Makana Roh – University of California, Berkley Hayden Ruiz - Boston University Grace Shu - Yale University Bradley Smith - Southern Illinois University, Carbondale Kellie Swannie - University of San Diego Alexandra Themm - Irvine Valley College Austin Tinsley – California State University, Sacramento Griffin Walkey - University of Pittsburgh Madison Walsh - University of Notre Dame Luke Watson - University of Maryland, College Park Alissa Welch - The University of Alabama Anna Whelan - University of Southern California Garrett Williams - Georgetown University Natalie Willis - University of Southern California Zachary Wiser - Loyola Marymount University Courtney Wood - University of Southern California Megan Wood - University of Southern California Stephanie Wu - University of Southern California Ashley Jo Zaccagnini - Southern Methodist University Clayton Zanaboni - University of Denver

www.stjohns-es.org

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Carter Jenkins ‘11

S

ince his 2011 graduation from St. John’s, life has been busy for alumnus Carter Jenkins ‘11. Shortly after beginning JSerra Catholic High School, Carter started Students for Safe Water, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safe drinking water and sanitation systems to developing countries.

Since its founding, the organization has raised nearly $70,000 for water and sanitation systems, including grants and matches from Disney, Hasbro, and PepsiCo. In its first year alone, Students for Safe Water, with the help of St. John’s students, raised $5,000 to construct a well in a Honduran village, bringing clean water to nearly 400 people.

In the early days of the organization, Carter reached out to former Headmaster Jim Lusby and his Middle School Principal Mrs. Cynthia Campbell to create a partnership with the community at SJES that he knew from his tenure was committed to

bettering the world outside of its own campus. He was quickly invited to speak with St. John’s students and the result was generous and swift. A Change for Change drive, $20.00 Super Hero Campaign, Walk for Water, and the SFSW Recycling Program were launched with great results.

Current St. John’s students and SFSW Youth Advisory Board Members, Grace and Jack Dennis, also implemented and actively manage a campus wide plastic and aluminum recycling program with all proceeds going directly back to the nonprofit.

This year, Students for Safe Water also partnered with the 25 Acts of Gratitude campaign. Throughout the year, St. John’s students brought donations to Ingathering and were able to present Carter with a check for $2,246.40 in June. Even our VBS children donated, raising another $467 over the summer.

Given his achievements, Carter is now a sought after speaker on the

issue of the world water crisis and youth volunteerism. He has spoken at the nation’s largest children’s water education event held at UCI, the TEDx Youth Conference, the Youth Leadership Collective Conference, and most recently was hired as a speaker at the My Name My Story (MNMS) Social Entrepreneur Camp in Los Angeles.

Yet, Carter’s success goes beyond his philanthropy. Carter was recognized by Scholastic for a short story he wrote about child abuse that has been published in “Best Teen Writing of 2102,” and an essay he wrote on Betty Ford hangs on permanent exhibit at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Only one person a year is chosen for this honor.

Now a high school senior, Carter dreams of attending USC and becoming a social entrepreneur. He aspires to do something both creative and practical with his life that impacts the world, even if it’s just in a little way. n

www.stjohns-es.org |

19

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

1999

w Meera (Patel) Agarwalla ‘99 graduat-

ed from UCSB with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Political Science and German and went on to pursue her law degree at Thomas Jefferson Law School in San Diego. Currently, Meera is living in San Francisco with her husband, Anurag, and is working for Voxer, a tech start-up company.

in Los Angeles. Kelly currently works as in-house counsel for US Renal Care, Inc. in Dallas, Texas, where she lives with her husband, Jared Hughes. Jared is currently a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

w Kristina Nicole Beasley ’99 graduat-

ed from Cal State Fullerton with a B.S. in Health Science and a B.A. in Anthropology. She currently works as a Program Developer for Latino Health Access, a Liaison & Ambassador at APHA, and is completing her fellowship at THINK Together. She received funding from the USDA for her research regarding a Childhood Obesity and Nutrition Curriculum for a Diverse and Changing Population and Hispanic Serving Institution Education Program. Nicole married her husband, Gavin, this summer.

w Jeff Jacobs ’99 attended UCLA

on an athletic scholarship for Track and Field. He graduated from the university with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Sociology and was hired as a Police Officer in the City of Irvine. Jeff now resides in Tustin with his wife, Lindy, and their 2 year old daughter, Ashtyn, and they are excited to welcome a new member of the family in March 2015. Jeff has been with the Irvine Police Department for 5 years and recently started a wedding photography business in Orange County, called Cellar Door Photography.

w Erin (Keefe) Beranek ’99 received

her Bachelors of Arts from UCLA and went on to pursue her law degree at Loyola Law School. After practicing civil litigation for three years, Erin changed her career path and is now back at St. John’s working in the Advancement Department and as the new Middle School Dance teacher. Erin lives in Orange County with her husband, Troy.

w Kelly (Charhut) Hughes ’99 gradu-

ated with her Bachelor’s degree from Emory University and went on to receive her law degree from UCLA. After law school, Kelly worked for McDermot, Will and Emery, practicing health care law

w Nino Kolyouthapong ‘99 is pursu-

ing his dream of flying and serving the United States. In July, Nino was selected by the United States Air Force Reserve for Officer Training School and Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training to lead and fly on behalf of the 312th Airlift Squadron flying the C-5 Galaxy based at Travis Air Force Base. He will begin pilot training in October.

20

|

www.stjohns-es.org

w A passion to perform has led

Natasha Kalimada ’99 to grace stages around the world, also making appearances in TV, film, and national/international commercial spots. Shortly after graduating from Princeton University (’07), she moved to Los Angeles to begin a career as a professional dancer and actor. She also holds an MBA from Pepperdine University with a concentration in Entrepreneurship.

A sought after performer, Natasha has danced alongside major recording artists, such as Taylor Swift, and in front of royalty in Dubai as the lead in association with DesignLabs and under the creative direction of Amy Tinkham. On the home front, she performed the principal role of the Firebird in Stravinsky’s ‘Firebird’ with the LA Philharmonic in the Walt Disney Concert Hall under the conduction of Dudamel Fellows.

In May 2014, she made her film debut, cast alongside Rose McIver and Will Kemp in Lifetime’s “Petals on the Wind.”

In June 2014, Natasha joined the touring cast of Simon Painter and Tim Lawson’s Le Noir: The Dark Side of Cirque for its US debut. She will be touring with the production throughout China beginning this September. She is thrilled to take this next step in her career.

is a firefighter for Orange County Fire Authority. In January, they welcomed their first child, Charlotte Danielle.

w Steven Michael Croce ’02 graduat-

ed from Southern Methodist University in 2009 with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Economics. A year following, he graduated from SMU’s Master’s program with a Master’s of Science in Accounting. He is currently a Senior Assurance Associate at McGladrey, LLP in Dallas, Texas. He has been with McGladrey for four years and is enjoying his career.

His most recent accomplishment is buying his first home in Dallas.

w Garland (Cooper) Tsarouchas

‘99 graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Communication Studies. In her time at Northwestern, Garland was a four-year varsity letterwinner as a member of the softball team and was three-time Big Ten Player of the Year and a three-time All-American. After graduating, Garland played professionally, including in the Japanese Professional League, and was most recently inducted into the Northwestern Hall of Fame in 2013. Garland works at Northwestern as a development officer for the athletic department and also can be seen on the Big Ten Network and ESPN as a softball analyst every spring.

Garland lives in Chicago with her husband John, whom she married in November 2013.

w Lauren Sepulveda ‘99 graduated

from Northern Arizona University with a B.A. in Criminal Justice. After graduation, she and her sister started their own company, Voz Collective, where they sell handmade jewelry and photography prints. You can check out their jewelry in Anthropologie’s August Catalog.

2000

w Whitney Costanzo ‘00 graduated

from Baylor University in 2008 with her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. She moved back to Orange County and is currently teaching at St. John’s. She married her husband, Brian, in April of 2012. Brian

pediatrics residency training at her first choice program, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Caryn also got married this past May to Zane Cassidy, whom she met six years ago while studying abroad in Spain. Fellow SJES alum, James Keefe, was one of their groomsmen.

2002

2004

w James Keefe ‘02 graduated from UCLA

in 2010 with a Bachelors’ of Arts in International Development Studies. During his time at UCLA, James was a member of the basketball team, having the opportunity to go to two Final Fours. James continued his basketball career after college, playing for Clincas, Rincon in Spain and Niigata Albirex in Japan. Currently, James is enjoying newlywed life in Los Angeles with his wife, Katie, whom he married in June, and is working as a commercial real estate broker for CBRE. w Caryn Brenn ’02 graduated cum laude

from UCLA with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Physiological Science and Public Health. From there she went on to medical school at Keck School of Medicine of USC where she obtained her M.D. degree this past June and was elected into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. She is currently completing her

Caleigh Haber ’04 was diagnosed at birth with cystic fibrosis, a disease that damages the lungs and digestive system. Her lungs are currently functioning at less that 20 percent of their capacity, and as a result, she needs a double lung transplant to survive.

Despite seemingly insurmountable odds, Caleigh has used optimism to overcome many obstacles and inspire others. Through her organization, Fight2Breathe, Caleigh helps to unite young adults valiantly battling cystic fibrosis from across the country. Fight2Breathe also accepts donations to help fund Caleigh’s transplant. To join Caleigh’s Fight2Breathe, visit http://fight2breathe.org.

www.stjohns-es.org |

21

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

2005

w Cristin Ann Croce ’05 graduated

from Cal State Fullerton in May of 2013 with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Business Marketing. While attending school, she was in the Business Marketing Honors Program as well as the Vice President of Communications for the school’s chapter of the American Marketing Association. In December of 2013, she received a full time offer from a local worker’s compensation firm, CompWest (in affiliation of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan). She is currently an Operations Coordinator at CompWest and lives in downtown Fullerton.

2006

Johnny Whichard ’06 graduated from Notre Dame this year with a double major in Business Consulting and Film Production. After working for 20th Century Fox last summer, he is looking to continue his career in executive film production and is currently interviewing with several film and television studios. His student film “Lilith’s Game” will hopefully be hitting horror fests in Southern California and the Midwest throughout the year. w

2010

w Natalia Molinatti ‘10 attended St.

John’s from 1st through 8th Grade and continued her education at Santa Margarita Catholic High School. While at SMCHS, Natalia participated in the Model United Nations program and was named one of the “Top 13 Delegates” in a class of over 60 people. Through MUN, Natalia traveled to Boston, Massachusetts, Tokyo, Japan, and Beijing, China to compete in international debate.

Natalia graduated from Santa Margarita this year with her International Baccalaureate Diploma as a First Honor Roll Student and Advanced Placement

2011 Scholar with a 4.57 GPA. Natalia is now an Elliot Scholar at Washington University in St. Louis where she is majoring in Philosophy-Neuroscience-Psychology on the pre-med track. Natalia has participated in medical research at Beckman Laser Institute at UC Irvine for the past year and works closely with physicians, medical students, and undergraduate students.

Austin Tinsley ’10 finished his high school career at Santa Margarita earning All-County honors in both the 110HH and 300IH and was the Trinity League Champion in the 110IH and 300IH. He was also the Division 3 CIF Champion and with his time of 37.75, he became the school’s first ever CIFSS Masters Champion in the 300 hurdles! Austin is the latest inductee into the SMCHS Boys’ Track and Field Hall of Fame and was named the Trinity League Most Valuable Runner for 2014. w

Austin has committed to run track for Sacramento State, where he received a scholarship.

22

|

www.stjohns-es.org

w Alex Granito ‘11 is beginning

his senior year at Santa Margarita High School where he is following his passion for music. During his freshman year he was accepted into the Chamber Choir under the enthusiastic direction of Francisco Calvo. He gives all credit to finding his singing voice at St. John’s while participating in the school musicals with roles as Man Bird in Frog and Toad are Friends, The Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of OZ, and Jesus in Godspell. This summer he was accepted into the Washington National Opera Institute for a three week intensive music program. He hopes to attend a University or Music Conservatory after graduation to continue his classical singing studies.

2013

w Natalia Granito ’13 is begin-

ning her sophomore year at JSerra. She was accepted into the Business Magnet Program as a freshman, and this year, she is excited to participate in competitions with her peers in learned skills such as job interviews, business plans, branding products, and stock market challenges. These skills will come into focus during her senior year, when magnet program members partner with businesses in the community acquiring job internships.

Christopher Lanham ‘11

where else. The memories I made with the people I have met in theatre are nothing short of a treasure for me.

A

s I look forward to my senior year the only thing on my mind lately has been college. Where am I going to apply? What will I write in my essay?

Will they accept me? Such a torrent of stress and questions forces me into a deep amount of self-reflection, as I attempt to answer the question “Who are you?” In all honesty the definition of identity is almost impossible. Impossible and messy and changing. But lately I have found that who you are is a larger part of where you’ve been. What we see and feel, who we meet, and what we are able to do influences us. Shapes us into our future selves. I was lucky enough to have come from St. John’s.

It was here that I grew up and here that I have spent the majority of my life. I was a lifer at this school and it has made me all the better for it. With the diversity of opportunities, the quality of schooling, and the level of character expected, who I am began here. I took part in playing football and soccer for the school. Joined scouting and the ministries team. Sang in the choir and performed in the musicals. I continued to study with academic rigor. All of these have contributed to this identity.

A messy identity. And an identity that carried on throughout high school. I still play soccer for St. Margaret’s, still

perform in the shows, still study, and am still in scouting.

Of all the things that affected my identity scouting and the shows have been most prominent. The camaraderie and community found in both activities is simply understated. I have met my best friends by doing these, friends I still stay in contact with after going to separate schools.

Through theatre I have gained so much and learned so much. The values of good public speaking, the dedication and follow through it takes to perform a show. And connections with people that I don’t think could be made any-

Scouting offers a unique experience in that you develop passion. Passion for the wide array of activities offered, intellectual, athletic, and social alike. Exposing you to so many different fields you never would have been exposed to. As well as the good one can do for the community, like involvement with charity and service in Operation Help a Hero as well as Vacation Bible School and Beach Clean Up. But most importantly is the connection between father and son. It is a beautiful thing for me to be able to look back on my childhood and romanticize about the nights spent camping with my Dad and the days spent hiking. It brought us closer together, and that relationship has been a vital support system I have used and will continue to use. Plus being and Eagle Scout is not a bad thing when applying to college.

The character, knowledge, and abilities I have gained at St. John’s carried me through to high school and will be a part of what I take on to college.

I don’t know that I have a definite answer yet as to who I am, but I do know that St. John’s is the foundation for that answer and I will always be PROUD TO BE A CARDINAL. n

Tell us why you are Proud to be a Cardinal!

We are excited to announce that this year’s school theme is Proud to be a Cardinal. Be sure to connect with St. John’s on our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts, and share your story!

#proudtobeacardinal www.stjohns-es.org |

23

Non-profit organization U.S. Postage PAID Rancho Santa Margarita, CA Permit No. 129

30382 Via Con Dios Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688

ST. JOHN’S ALUMNI SHINED AT SMCHS!

S

t. John’s alumni, Class of 2010, certainly excelled at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, and we especially want to congratulate Garrett Williams for being Santa Margarita’s Valedictorian!!

In addition to Garrett’s success, 34 students received college scholarships to various universities, including UC Berkeley, UCI, UCSD, UCSB, USC, Chapman, Carnige Melon, Boston University, Villanova, and Loyola Marymount University. Grace Shu was the California Scholarship Federation recipient and Garrett Williams received a $1,000 scholarship from the Eagle Alumni Association!

At the SMCHS Senior Awards Night, our students received 42 awards including awards in English, Mathematics, Talon Theater, Performing Arts, Religion, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Visual Arts, and

Service! Zachary Desper won the Special Recognition for Club Service Award and Kellie Goff received the Most Dedicated Overall Servant Leaders.

Congratulations to all of our alumni for all their great accomplishments, and we wish you the best in your future! n