The Cardinal Magazine 2016 Edition

A S T. J O H N ’ S E P I S C O PA L S C H O O L M A G A Z I N E

CARDINAL 2016 EDITION

Learning

I N T HI S I S S UE:

NEW

STEAM CENTER

SPOTLIGHT

SIBLINGS who SERVE

ALUMNI y

FACULTY

FEATURES Message from the Head of School........... 3 Think INdependent .............................................. 4 And the Winner is.................................................... 6 New Middle Division Principal...................... 8 Alumni Spotlight....................................................10 Full STEAM Ahead...............................................12 Teacher Spotlights.............................................15 Siblings That Serve.............................................18 2016 Matriculation ...........................................22

The Cardinal Magazine 2016 Edition

Editorial Committee Monika Matuszak, Director of Communications Jennifer Miramontes, Director of Advancement Gwen Croce, Advancement Coordinator Cynthia Drennan, Church Administrator Contributing Writers Melissa Bonhall Gwen Croce Jennifer Miramontes Catherine Sjostedt Patty Stoecker Melissa Zakhar Photography B. Keene Photography Monika Matuszak Design Lauren Boissevain, Lobo Design Printing One Step Services

Dear Friends, This issue of the Cardinal Magazine provides a glimpse of what distinguishes our School and of the extraordinary successes of the 2015-2016 school year. From the successful fundraising campaign to build our new STEAM Center to the development of our new branding statement, Think INdependent, the momentum at St. John’s is palpable.

Every day, I have the opportunity to see our outstanding teachers engaging students eager to get the most out of our inspiring and innovative programs. I am pleased to share with you two particularly gratifying validations of our School’s excellence.

This past year the School went through its California Association of Independent Schools’ accreditation. This highly rigorous process includes an intensely introspective self-study, a visit and review by a visiting team of leaders from other schools, and a final determination by the California Association of Independent Schools Board of Standards. St. John’s was awarded a seven year accreditation, the maximum term available to member schools. Of our faculty, the visiting team wrote:

The St. John’s faculty shows exceptional commitment to the school’s mission and to providing students with a nurturing and academically challenging family environment.

In fact, in every dimension related directly to educating our students, our School received the highest possible rating.

MISSION STATEMENT Grounded in the rich history of diversity and excellence in Episcopal education, St. John’s fosters every child’s full intellectual, physical, and spiritual development. A nurturing learning environment and programs built on an ideal balance of tradition and innovation encourage our students to pursue lives of service and purpose.

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

The Cardinal magazine is published by the Office of Advancement.

We welcome your feedback. Please contact Director of Communications, Monika Matuszak at mmatuszak@stjohns-es.org.

While remaining true to our traditions and core values, during the recent past, St. John’s has embraced highly innovative programs, embodied in STEAM. The School’s success has been recognized by Project Tomorrow Innovation in Education, which has selected St. John’s as an Award finalist in the Innovative School-wide Program in Science, Math, or Technology category. I am also proud that Suzy Hardy has been named a finalist in the High Impact Teacher in Science, Math, or Technology category. This impressive recognition is emblematic of the exciting learning that all of our students enjoy every day.

There is much to be proud of and much to look forward to. The new school year will bring our students a new building devoted to STEAM and new sports courts. Our middle schoolers will meet Dr. James Jordan, who is eager to build on the strengths of the program.

St. John’s Episcopal School 30382 Via Con Dios Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (949) 858-5144 www.stjohns-es.org

As you read this beautiful magazine, I hope that you will share my pride and excitement.

Sincerely, Michael D. Pratt, Ph.D. The Ca r d ina l 2 0 1 6

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The Girls Volleyball team continues to excel and demonstrate

INdependent Think

A ‘Brand’New Year for St. John’s

In conjunction with our new three-year strategic plan, St. John’s has unveiled a fresh new branding statement. Think INdependent was born through a recent collaboration with INK Agency in an effort to create fresh, new admissions marketing materials. This statement simply captures how we want our current and prospective families to see us and understand what they truly get with a St. John’s independent school education. But it doesn’t stop with the word ‘independent’. A St. John’s education encompasses many more ‘IN’ words.

teachers, they are inspired to become life-long learners, committed to academic excellence. From chapel teachings, students are encouraged to deepen their spiritual awareness and, regardless of faith tradition, develop a sense of awe and of the divine, and to reflect on the relevance in their lives of gratitude, love, forgiveness, compassion, humility, and service.

We are INvested. St. John’s has been a cornerstone of the Rancho Santa Margarita community since our founding in

“The same commitment to love and attention for every child remains. Our six kids are thriving, knowing that their school is a place of challenge and growth, provided by caring and capable teachers.”

strong skills. They have taken the winning title two out of the last three years at the county championships.

Although they did not win at this year’s county championships, they demonstrated strong team work and reached the finals against St. Hedwig School.

St. John’s Track Team earned their third consecutive Champion title at the 2016 Parochial Athletic League (PAL) County Track Meet this past spring at Saddleback College. The event has become increasingly popular, with more than 2,000 participants. Area schools sent students from 1st through 8th Grade to compete in the Elementary Division (1st-4th Grades) and the Middle Division (5th-8th Grades).

-Laura Breaux, Class of 1997; Jenny Grumet, Class of 1991; Jill Hageman, Class of 1994

We are INdependent. At St. John’s, we cherish our independence. Unlike private schools generally, independent schools are not subject to outside mandate. Rather, we are able to determine our own mission and values and create approaches to teaching and learning that best serve our students.

We are INnovative. St. John’s has fully adopted STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) as a means to integrate learning across the spectrum of subject areas. Recognized by many leading authorities as the most effective preparation for success in higher education and the workplace, STEAM prepares students at St. John’s for the ever-changing demands of our world.

Through the construction of our brand new STEAM Center, our students are engaging in state-of-the art, hands-on activities aimed at facilitating strategic problem solving and leadership skills that are necessary for success in the real world.

We are INspired. St. John’s students are inspired to discover and develop their best selves. From their talented and creative 4

1988. Our investment in this community stems from relationships rooted in and developed through our students and their families. As we prepare to enter our fourth decade of educating future leaders, we are proud to say that generations of families have also invested in St. John’s, choosing to send their own children to the very school where they once thrived as students. Even more notable, over 50% of our graduating class each year are “lifers,” having attended St. John’s from Preschool through 8th grade. Our commitment to the development of the whole child coupled with our dedication to serve and support the whole family, cultivates a love for learning and a passion for service that is evident both on campus and in the community.

These are just a few ‘IN’ words we have chosen to describe a St. John’s education. Like other independent schools, we have distinguished ourselves through academic excellence, commitment to service, leadership development, and strong character education. We are proud to be a part of this tradition of outstanding preparation and look forward to sharing our new brand with our entire community this fall.

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The exemplary efforts of coaches and athletes resulted in impressive times, medals for many St. John’s Cardinals, and fun for all who participated in this great day of sportsmanship. St. John’s not only won the Elementary Division, but also brought home the overall title against some tough competition.

A n I n t e r v i e w w i t h C h o p p e d J r. C h a m p i o n & S t . J o h n ’ s s t u d e n t

ANNABELLA KUMAR How long have you been cooking? I have been cooking for about four years.

What experience first got you interested in becoming a chef ? Making cupcakes with my grandma and decorating them was my first experience.

What are your top three favorite foods? My top three favorite dishes are crepes with mushrooms and spinach, curry, and shortbread cookies.

What is your favorite food to cook? Chive scones!

Is there a particular chef that inspires you? All the Food Network “chicks” inspire me.

What have you learned the most through your experience on Chopped Junior? I learned to be calm, hopeful and determined. You can do anything if you are those things.

What is your favorite cuisine? My favorite cuisine is Italian. I

love pizza, especially from Blaze Pizza. I have a favorite combination: high rise crust, classic red, extra mozzarella, pepperoni, light bacon, pineapple, mushrooms, tomatoes, and black olives. They should call it the Annabella pizza!

What advice would you give other students who aspire to become a chef ? Keep cooking, be calm, determined, and hopeful, and you can do anything you want in life.

What are your future dreams and plans? I would like to own my own restaurant that specializes in molecular food. I would also like to become a virologist and also find a cure for the peanut allergy. My mom was a nurse in the Air Force and she has inspired me to become a doctor.

What should people remember when they are cooking at home? Follow the recipe and have a little creative freedom…and don’t burn the food!

Annabella’s Favorite Cooking Tip

When cooking onions, first place them in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes prior to cutting. This will help reduce eye tearing effects.

Favorite Recipes Broiled Lamb Chops 4 lamb chops (at least 1” thick) 1 cup Worcestershire sauce 1 cup soy sauce 1 minced garlic clove Dash of pepper Place all ingredients in a small glass dish; one large enough to hold all 4 lamb chops on the bottom surface, and cover with plastic wrap. Place dish in refrigerator, marinade for at least 1 hour; turn over lamb chops if not fully submerged in liquid after approximately 30 minutes.

Place drained lamb chops on a broiler/pan rack that has been coated with olive oil/canola oil combination cooking spray. Place pan in a cold oven, close to the heating element, but not directly underneath it, turn oven on “broil”. Broil for 6 minutes each side, or to desired doneness.

Sautéed Spinach 4 cups fresh Baby Spinach (rinsed well and drained) 1 tbsp. unsalted butter ¼ cup water Salt and pepper to taste Place all ingredients in a 2-3-quart sauce pan with lid.

Cook on low to medium heat for 2 minutes, then stir and cook covered with lid for an additional 2-3 minutes or to desired tenderness.

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Smothered Potatoes 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes sliced thinly 1 large onion linearly sliced (thinly) Salt and pepper to taste ½ tbsp. fresh parsley ¼ cup thinly sliced green bell peppers ¼ cup thinly sliced red bell peppers 1 tbsp. cooking oil ¾ cup chicken broth Preheat wok or frying pan (need one that has a tightly fitted lid). Mix potatoes and onions in a bowl and add salt and pepper. Add cooking oil to heated pan, heat oil for a few minutes on medium high heat. Then add potato and onion mixture, gently turn potatoes, and continue cooking until some potatoes are slightly browned. Next add the fresh parsley, red and green bell peppers; followed by the chicken broth; stir gently, place lid on tightly, once liquid begins to boil rapidly, reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes more.

Check out Annabella’s audition video for Food Network’s Chopped Junior!

Part 1: https://vimeo.com/146056712/a2bbd3bc6c Part 2: https://vimeo.com/146058084/90e6c4a078

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MEET THE NEW

MIDDLE DIVISION PRINCIPAL

By Monika Matuszak

A FOND FAREWELL

By Gwen Croce

It is always hard to bid farewell to an esteemed educator, but this past year we said goodbye to some beloved colleagues. All three of these highly regarded staff members served a combined tenure of over 63 years at St. John’s. Please join us in wishing them well in their new adventures.

We sat down with Dr. James Jordan to hear about his professional experience and learn some fun facts about him.

Maureen Alva

Meet Dr. James Jordan, St. John’s newest faculty member. Dr. Jordan joined St. John’s in July 2016 as St. John’s new Middle Division Principal. Upon graduating from Mercer University in 2004, Dr. Jordan went on to pursue both a master’s and doctorate from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. in the areas of Educational Leadership and Human Development, and Educational Administration and Policy Studies. Dr. Jordan is not only new to the St. John’s community, he is also a recent transplant from Houston, Texas where he served as Middle School Assistant Head at the Kincaid School, a co-educational Kindergarten through 12th Grade independent school. The St. John’s community is delighted to welcome Dr. Jordan in his esteemed new role.

25 things

1. I was raised in the north of England and played soccer there for Bradford City AFC before coming to the States on a soccer scholarship to play at Mercer University in Macon, GA. 2. I have had knee surgery and didn’t play soccer for a year, but came back, shot up in height, and within a year was captain of my school team and then recruited for a professional team at 13-14 years old.

3. I formed the first table tennis team at my school when I was out for my knee surgery.

4. My favorite subject to teach is U.S. History, the British way.

5. Fried chicken was the first American food I tried.

6. I distaste lemon meringue pie, cream, and butter.

7. I met my wife at Starbucks and we have been married for four years.

8. We have one cat named Biggles that we rescued as a baby 6 years ago.

9. My first car was a 1997 white Dodge Dakota truck.

10. I have four nephews and one niece.

11. People that have influenced me the most are John Dewey, Ayn Rand, Malcom X, and Abraham Lincoln.

12. My favorite music is from the mid-90s and the Brit Pop genre.

13. My educational philosophy in one word is empowerment.

YOU DON’T KNOW

ABOUT ME....

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Mrs. Alva has always been a well-respected teacher throughout her career at St. John’s. After beginning her tenure as a 4th Grade teacher, she then took an opening in the Middle Division teaching science and math. Students flourished in her classes where her teaching came alive through exciting, realistic, and hands-on activities.

Clearly her love for science was impressionable, as some of her students went on to study science in college and pursue a career in the science field. Teachers like Mrs. Alva do not come along often and St. John’s was lucky to have her. We wish her well in this next chapter of her life.

Cindy Campbell

14. I’ve traveled to London, Paris, Rome, Germany, and Belgium.

15. The best advice I would give to my students is to work hard and be kind.

16. I have always been interested in how the brain works and how this correlates to learning and school.

17. I have published four books about soccer.

18. I received a Premiere Diploma, the highest distinction, from the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA).

19. I wrote my senior thesis statement on the last 50 weeks of Malcom X’s life.

20. My favorite pizza is Mellow Mushroom in Macon, GA. 21. If I could speak to one legendary person, it would be Winston Churchill.

22. My favorite television show is The Office (British version).

23. My favorite book is Atlas Shrugged.

24. My wife says I’m too competitive, so she won’t play board games with me anymore.

25. My favorite landmark is the Sistine Chapel.

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Mrs. Campbell began her career with St. John’s as a 5th Grade teacher before transitioning into the role of Middle Division Principal. Mrs. Campbell was everyone’s cheerleader! She was a model figure to her students and treated all with respect. She made sure all of her students were recognized and encouraged them to always do their best. Service learning was a key component for her program and she made it her mission to ensure there were many charitable opportunities for the students. Her favorite part of the year was the Middle Division Washington, D.C. trip. She loved accompanying the students each year and sharing the history of our great country. Mrs. Campbell will truly be missed and her legacy here at St. John’s will emanate each morning during Gathering.

Marjorie Trujillo Mrs. Trujillo was a dedicated nurse who served many students over the years. She was kind and giving to all those who passed through the Nurse’s Office doors. From a bruised knee to someone who just needed a hug, Mrs. Trujillo was always there.

We are also forever grateful to Nurse Trujillo for her dedication to the Disaster Preparedness program. Her tireless effort to research, plan, and organize the disaster teams, supplies and procedures has been noticed and complimented by several county agencies over the years. Her dedication to the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff is greatly appreciated. We wish her every happiness in her retirement.

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BOY SCOUTS GIVE BACK TO

St. John’s

By Monika Matuszak

Isabela Barrera

Many Middle Division students spend their summer hanging with friends or enjoying the sunshine at the beach, but St. John’s student Isabela Barrera (‘16) had a different idea this past July. Isabela and her family traveled to the Philippines where they distributed shoes to residents in need.

Collecting patches of accomplishments is the goal of many Cub Scouts, but for St. John’s alumni Alexander Lanham (‘15), David Pearson (‘15), and Matthew Roy (’13) it means much more than that. All three boys joined the Cub Scouts.

They then moved on to Boy Scout Troop #1618—chartered

by St. John’s Episcopal Church and School—where they became quite involved in various team building activities and community service.

Four years ago, Isabela and her brother, Jack Barrera (‘14) started collecting shoes at St. John’s Episcopal School on behalf of the global non-profit organization, Share Your Soles. The mission of Share Your Soles is to provide gently worn or new shoes to those in the greatest need around the world. “While traveling to the Philippines with my family, we noticed that many people didn’t have shoes and some even had parasites on their feet due to a lack of proper footwear,” said Isabela. After returning to the States, Isabela and her brother got to work collecting shoes from family, friends, and St. John’s Episcopal School and Church. Since its creation in 1999, Share Your Soles has provided over two million pairs of shoes to desperately impoverished people around the world.

“This project would not have been complete without my family, friends, troop members, and Antis Roofing and also STUD Construction, who helped with the labor, materials for the roof, and built the roof rafters.”

-David Pearson ‘15 Now as Eagle Scouts, the highest rank achievable of the Boy Scouts of America, all three boys have demonstrated an extraordinary amount of dedication and hard work towards earning their Eagle Scout status. To attain this level of achievement, they had to each earn 21 merit badges and demonstrate Scout Spirit, an ideal attitude based upon the Scout Oath and Law, service, and leadership. This included an extensive service project that Alexander, David, and Matthew were required to organize, lead, and manage.

All three boys chose to come back to their roots at St. John’s Episcopal School and each plan a project to support the Early Childhood Division. After speaking with several faculty members, their ideas developed into three freestanding play structures in the Preschool and Toddler playgrounds.

After seeing the success of her work, Isabela yearned to do more to help those around the world. This past year she became the ambassador at St. John’s for the ME to WE program, an innovative social enterprise that inspires and enables students to become leaders and agents of change.

Through the implementation of this program, St. John’s became a WE School that encourages youth empowerment and challenges its students to act with intention, and lead with compassion in order to transform lives locally and globally. As Isabela enters her first year at Santa Margarita Catholic High School she hopes to continue her passion for ME to WE and transform SMCHS into a WE school.

More Things You Should Know About Isabela

She is also heavily involved in the National Charity League--a group of moms and daughters who work together to make a difference.

She supports the following charities: Isaiah’s House in Santa Ana Operation Help a Hero Boys and Girls Club

St. John’s is appreciative for the support and volunteerism that Alexander, David, and Matthew have exhibited. They continue to serve the mission of St. John’s by demonstrating a strong dedication to service learning and helping others. They truly have shown that they are proud to be Cardinals.

Top Photo: David Pearson’s Project - Completed July 2016 Redwood sandbox, chalkboard, and sensory activity unit for the Toddler playground

She is an avid and talented volleyball player.

Middle Photo: Alexander Lanham’s Project- Completed September 2016 Magnetic/Lego wall for the Preschool playground

She wants to be a doctor.

Bottom Photo: Matthew Roy’s Project - Completed June 2016 Redwood bench around the Preschool sandbox and an accompanying redwood sand toy rack

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ST. J O H N ’ S G LO BA L A M BA S S A D O R

Her favorite subject is English.

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A younger Isabela organizes gift bags for veterans as part of Operation Valentine

FULL

STEAM

By Monika Matuszak

AH E A D

At St. John’s Episcopal School, students are motivated by meaningful and relevant learning opportunities that develop 21st century skills. Research tells us that students learn by doing, and the implementation of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) as a model for teaching, complements the School’s core program. St. John’s is the first independent school in California to fully adopt STEAM as a means to integrate learning across the spectrum of subject areas.

Photo on left: Middle Division students use recycled materials to construct a prosthetic arm.

STEAM in the classroom. Mrs. Muthu is preparing her students for real life by helping them think about how science and the scientific method can be used to solve real problems and make the world a better place.

“Science is more than a school subject, or the periodic table, or the properties of waves. It is an approach to the world, a critical way to understand and explore and engage with the world, and then have the capacity to change that world...”

— President Barack Obama, March 23, 2015

Photos: Middle Division students test their prosthetic arm creations on STEAM Day.

Applying knowledge and skills across multiple topics such as bioengineering, musculoskeletal system, 3D animation, and math sign language, students worked in groups to brainstorm, design, build, and test their ideas. Functionality, durability, and ease of use were required criteria. They also had to test their prototype against different parameters to T h e Ca r d ina l 2 0 1 6

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ensure their design worked properly and efficiently. “This was the most meaningful stage,” said Mrs. Muthu, “because they learned the importance of failure and how these moments can be stepping stones to great inventions.”

While prosthetics technology has become highly developed in the past 10 years, the average cost for a prosthetic limb is anywhere from $5,000 – $50,000, and can be unaffordable to many people. Mrs. Muthu’s students hope this idea will provide a launching point in offering a low-cost solution for those in need.

WHY STEAM IS IMPORTANT FOR THE FUTURE All young people should be prepared to think deeply and to think well so that they have the chance to become the innovators, educators, researchers, and leaders who can solve the most pressing challenges facing our nation and our world, both today and tomorrow. But, right now, not enough of our youth have access to quality STEM learning opportunities and too few students see these disciplines as springboards for their careers.

Image and information from www.ed.gov

To culminate their study on living organisms earlier this year, specifically focusing on their bodies and cells, DNA, and human anatomy, Mrs. Muthu’s students participated in a strategic design process to build a prosthetic hand using inexpensive, readily available materials—including rubber bands, pvc pipe, cardboard tubes, hair claws, lanyards, and popsicle sticks—in hopes of providing impoverished communities the same ability.

Middle Division teacher Vedha Muthu is entering her second year at St. John’s and is already demonstrating the value of

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Mrs. Vedha Muthu, Middle Division Science Teacher

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ROBOTICS LAB

SCIENCE LAB

MAKERS LAB

St. John’s New

STEAM

Bo, the resident St. John’s therapy dog, brings joy to all.

Center

By Jennifer Miramontes

St. John’s

A St. John’s, we believe investing in our students is an investment in our future leaders. After our wildly successful implementation of STEAM three years ago, we knew it would be essential to provide learning spaces designed and created specifically for this initiative. With a focus on projectbased learning, the STEAM program has expanded music and art opportunities, and deepened our student’s interest in engineering and design, with robotics becoming a special area of curiosity and concentration. Through contributions from devoted families and community members, we are pleased to announce the opening of a new state-of-the-art STEAM Center in August 2016.

This new facility will house an elementary science classroom, a Makers Lab, and a robotics lab. The technology that our students and faculty already enjoy such as the Vex Robotics kits, 3D printers, green screens, laser cutters, and more, will be moved to a larger and more visible place on campus so that all students can benefit. In addition, the new facility will offer faculty the flexibility to continue to innovate and provide our 14

students the tools and space they need to flourish.

For the 2016-2017 school year, we are excited to announce the addition of Medical Detectives, a new curriculum developed by Project Lead the Way. In this class, students will play the role of real-life medical detectives as they analyze genetic testing results to diagnose disease and study DNA evidence found at a “crime scene.” They solve medical mysteries through handson projects and labs, investigate how to measure and interpret vital signs, and learn how the systems of the human body work together to maintain health. As St. John’s continues to expand our curricular offerings, we remain committed to the continual integration of innovative, relevant classes such as Medical Detectives to our program.

The STEAM Center Ribbon Cutting took place on Monday, September 12th, at 10:00 a.m. Parents and community members toured the new spaces, tried out the new tools, and told everyone they know about the extraordinary transformations happening at St. John’s.

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TEACHER SPOTLIGHT St. John’s students are inspired to discover and develop their best selves. Our talented and creative teachers inspire their students to become life-long learners, committed to academic excellence. Our teachers are passionate about education and finding ways to make learning more meaningful through creative ways that encourage active student engagement. We would like to give you a snapshot of some of the amazing things our teachers are doing in the classroom.

THE POWER OF THE PAW Jill Hageman (’94), alumna, parent of two, and Cardinal Nest teacher at St. John’s, has a special two-year-old yellow Labrador named Bo. What makes him so unique? Bo has completed an eight-week certification program from Pet Prescription Team that licenses him as a therapy dog.

joy to people who are sick, sad, or lonely. Therapy dogs are used in many capacities. Mrs. Jill and Bo have provided joy to the elderly in nursing homes, and they have recently signed up to visit children in local libraries. These children have the opportunity to read to the therapy dogs, who sit patiently and provide a non-judgmental audience to emergent readers. This will hopefully encourage the readers to find joy in reading and not be concerned with their mistakes.

What is a therapy dog? A therapy dog is a canine that provides

When asked what she felt was the most rewarding aspect

by Melissa Zakhar

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to having Bo certified as a therapy dog, Mrs. Jill responded, “The benefits it provides others are what bring me joy, like his ability to lower blood pressure, release endorphins, increase socialization, and help reduce the number of medications individuals are on.”

At home Mrs. Sjostedt continues to share her love of reading with her community, having created a Little Free Library right in front of her home. Neighbors stroll past her home borrowing and contributing books, a most welcome example of “passing it on.” In her free time, Mrs. Sjostedt enjoys, (what else), reading, and cultivating her many hobbies through her book choices. When not out walking or swimming, you can find her cooking healthy meals, gardening, or even refinishing furniture.

Mrs. Jill finds so much satisfaction in serving the community and seeing people smile by having Bo around. She also loves that she is becoming a positive role model for her children, explaining to them that she and Bo are going to visit people who are lonely and that Bo’s love and affection helps them in some way.

And the boy with the paleontology book? Mrs. Sjostedt saw a T-Rex key chain on his backpack and asked him about it.

Bo has also touched the hearts of students at St. John’s. Bo visited the Kindergarten, Pre-Kindergarten, Preschool, and Cardinal Nest classrooms in the spring. Mrs. Jill took the opportunity to educate the students about Bo; she explained to them what it means to be a therapy dog, and how she cares for him. The students not only learned that like us, Bo requires necessities such as food, water, exercise, and visits to the doctor, but he also learns character traits as well. Learning new tricks takes determination, and Mrs. Jill explained to the students that Bo has to work hard to learn new things, just as we all do.

In talking to Mrs. Jill, it is obvious how grateful she is that Bo can bring joy to both the community and to her family.

At home as the family pet, Bo is a normal, happy, wiggly dog.

Yet, he has been trained to be calm and respectful during his therapy visits.

When Mrs. Jill puts on his vest and says, “Ok Bo, let’s go to work,” that sets the mood for both her and Bo as they embark on their journey of spreading joy.

We are thankful to have both Mrs. Jill and Bo in our Cardinal Community, and we hope they touch many more lives to come.

For the Love of Books

by Melissa Bonhall

A tousled haired boy bounds out the doors, red sweater streaming behind, a new treasure clutched to his chest. He can’t wait to get home and dig in. It is a book about dinosaurs and paleontology after all. And he thinks to himself, “How did Mrs. Sjostedt know that I like dinosaurs?”

“A book is a dream that you hold in your hand.”

-Neil Gaiman

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Well, she knows because it matters. Mrs. Catherine Sjostedt, St. John’s Librarian for more than 15 years, is passionate beyond measure about reading and how it encourages learning and curiosity. She dedicates herself to engaging each student who walks through those library doors, learning their talents and interests, and providing opportunities for extended learning. Serving the entire St. John’s community, she shares her joy through storytelling and book club while guiding students through difficult prose and research projects.

And last year, while managing a full library curriculum, Mrs. Sjostedt managed to lead a team of amazing St. John’s parents through a library refresh, purging outdated books and creating comfortable spaces for the enjoyment of collaborative or quiet learning.

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Enhancing Dramatic Play through Outdoor Education By: Patty Stoecker

Anyone who has met Mrs. Scott recognizes her devotion to the students of the Early Childhood Division. Everything she does is inspired by the students’ interests and what she knows the children will enjoy. This year, Mrs. Scott took the Early Childhood Center (ECC) playground to new heights through her resourcefulness and imagination. Holidays and monthly STEAM themes were the inspiration behind her playground planning. Mrs. Scott collaborated with the teachers to see what interests were developing in class and then created meaningful extensions to the outdoors.

Each morning, Mrs. Scott thoughtfully sets up the ECC playground with manipulatives and activities to stimulate the children’s interests. During the transportation theme, she constructed an enormous cruise ship out of a cardboard box and let the children explore and engage in imaginary play.

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A Santa’s village was the focal point during the Christmas season. Mrs. Scott created several homemade apron style dress-up clothes so the children could engage in role play and pretend play activities. Mrs. Scott also set up the dramatic play stage as a pretend doctor’s office for the stuffed animals so the children could play doctor and care for and heal the “sick” animals.

As the new Outdoor Education Coordinator, Mrs. Scott has new and exciting plans for the children. Not only will the playground have abundant learning activities available for the children, but they will have the highly enthusiastic Ms. Scott playing right alongside them!

This year St. John’s Early Childhood Division has seen improvements and enhancements to its outdoor environment, which in turn have allowed Assistant Teacher and Outdoor Education Coordinator, Katie Scott to unleash her creativity and enrich the STEAM program and outdoor education for St. John’s youngest Cardinals.

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St. John’s alumni Sahani (’04) and Priyan (’00) Chandraratna are the rare few. Service learning has been in their blood since they were born.

Their parents instilled the importance of giving back to society and serving those in need. As Sahani says, “We were brought up to value and respect two sayings, ‘to whom much is given, much is expected’ and ‘there but for the grace of God go I’. I believe these were important values because they taught us that everyone deserves our respect and to be treated with dignity.” This philosophy led the Chandraratnas to open a home for traumatized orphaned children in Sri Lanka called Kuda Kusum after the devastating tsunami in 2004.

Priyan Chandraratna St. John’s ‘00 Sage Hill ‘04 Brown University International Relations & Anthropology UCLA School of Law Critical Race Theory Priyan attributes much of his success to his time at St. John’s, as it “taught me to be a leader and showed me the importance of having confidence in myself.” Serving as Student Council president in the 8th Grade was one of many experiences that gave Priyan the foundation to take on leadership and managerial roles for the rest of his life.

Priyan became interested in events and accepted the Director of Development position at an events production company in New York City. During this role he expanded the company’s client base and worked on a variety of largescale charitable galas. However, Priyan still yearned to make a difference in the world and returned to school to pursue his law degree. Upon graduation he worked at three of the top civil rights law firms in Los Angeles. His practice focused on plaintiff side employment law—representing employees who were wronged by their employers. Priyan later went on to start his own company, Alfred House Productions, to provide event production, development, and marketing 18

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We were brought up to value and respect two sayings, ‘to whom much is given, much is expected’ and ‘there but for the grace of God go I’

e v r e S SIBLINGS TH AT

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Service learning is at the heart of St. John’s mission. Each member of St. John’s student body is encouraged “to pursue a life of service and purpose” through community outreach, individual service, and participation in character building programs. Over the years, many graduates have continued to exude a passion for service learning either through their career path or as a steward of a philanthropic charity. There are the rare few who are passionate enough to do both.

Sahani Chandraratna St. John’s ‘04 Sage Hill ‘08 George Washington University Sociology & Psychology Columbia University ‘16 Masters in Public Health & Social Work

Having worked in three different countries over the past 7 years--United States, the United Kingdom, and Sri Lanka-- Sahani’s job positions varied greatly, however, they have all been related to her passion of increasing equality and serving underrepresented populations. Much of her success has been attributed to her time at St. John’s, stating, “I was provided with a safe and strong foundation and nurturing environment to grow and learn. I made a few lifelong friends and started to grow into the person I have become.”

services for small events to full wedding coordination. This opportunity has allowed Priyan to hone his creative skills and artistic expression.

Two years ago Priyan began training to become a volunteer counselor for The Trevor Project, a crisis hotline for LGBT youth. The training process for the position was arduous and emotional for Priyan, and it took a great deal of patience and commitment. However, the reward was immeasurable.

“I think the training process made me a more empathetic person and a more valuable resource to my friends and family,” says Priyan. “While working at The Trevor Project can be difficult at times, helping the youth who need our services has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

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During both high school and college, Sahani and Priyan served and interned at various social justice non-profit and international organizations including UNESCO, Breakthrough in New York, and the Centre for Poverty Analysis in Sri Lanka.

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Although younger than her brother, Sahani has already added a plethora of service learning achievements to her belt. Sahani joined The National Charity League, in middle school and she and her mother volunteered together and conducted charity work in a variety of organizations, ultimately resulting in thousands of hours of volunteer time. In addition to supporting the orphanage that she and her family built in Sri Lanka, Sahani claims that her most pivotal experience was during her time at Save the Children International.

Her role in Program and Project Development allowed her to work with multiple and diverse stakeholders, affording her the creative license and flexibility while demanding rigorous research and analysis. She was solely responsible for the creation of a comprehensive and sustainable road safety project proposal that addressed the most critical needs of children in Sri Lanka.

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St. John’s

Alumni

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volunteer to get service hours for their college applications, these girls love working together and see the difference that every hour of volunteering makes to people in need.”

Recently, several H.O.P.E. members combined math, language and science in a teacher developed and approved proposal called “Scholars Protecting the Ocean Sea” for incoming first graders at Garfield Elementary, a Title 1 school in Santa Ana. They worked with the teachers and children, developing a film and presentation on how to save the ocean. H.O.P.E. members live by the words of the President’s Volunteer Service Award mission, “We encourage you to take a look around, be inspired, and take positive action that changes the world.”

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

-Margaret Mead

Helping Other People Everyday

By Catherine Sjostedt

Part of our mission at St. John’s is to “encourage our students to pursue lives of service and purpose.” Three alumnae, Karina Del Rio (’14), Alyssa Fujiwara (’14), and Lauren Wilkins (’14), as well as three other friends, embodied service and purpose when they created a service group called H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Everyday) in 2015. The alumnae were active as volunteers while at St. John’s, but felt called to increase their involvement. In recalling a Random Act of Kindness Week, Alyssa commented, “That was really inspiring, but we thought it would be good to do more in the community.” H.O.P.E. members have made service a daily occurrence, logging over 1,000 service hours since May 2015. Several members have received the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA), “the premier volunteer awards program, encouraging citizens to live a life of service through presidential gratitude and national recognition.” The reward H.O.P.E. members receive is through the joy, fun, and camaraderie of serving others. One member stated “I prefer to do community service with people you know. The feeling of giving back is the best part of community service.”

Another added, “I just like giving back, with my friends, it’s even better.”

In December, H.O.P.E. members wrapped 380 children’s books with a stuffed animal for children at the Orangewood Children’s Home and Family Center in Santa Ana and the 20

Domestic Violence Center in San Bernardino, a project that caught the attention of St. John’s Librarian, Catherine Sjostedt. The St. John’s Library donates discontinued or donated books to charities serving children. Several H.O.P.E. members picked up discontinued library titles and later met with Mrs. Sjostedt following a morning spent bagging onions for the Second Harvest Food Bank. Reflecting on the activity, one member observed, “You get a different outlook on life when you see wasted food, that it can help others”.

The range of involvement of these young women is truly astounding (see the list in the sidebar). They have made cards for the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) and Freedom Village; provided Easter eggs for Santa Ana school children; collected and donated clothing; provided, prepared, and served dinner to the homeless monthly, as well as made mattresses out of plastic bags all for the Isaiah House Recovery Center in Santa Ana. They have volunteered as tutors, ushers, camp counselors, and packaged personal care items for other various charities. While helping other people everyday, the group meets monthly following an activity.

“When you do community service, you have hope. It’s not just a once a month activity, it’s something you can do every day.”

Parents are actively involved as volunteers as well. An adult active with H.O.P.E. said, “ It truly is a labor of love. These girls have such kind and generous hearts and it has been a pleasure working with them. Unlike other groups that T h e Ca r d ina l 2 0 1 6

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Blankets for a Better World Camp OCSA Capistrano Unified School District: Wood Canyon Elementary CHOC Mission Viejo Domestic Violence Center Freedom Village Heart to Heart Club Isaiah House Key Club Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive Santa Margarita Catholic High School-Loaves and Fishes Festival Orangewood Children’s Home & Family Center National Honor Society Ocean Institute Volunteer, R/V Sea Explorer Volunteer Domestic Violence Center, San Bernardino Pet Partners Animal Therapy Program Physical Therapy Volunteer Project Linus Regent’s Point Continuing Care Retirement Community Richter Academy of Classical Dance Santa Ana Unified School District Santa Ana Unified School District, Garfield Elementary Santa Clara de Asis - Leadership, Youth Ministry Second Harvest Food Bank Special Olympics St. Joseph’s Health | Mission Hospital Volunteers Babies First Ride Front Desk Volunteer Tutor Usher, San Francisco Solano Catholic Church VBS-St. John’s Episcopal Church VBS-Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church

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2016 M AT R I C ULATI ON

The St. John’s Episcopal School’s 28th Commencement Ceremony on June 8th celebrated the 47 members of the class of 2016. The evening also honored Middle Division Principal, Cindy Campbell for her 25 years of service. Graduates and Head of School, Michael Pratt serenaded Mrs. Campbell and bid her farewell as she enters retirement.

Emmalee Altergott – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Celine Banna – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Isabela Barrera – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Jena Bednarczyk – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Sam Bhatia – Crean Lutheran High School Erin Biddiscombe – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Haley Carder – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Cole Cisakowski – JSerra Catholic High School Cameron Cooke – JSerra Catholic High School Jordyn Gather – JSerra Catholic High School Ian Grimm – Sage Hill High School Jackson Groves – Tesoro High School Olivia Guida – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Charlie Henderson – JSerra Catholic High School Parker Hogan – St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Hansel Huang – will continue his studies in China Sophia Kangas – JSerra Catholic High School Tamara Khalek – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Ethan Koshy – Santa Margarita Catholic High School John Kurtz – St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Bill Li – JSerra Catholic High School Lane Lindeman – Tesoro High School Nancy Liu – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Abby Lutterloh – Santa Margarita Catholic High School

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Sarah Ma – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Killian McShane – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Riley Nen – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Shannon O’Malley – Crean Lutheran High School Corinne O’Toole – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Ryan Perucci – JSerra Catholic High School Nico Rafatjoo – Tesoro High School Arman Ramezani – Sage Hill High School Joshua Robinson – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Lea Sakakine – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Emily Renee Salvanara – Trabuco Hills High School Jared Schafer – JSerra Catholic High School Jaime Svinth – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Jerry Tao – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Jack Terry – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Matthew Trueman – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Sean von Kaenel – Tesoro High School Eason Wang – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Tony Wang – JSerra Catholic High School Colby Wenk – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Zane Zahr – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Kimia Zandi – Santa Margarita Catholic High School Bentley Zhao – Santa Margarita Catholic High School

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