The Langley School Experience Winter 2018

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2018

experience

In this issue

experience is published twice a year for alumni, families, and friends of The Langley School Head of School Dr. Elinor Scully Editor & Designer Sharon Vipperman, Director of Marketing & Communications Where vital academics meet a deep respect for childhood Preschool through grade 8 in Northern Virginia

1411 Balls Hill Road, McLean, Virginia 22101 (703) 356-1920 www.langleyschool.org

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Head of School’s Message

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Feature Story: A Deep Respect for Childhood Through the Ages

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Celebrating 75 Years of Langley

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Alumni Family Profiles

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Feature Story: Our Inspiring Past Guides Our Promising Future

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Campus Happenings

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Class Notes

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Remembering Through Memorial & Tribute Gardens Come Celebrate With Us

Head of School’s Message

Dear Langley friends...

I hope your new year is off to a great start! At Langley, we continue to celebrate our 75th anniversary into 2018 with several exciting events and opportunities to come together, such as our popular STEAM Fair in February, our first-ever Day of Giving in March, and our 75th anniversary auction in April (see page 21 for details). I hope you will be a part of our birthday celebration – whether attending an event, keeping in touch with us via social media, stopping by campus, or reaching out to a Langley friend or teacher to reminisce.

Langley’s 75th anniversary has given me the wonderful opportunity to connect deeply with members of our school community – current, past, and future – and to hear about many of your personal Langley experiences and memories through the years. Through these conversations, I feel proud to be leading such a remarkable institution with such a rich history and limitless potential for educating so many future generations.

Many of you have heard me say, “If you get the foundation right, anything is possible.” After talking with so many of you and seeing how Langley has impacted your lives, my belief in our commitment to preschool through eighth grade education has been further solidified. There is a clear outcome of a Langley graduate that is sincere, confident, capable, and authentic, and that inspires me to continue pursuing our mission to provide a balanced education that deeply respects a joyful, unrushed childhood – one that can balance rigorous academics with social and emotional competence, and one that celebrates the process of learning, not just the achievements. You’ll hear this sentiment echoed by many voices in the article on page 2.

Head of School Dr. Elinor Scully with former Langley heads Betty Brown (served 1981-1999) and Doris Cottam (served 2000-2013) at a 75th anniversary event.

As the newly appointed president of the Elementary School Heads Association (ESHA), I am exposed to outside perspectives on early childhood and the role of education in creating future leaders, scientists, philanthropists, and artists. This broader, nationwide perspective confirms our mission as we think about the next 75 years. On page 12, you’ll read about how we are stewarding resources to ensure Langley’s bright future. I welcome your thoughts and feedback on our plans.

I thank you for being part of this extraordinary community.

Together, aligned by our values and vision, we make Langley the special place it is. Happy 75th Birthday, Langley!

Warm regards,

Dr. Elinor Scully Head of School

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FEATURE STORY:

A Deep Respect for Childhood: Through the Ages

People can change a lot over 75 years. But if a child grows up with a strong and empowering value system, that foundation stays with her all her life – guiding her growth, sustaining her through adversity, enabling her to embrace opportunities, and providing countless moments of happiness and wonder.

It’s always been about the kids

But our founding parents, Judith Glaser and Persis Lane, were undaunted. Their unwavering belief in children – in how much they could learn at a very young age – led directly to the vital extended community we share today. Enlisting eager, like-minded parents, Mrs. Glaser and Mrs. Lane formed a cooperative that built, sustained, and thoughtfully grew Langley through the school’s first decades.

Since September 22, 1942, the day Langley’s doors opened, our work has remained rooted in our community’s profound respect for children as learners and as people. Then known as the McLean Playschool, Langley began as one of

The commitment to make the most of our children’s earliest years unites our Langley family and connects us to our history. Former Head of School Doris Cottam explains, “Langley has changed over time, as the school has matured

That’s also true for schools. Because The Langley School grew out of a mutually cherished, lasting yet adaptable philosophy, our school has endured and thrived for generations, like the extraordinary young people who grow up with us.

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the nation’s first nursery schools. At the time, intentionally educating children ages three to six seemed like a radical concept to many Americans. And opening a school dedicated to that purpose, amid the privations and uncertainties of World War II, appeared downright audacious.

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and the surrounding area has evolved. But our core values have never changed. It has always been about the kids, and everyone working together to do the best we can for our children.”

As Ms. Cottam points out, Langley’s original cooperative governance has necessarily given way to a carefully tended system of best practices. But we still work, play, celebrate, and plan together in ways that reflect our founding collaborative ethos. And, like our founders, we believe the earliest years are the most important for instilling a lifelong love of learning, and developing the social, emotional, and intellectual tools to learn successfully.

Learning by doing – then and now As Mary Lou Bohsali explains in her delightful book, Langley School: The First Fifty Years, our school began when our founders saw how much their own nursery-school-age children learned by playing and exploring together, in what was then a mostly rural area. They knew other children could and should do the same.

“Langley has always been ahead of its time,” says Head of School Dr. Elinor Scully. “Unlike many educators in the 1940s, our founders recognized that children learn by doing – by getting their hands into things and experimenting. We’ve extended that idea by allowing children to pose questions and suggest topics of study. We give them the skills and concepts they need to acquire, but we also teach them to wonder about underlying principles.”

A central component of the 1940s nursery school movement, “learning by doing” has grown into the inquiry-based teaching and learning practices that Langley employs today. The through-line, again, is respect – giving children the physical, emotional, and intellectual space to wonder, investigate, and create, in the ways only children can, along with expert guidance to reflect and grow. As a result, our students become ever more curious, confident, poised, self-aware, and responsible by the day. And they give respect because, at Langley, they receive it.

Flourishing in multiple dimensions Board member and parent Cathy Bernasek sees deep respect in Langley’s intentional approach to education.

“Langley takes pride in being conscientious and supportive in everything that happens,” she says. “You see it in how they recruit teachers. How they scaffold the curriculum.

How they layer social and emotional development in with academic growth. It’s a well-thought-out, deliberate system that ensures every year builds on the previous one.”

In other words, respecting childhood “through the ages” not only refers to our school’s history, but to the developmental stages of every individual child. It means meeting children where they are, at every level, and ensuring they’re prepared for the next step. “Langley’s program is a continuum from age three through eighth-grade graduation,” says Ms. Cottam. “And the school attends to all the growth points along the way.”

“This school has always been known for raising kind, empathetic, thoughtful children. That’s no accident. It’s because we model respect in everything we do, and attend to children as authentic human beings.”

-Dr. Elinor Scully, Head of School 3

“Our basic philosophy has not changed since the school began.

But our vision allows us to look forward as well as back. We are always asking what the children of today need.”

-Doris Cottam, Former Head of School

For alumni parent Elizabeth Keeler, respect means that every child feels “known.” She says, “At Langley, it’s not just about getting a good grade or a high test score. Social, emotional, and academic development all go together. Our children flourish in multiple dimensions.” Reverend Keeler points to the Middle School play as a vivid illustration of this experience. “There are plenty of parts if you want to be on stage, but twice as many support roles. There’s something for everyone: acting, costumes, lighting, makeup, sound. That’s why such a huge percentage of Middle School students participate. At the end, everyone comes up on stage and is recognized for their contribution.”

Ms. Cottam also hails the Middle School play, and public performance generally, as keys to our children’s burgeoning confidence. “Our program ensures kids get used to speaking in front of people at a very early age – they sing, talk, do readings, and even the shy kids blossom. They lose their fears,” she says. Reverend Keeler agrees: “My kids never knew a time when they didn’t have to express themselves publicly. It’s been part of their formation.”

High school placement: A time to reflect – and shine Perhaps no experience does more to build and affirm students’ confidence, and self-expressive abilities, than Langley’s high school placement process. At this critical period in our children’s development, we challenge them to carefully consider and articulate who they are now, who they want to become, and how to get there.

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It’s surely a sign of respect that Langley expects eighthgraders to go through a process most students don’t experience until they apply for college. As they draw up lists, visit schools, work on their applications, and practice interviewing, our eighth-graders receive constant one-on-one support from teachers, administrators, friends, and family.

But they also know that this is their experience and their decision. “From preschool through eighth grade, Langley ensures children have the support they need to reach the next level,” says Ms. Bernasek. “The high school placement process is an endorsement of everything they’ve done up to now. The school says, ‘You’re ready for this.’ And the student thinks, ‘Yes, I am ready.’”

“The students don’t all try to go to the same schools,” Ms. Cottam explains, “and that shows how well the process works. The students seriously consider which school they want to go to, and they have the confidence to go their own way.” Our students know the goal is not to get into “the best school” – whatever that might mean – but the best school for them.

As the pinnacle of the entire Langley learning arc, the high school placement experience shapes children in remarkable ways. Deciding where to go to high school isn’t easy – nor is applying to schools, or possibly being rejected by your first choices. But that’s part of the point. “The process teaches children to face uncertainty and adversity,” says Ms. Bernasek. “They learn they can get through difficulty

and land on their feet.” Reverend Keeler adds, “My children are not fragile. They can fall down and pick themselves up.”

down and make time for human connections, and for the joy, excitement, and wonder of being a child.”

Reverend Keeler says that thanks to Langley’s carefully calibrated program, “My children are thriving in high school and college. They’re leaders, and they revel in learning.”

She adds that other parents notice Langley graduates.

“When I say my kids went to Langley, they say, ‘That’s the lucky school. Every child who goes there is lucky, because they come out so bright and confident.’ They know a Langley child when they see one.”

Ms. Cottam tells a story to illustrate this essential element of Langley’s philosophy. “I was observing a class of 3-yearolds who were coloring,” she says. “The teacher asked, ‘What color are elephants?’ Most of the children sang out, ‘Gray!’ But one student said, ‘My favorite color is orange.

So I’m going to make my elephant orange.’ We tend to lose that kind of joyful self-belief as we get older. But Langley keeps the magic alive. We know there’s a beauty to coloring outside the lines.”

Deep respect for the orange elephant Langley’s respect for children is palpable in everything we do – and in the students we graduate. So why does our tagline say “a deep respect for childhood?”

“We believe there is something essential and vital that happens only in childhood,” says Dr. Scully. “It’s a crucial developmental period that should not be rushed. Soon enough, kids will get older and feel all the pressures that surround us, especially here in DC. At Langley, we slow

And because we know and respect that beauty, our exceptional program will endure.

Reflecting on Langley’s first 75 years, Dr. Scully explains why Langley’s foundational values will drive everything we do, long into the future. “We have honored our tradition and kept our promise of developing children intellectually, socially, and emotionally,” she says. “These childhood years are so special, and they only happen once. That’s why our commitment to what we’re doing is sacred.”

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75TH ANNIVERSARY:

Celebrating 75 Years of Langley On Friday, September 22, 2017, The Langley School marked its 75th anniversary, celebrating three-quarters of a century of building lifelong foundations and life-changing relationships. In honor of this significant milestone, we launched a year-long celebration featuring a variety of events for both past and present members of the community.

Kicking Off the Party: We began the festivities at the start of the school year with a retro theme featuring vintage photos, games, and music from the 1940s along with birthday cake. Parent volunteers Sylvia Leimone and Heidi Narang and Langley staff Polly Beam and Missy McClelland helped bring Langley’s past to life by creating a museum walk and historical timeline which is on display throughout the year (see magazine insert for timeline).

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Showing Our Spirit: On Founder’s Day on September 22, students, faculty, and staff wore special-edition vintage Langley t-shirts and took part in a variety of 75-themed activities by grade that encouraged them to reflect on the school’s historic roots and its bright future.

Celebrating 75: Age-appropriate activities to celebrate Founder’s Day on September 22 included making 75th birthday crowns and banners, creating a giant birthday card highlighting what the school was like in 1942, describing Langley 75 years from now in a writing project, creating limericks in tribute to the school, and interviewing a family member who was alive 75 years ago. “These activities not only taught our students about the importance of this special anniversary year, but also gave them an understanding of the time period in which Langley was founded, the generations before them who helped build the school into what it is today, and the impact they, too, can have on the future success of The Langley School,” said Head of School Dr. Elinor Scully.

Honoring Our Leaders: On September 23, we honored the contributions of past and present Board members, PALS chairs, and administrators through the years at an anniversary dinner on campus. Pictured at left: Langley Board chairs (top) and Langley PALS chairs (below).

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The Kini-Choi Family:

Satish, Jennifer, Manu ’16, & Narayan ’16 Thoughts from Satish Former Langley Parent

Why did your family choose Langley? It was evident that Langley had so much to offer – a beautiful campus, a nurturing set of teachers, and an environment that seemed welcoming and inclusive.

How did the school help prepare your kids for high school? Langley gave our boys the academic, social, and athletic skills to succeed in high school. They have gone on to different high schools (Potomac and St. Albans), and both have adjusted well to the different facets of high school life. Langley played a big role in that preparation.

What does your family miss most about Langley?

The warmth of the school community, including the staff, teachers, and families. Being on Langley’s campus was a fun experience for my boys and my family – we miss those opportunities to be at the school on a regular basis.

Alumni Families A Look at Langley’s Impact on Four Families Thoughts from Jennifer Former Langley Parent

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Thoughts from Manu ’16

Sophomore at St. Albans School What impact did Langley have on you? Langley had a very positive impact on me through the strong friendships that I created there, friendships that will remain intact throughout high school and into college. This provides a great support system for both athletics and academics.

Which of your interests did Langley help spark? Langley helped spark my interest in math and science by creating a fun and interesting learning environment. Through various projects, experiments, and real-life applications, Langley allowed me to find what I truly enjoy learning. Additionally, through the great athletic program, I was able to further my love of soccer while learning to manage my time as I balanced schoolwork and sports.

What’s the most important skill you learned at Langley?

Through Langley’s small classes, I developed the ability to be inquisitive and ask questions. Langley’s supportive environment enforces the idea that there is no wrong question, which in turn leads to a fuller understanding of the subject and a strong foundation for later academic pursuits.

How did Langley impact your children? We started at Langley when the boys were just three, and the school played a big part in their becoming confident young men, with an appreciation of the community that supported them during their younger years and wonderful childhood memories. The incredible support they received from the Langley community of teachers, administrators, students, and parents allowed them to flourish and thrive.

Thoughts from Narayan ’16

How did the school impact you personally as a parent?

I also grew up at Langley – being a young, first-time mother, everything was a first for us. The school gave us support as we were raising our young boys and gave me the opportunity to share my time and experiences, allowing me to grow personally as well.

How did Langley prepare you for high school? Langley prepared me for the rigors of high school by teaching me time management and organizational skills that have allowed me to efficiently manage the high school workload.

Langley’s curriculum also challenged and stretched me in each class, allowing me to learn through individual effort.

What do you feel is Langley’s biggest strength? It is the school’s deep respect for childhood that allows children to have the confidence and foundation to stretch and challenge themselves. Langley is all about nurturing and encouraging children to go beyond their comfort zones, but in a scaffolded way.

What’s the most important skill you learned at Langley?

I developed the ability to work as part of a team which is important not only in the classroom, but on the athletic field. The teamwork skills I learned at Langley allow me to work with and make friends with a variety of different people, making my experience in high school more fulfilling.

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Sophomore at The Potomac School What impact did Langley have on you? Langley helped nurture me and form the person who I am today. Langley impacted me through lasting friendships, skills, and interests that continue to drive me. The school’s core values are still very important to me and impact my decision-making.

The Carlucci Family: Yvette, Frank, Marina ’13, & Anna ’17 Thoughts from Yvette Former Langley Parent

What does your family miss most about Langley? The faculty. The teachers at Langley made learning fun and really got to know both of our girls as individuals.

How did Langley impact your children? Langley had a tremendous impact on the girls since they began in Primary School and attended through eighth grade. Langley challenged them in the classroom and taught them to work hard and to be good citizens.

Thoughts from Marina ’13

How did the school impact you personally as a parent?

Since we had just moved to McLean a month before Marina began kindergarten, Langley provided a way for me to meet other McLean families and get to know the area. As the years progressed, Langley continued to provide a great sense of community. There was a feeling of this group of parents, teachers, and administrators working together to raise children to excel academically and as individuals.

What do you feel is Langley’s biggest strength? Children are encouraged to excel and explore while being reminded that they are part of a community. The community continues to be a highlight for me when I think about Langley.

Freshman at Princeton University What impact did Langley have on you? At Langley, I not only learned the fundamentals, but also learned how to build relationships both with peers and adults and how to be responsible. Being responsible for my actions as an individual gave me confidence in myself and in my capabilities.

How did Langley prepare you for high school and college?

I developed a strong work ethic and learned how to advocate for myself. I also think the ERBs we took at Langley prepared me for standardized tests. Finally, the many activities Langley offered like drama and sports helped me learn how to balance my time and manage my freedom.

Which of your interests did Langley help spark? While I haven’t decided on a major yet, I think I would like to be a teacher at some point in my life in part due to the great, life-changing teachers I had at Langley. So many of my teachers were obviously passionate about teaching, and their passion was contagious.

Thoughts from Anna ’17

Freshman at Langley High School

Thoughts from Frank Former Langley Parent

Why did your family choose Langley? We wanted our daughters to have a solid foundation in their formative years, through middle school. Their aunt (Kristin Carlucci Weed ’94) went to Langley, and we knew that she enjoyed it and received a quality education.

How did the school help prepare your kids for high school and college? Both our daughters have done well since graduating from Langley. They are well prepared academically, and they’re poised and self-confident. They have good study habits and are used to heavy workloads.

We attribute a great part of that to the Langley experience.

What impact did Langley have on you? The small community at Langley created lasting friendships. I also learned to step out of my comfort zone and talk to others. When I was younger, I was very shy, but walking in on my first day of high school, I was not scared to meet new people. I was ready and excited to make new friendships.

How did Langley prepare you for high school? Langley taught me about time management and how to stay organized. This really helps in high school with all of the different assignments from separate classes. Going from a small school to a much larger one was a big change, but I was prepared because of the core values that Langley taught me.

What’s the most important skill you learned at Langley?

Self-advocacy. Langley encourages its students to go directly to their teachers for help. Because I learned to advocate for myself at a young age, I have felt comfortable asking my teachers for help in high school even though class sizes are much bigger.

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The Sharer-Hendrixson Family: Robert, Karen, Rebecca ’07, Nathaniel ’09, & Rachel ’09 Thoughts from Robert Former Langley Parent

How did the school help prepare your kids? Langley did an excellent job of teaching our kids about critical thinking, good writing skills, and good work habits, on top of a solid educational foundation.

What does your family miss most about Langley?

The camaraderie of the entire Langley community – parents, teachers, and staff. There is a sense of “family” which is palpable. Although our twins graduated in 2009, we are still close to many families.

What’s the most important skill you learned at Langley?

Langley taught me the importance of being outgoing.

This means that I am comfortable voicing my opinions and standing up for myself and others. This has proved enormously helpful throughout my life. It has made me comfortable seeking feedback from others and most importantly, made me comfortable with myself.

Thoughts from Karen

Thoughts from Nathaniel ’09

Former Langley Parent

Technical Director for a Small Theater Company

What do you feel is Langley’s biggest strength?

Every parent knows that each of their children has different strengths and weaknesses. Langley’s teachers recognize these and work with each child individually to capitalize on their strengths and offset their weaknesses.

There is no “cookie-cutter” approach.

What impact did Langley have on you? Langley helped teach me how to act in the world and how to portray myself and interact with others.

How did the school impact you personally as a parent?

Langley gave us multiple opportunities to be involved so we always felt engaged. The PALS speakers addressed issues we were concerned with and helped us to be more knowledgeable. The entire community was supportive, and we always felt we could find support/answers from fellow parents and Langley professionals.

Thoughts from Rebecca ’07

Marketing Coordinator for an Agency Specializing in Political Campaigns, Nonprofits, & Public Affairs How did Langley prepare you? Langley taught me how to work hard, both independently and with others. It taught me to ask questions, to give back to my community, and to find joy in learning.

How did Langley help spark your interest in your career field? Langley sparked my passion for public service and for giving back. I remember waking up at the crack of dawn in middle school to go volunteer at So Others Might Eat, helping serve a hot breakfast to those in need.

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How did Langley help spark your interest in your career field? I had many great teachers at Langley who encouraged me to explore my creativity in writing, theater, and building.

What’s the most important skill you learned at Langley?

At Langley, I learned to be comfortable with who I was and to pursue life the way I want to live it.

Thoughts from Rachel ’09

Researcher/Production Assistant for a Nonprofit Media Company That Creates Films About Human Rights Issues What impact did Langley have on you? Langley sparked my love of learning. The wonderful teachers I had throughout elementary and middle school encouraged my love of writing and reading and taught me to explore new ideas.

How did Langley prepare you? My education at Langley not only taught me skills such as critical thinking, writing, and creativity, but also taught me to pursue my passions and to be open to new ideas.

How did Langley help spark your interest in your career field? My first lessons about history, the world, and other cultures were from my Langley classes, both from the diverse books we read and from the people I interacted with.

The Trent Family:

Laura ’88, Jeff, Jacob ’15, Gavin ’17, & Anna ’22 Thoughts from Laura ’88 Langley Parent & Alumna

How has Langley impacted your children? Langley’s wonderful teachers got my children excited about learning.

These teachers provided them with a wonderful balance of being nurturing while still challenging them. As they grew, they gained some autonomy while still feeling the safety net of the community they grew up in. Both of my boys went into high school feeling ready and confident to take on a new challenge.

How did the school impact you personally as a student?

I only attended Langley during my middle school years, but it was the first time that I really loved coming to school.

The teachers taught the material in a fun and engaging way. I especially loved math and language arts, which continued to be my favorite subjects in high school.

What are the biggest benefits of being a Langley parent?

Not only do the students get to feel part of this amazing community, but the parents do as well. It is comforting to get to know the parents of your children’s friends and have them become your friends, too. It’s easy to become involved in the school community.

Thoughts from Jacob ’15 Junior at Flint Hill School

What impact did Langley have on you? I had some really great teachers at Langley who prepared me well for all the work in high school. I also made some lifelong friends who I remain in close contact with today.

What career would you like to pursue? I plan to major in engineering in college and am interested in either aerospace engineering or robotics. I especially loved my science classes at Langley. The science teachers were very good at getting you excited about science.

Thoughts from Gavin ’17 Freshman at Flint Hill School

Thoughts from Jeff Langley Parent

Why did your family choose Langley? We chose Langley because of the positive experience my wife had there as a student and the positive reputation of the school. We also liked the sense of community and small class sizes Langley offers.

How did the school help prepare your boys for high school? Because of their experiences at Langley, both boys developed strong time management skills and a good work ethic. They also learned the value of establishing relationships with their teachers and of becoming involved in their school community.

What do you feel is Langley’s biggest strength?

The school’s biggest strength is the great teachers who have given our kids personal attention. They really got to know each of them as students and as people.

What impact did Langley have on you? I definitely discovered the importance of a strong school community. At Langley, everyone knows everyone else, even kids in other grades. You also get to know your teachers very well, so it’s easy to talk to them if you have a concern or question.

How did Langley prepare you for high school? I feel like Langley prepared me well for my challenging high school classes. Starting off my freshman year, I was already used to working hard and asking for help when I needed it. I wasn’t caught off guard by the workload.

Thoughts from Anna ’22 Fourth-Grader at Langley

What do you like best about being in fourth grade at Langley? My favorite thing about Langley is science class. I love science!

What are you most looking forward to during your remaining years at Langley? I can’t wait to go on overnight school trips, especially the fifth-grade trip to Camp Highroad and the seventh-grade trip to Williamsburg.

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FEATURE STORY:

Our Inspiring Past Guides Our Promising Future At this very special moment for The Langley School, our community is celebrating, reflecting, and visioning.

With 75th anniversary celebrations in the air throughout this year, Langley alumni, past parents, and friends have reminded us of the significance of our history and of the philanthropy of past generations that has given us so much to enjoy and build upon today.

While honoring our past, our current Board of Trustees, parent leaders, and administrative team have been thinking strategically about Langley both today and in the future, with hope and confidence in what lies ahead. The rallying themes center on the strength of our trusted community, the commitment to our attentive teachers, and the need to ensure our students continue to grow up confident, joyful, kind, and prepared for their futures.

A community that supports Langley’s vision and goals Langley started as a cooperative where parents offset the expenses of the school by pitching in to mow the lawn, mulch flower beds, build playgrounds, and shovel coal into the furnace. As we grew, Langley needed financial support to expand the campus, and generous donors helped fund the buildings that we now enjoy. While we no longer need parents to provide manual labor, we still rely heavily on

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the philanthropic support of our families as they volunteer their time, share their talents, and offer their generous financial donations to enhance the experience our students receive today – and to build a solid foundation for the many generations ahead.

Whether supporting professional development or an athletic upgrade, the Langley community shares common values that center on investing in childhood and raising children together in a joy-filled learning environment.

These shared values bring us together as we propel Langley forward with energy and progress.

A belief in teachers that never wavers Current and past parents, students, and Langley administrators remember beloved Langley teachers, and we all share the belief that teacher quality is the single most important factor when it comes to children's learning. But we also must confront a harsh reality. The rising costs of providing competitive teacher salaries and healthcare benefits are difficult to absorb through tuition alone. We want to continue to recruit, retain, and develop top teachers.

Therefore, to maintain our focus on teacher quality, we are committing to grow our endowment. A more robust endowment will allow us to provide competitive salaries and benefits, support innovative teaching practices and

programs through professional development, and create a diverse community of students and families. By doing so, we ensure a dynamic learning environment in which the best teachers from across the country aspire to work.

With these advancements, our school only gets better. Our teachers and parents feel more supported. Our program stays innovative and differentiated. And, most importantly, our students flourish.

Prioritizing our people, program, and place

As we think about people, program, and place, and the best next steps for Langley, we have plans to grow our endowment and build the next "place" on campus. A task force made up of Board members, administrators, and external counsel is currently evaluating timelines, priorities, and costs to help us plan for the future. In the coming months, Langley's Board of Trustees will be making a number of key decisions related to the size and cost of a building and the goal for endowment.

To maintain our position as a national leader in preschool through eighth grade education, we are shaping our plans around our people, program, and place.

• PEOPLE: We want to continue to attract, retain, and

develop the best educators. Teachers enter the profession because they are passionate about making a difference in the world by developing future leaders, community activists, scientists, philanthropists, mathematicians, engineers, and artists. We also know that the diverse composition of our student body and families shapes the quality of our learning environment. Through financial aid and tuition assistance programs, we enrich our student body, enhancing the learning for all our students.

We know that tuition alone can't get us to where we want to go, and we hope you will join us on this exciting journey into our future. We welcome your thoughts and partnership. Please reach out to Head of Development Jinene Christian at jchristian@langleyschool.org or (703) 356-1920, ext. 885 with questions or to get involved.

• PROGRAM: While the jobs of the future are yet to

be determined, we can project that students will need certain skills – critical thinking, problem solving, and many skills connected with their social relationships, emotions, health, and wellness. To be flexible, innovative, and able to consistently create and carry out critical programs that meet Langley’s rigorous standards, significant financial support is essential. In addition to our current STEAM lessons, social-emotional learning curriculum, and parent education programs which are already under way, we must continually research and plan for new initiatives. Staying on top of the latest educational trends and research requires exposure to the best nationwide information, partnerships with experts, and the flexibility and resources to implement what is best for Langley students.

• PLACE: Our buildings and campus support Langley

teachers as they perform their craft and make the magic happen. Learning is best supported when physical spaces are commensurate with the caliber of our program and aligned with our curriculum. In 2003, the school adopted a master plan that proposed a phased approach to building updates and renovations over time to keep our campus fresh. According to the plan, the next building under review is the Primary School, followed by the Arts & Science building where our kindergarten and fifth grade are housed.

Strategic Plan Update Langley’s current strategic plan comprises three pillars.

The first two pillars are related to our academic and curricular programs, while the third pillar is dedicated to investing in sustainability and is represented in this article. Across the last three years, we have made strides in many areas related to pillars one and two. A few highlights include: • A seven-day rotating schedule launched in fall 2017 increased blocks for more hands-on work and deeper engagement.

• Grades K-5 adopted a new math curriculum based on Singapore Math.

• We launched our custom-built social-emotional learning program called REACH (raising emotional acuity, cultural responsiveness, and healthy behaviors) under the leadership of Director of Social & Emotional Learning Dr. Sarah Sumwalt.

• We completed the full implementation of the Marshall Method, an ongoing teacher feedback and coaching model.

• Langley now has a schedule of regular curricular reviews by subject area to ensure the curriculum is innovative and relevant.

• Professional development investments remain a priority with alignment to our teaching philosophy of inquiry-based learning.

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Celebrating Traditions New & Old 1. More than 1,100 people “Lived Langley” at the 63rd annual Fall Fair in October, enjoying games, rides, food, and fun during this much-loved community event.

2. From Halloween parades and parties to our new Middle School door-decorating contest, students’ spirit and creativity were on display around campus on October 31.

3. Students celebrated the holiday season by participating in the long-time traditions of winter service projects and the annual holiday sing-along and tree lighting, along with new traditions such as creating a school-wide gratitude garland and taking part in a “Celebration of Peace & Light” assembly.

4. More than 300 grandparents and guests came to campus on November 21 for the cherished tradition of Grandparents & Special Friends Day where they enjoyed musical performances and activities in the classroom.

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Campus Happenings

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Expressing Creativity & Spirit 5. Langley’s fall sports teams, including soccer, volleyball, and cross country, combined for an overall winning record which included three team championships won on the same day.

7. All-school spirit days – like Blue & White Day and a Pink Out for breast cancer awareness – gave students the opportunity to show their Langley pride and express their creativity.

6. Middle Schoolers presented “Aesop’s (Oh So Slightly) Updated Fables” for their fall production, sharing eight of Aesop’s most well-known tales with enthusiastic audiences during the show’s three-night run.

8. Langley’s student musicians displayed their instrumental and vocal talents, and spread some holiday cheer, at the Lower School and Middle School winter concerts.

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Exploring Beyond the Classroom 1. During their week-long capstone trip to New Mexico, eighth-graders immersed themselves in another culture, took part in service learning experiences, explored environmental sustainability while studying permaculture and solar energy, and developed valuable leadership skills.

2. Sixth-graders became field scientists during a visit to Great Falls Park where they explored the geologic significance of the park’s rock formations.

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3. A highlight of the junior kindergarten Farm to Table unit was a trip to Arcadia Farm where the students learned to compost, saw fruits and veggies growing, discovered how bees pollinate plants, and met the resident chickens.

4. Fifth-graders bonded and learned to work as a team on their overnight trip to Camp Highroad. The annual trip builds cohesion within the class and helps students grow as leaders.

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Learning from Outside Experts 5. The Nritya Dance Group showed students some traditional Indian dance moves, talked about cultural traditions, and invited students up on stage to dance with them.

6. Judge Henry Coke Morgan (pictured with grandson and Langley eighth-grader Miles) talked to Middle Schoolers about his experiences as a federal attorney in Norfolk, VA, when the Norfolk Public Schools shut down to avoid complying with the Brown vs. Board of Education decision for schools to integrate.

7. Hena Khan, a local author who writes children’s books that reflect her experience as a Pakistani-American, spoke to grades 2-8 about her journey as an author, why she writes about her culture and Muslim faith, and how she creates stories that entertain and build understanding.

8. As part of Langley's annual artist-in-residence program, seventh-graders participated in several acting workshops with four professional improvisers which helped build skills such as character development and improvisation.

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Class Notes Submit your news and update your contact information online at www.langleyschool.org/community/alumni.

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Ann McMahon is a full-time photographer who is currently documenting mining in Grant County, NM. She showed two exhibits of prints this year in Silver City and Colorado Springs, CO. View her projects at www.AnnMcMahon.com.

Kristin Carlucci Weed lives in Houston, TX, with her husband and three kids (ages 2, 4, and 7). Her niece, Anna, graduated from Langley in June 2017, and Kristin was delighted to be back on campus to see her graduate.

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Kent Arnold is an electrical engineer with the MITRE Corporation. He and his wife, Doreen, have two children, ages 24 and 25.

1984 Karen DeHaven, a licensed creative arts psychotherapist, expanded her solo private practice this year. She and her husband are transforming their former home into a commercial medical office facility that will house the only therapeutic arts and counseling center in the Bucks County, PA, area.

James Tully works for the sheriff’s office in Fairfax, VA. His wife, Stacey, is a seventh-grade science teacher for Fairfax County Public Schools and they have three children: Avery (17), Cole (14), and Peyton (12).

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Emily Duncan (pictured above) married a fellow Potomac School graduate, Matt Meenan. The couple lives in DC with their two children: Harrison (3) and Ellie (5 months).

Emily works in legislative affairs at National Grid, an energy company based in the northeast. She has many happy memories of Langley and still keeps in touch with her kindergarten teacher, Claire Grossi.

1998 Jacqueline Layson works as senior animal trainer at the Animal Actors Show at Universal Studios Hollywood.

2000 Kate Hayes is a landscape architect at a private firm, SCAPE Landscape Architecture, in New York City where she designs and constructs public parks and plazas. She is a graduate of National Cathedral School and Stanford University.

the College of William & Mary where she studied film and media and American studies. Prior to graduating from college, Kayla worked as the digital media editor of The Flat Hat newspaper and interned at the Brookings Institution, the Democratic National Committee, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

2013 Hudson Merrick is studying aerospace engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where he earned a dean’s scholarship. In August 2017, he earned his pilot’s license.

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Elise Lewyckyj Peck, who was married in October 2016, has been living in San Francisco for the past three years and works in business development for a small healthcare technology company. Elise still enjoys riding horses, and her horse of 11 years has moved with her from Virginia to New Hampshire to Wisconsin to California.

Ellie Cook, a junior at the Madeira School, is serving her second year as the layout editor for the student newspaper, The Spectator. In the fall, she interned for a United States senator every day for five weeks as part of Madeira’s co-curriculum program. She attended briefings, delivered bills to the majority leader of the Senate for signing, handled constituent correspondence, and observed members in action during an experience she will never forget.

2006 Tara Chadab graduated from the University of Virginia in 2014 with a B.A. in economics. She then attended Georgetown University where she received an M.S. in global health. Currently, Tara is a third-year medical student at Georgetown University School of Medicine.

2016

Takahiro Nakamura is finishing her final year of medical school at the University of Virginia, and looks forward to beginning an internal medicine residency in 2018.

Iain MacKeith attended a USA Cycling National Talent ID Camp at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, CO, in October with 20 of the top 15- and 16-year-old racers.

He has been racing since 2012 when he was a fourth-grader at Langley. With countless hours of training and over 165 races, Iain has found a lot of success within the Mid-Atlantic Bicycle Racing Association (MABRA), Virginia, and nationally. Langley science teacher Ryan McKinney continues to be a mentor to Iain on his cycling journey.

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Kayla Sharpe recently joined the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting as the campus consortium coordinator. After graduating from Langley, she attended Paul VI Catholic High School and

Avo Reid recently qualified for the 2018 U.S. Fencing Junior Olympics to be held in Memphis, TN, in February. He qualified in both Men’s Epee Juniors (20 and under) and Men’s Epee Cadet (17 and under) categories. A freshman at Gonzaga College High School, Avo was voted team captain of the school’s freshman soccer team.

Sarah Cusenza is currently a management consultant for Accenture Federal Services. She continues to act on stage in her free time. In October 2017, Sarah became engaged to her longtime boyfriend, Gabriel Morey. They met while studying at the College of William & Mary.

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Remembering Through Memorial & Tribute Gardens Stroll through Langley’s campus today and you’ll see a number of tributes to former students and teachers – some who made a tremendous impact on the school through years of service and others who passed away much too young. By naming buildings, erecting benches, or planting gardens, we honor these former members of our community. Below is a look at just some of the school’s memorial and tribute gardens on campus.

Billie Close Tribute Garden: In tribute to former Langley Middle School Head Marcia “Billie” Close who retired in 1995 (right) Patti’s Park: In memory of Patricia Schmid ’81 who passed away in 1995 while teaching English to children in Namibia (far right) Kimberly Wiley Memorial Garden: In memory of Kimberly Wiley ’86 who passed away in 1979 as a Langley secondgrader (below)

Thomas Belaga Bike Trike Trail: In memory of Thomas Belaga ’01 who passed away in 1993 as a rising first-grader at Langley (below left) Anne Bostrom Memorial Garden: In memory of Anne Bostrom ’75 who passed away in 1973 as a Langley seventh-grader (below middle) Karen Michalowicz Memorial Tree: In memory of Karen Michalowicz, a math teacher at Langley for 21 years, who passed away in 2006 (below right)

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Come Celebrate With Us! In honor of Langley’s 75th birthday, we’re celebrating throughout the year with fun events for past and current members of our community. Alumni, parents, faculty, staff, grandparents, and friends are invited to join us as we mark 75 years of educational excellence.

Langley Celebration of Music: Past, Present, & Pops Thursday, February 22 at 6:30 p.m. (Sherman Arts Center)

Come relive your days in Langley’s music program and help us celebrate our music teachers, including Band Director Chuck Schmidt’s 25th year at Langley! Enjoy the Middle School Pops Concert featuring band, strings, and choral performances, stay for a dessert reception afterward, and reconnect with Langley friends and teachers.

Langley’s Day of Giving

Saturday, March 17 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (Solomon Athletic Center) Join members of the Langley community for a day of service as we pack meals to be sent to hurricane victims in Puerto Rico. Alumni are invited to come early for mingling and a special alumni breakfast at 9:00 a.m. before the meal-packing begins.

75th Anniversary Auction: Bright Past, Brilliant Future Saturday, April 28 from 6:30 – 11:00 p.m. (Hyatt Regency Tysons)

Join Langley parents, faculty, staff, grandparents, past parents, and alumni for a magical evening of music, merriment, camaraderie, and philanthropy in support of the school’s students and faculty. A seated dinner, silent and live auctions, live entertainment, and dancing highlight this much-anticipated “party with a purpose.”

Class of 2014 Reunion

Wednesday, May 23 at 4:00 p.m. (Sherman Arts Center Café) High school seniors and their parents are invited to join us for a Class of 2014 reunion. Come catch up with friends and faculty members before heading off to college in the fall.

Visit langleyschool.org and follow us on social media for details on these upcoming Langley events.

You can always support The Langley Fund!

The importance of philanthropy is a common value among Langley families. Show your commitment to Langley’s mission by giving a gift to The Langley Fund. These tax-deductible gifts of any size have a major impact on our people, programs, and place. Please contribute to Langley at www.langleyschool.org/support-langley, via the enclosed envelope, or contact Peggy Evans, director of annual giving and alumni relations, at (703) 356-1920, ext. 871.

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Where vital academics meet a deep respect for childhood Preschool through grade 8 in Northern Virginia 1411 Balls Hill Road, McLean, Virginia 22101-3415 www.langleyschool.org (703) 356-1920

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Academics + Arts + Field Trips + Robotics + Science + Service Learning + Sports + Technology Now registering at www.langleyschool.org/summer-studio