The Link, Spring 2018 by thecds1972

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iN THiS iSSuE

Parent Association History The Growing Mind Athletic Recap Mete Returns with Gold CDS Relay for Life Alumni Notes

CoNNECTiNG THE CouNTRY DAY SCHooL CoMMuNiTY

SPRiNG 2018

in tHE spiRit oF voLUntEERing tHE EvoLUtion oF tHE cDs pAREnt AssociAtion sEE pAgE 6

The Country Day School Graphic Standards Manual

2018 Saturday, June 16th, 2018 Rain or Shine 2 - 5 pm FUN for the whole CDS CAMPUS Famil y

FRIENDS AND FAMILY ARE WELCOME!

Carnival Games  Food Trucks  Beer Garden  Archival Display  DJ Reconnect with your teachers. Reunite with fellow CDS Alumni. Tell your friends and register today at www.cds.on.ca/alumnipalooza

SPRING 2018

A pair of Canadian geese took up residence in The Douramakos Family East Courtyard for most of April and into May, where the female made a nest in a protected area and the male stood guard. on May 9, Tom and Lilly Honks proudly paraded their six goslings for all to see.

ve CDS students participated in the 20 Fifty-fi CiSMF concert at Roy Thomson Hall, including

three soloists: Gabrielle Goudie ’18, Nick Adams ’18 and Kabir Walia ’19.

DePARTMenTS 2

From the editor

Message from the head of School

School highlights

16 Timelines FeATUReS

22 Athletics Update

6 CDS’ Parent Association was founded 39 years ago this year. Read how it has evolved, while the spirit of volunteering has remained the same.

26 Mete Returns to CDS with Gold Not only is Victor Mete ’16 now playing for the Montreal Canadiens, but he won gold for Team Canada at the World Junior Championships!

12 The Growing Mind: The Brilliance of Play How children develop the neurological pathways that build brilliant minds through engagement in unstructured play.

28 CDS Relay for Life Raises more than $20,000 Student-run event celebrates survivors, remembers loved ones and raises four times our goal.

On The COVeR A mosaic of just some of the hundreds of dedicated volunteers and members of the CDS Parent Association who have given so much back to the School over the years. Clockwise from top left: Val Logan, Dominic Schmied ’10, Corey Burrows ’10, Annie Titheridge, Marilyn Khadr help with Rummage Drive; Jim Bayler at the Rummage BBQ; Kelly Lavis and Kelly Rosen in the General Store; Diana Armitage and Amanda Flavell; Annie Titheridge; Marcella Guldimann and Eleonora Schmied; Evelyn Erivwo and Danusia Robaszewski at Staff Appreciation Breakfast; Cheryl Lewandowski.

24 Spring Drama 29 Community news 30 Connections 31 Alumni Snapshots 35 Alumni notes

Join CDS Online Social Media www.facebook.com/TheCDs1972 www.twitter.com/TheCDs1972 www.youtube.com/TheCDs1972 www.instagram.com/TheCDs1972 network with CDs alumni at our Linkedin page

The Link spring 2018

the

From the editor

eDiToR

validation through the eyes of a Parent

Kim sillcox, Director of Communications

CDS teachers truly care about our children’s learning

eDiToRiAL TeAM

Leesa Witten

ConTRiBUToRS

OR THE PAST six years, I’ve helped guide the direction of the School’s marketing strategy based on personal observations, testimonials from others, and plenty of collaboration with colleagues. A recurring theme has always been how much CDS faculty show their care for students. It doesn’t matter who I’m talking to – whether a student, parent or member of our alumni – each is eager to share examples of CDS teachers who go above and beyond. This of course shouldn’t come as a surprise. One would think that anyone who enters the teaching profession would do so with a powerful intent to help. But it is the selfless way that our teachers go about demonstrating this that is so remarkable. Whether through a willingness to curtail their lunch to provide extra help, arrive early or stay late to offer an individual or group tutorial session, or volunteer to coach a third term of sport or club activity simply because there is a need, our teachers manage to lend a hand wherever and whenever possible. I’ve always witnessed this display of kindness and concern, but until this year hadn’t personally been privy to it. What I have experienced as a new CDS parent has deepened my insight and further substantiated everything we have been promoting in our marketing materials. In fact, a quotation that I gathered a few years back from a new parent now rings personally true: “When we first visited CDS, we felt an overwhelming sense of community. We saw it in the faces of the teachers and students. Then we heard the words ‘education with balance.’ What more could we hope for as parents?” In November, my husband and I attended our first CDS Parent-Teacher Interviews. Our decision to become CDS parents was validated 110% after hearing how much each teacher knew about our child and how caring and understanding they were in their approach to his learning.

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Offering an ‘education with balance,’ delivered by teachers who support, know and inspire on a daily basis, is what CDS does best. This genuine quality is what our graduates remember most about their CDS experience. At Closing Day each year, graduates are asked to provide 100 words or less summarizing their CDS journey. Each comment is unique, some funny, others more poignant, but the evidence of the long-lasting bond between teacher and student resonates throughout. Here is one of my favourites: “To my teachers, if it were not for you, I would not be who I am today. I have been encouraged, inspired, motivated and loved.” Providing CDS students with this level of care and understanding is what our teachers do best. I now bear witness firsthand. kim Sillcox

Director of Communications

Kirsten Baird scott garbe John Liggett Eileen paddags Jenna romanowich Karsen roy ’20 Jane stanton ’18 Karen sumner Caitlin Tamane ’09 Kerstin Wyndham-West

DeSiGn

Michael Cherkas

PhoToGRAPhy

stan Behal photography Angela Dukát nick iwanyshyn Zach Lawton paul Mosey, st. Andrew’s College Kim sillcox Adele von schilling ’21 Joan Weisshaar

The Link The Country Day school 13415 Dufferin street King, On L7B 1K5 T: 905.833.1220 F: 905.833.3655 E: communications@cds.on.ca www.cds.on.ca Correspondence is welcome

Letter to the editor The cover of the fall 2017 Link brought back all kinds of memories for me. As a young student in the final days of peter Taylor’s Longhouse on campus, i was always fascinated by this structure. While my age group was never allowed to go inside as it was well past its prime, i remember older students and alumni reminiscing about having classes in the Longhouse and organized overnights with teachers and parents as chaperones. Turn the hands of time ahead and we now have a handmade log shelter created yet again by CDs students and teachers. it makes me incredibly proud of my school to see that creating and learning in the great outdoors lives on at CDs!

The Link is published by the Offi ce of Community relations at The Country Day school for CDs families, alumni, staff, faculty and friends.

messaGe From the head oF sChool

honouring those Who came before us The naming of existing spaces pays tribute to our legacy

S AN INDEPENDENT school, The Country Day School is proud of its history and indebted to its founding families and past donors. We could not have built the school we have today without the generosity of our community members who have stepped forward with every campaign to make a contribution. One way of honouring our vibrant legacy is in the naming of our buildings, classrooms and fields. These named gifts from our current and past families allow us to continue to share their stories and pass on our rich history to younger generations. The practice of honouring spaces has been used for decades; however, many structures around our campus were built regardless of whether a single named gift was associated with it or not. For example, the David D. Ross Gymnasium in the Junior School was built to honour the tragic loss of our second Headmaster Robert Ross’ late brother. Multiple friends and family members donated in his memory.

These unspecified spaces offer unique opportunities for a donor to suggest and make an honorary naming gift.

However, not all of our spaces are named at the time of construction. These unspecified spaces offer unique opportunities for a donor to suggest and make an honorary naming gift. Take for example our Track and Field, Grad Lounge or Theatre. All three spaces patiently awaited the perfect timing for a donor (or the School) to suggest an honorary naming. In the case of Hawksworth Field, it seemed fitting to name this existing space after the School’s first Caretaker and Chief Custodian, Bing Hawksworth, shortly after Bing’s passing in 1997. Similarly, last fall we named the School’s workshop The Gord Lytle Workshop, in memory of our long serving Head of Maintenance and employee of 29 years. At times, a space isn’t named after the donor. In 2014, the GY Lounge was placed on the wish list for The Making Connections campaign as it was an existing space in need of refurbishment located in close proximity to the new addition of the Senior School. One of our past parent donors (Rogers Hall) and former Board Chair, Demi Rogers, generously came forth to name this space after founding parents, grandparents and donors, The Susan and Michael Burns Grad Lounge, in memory of longtime friend Susan Burns. And this year, we found ourselves in a position to be able to name something to honour our third Headmaster, Paul Duckett. Paul served CDS for 22 years and as an ardent supporter of the arts, was the catalyst behind the decision to build our cutting-edge Performing Arts Centre. After seeking his blessing, we held an intimate dedication ceremony to name the Paul C. Duckett Theatre last month – a fitting and well-deserved tribute. The naming of a space must never be rushed as it will celebrate a lasting legacy. Sometimes serendipity is required in order to make an honorary naming a perfect fit. John Liggett

Head of School

The Link spring 2018

School hiGhliGhTS

news fRom aRound cds

CDS oLYMPiC TiES While we all basked in the glory of Canada’s 29 medals at the 2018 pyeongchang Olympics, CDs recounted its recent connections to these great games, including three-time Canadian national bronze medalist Alexandra Paul ’09 who performed beautifully in her Olympic debut in the category of ice Dance at the 2014 sochi Olympics, and three-time World champion figure skater Elvis Stojko ’91 who competed in three Winter Olympics, debuting in Albertville, 1992 and becoming a two-time Olympic silver medalist in Lillehammer, 1994 and nagano, 1998. numerous past CDs parents and grandparents have also competed as Olympians or served important roles for the Equestrian Team, including Co-founder Moffat Dunlap; Brian Herbinson and Jim Elder who won Bronze as part of the Canadian Equestrian Team in stockholm in 1956; and Mac Cone, who won silver as part of the Canadian Equestrian Team in Beijing, 2008. Other parent Olympians include paul Martini, a Canadian pair skater with Barbara Underhill who competed in the Lake placid, 1980 and sarajevo, 1984 Winter Olympics; William (Bill) gairdner, who competed in the Men’s 400m Hurdles and Decathlon in Tokyo, 1964; Janet nutter, who qualified for the Canadian Diving team in Moscow, 1980; Curtis Joseph, who was on Canada’s Men’s Hockey team in nagano, 1998; and Chris rudge, who served as CEO of the Canadian Olympic Committee for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

IN THE HEIGHTS RAiSES $9,000 iN SuPPoRT oF PuERTo RiCo Congratulations to the cast and crew of In the Heights for raising $6,775 UsD or nearly $9,000 CAD for The Hispanic Federation in support of immigrants: We get the Job Done Coalition and Disaster relief for puerto rico. The cast and crew also received a handwritten note from Lin-Manuel Miranda, director of the Tony-Award winning Broadway production, congratulating the students on their success!

CDS iS GETTiNG A TRAFFiC LiGHT!

RECENT ADDiTioN To THE VoN SCHiLLiNG FAMiLY FiTNESS CENTRE Stop by to read the inspirational quotes selected by our students on either side of Storm the Cyclone!

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After a successful appeal to York Region Council in January, CDS has obtained approval to install a traffic light at our main entrance at the School’s expense. All proceeds from the 2018 Call of the Wild Auction will support this important initiative for fall 2018.

SENioR GiRLS’ HoCKEY TEAM – A FiRST FoR CDS After 13 years of fielding only Boys’ or Co-ed hockey teams at CDs, a fun turn of events happened this year. Buoyed by the enthusiasm of two new grade 10 students and two returning students in grades 10 and 12 (Tara McKendry ’20, Sydney James ’20, Karsen Roy ’20 and Claire Gallagher ’18), the girls at CDs were given the green light for a senior girls’ Hockey team. They won their first game against Lakefield College, 6-0, and went on to play six more league games, losing in the semi-finals.

WHiLE WE WERE AWAY, THE ANiMALS PLAYED oN THE BACK 40! Campus wanderings were captured on a trail camera by grade 9 green industries’ students Kate Shepherd, Kennedy Ryan and Liam Falconer over the Holiday Break.

STuDENTS ADVoCATE FoR EAST HuMBER HEADWATERS PARK

students participated in a letter writing campaign, submitting more than 200 letters and postcards to Minister Ballard and our local Mpps demonstrating their support for this initiative.

CDS DEBATERS CoMPETE AT WoRLD CHAMPioNSHiPS iN SouTH AFRiCA

Kennedy Ryan ’21 (left) and Kate Shepherd ’21.

in February, a proposal was unveiled to create a 500-acre park on Oak ridges Moraine land to the southeast of CDs. This proposal, while celebrated, still requires extensive support from the provincial government in order to become a reality. Kate Shepherd ’21 and Kennedy Ryan ’21 are championing the cause at CDs. prior to March Break, they joined Head of school John Liggett for a meeting with the Ontario Minister of the Environment, Chris Ballard, and delivered a persuasive message on how the local community would benefit from the establishment of an East Humber Headwaters park. Junior and senior school Outdoor Education

Anaïs Leiva von Bovet ’19 and Maeve Tebbutt ’19 travelled to Cape Town in April to compete in the World individual public speaking and Debating Championships with Coach Kerstin Wyndham-West. This was the 11th consecutive year CDs has qualified for this tournament and the fifth year to qualify two debaters. The girls performed admirably, with Maeve finishing 4th place in impromptu, and an impressive 8th place overall.

The Holiday Fair was a great success last year with 39 vendors! Save the date for November 21 & 22, 2018!

LAuNCH oF CDS SPiRiT WEAR Anaïs Leiva von Bovet ’19 (left) and Maeve Tebbutt ’19.

students and staff collaborated on this year’s spirit Wear collection and items were extremely well received. A limited selection may still be available in the general store.

The Link spring 2018

Cover story

The pArenT ASSociATion – 39 yeArS STronG

“We couldn’t have done it Without all of you!” A look back at the history of volunteering at CDS By kim Sillcox

the Parent association mission In support of The Country Day School vision, the Parent Association is an integral part of the school community that works to create a welcoming environment by encouraging volunteer involvement and organizing events and activities. Written by the 2016-2017 Parent Association Executive, Joanne Gauthier, President

spring 2018 The Link

OUNDED IN 1979, the CDS Parent Association was designed as a volunteer body in which all CDS parents and staff are automatic members. Its goals are to further school spirit, foster a sense of community, and support the administration wherever possible. The Association Executive is appointed at the AGM each May and acts on behalf of the membership; however, all members of the community are allowed to attend the monthly meetings. For the past 39 years, the Parent Association has played a critical and evolving role in the growth and spirit of CDS. Its history of activities ranges from providing refreshments at soccer games and Grade Parent gatherings to a legendary Rummage Sale and the sale of uniforms and school supplies in the General Store. Through an elaborate volunteer network, it has created countless opportunities

(l-r) Proudly wearing their green smocks, a few of the many Rummage volunteers from 2004; Parent Association volunteers Hilary Musker, Amanda Flavell, Tracey Scott, Paola Fullerton, Judy Totten, Charlene Hayes and Kelly Rosen; CDS Association Executive Members from 1992/1993 Parent Association Executive, back row (l-r): Colleen Suddaby, Carol Proudlock, Dawn LeRoux, Robin Koves, Heather Bullied, middle row (l-r): Anne Galloway, Susan Bordieri, Maria Bozzo, Anne Welch, front row (l-r): Varsha Shah, Lynn Assadourian, Joanie Allen, Sandy Caroline (missing Mimi McEvenue, Ruth Cammalleri, Kim Hill and Jan Bornstein); Nadia Chychrun welcomes new families at the 2016 Welcome Back BBQ; Past Presidents Michelle Weiss and Melissa Yang; Diana Armitage, Julie Wortzman and Ellen Saklica in the “Bank” at Rummage 2007.

for parents and friends to involve themselves in the CDS community. Money raised by the Association is donated back to the School, primarily for projects which aim to enhance our campus and improve the quality of student life. In the early years, the CDS Parent Association was critical to the establishment and growth of our young school. In that vein, fundraising, while being a great source of fun, was an important early modus operandi. And no, the members did not start small – rather, they dreamed big from the beginning! According to past CDS parent Barb Murgatroyd, the late Margo Bindhardt Dunlap, one of CDS’ founding parents, was the driving force behind everything. “It was Margo’s idea to have an Auction, it was her idea to hold a Rummage Sale, and it was her idea to start the School. Margo said we’re having a Rummage Sale and you’re doing it.” And

the rest is history. In 1975, Barb and elaine Welsh served as the first Rummage Co-Chairs and mobilized CDS families on a grand scale. Rummage led the charge in the early days and for 32 years was the Parent Association’s keystone event. It raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the School and became a fixture in King City. Meanwhile on other fronts, the Association focused on providing service to our community by launching CDS uniform sales, first from parents’ car trunks, then a ‘Clothes Closet’, and eventually a proper General Store. And in the spirit of reduce, reuse, recycle, Pre-Owned Uniform sales came onto the horizon as an anchor of support for our community. These and so many other ideas have been introduced by the volunteer members of the CDS Parent Association over the years – many with the goal of raising funds for the School. On the following pages are some historical highlights: (continued on page 8)

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Cover story

(continued from page 7)

ANNuAL RuMMAGE SALE (1975-2008) 32 YEARS oF RuMMAGE The first CDS Rummage Sale was held in the Aurora Community Centre and yielded proceeds of approximately $2,900. During the 1970s, a combination of picnics, craft sales and rummage sales were held as school fundraisers. In 1980, the one-day Rummage Sale moved to the King City Arena where it remained until 2008. It wasn’t until 1985 that Rummage became an annual event. By 1987, the gross proceeds had risen to $12,994. A short nine years later, in 1996, Rummage organizers proudly announced a record breaking net of $35,500. In the early days of Rummage, items were dropped off at designated depots (CDS family homes) and volunteers stored donations in barns or basements until the Friday before the sale. The Co-Chairs also offered to pick up donations, which would be sorted and organized in advance and set up the day of in the arena. In later years, drop offs were made directly to the arena in the days leading up to the Saturday sale. As CDS student enrollment grew, Rummage donations expanded steadily, while the ultimate goal remained the same: “to fill the Arena to the rafters with your hidden treasures.” Over the years, the categories ranged from White Elephant (a popular mystery money maker that proved that “one person’s junk is another’s treasure”), Fine China & Silver, Shoes & Luggage, Jewellery, Designer Label Clothing, Sporting Goods, Housewares/Furniture, Toys,

“

Books, Appliances, Costumes, Women’s/ Men’s/Children’s/Baby Clothing, Plants, Glassware, Antiques, Works of Art, Baked Goods – truly something for everyone! The Lollipop Draw and Children’s Corner was a highlight for youngsters. For fifty cents, they could purchase a lollipop and a chance to win a $5 prize. There was also a 7 lb. Hershey Chocolate Bar raffle, and in later years the Student Council offered face painting. According to Susan Bruhm, Parent Association President from 2002-2003, “People travel from miles around to attend the CDS Rummage Sale each year. It is no wonder that the planning for such a huge event begins in October. To the constant amazement of those who attend, some of whom line up the night before and camp out just to be first in line, the King City Arena is always filled with treasures donated

by families and friends of the School.” CDS was always grateful to its customers for their support every year, as well as its hundreds of volunteers. The first child in line always received a gift and the first shopper enjoyed a few minutes of “shopping madness,” with the floor to themselves. The level of organization and display of the CDS Rummage Sale became the envy of many fundraising organizations. One thing that never changed during the three decades of Rummage was the tremendous commitment and outpouring of support by so many CDS parents, staff, students, alumni and friends. A small army of volunteers was needed in order to make each sale as successful as possible. Starting in the late 1990s, the CDS Jazz Band, led by music teacher Mr. Nick Arrigo, would usher in the buyers at Rummage. In later years, anywhere

Please do not be afraid to make that ‘leaP’ into volunteering. no commitment is too small. Whatever time you have to give, We gratefully accePt. many hands make light Work.”

HeatHer Bullied, association President 1999-2000

spring 2018 The Link

Rummage 2006 ready to start in King City Arena; Annie Titheridge, Val Logan and Marilyn Khadr with the help of student volunteers load a tractor trailer with donations during the Rummage Drive 2010.

up to 250 volunteers would be on hand throughout the four days leading up to the Saturday event. Mothers, fathers, grandparents, staff and students would haul the rummage from the drop-off areas, set up the various departments, run the BBQs that cooked hundreds of slices of peameal bacon, serve food and pass out maps to the more than 1000 attendees. The CDS Rugby Team was recruited for rental setup, take down and loading unsold items into trucks for charity at the end.

Parent Association President from 2005-2006, Diana Armitage, was involved in Rummage for its final six years. She remembers well the ongoing recruitment of volunteers through evening phone calls and appointing people to be in charge of booths. Over the years, the Rummage Chairs, and their walkie-talkies, had it down to a science with the help of a big binder of instructions, from the need to be ready by Friday at noon for the Fire Department inspection and the sounding of the blown horn at 8 a.m.

The General Store, in its first location upstairs, was originally run by parent volunteers, including Agnes Wong, Diane Railton and Susan Sue-Ling.

Saturday, to knowing who to call with farm trucks to take the leftover items to charity. The day was done around 4 or 5 p.m. after the Chairs swept their way out of the arena. As Diana says, “To be able to give back to CDS by volunteering was not only fun, but an honour and a pleasure!” However, times were changing and in 2008 CDS hosted its 32nd and final Rummage Sale at King City Arena. In an effort to soften the transition for the community, the Association held a three-day Rummage Drive for the next two years and accepted donations in a tractor trailer, as a charitable event rather than a sale, to benefit the Salvation Army. After that, Rummage quietly faded away, leaving behind fond memories for all involved. — Drawn from recollections from Barb Murgatroyd, Di Hawksworth, Wilma West, Susan Bruhm and Diana Armitage

THE GENERAL SToRE The sale of uniforms began sometime in 1978-79 when a group of mothers would take turns going to uniform store Beatties in Toronto to purchase whatever uniform items their collective children required. Mary Jean Potter, the School’s second Parent Association President from 19801981, remembers the hilarious process of selecting the first uniforms in “good country colours” so as not to show the dirt. The Link spring 2018

Cover story

Designer Fair 2006 in the Performing Arts Centre.

2006 Pre-owned uniform Sales volunteer Julie Maciver

From this humble origin of operating out of parents’ car trunks in the parking lot, uniform sales took a big step up when they moved to “The Clothes Closet” in 1981. The closet was actually an armoire in the Junior School. With the growth of the School and the opening of the new Middle School (now part of the Junior School), the Store finally had a permanent location upstairs in 1991 and was managed and run by a volunteer staff of 25-35 mothers. In 2004, the Store officially became part of the School and in 2012 moved to its current location in the Performing Arts Centre. Throughout this time, the Store was built on the legacy and goodwill of countless volunteers who give of their time to help our students and their families with all their uniform and school supply needs. Each year, all proceeds from the Store are designated by the Parent Association to a project or projects that the School has identified as needing support (previously known as the “Teachers’ Wish List”). This has allowed the Parent Association to support such diverse projects as the Outdoor Green Classroom, Music Practice Rooms, an Association Bursary, computers and other teaching aids and, more recently, the Making Connections campaign. They strive to continue this tradition today.

BiRTHDAY BooK (1986)

PRE-oWNED uNiFoRM SALES (1993)

Launched in 1986, this program was designed to help build resources in both the Junior and Senior School libraries. Each year, families receive a letter offering them the opportunity to donate a book to one of the libraries in honour of their child’s birthday. The impact of the program is easily experienced by noting just how many books in our libraries have a decorative nameplate located on the inside page identifying the individual in whose honour the book was purchased. This has become a lovely tradition, organized over the past 32 years by the CDS Parent Association and both of our libraries continue to thrive from CDS family support.

Every year, our Parent Association and volunteers work diligently to make available a large selection of gently used, clean, good quality uniform items which have been donated back to CDS. Launched in 1993, the event was initially held only at the start of the school year but has grown in popularity such that volunteers now host it four or five times a year. The Pre-Owned Uniform Sale is an enormous undertaking by the volunteers who inspect each donated uniform piece and sort the items into sizes and categories all prior to the sale, which can last for hours in the morning and afternoon. Donations of clean, gently used items are accepted year round with the expectation that laundered clothing be delivered to the drop box at the Junior School entrance and rear of the PAC. Thank you for reducing, reusing and recycling your CDS clothing!

other activities sPearheaded or suPPorted by the Parent association over the years include: • • • • • • • • • • •

Poinsettia & Spring Flower Sales CDS Cookbook Sales (1986) Food for Thought Speaker Series (began around 1990-present) Member of Interguild (1993 – present) Pizza/Hot Dog Lunches (1994 – 2015) Billeting Out-of-Town Students Between Friends Association Newsletter (1996 – 2000) 25th Anniversary events (1996 – 1997) New Parents’ Evening (1996 – present) Magazine Subscription & Gift Wrap Fundraisers (2005 – 2006) Drama & Music Night Bake Sales and Décor

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DESiGNER FAiR (2006 – 2013) AND RELAuNCHED HoLiDAY FAiR (2015-PRESENT) The Parent Association launched the Designer Fair in 2006 as a high-end showcase of fashion and home décor. In its first year, it attracted an impressive crowd over two days, thereby achieving one of the Association’s mandates of bringing the community together. After a one-year hiatus in 2014 due to The Making Connections campaign construction, the CDS Association rebranded the event as Holiday Fair and a local version of of Toronto’s One of a Kind Craft Show. Holiday Fair has become an annual two-day retail showcase featuring

2016/2017 Parent Association Executive, (l-r) Mary Rucas, Mayas Al-Shabboot, Christine Fraser, Susie Bousada, Judy Totten, Georgette Rotundo, Reem Khan, Helen Turner, Marcia Ruso, Joanne Gauthier, Annette Ghezzi, Nadia Chychrun, Michelle Weiss, Lu-Ann Clarke, Sarah Powell, Mandy Kang (missing Betty-Ann Franssen, Kelly Lavis and Paula Soares).

the country day school Parent association Presidents

2004/2005 Parent Association Executive, back row (l-r): Rachel Webber, Janet Nutter, Brenda Skerrat, Tanya Clements, Marina Humble, Susan Bruhm, Gigi Doores, front row (l-r): ingrid Duncan, Susan Teasdale, Mary Hashmi, Diana Armitage, Sue Chappel (missing Kimberly McNamee, Heather Bullied, Barbara Newlands and Julie Fogel).

unique holiday giftware, home décor items, designer fashion, original artwork and tasty treats. This festive event takes place in the Di Ciano Atrium and Paul C. Duckett Theatre and is open to internal and external community members.

or the past 10 years, the Parent Association has placed an even greater emphasis on community building and in so doing has developed a wonderful rapport with the Office of Community Relations. In 2016-2017, the Association Executive led by Joanne Gauthier, Parent Association President, undertook the task of refreshing their Mission Statement to better reflect the critical impact that the Association has on the sense and purpose of community at CDS.

Yes, the generosity of our parent volunteers is boundless. They give of their time, expertise and financial means, without which our community wouldn’t be the warm place it is where all are welcome. CDS remains forever grateful for each and every one. We couldn’t have done it without all of you! Editor’s Note: The Annual Auction has been the School’s largest fundraiser for many years now. However, this school-wide event, while supported by the CDS Parent Association, has an independent volunteer Auction Committee that has historically been separate from the Parent Association.

As we approach the Association’s 40th Anniversary, please send your memories of volunteering to communications@cds.on.ca!

Mary Watson 1979-80 Mary Jean potter 1980-81 penny van Everdingen 1981-82 susan Johnson 1982 Jean McKague 1982-83 Barbara Moorhead 1983-84 Anne Vriend 1984-85 Donna Campbell-smith 1985-86 pat Fordham 1986-87 susan Clapp 1987-88 Jane Beaubien 1988-90 Mimi McEvenue 1990-91 Monika preston 1990-91 susan Bordieri 1991-93 sandy Caroline 1993-94 Anne Welch 1994-95 Carol proudlock 1995-96 Mary Hashmi 1996-97 Denise Otten 1997-98 Donna Cooper 1998-99 Heather Bullied 1999-00 sara shay 2000-01 gigi Doores 2001-02 susan Bruhm 2002-03 Janet rudge 2003-04 Mary Hashmi 2004-05 Diana Armitage 2005-06 petra georges 2006-07 Marina Humble 2007-08 Kelly Lavis 2008-09 Agnes Wong 2009-11 Cheryl Lewandowski 2011-13 Charlene Hayes 2013-14 Melissa Yang 2014-15 Michelle Weiss 2015-16 Joanne gauthier 2016-17 Mandy Kang 2017-18 reem Kahn 2018-19 In 1989, the CDS Parent Association also started bestowing Honorary Members status.

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the brilliance of

pl Ay 12

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The GrowinG Mind BY DR. KaReN SUMNeR a freelance writer and editor based in King City

pHOTOgrApHY: sTAn BEHAL; iLLUsTrATiOns: HiBriDA13/isTOCK.COM

never fear the aPParently random and PurPoseless Play activities of young children. they are develoPing the neurological PathWays that build brilliant minds

n his book Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul, psychiatrist and researcher Dr. Stuart Brown tells a story about NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), founded by faculty from the California Institute of Technology. The JPL is the leading US centre for the robotic exploration of the solar system, having conducted missions with more than two dozen spacecraft. JPL scientists and engineers design, build and operate robot vehicles such as those that have landed on Mars. In the late 1990s, JPL was facing a problem: while it was hiring the top graduates from the best schools, like MIT and even Caltech itself, the new kids weren’t performing all that well. With the best theoretical, mathematical and engineering knowledge available, they were faltering at exactly what the previous generation of JPL leaders had excelled: creative problem-solving. Though the recent graduates had earned

the highest grades, they couldn’t offer solutions to daily complex problems. What were they missing? After conducting an investigation, JPL found one clear answer: unlike the older engineers, the next generation had not spent their youngest years assembling, disassembling, breaking, fixing, designing and inventing various objects such as engines, appliances, stereo systems or just unrecognizable contraptions. In short, compared to the engineers they were replacing, the youngsters had had a deficit of hands-on, self-directed mechanical play. JPL learned that academic attainment does not guarantee critical and creative thinking. Being top of the class may be required for aerospace engineering, but it is not enough. Necessary but not sufficient. The intellectual and imaginative brain power that comes out of play is of an entirely different kind. So what exactly are kids doing when they’re playing? And why should parents put away the flash cards and let them do it? (continued on page 14)

Research into the importance of unstructured play lends credence to an increase in maker spaces around CDS, where students take part in hands-on learning in creative ways. Additional playgrounds and outdoor gathering places also allow young minds to be imaginative and free in their play.

The Link spring 2018

The GrowinG Mind

WHAT iS PLAY? Having surveyed the literature and built upon his own research, Stuart Brown identifies seven basic properties of play: Purposeless – it exists for its own sake and

has no apparent practical value Voluntary – it is not obligatory or required by duty Attractive – it’s fun and makes kids feel good Timeless – it’s so engaging that children lose track of the clock Unselfconscious – kids aren’t thinking about who they are or how they look improvisational – the activities aren’t “normal life” and the rules can change Continuance – kids have the desire and push to keep it going With this list, you can imagine how play could become something else, like work or drudgery, if it becomes attached to a larger purpose (like making money), is compelled

“

(you are forced into it), isn’t fun (feels like an everyday chore), and so on. A distinguishing feature of the kind of play Brown identifies is control. Kids are the producers, directors, scriptwriters, actors, set designers and audience. A child playing on her own may occupy all of these positions, and children in groups may morph from role to role. In either case, when children direct themselves or each other, they are leading their own explorations and discoveries. Play is then a time of trying out ideas, experimenting with possibilities, engaging in complex and sometimes thorny social dynamics, even challenging the physical laws of nature. One of the main points of play is that it’s not “normal” life. Kids rule the land and own the learning.

WHAT Do THEY LEARN? The research is pretty clear. Play activities stimulate the growth of neural (brain) and physical (body) connections in fundamentally different ways than do academic activities. Obviously, a rich and engaging academic environment is a part of living fully and well. But, as in the JPL example, it is not sufficient for living fully and well. Play contributes to the development of a holistic mind-bodyspirit balance that combines fine and gross motor skills, language, socialization, emotional wellbeing, creativity, problem solving, and

a greater ability to learn, which then takes advantage of that rich and engaging education. In an interview with National Public Radio, University of Lethbridge neuroscientist Dr. Sergio Pellis puts it this way: “The experience of play changes the connections of the neurons at the front end of your brain. And without play experience, those neurons aren’t changed.” He’s referring to the pre-frontal cortex, which is the brain’s executive control centre. This is an area in charge of emotional regulation, forethought and planning, and solving problems. Play offers the greatest stimulation and development of these crucial mental and emotional skills – especially, as already mentioned, when children themselves are the architects of their play. Play activities joyfully demand that kids be creative, good communicators, diplomatic negotiators and sociallypositive companions. Another part of play essential for healthy brain development is experiencing the

kids With amPle Play exPerience are less anxious and fearful, more resilient and emotionally calm, better Problem-solvers, and more suPPortive and creative team members.

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unexpected. Play is full of surprises and unanticipated outcomes. In rat studies, Pellis notes that animals with play experience are less stressed by unpredictable events: they have a hardier, more resilient response. And they show more fear even in non-threatening experiences, like discovering a new space. When placed in a maze elevated a little above ground at a new height, the rats lacking play experience huddled in covered tunnels, anxious and fearful. Those well practiced in play headed out to explore and solve the new territory. People aren’t rats. Yet the same holds true for us: kids with ample play experience are less anxious and fearful, more resilient and emotionally calm, better problem-solvers, and more supportive and creative team members. Certain categories of play bring about these positive brain developments more than others. The winner of the Build the Better Brain Contest is called unstructured play.

STRuCTuRED AND uNSTRuCTuRED PLAY You can likely glean from the terminology that unstructured play is more creative, open-ended and filled with unseen possibilities than structured play. Crucially, it is also not led by an adult. Kids are in control and make all the decisions. This is the type of play Brown describes whose first feature is “apparently purposeless” – and the type that

those confident, resilient rats engaged in as youngsters. By contrast, structured play is created or regulated by adults (think of sports leagues), rule bound, and focused on acquiring specific physical or mental skills. Structured play has its own role in learning and development, such as developing focus and attention, understanding complicated procedures, and mastering a stepped set of skills. Chess is an example, as are card games, building models and playing soccer. There are clear structures and end goals (to improve, master or win), and while there may be room for improvisation, that is not a defining feature. Kids learn a lot from structured play. But unstructured play offers something unique that structured games can’t touch. Studies have shown that children experience the highest levels of intrinsic motivation – the desire to participate driven from deep inside themselves – during activities that take part away from adults. The more adults have control, the less children feel this inner drive and power. So a pick-up youth soccer game could be called semi-structured because while there are general rules, the players can modify them at will, play for all kinds of fun reasons in addition to scoring goals and improvise on the fly. And most important, coaches and parents are elsewhere. There are children who love structured games – sports or puzzles – and they ought to pursue them. You can’t deny a kid’s passion. But structured games don’t reach into the recesses of the brain and stimulate its development the way that unstructured play does.

You can’t see it, but their brains are building those synapses that lead toward the creative problem-solving that the best scientists, engineers, filmmakers, surgeons, social activists and everyone else needs today. In their recent book Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us About Raising Successful Children, distinguished scholars Dr. Roberta Michnick Golinkoff and Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek remind us that in our rapidlychanging world, today’s kids will forge careers that we can hardly imagine. They argue that, as in the case of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, employers want to hire “brilliant” (not merely educated) people with skills they call the six Cs: collaboration, communication, content, critical thinking, creative innovation and confidence. To clarify that last quality, confidence means “I’m willing to fail.” Playing it safe is not a marker of brilliance: daring to flop is. The playgrounds and open spaces of recess, lunch time, after school and weekends are wonderful places to flop – and to collaborate, communicate, create and solve problems. So are the workshops and basements where machines are demolished and reassembled. Ditto the backyards and playrooms where mud pies are served for lunch and teddy bears riot through the city. In these spaces, anyone can be anyone and anything can be anything. That’s the brainbuilding brilliance of unstructured play. n

WHAT HAPPENS AT RECESS Watch Junior School kids at play during recess and you’ll see a roiling mass of inventors and explorers. Does it sound and look a lot like purposeless noise and motion? That’s because much of it is. It’s also an incredibly meaningful time for children, an expression of their curiosity, creativity, individuality, self-direction and connection to friends.

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TIMELINES

DeCemBeR

During the ﬁrst week of December, 139,329 Hour of Code events took place around the world, including one involving all 290 Junior school students at CDs! Through the Kodable app on the ipads, our youngest learners engaged in an early introduction to coding. The primary students worked through a series of lessons and challenges using Code.org. grade 4 students participated in a spell-Binding experience and grades 5 and 6 used Ozobot pocketsized robots to create different forms of code.

JAnuARY

Mayor pellegrini of King Township visited grade 5 students to talk about local politics and the importance of voting.

FeBRuARY

graphic novelist george O’Connor chatted with the grade 3, 4, 5 and 6 students about his popular series, The Olympians.

paul savage, a curling silver medalist at nagano ‘98 and grandfather of Reid Vincent, shared his stories with our grade 5 students about growing up playing the sport, competing at the Olympics, and traveling the world.

mARCh

students in JK-grade 6 conduct 30 minute conferences with their parents, while their homeroom teachers facilitate. These student-Led Conferences have become a much anticipated event at CDs and help students become accountable for their learning. students also share evaluations and portfolios and set goals for future growth.

JunioR sChool hiGhliGhts 16

spring 2018 The Link

Our musicians dazzled and amazed audience members at the Junior school Holiday Concert.

Lianne Harris took our grade 3 students on an exciting journey back hundreds of years in her early settler presentation.

The annual Treat and Book sale helped raise $2,391 to purchase gifts and gift cards for local charities including The rose of sharon, The York Centre and Leeder place.

The Junior school’s paralympic-themed Winter Carnival was the kick-off to our first Disability Awareness Week leading up to the 2018 Olympics and paralympics in pyeongchang.

Junior school’s pathways to people raised $2,000 for sickKids Hospital and the Welcome Table!

sK students performed a traditional Chinese new Year dance in recognition of the Year of the Dog.

April

Children’s author patricia storms dazzled JK, sK and grade 1 and 2 students with her stories and illustrations.

grade 6 students received a silver Medal standing and the spirit of the Festival Award at the Ontario Band Festival.

students in grades 4, 5 and 6 competed in the public speaking Competitions in the pAC. Two students advanced to compete at the Cis Championships at royal st. george’s College. grade 6 student Sarah Croxon won 1st place for her speech on the negative impact of sweatshops, and grade 5 student Diya Mangat admirably presented her speech on Cyber-Bullying.

The Link spring 2018

timelines

deceMber

grade 7 and 8 students performed beautifully at the Middle/ senior Music night.

JAnuAry Middle and senior school students were treated to something out of the ordinary at an assembly in January. The dynamic trio of patrick Walters, Joshua “scribe” Watkis and patrick de Belen of ‘The Uncharted,’ a spoken word collective from Toronto, entertained students in a passionate display of slam poetry. Author shane peacock led a writing workshop for our grade 7 students.

FebruAry Two of our grade 8 students competed in the prestigious Fulford Debating Competition at Bishop strachan school in February. The team of Tomas Chacin and Arjun Walia came in 5th out of 36 teams (competing against grade 10s) and Tomas placed 3rd individual overall!

MArch grade 8 students Arjun Walia, Danyal Hakeem and Tomas Chacin impressed all who attended the Junior national public speaking Qualifier at UTs. Both Arjun and Tomas won awards, and Arjun’s placing qualified him to attend nationals in Vancouver in May as one of 12 grade 7-9 students from Ontario!

Middle School hiGhliGhTS 18

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grade 8 students researched original hamlets in King Township and displayed their findings in a ‘Then and now’ exhibit in rogers Hall. some of the hamlets featured were Lloydtown, strange, Holland Marsh, schomberg, nobleton and King City. They were then challenged with the question of whether photos of their chosen location indicated evidence of progress or decline.

The grade 8 trip to Quebec City featured must-see attractions, including exhibits and workshops about how the French explorers helped to build one of north America’s oldest and most magnificent settlements. students readily embraced winter and the outdoors, engaging in skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and dogsledding.

The Middle school Band received a silver Medal standing and a rising star Award at the Ontario Band Festival. The Middle school Winter Carnival offered a fun afternoon of dogsledding (thank you Chocpaw Expeditions), cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, making “la tire” from maple syrup and sipping hot chocolate around an open fire!

April

The grade 7 and 8s enjoyed a trip to see Come from Away in Toronto. For grade 8 students, the play connected with their final drama exam piece, and for grade 7 students, it overlapped with their English novel study We All Fall Down by Eric Walters.

The Link spring 2018

timelines

noveMber

Four CDs students participated in the Fulford Debate at MacLachlan College in Oakville. Jack MacDonald ‘20 and Georgie Tsiolis ‘20 finished a close second out of 18 teams. Jack finished 2nd overall and georgie was 7th. Meanwhile, novice debaters Alex Garcia ‘19 and Abraham Litwin-Logan ‘19 finished in the top half of the senior competition, with Abraham placing 10th out of 36 in his first debate.

FebruAry

grade 10 French students enjoyed their immersion in French language and culture – as well as l’hiver – in saint-Donat, Quebec.

Mollie McLaughlin ’18 won first place in the royal Legion’s remembrance Day competition for her poem entitled “The stretch of sadness” and was recognized at a ceremony at the Aurora royal Legion.

FebruAry

The grade 12 Music students put forth an outstanding isU concert.

April pinchas gutter spoke to the grade 10 History students about his early memories as a Holocaust survivor. His story, along with many others, will live on through a hologram project based out of California, new Dimensions in Testimony, that can even answer questions.

A big thanks to Jonathan KustkaTsimbidis ’18 and his father gerry Tsimbidis for building a cart for this year’s CDs robotics’ robot. Mr. Tsimbidis spent more than 100 hours planning, designing and building, and the cart made its debut with Mr. Wappel and the team at both their March and April robotics tournaments.

For the second year in a row, the CDs Mock Trial team finished in the top four out of 23 York region schools competing in the Judges’ Cup. Our team consisted of four lawyers: Palma Gurdulic ’18 (who received an individual award in the preliminary rounds), Sierra McNulty ’18, Marissa Faiella ’18, and Natasha Carogioiello ’18, and four witnesses: Abraham LitwinLogan ’19, Anna Croxon ’20, Sarah Gibbons ’20 and Jessica Mirkin ’20. Maria Kostiounina ’20 and Serena Sethi ’20 attended as observers.

Senior School hiGhliGhTS 20

spring 2018 The Link

The senior school Concert Band put audience members in a festive mood at the Middle and senior school Music night.

deceMber At the national public speaking Championships in Winnipeg, Maeve Tebbutt ’19 competed in three out of four finals and finished 3rd overall – qualifying for Worlds in south Africa with Anaïs Leiva von Bovet ’19. Anna Croxon ’20 finished 14th overall and was in two finals – a fantastic performance for a grade 10 student!

MArch

The senior Concert Band received a gold Medal standing and a Brass Excellence Award in an Ensemble at the Ontario Band Festival.

nineteen members of the Model United nations Club participated in the University of Toronto’s annual Model United nations conference where they met fierce competition from schools all over the world.

The CDs Cyclone robotics team made its debut in Barrie at georgian College at the First robotics Competition this year. After 12 matches, CDs was ranked 17th out of 28 teams, marking a good start to the competitive season. Thanks to their sponsors: Xakt Komponents, the Moore family, the von schilling and gauthier family, and the rokas family.

The Arts society King student exhibit featured the work of 20 CDs students, including Hannah Gill ’18 and Christina Chkarboul ’21, and was on display at the King Heritage and Cultural Centre for the entire month. Sarah Fusco ’18 won Honourable Mention for her photograph, Just Thinking and Matisse Gurdulic ’19 won Technically sound for her photograph, Inside Out.

Two Grade 9 Green Industries ISU projects have already been put into action around campus: The final Coffee House of the year, held on the Winch Family Learning stairs, was a huge success with 21 acts, including three alumni appearances!

Vanessa Borrelli ’21 and some of her classmates launched an idle Free Campaign during Earth Week, introducing it with a letter reminding parents of the importance of not idling during pick-up and drop-off. We hope our parents take note!

suzanne and ian Millar (parents of Rachel Millar ’21) donated CDs’ first bee keeping operation, which was rachel’s isU project last fall. The spring class will build the supers, order the bees and complete installation across the gO Train tracks by end of May.

The Link spring 2018

athletiCs update

Senior Girls’ D1 Hockey (lost in semis)

Senior Boys’ D2 Basketball

u14 Girls’ D1 Volleyball (CiSAA Silver)

u12 Boys’ D3 Basketball (CiSAA Silver)

Senior Boys’ D2 Hockey (lost in semis)

2018 Winter athletic assembly folloWing canada’s most successful Winter olymPics in history, one athlete Was asked

given the choice: Would you rather alWays lose, or never Play the game? 22

spring 2018 The Link

Senior Girls’ D1 Volleyball

hen Mr. Andersen asked me to speak at the winter assembly, Canada had just finished its most successful Winter Olympics in its history. After a run, one of the snowboarding slopestyle athletes was asked, “If you had a choice: would you rather always lose, or never play the game?” What a question! If you saw the Canadian women’s hockey game against the US, you might think the answer would be: never play the game! But then I thought about how I would answer this question. Everyone who knows me, knows that I am competitive and don’t really like to lose. That being said, there is so much more to sports than winning. And today, with so much emphasis on winning at all costs, we should remind ourselves from time-to-time, why do we play sports?

CDS Co-Ed Snowboarding Team (CISAA Boys Gold, CISAA Girls Silver and OFSAA Boys Gold and Individual Gold)

U16 Girls’ D1 Volleyball (CISAA Silver) U11 Boys’ D2 Basketball (CISAA Silver)

Cole Walker ’18 places 1st in Snowboarding at OFSAA

U10 Co-Ed D2 Basketball (CISAA Bronze)

U13 Boys’ D2 Basketball

U13 Girls’ D1 Volleyball

Sports teach you lessons and qualities that nothing else can. You are taught commitment and dedication. A team can’t thrive unless you have each player’s full support. Sports teach hard work. Kevin Durant has said that, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” I know that there are very few “gifted” athletes – where natural-born talent can take you far. Sadly, I am not one of them but I am willing to work hard – in fact, I never want to be “outworked”. But for me, the best part of why I play has been the friendships I’ve made over the years. These friendships will last much longer than the memory of a loss or bad game. In 10 years I won’t remember my team’s winning or losing records, but I will remember the bonds and memories made while being on a school team, including early alarms for morning practices; hotel stays across Ontario; countless bus ride conversations; eating dinner with all 20 track athletes; and blasting boy band songs knowing some of our coaches were dying to join in.

During my time as a CDS athlete I have been on championship teams, bringing the hardware home for Mr. Liggett, and I have also been on teams that never quite managed to get the ‘W’. While wins are great, and championships are really great, there is something about just playing together, and giving it everything you’ve got that builds character. The determination, dedication and perseverance flows into other parts of your life and we can carry it wherever we end up. So, while I’m probably not headed for the Olympics anytime soon, I know for me, if I were asked that question, the answer is easy. Yes, I would rather lose than to never be able to play again. Jane Stanton ’18

The Link spring 2018

sprinG drama

in the sPotlight

Lin-Manuel Miranda retweeted the cast’s Alabanza video to his 2.34M followers and congratulated the cast and crew with a handwritten note a few weeks later!

Grade 9-12 March Production

In the Heights Based on Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony-award winning Broadway musical There is nothing more courageous than starting your life anew. Every morning we wake is an invitation to do so. Each day is a gift that provides us with the opportunity to engage the world and seek to provide a metaphorical “missing piece” for someone, somewhere, and by so doing, beat back the emptiness that can creep into our own lives. But renewal takes courage, resilience and tenacity if it is to take root and flourish. it has to

fight against a pernicious inertia, a gravity of pessimism in our world that celebrates ignorance, cruelty and indifference. perhaps no story reflects this struggle for rebirth amidst a sea of mistrust and uncertainty more powerfully than the narrative of the immigrant experience, and perhaps, in this current political climate, there is no story that is more urgent for us to tell. In the Heights does so with urgency, complexity and humanity. it is a story that reminds us that with patience and faith, we can actively participate in the construction of empathy, possibility and understanding where previously there was none. Scott Garbe, Director

CDS joined forces with the Hispanic Federation to raise awareness and nearly $9,000 for two causes personally and passionately supported by In the Heights and Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda: immigrants: We Get the Job Done Coalition and unidos: Disaster Relief and Recovery Program to Support Puerto Rico. 24

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Junior School April Production

The Grunch A New Children’s Musical “Being true to yourself never goes out of style.” from the musical Legally Blonde For most of us, being true to ourselves can also be the most difficult of choices to make. Following your heart and doing what you love can be scary. What if the journey will be difficult? What if someone doesn’t like our choice? What if there is a risk in choosing it? In The Grunch, we meet a Grade 6 boy who is determined to undermine the school musical. He works tirelessly to come up with a plan to sabotage the performance. He pokes fun at the kids

who have decided to be a part of the production. He has a list of reasons why he dislikes school shows. By pretending to sincerely join the cast, he thinks he can ruin it from the inside. What he discovers is that when a group of people truly love something, nothing can stop them from being successful. Perhaps most importantly, he learns to be true to himself and finds his own place in the theatre! Like the “Whoover Academy” drama kids, each member of this cast showed a lot of heart in preparing for this performance. They should be very proud of their determination. They are certainly a group you just can’t stop! Mrs. Baird, Mrs. Paddags, Ms. Romanowich and Mrs. Tamane Directors

The Link spring 2018

victor mete ’16

mete returns to cds With gold And happily shares stories with his CDS fans By Kim Sillcox

spring 2018 The Link

ictor Mete ’16 created quite a buzz when he stopped by CDS in January with his sister Julia Mete ’13, Courtney Petrachek ’16, and mother Mary Mete to visit the school he attended for nine years. Victor had just finished representing Team Canada at the World Junior Hockey Championships in Buffalo from December 26 to January 5 and was encouraged by his former CDS hockey coach, Mark Burleigh, to bring along his jersey and shiny Gold medal to share with the CDS community. Having attended CDS from Grades 2-10, Victor played school hockey from Grades 5-8, until his outside hockey schedule no longer allowed it. He went on to play three seasons for the OHL’s London Knights and this year, the 19-year-old Woodbridge native got his first taste of the NHL playing 49 games (with seven assists)

for the Montreal Canadiens. He had been selected 100th overall by the Canadiens in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Playing for Montreal, the rookie defenceman has lent a muchneeded burst of speed and energy to the roster with four assists and a plus-five differential in 27 games played during the first part of the season. Because of his age, the Canadiens made the decision to loan Victor to Team Canada’s World Junior Team starting December 11. He was more than happy to fulfill a childhood dream he narrowly missed out on the previous year. As one of three assistant captains, Victor represented Team Canada against the world’s best in Buffalo. He returned to the Canadiens on January 12 rested and renewed with a gold medal in his pocket. n

The Link spring 2018

cds relay for life raises $21,782 The Country Day School raised more than $20,000 at its Relay for Life held on a Friday in April. CDS Senior and Middle School students, faculty, and parents walked around Hawksworth Track and Field from 3:00 to 9:00 pm in teams or as individuals. Organized by the House Captains with support of Student Council members, CDS’ student-run Relay for Life event far exceeded expectations. “I was so pleased to see so many students support such an amazing cause – everyone was

spring 2018 The Link

extremely eager to participate,” said Dunlap House Captain karsen Roy ’20. “None of us expected the turnout and school spirit to be this amazing. Each student contributed to such a huge cause and it was incredible to see everyone participate in raising money and awareness. I’m so proud of everyone who came out and showed their support, as everyone has been affected by cancer.” As a community, we celebrated our survivors, remembered our loved ones, and raised four times our goal relaying in the fight against cancer.

coMMuniTy newS Congratulations to Jaekwan Chong and

his wife, Hye Leen Jeong, on the arrival of their first child, a son named Daan Jung, on April 21. Mr. Chong joined CDS in 2015 as an Associate Faculty member in the Music department. Congratulations to Josh Collins, a Senior School Physical and Health Education teacher, and his wife, Natalie, on the arrival of their second child, a baby girl named Harper, on March 2. Hannah Fransen

joined CDS in September as a Middle and Senior School French teacher. She holds a French and History degree from the University of Ottawa, a Master’s in History from the University of New Brunswick and a B.Ed. from Trent University. Ms. Fransen has previously taught at Branksome Hall, MEI Academy and St. Andrew’s College.

from Western University. Ms. Kuchmak has taught junior visual arts and Grade 3 for the past 10 years at Crescent School.

desire to develop the best within them.” Ms. Promane joined the CDS faculty in 2003.

Pete Milonas

joined CDS in September as the new Grade 6 teacher in the Junior School. He previously taught for 16 years at Richmond Hill Montessori and had also taught in Cape Breton. Mr. Rafferty holds a B.Sc. in Biology, a BA in English Literature, both from the University College of Cape Breton, and a B.Ed. from the University of New Brunswick.

2009, Mr. Waldron spent this year actively managing the dynamics of the Middle School in his role as the K-7 Vice Principal.

Mark Rafferty

will take on the role of Head of Physical Health and Education in September. He joined CDS in 2009 and has been a key member of the PE department ever since, in addition to significant coaching duties. Jody-Anne Peterson and

her husband Matthew Magone welcomed the arrival of a daughter, Emmalynn Darlene Marie, on January 19. Her big brother Max is thrilled! Jody works in Grounds Security at CDS and is our Crossing Guard.

Nancy Promane, CDS Head of Music, was awarded this year’s CISMF Leadership in School Music Award at Roy Thomson Hall in April for her 25-year commitment to music (15 years as Instrumental Coordinator for CISMF) and a “deep respect for her student musicians and the

Chris Wappel and his wife Andrea (Brooks) Wappel ’98 wel-

comed the arrival of their fourth child, Hudson, a baby brother for Brooke ’24, Lanna and Nolan, on February 26. Mr. Wappel is a Mathematics and Engineering teacher in the Senior School and faculty lead for the Cyclone Robotics team. Leesa Witten

Ellie Seedhouse, a member of the Physical and Health Education department in the Junior School, has taught and coached at CDS for the past three years. In March, she helped capture the Clarkson Cup for Markham Thunder in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League’s (CWHL) season final.

Jo-Anne Kuchmak

joined CDS as a Grade 4 teacher in the Junior School in September. She has a BA in Visual Arts and a B.Ed., both

Recent appointments and staff news

will take on the role of Assistant to the Deputy Head of School in July. She has been with CDS since 1996 and has been a valuable asset across nearly every administrative office in the School. Mrs. Witten will bring a wealth of institutional and technical knowledge to her new role in the Junior School.

Rob Waldron

will be taking on the position of Director of Middle School in September. Having first joined CDS in

The Link spring 2018

ConneCtions

Alumni news And updAtes

Upcoming EvEnts ALuMNi PALoozA Saturday, June 16, 2018 2:00 – 5:00 pm at CDS Fun for the entire family!

CLASS oF 1993 25TH ANNiVERSARY REuNioN DiNNER

Amy Dvorkin ’12, Kelsey Houston ’12 and Leah Ferrie ’12.

Saturday, June 16, 2018, 6:30 pm please join us for cocktails and dinner at CDs.

Thanks for joining us aT The alumni holiday gaThering!

HoLiDAY FAiR

Wednesday, november 21 and Thursday, november 22, 2018 if you are interested in being a vendor at the Holiday Fair, please contact events@cds.on.ca to learn more.

SAVE THE DATE FoR THiS YEAR

Save the Date! Alumni HolidAy CelebrAtion!

Tuesday

dec 18, 2018

ToP: Matt Allen ’17, Andrew Bartle ’04 and Jasper Dhanraj ’15; MiDDLE: Roberta

(Marocco) Ajmera ’96, Jerome Haba ’93 and Sarah (Fordham) Powell ’96; LoWER: Martha Goodrow ’06, Kristy Shulist ’06 and her husband, Keith oxby.

interested in joining the Alumni executive? We would love to hear from YOU! Contact us at alumni@cds.on.ca

spring 2018 The Link

Tuesday, December 18, 2018 Details to follow

Thank you for completing the Alumni Survey – your feedback is greatly appreciated!

AluMni SnApShoTS

Andrew Bernardo in front of the War Memorial in ottawa.

andRew BeRnaRdo ’02

On Behalf Of Canadian ServiCe MeMBerS and their faMilieS Splits his time between public policy and communications

“W

hen I arrived in Grade 10, CDS lit a fire under me,” says Andrew Bernardo ’02. “I had been an average student, but with the small classes and great teachers, I dove into all my subjects, especially the social sciences. Debate and discussion were encouraged in every class, mixed with respect for others. So much dialogue with fellow students and with your teachers really influences who you become.” Who did Andrew become? Working mainly in government, he has split his time as a policy and communications executive, serving in Director levels in both métiers. After stints at the Departments of Justice, Veterans Affairs, National Defence, and Foreign Affairs, and then at Southlake Regional Health Centre, he landed at the Office of the National Defence and Canadian Forces Ombudsmen as Director of Communications and Parliamentary Affairs. A single thread runs through all of his work: strategic advisory in public sector policy and communications with an emphasis on the rights and wellness of people. “I really got the bug for the Ombudsman work while at Veterans Affairs,” says Andrew. “Some programs and policies were woefully out of date, and service delivery didn’t always make sense. I didn’t think some of the practices were fair. It got under my skin. When I went over to Defence, I had the same desire to help people – staff and their families. For me, it’s people first. How they are treated and supported affects how well they can do their job. The mandate of the Ombudsman is to support the welfare of service members, public employees and their families. This is a great fit for me.” Andrew found his way toward public policy and communications by way of a BA at Acadia University in history and political science and an MPA (Master of Public Administration) at Dalhousie. “Some people in my Master’s program focused on accounting or economics, but I was very policy driven and went into the political side of things right away. I now work in policy development and communications. Both require understanding a lot of content and, sometimes, working very quickly within a crisis situation. That’s

when your Minister expects you to immediately clarify the core issues, offer possible solutions and craft three to four lines that can be delivered to the Prime Minister’s office. When your Minister leans over during a meeting and asks, ‘What do we know? What are we doing?’ you had better have something useful to say!” Andrew’s knack for quickly synthesizing information and providing strategic advice is much needed in a world with a 24-hour news cycle. Things happen fast and responses are required around the clock. This is the kind of work you have to love, which is just fine with him. “I don’t think I’ll ever work in the private sector,” he says. “I’m interested in government, academia, healthcare. The constituency is the primary driver for my commitment to the Ombudsman’s Office. There is much to do on behalf of service members, veterans and their families. I relish my role in providing strategic counsel for communications to support them and the work of this office.” In his spare time, Andrew is a devoted uncle to the four children of his brothers Matt ’98 and Dave ’00. He also stays in touch with CDS friends, met up with Mr. Downer and Mr. Townsend last year at the CAIS girls’ rugby tournament in Ottawa, and attended the South Beach Auction with tickets provided by a generous CDS supporter. “The camaraderie I experienced at CDS – on the sports teams and in the bands – stays with me today. My ability to connect with people really grew there. CDS is a connecting kind of place, and that has been invaluable for me as a person and for the work I do.” n The Link spring 2018

AluMni SnApShoTS

Jill BRennan ’04

full SteaM ahead! There’s no telling where an internship will take you

“i

t all started with Doc Sumner’s film course…” Those are the first words from Jill Brennan ’04 during a catch-up call this spring. One of the most passionate students in her Grade 12 film course, it is no wonder that Jill has since established herself as a leader at Steam Films, a media production company. “After graduating from the University of King’s College in 2010, I wanted to work,” says Jill. “That first summer, I was going to bartend in Toronto, but my mom said, ‘no, use your degree!’ So I applied for an internship at Steam Films – basically, office support, coffee runs and assisting on set. Long hours and not glamorous. But what was supposed to be a two-month stint became seven months, their longest internship ever, because I wouldn’t leave!” With that tenacity, Jill worked her way up at Steam from Production Assistant to Production Coordinator, In House Producer and, today, Executive Producer. “This is a field where you have to start at the bottom,” Jill explains. “You really do need to know how every part of the business works. I was so grateful to be learning it all at Steam. Every position offered new challenges that I enjoyed tackling.” As Executive Producer, Jill reviews scripts sent by ad agencies (and sends back pitches in order to win jobs), chooses directors, establishes budgets, hires the cast and crew, selects locations and oversees set design. “What I love most about this work is the problem solving,” says Jill. “There is so much to think about, so many parts to connect. Every project starts out as a series of questions and hurdles. And then each is resolved as it all comes together. It’s a fascinating puzzle.”

spring 2018 The Link

Some of Jill’s favourite projects are advertisements for Air Canada, Toyota, Appleton Rum, Canada Goose and the Canadian Armed Forces. With shoots happening around the world – Chile, Jamaica, Uruguay, France, Tofino – it’s a good thing that she enjoys travelling. “My wife Sophie Carette is a teacher,” Jill explains. “So she can often join me when her holidays overlap with my travel schedule. Plus, she’s currently doing four over five. We’re hoping to spend a couple of months in Fiji sometime soon.” In addition to travelling, cooking and watching films with Sophie, Jill also enjoys playing hockey, skiing and cycling. Her passion for sports grew at CDS – playing rugby, volleyball and basketball – as did her commitment to community service. Along with current CDS teacher and friend Geneva Winterink, Jill recently cycled

thousands of kilometres across Canada to raise $24,000 for local sports. “CDS really set me up for life, both in my interests and in my sense of self,” explains Jill. “I felt so at home there, more than I did at university. It’s a school where quirkiness is celebrated and every kid can find their place. When I arrived in Grade 8, everyone was immediately so accepting and the teachers cared about me. It’s honestly one of my most treasured times of life.” Jill also treasures the Steam workplace culture, a five-woman production company committed to diversity and inclusion. “We have pledged to Free the Bid, which is a movement to get more women directors working in advertising. Agencies typically offer a list of three directors, almost always men, to the client. A lack of exposure holds women back from compiling a competitive reel that will build their reputation and open doors to more work. We make sure that of those three suggested directors, at least one is a woman. And we have a lot of fantastic talent on our roster.” Jill’s advice to CDS students, whether creative types or not? “Grab an internship in your field. You never know – it may transform into your dream job!” n

Madison Kane ’05 diving/surveying in indonesia.

mAdison KAne ’05

Wanderlust took Hold And didn’t let go

hile Madison kane ’05 cherished her years at CDS, she set out to pursue her dreams upon graduation starting with obtaining a BSc in Marine Biology and Oceanography (with Hons. Distinction) from Dalhousie University, a goal she set her sights on when she was six years old. Fairly certain that her degree wasn’t going to land her a job in Ontario, she moved to Florida where she became qualified as a PADI instructor (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and worked as a PADI dive master for six months. Hungry for knowledge, Madison pursued a second BSc at the University of Santa Barbara, California in Environmental Science that included a study abroad program in Australia. It was the perfect fit, since she was anxious to travel again and had the core courses required from her Dalhousie degree, so completion would only take two years. Almost a year of that was spent working in Port Macquarie, New South Wales, about 400km north of Sydney, on a mangrove reforestation environmental science project.

Mangroves are remarkably resilient plants with complex root systems that help prevent erosion along riverbanks and filter pollutants. Madison’s group replanted juvenile mangroves along the local riverbanks as protection for small animals, erosion control and a natural river filtration system for cattle waste coming from farms upstream (mangroves are highly efficient at converting carbon dioxide into oxygen). After completing her second BSc back in Santa Barbara, Madison moved back to Key Largo where she worked for Rainbow Reef Centre as a dive instructor for a year. A highlight was working with a Tiger Shark outfit in the Bahamas and spending 10 days on live-aboard charters diving with sharks every day while hosting documentary filmmakers. She would also lead dives within the National Parks and Keys between Key West and Cuba – exploring untouched reefs in the Caribbean. As exciting as this work was, it was highly sporadic and Madison found herself wanting to pursue something more marine science based. In fall 2012, she left the Keys and

launched an intensive job search back home in Ontario. She discovered the company Blue Ventures, a conservation group committed to protecting marine biodiversity in and around coastal communities. She enrolled in a six-week volunteer program in Madagascar where she did dives, processed data and ran reports on the local fisheries. Upon completion, she was offered a dive instructor position in the marine science program, which led to her accepting an Expedition Manager position four months later. Madison remained in that role for two and a half years (longest serving) and was then promoted to Project Manager for the Science program where she helped the field scientists collect and process data, write reports, and do a lot of Biomass research – counting fish species and their sizes. In this role, she learned to identify 175 different tropical species and guestimate count and size. Armed with this data, Blue Ventures would then educate the communities on basic fishing practices. In this remote area of southwest Madagascar, 90km from the nearest city, all of their income and food was dependent on fishing. She embraced their way of life and lived in an eco-hut on the beach, cooked beans and rice every day, and loved living a very simple lifestyle for almost four years with limited internet, no electricity, and restricted times where water was running. When she returned to Toronto once a year for the holidays, the trip took five days. During the four years Madison spent in Madagascar, she was missing out on family milestones, including the birth of her two nephews. While it broke her heart to leave, she moved home in May 2016. But before she left the country, Blue Ventures asked if she was willing to help start a similar program in East Timor, which she agreed to do for only six months. Madison has been back in Ontario for a year and is looking to secure something closer to home in the science field. Her wanderlust remains intact with friends scattered around the world with whom she can visit when ready. n The Link spring 2018

Alumni snApshots

Hannah on her way to their first development meeting with Warner Brothers with the full draft of the script for #imomsohard.

HAnnAH myers ’08

eyes on tHe Prize Knows what she wants and won’t stop until she gets there

annah Myers ’08 has always been fiercely-goal oriented. As a CDS student from Grades 10-12, she took drama all three years but was mainly involved in sports and leadership positions, playing soccer and rugby and serving on Student Council. She went on to graduate with a BA in Theatre from Dalhousie University in 2012 – and returned to Toronto to pursue work in film and television. When she enrolled in an improv class at Second City, Hannah discovered her love and natural aptitude for comedy and began writing and producing a web series, while auditioning for small roles and waitressing on the side. In spring of 2014, Hannah was admitted into an acting program in New York where her desire to be involved in more then one 34

spring 2018 The Link

area of storytelling was solidified. Once again, her natural instincts kicked in, and she returned to Toronto to take screenwriting courses through U of T’s School of Continuing Studies and started applying to graduate programs. “I knew I needed to be in LA if I was going to have a shot at the career I wanted to have, but I needed to figure out how to make that happen, working backwards I set tiny goals that seemed more realistically achievable.” She was accepted to UCLA’s postgraduate certificate program in development, producing and screenwriting. Most of her classes were late afternoon or evenings, which allowed for internships during the day. “As a Canadian, I only had a year and a

half to make my CV stand out. My goal was to intern in as many areas as possible, and I managed to land five distinct opportunities... it was insanely busy, but amazing.” Her experiences included casting intern for the popular series This is Us; interning for both an independent production company and a mainstream one; and for Fiegco, the company responsible for Bridesmaids. Hannah attributes landing these positions to her self-advocacy skills learned as a student in the LRC and with the help of Ms. Scott and Dr. Sumner. “I just cold called everyone. The worst thing that could happen was they would say no!” Upon completion of her certificate in 2016, Hannah was hired by two female comedians, Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley, who had recently launched a popular web series #imomsohard. After a development year at Warner Brothers, Hannah accompanied them on a six-week stand-up tour to 40 cities across the U.S. As their assistant, she was responsible for everything from organizing press coverage to writing jokes at intermission. Back in LA, she helped pitch the pilot to the networks, and in March they began shooting the CBS adaptation. “Because I came on board early in this process, we have grown and learned together, and the experience has not only been invaluable, but incredibly fun. I am learning how to make a multi-cam-sitcom for a major U.S. network led by an all female creative team, which is important for me, especially in Hollywood right now.” It’s been a whirlwind for Hannah, but the fruits of her labour have been extremely rewarding. She still performs comedy at night and is also working on her own projects, including a series for Instagram. Her long-term goal is to work in both Canada and the U.S., but for now she is focussed on meeting the right people and building upon her experiences, while savouring every moment! n

Join CDS Online Social Media www.facebook.com/TheCDS1972 • www.twitter.com/TheCDS1972 www.youtube.com/TheCDS1972 • www.instagram.com/TheCDS1972 Network with CDS alumni at our LinkedIn page

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Ryan Benson ‘00 and his wife Dr. Jessica Benson welcomed their new twins, Beckham Lee and Ellie Brynn, into the world on January 26 and January 27. Their older twin brother and sister, Banks and rory, are excited to have a new brother and sister. ryan and Jessica reside in Fort Myers, Florida where ryan is the owner of a home building company and Jessica is a nurse anesthetist.

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Brandon Phillips ’96 is still playing professional polo based out of Wellington, Florida and traveling everywhere. in 2013, he created an annual charity event called polo For a purpose, which to date has raised more than $1.5 million for the local Leukemia and Lymphoma society in Florida.

David Cooper ’01 and his wife Christina welcomed the arrival of a healthy baby boy, Lincoln Charles, on December 5, 2017. The family is living in Toronto where David teaches at Crestwood school.

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Jennifer Clarke Tse ’92 recently returned to Toronto with her husband, Eric, and their two children, ages 10 and 12, after living for three years in Quebec. she started a travel consultancy business last summer, Expedia CruiseshipCenters, and works out of their Davisville location selling all land, sea, and air travel products on the market.

Ashley Edwards ’03 and her husband, noah parker, welcomed their new baby, Jack Colson parker on December 18, 2017 in Toronto.

Julia Chasson ’06 After graduating from CDs, Julia enrolled in Mcgill University’s Commerce program, graduating with a B.Com major in finance in 2010. During (continued on page 36) The Link spring 2018

AluMni noTeS

ThoMAS honey ’04 AnD LARiSSA DAVieS ’07

enJoyinG The weST coAST liFeSTyle Thomas Honey ’04 and Larissa Davies ’07 were married on August 12, 2017 on Larissa’s family farm in schomberg and 35 of their guests had a CDs connection! immediate family included both sets of parents, Craig and nancy Honey and sheila and Calvin Davies, Thomas’s sister Christine Honeybrown ’03, who is married with two children and living in Milton, and Larissa’s sister Eleri ’08 as Maid of Honour and brother Bryn ’04 as Best Man. Thomas’ groomsmen were James Mather ’04, Scott Mather ’04 and Josh Pollack ’04. Longtime CDs faculty member Celia Bland was the officiant for the ceremony, accompanied by husband ian Hilley and daughters Simone Hilley Bland ’10 and Siena Hilley Bland ’12. Zach Pancer ’05 was one of two MCs, and other alumni guests included Andrea MacMillan ’04, Tara (Benjamin) Stein ’04, Robbyn Walsh ’04, Alicia Wood ’04, Trevor McKee ’07, Paige Daoust ’08, Connor Daoust ’10, Griffen Daoust ’12, and Oriana Bedard ’06. parents of former CDs students were also in attendance, including Kim and Jon pollack, pascale and scott Mortimer, Helen and Jorg Hermann, Juliette and Martin irish, and Cindy gerred. Larissa has completed her Master’s of science in Applied Behaviour Analysis and is a BCBA (Board Certified Behavioral Analyst) working primarily with children with autism and other cognitive disabilities. Thomas is a professional Engineer and is currently working as an environmental engineering consultant. Thomas and Larissa, who were both born and raised in the gTA, moved to Vancouver in summer 2014 in search of a different lifestyle and change of venue. Larissa had never even been to Vancouver before their move west and Thomas knew very little about it. neither one has regretted their decision for a second and are enjoying a smaller city, the west coast lifestyle and all the advantages of living near both mountains and ocean. Larissa’s sister Eleri has recently joined them and is living and working in environmental sustainability in Victoria.

spring 2018 The Link

Julia Chasson ’06

her time at Mcgill, she took many opportunities to travel the world, including doing a semester abroad at Australia’s sydney University. Following graduation, Julia accepted a role at Lynx Equity Limited, a Toronto-based midmarket private equity firm. she spent five years there leading private company acquisitions before joining george Weston Limited’s corporate development team. she has been with george Weston for three years now and has been involved in various strategy and M&A projects for Loblaw, shoppers Drug Mart, and Joe Fresh. in september 2017, Julia married her boyfriend of seven years, Andrew schwartzberg, whom she met while backpacking in Europe. The two of them live together in riverdale. she and her CDs friend group have remained exceptionally close, including three girlfriends in her wedding party! Andrew Galloro ’06 was back on campus in December to talk with grade 10 students in the Careers Class about his role as senior Consultant for navigator Ltd., a high stakes public strategy and communications firm. Andrew brings his experience from provincial and federal politics to help navigator’s clients execute on their government relations, crisis communications, stakeholder engagement and public affairs strategies. prior to joining navigator, Andrew worked for the federal government in Ottawa with the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Human resources and skills Development (Employment and social Development Canada). previously, he worked at Queen’s park in Toronto and has, over several years, been involved with multiple election campaigns at all three levels of government.

Andrew holds a Master’s of Arts in English from Western University with a focus on historiography and political science in 19th and 20th century literature. He also holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology and English from the University of Toronto’s Trinity College.

Martha Goodrow ’06 writes that since leaving CDs in a puddle of tears 12 years ago, she has done a five-year degree at Western University in Kinesiology & Psychology, and a two-year Master’s of speech Language pathology at the University of Queensland in Australia. six years later, she’s still there, with an application for Australian citizenship in process. While that was never the “plan,” Martha’s professional career continues to progress in Brisbane, and the lifestyle is absolutely fantastic so it’s been challenging to pull herself away.

she is currently working as a speech pathologist at Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital, which is the sole acute tertiary children’s hospital in Queensland. On a daily basis, Martha works with babies and their families, mostly in the area of feeding and swallowing (“Yes, speechies do work outside of pure speech sound therapy!”). she also works with babies with congenital heart conditions, respiratory conditions and gastroenterology conditions; babies who are premature; children who have been in car/bike/falls accidents, and more. “Every day is different, exciting and absolutely fulfilling!” Outside of work, Martha loves to venture north or south to the greatest beaches in the world, explore the many cafés and bars of Brisbane, go for drives through the hinterland, hangout with wonderful friends, go to CrossFit, and travel within Australia. Her door is ALWAYs open for visitors, “so if anyone reading this needs a little nudge to jump on a plane to Brisbane, DO iT!” While moving home to Canada is definitely on the horizon, as she “misses her beautiful family and friends dearly,” she is not quite done with Australia just yet! stay tuned!

Greig Perantinos ’07 attended Western University’s ivey Business school and graduated with an HBA in 2011. He caught the travel bug while on his exchange program at singapore Management

University for a semester. His first job was with Apple in Marketing and Communications in London, UK, and was transferred after a year to work on the same team in sydney, Australia. For the past four years, he has been working on his own e-commerce business that specializes in search Engine Optimization (sEO, which gives him the freedom and flexibility to travel since it is all done online.

Mitchell Braunstein ’10 (right) and his brother Thomas ’13 (left) stopped by to visit their former teacher, Ms. Belch, last november. Mitchell graduated from Western University with a BA in Film studies and political science in 2014. He started pursuing his real estate license during third and fourth year at Western, which helped him land his first position with Cirrus Consulting group, a commercial real estate group tailored toward helping practice owners and commercial tenants (continued on page 38)

The Art of Storytelling monika bassi ’10 was on campus in October filming CDS Science teacher Mr. McCutcheon for a video project as part of her M.ed. degree at the University of toronto, OISe. the assignment was to showcase the importance of curriculum-linked storytelling as a pedagogical tool to enhance learning, and Monika’s first thought went back to her Grade 12 Biology teacher who would tell fantastic stories every day, many of which she still remembers! While it is easy to imagine fitting storytelling into an elementary classroom, or in drama or history class, her video and research project addresses whether it could be used in all sorts of classrooms, especially in math and science. Monika does a wonderful job capturing Mr. McCutcheon’s candid answers about why he has always included storytelling in his science classes. Watch the video here: https://vimeo.com/257197030

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in the healthcare industry. Mitchell completed his rE license before taking time off at the start of 2017 to travel the world for a year. Upon his return, he joined the family business in general contracting and property/land management and is also working part-time with a local builder who develops sustainable and eco-friendly properties. He is living in Toronto. Meanwhile, Thomas obtained his diploma in Early Childhood Education from Fanshawe College in 2015 and is pursuing a second degree in recreation and Leisure services at seneca College in King. Thomas is also working part-time in the family business, but loves working with children and is still the better basketball player of the two brothers! Their sister Kendall ’15 just finished her third year at McMaster University where she is majoring in philosophy. Amanda Santarossa ’10 was back on campus in December speaking with students in the grade 10 Careers class about animal and veterinary medicine careers. she has completed a Bsc, followed by an Msc from the University of guelph, and is now in her first year of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the Ontario Veterinary College and on track to become a veterinarian. Sam Titheridge ’10 was back on campus for lunch with some former teachers in February. He has his Master’s degree from Western University in Exercise physiology and works as an exercise scientist at sports injury rehabilitation Centres, aiding in the rehabilitation of athletes with sports-related injuries. sam is living in King City.

stage! Bianca was spotted in the pit playing the bassoon in the Orchestra. Her other big news was that she was recently accepted to Julliard in nYC!

Nicole Walker ’11 writes that she misses the old days back at CDs. “i cherish all the wonderful memories and still remain friends with plenty of my JK buds as i was a Lifer.” Her two younger brothers, Cole ’18 and Dillan ’20, attend CDs and she is happy to know they are having an amazing experience as well! since graduating from Wilfrid Laurier University with a degree in Environmental studies in 2014, nicole has taken on the position of Vice president of The stronach group. Outside of work, she is a competitive horseback rider and has competed with the Canadian Junior Equestrian Team multiple times. Last fall, nicole won the $100,000 prix De penn national in pennsylvania, placed 4th in the Canadian Championships at the royal Winter Fair, and was named U25 national show Jumping Canadian Champion at the royal Winter Fair. “i always felt lucky that CDs had the elite athlete program and a flexible timetable to allow me to pursue my riding career.” nicole’s older brother, Frank Walker ’09, also a CDs Lifer, is an international DJ. in the fall, he was on tour with Ultra Music Festival performing at different shows throughout Asia.

Bianca Chambul ’12 unexpectedly met up with Mr. garbe and Ms. B in early April during a drama field trip to see The Overcoat: A Musical Tailoring at Canadian

spring 2018 The Link

Nina Falzone ’12 has been the Financial Controller at Vestacon Limited, a construction management firm located in both Toronto and Vancouver, for the past two and a half years. They specialize in leasehold improvements and commercial interior renovations. in January, nina completed her MBA from Queen’s University smith school of Business in their Accelerated MBA program. A particular theme that has stood out for nina throughout her studies and by attending various social impact events is gender equality in the work place, specifically in the construction industry. she considers herself fortunate to work with a team of strong, successful women daily and hopes to continue mentoring other young leaders interested in this industry. This is her second year on the Executive Committee for the Habitat for Humanity gTA’s Women Build. she will be joined by a team of women on the build site once again this year, and they have also partnered with the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWiC) and were on the build site together in May! More information on Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build can be found at www.womenbuildgta.ca. The Kalergis Sisters: Niki ’12, Kristina ’13 and Eleni ’13 Niki Kalergis ’12 graduated from Queen’s University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Commerce from the smith school of Business and is now pursuing her Chartered professional Accountant (CpA) designation while working at BDO Canada LLp, where she spends most of her time auditing not-forprofit organizations, municipalities, and private corporations. When she’s not auditing, niki enjoys travelling to new cities, most recently stavanger, norway and London, England. Kristina Kalergis ’13 graduated from Trinity College at University of Toronto in 2017 with a Bachelor of Commerce from the rotman school of Management with a specialization in

BenneTT JULL ’12

d1 Soccer And chAnGe AGenT AT rMu

The Kalergis Sisters: (l-r) Niki ’12, Kristina ’13 and Eleni ’13

finance and economics. During her undergraduate career, she spent four years as a research assistant for a professor at the school of Economics and worked as an Auditor for Canada’s Wonderland! she is currently attending Law school at Western University, where she is an active member of the Western Law’s Distinguished speakers Committee. Eleni Kalergis ’13 also graduated from Queen’s University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Computer Engineering, a field she discovered and fell in love with through Mr. Moorlag’s computer science class! Last september, she started working in downtown Toronto as a software Engineer at ritual, a social ordering App that focuses on connecting co-workers with local restaurants and coffee shops. Simone Weinstein ’12 After graduating from the Environment and Business program at the University of Waterloo in 2017, simone started working at provision Coalition in guelph where she helps Ontario food and beverage companies develop strategic plans and integrate sustainability into the DnA of their business. simone completed the Explore French-Language Bursary program in nova scotia last summer and now applies her French communication skills on the job through her work with Quebec government associations. she would encourage those still in university who are interested in French and/or seeing a new part of Canada to apply for the Explore program.

Bennett Jull ’12 graduated from robert Morris University in 2016 with a BsBA in Marketing and a minor in sports Management, which he immediately followed with the pursuit of an MBA in supply Chain and Logistics Management specialization from rMU, graduating this spring. One of the many highlights of his university experience was playing nCAA D1 soccer for four of his six years. Due to multiple injuries and nCAA rules, Bennett played in years one, three, four and six, helping to advance the Colonials to the northeast Conference semi-finals twice and culminating in his role as team captain and being voted to the All northeast Conference (nEC) Team his final year. On a cold, windy day in Brooklyn Bridge park last november, the fourth-seeded Colonials fell to top-seeded and defending nEC champions st. Francis Brooklyn, 3-0, in the nEC Tournament 2017 semi-finals. While Bennett has always led with his foot as an elite athlete, perhaps his most meaningful accomplishment while at rMU was to change an accessibility policy for disabled students. As someone who likes to overcome obstacles, his four surgeries (all soccer related) and subsequent rehabilitation prompted him to identify a lack of accessibility for students with physical disabilities on campus. After presenting his observations and findings to rMU’s president, Leadership Team and Board of Trustees, he strategically formulated a plan and was given the green light to work in conjunction with the Dean of students to execute and implement a new progressive student accessibility system throughout the campus.

The Armitage Brothers: Hugh ’13, John ’08 and Grant ’05 Hugh Armitage ’13 graduated with a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Windsor last fall. His parents and brothers are very proud of his accomplishment! Hugh came to CDs in grade 7 and was one of the first students to take advantage of the then new Learning resource Centre (now the ssC). Hugh has dyslexia, shared by an uncle and grandfather, and credits his CDs teachers, particularly Mr. McCutcheon and Ms. Koekkoek and her team in the LrC, for setting him off in the right direction. After that, it was up to him. Hugh says it was a lot of work, but it felt great to graduate with an engineering degree. He is currently working at DArTA in Bolton and thanks his CDs friend Nick Tari ’13 and his family for the opportunity. Hugh is the fifth engineer in the family following his father, his two older brothers Grant ’05 and John ’08, and John’s wife Celia. grant is now living in Toronto and working for Labworks, designing temperature-controlled

The Armitage Brothers: (l-r) Grant ’05, Hugh ’13 and John ’08 with his wife Celia.

rooms across Canada and the Us. recently, grant was working in Yellowknife. John and his wife Celia are in Cambridge, UK, where John is in his last year of a phD in physics and Celia works for the royal society of Chemistry. During their holidays, they are having fun travelling to Europe and around the UK. grant visited John last year and Hugh plans to visit soon. Final Word: Hugh says to those students who are in the ssC now, “never use your disability as an excuse. Most things are possible with work and a bit of planning.” The Link spring 2018

ALUMNI NOTES

Kendal Merrill ’13 graduated from Niagara College in June 2017 with a degree in Digital Photography. During her two years at Niagara College, she also played on the Women’s Varsity Soccer team. She attributes her passion for this sport to CDS Coach Mr. Milonas, “who was so amazing and every day made us love the game even more.” Last summer, Kendal had the privilege of working at Nikon Canada as a Sales & Marketing Intern. It was an incredibly valuable experience and really helped expand her knowledge of photography.

Postcards

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Julia Mete ’13 attended college for aesthetics and works part-time as a make-up artist while learning the family business. She also teaches power skating on the side; her brother Victor ’16 credits Julia with helping him improve upon his skating skills, which

A GRAD

MCKINLEY HUNT ’15 had a busy rugby season last fall. As a member of the 7th ranked Queen’s University Gaels, who were OUA silver medalists last November having lost to the No.2 Guelph Gryphons, McKinley was named 1st Team USPORTS All-Canadian and 1st Team OUA All-Star. Queen’s finished 5th at the National Rugby Championships in Lethbridge, Alberta in 30cm of snow and -23C weather. The following week, McKinley traveled to England to compete in the Canadian Women’s Senior National Team’s three-match series against England in Twickenham November 17, 21 and 25. Although Canada lost all three games, McKinley scored her first Senior try in the 78th minute of her second cap. And in March, she received the Queen’s Gaels Outstanding Performance of the Year (OPY) honour!

In August, she moved to Italy to study more photography at John Cabot University in Rome. While living abroad, she had the opportunity to travel to many different countries throughout Europe. “It was such an amazing experience and something that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.” She is now back in Caledon working on expanding her photography business, Kendal Merrill Photography.

earned him a berth on Team Canada’s Junior World Championships team and the Montreal Canadiens! See full story on page 26.

Anna Mroczkowski ’14 graduated top of her class from Canadore College in North Bay in 2017, receiving the Academic Achievement Award for the School of Business and the Program Achievement Award for Public Relations. Next stop was Halifax, where Anna is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. During her first year at Mount Saint Vincent University, she played for the Women’s Varsity Volleyball team, which won the Atlantic Canada conference qualifying them to attend the CCAA Volleyball Nationals in Grande Prairie, Alberta. Her team placed 5th overall in the country, the furthest MSVU has ever gone at volleyball nationals. Anna is staying in Halifax for the summer working in a co-op position with an IT security company.

Olivia Railton ’17 received a Canada 150 Citizenship Award in Thought Leadership from the Government of Canada last November. Her nomination was based on her achievements in debating & public speaking, educating others through speeches on human rights and world issues, and inspiring young girls to pursue their passions. Olivia’s brother Maxx ‘20 accepted the award on her behalf as Olivia was in her first year at the University of Oxford. Olivia has already started debating and judging with the Oxford Union Debating Society and has taken on a leadership role in Oxford Global Model United Nations, which will see her traveling to Beijing this summer to help direct a conference. She is also an active participant in the Oxford Climate Justice campaign, which is fighting for Oxford colleges to divest away from fossil fuels.

Introducing

the Paul C. Duckett Theatre The Country Day School hosted a dedication ceremony on May 3, 2018 to announce the naming of the Performing Arts Centre (PAC) Theatre in honour of our former Head of School, Paul C. Duckett. As an ardent supporter of the arts, Mr. Duckett’s vision culminated in the opening of the Performing Arts Centre in 2002. This spectacular addition has become the place where our community gathers, anchoring the importance of the arts at CDS. What a fitting tribute to a man who served our school so well for 22 years.

Paul Duckett and family members (l-r): Brian Jimmerskog, Ryan Dupuis, Meghan Duckett ’99, Liz Duckett ’98, Paul, Diana Dunlap, Anton Erdody, Allie (Dunlap) Erdody ’03, Daphne Dunlap ’02.

CALENDAR

OUR FALL OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE For event details visit www.cds.on.ca

JUNE 2018

SEPTEMBER 2018

June 12 Graduation Formal for GY students June 14 Closing Day Ceremonies June 16 Alumni Palooza and Class of 1993 25th Anniversary Dinner June 18 CDS Summer Camp begins and runs six weeks through July 27! www.cds.on.ca/summercamp

September 4 Orientation Day for new students September 5 First Day of School Welcome Back BBQ

October 13 10 am – 1 pm October 25 7 pm – 9 pm November 15 9 am – 11 am