The Parish Post: Winter 2017

Winter 2017

Celebrating 35 Years of Empowering Learners

Celebrating 10 Years of Adventure Play

Developing Social Skills in Children Who Have Learning Difficulties

Teaching 21st Century Skills Join us at Camp Acorn!

Our Mission To educate children ages 2-12 who have communication delays and learning differences, empowering them with the tools to succeed.

In This Issue Letter from the Head of School, Nancy Bewley

Spotlight: 11 Alumni Dan Shedd

4

Teaching 21st Century Skills

Noeker Nature 12 Margaret Center Update

6

Wishing Flight Farewell

14 in Children Who Have

8

Celebrating 35 Years of Empowering Learners

10

Adventure Play Anniversary

3

Developing Social Skills Learning Difficulties for More Than a Decade

16 Photo Round-Up

Pathology 18 Speech Students Gain Valuable

Hands-On Experience at Camp Acorn

20 Big Birthday Bash Gala 22 Annual Report 23 Thanking Our Donors 10 Years as a 25 Celebrating Run for Reason Charity

26 Save The Date

Administrative Team Nancy Bewley, MAT, CCC-SLP Head of School

Brooke Medina, LCSW, RPT Director of Student & Family Services

Terry Clough, CPA Director of Finance & Operations

Anne Powers, MA, CCC-SLP Director of Early Childhood

Karen Dickerson, PhD, CCC-SLP The Carruth Center Director

Amy Richard, MS, CCC-SLP/CALT Director of Elementary

Meredith Krimmel, MS, CCC-SLP Director of Admissions

Amy Tanner, MBA Director of Advancement

Board of Trustees

Board Members

Executive Officers Steven Gordon President

Nancy Bewley, MAT, CCC-SLP Gregory V. Brown Greg Dillard Cathy Guttentag, PhD Tommy Jamail Paula Katz Eleonora Leibman Ann Neyland, MA, CCC-SLP Tish Prior Peden Joe Probst Ashleigh Rickertsen Melanie Seigle, MA, CCC-SLP, LCSW

James Prappas Vice President Peter DeFazio Treasurer Laurie H. Gutierrez Secretary

The Parish Post is printed two times a year and is published by The Parish School for students, parents, alumni and friends.

For information or questions regarding The Parish Post, please contact Amanda Arnold – aarnold@parishschool.org.

Letter from the Head of School, Nancy Bewley, MAT, CCC-SLP nts who have has been to serve stude on ssi mi l’s oo Sch h ris For 35 years, The Pa , we’ve expanded our erences. Over the years diff ng rni lea d an s lay e pediatric therapy communication de y 2-12), added an onsit ntl rre (cu es ag of ge er ran y. We are a school services to include a wid ncements along the wa ha en d an m gra pro w ne clinic, and created many borating with families, ctices to students, colla pra sed -ba rch ea res r committed to providing nal development of ou and supporting professio , ity un mm co the d an educating parents faculty and staff.

l development in mmunication and socia co ng ati ilit fac is m gra all The heart of our pro life. We do this with sm success in school and in to al on ati nd fou is an ich thologists, d our students, wh of speech-language pa e rtis pe ex the , ers ch ned tea of our students. class sizes, specially-trai designed for every one s gie ate str d an es iqu hn . brace outdoor learning customized teaching tec s the curriculum and em os acr ces en sci d an s . ive We incorporate the art l’s students grow and thr t make The Parish Schoo tha s ng thi the of an me ool failure d These are just so nt and reduce future sch ve pre can n tio en erv rly int still be effective Research shows that ea d while in preschool, can rte sta t no if en ev n, tio en that appropriate interv . and developmental gaps t in closing achievemen mmunication, children to cultivate co s ow all nt me on vir en rning The Parish School’s lea cial competence and self-advocacy, grow so d an e nc ilie res rn lea develop self-confidence, nts who enjoy school happy, successful stude is ult res d en e Th lls. acquire academic ski and learning. thousands of children and again through the ain ag it n ve pro ’ve we Our program works rish School, I am so 20-year career at The Pa my In . ors do r ou gh ou ended our who have walked thr m children who have att fro ss cce su of nt ou am incredible lly found their proud to have seen the uld not speak, eventua co y the se cau be us to came program. Children who being more than just a were labeled as never o wh ren ild Ch s. art to finish top of their voice and thrived in the from Parish and went on ed ed ne y the ” ols “to “C” student, found the graduating class.

there is a place that take comfort in knowing I , 19 20 y Ma in nt me As I plan for my retire part of this very special tunate to have been a for l fee d an , are y the our vibrant accepts children as ny years of supporting ma the for u yo k an Th . to so many school that gives hope school community.

All the best,

Nancy

Winter 2017 | 3

Teaching 21st Century Skills

By Jessica Brock, MS, Upper Elementary Educator, and Heather Hillery, MSEd, CCC-SLP, Speech-Language Pathologist

Over the years, schools have taught students to follow directions, get along with others, work hard and be professional. All are still necessary skills. But to hold information-age jobs, students also need the ability to think deeply and critically, solve problems, work in collaborative environments, communicate clearly in various media (email, phone, social media, face-toface), learn ever-changing technologies, and deal with a constant flood of information. That’s where 21st century skills come in.

“21st century skills” is a buzzword amongst educational professionals. The Glossary of Education Reform defines 21st Century Skills as “a broad set of knowledge, skills, work habits and character traits that are believed…to be critically important to success in today’s world, particularly in collegiate programs and contemporary careers and work places.” These skills are divided into the following competencies: (1) collaboration, (2) creativity, (3) communication, (4) critical thinking.

What are 21st Century Skills? These 4 C’s:

Source: Infographic: “The 4 Cs of 21st Century Skills.” Simple K-12, April 13, 2016. http://www.simplek12.com/learning-theories-strategies/4cs-21st-century-skills/, infographic 1.

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What is a 21st Century Education?

21st century education acknowledges the importance of including 21st century skills, which are vital to succeed in work, life and citizenship. These skills are blended with a traditional educational approach through information-rich and relevant projects where students develop and demonstrate understanding of core standards.

Typically, projects start with a basic demonstration of core standards such as identifying and labeling to activate prior knowledge, set context and to determine each student’s knowledge base. This leads to developing key learning objectives and encourages questions.

Students then move into deeper understanding of the core standards, which requires comparing, categorizing, demonstrating cause and effect, debating, inferring and deconstructing. These projects focus on joyful and authentic work, collaboration and communication through teamwork and cultivation of cultures and communities.

Projects end with transfer of core standards by applying knowledge to solve real-life problems,

conduct experiments and research and present information. This progression fosters critical, creative and analytical thinking.

Students are taught how to create and use rubrics that set expectations for their teamwork, presentations, critical thinking and creativity in different learning environments. Throughout the experience, students accurately reflect on their contribution through the rubric, while discussing the overall impact on learning and their community . Supportive teaching strategies and direct instruction occur as needed throughout these steps.

At The Parish School, we recognize the value of thinking critically about current educational models by determining their usefulness in our classrooms with our students. This year, we are engaging the students in Project-Based Learning that encourages the development of 21st century skills. One class has capitalized on student interest in countries, while other classes are collaborating to create and implement a project-based opportunity related to urban farming.

How can you Foster 21st Century Skills at Home?

At home, you can use strategies that teach how to think rather than what to think. Four strategies to consider implementing are to work together to create checklists, use planners and calendars, encourage independent problem solving, and use rubrics for longer term projects.

It is important to shift away from using language that resembles quizzing (Why?, What did..?, etc.) to invite kids to think with you with phrases like “I wonder what…”, “Let’s think about…”, and “Help me think/learn about…”

Focus on shifting responsibilities by creating checklists for activities like making their own lunches and packing their backpack. And finally, to encourage future thinking, planning and organizing, use and model use of typical organizational tools like planners, calendars, rubrics and to-do lists.

By introducing this skill set now, we’re better preparing children to enter the workforce of the future.

Sources: “21st Century Skills.” The Glossary of Education Reform, August 25, 2016. http://edglossary.org/21st-century-skills/ Golinkoff, Rebecca Michnick and Kathy Hirsch-Pasek. Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us About Raising Successful Children.

American Psychological Association, 2016.

Markham, Thom. Project Based Learning Design and Coaching Guide: Expert Tools for Innovation and Inquiry for K-12 Educators.

Heart IQ Press, 2012.

McDowell, Michael P. Rigorous PBL by Design: Three Shifts for Developing Confident and Competent Learners. Corwin, 2017.

“The 4 Cs of 21st Century Skills.” Simple K-12, April 13, 2016. http://www.simplek12.com/learning-theories-strategies/4cs-21st-centuryskills/.

Visible Thinking Routines. Project Zero at Harvard University, 2017, http://www.visiblethinkingpz.org/VisibleThinking_html_files/03_ ThinkingRoutines/03a_ThinkingRoutines.html. Accessed October 31, 2017.

Winter 2017 | 5

The Parish School Wishes “Flight” Farewell

t h g i l F

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18 months ago, a fuzzy, yellow-haired, four-legged friend trotted onto The Parish School campus and stole everyone’s hearts. Flight, a Labrador/Golden Retriever mix, is in training to become an assistance dog for Canine Companions for Independence (CCI). From 8 weeks of age, she has been placed with her puppy raiser, Heather Hillery, Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist at The Parish School.

Since the day she was picked up from the airport, Flight has rarely left Heather’s side, joining her at school every day, traveling across the country, even training for the Houston Marathon. While at school, Flight sits with children while they read to her, plays in the sand at recess, and happily receives hugs and pats from those feeling anxious. That constant interaction with Heather and Parish children has created an animal with a wonderful disposition who is fully accustomed to working with children – a rare but in-demand trait for a service dog.

Flight has now reached the age to return to CCI and further her training in hopes that she will be placed with a person who has a need. Since day one, Heather has been preparing the children for the day when we all would have to say goodbye.

“She is ready,” Heather tells her class. “We have done our job in raising her, and we have all helped to get her ready for today.”

In her time at The Parish School, Flight has spanned three school years of children. Those who had transitioned to other area schools also wanted the opportunity to wish her goodbye.

This October, a farewell party was held for alumni and current families to gather for an official send-off. Heather was overwhelmed to see the small gathering turn into a large party of about 150 people. Even students from The Parish School’s one-month summer camp turned out to give Flight one last hug.

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The amount of positivity and excitement among staff, students and parents has been incredible. When Flight first arrived, donations came in from families to help care for the pup, expenses which typically fall to the puppy raiser.

Not only has she inspired creative writing and art assignments, but she has also eased children’s anxiety and communication issues.

“Flight will forever hold a place in our family’s hearts,” said Parish parent, Maribel Chen. “She was the dog that helped Chloe overcome her fear of dogs. We are sad to see Flight go but happy to know she will go on to make a difference in another person’s life.”

As a strong advocate for animal-assisted intervention, Heather plans to continue raising assistance dogs and promote its effectiveness at state and national conferences. Although everyone at Parish can agree there will never be another Flight, Heather anticipates receiving another puppy from CCI this winter. In addition, we’ll continue to receive updates from CCI on Flight’s progress and learn where she is ultimately placed.

In a campus-wide email chain from Flight’s last day at school, staff share the love and joy felt from having Flight on campus:

“Heather, thank you for bringing Flight into our lives and for giving all of us a sense of collective joy when we see her. Being a puppy raiser is not an easy thing to do, but you have poured your heart into this dog and the children we serve here.”

- Amy Richard, Director of Elementary, The Parish School

“This has been an amazing journey and I can only imagine how lucky the person will be that will end up with Flight. Heather, thank you for sharing this experience with all of us.”

- Angela Burris, Healthcare Coordinator, The Parish School

“It’s hard for us to say goodbye to this ‘adorable and fluffy eared’ fixture we’ve had on campus, but very sweet to know Heather and all the kids prepared her to help someone else. Thank you, Heather, for bringing her in to our lives and teaching us once again about building roots and spreading wings!”

- Nicole Devens, Speech-Language Pathologist, The Carruth Center

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The Parish School’s 2017-18 year marks a huge milestone in our history as the school and many of our programs celebrate significant birthdays.

Robbin Parish first opened the doors to The Parish School in 1983 to six students. Anyone who ever talked to Robbin about the school understood her dream.

From day one, teachers, speech-language pathologists, assistants and administrative staff members were unbelievably dedicated and loyal to the children and the school. Each year the school continues to grow from the original six students. Thousands of children have been served by The Parish School and touched by Robbin’s dream. Children who would have been left behind in a traditional school setting are now productive members of our community, full of self-confidence and a love for lifelong learning.

To commemorate the 35 years of educating children who have communication delays and learning differences, The Parish School has planned an entire year of exciting events!

We launched with a very special “Seeds for Growth” annual campaign, which raises money in unrestricted contributions that defray the costs tuition doesn’t cover.

Donors to this campaign receive great benefits throughout the school year. For information on how to become a Seeds for Growth sponsor, visit www.parishschool.org/35Years.

2017-18 Seeds for Growth Sponsors (As of print deadline)

Founder

Trustee

Partner

The Ellwood Foundation

Suzanne and Timothy Brown

Nancy and Tom Bewley

Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP

Laurie and Alfredo Gutierrez

Lou Ann and Steve Davenport Debner+Company

Benefactor

George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation

BrandExtract Adonia and Kevin Cokinos

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Jenny and Luke Johnson Eleonora and Bryan Leibman Schulte Charitable Foundation

Jennifer Hough Gerry Betty and Art Howe Glenda and Tommy Jamail John Keeton

December 1982 The Parish School’s original campus on Timberline Road was purchased April 1983 First class of 6 students July 1984 Individual contributions total $12,000 in the school’s inaugural year

August 1983 Robbin Parish and Dr. Tina Bangs spearhead creation of special Parish curriculum January 1987 School reaches maximum enrollment of 52 students

January 1989 Received donation of first computers

April 1993 First Parish gala May 1993 Mary Poppins performed as school’s first musical

May 1998 Fire destroys administration building; classes cancelled for two weeks

March 1996 Diagnostic Treatment and Training Center (now The Carruth Center) was established to provide onsite pediatric therapies and assessments to Parish children and the community January 2000

August 2004 Margaret Noecker signs Head of School contract 4th and 5th grade classes added October 2007

Board approves purchase of new campus site encompassing 17 acres at southwest corner of Hammerly and Brittmoore November 2004 Classes begin on new campus with capacity to serve 140 students

Inaugural Fall Luncheon

January 2008 Team Parish formed and school participates in its first Houston Marathon

August 2008 Social Learning and Adventure Play kick off as official programs

June 2010 Founder Robbin Parish unexpectedly passes away April 2012

The Margaret Noecker Nature Fund is created to memorialize longtime Head of School

April 2016 Board adopts current mission statement “to educate children who have communication delays and learning differences, empowering them with the tools to succeed.”

Celebrate our birthday with us at the Big Birthday Bash! www.parishschool.org/gala

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Celebrating 10 Years of Adventure Play at The Parish School The Parish School’s Adventure Play program celebrated their 10th anniversary in grand APfashion on Friday, November 10! We had an incredible turnout of new and alumni families even those from when the program kicked off many years ago. Families who attended enjoyed an evening of play on Adventure Playground, looked through photo albums, caught up with old friends and dined on a potluck meal of hot dogs and s’mores.

“It was one of my all-time favorite nights. The children played on Adventure Playground like pros. Even though some hadn’t visited for many years, everyone still felt a part of the Parish community and AP. My heart was full,” said Director of Adventure Play, Jill Wood.

Adventure Play is an afterschool program on The Parish School campus where children have the unique opportunity to reimagine the world around them and engage in self-directed play. Children are given the chance to create anything they can dream using materials others may cast aside, such as trash, cardboard boxes, old tires, wood pallets and dirt. For more info, visit www.parishschool.org/adventureplay.

Parish Adventure Play alumni Maris Schmidt, Sergey Bruklis, Anna Boates and Kennedy Robinson; with Kelly Blessing, former Playworker; Jill Wood, Director of Adventure Play; and Nancy Bewley, Head of School.

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Alumni Spotlight: Dan Shedd Former Parish Student: 1990-1996

Nearing his 3rd birthday, Dan Shedd arrived at The Parish School with the same attitude he carried into any new experience – optimism and a big smile. Dan had some physical and learning disabilities from complications he sustained when he was born three months premature, and later contracting Group B strep meningitis while still an infant. As fate would have it, Dan’s grandmother was one of Parish School founder, Robbin Parish’s earliest supports, and knew exactly where to find the best help for Dan. Recalling his time at The Parish School, Dan remembers that he especially enjoyed writing in his “Good News Book.” Many of his entries were tied to his love of sports. He decided at an early age that he wanted to be a sports announcer. The Parish School set him on the road to developing his writing and speaking skills with confidence. Additionally, he became avid reader. These were the building blocks he needed to reach his future goals.

After graduating from boarding high school and passing the New York State Regents Exam, Dan was determined to go to college. He first attended St. Edwards University in Austin. When his girlfriend mentioned how strong the radio and journalism departments were at nearby Texas State University, Dan decided to transfer. In 2014, Dan graduated with a degree in Mass Communications and later married his beautiful girlfriend, Amber.

It is a beautiful, welcoming campus.

Robbin Parish, with he r huge heart and vision, would be so very grat ified to see the difference her school has made in so many lives.

-Michelle Shedd, Dan’s mother

Today, Amber and Dan live in Houston where Dan works at his family’s commercial real estate company. He is also a contributor for FanSided, a growing sports website, where he writes articles about what’s going on in the world of Houston sports. Continuing his dream, Dan is currently working to launch his own sports website.

The Parish School was the right place at the right time for Dan. He has always been appreciative of the many people who helped him along the way. When visiting the “new” campus recently, he and his family were amazed at the growth of the school.

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Margaret Noecker Nature Center Update

By Nancy Nalence, Nature Center Council Member

Houstonians didn’t need the inspiring recovery efforts following Hurricane Harvey or the history-making Houston Astros World Series victory to prove what a resilient and optimistic city we live in. And just like our city, the Margaret Noecker Nature Center continues to grow and thrive.

Despite the setbacks caused by Harvey, we’re catching up, and we believe we’re going to be able to stay fairly close to our projected dates for completing this active phase of our development. We credit this movement to the support of our many donors, to the dedication of our teachers and staff, to the unflagging commitment of our parents, and to the much-appreciated efforts of our landscape architecture firm, TBG Inc. Of course, it’s the visible delight and excitement of our students that keep our eyes on the prize – an outdoor, multi-sensory learning center that will be a model for other schools.

When the Nature Center began its work, one of the most important questions we asked was, “What would successful nature learning look like?” We attended seminars, consulted experts and invited experienced nature-learning professionals to spend time sharing their skills with us. Out of all our research, we developed a plan that is turning our 17-acre campus into a full-on experiential, child-driven environment.

This is, in the most concrete way, a continuing expression of both Robbin Parish’s original mission and

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Margaret Noecker’s inspiration – to create a haven where each child can learn in his or her own unique style.

The responses from our students are inspiring.

October’s Nature Center Moment of the Month is a great example of how infusing learning with exploration and discovery can capture the imagination. As part of their discussions on predatory birds, the Tiger class went walking though the tall grass where a red-tailed hawk – who has become a regular – comes to hunt and feed. One student, looking in just the right spot, gasped, “Look! It’s a bald eagle!”

This beautiful and unexpected sight did something a simple classroom lesson never could have done: It filled them with wonder.

Some news: We’re thrilled to report that Fall Garden Day was a huge success, with record attendance.

Students and their families brought flowers to plant, and got busy around the tire, sensory and butterfly gardens and the Nature Hub. This past summer, two of our teachers attended the Nature Explore Leadership Institute’s conference in Nebraska. This annual event is an immersion in nature learning that includes workshops, nature exploration, hands-on activities and networking with a growing community of outdoor-classroom practitioners. They returned from the conference determined to write a grant in partnership with the Nature Center and build a community garden for the Post Oak cottage.

They’ve even inspired others to create a sound garden and a pulley system for the Early Childhood playground, and so much more. Very importantly, they’re creating a data collection system to capture the changes in the children’s language, play and learning in an outdoor environment.

We’ve scheduled our Earth Day Spring Fling for Sunday, April 22, 2018, a fun event for families to attend and spend time in nature. We’ll be sending more information out on this event as the date draws closer.

As a final note: This spring, we’ll be celebrating the Margaret Noecker Nature Center’s 5th anniversary.

It’s been an emotional, rewarding and fruitful halfdecade. We’ve been carried on the wings of Margaret Noecker’s vision for our kids, and we have an awful lot to celebrate. We’ll keep you posted.

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Developing Social Skills for More Than a Decade in Children Who Have Learning Difficulties

By Stefanie Heintz, CCC-SLP, Director of Social Learning and Camp Acorn What began as passion and determination for supporting students who struggle socially, has turned into a program turning a decade old with a waitlist of clients from across the Houston area.

show 70 percent of children with learning disabilities have major difficulties socially when dealing with their peers. In contrast, only 15 percent of kids without learning disabilities struggle socially.

In the early 2000’s, Parish SpeechLanguage Pathologist Renee Attaway discovered that despite the quality and effective language intervention being provided in the classroom, students were still struggling socially. In fact, studies

Renee decided to embark on a journey of studies and research to find an approach that goes beyond teaching social skills and can be applied outside the class and therapy rooms. Eventually, she discovered the work of Michelle Garcia Winner, founder of Social Thinking®.

Renee found exactly what

she set out to learn about the social mind in Michelle’s work, and dove deeper to absorb the Social Thinking® framework. She will admittedly tell anyone who asks that she was on a mission to learn all she could about the program, even if that meant unashamedly attending every Social Thinking® conference and training across the U.S. After attending as many conferences as possible, Renee finally introduced herself to Winner and eventually completed the clinical training program in San Jose, Calif., home to Social Thinking®.

Social Thinking at Parish ® is Born Social Thinking at Parish is Born ®

Excited and with a passion to bring her knowledge home to The Parish School, Renee set out to convince then Head of School, Margaret Noecker, and Principal, Nancy Bewley, that the school would greatly benefit from using a Social Thinking® approach to teaching social concepts to children. They realized the value of teaching direct social concepts to children who have communication delays and learning differences, and gave Renee the green light to incorporate some Social Thinking into Parish classrooms and in social groups.

But Renee’s dream was about to grow larger.

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In 2008, Margaret Noecker asked Renee a question over lunch one afternoon, “What is your dream?” Renee shared her passion with the longtime educator, and Margaret gave her the go-ahead to dream big and establish a full Social Thinking® program at The Parish School.

The program officially had a name, a vision and a long list of clients waiting to be served.

Social Learning at The Parish School Social Learning at The Parish School Ten years later and armed with a new name, “Social Learning” is a thriving program that has exceedingly grown year over year. Expanding from only one clinician to four, Social Learning runs 16 groups throughout a regular school year with minigroups held during the summer.

Sitting at its maximum enrollment, the program served 70 clients in its groups during the 2016-17 school year. Half of all clients are students currently enrolled at The Parish School and the other

half are community clients from throughout the Houston area.

Over the past 10 years, the following clinicians have run groups under Renee’s direction: Hayley Boasman, Emily Calhoun, Courtney Dahl, Krysta Gorman, Katie Griffith, Stefanie Heintz, Meredith Krimmel, Sarah Martin, Molly Weisselberg and Jill Wood.

Social Learning not only serves students in group therapy, but a major facet of the program is the

school-based program that serves The Parish School. Renee trains and supports staff throughout the school year on the most up-to-date research in social intervention. Additionally, Parish infuses social thinking into its social-emotional program across campus. All classrooms from Early Childhood to Upper Elementary are using the Social Thinking® methodology to increase social competencies in our students.

Social Learning Expansion Social Learning Expansion As part of the vision Renee and Margaret discussed many years ago, a week-long overnight summer camp to practice social thinking was dreamed up. Camp Social Superheroes was created in 2010 for students ages 8-12 to learn lessons to help them understand social concepts used in everyday life situations. This

six-day, overnight camp at Camp For All in Burton, TX, features zip lining, kayaking, swimming and more, all while embedding a social learning curriculum throughout the week’s activities. Additionally, Camp Connect was founded in 2017, to give teenagers a weekend Social Learning retreat.

Social Learning Today Today Social Learning As the program grew and the dreams became a reality, Renee decided to pass the program director role on to me (Stefanie Heintz) this school year. She continues to remain part of the program and is mentor for our team. Additionally, she supports staff in the classroom and gives

professional development trainings each week to teachers and speech-language pathologists.

From my very first day at The Parish School, Renee has been my teacher, my mentor, my friend, and the shoes I have to fill are big. Happy 10th Birthday,

Social Learning! What once was a dream has turned into a program that not only has grown, but it thrives!

For more information on Social Thinking and the work of Michelle Garcia Winner, visit www.socialthinking.com.

Sources: Lavoie, Richard. The Motivation Breakthrough: 6 Secrets to Turning On the Tuned-Out Child. New York: Touchstone, 2008.

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Summer 2017 Camp Acorn SLP students: Danielle Martinez, recent graduate from University of Arkansas; Gracie Pitner, senior at University of Arkansas; Alec Gagnon, graduate student at University of Texas – Dallas; Megan Logue, freshman at University of Texas – Dallas; Noah Price, junior at University of Houston; Annie Adams, junior at Baylor; and Holly Heckman, recent graduate from University of Arkansas.

Speech Pathology Students Gain Valuable Hands-on Experience at Camp Acorn For someone looking to get into the field of speech-language pathology, there may be limited sources to receive practical training outside of a clinical setting. Many college students search for a place to receive hands-on experience to help determine their future career path prior to graduation day. Lucky for seven young SLP students, they discovered The Parish School.

Each June, college students and recent graduates from across the country make their way to The Parish School to gain the real-world experience they need to enter the field of their dreams – speech-language pathology. During the school’s summer language program called Camp Acorn, students ages 2-12 who have communication delays and learning differences receive an extra language boost between school years. Children may have diagnoses that include including autism, social issues, genetic disorders, attention deficit disorder and auditory and sensory processing issues.

“We’re getting hands-on experience, rather than just observing,” - Gracie Pitner, University of Arkansas senior At Camp Acorn, SLP students volunteer their time and work under the supervision and direction of certified speech-language pathologists and special education teachers. In exchange, they receive observation hours and gain a good feel for how speech pathology works in a school setting. In addition, volunteer work looks great when applying for graduate school communication programs.

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For information on volunteering to work at Camp Acorn during Summer 2018, visit www.parishschool.org/campacorn.

“Volunteering at Camp Acorn provides a unique opportunity for SLP students to gain perspective on the profile of a child who has communication delays,” said Stefanie Heintz, Camp Acorn Director. “Our volunteers spend 15 hours a week facilitating language and social development and ultimately get a behind-the-scenes look into how goals are chosen, implemented and measured.”

As one of the leading schools in the nation for educating children who have language disorders, The Parish School has a strong relationship with the University of Houston’s Communication Sciences and Disorders program, but many students come from across the country to spend June working at Camp Acorn. Some SLP students have reported having a friend or family member who have a communication disorder, inspiring them to enter the field.

Summer Camp

June 5-29, 2018

Promoting hands-on learning, growing self-esteem and developing communication.

Located on The Parish School’s beautiful, 17-acre campus in West Houston, Camp Acorn offers the following programs: • Language Intervention: Classroom-based language therapy led by speech-language pathologists for children ages 2-12 who have communication delays or learning differences.

• Adventure Play Camp: A unique opportunity for children ages 6-12 to engage in self-directed outdoor play and construct their own playground with the support of trained playworkers.

• Sibling Day Camp: A fun-filled camp experience for siblings of students attending our language intervention program.

• Early Morning and Afternoon Enrichment: Children’s creativity runs wild as they explore a variety of extracurricular activities, including yoga, cooking, games and more!

Download Application! www.parishschool.org/campacorn 11001 Hammerly Blvd., Houston, TX 77043 | 713.467.4696 x.127

Big Birthday Bash Gala Celebrates 35 Years of Empowering Students The Parish School proudly announces its

25th Annual Gala: The Big Birthday Bash, to be held Friday, January 26, 2018 at the JW Marriott Houston, 5150 Westheimer Rd. More than 500 guests are anticipated to attend this year’s event, which celebrates The Parish School’s 35th anniversary and honors the vision of the late Robbin Parish, founder.

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Gala chairs Alice and Keith Mosing, Adonia and Kevin Cokinos, and Ann Marie and Chris Kolkhorst have dreamed up a fun-filled night for all. The evening begins with a cocktail hour that includes socializing, a unique silent auction collection and birthday-themed entertainment.

Guests will enjoy a program emceed by Roula Christie of KRBE-FM’s “Roula & Ryan” show, with seated dinner, games and live auction.

The auctions feature something for everyone, with luxurious vacation packages, sports memorabilia, and exclusive packages like a private chef demonstration and dinner at the home of local restauranteurs, Randi and Johnny Carrabba, which sold for almost $20,000 last year.

The evening concludes with dancing and live music from Texas Unlimited Band, one of the most requested country and variety bands in Texas.

During this year’s program, The Parish School will acknowledge and honor all past Golden Oak Honorees, an award presented in recognition of those who exemplify the values of the school.

The Parish School’s gala is held annually as the largest fundraising event, and supports the school and its financial assistance fund for families.

Individuals and companies interested in underwriting and sponsorship opportunities may contact advancement@parishschool.org or visit www.parishschool.org/gala. In addition, year-round anniversary sponsorships are available at www.parishschool.org/35years.

Celebrating all Golden Oak Honorees 1992 – Present The Ackerman Family Buster Bowen The Carruth Family William “Bill” V. H. Clarke Christine and JB Duncan Michelle Forrester, PhD Edward “Eddie” N. Goldsberry Ronnie Hagerty Art Howe

Drs. Rebecca and John Kirkland/Texas Children’s Hospital John-Thomas Kobos Susan H. Landry, PhD

Barbara and Tom Scott The Shaddix Family The Parish School Arts & Sciences Team

R. Andy Lane

The Parish School Children and Parents

Virginia McFarland

The Parish School Teachers

Cynthia Woods Mitchell

Dr. Danny Williamson

Robbin Parish

Betty Carrow-Woolfolk, PhD

The Schissler Family

Winter 2017 | 21

The Parish School Annual Report The Parish School and Subsidiaries’ Consolidated Statement of Financial Position As of July 31, 2017 Assests Cash and Cash Equivalents

$

Property and Equipment

3,947,184 5,155,855

Other Assets

559,718 Total Assets

$

9,662,757

$

277,489

Liability Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Deferred Revenues

1,653,504

Notes Payable

552,501 Total Liabilities

Unrestricted Net Assets

$

2,483,494

$

5,361,827

Temporarily Restricted Net Assets

1,517,038

Permanantly Restricted Net Assets

300,398

Total Net Assets

$

7,179,263

Total Liabilities and Net Assets

$

9,662,757

1% Other Income

6% Special Events

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Assets As of July 31, 2017

17% Contributions 76% Tuition

Revenues & Support

Revenues and Support Tuition and Fees

$

4,915,642

Net of Financial Assistance of $271,697 Contributions

1,118,530

Special Events

413,464

Other Income

55,701 Total Revenue

$

5% Fundraising 13% G&A

6,503,337

Expenses Educational Programs General and Administrative

731,880

Fundraising

302,095 Total Expenses

$

Change in Net Assets Net Assets, end of year

5,702,399 800,938

Net Assets, beginning of year

22 | The Parish Post

82% Program

4,668,424

6,378,325 $

7,179,263

Expenses

2016-17 Donors We appreciate your donations from $1 to $1 million! Your generosity serves children who have communication delays and learning differences by funding financial assistance, the Margaret Noecker Nature Center, professional development for staff…and so much more.

Thank you.

Special thanks to everyone who donated to our Seeds for Growth campaign, notated with an asterisk. Seeds for Growth, one of our most important fundraisers, is an annual campaign that raises funds to cover the gap between what tuition covers and the actual cost of a Parish education. During the 2016-17 school year, 100% of staff and board members contributed and 98% of parents gave. An anonymous donor also matched all gifts up to $20,000 from current and alumni grandparents. Additionally, grandparents who contributed $500+ to this special fund receive a listing with their grandchild’s name. If you’re interested in giving to this important campaign this school year, please visit our website or email atanner@parishschool.org.

The Parish School received the following gifts between August 1, 2016 and July 31, 2017. $100,000 Carruth Foundation, Inc. $50,000 – 99,999 The Hamill Foundation* $25,000 – 49,999 Brown Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Adam Dunn* Ellwood Foundation* Ruth and Ted Bauer Family Foundation Shell Matching Gifts Program* Mr. Link Smith in honor of granddaughter Blake Martin* $10,000 – 24,999 Arena Energy Foundation Mr. Jim Clawson The Dale and Deborah Ross Foundation in honor of granddaughter Annabel Ross* di Portanova Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Art Howe MD Anderson Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Ken Miller* Mr. Cameron Neal Mr. and Ms. Joe Newcomb Mr. and Mrs. Irfan Patel Mr. and Mrs. Joe Bob Perkins Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Simpson* SK Foundation $5,000 – 9,999 Mr. Brent Anderson Anonymous (2) Mrs. Laura Arnold Mr. and Mrs. Tom Bewley* BHP Billiton Petroleum Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Philip Brown Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bryant, Sr. in honor of grandson Trey Bryant* Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Chapman*

Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Cokinos* Edward Jones Mr. Eric Elder Mr. and Mrs. Alfredo Gutierrez* Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Jamail in honor of granddaughter Maddie Elkins* Mrs. and Mrs. Bryan Leibman* Mr. and Mrs. Charles Ludwig Major League Baseball Players Trust Mr. and Mrs. Brian Merchant* Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Posey* RGT Wealth Advisors River Oaks Garden Club Mrs. Kalynn Swinbank Tauber Exploration and Production Company Truth Entertainment Mr. Shaun Varghese Mr. and Mrs. Robin Ventura Mr. and Mrs. David Wallace* Willard M. & Ruth Mayer Johnson Charitable Foundation* Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Zimmerman Mr. and Mrs. Eric Zoerb* $2,500 – 4,999 AIG Matching Grants Program* Anderson Oil Ltd. Mr. Dwight E. Bateman Mr. and Mrs. Carter Bechtol Mr. Gregory Brown and Mrs. Leah Schlater-Brown Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Brown in honor of grandson Wesley Schrauff* Mr. and Mrs. Peter DeFazio* Mr. and Mrs. James Duncan Mr. and Mrs. Skip Dunn Fidelity Mr. and Mrs. Tanner Garth* Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Gobe Grose Family Foundation

Mrs. Sharon-Marie Hogge and Mr. Daniel Lang Mr. and Mrs. Eric Holzer Houston Junior Woman’s Club Mr. and Mrs. Steve Hunsaker Insperity Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Jones Kolkhorst Insurance Agency Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Ludwig* Mr. and Mrs. Edward Martin in honor of grandson Will Martin* Mr. and Mrs. Harlon Martin, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Neil Martin* Mr. and Mrs. Trey Martin* Mr. and Mrs. Cody Moerer Mr. and Mrs. Keith Mosing* Mr. and Mrs. David Peden, Jr.* Mr. and Mrs. Brian Peters Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Probst Mr. and Mrs. Abdurahman Ravat* Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Rickertsen* Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rosenblum* Mr. and Mrs. Chase Spence Mr. and Mrs. Mark Stringer* THINK Neurology Mr. and Mrs. Brian Thomason* Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Thomason Thompson & Knight LLP $1,000 – 2,499 AHEPA 29 Charitable Foundation Amegy Bank Mr. Christopher Anderson Ms. Jacqueline Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Erik Bartsch* Baseball Elite Houston, LLC Bay Oil Company Mr. and Mrs. Tim Burgess in honor of grandson Tim Transou* Mr. and Ms. Kyle Canfield Mr. and Mrs. Wen Yuang Chen*

Winter 2017 | 23

Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Clarke Mr. and Mrs. Jack Clayton Mr. and Mrs. David Conn* ConocoPhillips* Mr. and Mrs. Charles Correll* Mr. and Mrs. Fred Coveler* The Crain Foundation Mr. and Mrs. William Crook* Custom Duct, Inc. Ms. Elizabeth DeWitt Mr. and Mrs. Greg Dillard* Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Dimitry* Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Droog* Mr. and Mrs. Karl Eubanks* Mrs. Marie Evnochides ExxonMobil Foundation Mr. Jack Fletcher, PhD Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Foster* Mr. and Mrs. Reid Friedman Mr. and Mrs. Amir Gerges* Ms. Jennifer Gerry Mr. and Mrs. Steven Gordon* Gulf States Toyota Mr. and Mrs. Larry Hall Mr. Douglas Hill and Mrs. Kelsey Bowen Jackson Foundation Jaiden’s Journey Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Kyle Janke Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Jessett Mr. and Mrs. Bob Kelly in honor of granddaughter Camille McConn* Ms. Heather Knies* Mr. Kyle Krause Mr. Edwin Lamm Ledge Lounger Ms. Allison Leibman Dr. and Mrs. Richard Matthews Mr. and Mrs. Russell McCann Mr. and Mrs. Brian McConn* Mr. and Mrs. Kyle McIlheran Mr. Michael Hayes and Mrs. Maria Melo Mr. and Mrs. Todd Neal Dr. Andreas and Dr. Melissa Nikolaidis Mr. M.E. Chancellor, Jr. and Mrs. Karen Noecker Mr. Nick Noecker Mr. Joe Nolan Mr. Rick Nommensen Oakland Athletics Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Oldham* Mr. Raymond Perreault and Ms. Rose Overmeyer Mr. and Mrs. Kent Pickrell* Dr. Randi Raizner, Ph.D. Mr. and Mrs. Loren Rapp* Mr. and Mrs. Jason Robak* Mr. and Mrs. Mike Ross* Mr. Chester Sappington in honor of grandson Austin Fewell* Schulte Charitable Foundation Mr. Michael Sellers Mr. and Mrs. Glen Severs Mr. and Mrs. James Shaddix Mr. Brooks Smith Mr. Calhoun Smith Ms. Mary Lee Stigall Ms. Amy Tanner* Temple Foundation* Dr. Palmira Testa-Limas*

24 | The Parish Post

Texas Children’s Hospital Mr. and Mrs. Ford Smith Mr. and Mrs. James Tramuto* Mr. and Mrs. Adam Transou* Ms. Jennifer Tucker UBS Financial Services Inc. UTHealth Science Center of Houston Mr. and Mrs. Brad Vieselmeyer* Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Walker Ms. Susan Watt* Mr. and Mrs. Paul Wehner in honor of granddaughter Amber Prater* Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Williamson Mr. and Mrs. Philip Wise Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Wolter in honor of granddaughter Lorien Wolter* Mr. and Mrs. Kirby Woodard Mr. Ric Zapp Mr. Jim and Dr. Tricia Zucker $500 – 999 Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Allen* Mr. and Mrs. Brett Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Jesus Bahena Ms. Candice Boyce Mr. and Mrs. James Brown Mr. and Mrs. Mike Bryant Mr. Gene Callaway Mr. Partho Bhowmick and Dr. Theresa Castillo, MD* Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Chambliss Chevron Matching Gift Program* Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Church* Mr. Craig Clark Mr. and Mrs. William Clarke* Mr. Terry Clough* Mr. Ricardo Colmenter Mr. Roberto Constantiner Craig and Galen Brown Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Drew Crow* Dr. and Mrs. Steven Davenport Ms. Shannon Deer* Mr. and Mrs. Chad Devens* Mr. and Mrs. Roger Droog in honor of grandson Arie Droog* Mr. and Mrs. Art Ensley Mr. Bob Feiner Dr. Aaron Fink and Mrs. Elyssa Fink Gottheim* Mr. Jim Foster Mr. Gary Ingram and Ms. Cecilia Fuentes Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Gelbaugh* Mr. and Mrs. Matt Greene* Ms. Cynthia Guill Mr. Steve Barrick and Mrs. Phyllis Guillory* Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hamada* Mr. Kelly Hartmann Mr. Scott Hatteberg Mr. Douglas Hill and Mrs. Kelsey Bowen* Mr. Lans Ireson Mr. and Mrs. Dwight Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Fred Knies in honor of grandson Tyler Knies* Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Krimmel* Mr. Philip Kroger Dr. Susan Lair, Ph.D. Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Lathrop* Mr. and Mrs. William Lawhon in honor of grandson Christian Biggs*

Mr. and Mrs. Ron Lawless Legacy Asset Management Mr. and Mrs. Ellis Locher Mr. and Mrs. David Marshall Mr. Malcolm Martin and Dr. Robin Rougeau Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McCarley in honor of grandson Max Dimitry* Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Medrano in honor of grandson Mikeal Honeycutt* Ms. Amy Myers* Mr. and Mrs. Mark Needham Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Nelson* Mr. and Mrs. Jens Olschimke Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Ortiz in honor of grandson Sammy Ortiz* Ms. Missy Pacha Mr. and Mrs. Mark Parent Mr. and Mrs. Arnaud Pham* Mr. and Mrs. Terry Phillips Phillips 66* Post Oak Bank Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Raber* Raveneaux Ladies’ Golf Association Mr. and Mrs. John Renfro* Mr. and Mrs. David Rissmiller* River Oaks Dental Arts Ms. Laura Roth Mr. and Mrs. Dave Scallan Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Seigle* Mr. and Mrs. George Sellers Dr. and Mrs. Joshua Septimus Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Shedd, III Dr. Shahin Shirzadi Ms. Sarah Sivers Mr. Allen Smith Mrs. Cynthia Smith Mr. and Mrs. Brett Snortland Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Sperling* Mrs. Liz Stepanian Ms. Jodi Stone Talley Bryan Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Jim Tramuto Ms. Kate Wasserman* Mr. Andrew Way Mr. and Mrs. William Temple Webber, III* Wells Fargo Mrs. Karyl White in honor of grandson Henry Arnold* Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wilson* Rev. and Mrs. Robert Wismer Wolff Family Foundation Mr. Matthew Morris and Mrs. Serene Wongsa* Mrs. Jennifer Woody* *Seeds for Growth donor Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these reports and to recognize gifts received. If any errors or omissions have been made, please accept our sincere apologies and notify Amy Tanner, Director of Advancement at 713.467.4696 ext. 125 or atanner@parishschool.org.

Celebrating 10 years as a Run for a Reason Charity!

For their 10th year in a row, Team Parish will make a dash to the finish line in support of The Parish School and its financial assistance fund at the Chevron Houston Marathon.

This year’s event is held Sunday, January 14, 2018, starting and ending in downtown Houston. Parish parents, staff, alumni and friends have signed up to run in support of the school in the 2018 Run for a Reason Program. Participants select to run/walk in the full or half marathon to raise funds to support children with communication delays and learning differences at The Parish School.

Parish’s Run for a Reason Team is working hard to meet their goal of raising $40,000. Help support their efforts by donating at www.parishschool.org/marathon.

The Parish School also appreciates interested Sidewalk Squad sponsors – businesses and organizations supporting Parish through the marathon and half marathon. A huge thank you to Halliburton who has committed to be our first sidewalk sponsor this year. Another big thanks to PV Rentals who followed suit and will also sponsor Team Parish and the races this year!

Also, be sure to join us race day at The Parish School’s official Hoopla Station. Located at mile 6 of the half and full marathon (corner of Kirby and Richmond), we’ll have posters, noisemakers and lots of snacks, to be ready to cheer on Team Parish.

Team Parish Runners (as of print deadline) Renee Attaway Chris Canon Theresa Castillo Maribel Chen Courtney Dahl

Cari Dumais Todd Fisk Allison Gunn Heather Hillery Oanh Kargar

Erin Knape Henrike Olschimke Lizzy Pendleton Michelle Renfro Andrew Sher

Alex Valdez Susan Watt Serene Wongsa

Winter 2017 | 25

Save The Date: Chevron Houston Marathon Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018 Cheer on Team Parish at our Marathon Hoopla Station

Eart h Da y Spri ng Fl in g Sunday, April 22, 2018

Parent & Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast Thursday, April 26, 2018

26 | The Parish Post

Big Bir th d a y Bas h Ga l a

Friday, Jan. 26, 2018 JW Marriott Housto n (5150 Westheimer Rd.) Chairs: Alic e & Keith M Adonia & Kevin Cok osing, inos and Ann Mari e & Chris Kolkhorst

25th Elementary Musical Thursday, April 26, 2018

Pastr i es w i t h Par e n t Friday, 18 March 2, 20

Spring Garden Day Saturday, March 24, 2018

Last Day of School Thursday, May 24, 2018

Camp Acorn June 5-29, 2018

Winter 2017 | 27

11001 Hammerly Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77043

Nonprofit Org. US Postage PAID Houston, TX Permit No. 440

Don't just grow. Thrive!

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About The Parish School: Since 1983, The Parish School has educated children ages 2-12 who have communication delays and learning differences, empowering them with the tools to succeed. This nationally recognized, special needs school in Houston provides an education for the entire family within the environment of a nurturing and safe 17-acre campus with on-site pediatric therapy clinic, The Carruth Center. Our personalized academic approach – with a focus on communication skills, social learning, nature, independence and the arts – allows children not just to grow, but to thrive.

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