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SPRING 2022 VOLUME 28/ISSUE 2

A PUBLICATION FOR THE WOODS ACADEMY COMMUNITY

Where curiosity and confidence thrive.

An inclusive Catholic community preparing boys and girls to lead lives of significance. The Woods Academy News is published by the Office of Marketing & Communications twice a year for families, alumni, and friends of The Woods Academy. 6801 Greentree Road Bethesda, MD 20817 (301)365-3080 woodsacademy.org

In this issue:

HEAD OF SCHOOL’S MESSAGE

CLASS OF 2022 GRADUATION

COMMUNITY MATTERS

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

ATHLETICS

HOOT HOOT HOORAY

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: MOLLY SHRIVER 30 CLASS NOTES

BUILDING TO LEAD

ANNUAL REPORT

Keep up with The Woods Academy and follow us on social media!

@TheWoodsAcademy

STUDENT CONTRIBUTORS

JADEN DAVIS 8TH GRADE 2

SAMI FARMER 8TH GRADE

LILLY HAYES 8TH GRADE

ABBY SULLIVAN 8TH GRADE

Dear Woods Community, I hope this edition of The Woods Academy News finds you and your family doing well. It is a very exciting time around The Woods these days as we prepare for a big renovation. You will see the dynamic renderings of this renovation on the cover and in the pages to follow as a part of our Building to Lead campaign. This campaign and renovation are all about our people and programs. From innovative spaces that will be used by all students, to a new signature space for our library and a new kitchen that will serve as a learning lab and for service, The Woods is poised to advance key programs in these spaces that are designed for the present and the future.

All of this would not be possible without your input and support. This work started back in 2018 with our strategic plan, Building to Lead, and it will come to life this summer as the renovation

takes place. The Woods has always been a family and it is our family that makes this all possible.

Speaking of family, you will read about several alumni coming back to The Woods this year to visit their beloved alma mater, to say hi to the people that helped shape them. I always love these visits.

Our Woods family does live our mission to “lead a life of significance.” Our Alumni Spotlight features Molly Shriver, Class of 2012, who is a fine example of making an impact on the world around her. Read more about her work on page 30. We have more alumni teachers at The Woods than ever before. This, no doubt, has a significant impact on our students today. Our Woods family walks the walk when it comes to living out our mission.

at The Woods and beyond. These pages will illustrate it and serve as a sense of pride in this wonderful school. I am so proud of all that has been done by our family to get us to this point and all the many ways we can grow from here to advance our mission in the years ahead. Be proud Mighty Owls. Be very proud.

Peace,

Joseph Powers Head of School

From impactful alumni to a dynamic renovation, The Woods will do even more to help our students lead a life of significance while

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

CLASS OF 2022

CLASS OF On Friday, June 3, we celebrated the Class of 2022 and all they accomplished while at The Woods Academy. Graduation was held in the gym followed by a beautiful reception hosted by the 7th grade parents. Families joined together to reminisce about their time at The Woods and send their 8th grade students off on to their next journey. STUDENT REFLECTION

MASON GASZNER STUDENT REFLECTION

This year’s student speaker was Mason Gaszner. Mason joined The Woods in Montessori and has seen his class grow throughout the years. In his speech, Mason said, “Our graduating class has endured unprecedented times of COVID-19 with grace and strength. We have gone through difficult times and persevered together as a community. We were only able to do this as a community because the truth is, The Woods Academy is not bound to any building or physical location; The Woods Academy is not a set of hallways and classrooms, it is an amazing community made of amazing people.”

2022 ALUMNI REFLECTION

ALEX TONER ALUMNI REFLECTION The alumni speaker for this year was Alex Toner – Class of 2015 and brother to Quentin Toner, Class of 2022. Alex shared words of wisdom as a current Naval Academy student. He said to the graduating 8th graders: “So, Class of 2022, you are all nearing the end of your Woods experience – some of you since you were just a few years old, and no doubt this transition comes with plenty of emotion. But with every end comes a new beginning, and for you all a new path in a few short months, after some well-deserved rest and relaxation in between. Realize though that the successful growth Woods has developed within you does not stop after 8th grade. Here’s a challenge: rely on the incredible toolbox of values and talents that you have developed throughout your time at the Woods. As you have displayed this past week in your Capstone presentations, embody the OWLS principles in everything you do and challenge yourselves by grasping at every new opportunity. Share in the joys of life together, and do not be afraid to rely on the people around you who care about you. Embrace the opportunities to be of service to others.”

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

During the graduation ceremony, the following awards were given to the Class of 2022.

THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR’S AWARD Recognizes model The Woods Academy athletes for outstanding academic achievement, sportsmanship, teamwork, dedication, and sacrifice for the program.

This year’s recipients were Abby Sullivan and Caden Campbell

TWELVE SEASON AWARD Given to students who participated in The Woods Athletic Program every season during their four years in the Upper School. The following students were recognized for this achievement:

Martine Brandao-De Gregorio Ana Paula Campanario Abby Sullivan Joey Sun

THE WOODS AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE ARTS Given to the eighth grade students who have excelled in the fine and performing arts. This year’s recipients were: For Fine Arts: Izzy Martelli For Musical Arts: Quentin Toner For Performing Arts: Jaden Davis

THE WOODS AWARD FOR ACADEMIC HONORS Given to the eighth grade students who have earned either Honors or Honors with Distinction for at least half the trimesters from seventh grade through the second trimester of eighth grade. The following students were recognized for this achievement:

Max Bakelar Ana Paula Campanario Malcolm English Sami Farmer Amanda Gary Colin Madden Abby Sullivan Felipe Una

Martin Brandao De Gregorio Jaden Davis Alex Farmer Johnny Fields Mason Gaszner Rafael Monaro Quentin Toner Eliza Virgin

RISE SCHOLARS RECOGNITION The RISE Scholars Program is new this year at The Woods Academy. This selective program was an opportunity for students to stretch themselves and make an impact around a topic they are passionate about. The following students were recognized as RISE Scholars: Max Bakelar for his research on Cloning and GMOS. Peter Cavanaugh for his research on Middle School Mental Health. Mason Gaszner for his research on Planned Obsolescence. Rafael Monaro for his research on Climate Change. Jason Obido for his research on Cryptocurrency Quentin Toner for his research on 3D Printing.

THE SERVIAM AWARD

Given to the eighth grade students who have given outstanding service to The Woods community. This year’s award winner was Ana Paula Campanario

THE CELESTINE AWARD

Given to the eighth grade students who have demonstrated the effort and hard work that characterizes the ideal Woods Academy student. This year’s award winners were Max Bakelar and Amanda Gary

THE JOANNE GERBER LIFER AWARD An award to honor the Legacy that Joanne Gerber has left at The Woods. This award is given annually to a Lifer, a student who has been at The Woods since Montessori, who embodies the ideals of a Montessori education The recipient for this award was Quentin Toner.

THE GENERAL EXCELLENCE AWARD

Given to the eighth grade students who have demonstrated the ideals of the Woods Academy Mission Statement, including academic, athletic, spiritual, social excellence and emotional well-being, a respect for others, a spirit of equality and commitment to community service. This year’s award winners were Abby Sullivan and Felipe Una

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

CLASS OF 2022

CLASS OF

2022

RAPHAEL ALVES Our Lady of Good Counsel (STEM Scholar)

MAX BAKELAR Georgetown Preparatory School

CHRISTIAN BORNO Gonzaga College High School

MARTIN BRANDAO DE GREGORIO Gonzaga College High School

ANA PAULA CAMPANARIO The Academy of the Holy Cross (Scholar)

CADEN CAMPBELL Georgetown Preparatory School

PETER CAVANAUGH St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

JAMES CROSS Georgetown Preparatory School

BRAXTON DAVIS Georgetown Preparatory School

JADEN DAVIS Our Lady of Good Counsel

MALCOLM ENGLISH Our Lady of Good Counsel (STEM Scholar)

SAMANTHA FARMER Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School (St. Jane DeChantal Scholar)

ALEX FARMER St. Anslem’s Abbey School

JOHN FIELDS Georgetown Preparatory School

AMANDA GARY the School without Walls

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

MASON GASZNER Our Lady of Good Counsel (STEM and Honors Scholar)

CLAIRE HART St. John’s College High School

LILLY HAYES Connelly School of the Holy Child

BRANDON JASEK Gonzaga College High School

COLIN MADDEN Gonzaga College High School

ISABELLA MARTELLI St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

RAFAEL MONARO Georgetown Preparatory School

JASON ODIBO Georgetown Preparatory School

ZACKARY RAIMOND Our Lady of Good Counsel

CHRISTIAN RITACCO St. John’s College High School

LIAM SHARKEY Our Lady of Good Counsel (Merit Scholar)

ABIGAIL SULLIVAN Connelly School of the Holy Child

JOSEPH SUN Gonzaga College High School

QUENTIN TONER The Potomac School

ANGELA UMOH The Academy of the Holy Cross

FELIPE UNA Our Lady of Good Counsel

ELIZA VIRGIN St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

MATTHEW WILBON Gonzaga College High School

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

COMMUNITY MATTERS

COMMUNITY MATTERS Many people describe The Woods as a family and we couldn’t agree more! We’ve shared many special memories with each other since the start of this school year. Below shows some of the fun times at The Woods from August 2021 to June 2022. #WeAreTheWoods

Popsicle Pop-Ups!

Gearing up for the school year, we hosted a few popsicle socials for students to see old friends and meet new ones, and to welcome Jodie Shoemaker to her new role as Assistant Head of School.

Food Truck Fridays WAPTO hosted three different Food Truck Fridays where families came together for some delicious food, yummy desserts, field games, and, most importantly, time together in the fresh air!

A Zippy Good Time at Bretton Woods! Students in Grades 3–8 went on a field trip to Bretton Woods this past fall. From bulls-eyes and flips on the zipline to overcoming challenges and conquering fears, these students and their advisors had an exciting time on their field trip!

Field Trip to Homestead Farm The Woods Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grade students went on a field trip to Homestead Farm where they picked pumpkins, saw various farm animals, and were able to have fun together outside the classroom! 8

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

A Cup of Joe with The Woods The Woods hosted a variety of parent coffees to kick off the school year. The consistent theme for these coffees were about the importance of parents partnering with the school to help their child continue to learn and grow from life’s ups and downs.

Parent Workshops with Keiana Mayfield The Woods partnered with Keiana Mayfield to offer parent workshops throughout the fall to help enhance the skills and strategies parents/ caregivers use to engage with their children and family around issues of race and racism.

Itchy Witchy The 3rd grade performed a riveting performance of the annual Itchy Witchy show. The show was live streamed for parents and the students were dressed to impress thanks to their costume makers – mom and dad! They also did a sneak peak for the Montessori students the day before they performed their live show. Thanks to 3rd grade teachers Ms. Erica Vassos and Mrs. Stephanie Chapman for being the directors and leading the charge.

Scholastic Book Fair Thanks to Book Fair Chair Kate Nolan for spearheading yet another successful book fair at The Woods. Students were able to discover new books and support The Woods at the same time. The 8th grade leadership team also held a fundraiser during the book fair and was able to donate over 100 books to the The National Center for Children and Families.

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

COMMUNITY MATTERS

Santa’s Workshop Santa’s Workshop Chair Vinka Pasos-Ferrell, WAPTO, and parent volunteers created a magical experience for our students for this year’s special event. Students from grades 1 – 8 were able to shop for their loved ones at The Woods, and the parents were able to come together for this cheerful annual event!

Pajama Day for Christ Child Society The 8th grade leadership team organized a pajama day around the holidays in support of The Christ Child Society, a non-profit that helps women and children in need in the DC area. This initiative raised over $1,200 for those in need. Because of the support of our students and families, we were able to provide diapers and formula to families in need this past holiday season.

Christmas Concert This year’s Christmas Concert was most certainly filled with joy and cheer. Parents and grandparents joined us to watch the Lower School students as well as our ensembles for their holiday performances.

Upper School Music Showcase Music Teacher Mrs. Sharon Pabon worked with the 5th and 6th grade students on various instrumental pieces, which they then performed for their parents. 6th graders surprised the audience with a Star Wars rendition! 10

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

MLK Day of Service Woods parents and students participated in our virtual MLK Day of Service this year by making a frozen meal for someone in need. We were able to collect dozens of meals this year! Thank you to the families that participated in this year’s initiative.

Everyman Theater Everyman Theater visited our Lower School and Upper School classrooms in January allowing students the space to exercise their imagination and show them the world of theater!

Grade 5 and 7 Math Teacher Kristen Chrobocinski completed the First Annual Coast Guard Marathon in Elizabeth City, NC on March 4. Her daughters Caelyn (K) and Kylie (3) were there to cheer her on!

After School, There’s the After School … Activities. Did you know that The Woods offers about ten after school programs each trimester for all age groups? Students have the opportunity to extend their studies and interests to after school hours. We offer robotics, chess, string ensemble, Girls Scouts, sports clinics, and so much more. Visit page 19 to learn more about the Chess Club and why it’s the most popular after school activity! You can also visit page 27 for more information on our robotics teams and how they did in this year’s First LEGO League Challenge. 11

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

COMMUNITY MATTERS

How Do You Spell … This year’s Spelling Bee had participants from grades 5-8. Held on February 22, the entire Upper School joined together in the MPR to watch their classmates compete for the winning title! Congratulations to our winner. Find out who that was on page 28.

Can you guess the winning word? HINT: IT’S KNOWN OR TALKED ABOUT BY MANY PEOPLE. Find the answer on page 28.

2.22.22 7th grade students celebrated this once in a lifetime day – 2/22/22 – through fun activities in math class with Mrs. Chrobo.

Black History Month at The Woods Black History Month was honored and celebrated throughout The Woods. 4th grade students researched and wrote about iconic Black individuals, 5th grade students in art class researched and created paintings celebrating Black history, 3rd graders learned about and recreated freedom quilts, and 2nd grade students did a lesson around Martin Luther King, JR. in French class among other lessons throughout the school.

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

Rube Goldberg Celebrations 6th grade students worked hard for four weeks going through steps of the engineering design process to create Rube Goldberg machines. Students created these machines in addition to lab reports and videos. Parents joined the celebrations and the creativity in the room was spectacular!

Puppets Bring Joy to Montessori Students Montessori students at The Woods were visited by Santa, his reindeers, and other friends with KayDee Puppets. Joy and laughter filled the MPR as the students watched the adventures of these little puppet creatures!

Ash Wednesday

Yummy WAPTO Treats

Parents, faculty, staff, and students celebrated Ash Wednesday Mass with Father John. The Mass was hosted by the 1st grade and they did a fantastic job! They also raised donations for the DC Diaper Bank helping to reach the Diaper Bank’s big milestone of 25 million diapers being distributed to those in need in our area.

WAPTO continued to keep spirits high at The Woods with surprise treats throughout the school year!

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

COMMUNITY MATTERS

Open House We hosted more than 100 families through our Open House and admission initiatives this year. Many 7th and 8th grade students took time out of their weekend to come to The Woods to show these prospective families how special our school is. Parent ambassadors also showed up to answer questions and walk alongside their students in private tours. Thank you to our families for the continued support and for spreading the word about The Woods!

We Are The Woods Auction Thanks to our community, we were able to hit our fundraising goal for this year’s auction. We had loads of wonderful items to offer The Woods family from a Greek dinner to Head of School for the day. We Are The Woods and we couldn’t be prouder!

8th Grade Leadership Donates to SOME The 8th grade leadership team at The Woods Academy worked together to donate over 1,000 items of food to So Others Might Eat (SOME) this past holiday season. After collecting the donations, the students delivered the items themselves to SOME.

Advent Mass The Woods community continued to live their faith out through religion class, Chapel, and, of course, Mass. Father Van Dyke joined us to celebrate our Advent Mass and reminded us that God is always with us, and that we should always be there with and for each other.

Owls Give Back Montessori families did a drive for items to be sent to Poland to help Ukrainian Refugees. Hundreds of items were collected like first aid items, pacifiers, toothbrushes, and more. 14

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

Fat Tuesday Celebrations Students celebrated Mardi Gras in French class from Lower School to Upper School enjoying King’s Cake and fun games to learn more about this holiday.

Tech Savvy with Mr. Smith Students are learning how to code, grow plants through hydroponics, and create their own video games among other exciting lessons in Director of Technology Mr. Smith’s classes.

We Are The Mighty Owls!

Wellness Day We hosted our first annual Woods Wellness Day on March 17th – a day to wear green AND eat green! The day was to promote student and faculty health and well-being as well as empower all with some health education and lifestyle skills that enable them to achieve their best possible health. Students spent the day doing yoga, learning about nutrition from Nurse Washington, doing Zentagle with Assistant Head of School Jodie Shoemaker, doing meditation with Lower School Guidance Teacher Jane Pontius as well as enjoying the outdoors. The day also started with Director of Guidance Dr. Andy Rhein who did a wonderful keynote address on mental health.

Woods student athletes have worked hard since the start of school on teams for soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more. Visit page 20 for more information on this year’s athletic program!

Make Your Mark! Students, faculty, and staff made their mark on The Woods before the renovations began. Students, faculty, and staff each put their thumbprint in the shape of a W on the library floor. Years from now, our community will always be remembered by their fingerprint love!

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

COMMUNITY MATTERS

Alumni Owls Visit Campus We love seeing our alumni on campus throughout the year. We often see our former students pop by just to say hello and see their former teachers. This past May, some students from the Class of 2019 toured the school before the renovations began. We also hosted the Class of 2018 for our Prayers and Pizza Event!

Scavenger Hunt for Parents The Woods parents took to the streets of Bethesda to complete a scavenger hunt! This combination of Amazing Race, DaVinci Code, and Goonies all rolled into one was a hit. Thanks to WAPTO for organizing!

Head of School for the Day Lily and Luc L. were The Woods’ Heads of School in April. By decree, they issued a free dress day, no homework, and shaved ice cones for ALL. As Mr. Powers said, wise leaders know that snow cones are a great way to celebrate the end of the week.

Spirit Week In early May, we hosted our annual Spirit Week with days like Pajama Day, Hero Day, and, pictured here, Wacky Wednesday. Upper School Teacher Mrs. Kish surprised her students with a wacky classroom set up. 16

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

First Holy Communion

Arts Week Celebrations!

The Woods community celebrated our 2nd graders and their First Holy Communion with Mass in the gym celebrated by Father John Enzler.

The Arts Week Celebrations were a smashing success this year! The full week of the arts included a kick-off concert, lunchtime performances by students, a wine & cheese night for parents, and, of course, the annual spring musical. This year, 7th and 8th grade students performed Shrek JR.

Girls on the Run Our Lower School Girls on the Run team has had quite the season! They finished this past Sunday with a successful 5K race in Bethesda.

Spring Sports Wrap Up Our Upper School students gathered in the gym the last week of school to recognize our student athletes and their successful sports seasons!

Teacher Appreciation WAPTO brought out all the love and stems for our teachers to thank them for all their hard work. They arranged flowers for each teacher and also put together a flower arrangement station as well for those that wanted to create their own.

@TheWoodsAcademy FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO SEE ALL THE HAPPENINGS AT THE WOODS! And don’t forget to visit Window on the Woods for blog posts from faculty, staff, and community members. Scan this QR code to see the above stories and more on our website! 17

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

WHY WE LOVE THE WOODS

WHY WE LOVE Over THE 98% WOODS

1:1 device program for students in grades 1–8 to support our comprehensive STEAM program

of our 8th graders are accepted to their first choice high school

Over $200,000

awarded in merit based scholarship for high school to the Class of 2021

The average class size in grades 1 to 8 is

Daily world language

Our student to teacher ratio is

We offer a full day,

15 students

7:1

five day per week preschool

with a Montessori philosophy beginning at age 3

Over 70%

of our teaching faculty have advanced degrees

An explicit technology curriculum beginning in kindergarten not only teaches students how to use technology, but also how to create with technology Over 25 competitive sports teams with offerings in fall, winter, and spring

instruction in either French or Spanish begins in kindergarten

Over 30 after school offerings available for students providing an enriching Woods experience

er R ead ne h m ore a b o ut o

Our innovative program includes courses in entrepreneurship and leadership development

62% of The Woods is Catholic with 38% non-Catholic

10 all-school Masses throughout the year and almost 20 annual community service projects completed each year by students

Over 30 countries are represented by The Woods community and almost 20 different languages are spoken by students

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS AT THE WOODS

CHECKMATE! According to research*, after school programs increase learning time by providing educational opportunities that are more engaging, broadening young peoples’ skills and interests. These programs provide social and intellectual enrichment, such as music, dance, artwork, and service learning opportunities to instill a broader set of values.

The Woods Academy provides a variety of after school activities for our students to help them expand their mindset in new areas or help them finetune certain skills like playing an instrument.

The Chess Club is one of the Woods ‘ most popular after school activities. Students of all grades are welcome to participate and engage in friendly competition under the supervision of the 5th and 6th Grade Social Studies Teacher Mr. Kalas. Students involved show great interest in the activity and are willing to further develop their skills whether they’re new or greatly experienced. The 8th grade contributors asked a few chess participants some questions…

What is your favorite thing about the chess club? “I get to use my mind and just relax!” Constantine P. (3rd grade)

Why do you like to play chess? “It messes with my mind, it is a great mind game.” Quentin T. (8th grade)

Why did you start playing chess? “I’ve been playing chess with my father since I was little. I have always enjoyed the thinking and strategy of the game.” Mr. Kalas (5th and 6th Social Studies teacher)

What we find to be unique about the Chess Club here at Woods is the strong sense of community and togetherness we see amongst the players. Students have the opportunity to work on tactical abilities and challenge their minds while socializing with their peers.

*After school program research by Eva L. Baker, Distinguished Professor, Divisions of Psychological Studies in Education and Social Research Methodology, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies. https://www.expandinglearning.org/expandingminds/article/ importance-afterschool-programs-education-reform-worldwide-making-it

Learn more about our after school program by scanning this QR code.

BY: JADEN DAVIS, SAMI FARMER, LILLY HAYES, AND ABBY SULLIVAN 19

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

ATHLETICS

ATHLETICS BY THE NUMBERS 11

SPORTS OFFERED AT THE WOODS ACADEMY SOCCER GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TENNIS CROSS COUNTRY BASKETBALL SWIM CLUB LACROSSE BASEBALL SOFTBALL TRACK CO-ED GOLF

BIG WINS AT THE WOODS JV GIRLS A BASKETBALL WON END OF SEASON TOURNAMENT! VARSITY BOYS A BASKETBALL 2ND PLACE END OF SEASON TOURNAMENT JV BOYS A BASKETBALL 2ND PLACE END OF SEASON TOURNAMENT VARSITY BOYS A SOCCER 2ND PLACE END OF SEASON TOURNAMENT VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER 2ND PLACE @ ST. ANDREW’S TOURNAMENT VARSITY SOFTBALL UNDEFEATED SEASON WON THE WOODS VS NORWOOD SHOWDOWN JV SOFTBALL UNDEFEATED SEASON

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

FALL SPORTS AWARDS 2021–2022 JV BOYS A SOCCER (COACH KALAS) Coaches Award – Ze Deane – Ryan Coaches Award – Santiago de Lucio

JV BOYS B SOCCER (COACH M. & R. BEDNARS) Hustle Award – Drew Clausen and Liam Mood Coaches Award – Agustin De Ciancio Most Improved – Adan Zeppieri and Dylan Rhein

VARSITY BOYS SOCCER (COACH A) Coaches Award – Johnny Fields Coaches Award – Caden Campbell Coaches Award – Raphael Alves

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL (COACH PARKER) Coaches Award – Abby Sullivan and Lilly Hayes Most Improved – Angela Umoh

FALL CROSS COUNTRY TEAM RESULTS (COACH RICCA) BARNESVILLE Max Coleman, 1st overall –

Emma Waterman – 2nd for girls GIRLS (5TH – 8TH) SOCCER (COACH CLARK) Coaches Award – Penny Harman Hustle Award – Maren Petretich and Soraya Farid Most Improved – Madison Mullally and Lilly Kerpen

LANDON Caden Campbell, 2nd overall BULLIS Caden Campbell, 3rd overall NORWOOD Boys – Caden Campbell, 4th –

Zack Raimond, 6th – Boys placed 2nd place overall – Girls – Emma Waterman, 3rd – Greta Sun, 6th – Girls placed 4th overall

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

ATHLETICS

WINTER SPORTS AWARDS 2021–2022

JV BOYS WHITE (COACH A) Coaches Award – Liam Mood Hustle Award – Max Baier Most Improved – Graham Power

JV GIRLS A (COACH JERMEY) Coaches Award – Maren Petretich Hustle Award – Ali Luchsinger Most Improved – Olivia Monaro

JV BOYS GREEN (COACH PERSON) Hustle Award – Ben Katulis Most Improved – Aidan McCormick and Daniel Davis

GIRLS B (COACH PARKER/RICCA) Coaches Award – Emily Fields Hustle Award – Hanna Goodfallow Most Improved – Ruby Sclafani

JV BOYS A (COACH PARKER) Coaches Award – Jake Ricca and Sean Madden Hustle Award – Chase Jana

VARSITY GIRLS A (COACH RICCA) Coaches Award – Elizabeth Tedla and Abby Sullivan Most Improved – Lily Hayes

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VARSITY BOYS A (COACH RONNIE) Coaches Award – Felipe Una Hustle Award – Leo Hickey Most Improved – Christian Borno The Woods Academy Athletic Program reinforces the goals of the school‘s mission while helping students build character through competitive athletics. While we have sports programs for all students at The Woods, our organized athletic program is specifically for our upper school students (grades 5-8) and is designed to develop the following habits of character:

VARSITY BOYS B (COACH KALAS) Hustle Award – James Cross and Max Bakelar Most Improved – Peter Omasere

■ Commitment to doing your best to improve yourself and your team, ■ A Positive Attitude that encourages your teammates through enthusiasm for your sport, ■ Respect for your teammates and coaches, opponents, officials and yourself as a student and an athlete, ■ Sportsmanship that demonstrates an appreciation of the challenge that the opponent provides and commitment to playing hard but fair at all times, and ■ Responsibility for your own actions and words. Each month, the Athletic Department selects a student who exemplifies the athletic program’s philosophy as our Student Athlete of the Month. Congratulations to all our student athletes this year, including our Student Athlete of the Month individuals!

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

JOHHNY F.

AVA S.

SWIM CLUB (COACH ERIK) Coaches Award – Harper Rushton Most Improved – Wills Byford

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MAY

FELIPE U.

ABBY S.

ANA PAULA C.

Want to learn more about The Woods Athletics? Scan the below QR code to visit our website. 23

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

ATHLETICS

SPRING SPORTS AWARDS 2021–2022

JV SOFTBALL Coaches Award – Ruby Sclafani Most Improved – Lucy Barker

JV BASEBALL Coaches Award – Chapin Teague and Chase Jana Most Improved – Luke Sarafidis Hustle Award – Jake Ricca

VARSITY SOFTBALL Coaches Award – Sami Farmer Coaches Award – Lily LeBlanc Most Improved – Aitana Marina Alonso

BOYS LACROSSE Coaches Award – Leo Hickey Most Improved – Darren McCarthy Hustle Award – Chase Jana

VARSITY BASEBALL Coaches Award – Max Bakelar, Colin Madden and Alex Farmer Most Improved – Joey Sun

GIRLS LACROSSE Coaches Award – Abby Sullivan and Ana Paula Campanario Most Improved – Clem Hanrahan Hustle Award – Jacqueline Pineau and Angela Umoh

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

HOOT HOOT HOORAY!

HOOT HOOT HOORAY! UPHOLDING EXCELLENCE AT THE WOODS Our Lower School educators and Learning Specialists are officially trained in the Orton-Gillingham Approach.

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is a direct, explicit, multisensory, structured, sequential, diagnostic, and prescriptive way to teach literacy when reading, writing, and spelling does not come easily to individuals, such as those with dyslexia. It is most properly understood and practiced as an approach, not a method, program, or system. In the hands of a welltrained and experienced instructor, it is a powerful tool of exceptional breadth, depth, and flexibility.

Go Owls!

MASTERS COMPLETE 4th grade teacher Stephanie Clark completed her Masters in Educational Leadership and Administration in the Spring of 2021 from George Washington University.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS APPROACH HERE

Congratulations to the following teachers on this milestone!

■ Christina Phelps 2nd Grade Teacher ■ Stephanie Chapman 3rd Grade Teacher ■ Erica Vassos 3rd Grade Teacher ■ Stephanie Clark 4th Grade Teacher ■ Katya Pilong Director of Lower School ■ Kelly Nalls Learning Support and Curriculum Specialist ■ Kate Fogarty 1st Grade Teacher

CHESS CLUB Congratulations to our Chess Club who finished in 1st place at this year’s Knights of Columbus Fall 2021 Charity Youth Chess Tournament! A special congratulations to 6th grader Thomas B. who went undefeated and finished 1st place in the 6-8 section.

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

OWLS COMPETE WITH ROBOTICS The Woods Academy Upper School students competed in this year’s First Lego League Challenge and did superbly! The FIRST® LEGO® League guides students through STEM learning and exploration. From Discover, to Explore, and then to Challenge, students understand the basics of STEM and apply their skills in an exciting competition while building habits of learning, confidence, and teamwork skills along the way.

Below is the list of Woods teams that were a part of this year’s competition and their results. All of these teams should be immensely proud of their accomplishments! After five and a half months, each group had a unique solution to the innovation project – focused on how to improve the transportation of products – and had built and programmed a robot to successfully complete a variety of missions. Additionally, all four teams showed wonderful core values. They embraced the challenges, looked for innovative solutions, strove to have a positive impact on others, practiced teamwork, and had fun. Congrats to these Mighty Owls! Owls EAT (6th and 7th graders) won the Core Values Award. This team displayed extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit, knew they could accomplish more together than they could as individuals, and showed each other and other teams respect at all times.

Mechanical Marvels (8th graders) scored 5th in the robot board missions with a score of 255. They received very positive feedback from judges – “like brothers” and “future of STEM”. Amaze-On (6th and 7th graders) was given positive feedback for their innovative claw design on their robot and scored high on their core values as they discussed how they overcame challenges that ran into over the course of a few months.

Kermit the Bot (6th and 7th Graders) were given high marks in core values and robot design. The judges’ accolades included “demonstrating that you all had fun and grew through this project! On top of that, taking time to help the fifth graders was remarkable and showed that you had an impact in some way.” During the judging session, this group was recognized for its inclusive nature and ability to let every member participate and shine in their own way.

Thank you to Mrs. Megan Mullally and Mr. Matthew D’Ercole for leading the charge with our robotics teams.

SCAN THIS QR CODE TO SEE THE MECHANICAL MARVELS IN ACTION AT FLL.

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HOOT HOOT HOORAY

SCRIPP’S SPELLING BEE AT THE WOODS ACADEMY The Woods Academy hosted the Scripp’s Spelling Bee on February 22nd and we had a big group of brave spellers who represented the Woods with tremendous sportsmanship and grace throughout the entire competition. Congratulations to 8th grader Alex Farmer on winning this year’s challenge! The winning word this year was RENOWNED. Here were the finalists for this year’s Spelling Bee: ■ Alex Farmer 8th Grade-1st Place-Competing in Nationals! ■ Thomas Byrne 6th Grade-1st Runner Up! ■ Philip Moyo 7th Grade-2nd Runner Up!

Thank you to Mrs. Kelly Tanzi who organized and led the Spelling Bee as well as our judges Mr. Matt D’Ercole and Mrs. Colleen Kish.

Leading up to the final Spelling Bee, each grade level hosted their own competition. Below are the finalists and runner ups for each grade level. Note the finalists in each grade then moved on to the final one in the MPR! ■ 8th Grade-Finalists Mason Gaszner, Alex Farmer, Eliza Virgin, Jason Odibo ■ 8th Grade Runners up Caden Campbell, Sami Farmer ■ 7th Grade Finalists Philip Moyo, Sami Ozan ■ 7th-Runners up Connor Goodfallow, Ben Scalafani ■ 6A Finalist Carina Radolinski ■ 6A Runner up Dylan Rhein ■ 6B Finalist Thomas Byrne ■ 6B-Runner up Andrew DeLuca ■ 5A Finalist Sean Madden ■ 5A-Runner up Ian Farmer ■ 5B Finalist Lilly Kerpen ■ 5B Runner up Wills Byford ■ 5C Finalist Olivia Monaro ■ 5C Runner up JJ Shaban

TAKING IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL! A group of The Woods Academy teachers completed their Google Certified Educator Level 2 Certification this year. This certification validates our teachers’ expertise and advanced technology integration skills with the Google platform, which is used in our classrooms.

Congrats to Megan Mullally (5th and 6th Grade Science Teacher), Bob Kalas (5th and 6th Grade Social Studies Teacher), Stephanie Clark (4th Grade Teacher), Kristen Chrobocinski (5th and 7th Grade Teacher), and Jodie Shoemaker, Assistant Head of School.

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WE LOVE OUR ALUMNI

WE LOVE OUR ALUMNI! Just because our students move on to high school and college doesn’t mean they leave our lives. Our alumni remain highly connected, with each other as well as with our faculty and staff. Former students return regularly, to hug and thank their teachers and talk to students about what life has been like for them after The Woods. We are looking to engage with our alumni more in the future and would love to stay connected. Scan the QR code opposite.

www.woodsacademy.org/community/alumni

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT:

MOLLY SHRIVER Not many people can say that their life changed by reading a book. For Molly Shriver, Class of 2012, that was the catalyst for her career.

She was a sophomore at Boston College and decided to take The Challenge of Justice class. She was assigned to read Stand Your Ground: Black Bodies and the Justice of God by Kelly Brown Douglas and “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness” by Michelle Alexander, and to watch 13th by Ava DuVernay. She was aware of racial injustice in America, but never knew the extent of it until this moment. This class, these books, and this movie, ignited a flame inside her that was a long time coming. Molly grew up in Bethesda, Maryland. She joined The Woods Academy as a “Luncher” in Montessori II in Ms. Gerber’s class. She remembers her time at The Woods fondly. She enjoyed the close-knit community, the challenging classes, and the idea that Woods always put an emphasis on service and giving back to others.

Her summers weren’t “typical” growing up, as she says. She didn’t go to an all-girls sleepaway camp or lacrosse camp. Molly spent her time away from The Woods at Camp Shriver – a summer camp that serves an equal number of children with and without disabilities. Camp Shriver aims to foster acceptance among children with and without disabilities in the hopes of transforming society’s vision and approach to its most vulnerable members. Camp Shriver was started by her grandmother Eunice Kennedy Shriver who lived not far from Molly and her family in Maryland. Her grandmother played a pivotal role in Molly’s passion for giving back. Sunday family dinners with her

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grandmother and Special Olympic athletes, and trips to Cape Cod with these individuals were some of the most memorable experiences throughout her formative years. Molly said, “my summers were spent going to Camp Shriver and I participated in the Special Olympics basketball program of Montgomery County growing up so it’s been a part of me since childhood – it’s been my whole life.”

After her time at The Woods Academy, Molly went to Connelly School of the Holy Child in Potomac, Maryland. She played field hockey, lacrosse, and tennis (she was captain senior year), and was extremely involved in Holy Child’s Best Buddies Club, eventually becoming the President. The mission of Best Buddies at Holy Child is to involve students in friendships with their peers who have developmental differences. They work closely with Potomac Community Resources (PCR), and Molly helped to organize parties with PCR members like the annual Beach Party, held in Holy Child’s gym. Molly was also a member of the National Honor Society – a nationwide organization that selects high school students based on four pillars of criteria: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. During her spare time in high school, Molly worked with the Special Olympics’ Unified Sports basketball team. Unified Sports promotes social inclusion through shared

sports training and competition, joining people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. Molly went on to Boston College where she found that class “The Challenge of Justice.” The first three assignments were the two books and film mentioned earlier. She was hooked. She wanted to know more.

“Given my family’s involvement with Special Olympics and Best Buddies, and my dad’s work with Save the Children, I’ve had some exposure to injustices in the world. However, the idea of racial injustice in America was something I was not aware of until my time at Boston College – in terms of institutional racism in America, especially in the criminal justice system.” She knew then her calling in life was to focus on racial and criminal justice. Her family and friends weren’t shocked when she decided to Major in Political Science at Boston College (BC) with two Minors – Journalism and Faith, Peace, and Justice. According to Boston College, the “Faith, Peace and Justice minor offers students the opportunity to explore, in an interdisciplinary manner, how their own serious questions about faith, peace, and justice are related to concrete work for peace and justice in our world.”

“My academic path at BC was pretty intense, I would say. I did a major and two minors, which is doing more than two

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

majors in terms of requirements. Freshman year was entry level and was learning how to survive. It then all changed for me sophomore year once I decided my path.”

Senior year she enrolled in BC’s Inside-Out Program – a model of higher education that brought 10-15 students from Boston College and 10-15 students from Suffolk County House of Correction to study together as peers. Molly recalls the respectful, open dialogue that occurred between the students in the class. “We weren’t coming in to tutor the individuals in the house of correction or observing them. We were all in the same class, learning about the same thing. It was life changing.”

This class led Molly to where she is now – REFORM Alliance in Los Angeles. REFORM aims to transform probation and parole by changing the laws, systems, and culture to create real pathways to work and

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wellbeing. REFORM believes that “a justice system that holds people accountable and redirects back to work and wellbeing leads to stronger families and safe communities. Instead of keeping people trapped in a revolving door from probation/parole to prison – which costs taxpayers billions of dollars – we’re working to move people from the justice system into stability.”

Molly is a project manager at REFORM and is working to help educate the public of the injustices surrounding the prison system, as well as encourage individuals and foundations to help pass bills. She works closely with foundations, companies, and high net worth individuals.

“I always knew I wanted to do that with my life. I was then moved by the racial injustice in this country when I took that class sophomore year. All of that combined brought me to where I am today.”

“Growing up so close to my grandmother and being involved in the Special Olympics at such a young age, I was really interested in social justice work. I always knew I wanted to do that with my life. I was then moved by the racial injustice in this country when I took that class sophomore year. All of that combined brought me to where I am today.” In addition to fighting for rights for those incarcerated, Molly is also continuing on her grandmother’s legacy through working with the Special Olympics. She is the Chair of the Special Olympics’ Founder’s Council, which was established to strengthen the role that the descendants of Eunice Kennedy Shriver play in promoting the importance of Special Olympics, its impact, and ensuring the future success of the Special Olympics movement.

Of this group, Molly says it’s a “unique body within the administrative structure of Special Olympics International, and it’s a group of my cousins that want to stay involved with the organization and continue my grandmother’s legacy through our family’s involvement through the next generation. I spearheaded that with my cousins and there are about seven of us involved at the moment. My whole life story with the Special Olympics is that I grew up 10 minutes away from my grandmother who started the Special Olympics.”

Molly credits her time spent at Camp Shriver, her grandmother’s influence, and her education – at The Woods and beyond – to a career committed to serving others. She is most certainly “leading a life of significance.”

Q&A

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

WOODS WORDS

WITH MOLLY SHRIVER

A group of 8th graders researched Molly and all the great things she’s been doing, and they asked her a few questions about her time at The Woods. See Molly’s answers below!

What had an impact on you at The Woods? The Woods did a great job of incorporating service into the mission of the school. There were so many fundraisers at school – not just monetary, but also awareness raisers – that allowed students to become aware of things in the area, but to also be passionate about something. They were very supportive of my work with the Special Olympics! I think it was great the school was so open to support organizations that were close to the students. I also loved the religion classes, which had an emphasis on love and service that spoke a lot to me.

What does the mission of The Woods Academy mean to you? I love that The Woods’ Profile of a Graduate, that dots back to the mission, promotes a “just and joyous life. I think all the other items included (leaders, faith, and open to growth) are all important, but it’s a matter of figuring out what type of leader you want to be and what part of your faith speaks to you. The just and joyous life really spoke to me. I’m hesitant to speak to young kids about

these big ideas of being a leader because I thought when I was that age a leader was the class president. However, there are different leaders everywhere – not just the class president. Just finding joy and purpose in life – whatever it is – is important in your life.

Favorite thing about The Woods? The connection with the teachers was really special. They see you grow and care for you. There is such a special bond there! Favorite Teacher? Mr. A – he was definitely a teacher that made an effort to be on our level as 8th graders and spend time with us. You definitely don’t get that in college and so it was really nice!

Favorite Tradition? Art Celebration and the musical in 7th and 8th grade. It was so special watching it as a young kid and then doing it when you’re older!

What advice do you have for our students at The Woods now? Enjoy each year! Don’t try to rush to be an 8th grader or a 3rd grader. Enjoy where you are at The Woods. Help people out along the way –

MOLLY’S 8TH GRADE PORTRAIT

look out for your classmates – and have fun!

What advice do you have for our 8th graders about to embark on their high school journey? Enjoy the last few months at The Woods with the people you’re with. It’s a special time in a small community. People will continue to come into your life and your world will expand, so enjoy this time at The Woods. Go slow, enjoy the play. Enjoy all the big and little moments! What is something you hope to achieve in the near future? I hope to be a part of change at REFORM where I can speak directly to someone who’s been affected by the laws we change.

What’s your favorite thing about doing different jobs (REFORM, Special Olympics, freelancer at The Sunday Paper)? I love to travel and I think learning about the diversity of the experience of traveling is what I strive for. I love to learn about different people and their different experiences. My favorite part is that I get to learn about different things all day long.

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR MOLLY!

FAMILY & TEACHERS SHARE

“Molly will always be remembered as an extremely inquisitive, dedicated student. She always wanted to make sure she understood all the complicated concepts. I am deeply sorry I made her balance equations. Most importantly she was respected by teachers and peers alike. As student council president, she gave one of the best, if not the very best graduation speeches I have ever heard. A truly gifted, composed, eloquent and engaging speaker.” MR. JAMIE ALISBAH AKA MR. A UPPER SCHOOL SCIENCE TEACHER AT THE WOODS

“Molly was blessed at a young age to have had exposure to careers in service, and to see how fulfilling and joyful such a career path can be. She was also blessed to have gone to The Woods Academy where her education fostered confidence and curiosity and commitment to others. We are very grateful that her education has given her the tools she needs to pursue a meaningful and gratifying career.” JEANNE AND MARK SHRIVER MOLLY’S PARENTS

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CLASS NOTES

CLASS NOTES 2000s

Hannah Gormley Class of 2021 – was in the National Cathedral School’s performance of The Company this past fall.

Izzy Fandl – Class of 2021 – was in Sidwell Friends’ PUFFS! play this past fall. She played J. Finch Fletchley, Fat Friar, Uncle Dave, and Viktor. She was also joined by Woods alum and classmate Ananeah Nevil who played

Class of 2018

Harry Potter. These two Mighty Owls were also in Annie recently together – Ananeah played an orphan and Izzy played Lieutenant Ward (pictured below).

Gabriela Pabon, Class of 2021, received two awards in the Scholastic Art and Writing regional competition. She received a Gold Key for her poetry collection “Cradle Catholic” and a Silver Key for her novel “Sisters of the Fallen Goddess.” Layla Bahrami and Kennedy Moore, from the Class of 2021, joined us as ambassadors for this year’s Open House to show prospective families the school.

Milan Nassiri, Class of 2020, was one of the six finalists in Maryland for the 2021 Congressional Art Competition. Each year, the House of Representatives hosts the

We want to hear your plans for next year! Share with us by emailing alumni@woodsacademy.org

competition for high school students across the country to recognize young, talented artists.

Amanda Phillips, Class of 2018, is currently a senior at Holton Arms and will be attending Northeastern next year. She’ll spend her first semester abroad in Rome! David Hobart, Class of 2015, is the lead guitarist in two bands (Blackwater and The Union) in Burlington, VT.

Margaret Maloney, Class of 2013, studied and interned abroad in Prague, Czech Republic for the fall of 2021. She also managed to travel and visit 12 different cities and 8 different countries while abroad! Margaret is currently studying at Providence College in Providence, RI.

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Jack Ridenour, Class of 2011, is a play-by-play and PA announcer as well as podcaster in the Pittsburgh area. He serves as an announcer at Chatham University in men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s lacrosse, volleyball, and softball. He also serves as the men’s varsity basketball PA announcer at Central Catholic High School and for Westmoreland Sports Network, providing in-game commentary for a variety of high school sports, as well as producing a weekly written recruiting update on local athletes. He is also the creator and host of the sports podcast, Riding The Pine, covering sports news and topics. Scan this QR code to check out Jack’s latest podcast episodes!

Martina Una, Class of 2018, came back to The Woods in February to work with current students on their artwork. Scan the QR code to read the blog post from Mr. Paul Palotetti, Director of the Upper School, on her visit.

Carol Lucarelli, Class of 2007, joined The Woods Academy faculty this year as the 5th and 6th Grade Math Teacher. She joins Michele Roome ’87, Katya Cunnane Pilong ‘98, Stephanie Clark ‘05, and Julie Branitsky ‘12 as Woods alumni who came back to teach current Mighty Owls!

Travis Scala, Woods Class of 2016, was named to the Davis & Elkins College (in Elkins, WV) President’s List. The president’s list includes all full-time students with a 4.0 GPA for the semester.

(2013) served as maid of honor. Thank you to Former Montessori Teacher Mrs. Anu Iyer for being part of the very special day!

In September of 2021, Meredith Hickman, Class of 2003, was announced as a 2020-2021 Maryland School Librarian of the Year! She is currently loving her work as a School Library Media Specialist as Seven Locks Elementary School in Bethesda, Maryland.

Isabelle Cassidy, Class of 2013, graduated Summa Cum Laude from Catholic University with a bachelor’s degree in Architecture. She is continuing with graduate school at CUA pursuing a dual master’s in architectural design and net zero design.

Justin Cassidy, Class of 2010, married Elizabeth Mendoza on October 2, 2021. Isabelle Cassidy

Did you move or get a new job? Tell us! You can update your alumni records by scanning this QR code or entering this URL into your browser: https://www.woodsacademy.org/alumni-record-update

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BUILDING TO LEAD

DONATE TODAY! 38

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

?? In 2018, the Board of Trustees and school leadership at The Woods Academy developed the strategic plan Building to Lead, a plan that calls for an ambitious campaign to advance the academic strength of The Woods by focusing on people and programs and modernizing learning spaces. This past March, we officially launched our Building to Lead Capital Campaign bringing this bold vision from the strategic plan to life.

The campaign will support The Woods’ facilities by significantly updating, improving, and modernizing our learning and teaching environments so that we can continue to foster creativity and confidence, and support the programs being implemented within our walls. This initiative will create an academic environment that inspires enthusiasm for learning, instills the joy of accomplishment, allows The Woods to adapt with the ever-changing world, and personifies our commitment to community.

ENHANCED EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE

The Woods faculty and staff strive to lay a sound foundation in academic excellence, strong values, and physical health that will guide and support Woods graduates throughout their lives. Class sizes are intentionally small so teachers can offer rigorous instruction with care and encouragement. We carefully cultivate an environment where each child is loved.

With the enthusiastic support of the community, Building to Lead will promote academic excellence by assessing and enhancing the core academic programs with a concentrated effort on expanding innovation, entrepreneurship, honors coursework, and learning support. We will provide teachers and students with the resources they need to develop initiative, flexibility, and independence. Building superior programs for our students will ensure the most well-rounded academic experience, coherence, and continuity from preschool through Grade 8.

MODERNIZING LEARNING SPACES AND ENHANCED FACILITIES

As The Woods is committed to staying in our current location long term, it is imperative that we modernize our building to meet the future needs of the school, and to reflect the joy and innovative approach of The Woods educational experience. Through this campaign, we will:

– transform the library into a signature and central space for all students allowing for flexibility and collaboration – expand the Innovation Lab (now called the Tech Lab) to continue to expand our innovative STEAM program – update the Montessori, 4th grade, and World Language classrooms – renovate the kitchen so it can be used for preparing meals, teaching, and serving the community – create flexible floor plans – undertake a green building initiative by updating our operating systems – update security measures These innovative, flexible, and safe spaces will align with the dynamic people and curriculum that are at the heart of The Woods. Want to learn more about the campaign? Visit www.woodsacademy.org/campaign.

Have questions? Feel free to reach out to Director of Development Traci Grigg at tgrigg@woodsacademy.org or 301-365-3080. She’d love to hear from you! 39

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BUILDING TO LEAD

LIBRARY ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

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LIBRARY The Woods Academy library is often referred to as the heart of our school. Students come together in this space to collaborate on projects, read in a quiet space, or do a research project with a classmate. Renovations for the library will create a signature room for a variety of activities with flexible furniture and spaces throughout. The renovated library will bring the outdoors inside with large windows and skylights allowing for more natural light in this new space. Windows above the room dividers and into the main hallway give these new spaces a more community feel.

MULTIPURPOSE ARCHITECTUR 41

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?? BUILDING TO LEAD

EXTENDED CARE ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

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KITCHEN: (FOR SERVICE, LEARNING, AND PREPARING MEALS) Welcome to the new and improved Woods Academy Kitchen! This new space will serve an array of purposes from preparing lunch every day for our students, to allow an adequate teaching space for Montessori Owls and their teachers, and giving our students space to serve the wider community through meal prep donations and more.

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BUILDING TO LEAD

WORLD LANGUAGES CLASSROOM ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

4TH GRADE CLASSROOM ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

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INNOVATION LAB ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

WORLD LANGUAGE CLASSROOM Did you know students in grades Kindergarten – 8th grade take a world language class every day? The world language program is a hallmark program for The Woods Academy and it’s time for us to have a space to highlight that! Creating a large flexible world language classroom allows teachers and students space to collaborate and explore the world around us. Updating windows and lighting helps to highlight the special work being done in the classroom.

4TH GRADE

INNOVATION LAB

The 4th grade classroom will be updated with new and improved storage allowing for more space for our students, new innovative furniture, and updated technology.

The Woods Academy Innovation Lab will spotlight our forward-thinking STEAM curriculum in a unique space with adjustable furniture for all ages and activities. With 3D printers, computers for gaming and coding, robotics, and more, our Innovation Lab will provide a dedicated area for innovation at every age.

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BUILDING TO LEAD

MONTESSORI ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

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EXTENDED CARE ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

MONTESSORI

EXTENDED CARE

Our youngest Owls will experience updated spaces with new storage and cabinetry, new in-classroom restrooms as well as new technology for the classroom. Refreshing the Montessori classroom will help brighten the rooms allowing kids to explore and learn in a new space.

For our Montessori students who stay all day, the new extended care room will be able to comfortably fit all our students and their belongings. New organizational cubbies and furniture will allow for more space for playing and learning.

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BUILDING TO LEAD

MAIN ENTRYWAY

MAIN ENTRYWAY ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

MAIN HALLWAY ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

The main entryway to The Woods Academy will be updated to have a wide ADA-accessible entrance. Updated windows and the new front desk area will allow more natural light to welcome our current families and guests. A new modern design in this space will match the forward-thinking and innovative teaching and learning happening throughout the school.

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MULTIPURPOSE ROOM (MPR) ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

MAIN HALLWAY Students will be able to explore their school through the new and modern front hallway at The Woods Academy. Curious what’s happening in the library? Take a peek inside! The new design of this space will brighten up our students’ day with natural light and welcoming paint and wood tones.

MULTIPURPOSE ROOM (MPR) The MPR is the most used room at The Woods! It sees every student for lunch, hosts meetings and presentations, holds some of our most beloved traditions like Santa’s Workshop and the Scholastic Book Fair, allows classmates to gather for chapel – and that’s just to name a few uses! This space will soon be refreshed with a more clean and modern look. We’ll also update the room with technology to help with the acoustics and update the furniture.

The improvements proposed by Building to Lead are rooted in The Woods’ proud history with an eye to our exciting future. The campaign will require the entire Woods community to come together to support the school by making exceptional gifts. It will require a level of generosity and commitment far higher than in the past.

DONATE TODAY!

Your help and generosity are essential for the future of The Woods. We are truly grateful for all you do. We take on this challenge, as we do with all our work, with joy, creativity, determination, intention, hard work, and love.

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BUILDING TO LEAD

BUILDING THE FUTURE: DRINKS, DESSERT, AND DANCING To kick off the Building to Lead Capital Campaign, we hosted a fun evening of drinks, dessert, and dancing at Imagination Stage in Bethesda. After two years of no large community events, parents were thrilled to come together to mingle and meet new and old friends.

A small presentation was given by some of the key players within the campaign, including Board Chair Donna Byrne, Head of School Joe Powers, Renovation Chair Ines Vega, Board Member and Campaign Chair Marc Ferrell as well as Board Member and Campaign Chair Robin Clark. Attendees were given an in-depth look at the plans for the renovations and were given a first look at our campaign video.

Thank you to our community members who came out to celebrate our Building to Lead campaign! It was truly a memorable night.

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SCAN HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO

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Simple Ways to Support The Woods

Like us on Facebook… www.facebook.com/thewoodsacademy It doesn’t get any easier than that! Don’t forget to share our posts with your friends and family. More awareness of The Woods, the better. Wear your Woods gear proudly! Be on the lookout for more gear to become available this summer!

Invite Your Network to Tour The Woods Connect your friends with Admissions Director Molly Hugo at mmcnamara@woodsacademy.org and she’ll be happy to give a tour! Spread the word of our Events & Open Houses! Come to volunteer when you can too. Read Window on The Woods Visit www.woodsacademy.org/about-us-news to find out all the happenings on campus.

Take a minute to Express What The Woods Means To You Email Director of Communications and Alumni Relations Caitlin Chalke at cchalke@woodsacademy.org and let her know. Your testimonial can be used on social media, the website, and more. Follow us on Instagram @ TheWoodsAcademy Like & Share Our Posts!

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Annual Report

2020–2021

Dear Friends,

I am so grateful for The Woods Academy community. Together, we have faced incredible challenges (especially throughout 2020 and 2021) and yet through it all, we have come out stronger.

The Woods Annual Fund provides our school with financial stability allowing us to be nimble in responding to the most urgent needs. In the 2020-2021 school year, your support of the Kathleen Piwko Scholarship Fund allowed us to continue to promote Mrs. Piwko’s passion for literature and writing. Your gifts through our auction have brought the outdoor lab to life. This past summer, thanks to you, we enhanced it with new innovative furniture. Our teachers and students love this new space! None of this would be possible without you! Thank you for your dedication to the mission of our school. Together, we create a strong and joyful community for our students, our teachers, and our families. Your commitment has an immediate and meaningful impact on the everyday experiences of all our students and contributes to their success. For that, we thank you.

As always, thank you for being a part of The Woods Academy community. Stay in touch, stay well, and keep believing in the beauty of dreams. With gratitude,

Joseph Powers Head of School

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The Woods Academy’s Mission

The Woods Academy is an inclusive Catholic Community preparing boys and girls to lead lives of significance.

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Thank you to our amazing teachers for bringing their best to The Woods every day!

2020–2021 Board of Trustees

Thank you to our Board of Trustees who worked tirelessly to ensure a successful school year under extraordinary circumstances. ANN BATTLE

DONNA BYRNE CHAIR MIKE CAIN ROBIN CLARK PHILIP DOLAN TED FARRELL MARC FERRELL BOB GREGG MARK GROSH DANIEL HICKEY JULIA JORDAN SECRETARY PETER KENNY HASMIG MAHSHIGIAN DIRECTOR OF FINANCE STEFANIE MORGAN-DAVIS TREASURER JOSEPH POWERS HEAD OF SCHOOL ERIN RICCA FACULTY REPRESENTATIVE NADIA SCHAREN-GUIVEL INES VEGA DARIEN WRIGHT VICE-CHAIR

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The Woods Community

The Woods community-building events held each year would not be possible without our dedicated WAPTO leaders, event chairs, and scores of volunteers that create spectacular events. While we don’t have room to list everyone who gave of their time last year, we offer the biggest THANK YOU to each of you for all you do for The Woods.

A special thank you to WAPTO and Woods parents for creating a spectacular Teacher Appreciation Week!

2020–21 Woods Academy Parent Teacher Organization (WAPTO) Officers MONIQUE FIELDS PRESIDENT MARIANA MCCORMICK VICE PRESIDENT AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR AMANDA CANDY TREASURER CARRIE DRESSER VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR KAREN BORNO COMMUNITY LIAISON

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

Thank you WAPTO for creating fun ways for us to gather even when we couldn’t do it in person!

WAPTO Events 2020–21 Family Scavenger Hunt

Grandparents & Special Friends Virtual Visiting Day Montessori and Lower School Virtual Pet Shows Scholastic Book Fair Santa’s Virtual Workshop Christmas Concert Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service BINGO Night We Are The Woods – Online Auction

Trivia Night for Parents Teacher Appreciation Week Spring Planting Morning Parent Coffees Can We Talk TED Talk Discussion Series

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

Annual Giving

2020–2021

Annual Fund, Raise Your Paddle, Kathleen Piwko Merit Scholarship THANK YOU! Every child makes a difference at The Woods, and so does every gift. Parents, faculty, staff, trustees, grandparents, alumni, parents of alumni, and friends – your generosity helps give every Woods student the best possible experience every day. Thank you!

Your gifts enhance everything we value at The Woods: a program of excellence, integrated curriculum, personalized attention, and a faith that guides students to serve others along the way.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this listing. If you find an error or omission, please contact Traci Grigg, Director of Development, at tgrigg@woodsacademy.org. All gifts listed in this report are those received between July 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021.

Giving Circles

Head Philanthropists $10,000–$19,999 CARRIE AND ROBERT BASIL

THE FRANCIS P. CHIARAMONTE FAMILY FOUNDATION VINKA AND MARC FERRELL

ROXANA AND EDWIN ‘84 VILLEGAS

Benefactors $4,000–$9,999

LEILA AND JASON BAKELAR

1975 Leaders $1,975–$3,999 ANONYMOUS (2)

MATTHEW AND DONNA BYRNE

CAMPANARIO FAMILY ELIZABETH AND CORKY CROVATO LILIANA CUERVO AND JOHN CURRY SIMONE AND RICHARD DEVANEY PATRICIA DRESSER CORY AND MELANIE ’88 FUNKHOUSER STEVEN AND INGRID GOBIEN JASON HARMAN AND KATHRYN BEERS HEMING FAMILY LYNN AND ROGER JASEK BRIAN AND KRISTEN KATULIS

KELLI AND DAN CAMPBELL

REBECCA KENNEDY AND JOHN OLESZKIEWICZ

ROBIN CLARK AND JOHN RIDENOUR

TIM AND SUSAN LYDON

CLASS OF 2021

MAUREEN AND MARTIN MCCARTHY

NIMI AND JUSTIN DUFOUR

STEFANIE MORGAN-DAVIS AND NIKEL DAVIS

BETH AND GEOF HOBART

DEBORAH MOTT

THE SHEPHERD FOUNDATION

KATHY AND LARRY PATEROS

SHERYL AND MICHAEL WILBON

LEILA AND RUSS PHILLIPS

THOMAS WEIR AND PETRA KANN

KATE AND TONY SCAFIDE

JEAN AND CLINTON WRIGHT

GEORGE AND PEGGY SOTOS JUN AND DONNA SUN CHUCK AND CECILE TONER INES VEGA AND ALEJANDRO VILLEGAS LAURA AND DARIEN WRIGHT

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

“We are incredibly grateful for the wonderful community we have found at your school. Our daughter’s first grade experience has exceeded our expectations and we’re looking forward to many more years to come.” Current Parent

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

“We so enjoyed the Christmas music video. It brought back many memories of our children learning to play their instruments.” Woods Grandparent

EATON FAMILY CHARLES AND MICHELE EGWUAGU MONICA LUGO AND KEVIN FANDL JENNIFER AND BRYANT FARLAND CARLA FARRIS BRENT AND RACHEL FISHER

Thank you DAVE AND LORI FRANCESCANI

MIHIR GADA AND AMITA SANGHVI

BRIAN AND SAM GALLAGHER

Patrons $1,000–$1,974

MONA AND ALLEN ABSALON

Friends up to $999

AMANDA AND BLAYNE CANDY

CATHOLIC BUSINESS NETWORK

VALERIA ARANA AND JON BARRENECHEA

NEIL AND LISA GRAMMER

SONYA CHAWLA AND VIVEK PATIL

LILY ARUGILGOS AND PAUL DWYER

MAUREEN AND RICHARD GRANT

KEVIN AND NANCY CLARK

DR. AND MRS. JAMES BARTER

BOB GREGG

MEGHAN AND ALEX CROSS

ANN AND DANIEL BATLLE

EMILY AND JASON GRIFFIN

JILL AND A.B. CRUZ, III

DAVID AND TAMIE BERGSTROM

TRACI AND DREW GRIGG

ANN AND JOHN DAVIS

SEAN AND JENNIFER BERGSTROM

MARK AND CATHERINE GROSH

TOMMY AND FRANCINE DAVIS

BLANCHARD FAMILY

MARY GROSH

ROGER AND MIMI DENNIS

MARC ’94 AND MARCY BORGER

LISA AND MICHAEL GUITERMAN

PHILIP AND MAUREEN DOLAN

BORNO FAMILY

GUIVEL-MONARO FAMILY

MONIQUE AND JASON FIELDS

RAY BRISCOE AND LISA MONROE

MELISSA AND NAZIM HAMILTON

GAFFNEY FAMILY

DOUG AND ANGELA BRITTON

SCOTT AND JILL HARPER

SARAH AND BURKE HAYES

MARY AND ROBERT BRYANT

JUSTIN AND ASHLEY HEDGE

ANONYMOUS (2)

SONNY AND MEGAN GANGULY

TRACY OLIVER-GARY AND DARIAN GARY GEORGALLAS FAMILY

ANONYMOUS (10)

STEPHANIE AND ANDREW GEORGE

KATHRYN AND SHEP ABELL

JOANNE AND JOE GERBER

ALLEN FAMILY

DEBBIE GHAMKHAR

PAOLO AND MARIANGELES MARTELLI

BYRNE FAMILY

JOHN AND GEORGIA HESSICK

JILL AND J. PAUL MCNAMARA

ERICH AND AMANDA CABE

DAN AND STEPHANIE HICKEY

RYAN AND MARIANA MCCORMICK

ELYNA CAIN

PATTY HORN

PHILLIP ODAM AND EVA SZAREK

MR. AND MRS. LAWRENCE J. CAIN, JR.

PAUL AND CAROL HOWARD

LAURA AND CURTIS O’KEEFE

COLTON AND MARILYN CAMPBELL

MOLLY MCNAMARA HUGO AND PAUL HUGO

SANDRA O’KEEFE

MARILYN T. CAMPBELL

CHRISTINA AND STEVEN HOUCK

BRIT AND JOE POWERS

CASSIDY FAMILY

REBECCA, BEN, KIM, AND JON HYMES

HOLLI AND HENRY RIVERA

STEPHANIE CHAPMAN

ANU AND RAJA IYER

FRANNY ROCK

MARGARET AND ROY CHROBOCINSKI

METIN AND NOEL SAVASMAN

THOMAS AND ROSALIND CLARK

LENNA ISRABIAN-JAMGOCHIAN AND HRANT JAMGOCHIAN

TONY AND KAT SCAFIDE

TERRI AND JEFF CLAUSEN

ROGER AND NADIA JANTIO CHARLES AND JANE JOHNSON

SCHUCK FAMILY

HEATHER AND PETER COLEMAN

MARIE SHANNON

JOSHUA AND ANGELIQUE COLLAMER

MICHELE SHANNON AND MIKLOS GASZNER

JOHAN CORTES AND MARYANGELICA PRADO

BARBARA AND TERRY SHIRROD

MARIA AND ANDREW DEYELL

JODIE AND KEITH SHOEMAKER

IVETTE DOMINGUEZ

KATIE AND ERIC SMITH

SIMONE AND ANTONIO RAIMUNDO DOS SANTOS

TAMARA AND GEORGE KUCIK

DANIEL AND CARRIE DRESSER

JOSH AND PENNY LACUESTA

KEVIN AND LEGINIA DRISCOLL

LANEKENAU FAMILY

MARY DRISCOLL

DR. BARBARA B. LANG

ANA C. TSCHEN AND JORGE H. KAMINE TODD WILSON AND JULIE LEDGERWOOD KATIE AND GEORGE WISECARVER

GERALDINE AND PETER FLIPI

ALIDA KALAS ROLAND AND KELLY KALEPE GREG AND JANEL KAUSNER KENNY FAMILY SOPHIA KIRBY

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

“We’re always proud to support The Woods Academy and the terrific work you’re doing. The teachers have been amazing this year.” Current Parent LEBLANC FAMILY

NICHOLAS AND ANN POULOPOULOS

MR. AND MRS. NICHOLAS WETZLER

MATT LERNER AND CHERRY JOY BEYSSELANCE

BETH AND CHRIS PRIEST

MOLLIE AND GEORGE WISECARVER

KERRILAINE AND WARREN PRUNELLA

ALEXANDER WOROBEY AND JOCELYN MACDONALD

BARBARA AND PETER LUCHSINGER DELANEY AND W.B. LUNDBERG ANDREA ‘85 AND TOM LYNCH ANNA MADDEN JACLYN AND KEVIN MADDEN HASMIG AND DAVID MAHSHIGIAN WILLIAM C. MANION AND SARA P. O’NEILMANION MARBELLY DAVILA AND OSMEL MANZANO EDITH AND FRED MARINUCCI JD MCLEAN ’14

PAULA PRYOR AND JOHN JONES BART AND NATALIE RADOLINSKI ADELA BARRIO AND VLADIMIR RADOVIC DR. AND MRS. ROBERT RALPH REDHILL TOWN DESIGNS JUDY AND EDWARD REZAC ERIN AND KEVIN RICA MARK RICHARDS KRISTA AND PAUL RITACCO

BILL AND MARY WOSTER SHERRY AND WILBUR WRIGHT BEN AND TERESA WU LEE AND ANDY WURST KATE AND JOHN WYCKOFF CLAIRE AND RAY WYRSCH DAVID AND TANYA YOUNGBERG BILL AND LLOYDIE ZAISER

MICHELE ROOME ’87

Thank you

BRIAN J. MCCORMICK ’17 CHRIS MCCORMICK ’14 SUSAN MCDONALD

WANDA AND STANISLAW MIKULSKI HELEN B. MILLER

MORGAN AND NANCY MOSER

ANDREW AND HUDO MONTEMARANO KENNEDY MOORE ‘21

BRENDON AND JEN MOYO DR. B. MUJICA-PARODI

MEGAN AND MATTHEW MULLALLY TONJA AND DAVID MURRAY D. TYLER MURRAY ’07

MARGRIT AND KIRK NAHRA

MIKE AND KATE ABELL NOLAN BARBARA AND JIM O’CONNELL FLORENCE NOVELLINO AND KEITH OTT HUSEYIN OZAN AND LINA CARMONA-OZAN SHARON AND TIM PABON P. DAVID PAPPERT SUSAN AND WILLIAM PAPPERT WILLIAM J. PAPPERT ’15 CHIRAG AND CHAITALI PATEL RICK AND JULIE PHILLIPS TOM AND MARGE PILONG KATHLEEN AND RON PIWKO ALISON AND PETE PLOTAS

MIKE AND TERE RUFF

SUSAN SABATANO

HAIFA SHABAN AND ISHRAQ SALMAN

YIANIS AND LISA SARAFIDIS BRITTANY SCALA ’09

TRAVIS SCALA ’16

ANDREW SCHULICK AND DEVIKA SINGH STEVE SCLAFINI AND EMMA CONNOR DANIELLE SHEGERIAN HEGGIE SHEGERIAN

BARBARA SHOEMAKER

MARY ALICE C. SILVERMAN

NEVIL SINGH AND SUMANA CHAKRAVARTY

BENJAMIN AND JESSICA SMITH RJ AND MARYBETH SMITH

JOSEPH AND JENNIFER SPINELLI MARTIN AND WENDY STANISLAV STEIN AND PALLEY FAMILY LUCINDA AND RON STEIN JEAN STEIS JENNIFER AND BRIAN SULLIVAN JOAN SULLIVAN MAUREEN AND JOHN SWEENEY GERARDO UÑA AND CARINA LUPICA MATTHEW AND KEMBA WALDEN WAPTO JOHN AND PAIGE WATERMAN

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SPRING 2022

Corporations, Foundations, Schools, Matching Gifts BRIDGEPOINT HEALTHCARE CATHOLIC BUSINESS NETWORK COLD STREAM FOUNDATION CONNELLY SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD THE FRANCIS P. CHIARAMONTE FAMILY FOUNDATION GEORGETOWN PREPARATORY SCHOOL GEORGETOWN VISITATION PREPARATORY SCHOOL GONZAGA COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL PARODI EDUCATIONAL CONSULTING REDHILL TOWN DESIGN STONE RIDGE SCHOOL OF THE SACRED HEART THE SHEPHERD FOUNDATION TULGEY WOOD FOUNDATION WAPTO

Kathy Piwko Merit Scholarship Fund The following donors generously gave to the Kathy Piwko Merit Scholarship Fund established to honor of Kathy’s extraordinary 34 years of teaching at The Woods. We have been blessed with Kathy’s brilliance, enthusiasm, sharp wit, and her tireless advocacy on the part of our students. Her legacy will continue to nourish future generations of Woods students through her merit scholarship. ANONYMOUS (2)

JOHN AND ANN DAVIS CHARLES AND MICHELE EGWUAU MELANIE AND CORY FUNKHOUSER NEIL AND LISA GRAMMER BETH, GEOF AND DAVID ’15 HOBART MATT LERNER AND CHERRY JOY BEYSSELANCE BRIAN MCCORMICK ’17 CHRIS MCCORMICK ’14 MARGIT NAHRA STEIN AND PALLEY FAMILY GERARDO UÑA AND LUPICA CARINA CLAIRE AND RAY WYRSCH

Lisa Mataac Dodson Memorial Scholarship The Liza C. Mataac Dodson Memorial Scholarship Fund was established at The Woods Academy to honor the memory of Liza, a proud Woods alumna, former teacher, and parent. We have awarded this scholarship annually to the rising 8th grader who in their Woods career has best exemplified the qualities of mentorship of younger students and involvement in school and community life that Liza so consistently displayed as a member of the Woods community

AWARDED TO ISABELLA FANDL FOR THE 202021 SCHOOL YEAR.

SOTOS Faculty Professional Development Fund (Support Our Teachers, Our School) GEORGE AND PEGGY SOTOS

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“We are happy to donate! We really appreciate the efforts all of you are giving to help our boy have a positive learning and social environment.” Current Parent

The Woods Academy 6801 Greentree Road Bethesda, MD 20817 301 365 3080 www.woodsacademy.org

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Bethesda, MD Permit No. 5578

Thank you for making this a welcoming and amazing community!

Save the Date:

Thursday, May 16 & Friday, May 17, 2019

15th Annual Arts Celebration featuring The Wizard of Oz

Friday, May 31, 2019 at 9:00 am

Montessori Program and Graduation

Friday, May 31, 2019 at 5:00 pm

8th Grade Graduation

The Wizard of Oz and support the Arts at The Woods.

woodsacademy.org

welcoming family enjoyable funsmart amazing loving ve creati

Please visit woodsacademy.org/artscelebration to purchase tickets to

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memorab le community

y l e v i l caring

inclusive complicated compassionate independent