The Woods Academy News vol 22 iss 1

2015

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IN THIS ISSUE

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A Farewell page 3

Class of 2015 page 4

Profile of a Graduate page 6

Alumni Profiles page 8

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SUMMER VOLUME 22 / ISSUE 1 A Publication for The Woods Academy Community

Where curiosity and confidence thrive.

The Woods Academy N E W S

Dear Woods Community, I hope this edition of WoodsNews finds you well. I just came back from a conference and the keynote speaker delivered a line that stuck with me, “If you are still breathing, there is work to do.” While this line might sound a bit morbid, I took it differently. I always joke that I get to come up for air in the summer, but this line stuck with me because it is more about a growth mindset. Carol Dweck, an accomplished researcher and author, writes extensively in her book, Mindset.

Needless to say, I am a huge fan of Dweck’s work and the impact it has and will make on education.

As we head into our 40th anniversary at The Woods, there is no more relevant word than growth. We have grown so much as a school, and yet we must embrace growth as we move the school forward. I often say to people that we are in the business of growing people. We grow little people into young adults and beyond (see infographic and profiles of our alums). We grow new teachers into master teachers (see story on Mrs. Iyer’s retirement). We grow small ideas into well recognized and accomplished programs and partnerships (see story on our sister school in Kenya). Growth happens. Growth must happen. Growth may not always be smooth (just remember your teenage years), but we must embrace a growth mindset in order to grow.

On the Cover Tilted Dancer by Edgar Degas recreated by Catherine Heming (2015) as a part of the Reflections of the Masters Project.

The Class of 2015 combined their love of art and words to complete an eighth grade project. Students selected paintings by famous artists and replicated the iconic works. When they finished their paintings, they wrote papers analyzing the paintings and describing the emotions and feelings they had when they observed them. Using these papers, the students then wrote Found Poems, pulling the most descriptive phrases from their analyses and turning these into poems.

They had a great time learning from the masters.

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While I am of the age that I must come to grips with the fact that I will never grow to be 6 feet tall, I still have plenty of “other” growing to do. I don’t believe that any of us is “too old” to grow and learn. Whether you are a student, teacher, parent or an alum, I hope and pray that you look at The Woods as a place where a foundation was laid and growth happened. While nobody is ever a finished product, being open to growth is so important. Here is to another 40 years of believing in children and promoting a growth mindset.

Sincerely,

Joseph E. Powers Head of School

FAREWELL

SUMMER

2015

Photos from top to bottom:

Mrs. Iyer is Off to Try New Things!

Mrs. Iyer at the 2015 Montessori Program and Graduation Mrs. Iyer (center), Mrs. Sarah Stewart (left), and Ms. Michele Roome (right) have worked together as the Montessori I team since 2001.

Mrs. Iyer’s First Montessori Class in 1987: Montessori II with Mrs. Gerber

By Joanne Gerber, Montessori Director

Mrs. Iyer’s Last Montessori Class in 2015: Montessori I with Mrs. Stewart and Ms. Roome

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his year Montessori learned many new vocabulary words—illustrator, quadrilateral, nimble (as in Jack), evaporation, and retirement— a new word for us! We’ve defined retirement as “off to try new things” and after 28 years of teaching and learning at The Woods Academy, that is just what Mrs. Iyer intends to do!

28 years at one school is quite an accomplishment. Mrs. Iyer has had the joy of working with hundreds of Montessori students first in Montessori II and then for the last 17 years in Montessori I. In addition to her Montessori lessons, she has done lots of Hands On Science experiments, sold many raffle and play tickets, assisted in the start of the Owl program, and collaborated on many programs and accreditation teams—all helping to make The Woods the great place it is today.

How did Mrs. Iyer manage all this? Do you want to know her secret?

Drink coffee—black, no sugar.

Collect lists of homophones.

Jump rope and build snowmen on the playground.

Sing parts of songs—only parts—walking down the hall.

Pack up the shed like a trinomial cube.

Plan game days for students and parties for faculty.

Love math—and even make angles with your arm: right, obtuse, acute.

Find interesting treasures all over the world.

Never do the walkie-talkie at carpool.

Wear beautiful saris to school.

Read terrific books aloud, and laugh at all the humor.

Helping us “try on” India with saris, bangles, henna, and bindis.

Count money—the more, the better whether French Festival, Arts Festival, or raffle.

Travel often.

Send postcards.

Smile and laugh often.

Work hard—or harder to be an excellent teacher.

Remind us about all the good things we do in Montessori and at The Woods.

Be optimistic!

Always be ready to learn something new.

Expect only the best from each of us.

Report what sweets are “worth it!”

Live the Montessori precept “Love what you do.”

Lead a life of significance!

Mrs. Iyer, We wish you all the best as we celebrate your 28 years at The Woods Academy. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.

“Education is a matter of the heart.”

— St. John Bosco

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CLASS OF 2015

The Woods Academy N E W S

The Woods Academy Class of 2015 has been accepted to the following high schools: Academy of the Holy Cross

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Christchurch School

Georgetown Preparatory School

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Connelly School of the Holy Child

Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School

Our Lady of Good Counsel High School St. John’s College High School

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St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School

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French International School

Gonzaga College High School St. Anselm’s Abbey School

Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

Washington International School

The class was awarded $120,000 in merit scholarships.

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Share Your News

Please send in your Alumni Notes for the upcoming issues of The Woods Academy News to keep your classmates and other Woods friends up to date.

Photos are always welcome!

Email your updates to Jodie Shoemaker, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Alumni Relations, at alumni@woodsacademy.org

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CLASS OF 2015

The Woods Academy Congratulates the Members of the Class of 2015 Inés Andrés

María Ascanio Aliño Nicole Briscuso

Henry Campbell Alexandre Crepin María de Velasco Basterra Patrick Dolan Zubin Eimen Ify Eze Ugo Eze Muriel Fayemi Bobby Foose David Giannini Catherine Heming David Hobart David-Jem Jimenez-Guzel Briana Lantuh Margaret Maloney

SUMMER

2015

Class of 2015 Awards

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uring the commencement ceremony on May 29th, the following Graduation Awards were given to the Class of 2015.

The Athletic Director’s Award which recognizes model Woods Academy athletes for outstanding academic achievement, sportsmanship, teamwork, dedication, and sacrifice for the program was given to Sidra Swift and Ify Eze. The Woods Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Arts, given to eighth grade student who has excelled in the fine arts, was awarded to Alex Toner.

The Serviam Award, for the eighth grade student who has given outstanding service to The Woods community, was received by Catherine Heming.

The Celestine Award was given to Sidra Swift and Ify Eze as the eighth grade students who demonstrated the effort and hard work that characterizes the ideal Woods Academy student.

The Award for Academic Achievement, given to the eighth grade students who demonstrated excellence in academics, was awarded to Molly O’Connor and David Giannini.

María Ascanio Aliño and Grace Yang were the recipients of 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 a commitment to community service.

Bryan Nickerson Devin Nickerson Molly O’Connor Will Pappert Sofía Ricaurte Ricky Samayoa Sidra Swift Alex Toner Jean Tostain Georgia Tsianakas Grace Yang 5

More than 1/2

$ At least 1/3

69%

Profile of a Graduate

of all Woods graduates are Lifers.

Woods graduates from the Classes of 2007–2015 have been awarded

nearly $900,000

in merit scholarships to high school.

of Woods graduates are recognized for their commitment to community service.

of Woods graduates participate in high school athletics.

2/3

Nationwide less than 1% of students enrolled in 4 year colleges and universities are Division 1 athletes.

5% of Woods alumni who currently attend college (Classes of 2008–2011) are Division 1 athletes.

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Graduates of The Woods Academy are

of Woods graduates are accepted to their first choice high school.

Over 95%

At least 1/3

86%

Open to Growth Willing to live their faith Leaders in their community Striving for a just and joyous life.

of Woods graduates hold one, if not more, leadership roles in high school.

of Woods graduates have received at least one award or recognition in high school.

of Woods graduates take multiple honors and/or advanced placement courses throughout high school.

100%

Nationwide

less than 0.5 % of undergrads attend an Ivy League University.

5%

of Woods graduates return to campus to say thank you to their teachers.

of undergrads who are Woods graduates (Classes of 2008–2011) attend an Ivy League University.

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The Woods Academy N E W S

ALUMNI PROFILES

40 Alumni Leading Lives of Significance, 2nd Edition

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n the last issue, we began celebrating our 40th Anniversary by recognizing members of our alumni community. In this issue, we continue to celebrate and honor everyone and everything that makes The Woods the place where children come to discover their talents, grow in their faith, challenge themselves and foster a strong desire to lead lives of significance. Learn how several more members of our alumni community are leading lives of significance.

Archer Chapin (2011) Georgetown Prep 2015, Dartmouth College 2019, Founder of Apartment Angel, a non-profit organization which provides interest-free loans to help struggling residents in risk of eviction How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

Freshman and Sophomore years at Prep, I had run cross country and track and that’s where I made most of my friends and felt most comfortable. Sophomore year, though, I was injured and couldn’t run indoor or outdoor track, so I instead picked up theater. I ended up doing three more plays (2 at Prep and 1 at Holy Cross) and met some of my best friends there. Also, this summer, I was going to work on Apartment Angel and maybe do an internship at a bank, but I realized that I would have that opportunity each summer in college and for the rest of my life, so I instead decided to work at a Boy Scout camp with my

best friend where I manage the Trading Post by myself. This gave me some experience in labor and retail which I wouldn’t have otherwise obtained.

Anything that accurately conveys the true meaning of Christianity must include love, especially loving the marginalized in the world, and inclusion of others. One way I have represented these values is through Apartment Angel. Apartment Angel helps provide people with their natural right to a home. As far as inclusion, last semester senior year at Prep I fought to create some form of an LGBT club at the school. I didn’t succeed, but I hopefully got the ball rolling so that the club will be established within the next few years.

I am a leader in my community through Apartment Angel and the Boy Scout camp. Also, at graduation, I received the Cardinal’s award for representing Catholic ideals. I have also been blessed to be attending a great college next year, where I have the opportunity to become a much greater leader in the community.

Justice is based on fixing the underlying problems of society rather than attempting to treat the symptoms of those social problems. I strive to lead a just life through Apartment Angel, which addresses homelessness, a condition that causes a myriad of other societal conditions. I strive to live a joyous life through balance. For example, in college I would like to study engineering because it will do the most good and may be most useful, but I would also like to minor in a more fun and interesting major such as psychology or public policy that could also be helpful in the future. Also, I used to overwork myself thinking that the most people would benefit the more I worked, but I realized that while hard work is important, I can help so many others by being happy rather than by overworking myself.

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ALUMNI PROFILES

SUMMER

2015

Jennifer Clark (1997) Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart 2001, Georgetown University 2005, Georgetown University Law Center 2008, Executive Director of African Dream Initiative How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

For me, one of my biggest goals is to always be learning something.

It doesn’t have to be academic or professional — it can be an interest, a skill, an appreciation and understanding of a different culture, etc.

— but I’m not happy if I’m not pushing myself to do something new and difficult. For example, when I was practicing law, I started taking courses at night towards a humanities Masters degree. It didn’t have anything to do with my career, but pushing the boundaries of my intellectual comfort level helped me to think more creatively and look for ways to do things differently.

In my professional life, I’m the Executive Director of a nonprofit called the African Dream Initiative, an organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children in East Africa who have the talent and motivation to succeed but lack the opportunity. As the ED, a big part of my job is planning for and guiding ADI’s staff, students, and program. Before joining ADI, I practiced law at two big law firms, and it was always really important to me to seek opportunities for service there. I took on a lot of pro bono cases in addition to my regular work, and represented victims of domestic violence, asylum seekers from other countries, natural disaster refugees, and other people who needed legal help but couldn’t afford it. And, when you’re enthusiastic about helping other people, it motivates the people around you to get involved, too. At my law firms, other associates and paralegals saw how rewarding my pro bono work was and started volunteering to work on my cases. One of my proudest moments was when a friend told me that the work I was doing with ADI had inspired him to create an organization dedicated to empowering LGBT youth in his home town of Calgary.

only one example, one day in middle school, Mr. Maloney told my class that he’d reserved a few spots for student volunteers to hand out hot meals with a mobile soup kitchen that weekend.

Instead of just asking for volunteers, he told us that anyone who was interested in going should write a paragraph about service, and that the writers of the best paragraphs would get to go.

By making volunteering a prize, he reinforced the idea that service to others was a privilege — something to aspire towards, and something to take pride and find joy in. And the lesson stuck, driving me to a career in the nonprofit world and one of the most rewarding callings I can imagine.

To this day, every time I tuck in my shirt, I briefly think that, if Mrs. Piwko were here, she would threaten to staple my shirttails to my underwear!

I don’t think you can separate joy from striving for justice. One of my high school teachers was the first person to tell me that the definition of “justice” was “right relationships.” Although the language was confusing, the sentiment was one that seemed obvious to me: if you’re not working to help other people, you’re going to feel like something is missing. And I think part of the reason it seemed so obvious was how The Woods community had established such a strong connection between service and happiness. To give

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The Woods Academy N E W S

ALUMNI PROFILES

Katherine Farrell (2004) Georgetown Visitation 2008, Georgetown University 2012, St. Joseph’s University 2014, 6th Grade Teacher at Visitation BVM School in North Philadelphia How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

When I graduated from Georgetown, I was looking for a way to continue my faith journey and pursue a teaching career. I was accepted into the Alliance for Catholic Education fellowship program at St. Joseph’s University and spent two years living in community with other new teachers, teaching in an urban Catholic school and attending graduate school at night. My faith is directly related to why I have stayed in this school past my two-year commitment; I feel I am continuing Jesus’ mission as I care and advocate for the marginalized children of North Philadelphia. I have high standards for my students despite all the factors working against their education because I recognize the gifts God has given each one, even when they don’t. As my students well know, one of

the most important rules in my classroom is to “do your best,” because when you give something your best effort, you honor the strengths God has bestowed on you. That is what leading a life of faith means to me, and that is how I try to lead my own life.

This was my first year as head coach for the high school crew program at William Penn Charter School. Even though I had only limited coaching experience, the Athletic Director offered me the Head Coach position due to the trust I had earned from rowers and parents.

I accepted the position despite my hesitations because I wanted my team to love rowing again after a dramatic and tumultuous past year.

Besides having a successful year on the race course, with two gold and one bronze medal at City Championships as well as a silver medal at Scholastic Nationals, our team earned equipment grants, organized a Boat Naming ceremony, and promoted a positive, competitive team culture. At school, I’ve taken more leadership positions, like planning the Middle School events at the Parish Festival, overseeing the Social Studies curriculum and producing the school yearbook.

Kate Gerber (1993) Georgetown Visitation 1997, Loyola University of Maryland 2001 (BA), Loyola University of Maryland 2003 (MS), Speech and Language Pathologist at Medstar Good Samaritan Hospital, 7 Time Marathon Runner How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

I have always been open to bettering myself through lifelong learning. I enjoy learning and doing new things like travel or a new form of exercise. I just took my first spin class! Mrs. Piwko taught me how to love reading. Now I always have a book on tap. Currently, I am in to WW2 books. Mindfulness has also helped me to grow as a person.

Being more aware of my feelings and my communication with others has helped me grow and develop relationships.

I run the Stroke support group at Good Samaritan Hospital where I work. Again this allows me the opportunity to meet and connect with so many individuals. Stroke survivors are the bravest people I know.

I always leave those meetings, feeling blessed to be part of their journey.

Service has been a large part of my life. Going to a Jesuit university instilled in me the importance of service to others from day one my freshman year. Over the years, I have volunteered as a tutor at Mother Seton Academy, I have organized food drives and clothing donations every year at work through my department. For three years, I combined my love of running with service and volunteered with an organization called Back on My Feet. This group helps homeless men and women set goals and work to achieve them whether it be 1 mile, a 5k, a job interview. I got to know people I never would have met before. Others who would have been judged for their past offenses, drug use etc. but we are all equal as runners and I saw the change first hand. One of the guys now works at the Aquarium. I see him on my Saturday morning runs and think how awesome it was to be part of that. Currently, I volunteer with an organization called Pets on Wheels.

I bring my dog Sophie to visit the sick and elderly in hospitals. She loves the attention and the people tell me it makes their day. Plus, I get to spend more time with Sophie. It’s just a win-win all around!

I try to live each day by treating others the way I want to be treated. I try to be open minded and not too quick to judge.

I have learned that you have to give people the benefit of the doubt. They might have been rude or pushy or unkind, but you really have no idea what they might be dealing with in their lives. I think it is hard with social media to not be sucked into this opinion that everyone has this perfect life. We all try to put our best foot forward, but everyone has their struggles and their pain. We have to be patient with one another.

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ALUMNI PROFILES

SUMMER

2015

Carol Lucarelli (2007) Connelly School of the Holy Child 2011, Virginia Tech 2015, Teacher How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

One of the most important things in life is to embrace growth. Looking back, I have learned that every experience I have had has formed me to be a stronger person today. At the same time, I can look towards the future with excitement embracing the many opportunities that are still to come.

I have always had a desire to lead and serve others. In deciding my plans for a future career, I knew I would not be rewarded if I did not live out my faith each and every day.

I have been a leader in my community in various ways by taking leadership positions in organizations on campus and especially in my sorority. The support from the Virginia Tech community has pushed me to be a leader not just on campus but in life.

I never imagined I would be where I am today. With graduation behind me, I am preparing for my first teaching position. I have always been so thankful for the educational opportunities I have been bless-

ed with in life. It is my passion to help nourish the future potential of children and to work towards the mission of an equal opportunity for all children.

Looking back on life, so many of my role models in life have been my enthusiastic teachers especially at The Woods Academy. I know I would not be where I am today without the education and encouragement I have had throughout my life.

Embracing my faith, sense of adventure, growth and opportunity, I am excited for my future career, as I share my love for learning and education with children.

John Ryan (2001) Georgetown Prep 2005, Cornell University 2009, Democratic Deputy Chief Counsel for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

In Washington, D.C., there are always new issues to master, and new situations to respond to. I try to live my life by holding firm to my principles in the face of new challenges, while remaining humble enough to reexamine my views and admit when I am wrong if new information comes along that casts doubt on my beliefs. I believe that is the creative push & pull that opens a person to beneficial growth.

My time at The Woods Academy and my Catholic high school has instilled in me the desire to be a man for others. That is partly why I have chosen to embark upon a life of public service – to serve my country, and the people within, to the best of my ability. My faith is also a daily reminder that it is not sufficient to merely do good works through my chosen profession, but that I should also strive to treat those around me with honesty, compassion and kindness.

legislation, and any ethics issues that come before the Committee. I credit Mr. Maloney and Mrs. Piwko’s classes with inspiring my enthusiasm for American history, government, and literature, and for setting me on my current path.

I currently serve as the Democratic Deputy Chief Counsel for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where I handle, among other issues: treaties, State Department and ambassadorial nominations,

The Woods Academy

Stay Connected

@TheWoodsAcademy

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Academy Company Page as well as join the alumni-only group. To search for the alumni group type in The Woods Academy Alumni.

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The Woods Academy N E W S

ALUMNI PROFILES

Paul Stearman (2002) Regis Jesuit High School (Colorado) 2005, Colorado State University 2010, Science Teacher at American International School Abuja How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

I went off to high school, I was on the chess team, a pole vaulter, and learned to become a Man for Others. I chose to attend a state college, which provides untold opportunities, do not get obsessed with a name school. I have lived in Nigeria for the last 3.5 years, this has been the most eye opening experience. Every day I see many who are poorer than the poorest, this has changed my outlook on life in ways I would not have imagined. The most essential character of growth, is to go out and find ways to grow, a seed will find a place to grow.

I believe in people, even after seeing the hardships of the people here or how the rich treat them. I became a teacher to improve those that will lead the world and to leave the places I go a little better than they were before. It will take you a long time to figure out what you believe. So the most essential character of faith, is to find it and to stand behind it.

Teachers have to be leaders, but I think it is important to do above and beyond what is expected of you, as a leader and before you are a leader. This country is barely able to function and needs smart growth.

So I decided to make Earth Day a tradition and to show that actions speak louder than words. This is the most essential character of a leader, to do as you want others to do.

Whatever you do with what you have been given, this is the most essential of your character. Everything else that you do will stem from

this. If you are unhappy and evil, your work and character will show it. But you will not be able to help everyone, trust me there are 500 people on every corner here that share two water spouts for all daily activities, but you can help those around you. I have planned to donate generators and a couple laptops to a few locals that I have befriended as technology and even basic electricity are a constant battles here.

Some additional thoughts: “Trees are what everyone needs.” – Dr. Seuss “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity.” – Thoreau.

Follow Mrs. Piwko’s formatting.

I currently have a Woods alum as a student and she outshines her peers, you have been given the best education possible. Be thankful and use it well.

Nicholas Swift (2009) Our Lady of Good Counsel 2013, Notre Dame University 2017 How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

It is very important to me to not only be open to growth, but to actively seek it out in everyday life. Whatever failures, successes, or other experiences, I have I always try to learn and grow academically, socially, spiritually, or in any other area of life.

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I am a leader in my community in many ways, but the most important to me is being a leader by example. I try to exude the values that I hold close, make right choices and treat people how I would want to be treated, and with that I believe comes respect, and my more formal leadership roles I believe have been a result of this foundation.

I am incredibly fortunate to be in the position that I am in. However, with that I believe comes a certain responsibility to help those that are in need. Even simple kindness toward and care for others has been incredibly beneficial for not only those others, but for my personal fulfillment and happiness as well.

ALUMNI PROFILES

SUMMER

2015

Jerome Williams (1987) Magruder High School (Rockville) 1991, Georgetown University 1996, 26th Pick Overall 1996 NBA Draft by Detroit Pistons, Business Development Officer at The Basketball Channel, Founder JYD Project — non-profit organization designed to utilize professional athletes’ influence to motivate youth to excel academically, sustain a healthy lifestyles, and increase spiritual faith.

How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

I am open to growth for many reasons but the number one reason for me is that every day is a learning opportunity. Ever since my graduation from The Woods Academy, I have never stopped learning. You can always reach the goal of graduation once you have passed the test, but I truly believe we never complete graduation in life until we die.

I’m willing to live my faith because from a young age my Lord and savior Jesus Christ became my friend. Through my faith in him, I chose to live a life to be more like humans to show others that Jesus was living inside of me. It’s been 35 years since I turned my life over to Jesus and I continue to rely on him in my everyday walk of life.

I’m a leader in my community by sharing my life experiences with young people. I try to give the knowledge to the youth on how to be the best that they can be. I also am active in my local Church.

I’m striving for a just and joyous life by counting my blessings every day. I remain aware of the needs of people abroad and the challenges that other countries face to remind me of the many blessings that I currently have.

I would like to thank The Woods Academy and Mrs. Piwko for striking a flame inside of me that still shines bright today. All of my best memories of school came from my time at The Woods. When I think back at my 8th grade year, I’m so thankful that my Grandmother took the time to find the school and saved enough money to send me there. I can’t put into words what it did for me on the inside, but as I was able to become a very special basketball player, The Woods Academy helped me to keep it all in perspective and never to forget the things that I had learned about the importance of education, giving back, and my faith.

C Save the Date!

The 11 Annual Golf Outing will be held on Friday, October 2. at Bretton Woods Golf Club. Contact Chris Stewart, Director of Development, cstewart@woodsacademy.org, for more information. th

31st Annual Grandparents & special Friends Day will be Friday, October 9.

Please contact Chris Stewart, Director of Development, cstewart@woodsacademy.org, for more information.

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40

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ince 1975, The Woods Academy, an inclusive Catholic community,

September Tuesday, September 1

Opening Mass & Anniversary Celebration Kick Off

Saturday, September 19

Fall Family Fun Day hosted by WAPTO

has been preparing boys and girls to lead lives of significance. The 2015– 2016 school year, marks the 40th Anniversary of when it all began.

Throughout the school year, we will celebrate and honor everyone and everything that makes The Woods the place where children come to discover their talents, grow in their faith, challenge themselves and foster a strong desire to lead lives of significance.

January Tuesday, January 19

Founders Day Mass celebrated

by Cardinal Wuerl

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1

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October Friday, October 2

11th Annual Golf Outing at Bretton Woods

Friday, October 9

31st Annual Grandparents & Special Friends Day

November Wednesday, November 25 Over 21 Alumni Happy Hour

Friday, October 23 Faculty & Staff Recognition Cocktail Reception Celebrating Faculty & Staff with 20+ years of service to The Woods.

Wednesday, October 28 “40th Day of School, 40 Years of Woods” Birthday Celebration for Students

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March

May

Saturday, March 5

Thursday, May 19 & Friday, May 20

26th Annual Night Owl Auction

12th Annual Arts Celebration

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The Woods Academy N E W S

CLASS OF 2011

Class of 2011: Where are they now?

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our years ago we highlighted the Class of 2011 as they were heading to high school. Now we take a look at what they have accomplished since that time and where they plan to attend college this fall.

Archer Chapin graduated from Georgetown Prep where he was a member of the Saint Edmund Campion Chapter of the National Honor Society. In addition, Archer founded a non-profit organization, Apartment Angel, which provides interest-free loans to help struggling residents in risk of eviction. He will attend Dartmouth College where he plans to major in engineering.

Khemah Bradford graduated from The Academy of the Holy Cross and will attend St. Johns University in the fall.

Honors student Charlie Criswell graduated from Winston Churchill High School this spring. At Churchill, Charlie was a member of the Varsity Lacrosse team which won its third Regional title in four years and made its first ever Class 4A/3A State Championship appearance. He will attend Penn State University where he will study business.

Brian Dickensheets graduated from Our Lady of Good Counsel High School where he was an Honor Roll student. He is off to East Carolina University where he will study engineering.

Adriana Dropulic who was recently selected as one of Bethesda Magazine’s 14 Extraordinary Teens graduated from Georgetown Visitation this spring. At the Academic Awards Night on May 31, Adriana received Senior Medals of Excellence in Science and Mathematics. She will attend University of Pennsylvania this fall.

Just after graduating from Georgetown Prep, Owen Flanagan returned to The Woods to assist Mr. Maloney with his Ignatian Leadership Institute. Owen will continue his journey as a “man for others” when he attends McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University this fall.

Clara Geffroy graduated from Georgetown Visitation this spring. She plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin where she will study advertising.

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Nadine Harmsen also graduated from Georgetown Visitation where she was recognized as an Outstanding Member of the French Club, was a member of the French Honor Society, and scored in the 95th percentile, earning a gold medal on the National French Contest. She also earned Maxima Cum Laude on the 2015 National Latin Exam and was named a Commended Student in the 2015 National Merit Program. She will attend École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne, in Switzerland where she will pursue a bachelors degree in Chemistry.

Lilly Hatoum a graduate of The Academy of the Holy Cross will also attend The University of Texas at Austin. She will be a pre-med student.

Keely Jobe also graduated from The Academy of the Holy Cross this spring. She plans to attend The University of Arizona’s College of Letters, Arts, and Science where she will study merchandizing.

Eric Kudiwu graduated from Georgetown Prep where he was a member of the Prep Players. As a senior, he performed in Aaron Sorkin’s A Few Good Men. Eric is off to University of Maryland College Park this fall where he plans to study business.

Matthew Little graduated from The Heights where he played Varsity Tennis. Throughout high school Matthew kept busy doing summer IT work at The Woods and volunteering at the VA Hospital in Washington, DC. He won the Outstanding Male Summer Youth Volunteer Award in 2014. After his current internship with a senior Public Defender for the District of Columbia, Matthew will attend Fordham University where he will major in political science and pursue a pre-law path.

Alexis Mahshigian, a Madelva Scholar and recipient of the St. André Bessette Citizenship Award, graduated from The Academy of the Holy Cross this spring. She will attend Elon University where she will double major in cinema and television arts and anatomy (pre-med).

Varsity lacrosse player and member of the Prep Players David Pitts graduated from Georgetown Prep. He will attend Washington College where he will be a pre-med student.

Mia Ratino graduated from National Cathedral School where she was recognized for her achievement on the National Spanish Examination most recently earning a Silver Medal.

She also received the Choral Music Award at the 2015 Flag Day Awards. Mia will attend Hamilton College this fall.

Varsity basketball player Jack Ridenour graduated from Georgetown Prep. This fall he will attend Chatham University in Pittsburgh where he will be one of the first male athletes at the university. Jack was recruited to play basketball at Chatham, a member of the NCAA Division III President’s Athletic Conference. Off the court, he will study communications and journalism.

Jack Sanders graduated from Gonzaga College High School where he played squash. He will attend Xavier University to study business and marketing.

A graduate of Landon School, Corbin Sheehan, plans to attend University of Maryland College Park this fall.

Pauline Ting graduated from Georgetown Visitation where she was recognized as an Outstanding Member of the Asian Interest Club. In addition, Pauline received the Gold Award for Christian Service for more than 250 hours of community service in her four years at Visi. Pauline will attend Carnegie Melon University this fall.

Matthew Wagner graduated from MCPS Humanities Magnet Program at Poolsville High School. He was a finalist in the MIT Inspire program, a national high school research completion in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. His project was one of only five chosen in the music category. Matthew received a scholarship to Belmont University where he plans to study music business.

OUR SISTER SCHOOL

SUMMER

2015

Two Schools, One Community

By Lloydie Triplett Zaiser, Sister School Program Founder and Facilitator

F

or the past three school years, The Woods family—including students, teachers, administrators and parents—has joined hands with the Nyumbani Village community in Kitui, Kenya. The course of this “marriage” of communities and schools has been all encompassing, with two Woods teachers visiting Kenya, several visitors from Kenya coming to The Woods, an on-going Sister School Exchange Program between The Woods and Hotcourses Primary located at Nyumbani Village in Kitui, Kenya… as well as many gifts and donations flowing back and forth, truly amazing how these communities have touched each other’s lives!

The summer of 2013, Nancy Talbot and Megan Mullally, fourth grade teachers at The Woods, made the journey to Kenya to meet their Sister School counterparts and visit with the Nyumbani Village community.

Ms. Talbot took on the additional responsibility of becoming the Sister School Coordinator for The Woods Academy. The program would not have been possible without hers hours of dedication to its success.

Sister Mary Owens, Executive Director of all Nyumbani Programs, made her second of three visits to The Woods Academy in September 2013. She spoke at an Upper School assembly and met with the Upper School students during their Religion classes.

Ms. Talbot and Mullally met with the class 3, 4, and 5 teachers planning the first exchanges for the 2013–2014 school year. They also observed those classes in progress to become accustomed to the teachings styles and responsiveness of the students. This trio was invaluable in launching the Sister School Program between the two schools. Upon return,

She couldn’t resist visiting with the Lower School students as well. Protus Lumiti, Director of Nyumbani Children’s Home, graced the halls of The Woods Academy in September 2014, even teaching the First Grade classes a new song which they proceeded to sing all the way down the hall to music class! Another special visitor from Kenya will come to The Woods in the fall to continue the enriching experience of face-to-face contact.

The Sister School Program between The Woods Academy and Hotcourses Primary has just completed its second full year. The 17

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original classes involved were Montessori and Grades Three through Five. Sixth Grade was added this year with hopes of adding Second Grade next year. Highlights, by all means not inclusive, of the program by grade are as follows:

Parents have been generous in sending funds to supply every adolescent girl living at Nyumbani Village (all 435 of them) with a package of sanitary pads to last an entire year along with seven pairs of underpants.

Montessori Studying safari animals, culture and tribal dress Sending over 160 packs with school supplies, to Kenyan pre-school students Receiving many exchanges of letters and drawings from their Kenyan friends

Third Grade Exchanging yearly the Itchy Witchy Poetry Recitation video performed at The Woods Academy with a letter explaining Halloween Receiving videos of the Hotcourses Class Three students singing, dancing and reciting poetry, along with many letters

Fourth Grade

The entire Woods community has been very generous in making donations to improve the quality of life of our Kenyan friends.

Students and families have donated hundreds of pounds of clothing and shoes. Teachers have given generously of extra school supplies and sports clothing, also donating a new camera and four refurbished computers to assist the Hotcourses teachers with the Sister School Program.

Exchanging of essays written about states in America, including posters to be hung in the Kenyan classrooms and many letters Creating posters of famous American leaders with inspirational quotes, to be hung in Kenyan classrooms Gifting of the annual poetry book written by Fourth Grade students Blessing of the backpacks at the Thanksgiving Mass that sent more bags to school children at Hotcourses Receiving letters, videos of daily tasks and hand-woven coasters from Class Four in Kenya

Fifth Grade Exchanging interviews and photos of grandparents gathered on Grandparents Day Receiving a book of stories and photographs of grandparents living at Nyumbani Village

Sixth Grade Sending fifty pounds of pencils, over 2000, to Kenyan school children at Nyumbani Village Exchanging projects took place in Music and Art classes. A video of the Sixth Grade singing Spirituals was created and a special art project was gathered Kenyan students to complete Raising funds to improve water management in the semi-arid land of the Maasai Receiving a video of singing and dancing, soon to be delivered art projects of the Kenyan students choice.

As you walk the halls of The Woods, you are libel to hear the students talking in English, Spanish, French… and Swahili! All classes have been learning conversational words in Kenya’s national language, Swahili.

Greet a student with the word, “Jambo!” and listen to what they say!

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Last but not least, the administration has given its full support to the program and exchanges along with adding funds to the Student Council and Sixth Grade donations to aid with improvement in water management of the Maasai Pastoral Community Development Alliance (PCDA). This summer, with these funds, gutters and water-catching cisterns will be added to each school building and the containers will be filled with fresh water as the rains have already passed for the season. Water is life and The Woods family has given life and hope to this Maasai community, BRAVO! In closing, the Head of School Joe Powers states, “…our two communities benefit from this partnership. Thank you to all, Woods teachers and our friends at Nyumbani and Hotcourses, for making this work so well for all the kids.”

To learn more about our partners in Kenya visit www.nyumbani.org

AROUND THE WOODS

Le Grand Concours FLES 2015 — National French Contest

T

he fourth grade French students recently participated in the National French Contest sponsored yearly by the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF). Thousands of students took the test in Maryland and throughout the United States.

Eight of The Woods fourth grade French students placed in the 95th percentile or higher this year, receiving a Gold Medal.

Kevin Reese, Will Lankenau, Andrea Gonzalez Sanchez, and Lila Amirkhalili ranked 2nd in MD. Nami Aston, Julia Capuano, and James Cohen ranked 3rd in MD. And, Mariana Arguello ranked 4th in MD.

SUMMER

2015

2015–2016 Student Council Officers

A

t our closing mass on June 5, our newly elected Student Council Officers were blessed by Fr. DaSilva. Congratulations to President Tom Agnew (right center), Vice President Oliver Wolcott (right), Treasurer Travis Scala (left center), and Secretary Mary Fromm (left). These 8th graders are well prepared to lead the student body in 2015–2016.

Félicitations!

First Communion

O

n May 20th, The Woods celebrated the 17 second graders who made their First Holy Communion earlier in the spring. The whole school attended mass prepared by the First Communicants, their classmates, and teachers. The students also performed a special Communion hymn, “Jesus, You are Bread for Us.” The mass was celebrated by Fr. Ray Kemp from Georgetown University.

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The Woods Academy Arts Celebration

O

n May 14th and 15th, The Woods Academy presented its Eleventh Annual Arts Celebration. This annual event is a culmination of the year’s work by all students throughout the entire school.

In addition to having our multi-purpose room transformed into an art gallery—showcasing hundreds of paintings, watercolors, pastels, ink drawings, prints, sculptures, and weavings—the exhibition spilled into the hallways of the school.

Student musicians from every grade performed in the Art Gallery on both days. There was even a special concert given by The Woods Instrumental Ensemble.

This year’s drama production was Peter Pan Jr., the story of a magical young boy who refuses to grow up. The audience was entertained by our 7th and 8th grade actors on stage.

“Every child is an artist.”

— Picasso

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SUMMER

2015

D Faculty & Staff Anniversaries

At the completion of the 2014–2015 school year, the following faculty and staff members celebrated milestone anniversaries at The Woods.

5 Years

10 Years

15 Years

Jamie Alisbah, Upper School Science

Judith Conrad, Administrative Assistant

Lyndsey Canter, Montessori III Assistant

Linda Handy, Director of Guidance

Betty Brown, Grandparents Coordinator

20 Years Lauren (Foti) Miller, 1st Grade

Kate Fullenkamp, Montessori II

Kate Burke, 7th & 8th Grade Math

Gerardo Saucedo, Facilities Megan Mullally, 4th Grade

Hasmig Mahshigian, Director of Finance and Operations

Sharon Pabon, Music

Eric Smith, Director of Technology

Susan Powers, Librarian

Gina Swanda, Drama

Jimmy Rodriguez, Facilities

Christina Phelps, Director of Extended Care

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New Faculty and Staff Profiles Michele Carpenter, Extended Care Teacher

Michele Carpenter grew up in Sugarland, TX. Michele most recently taught English at a Catholic school in El Puerto de Santa Maria, Spain. Michele works as director of a camp during the summer months.

Allison Cullinane, 2nd Grade Teacher Allison Cullinane grew up locally in Rockville.

Allison most recently taught Grade 3 at Lincoln Community School in Accra, Ghana while finishing her M.Ed. Allison loves to travel! Her husband is in the Foreign Service and they have lived in Thailand and Ghana. She really enjoyed immersing in the culture of those countries and getting to visit many of the surrounding places.

Kalila Henry, Extended Care Teacher Kalila Henry was born and raised in Jamaica. She moved to the US 11 years ago, living in Gaithersburg this entire time.

Kalila taught kindergarten in Washington, DC prior to substitute teaching in Extended Care, 1st grade, and 4th grade here at The Woods Academy this past school year.

In her spare time, Kalila enjoys listening to audio books, reading books, traveling, doing DIY projects, planning events, embroidery, baseball games, playing and watching soccer, and quiet Sunday evenings with her family. She volunteers with The Reading Connection (TRC) Read-Aloud in Maryland which allows her to read and give books to children who live in shelters.

Patty Horn, Montessori I Teacher Patty Horn was born in Boston and lived there for 10 years and then lived in New Jersey for 10 years. If she had to pick a hometown it would be Bridgewater, NJ‌..but she loves New England.

For the past three years Patty taught a Primary Montessori Class of 30 children at Apple Montessori in Bethesda.

Teaching is actually Patty’s second career. She did corporate marketing for 20 years and then after spending a year at home with her youngest daughter before she started kindergarten she decided to pursue a career in teaching.

Kimberley Jibladze, US French Teacher Kimberley Jibladze was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Kimberley just finished her 5th year teaching French at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy, an advanced academic magnet high school in Austin, Texas.

Kimberley is fascinated by language and culture. She has been passionate about French since middle school and has traveled to France many times, for both vacations and academic programs. She is also learning the Georgian language in order to communicate with her husband and his family in their native language. They travel to the (former Soviet Republic of ) Georgia frequently both on their own and as leaders of youth and adult cultural discovery tours.

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SUMMER

2015

Lis Sheehan, Spanish Teacher Lis Sheehan grew up in Asunción, Paraguay.

Lis just recently returned to the Washington, DC area after teaching for five years at SEK International School in Paraguay. Prior to that, she taught Spanish to 5th–8th graders at Holy Trinity School in Georgetown.

Lis is very excited to meet her future students and their families and knows it will be a great school year. She loves teaching and is looking forward to joining the World Language team at The Woods.

Matt Smith, 5th Grade Math & Science Teacher A native Washingtonian, Matt Smith grew up in the Bethesda-Chevy Chase area where he attended Mater Dei for eight full years before graduating from Georgetown Prep. From there, he completed a post graduate year at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA then headed south for the warmer weather in Athens, GA and the University of Georgia.

After graduation, Matt moved back to the D.C. area where he decided to leave the mortgage banking industry behind a few years ago and follow his heart and passion to the field of education. He started his journey in 2013 at Holy Redeemer in Kensington where he was teaching P.E. while working on his Elementary Education certification, as well as being a member of the Archdiocese of Washington’s Leadership Academy.

Outside of the classroom, Matt spends a lot of time on the lacrosse field as a coach at St. John’s College High School and a 7/8th grade club team.

Lastly, he’s a big time dog-lover, avid runner, and a die-hard D.C. sports fan.

Peggy Sotos, Archivist Peggy Sotos is a Nebraska native.

Peggy has spent the past sixteen years as a stay-at-home mother to Katie (2007) and Madison (2013) and an active community volunteer. She is currently the Parents’ Association Leadership Council President at The Madeira School in McLean, VA and serves on the school’s Board of Trustees.

Peggy has filled numerous volunteer roles at The Woods including Co-Chairperson of the Ever Forward Capital Campaign, WAPTO President, Chair/Co-Chair of several Night Owl Auctions, and Chair of many Arts Celebrations and Book Fairs.

Erica Vassos, 3rd Grade Teacher Erica Vassos is a native Washingtonian, she grew up in Potomac, and attended Connelly School of the Holy Child for 8th through 12th grades.

Erica has a degree in elementary education from American University, and did her student teaching at Holy Redeemer School in Kensington, MD. She has spent the last 6 months as a para-educator for a special needs student at Holy Redeemer, as well as, tutoring several students after school. This summer she is excited to be working as a teacher at a school for students with special needs.

Erica is a huge Washington, D.C. sports team fan and never misses a game. She has had season tickets to the Redskins games her whole life and she loves to cheer on the Nats, Wizards and Caps…..hopefully some team will win a championship soon!

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40

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The Woods Academy Seeking to Build Archive for 40th Anniversary

I

n anticipation of our 40th anniversary celebration during the 2015–2016 school year, The Woods Academy invites all members of the community to contribute to our archive of historical documents and memorabilia. We are seeking to add anything related to your Woods experience. We would enjoy hearing from everyone, so please, current parents, students, faculty and staff, alumni, parents and grandparents of alumni, former faculty and staff, everyone, please take some time to look for items that you would like to contribute.

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SUMMER

2015

Please deliver your contributions to The Woods Academy, Attention: Peggy Sotos, Archivist. We hope to compile memorabilia from all different perspectives from every Woods class and from every phase of the school’s development. Please email our Archivist Peggy Sotos (psotos@woodsacademy.org) with any questions about materials. We look forward to hearing from you!

We are currently seeking: Yearbooks To the best of our knowledge, the first school yearbook was published during the 1986–1987 school year. Does anyone know anything different? Were there yearbooks published prior to 1987? Also, we do not have yearbooks for 1987–1988 and 1988–1989. Were yearbooks published for these two school years?

Uniforms We are looking for school as well as PE and athletic uniforms from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Please no current uniforms.

Event Programs and Invitations Did you save the program from Library Theater?

What about the spring musical? We are looking to complete our collection. You may have the graduation or mass program that we are missing.

What about the invitation to the 1st Night Owl Auction or the Faculty Feast?

Publications We hope to complete our collection. We need newsletters, brochures, admissions materials printed prior to 2000.

Auction Catalogs We thought the 1st Night Owl Auction occurred in 1990. Then we found a catalog from 1982. Help us complete our collection. Are we missing catalogs from 1983–1989? We also need catalogs from 1992, 2001, and 2012.

Newspaper Articles and Advertisements Any and all.

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AROUND THE WOODS

Montessori Graduatiom

R

eady to move on to full days of classes and uniforms in the Lower School, the Montessori Lunchers graduated on May 29th in a ceremony full of songs and poetry in English, French, and Spanish. There is no doubt the Lunchers will miss their Montessori teachers and friends, but we are sure they are going to enjoy First Grade!

2014–2015 Good Samaritans Recognized

O

n Monday, June 1, at Upper School Chapel, six students from Upper School were honored for putting others in front of themselves. Niles Alburg and Luciana Wolcott in 5th grade, Natalie Pierce and Kendall Wright in 6th grade, and Frances Cave and John Cavanaugh in 7th grade were selected by their peers to receive The Woods Academy Good Samaritan Award. This award honors students whose behavior is rooted in the actions of the Good Samaritan from Jesus’ parable in Luke. Students who are recognized with this honor are authentic, kind, encouraging, willing to go out of their way for others, and positive.

Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?”

— Martin Luther King, Jr. 26

AROUND THE WOODS

#548 2015

SUMMER

THE WOODS WORD OF THE DAY: #548

Mathusician n: An advanced math student who, for fun, calculated the angle at which she plays her guitar to be 63째.

From Montessori through grade 8, our students get involved in so many activities, we had to create a unique vocabulary just to describe them.

Define yourself at The Woods.

An inclusive Catholic community preparing boys and girls to lead lives of significance.

Where curiosity and confidence thrive.

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

The Woods Academy News is published by the Marketing & Communications Office of The Woods Academy, 6801 Greentree Road, Bethesda, MD 20817-2210 Phone: 301 365 3080 Fax: 301 469 6439 www.woodsacademy.org The Woods Academy seeks qualified applicants of every race, religion, nationality, and ethnic origin.

Lordy, lordy, The Woods Academy is 40! Turn to pages 14–15 to learn more about how we plan to celebrate.