The Woods Academy News vol 27, iss 1

SUMMER 2020  VOLUME 27 / ISSUE 1

A PUBLICATION FOR THE WOODS ACADEMY COMMUNITY

Where curiosity and confidence thrive.

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

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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 Cover Photo: “The Humble Quilt” a collaborative, ceramic mural by Grade 3.

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In this issue:

HEAD OF SCHOOL’S MESSAGE

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TRIBUTE TO CHARMAINE TAVERNER 4 CLASS OF 2020

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CLASS OF 2016

12

FACULTY & STAFF

13

NIGHT OWL AUCTION

16

COMMUNITY MATTERS

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CLASS NOTES

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Dear Woods Community, I hope this edition of The Woods Academy News finds you and your family safe and healthy. This magazine features a wonderful tribute to Mrs. Charmaine Taverner, who is retiring this year, a salute to the tremendous success of our Class of 2020 graduation and those that graduated in 2016, and certainly a deep reflection of the realities of two pandemics we have awakened to these past few months.

COVID-19 hit all schools hard but our students, teachers, and families rose to the occasion. It was amazing to see how The Woods transitioned from fostering community in our building to doing so from home. None of us imagined this was going to happen and everyone stepped-up to meet the challenges and make the best of this situation. From daily Zooms, to creative content, to morning meetings, The Woods shined in a time of great challenge. I could not be more grateful to our community for how they responded to such a difficult time.

As we are deep into a summer of preparing to open a new school year, I am drawing strength from this community and the giants upon whose shoulders we stand today.

Below are two quotes that are helping to provide that North Star as we manage the challenges of COVID-19 and battle the evils of racism and injustice.

activist even before that term was even coined. She is a hero of mine and a guiding light for us as we use the power of education to “have the courage to change old ideas” and put our powers “towards good ends.”

Our children are our most precious gift, and our mission calls us to be an “inclusive Catholic community” as we prepare our children to “lead lives of significance.” Never have these two pieces been more important to education and our commitment to fight the evils of racism and promote a just society that brings us together. We are committed to making this happen for our Black and Brown brothers and sisters. From formal curriculum review, to policy review, to a greater commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work, The Woods is committed to using our mission to guide us as we find the “courage” needed to listen and actions required to promote everlasting peace and affect change.

May you and your families continue to be safe and well.

As we move forward to open a new school year with a focus on health, safety, and a commitment to justice and equality, please continue pray for The Woods. Your prayers and our mission will compel action that leads to “good ends.”

“Establishing lasting peace is the work of education.” – Maria Montessori

“We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends.” – Mary McLeod Bethune

As you know, Maria Montessori is a strong influence on us here at The Woods. Our work, beyond the fundamentals, is to create lasting peace in our world. Our children are a powerful conduit to make that happen and we are focused more than ever on this mission to “lead lives of significance.”

Additionally, we honor our teachers who give twenty years or more of service to The Woods with a plaque in the front entrance to the school and on that plaque is a quote from a great and often understated educator, Mary McLeod Bethune. Ms. Bethune was an educator and a civil rights

Peace,

Joseph Powers Head of School

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

Honoring a

True Artist

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT TRIBUTE TO CHARMAINE TAVERNER

CHARMAINE TAVERNER

ART TEACHER (2004–2020)

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

“Our family looks forward to the Arts Celebration every year. As we enter the Art Gallery, it is easy to see that Mrs. Taverner has a special gift. She has taught our children how to create amazing art. More so, Mrs. Taverner is an exceptional person and it comes through in how she is an exceptional teacher. Our children often come home with stories about how in her class they learned how people throughout time and around the world have communicated and expressed their feelings or shared what was important to them through art. Mrs. Taverner has imprinted kindness into their little hearts by modeling kindness every day.

She has made us laugh and her sayings along with all of her other teaching will remain with our family forever.”

Ines Vega, Parent (2017, 2021, 2023)

“A true artist is not one who is inspired, but who inspires others.”

Salvador Dali

Painting the Library Mural 2008

“Charmaine’s unique ability to recognize beauty in everything and everyone reflects her own unparalleled beauty as a person.”

“My favorite subject is art because I love seeing all the things that I can do with a paintbrush.”

Lily Mathis, Grade 3

Lily Argilagos, Parent 2009

“Exceptional person, teacher, teammate/colleague, and friend!

SOOOOO MUCH LOVE to Mrs. Taverner from the entire Sotos family.”

Peggy Sotos, Parent (2007, 2013)

Kindergarten Art Class 2019

8th Grade Art Class 2011

“Thank you for everything!

Sean Kenny is so fortunate to have had you teach him and help him grow his love of art.

Thank you, thank you!”

Brooks Kenny, Parent (2020)

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

TRIBUTE TO CHARMAINE TAVERNER

“Charmaine is one-of-a-kind and one of the most wonderful people I have ever met!”

Liz Curran, Director of Development (2003-2010)

“The Arts Celebration is my favorite Woods tradition because it makes me excited for the end of the school year and it’s a time where I can have fun with my friends.”

Mr. Powers participated in 5th Grade Art Class during his 1st year as HOS in 2011.

Ana Tovar, Class of 2020

Arts Celebration 2019 “My favorite Woods tradition is the Annual Arts Celebration and the stars that people get each other during the play and art week.

Everyone is always excited for the week and it makes everyone happy seeing their name up on the wall.”

Colette Raymond, Class of 2020

“Mrs. Taverner changed our son, Bernard Harman’s, life. He came to Woods disliking art class and convinced he had no skills in it. He is leaving with renewed appreciation for fine art, AND the knowledge and pride that he has created beautiful pieces. We can’t thank you enough for this gift.”

Kate Beers, Parent (2020, 2024)

“We cherish the many beautiful pieces of art around our house.

We will miss you, Mrs. Taverner.”

Brit Powers, Parent (2018, 2019, 2019)

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“The play is my favorite Woods tradition because it is a big event that both 7th and 8th graders take part in every year.”

Griffin Fromm, Class of 2020

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.”

Edgar Degas

During her 16 years as the Art Teacher at The Woods, Charmaine Taverner made us see the uniqueness, creativity, and spirit of each one of our students. The artwork she guided our students to create brightened our hallways and our hearts. Mrs. Taverner’s legacy unites our community in artistry like the beautiful mosaics she and her students have produced over the years.

POND STUDY MOSAIC

Under the guidance of Mrs. Taverner, the Class of 2016 created this beautiful mosaic way back in 2011 as third graders. The students worked together to construct a ceramic pond ecosystem like the ones they studied in science that year. This special piece of art was dedicated to former Associate Head of School John DeMarchi when he left The Woods in 2011 to become the Head of Evergreen Montessori School.

OWL MOSAIC

This community mural in ceramic was created in recognition of The Woods Academy’s 40th Anniversary in 2015-2016. Led by Mrs. Taverner, every member of the student body had a hand in designing this special piece of art that now hangs outside the main entrance of the school greeting everyone who visits the campus.

THE HUMBLE QUILT MOSAIC

This collaborative, ceramic mural by Grade 3 students this school year pays a permanent tribute to those who fought for freedom.

The students looked specifically at quilts and quilt patterns as a means of secret communication on the Underground Railroad. The secret messages were communicated through code words and beautifully crafted quilts. As a collaborative effort, the third graders designed and created a ceramic, American Flag, using the traditional quilt patterns of the time, signaling escape, help, and safety. They also chose a quote

by Martin Luther King Jr. to remind us all to do “what is right” each time we pass by the special piece hanging just inside the front entrance.

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

CLASS OF 2020

GRADUATION AND AWARDS CEREMONY On Friday, May 29, we celebrated and recognized the Class of 2020 for their outstanding contributions to The Woods community. Although we were not able to be together on campus for the Graduation Mass and Ceremony, we did come together virtually as a community for the event.

40%

scored in the top 10% nationally on HSPT, as compared to an annual average of 20% for ADW students

$300k+ 2 in merit-based scholarship awards received

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Lifers – students have attended since at least Kindergarten

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RISE Scholars

Student Reflection

Walker Cave, Student Council President, shared a funny and heartfelt reflection with his classmates via Livestream complete with a few timely props – toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Alumni Reflection

Legacies – 2nd Generation Woods Graduates

97%

accepted to first choice HS

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different high schools offered acceptance to students in the class

Delivered by Patrick Gaul, Class of 2016. During the Livestreamed event, Patrick helped the graduates understand what exactly they should be celebrating.

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

Commencement Address

The Class of 2020 was also blessed with a surprise address by Alumni Parent (2013, 2015, & 2018) and Humanitarian Chef José Andrés.

“Remember, we are only as good as the people we have around us. Our family is very important, but The Woods family is just as important.

You’re going to be, in the years that come, as good as the people that you shared this school with. Remember that The Woods family will always be here, next to you,” offered Chef Andrés to our graduates.

During the commencement ceremony, the following Graduation Awards were given to the Class of 2020.

The Athletic Director’s Award

This award recognizes model Woods Academy athletes for outstanding academic achievement, sportsmanship, teamwork, dedication, and sacrifice for the program was given to Colette Raymond and Daniel Gaul.

The Twelve Season Award

Given to students who participated in The Woods Athletic Program every season during their four years in Upper School.

Nate Lankenau Tyler Fay Skyler Thompson Daniel Gaul Josie O’Rourke

The Woods Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Arts Given to the eighth-grade students who have excelled in the fine and performing arts, was awarded to Alexa Powers and Milan Nassiri for Fine Arts and to Mia Priest for Performing Arts.

The Woods Choir Service Awards

Given to those eighth-grade students who have exemplified a commitment to the choir during their years at The Woods Academy.

Bernard Harman Mia Priest Becky Island Ben Profaizer Alexa Powers Nora Turner

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.

Alek Bakelar Eli Bowman Morgan Campbell Walker Cave Tyler Fay Griffin Fromm Daniel Gaul

Becky Island Sean Kenny Nate Lankenau Josie O’Rourke Ariana Plotas Nora Turner

Sean Kenny Josie O’Rourke

Nora Turner

The Serviam Award For the eighth-grade students who have given outstanding service to The Woods community, was received

by Josie O’Rourke, Walker Cave, and Nate Lankenau.

The Celestine Award

Given to Becky Island, Tyler Fay, and Sean Kenny as the eighth-grade students who have demonstrated the effort and hard work that characterizes the ideal Woods Academy student.

The Award for Academic Achievement

Given to the eighth-grade student who has demonstrated excellence in academics, was awarded to Nora Turner and Alek Bakelar.

The General Excellence Award Becky Island and Alek Bakelar were recipients of this 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, respect for others, a spirit of equality and commitment to community service.

RISE Scholars Program

The Joanne Gerber Lifer Award

New this year. This selective program was an opportunity for students to stretch themselves and make an impact around a topic about which they are passionate.

Given annually to a Lifer, a student who has been at The Woods since preschool, who embodies the ideals of Montessori education. This year’s recipients were Morgan Campbell, Josie O’Rouke, and Daniel Gaul.

Alek Bakelar Walker Cave Daniel Gaul Becky Island

Andrew Ott Ariana Plotas Ben Profazier Mia Priest

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

CLASS OF 2020

CLASS OF 2020!

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ROBERT APGOOD

ALEK BAKELAR

CHIMA BLANCHARD

TRINITY BORNO

ELIJAH BOWMAN

JOHNNY BRISTOL

MORGAN CAMPBELL

WALKER CAVE

LAYLA CUSHENBERRY

TYLER FAY

GRIFFIN FROMM

QUENTIN FUNKHOUSER

DANIEL GAUL

BERNARD HARMAN

REBECCA ISLAND

CHRISTIAN JANTIO

SEAN KENNY

JOSEPH KUCIK

NATHANIEL LANKENAU

LEAH MANCABELLI

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

The class was awarded over $300,000 in merit scholarships

MILAN NASSIRI

EVELYN O’CONNOR

JOSEPHINE O’ROURKE

ANDREW OTT

ARIANA PLOTAS

ALEXA POWERS

AMELIA PRIEST

BENJAMIN PROFAIZER

COLETTE RAYMOND

CHRISTIAN REESE

CHARLIE WOOTERS

CHECK OUT THE CLASS OF 2020 PROFILES & HIGHLIGHTS FROM GRADUATION AT WOODSACADEMY.ORG/ CLASS-OF-2020

SKYLER THOMPSON

ANA TOVAR

NORA TURNER

The Woods Academy Class of 2020 has been accepted to the following high schools: ■ Academy of the Holy Cross ■ Bullis School ■ Connelly School of the Holy Child ■ Georgetown Preparatory School ■ Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School ■ Gonzaga College High School ■ Landon School ■ Oakcrest School

■ Our Lady of Good Counsel High School ■ Phillips Academy Andover ■ St. Andrew’s Episcopal School ■ St. Anselm’s Abbey School ■ St. John’s College High School ■ Sandy Spring Friends School ■ Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart 11

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

CLASS OF 2016

CLASS OF 2016

COLLEGE MATRICULATION We are proud to share the list of colleges and universities chosen by the Class of 2016.

Tom Agnew McGill University Victor Aldridge Johns Hopkins University* Austin Allison Lane College Caroline Belt University of Michigan Alex Bender Villanova University Ray Briscuso Auburn University Bella Bristol University Maryland-College Park Erika Carmody Fordham University* John Cavanaugh Lehigh University Frances Cave Wake Forest University Emma Chiaramonte Belmont University Demon Clowney University of Mississippi Thomas Colangelo Let us know.

Madison Cooper American University Sophia DeCain Virginia Tech Lyssa Diess Providence College Maeve Dolan University of Notre Dame Mary Fromm College of the Holy Cross

Patrick Gaul Williams College* Sophia Harrison Let us know.

Will Hohman The University of Alabama Daniel Iannarone Fordham University Megan Lynch Dartmouth College Jack Manger Purdue School of Business at Salisbury University* John Mikita Villanova University* Sebastian Musalem Catholic University Harry Palley Sewanee, The University of the South Daniel Peláez Let us know.

Ryon Sarkarzadeh University of Maryland-College Park Travis Scala Davis & Elkins College* Elisa Terman James Madison University Genevieve Thibodeau Yale University Oliver Wolcott University of Maryland-College Park* Jasmine Yelder Auburn University

We were delighted to see so many members from the Class of 2016 at Homecoming on February 12.

We hope to gather your class together one day soon for our new alumni tradition Prayers & Pizza.

The event, originally scheduled for May 3, was postponed due to the pandemic.

From left to right: Will Hohman, Tom Agnew, Sophia DeCain, and Elisa Terman.

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Reported to The Woods Academy as of August 1, 2020.

From left to right: Alex Bender, John Cavanaugh, Patrick Gaul, and Mary Fromm.

*See Class Notes

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

FACULTY

FACULTY & STAFF Anniversaries

At the completion of the 2019–2020 school year, the following faculty and staff members celebrated milestone anniversaries at The Woods.

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5

YEARS

Michele Carpenter Montessori II Lead Teacher

YEARS

Carlos Diaz Facilities Team Member

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Kimberley Jibladze French Teacher & World Language Team Leader

Patty Horn Director of Montessori

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YEARS

5

YEARS

Lis Sheehan Spanish Teacher

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YEARS

YEARS

Erica Vassos Grade 3 Teacher

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

FACULTY

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10

YEARS

Jamie Alisbah Grades 7 & 8 Science Teacher

Lyndsey Canter Montessori III Lead Teacher

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Christina Phelps Grade 2 Teacher

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YEARS

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Megan Mullally Grades 5 & 6 Science Teacher

YEARS

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Linda Handy Director of Guidance & Counselling

YEARS

10

YEARS

Sharon Pabon Music Teacher

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YEARS

15

YEARS

Hasmig Mahshigian Director of Finance & Operations

YEARS

Eric Smith Director of Technology

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

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25

YEARS

JP Clubbs Grades 7 & 8 Social Studies Teacher

YEARS

Gerardo Saucedo Director of Facilities

NEW FACULTY Profiles Tiara Butler Art Teacher

Tiara grew up in Charles County Southern, Maryland. She is a proud graduate of North Point High School and continues to actively contribute to her community.

Her last position was Lead Visual Arts Teacher at Friendship Collegiate Academy High School in Washington, D.C. Tiara is a huge Beyoncé fan! Anytime she hears her music, you may catch her dancing and singing.

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

AUCTION

30

th

Annual

NIGHT OWL AUCTION

Thank you to all the local businesses who supported The Woods Auction this year!

We greatly appreciate your generosity. And thank you to all who asked them for a contribution!

WINE AND DINE

Periwinkle Pinstripes at Pike & Rose Altman’s Authentic New York Playa Bowls Delicatessen Popstations Capital Crab Potomac Grocer China Chilcano Scout & Cellar Wine Chuy’s – Deep in the Heart of Tex-Mex Spirit of DC Fogo De Chao Brazilian Steakhouse Stella Barra Pizzeria & Wine Bar Hill Country BBQ Summer House Jaleo Whyte House Monograms Knowles Station Wine & Co Nada – A Taco and Cocktail Joint CAMPS Nespresso Store, Bethesda Achilles FC Soccer Camp Odyssey Cruise Camp North Star Party Host Helpers 16

DMV 3x3 Basketball Girls Up Camp HoopEd Summer Camp KOA Sports Mad Science Camp Mathnasium – Math Learning Center StemQuest Summer Camps Tru2Form Basketball Camp

SPORTS & EXPERIENCES 202Strong Artichoke Art Studio Bethesda Salt Cave Biker Barre

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

Led by the brilliant Mariana McCormick and Ines Vega and their team of fantastic and dedicated volunteers, this year’s Auction was held on March 7 at Pinstripes at Pike & Rose.

It was fun, it was joyful, it was a tremendous success – and it was, unbeknownst to us, the last time we could gather together this school year. The night was filled with laughter, bowling, good food and good cheer, spirited bidding, and dancing.

Woods students, Woods faculty and staff, Woods parents truly are the dream team. We dreamed BIG this year and our community stepped up to the plate and hit a home run. During Raise the Paddle you generously gave $52,825 to fund The Woods Outdoor Lab, a unique, extraordinary space for hands-on, independent learning in our courtyard. Our outdoor learning lab will be an inviting place where teachers and students, in new and exciting ways, can experiment, collaborate, and explore the arts, engineering, life sciences, and environmental sciences. Work is underway to bring our outdoor lab to life.

We simply cannot say it enough: Thank You for Funding the Dream!

We look forward to the day we are able to be together in the same space once again!

Black Belt Martial Arts Center Child’s Play Club Pilates Bethesda Earth Treks Climb Fair Oaks Chantilly Ikona Photography Imagination Stage Kicks Karate Pardon The Interruption Parodi Educational Consulting Paul McGehee Painter Peloton Prepped Perfectly Richard James Cook Portraits Solidcore

Strathmore Music Center Strosneider’s Hardware Store Xcel Fitness and Youth Sports ZavaZone

HEALTH AND BEAUTY Ashley Woods Designs Boone & Sons Jewelers Bridgepoint Healthcare Dr. Jill Bruno Orthodontics Capital Cryo Capital Tan Celebrity Glow Airbrush Tanning Clark Concepts Circle Yoga

FDL Dermatology Gerlein Orthodontics Glo30 Karma Salon Kindle and Boom Salon KVD Collections Lansdowne Resort and Spa Kendall Mackintosh Health Coach tara luizzi of tarastyles TrueScience Beauty System Woodhouse Day Span Zohra Salon

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

COMMUNITY MATTERS

Community Matters Visit woodsacademy.org/community-matters to enjoy these community-building experiences for yourself. #WeAreTheWoods This spring it was more important than ever for our community to remain connected and engaged.

While at times, we were disappointed that we could not gather and celebrate all that makes The Woods so special, we still found creative and memorable ways to come together in grand Woods fashion.

Supporting Our Woods Community

So many businesses in our community were and still are impacted by this public health crisis we are experiencing. Therefore, we gathered information about Woods Family Businesses in order to share ways in which we can support our own community through this challenging time. Whether it be ordering meals or food from Woods family food service providers, or shopping at retailers online, we are hoping we can continue to build community through this time by supporting each other.

You can access the list of Woods Family Businesses via the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/communitymatters). If you have a family business that you would like to add to this list, please contact Director of Development Traci Grigg at tgrigg@ woodsacademy.org.

Thank you for supporting our Woods community.

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

10th Annual Instrumental Music Showcase

During the winter, our performers carefully prepared their pieces for the annual showcase.

Then just a week before the event, the COVID-19 pandemic forced us all to stay home. Even though the musicians were not able to perform their music on The Woods Academy stage this year, we were delighted to share their performances with our community by video.

Visit the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/communitymatters) to watch our performers! Our Showcase includes performances on the piano, guitar, violin, cello, flute, and voice. It also includes a guest animal performer and a piece composed by one of our very own Woods Academy students.

16th Annual Arts Celebration

The 16th Annual Arts Celebration was not the same beloved community event this year as we were not able to browse the student art on display in the MPR while listening to our brave musicians or crowd the stage to watch our 7th & 8th Grade actors shine. However, we still came together as a community for an amazing virtual celebration of the Arts at The Woods. The Annual Arts Celebration is a culmination of the year’s work by all students throughout the entire school. From the comfort of our homes, we celebrated the musicians, artists, and actors that comprise our student body. Visit the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/ community-matters) and help us celebrate the arts as well as our retiring Art Teacher Charmaine Taverner.

Thank you to all of our performers for taking the time to video and share your beautiful music. Special thanks to Music Teacher Mrs. Pabon for organizing the event and encouraging our musicians. During difficult times, music provides joy and comfort. Even while we are apart, let’s keep making music and sharing it with each other!

Woods Cooks On

A challenge designed to keep our community connected while we stay at home.

This spring, Head of School Mr. Powers challenged our community to prepare and enjoy a favorite meal with family and share the recipe along with a photo with our Woods family.

This challenge was inspired by Alumni Parent Chef José Andrés and his #RecipesForThePeople videos.

You can find our virtual cookbook of delicious recipes for our people on the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/ community-matters). Buen Provecho! Bon Appétit!

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

COMMUNITY MATTERS

Teacher Appreciation Week

“The thing I love most about The Woods is the teachers, DEFINITELY the teachers!” – Greta Sun, Grade 3 In recognition of Teacher Appreciation Week, WAPTO sent a box of sidewalk chalk to every Woods student with a note asking that they use the chalk to write a message or draw a picture to show their appreciation for The Woods faculty and staff. The students went above and beyond expressing their gratitude for the best faculty and staff in the business!

“The thing that I love about The Woods Academy is the teachers. They really take the time to learn what you’re good at and what you need to learn more.” – Diego Cross, Grade 3 “I’ll miss my teachers the most – ALL of my teachers.

Throughout the years, each and every one of them has helped me grow and face my obstacles in life. They were kind, loving, funny, and were always there when anyone needed a hand.

Even if you needed to talk to them about non-school related stuff, they would still be there to listen. They all are great at their job too! When they educate us, they always have at least one thing to spice up the day and make learning more fun. Learning in a fun way is one of the ways that helps me memorize information more. And you can barely find teachers like these, that’s why I’m thankful. I’ll never forget about anyone here.” – Milan Nassiri, Grade 8

Want to see more chalk appreciation designs? Check out the video on the Community Matters page of our website (woodsacademy.org/community-matters).

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

Thank You WAPTO Board 2019-2020

President Erin Green – Anna (2) & Dylan (4) Clark

Vice President & Communications Coordinator Eunice D’Augostine – Marissa (7) & Mia (2019)

Treasurer Florence Ott – Andrew (8) Volunteer Coordinator Monique Fields – Emily (3) & Johnny (6)

Virtual Field Day

On Friday, May 8, The Woods Academy participated in the OPEN National Field Day event.

Field Day is an important tradition at our school. We feel that in these incredibly challenging times, this event was a unique way that we could stay connected as a community and support one another in a fun and meaningful way.

OPEN (Online Physical Education Network) is a national public service organization that provides curriculum and training support to teachers in all 50 states. We used their resources and social

media network to help us organize our school’s participation in #NationalFieldDay.

All Field Day events were designed to be completed indoors or outdoors using common household items. No specialized equipment or supplies were needed.

Special thanks to Athletic Director Mrs. Ricca and PE Teacher Mr. Parker for organizing the day. Check out the video on the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/communitymatters) to see all the fun that our Mighty Owls had while participating in #National Field Day.

Thank you for your leadership, your creativity, your organization, your enthusiasm, your time, and your can-do spirit! You proved, once again, that Woods parents are the best!

And a huge thank you to all our volunteers! Your energy and dedication are contagious. We appreciate all you did to make Family Fun Day, the Montessori Social, the Scavenger Hunt, Grandparents Visiting Day, the Book Fair, Santa’s Workshop, MLK, Jr. Day of Service, Bingo Night, the Auction, Teacher Appreciation Week, and the Arts Celebration a success! Thank you for all the ways big and small you helped at The Woods this year – you made a difference!

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

COMMUNITY MATTERS

Grade 8 T-shirt Delivery & Last Carpool Parade

The week before graduation is typically full of special 8th Grade traditions like painting the rocks in the courtyard, signing shirts and yearbooks, the Hero Walk, a trip to Hershey Park, one final service project as a class, and the Last Carpool Parade. This year, we did our best to make their last days as Woods students memorable and exciting. Woods staff members delivered green and white balloons and a specially designed “Class of 2020” t-shirt to each graduate’s house on May 18. Then on May 26, the graduates and their families drove through campus for the Last Carpool Parade. Families decorated their cars to celebrate their students’ high school of choice and thank The Woods. Faculty and staff members lined the front sidewalk with signs and cheers for the Class of 2020. Check out the photo album on the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/community-matters).

Montessori Goodbye Car Parade

On Friday, May 29, our Montessori students and families drove through campus to pick up gift boxes, yearbooks, and awards. Though this wasn’t the end of year celebration we imagined, the Montessori faculty enjoyed the opportunity to say goodbye and happy summer to the students and families, even if from a distance. Our Kindergarten students even donned a graduation cap and tassel for a photo to commemorate their successful completion of the Montessori program. They are ready to move on to first grade, which means uniforms, their own desk, and more in the Lower School. Check out the photo album on the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/community-matters).

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

Liza C. Mataac Dodson Memorial Scholar – Isabella Fandl

Francis and Lara Mataac created the Liza C. Mataac Dodson Memorial Scholarship in honor of their daughter Liza Mataac, a proud Woods alumna and former teacher and parent, who sadly passed away from pancreatic cancer in December 2015. The scholarship awards $2,500 annually to the seventh grader who in his/her 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. Mr. Powers typically announces the winner of this scholarship at our closing Mass. This year, Mr. Powers announced the winner during his morning greeting via Zoom. Congratulations to Isabella Fandl, the fifth recipient of the Liza C. Mataac Dodson Memorial Scholarship!

Uniform Challenge

Typically, Woods students look forward to summer because they can put away their uniform for several months. This year, to celebrate the last week of school and the arrival of summer break, Woods students were encouraged to put on their uniforms which they had not done since March 13 and take a photo. Every student who submitted a photo was entered into a drawing to win a $50 Target gift card. Mr. Powers announced the winner, Andrew Kamine in Grade 5, via the Morning Announcements video on June 3.

Some of our Mighty Owls, like Ariana Plotas in Grade 8, got creative with this photo challenge. Check out the photo album on the Community Matters page on our website (woodsacademy.org/community-matters).

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

CLASS NOTES

CLASS NOTES Share your news

We love hearing about how all our alumni are doing – and we know you do too!

Don’t leave it to someone else – send in your updates for the next issue to keep your classmates and other Woods’ friends up to date.

Photos are always welcome!

1970s Send us your news.

1980s Send us your news.

1990s

After many years as a DC Metro Police Officer, Jason Smith (1999) is now Dean of Students at his high school alma mater St. John’s College High School.

2000s

When the pandemic hit this spring, Nic Bash (2001) founder of HoneyFlower Foods, a 2-year-old plant-based food company, figured out a way to keep his workers employed to spite the drop in sales.

He collaborated with organizations like World Central Kitchen and City Harvest NYC to feed the hungry in some of the hard hit cities like New York and Washington, DC.

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Jennifer Dickensheets (2008) graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics in 2016. After a few years off to travel she continued her passion for healthcare and attended Notre Dame of Maryland University’s Accelerated BSN program in 2019.

This summer she is graduating and has accepted an offer to continue working at MedStar Good Samaritan in Baltimore after she graduates and passes her boards. She has been working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as a Nurse Extern at Good Samaritan. Her message to The Woods community, “Stay safe out there Mighty Owls and never stop learning!”

Jennifer Dickensheets (2008)

Elle (Dwyer) Sheeks (2009) In the fall of 2019, Elle (Dwyer) Sheeks (2009) married Kenneth Sheeks at the Monaco Hotel in Baltimore. Deacon Christopher Pinto from the Archdiocese of Baltimore was the celebrant. On March 31, the couple welcomed their preemie baby Alexander Paul Sheeks who spent some time in NICU while his lungs finished developing. Now he is a happy and healthy infant.

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

2010s

In the spring of 2019, Jack Ridenour (2011) graduated from Chatham University where he played basketball for two years, studied communications, and was the public address announcer for various university sporting events.

Since graduation, he has been the main voice for commentating men’s and women’s basketball at Chatham as well as the main PA announcer for all other university sports.

With sporting events cancelled due to the pandemic, Jack started recording a sports podcast – Riding the Pine – to keep busy. You can access his podcast at https:// www.buzzsprout.com/991702.

Molly Shriver (2012)

An article about criminal justice reform written by Molly Shriver (2012) was published in The Sunday Paper, a free modern digital newsletter to inspire your heart and mind. Molly recently graduated from Boston College with a degree in Political Science.

In addition to her journalism minor, Molly also studied criminal justice as part of her Faith, Peace and Justice minor.

Jack Ridenour (2011) Alia Nahra (2012) graduated from Washington University in St. Louis this spring and was selected as a Fulbright Scholar to teach English in Latvia for 2020-2021. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the Fulbright program has been postponed.

So, Alia accepted a job offer with the Brennan Center working on prisoners’ rights issues in NYC.

Victor Aldridge (2016) and Patrick Gaul (2016) The May 28, 2020 issue of Catholic Standard featured Victor Aldridge (2016) and Patrick Gaul (2016) in the cover story: Stories of Hope of Catholic High School Students during the Pandemic. Victor was recognized for his passion for serving others locally, nationally,

and internationally. He hopes to work in a “career helping people around the world and giving back to this global community.” Patrick was recognized as a tremendous peer Catholic leader at Georgetown Prep where he has been offered many important lessons in empathy for the poor.

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THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

CLASS NOTES

Erika Carmody (2016) received an academic scholarship to attend Fordham University this fall where she will follow the Pre-Med track.

At St. John’s College High School, Erika excelled in the De La Salle Scholars Program. Some of her accomplishments include induction into the National Honor Society as well as the Spanish National Honor Society, Editor of Inlight Magazine, and captain of Varsity Crew.

Jack Manger (2016) was awarded a four year Presidential Scholarship to attend Purdue School of Business at Salisbury University. Jack played baseball for Our Lady of Good Counsel and like so many other Spring Athletes is sad to have missed his final Varsity season this year due to COVID-19.

Travis Scala (2016) was awarded several scholarships to attend Davis & Elkins College this fall where he will major in accounting and play lacrosse.

Travis Scala (2016)

Our Lady of Good Counsel graduate Oliver Wolcott (2016) will attend the Scholars Program for Engineering and Entrepreneurship at University of Maryland this fall.

Oliver kept busy in high school as an Eagle Scout, JV and Varsity Lacrosse player, and member of the National Honor Society among other achievements. In addition, Oliver and his sisters – Alina and Luciana (2018) – took action this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Oliver with the help of Alina made face shields on his 3-D printer that were donated to a mobile medical clinic in Congo, Africa. Luciana sewed cloth facemasks that were donated to a hospital in New York.

Recognized for his accomplishments in athletics, arts, and academics, John Mikita (2016) graduated from Georgetown Prep this spring and will attend the Villanova School of Business. Not only did John play Varsity Rugby and Soccer as well as Indoor and Outdoor Track at Prep, but he was also a member of National Honor Society, Deans List, and an Honors student.

After a successful four years at St. John’s College High School, Sebastian Musalem (2016) received a scholarship to attend the Busch School of Business at Catholic University.

Oliver Wolcott (2016)

Share your news

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

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#WeAreTheWoods

THE WOODS ACADEMY NEWS SUMMER 2020

“We miss The Woods Academy so much.

We knew it was a special school before the virus, but being at home truly confirms that Woods isn’t just a school, it’s a unique community, a hidden treasure in Bethesda, and a family. We miss you, Woods Academy.”

Mariana McCormick, Parent 2024

“What I like about my school, The Woods, is that it’s a small school. I think what makes The Woods Academy the best school is because they have very fun activities to do and the nicest teachers.”

Malcolm Hickey, Grade 3

“I will definitely miss my friends because they were a huge part of my time at Woods and they helped me through many tough times.

I hope we do not forget about each other.”

Christian Reese, Grade 8

“I will miss the people and the community. I have attended Woods for the majority of my life, and I know the school like the back of my hand. There are people that I’ve known since I started and ones I’ve met along the way. I’ve never had to be the new kid anywhere.

I kind of wish I could stay at The Woods forever.”

Josie O’Rourke, Grade 8

“My favorite part about The Woods Academy is the extremely nice, caring, and kind teachers. They are there when I have a hard time with any subject in school.”

McKenna Borger, Grade 3

“The Woods is the best school in the world because the nicest friends are there. There are so many nice teachers there too.”

Christian Ridenour, Grade 3

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

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PAID Bethesda, MD Permit No. 5578

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

We can’t wait to see you on the first day of school!

Friday, May 31, 2019 at 5:00 pm

8th Grade Graduation

Please visit woodsacademy.org/artscelebration to purchase tickets to

Monday, August 31

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

woodsacademy.org