The Woods Academy News vol 22 iss 2 by The Woods Academy

2016

SPRING VOLUME 22 / ISSUE 2 A Publication for The Woods Academy Community

Where curiosity and confidence thrive.

IN THIS ISSUE

Alumni Profiles page 3

Celebrating Faculty & Staff page 8

Celebrating 40 Years page 10

Grandparents Day page 14

The Woods Academy N E W S

Dear Woods Community, The close of another year is upon us. This year we officially closed our 40th year at The Woods. It has been a great opportunity to look back and celebrate our past. We started this past year with a celebration of our great teachers who have given significant service to the school and closed this year with the creation of our Legacy Council to honor those parents who gave significant service to the school over the past 40 years. We have reconnected with many of the “giants” of our past who helped “build” this school as we celebrated the past 40 years. Thank you to all who have made this past year and the 39 before that a great place for students to be curious and become confident. While we celebrated the past, we have kept a keen eye on our future as well. We must! Schools are about kids. It is that simple. As we break for summer I want to take this moment to thank all of our faculty, parents and students for the gifts you bring to this school each and every day. The summer is a great time for us to reflect back upon this past year and energetically plan for the years ahead. After listening to our 8th graders reflect in their Capstone Projects this spring, I could not be prouder of what they have accomplished and the people who supported them along the way. Leading a life of significance is not just a line in our mission statement, it is on display each day here. Our kids are prepared. Better yet, they are equipped to lead a life of significance. As we look out to the next 40 years, and an educational landscape that has changed a great deal, we are committed to preparing our young men and women to be the ones to stand out as leaders. From our dynamic curriculum that combines foundational learning and 21st century skill development, to our daily world language program to our Montessori foundation, The Woods is consistently striving to implement the best practices in order to meet our mission to “prepare boys and girls to lead lives of significance.” Significance can have different meanings, but at its core, it means to do something important with your life. Our kids are prepared to do just that. We have alums who are entrepreneurs, teachers, non-profit leaders, policemen, and the list goes on. They took the curiosities they found here at The Woods and developed a confidence around them to pursue roles that are significant. A house cannot be built without a strong foundation. I am so proud that The Woods serves as that “foundation.” Enjoy the latest issue of The Woods Academy News and I hope you feel the same pride I feel for the foundational and dynamic learning that takes place here each day as we prepare our students to lead today and in the future. Sincerely, Joseph E. Powers

ALUMNI PROFILE

SPRING

2016

40 Alumni Leading Lives of Significance 3rd Edition

n the previous two issues, we have celebrated 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.

Nicholas Dawson (2007) St. James School 2011 • Florida Southern College 2015 • Montclair State University 2017 How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

ne thing The Woods Academy instilled in me during my time there was to always give back to the community, and to help people who are not as fortunate. I took those principles to heart, and for the last two summers I have been working with inner city kids, as well as people with disabilities, in Washington D.C. Through various programs, I have been able to connect and help them find a new path to walk. I always want to be part of something bigger than myself, and to instill in others what The Woods Academy did in me. Currently I am working on my Masters of Science in Marine Biology at Montclair State University. I will be pursuing a PhD soon after I complete my work in the next year.

Dr. Molly Shaffer Keszler (2001) Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart 2005 Georgetown University 2009 • George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences 2013 Resident in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Thomas Jefferson University How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

had known since I was six years old that I wanted to be a doctor, but it was not until college when I figured out what kind of doctor I wanted to be. In the spring of my junior year of college, I had a revelation: I wanted to work with amputees. My husband Peter, who was my boyfriend at the time, was not impressed by my revelation as he said it was pretty obvious I was passionate about serving those who have had amputations. I am now lucky enough to be doing residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, learning how to optimize the lives of people after serious illnesses and injuries so they can live full lives. But why was it so obvious to Peter? Certainly my family’s influence played a role as my mother is a physician and my father is an amputee, but I think it goes further than that. One of the things I love about this specialty is the emphasis on physics. I remember sitting in science class in 6th grade at The Woods Academy learning about levers for the first time and how Mrs. Burke always encouraged my love of geometry and algebra. But beyond scientific knowledge, to be a good doctor you have to be a lifetime learner. The Woods Academy helps its students to become curious people, always eager to learn new things. With all of this support to help me become the physician I am today, probably the most valuable part of The Woods education is learning to live a life of service. Medicine is a tiring profession, but if you do not lose sight of the goal to help others, it is wonderful and can be awe-inspiring. To help a woman who has recently lost her leg in a car accident, an elderly man after a severe stroke, or a college student after suffering a brain injury: this is why I love my specialty. When I greet these patients and their loved ones and give them a handshake, more often than not I get a compliment on how good my handshake is. Every time this happens, I give a silent thanks to Mrs. Piwko and all of the teachers at The Woods who have helped me become the person I am today.

The Woods Academy N E W S

ALUMNI PROFILE

Elizabeth Keyes (1986) Georgetown Visitation 1990 • Carleton College 1994 • Princeton University 1998 • Georgetown University Law School 2004 • Assistant Professor of Law, University of Baltimore • Director of the Immigrant Rights Clinic How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

he joy of being in my 40s is seeing how much I have already grown and anticipating how many more ways I will grow as I get older. Life has thrown plenty of challenges at me, and I have learned and grown from each. But sometimes the growth comes from something as simple as reading a wonderful book--a habit The Woods definitely encouraged in me! In my personal life, I try to live by the Salesian virtues like gentleness and humility (working on patience!). In my career, I have always been inspired by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, and I try to do work that really is in solidarity with some of the most vulnerable people in our society. I have been representing refugees and immigrants facing all kinds of legal issues, from lack of status to lack of fair workplaces, for over a decade. I am with people during and after some of the darkest moments of their lives, and I try to bring something good out of the bad. I lead an organization for immigrant rights in Maryland, and I try to create resilient networks of community members, students, and former students who are all interested in improving the lives of immigrants and refugees. When your work is just, it can also be joyous, and mine is, and I am grateful for that. But the lion’s share of joy in my life comes from my family, my husband, my parents, and especially my funny, feisty, compassionate daughter who bounces between outrage at injustices (the global and playground varieties alike) and giggling at her favorite TV shows or losing herself in Heroes of Olympus books. She reminds me to find the joy in everyday things. I was a Montessori student when The Woods was founded, and my aunt taught 4th grade there for years. The Woods is such a deep part of who I am, and I cherish my memories of growing up in that school! Happy 40th, Woods!

Elizabeth Keyes visited with Upper School students during Monday Morning Chapel on February 8. She shared how her time at The Woods helped shape her career path.

ALUMNI PROFILE

SPRING

2016

Tyler Murray (2007) Landon School 2011 • Davidson College 2015 City Year AmeriCorps Member in Washington, DC How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

love to experience new things and force myself out of my comfort zone. Currently I am serving with City Year, which is an AmeriCorps program that places teams of volunteers into underperforming schools. I serve in an elementary school in Southeast Washington, DC. My school is so much different than anything I’ve ever experienced, from the students I mentor, the teachers I work with, and the teammates I serve with. I will carry this experience with me for the rest of my life and continue to seek opportunities to grow. Everyday serving with City Year is a reminder of how blessed I have been in my life. Being in another elementary school makes me especially grateful for my time at Woods. I thank God for everything that I have in my life and always think about how I can use those gifts to help others. During college, I worked as a Firefighter/EMT in Davidson, NC. That experience inspired me to pursue a career in medicine and I will begin an MD/MBA program at Tufts University in the summer of 2016. I loved working on a team at the fire department and one of my career goals is to become the director of an emergency medical services agency. As a physician, I want to lead a team to provide excellent care to patients, regardless of my specialty. Another aspiration for pursuing an MD/MBA degree is to understand the complex healthcare system in our country. I know that there are a lot of people who do not have full access to healthcare and that’s a problem I want to fix.

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

ALUMNI PROFILE

The Woods Academy N E W S

Joseph Nadonley (2012) St. John’s College High School 2016 How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

have been a member of the St. John’s College High School (SJC) De LaSalle Scholars program all four years of my high school career. In addition, I was selected for the Archbishop Hannan Chapter of the National Honor Society as well as the National Spanish Honor Society at SJC. I have also been involved in many activities outside the classroom. This year I will be the first ever and only recipient of a four year Varsity Letter as a member of the SJC Robotics Team, The Mech Cadets. I am also one of the Senior Leaders of the entire JROTC Regiment at SJC. There are 300 JROTC students, and I am 7th in overall rank. I am a Cadet Command Sergeant Major which means I am directly responsible for 150 Cadets under my command, half of the Regiment. I am President of the SJC Booster Club and one of a select few SJC Peer Ministers. I plan to study Civil Engineering with a focus in transportation in college.

Joseph Nadonley received his formal commissioning as a member of JROTC Senior Leaders at last spring’s Sabre Ceremony.

Alexandra Schwall 2001 St. Andrew’s Episcopal School 2005 • University of Pittsburgh 2009 • Special Events Manager for Carnegie Library How do you fit the Profile of a Graduate of The Woods Academy?

fter graduating from Pittsburgh, I spent 6 months backpacking around Europe by myself in order to grow my knowledge of the world. It made me realize how much more there was to see and experience; since then I have done everything from ride camels across the Sahara to hike across the French/Swiss border. Since moving to Pittsburgh, I have become the Special Events Manager for the 19 branches of Carnegie Library. I work with everyone from local breweries and restaurants to the Pittsburgh Penguins to raise awareness of the Library’s mission to engage the community in literacy and learning. Travelling brings me great joy and I try to temper each experience by giving back to the community I am with. For example, I stayed with a Berber family in Morocco and helped them purchase and distribute milk products to the village, as no one had any refrigeration. These are rewarding and humbling experiences.

Attention Alumni!

Have you moved or changed your mailing/email address? Please contact Jodie Shoemaker (alumni@woodsacademy.org) to update all contact information to ensure you receive invitations for your class gatherings and other pertinent alumni information. Please include the following: • First and Last Name • Maiden Name (if applicable) • Class Year • Address, City, State, Zip • Home and Mobile # • Email Address 6

FROM THE ARCHIVES

SPRING

2016

Save Today, Share Tomorrow by Peggy Sotos, Archivist

he Woods Academy’s dedication to sharing our past sparked the kick-off of a year-long 40th Anniversary archival project in July 2015, with the purpose of more formally developing the school’s historical collection. Historically significant printed materials, photographs, yearbooks, scrapbooks, school and student publications, AV materials, artifacts and textiles are being discovered throughout the school, as well as in the possession of many Woods families, both past and present, passionate to share their Woods memories. Our archival project includes a bit of chemistry as well, as the protection and storage of these Woods’ treasures requires the application of preservation science principles, such as those concerning acid migration, buffering, and the chemistry of textiles and lignin. As we continue to document the history of The Woods Academy from the time of its founding in 1975 to the present, we welcome your contributions of items and information (contact psotos@woodsacademy.org).

French Festival T-shirt: In the spring of 1985, when their salaries were frozen, The Woods’ faculty and staff united in what was later referred to as “a positive burst of end-of-the-year energy” to host the first French Festival to help increase school enrollment and raise funds in response to the school’s financial crunch.

Blazer Patch from the 1990s: History of the school seal: The school seal was designed by students participating in a Board of Trustees-sponsored contest. The prize was $25 cash. The seal was supposed to hang in the school with these students’ names underneath it. We have found no names of student winners in the materials unearthed so far. We would love to find out who the winners were! The seal was officially approved by the Board of Trustees on April 3, 1979.

Montessori Stamp Game: According to Joanne Gerber, The Woods Academy Director of Montessori, this is an original wooden Stamp Game. This particular game dates back to the 1960s, and is no longer made this way. The Woods received this Montessori Stamp Game from the Ursuline Sisters in 1975.

The Woods Academy N E W S

FACULTY AND STAFF

The Woods Honors Longtime Faculty & Staff

n Friday, October 23, 2015, The Woods held a cocktail reception honoring 14 faculty and staff members who have given 20 or more years of service to the school. The event was one in a series of events planned to celebrate the School’s 40th Anniversary. Since 1975, The Woods Academy, an inclusive Catholic community, has been preparing boys and girls to lead lives of significance.

The reception was attended by hundreds of current and former faculty and staff members, current and former parents, and alumni. All came to honor the lasting legacy of the late Alis Aimone, 1st Grade Teacher from 1980 to 2005; Kate Burke, 7th & 8th Grade Math Teacher from 1995– 2015; Carol Dyer, Art Teacher from 1977 to 1997; Joanne Gerber, Montessori Preschool Director and Teacher since 1986; Judy Higgins, Librarian from 1987–2010; Anu Iyer, Montessori Preschool Teacher from 1987–2015; Lorraine O’Keefe, Receptionist and Archivist from 1975–2011; Yvonne Pelaia, French Teacher from 1977–2012; Kathy Piwko, 7th & 8th Grade Language Arts Teacher and High School Placement Coordinator since 1984; Gerardo Saucedo, Facilities Team member since 1994; Birgitta Shay, 2nd Grade Teacher from 1984–2003; Barbara Snyder, Director of Admissions from 1989–2010; Suzie Tomlinson, Special Events Coordinator since 1991; and Mary Worch, 4th Grade Teacher from 1987–1991 and Head of School from 1996–2011. “This group of talented people has made, and continue to make, noteworthy contributions to The Woods Academy, contributions that are too numerous to list. From the very early days of a startup school to the vibrant community of over 300 students and 60 plus faculty and staff today, The Woods owes a debt of gratitude to the tremendous leadership and dedication of this devoted group,” remarked current Head of School Joe Powers. This festivity honoring faculty and staff was an essential component of the 40th Anniversary celebrations at The Woods Academy because the faculty and staff have been, and continue to be, the foundation of the School. Today, on average, teachers work at The Woods for just about ten years. In fact, 45% of the current faculty and staff have worked at The Woods ten or more years.

FACULTY AND STAFF

SPRING

2016

â€œThis group of talented people has made, and continue to make, noteworthy contributions to The Woods Academy, contributions that are too numerous to list. From the very early days of a startup school to the vibrant community of over 300 students and 60 plus faculty and staff today, The Woods owes a debt of gratitude to the tremendous leadership and dedication of this devoted group.â€? Head of School, Joe Powers

The Woods Academy N E W S

40 YEARS

Here is the complete list of the 40 Things We Love about The Woods:

Celebrating 40 Years! L

ast spring we asked the students to tell us what they love most about The Woods Academy. Hundreds of responses were collected and overwhelmingly, the students agree that The Woods is a special place. In honor of our 40th Anniversary, we created a countdown of the 40 Things We Love about The Woods using their responses. Beginning last fall, on the first day of school, we unveiled one item each day, counting down to the 40th day of school. On the 40th day of school, when our countdown was complete, we celebrated 40 years of Woods! Every student and faculty and staff member received a special 40th Anniversary t-shirt and we enjoyed birthday cake.

40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Opportunities for Community Service Study Hall Small Classes Field Day Homework Science Learning a 2nd Language Character Education There is something for everyone. It is a privilege to attend. Quality Education Playground Field Trips Facilities New Basketball Hoops Technology & Robotics The Library The Arts Celebration Vending Machine Reading PE Tag Days Fun Activities iPads Creative Learning Everything Music Athletics It is inclusive. Half Day Fridays Spirit Week It is a safe, caring place. Break AND Recess Specials Friends Everyone is curious and intelligent. Art Religion and learning about God. The teachers It is a close community, like a family.

FOUNDERS DAY

SPRING

2016

A Beautifully Spirited Mass: Founders Day 2016

n January 19, 2016, we celebrated our Annual Founders Day Mass with Donald Cardinal Wuerl, the Archbishop of Washington. We were blessed to have members of all three founding families in attendance: Mr. and Mrs. George Reese, Mrs. Jean Walsh, wife of the late J. Robert Walsh, and Mrs. Rose Scozzafava, wife of the late John Scozzafava. The mass was prepared by our third grade students and teachers and it was “a beautifully spirited mass on a very important day in the life of The Woods Academy,” noted Mr. Powers. This school year The Woods Academy commemorates its 40th Anniversary by celebrating and honoring 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.

“’As a community that values both tradition and progress, we move into the future with courage and with trust in God.’ This is the closing line of the Ursuline Sisters of the Eastern Province’s Mission Statement…Much like the words of our Ursuline friends, The Woods is a community that embraces its tradition and strives for progress as we head to the future,” noted Mr. Powers in his closing reflection. As with any birthday celebration, gifts were exchanged. His Eminence not only granted The Woods a day off from school, but he also brought each student a commemorative medallion to celebrate the 2015 Apostolic Journey of Pope Francis to the United States of America. And, in lieu of altar flowers for the celebration, The Woods Academy Student Council gave a gift in the Cardinal’s name to Catholic Charities of Washington, DC. 11

The Woo t a w ds e N 3D printers All girls Robotics Team

Science and Food Curriculum

Coed

Founded in 1975 Head of School — Joe Powers since 2011 Average class size 15 students

7:1 student/ faculty ratio

THE

Woods

ACADEMY

Tennis, Volleyball, Golf, and Swim Teams

Campus Stats

We Are

Montessori Preschool

One of only seven schools in Maryland accredited by American Montessori Society (AMS)

Six-acre, park-like campus

Meets the needs and interests of almost 3 to 6 year olds

Gym, stage, chapel, playing fields

Activities are interdisciplinary

Athletics

Community Service Since 2012 Sister School

Exchange Program

with Hotcourses Primary in Nyumbani Village in Kitui, Kenya Partnerships with A Wider Circle, Bethesda Cares, and Saint Ann’s Center for Children, Youth, and Families

29 teams • 10 sports • Over 95% of Upper School students participate on at least one team

Extracurricular

3 Competitive FLL Robotics Teams • Debate Team • Approximately different after school activities offered each year for all grade levels

High School Placement

95%

Over of students are accepted to 1st choice high school Graduates from the Classes of 2007–2015 have been awarded nearly $900,000 in merit scholarships to high school Dedicated High School Placement Coordinator since 1990

Academics

Daily French or Spanish in grades 1–8, 4 days per week for Montessori Lunchers

306 Students

Music instruction beginning in Montessori through grade 8 with numerous opportunities to perform

64 Montessori

112 Lower School 130 Upper School

Fine art instruction beginning in the Montessori Luncher year through grade 8

38% students of color

Explicit Technology curriculum beginning in grade 2

50% of graduates are

66% Catholic

Business School Course in grade 5

Lifers, have attended since Montessori

Faculty & Staff 2 are alumni

45% have 10+ years at Woods 85% hold advanced degrees 23% persons of color

Technology

297 student devices; seven years ago there were just 80

• 1:1 student devices in Upper School; 2:1 student devices in Lower School • Two 3D printers

The Woods Academy N E W S

GRANDPARENTS/GOLF

31st Annual Grandparents & Special Friends Day

hree hundred proud grandparents and special friends attended the 31st Annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day which was held on Friday,

October 9, 2015. The theme for the day was “Lordy, Lordy, Look Who’s 40!” A

special thank you to Chairs Vivian Carmody, Cristina Hillyer, Leila Phillips, and Roxana Villegas and to all Faculty & Staff, who worked seamlessly to produce a day that will always be fondly remembered.

11th Annual Woods Academy Golf Classic

he 11th Annual Woods Academy Golf Classic was held on a perfect fall day at the Bretton Woods Golf & Country Club on Friday, October 9, 2015. It was a success by all accounts as golfers, sponsors, volunteers, & staff came together in fellowship to raise $7,000 for the Sharing in Growth Fund for Financial Aid which enables us to attract and retain the best students in our area. We hope that you can play and/or sponsor in 2016 when we hit the links/course again on Friday, October 7.

NIGHT OWL AUCTION

SPRING

2016

26th Annual Night Owl Auction

he 26th Annual Night Owl Auction was held on Saturday, March 5, 2016 here at The Woods. The theme was celebrating the remarkable 40th Anniversary of The Woods Academy and we certainly did as we honored the incredible legacy of our fine school. One highlight of the evening was the viewing of The Woods new 40th Anniversary video. Many thanks to Marcy Borger, Eunice Dâ€™Augostine, Leslie Flynn, Sam Gallagher, Marybeth Gaul, Catherine Grosh, Cristina Hillyer, Molly McNamara Hugo, Brooks Kenny, Steve Little, Andrea Lynch, Adeeb Mahmood, Inez McCormick, Julie Raley, Kerrie Rushton, Katie Shaffer, Jodie Shoemaker, Peggy Sotos, Anna Stewart, Chris Stewart, Laura Tan, Kendall Thompson, Laurie Yang, Coach Don Clubbs & the Facilities Crew for their tremendous teamwork which ensured auction success. While the final results are still coming in, we can share that we did raise $40,000 for our extraordinary Woods Arts Program!

The Woods Academy N E W S

A MATH LEGEND

A Math Legend Retires: Remembering Kate Burke, US Math Teacher by Kathy Piwko and JP Clubbs, 7th & 8th Teachers

rom math expert to master chef, Mrs. Kate Burke’s teachings went beyond the classroom and culinary arts. You could see Mrs. Burke as a make-up artist, helping students for their roles in a play; making her girls’ advisory homemade luncheons, goodies, and gingerbread houses all while singing her favorite rock and roll song; masquerading as the Grinch during Christmas; on field trips to the Kennedy Center, Williamsburg, and Gettysburg; and, of course, in the classroom advancing student success in mathematics. More endearing to us was Mrs. Burke’s Boston “accent” and cheering for Boston College. Potato chips will never be pronounced the same: “Badada.” If students erred in their ways, they were going to the “doc side.” Mrs. Burke will forever be treasured and her contribution to all our lives can never be measured. We’ll miss you as our teacher, mentor, and colleague; more importantly, we’ll miss Mrs. Burke as our friend and nurturer.

To all the days here and after May they be filled with fond memories, happiness, and laughter. Happy retirement to Mrs. Burke!

POETRY & ART

SPRING

2016

Putting Feelings on Paper A Collection of Art & Poetry

eventh and eighth grade students wrote a variety of poems this year including found poems expressing a theme and supported by passages from their reading of To Kill a Mockingbird. The students also studied a number of poets and imitated their styles, as well as wrote original poems guided only by the students’ creative spirit.

A Cluster of Daffodils by Ellie Rubin, Grade 7 Yesterday’s unseasonably warm weather tricked a cluster of daffodils That unusual February day had anuncanny resemblance to Spring Enticed by the warmth, the flowers emerged from their bed of earth Their green faces saw sunlight for the first time in months and they enjoyed the rest of what they thought was the first day in Spring The next day was a harsh, cruel awakening for the buds The gusts of wind were an army attacking them from all sides

The numbing cold froze the ground solid down to their roots The daffodils realized what had happened and lamented that they ever left the safety and warmth of their comfortable nests deep in the ground I watch these series of unfortunate events from behind a window I can only imagine what it is like on the other side of the glass I’m a swirling frenzy, icy, cold, pushing against the object blocking my path Now I’m struggling to stay upright, doing everything I can to stay alive until Spring comes for good

Clockwise from Top: Claudia Podpierova, Grade 5; Marissa D’Augostino, Grade 3; James Cohen, Grade 5.

The Woods Academy N E W S

POETRY & ART

Clockwise from Top: Shay McMickle, Grade 5; Colin Heuett, Grade 1; Josie O’Connor, Grade 1.

Hitting dem folks by Wesley Grammer, Grade 7 I’m confused. My whole family Hasn’t heard of hitting dem folks How’s that possible It’s the biggest dance right now. Yet a bit complicated You can do it to a lot of songs, but only when there’s a beat drop. It comes from the group Migos.

Rose

Anyone can do it, but you have to be prepared for the drop, when it comes dance your heart out.

Of all the flowers in the world The most beautiful is the rose

If someone saw you do it, they would think you were a professional dancer Maybe. And at the very end, you still have one dance move left The one and only.... Dab.

by Erika Carmody, Grade 8

The flower of love With rich petals Kiss you with their softness Our Lady of the Rose Serenades you with Her beautiful Silent voice A rose by any other name Would smell as sweet For that sweet odor With doth in it Shall live

Its beauty protected By bloodthirsty thorns Like a princess in a castle Its spiraled petals Hypnotize Going around And around Its velvet petals Give luxury To the poorest of the poor With the price of a single seed

POETRY & ART Seven Ways to Look at an Apple by Ryon Sarkarzadeh, Grade 8 Among many different fruits the only one seen was a delightful, red, apple. An apple and some peanut butter aren’t much; an apple, some peanut butter, and some cheese— well, that would be delectable. The savory bite out of an apple, created a world-renown company. Adam and Eve didn’t commit the ultimate sin, especially without being enticed by a sinfully succulent apple. I don’t know which to prefer, the sound of slicing the apple, or taking a scrumptious bite out of the whole. Newton didn’t think about gravity all by himself, you know, the apple helped him with a much appreciated knock on the head. And Snow White wouldn’t have fallen into a deep sleep and be kissed by a prince, if not biting into an apple.

Spit by Natalie Pierce, Grade 7

Responsibility of an Older Brother My sister Alina is playing the flute Her focused eyes On the black and white notes.

I love the quick blurry moves. Better hope your opponent’s slow. You can put King on Ace, or Ace on King. I might even play Ace on Ace.

She full heartily Unsmoothly plunks out notes With small fingers, focused as a wolf Tracking down its prey I walk away Notebook in hand I hear her song one last time

You can play a billion hands, slap after slap after slap, in the end no one really loses. At least in my opinion! Maybe you play an arrogant winner. A real sore one. But the best part is the feeling, right when you’re about to win and it’s down to a couple pieces of card stock: all the glory, all the fame, just a couple cards away-

With great effort and great perseverance She finally finishes plunking out Mary had a Little Lamb Later, As I reflect on this I remember I was there one day With my small fingers And big dreams Plunking out notes on my flute Trying to focus on my goal Trying to escape playing the piano The worst torture device at that time.

and he’s spitting out affronts like it’s his only job. Then I swoop in. Because if you think you’ll win against me, you’ve never heard of an underdog.

Stay Connected

@TheWoodsAcademy

2016

by Oliver Wolcott, Grade 8

I get their point. Almost everyone I know thinks Spit has to do with actual spitting.

In actual reality, it’s your own fault. You were the hare and I was the tortoise. So what about another round?

The Woods Academy

SPRING

Getting ridiculed by my sisters For messing up Laughed at if I hit the wrong note Getting frustrated at myself For hitting the sharps When I was not supposed to, Now--I don’t ridicule I don’t push down the dream of my sister because now it’s my turn To ignore their innocent mistakes. Isn’t that the responsibility of an older brother?

@theWoodsAcademy

Follow The Woods

Academy Company Page as well as join the alumni-only group. To search for the alumni group type in The Woods Academy Alumni. Background: Ben Profazier, Grade 4; Foreground: Erin Carmody, Grade 3.

The Woods Academy N E W S

POETRY & ART

The King Steps Down

You Can Write a Poem about Mi Rancho

by Luke Dropulic, Grade 7

by Aaron Flynn, Grade 7

I cannot comprehend. Why people do not enjoy chess? What’s wrong with it?

As we drive down the road rain or shine and we pass the celestial Mi Rancho sign I cannot help it but have a fiesta on my taste buds as we walk in the door and see smiling faces we walk over and sit down on the plastic green chairs

I am astonished by the wooden pieces of carved perfection. I call the black team. A game of strategy, just like life. I always use the queen. I lose pieces, but can get them back, march down the diner-like floors, castle and deliberately give checks. Oh and to rule the world, Well, I mean board. In a way. But the premium part is when the game ends, there is a stepped down king and the victor receives its winnings: all the pieces, all the rights to brag, all the glory and famethen the boasts start to disperse like popcorn popping and ballistics. That’s when the game becomes real. Because if you are defeated, you lose nothing. In the real world, you never commit anything, And that ruthless, wise guy, strategist adjacent to you? He didn’t commit anything either.

Top to Bottom: Kent Cushenberry, Montessori Luncher; Ana Paula Campanario, Grade 2; Background: Javier Ascanio Aliño, Grade 2.

You Can Write a Poem about Chick Fil-A by Dylan Danaie, Grade 7 Chick-fil-A, it’s safe to say I’d drive a hundred minutes to grab a brimming bag and all that lies within it. From the cow reminding me add “chikin” to my diet to the restroom supplying mouthwash though I still have yet to try it. I arrive to children laughing and familiar songs resounding Fresh flowers adorned on tables and hospitality abounding “I’ll have chicken on chicken with a side of chicken and sweet tea on the double, not 1 or 2, but 6 sauce packs if that’s not too much trouble.» I leave this place a full and happy guy-The world won’t fail ‘Cause there’s still hope When it comes with waffle fries. Chicken still lingers on my tongue while spicy flavor heats, I cherish the memory of a buttery bun which no other restaurant can beat!

I pick up the menu and with everything I read my mouth waters like the blue glass sea and I see the one the only one the Burrito Santa Fe I wait and wait then something catches my eye a beauty with skin as a golden tortilla eyes of bronze beans then she sits down in front of me as I reach for her with my fork and knife in hand I slice through her skin and take an enormous bite of the delicious bean and chicken My mouth overflows with such extraordinary taste I sit there swallowing the last morsel of my glorious golden burrito.

AROUND THE WOODS

SPRING

2016

Hail to The Woods Academy! by Mrs. Sharon Pabon, Music Teacher

school song affirms one’s devotion to and fondness for the school. Thanks to the current 6th Grade Music students (Class of 2018), the Mighty Owls now have a tune of their very own. At a Pep Rally held on February 29, 2016, the new school song was unveiled and sung for the very first time. After collecting ideas for the lyrics from students in the Lower School, the song was written and composed by the 6th Grade Music Class: Niles Alburg, Alexandra Angelos, Michael Capuano, Audrey Kamine, Hannah Kirby, Will Lawrence, Jesse Manger, Amanda Phillips, Jack Raymond, and Luciana Wolcott.

Hail to The Woods Academy Home of the Owls, Green and White are we Inspiring greatness, we will strive Curiosity and confidence thrive Students, teachers, family We are a Catholic Community Leading lives of significance We will make a difference

Hail to The Woods Academy Home of the Owls, Green and White are we Learning, growing all day long We are forever brave and strong Chant: Hail to the Owls, the Mighty, Mighty Owls! Bring on the heat, we can’t be beat! 21

AROUND THE WOODS

The Woods Academy N E W S

Book Fair Benefits Sister School in Kenya by Ray Briscoe, Assistant Head of School

he Woods Academy is excited to announce that the proceeds from our November Scholastic Book Fair were donated on behalf of our Sister School Project in Kenya. This money, over $3000, went a long way to support Hotcourses Primary with new books for their classrooms, as well as a year’s worth of basic school supplies, packaged as a ‘Classroom Survival Kit’, for more than 600 students from 1st through 8th grade. More details to be found at Nyumbani Village (www.nyumbani.org/nyumbani-village/ ). Due to the overwhelming generosity and support of our Woods community, we were also able to help fund tables, desks, and chairs, in addition to the same gifts listed above, to Oloropil Primary School located in the PCDA Maasai community in Kenya. There are over 400 children in this community whose educational experience will be enhanced greatly by the ‘Classroom Survival Kits’ and birthing of libraries in each classroom, all made possible by the monies raised at the Woods Book Fair. Visit KEST (Kenya Educational Service Trips) (www.k-e-s-t.com/wordpress1/) for more information on the Maasai PCDA community. Thank you Woods families for supporting our Book Fair to benefit our Sister School Project in Kenya. Mark your calendars for The Woods’ next Scholastic Book Fair scheduled for the week of November 7-11, 2016! One person (and community) does make a difference!

10 Super-Easy Ways You Can Promote The Woods Academy

Like us on Facebook:

facebook.com/thewoodsacademy. It doesn’t get any easier than that.

Invite family, friends, and neighbors to the Arts Celebration. Not only is it quality, family-friendly entertainment, it shows off all the great talents and features of our school!

Wear your Woods gear proudly. We have yoga pants, Adidas pullovers, Under Armour hoodies, Vineyard Vines ties and totes, and even golf umbrellas. Shop Owlcove today!

Spread the word about our Open Houses. And volunteer if you can — there is always coffee!

Read Window on The Woods, the Official Blog of The Woods Academy and share the stories with your friends, family, and neighbors. You just might learn something new and interesting.

Take a minute to express what The Woods means to you, whether you are an

alum, a current parent, or a former parent. We use testimonials in different ways in our marketing efforts, and they bring a smile to our faces. E-mail us anytime at alumni@woodsacademy.org.

Don’t forget about Summer at The Woods — for your own kids, or for someone else’s. It’s a great option for visiting relatives or neighborhood pals.

as entertaining as some celebrity tweet-ists, but you’ll be up-to-date with all things Woods AND help promote the school.

Embrace the idea of legacy: make a referral and bring one new student or family to be your “successor.” They’ll do the same, and so on. Think of all the lives you’ll change!

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.

Summer at The Woods June 13 – August 12

There is something for everyone — robotics, art, entrepreneurship, leadership, athletics, and more. Open to all. Visit woodsacademy.org for more information.