WHITE COLUMNS ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZINE | 2019
FEATURED ARTICLES • Experiential Learning at CA • Recollections of Costa Rica • The 21 Club • Steak Dinner: Our 30th Anniversary
WHITE COLUMNS EDITOR & WRITER Rebecca Beach ’97
CONTRIBUTERS Sally Allen Joanne Askew Piper Bell Gina Goostree Micah Hughes Tina Liam Lisa Little Danny Magrans ’89 Jake Peterson Dana Procter Stan Rozar Shaine Walker Denise Walker
PHOTOGRAPHY
Michael Rios Tracy Burkhart's Yearbook Class Piper Bell's Photography Class
COVER ART
Cambree Reed '18
LAYOUT & DESIGN
Thrive Creative Group, LLC Intern, Graham Byrd
CONTENTS 4 5 6 8 10 11 12 14 16 19 20 22 23 26 28 30 32 33 34 35 36 37 40 42 44 46 48 52
Letter from Tim Sawyer Year in Review Our New Head of School Making Our Makerspace New Reading Support Program Student's Favorite Books The 21 Club: Faculty and Staff Scott Wise: Sculptor/Teacher Recollections on Costa Rica Trip Land Between the Lakes Experiential Learning at CA The Seven Wonders of Lower School Security Update Information Honor Code: Intermediate School Cougar Café 30th Anniversary Steak Dinner Blast Off with Robotics Club Growing with S.T.E.M. A Note from Jake Peterson Athletics by the Numbers Achieving Our Goals Track Team Student Accolades Alumni Spotlight: Ben Clark Alumni Spotlight: Mitchell Gigandet Alumni Notes I'M IN Honor Roll of Giving
OUR MISSION
Clarksville Academy’s mission is to promote academic excellence, moral integrity, physical growth, and civic responsibility. For more information about the school and how we are growing, visit our website at: clarksvilleacademy.com
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A MESSAGE FROM
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Dear Clarksville Academy Family, It is with great honor and appreciation that I write to you again this year as your Chairman, Board of Trustees. This year marks an important and pivotal time in our 48-year history, with a transition to new leadership. In August 2018, we welcomed Mrs. Jennifer Hinote as our Interim Head of School and now we all feel fortunate and happy that she serves as our permanent Head of School. This period of transition is often a high-stakes, high-tension event in a school’s operation but Jennifer made it easy. Her passion and commitment to the mission and vision of Clarksville Academy, charismatic leadership style, and a strong vision for the future have been instrumental in charting a new course for the school. Annual giving, both among faculty, staff and the board of trustees is at 100% participation, which is an unprecedented accomplishment. This reflects a great commitment from both groups of individuals. I ask all of you, the CA family, to follow in their footsteps. Your investment in our school enriches the experience of all of our students, from our youngest preschool learners to our 12th grade leaders. At this time I ask each of you not to waiver in your commitment to our students, faculty, and staff and to Clarksville Academy as an institution. In my position as a trustee, I have been fortunate to observe the school at close range. From the outside, schools may seem to glide effortlessly, but as a parent, volunteer, and trustee, I know the reality involves dedication, hard work, and foresight to accomplish our goals. My thanks go to all of you for your commitment to continuously making Clarksville Academy the top-notch, college preparatory school that we expect and know it can be. With sincere thanks,
Tim Sawyer Chairman, Board of Trustees
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LEGACY STUDENTS
Tenley Smith ’29 / Greg Procter ‘74 & Erica Procter Smith ‘99 Ryann Procter ’31 / Greg Procter ‘74 & Jeremy Procter ‘00 Samuel Nicholson ’19 / Clark Nicholson ‘80 Taylor Norris ’19 / Beth Stone Norris ‘81 Stone Norris ’19 / Beth Stone Norris ‘81 Montgomery Allison ’19 / Carla Alexander Gibbs ‘83 Chandler Vinson ’19 / Cindy Vinson ‘83 Maddy McWhirter ’29 / Paula Kennedy & Richard McWhirter ‘84 William Parker ’26 / William Parker ‘84 Jackson Trotter ’22 / Pam Bozeman Trotter ‘88 Samantha Trotter ’28 / Pam Bozeman Trotter ‘88 Tyee Turner ’20 / Vincent Turner ‘88 Garrett Burger ’20 / Christie Smith Burger ‘89 John Knight ’20 / Tracy Provo Knight ‘89 Beverly Anne Pugh ’19 / Elizabeth Parker Pugh & Mike Pugh ‘89 Ginny Pugh ’22 / Elizabeth Parker Pugh & Mike Pugh ‘89 Lillie Pugh ’24 / Elizabeth Parker Pugh & Mike Pugh ‘89 Ellie Rocconi ’19 / Cecy Mitchell Rocconi ‘89 Elvis Smith ’21 / Bret Smith ‘89 Luke Poston ’20 / Matt Poston & Lynette Jolly Poston ‘92/’91 Maggie Clark ’19 / Jon Clark ‘92 Molly Clark ’22 / Jon Clark ‘92 Macy Wallace ’20 / Michael Wallace ‘92 Cade Wallace ‘27 / Michael Wallace ‘92 Emily Boling ’19 / Lauren Boling ‘93 Trevor Boling ’24 / Lauren Boling ‘93 Ayden Kujawa ’22 / Kurt Kujawa ‘93 Isabella Allen ’22 / Frazier Allen ‘94 Garrett Allen ’26 / Frazier Allen ‘94 Shaan Patel ’20 / Jay Patel ‘94 Jiya Patel ’22 / Jay Patel ‘94 Ryan Pitt ’28 / Amanda Pitt ‘95 Grayson Anderson ’29 / Kelly Poston Anderson ‘95 Charlie Anderson ’32 / Kelly Poston Anderson ‘95 Ethan Little ’21 / Sonya Little ‘98 Dylan Little ’31 / Sonya Little ‘98 Preston Little ’26 / Sonya Little ‘98 Nadia Stowe ’20 / Kristen Stowe ‘99 Nate Stowe ’20 / Kristen Stowe ‘99 Landon Lamm ‘28/ Nicole Aquino Williamson ’00 McKenzie Williamson ’30 / Nicole & Nick Williamson ‘00/‘01 Bailey Coleman ’20 / Erica Christmas ‘00 Weston Jurdak ’27 / Victor Jordan ‘01 Jaxon Shaffer ’28 / Emmett Shaffer ‘02 Lucia Hoffman ’30 / Jamie DeAnda Hoffman ‘02 Carmella Hoffman ’32 / Jamie DeAnda Hoffman ‘02 Owen Morgan ’29 / Lance Morgan ‘02 Aubrey Burchett ’28 / Skip Burchett ‘04 & Amy Johnson Burchett ‘05 Graham Burchett ’29 / Skip Burchett ‘04 & Amy Johnson Burchett ‘05 Rhyen Kretz ’28 / Kristen Webster Kretz ‘08 Chandler Kretz ’30 / Kristen Webster Kretz ‘08 McClaine Garrett ’29 / Hannah Garrett Menehennet ‘09 Copeland Menehennet ’31 / Hannah Garrett Menehennet ‘09 Lennon Menehennet ’32 / Hannah Garrett Menehennet ‘09
YEAR IN REVIEW
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CLARKSVILLE ACADEMY IS EXCITED AND PROUD TO HAVE MRS. JENNIFER HINOTE AS OUR NEW HEAD OF SCHOOL. She comes to Clarksville Academy having served as Head of School at Oak Hill School in Nashville, TN for eight years and as Middle School Divisional Head at Charlotte Country Day School in Charlotte, NC. She earned a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership from Winthrop University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Middle Grades Education from Western Carolina University. She recently sat down with us and answered a few questions that highlight exactly why we are so happy for her to be our seventh Head of School.
WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?
Franklin, NC. A very small town with one public high school.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
A hard-worker who enjoys working with people more than working alone, who loves students, and loves helping teachers be the best they can be.
WHAT TRAITS DO YOU ADMIRE IN A PERSON?
Honesty, loyalty, integrity, and perseverance.
WHAT MIGHT THE SCHOOL LOOK LIKE IN THE NEXT YEAR OR TWO?
Our New Head of School
MRS. JENNIFER HINOTE
When I’m asked about the future, I recognize that we really need to understand our past and present in order to make decisions about who we’ll be in the years to come. At this time, I’ve tried to immerse myself into finding out those needs. Learning from the past and the present is foundational for knowing where to go in the future.
IF YOU COULD TEACH ANY CLASS, WHAT MIGHT IT BE?
I used to be a science teacher and I loved teaching the lab portion of science, but now I would love to teach a leadership class.
HOW DO YOU UNWIND AFTER A LONG DAY?
I enjoy my two dogs, spending time with my husband, I love to read, and I like an occasional good Reality TV Show.
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A RISK WORTH TAKING?
About 15-20 years ago, I won a teacher renewal grant and spent two weeks in the Panamanian rainforests, on a trip where I knew no one, had no cell coverage, I had no way to contact home, but at the same time, I learned a lot about science and ecology. I learned that it was important for me to grow by getting out of my comfort zone. It’s a lesson that’s been impactful since then. When I needed to make a change or had a difficult challenge in front of me, I knew getting out of my comfort zone would push me forward. I learned I was capable of more than I imagined.
WHERE HAVE YOU ENJOYED TRAVELING?
The best adventures have been ones that weren’t overly planned and instead unfolded. They took a detour and took us on a trip where we enjoyed the unexpected moments. That spontaneity has been an important component of favorite trips.
WHAT DOES YOUR BOOKCASE SAY ABOUT YOU?
It says that I’m a learner who seeks self-improvement, tries to be reflective, and desires to make decisions based on research.
ANY HOBBIES?
I like to work in my yard, I like to garden, and I inherited that from my mother. I would like to pretend that I’m crafty. For example, I like making gift tags for the holidays. I like to try to do things that don’t necessarily come naturally but challenge me. I love a good jigsaw puzzle. I love spending time with my grandkids.
ANY INTERESTING FAMILY FACTS?
Lloyd and I have been married for 32 years. But only 3 months passed from the day we met to the day we married.
A FAVORITE MANTRA?
Luke 12:48. “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” I would like to live my life as a giver rather than a taker.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE CA TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER VISITED BEFORE?
Even if it’s your first time on campus, there’s a sense that you’ve arrived home. It’s a place where no matter your age, you have an opportunity to contribute, to make a difference, and to grow. It’s a warm and welcoming environment.
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CREATIVITY TAKES COURAGE
MAKING OUR
MAKERSPACE Dana Procter | CA Librarian
Whether you are a thinker or a tinkerer, a creator or an innovator, you have probably heard about the latest trend in schools and libraries called makerspaces. This hot global trend has found its way into school libraries and classrooms that are being reimagined and redesigned. Clarksville Academy is already in the process of reinventing our library to become a makerspace for the benefit of all students. This brief timeline shows how makerspaces have evolved to be incorporated into many of the country’s libraries:
1995 the concept called a “hackerspace” began, which was a place where computer programmers could meet, work, and share ideas.
—Henri Matisse
2005 the first issue of Make Magazine was published by Maker Media, which focuses on do-it-yourself projects using computers, electronics, robotics, metalworking, woodworking, and other disciplines. 2006 Make Magazine hosted the first Maker Faire in
April to celebrate arts, crafts, engineering, science projects, and DIY projects. Maker Faires have been held all over the world with the number of faires increasing every year.
2011 The first 21st century Makerspace opened in Fayetteville, New York. It was the first of its kind in a public library and included a 3D printer. 2015 New Media Consortium (NMC) Horizon Report states, “Makerspaces are increasingly being looked to as a method for engaging learners in creative, higher-order problem-solving through hands-on design, construction, and iteration.” As the Maker Movement continues to grow, we have come to know that makerspaces are not just a fad, but that school libraries have had a shift in thinking about the ways spaces are utilized for learning. Many makerspaces incorporate art
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and hardware supplies, large white boards, green screens, Legos, 3D printers, laser cutters, and state-of-the art technology to advance student learning in STEM and other subject areas. The vision for the CA library reflects this same kind of space where students can use tools to create and implement ideas, rather than simply be passive consumers of knowledge. Makerspaces promote cross– curricular concepts because students can gather in these spaces to invent, tinker, experiment, design, and build as they engage in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. The Clarksville Academy makerspace will provide learning through play and experimentation. Our goals in creating this makerspace are:
Increased Student Collaboration Building Stronger Relationships Increased Student Productivity and Projects Increase in Engaged Learning Improved Student Community
We are excited to see our library’s future transformation into a makerspace and know our students’ learning experience will become more innovative, experiential, and interdisciplinary through this new design and innovative space.
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READING SUPPORT PROGRAM OUR NEW
We recently sat down with Cindy Williams to learn more about the new reading support program initiated this year at Clarksville Academy.
WHEN DID THE READING SUPPORT PROGRAM START? The reading program at CA began this school year (2018–2019). We started with a half-day program to assess the need of reading interventions among Lower School students. WHAT BROUGHT THE PROGRAM ABOUT? Teachers in Lower School have expressed a desire to help students who may be experiencing difficulty with reading. Developing an effective reading program at an early age is vital to these students becoming successful readers in the future.
HOW DOES THE PROGRAM HELP STUDENTS? The Lower School classroom teachers are supported by a Reading Specialist. These teachers collaborate to select and implement strategies that will meet the student’s needs. The students are assessed to see what areas of reading instruction benefit each child. We monitor individual progress and adjust our program accordingly. We include all the components of reading in our program: vocabulary, phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension, and fluency. Our program is guided by educational research on current best practices in literacy.
WHAT’S THE READING SUPPORT PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY? We would like to provide our students with the building blocks in reading to become independent readers. We provide our students with explicit and systematic instruction as well as reinforcement activities that target critical skills.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT THIS NEW PROGRAM? I love the one-on-one interaction with students, and I am excited to share my expertise in the field of reading with them. It is rewarding when you see a child develop confidence and see their interest in reading grow. I also enjoy working with teachers across all grade levels and making a positive impact in their classroom.
WHAT AGES ARE INVOLVED? This year we are focusing on Kindergarten through Fifth grade.
If you are interested in learning more about this innovative new reading program, contact Cindy Williams at: cwilliams@clarksvilleacademy.com.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU MEET WITH STUDENTS? Out target is to meet with each student three days a week.
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We asked students:
What’s been your favorite assigned book ? Akanee Angel | 11th Grade “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn quickly became my favorite novel because of how different Mark Twain is. While tough to read, his diction accurately conveyed a true Missouri accent, and the continuous action always kept the novel interesting.” Maggie Clark | 12th Grade “Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit: a novel about life and immortality. I’m not sure too many sixth graders are reading stories that revolve around the universal ideas of life, death, and the concept of life lasting forever.” Ellyn Darke | 11th Grade “Pride and Prejudice—no competition, whatsoever. I read Pride and Prejudice with Dr. Beach in my sophomore English class, and I do not believe that I have reached that level of analysis with any other book so far.” Cheyenne Deibert | 12th Grade “Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury, was my favorite book that I read in school. After reading each chapter my entire 10th grade English class would have discussions about the book. We examined not only the plot of the novel, but also important themes like censorship and individuality.” Hadley Hagewood | 5th Grade “The Lion The Witch And The Wardrobe. I liked this book because it was mysterious and I never knew what was going to happen next.” Graysie Harper | 9th Grade “To Kill A Mockingbird. I loved being able to investigate this novel and the kind of controversy that it created.” Avery Janssen | 8th Grade “The Outsiders. It was so good! It was almost like I created a bond with the characters even though they were fictional!” Spencer Lee | 5th Grade “Number the Stars is my favorite book because I love historical fiction. The book illustrated literary characteristics of suspense, sadness, and drama.”
Summer Long | 12th Grade “Hamlet by William Shakespeare. Hamlet is my one of my favorite literary readings because of Hamlet's mysterious character. The play itself has rich drama that is entertaining without a single dull moment.” Will Mabry | 11th Grade “J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. This is one of my favorite books because it contains many themes that are still relevant today such as bullying, dating, relationships with parents, and substance abuse. While there is much humor in Holden Caulfield’s narrative, there is always an underlying sense of dread and uncertainty that makes the reader feel slightly uncomfortable.” Grace Parbs | 12th Grade “A chapter written by linguist James Pennebaker. It is titled 'Lying Words' and it may be the most interesting reading assignment I’ve ever been given. The reading entails words and body language which signals when one is lying.” Jiya Patel | 9th Grade “The Last Lecture. This book was inspiring and it made me appreciate my life and family so much more.” Shaan Patel | 11th Grade “A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I really enjoyed this novel because it was about a boy in high school who is around my age and this allowed me to relate to the characters.” Finn Shea | 9th Grade “Lord of the Flies, although it is a relatively short and easy read, it raises questions concerning the true nature of man that are extremely profound, and that I will likely contemplate for the rest of my life.” Nora Shea | 5th Grade “The War That Saved My Life. I liked it because it touches on important things like being kind and honest. The book shows you can be strong even if you are scared.”
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21 CLUB
THE
What changes have been made at CA over the years?
Dr. Rebecca Beach ‘97 | Upper School English Teacher
1979
1990
GINA GOOSTREE
JOHN KENDRICK
1994
1994
DEBBIE HOLLIS
DEBBIE TURNAGE
1990 DANA PROCTER
1996 ANGIE HENSON
1994 MIKE EVANS
1998 SHERRY ALSUP
Each of these individuals is an essential part of the fabric that makes up the entire Clarksville Academy family. They are the faces we know and have come to depend upon. They know students by name and have helped them in countless ways to become well-rounded and thoughtful individuals. They work with other teachers and staff members throughout each day with kind support and productive focus. We are lucky they have chosen to be at Clarksville Academy for all the students in our past and for those in the present.
What memories stand out from your first years at CA? DEBBIE HOLLIS Upper School Choir Director, Fine Arts Chair “The first year I was here, the teachers put on a talent show…I played Diana Ross and my Supremes were Kay Drew and Donna Hooker. That was also the year that Coach Burden went to do a back flip, fell on the back of his neck, and we had to call an ambulance. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries.” DEBBIE TURNAGE Receptionist “I was first hired to make copies on the Riso machine. It was so much cheaper to operate than copiers. I worked in the water heater closet by the ladies’ faculty restroom. How I loved that job!”
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GINA GOOSTREE 5th Grade Teacher, Lower School Divisional Head “My first classroom was in the Clarksville Hospital. The first year I taught fifth grade, we traveled to Land Between the Lakes for an overnight excursion, hosted a Hawaiian luau complete with roasted pig, and went on a train ride to Lebanon, TN.” MIKE EVANS Maintenance Assistant, Wrestling Coach “When I first started at CA our gym was the cafeteria and concession stand area. Student, faculty, and staff lunches were prepared at APSU and CA maintenance was responsible for pick up and delivery to CA. We played our football games at Austin Peay because we didn’t yet have the Sports Complex. CA bus transportation was 3–4 vans and one school bus.”
SHERRY ALSUP Pre-K, 1st, 4th, and 5th Grade Teacher “I may tell my age on this one! When I first began teaching at CA, we still used a mimeograph machine to make copies. Lesson plans were hand written, grades were kept in a grade book, and report cards were hand written and sent home with the students. Obviously, technology improvements over the years have made us more efficient and opened up an entire world that wasn’t accessible before.” GINA GOOSTREE “Three new buildings, the Sports Complex, increase in enrollment, 1:1 technology, February reenrollment commitments, honors level and AP courses. There are additional opportunities made available to students such as athletics, enrichment classes, and community service. The campus is also a safer environment for our students and colleagues.” DEBBIE TURNAGE “We’ve grown bigger! No bells to change classes! Intercom system! Officers on campus! Computers! Fall Break! Changes
in School Heads! Reception area went to the foyer several years ago after being in the office.” JOHN KENDRICK Maintenance Assistant, Assistant Football Coach, Softball Coach “There’s been a lot of changes over the last 28 years, but the biggest change is the size. We also have a more diverse student body, which is wonderful. Especially when you can see the students get along so well” DANA PROCTER 2nd, 3rd, and 5th Grade Teacher, Librarian “CA has remained the same in our desire to provide an exceptional education for our youngest students in Pre-K to our oldest in twelfth grade. Our teachers are dedicated and passionate about what they teach and the students they teach. We have continued to keep our class sizes small to allow for more individual help.”
On the most enjoyable aspects of being at CA: MIKE EVANS “Over the years I have enjoyed good relationships with administrators, teachers, and staff.”
smart people. Now I get to spend every day in the library surrounded by books and working with Piper Bell—what more could I want?”
ANGIE HENSON Assistant for Enrollment and Finance Operations “I have definitely enjoyed working at Clarksville Academy for 22 years and am so thankful we could put our daughter through school here. I am excited about the changes and things to come. Who knows, I may have a granddaughter there one day.”
DEBBIE HOLLIS “The small school atmosphere. The close friendships I’ve made with students, faculty, and parents. The way students who have graduated come back to visit. And I always enjoy planning and preparing the Show Choir for Steak Dinner.”
JOHN KENDRICK “I love the people here. I love the teachers and I love getting hugs from students. I love to joke with the kids, and I give them practical advice for living and taking care of themselves. I’ve enjoyed coaching and making sure players are ready for their games.” DANA PROCTOR “CA’s fantastic students!! In a close second—faculty and staff. I have been so lucky to have worked with some very
SHERRY ALSUP “I was honored to work two years with Mrs. Brenda Stone and with Mrs. Estelle Alexander for nine years. Both of these ladies were great mentors to me. The relationships I have formed with parents and students have been dear to me.” These faculty and staff members have made an indelible mark on Clarksville Academy’s campus and especially on all of the school’s students. They have welcomed countless students into their classrooms and lives and for all that they have given—their time, their patience, their lessons, and their love—we are all grateful.
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HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SCULPTING? HOW DID YOUR CAREER/TALENT BEGIN?
When I was twelve years old, doctors found a cyst on my spinal cord and, because of this, I had to wear a back and neck brace for three and a half years. Needless to say, I couldn’t play sports. And so this was the time I seriously turned to drawing. I also had drawn as a kid and started sketching family portraits when I was ten or eleven. At that time, I thought I wanted to be a cartoonist and draw action figures.
A Conversation with Sculptor & Teacher
SCOTT WISE Dr. Rebecca Beach ’97 Upper School English Teacher
Scott Wise is an influential artist from Clarksville, TN who has art collections and commissioned sculptures scattered across the United States and as far as Australia. Clarksville Academy has been fortunate to count Scott Wise as a faculty member since 2004. We recently sat down to talk with Scott and learned a little bit more about what led to his tenure at CA.
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DID YOU STUDY ART IN COLLEGE?
Yes, I enrolled at Austin Peay State University during the Winter Quarter of 1985. I didn’t have any idea what I wanted to do. I had worked for construction companies and a paint company, but when I went back to school, I began as a photography major. I really enjoyed the dark room. But this major changed after I studied in London at the Blackheath School of Art.
WHAT HAPPENED IN LONDON?
I worked multiple jobs for a year to save money to study at the summer program at Blackheath. They gave us sketchbooks when we arrived and we traveled all over London—sketching landscapes, pubs, and beautiful architecture. We went to the Tate Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. I had many, many sketches of the sculptures housed within these museums and realized I should try to actually sculpt instead of drawing sculpture. When I returned to Austin Peay, I ended up earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in sculpting.
WAS THERE ANY ONE PERSON WHO INFLUENCED YOUR SCULPTURES?
Olen Bryant. He was a good, good man and an incredibly talented artist. He had a serious work ethic, working from early in the morning to the end of the afternoon every day. From about 1993-2000 I worked with Olen. I lived close to his house and helped him with his wooden pieces along with other various jobs.
YOU WERE ALSO INFLUENCED BY NASHVILLE SCULPTOR ALAN LEQUIRE?
I decided to knock on his door, a warehouse in Germantown, and ended up spending a year working with him. I helped him consolidate five different studios and assisted him with case pieces that ended up on the famous Athena sculpture in Nashville’s Parthenon. I was his assistant from 1990-1993. He encouraged me and helped enable me to study at the Johnson Atelier in Mercerville, New Jersey where major sculptors were working. It was here that I learned how to cast bronze, mould-making, and wax-casting.
HOW DO YOU SCULPT AND MANAGE THE HEAVY STONE AND BRONZE FOR YOUR SCULPTURES?
I have wenches and cranes to help with heavy materials. These are used if the sculpture is more than 500–600 pounds. The heaviest piece of stone I’ve worked with was a 14,000 pound block.
TELL ME ABOUT YOUR FAMILY—YOU HAVE SEVERAL FAMILY MEMBERS AT CA
My son, Holden, is in the 8th grade and Aliyah is in the 12th grade. They have gone to Clarksville Academy for almost all of their lives. My son, Connor, also graduated from CA in 2014. My sister, Tracy Burkhart, and Kay Drew were instrumental in bringing me to CA as a sculpting teacher in 2004.
CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT TEACHING SCULPTURE HERE AT CA
Every day that I’m not working at the Montgomery County Fire Department, I’m at school, teaching during first period. In my class, we carve stone and right now we’re using Colorado alabaster. Students are given a piece of stone and they sketch until they figure out what they are going to sculpt. Then they create a clay model of their drawing to scale and then draw on the stone and begin carving. They use a hammer, chisel, files, and sandpaper to make the stone smooth and shape it according to their model.
...let the art be what it's going to be.
ANY ADVICE YOU HAVE FOR STUDENTS OR YOUNG ARTISTS?
Stay at it, work consistently, be patient, and let go of total control and let the art be what it’s going to be. Draw a lot, practice a lot, and be open to change.
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Recollections of
costa rica Danny Magrans ’89 | Upper School Spanish Teacher and Chair of Modern Languages
For the past couple of years I have had the wonderful responsibility of leading many of my students at Clarksville Academy to different Latin American countries. Like Peru and Costa Rica. This year we have planned a trip to the Dominican Republic. Our goal is simple: to learn, to serve, and to grow. Each new school year starts with a dream. Based on genuine level of interest and with careful research and cultural studies, my students help me decide which countries to consider visiting. These cultural studies are embedded into the curriculum with equal importance to developing fluency in the target language. There is so much more to learning World Languages than just language acquisition. Equally as important to language acquisition is developing compassion and understanding for other cultures. Collectively, and after studying different cultures, my students and I decide on which country to visit. So one may ask what does it take to travel with my program? The answer is quite simple. Trust. A student must
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demonstrate a passion in building cultural connections as well as have a desire in developing growth in the target language. Most importantly, a student must have the heart of a servant. Every trip we take is centered with service learning. I feel strongly that the young adults who demonstrate these desires and share a common spirit can accomplish remarkable goals and make a significant difference. Those are the ones I will trust to accompany me on the journeys. This past summer I traveled with 18 amazing students and wonderful chaperones to a country we have come to adore: Costa Rica. Having traveled to Costa Rica in past years, the stories told by many have served as a wonderful testimony to this magnificent place. Despite the beautiful landscape and all the adventurous activities one can pursue in Costa Rica, the most extraordinary aspect of their country is their culture’s perspective to life. To truly define the common phrase used in Costa Rica called Pura Vida would require one to experience it. Yes, it does literally translate to “Pure Life” but to every Costa Rican, also known as Ticos, the phrase is more than just words. It is a way of life. This culture thrives on optimism, education, peace, respect and love for all living creatures. A stranger is quickly transformed and accepted as one of their own. Pura Vida is not just living, but having life. This is why we long to visit. While in Costa Rica, we hiked through all the different types of rain forests that exist. We saw amazing creatures including Howler Monkeys and Sloths. We saw Vipers, Poison Dart Frogs, Crocodiles, and some of the most
beautiful and colorful birds in the world. As exciting as those moments were, what always mattered most to my students were their interactions with the Ticos. This is where our visit gets tough to fully explain in words. To explain what it means to play in the rain with Ticos, or to share a meal with people from a culture who refuse to be a prisoner of time, is difficult. To dance after dinner and share our reflections of each day before curfew is something that is treasured deeply. To stand united with my students in the middle of a freezing pool at the base of a tremendous waterfall while reflecting on the magnificent beauty that surrounded us was priceless. How can one fully understand the lessons we gained while listening to the detailed explanation of a 19 year-old farmer who taught us a wonderful perspective that, despite poverty, life is good and we should live it daily? Countless experiences in Costa Rica have been stitched into our hearts and those who lived them are fully able to understand their meaningful impact.
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Land Between the Lakes Gina Goostree | Head of Lower School As the days wane, the nights close in, and the trees don their vibrant hues, a chill creeps into the air. These are the perfect conditions for two nights and three days spent in an area nestled between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area provides a 170,000-acre outdoor playground with multiple opportunities to explore nooks and crannies of the beautiful landscape. This is an ideal place where students learn through fun activities to connect with nature and this is exactly what we’ve done for Lower School students over the past 40 years at Clarksville Academy. In 1979, sixth grade teacher, Cathy Hunt, and I, as a fifth grade teacher, started a long-standing tradition by taking the students to this overnight adventure at Land Between the Lakes. Students re-discovered the simple pleasure of playing in the outdoors while learning valuable lessons about the environment. They enjoyed acres of wildlife, lessons in natural history, and outdoor recreation opportunities, all wrapped by 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline. Students, teachers, and parent chaperones from Clarksville Academy all spent time together, learning and enjoying the lay of this land. Every year this field trip takes the students out of the conventional classroom and puts them in an environment where experiential learning takes place. What better way to teach a child about nature and conservation than actually spend 48 hours within a unique and varied landscape? Students on this trip obtain handson-knowledge by learning about animal habitats and gain a real appreciation for the simple pleasures of the great outdoors. There is much to do to at LBL to connect learning and the environment in which we live. This tradition at Clarksville Academy is one that many students fondly remember as one of their favorite experiences.
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EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING @ CA Dr. Rebecca Beach '97 | Upper School English Teacher Experiential learning has played an important role in the lives of students who have attended Clarksville Academy in the years since the school began. By exploring ideas and skillsets outside of the traditional academic setting, students have gained invaluable experiences that put theories into practice. Experiential education takes students into the community to bridge classroom studies and life outside of it as engaged citizens. Our first Head of School, Kim Barton, implemented a NOVA schedule in 1972 that allowed students to study a specific subject for nine weeks at a time--often outside of the classroom. Under this unique curriculum schedule, Clarksville Academy was able to bring in specialists to teach short terms and students benefitted from having a variety of classes. Kim Barton recalls, “We encouraged teachers to take their classes outside. They weren’t restricted to just their classrooms.” Teachers like Barbara Wilbur often took students to read literature and study plants behind the school grounds. Lucy McCutcheon tested her students’ enrolled in the “Etiquette” course at home and out at restaurants. These lessons outside of the classroom gave students practical experiences in intellectually stimulating and creative ways. The first senior trip at Clarksville Academy took place in 1974 when students and chaperones rode the Amtrack from Nashville to Chicago. According to Mr. Barton, “This trip was considered a unique way to prepare for college. The idea was that students would be living on their own in several months, after having graduated, and the trip would allow students the freedom to explore and experience life in a different city.” During the mornings, Mr. Barton took students to museums and other cultural sites, while in
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the afternoons students had time on their own to venture through the city independently. In the early evening, everyone would dress up and meet back together for a night out at a restaurant or a theater to see a live show. Other trips came after this initial one to Chicago. Each trip taken, according to Mr. Baron, “was built upon a relationship of trust between the students and adults accompanying them.” That trust was earned through time spent together with honest conversations and modeled respect. In the years that followed, Clarksville Academy began taking students to other cities like Washington, D.C. and New York City on a regular basis. And because CA’s campus is situated in a culturally diverse area, students have benefitted from numerous field trips closer to home. Since the 1970s, CA classes have been fortunate to travel within our environs to exciting and memorable sites, such as the following: Adventure Science Center Belmont Performing Arts Center The Country Music Hall of Fame Discovery Park of America Fairview Monument Fall Creek Falls The Frist Art Center Grand Ole Opry The Hermitage Honeysuckle Hill Farms Huntsville Space and Rocket Center Land Between the Lakes Mansker’s Station
Nashville Children’s Theatre The Nashville Parthenon The Nashville Symphony The Nashville Zoo Patterson Place Roxy Regional Theatre The Ryman Smith Trahern Mansion Tennessee Performing Arts Center The Tennessee State Capital Walking tours of Clarksville
In the last fifteen years, students interested in traveling further abroad have enjoyed trips to:
Many other experiential learning opportunities have been afforded to CA students through internships. By interning at local businesses and offices, Upper School students have gained hands-on skills and valuable time spent within a potential career field. Seniors have also benefitted from job-shadowing at places like CMT, Cumberland Surgical Arts, Vanderbilt Hospital, Edward Jones Financial, and Star Physical Therapy. One of the most popular forms of experiential learning at CA has placed students at service of the community. Through service learning, students have made a positive impact in the Clarksville area. Students have volunteered their time, talent, energy, and resources to help other organizations such as Manna Café, Clarksville Parks and Recreation, Montgomery County Animal Care and Control, Brandon Hills Community Garden, and soldiers at Fort Campbell. Experiential learning at CA has provided students countless opportunities that prompt them to take an initiative in problem solving, make careful decisions, and be held accountable for the results. It has afforded them real moments of reflection through critical analysis that does not always occur naturally in the classroom. Through travel, fieldtrips, internships, community service, and other lessons drawn from personal experience, CA’s students are prepared to engage the world intellectually, creatively, and with a sharpened cultural awareness.
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The Seven Wonders of
LOWER SCHOOL Gina Goostree | Head of Lower School
At Clarksville Academy, we take great enjoyment and pride in the collaborative projects our students undertake each year, and we especially enjoy those with a thematic bent. From 2014-2016, students in the 7 grades Pre-Kindergarten to Fifth Grade have immersed themselves in activities involving the number “seven,” which allowed them to work with hands-on learning requiring reading, research, writing, technology, and art. The opportunity to explore and learn through themes occurs each year, during the week of the ACT Aspire test. These projects set the tone in the afternoon for fun research and allow the students’ minds to relax after a morning of intense thinking. After completing their tests, what better way to spend the afternoon—excited and motivated— than to work on a project that inspires them to learn about topics beyond the normal curriculum? Over the course of the week, topics are fully explored and researched and then culminate with unique projects and information displayed in the school hallway for all of the school to observe and read. Our adventure began in 2014 by exploring different decades of American culture. Envision entering a time capsule to take a stroll down memory lane. From the “Roaring Twenties,” the Great Depression, and the Dust Bowl in the 1930’s, to the establishment of EPA and Earth Day in the 1980’s, students documented important historical and cultural events from seven different decades in our first “Seven Wonders” Day.
When given the challenge of these wonders, CA teachers have led their students to heights beyond expectations.
The following year we studied the Seven Continents, traversing various lands across the globe. In 2016, we researched oceans and seas for the Seven Wonders of the Underwater World. In 2017, the students studied Modes of Transportation—Air, Land, and Sea. Finally, last year, we departed from our “seven” theme to highlight the work of children’s book author, Mike Shoulders and, more specifically, his book titled “‘V’ is for Volunteer.” We were excited when Mike Shoulders visited Clarksville Academy and spoke with students about his creative work. His book was displayed up and down the corridor with letters of the alphabet from A to Z and students learned a great deal about the writing process. When given the challenge of teaching these themes, CA teachers have led their students to heights beyond expectations. It is incredible what research, ideas, and displays the students have been able to create while on their journey. We can travel and visit places we have never been, or may never see, through these meaningful projects. One thing is for certain: Lower School is up for the challenge and, without a doubt, will succeed with another year of reading, writing, research, technology, and art that will be beautifully displayed for all to visit and absorb.
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HONOR CODE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL LAUNCHES
Micah Hughes | Intermediate School Honor Council Sponsor & History Teacher
The formation of virtuous character is the foundation of a life worth living. In Plato’s Republic, the philosopher aptly admonishes parents who expose their children to ideas and behaviors with destructive tendencies, knowing that what young people receive into their minds can “become indelible and unalterable,” creating just the opposite of what we want them to become.
At Clarksville Academy we strive to create an environment of learning that enables our students to become independent thinkers guided by a moral compass that contributes to the well being of our school community and society at large. To support this guiding principle, we instituted a Code of Conduct that serves as a standard of exemplary behavior that we expect from each of our students here at Clarksville Academy. Last year the Upper School implemented an Honor Code “to promote academic excellence, moral integrity, physical growth, and civic responsibility.” Because it was designed to be a legacy of honor that would impact our entire school community, the Intermediate School has now joined ranks with the Upper School to begin the process of developing strength of character, utilizing the same principles and procedures adopted by the Upper School. Our Intermediate School students’ first teachers originate in the home. It is only with the support and continued reinforcement of the Code’s guiding principles from those individuals who are the most loved and respected by the student that Clarksville Academy can achieve the ultimate goal of training young men and women to become exemplars of moral and intellectual character. CA welcomes
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determine and record the facts surrounding the incident. If the case moves on to a hearing, it is heard by Head of Intermediate School, Tracy Burkhart, the Faculty Sponsor, and an Upper School Honor Council member. All Honor Council members are appointed by CA's Head of School. This Council listens to the case and decides whether a violation of the Honor Code has occurred or not. If a violation has taken place then recommended consequences are discussed and given to our Head of School to determine the final outcome. The goal of this process is to educate and provide a learning experience for the individual students who go through it.
The Code serves as a system of accountability that reiterates the importance in completing one’s own work and taking pride in that honest pursuit. This year, signs with the Honor Code have been placed in every classroom as a visual reminder of the pledge taken by all students. All major assessments have the Honor Code written on them as another reminder of that pledge. The success of the Honor Code will continue to grow at Clarksville Academy and positively affect our school’s culture by promoting honesty, hard work, and moral integrity. It is already making a difference in the lives of our students.
Honor Council Students: 2018-2019 Top: Tucker Finch, Brandon Walker, Samuel Nicholson Seated: Aliyah Wise, Chandler Vinson, Maggie Clark, Summer Long, Grace Parbs
the partnership of all our families to enrich the lives of our students, our school, and our community. This past September, during a special ceremony, Clarksville Academy’s Intermediate school students were inducted into this commitment as each student signed the following pledge to support the Code: In pursuit of the high moral ideals and academic standards at Clarksville Academy, I commit myself to respect and uphold the school’s Honor System: To be honest in every academic endeavor, and To conduct myself honorably, as a responsible member of the Clarksville Academy community as we live and work together. Each student pledged to follow the Honor Code and participated in a discussion explaining how the Honor Code works. The Honor Code process is straightforward. In Intermediate School, once an alleged incident of cheating or plagiarism occurs and is reported, an informal meeting with the faculty sponsor, referring teacher, and student is scheduled to
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STEAK DINNER: Celebrating Our
30th Anniversary
Sally Allen | Director of Marketing and Development This April marks the 30th anniversary of the Clarksville Academy “An Evening with Friends” Steak Dinner. This long standing tradition showcases the talents of our choir students while allowing our families an evening out with friends. During the 1980s, Clarksville Academy had relied on the profits of bingo as a means to financially fund the operation of the school. That all came to end in 1989, when bingo was outlawed. Johnny Miller was the new Headmaster and knew he needed a new plan for fundraising. At the first board meeting that year, he and Board Chair, Lionel Senseney, tasked Helen Allen with creating a first-class steak dinner. CA would charge $50 per person and it would be a high-class event. Funds were tight, so Allen along with her team of volunteers gathered supplies and resources from all over town. They bought dishes and silverware at outlets and through wholesalers in order to get the best price. Hilltop Grocery store offered them a steep discount on steaks. Board members solicited businesses and various patrons to sponsor the event. Board members were charged with selling 10-20 tickets each to the event and with setup, clean up, and dishwashing post event. Volunteers baked potatoes, made dressing for the salads, as well as baked all the desserts. The first two steak dinners were held in the Jaycee’s building near the Clarksville Fairgrounds. A team of volunteers decorated the building to make it a truly special night. Helen Allen, Betty Darnell, and Kay Drew all lent their floral expertise to the table decorations over the years. Mrs. Darnell was known for her elaborate centerpieces in the foyer and Mrs. Allen has kept that tradition going. Helen Allen shared, “I look forward to creating something new and exciting each year for Steak Dinner. We are able to think outside the box and use a variety of mediums. We’ve used cowboy hats, paper lanterns, and a unique assortment of containers for the centerpieces.”
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Mrs. Judy Jackson, who worked in the cafeteria, oversaw the kitchen in those early days and kept everything running smoothly. Anne Clark, former board member and one of the original steak dinner committee members, remembers, “Judy Jackson never got flustered. She was wonderful to work with and had a great sense of humor.” A team of volunteers made the desserts. Each person on the dessert committee was given a recipe to follow and asked to deliver all desserts the day of the event. Salads were also prepped by volunteers hours before the event. Anne recalled, “One year, we ran out of salad dressing and had to make our own by combining Italian dressing and strawberry jam. Several guests complimented us on the delicious salad dressing and requested the recipe. We never did share our new ‘secret recipe’!” Steaks were cooked on site by a group of dads, a tradition that continues today. Rachel Smith—who later went on to be Miss USA—was our first ever performer at the event. She was in elementary school that year and wowed the crowd with her amazing talent. The event was a huge success with almost 300 guests. That was the beginning of one of the most loved CA traditions. Over the years many things have changed, but many have stayed the same. Although we now have someone on staff to oversee the event, it is still largely led by volunteers. Parents, grandparents, and friends, spend days preparing, by ironing table clothes, polishing silverware, and prepping table items. Beth Mabry, current Chair of the Steak Dinner Volunteer Committee, said, “We try to upgrade something each year
to keep the event moving forward. It is amazing how the Steak Dinner has evolved and how beautiful this event has become.” Mrs. Debbie Hollis arrived on the scene in 1995 and instituted CA’s first choir in 1996. From that day on, the Show Choir has played a major role in Steak Dinner’s success. Mrs. Hollis recalls that, “We had 13 girls in that first choir and chose the theme Cinamagic, a medley of movie themes that lasted about 30 minutes.” The show has grown to include grades three through twelve and now lasts an average of 45-60 minutes. Mrs. Hollis and Mrs. Angelia Thomas, Director of Intermediate and Lower School choirs, meet in the fall of each year to choose the show’s theme. The shows, costumes, and stages have all become part of the most anticipated performance of the year. In recent years, we’ve built the Grand Ole Opry, taken on Broadway, and celebrated all decades of music.
Dirksen—now handles all the food prep. Dads still man the grills, with Frazier Allen serving as Grill Chair for the past four years. Over 300 steaks and 100+ chickens are grilled each year all while the guests are eating their salads and enjoying their time with friends. Creating a profitable fundraiser was Mr. Miller’s original plan in 1989, but no one envisioned the success Steak Dinner would see. Becky Bourne, past chair of Steak Dinner, said, “I served as chair for 13 years and our goal each year was to make money. We did this by including as many performers, student servers, staff and parent volunteers as possible. But more importantly, the dinner was a special time, it was much anticipated, a kind of glue that made CA different and personal.” Make plans to join us for this year’s Steak Dinner on April 13, 2019. You don’t want to miss our 30th Anniversary special!
“An Evening with Friends” is still CA’s largest fundraiser held each year. The event has grown through the years to now serve 400+ guests. The kitchen staff—led by Karen
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BLAST OFF with
ROBOTICS
How do we begin to inspire the next generation of science and technology leaders? We begin at the beginning: childhood. We become partners with childhood influences: toys. This is where FIRST LEGO League comes into play in the lives of our CA students. FIRST LEGO League (FLL) is an international competition that links early childhood creativity with Lego toys, couples it with STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), to emphasize Core Values: scientific discovery, innovation, impactful solutions, inclusion, teamwork, and fun. Each August, FLL introduces scientific and realworld challenges for teams of students to tackle through mechanical design, programming, and innovation. This year LEGO League introduced the topic: “Into Orbit.” This project asks students to “identify a physical or social problem faced by humans in long duration space exploration within our Sun’s solar system and propose a solution.” The challenge here is three-fold. First the students must build robots to solve a set of missions on a Spacethemed playing field. Students must, secondly, develop a solution to their space-related problem and then, thirdly, they must complete all of these tasks while using the Core Values set out by LEGO League. This is the inaugural year for Clarksville Academy’s Lower School (4th and 5th grade) Robotics program. Student
Joanne Askew Lower School Science Lab Teacher
interest was so high that we ended up fielding three teams, totaling 21 FUSE students, who meet twice a week after school to build robots that can navigate an obstacle field. In addition to having lots of fun in our meetings, we develop teamwork strategies that carry over to other areas of students’ lives. We focus on discovery—exploring new skills and ideas—and we create an atmosphere that “fans in to flame” innovation as we brainstorm topics. Our robotics teams realize that they can have an impact on their community and world as we apply what we do to a real world problem. Focusing our leadership skills on inclusion, we respect what each person has to offer and embrace our differences by developing what we call COOPERTITION (cooperation and friendly competition). Working within our designated teams, students come to fully understand we are stronger when we work together. At the end of five months, after working diligently on this intricate project, students presented their work to a team of judges and made it to the Tennessee State Competition. This entire project helps our young students become more comfortable with public speaking and presentations. Though many students enjoy the competition, it is the project, as a whole, that leaves a lasting and positive mark. The entire process, from beginning to end, enables students to see how hands-on learning through technology and science can benefit others and our future.
GROWING WITH S.T.E.M. Joanne Askew & Stan Rozar | Lower School STEM Teachers
Here at CA we recognize our students as leaders and innovators of the future. STEM education provides us the perfect opportunity to implement the necessary and unique skills that create a platform for improvement in each of the four aspects of STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. By linking these components in our science lab and in the classroom, while teaching with a hands-on approach, we can relate the STEM subjects to real world problems and real world applications. Students develop inquiry skills, execute the scientific method, create models, and plan and conduct investigations. Through the EDP (Engineering Design Process) we encourage testing and redeveloping ideas from the simplest experiments. Experiments we have conducted during the first part of this year, in first through fifth grade, include the following:
Through these experiments students are able to interpret data, analyze problems, test and improve designs, retest, and communicate results to help other classmates. As the year progresses, students will continue to explore scientific and technological ideas through activities to ensure that every aspect of STEM is examined. If we are to compete as a global leader, our future workforce needs to be better prepared in STEM disciplines. Realizing the trends of the present, CA focuses on STEM components to positively impact the leaders of the future.
creating animal models using chenille stems designing parachutes for eggs comparing dish soap suds and recording data on charts and bar graphs To visit CA's STEM website use the QR Code above or designing, building, and racing balloon-powered cars improving typing speed and variation through iPad apps visit clarksvilleacedemy.com/stem.
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A Note on Athletics Jake Peterson | CA Athletic Director
The Clarksville Academy athletics program is on the rise. Additions in both our Intermediate and Upper School athletic offerings, have increased the opportunities for competition. New sports like Target Clay Shooting and Track offer students the opportunity to broaden their athletic skills. Boasting a record high of 36 athletic offerings spread over our Intermediate and Upper school, there is truly something for every athlete. Student athletes are excelling on both the playing field/court and the classroom. Maintaining a high GPA while participating in athletics is no small feat. Our student athletes have excelled in the classroom, finding the proper balance of athletics and academics. The 2017-2018 school year saw 139 Upper School athletes maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The demand of athletics with academics is challenging, but we find that our student athletes have more structure in their day-to-day schedules while participating in sports. The move to Division II has brought us new rivals and opponents. We achieved many successes in our first full year in DII. Athletes from Bowling, Golf, Track, and Cross Country competed in the State Tournament. Baseball and Basketball both made sub-state play. This year we’ve already had individuals and teams participate at the state level in several sports. DII is proving to be an exciting adventure for our program. In September we hosted our annual Cougar Classic Golf Tournament in conjunction with Homecoming. We raised over $12,000 through this tournament and will be able to use these funds to support our athletic programs. Continued support from alumni, families and friends helps to move CA Athletics in a positive direction and for that we are thankful.
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ACHIEVING OUR GOALS
ONE SHOT AT A TIME
Success for Clarksville Academy
TRACK AND FIELD
Lisa Little | Science Teacher, Upper & Intermediate Schools
Shaine Walker | Track & Field Coach, Upper School Math Teacher
During the Spring Semester of 2018, Clarksville Academy formed its first Clay Target Team comprised of young men and women in both Intermediate and Upper School. Many students have enjoyed this new program, as Madison Hawkins (’19) told us, “Shooting Sports has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and discover my love for a unique sport.”
Clarksville Academy’s Track & Field team started in February of 2017and eagerly began practices, held at Clarksville Academy and Liberty Park. Despite this late start program, we proudly sent Stone Norris to State for the 3200m.
Mr. Marty Moore and Mr. Chad Byard are the team coaches. The team is a member of the Tennessee Scholastic Clay Target Program. Team members have enjoyed competing in the three main shooting disciplines of Trap, Skeet, and Sporting Clays. To promote healthy competition, the sport is designed to teach the importance of safely handling firearms, leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. Students practice these lessons at the Montgomery County Shooting Complex.
School team took 3rd place in Skeet. An individual award was earned by Tyler Byard in Varsity Division Top Sporting Clays for Region 4 with a score of 94. During the Tennessee State competition, the Intermediate School brought home a 3rd place win in Sporting Clays and Jami Giarrizzo earned 2nd place honors in Skeet. At the SCTP National Competition, Weston Bell, Colby Byard, Tyler Byard, Jami Giarrizzo, Hayden Little, and Luke Poston shot over 700 rounds during three days of competition.
During the team’s inaugural season, shooters competed in Regional, State, and National Scholastic Clay Target sanctioned events and achieved many goals:
Students on this successful team have enjoyed their first season. Weston Bell (’20) says, “This year was the first time I had shot clays competitively. I had a fun group of teammates and coaches to shoot with.” Tyler Byard (’20) added: “What I loved is how strong our team chemistry was, especially with it being our first year. I also loved working with Coach Marty.” This diverse and talented team is now eagerly preparing for the 2019 season.
For Regionals, the Intermediate School team earned 2nd place in Skeet and 2nd place in Sporting Clays. The Upper
For more information about CA’s Clay and Shooting Team contact athletics@clarksvilleacademy.com.
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Fast forward to last year: our team gained double the amount of athletes from the previous year. To help with this growth, we brought on Coach Stan Rozar as an assistant for the men sprinters. We also have Coach Jake Rainey who assisted our distant runners throughout the season.
“
This past season we saw many This past season saw many moments of growth, whether it came moments of growth, whether it came from overcoming an injury or students’ pure determination to from overcoming an injury or students' improve. We had thirteen of our twenty-five runners qualify pure determination to improve.
”
for the State Meet. This was a fantastic accomplishment for our program as it was our first full season. One group of young men, Robert Mullen, Taijiri Jenkins, Jakobi Milan, and Deiondre Wilson, came away with a State Championship in the 4x400m Relay with a time of 3:26.46. This feat is a real accomplishment for our young program. This season we are going full steam ahead with the addition of all field events, excluding Pole Vault and adding Indoor Track. We have athletes who will be joining the team for Discus, Shot Put, Long Jump, and Triple Jump. Along with this addition, we welcome to our roster all 8th graders who want to participate. This early participation will provide needed experience and growth, which are essential for competitions. These are the next steps for Clarksville Academy’s program to grow and flourish. This is also a welcomed challenge that Coach Rozar and I welcome moving forward.
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STUDENT ACCOLADES These bright students have been recognized and earned awards from organizations outside the walls of Clarksville Academy from January 2018–December 2018. The hard work and talent of CA’s student body continues to impress leaders in our local community and beyond. We would like to offer heart-felt congratulations to all of these students. AP Scholars are those students who receive a 3 or higher on 3 or more AP exams. The 2018 AP Scholars are: Justin Gao (’18) Colton Woodson (’18) AP Scholar with Honor goes to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. The 2018 AP Scholars are: Cheyenne Deibert (’19) Tabitha Lee (’19) Christy Zheng (’19) The 2018 Jonathan Wyatt Memorial Scholarship Wyatt Samuels (’18) The Carson Scholarship program awards students who have embraced high levels of academic excellence and community service. The most recent recipient of this award at CA is: Beverly Anne Pugh (’19) The Clarksville Mayor’s Youth Council, which consists of 15–30 students, operates like other city boards. They elect officers, including a chairperson, vice-chairperson and secretary. The group works with the Mayor’s Youth Council Advisors to inform City government of the needs and wishes of Clarksville youth. The following students from CA were selected to serve on the Mayor’s Youth Council: Tyler Byard (’20) Caroline Giles (’20) Malia McDowell (’19) Shaan Patel (’20) Caroline Pennington (’20) Bayleigh Robinson (’20) Rachael Skinner (’20) The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors. Students are recognized for their capacity to lead and serve, as well as their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities. Christy Zheng (’19) Semi-Finalist
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Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. Michaela Dowdy (’18)
This year Clarksville Academy is proud to announce that Christy Zheng (’19) and Cheyenne Deibert (’19) have both been recognized as National Merit Semi-Finalists.
CA’s World-Cup Team was Runner-Up Overall Members: Cheyenne Deibert (’19) Caroline Giles (’20) Shaan Patel (’20) Jason Herlick (’19) Jeremiah Smith (’20)
Disney Thanksgiving Day Parade Participant Shiloh Sheeks (‘24) Heritage Bank Scholarship is awarded to senior high school students within Heritage Bank’s footprint in Tennessee and Kentucky. Madison Michelle Fisher (’18)
Lily Butler (’20) earned the position of Associate Justice in the International Court of Justice. Will Mabry (’20) was named Vice President of next year’s General Assembly
Hugh O’Brian (HOBY) HOBY’s mission is to inspire and develop a global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation. 2018 award recipients were: Ellyn Elizabeth Darke (’20) William Lawson Mabry (’20)
Veteran’s Day Essay Winners, sponsored by Kiwanis Club: Will Mabry (’20) Madisen Bryant (’23)
Junior National Young Leaders Conference is a premier leadership development program for Intermediate School Students. Jeremiah Fullen (’24) Savannah Elder (’24) Huiyoun Pyo (’24) Kate Goskel (’24) Sadie Skaggs (’24)
Tennessee American Legion Auxiliary Volunteer Girls State is a nonpartisan program that teaches young women responsible citizenship and love for God and Country. Those selected to attend the week of government study in 2018 were: Margaret Anne Clark (’19) Ahna Isabella Herrera (’19) Jenny Li (’19) Ashley Joe Roberts (’19)
Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Participants 2018 Susan Conner (’19) Bayleigh Robinson (’20) Ava Wilson (’19)
Tennessee American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for high school students. Those selected to attend the week of government study in 2018 were: Tucker Lewis Finch (’19) Jason Andrew Herlick (’19) Brandon Riley Walker (’19)
The Ronald Reagan Leadership Awards for 2018 Bradley James Burger (’18) Justin Xue Gao (’18) Samuel Clark Nicholson (’19) Lakeisha Allyah Phillips (’18) Rotary Leadership Award (RYLA) encourages servant leadership in youth by recognizing and rewarding deserving students who are chosen for their past and present leadership and service activities. The following students were awarded this: Bailey Coleman (’20) Caroline Giles (’20) Will Mabry (’20) Brennan Morrow (’20)
Tennessee Model U.N. 2018 Each fall, the YMCA of Middle Tennessee sponsors a Model United Nations conference. At the conference, Tennessee high school students learn about the real world operation of the United Nations by participating in a reenactment of the organization’s activities.
Tennessee Cheerleader of the Year 2018-2019 Malia McDowell (’19)
Youth Leadership Clarksville participants are juniors and seniors from the Montgomery County area selected by the Leadership Clarksville organization. This selective group encourages interest and participation in the community and volunteer activities. The following students from CA were selected for the 2018-2019 school year: Bailey Coleman (’20) Caroline Giles (’20) Samuel Nicholson (’19) Taylor Norris (’19) Bayleigh Robinson (’20) Ellie Rocconi (’19) The Class of 2018: Clarksville Academy’s senior class of 56 students achieved over $7.8 million in scholarship dollars and this amount continues to grow! All of CA’s graduates received 100% college acceptance and scholarship awards.
*Many awards are still outstanding and will be recognized in the next edition of White Columns.
Tennessee First Lady’s Summer Reading Competition Winner Carmen Skaggs (‘27) was selected as one of Tennessee’s Top 100 Readers this year. Students recognized in this program must read a minimum of 2,000 minutes. Carmen went above and beyond the requirements by reading a total of 2, 247 minutes.
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BEN CLARK Alumni Spotlight
Class of 1997
CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT WHERE YOU WENT AFTER GRADUATING FROM CA IN 1997?
WHAT CALLED YOU TO THE MOUNTAINS AND DREW YOU TO WORKING IN YOUR FIELD? CAN YOU GIVE A LITTLE BIT OF INFORMATION ON HOW THIS DEVELOPED?
IN 2003 YOU BECAME THE 2ND YOUNGEST AMERICAN TO EVER SUMMIT MOUNT EVEREST. YOU ALSO MADE A FILM DOCUMENTING THIS ARDUOUS TREK CALLED “EVEREST: THE OTHER SIDE.” WHAT STANDS OUT IN YOUR MEMORIES OF THIS EXPERIENCE AND INCREDIBLE ACHIEVEMENT? In the 15 years since I topped out on Everest, globally, it remains one of the most interesting conversation starters in any room anywhere in the world. I don’t have a particular
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IN MAY OF 2018 YOU RELEASED ANOTHER MAJOR FILM CALLED “THE SNOWMAN TREK” THAT TAKES VIEWERS TO THE AWE-INSPIRING LANDSCAPE OF BHUTAN. CAN YOU SHARE SOME INSIGHTS INTO THE CREATION OF THIS FILM AND ITS PRODUCTION? I had always wanted to go to Bhutan and engage with its mysterious mountains and little known culture. I found that by pursuing a speed record with the help of locals that our team was able to see directly into the heart of the landscape and also to establish real friends on the trail and share in a major goal that was groundbreaking in that country. I filmed, directed and starred in the movie
I went to Architecture School at the University of Knoxville in 1997.
A group of friends were all going hiking and invited me to join that first summer at University in Knoxville, my first time away from home. Of all the freedoms I got to experience in those first few years of college, nothing satisfied my curiosity as much as getting in the car and driving to The Smoky Mountains to hike. As a high schooler, I enjoyed athletics and creativity and spent many weekend afternoons wondering around solo on my family’s land by Dunbar Cave. I came to appreciate the solitude and discovery in nature early and simply, but when I gained some maturity, health and independence I explored it to the absolute extreme. I think all the time I spent in solitude out there on that land, thinking and imagining the future, built ambition to express myself and to explore the world. I became a filmmaker to communicate the bottled up passion of my youth.
probably unlikely so I am very, very grateful for the luck it has involved and the mentors who encouraged me to take the steps and hang in there.
“ memory that stands out but my impression is one of great respect for the culture of the locals who support the mountain and its climbers. They are why I continued to explore the Himalayas for another 15 years before retiring.
CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR WORK IN FILM AND MEDIA? HOW DID THIS BEGIN AND WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT THIS WORK? ANY SPECIFIC PROJECTS/JOBS THAT HAVE BEEN FULFILLING FOR YOU? I am more excited about being a filmmaker and working in media than I have ever been! It began with Kay Drew encouraging me to get on camera to deliver morning announcements over our old closed broadcasting system (Channel 1) and led this year, to being a top documentary filmmaker with real “Hollywood” theatrical distribution and having a bestseller in iTunes. Most fulfilling for me is that I have been able to take original ideas and get them to global audiences. In an artist’s lifetime that outcome is
WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST ABOUT HAVING GRADUATED FROM CA? We had a great art program. I am glad to be connected to a community of people who I still think are wonderful people. Culture, art, science, math-all these individual and rigorous pillars of great institutions are what create a foundation for a great life long after the last bell.
DO ANY MEMORIES FROM CA STAND OUT TO YOU? IS THERE ANYTHING THAT YOU GAINED THAT HAS HELPED PREPARE YOU FOR LIFE POST-CLARKSVILLE ACADEMY? I was the last one picked for most sports until I was 15. I struggled at times because I had bad knees, was overweight, hadn’t hit my growth spurt. I’ll always see myself as that person and the opportunity to have been
A smaller school can make or break you. CA and my classmates made me a better person.
about this expedition and that went in over 400 theaters in May 2018, the single largest release of an Outdoor film of its type of all time. I never ever gave up on that story or anyone on the team and that is why it succeeded, everyone gave me 110% back!
YOU’VE TRAVELED EXTENSIVELY AROUND THE WORLD.ANY FAVORITE SPOTS OR PLACES YOU WOULD LIKE TO GO IN THE FUTURE?
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included and encouraged and to overcome helps me with that struggle to reach for something better every day. A smaller school can make or break you-CA and my classmates made me a better person.
ANY ADVICE FOR CA STUDENTS TODAY? Stay on top of things!
I would like to go to Hawaii, the coast of Omansomewhere I can chill and learn to surf.
COULD YOU TELL ME A BIT ABOUT YOUR FAMILY? My family has two generations at CA! My brother Jon and I both graduated from CA and Maggie and Molly Clark show us both what better young people and students we could have been. I think they appreciate it more than we did at the time.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ON:
MITCHELL GIGANDET Class of 2007
CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT WHERE YOU WENT AFTER GRADUATING FROM CLARKSVILLE ACADEMY? After graduating I went to MTSU. I went to class and studied like I was supposed to, but I quickly realized that I had no direction. Like most teenagers, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and didn’t know how to go about figuring it out. In high school I had always assumed that once I got to college the answer would just come to me, that my purpose would just jump out at me one day. But it didn’t, and as the days went by, going to school without a concrete goal became a chore, even distressing at times. My whole life I was told to go to college and I never questioned it. But as my first year drew to a close, I found myself looking for something else for the first time.
WHAT CALLED YOU TO JOIN THE MILITARY? WHERE DID YOU GO AND IN WHICH BRANCH OF THE MILITARY DID YOU SERVE? HOW LONG DID YOU SERVE? It was actually my father that first suggested I join the military. I never thought about it before. I’m not sure why, but as soon as he mentioned it I knew it was what I wanted to do. Maybe it was because I was unhappy in college and was looking for anything to shake my life up. I knew absolutely nothing about the military and I think that really appealed to me. I had no idea what was going to happen or where on this earth I was going to end up, but a few weeks later I was in a recruiting office. In an odd way, it was like I finally was in control. I chose the Marine Corps because I had always associated it as being the most difficult and competitive branch of the military. And the only MOS or job I wanted to do in the Marines was the infantry. I wanted to pick the hardest, craziest thing I could think of and the Marine Corps Infantry oozed those qualities. I left for boot camp
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in October 2008 and then was stationed in Camp Lejeune, NC. I was with my battalion there for my four year enlistment.
YOU WENT ABROAD FOR TWO TOURS. COULD YOU TELL ME WHERE YOU WENT AND WHAT KINDS OF WORK YOU PERFORMED? HOW LONG WERE THESE TOURS? I deployed twice to Afghanistan between 2010 and 2012. On my first deployment I was a light machine gunner and my battalion was sent to Marjah, a village in the Helmand Province considered at the time to be the last Taliban stronghold in the country. We returned to the states in January 2011 and deployed again in November to a place called Trek Nawa. On that deployment, I was a squad leader and team leader, so I was in charge of anywhere from 4 to 13 Marines. As a squad leader, I was responsible for organizing patrols and just generally keeping my guys ready for whatever may happen on and off the battlefield. Each tour was about 8 months, so I spent about 16 months in Afghanistan.
WHAT STANDS OUT IN YOUR MEMORIES OF THIS EXPERIENCE? CAN YOU SHARE ANY INSIGHTS LEARNED FROM THIS TIME, WORK, AND TRAVEL? I have many important memories from my time overseas and at least one of them crosses my mind at some point every day. Some are good memories and some not, but they are all important. I think that experiences like that teach you things about yourself more than anything else—what you’re capable of, how you deal with pressure and difficult situations, and what you can endure and recover from. Because as much as combat is a team effort, it is also very personal. And as I went through each experience, it changed and molded me into a completely different person. Those deployments were certainly the turning point in my life.
It was also when I found out what human beings are capable of, for better or for worse. I saw things that I could only describe as evil, but I also saw things that were inspiring. We lost many Marines, but I was always blown away by how resilient everyone was. We were all in our teens or early twenties, basically just kids, but we were forced to deal with death and loss and some weeks it felt like it would never stop. But it helped being surrounded by guys going through the same thing. Our families and friends were far away, so we relied and leaned on each other quite a bit. I’d never had an experience like that before and haven’t since.
NOW YOU’RE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, STUDYING MEDICINE, WHAT PROMPTED THIS CAREER PATH? DO YOU KNOW YET WHAT KIND OF MEDICINE YOU MIGHT LIKE TO STUDY OR PRACTICE? Medicine was not something I always wanted to get into. I was in the Marines when I decided I wanted to be a doctor. Overseas, I had opportunities to not only work with the local civilians and provide basic medical care for them, but it was also when I first was trained in trauma and basic first aid. I enjoyed it, and that’s really what first peaked my interest in medicine. I’m still not sure what type of doctor I want to be. I’m in my third year so I’ve got some time to figure it out. Right now at the top of my list is internal medicine or pediatrics
You’re going to make mistakes, but those mistakes may end up being as valuable and significant to your life story as your triumphs.
but I haven’t ruled out some type of surgery either. We’ll see what happens.
WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST ABOUT HAVING GRADUATED FROM CA? I received a great education at CA. To this day, some of the best teachers I’ve ever had were there. It was something that I didn’t even realize until I had gone to college. Many of the tougher science classes were more like a review because we had already been taught or exposed to it in our AP classes. I’ll always be thankful for that and for the teachers that didn’t stop caring and put up with us all those years when my classmates and I were being difficult, which we were known to be on occasion. I also met some of my best friends at CA. I still keep in touch with many of them. If we go months or even a couple years without talking, as soon as I see them again it’s like no one ever left. Those types of friendships are rare and I’m glad they’re all still in my life.
ANY ADVICE FOR CA STUDENTS TODAY? Don’t be afraid to do something you never thought you’d be capable of doing. You never know what might change your life. You’re going to make mistakes, but those mistakes may end up being as valuable and significant to your life story as your triumphs.
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ALUMNI NEWS 1970s Cal Hampton ’74 Began Second Mile Community Church Clarksville, TN
1980s Clark Nicholson ’80 Serves as ex-officio for the CA Board of Trustees Danny Magrans ’89 Travelled to Costa Rica and Puerto Rico with over 30 CA students!
1990s Mike Pugh ’90 Serves as a member of the CA Board of Trustees
Amanda Thomas Pitt ’95 Serves on the Roxy Theatre Board of Directors
2000s Erica McIntosh Christmas ’00 Selected to serve TAIS on the 2018-2019 Administrator Services Committee for the Middle Region Upper School Heads John Crow ’02 Serves on the CA Board of Trustees Lance Morgan ’02 Serves as Vice Chairman of the CA Board of Trustees
Betsy Baggett Leavitt ’10 Married David Leavitt on July 28, 2018
Caroline Burchett Wilson ’13 She and her husband Elijah Wilson welcomed Judah Ted on August 29, 2018
Luke ’12 & Megan Thompson Baggett ’12 Opened Copper Petal Boutique in downtown Clarksville on July 5, 2018
Chad Covington ’13 and brother Kendall Covington ’18 Celebrate 5 years in business with 'Sol Kendamas'
Garrison Goostree ’06 He and his wife, Whitlee, welcomed Stetson Rives Goostree on September 19, 2018
Aaron Kirkland ’14 Married Precious Joy on May 11, 2018
Emily Henson Lindsey ’10 She and her husband Garrett welcomed Sadie Grace on February 2, 2018
Devin Hightower ‘09 He and his wife Taylor welcomed Decker Wilson Hightower on September 21, 2018 Skip Burchett ’04 Selected to the 2019 Class of Leadership Clarksville
Grant Schryver ’10 Married Lyndsey on May 19, 2018
Hampton Bourne ’06 Selected to the 2019 Class of Leadership Clarksville
Kara Alsup Harris ‘03 Married Colin Harris March 3, 2018
Michael Rios ’92 Captain with the Clarksville Fire Department and also serves as Fire Inspector Emily Alexander Douglas ’94 Celebrates the 5 year anniversary of ownership of 'Children’s Corner Patterns' which is celebrating 40 years in business
Caleb Ragsdale ’09 Married Rachael Mann on October 6, 2018
Calvin Hall ’13 Graduated Magna Cum Laude from Tennessee Tech University with a BS in Cellular and Molecular Biology in May 2017 and is currently enrolled at Lincoln Memorial University, Debusk College of Medicine program with a focus in Physician Assistant Studies Macy Mayfield ’14 Named to APSU Homecoming Court
Sarah Wallace Ludvigsen ’10 Married Anders Ludvigsen on December 31, 2017 and began medical school in January 2018
Evelyn Turner ’16 Won Homecoming Queen at UT Martin
IN MEMORIAM Amy Stapp ’90 Beau Brasher ’08
Cal Burchett ’06 Expanded his Civil Engineering business, McKay-Burchett & Company Engineers into a new location on Madison Street in Clarksville in May 2018
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I’M IN! Giving to CA
Sally Allen | Director of Development
When you think of the Annual Fund or Annual Giving, you likely think of daily operations of the school. While that is true, the Annual Fund is so much more. The Annual Fund is made of charitable donations covering expenses not met by tuition. Did you know that tuition only covers 75% of our annual budget? Staff salaries and benefits make up 79% of our budget. The rest is made up from annual giving and our annual school-wide fundraisers of Boosterthon and Steak Dinner. Annual giving funds are to be used for expenses that tuition doesn’t cover. These items are often unforeseen expenses or one-time costs. They are not something we increase tuition to cover, but that we hope to offset with charitable giving.
Throughout the year we find emerging priorities that we simply couldn’t foresee, and therefore aren’t budgeted for. These items make up a third category for focus of annual funds. These are often one-time costs. Things like AED machines, extended technology in our classrooms, updated software systems for offices like admissions, and much more. These are all important items needed to better our school, but aren’t always budgeted for. Annual funds are beneficial to make these a reality. Clarksville Academy was fortunate to receive a large gift from Laura Clare Parks of the Parks-Belk family in 2004. From the Parks Trust, CA receives funds yearly from interest
DID YOU KNOW?
Tuition only covers 75% of annual budget. Staff salaries and benefits make up 79% of our budget. 100% of Faculty/Staff and Board of Trustees participated in Annual Giving!
Deciding who and what to support is a tough decision. There are many opportunities to support a variety of charitable organizations. Our hope is that as alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends of Clarksville Academy, you will choose to support CA.
Annual funds raised in the 2018–2019 budget year (August 1, 2018–July 30, 2019) will offset the budget, but will also go to fund several much needed projects. Before the official kick off to this year’s “I’m In” annual giving season, the Development Office was proud to announce that for the first time in over twenty years, 100% of Faculty/Staff and 100% of the Board of Trustees participated in Annual Giving! So many people wanted to be able to say, “I’m In!” (For more on “I’m In” check out the sidebar of our giving list.) Security will be a major focus for the Annual Fund. The addition of our Director of Security has increased our knowledge and awareness of what is needed in order to keep our students safe. A variety of security items, from more cameras, to safety glass, to key card door entries, are just a few of the items on our list. Proper support of the annual fund will help secure these items more quickly. Another focus for the Annual Fund will be professional development. Select administrators and faculty will participate in various professional development opportunities thanks to the Annual Fund. This isn’t something we have been able to focus on in the past, but with support of the Annual Fund, we hope to have more opportunities for professional growth.
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on the trust. These funds have traditionally gone to provide financial aid to families at CA. Now we have expanded this gift to form The Clarksville Academy Foundation. Created in July of 2018, this foundation is designed to leave a lasting legacy at CA and to supplement the work of the Parks Trust. Lawson Mabry was the leader in setting up our new Clarksville Academy Foundation and has since been elected President of the Foundation Board. Lawson Mabry has reiterated the importance of the Clarksville Academy Foundation: “Independent schools rely on charitable foundations to provide financial aid to students and also to assist in funding capital expansions. The corpus of a foundation is usually the accumulation of planned giving, gifts from estates, or one-time gifts of cash, securities, or real estate. Income from the trust is a perpetual source of funds and can also be used to honor or memorialize a loved one in the form of an endowed scholarship, such as the one we created in honor of Dan Burden this year. We hope to add another endowed scholarship in 2019.” Clarksville Academy has a broad impact, but limited resources with increasing needs. Annual giving and the Clarksville Academy Foundation are both important factors for our school’s continued success. We hope that you choose to make CA a priority in charitable giving.
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Alumni & Friends of Clarksville Academy August 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018
Honor Roll of Giving
ANNUAL
Friend ($1-$99)
Jenny Albright Robert Baker Jordyn Baldwin Billy and Carrie Daniels Larry and Nancy Deeds Clint and Karen Dirksen Marilyn Downing Bernie and Pamela Harris Phil and Debbie Hollis James and Dorothy Johnson Meredith Krebs Bart and Kim Lynn Christina and Keith Merle Elwyn Patch Jake and Nikki Peterson Scott and Diana Samuels Angelia Thomas Frances Traughber Tommy and Jill Vivrette Christine White
Educator ($100-$249)
Mark and Midori Angel Rebecca Beach Ray and Anne Bertelsmann Jeremy and Haven Bowles Demetra Boyd Bubba and Betty Burchett Mike and Lisa Burman Mike and Aleta Evans Dawn Geren Tina Lium and Jason Burroughs Brian and Shaun Kueter Matt and Cara Miller Lance and Kayla Morgan Gary and Joyce Norris Karla-Ann Ota
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Greg Parbs Elizabeth Thomas Mike and Lynda Trent Matt and Tara Wallace Ed and Christine Watson Chris and Cindy Williams
Scholar ($250-$499) Adrienne Beasley Skip and Amy Burchett Eric and Christie Burger Rob and Kristina Copeland Jill Crow Elizabeth Daniel Tom and Elizabeth Darnell Nick and Dana Everett Jimmy Holleman Eric and Amana Huneycutt Marco and Erica Kezele Richard McWhirter Sammy and Cindy Stuard
President ($500-$999)
Frazier and Sally Allen David Glidewell Rex and Kendra Hawkins Young Jin and Grace Lee Moon Keith and Beth Norris John Peay Russell and Mary Roberts Action Air
Column Club ($1,000-$2,499) Tim and Jane Crocker Todd and Mary Crowe Don and Sandy Jenkins
Chris and Brittany Johnston Luke and Nicole Jones Tim and Linda Thomas Jack Turner Milton and Myra Webber Steve and LouAnn Wright
Trustee ($2,500-$9,999)
Chad and Melinda Byard Lawson and Beth Mabry Long Vue Farms
Visionary ($20,000-$49,999) Evans and Lori Peay
ATHLETICS Friend ($1-$99)
Annie and Irving Staats
Educator ($100-$249)
Ramon and Debbie Aquino Katie Ashley Clark and Associates Clarksville Police Union Courtyard Marriott Credit Bureau System Tammy Earp F&M Bank Carla Gibbs Terry and Amy Gilbert Grit Fitness & Wellness Thrive Creative Group Hawkins Home Heimansohn Steel & Salvage Isabella Sophia Salon Alfonsa and Selena Johnson
McReynolds, Nave & Larson Funeral Home Mathis, Bates, Klinghard Law Morgan Contractors Melanie and David Mosier Lori O’Shoney Ben and Jennifer Pendergrast Gary and Carolynn Perry Matt and Lynnette Poston Dennis Rice Troy and Wanda Ritenhour Jennifer and Brandon Robinson Billy Smith Straight Line Fence Town & Country Drugs Wallace Building Supply Gordon and Kerri Woodson
Scholar ($250-$499)
Jeff and Jerri Bragg Scott and Lisa Little Shan and Susan Smith
President ($500-$999)
Frazier and Sally Allen Blackwell Construction & Airborne Disposal Cumberland Bank & Trust Nancy Durrett Green Earth Recycle Brian and Shaun Kueter Sango Family Dentistry, PLLC Sharon Massey Law Office
Column Club ($1,000-$2,499)
Tony and Tricia Briningstool Clarksville Pool & Leisure Gary Mathews, INC Gen4 Services Lawson and Beth Mabry Neal Tarplay-Parchman Funeral Home Evans and Lori Peay Sammie Gibbs Construction Charles Sleigh Wofford’s Nursery
WHY I'M IN! KRISTEN STOWE '99 CA Student Services Assistant
“I give to become an INfluential INspiration to the INvaluable, INgenious and INspired minds IN and of the future. I love being IN tune, IN the know and IN the moment with each INdividual student, parent, faculty and staff I come IN contact with here at my alma mater, CA.”
KIM LYNN
1st Grade Teacher
“I am INvested. Giving to the Annual Fund directly impacts the experience of our students. Every gift, no matter the amount, is significant and represents a commitment to CA.”
TINA LIUM
Intermediate School Math
“I am very much INvested in education. CA has so much potential, and I want to be one of the INfluencing factors.”
AMY BURCHETT '05 Director of Admissions
“I am IN for this years' annual giving campaign! As an alumni with children currently attending Clarksville Academy, I am INvested for the continued growth and success of CA.”
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Trustee ($2,500-$9,999) Shooting Shop Tim and Linda Thomas
Innovator ($10,000-$19,999) Bob and Sue Ellen Yates
CA FOUNDATION Trustee ($2,500-$9,999)
Lawson and Beth Mabry
DAN BURDEN SCHOLARSHIP Friend ($1-$99)
Blakey Bradley Sherri Brown Skip and Amy Burchett Marilyn Downing Donna Hale Garnett Ladd Patrick Miller Tim and Kim Sawyer Christine White
Educator ($100-$249)
Frazier and Sally Allen Les and Helen Allen Herb and Lina Baggett Eric and Christie Burger Jill Crow Tom and Kay Drew Paul Hsu Lance and Kayla Morgan Gary and Joyce Norris Keith and Beth Norris Stephen Pearse Lionel and Lucille Senseney Charles Smith
Scholar ($250-$499)
Vernon and Ruth Carrigan Jon and Christina Clark Bryce and Karen Powers
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President ($500-$999)
Robin Armistead Wally and Susie Burchett Daniel and Sally McGregor Jack Mitchell James and Elaine Smith
Column Club ($1,000-$2,499) William and Kathy Beach Kris and Emily Douglas
Innovator ($10,000-$19,999) Lawson and Beth Mabry
PARKS FOUNDATION Scholar ($250-$499) Jack Mitchell
GREG PROCTER ENDOWMENT Friend ($1-$99)
Grace Allen Ray and Anne Bertelsmann Luanne Bloom Mason Boisseau Demetra Boyd Donna Bracy Chad and Melinda Byard Erica and Kyle Christmas Jon and Christina Clark Carrie and Billy Daniels Jeff and Sonja Derico Lee and Corinthia Elder Will and Allison Evans WD and Angie Henson Joey and Kaki Hughes Rudy Johnson Alaric and Katie Klinghard Dave and Phyllis Loos Lawson and Beth Mabry Patrick Miller Patsi Miller Rachel Piech Larry Shelton Kim Sidor Frances Traugher Julie Whitlow
Educator ($100-$249)
A-Affordable Les and Helen Allen Landon Bibb Eric and Christie Burger Lynn and Tracy Burkhart John Mark and Gail Cox Todd and Mary Crowe Mike and LaDonna Dowdy Rob and Kelly Galbraith Cal and Diana Hampton Mark Hays Philip and Janet Jarrell Ben and Jennifer Pendergrast Johnny Ransdell, Sr. Brian Rives Russell and Mary Roberts Tina Robertson Doug and Anneliese Skaggs Mike and Virginia Smith
Scholar ($250-$499)
Frazier and Sally Allen Tony and Tricia Briningstool Amy and Billy Brown Ray and Sharon Grimes Jeff and Alicia McQueen Tim and Linda Thomas
President ($500-$999) Dana Procter
Column Club ($1,000-$2,499) Matt and Ashley Sundstrom
Trustee ($2,500-$9,999)
Hand Family Companies Mike Parchman
STEAK DINNER Friend ($1-$99) Elwyn Patch
President ($500-$999)
Adrienne Beasley Lee and Corinthia Elder Straight Line Fence Julie Whitlow
Column Club ($1,000-$2,499)
Chris and Laura Barnett Chad and Melinda Byard Jon and Christina Clark Dowdy Financial Group, LaDonna Dowdy Ground Support LLC Keith and Beth Norris Sykes Funeral Home
IN KIND GIVING Trustee ($2,500-$9,999) Ray and Sharon Grimes Scott and Lisa Little Wade and Patsy Smith
Innovator ($10,000-$19,999) Billy and Kerri Mace
CUMULATIVE GIVING $50,000+ (SINCE 2005) Jennifer and Scott Blackman Theresa and Eddie Burchett Bert and Phyllis Covington F&M Bank Hand Family Companies Norma Jerles Family Lyle, Cook, Martin Architects Debbie McConnell Lawson and Beth Mabry Billy and Kerri Mace Morgan Contractors Evans and Lori Peay Wade and Patsy Smith
Is your name missing or misspelled? The Development Office has made every effort to ensure that the information contained on these pages is accurate and complete for gifts made between August 1, 2017–July 31, 2018. If your name is missing or incorrectly listed, please contact us at: sallen@ clarksvilleacademy.com so that we can update our records. Any gifts made after August 1, 2018 will be recognized in the next edition of White Columns.
WHY I'M IN! DEBBIE HOLLIS Upper School Choir
“I’m IN to Annual Giving because it is important for us to all do our part to help our school. Being INVOLVED shows that we are family!”
MATT WALLACE
Chief Financial Officer
“I’m INvested in the Annual Fund because tuition can’t cover our overall budget. Giving to the annual fund allows me to give back to the school that gives so much to my family.”
JENNIFER HINOTE Head of School
“I am INSPIRED by the great teachers at Clarksville Academy. They create an environment in their classrooms that is supportive and student-focused. I want to support our teachers in their professional development, so I am IN for this year’s annual giving campaign!”
SHELLEY HOLT Pre-K Teacher
"As a parent of a CA graduate, I have seen the positive impact of an educational experience at Clarksville Academy. I am INdebted to CA for the strong foundation given to our daughter, and I am IN for this year’s annual giving campaign."
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Non Profit Org US Postage PAID Clarksville, TN Permit No. 70
Clarksville Academy 710 North Second Street Clarksville, TN 37040
UPCOMING CLARKSVILLE ACADEMY EVENTS February 15th-18th Winter Break March 21–22 Grandparents’ Day April 6th Prom April 13th Steak Dinner May 10th Billy Frank Smith Sports Banquet
May 17th Academic Awards Program
May 25th–June 4th England/Scotland Trip
May 24th Graduation
QUESTIONS? Contact Sally Allen at (931) 647-6311 or sallen@clarksvilleacademy.com
June–August Summer Camps September 20th Homecoming September 21st Cougar Classic Golf Tournament
Stay up to date on the latest CA & Alumni info! ClarksvilleAcademy.com Facebook.com/clarksvilleacademy