WELCOME
AS SUMMER WINDS DOWN and we prepare for the year ahead, I’m delighted to welcome you to the rst online issue of Under the Elm is summer edition o ers a joyful re ection on the season just past — a time of celebration, transition, and heartfelt goodbyes.
Spring at HDS is always rich with tradition and meaning, and this year was no exception. From the joyful reunion of generations on Grandparents and Special Friends Day, to the pride and cheers of the Awards Ceremony and Moving Up Day, we were reminded once again of the enduring spirit of our community. And of course, Graduation was a powerful culmination — an emotional and inspiring send-o for our 8th graders, who leave HDS full of promise and possibility.
is issue also celebrates the milestones of our incredible faculty and sta , whose dedication makes all of these moments possible. Whether marking ve years, twenty- ve, or forty, each person brings something unique and essential to the fabric of HDS — and for that we are deeply grateful.
In this issue, we also honor the retirement of Donna Peck, beloved teacher of 4th and 5th grade Science. In her nearly 23 years at Harford Day, Donna has guided countless students with her wisdom, warmth, and quiet strength. Her legacy lives on in the many young people she has inspired, and in the hearts of her colleagues who have cherished working alongside her.
ank you for being part of the HDS family. We hope you enjoyed a restorative and adventure- lled summer — and we look forward to gathering again under the elm in the coming days!
Go Blue. Go Green. Go Dragons.
Susan Bond Kearney HEAD OF SCHOOL
MISSION
At Harford Day School, learning is a joyful process rooted in respectful relationships, strong traditions, and an innovative program that fosters confidence, imagination, curiosity, and engagement with the world.
ATHLETIC UPDATE
The following update is provided to clarify Athletic Participation by the Numbers information previously published in the Spring 2025 issue of Under the Elm
The statistics below reflect students’ athletic participation during their time at Harford Day, not just during the 2024–25 school year.
ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION BY THE NUMBERS
100%
8TH GRADE: (20 OF 20) played on at least one athletic team.
90%
7TH GRADE: (27 OF 30) joined at least one team.
89%
6TH GRADE: (31 OF 35) participated on at least one team.
LEADERSHIP UPDATE FOR LOWER SCHOOL
Harford Day School Welcomes Jacqueline Fisher as Next Lower School Head
We are thrilled to welcome Jacqueline Fisher to Harford Day School as our next Lower School Head. With her deep commitment to student success, wealth of leadership experience, and passion for innovative learning, Jacqueline is the perfect fit to lead our Lower School into its next exciting chapter.
Jacqueline brings an impressive background in elementary education and leadership, holding an M.S. in Human Resource Development with a focus on Educational Leadership from Towson University and a B.A. in Elementary Education, Cum Laude, from Eastern Nazarene College. Her extensive experience as an Assistant Principal across multiple elementary schools, as well as her time serving as Acting Principal, has shaped her into an inspirational leader and mentor for both students and faculty.
Throughout her career, Jacqueline has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to nurturing young learners, fostering a positive and engaging school culture, and supporting teachers in their professional growth. She has played a key role in designing and implementing professional development programs, leading instructional teams, and creating meaningful learning experiences for students of all ages. Her ability to build strong relationships with families and the community makes her an invaluable addition to the Harford Day family.
Please join us in giving a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Jacqueline Fisher! We look forward to the energy, wisdom, and heart she will bring to our students, faculty, and families. The future of our Lower School is brighter than ever.
IN APPRECIATION FOR YEARS OF DEDICATION
We bid a fond farewell to Donna Peck at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. After working at Harford Day School for close to 23 years, Mrs. Peck has now embarked on her next adventure — retirement!
HOW LONG DID YOU WORK AT HDS?
I started as a long-term sub in 2002-2004 and worked almost two full years for a few different teachers who were on maternity leave and long-term medical leave. I joined the full-time faculty in fall of 2006 teaching in the 4th and 5th grade hallway.
WHAT SUBJECTS DID YOU TEACH AT HDS?
Over the course of my years at HDS, I taught Language Arts in grades 4 and 5, Science in grades 3-8, Math in grades 4 and 5, and Algebra in 8th grade!
WHAT IS A FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR TIME AT HDS?
The science nights and science fairs were a highlight of my time at HDS. It was always a joy watching my students showcase their projects and seeing them glow with pride over their findings. I will always remember my last science fair this past spring during which the 5th graders dazzled everyone with their knowledge of DNA.
WHAT IS THE ODDEST/MOST UNUSUAL “OTHER DUTY AS ASSIGNED” YOU EVER HAD TO DO?
Science teachers are typically expected to identify anything in the natural world, which can be stressful at times. Throughout the years, I was often asked to identify objects around the campus - animals, plants, and mysterious substances!
WHAT ARE SOME BIG CHANGES HDS EXPERIENCED FROM THE TIME YOU BEGAN TO 2025?
Three changes stand out for me. First, the transition to wearing uniforms was a big, but very positive, change. Second, the building additions and renovations have improved the versatility and aesthetics of the campus. Lastly, my experiences from teaching virtually in 2020 and 2021 opened my eyes to the different needs of students and made me a better teacher.
WHAT WILL YOU MISS MOST ABOUT HDS?
e moments that I will miss the most are seeing the students’ enthusiasm when they experience the awe of scienti c discovery. A few examples that come to mind are when they observed something amazing under the microscope or when they told me they spotted Orion, or a similar celestial body, for the rst time.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE AT HDS?
My hope for the future at HDS is that the students continue to love science and math, and that they appreciate nature while being good stewards of the environment. I am optimistic that many
students will pursue careers in STEM elds, and that all students are lifelong question askers. My wish is that they will also pass on their knowledge to others.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO MOST IN RETIREMENT?
I am looking forward to traveling and exploring nature, reading, writing, solving puzzles while relaxing, and spending lots of quality time with my family.
Speaking with a former student of Mrs. Peck, Peter Krimsky ‘17 shared that Mrs. Peck had been inspirational in his field of study and career goals. Peter studied Cell Biology and Genetics at the University of Maryland and graduated in May. “After graduation, my hope is to spend some time working in the medical industry. This may be sales, clinical research, regulatory affairs, etc. Although this may be a permanent career choice for me, I hope to pursue graduate education in a field of biological research. My top choices are either cancer biology or bioinformatics.”
When asked to share a favorite memory from Mrs. Peck’s class, Peter stated, “It’s hard to pick a favorite memory from Mrs Peck’s class, as all classes with her were engaging and fun. If I had to choose a favorite memory from Mrs. Peck’s class, it would probably be working on projects for the science fair. Mrs. Peck was always enthusiastic during this time and would be walking around to all the groups. She
would also ask about the projects and give great advice whenever a group seemed stuck, but would do so in a way that the groups still had to think about what problem they were trying to solve.”
Peter also noted that having Mrs. Peck as a teacher was truly a gift. “She went beyond just teaching and worked to inspire students, such as myself, to pursue a career in the sciences. Even if she was having a bad day, she brought an enthusiasm to learning that made me and so many other students want to stay in her class just a little longer. I wish nothing but the best for Mrs. Peck at the start of this new stage of her life. It does sadden me to know future students won’t have the privilege of sitting in Mrs. Peck’s class, but the excitement I have for Mrs. Peck and her new journey outweighs that many times over.”
HDS alum, Samantha Bowen ‘12
fondly cites a highlight from her Harford Day School experience as Destination Imagination, which was led by Mrs. Peck. “Over the course of two years, I had a blast
learning and developing my creativity with Mrs. Peck’s guidance. This experience, along with Mrs. Peck’s engaging science classes, truly influenced my future education and even my career today. A big part of my job is creative problem solving, and I thank Mrs. Peck for giving me the tools to do it!”
While we are sad to say goodbye to Mrs. Peck, we wish her the very best on her well-deserved retirement. We cannot wait to hear about her traveling pursuits and her adventures with her amazing children and grandchildren! Peter Krimsky’s farewell wish to Mrs. Peck sums up what we are all feeling — “Mrs. Peck, your work over the years is greatly appreciated and the entire HDS community wishes you the best in this new chapter of your life.”
FACULTY & STAFF MILESTONES
Each year during our end-of-year luncheon, we recognize faculty and staff who have reached years-of-service milestones, beginning with five or more years of dedicated service to Harford Day School.
40 Years of Service
Kim Creighton
1. (left to right) Kim Creighton pictured with Susan Kearney
35 Years of Service
Paula Farrell
2. (left to right) Paula Farrell pictured with Susan Kearney
30 Years of Service
LaFreda Smith
3. (left to right) LaFreda Smith pictured with Susan Kearney
20 Years of Service
Valerie Kohles
4. (left to right) Valeria Kohles pictured with Susan Kearney
15 Years of Service
Heather Rupprecht (not pictured)
5 Years of Service
Ronald Bowen
Julia Ramos
Janelle Schmidt
5.-6.
Ronald Bowen,
(left to right)
Julia Ramos and Janelle Schmidt pictured with Susan Kearney
THE ANNUAL BLUE & GREEN CLASSIC
On Monday, May 12th, Harford Day School hosted its 33rd Annual Golf Tournament, 5th Annual 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run in loving Memory of Patrick Boyle, and 3rd Annual Pickleball and Tennis Tournaments. The events committee spent months preparing, and all four events were thoroughly enjoyed. The weather, the sponsors, the players, the food, and the run all combined to create a truly memorable school-wide community event.
We are sincerely grateful for all the support we received in making this day a tremendous success for Harford Day. Over 500 people participated in the day’s events, underscoring the broad community support for our school. Through the generosity of supporters like you, we raised over $145,000 for the Annual Blue & Green Fund.
The Annual Blue & Green Fund is a vital component of the School’s annual operating budget; contributions to the fund have a direct impact on teaching and learning at HDS. Thanks to the incredible support of our families, friends, and community, the Harford Day School faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees are grateful for the success of our annual fundraiser.
If you would like to get involved, sponsor an event, or assist with planning next year’s events, please contact Director of Advancement, Lauren Milan, at 410-809-2420 or lmilan@harfordday.org.
GO BLUE. GO GREEN. GO DRAGONS.
SPECIAL THANKS
EVENTS COMMITTEE
Lauren Milan, Director of Advancement
Amy Jahnigen
Greg Jastrab ‘97
Doug Jeruzal
Sarah Klein ‘97
Kelly LaVardera
John Mardenborough
Jennifer Nesaw
Megan O’Brien
Jesse Reeder
Susan Roarty
Gerald Williams
AUCTION COMMITTEE
Kelly LaVardera
Jennifer Nesaw
Megan O’Brien
THANK YOU, LEAD SPONSORS
The Boyle Family
GRANDPARENTS’ & SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY
A Beloved
HDS Tradition
Each year, we come together to honor the special bond between students and the important people in their lives during Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day. This heartwarming occasion invites families and loved ones into the heart of our school for a morning filled with connection, creativity, and celebration. Visitors are invited to join students in their classrooms for engaging activities, lively performances, tasty refreshments, and keepsake photo opportunities. As the morning unfolds, HDS comes alive with joyful energy, pride, and meaningful moments. It’s a tradition our community looks forward to every year — and one that continues to create lasting memories for all who attend.
AWARDS CEREMONY
Congratulations to all Award Recipients
Our community came together to honor the accomplishments of our 8th grade students in academics, athletics, and the arts. Students were recognized with end-of-year awards that highlight not only academic excellence but also growth, perseverance, and dedication across core subjects and artistic pursuits. Congratulations to all members of the 8th Grade Class of 2025 who were recognized this year.
1. Recipients of the President’s Award for Educational Achievement: Rocco Batista-Sestito, Raashi Bhalavat, Delaney Boyle, Lia Bubbins, Kyle Congdon, Nathan Drane, Reagan Jeruzal, Jack Leach, Ezra Parker, Jackson Voss, Cassidy Wells, and Aaron Zayas.
2. Recipients of the President’s Award for Educational Excellence: Neil Davar, Bryson Landing, Luke Meerholz, Miranda Pevear and Nathan Sulkowski.
3. Mrs. Kearney presenting the Sara W. Brumfield Award to Delaney Boyle.
4. Mr. Wootton presenting the Academic Excellence Award to Raashi Bhalavat.
5. Mr. Wootton presenting the Middle School Faculty Award to Nathan Sulkowski.
6. Mr. Wootton presenting the Citizenship Award to Luke Meerholz.
7. Mrs. Kearney presenting the EPIC-G Empathy Award to Cassidy Wells.
8. Mrs. Kearney presenting the EPIC-G Perseverance Award to Alexander Azamar.
9. Mrs. Kearney presenting the EPIC-G Integrity Award to Neil Davar.
10. Mrs. Kearney presenting the EPIC-G Community Award to Jackson Voss.
11. Mrs. Kearney presenting the EPIC-G Growth Award to Ezra Parker.
MOVING UP CEREMONY
On this special day, all students participate in a ceremony welcoming them to their next grade level. The Moving Up Ceremony is an HDS tradition that takes place after the Awards Ceremony.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2025!
Alexander Azamar
Rocco Batista-Sestito
Raashi Ravikumar Bhalavat
Delaney Colleen Boyle
Lia Bubbins
Kyle Joseph Congdon
Neil Dua Davar
Nathan Carl Drane
Reagan Jeruzal
Bryson Lamont Theodore Landing
Jack Morrison Leach
Luke Joshua Meerholz
Ezra Baye Parker
Miranda Temperance Pevear
Nathan Henry Sulkowski
Grace Elizabeth Trancucci
Jackson Ronald Voss
Cassidy Wells
Aaron James Zayas
CELEBRATING HARFORD DAY SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025
Under clear skies and surrounded by family, friends, faculty, and alumni, the Class of 2025 came together for a memorable graduation ceremony. The event marked a significant milestone for the twenty graduates, who received their diplomas from Board President Aaron Rabinowitz and Head of School Susan Kearney. The day was filled with pride, reflection, and celebration as the community honored the achievements and bright futures of this exceptional class.
CLASS
OF 2025 COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS, MISS ALYSSA KRAUS ‘14
Alyssa is a former HDS Dragon who graduated with the class of 2014. An avid reader and writer, she rst found her passion for journalism when she joined her high school newspaper. She later pursued this passion at the University of Maryland, where she graduated in 2022 with degrees in Multi-platform Journalism and English Language & Literature. She was named Philip Merrill College of Journalism’s Top Scholar and
received the Academic Excellence Award for English.
During her studies, Alyssa interned at news organizations such as CNN, NBC News, e Today Show and e Washington Post with a specialization in audience engagement and social media.
Upon graduation, Alyssa joined CNN’s Programming and Distribution team, where she has worked as an Associate Producer for the last three years. In this role, Alyssa packages content and composes headlines for CNN’s homepage. She also creates breaking news alerts for the CNN app, assists with social media and organizes digital coverage for pop culture events.
We sincerely thank Alyssa for her time and ongoing dedication to Harford Day School.
Alyssa addressing the class of 2025 graduates.
Graduates from the Class of 2025.
Donovan Chase Adams
GRADUATION REFLECTIONS: A TRIBUTE TO THE CLASS OF 2025
Harford Day School Class of 2025 student-selected speaker, Neil Davar, delivered a thoughtful and heartfelt address centered on the theme of connection. Drawing inspiration from a science lesson about how bones, muscles, and ligaments work together, Neil reflected on how relationships — both big and small — have held the class together through the joys and challenges of middle school. He paid tribute to the many individuals who shaped their journey, from teachers and advisors to coaches, staff, and even parents who snuck him pizza. With warmth and humor, he reminded the audience that meaningful human connection — not texts or likes — is what truly sustains us.
Neil also celebrated the shared experiences and beloved traditions that defined the HDS experience — from bagpipers on the first day of school to class field trips, school plays, and spirited Blue and Green games. He highlighted the memories forged with his classmates through group projects, inside jokes, and even banned recess sports. As the Class of 2025 prepares for high school, Neil urged his peers to carry forward the real lessons of middle school: that connections — formed through laughter, learning, and support — are what matter most. “We didn’t just make it,” he said, “we made it together. And that’s a connection worth celebrating.”
Neil Davar ’25
Graduates from the Class of 2025.
GO BLUE. GO GREEN.
GO DRAGONS.
The Annual Blue & Green Games are a tradition that brings the entire school community together following Graduation. In this spirited event, the Blue Team competes against the Green Team in a series of fun and friendly challenges designed to celebrate school pride, teamwork, and the end of the academic year. It’s a highlight of the school calendar, filled with excitement, laughter, and lasting memories.
