The Wheel 39.2 Fall/Winter 2021

ISSUE 39.2 FALL/WINTER 2021

the

Celebrating

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CONTENTS 1 A Letter from the Head of School 2 Arrivals & Departures 4 Valley School, 75 Years Proud 12 A Day in the Life 14 Faculty Profile: Sandi Fryer 17 Alumni Updates 21 Spring Fling 22 Spring Musical 24 Counselor’s Corner 26 SOAR 28 Strategic Planning

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2021–2022 Catharine M. Cathey ’81, President Ralph J. Artuso ’71, Vice President Paul A. Hannah, Treasurer Lisa R. Frederick ’87, Secretary Ryan S. Busch ’98, M.D. Nathaniel D. DeRose ’97, Esq. Eric E. Elek, C.F.P. Patrick F. Koch ’96 John McConnell Ryan J. McHugh Edward J. Morgan Jessica L. Shirey ’96 Michael F. Szwerc, M.D. Stephanie A. Van Norman Jonathan P. Strecker, Ed.D., Ex Officio

CONTRIBUTORS Jessica Barbera, Editor Katelyn Bruzda Sandi Fryer Brian Jinks David Kirkland Tammy Kline Cindy Palmer Carole Paterson Michael Pstir Denise Santia Michelle Smith Candy Springer Jonathan P. Strecker Jessi Yates Valley School Faculty, Staff, & Trustees

PHOTOGRAPHY Jordan Good, Lovelight Photography Valley School Faculty & Staff

PRINTING Unity Printing

© 2021 Valley School of Ligonier

A LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear Valley School Families, This year at Valley School, we are celebrating our 75th anniversary. It was in 1946 that Constance Prosser Mellon and General R. K. Mellon founded Valley School on their determination to provide regional children with an educational experience focused on “the development of lifelong habits of moral behavior, seeking wisdom, and doing good works for others.”

In 1946, Valley School was different than it is now. The building was much smaller, consisting of only the original stone portion that had been William C. Carnegie’s home. Lower School had an enrollment of only 17 students, and the Upper School served just 26 students. Children greeted their teachers with a curtsey or handshake.

There were no uniforms at first. Girls wore formal dresses and bobby socks.

Most styled their hair cropped short with curls.

Boys dressed in full suits with ties, and slicked their hair. The playground had swings and slides.

Instead of competing for red tricycles at recess, students rushed to be first to the “Irish Mails,” which were four-wheeled racing vehicles powered by hand.

Though a lot has changed over the last 75 years, many elements of the Valley School experience have stayed the same. Our founders knew the importance of a well-rounded and balanced education, and from our very beginning, Valley School presented students with opportunities for holistic development. We have always encouraged students to be courageous in their pursuits of academic excellence, moral fortitude, social responsibility, and physical wellness.

While Valley School’s core values remain the same, childhood today is quite different. Children experience a world that changes at a historically unprecedented rate. Constant social connectedness

and access to infinite information mean that children are confronted by both the wonders and ails of the world. Early exposure to these complexities has advantages, but our children’s reality isn’t without risk. Educators and families must provide guidance along with the tools that will help children healthfully navigate this dynamic terrain. Skillful, conscientious teaching is more essential than ever.

At Valley School, we are proud that when we look back 75 years to our founding mission, we find the integrity to adhere to the principles we know are right and the flexibility to adapt to new circumstances.

We continuously evaluate our educational methods and child engagement in order to align our curricula with our students’ needs. We aim to provide our students with academic rigor in a positive cultural environment. We help children develop a growth mindset, explore their unique passions, set optimistic goals, think critically, and advocate for themselves and others.

More than seven decades ago, our founders dreamed big. They imagined great educational opportunities for the families of the Laurel Highlands, and committed themselves to realizing their vision. Today, we see our students’ potential and encourage them to emulate General and Mrs. Mellon. We embolden them to dream big, imagine greatness, and commit to change. Today’s youth will not inhabit an easy future world, but we are proud that Valley School children will be eager and prepared to make positive differences within it.

“…when we look back 75 years to our founding mission, we find the integrity to adhere to the principles we know are right and the flexibility to adapt to new circumstances.”

Warm regards,

Dr. Jonathan P. Strecker

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ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

Trustees

WELCOME Ryan Busch, MD is a physician anesthesiologist at Excela Health. He is also the Assistant Director of Anesthesia at Excela Health and the Latrobe Hospital Anesthesia Site Director. He is a Valley School alumnus ’98, having attended Valley School from kindergarten through 9th grade. Ryan graduated from Greater Latrobe Senior High School ’01. He attended Wake Forest University ’05 with a BA in studio art. His M.D. comes from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine ’09. He completed his Anesthesiology residency at University Hospitals Case Medical Center ’13 in Cleveland, Ohio. Ryan’s professional interests include ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia and anesthesia for outpatient surgery. Ryan lives in Latrobe with his wife, Sherrie, and is the proud parent of Lucas ’29 and Leila. He enjoys spending time outdoors with his family downhill skiing, bike riding, playing golf, and fly fishing.

Michael Szwerc, MD is a physician and the Director of Thoracic and Robotic Surgery and The Advanced Lung Center at Excela Health. His clinical interests include lung cancer management and minimally invasive robotic surgical techniques. He is a graduate of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and did advanced surgical training at The University of North Carolina and Allegheny Health Network. He is a past president of The Eastern Cardiothoracic Surgical Society and has given many regional and national presentations in thoracic surgery. Dr. Szwerc and his wife, Stephanie, have two children at Valley School—Anna ’25 and Katie ’28. His children love Valley School, always describing their school day with genuine enthusiasm. Dr. Szwerc has been a member of Valley School’s Advancement and Auction & Art Show committees. He is honored to be a member of the Board of Trustees. In his spare time, he enjoys preparing meals together with his family, exercise, and golf.

WE’LL MISS YOU Pallavi Jain joined the Board of Trustees in 2017. Over the past four years she led the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS) Committee for Governance, and wrote the Board’s contribution to the PAIS self-study report. Pallavi also served as a Class Parent when her three children Anita ’09, Naveen ’12, and Maya ’19 attended Valley School. We are grateful for Pallavi’s thoughtful commitment to advancing Valley School’s mission over the past four years.

Ed Gaskey, father of Kaitlyn ’19 and Lindsey ’23, was elected to the Board of Trustees in May of 2018. Upon joining the Board, he was immediately recruited to serve on the Finance and Investment Committees. He brought his keen expertise to the table and always kept Valley School’s long-term financial stability in mind. He consistently asked purposeful questions and could always be counted on to share his informed insight in the best interest of the school. Many of Ed’s recommendations will benefit the school for years to come. The Finance Committee, the Investment Committee, and the Board of Trustees thank Ed for his contributions and devotion to Valley School.

Over the course of the multiple terms she served as a member of the Board of Trustees, Kristin Durkan was highly involved in the life and culture of Valley School. She led by example, both as a mom to Maggie ’20 and Jack ’22, and volunteer for myriad committees and projects. Kristin brought tremendous value to all her commitments. As Co-Chair, then Chair of the Development Committee, she worked to increase parent participation and initiated the effort to reengage alumni. Funds raised by the Development Office increased exponentially under her leadership. In addition, her work on the Strategic Planning Committee, Committee on Trustees, and Head of School Committee was instrumental to furthering the mission of the School.

In addition to her contributions to higher-level strategic work, Kristin never hesitated to get involved on the ground. She repeatedly volunteered to serve on the Christmas Dance Committee, and didn’t flinch when her talents landed her the unofficial job of Valley School event photographer. She also devoted a great deal of personal time to serving on the Friends of Valley School Golf Tournament Committee and the Auction & Art Show Committee. These fundraising events significantly benefited the school. We thank Kristin for her years of dedication to Valley School.

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Faculty & Staff WELCOME Paul Corridoni Maintenance Team Member Our newest member of the Maintenance Team comes to us from Hanson Aggregates in Adamsburg, PA, where he was an Asphalt Plant Manager and Level 2 Plant Technician. Paul grew up in Saltsburg, and attended the Kiski School.

He had no trouble acclimating to life at an independent school. He’s happy in his new role here at Valley School, and has commented that “This is such a pleasant, polite, and kind environment. The people and culture here are exceptional.”

When Paul is not working, he enjoys the outdoors. He’s an avid fisherman and hunter and he loves to golf. He and his wife, Sarah, have two children, Weston, age 11, and Mia, age 18.

Shahpore Khalifeh Physical Education Teacher and Athletics Coach Known to Valley School students as “Coach K,” Shahpore grew up in Missouri.

He attended college and played wide receiver at Henderson State University (Arkansas). In his final year, he transferred to Northeastern State University (Oklahoma) to complete his Kinesiology degree. He pursued his teaching internship in California. While living in Los Angeles, Shahpore taught physical education for nine years. He also coached football and track and field, served as a varsity Defensive Backs Coach, and was a Head Track and Field Coach. He also met his wonderful wife, Blanca. Shahpore loves teaching physical education, as it is a way for him to stay active while making positive impacts on students’ lives. Welcome to Valley School, Coach K!

Michael Pstir Marketing Assistant Michael earned his Bachelor of Science degree in business with a marketing and management focus from Penn State University. Being artistic, he pursued marketing in order to apply his natural creativity to his professional career. He completed an internship with a Pittsburgh-based marketing agency, and upon graduation, continued working there. Michael enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, biking, and immersing himself in nature. He has a great love for all animals, and is passionate about the conservation of wildlife and our world.

When he is not outdoors, you will find Michael weight lifting, baking with his family, or studying gems and minerals, which he collects. Michael’s wish for others is to discover the magic in life that makes our otherwise ordinary world remarkable.

Julie Smith 4th Grade Teacher One of Valley School’s “new” faces isn’t unfamiliar around here. For the last seven years, we have had the pleasure of having Julie in the building as a long and short-term substitute teacher for all grade levels. She is famous for her can-do attitude, willingness to help others, and encouraging optimism. As mom to three Valley School students, Josiah ’22, Jalie ’23, and Jana ’24, we know her as an infinitely supportive and devoted parent. This year, we are thrilled that Julie has joined us permanently as a co-teacher for 4th-grade.

WE’LL MISS YOU Lindsey (Kauffman) Kanuch Physical Education Teacher and Athletics Coach After departing Valley School, Lindsey Kauffman (our first Coach K!) married Brad Kanuch. The couple now resides in Altoona, PA, where Lindsey is a long-term Physical Education substitute teacher at Tyrone Area Middle School and High School. In the fall, she coached junior high girls’ soccer, and she is looking forward to spring when she will coach high school track alongside her (Head Coach) husband. Lindsey writes, “Married life is great, and I love spending every day with my best friend. We are soaking up the time we have together after five years of long distance! I miss everyone at Valley School, and I know that no place I ever work will replace it in my heart… or serve lunch as good as Mrs. Snyder’s! Thank you to everyone for being my second family for the last four years. I cannot wait to visit and see you all again!”

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Valley School

of Ligonier was founded by Mrs. Constance Prosser Mellon and General Richard King Mellon on the belief that strong institutions enrich communities. Mrs. Mellon’s vision was that Valley School would be a happy, nurturing place—where children would build their academic skills, and, just as importantly, learn to become responsible, humane adults. She believed that the best education exposed children to diverse life experiences and perspectives, and therefore aimed to make a Valley School education available to children from all walks of life.

Today, 75 years later, Valley School stands firmly on the foundation of Mrs. Mellon’s work. We are still providing a balanced and holistic education. In core subjects, 90% of Valley School children are achieving—or exceeding—academic expectations. Moreover, they are kind—community-minded, resilient, and brimming with optimism and the desire to contribute to the betterment of the world. Our alumni reach out to us with warmhearted nostalgia; they recall Valley School as a place that nurtured them to young adulthood, and made them critical thinkers, compassionate friends, and conscientious citizens. Our families partner with Valley School in embodying the Valley Core Values—Cultivating Wellness, Seeking Wisdom, Embracing Integrity, and Building Community—to the benefit of their children and our school.

Valley School’s history is a tapestry of gifts—beautiful seasons, devoted families, talented faculty and staff, exciting events, bright children, and vibrant memories. Each individual leaves the marks of their presence and contributions. We are a community comprised of so many who have generously given their time and talents; it would be impossible to list each one. And so, throughout this special anniversary year, we celebrate all of us, together, our wonderful Valley School community, 75 years proud.

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1946

1947

5 Valley School is incorporated.

5 September 24: Valley School opens its doors with an enrollment of 43 pupils in grades K-7.

5 Mrs. Mellon purchases a Georgian-style mansion owned by William Carnegie for Valley School.

5 Mr. Peter Messer arrives from England, and is employed as first Headmaster of Valley School.

5 In the interest of attracting and retaining diverse families, the Valley School Board of Trustees creates a Scholarship Fund that will support 34% of the first year’s incoming students.

“I was still in the army in England when a letter came from Mrs. Mellon, asking me to start a school.”

—Peter Messer

1948

5 Faculty includes Peter Messer as Headmaster and Latin teacher, a Senior Master, 3 teachers, 1 part-time teacher, an art teacher, secretary, cook, and janitor.

5 Valley School children select the school colors.

5 The Valley School crest is created.

5 The Valley School motto, Abeunt Studia in Mores, is introduced.

“We had to have school colors. We took a vote.

The kids chose yellow and dark green.”

“Pupils’ lives will be enriched by an elementary introduction to the sciences, the history of the arts, music appreciation, art training, and shop work.”

—1947 promotional brochure

1951

“Compared with other schools, we may possibly be accepting a high proportion of scholarship students. However, our ability to do so makes us the envy of other independent schools.”

5 8th grade is added to Valley School.

—1951 letter written by Constance Prosser Mellon

1954 1956 1963 1964 5 In true mission-driven form, an endowment fund is established to ensure Valley School’s fiscal health.

5 Endowment Fund has 57 contributors who believe in and support Valley School’s mission.

5 Valley School’s enrollment radius has expanded such that roughly 1/3 of the students are from Greensburg and Latrobe.

5 A new wing is added to the school building and the library facilities are expanded.

5 The tradition of Thursday morning movies begins.

Subjects include wildlife, the steel industry, and the invention of the telephone.

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VA L L E Y S C H O O L O F L I G O N I E R

1967

5 Trustees approve conversion of the Langdon House for kindergarten and nursery school classes. Mrs. Wolff is employed as nursery school teacher.

1970

5 Mrs. Mellon announces that she and General Mellon will consider a gift to Valley School represented by a new wing that will provide the additional facilities. She states that school expansion will not threaten the familial nature of the Valley School community.

“There are values children learn in sports—reliance on each other, hard work, a certain kind of discipline, and sportsmanship. We’re doing more than training athletes here. We’re making good kids.” —Mr. Larry Clements

5 Addition of the boys’ sports field.

5 June - General Mellon dies.

1971 1972 5 Mrs. Mellon becomes Mrs. Peter E. Burrell.

5 A new gym is built over the stream. It is large enough for two simultaneous basketball games, making it possible for the old gym to be used exclusively for performing arts.

1975 1978 5The girls’ sports field is completed.

5 In the spring, at the age of 65, Peter Messer announces his retirement.

5 Mr. Russell J. MacMullan, Jr. is appointed Valley School’s new Headmaster.

5 Renovations under the stage transform the space into a new art room with large windows overlooking the stream.

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“[Mr. Messer] Please accept my deep gratitude and appreciation for your 31 years as Headmaster of my little school. It has grown, through your leadership, to be known and respected in many states.”

—Mrs. Burrell

75 YEARS PROUD

1979

5 Summer camp opens for the first time with an enrollment of 30 children.

5 In the fall, kindergarten is moved from the little house behind the playground to the primary wing. Nursery school is discontinued.

5 Mr. MacMullan presents plans for a new science and music wing.

1980

5 Tuition is 38% below the Pittsburgh area independent school averages.

5 The science and music wings are completed.

1981

5 The first Valley School newsletter is introduced.

5 The positions of Upper and Lower School Heads are created.

5 In memory of Mrs. Burrell, the Board of Trustees establishes the Founder’s Award—to be given annually to the graduate who best exemplifies strong character and scholarship.

5 November - Mrs. Burrell dies. 5 First alumni brunch is held.

1982

5 Magistra Shelley Miller establishes the Roman Banquet, one of Valley School’s most beloved annual traditions.

“We all agree there is something very, very special about our school, a quality we all love and respect.” —Strategic Plan

1983

5 Mr. MacMullan asks the faculty to develop and explore their goals and discuss plans within the context of the school’s growth.

5 The school’s first Strategic Plan is produced. A primary goal is to preserve and protect “the Valley way” of nurturing and educating children.

1986 5 Upper School is expanded to include 9th grade.

5 The nature trail behind the Head of School’s home is completed.

“The independent school thrives in the zone of freedom which allows for individuality and choice within the goals of the institution.”

– Mr. MacMullan FALL/WINTER 2021

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VA L L E Y S C H O O L O F L I G O N I E R

1988

“Those words: “community” and “trust” and “friendship” all weave together to create the fabric that is an independent school.”

5 Michael Kennedy becomes the new Head of School.

“Michael Kennedy was a turning point that led to new facilities and a major effort to increase faculty salaries as well as more parental involvement.”

—Mason Walsh

—Michael Kennedy

1990 1991 5A new winding driveway is completed during the summer, revealing the poor condition of the water wheel. John Whipkey begins to fabricate a new wheel in his shop.

5An anonymous gift allows for the reconstruction of the sluiceway. A new roof for the pump house is also completed.

5A new Strategic Plan is created and adopted.

“We must preserve and augment the strong academic program and personal, nurturing atmosphere that have long been our strengths.”

“The crane operator on the truck, after some deft maneuvering, delicately set the wheel in place, and within a few minutes we watched it begin to turn.”

1992 1993 5January 15 - The hundredth trustee meeting is held.

5Construction of the wheel is completed.

Final placement is done with the help of Rolling Rock Farms.

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5The Class of 1993 is the first to be photographed in front of the refurbished water wheel.

1996

5The old overflow parking lot is transformed into a new sports field.

5September 6 - Valley School celebrates its 50th anniversary. The event is commemorated with an evening of tours, food and drink, socializing, and reminiscing.

75 YEARS PROUD

1996

5 Completion and first use of new Dining Hall and 4th-9th grade classrooms.

“Valley is more than a school. We are about children, and their needs at any given moment, and their futures. Children need time with adults who care about them.”

—Michael Kennedy

1997

5 Valley School holds the first annual Spring Musical, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.

2002 2005 5January 31 Peter Messer dies.

5The Enhancing Our Heritage Campaign enables the creation of Lower School “D wing” and reconstruction of the athletic fields.

2006 2007-2008

5The newsletter is released in full color for the first time.

2008

5 Clair Ward is appointed Head of School.

“I am passionate about addressing the sustainability of the school thereby ensuring that generations of students to come will be able to have the same wonderful things to say about their elementary and middle school years.”

—Clair Ward

5The final year for Michael Kennedy as Headmaster of Valley School. Kennedy retires after serving for 20 years.

2010

5 New Development Office is added.

5 Valley V is introduced.

“Clair is a tremendous mentor, leader, and friend. She made an incredible impact on the entire community, especially our children.”

—Kristin Durkan, Board of Trustees

2011 2012

5 Valley School relaunches its newsletter with a new design and title, The Wheel.

5 Valley School’s Summer Camp, Soar at Valley, is reinvented.

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VA L L E Y S C H O O L O F L I G O N I E R

2017

“Whether he’s acting as Head of School, Math Teacher, Morning Greeter, or one of his many other roles, Dr. Strecker prioritizes his interactions with children. There is no doubt that they know he cares about who they are and who they will become.”

5 Dr. Jonathan Strecker is appointed Head of School.

5 The Bridge Campaign funds classroom modernization and establishes the Clair P. Ward Fund for Professional Development.

5 Advancement Office expands to include Admissions and Communications.

5 Valley School children submit ideas and vote on a mascot, eventually welcoming Valiant the Owl!

—Dr. Charles Jacobina

2020 2021

2019

5Introduction of the Valley Core Values: Cultivating Wellness, Seeking Wisdom, Embracing Integrity, Building Community.

HEADS OF SCHOOL: Mr. Peter Messer 1947 – 1978 Mr. Russell J. MacMullan, Jr. 1978 – 1988 Mr. Michael Kennedy 1988 – 2008 Ms. Clair Ward 2008 – 2017 Dr. Jonathan Strecker 2017 – CHAIRS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Mrs. Constance Prosser Mellon 1947 – 1980 Mr. Seward Prosser Mellon ’56 1981 – 2010

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5In keeping with Valley School’s mission, financial assistance continues to be available to all qualifying enrolled families.

5Valley School celebrates its 75th anniversary!

PRESIDENTS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Mr. E. B. Clarke Dr. E. R. Weidlein Mr. George Wyckoff Mr. James H. Rogers Mr. Leonard W. Bughman Mr. George W. Wyckoff Mr. C. K. Macdonald Mr. Henry J. Stringer Mr. F. M. Schaefer Mr. Edward J. Magee

1946 – 1947 1947 – 1949 1949 – 1950 1950 – 1951 1951 – 1952 1952 – 1953 1953 – 1954 1954 – 1955 1955 – 1956 1956 – 1957

Mr. Spencer R. Hackett Mr. Harry J. Saxman Mr. Arthur B. Van Buskirk Mr. Alex G. McKenna Mrs. Elinor P. McLennan Mrs. Marge Hermann Mrs. Susan Watson Mr. Joseph F. Reilly Mr. Larry Shirey Mrs. Catharine M. Cathey ’81

1957 – 1961 1961 – 1964 1964 – 1972 1972 – 1977 1977 – 1982 1982 – 1987 1987 – 1991 1991 – 2006 2006 – 2012 2012 –

75 YEARS PROUD

Valley School Voices Valley School was an adventure.

We were in a special place, tucked in the woods. I remember the smell of the woods, and the sounds of the stream in different seasons. Something about being outdoors develops a spirit… a hardiness.

I have so many Valley memories. The Wallops Island trip, the Roman Banquets, our formal lunches and the incredible lunch staff, our amazing teachers, the school concerts, and all of the great sports…

What’s most amazing is that nearly 40 years after graduating from Valley, in my memory, the vibrancy of the events feels like I’m that kid again.

Valley was a wonderful place to teach. My goals were to help children adjust to life, to be individuals, to use their imaginations, and to contribute something to the world.

Be curious, explore, work hard, and enjoy the life journey with friends, family and community!

Having a real community, amazing facilities, and the right format make a huge difference in good enough vs. extraordinary.

Valley was extraordinary.

Valley transformed my education from impersonal to personal, from passive to active, from unfocused to focused, and from somewhat interested to fully engaged. I know that so many Valley alumni feel Valley in their bones—it’s a part of who we are.

Thank God for Valley and thank you to all the amazing teachers, coaches, staff and Valley community. May Valley continue to grow and flourish and prepare many more generations for life’s challenges and opportunities.

And may the Valley community continue to stay connected!

At a critical, formative stage of life, Valley created the bedrock, the foundation for a winning life recipe.

Valley gave me skills, confidence, tools, and community. I made great friends, learned so much, and look back at Valley as the best education imaginable. Valley made each day an amazing journey and I loved coming home and talking with my family at the dinner table about what we learned that day.

Valley instilled in me confidence to go and do whatever I set out to achieve. It provided me relationships to fall back on during the toughest times.

Mrs. Smith is the teacher who meant the most to me. I came to Valley in 1st grade, so she was also my first teacher. She had a natural talent for keeping order while presenting exciting ideas. She was incredibly loving and welcoming. Her hugs were the type you wish for your children and grandchildren.

My favorite Valley School memories include… our experiential learning trips—canoeing, backpacking, camping, and rappelling—holiday Valley Ski Trips; Wallops Island; Thursday night ballroom dance classes and Christmas Cotillion; Sports Day at the end of the school year; recess with crackers and juice; lunch table conversations with teachers and peers; all the sports games and bus rides.

My class at Valley was like my family and my classmates were like brothers and sisters.

So, the most valuable lessons I learned were many soft skills: to include everyone, forgive and forget, be honest and upfront, share, be open to ideas/opinions of others, and appreciate what I had.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

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FACULTY PROFILE

Sandi Fryer

reflects on the years gone by After 27 years at Valley School, our beloved Kindergarten teacher, Sandi Fryer, will retire at the end of the current academic year. Life milestones are often bittersweet, and as Sandi reflects on the years gone by, the students she’s nurtured, and the colleagues she’s worked and lived alongside, her eyes shine with tears of gratitude. She anticipates wonderful adventures ahead of her, and plans to spend time with children in volunteer roles, but she knows she’ll mourn the loss of daily teaching. “I’ll have to learn who I am all over again. So much of our identity is wrapped up in our professions, and being a teacher is who I am—and have been— for so long. It’s exciting and heartbreaking to walk away. I’m blessed to have a remarkably sweet, bright, dynamic, harmonious class this year—and my granddaughter, Frieda, among my students! It’s a beautiful bookend to this chapter of my life.”

Knowing that our kindergarteners—now and in the future—will have years of guidance from talented and dedicated Valley School faculty makes Sandi’s transition to retirement a little easier. “My colleagues will care for and nurture these children as they grow and learn, and having that confidence means everything to me. My replacement, Allee Dupuis—with whom I co-taught for a year—is an incredibly gifted teacher. She’s the reason I can do this. Valley School children will be in the most capable, loving hands.”

How did you come to Valley School?

While I taught for a couple of years after college, I was a stay-at-home mom for over a decade. When my third and youngest child was ready to enter school, I was ready to come back to the classroom. My dear friend (with whom I had reconnected at St. Michael’s Church but first met in college) and colleague, Shelley Miller, encouraged me to come in for a visit.

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Sandi, thank you for sharing your professional talents and human gifts with our Valley School family for nearly three decades. In your retirement, we wish you contentment, fulfillment, peace of mind, safe travels, sensational food, and exciting adventures. We love you.

❤

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What attracted you to Valley School?

Although I was charmed by the aesthetics (who isn’t?), the first time I visited Valley School, it was clear that the people truly care about each other. Everyone is more than willing to help one another at any moment. There is just no place like Valley School.

How did you become a teacher and why?

Growing up, I was fortunate to spend a great deal of time with my aunt, who was a fabulous elementary teacher and counselor. She was creative, passionate, and fun, and I wanted to follow in her footsteps.

If you hadn’t become a teacher, what might you have been, professionally, instead?

A speech pathologist, or a child psychologist.

What life passions have you brought to the classroom and your teaching?

I love to share my scuba diving adventures with my students.

It’s a whole different world under water, and the children learn a great deal about marine life.

What have you most hoped to give to your students?

I hope to instill a lifelong love of learning.

What are the greatest joys of teaching?

Watching a kindergartner light up with excitement as they begin to read for the first time. I also love when a student calls me “Mom,” as that shows me the child’s comfort level with me.

For these and many other reasons I have often proclaimed that “I have the best job ever!”

How has being a teacher affected your life outside Valley School?

To be frank, this career requires a deep integration of one’s work life and home life, so it’s hard for me to separate the two. If I had to pick something, I guess I’d say that spending my days with five- and six-year-olds has helped to keep me young for the last 27 years!

What is your favorite Valley School tradition?

So many! The Christmas carol sing-along in the library. Our annual Kindergarten pizza party where we host our big brothers and sisters as they prepare to move on to high school.

What has been the highlight of your time here at Valley School?

Creating collaborative STEAM challenges with Gail Hugo.

Kindergartners and first graders love to practice the engineering process: Ask questions, Brainstorm, Design, Build, Test, and Improve. It’s a powerful opportunity for growth.

What are your post-retirement plans?

Traveling, diving, cooking, and gardening with my husband.

We’re both looking forward to spending more time together.

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What advice do you have for Valley School’s next kindergarten teacher(s)?

Don’t be afraid to ditch your plans in the moment! Sometimes the best lessons just happen organically.

Is there anything you’d like to say to your hundreds of students, beloved colleagues, and the families who will recall you as their child’s very first teacher?

I believe we all need to feel a sense of connection to others, and at Valley School, we share our joys and our sorrows, further deepening our relationships with our students and our peers. Keep building that spirit of community. Thank you for putting your trust in me to guide and nurture your child as they began their journey.

COMMUNITY UPDATES

Alumni

Alumni and friends, we love keeping in touch with you!

Please send your updates and photos to: advancement@valleyschoolofligonier.org

reviews I get on TripAdvisor.com, my guests seem to love my tours as much as I love giving them! A nickname given to me by a precocious 13-year-old guest has stuck; I’m Rickapedia!”

Evalee (age 7) and Jeb (age 2.5) Linden with Sarah’s father, “PaPa,” Frank Artuso ’69.

Greg and Sarah (Artuso) Linden ’98 moved to Atlanta, GA in early 2019.

Greg accepted a senior advisor role at the CDC and Sarah was recently promoted to Sales Manager for Health & Human Services at Esri. (If you have seen the Johns Hopkins COVID map, you know Esri.) The couple welcomed their son, Jeb (Joseph) Linden, named after Sarah’s late grandfather, Joseph Artuso, in March of 2019.

After Valley School, Richmond Curtiss ’77 attended The Kiski School, and then Kenyon College, where he earned a BA in economics. Upon graduating, he moved to Tokyo, spent time becoming fluent in Japanese, and then went to work in the Market Research division of the international advertising agency McCann Erickson.

After a few years, he was hired by a client, Pacific Islands Club, a chain of resorts based on Guam. He resided briefly in Hong Kong and Sydney, and then moved back to the U.S. In NYC, Rick started his own company managing location shoots for Japanese TV networks. This led to a year of hosting a segment of a Japanese show from NYC and becoming a bona fide TV star.

Rick married Mark Epoch, his boyfriend of 14 years, in June of 2020. Due to the pandemic, the couple was forced to postpone their public ceremony until June of 2021 when they celebrated their marriage with family and friends at their home in Palm Springs, CA. Over the years, Rick and Mark have visited Valley School several times. Long-time readers of The Wheel might recall that Rick was featured back in 2015, when he was a contestant on Jeopardy!

When the Japanese economy crashed in the late 90s, that opportunity ended, and Rick moved to San Francisco and then Palm Springs where he did internet-related work before retiring a few years later.

Eric Barth ’00 has resided in Shiprock, NM for the last four years with his wife, Katie. After a steady career in the chemical industry, he hung up his lab coat to work as a whitewater raft guide in the southwest. He now spends most of his time with his daughter, Hazel, who is 18 months old. Eric stays up to date on Valley School happenings through his mother, 3rd-grade teacher, Mrs. Barth.

In 2018, Rick went back to work parttime at what has become his favorite job of his entire working life. He writes, “I now work as a Naturalist Guide for Desert Adventures, aka Red Jeep Tours (www.red-jeep.com). The job entails me driving a Jeep while giving tours of the desert in the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, canyons sacred to the local native tribes, and Joshua Tree National Park. The tours cover geology, history, and anthropology, as well as desert flora and fauna. Based on the

Madeleine (Fisher) Rolla ’09 married Mike Rolla on October 2, 2021. Their wedding was held at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art. Mike and Maddy live in Greensburg, and Maddy is working at The Frick Pittsburgh as Manager of Individual Support.

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Colin Frye ’04 recently celebrated five full years of operations as the owner of Silver Horse Coffee (silverhorsecoffee. com) in Donegal, PA. He and his business partner (and brother), Evan, also recently marked the first anniversary of their independent coffee roasting company, Standing Wave Coffee Roaster (standingwavecoffee. com), an environmentally-connected coffee roaster that reinvests 5% of all profits to help clean and protect river ecosystems in the Laurel Highlands for future generations. It was one of Colin’s kayaking trips down the lower Youghiogheny River that inspired the Standing Wave brand. Each roast is modeled after a whitewater rapid along the course of this ecological treasure.

Grab a cup and stay well!

“Pixie” (Lewis) Schiciano ’74 (now Pixley) is living in Boston with Ken, her husband of 29 years. She writes, “We have two grown children—Christina, who is in school in New York City, and Nick, who is in school in Durham, NC.” Pixley has recently retired from teaching at Boston Ballet School and Ken is about to retire from TA Assoc, a private equity firm. Pixley encourages Valley School friends to reach out to her at pixley@schiciano.com.

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James Marafino ’08 wrote to us from Washington, DC, where he is currently working with Catholic Charities, DC as a school-based mental health therapist.

He completed his graduate program for social work in 2017. He passed his clinical licensure exam, and now holds the credentials LICSW. James is currently writing about his experiences as a social worker during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We’re sending our congratulations out to Gordon Meehl ’81 who wrote to tell us about a remarkable recent accomplishment. “I wanted to let y’all know that last year I participated in and completed what is arguably the toughest precision shooting competition in the world, The Mammoth Ultimate Sniper Challenge.

It was three-day rucking (hiking with heavy backpack) and precision sniperstyle shooting event. Competitors carry everything they need for the entire weekend—including food, sleep systems, weapon systems, and ammo— over a total of 30 miles between 14 shooting stages at a required minimum pace. My teammate and I finished the event in 9th place in our division of 100 two-person teams. 90% of the participants are special operations, military and/or law enforcement. Only 63 of 200 total teams actually made it through the entire three days.”

Nea Mentor ’20 checked in with us this fall, writing to us from Western Reserve Academy, where she is currently a junior.

She writes, “Since graduating from Valley School, I’ve had opportunities to participate in a variety of exciting things.

Most recently, at school, I worked on the production of Something Rotten for which I sewed costumes and helped out as a dresser, coordinating all the quick changes backstage. This year, I’m taking many interesting classes; some of my favorites are CLUSH (College Level United States History), psychology, and an English class that dives deep into works of fiction by Black authors.

My extracurricular activities have also kept me busy. Over the summer I got a job for the first time, working as a waitress at a local country club.

Also, I’m participating in my second year of Model United Nations, and am attending multiple conferences each year. Furthermore, I started a German club that hosts an annual Oktoberfest celebration in the effort to make German students feel a little more at home. Recently, I began my college search, aiming for a few north German universities, where I hope to major in early childhood development and minor in history.”

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Kathleen (Orr) Lehmer ’08 married Kurt Lehmer in July of 2021 in Stahlstown, PA. She was thrilled to have several of her Valley School classmates in attendance.

Depicted in the photo, left to right, are Katherine Robertshaw, Charlotte Robertshaw, Sara Orr, Kathleen Orr, and Kate Thornburg.

Liliana Seabol ’10 was engaged to Kevin Westbrook, a Second Lieutenant in the Army and fellow medical student at the University of Pittsburgh. The couple met during a campus visitation program for accepted students and have been inseparable ever since. They will be married at Heinz Chapel in April 2022 before starting their residencies next summer. Liliana is pursuing her residency in internal medicine, and Kevin is pursuing an Army residency in pediatrics.

Valley School’s Class of 2021 all the best in their high school endeavors!

Cole Brunton

Constance Semler and Courtney (Walthour) Lamontagne

Courtney (Walthour) Lamontagne ’80 recently wrote with an update. “I have been in Burlington, Vermont since finishing undergrad at the University of Vermont. I also did my graduate work at UVM and then worked there for 15 years. After being at home for a few years with our children, Cavan (now 21) and Ellie (now 17), I started my own educational consulting business, working with kids with learning differences at a variety of schools in the area. My husband and I are about to celebrate our 25th anniversary, just as our son graduates from college and our daughter graduates from high school and heads off to college. Lots to celebrate in 2022!” Courtney and Constance Semler ’80 had the chance to catch up recently as Constance and her husband were passing through Burlington on their way home from Ligonier. Constance lives in Montreal, Quebec, where she works in marketing.

Though the classmates had not seen one other in close to 40 years, they picked up right where they left off!

We wish

Greater Latrobe High School

Hannah Habershaw

The Ellis School

Logan Jacobina

Greater Latrobe High School The Thompson Siblings: Arthur ’71, Knox ’69, Marion ’64, and Tim ’59

Marion (Thompson) Murfey ’64 and her husband celebrated their 41st anniversary in October. The couple downsized in Ohio, and recently become residents of Boca Grande, Florida, where Marion’s brother, Tim Thompson ’59 also lives. The Murfeys welcomed their first grandchild in November. This accompanying photo was taken a few years ago in Rector, not far from Valley School.

Emma Leechalk

Western Reserve Academy

Lucas Orsatti

The Kiski School

Maria Rihn

Mercersburg Academy

Hannah Spahn

Garrison Forest School

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Faculty & Staff 1980—together with their favorite Valley School teacher, Larry Hutzell.

Stories, memories, and laughs were shared by all.

On July 31st, Valley School Counselor, Denise Temple, married high school classmate, Tony Santia, in Champion, PA. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Santia!

Pam Tito Harney, Constance Semler, Larry Hutzell, Wendy Hager, Rhyne Gamble.

The return of Fort Ligonier Days was reason enough for Pam (Tito) Harney ’84 to throw a Parade Party. The occasion brought Valley School alumni Rhyne Gamble, Constance Semler, and Wendy Hager—all class of

Noah W. Sprock ’10 was recently named Executive Vice President of Creative Goods, an NYC-based marketing and merchandising agency specializing in live theatre and entertainment.

In his new role, he oversees global merchandise operations for a variety of Broadway shows and live entertainment clients including Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, Mean Girls, The Friends™ Experience, The Office™ Experience, and many more. Noah currently resides in New York City.

Support Valley School through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program.

The Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program is a state-run program that provides companies or individuals with a state tax credit for making a contribution to a non-profit Scholarship Organization such as Valley School of Ligonier. All contributions through EITC are used exclusively for financial aid at Valley School.

For more information regarding Valley School and the EITC Program, contact Michelle Smith, Director of Development, at 724.238.6652.

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Valley School 1st-grade teacher, Allee Dupuis, and her husband, Evan, welcomed baby Aaron Victor on November 9th at 11:05 AM. Their sweet, 21-inch, 8-pound bundle of joy is the light and love of his parents’ lives.

Congratulations, Dupuis Family!

SPRING FLING

Last year,

many Valley School traditions, including our holiday dances, had to be postponed or altered due to COVID-19 concerns. By the time spring rolled around, our students were ready to cut loose… and cut a rug.

On May 15th, we hosted an end-of-the-year outdoor soiree that will go down in Valley School history as the one… the only… Spring Fling!

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SPRING MUSICAL

THE SHOW MUST GO ON

By Brian Jinks Last May, the Valley School Fine Arts Department was thrilled to present its 24th annual spring musical. In the midst of highly unusual circumstances, a cast and crew of 7th-, 8th-, and 9th-grade students and four dedicated directors mounted an extraordinary production of Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach Jr. As the students and faculty transitioned to distance-learning in the winter months in an effort to keep everyone safe, the performance dates originally planned for March were postponed. Still, Valley School’s administration was committed to providing a “close-to-normal” experience for our students in a year that was abnormal in so many ways. We were hopeful that by May our young actors would be able to perform together in-person for—at the very least—a limited audience.

It is always remarkable—the number of people, and the amount of time and energy, it takes to put on a theater production. And we were so grateful for the patience and flexibility of everyone involved. For the Fine Arts faculty, it was an honor and a privilege to watch our amazing students accept, persevere, and succeed through all the necessary COVID mitigation protocols. Our student performers rehearsed through video conference, and when in-person, they sang, danced, and acted wearing masks. Due to the postponement of the production, they had to retain their memorization of the show material for two extra months!

In order to maintain mandated social distancing, our audience had to be restricted. Valley School faculty and students watched the show at one of two performances during school hours. Limited cast and crew family members were invited to attend small evening performances. Everyone remained healthy, and ultimately, put on an outstanding show!

We don’t know what to expect for this year’s musical production, The Lion King Jr., but are hopeful for the opportunity to invite the public and all of our friends and alumni back to experience the magic of live theater on the Valley School stage once again.

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Our 2022 production will be Valley School’s 25th annual musical!

Please save the date for a very special performance

March 11–12, 2022 FALL/WINTER 2021

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COUNSELOR’S CORNER

BEHIND THE SCREENS

By Denise Santia, School Counselor

2020 will forever be the year that changed us.

When adults look for the positives, we feel fortunate to have lived at a slower pace, had more time to connect with the people in our households, and reconsider our values and priorities. But, the year certainly presented challenges, too. We had to socialize through screens, help children stay on-task through virtual classes, navigate a world in which work days and spaces were no longer finite, and depend on electronics and the internet far more than we ever imagined. The changes in our world affected our children’s educational and social experiences, as well.

For our children, technology has always been a way of life, but since March of 2020, their screen-usage has increased exponentially. The need for distance learning and socialization gave them more reasons to live their lives through virtual platforms, and their technological fluency has deepened as a result. When I spend time in Lower School classrooms, Valley School students show me what they are learning by adeptly moving through iPad apps. Upper School students utilize educational technologies, too, but are also engrossed in relationships that revolve around and rely upon social media. FaceTime, Snapchat, and Xbox Live have replaced the kitchen wall phone with the spiraled cord.

As families maneuver through the increasingly technology-dependent world, parents want to make decisions that will foster healthy outcomes for their children. Adults are faced with questions like, How much is too much screen time? Should my child be allowed to use this or that app? Is reading my child’s texts and Snapchat conversations an invasion of privacy? Answering these questions from a thoughtful and informed perspective is a necessity in today’s world. Unfortunately, there aren’t always black-or-white answers. Each family must make decisions based on their personal contexts, values, and knowledge of their child’s developmental stage and maturity. There are, however, some general guidelines that families can use to help them venture confidently into this digital terrain.

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Communication is key. Asking questions like “What’s the funniest thing you saw on the internet today?” or “What are most of your friends posting about online?” at least once a week can make conversation about technology a normal event in your household. It is best to avoid closed-ended questions that can elicit a one-word response. Make sure you phrase questions in a way that will draw deeper conversation about the subject at hand.

Be in-the-know. Download and use the apps that your child is using, and “follow” them where applicable. While you may not use TikTok to learn the newest dance craze like your 13-year-old does, it is beneficial for you to be familiar with the app, how it works, and what your child may be seeing when they use it. This also sets you up for success when engaging privacy settings, content filters, and other security tools.

Know your boundaries. Discuss the technology expectations you have for your family and establish rules to suit your family’s specific needs. For instance, some families choose to have devices powered off and kept in a central location after a certain time in the evening.

Others prefer their child use their device as an alarm clock. Whatever terms your family decides upon, make sure they are clear and concise and that each individual understands their responsibilities. Just as students are bound by an Acceptable Use Policy at school, you should also have an agreement about technology usage for your household.

Most likely, our reliance upon and interaction with technology will never decrease. Teaching our children about responsible use, staying in touch with them about their online behaviors, and communicating with them about what they are doing and seeing online will increase their chances of staying safe, maintaining a healthy relationship with technology, and becoming conscientious digital citizens.

Share the gift of Valley School

We know that our current parents, alumni, and alumni parents are among our best ambassadors. We are now enrolling for the 2022-23 school year. If you know someone who might be interested in Valley School, please reach out to our Admissions Team. We are excited to meet your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues whose children would make a wonderful addition to the Valley School community!

Please contact: Katelyn Bruzda, Director of Admissions 724.238.5016 kbruzda@valleyschoolofligonier.org

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SOAR

What a joy it was to have SOAR at Valley energy on campus last June!

Each summer, SOAR’s curriculum makes unique theme-oriented day camp experiences available for children of all ages. It’s one of the wonderful ways that Valley School aims to benefit our regional families and infuse our community with fun hands-on learning opportunities.

This year, our offerings included Campfire Cooking, Outdoor Adventure, Volunteerism 101, Amazing Race, Sports Ninjas, Battle Camp, Legotivity, Games Galore, CSI & Science, Mad Scientists, Nature Exploration, and Creative Arts & Crafts among many others. Our campers customized their days by choosing the topics that interested them most, and then spent their days guided by SOAR’s enthusiastic and talented faculty and staff camp leaders. SOAR was so much fun, we’re already looking forward to next summer!

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SOARING NUMBERS:

3 310

weeks.

campers from more than 200 regional families.

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theme-driven program options for fully customizable days.

2,000

water balloons burst during Ninja Warfare Games.

205

magic rocks found in Linn Run on Creek Day.

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homemade empanadas mixed, pressed, stuffed, toasted, and happily gobbled with Señora Saenz.

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miles of trails hiked with Mrs. Copeland and Mrs. Yates during the Laurel Highlands Sampler.

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archery bullseyes.

novice paddleboarders became proficient.

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hours of playtime in the Magic Forest.

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Valley School alumni working on the staff.

1

major mystery solved during CSI Camp.

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craft options, including tie dyes, beaded bracelets, painted stones, nature mobiles, and sun catchers.

Countless

hours of fun!

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STRATEGIC PLANNING

Valley School Strategic Council (VSSC) Valley School would like to welcome Dr. Charles Jacobina as our new Chair of the VSSC. Founded in 2015 by Mr. John Cathey, the VSSC is an advisory group comprised of professionals representing the fields of Technology, Finance, Health Care, Fine Arts, Education, Life Sciences, International Relations, and Philanthropy.

These individuals provide industry perspective on Valley School’s needs and education priorities, identify activelearning opportunities for our students, serve as School ambassadors, and cultivate relationships that benefit the School community.

We thank Mr. John Cathey for serving as Chair of the VSSC from its establishment through the 20202021 academic year. Over the course of his tenure, Mr. Cathey’s stewardship of the VSSC was characterized by meaningful collaboration, critical reflection, and creative outreach. His diligent efforts provided Valley School with mission-focused objectives that have guided Valley School’s success.

Dr. Jacobina will now shepherd the VSSC into the future as we focus on our Valley Core Values: Cultivating Wellness, Seeking Wisdom, Embracing Integrity, and Building Community. Dr. Jacobina has accepted his position enthusiastically. At our meeting in early November, Dr. Jacobina asked the Council to consider the critical components of wisdom and how they can best be fostered in today’s young people through curricular and extracurricular programs.

Valley School is grateful for the support of our VSSC Chair and members, who generously give their time and expertise to provide our faculty with access to the wisdom of industry leaders and infuse our students’ educational experience with real-world knowledge.

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“If the world was guided by youth, it would be a better place. They are the ones who are most alive, idealistic, and energetic.”

—Sadhguru FALL/WINTER 2021

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PO Box 616 Ligonier, Pennsylvania 15658-0616 valleyschoolofligonier.org

Valley School Mission: “In an environment that is safe, challenging, nurturing, and disciplined, Valley School provides a balanced and strong program of study for a diverse group of children. Our goal is to stimulate in each young person lifelong habits of moral behavior, seeking wisdom, and doing good works for others.”

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