Viewpoint Magazine: Spring 2021

VOLUME 23 / NUMBER 1 / SPRING 2022

THE VIEWPOINT MAGAZINE

60 YEARS OF ENDURING VALUES

ON THE COVER: On March 15, the Upper School students gathered on Ring Family Field to form a giant “60” in celebration of Viewpoint’s 60th anniversary. There had been a plan to do this ten years ago for the School’s 50th anniversary, but after being rained out on three separate dates, the idea was abandoned. Fortunately, the weather, the wind (this time we used a drone), and the pandemic all cooperated, and the students were able to congregate to achieve this once-in-60-year photo.

Viewpoint on the web

12

inside

VIEWPOINT Editor: Monica Case ’90 Chief Marketing Officer: Christy Salcido Assistant Head of School for External Affairs: Maureen M. Nash Creative Director and Photography: Bill Youngblood Art Direction and Design: Dog Ear Design Additional Photography: A.J. Hernandez Head of School: Mark McKee

Letter from the Head of School

SPRING 2022

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2021-22 David ZeBrack, Chair Jill Schecter, Vice Chair Michael Murphy, Secretary Lisa Austin Halé Behzadi Kafi Blumenfield Michelle Bradway Judy Gawlik Brown* Kristen Carlson ’01 Myra Chen* Mary Conlin Jay DiMaggio

Tim Fish Robert Flachs Dirk Gates Ron Gillyard* Will Go, M.D., Ph.D. John Heubusch Peggy Jones John Nadolenco Sarah Spano ’05 Jonathon Wolfson Brian Wynn ’85

Sixty Years of Human Centered Learning

*New Trustee 2021-22

The Viewpoint Magazine is published by the Viewpoint Educational Foundation. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions.

If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our apologies and notify us.

Viewpoint School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, its admission policies, scholarships, and athletic or other Schooladministered programs.

3 Letter from the Head of School 4 Contributors 5 Editor’s Note; Mission, Vision, Values

LOVE OF LEARNING 6 Leading by Example 8 Learning Through Authentic Engagement

Viewpoint School 23620 Mulholland Highway Calabasas, CA 91302-2060 www.viewpoint.org

12 A Conversation – This Is What World Ready Looks Like

22 The Return of TK 24 My Klingenstein Experience 26 Share Your Work – King Kong Math 28 Download

LEADERSHIP 29 Pursuing Their Passions 34 The Annual Fifth Grade Business Sale 36 Viewpoint Values: Community Service 38 A Heartwarming Welcome: Viewpoint’s All-School Annual Convocation

IN OUR CANYON 42 60 on 60 – 60th Anniversary/ 60th Day of School

43 Love, Loyalty, and a Lifetime of Viewpoint

Viewpoint magazine received the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, Circle of Excellence Grand Gold CASE Winner in 2019, the CASE District VII Grand Gold Winner in 2019, and the CASE District VII Gold Award in 2017 and 2018.

2

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

46 Black History Month 47 Viewpoint Celebrates: The Year of The Tiger – The Chinese New Year 48 Diversity Leadership Day 50 The Viewpoint Community – The Step Team

68

WORLD READY 52 Resilient Identity 54 Superheros & Spiders – Self-Reflection & Writing the College Essay

CREATIVE MINDS 55 Dance & Dance Concert 57 Film IV Film Shoots TEAMWORK 61 32 Years and Counting –

Evolution of Athletics through the Five Values: Love, Honor, Excellence, Imagination, Optimism 62 Trainer and Athlete Profiles 64 Diversity In Sports: The Developmental Years 65 History! Girls Basketball Championship 66 Athletics – Fall & Winter Stats

FORWARD TOGETHER 68 Myra Chen Kicks Off the Jubilee –

Chinese New Year Celebration to Kick Off the 60th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee 70 A Conversation with Jennifer Townes, Director of the Viewpoint Fund 71 Volunteer Profile: Cheryl Steelberg – 40 Years of Support for Viewpoint

OUR ALUMNI 72 Alumni Profile – Forbes 30 under 30 Ian McLane ’11 and Zach Oschin ’16

74 2021 Alumni Holiday Party 75 Class Notes 77 Endnote – Senior Speech

by Noah Boock ’22

DEAR VIEWPOINT COMMUNITY, JUST AS YOUR LAST milestone birthday presented an opportunity to reflect on the last decade – there’s a reason “double digits” is such a momentous occasion for the Fourth Grader – so milestone anniversaries help schools uncover deeper truths. As Viewpoint celebrates 60 years of this unique learning community, we identify the connection from our founding to the present, captured in our mission: to create exceptional readiness for extraordinary futures.

Since our founding, Viewpoint’s students have been distinctively prepared for a changing world, through an education that goes far beyond academic knowledge and skills to develop world-ready graduates. Our signature approach brings together love of learning, values, and character, in a culture of nurturing and care, resulting in a community that is known for its authenticity and connection.

Through 60 years, Viewpoint has grown through at least three chapters – our first twenty years as a small elementary school, founded by parents who wanted the best for their children; another twenty years adding a high school to become an intimate K-12 school of 600; the last twenty years acquiring the school next door and growing to a comprehensive TK-12 school serving 1,200 students on over 40 acres.

The School’s character has been defined by this combination: developing traditions that reflect commitments to excellence, the highest standards of quality, and the structure of core values, united with the bold, entrepreneurial spirit of a school continually striving to improve. In the words of our vision, “a school where tradition connects us and innovation propels us.”

What if the most future-focused education, preparing students for a volatile and uncertain world, also reflects the wisdom of ancient truths?

While the form of Viewpoint’s education has evolved from our early days, the values at the core have endured, reflecting throughout an education focused in essence on our common humanity. The critical skill set and courageous mindset – the academic depth and inspired leadership, resilient identity and global citizenship – that define a Viewpoint education, reflect our belief that students bring their whole, complex selves to their learning, in school and out, and that education should cultivate academic skills in the context of social connection, character development, and life-changing experience.

In Stephen Fleming’s 2021 book Know Thyself: The Science of SelfAwareness, the neuroscientist and psychologist explains the way that

self-awareness is “a defining feature of human experience.” While we are connected to primates and other mammals, he writes, “humans are rapacious explainers of what we are doing and why, a capacity that depends on our ability to reflect on, think about, and know things about ourselves, including how we remember, perceive, decide, think, and feel.” Sharing his research into the field of meta-cognition, Fleming connects the ancient wisdom carved into the pediment of the temple of Apollo at Delphi, to the newest understanding of the structures and functions of the human brain made possible by revolutionary research.

He explores and explains the common thread of humanity that connects us all, in learning and self-discovery.

“Know thyself ” is not just an ancient maxim or a new book – it is the enduring gift of a Viewpoint education. From opening a TK classroom to growing a film program or championship basketball team, the process of learning about learning defines the Viewpoint experience. Learning, after all, is quintessentially human – and meta-cognition sets us apart from other species. At its best, a human-centered school is a learning organization, constantly evolving and changing, yet somehow becoming more authentically itself.

As Viewpoint’s students grow in self-knowledge, teachers and parents taking pride in their incredible skills and accomplishments, so Viewpoint also grows, in institutional pride and in the intentional development of world-ready graduates.

Perhaps the best celebration of 60 years of enduring values, is to imagine the next 60. Viewpoint was placed in this magical canyon by visionaries, who could not imagine today’s “knowledge economy” but who knew what education it needed. Unknown challenges await us in the next decades, and we can be certain the leadership developed in each individual Viewpoint student will meet them with skilled confidence.

Onward!,

Mark J. McKee Head of School SPRING

2022

3

Contributors

Editor’s Note

With a foundation like this, anything is possible.

ROBERT BRYAN

VANESSA HARRINGTON

TRACY WYMER

Bob is completing his seventh year at Viewpoint as Associate Head of School, where he oversees faculty recruitment and support, among many other duties. He also currently serves as a member of the national Advisory Council of the Association for Academic Leaders. Bob’s article, “Learning through Authentic Engagement,” begins on page 8.

Vanessa is in her thirteenth year at Viewpoint and in her first year as the Assistant Director of Primary School.

Before taking on this new role, she was a beloved Fifth Grade writing teacher. Vanessa also is a pianist and has a Master’s degree in Piano.

Vanessa’s article, “The Return of TK,” begins on page 22.

Tracy is in his twenty-first year at Viewpoint. He has taught English and Creative Writing across multiple grade levels. For the past eight years, he has served as the Assistant Head of Lower School. Tracy is a published author of books for young readers.

Tracy’s article, “The Annual Fifth Grade Business Sale,” begins on page 34.

LOVE, HONOR, EXCELLENCE, IMAGINATION, OPTIMISM . These are the values underscored in Viewpoint’s recently launched Mission, Vision, and Values. While the packaging is new, the values are not.

They are part of the foundation of this place and of all of the students, teachers, and faculty who have had the good fortune to be a part of this community over the past 60 years.

As part of our yearlong celebration of Viewpoint’s 60th anniversary, this newly-redesigned issue of The Viewpoint Magazine begins with a remembrance of Dr. William Turner Levy, who taught English and Latin at Viewpoint for 29 years and passed away in 2008. Most of the readers of this magazine never had the chance to meet him, but if you did, he was unforgettable. His presence and intellect were outsized, as was his love for learning and sharing his knowledge. He personified and lived these Viewpoint values and inspired others, many who are still teaching here today, to do the same.

That the legacy of Dr. Levy and others like him lives on at Viewpoint was abundantly clear in the conversation Mark McKee shared with seven seniors in January. They spoke thoughtfully about the value of what they had learned and the relationships that they had made. Their maturity and their ability to reflect upon their years at Viewpoint are a clear demonstration that the School had made good on its World Ready Promise. These young people are prepared and eager to make a difference in the world.

JAMON PULLIAM

PATRICK MOYAL

REBECCA HELLER

Jamon is in his third year at Viewpoint as an Associate Directors of College Counseling. He has read applications for Morehouse College, University of San Francisco, University of Southern California, and has guided and advised hundreds of students through the college application process. Jamon’s article, “Superheroes & Spiders –SelfReflection and the College Essay,” begins on page 54.

Patrick is in his thirty-second year as Viewpoint’s Athletic Director. He has coached everything from Fifth and Sixth Grade Flag Football to Girls Varsity Volleyball and Boys Varsity Basketball. Patrick has devoted his professional life to the School and he is the proud parent of alumni Jason ’06 and Stephanie ’10. Patrick’s article, “32 Years and Counting – Evolution of Athletics through Five Values,” begins on page 61.

Rebecca is Director of Student Wellness, TK-12 and is in her twelfth year at Viewpoint. Rebecca holds a Master’s in School Counseling from Loyola Marymount University and is working towards her Doctorate in Education: Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University. She is a certified yoga instructor, avid surfer, published author, and mommy to Lucy ’31. Rebecca’s article, “Resilient Identity,” begins on page 52.

4

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

The School is very pleased to once again offer TK (Transitional Kindergarten) after a 14-year hiatus. Assistant Head of Primary School Vanessa Harrington’s article, “The Return of TK,” opens the white picket fence and invites the reader to experience the nurturing and warmth of the children’s first experience with school. In her article “Resilient Identity,” Rebecca Heller, Director of Wellness, TK-12, shares the School’s approach to supporting the whole child from the very beginning – including teaching yoga to the TK and Kindergarten

students, which given their flexibility and their love of dramatic names (“warrior pose” and “downward dog”) is the perfect wellness activity.

The focus on wellness continues, as Christy Salcido, our Chief Marketing Officer, shares the stories of two committed student-athletes, Olaitan Egberongbe ’23 and Jules Mazzolini ’22, and Viewpoint’s two athletic trainers, Dr. Miguel Romero-Sanchez and Christian Hakim, who worked together over the years to ensure that Jules and Olaitan were able to compete safely and work proactively to avoid future injuries.

We are excited to share the stories of alumni Ian McClane, Ph.D. ’11 and Zach Oschin ’16, who were both among Forbes 30 under 30 for 2022.

While one is an engineer creating cutting-edge medical equipment and the other is an entrepreneur supporting start-ups in Latin America, both credit their years at Viewpoint with helping them achieve success in their respective fields.

When considering the content for this 60th anniversary issue, we thought carefully about articles that highlight Viewpoint’s enduring values. We have stories of love for our community, honoring our past, excellence in the classroom and on the basketball court (congratulations to our Girls CIF Champions!), imagination in math class and behind the movie camera. But at this time and in this moment, the value that is most important is optimism – optimism for the future as our remarkable, resilient students complete the 2021-22 school year, together, in-person, again.

Monica Case ’90

Mission, Vision, Values OUR MISSION

To create exceptional readiness for extraordinary futures by cultivating the critical skill set, courageous mindset, and resilient identity of each individual Viewpoint student.

OUR VISION

A school where tradition connects us and innovation propels us A community where families value unity in diversity A world where education changes lives

OUR VALUES

Love Honor Excellence Imagination Optimism

SPRING

2022

5

LOVE OF LEARNING

Cultivating Academic Depth

W

By Monica Case ’90, Director of Content Strategy

hen I think back to my days as a Viewpoint student in the 1980s, I can easily summon the sonorous voice of Dr. William Turner Levy at the podium offering a prayer, poem, or benediction. His was the voice of another era and lent a certain gravitas to everything he said. Dr. Levy taught English and Latin at Viewpoint for 29 years (19792007) and served as Provost from 1991 until his death in 2008. He came to teaching at Viewpoint after retiring from a 30-year career as a professor of English at Baruch College of the City University of New York. He had a Ph.D. from Columbia University, earned a Bronze Star for bravery in World War II, and was an ordained Episcopal priest. He counted among his friends Eleanor Roosevelt, T.S. Eliot, and Frank Capra, yet there he was addressing and inspiring Middle and Upper School students at our little school in Calabasas.

Apparently, Dr. Levy couldn’t resist the siren’s song (of course, he taught The Odyssey) of the classroom, and shortly after arriving in California for his “retirement” he began his second career at Viewpoint. At the time of his passing in January 2008, then-Headmaster Bob Dworkoski wrote in a message to the community, “Undoubtedly, Dr. Levy’s greatest passion was teaching. His classroom, he often told me, was a sacred place where reason, wisdom, and beauty dwelled.

His reflections on literature, the arts, and philosophy couched in the most elegant language enthralled thousands of students of all ages.”

Seth Casden ’91, a student and later close friend of Dr. Levy’s, as well as a Trustee Emeritus and the founder of the Dr. William Turner Levy Endowment, shared some cherished memories: “Bill would play opera on vinyl, and even though it was an English class, somehow, he would make a connection. Or he passed around a bone marrow spoon and asked us, ’What is this for?’ It was a regular spoon, except that the ladle was a rectangle made to dip into the bone to scrape out the marrow. Everybody would try to guess, and then be delighted by the explanation, which, of course, he connected to a bigger idea or lesson. Then there were the assemblies: Dr. Levy reading from the Bible or reciting a poem from memory. When they built the Rasmussen Family Pavilion, assemblies were held there. It was freezing sitting there on cement bleachers in our coats and ties, and you felt like squirming, but then he spoke and it was just rapture, it was absolute rapture.”

LEADING

BY EXAMPLE

REMEMBERING DR. WILLIAM TURNER LEVY AND HIS LEGACY OF LEARNING

6

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

So how does the magic spell cast by that kind of educator continue to resonate today? In Viewpoint’s Mission, Vision, Values, the values articulated are Love, Honor, Excellence, Imagination, and Optimism. Clearly, these are the same qualities that attracted Dr. Levy to come out of retirement and devote 29 years to fostering them within our students.

Equally clear, is that the magic spell that he managed to cast – that passion for learning and curiosity about everything – continues to be felt by our students and to inspire our teachers.

In 2018, Upper School English teacher Dr. Amanda Clarke was the recipient of the first Dr. William Turner Levy Chair for Inspired Teaching. She said, “The word that really thrilled me and touched me was ’inspired.’ Because he was an inspiration. And so, one of my life’s greatest honors was to be the recipient of the Levy Chair. And to have the School acknowledge that they saw any kind of parallels between us is enormous. I remember watching how Dr. Levy taught his students, with that wonderful combination of scholarship and humanism, and his delight in conveying information in an interesting and sometimes personal way. It was, I thought, just such a model of teaching excellence.” Like her Viewpoint colleagues, Dr. Clarke cherishes the idea that there is value in being an educated person and knowing things, ideals that they strive to impart in their students. She added, “Maybe it teaches you to be more rigorous in your thinking, it makes you a more discerning reader, certainly those things, but there is also just the pleasure of knowledge.”

SPRING

2022

7

LOVE OF LEARNING

Cultivating Academic Depth

“The future will belong to those who know how to work successfully in diverse, creative, problem-solving teams.”

LEARNING THROUGH

AUTHENTIC ENGAGEMENT

By Robert Bryan, Associate Head of School

SCHOOLS OFTEN CELEBRATE the concept of “Love of Learning,” but what does that actually mean and how is it achieved? In Denise Clark Pope’s book Doing School, she chronicles the lives of students who work hard in school, participate in extracurricular activ ities, and earn high grades and academic awards, yet who report that they are disengaged from the joy of learning. In her research, successful students often reported that they were essentially “playing the game” of school, doing what they needed to do for a grade without real engagement. What Dr. Pope discovered led her to found Challenge Success, an organization at Stanford University that cites research to support the notion that true achievement and wellness are not mutually exclusive, and that in fact they are closely linked. The research of Dr. Mary Helen Immordino-Yang at USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute supports this notion by demonstrating that emotion and cognition are, in fact, inseparable as a matter of brain function. The Spring 2017 issue of Viewpoint magazine includes an interview with Dr. Immordino-Yang. Yang. (To read the article, see the QR code on the following page.)

8

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

“Evading CTE.” Portrait of Osiris Nalls ’23 by Jordan Garrison ’23

Love of Learning does not emerge necessarily from a quest for grades, or even from sustained academic success as defined by grades. Rather, Love of Learning emerges naturally from authentic engagement in the process of learning. Based on learning research, we know that long-term, deep, and applicable learning happens only when students are emotionally engaged in the work, in other words when they have “bought in.” Whatever we as teachers think we are delivering, it is what the students receive and take away from the experience that matters most. In order to remain mindful of the quality of the student experience, Viewpoint teachers are asked to incorporate a set of core competencies into their classrooms and curricula. These competencies include Collaboration, Creativity, Classroom Climate, and Application.

Perhaps the most important of these is Classroom Climate, since establishing a trusting, safe space is an important part of inspiring students to engage with learning. When we speak with our seniors about the best aspects of their experience at Viewpoint, they often cite the relationship they enjoyed with their teachers. They often relate how SPRING

2022

9

LOVE OF LEARNING

Cultivating Academic Depth

VOLUME 18 / NUMBER 1 /

VOLUME 17 / NUMBER 1 / SPRING 2016

W H I L E YO U M AY S E E W H AT I D O, YO U M AY N OT S E E WHAT I S E E. MY

OWN

LEARNING

E X PE R I E N CE S

SPRING 2017

Inspired

Learning

IN OUR CLASSROOMS ON OUR STAGE LIVED BY OUR STUDENTS

S HAPE

A WOR LD VI EW THAT

Scan the codes for a direct link to previous articles on the future of education.

I S U N I Q U E LY M I N E.

Spring 2016, “The Value of Experience"

Spring 2017, “Emotion & Learning"

“IN THE END, LOVE OF LEARNING IS THE RESULT OF CURIOSITY, ENGAGEMENT, INSPIRATION, AND AGENCY.” BOB BRYAN

the willingness of our teachers to mentor their interests and provide a space for authentic participation gave them the confidence to explore and take on new challenges, and how that mentorship has inspired them to achieve outcomes beyond their own expectations.

passed so quickly when we’ve been fully engaged in something, or when we feel a special pride in something that we’ve created. And we certainly know how these look and feel much differently when we are just going through the motions!

From everything we know and hear, we believe firmly that the future will belong to those who know how to work successfully in diverse, creative, problem-solving teams. This priority is reflected in our World Ready Mission, namely that we seek to cultivate “the critical skill set, courageous mindset, and resilient identity of each individual Viewpoint student.” Students will develop these skills only by practicing them over time, which is why Viewpoint emphasizes Collaboration and Creativity in teaching and learning. When students are working together creatively to solve problems in which they are invested, and when they perceive those problems and solutions to have relevance for them, Love of Learning emerges naturally from the process.

While the neuroscience research on teaching validates and supports our efforts, perhaps the best validation is what we observe in classes, studios, fields, and stages every day, where students and teachers are collaborating and creating together, enjoying one another’s camaraderie and celebrating their individual and collective achievements.

By Corey Henderson, Upper School Spanish Teacher

All ofand this being said, we all know Love of Learning when we see it, Assistant Chair of World Languages and we all know what it feels like when we experience it ourselves. We see it in the curiosity of students as they explore new and interesting opportunities, or in the furrowed brows of students deeply thinking about a problem or issue. We feel it when we realize that time has

10

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

It’s easy to focus on the obvious examples, such as Makerfest and Robotics, or Mock Trial and Model United Nations, but increasingly it is evident throughout Viewpoint’s academic and co-curricular programs, wherever one sees project-based strategies that emphasize student agency, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. By teaming with classmates (or teammates) who bring different skills and perspectives to the task at hand, students learn to lead with their contributions while acknowledging and appreciating the contributions of others. In Scott Page’s book The Diversity Bonus: How Great Teams Pay Off in the Knowledge Economy, the author presents compelling

evidence that diverse teams – teams that include different kinds of thinkers – outperform homogeneous teams on complex tasks. The benefits of this approach are seen as much in athletics and the arts as they are in academics, as I noted in the Spring 2016 Viewpoint magazine article, “The Value of Experience.” Viewpoint graduates will have had many opportunities to practice the kinds of teamwork the future is likely to ask of them, and they will have developed the self-awareness and self-confidence that naturally results from this practice.

When we say that “education changes lives,” it is true primarily because of what students are able to learn about themselves through direct experience, trial and error, and the opportunity to embrace a breadth of challenges with their classmates and teachers along the way. Our Viewpoint values also cite “unity in diversity,” which is a great way to think about how each individual Viewpoint student can contribute uniquely to a stronger, more purposeful outcome.

In the end, Love of Learning is the result of curiosity, engagement, inspiration, and agency. At Viewpoint, we will continue to strive to make this ambitious goal a reality in the educational lives of students, no matter their grade, background, talent, ability, or interest.

NATURAL AND MANUFACTURED

By Charlie Sitzer, Photography Teacher

“EVADING CTE” by Jordan Garrison ’23 is a soul-searching investigation into the concerning views of football safety, a sport that he plays and has a passion for. This advanced photography project was originally named, Natural versus Manufactured, however the intent of the project has evolved over the years that I have been assigning it. Originally, the project’s objective was to photograph and identify similarities from the natural and manufactured environment and make visual analogies between the two sets. I decided that the project needed to be more challenging, while still using the basic premise using natural and manufactured images rather than natural versus manufactured. This retooling created a world of ideas for Jordan, while challenging him to work within a set of prescribed guidelines, including composition and narrative. I say to them, “Tell us a story that’s personal and which conveys your truth.” The process begins with the students sitting together at a conference table over several collective sessions, flushing out their ideas as to the best way to approach each individual project. Everyone has input, so they learn how brainstorming/collaboration/ problem solving works in the professional world. And then they’re off to create their truths. The 2022 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards honored Jordan Garrison with a Gold Key for his photograph.

SPRING

2022

11

LOVE OF LEARNING

Cultivating Academic Depth

a conversation

THIS IS WHAT WORLD READY LOOKS LIKE

By Monica Case ’90, Director of Content Strategy

From L-R: Mark McKee, Allie Abemayor ’22, John Yang ’22, Benji Meppen ’22

12

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

SPRING

2022

13

LOVE OF LEARNING

O

n January 21, Head of School Mark McKee sat down for a conversation with seven members of the Class of 2022 – Allie Abemayor, Madeleine Case, Bianca Gomez, Benji Meppen, Bianca Richmond, Zach Samuel, John Yang – to hear about their experiences at Viewpoint, both in and outside of the classroom, as they prepare to embark on their post-Viewpoint lives.

Mark McKee: In the 2019-20 school year, seniors from the Class of

2020 talked to an outside researcher about their student experiences as part of a larger effort to take Viewpoint’s existing 153-word mission statement and come up with something a little bit fresher, a little bit newer, a little bit shorter, and a little bit more accurate to describe your experience and what we’re after here at the School. They used this conversation as part of the foundation of the new Mission, Vision, Values – Love, Honor, Excellence, Imagination, Optimism. So, in an ideal world, when you read them, you would say, “Oh yeah, that fits us.” You would see yourself in these words and who you would like to become in the future.

So, this conversation today is a bit of an exploration of your Viewpoint, not just the words in the Mission, but on your Viewpoint experience. We’ll start with the fact that this magazine is also going to come out as we celebrate 60 years at Viewpoint. Viewpoint was founded in 1961. This is the 2021-22 school year, so we’re celebrating 60 years. What does it matter that Viewpoint is 60 years old, and what does it mean to you?

Bianca Gomez: Well, if you’ve lasted 60 years, then that means you’re

doing something right.

I also think that as someone who has been here since Kindergarten, it’s interesting to see the changes over time. The School has become more modern, with new technology. And I also think that it’s becoming more aware of the outside world.

Mark: Can you think of an example?

14

a conversation

Cultivating Academic Depth

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

then later, growing into my own artistic style and being able to work at it during Middle School and Upper School. There’s technological innovation and also my own growth as a student. I’ve grown into myself by finding a new passion completely here at Viewpoint that I didn’t have beforehand.

Bianca Gomez: Feminism Club. I thought that was really cool that

we were able to present about important women leaders and how they’ve been able to positively affect communities. I thought that was really fun.

Allie Abemayor: Yeah, I also feel like Diversity Leadership Day is a really big thing in showing change and giving attention to different issues, especially since a lot of the workshops at Diversity Day are student-led. It’s nice that Viewpoint’s creating opportunities for students to share their perspectives and information with peers and teachers.

John Yang ’22

Madeleine Case: I’ve also found that through film there’s been a lot of personal growth. I think that reflecting on my time at Viewpoint, I’ve had so many different passions that have all been nurtured in different ways. It’s different for everyone else, but I feel like film has become a culmination of all of those things. It’s been really great.

Allie: I’ve noticed in my seven years at Viewpoint that there’s a lot of tradition here, and it’s everywhere. I’m on the swim team, and there’s all these little traditions that we have on the team. Like swim parties which involve skit nights, and around the CIF Championships all the guys will bleach their hair. It’s just as horrifying as it sounds, but it’s also great.

Mark: Turning to the language

here, the Vision statement says, “A vision of a school where tradition connects us and innovation propels us.” Does that resonate for any of you in any way? Does that seem true about the School?

Zach Samuel: It’s interesting that we connect tradition and

innovation, because I think upon first glance those might seem like contrasting terms. Tradition is keeping things the same as they were, and innovation is kind of revolutionizing, and creating something new. But we strike that balance where we’re guided by the past in our pursuits of the future, so we’re using what we learned from before to get to where we want to go.

Bianca Gomez: I think sculpture class actually allowed me to be more

innovative. It drove me to start a clothing and apparel business. It’s ADHD Apparel and it’s for people who are hyperactive or have ADD or ADHD, and it’s for kids, adults, adolescents. The fidget is within the folds of the clothing, so you can sit through class without having that distraction of taking a fidget out. Sculpture class allowed me to be more creative, and to have a creative space where I could actually sketch out the ideas, and have the materials to make my ideas real.

Mark: If you were to think about this experience 20 years from now,

Benji Meppen: I think the innovation piece sticks with me, because I came to Viewpoint in Seventh Grade, and I remember touring the film classroom when I was in Sixth Grade, and thinking how big it was, and how big the equipment was, how overwhelming it was. And

appreciation for being here every day. Something that we hadn’t had since 2020. Just sitting on the same couch, getting up and going to school every morning and seeing everybody, and going to practice after school, and then hanging out on the weekends with our friends is

you’re looking back on your senior year, what do you think your Viewpoint experience will have meant?

Benji: Appreciation. This senior class, especially, has a profound

Zach Samuel ’22

SPRING

2022

15

LOVE OF LEARNING

a conversation

Cultivating Academic Depth

“I also think it’s important that we didn’t have to change who we are to fit in at Viewpoint.

Everybody finds their group, everybody finds a place where they feel comfortable.”

BIANCA GOMEZ ’22

something we no longer take for granted. Also, appreciation every day for being kept safe here at school, which is really important.

Mark: Have there been things in your program here that have

Allie: I think a big thing has been community. Before Viewpoint, I went to a really tiny elementary school, and coming to Viewpoint and being a part of such a big community was a little intimidating at first, but after a while I realized that even though Viewpoint is so big, it’s just a really tight-knit community.

Allie: I’ve found a lot of my new interests. Before I came to Viewpoint, I wasn’t super into photography. But coming here, now I’m in the photography elective and I really like it. You literally see things through a different lens.

Bianca Gomez: I also think it’s important that we didn’t have to

change who we are to fit in at Viewpoint. Everybody finds their group, everybody finds a place where they feel comfortable. Everybody has an outlet, I feel like, whether it’s a teacher who makes them feel safe, or a club, or a conversation that needed to be had. It’s nice to see that we’re all able to live in unison.

Mark: Where do you think that came from, that sense that you can

be who you are?

Bianca Gomez: I mean I’ve been here since Kindergarten, so I always

felt at ease here. I think there is also a big change between Middle School and Upper School, where as you discover yourself, you’re able to explore more things that you love, and you’re able to be yourself.

John Yang: I think high school is also a period in someone’s life where

they discover what they’re actually good at. Everyone wants to do things that they love and also be good at it, so its great that we can practice things hand-on. I think Viewpoint provides the resources where I can explore the options. I can compare different opportunities, try different things. Whether it’s working with a teacher, working with the people around me, doing projects, all this can really help me explore different options.

Mark: What do you think it means to be ready for the future?

This mission statement says, “To create exceptional readiness for extraordinary futures."

From L-R: John Yang ’22, Mark McKee

16

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

John: I think preparing for the future is really about preparing to be changed and preparing to constantly adapt and improve while you are in an environment of change. Bizarrely, I think this is actually one of the biggest benefits of COVID and the whole pandemic, because everyone had to learn how to change themselves and actually adapt with it. And that’s important for the future.

encouraged you to change? Or to be able to change?

Bianca Gomez: It’s not frowned upon to be very artsy here. I think

the School allows you to push your skills as an artist or as whatever passion you want to follow a little further. And I think that even though there are specific classes we have to take, I think the School also exposes us to different things. One semester I took the podcasting class, and I learned I love podcasting. Am I good at it? No. But, it opened my eyes to new ideas of what my future could be.

Zach: When I started taking film classes, I think my general outlook

on the world changed because I was able to see things through a different, more creative, artistic, and maybe even emotional lens, rather than just like something is objectively this or that. And I also found new ways to express myself and to receive others when they’re expressing themselves. So, I found that really helpful and I know it’s definitely a positive change, for me.

John: I’m the opposite of a film student, but Viewpoint also has a very strong Computer Science program. Mr. Donahue is a fantastic teacher.

Before Viewpoint, he was just finishing his Ph.D. program at UCLA. He has exceptional knowledge in both biology and also AI, which is very modern and a unique combination of knowledge and skills that you just don’t really find in high school Computer Science teachers.

And I think that kind of goes to show that teachers are able to teach us well. I also think most teachers here are just very, very kind people.

Bianca Gomez: I also think with the academics the teachers are

looking for ways for us to learn and grow. For example, in Dr. Chan’s Eleventh Grade English class she assigned a prompt that allowed us to research topics important to us. One person did gun control, another birth control, and I did cancel culture, which was pretty interesting.

But being able to have the sources to research and not be judged for our views, or being able to explore a different idea in a learning environment, is very rare, I think.

Madeleine: English class last year was fantastic. Part of the curriculum in Ms. MacGregor’s class was to read over the propositions SPRING

2022

17

LOVE OF LEARNING

a conversation

Cultivating Academic Depth

“As time moves on, I think it’s important that we continue to adapt to what world readiness really is.”

ZACH SAMUEL ’22

Allie Abemayor ’22, John Yang ’22, Benji Meppen ’21, Bianca Gomez ’22

that were being voted on in the 2020 election. I think it’s a valuable skill to be able to kind of dissect them and know what you’re reading.

That’s something that I think is really special to have been part of.

It’s the little things, I think, that prepare you for the future.

Benji: Last year, I was able to take

Global Econ and Financial Literacy in back-to-back periods. I was doing macroeconomics, reading about Keynesian Economics, and then doing Financial Literacy directly after that. I felt like I was going to be an accountant by the end of the year. Truly, I felt like when I become an adult, when I have to really get a job, whether it’s a job in the economic sector or not, I’m going to need to know about the basics of economic principles, like macroeconomics. And I think having those two classes in my junior year really set me up to go out into the world. But just like Madeleine said, “I think these are things that are going to apply to me in my adult life no matter what I do.” And when I graduate, I’ll have this academic depth under my belt.

Bianca Richmond: I think Bianca Gomez brought up a point earlier talking about how we have a strong curriculum, but also, we have a lot of freedom in what we do. In our post-AP Environmental Science class right now, we’re working on year-long projects on whatever topic we want. It’s really interesting to hear what everyone’s working on because they’re all so different. And we are seniors, so it’s our last year to sort of figure out what we’re interested in before we go to college or whatever other goals we have in the future. So just having that freedom to work on something all year that we really care about has been sort of amazing.

Mark: Other things that are brought to mind by the idea of world-

readiness, from your Viewpoint experience?

Allie: So last year, in our US History class for our final essay we got to pick any topic and tie it to the American dream. I remember being

18

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

so excited to pick the topic because I wanted to explore the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights, and how they’ve evolved, starting from Stonewall in the ’60s. I think it was a formative project, because I was able think more about LGBTQ+ history. I ended my project in 2015, which was when gay marriage was legalized in the US. Bianca Gomez: I think it’s

important to note that Allie was able to educate our class as well.

Mark: That sounds like a really distinctive example of academic depth, and being prepared for the world you’re moving into. What else?

John: There’s this one class I’m really just grateful for. It’s an AI honors class, and I took it when I was in Tenth Grade. It was a nice introduction to the things like compartment systems and conventional models. It wasn’t so in depth that you needed a lot of math prerequisites, but that class, it really set me on a trajectory for life.

Bianca Richmond: I think we’ve done a really great job with Diversity Day and also Community Service Day, led by CORE (Community Service Honors Society). I think those specific days that are dedicated to honoring different things are really amazing. I don’t know if adding more of those days would make it any better, but I think student participation is really great in those.

Madeleine Case ’22

Allie: I think there’s been a lot of little things that Viewpoint has done, like allowing the GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance), which I’m one of the co-leaders of, to hold the space for National Coming Out Day, which is in October. I think that was the first time Viewpoint has done that.

I think it is important to hold a space for things like that.

Zach: As time moves on, I think it’s important that we continue to adapt to what world readiness really is. Because if you think about what ready was two years ago it might be totally different from what it is now. And that’ll continue to change. One area in which I see that right now is mental health and student wellness, and there’s a lot of efforts

Bianca Richmond ’22

Mark McKee, Madeleine Case ’22, Bianca Richmond ’22, Zach Samuel ’22

SPRING

2022

19

LOVE OF LEARNING

a conversation

Cultivating Academic Depth

“Viewpoint has been my everything for so long . . .

But I’m not afraid, I think, to leave Viewpoint, I’m excited, I feel ready. I feel like Viewpoint’s done its job. It’s been a home.”

going on to make sure that we’re adapting to the need, because students are needing those resources more, maybe than they were before.

Benji: I agree with Zach about having support for students outside of

the classroom. Whether its caring for mental health, or seeing us as individuals, not just people in the classroom, is something that has been really important after COVID. I remember when we came back on campus, everybody kind of had a look in their eyes that was a little bit tired and a little bit stressed, but excited to be back. I think that’s kind of stayed in people’s minds. It’s been a very tough couple of years, people have had individual loss. The world has been hit very hard.

And seeing us as individuals outside of just students who have grades, has been super helpful. And I think two years ago, the relationship between the teacher and students was different, because I think we’re a lot more cohesive now. We’ve all had a collective kind of hit that we’ve taken and I think our teachers have cared for us a lot more as people throughout the last couple years and I think that’s a good thing. It’s preparing us for the future by giving us a foundation, these are people who care and want to see you learn.

MADELEINE CASE ’22

Allie: I think so.

John: Yes. Madeleine: Yeah. Like we were all saying, it’s so unpredictable, but I think being excited and feeling like you have a sturdy foundation is sort of the best that you can do, and Viewpoint has definitely prepared me for what comes next.

Mark: I hadn’t thought about it that way. In terms of how teachers

and students have shared this common experience. Switching gears, Viewpoint’s new mission statement underscores these five words: Love, Honor, Excellence, Imagination, Optimism. I think we’ve talked about a few of them. Is there anything more you would like to say?

Zach: I look forward to just using

everything I’ve learned to continue doing things that I really enjoy doing, things that I love and trying to make a positive impact while being happy.

Madeleine: I think that this may sound cheesy, there’s a lot of love

at Viewpoint. Just reflecting on being a lifer and seeing both Bianca Gomez and Richmond grow up, I remember them when they were little and now everyone’s talking so eloquently about Viewpoint. That’s so special.

Allie: I definitely think there’s a lot of space for imagination at

Viewpoint. I know that I always have a space to express myself in photos and express what I see around me.

Benji: I would say excellence. I think we hold ourselves accountable.

We just made a film a few weeks ago, and I think as a crew, we hold ourselves to a very high standard. We have been given these tools as filmmakers since Ninth Grade. We’re going to make our project, and we’re going to make it to the best of our ability, but also, we’re not going to be satisfied and we’re not going to stop until we really have what we want. We hold each other as a crew to a very high standard, but individually, we’re all very hard workers, and all very creative, but collectively, we hold ourselves to a standard of excellence. And again, that goes back to the team building and the love and optimism, but mostly we hold each other to a very high level of excellence, because we know that we can and that means a lot.

Bianca Richmond: I just think through my 13 years here, I’ve never had a moment where I wasn’t proud to say that I’m a student at Viewpoint. I’ve always thought very highly of this school. And I think that’s through both academics and also just having an amazing support group at the school, whether it’s my friends or teachers or anything.

I’ve always been very happy to call this place my school, and come here every day. That’s my version of honor.

Mark: Do you feel ready for what’s next in your life?

20

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

From L-R: John Yang ’22, Benji Meppen ’22 From L-R: Bianca Gomez ’22, Mark McKee

John: I always think about something Elon Musk said, in one of his interviews, which is, “Be useful.” It’s actually very hard to be a useful person in the long term. I think all of us here today actually have the mindset of whether it’s in college, after college, it’s about being useful to people around you. To the community, right? And ultimately to the world, and to have that mindset, which is really one of helping make a difference, is one of the best gifts ever.

Mark: If you were to think about it, and sum it up in a word what

Viewpoint has given you, what would that be?

Allie: I definitely think community. Like I said, I went to a much

different school before I came to Viewpoint, but it feels like such a tight-knit community, and I think that goes for every single aspect of the school. The swim team is self-described as a family, and I think that kind of sums up Viewpoint.

Bianca Richmond: I would say support. Everyone feels very comfortable, and if anything goes wrong, I know that there are people to talk to whenever I need it. I’ve had to face problems and face happy times too, and every time Viewpoint has been so amazingly there for me.

Benji: I think perspective, because I went to a school before Viewpoint

that was much smaller. I think it’s given me perspective that not all

schools are like this. I think a lot of us will go into the world and see that not all schools are like this, not all communities are like this. I will face challenges and I will meet people who are not as warm or who don’t have the same views as me, but I can fall back on the lessons that I learned here. And Viewpoint has given me the perspective of having a very lucky college preparatory high school experience. I grew into who I am in my four years of high school, and now I can go on and do different things and grow in other areas.

John: I’d say it’s independence.

It’s ability to kind of think for yourself, to understand the world around you from each other’s perspective, to know that you can trust the people around you, and you can actually decide on a direction to take. It’s having the confidence to know that you are going to do great things, and so independence is cool.

Zach: I like all your words. I would say opportunity, and I’ve just

really appreciated the opportunity. I’ve appreciated the ability to pursue anything I want, have the support to do it well, and grow and learn from it.

Madeleine: It’s hard to come up with just one word. Viewpoint has

been my everything for so long. I’ve been here since Kindergarten, it’s how I was raised. But I’m not afraid, I think, to leave Viewpoint, I’m excited, I feel ready. I feel like Viewpoint’s done its job. It’s been a home.

John: I agree. Home. I think my word for Viewpoint is home.

Mark: That is probably one of the best words.

Zach: Yeah, home is a good one.

Mark: I am incredibly grateful to all of you for meeting with me today, and I can’t tell you how much this conversation means to me.

Thank you.

SPRING

2022

21

LOVE OF LEARNING

Cultivating Academic Depth

THE RETURN OF

“We are so happy we chose Viewpoint’s TK program, rather than another year of preschool. In addition to one drop off for our four kids, the program strikes just the right balance of fun and preparation for Kindergarten. Our son has been able to play, learn, and explore in ways we could have only dreamed of for our other children. We can’t say enough about what an amazing job the staff has done!”

JILL AND RONNY KATZ (PARENTS TO ELI ’31, AIDEN ’33, MAYA ’33, AND NOAH ’35)

TK

By Vanessa Harrington, Assistant Head of Primary School

Her tiny hand grasps mine. Together, we walk towards the white picket fence. Along the way, she is greeted by name and welcomed with waves, hugs, smiles, and morning “hellos.” As we approach the gate that leads to the classroom, I feel her small fingers let go. She skips with confidence towards her friends, who are waiting at the door. They are eager to see their teachers. This is their school, and it is a place they love.

The return of Transitional Kindergarten (TK) to Viewpoint has added a special magic to our Primary School campus. It is no coincidence that people from all divisions and departments make a point of passing by the “white picket fence.” We are all uplifted by the earnest smiles and squeals of laughter. We relish in their curious conversations.

TK students are truly blossoming, and it is joyful to see. They are an important part of our Viewpoint family.

Exceptional readiness has begun with our youngest students. Filled with a powerful sense of belonging, TK children are primed for engaged learning and meaningful self-discovery. “We invite the children to be active participants in our classroom community, which in turn makes them active participants in our larger Viewpoint community,” says Lacey Thompson, our lead TK teacher. Lacey began teaching in the Viewpoint Kindergarten classroom in 2013. She has a strong understanding of where TK students are headed, and her focus is Kindergarten readiness. An engaging and nurturing team, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Jackie Wilson, and Ms. Deborah Cohen effectively balance each TK student’s age, ability, and social emotional needs.

Every child is met exactly where they are and encouraged to soar.

TK students have a unique head start as they experience Viewpoint’s outstanding enrichment programs, including Innovation, Science, Art, Music, Technology, Physical Education, and World Language.

Monthly visits from our Wellness Coordinator and Assistant Head of

22

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Primary School introduce valuable concepts of mindfulness, self-reflection, and good character. Whether they are cuddling the heart-shaped pillow named “Mr. Hugs,” cleaning up the classroom to the daily song “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” or encouraging a friend to give herself a “pat, pat, pat, on the back, back, back, for a good job,” the children are learning, thriving, and growing together.

TK students watch in anticipation as their Kindergarten friends meet important milestones, such as Convocation, the Holiday Program, and the annual performance of Little Engine. They know what’s coming, and they are excited to get there. These children know our Viewpoint values, routines, traditions, and teachers. They are set up to be leaders.

The seeds for success have been firmly planted, and they are starting to sprout. These children are prepared to start Kindergarten with an extra boost of love, confidence, and belonging.

“With the combination of qualified students, energetic and motivated parents, and a deep expertise in early childhood education, we knew we could execute Transitional Kindergarten with quality. Our families are incredibly grateful for the program and enthusiastic about the opportunity to be at the school for 14 years.” ­­– Mark McKee, Head of School

Top right front table L-R: Austin Keefe, Noah Katz, Ariana Torab Far left table: Ms. Lacey Thompson, Milly Redleaf Back left table: Victoria Meng, Dillon O’Neill, Jack Saitman, Willow Chu, Caleb Larson Back right table: Ethan Kravis, Ms. Jackie Wilson, Valentina Marella Bottom left: Ethan Kravis Middle right: Ariana Torab Bottom right: Milly Redleaf and Ms. Lacey Thompson

SPRING

2022

23

LOVE OF LEARNING

Cultivating Academic Depth

Why Being a Student for Life Matters

BACK TO SCHOOL

An important principle of education – from John Dewey, in iconic American philosopher of education who famously taught at Teachers College – is that “we do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience.”

MY KLINGENSTEIN EXPERIENCE

So what is the value of the Klingenstein experience, of being away from school to go back to school? While I expect that I’ll continue to reflect, and learn, some initial observations include:

By Mark McKee, Head of School

• Empathy for the student experience: Completing assigned homework, participating in discussions, and talking with colleagues about the classes, it was amazing how immediately we fell back into the role of students, and it surely helped us to see both upsides and challenges of experiences of students back at our schools. (Indeed, there are fewer tougher “customers” as classroom students than a class full of school heads!) I’m sure we all brought back renewed and direct perspective on making learning experiences valuable, rich, and relevant for our students.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN heads of school go back to school? Earlier

this year, I had the privilege of spending two weeks with the Klingenstein Center at Teachers College, Columbia University as a recipient of the Head of School Fellowship. The program brought together 17 Heads of independent schools from around the country and the world (including Colombia, Dominican Republic, and Singapore), selected from some 180 applicants. For the two weeks of the program, we were back to school as students – logging on to our online course manager, completing reading and homework assignments, and going as a cohort to the following classes: • P hilosophy and Education, with the director of TC’s philosophy program

• L istening Leadership, with Klingenstein Center director Dr. Nicole Furlonge • Organizational Development

• L everaging Tension for Change, a case study on the National Park Service • Design Thinking

We also had sessions on Wellbeing in Schools, Climate Change Leadership, and a conversation about Leading through Change with the former Head of the Dalton School. In addition to these classes and workshops, we spent time in discussion with the Master’s degree students in the Klingenstein Center’s program in Private School Leadership. Their talent and optimism were a highlight of the week, inspiring us that the future of leadership in our schools is secure.

The experience of being a student again was exceptional, and especially as we experienced in two weeks all the modes of education our students have experienced these past two years: due to the omicron surge, we spent the first week Zooming in remotely from our hotel, and in the second week, we attended classes both in person and in a hybrid format. (And I can attest that in-person learning is a far superior experience!) Our location on the Upper West Side gave us access to Central Park – beautiful even in the winter – and to the cultural offerings of New York, making a rich educational environment for our cohort to have a shared experience. I came away from the program with renewed energy, perspective, and a new cohort of connections, who pledged to see one another at a reunion next year.

As a formal project, we were asked to bring a problem of practice, and I focused on how we support the needs and the continual growth of our faculty and staff. I used my collaborative design thinking group to inquire and get feedback on possibilities including our organizational structure, compensation, and other supports for motivation and professional learning. With the pace of school life and its activities and events, it can be hard to make time for distance on current events and for focused thought and reflection. I am grateful to our administrative team for their steady, expert leadership, and to the board and our community for support for my participation in this fellowship – and I am committed to its ongoing positive impact for Viewpoint, including through Viewpoint’s maintaining an enduring connection to the Klingenstein Center.

• The value of relationships and the cohort: As profound as our connection to our teachers, so much learning comes from the interactions with fellow students, from their diversity of ideas and responses, and from the friendships we formed.

• Collegial feedback and confidence: in addition to the sessions with brilliant teachers, one of the highlights was getting feedback on our “problems of practice” from our fellow school heads. Along the way, I learned 16 more ways of being a head, all of them distinct and inspiring as I reflect on my own leadership with a goal of continual learning.

• The centrality of purpose: one of the best elements was a course on philosophy, where we read (yes) John Dewey and Michel de Montaigne, James Baldwin, and more recent scholars like Gloria Ladson-Billings.

All of these writers challenged us to think about the very purpose of schooling – and why we all got into education in the first place.

For the experience I’m grateful to the Klingenstein Center – and to the Klingenstein family, whose vision and generosity created the Center. In our final session presentations on our learning, we were joined by a daughter of the philanthropist who collaborated to found the Center, herself a Board Chair of an independent school. Such Centers provide places for school leaders to reflect, renew, and build capacity, connecting and strengthening our schools for the future.

A DISTINGUISHED HONOR FOR OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL

By Christy Salcido, Chief Marketing Officer

IN JANUARY, our Viewpoint community congratulated Head of School Mark McKee, who was selected to join a cohort of 17 experienced national and international school heads for the 2022 Klingenstein Head of School Fellowship at Teachers College, Columbia University in the City of New York.

The goal of this highly selective two-week program is to offer mid-career heads of school an intensive professional development experience exploring current educational issues, educational philosophy and ethics, and to engage in self-reflective practice. The program offers the opportunity for the visiting heads to engage in design thinking and case study work with Klingenstein master’s students, and to visit independent schools in New York City to observe a variety of programs and ideas to bring back to their respective schools.

At the time, Mark said, “I’ve never had a September without a start of school. I went from being a student to being a teacher, and then a school leader. I am fascinated by both the theory and practice of the learning organization, creating both a culture and system for learning, for students and adults.

The Klingenstein Institute is the premier global center for independent school leadership, and as a lifelong student, I am excited by the opportunity to spend two weeks with colleagues from around the world to explore these big ideas with my peers. I believe in the power of connection, and as we emerge from the pandemic, the chance to connect with my fellow heads seems especially valuable.”

David ZeBrack, Chair of Viewpoint’s Board of Trustees, added, “It is particularly exciting to see our Head of School, Mark McKee, expanding upon his leadership role in our community by participating in the Klingenstein Head of School Fellowship. His example of professional development to our academic staff and neverending love of learning to our student body is one of passionate empowerment through personal growth. Inspiring!”

Mark McKee (left middle) seated with his Klingenstein Center’s Head of School Program Class of 2022 cohorts. Participants gathered from American independent schools from California to New Jersey and Singapore to Dominican Republic.

24

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

SPRING

2022

25

LOVE OF LEARNING

Cultivating Academic Depth

1 FIFTH GRADE KING KONG MATH

2

By Daynin Blake and Geena Brocca, Fifth Grade Teachers

SHARE 3 YOUR WORK 26

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

The Class

“Picture this! You are applying to work in the props department on the set of the movie, King Kong!” is the opening statement to the beloved King Kong Project. This assignment is just one example of experiential learning that is a part of the Fifth Grade math classroom. We want the students to have ownership over their learning where they are the ones making the discoveries and experiencing a deeper conceptual understanding of each topic. In the real-world people have to be problem solvers and critical thinkers. Being able to give students the tools to explore and come to conclusions for themselves prepares them to be world ready. From outside of our math classroom looking in, you will often view students out of their seats at white boards, or in circles collaborating and working as a team. Our curriculum is based around the idea that students must be able to think flexibly with numbers and symbols, as well as see a connection across units. For example, our King Kong Project is part of our ratio unit, but students also utilize their knowledge of fractions, decimals, patterns, measurements, and conversions.

The Task

The most anticipated event for incoming Fifth Graders is the King Kong Project. All year, students ask when the assignment will commence, but it isn’t announced until a few weeks before Viewpoint’s annual Makerfest. Some students think ahead, crafting and planning what they’ll create weeks and even months in advance. We begin with a small unit on ratios to help the students gain an understanding of what ratios are and how they work. The students are then introduced to the complexity of the assignment by drawing an exact replica of a brand-new pencil, and finding all of its intricate measurements. King Kong has generally been thought to be 50 feet tall, so we compare his height to a five-foot-tall Fifth Grader. At a 10 to 1 ratio, the students are now able to calculate the size of a King Kong pencil. With those newly calculated measurements, they have what they need to draw a detailed tip and eraser end of the pencil that is ten times the size.

This practice fully equips the students with the skills to take their own handheld item and make it King Kong size.

The Process STEP ONE: THE HANDHELD ITEM

We ask students to look around their homes for an item that excites them, that they can transform into King Kong size. It is imperative that the item fits in the palm of their hand – we’ve learned from experience that anything larger could require a pickup truck, or may not fit through the door! We have them bring the items in to be approved, to be sure they have the right materials and can be successful in their build.

STEP TWO: THE BLUEPRINT

When the item is approved, students repeat the same process as they did with the pencil. They are put to the test to calculate measurements accurately and precisely. Fifth Graders are given a measurement sheet that details the original size, and how it converts to King Kong size. At this point in the project, it is important that

From L-R: Alyssa Go ’29, Finn Harrington ’29, Chloe Zandona ’29, and Brendan Rubinstein ’29

students are aware of each detail that needs to be measured. For example, a Lego brick not only needs the length, width, and height measured, but the thickness of each peg and their distance from each other. They will then sketch a blueprint of the handheld item on a large piece of graph paper, as well as a small portion of the King Kong size version. The ability to draw the King Kong size item demonstrates their understanding of the proportions, and can be used as a guide to a successful build. As soon as the blueprint is completed, students are prepared to begin the build!

STEP THREE: THE BUILD

This is where the magic happens, and each student maps their own route to success. We encourage students to use and recycle materials found around their homes, but we also encourage them to play towards their strengths. When choosing building materials, they pay attention to their or their family’s talents, such as woodworking, drawing, sewing, and ceramics. Families often come together to support their Fifth Grader, and while doing so, create memories through the failures and successes that will last a lifetime.

STEP FOUR: PRESENT THE FINAL PRODUCT

The most exciting part of the project is bringing in their King Kongsize items. The morning of the event, as they arrive to carpool with their massive creations, the younger students are looking up at them in awe, and the older students look back remembering their own unique masterpieces from the great King Kong experience.

Every time the classroom door opens, ooh’s and aah’s are roared out from the class. Each student is given the opportunity to present and share their building experience, while revealing their trials, errors, and successes.

We often think of the quote from Benjamin Franklin in our teaching practices, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” Students are active participants in this learning experience and will take with them the ideas and concepts they have come to understand as they graduate from Lower School into Middle.

This project does not just call to the artistic children but it fosters the imaginations of all students and their creativity; every student with their unique, individual skill sets and talents.

SPRING

2022

27

LOVE OF LEARNING

LEADERSHIP

Cultivating Academic Depth

Inspiring Possibilities

DOWN

LOAD “AS WE SAGEHENS SAY...

CHIRP! CHIRP!”

By Cristian Monroy, Associate Director of College Counseling

CRIS MONROY has called Los Angeles home for most of his life. While he looked east during his college process, a desire to remain close to family led him on another adventure – exploring Southern California! Upon graduating from John C. Fremont High School in South Central Los Angeles, Cris began his time at Pomona College in Claremont, CA. At Pomona, Cris double majored in Psychology and Chicana/oLatina/o Studies while working in admissions and residential life. After graduating, he decided to explore jobs in business management and teaching, but his passions pointed him in another direction – a desire to understand the college admissions process and help guide students through their own journey. Cris then returned to Pomona College as an admissions officer for five years. After nearly a decade at Pomona as both a student and staff member, Cris was excited to join Viewpoint last October.

MY COLLEGE PROCESS As a College Counselor, I ask students to reflect on their needs and wants to better help them understand what they are looking for when they embark on their college search. This is very different from how I approached my own college process. As a first generation, low-income student whose parents grew up in Mexico, the only schools on my radar were USC, UCLA, Harvard, and LA Trade Tech College, where my aunt was pursuing her associate degree. It was not until a representative from Thrive Scholars, a community-based organization located in LA, visited my school that I was introduced to the idea of a “liberal arts college.” While the term was still new to me, I jumped at the idea of joining a school trip to tour the Claremont Colleges. Once there, there was no looking back. I fell in love with the supportive environment and the community of like-minded students that made the Claremont schools feel like home.

GETTING TO POMONA Shortly after the visit, I interviewed at several of the Claremont schools and Pomona was the clear favorite. I still remember sitting in class daydreaming about it for ages. I ultimately applied to Pomona College via the QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship program and was admitted on December 1 of my senior year. Looking back, Pomona was not perfect, but it provided me with the supportive environment I needed to thrive and prepared me for the post-college world in more ways than I can ever count. As we Sagehens say . . . Chirp! Chirp!

Viewpoint School is a community of extraordinary individuals – educators and students who are dedicated to their work in and out of the classroom, and committed to challenging themselves each day. I am delighted to introduce these four outstanding seniors who are passionately pursuing their personal interests as they prepare to launch into the world beyond Viewpoint.

PURSUING THEIR

By Monica Case ’90, Director of Content Strategy

BEYOND COLLEGE COUNSELING When I am not talking about colleges, I love to be outdoors. During the week, I enjoy attending pickup soccer or basketball games. On weekends, you can find me on a hike or exploring one of Southern California’s many vegan restaurants. One last thing – a shout out to my adoptive high school counselor, without whom I would not be where I am today!

28

T H E VI EWPOI N T MAGAZI NE

SPRING

2022

29

LEADERSHIP

Inspiring Possibilities

RACHEL

LUNER ’22 In the words of Rachel’s college counselor, Rhody Davis, “She is all-around amazing.” Her passions range from engineering and neuroscience to dance and the visual arts. Not only is she taking six AP courses and Advanced Topics in Calculus, but she shares her enthusiasm for science as a leader of Girls in STEM. Rachel began dancing at age three. She dances outside of school and also is a member of Viewpoint’s Dance Company – she is the one you see doing all the flips. Her commitment to dance extends to volunteering at Ballet for All Kids, a non-profit that teaches physically disabled and neuro-diverse kids classical, ballet, tap, and jazz, which she began doing in Sixth Grade. She also is a talented artist, who volunteers each week after school at the Guadalupe Center in West Hills to teach art to disadvantaged children. Rachel is the youngest of four and this has made an impact on her choices. She said, “I was analyzing all of the activities that I do with children and I realized that I wanted to replicate that relationship that I have with my siblings. Always being able to look up to them and having them as role models was so important to my upbringing, so I want to be that for the children that I work with.” No doubt, Rachel will continue to help others as she studies Biomedical Engineering at Duke University in the fall.

30

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

LOGAN

TOM ’22 Logan Tom’s love for fishing began at age five when he started going out on his father’s boat, which is docked in Huntington Harbor. Together, they regularly fish along the California coast for marlin, yellowtail, lobster, and tuna. Each one requiring its own technique, and offering its own lessons in patience, timing, and planning to achieve a specific goal.

Logan is never without his rod in the bed of his truck and he can be found fishing off the pier in Malibu or even from the beach, just enjoying the escape from school, sports – Varsity Football and Lacrosse – and for a time, the pandemic. Logan’s passion for fishing has determined his future plans to study Marine Science at Cal State University Channel Islands, with the goal of becoming a game warden or conservationist. He is acutely aware of the degradation of the oceans over time. Logan said, “I was basically born on the water, and I can see the changes brought on by pollution and climate change. I’ve seen certain species rise and fall in population density over the area, and I’ve seen where they use hatcheries in order to attempt to bring those populations back. It’s all very interesting to me and I want help make things better.”

SPRING

2022

31

LEADERSHIP

Inspiring Possibilities

DYLAN

PERLSTEIN ’22 Dylan Perlstein’s two driving passions are basketball and math. He is the captain of Viewpoint’s Boys Varsity Basketball Team and was named the Acorn’s Defensive Player of the Year. He also is taking the post-AP course Advanced Topics in Calculus and is planning to study Sports Analytics at the University of Pennsylvania in the fall. His interest in sports analytics began in the summer after Ninth Grade, when Dylan did a project with the Head of the Sports Analytics Club at UCLA. He taught Dylan the basics of the programming language used for statistics. The summer after Tenth Grade, Dylan did “The Moneyball Training Program” at Penn. He said, “It not only used the same programming language, but taught more advanced metrics and a different way to model statistics for not only basketball, but other sports as well. I found it really interesting and a lot of fun.” Dylan followed that in Eleventh Grade with a Harvard X course in statistics, where he learned about linear regressions and the other tools he needed to write a paper on whether the NBA should move the threepoint line back or not. He has not yet presented his paper. He wrote it “to learn how to do stuff and figure the information out for myself.” Now that is a passion project.

32

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

CLARE

WILLIAMS ’22 Since she was very young, Clare Williams has had an interest in medicine and community service. A Viewpoint lifer, she always loved math and science and took every opportunity to challenge herself with advanced courses in both, as well as taking on leadership roles in CORE (Viewpoint’s Community Service Honors Society), Girls in STEM, and fundraising to buy sanitary products to donate to PATH (People Assisting the Homeless). Clare also is a fouryear Varsity Volleyball player. In the summer before Tenth Grade, she became involved in the Student Steering Committee of the Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynecology and Obstetrics (JHPIEGO) that helped review a health curriculum to be implemented in a Baltimore County public school. Through this experience, she became connected to the Los Angeles County Health Commission, where she was tapped to help three USC students draft their 2021 Annual Report.

Her section was the new one on COVID-19. Clare said, “Through this experience, even though it was extremely challenging, I learned so much.

I realized that I really liked public policy, and I knew from working with JHPIEGO that I was interested in global health.” Medical school is still a possibility, but for now she is planning to study Global Health at Duke University in the fall.

SPRING

2022

33

LEADERSHIP

Inspiring Possibilities

Entrepreneurship

THE ANNUAL FITFH GRADE

Business Sale

By Tracy Wymer, Assistant Head of Lower School

EACH YEAR THE FIFTH GRADE STUDENTS embark on an entrepreneurial journey to help our community and our world. As the school year transitions from fall to winter, Fifth Graders are presented with an opportunity to create a business from the ground up. During this process, students are challenged to keep in mind design thinking principles learned in our Innovation Space – empathize, define, ideate, prototype, test. Along with these five principles, Fifth Graders can choose to collaborate with their classmates while joining a business venture with friends, or they can begin their startup as a solo entrepreneur while seeing their creative vision to the end. Either way, students are excited at the thought of becoming entrepreneurs and bringing their ideas to life.

To begin their business venture, Fifth Graders formulate a plan while considering many elements that make a product successful – production cost, price point, distribution, marketing strategies.

Students then design and create a prototype. Once their prototype is approved, students lay out a marketing plan while designing hardcopy advertisements and filming short commercials, which are then shared with potential buyers: Third and Fourth Grade students.

Once Fifth Graders have their business plan and final products ready for purchase, the Business Sale takes flight for an entire week. During the first two days, Fifth Graders sell products to their Fifth Grade classmates. They spend the next two days selling to Third and Fourth Graders. On the last day of the week, Fifth Graders sell products to their parents in our “going out of business” sale.

34

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

During the week-long hustle and bustle, Fifth Graders keep a business ledger to track profit and loss. Many students realize that keeping up with demand is challenging, but it also signals their product is desirable and selling quickly. “We sold bracelets, necklaces, anklets, and rings,” says Soraya Karimpour ’29, who created Malibu Boutique with classmate Lexington Hakim ’29. “The bracelets were the most popular.

On the second day, there was a long line at our table. Every night we had to make more.” Lexington says, “We noticed we were selling a lot.

It was a lot of work, but it was worth it.”

Some students are inspired to keep their business going within their communities. Noah Ladin ’29, creator of Pup Labs, is still selling peanut butter, pumpkin, and flour dog treats in his neighborhood. Noah’s advice to future Fifth Graders: “Make sure you can do something that can be easily mass produced, but not low quality. I tested my product before I started selling it.”

Selling more products means making more money, but where does all this money go?

All proceeds from the Business Sale are donated to a charitable organization chosen by the Fifth Grade Class. First, Fifth Graders are given an opportunity to give a presentation about their favorite organizations. Students vote and choose a winner from their homeroom, and then each homeroom winner presents in front of the whole Fifth Grade Class. Students then vote again to decide which

organization will receive their proceeds, which is typically more than $5,000. Fifth Grade teacher Daynin Blake says, “This project sparks an entrepreneurial spirit in our students and raises awareness of issues and struggles outside of our Viewpoint community.”

In year’s past, the Fifth Grade Class has supported organizations such as City of Hope, Shelter to Soldier, Make-A-Wish, Child Corrective Surgery Society, Charity Water, and the Ebenezer Foundation. Last year, the Fifth Grade Class chose to support The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a leading organization in the conservation, preservation, and protection of African wildlife. This year, Fifth Graders voted to donate their funds to Life Animal Rescue, a local organization that rescues homeless or abandoned dogs and cats and places them in permanent, loving homes.

Year after year, Fifth Graders learn the foundational skills of entrepreneurship through their business ventures. While setting an example for younger students, this experience allows Fifth Grade students to capitalize on their academic depth while leveraging their creativity and imagination.

As our students develop into global citizens and compassionate leaders, they embrace the spirit of giving and helping others within our community and around the world. The Fifth Grade Business Sale is an example of how learning takes root in the classroom and eventually blooms beyond the classroom walls.

Clockwise: Yasemin Undey ’29 and Payton Saxer-Papariella ’29; Gabe Olinick ’29, Caden-Phoenix Wolfe ’29, and Peter Cassileth ’29; Preston Pomada ’29 and Ethan Pfeiffer ’29; Alyssa Go ’29 (on right) SPRING

2022

35

LEADERSHIP

Inspiring Possibilities

VIEWPOINT VALUES:

Community Service

Pictured: Pete Brown Jr. Tennis Academy volunteers.

4

Community service is integral to a Viewpoint education. Beginning in Primary School with Pennies for a Purpose and the Hour of Giving and extending all the way to CORE’s far-reaching activities in Upper School, our students spend countless hours each year supporting charitable organizations throughout the Los Angeles area.

1

Pennies for a Purpose

Pennies for a Purpose is an opportunity for Primary School children to help other children in need. Throughout the year, students are encouraged to bring in handfuls of coins and spare change. As we watch the donations grow in the coin canister, students learn that when we work together in small ways we can make a big difference.

The money is used to help children through community service events, as we partner with organizations like the Red Cross, Good+Foundation, and School on Wheels.

36

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

This initiative was brought to us by a former parent, Anne Star (son, Jonathan ’16).

Volunteers put together gift packages filled with toys for underserved children in Los Angeles.

Community Service Day

On Community Service Day this past fall, nearly 270 students and roughly 25 faculty, administration, and staff gathered at various locations throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County to support eight non-profit organizations. It’s a wonderful annual tradition in the Upper School that is facilitated by CORE.

From L-R: Mark McKee, Mayor James Bozajian, City Councilmember Alicia Weintraub, City Manager Kindon Meik, Community Services Director Erica Green.

2

60 Hours of Additional Community Service to the City of Calabasas to celebrate the 60th Day of School In recognition of our 60th anniversary and our decades-long partnership with the City of Calabasas, Viewpoint School committed to 60 additional volunteer hours with the Community Service Department by June 30, 2022. Our Upper School students are focused on volunteering for trails and parks clean-up, special events, and programs.

CORE

Community Service Honors Society

3 From L-R: Second Graders Alex Hu Wu, Aviraj Khanna, Gaelle Austin, and Vivienne Sandoval

5

Allison Kim ’26 and Serena Scott, Kindergarten

Morning of Gratitude with the Middle and Primary School students

CORE is our Upper School honor society comprised of juniors and seniors passionate about supporting their community, and who seek leadership opportunities to do so.

Juniors must volunteer a minimum of 200 hours and seniors, 300, to be considered for membership. This year, we are 38 members strong.

Smiles were seen on faces everywhere during our November 23 Day of Gratitude! During this community-building event, Eighth Grade students paired up with buddies in the Primary School to read, play games, and share a snack with new friends.

SPRING

2022

37

LEADERSHIP

Inspiring Possibilities

“Convocation is one of the cherished traditions that connects us, bringing our entire campus community together to celebrate with joy the opening of the new school year.”

MARK MCKEE, HEAD OF SCHOOL

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2021

A HEARTWARMING WELCOME Viewpoint’s Seventh Annual All-School Convocation Viewpoint’s Seventh Annual Convocation, held in the Primary School Courtyard for Kindergarteners and seniors and on screens in classrooms across campus for Grades One-Eleven, joyfully marked the start of the 2021-22 school year.

The program featured inspiring remarks from Head of School Mark McKee, who shared the theme for the year of Exceptional Readiness for Extraordinary Futures, and an enthusiastic welcome from student body president H.H. Landau ’22. The highlight of the morning was hearing two students from each division share their thoughts on the themes of academic depth, inspired leadership, global citizenship, and resilient identity, all key drivers in the Critical Skill Set and Courageous Mindset introduced in the School’s new mission statement.

Top left: Mark McKee, Head of School Top right from L-R: Chloe Brown ’22, Shea Smith ’22, Josie Mar ’22, Jules Mazzolini ’22 Bottom from L-R: Bob Bryan, Associate Head of School, Rachel Huang ’26, Avi Shah ’26

38

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

SPRING

2022

39

LEADERSHIP

Inspiring Possibilities

All-School Convocation

Convocation Remarks, Rachel Huang ’26

“GOOD MORNING, EVERYONE! I AM EIGHTH GRADER RACHEL. IT’S TRULY A GREAT HONOR TO SPEAK HERE TODAY.” THIS IS A BIG MOMENT for all of us. After going through one and a half years of remote or hybrid learning, we are finally reunited here.

I feel so lucky and grateful for every moment we are enjoying here.

However, the world is not really peaceful. We are still fighting a global pandemic, and you should know what’s happening in Afghanistan, Lake Tahoe, and Louisiana now. We have witnessed wars, wildfires, hurricanes, and flooding. What do these have to do with our academic depth? As our Head of School Mr. McKee said: Our School’s mission is to create exceptional readiness for extraordinary futures. How to fulfill this mission? One of the most important aspects is emphasizing academic depth.

We must improve ourselves before improving the world. Our years at Viewpoint are a time to gain knowledge and skills, to explore a bunch of new things, to develop our strengths and leadership, to challenge ourselves in ways we did not think possible.

Viewpoint is an amazing community full of talented students, dedicated teachers, and enthusiastic staff. We will never feel bored here. Regardless of what we study or what clubs we join, I encourage all of us to leave our comfort zone. Always ask as many questions as we can to challenge ourselves; participate in class discussion as much as possible to develop our independent thinking; listen to other’s views or arguments that are different than ours to expand our knowledge and cultivate our critical thinking; explore different ways to solve one math/science problem, or to interpret one art/music work, to be more creative.

This is my understanding of stimulating academic depth. If we can do so, we will be changed and transformed.

Let’s cherish every minute studying in this great community. Let’s learn every single day patiently, seriously, rigorously, fruitfully, and joyfully.

GO PATRIOTS! Thank you very much!"

STUDENT CONVOCATION SPEAKERS

Above: Rachel Huang ’26

40

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Top row from L-R: H.H. Landau ’22, Allan Maldonado ’22, Mai Mishan ’22, Avi Shah ’26 Bottom row from L-R: Ruby Jacobs ’29, Finn Harrington ’29, Mollyrose Dassa ’32, Ryan Khanna ’32

SPRING

2022

41

IN OUR CANYON

Celebrating Community Life

60 ON 60

The joyful sound of the Pep Band playing the 1961 hit song “Twist and Shout” could be heard welcoming the Upper School students to Ring Family Field to commemorate Viewpoint’s 60th Anniversary on the 60th day of school. Viewpoint was founded in 1961, and the assembly of December 1, 2021 marked the beginning of many celebrations to come.

THE ASSEMBLY BEGAN with remarks by Head of School Mark McKee, who spoke of the founders of the School who were moved by the belief that “education has the power to change lives and make better futures” to found Viewpoint – a school with a “point of view.”

Mr. McKee then asked the students to consider what it means to celebrate the 60th birthday of their school.

School and the City. Viewpoint was pleased to welcome Calabasas Mayor James Bozajian, City Councilmember Alicia Weintraub, City Manager Kindon Meik, and Community Services Director Erica Green as special guests.

At the conclusion of the assembly, he answered his own question by saying that it is a moment to both look back with gratitude for all that has come before and to look forward to extraordinary futures full of possibility. He also asked them to reflect upon the School’s vision statement, which describes Viewpoint as a place where “tradition connects us and innovation propels us.” On a day like today, when we reflect upon past, present, and future, the gift of having both a meaningful history and a vision for the next 60 years could not be more significant.

Middle School student and member of the Environmental Sustainability Council, Colin Brun ’26, and Upper School students and CORE (community service honors society) leaders Clare Williams ’22, Faith Han ’22, and Zach Samuel ’22 were excited to announce a special community service project and asked Community Services Director Erica Green to accept a declaration on behalf of Viewpoint School students. They said, “In recognition of our 60-year partnership with the community of Calabasas, Viewpoint School is committing to 60 additional volunteer hours with the Community Service Department by June 30, 2022. We will volunteer for trails and parks clean-up, special events and programs.”

The festivities also included an outstanding performance by Viewpoint’s Dance Company, and a presentation to the City of Calabasas in recognition of the longstanding relationship between the

It was a special day for all in attendance and a wonderful way to celebrate this important milestone in the life of the School. Happy Birthday, Viewpoint!

LOVE, LOYALTY, AND A LIFETIME OF VIEWPOINT

By Christy Salcido, Chief Marketing Officer

Laurel Baker Tew ’78 has worn Viewpoint’s heart on her sleeve and every hat you can imagine for the past six decades. It’s only fitting as we celebrate the School’s 60th anniversary, that we celebrate a heartwarming timeline of her Viewpoint journey. From student to alumna, trustee to parent, admission director to trusted historian, hers is a story of fate, full circle moments, and enduring values.

IN 1965, A LITTLE GIRL named Laurel Baker began Kindergarten at a new school in Encino called Viewpoint. At the time, she never could have imagined how one tiny, untried, scrappy school would impact her life.

Viewpoint was part of a great experiment of schools in the early 1960s.

Laurel’s mom had heard about it because there had been another school on the site in Encino that had been around for a long time, but then closed suddenly. In the summer of ’61, a group of parents decided to relaunch a school on that same site and call it Viewpoint.

A year later, the Carden curriculum was introduced at Viewpoint and after hearing Mae Carden, a dynamic and nationally-known educator, speak at a lecture, Laurel’s mom decided this was the school for her first child.

Top: Mark McKee, Head of School Bottom left L-R: Mia Brown ’23, Lauren Younger ’23, Sam Albrecht ’23, Layla Ananda ’23, and Jadyn Fournier ’23 Bottom center: Alison Steelberg Corneau ’97, Laurel Baker Tew ’78, A.J. Hernandez ’04 Bottom right: Upper School Pep Band: Bianca Gomez ’22, Teddy Grandy ’25, Amit Klier ’22, Sacha Toberoff ’22, and AJ Williams ’23

42

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

And so her Viewpoint journey began.

Laurel’s earliest memories of being at the Encino campus include Friday morning assemblies outside under the oak tree, and even

though it was a very small place, it seemed really big to her five-yearold self. As she was entering First Grade, Viewpoint relocated its campus from Encino to Calabasas. Smiling, she recalled her roles in the First Grade plays, Little Fir Tree and Peter Rabbit, and being a Girl Scout in Troop 1272. Then there was the matter of “earning your pen” – one of the rites of passage for Fourth Graders at the time.

When your teacher decided your handwriting was sufficiently lovely, a cartridge fountain pen was presented to you at an assembly. Until then, you could only use a pencil, so as the only left-handed child in her grade this was an extremely difficult bar for Laurel to cross. This memory may have caused some PTSD, but we quickly moved on to memories of her theatre days at Viewpoint, when she appeared in As You Like It and The Tempest. Decades later, her daughter, Lucy Tew ’10, would follow in her theatrical footsteps.

Soon, it was “all in the family” as Laurel was the first of five family members to go through the school, including her two brothers and two cousins. They were all like siblings and lived on the same street, SPRING

2022

43

IN OUR CANYON

Celebrating Community Life

A Living Legacy

three doors down from one another. Laurel’s aunt, Sigrid Toye P ’81, ’85, who was an educator, was appointed to the board at Viewpoint in the early 70s. Between her roles on the board and on the former Viewpoint Educational Foundation, Sigrid’s volunteer service commitment to the School spanned 40 years.

In those years, Viewpoint was K-Nine, so Laurel attended a different school for grades Ten-Twelve and went to the University of Southern California (USC) when she was 17. But, when she thinks back on her school years, it’s always tied to this place and it’s always drawn her back.

During graduate school, Laurel was offered a part-time job at Viewpoint teaching French in the elementary school grades, which was considered moonlighting since she was a full-time grad student and teaching three French classes at USC. After getting married and having her two children, Laurel helped start the Viewpoint Alumni Association, which is the same association today. She served as one of the first presidents and during that time helped establish the Alumni Award to commemorate a Viewpoint community member of importance. The first person they gave the award to was Thelma Sitton and the second person was Mary Carpenter – two of the School’s early leaders and founders. In a poignant, full circle moment, Laurel received the Alumni Award in 2001. That same year, she delivered the commencement address at Viewpoint.

From the time her twins were born in 1991, Laurel always had it in her mind that they would go to Viewpoint as Kindergarteners, but unfortunately, fate intervened. While she was working in Admission at USC and her husband, Chad Tew, was working in the Writer’s Program at UCLA, her parents both tragically passed away within a year of each other.

Laurel and her family moved to Sherman Oaks to be near her mother’s parents who were still alive.

At the time, there was no way they could get the twins to Calabasas when they were little. Then, fate intervened again.

Top: Laurel’s pre-primary (Kindergarten) class from the Encino campus, taken under the big oak tree where they would gather for Friday assemblies. Laurel is the last one on the right.

Middle left: Looking down on the Virtue Building and its parking lot (now the west lot and Robertson Family Field) in 1966.

Middle right: Architectural rendering of the Virtue Building taken from the cover of the fundraising brochure to raise money to build the Calabasas campus.

Bottom: The V pin belonged to Laurel’s mother and a lot of parents wore them in the early years. The fleur de lis pin came from Laurel winning the Handley Award when she graduated.

44

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

“What ended up changing things was Chad and I found ourselves getting caught up in the founding of a new school where our twins started at Second Grade, The Wesley School in North Hollywood. Wesley was rising from the ashes of an earlier school that had unexpectedly closed. Being involved in Wesley’s beginnings and following Chad onto Wesley’s Board at the end of his service became like giving birth to a third child,” said Laurel. “It was really interesting because what I was learning from my aunt and from my grandparents was, this is how involved my own family members had been in the early years of Viewpoint, so it was like history repeating itself. My aunt Sigrid has been inspirational to me in how deeply she understands independent school governance and sustainability, and I have learned so much from her in my career and my volunteer work.”

IN SUMMING UP VIEWPOINT’S HISTORY AND HER HOPES FOR ITS FUTURE, LAUREL HAD THIS TO SAY:

“At the time Viewpoint was founded, it was one of scores of little storefront schools popping up everywhere. Almost none of those early rival schools lasted, and yet Viewpoint did. It continued to grow and thrive during a time of tremendous upheaval in this city and in this country. Why was that? All along the way of these last 60 years, there were critical pivot points about every decade. What the School was able to do over and over again was to transform in a way that could leap beyond the problem of the moment and take the long view instead. I couldn’t wish for anything more for Viewpoint than for that to continue….for the next 60 years and more.”

Being part of the founding group of Wesley influenced Chad to respond to an ad in the paper for a CFO position at Viewpoint and he got the job, just as the School was finalizing its purchase of Meadow Oaks and needing someone with his skill set to oversee building out the campus. Just a few years later, Chad convinced Laurel they needed to move the kids to Viewpoint in the fall of ’03 for Sixth Grade. At this time, Laurel had a big job at USC as Director of Admission, she had a seat on the board at Viewpoint and she was involved in alumni activities. Little did she know that a lunch with then-Viewpoint Headmaster Bob Dworkoski would prompt her to quit her job at USC and join Viewpoint. She happily came on board as only the third admission director in the School’s history.

“Viewpoint had just made this massive leap forward, going from seven to 25 acres and Bob told me he wanted someone who could build a strategic enrollment plan,” said Laurel. “My first set of marching orders was to grow the School to its capacity. It was a magical time because my first seven years or so, Chad and I were partnered working here, and our kids were here. We were all together, which was a special time.”

We asked Laurel to tell us how she feels as a parent of two Viewpoint alums and what she treasures most about their experiences.

teacher and director of middle school theatre at a boarding school in Massachusetts. She also continues to use her Chinese with the international students in her school.

For her son George Tew ’10, football and film were his great passions, and teachers and coaches encouraged him in both. He started in Viewpoint’s Film program as an Eighth Grader, going all the way through the senior year Film IV program, and continuing his Film studies at USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. After college, George landed a job at Legendary Entertainment and after five years as Legendary’s Mythology Manager, was lured away to Netflix where he works now.

Her advice for the Class of 2022 (and beyond)?

“If you read what futurists write, there is every reason to believe that the kids at Viewpoint today are going to live past the age of 100. So when you think about a person’s life that is that chronologically long, you need to lean into a growth mindset. Be prepared to be a lifelong learner and flow with whatever comes your way. You really have to hold onto optimism.”

“There were teachers at Viewpoint, who had this extraordinary, keen insight into how to inspire Middle Schoolers. It’s one of the great strengths of a Viewpoint teacher,” said Laurel. “They inspired my children to try different things, teasing out nuggets and sparks of interest in disparate topics. What I see now looking back is that there are aspects of the careers my children have launched and the wonderful adult humans they’ve become that tie back to wise teachers who encouraged them at a vulnerable time for kids – the middle school years.”

She added, “They both chose to go into various aspects of the arts as careers and they’re able to make a living at it, so thank you Viewpoint!”

You could almost feel the pride in her heart as she talked about her children and their Viewpoint paths. Lucy had teachers who encouraged her to try theatre and Chinese, which changed her life. She did some 23 shows at Viewpoint, before college and grad school. Now she’s learned how to teach theatre herself, with her speciality being teaching middle schoolers. She’s a full-fledged

From L-R: Lucy Tew ’10, George Tew ’10, Laurel Baker Tew ’78, Chad Tew

SPRING

2022

45

IN OUR CANYON

Celebrating Community Life

FEBRUARY 2022

BLACK HISTORY MONTH THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY, the Viewpoint community celebrated Black History Month. Patricia Jackson, Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Life, always emphasizes the importance of storytelling and shared some of her own stories from growing up in the South. Members of the Viewpoint Black Student Union enjoyed a trip to the Grammy Museum where they toured, then participated in a private, in-person workshop on Music of The Civil Rights Movement.

The trip ended with a traditional family meal at Fixin’s Restaurant. On campus, there were performances by the Step Team, guest speakers at special assemblies, and so much more.

Above and top photos: Touring the Grammy Museum

46

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Above: First Grader drawing on a Maya Angelou worksheet

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Viewpoint Celebrates

THE YEAR OF THE TIGER TO MARK THE BEGINNING of Lunar New Year (also known as Chinese New Year) and the Year of the Tiger, on January 28 the Upper School students enjoyed a lunchtime assembly to learn more about Lunar New Year. On February 8, several parents arranged for a Lion Dance to travel throughout our campus – much to the delight of students and faculty alike. Students also enjoyed an Asian-inspired meal, and the Primary and Lower School students took home traditional Red envelopes as a celebration of the holiday.

Top: Upper School Bottom: Lower School

SPRING

2022

47

IN OUR CANYON

Celebrating Community Life

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3

DIVERSITY LEADERSHIP DAY Viewpoint’s Sixth Annual Diversity Leadership Day Offers Middle and Upper School Students a Day for Self-Exploration, Discussion, and Reflection.

ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, Viewpoint’s Middle and Upper School students participated in the School’s Sixth Annual Diversity Leadership Day (DLD). With 47 different workshops initiated and led by students, with faculty advisors present, Diversity Leadership Day offers a unique opportunity for students to explore and discuss the issues that are of greatest concern to them.

The workshops, to name just a few, included American Muslim – From Middle School Hallways to the Halls of Congress; PSA: Perfectionism, Stress, and Anxiety; Respect, Allyship, and Understanding Towards the LGBTQ+ Community; The Untold Story of Native Americans: My Heritage; Being Jewish in an Anti-Semitic World; We’re Not All “Mexican”: Exploring Cultural Differences Throughout Latin America; A Dive into Reproductive Health; Social Media, Politics, Society, and Change; and Different Hair.

Each year, the students devote considerable time and thought to preparing for DLD. Senior Bianca Richmond, who gave a presentation on reproductive rights, remarked, “I think the School has done a really great job with Diversity Leadership Day. Having the freedom to decide what we want to talk about is really amazing and it is one of my favorite days of the school year.”

The opening keynote speaker, author and educator Irshad Manji, shared her personal story that led her to develop “The Moral Courage Method,” then hosted a discussion with a panel of students on the topic of “Diversity without Division,” and offered them advice on “how to hear, not fear, different perspectives.” The closing keynote and reflection was delivered by Liza Taluzan, Ph.D., an instructor in the Department of Leadership Education at the University of Massachusetts in Boston, who shared her thoughts on “Building an Identity Conscious Practice: Leading and Learning in an Uncertain Time.”

Each year, our Upper School students, alongside their faculty advisors, take the lead on developing workshops for the day. In addition, our Middle School students are given an opportunity to be a part of the planning.

Stephen Chan, Head of Middle School, reports that he “is always proud of the Middle School students who demonstrate their leadership and commitment to the School’s programs by organizing events and workshops.”

We are already in the planning stages for next year’s Diversity Leadership Day, and look forward to amplifying even more voices on our journey toward better understanding the rich diversity that lives at Viewpoint!

48

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Top from L-R: Amelia Newman ’25 and Bella Xiao ’23 learning to play Majong Middle: Sam Albrecht ’23 and Layla Ananda ’23 Bottom: Joseph Abdou ’26 leading a session on “American Muslim – From Middle School Hallways to the Hall of Congress”

Top left: Demitri Baker ’27 Center: Melissa Strong, Assistant Head of Middle School Right: Listening to the Key Note in the Carlson Family Theater Middle: Patricia Jackson, Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Life, and Opening Keynote Speaker Irshad Manji Bottom left: Author Henry Lien leading a session called “Everyone’s an Immigrant.”

Bottom right: Session on Mental Health Stigma in the Asian American Community led by Taryn Lee ’23

SPRING

2022

49

IN OUR CANYON

Celebrating Community Life

Communities Making Our Community

THE VIEWPOINT

COMMUNITY

Clockwise left page: Middle School Science Teacher Zariah Ivory, Natalie Andrade ’27, Nia Blumenfield ’24, Sundiata Enuke ’24, Oluyeni Denloye ’24, Reagan Allen ’22, Mikayla Smith ’27

50

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Clockwise right page: Morgan Omordia ’24, Maya Smith ’24, Teacher of Social Studies & Coordinator of Diversity in the Middle School Tim Howell ’14, Kapri Garnett ’26, Associate Director of College Counseling Jamon Pulliam, Kayla Paschall ’27, Ambrielle Harris ’26

THE STEP TEAM dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volu euismod euismod tpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam. Lorem ipsum dolor sit STUDENTS IN THE Black Student amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit,Union sed diam nibh euismod tinc.

Ut Stepnonummy Team dedicated countless hours wisi ad minim veniam.. while Ut wisi enim to enim Step and performance, curating adthe minim veniam.

Lorem ipsum dolor BSU Festival on February 25. Thissit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit,second sed. year’s performance marks the Step show and festival made possible by the students.

SPRING

2022

51

WORLD READY

Connecting Mind, Heart, and Body

Wellness

Resilient Identity

By Rebecca Heller, Director of Wellness, Grades TK-12

STEP ONTO THE PRIMARY OR LOWER SCHOOL and you can feel the joy all around you. Watching our young students engaged in the classroom, being guided by outstanding teachers, creating beautiful works of art, singing and making music, coding and solving problems, letting out energy and learning new skills on the field or in the gym, making friends in the classroom and during recess, or eating nutritious meals from Helfand’s Harvest, it is no coincidence that happy and healthy kids make good students. Evidence-based research out of the field of positive psychology shows more and more the role that positive well-being plays in all aspects of our lives. At Viewpoint, we want to ensure that our student’s social, emotional, and physical health are all cared for.

One of the major goals of our wellness initiative is to connect our programming from TK through Twelfth Grade. One of the themes we are exploring with all ages is emotional intelligence. As anyone who has been around young children knows, children experience BIG emotions. Children tend to feel more intensely as they are exposed to new situations that they haven’t had the opportunity to navigate before. One of the lessons that we have been working on with Primary and Lower School students is talking about how all feelings are valid – we are allowed to feel all the feelings, that is part of being human – but then what do we do with them? Teaching the

52

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

students skills like “name it to tame it,” based on the work of Dr. Dan Siegel, is the idea that if we name the feeling we can already begin to relax our nervous system. First, we talk about naming the feeling accurately, “am I mad or am I frustrated and what is the difference?”

The technique of naming our emotions to regulate our nervous system has a solid foundation in neuroscience. By bringing the emotions out of our amygdala, the “barking dog” of the brain that goes into alert when we are feeling those big feelings, into the prefrontal cortex, or our “wise old owl,” our systems can already begin to relax. Knowing that a feeling is only temporary also allows us to move on more quickly. At a follow-up lesson on mindfulness, we talk with students about how we can use the superpower of breath to calm minds and bodies when those BIG feelings occur. Additionally, practicing yoga with students during their physical education class introduces students to an activity that connects mind and body. If we can keep our mind and breath calm in a hard asana (yoga pose), then we can potentially take this practice off the mat when we experience other hard things.

These lessons spiral up into the Middle and Upper School where we encourage students to feel, think, and then act. Exploring feelings and emotions with our youngest students sets them up for emotional intelligence into their older years, helps them cope with the BIG feelings, and creates resilient identities.

Opposite Page: Lucy Gallagher ’31 This Page Top: Rebecca Heller leading Kindegarten students Left row: Avri Starobin Right row back to front: Phoenix Beer-Dietz, Josie Solis, Rishi Jayaratna, Preston Razaghi, Serena Scott Bottom left photo front L-R: Valentina Marella, TK, Noah Katz, TK Back L-R: Benny Rouse, TK, Milly Redleaf, TK, Bullet Semler, TK Bottom right photo L-R: Naomi Judelson, TK, Willow Chu, TK

SPRING

2022

53

WORLD READY

Connecting Mind, Heart, and Body

Superheroes & Spiders Self-Reflection & Writing the College Essay

By Jamon Pulliam, Associate Director of College Counseling

WHAT DO BATMAN, SPIDERS, Disney princesses, and your grandmother cutting your hair have in common? Your initial thought might be, “not much.” You think again, “What does the Caped Crusader defeating the Joker in the streets of Gotham share with a spider, and surely how does your grandmother come into the picture?”

Or even Snow White? The truth is their commonality is much deeper than the Seven Dwarfs, creating cobwebs in the corners of our rooms, or telling family history. They all make great college essays! Now you may think Batman and spiders have no place in a personal statement, but why not? After reading hundreds of college essays during my career, you start to know where the essay is heading after reading the first few lines. I also know that every student has a unique story to tell and the personal statement is the place to tell that story.

There are several components to the application process. First, there is the activities list which is a snapshot of your involvement in high school. Next, we have the letters of recommendation, and there will be two from teachers and one from your counselor (so building those relationships are vital!). Then, there is the transcript, which is a snapshot of your academic trajectory, so work hard and keep those grades up. Finally, the personal statement (in my opinion – the most important piece!), which is your time to shine!

All of those components tell their own story, but the personal statement is the only opportunity to use your own voice. As a current application reader for USC, after reading 50 applications over a week,

54

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

I am lucky to remember five. Which five will I remember? The five where students used their voice to tell me their story and identify what makes them different from the next student. Now you may be thinking, “Well, Mr. Pulliam, how can I stand out?” While this may come quicker to some students over others, the key is to remember that we all have a story to tell, but how do we tell that story. Students often stumble over this process overthinking what they “think” they should write. After googling “Essays that got students into Harvard,” students become focused on what they believe will land well for an admission officer, often forgetting that admission officers are humans and want to hear the teenage voice. Yes, your buzzer-beating winning shot or the time you spent volunteering in another country for underserved communities are all fine topics, but I challenge students to think deeper, why not step outside the box? The college process can be an exciting time (not always, but it can be!), so why not take a risk and talk about whatever it is that you would like? No one ever said Oreo cookies, surfing, or Batman could not be impactful college essays, because, just perhaps, they have changed our lives and that is okay to discuss. The moral of this story is not that your essay should be about your favorite snack, favorite pastime, or your favorite superhero (though it can be!), but that the college essay should be a well thought through, important piece representative of Who. You. Are. Last piece of advice: work closely with your college counselor and let us tell your story together.

DA NC E

CREATIVE MINDS

Exploring the Arts

Over the course of the pandemic, the dancers never stopped dancing. They looked forward to rehearsing as a way of connecting with each other and, later, their virtual audience. On March 18-19, they finally had the chance to return to the Carlson Family Theater with a live audience and it was glorious!

Kaelin Schetter ’25 (Upper School Tap Class)

SPRING

2022

55

CREATIVE MINDS

Exploring the Arts

DA NC E

FI LM

A behind-the-scenes photo from the Film IV shoot of HARDCORE depicting an emotional scene between Sarah and August, played by Sydney Eiram and Drake Rodger, in which they are arguing about the future.

Clockwise: Hannah Ritz ’23 Dance Company: Rachel Luner ’22, Bianca Richmond ’22, Clara Campbell ’22, Alana Malingagio ’23, Aspen Aragon ’23, Rose Moshkovich ’23, Maya Frank ’22, Maya Smith ’24, Sundiata Enuke ’24, Zoey Goldsmith ’24, Taryn Lee ’23 AJ Williams ’23 and Kalyn Robertson ’24 Members of Viewpoint Dance Company L-R: Clara Campbell ’22, Alana Malingagio ’23, Aspen Aragon ’23, Rachel Luner ’22, Bianca Richmond ’22 Members of Viewpoint Dance Company L-R: Bianca Richmond ’22, Alana Malingagio ’23, Aspen Aragon ’23, Clara Campbell ’22, and Rachel Luner ’22

56

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

SPRING

2022

57

CREATIVE MINDS

FI LM

Exploring the Arts

“ The Viewpoint Film Program helped me find my voice and provided an exceptional creative outlet for me and my peers. I have learned and grown through the program and I am excited for a life of filmmaking.”

“Being a part of the Viewpoint Film Department has been such a fulfilling and rewarding experience from start to finish. Throughout my four years, it has been incredible to learn more about all aspects of filmmaking alongside my classmates, culminating with Sole Searching, our Film IV piece and biggest project to date.”

COLETTE SAMEK ’22, writer and director of SOLE SEARCHING. Colette will be studying Chemical Engineering at Northwestern University in the fall.

MADELEINE CASE ’22, writer and director of HARDCORE Madeleine was named a YoungArts Finalist in Writing for the HARDCORE script and has been nominated to be a Presidential Scholar in the Arts. She will be studying Film and International Relations at Vassar College in the fall.

FOR THE STUDENTS in Viewpoint’s four-and-half-year film program (it begins in Eighth Grade), the Film IV Honors class is the culmination of years of study and experimenting with different types of filmmaking, and offers them the opportunity to be ambitious and stretch beyond their skill set. It also is a moment to collaborate and demonstrate good character. It works this way: there are two Film IV classes and each one will produce one short film to present at film festivals across the globe. There is only one writer/ director in each class, and that person is chosen by the group after reading the scripts submitted to the class by anyone interested in presenting their work. It is a democratic process, but it also can be painful if you had dreams of practicing your skills as a writer/director and seeing your film produced and your script is not selected.

Top L-R: Madeleine Case ’22, Wyatt Thompson ’23 Bottom left: Sydney Eiram, Drake Rodger, Harlow Schuman ’22 with camera, Alana Malingagio ’23 Bottom right: Harlow Schuman ’22, Drake Rodger

58

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Once the script is chosen, everyone throws themselves into the project.

Roles are determined by interest or skill in a particular area – producing, casting, cinematography, lighting, costumes, set design, editing, marketing – and then the work begins. The students have a budget to hire professional actors, rent equipment and props, and feed the crew on the three shoot days. After the footage is in hand, post-production begins and the crew gets to work on the editing, music, and graphic design to promote the film.

SOLE SEARCHING is a comedy about growing up and magic shoes. The crew arranged to shoot one of the scenes in a local restaurant.

Top left L-R: Film teacher Monica Hoenig, Will Kanny ’22, Colette Samek ’22. Will Kanny will be attending Loyola Marymount University to study Film and Television. Top right: Derrick Leroy ’22 Bottom: Madeleine Case ’22, Benji Meppen ’22. Benji, the casting director and script supervisor on HARDCORE, will be attending NYU’s Tisch School for the Arts to study Film and Television.

SPRING

2022

59

CREATIVE MINDS

Exploring the Arts

FI LM

TEAMWORK

Building Character and Resilience

“ Viewpoint’s Film Program has provided me with the tools to create projects that matter to me. Through art, I am able to spread awareness about issues that I feel have a true impact on our community and create meaningful change.”

To do this, an incredible amount of teamwork and maturity is required. Each day, they are called upon to problem solve, think creatively, and help their friends. In addition to the two Film IV films, this year Hardcore and Sole Searching, they also work on each other’s application films for film school. For Grace Rynerson’s application to Chapman University, the Hardcore crew jumped right in to help her produce Everything Changes.

The film is a meditation on growing up in a patriarchal society and the impact of the male gaze. While the two Film IV films are still in post-production, this QR code will take you to see the film that led to Grace’s film school acceptance. It is thoughtful and beautifully written and is a wonderful example of the work these students are capable of producing. Whether or not the students choose to go on to study film, for many of them the opportunity to create and collaborate is transformational and one of the highlights of their Viewpoint education.

GRACE RYNERSON ’22, writer and director of EVERYTHING CHANGES Grace will be studying Creative Producing at the Dodge College of Media & Arts at Chapman University in the fall. Harlow Schuman ’22, also the cinematographer on HARDCORE, will be studying at the USC School of Cinematic Arts in the fall.

Patrick Moyal, Athletic Director

Years AND

COUNTING

In 1990, my first year as Athletic Director at Viewpoint, I coached Varsity Boys Basketball, 5th and 6th Grade Flag Football, and Middle School Girls Volleyball. My team of instructors was comprised of three other teachers and together, they coached almost all our other teams, about 25 in total, with some help from a couple of math teachers, our Dean of Students, and the occasional walk-on coach. Our campus was what is now Primary and Lower School and extended east to where the Primary School playground is now located.

Our athletic facilities included a small field which is now Primary School. We also had the Rasmussen Family Pavilion, but with a roof only. The walls would come soon after and insulation a few years later.

We also had our current West Campus pool.

Viewpoint now uses 75 full time and walk-on coaches for its approximately 150 teams. Our facilities now include the expansive Paul Family Athletic Center, our competition pool, Ring Family Field, Robertson Family Field, and the Balaban-Webster Team Center.

1998 Middle School Girls Volleyball San Fernando League Champions

Top right: Grace Rynerson ’22, Harlow Schuman ’22 Bottom: Peter Boehm ’22, Aria Assil ’22

60

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

AS I STARTED TO THINK ABOUT Viewpoint School celebrating its 60th anniversary, it struck me that with 32 years of service, I have been a witness for more than half of the School’s journey and have spent exactly half my life here. You can imagine that the changes that have taken place in that time are staggering in number and significance.

Clearly, much has changed, and much hasn’t. The School’s values of Love, Honor, Excellence, Imagination, and Optimism continue to be the foundation upon which athletics is built. We have won almost 150 Upper School League championships in the last 30 years, and when our Girls Varsity Basketball Team won the CIF Division 1 Championship on our home court earlier this month, it marked our twenty-second CIF Championship. What made it even more special was seeing so many alumni at that game and our other playoff games as well, and all the good wishes sent by our community through social media and other means. Our teams felt the love and support and they were greatly impacted.

SPRING

2022

61

Building Character and Resilience

Trainers and Athletes

TEAMWORK

PROCEEDS FROM OUR 60TH ANNIVERSARY DIAMOND JUBILEE on Saturday, May 7, will help fund the 60th Anniversary Wellness Campaign including the renovation of the Peak Performance Center. Viewpoint’s Paul Family Athletic Center (PFAC) will be transformed into an 1,800-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility for conditioning, cardio fitness, sports medicine, and injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

By Christy Salcido, Chief Marketing Officer

Olaitan Egberongbe ’23 & Dr. Miguel Romero-Sanchez Our athletic trainers provide healthcare, hope, and inspiration, one student at a time.

For Dr. Miguel Romero-Sanchez, Viewpoint is a place he considers home. It’s a place that allowed him to continue his education because the School saw value in supporting students through sports medicine.

“I’m very grateful to Viewpoint for taking healthcare seriously,” said Miguel. “We’ve created a safe space for students and a culture where it’s okay to come do preventative work, not only for their bodies, but for their mental health as well.”

When Miguel first met Olaitan Egberongbe ’23, he knew he was a model student athlete because he’s very in tune with his body. He knows when he’s not at 100% and isn’t okay with 99%. Basketball and Track & Field are his sports and while he hasn’t experienced specific injuries, he has flat feet and recurring pain which Miguel helps him manage. During the basketball to track season transition, Olaitan’s knees started hurting so he spent a lot of time stretching, using a roller, and icing after practice. He came to Viewpoint in Seventh Grade, so he and Miguel have powered through many sports seasons together with mutual respect and admiration.

Olaitan offered this tip for students who are just beginning to work with the athletic trainers: “Be honest about your pain and explain it to the best of your ability so they know how to help you, because that’s what they’re here for.”

After working with Miguel for such a long time, Olaitan said: “I want to do this when I grow up.” He’s inspired me to pursue a career in athletic training at the college level or for an NBA team.

Miguel says a big part of his job is to make these kids self-sufficient in taking care of their bodies and minds. That’s why he’s so excited about having a bigger space in the very near future to do just that. He added: “Viewpoint teaches students how to be lifelong learners and I’m teaching them how to appreciate lifelong movement.”

62

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Jules Mazzolini ’22 & Christian Hakim Imagine the optimism you feel at the start of your senior year in high school. You want to make every moment count.

As a two-sport athlete, Jules Mazzolini ’22 was playing in her final volleyball season when an unfortunate moment during an away game left her with a severely sprained ankle. Enter Athletic Trainer Christian Hakim, who immediately began her “Game Ready” treatment, which is simultaneous icing, compression, and elevation. Jules did this for 20 minutes, three times a day during lunch and after school. After two weeks, the bruising and swelling remained significant and she couldn’t walk. Unwilling to sit on the sidelines for the season, Jules set a goal to be on the court for the team’s first playoff game – just four weeks after her injury. After an intensive rehabilitation program, she aced the last serve of the playoff game on her Senior Night.

In the 12 years she’s played multiple sports, Jules said she had never faced an injury that put her out for more than a day, until last September. She added: “At every session, I told Christian that I needed to do everything possible to get back in the game and he assured me that we would do it.”

Christian first focused on minimizing the swelling, moved on to light-range motions and progressed until she could handle full weight bearing. All of this treatment conveniently took place on campus, so Jules didn’t have to miss classes for physical therapy somewhere else.

“With every student, I take a holistic approach to address the physical and emotional aspects of athletic training,” said Christian. “It was easy to work with Jules because she’s self-motivated and felt empowered to speak up during her sessions.”

When working with Christian, Jules made every moment count, finished her volleyball season, and is swinging for the fences on the spring Softball Team. Her advice for other Viewpoint students? “Take care of yourself. Don’t wait until your senior year to utilize the trainers and focus on preventative measures, like foam rolling, icing, and taping on a regular basis.” Christian calls this prehab – doing the exercises before an injury. But, it has become super challenging to treat enough athletes at the same time in their current, cramped space. He was happy to hear about plans to expand the facility. Because at the end of the day, our athletic trainers want to give every student who comes their way the support they need.

SPRING

2022

63

TEAMWORK

Building Character and Resilience

ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2022, the Girls Basketball Team made Viewpoint history when they defeated Camarillo High School 59-53 on their home court, to claim their first CIFSS championship title.

Champions

History!

“This CIF Division I Championship was an epic win for the Girls Basketball Team,” said Patrick Moyal, Athletic Director. “Although small in number, this team has shown us time and again they are big in heart. We always believed they could do it and we couldn’t be prouder."

Head of School Mark McKee added, “Viewpoint’s strong legacy in basketball reached a new level this season when our girls were elevated to Division I for the first time. Having watched this team develop over the years, we are incredibly proud of their achievement to take us all the way to the first CIFSS Division I Championship Title in Girls Basketball.

Their work ethic and character exemplify the Viewpoint spirit."

Top Left from L-R: Daryl Evans, Luc Robitaille, Mark McKee, Patricia Jackson, Derrick Armstrong

DIVERSITY IN SPORTS:

The Developmental Years From Viewpoint’s Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Life

ON SATURDAY, October 16, 2021, the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Life, in collaboration with Viewpoint Athletics, presented its first “Diversity in Sports: The Developmental Years’’ event. Designed to expand the way that we understand and message diversity and inclusion in all walks of life, the event was a huge hit with both students and staff.

emancipated foster youth and children of all ages by “providing the resources, love, and support they so richly deserve.”

NHL Hall of Famer and LA Kings president Luc Robitaille, Kings Radio Analyst and NHL alum Daryl Evans, and LA Kings “always energetic” alum Derrick Armstrong started the day by playing hockey with students (and adults!). Afterwards, everyone gathered inside the Carlson Family Theater where Robitaille offered stories and words of wisdom about the importance of diversity and inclusion in sports and in life. He shared strategies that the LA Kings are using to build a more diverse and inclusive organization. Students then asked questions and interacted directly with our guests.

“I thought the event was super fun and very informative about the skills required to play ice hockey. Plus, to be able to get in the ring and play a few rounds of the sport was amazing. The discussion about how diversity and inclusion was intertwined within the LA Kings sports team was also good to hear. Also, one of the favorites of the morning was the burger food truck! Overall it was a good day!” – Amir Baylock, ’23

Luc and his wife, Stacia, started their partner foundation, Echoes of Hope, in 2007 and have since helped thousands of at-risk and

64

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

“I can think of no better representation of the “Diversity in Sports” ideal than seeing our students playing street hockey. No thought was given to gender, race or religion, just pure enjoyment,” said Patrick Moyal, Viewpoint’s Athletic Director.

Aiden Weitzman ’22 summed it all up: “I genuinely think that it was one of the best events Viewpoint has ever had. We were able to connect with our fellow classmates regardless of race, gender, and identity and just go out and play hockey together. Playing hockey with legends like Luc Robitaille and Daryl Evans was so much fun. I really hope Viewpoint can continue to do these types of events.

Bottom from L-R: Coach Jazzmyn Davis, Madilyn Palosi ’23, Kayla Keshmeshian ’22, Madison Nadolenco ’23, Faith Han ’22, Coach Will Burr, Karlee White ’22, Oluyeni Denloye ’24, Chloe Adamo ’24, Coach Delaney West, Coach Tatiana Dunlap, Wenxuan Xiao ’23

SPRING

2022

65

Building Character and Resilience

Athletic Stats

TEAMWORK

Winter GIRLS BASKETBALL CIF – Southern Section Division 1 Champions (1st CIF-SS Girls Basketball Championship in school history) ALL CIF – Southern Section Players of the Year: Kayla Keshmeshian ’22, Karlee White ’23 Coach of the Year: Will Burr All Gold Coast League 1st team: Kayla Keshmeshian ’22, Karlee White ’23 2nd team: Madison Nadolenco ’23, Madilyn Palosi ’23 Acorn Coach of the Year: Will Burr Acorn All Stars: Kayla Keshmeshian ’22, Karlee White ’23 BOYS BASKETBALL CIF Division 3AA Semi Finalist CIF State Division 3 Regional Finalist

Eileen Portillo ’24

ALL CIF – Southern Section Giovanni Goree ’23 Marla Boudreau ’23

Fall UPPER SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY Gold Coast League Champions for all levels – Boys Varsity, Girls Varsity, Boys JV, and Girls JV Both Varsity Boys and Girls finished in 3rd place at the CIF-SS Division 5 Finals and qualified for State. This is the first time both teams qualified for State in the same season.

JiaLian Mackey ’23 competed in the Girls CIFSS Championship in Division 5 and Henry Didden ’22 finished in 6th place.

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

ALL CIF – Southern Section Madison Foxhoven ’23, Marla Boudreau ’23

8TH GRADE GIRLS VARSITY BASKETBALL

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Won the SFVPSL (San Fernando Valley Private School League) Championship.

6TH GRADE BLUE BOYS BASKETBALL

MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS DELPHIC SWIM TEAM Won the Delphic League Championship.

66

All Gold Coast League 1st Team: Madison Foxhoven ’23, Marla Boudreau ’23 2nd Team: Marina Boudreau ’23, Lucy Landsbaum ’23

Qualified for the playoffs.

4TH-6TH GRADE GIRLS SWIM TEAM Won the SFVPSL (San Fernando Valley Private School League) Championship.

Jordan Garrison ’23

GIRLS SOCCER CIF – Southern Section Division 5 Semi Finalist

BOYS SOCCER All Gold Coast League 1st Team: Timothy Hill ’22 2nd Team: Christopher Fillipakis ’22

VARSITY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Logan Tom ’22

All Gold Coast League MVP: Giovanni Goree ’23 1st team: Osiris Nalls ’23, Andrew Younan ’22 2nd team: Jordan Garrison ’23, Dylan Perlstein ’22 Acorn Defensive Player of the Year: Dylan Perlstein ’22 Acorn All Stars: Giovanni Goree ’23, Dylan Perlstein ’22, Osiris Nalls ’23

MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS DELPHIC TENNIS TEAM Won the Delphic League Championship.

Won the SFVPSL (San Fernando Valley Private School League) Championship.

7TH GRADE BOYS BASKETBALL Won the SFVPSL (San Fernando Valley Private School League) Championship.

6TH GRADE GIRLS BLUE SOCCER Won the SFVPSL (San Fernando Valley Private School League) Championship.

SPRING

2022

67

农历新年钻禧启动仪式

FORWARD TOGETHER

Supporting our School – The Power of Giving

ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11, Mark McKee, Myra Chen P ’27, ’29, Dr. Will Go P ’27, ’29, Andrew Yang P ’26, ’31, ’31, and Patty Zeng P ’23 hosted a Chinese New Year Celebration Dinner to kick off Viewpoint’s 60th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee at the Four Seasons in Westlake Village.

The evening included performances of traditional Chinese music and dance.

MYRA CHEN

二月十一日星期五，观点学校马克校长、陈馨蓓女士，伍仕乾医 生/博士，杨小纵先生以及曾穗兰女士在西湖四季酒店举办了一 场春节晚宴，为观点学校六十周年的钻禧庆典拉开了序幕。 当晚还观看了中国传统音乐和舞蹈表演。

Education is essential

to improve life for everyone, and it is our sincere hope that through our philanthropic support of Viewpoint we are helping to give our son Clement and his classmates a better educational environment.

We are proud to be founding members of Mark’s Head of School Circle. We will continue to make meaningful gifts, as our hope is that Viewpoint will continue to grow and succeed for decades to come.

教育有其内在的组成部分，那就是改善公益。我们 真诚的希望通过慈善工作给我们的儿子CLEMENT 和他的同学们一个更好的教育环境。 我们很荣幸 从2019年开始成为观点基金的创始成员。我们将在 2022年继续这个有意义的礼物。我们希望视点学校 能在未来的几十年里继续成长并取得更大的成功。 PATTY ZENG P ’23 曾穗兰

Kicks Off the Jubilee LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, welcome to the Viewpoint School Chinese New Year Diamond Jubilee Dinner Celebration.

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Myra Chen. I am a Viewpoint parent with two kids attending the school, one in Fifth Grade and one in Seventh Grade. This year, I’m very delighted to join the Viewpoint Board of Trustees. Viewpoint is a community that I care about deeply and I’m very honored to have the opportunity to offer my service.

Tonight, I’m here, along with fellow trustee, Dr. Will Go, Parent Association leaders Patty Zeng and Andrew Yang, Assistant Head of School for External Affairs Maureen M. Nash, Head of School Mr. McKee, and other board members and school leaders to welcome you to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Tiger. It is so great that after two years of pandemic, we finally are able to come together, in person, to celebrate the beginning of another Lunar New Year. I hope you take the opportunity to re-connect with old friends and welcome those that are new to the Viewpoint family.

Also, tonight marks the kick off of the Diamond Jubilee fundraising within our Chinese Viewpoint community. Children are our future, education is how we prepare them to be ready for their future. Here at Viewpoint, our education philosophy is to make our kids world ready and future ready. The funds raised at the Diamond Jubilee will allow us to make strategic investments in projects that enables the School to achieve our vision. Along this journey, we hope to have your support.

With that, I’m going to turn the mic to our Head of School, Mr. McKee, for his welcome remark to all of you. And I hope you all have a wonderful night. 尊敬的各位女士们，先生们，大家晚上好。欢迎前来参加观点学校中国新年外加六十周年钻 石千禧晚宴！ 对于那些不认识我的人，我是 Myra Chen，和大家一样，我也是一名观点学校的家长，目前 我有两个孩子在学校就读，一个 5 年级，一个 7 年级。去年我很荣幸地被邀请加入观点学 校的董事会。 观点学校是一个我非常关心的社区，我很感念有这样的机会为我热爱的社区 提供自己力所能及的服务。

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11

今晚，我和我的董事会同事 Will Go 博士、家长协会负责人 Patty Zeng 和 Andrew Yang、 集资负责人 Maureen Nash 女士、校长 McKee 先生以及其他董事会成员和学校教职员工一 起，和大家庆祝、迎接虎年的到来。经过过去两年的新 冠疫情，我们今晚终于能够欢聚一堂，开启一个全新的 农历新年。我希望您能借此机会与老朋友重新叙旧，并 与此同时欢迎并结识新加入观点社区的家庭。

此外，今晚开启了我们观点学校亚裔社区庆祝钻石千禧 的募捐。作为亚裔家长，我们深知孩子是我们的未来， 而教育投资是我们为他们未来做好准备的最佳方式。 在观点学校，我们的教育理念是让我们的孩子为世界和 未来做好准备。所有通过钻石千禧筹集到的资金将会用 于学校面向未来的战略投资，这些资金能让我们的学校 更好的实现我们共同的愿景。在这条前行的路上，我们 衷心希望得到您的支持。

Top: Myra Chen P ’27, ’29 陈馨蓓 Middle: Zhihui He P ’25, ’31 贺智会 and Yao Lin P ’32, ’32 林耀 Bottom L-R: Kaili Xiao P ’26 肖凯丽, Audrey Xu P ’26, ’31, ’31 徐雅兰, Ming Hodgson P ’08, ’10 周鸣, Patty Zeng P ’23 曾穗兰, Jia Chen P ’32, ’32 陈佳, Hong Chen P ’23 陈红

68

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

SPRING

2022

69

FORWARD TOGETHER

Supporting our School – The Power of Giving

Volunteer Profile

SERVING THE COMMUNITY

WHY FUNDRAISE? In March, Jennifer Townes, Director of the Viewpoint Fund, spoke with Viewpoint Fund Co-Chairs Gil Harari and Carolyn Caldera De Fanti about why they love fundraising for the Viewpoint Fund.

Cheryl Steelberg 40 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH A SMILE

By Christy Salcido, Chief Marketing Officer

Jennifer: Why do you volunteer for the Viewpoint Fund, and why did you say “yes” to taking a leadership role as co-chair?

Jennifer Townes DIRECTOR OF THE VIEWPOINT FUND

children, which she still considers the best parental decision she and her husband made, Cheryl’s love for Viewpoint grew stronger.

Gil: My daughters, Lauren ’33 and Gemma ’28, started at Viewpoint last year on Zoom, and I had the opportunity to witness firsthand what the School was able to do for the students in such a trying time. So, I thought, I’ll do anything for the School that will help further its course. It was just a really inspirational thing to watch, and I like to get behind things that are inspiring.

Her contagious enthusiasm was palpable as she talked about the early days of volunteering. From helping to start a Cub Scout troop, to leading campaigns and chairing benefits, she immersed herself in the community, developing lifelong friendships along the way.

Carolyn: When I was approached to join the Viewpoint Fund, immediately I was excited. I did it for eight years at my previous school, where I served as a fundraising chair, which was challenging and a lot of fun. Our daughter, Nathalie ’26, is very happy; she immediately felt welcomed. We love the academics and the other programs that Viewpoint has to offer, and know what it takes to make all that possible. I understand how critical the Viewpoint Fund is to the overall school budget and I wanted to help facilitate that. On a personal level, I wanted to get to know the community, and there’s no better way to meet your fellow parents than by getting involved.

“When I think about giving back to Viewpoint, what was most important then still applies now,” said Cheryl. “Everyone can contribute. If you can’t contribute time, you contribute resources.

If you can’t contribute resources, you contribute insight. We all have something to offer.”

Over the course of four decades, transcending several generations, Cheryl has symbolized the power of serving at Viewpoint and is a true inspiration to our community. A consummate team player, Cheryl was quick to point out: “I’m only one of many who volunteered and had a voice. What my family represents is a metaphor for all the families here.”

Jennifer: What would you tell your friends about volunteering for the Viewpoint Fund if they were to ask you, “Why should I volunteer? What makes it fun?"

Gil: It’s about engaging with other people and parents. This is the perfect opportunity, because it does involve a lot of one-on-one interaction. Also, you can see the fruits of your labor. The more money you raise for the School, the more the School can provide for our students. It’s a really tangible thing, and that’s exciting to see.

Gil Harari P ’28, ’33 VIEWPOINT FUND CO-CHAIR

Cheryl felt a real sense of pride about being a trustee emerita and playing a part in the governance of an institution like Viewpoint.

After thinking about her children’s math homework or weekend activities, she was able to shift gears and think about long term strategic planning. Great ideas were usually met with “go for it,” whether it was starting a film program from the bottom up or raising capital to fund growth, she embraced an entrepreneurial approach that still rings true today.

Carolyn: I agree with Gil. Also, we have a really good time, there’s been some great activities.

We compare notes on our sales pitches and we have a lot of laughs. There’s also a little bit of competition – very healthy – which is a lot of fun.

Jennifer: And finally, how has volunteering made an impact on your giving to Viewpoint?

Gil: I tend to be on campus most days, and just getting to see how happy the kids are, and to see the faculty and staff interacting with them, makes me want to give to the School as much as I can humanly give. Seeing the engagement between the teachers and the students is very impactful.

Carolyn: I do think very carefully about our gifts, because I know that I’m going to be asking others for their gifts. I need to be able to feel that we gave to the best of our ability, so that when I’m asking other people, I feel good that we did do the same. At the same time, I want our families to feel that every gift, no matter the amount, is making a difference for our students.

Jennifer: Anything else you would like to share?

Carolyn: We love working with you, Jenn. You have a lot of determination! And your superpower is that you’re very observant and warm.

Gil: Exactly! Your job is challenging, and you do it with a lot of passion and a great attitude. What do you like most about leading the Viewpoint Fund?

Carolyn Caldera De Fanti P ’26 VIEWPOINT FUND CO-CHAIR

70

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

Jennifer: Getting to know the parents, especially when they fundraise for the Viewpoint Fund, which has grown every single year. I’m very proud that we all work together as a team to meet our financial target.

Thank you Jennifer Townes for 19 years of service at Viewpoint and 16 of those in Advancement.

Trustee Emerita

From L-R: Alison Steelberg Corneau ’97, Madeleine Corneau ’25, Cheryl Steelberg, Anabelle Corneau ’23

CHERYL STEELBERG P ’95, ’97, trustee emerita, discovered a place with a pioneering spirit, an ever-present sense of possibility, and people who shared her same values. The place is Viewpoint School and she never really left.

When it comes to Viewpoint’s values, Cheryl believes imagination fuels the School’s commitment to innovation. Preparing students for jobs that haven’t even been invented yet, giving them the capacity to dive into something new, that’s a life skill that lasts. She added: “As parents, we all want our children to become adults who thrive in life, no matter where their path takes them.”

Cheryl first walked onto campus as a parent, and since the early ’80s she’s worn the volunteer, trustee, and grandparent hats. Threaded through all of these experiences is her undeniable loyalty and legendary service to the School.

Born out of her long relationship with the place – Cheryl certainly walks the talk. “I live it, my kids live it, and now my grandchildren live it.” Today, her son Eric Steelberg A.S.C. ’95 works in the film industry with fellow Viewpoint film alumni. Her daughter Alison Steelberg Corneau ’97 came back to work at Viewpoint as the Primary and Lower School Technology Integration Specialist and her two granddaughters – Anabelle Corneau ’23 and Madeleine Corneau ’25 –are lifers. Her grandson, Collin Steelberg ’26, starts Upper School in the fall.

As she reflected on her Viewpoint beginnings, she recalls reading about the School in a magazine and loving their focus on academics and commitment to enrichment. After enrolling her two young

“I’m beyond grateful for Viewpoint – family is always their number one priority. I’ve always been available, I’ve always given back. I always want to be the best ambassador for the School.”

SPRING

2022

71

OUR ALUMNI

Living Our Values

Alumni Profile

Alumni Honored

IAN MCLANE ’11 AND ZACH OSCHIN ’16 RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR TRAILBLAZING ACCOMPLISHMENTS

By Bill Youngblood, Creative Director

Ian McLane ’11 in Healthcare Ian McLane, Ph.D., cofounder and CTO of Sonavi Labs, has engineered a state-of-the-art stethoscope, called Feelix, which utilizes acoustic sensors, a breathing algorithm database, and artificial intelligence (AI) to diagnose pneumonia. The device, which received FDA clearance in September 2020, has a 91% accuracy in correctly identifying pneumonia. Ian holds eight patents and is currently validating next-generation algorithms for patients with chronic conditions such as asthma and COPD. These will expand the device’s capabilities.

At the end of his freshman year at Georgetown University, he successfully applied for an internship with Polymath Ventures in Bogotá, based in part on his XCOR resumé, combined with his ten Each year, Forbes selects 30 While an undergraduate at Johns Hopkins years of Viewpoint Spanish language and recipients each in 20 categories, literature studies. A firm dedicated to University, Ian became a research assistant to Dr. James West, a Bell Labs alum, the father recognizing 600 individuals out building companies to support middle class of modern acoustics, and the inventor of the of some 15,000 nominees. emerging economies, Polymath sent Zach electret microphone. This position led to West out to interview 150 Colombian families becoming Ian’s graduate and doctoral mentor. about their circumstances. Engaged by what he learned and desiring It also put him in the right place when the Gates Foundation made a to follow-up with a business plan, he asked to stay on and took a year’s 2013 challenge to reduce pediatric mortality from pneumonia. leave of absence from Georgetown.

At Johns Hopkins, Ian double-majored in Engineering and Romance Ongoing business success led Zach to complete his degree remotely Languages. His choice of university and majors was shaped by his Viewpoint experience where he thrived in French and Spanish, as well while further building Elenas. He either studied online, or flew between Washington, D.C., and Bogotá or Mexico City, as required to as in math and science. Ian points to his calculus teacher, Asif Azhar, for shaping his success in math and engineering. Ian explains, “When attend key on-campus classes. During this time, he also built his core Mr. Azhar taught it wasn’t just numbers on a board, but he applied it leadership team of 50, as well as, the next level of 300 employees all of and gave context – real-world examples. I was able to carry this into which were recruited locally. Other than Zach, all other employees are my career at Johns Hopkins and it has benefitted me in the long run.” from Latin America.

Zach Oschin ’16 in Social Impact

Ian VI EWP O I N T

It probably comes as no surprise to those who remember his time at Viewpoint that Zach initiated a venture which helps others to start their own businesses. His own entrepreneurial spirit was evident when he was hired as XCOR Aerospace’s Youth Engagement and Outreach Associate his sophomore year of high school. In this position, he travelled to national conferences on commercial space travel, spoke at TEDx Cincinnati, and worked at the firm’s Amsterdam office the summer before his senior year.

In the hands of well-trained medical personnel, stethoscopes assist in a range of critical diagnoses. Their successful use relies heavily on the users’ training and experience. Different diseases make different sounds, which can be a challenge Two recent alumni have for less experienced field healthcare workers. A been nationally honored as smart stethoscope can solve this problem, and make it easier to make the correct diagnosis.

Forbes 30 under 30 recipients.

Zach

72

company has grown over 30 times and has raised almost $10 million in funding. It has also significantly improved the lives of lower- and middle-class women by allowing them to fully benefit from their entrepreneurial energies.

M AGA Z I N E

Zach Oschin created Elenas, a social commerce platform in Latin America. Elenas offers a space for over 100,000 women to build their own online stores and offer a wide range of merchandise to family, friends, and neighbors. These are billed and shipped directly without the expensive and time-consuming practices seen in the multi-level businesses common in the region. During the past 18 months, the

The parallels between his Viewpoint and Georgetown experiences are not lost on Zach. Both institutions recognize the importance of experiential learning beyond the classroom. What he learned setting his unique course at Viewpoint also prepared him to navigate Georgetown’s administrative process and to partner with faculty who assisted him in accomplishing his twin goals. With his degree completed during the pandemic, Zach will walk later this spring to receive his diploma in person.

SPRING

2022

73

OUR ALUMNI

Living Our Values

On December 16, Viewpoint hosted the 2021 Alumni Holiday Party at The Local Peasant.

The crowd was delighted to be able to celebrate the season together. Thirty-two alumni, faculty, and staff gathered under a tent for the first group photo of 2021.

Class Notes These notes were received between March 30-April 13.

If you would like to submit a class note or share any news, please email Monica Case, Director of Content Strategy, at monica.case@viewpoint.org.

1975

1999

Judy Anderson writes, “Thanks to my 10 years at Viewpoint (starting in the School’s inaugural year, as the first student to attend from K to 9, as far as it went in 1972), I have enjoyed 40 years as a social, cultural and architectural historian, mostly in Marblehead, a remarkable seacoast area north of Boston.”

Garrett Wilson is a member of the front office for the Atlanta Braves and was there when they won the World Series in 2021!

Ted McCombs works in San Diego as an environmental lawyer for the California Attorney General’s Office, but he’s also kept up his fiction writing. His debut short story collection, Exit Arias, will be published by Astra House Books in spring 2023 and his debut novel will soon follow.

2002 Nina (Weiss) Mascia writes, “I gave birth to my beautiful daughter in 2019.

We make frequent trips to the Bay Area to visit grandparents and friends like Giorgia Horrell ’02. I started a new position as Digital Editor at LA Parent magazine in 2021 and produce and host their bimonthly podcast about parent life in LA. I continue to write and make art when I can, like my affirmations deck created from original collages as featured in VoyageLA. (ninaharada.com@ninaharadaart).”

1994 Brian Schultz completed residency in Psychiatry in 2015. His wife Emily Rosenzweig is a chaplain in the US Navy. Her assignments have taken them to Hawaii and to Seattle, where Brian served on the faculties of the University of Hawaii and the University of Washington. Currently, they are stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, where Emily is working with Wounded Warrior Battalion – East. Brian is now practicing tele-psychiatry.

WE’RE CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF VIEWPOINT, made possible by our students past and present. Each of you has a unique Viewpoint journey and we want to hear from you. Be a part of our Viewpoint 60 Alumni Collection – a digital hub of “then and now” photos, videos, and stories, spanning six decades. No matter what year you left or graduated from Viewpoint, this is for you and your fellow alumni. Let’s connect, build community, and celebrate our 60th anniversary.

Share your memories at www.Viewpoint.org/about/60th-anniversary

SAVE THE DATE : SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 12:00 P.M.

Join Us for Alumni Day 2022 Celebrating 60 Years of Viewpoint / Viewpoint School Campus Please mark your calenders for an afternoon of friends, family, food, and fun.

74

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

1996 Derek Taylor Kent and his wife Sheri are expecting their first child in July. Derek’s latest children’s book released in March 2022 is a collection of children’s poetry called Hysterical Rhymes and How You Can Rhyme Too! Several of the poems in the book were written during his time at Viewpoint in creative writing classes with Dr. Levy and Mr. Cooper-Mead. The book also features over 50 limericks, a poetic form that was instilled in Derek in Mr. Azhar’s humanities course. Learn more at WhimsicalWorldBooks.com.

1998 Amity Addrisi writes, “At the end of 2020 I was given my own TV show in Seattle. My confidence and drive to push through in journalism 100% started at Viewpoint. Viewpoint is always in my heart.”

Zeahna Young writes, “I studied communication and music industry at USC, where I graduated in 2006. I worked as a teacher for seven years, receiving my MA in Secondary Education in English from CSUN in 2015. After working for several years as a marketing and events manager, in 2020 I began my career adapting foreign films and TV shows for clients like Netflix, Amazon and Apple TV+. My love for film was discovered and fostered at Viewpoint by Ms. Dunn, and combined with an affinity for linguistics and writing, also developed at Viewpoint. This career is the culmination of me following my arrow and ultimately finding the perfect career for me. I now have my own business as a dubbing adapter. I live in Oregon with my partner at his cannabis farm, where I also help with marketing and sales strategy. In my free time, I still pursue singing and modeling. I could not have accomplished all of these goals and would not have developed the resilience to persist and find my true passions without my time at Viewpoint!”

2003 Michael Caloz, the original voice of D.W. on the children’s television program Arthur, writes, “I never returned to acting.

Instead, my career has spanned everything from video game design for one of the top games of all time (Uncharted 2), to doing postgraduate research in Tokyo and then leading a website redesign for the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C. to digital product management and then executive coaching leaders at Fortune 500 companies.

Nowadays, I live in Portland, Oregon, where I’m a transformation coach and counselor.”

SPRING

2022

75

OUR ALUMNI

Living Our Values

End Note 2005

2009

Charles Ciongoli and his wife Lexi are proud to announce the newest addition to their family, Olivia (Baby Lulu). He writes, “She is a year old and is working hard to keep up with her big brother Charlie, who is almost three, and her eight-year-old sister, Lila. I have been hard at work at The Constant Company, the company behind the VULTR cloud platform, and helping to make waves in the vast world of Cloud Computing as part of the fastest growing privately owned Infrastructure-as-a-Service platform.”

Sarah Wolfson Golden and husband Michael welcomed Wyatt Meir Golden into their family on July 19, 2021. Wyatt has been warmly greeted by big brother Shiloh.

David Sheftell stars in an upcoming movie called Meli alongside veteran actors Wendie Malick and Sam McMurray, which takes place in Hawaii during the 1970s and is about the mystery behind Amelia Earhart’s death.

2010 John Anderson, his wife Lisa, and two-year-old son Emmett are moving to Denmark. Lisa secured a job as a Toy Designer for Lego’s Dots line. John has been working as a manufacturing engineer in the aerospace industry and will look to continue his work in manufacturing.

After five years at Legendary Entertainment as Mythology Manager Franchise and creative Strategy, George Tew is now at Netflix at their Hollywood headquarters, working in publishing.

2006 Elizabeth Paich is the daughter of David Paich, founder of Toto, who exposed her to a plethora of genres and artists which inspired her love of new sounds. She is currently a Music Producer at Formosa Interactive, and has been able to work on music production for interactive media with clients all around the world, including Tencent, NetEase, Riot, and Wizards of the Coast and on franchises like Fortnite, The Walking Dead, and Magic: The Gathering.

Lucy Tew completed her master’s degree in creative writing from Salem State University, and is now the Middle School Theater Director and teacher at Worcester Academy in Massachusetts, one of the oldest day-boarding schools in the USA. She previously taught for five years at the MacDuffie School in Granby, MA. Lucy also serves on the Boards of Black Cat Theater and Born to Act Players.

2008 Brittany Beisswanger was married March 19, 2022, and is expecting her first child this September.

Viewpoint Class of 2010 members together recently: Matt Arnold, David Freund, Cyrus Behzadi, Jordan Cole, and George Tew

2011 Rachel Leib writes, “I graduated Boston University ’15 (Psychology and Biology), and will be graduating medical school (American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine ’21) this May. I will be completing my Pediatric Residency training at Maimonides Infant’s and Children’s Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. I am also getting married this May before starting residency.”

76

VI EWP O I N T

M AGA Z I N E

The Senior Speech Program is a culminating project for all Viewpoint seniors. Using the NPR series, “This I believe,” as the basis for their speeches, each senior writes and then delivers a speech to a cohort of fellow students, and in some cases to the entire Upper School community.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE Senior Speech by Noah Boock ’22

THERE’S A SAYING that it takes a village to raise a child. I’m not going to lie, I used to interpret this quote as something way off from how it was intended to be received. I thought it meant that kids are such an enormous responsibility that it quite literally takes an entire village’s-worth of people to raise them. And while I’m not willing to concede that I was entirely wrong about that, because I’m sure my parents could’ve used a village to raise me, this African proverb can basically be summed up as an entire community of people that interact with a child, impact and shape who they are. The exact origin of this saying is unknown, but there are four variations of this saying that differ in interesting ways. In Bunyoro, there is a proverb “Omwana takulila nju emoi,” which translates to “A child does not grow up in a single home.” In Kihaya there is a proverb “Omwana taba womoi,” which translates to “A child belongs not to one parent or home.”

In Kijita there is a proverb “Omwana ni wa bhone,” which roughly translates to, “Regardless of a child’s biological parents, its upbringing belongs to the community.” And finally, and personally my favorite, in Swahili there is a proverb “Asiye funzwa na mamae hufunzwa na ulimwengu” means roughly the same: “Whatever isn’t taught by the mother will be taught by the world.” I think it’s super interesting how these quotes differ from each other. I mean isn’t it kind of incredible how they all took the same general idea and made it have both the original meaning and their own little spin on it? According to these definitions, every single community that I’m a part of makes up my village – be it my family, my friends, the swim team – and each and every one of them has taught me valuable lessons.

However, as I’ve dug deeper into this proverb I’ve found my own meaning to it and have come up with something that has my own

little spin on the original saying. This I believe, it takes a village to do anything. I think that this idea really manifested itself over quarantine. No matter how safe my community was, turning on the TV was a constant reminder that my community had little to no impact on the spread of the virus. But as I observed the efforts of people across the country slowing the spread of the virus and saving countless lives, I realized that not only was my definition for a village too narrow, but also what I believed that a village could do. I kind of disagree with the idea that one person can make a change – right about now you might be saying to yourself, “What? Of course, one person can make a change. Just think of Greta Thunberg or Martin Luther King, Jr.,” but hear me out, what I’m actually saying is that behind that one person are the people who have influenced them and led them to that very moment. One person may come up with an idea that sparks a movement that leads to change, but I think it’s wrong to say that that person alone made change. Are we as people and our beliefs not products of what we’ve been exposed to and how we were raised? Real change only happens when we come together as a village, working towards a common goal.

It can be super scary to advocate your own ideas when they are different from the norm and this unfortunately leads people to shy away from standing up for what they believe in. But I guess my point is, even if you don’t know it, or don’t feel it all of the time, never, not even for one second, allow yourself to be fooled into thinking that you are alone, because you’re not. You’re not alone in your opinions. You’re not alone in your beliefs. You’re not alone in your dreams for the future or for the world. Whatever you aspire to do in life, just know that you have an entire village behind you.

SPRING

2022

77

23620 Mulholland Highway Calabasas, CA 91302-2060 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Is this your preferred address?

If you did not receive this magazine at your current address (or parents of alumni, if your son or daughter no longer maintains a permanent residence at your home), please notify Mary Rodriquez, Director of Advancement Services (mary.rodriquez @ viewpoint.org).

Mark McKee and the Board of Trustees Honorary Jubilee Co-Chairs

Kristin and Robert Dworkoski Jubilee Co-Chairs

Michelle and Robert Bradway Mary and John Conlin Judy and Vincenzo Sorrentino Co-Chairs

Anonymous Kristin Hodge and Jon Chu Tran Ho and Ken Jeong Nicole and Aaron Mazzolini Lucie and Eran Moas Jody and Brent Polacheck Michal and Jason Rouse ’96 Jacqueline Marcus Schaffer ’91 and Jeff Schaffer Gia and Paul Shurgot Patty Zeng Vice Chairs

Anonymous Cathy and Pete Blumel Judy Gawlik Brown and Steve Brown Felipa Richland and Jeffrey Eith Jerriann and Quentin Fleming Valerie Karno and Eric Glaser January Jones Nickie and Marc Kubasak Peggy Jones and Parise Livanos Cindy Taylor-Marella and Gary Marella Swetha and Arvind Movva Kathleen and Dean Rasmussen Olga and Dick Robertson Jill and Dan Schecter Laura Schuman Marisa and Chaney Sheffield ’98 Shelly and Bernard Wolfsdorf Audrey Xu and Andrew Yang Christine and David ZeBrack Auction Co-Chairs

Krystal Dry-Murphy ’03 Jerriann Fleming Michal Rouse Maryam Torab

at

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

Saturday, May 7, 2022 Cocktails at 6:00 p.m.

Dinner at 7:00 p.m.

Live Auction with Pam Shriver at 7:30 p.m.

Intimate Acoustic Performance by Train Dancing and Dessert to follow

advancement@viewpoint.org