On Circle Summer 2017 by Washington Montessori School

GRADUATION 2017 proudly said goodbye to the 19 W students of the Class of 2017 on Wednesashington Montessori School

day, June 14. In welcoming the graduates, their families and the WMS faculty to graduation, Bill Dunbar, Board of Trustees chair, shared a behind-the-scenes observation from the moments leading up to the ceremony. “There’s always this great energy in the room. Of course the kids are excited

territory. We realize that staying within the bounds of your knowledge forbids you from the beauty of the world,” said Alex Janssen. “Montessori has taught me the value of learning. At WMS, there is an undying curiosity that is reinforced throughout the curriculum,” said Alex Janssen. During her time at the podium, Nicole Morikawa posed the question, “Who has WMS made me?” What if her parents

also brings us together as people.” Following the remarks by all 19 members of the Class of 2017, 6th and 7th grade students presented poems written to honor each graduate. This exchange is another WMS tradition that embodies the deep sense of community and friendship felt at WMS. Before handing out diplomas, Head of School Pat Werner addressed the Class of 2017 lauding their achievements as individuals and as a group. “You graduates in

“

We have the confidence to learn about new things, to go into unfamiliar territory. We realize that staying within the bounds of your knowledge forbids you from the beauty of the world.

”

Sixth-graders Cecelia Moisan and Nico Sorce presented Sheila with poems (on opposite page).

and maybe a little nervous, but they’re kind too, and supportive of each other, and there’s just a healthy confidence in the room,” Bill said. “Confidence that they’re ready—not just for today’s big event— but ready to graduate and ready to take on what’s next. Those 15 minutes somehow capture for me what we’re working towards here at WMS—educating the whole student and preparing them for tomorrow.” It seemed the graduates were on the same page as Bill when they were writing their own graduation speeches as many of them also acknowledged their confidence, and attributed WMS with helping them gain it. “We have the confidence to learn about new things, to go into unfamiliar

decided to send her to a different school? “To answer that question: WMS has made me into a person who is not afraid of the unknown, who will take risks and who will not shy away from what she wants.” Other students attributed this sense of confidence to the strong sense of community felt within WMS. Lucas Estern used the class’s recent service trip to New Mexico as an example. “Many of us found the trip challenging, but instead of getting angry with each other, we stuck together and supported each other,” he said. “The way that all of us reacted to our trip was very much influenced by the academic and social education we’ve had here. WMS not only teaches us how to solve polynomial equations and identify the asymptotes of rational functions, it

2 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

–Alex Janssen

particular exemplify a good approach to competition. You know competition has its place, but that alone doesn’t sustain true motivation. You’ve strived to do better and learn more because your accomplishments are satisfying to you. You work on excelling by achieving your personal best—competing against yourself.”

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL SHEILA COAD-BERNARD RETIRES

year’s graduation ceremony was when A Head of Middle School Sheila Coadbittersweet moment during this

Bernard was recognized for her long and successful tenure at Washington Montessori School. Having worked in various roles at WMS since 1980, Sheila retired this spring. “She has done an amazing job in her time at WMS and especially in bringing the Middle School to an admired position. It was our most difficult expansion; she took it on, worked tirelessly, and made it very successful,” said Pat. “She is a talented person and had other choices for her career, but she chose to be at WMS and

we all owe her a debt of gratitude.” On behalf of Middle School students, sixth-graders Cecelia Moisan and Nico Sorce wrote and read poems written in honor of Sheila. The Board of Trustees also honored Sheila. Bill Dunbar, Board of Trustees Chair, said the Board wanted to create a permanent tribute to her contributions to WMS. The MS Commons will be furnished with a study area in Shelia’s honor to be used for activities like book groups, study sessions or team projects. “We hope that in the decades to come it will always serve as a reminder for all that Sheila has done for WMS,” he said.

Thank You A potter you are shaping our minds, and putting our broken pieces, all back together We rely on you, Like a pair of legs Helping us walk For 37 years You are our gardener, easing our souls, to grow, and blossom, You brighten our colors, when you are around Through rain and shine, you will go To make someone happier But most important of all You taught us how everyone, and everything are all, Branches Belonging to The same Tree.

Imagine us as stars Imagine you as sun Imagine we’re all planets And together we are one As our sun you’re bright As our sun you’re strong As our sun you orchestrate How we go along Those on earth miss you During the winter time Us in space are lucky For we see you rain or shine - Cecilia Moisan

Thank you Sheila - Nico Sorce

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 3

Administrative News next year—presents an opportuS nity to evolve the organizational struc-

heila’s retirement—along with Pat’s

Elementary in two different Montessori schools. She also has her Elementary Montessori 6-12 Teacher Certification. Both Kerry and Tom have been preparing to take on their new roles, working this year with Shelia on MS administrative tasks. Though no transition is ever effortless, we are confident these changes will greatly benefit our community. WMS has been fortunate to have both Kerry and Tom as teachers for several years. We know they will both continue to contribute significantly to the WMS community in their new respective roles.

The girls’ soccer team hosted the first game on the new playing field last fall.

ture of WMS. Two new administrative positions—a Middle School Director of Curriculum & Teacher Supervision and an Assistant Head of School for Education—will provide leadership and vision in upholding the integrity of a WMS education, as well as provide support during our new Head’s transition. Head MS Teacher Tom Fahsbender will become the MS Director of Curriculum and Teacher Supervision. In this role, he will focus on the continual task of maintaining and improving the Middle School

curriculum as well as supporting the efforts and abilities of MS teachers. Tom has taught in the Middle School at WMS since 1996 and has Secondary Montessori Teacher Certification. Head MS Teacher Kerry Dorton will become the Assistant Head of School for Education. In this role, she will be responsible for the entire educational program at WMS. She will oversee student progress and parent communication, as well as supervise teachers in ES and LS. She will maintain a WMS curriculum that is engaging, up-to-date, and aligned with the most current research. Before joining the MS faculty in 1998, Kerry taught Upper

4 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

PAT WERNER TO RETIRE 2018 nounced that she will retire from H her post at the end of the 2017-18 school ead of School Pat Werner has an-

year. Pat has served as the Head of School at WMS since 1979, driving its remarkable transition from a small nursery school located in a church basement to an accomplished co-ed day school for children 18 months to 8th grade located on a sprawling and modern campus of its own. “I’ve been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to lead our school over its formative years,” she said. “We have grown and changed a great deal since 1975 when I arrived as the first Lower Elementary teacher. Many people contributed to our accomplishments and I’m grateful to have had so many parents and teachers on this journey with me. It’s certainly been the experience of my lifetime outside of my family.” Pat joined Washington Montessori School in 1975 as the Head Teacher in the school’s first Lower Elementary classroom of 8 students. At that point, lacking administration, the school was led by a Board of Trustees committed to the Montessori philosophy. Over the next four years, the Lower Elementary program grew to 48 students in 2 classrooms, the school was poised to add an Upper Elementary program and it became obvious to the Board that it was time for the burgeoning school to have a proper administrator. In 1979, Pat became Head of School. “What we were doing was considered experimental,” she said. “There weren’t many models of Montessori elementary education that I could use as resources. We really ended up being groundbreaking, and now people use us as that resource.”

“Pat’s decades-long leadership of WMS has prepared scores of students for high school and provided a foundation for successful academic careers and adulthood. So many of Pat’s WMS graduates have gone on to impact their high schools! We will miss her greatly,” said Peter A. Frew, Director of Admissions at The Taft School in Watertown, CT. Washington Montessori School has gained a reputation for graduating students who are self-motivated, confident and curious thinkers, well-prepared to take on the challenges of a rapidlychanging world. Students from WMS have gone on to a variety of private and public high schools including Canterbury, Choate, Exeter, The Gunnery, Hotchkiss, Kent, Litchfield, Loomis Chaffee, Marvelwood, Millbrook, Miss Porter’s, New Milford, Shepaug, South Kent, Taft, Wamogo and Westover. “At her retirement, Pat will have spent 43 years building one of the most exceptional and respected schools in the country,” said Bill Dunbar, Chair of the WMS Board of Trustees. “Her work has positively impacted the lives of thousands of kids and I know I speak for all WMS families, past and present, in thanking her from the bottom of my heart for all that she’s done for our children.”

SEARCH COMMITTEE

This committee will work closely with IT to review the candidates and narrow the field down to a small number of finalists. The committee is balanced with a variety of school constituencies (parents, teachers, past parents, Trustees, etc). BILL DUNBAR

Committee Co-chair, Current Parent, Current Trustee, Board Chair MATT KARPAS

Committee Co-chair, Current Parent, Current Trustee, Board Vice Chair ROB COPEN

Current Parent, Current Trustee BETSY DELUCA

Head Teacher, Past Parent KARYN DETJE

Current Parent, Current Trustee KERRY DORTON

Head Teacher, Past Parent SANDY NEUBAUER

he Washington Montessori School Board of Trustees has retained the services of search consultants, Independent Thinking (IT) from Newton, MA, to conduct a nationwide search for WMS’s next Head of School. IT spent two days in March at WMS speaking with parents and staff to begin understanding our community.

Past Parent, Past Trustee, Past Board Chair PETER O’NEILL

Past Parent, Past Trustee COCO SELLMAN

Current Parent, Current Trustee DENISE TREVENEN

Past Parent, Current Trustee, Past Board Chair

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 5

GRANDPARENTS & SPECIAL FRIENDS

6 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

1 Lauren Zimmerman with her grandmother Dee Savare. 2 Maggie Barth enjoys the day with her grandparents Mimi Williams & Spike Lefebvre. 3 Naomi Mwanza shows her Fundamental Needs of People work to her special friend Gina Leto. 4 Cade Oneglia gives his grandfather Jay Trevarrow an in-depth lesson on proper microscope usage. 5 Caroline Davis is thrilled to share her math work with her grandfather David Lilyestrom. 6 Taz Banks shows off his grandparents Susan & John Montelone. 7 James Willert shows the Montessori bells to grandmother Susan Wadelton. 8 Gilvey Barnett-Zunino is all smiles while showing grandmother Sally Zunino her classroom. 9 Sandrine and Ren Sweet cuddle up with grandmother Catherine Sweet. 10 Oliver Mongar reads one of his favorite books, “Wacky Wednesday,” to his grandfather Jeff Leon.

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 7

ALUMNI NEWS 1991.....................

1995.....................

1996.....................

Laila Schmutzler Forster and

Zach Bernard and Jessica

Jasmina Ceric Becar talked

her husband Will welcomed their son, William Hull Forster III. Named after his father and grandfather, William goes by Buddy, in honor of his grandfather’s childhood nickname. “He’s a fun little guy, and we’re settling into new parenthood well,” said Laila. “I’m back to work running my 4-year-old marketing consulting business, Tuxedo Monsters Inc., that helps brands and agencies navigate big projects or shifts in strategy.” They live in Brooklyn and spend as much time as possible in Brooklyn Bridge Park presided over by none other than fellow alum, Rebecca McMackin ’91.

Blakemore welcomed their first child, a son named Maurice.

to our Middle School students last November about the book she wrote on her experience Lily Binns welcomed her first in the war in Bosnia and her child, a son named Ezra. transition to the U.S. The Elizabeth Braverman Banga students were engaged and lives in Sacramento, California asked good questions. Jasmina lives in West Springfield with her husband and their with her husband Ahmed and three-year-old twin girls who daughters Medina age 6 and attend a Montessori school Amina age 2. and share their mother's love of horses. Last year, Elizabeth and her husband Dr. Alok 1997..................... Banga founded a psychiatric Chelsea Harris has been outpatient office dedicated happily living in Boston with to providing high quality psychiatric care at an affordable her boyfriend Brian Waldeck and their dog and cat since cost to patients of all ages. 2010. She keeps busy with her etsy site, femalehysteria.etsy.com.

1998..................... Kathleen Bernard welcomed

her second child, a daughter named Flora Jane Cesari, this June. Flora joins big brother Arlo. Almina Ceric is married to Enes Brkic and has a one year old daughter Alissa. She lives with her family in West Springfield near her sister.

2000..................... Betty Gilpin stars as Debbie

Egan on Netflix’s “GLOW.” Griffin Harris and his wife

Naomi live in Virgina, right outside DC. Griffin has been in the Marines for the past 13 years and is currently ranked as Gy. Sgt. G.Z. Harris.

8 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

Emily O'Keefe Young lives in

Ohio with her husband. They are expecting their first child this July. Scotty Ryan welcomed her first child this spring, a daughter named Clementine.

2001..................... Jimmy Pratt lives in Brooklyn and manages a store front in New York’s Upper East Side providing furniture, lighting and decor to some of NYC’s top architects and interior designers.

2002..................... Megan O'Keefe lives and works in Brooklyn where she is a midwife in a hospital-based practice. Graham Rogers earned his law degree from Boston University and passed the Massachusetts Bar exam. He is currently employed by Ropes and Grey law offices, in Boston. He is engaged to be married to Meghan O'Donovan next September.

2003..................... David Haber graduated from Boston College Law School this spring and is engaged to be married to Lizzie Ayan in 2018. Billy Lovotti is getting married

to Aditi Kumar this fall. David Haber ’03 will be his best man. Kesley Rogers earned a

MA in Architecture from Northeastern University and is currently employed by Elkus Manfredi Architects in Boston.

2004.....................

in recognition of his efforts as an exceptional student leader Liz Hawley Dayton and to improve the community her husband Scott welcomed through active involvement. their first child in February, a He managed ‘The Night Truck’ daughter named Eliza Rae. a student run food truck that served the students from 8pm Sam Hunt has gone back to school to become an elementary until 2am. He has since taken over ownership of the business, school teacher. repainted the truck, rebranded Marika Lendl married Hunter the business and updated the Rome this July. menu. After graduation Oliver is spending this year exploring the possibilities of his food 2005..................... truck, working to open up at Isabelle Lendl and Tommy local Amherst & Hadley MA Pollock Jr. will be married this venues this summer, and back October. on the Hampshire campus in the Fall. Joe Mashburn and Naomi Sobelson are to be married at Isabel Steiner graduated from the beginning of September. Curry College in May of 2016. Since then, she worked as an Authorized Business Dealer/ 2006..................... Recruited for a privately owned Will McNaughton is living in Sales and Marketing firm for Austin, loving the city and his 6 months. Currently, Isabel is work writing medical software. an Office Manager at a doctor’s office for Mental Health and Mike Underwood is a Substance Abuse patients. CPA at Price Waterhouse in Washington, D.C. 2009.....................

2008..................... Doodle Funk graduated from Saint Lawrence University and spent the summer interning at the Run Center for the New York Road Runners in NYC. Oliver Martinez has come

full circle and graduated from Hampshire College in May with a degree in Architecture Design Studies with a focus on Sustainability. While attending school he worked in the Re-Hamping program, a student based group involved with redesigning the campus, including a new Student Center, and Hampshire’s first LEED certified green building, The Kern Center. He was awarded the ‘Ingenuity Award’

Jane Funk graduated from the University of New Hampshire Peter T. Paul Business School. Cameron Loomis graduated

from SUNY Cobleskill with a degree in Turfgrass Management. Jake Paron graduated from Colorado College in May. He was a Studio Art major where he found wonderful mentors among his professors. He will be doing a full-year apprenticeship with sculptor Mark Mennin this year and plans to go back to school at some point for an MFA. Katie Solley graduated from Bucknell University with a degree in Biomedical

LEFT: Buddy, son of Laila Schmutzler Forster, ’91, might live too far away to attend WMS, but he still loves to rock the onesie. THIS PAGE FROM TOP: Oliver Martinez, ’08. Liz Hawley Dayton, '04, with daughter Eliza. Marika Lendl and her husband Hunter Rome. Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 9

ALUMNI NEWS

continued

Engineering and has started a master’s program at John’s Hopkins in the Center for Bioengineering Innovation and Design. This is a one-year program where students get the opportunity to work on two projects: one in the United States and the other abroad. In this year, she will hopefully make a medical device that will improve care in the field of Ophthalmology. Additionally, she will be spending a month in either Uganda or Bangladesh helping to continue a project that helps mothers in rural areas assess the health of their newly born babies. She is very sad to be going to school separately from Julia Friedman, another graduate of the class of 2009, for the first time in 20 years.

2011..................... Phoebe Paron finished her

sophomore year at UVM where she is a Natural Resources major. This summer she spent

two months in Greensboro, NC doing an internship working with young refugees and immigrants.

2012.....................

with a MVP soccer award, the Vreeland Rogers Athletic Award, the Mary Ritter Prize for Excellence in Design, the Michael post Award for Excellence in English and the Russell Sturges Bartlett Award for Excellence in Science.

Nellie Funk finished her first year at Saint Lawrence and Grace D'Amico graduated spent the summer working at from The Gunnery where Holt Beach on Lake Waramaug she received the MVP girls’ as a lifeguard. basketball award and MVP girls’ lacrosse award. RJ Susi will be entering his sophomore year at Stonehill Allie Hawley graduated College as an engineering from Westover where her major. He is part of their 3/2 photography portfolio earned program. He’ll spend 3 years a Gold Key at this year's at Stonehill and then 2 years Connecticut Regional Scholastic at Notre Dame (their sister Art Awards Program. school). He will graduate with two bachelor degrees: Bella Susi graduated from one in physics and one in Taft and will attend Stonehill either aerospace or computer College in the fall. Though engineering. she has not declared a major yet, she is leaning towards marketing. 2013..................... Gabby Bruck graduated

cum laude from the Gunnery

The Susi family celebrates Bella’s graduation from Taft.

10 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

inducted into the Cum Laude Society and received the Alvin I. Reiff Biology Prize, which recognizes outstanding work in Biology. Sydney is headed to Washington University in the fall. Sam Willis graduated from the Academy of Aerospace and Engineering where he was a team lead for the robotics team. He is attending the Rochester Institute of Technology where he will study physics.

2014.....................

Insha Afsar spent the summer doing an internship at the Kelley Institute for Adaptive Sports Research at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. A national model for research of the impact of adaptive sports on the well-being of individuals with disability and their communities, the Institute’s Sydeny Trevenen graduated mission is to “advance from Taft where she was captain research that is participantof the girls varisty tennis team,

centered, collaborative, and outcomes-based in order to promote and expand inclusive opportunities for health and wellness among individuals of all abilities.” Insha continues to ski competitively and hopes to compete in the upcoming 2018 Paralympics in South Korea. Jyne Dunbar was elected 1st Head of Glee and 1st Head of Drama at Westover. She also received a Halo Award nomination for Best Featured Performance in a Play for her portrayal of Mikhail Lvovich Astrov in “Uncle Vanya.” Ben Laufer is an EcoMon

at Taft—a student leader and ambassador for the environmental programs and initiatives across campus. He received a Poole Grant last summer to attend the Dartmouth Environmental Leadership Institute, and to study permaculture in Costa Rica. He is also a Global Leadership Institute Scholar, a Global Studies and Service Diploma candidate, and part of Taft’s inaugural AP Capstone program, which explored, in part, the relationship between population and environmental sustainability. But it is his work outside of Taft that has earned him acclaim on the global stage: Ben was recently a delegate and presenter at the youth summit of the 2016 Borlaug Dialogue International Symposium, part of the World Food Prize event in Des Moines, Iowa.

wise, I owe a lot to WMS because they helped me to get the head start I needed at school,” she wrote. “Since freshman year I’ve received high honors continuously up to now and I’ve accumulated various awards for my math, science, and leadership skills. Personally, the past three years have brought me experiences I didn’t expect to experience at this age or even experience ever. However, those experiences have shaped me into the person I am today and helped me to step out of my comfort zone. For example, for some it might not seem like a huge deal, but I’ve also been chosen as one of the head members of the class of 2018’s yearbook committee. I also decided to run to run for a position as a class officer for my senior year, and. I’ve been elected as Kaynor Tech’s class of 2018 Public Relations Officer for the 2017-2018 school year.”

Bella Papov was inducted into the Canterbury Honor Society and received the Harvard Book Award and the Roderick Clarke ’46 Distinguished Academic Achievement Award, which is awarded to the student with the highest GPA. Winston Salk was nominated for a Halo Award, “Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical,” for his performance of Big Bad Wolf in Taft's production of “Shrek, The Musical.”

has been really awesome for me,” she said. “My Montessori The Gunnery awarded junior upbringing, particularly Robert Taylor the Gutwillig MMUN with Sondra, advisee Baseball Award, which is given group and humanities with annually to the baseball team’s Nancy, Spanish with Lauren, best batter. and my many many wonderful years with Melora are all still Marley Thompson had shaping my direction and a great year at Taft. “This choices. For this I am grateful.” year, although junior year is Marley participated in the supposedly one of the most Model UN club and entered challenging in high school, a proposal of a finance plan to

Azrielle Lowe-Grey is

studying culinary arts at Kaynor Technical High School. She received her ServSafe Restaurant Management license and her ServSafe Allergen Certification. “Academic-

TOP: Ben Laufer ’18 addresses World Food Prize dignitaries. ABOVE: Haden Ware and Pat Werner.

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 11

implement solar power in rural Mozambique in the “Ideas 4 Action” competition with the World Bank. Still awaiting word on final winners, her group was named as one of ten finalists world-wide. This summer, Marley attended a three-week immersion program in Nerja, Spain, on the southern Mediterranean coast where she spent her mornings at the Escuela de las Idiomas and her afternoons exploring the towns and beaches. She and her classmates volunteered at the local retirement home and also learned to dance flamenco and make paella. “This opportunity was especially incredible, as it allowed me to use my Spanish in a more lifelike setting and in day-to-day conversation and see all of the beautiful Moorish architecture and artwork,” Marley said.

2015..................... Max Fossland was chosen

to be Captain of the varsity ski racing team at Taft next year. Brady Grustas is entering

11th grade at the Taft School. This summer he attended an intensive arts program with help from Taft's Kilbourne Grant. This year, he performed as Shrek in “Shrek, The Musical” and was nominated for a HALO award for his performance. Cami Long was nominated

for a Halo Award, “Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Contemporary Musical” for her performance as Fiona in Taft's production of “Shrek, The Musical.” A Sophomore at Westover,

Riley Norris was nominated

for a Halo Award for Best Sound Design. Ben Willis is doing well at Wamogo where he is pursuing his love for science. He has attended several biomedical engineering seminars for high school students at UConn and is considering biomedical engineering.

2016..................... Meghan Spangenberg

finished her freshman year at Taft with high honors and in the top 10 percent of the class. Meghan played young Fiona in Taft’s production of “Shrek, the Musical”; took part in the dance company; and earned a varsity letter in track. “I really miss WMS,” said Meghan. “I thank every teacher, student and faculty for my amazing 8th grade year!” TOP: The Gersten Family celebrates Emily’s graduation from Marvelwood. ABOVE: Brady Grustas, '15, and Cami Long, '15, starred as Shrek and Fiona in Taft's production of "Shrek, The Musical.

12 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

FIELD DAY

1 Harper Gritti and Samuel Giraldi cheer on teammate Finley Clark during a close round of “Pip, Squeak & Wilbur.” 2 Cade Oneglia. 3 Naomi Mwanza enjoys a slice of watermelon between races. 4 Graham Ince flies through the hurdles with a grin. 5 Everyone cheers for Team Pink—Mimi Gillen, Greg DeRosa, Theo Grayson, Erik Hawvermale and Megan Morse. They make field day happen! 6 Nicole Morikawa and Katherine Cortese rack up points for the red team holding yoga poses. 7 Ava Lee and Gigi Day have team spirit. 8 Lucas Estern soars during the high jump. 9 Jake Weiss, Riley Skilton, Pedro Aguilar, Nick Huffstetler, Arlo ten-Hoeve and Bodhi Walsh strike a pose.10 Sofia Sorce, Zoë Woodhall, Lauren Uhl and Ashleen Hay celebrate team-mate Naomi Mwanza’s half-mile finish.

14 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

5 5

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 15

UE SHAKESPEARE PLAYS 1 Jane & Kathy’s class performed “Macbeth” 2 Sophia Oldakowski, Maureen Previn and Ana Karpas. 3 Lily Slepoy, Mark Aguilar and Jace Oneglia. 4 Jennifer & Aurora’s class performed “Twelfth Night.” 5 Blake Siebrecht, Arlo ten-Hoeve, Jackson Neminski and Pedro Aguilar. 6 Sophia Sorce, Esmee Clew-Bachrach and Emmy Swan

16 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

PHILIP SAVORY WMS TEACHER AND FRIEND P

This photo of Philip was taken during an Outdoor Education trip by student Christina Oneglia.

hilip Savory died peacefully on March 13 at the age of 87. The husband of longtime WMS teacher Diana Savory, a parent of two alumni and a former WMS teacher himself, Philip holds a special place in the history of WMS. He will be remembered for his sweet nature and his ease in relating to others. He arrived at WMS on the heels of his wife Diana and daughters Jess ’88 and Emily ’92. Our relationship became a family-school affair. Having had a long career in the newspaper business, Philip had strong writing skills and a keen interest in history, literature, and politics. WMS benefitted from his expertise from 1988 to 1996, when he taught Humanities and Latin in our Middle School. He brought a wry sense of humor and substantive knowledge to his teaching. At the end of his first year, he wrote “I feel fortunate in finding a little niche at WMS. It’s a great place to work”. His students had many positive things to say about him. Fleur Hopper named Phil, “Philius,” and it stuck for his Latin students. One graduate, Sarah Bodley, wrote to him, “You are sooooooo Cool!...Thanks for the Philosophy!” Galen Largay wrote, “You always kept a smile on my face...which can be hard to do.” Erik Hawvermale and Philip shared a bond, partly because they were two of the few men on staff at that time. Though they were very different in personality, they found a connection in working on school projects together. They took on building compost bins for the school with a group of 6th grade boys, one of whom (Casey Secor) went right home and told his mother they needed to build bins for their own house. Though Phil retired from teaching at WMS in 1996, his interest in the school’s progress continued. Diana continued to teach until 2007. Even after she retired, he continued to share her with us as she continued to fill in here and there as we needed her. When Diana wasn’t teaching, they enjoyed traveling and delighted in their shared love for the outdoors and for animal and bird life.

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 17

ANNUAL REPORT

JULY 1, 2016 – JUNE 30, 2017

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

simple question is a daily tradiW tion in our house, as it is in so many hat did you learn today?” That

others, and I wish I had kept a notebook of all the answers over our 10 years at WMS. It would be fun to look back not only at how the responses have gone from mastering the bead chain to mastering algebra, but also at how often what our kids learned was a small, yet important, life lesson. Something about community building and working with others, or how to struggle with a problem gracefully without giving up. I believe that WMS continues to fulfill its mission to help kids recognize both their individual and collective potential and that the 2016-17 school year was another great year for our school. As Pat and our teachers continue to provide a great education for our children, the board continues to work on ways to broaden our reach and secure the financial future of the school. Our biggest challenge over the last few years has been the declining population of schoolaged children in Northwest Connecticut. Tuition is by far our biggest source of income, and a strong enrollment also drives a strong annual fund, which is critical to the depth of experience we can offer our students. We’ve had to work harder each year to maintain enrollment and the board has spent a lot of time on ways we might begin to attract more students from larger nearby communities. Our first initiative in this direction – bus service to New Milford – will begin this

fall, and we will continue to search for other ways to strengthen our enrollment and fundraising. Finally, this coming year will be Pat’s last at WMS and the board has been hard at work on finding her successor. Pat has given us plenty of time to conduct our search and we’re confident that we will attract a number of qualified and interesting candidates. Pat has also made a number of internal staffing changes to help support the next Head of School. Those changes will be effective in the new school year. In all, we are as prepared as we can be for this transition. It’s beyond me to put into words what Pat’s career has meant for so many kids, families and staff over the years. Her work at WMS has changed the world for the better. I’d like to thank all the teachers, staff, volunteers, parents & family members who have given so much to WMS over the past year. We have an amazing community and I’m grateful that my family can be a part of it.

Bill Dunbar, Chair, Board of Trustees

18 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Bill Dunbar, Woodbury; Chair Matthew Karpas, Litchfield; Vice Chair Doug Day, Litchfield; Treasurer Alex McNaughton, Bridgewater; Secretary Chrissy Armstrong, New Preston Peter Becker, Washington Barrie Birge, Litchfield Mark Booth, Roxbury Rob Copen, Washington Emily Fitzhugh, Washington Coco Sellman, Morris; P.A. Representative Ex Officio Angela Siebrecht, Litchfield Karyn Sorce, Washington Jessica Travelstead, Litchfield Denise Trevenen, Washington David Wieder, Sherman Pat Werner, New Preston; Head of School, Ex Officio Elvira Charles, Salt Lake City, UT; Trustee Emeritus DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Jessica Travelstead, Chair Laura Martin Laura Neminski Trish O’Reilly Coco Sellman Jill Skilton Pat Werner ANNUAL FUND VOLUNTEERS

Marc Blair Patricia Booth Barat DelVicario Tal Fagin Victoria Fossland Miranda Pasch Grant Ann Hertberg Tanya Horgan Win Hotchkiss Alex Ince Miriam Laufer Laura Martin Laura Neminski Tom Outwater Katie Re Scheidt Nell Solley ‘94 Jamie Spannhake Helena Sweet

Betsy Renwick & Jorge Sanchez, In honor of Oliver ’16 & Lucy ’19 Sanchez Linda Saarnijoki & Rusty Davis Natasha Page-Levin & Eric Schnabel Susan & Craig Schoon Marci Silverman & Bill Slepoy Nick Solley Jamie & John Spannhake Sue Stevens Terry & Peter Sullivan Helena & Zach Sweet WMS Dads Basketball Group Anonymous (1) SUPPORTERS $150 TO $499

JJJWF Allee Anadarko Petroleum Corporation Alissa Monteleone & Daniel Banks Bowie Barnett-Zunino & Jeff Barnett-Winsby Jami Weiner & Jason Baumgartner Carol Beebe-Mestel Kathy Behrens Melinda & Duncan Belcher Chris & Adam Bruck Deborah Burton & John Celebi Amanda Carlson & Craig Cornell Betsy & Mike DeLuca Renee & Greg DeRosa, In honor of Dominick & Michael Ruth Douglas Sarah Douglas ‘10 The Drohojowski Family, In honor of Sheila Coad-Bernard Dawn & Ron Fiddler, with thanks from Sam ’13 & Ben ’15 Willis Deirdre & Adam Fischer, In honor of Arnon ’09, Emma ’11 & McCauley ’15 Fischer Victoria & Toby Fossland Julie Loughran & Brendan Foulois Katherine Franklin ‘99 Judith Friedman, In honor of the WMS Class of 2009 Greater Washington Coalition for Jewish Life Karen Garver, In honor of Laura Neminski Miranda ‘92 & Jim Grant

Ginny & Frank Habbas Jay Harris Foundation Cara & Win Hotchkiss Trish O’Reilly & Jim Huffstetler Liz Kay Miriam & Samuel Laufer Cindy & Kenneth Leili Mrs. George Lindsay, In memory of Louise Lindsay Read Chris Martin Melora Mennesson Laura & Mickey Morris Laura & Perry Neminski Mr. & Mrs. Gerald O'Reilly Jeremiah O'Shea Carol & Vlad Papov Sheila & George Raines Hilary & Ethan Ram Diana Savory Stephanie Schor ‘11 Jill & Mark Skilton Starr Snead Bob & Jan Spilker, William & Jan Dunbar, In memory of Robert L. Spilker, ScD. Molly & Burt Stevens Catharina & Christian Stohler, In honor of Whit DePreter Megahann & Gisele Theriault Cherry & John Thurlow, In honor of Bodhi Rabideau Sara & Aaron Videtto Caroline & Mustafu Ugurlu Diane & Peter Wilson Jennie Panchy & Matthew Woodhall Kate Zimmerman Sally & Tony Zunino Laura & Mickey Morris Anonymous (2) BOOSTERS UP TO $149

Rachel Alagna Denise & Peter Arturi Susan Averill Jenn & Craig Badger Briana & Landon Ball Rebecca & Ted Bent Susie & Jeff Berg Lily Binns ’95 Nancy Binns Kimberly & Marc Blair

20 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

Lisa & Duncan Breese Joan Hammond Joy Brown Elizabeth Handelsman Rebecca Batchie & Paul Bucciaglia Meg & Paul Handelsman Edith Campos, In honor of Nick Hawvermale ’03 Mabel Suscovich Melissa & John Hay Monique & Jeff Cataldo Anne & Friso Hermans Deborah Chabrian & Ed Martinez Vanessa Hoppe ‘92 & Sarah Jane & Michael Chelminski Steve Haskell Cecilia & Tamer Chowdhury Patricia & Denis Horgan Cara & Wayne Clarke G. Buckley Huffstetler ’16, In Sheila Coad-Bernard & honor of Elizabeth, Kerry & Theo Randy Bernard Sevara Jeleva & Ken Paul, In Pat Conroy & Tony Lovotti memory of John M. Friedman Claire & David Copen Larry & Cuyler Jennings Mary Cortese F. Todd Johnson & Michael LaHart Rebekah & Richard Crouch Reagan Colton ’20 Christine & Jim Davenport Laura & Richard Langworthy Ingrid Davis Sara Lynn Leavenworth ’83 Karen Davis Tom & Kathi Lee Debbie Deguire Lexi ‘12, Cami ‘15, Lauren & Amy Deluca John Long Andi & Nick DePreter Billy Lovotti ‘03 Marcia DeSanctis & Mark Mennin Dorothy Lyman Mara McDonald DeWitte ‘83 Shari & Michael Mahan Kerry Dorton ’83 Kiersten & Michael Marich Amy & Stan Dumoch Laura Martin ’86, In honor of Christopher Eanes ’90, In honor Theo & Sheila of the Eanes & Martin gang Laura & Richard Martin Elizabeth Rand Ehrlich ‘86 Isabel Martin ’16 Judy & Don Ellis, In honor of our Laura & Burt Mashburn niece, Laura Neminski L. Lee Mashburn ’15 Patricia Emons, In honor of Justine Mccabe & John Battista Barat DelVicario Kay & Jack Mckallagat Katie ‘95 & Todd Figler Ava Mennin ’11 Morgen & Elliott Fisher Ray Mennin ’09 Anke Franklin Amy & John Moisan Liz & Steve Funk Mulenga & Dalitso Mwanza Michele Ganon & Jim Donegan Bonnie & Ken Norris Ineke & Joseph Ghering Heather & Stephen Norris Mimi Gillen & John Gillen Ann O'Reilly Betty Gilpin ’00 Shelley & John Oberwetter Harry Gilpin ’09 Tucker Paron ’15 Sam Gilpin ’03 Ariel Pasch ‘94 Christina & Joseph Gorbecki Susan & John Payne Jean Grasmere & Peter Hume Sarah & Phil Payson Alden Grayson-Funk ’13 Leigh Peet Sarala Grayson-Funk ’16 Elissa & George Potts Kathleen & Charles Greiner Sonja Shivpuri & Dalip Puri Ali Grimes Micky & Joe Pratt Kara & Stephen Gritti Gillian Desjardins & Heather & John Grustas Fletcher Previn Braden Grustas ’15 Hitchy Rahilly Ellen Hadad Carol & Larry Rand

Carol Leskanic & Michael Regan Bronwyn Hamill & Vincent Roberti Bettina Rosser Jessica Schindhelm ‘90 & Joseph Ferrarra Martha & Bob Schindhelm Mia & Dan Sedore Piedad Schor Vanessa Simpson ’95 Piper Skilton ‘19, In honor of Theo Beverly Smith Starr Snead Nell Solley ’94 & Josh Feil Hunter Southworth ‘94 Jan Spilker, In honor of Tate Dunbar ’18, & her Grandpa Bob Kate & John Suscovich Marie A. O’Brien & George J. Theisen Pilar DeMann Tillinger & Sebastian Tillinger, In memory of George Michael Sharon Tingley & Ting Tingley Alex & Mary Anne Toppan Janice & Doug Uhl Sue & Bob Ullram Heidi Diedrich & Kevin Umeh Carol & Ray Underwood Linda & Gerry Valletta Diana Varlay Ingrid Salcedo & Ulrich Vilbois Nancy Ware Arlyn & John Wasserman Nancy Weiner, In honor of Blake ’22 & Emery ’24 Baumgartner Sally Woodhall Sunny & Aaron Zweig Anonymous (3) GRANTS

Connecticut Community Foundation—Priscilla S. Whittemore Grant Anonymous (1) GIFTS TO THE WASHINGTON MONTESSORI COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

Catherine & Bill Bachrach Amy Julia & Peter Becker Emily Dalton & Matthew Karpas Susan & Michael Eanes

Natasha Page-Levin & Eric Schnabel Carla & Fabricio Vial WMS P.A. Anonymous (1) SPONSORS: WMSCPP POLAR PLUNGE FOR PARTNERSHIP

B&D Controlled Air Corp Compass Capital Management Copes Waste Solutions Dobson Pools Fox Crossing Equestrian The Hopkins Inn Joma, Inc. J.R.C. Transportation Karpas Strategies Lakeville Interiors MacDermid, Incorporated Newcastle Homes LLC Preferred Building Maintenance Rational 360 Trevenen & Coploff Washington Health & Pharmacy Anonymous (1) SPONSORS: PUPPETRY FESTIVAL

Copes Waste Solutions RIDE SPONSORS: WMS PRESENTS…

Conversations on the Green Jack Black Salisbury Bank and Trust Trevenen & Coploff GIFTS OF GOODS & SERVICES

Toby Arturi Susan & Sam Averill B&D Controlled Air Laura Dunn & Bailey Elissa Monteleone & Daniel Banks Elliot Fisher Colonial Greenhouse Lani Geurts David Grasmere Malie Grasmere & Peter Spanenburg Lindsey Grusin & Jane Whitney Heather Grustas

Ineke & Joseph Ghering Ann & Jack Gilpin Christina & Joseph Gorbecki Ali Grimes Karen & Perley Grimes Heather & John Grustas Jessica McMackin ’93 & Alex Harvill, In honor of Matilda Giampietro Ann Hertberg & Tom Paron Juliet & John Hubbard G. Buckley Huffstetler ‘17, In honor GIFTS TO THE 50TH of my WMS teachers ANNIVERSARY CAPITAL Susan & Tom Kendall CAMPAIGN Blaire Largay & Colin Farrar Lauren & John Long Dr. & Mrs. Austin Abramson Dorothy Lyman Mrs. Betty Abramson Judith Mahan Jaime Bachrach & Tim Clew Laura & Richard Martin Ann Barry, In honor of Abigail, Laura & Burt Mashburn Savannah & Jane; & in memory Alex McNaughton of Albert Evans Walker, III April & Sandy Neubauer Barbara & Joseph Bartlett Trish O'Reilly & Jim Huffstetler Amy Julia & Peter Becker Cathy & Greg Oneglia Carol Beebe-Mestel Denise & Peter Pasch Melinda & Duncan Belcher Susan & John Payne Marina Belica & Steven Lowy Sarah & Phil Payson Kimberly & Marc Blair Micky & Joe Pratt Brown Tufts Montessori Mr. & Mrs. James Preston Chris & Adam Bruck Sheila & George Raines Joanna & Edward Carpenter Hilary & Ethan Ram Sarah Jane & Michael Chelminski Wendy & Rick Rhodes Justine Keating & Daniel Colton Jacki Romano & Jack McArdle Reagan Colton ‘20 Martha & Bob Schindhelm Emily Dalton & Matthew Karpas Coco & Frank Sellman Christine & Jim Davenport Angela & Kevin Siebrecht Suzanne & Doug Day Beth Simon Elizabeth DeVos, In honor of Jill & Mark Skilton Charles ’16, Edward ’19 & Fourgie & Willie Smith Georges DeVos ’22 Starr Snead Heidi Diedrich & Kevin Umeh Vicki & Herb Swarz Brian Donegan ‘02 Jessica & Jason Travelstead Patrick ‘82 & Erin Dorton Lesley Waldron Laura Driscoll Nancy Ware Jana & Bill Dunbar Pat & Erhard Werner Jyne Dunbar ’14 Jane & David Wieder Susan & Michael Eanes, In honor of WMS Teachers, past & present Max Wieder ‘17 WMS Parents Association Tal Fagin & Robert Copen Anonymous (3) Emily Fitzhugh Ania Hubbard Trish O’Reilly Preferred Business Maintenance Marsha Reid Craig Schoon Angela & Kevin Siebrecht Megahann Theriault Janice Uhl Ulrich Vilbois Ed Werner Jane & David Wieder

Kelly Franklin Judith Friedman, In honor of John M. Friedman Lani & Dale Geurts

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 21

2017 AUCTION WMS READY AUCTION COMMITTEE

Lani Geurts Laura Neminski Coco Sellman Jill Skilton UNDERWRITERS

Austin Abramson Joline & Greg Douglas Susan & Michael Eanes Shannon & Brett Wheeler Barrie Birge Amy Julia & Peter Becker Chuck Birge Elliot Davis COMMUNITY SPONSORS

Jaime Bachrach & Tim Clew of The Wine Trust Suzanne & Douglas Day Emily Dalton & Matthew Karpas Coco & Frank Sellman Angela & Kevin Siebrecht ALLY SPONSORS

Liz DeVos Jana & Bill Dunbar Tal Fagin & Robert Copen Christina & Joseph Gorbecki Julia ’97 & Jeff Kivitz Suzanne Lefebvre & Chip Barth Cindy & Ken Leili Louise & John Lewis Marina Belica & Steven Lowy Bailey & Tom Martignetti Beatrice Rossi-Landi & Darryl Nitke Helena & Zachary Sweet Denise & John Trevenen Shannon & Brett Wheeler CORPORATE SPONSORS

Bantam Home & Energy Mine Hill Distillery Union Savings Bank Anonymous (3) AUCTION VOLUNTEERS

Rebecca Aguilar Briana Ball Ellen Barrett Bowie Barnett-Zunino Jeff Barnett-Winsby Suzanne Blaicher

Paul Bucciaglia Lisa Breese Leslie Capella Meghan Casey Dan Colton Amanda Carlson Alicia Copp Rosanne Costa Rebekah Crouch Richard Crouch Erin D’Amico Emily Dalton Karen Davis Pilar DeMann Andi DePreter Gillian Desjardins Karyn Detje Heidi Diedrich Donna Dreska Liz DeVos Tealia Ellis Ritter Colin Farrar Diana Genovese Lani Geurts Heidi Giraldi Christina Gorbecki Heather Grustas Ellen Hadad Erik Hawvermale

auction photos by Jon Veleas

Anonymous

COMPANION SPONSORS

Matt Karpas perfected his paddle raise. Katie & Adam Rissolo.

22 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

Tanya Horgan Ania Hubbard Julie Jacques Justine Keating Julia Kivitz ‘97 Suzanne Lefebvre Kathi Lee Sherry Leitz Kirsten Leon Carol Leskanic Lillian Lyon Kristi Matuszewski Laura Martin ‘86 Susan McLeran Isabelle Menozzi Alissa Monteleone Amy Moisan John Moisan Mulanga Mwanza Laura Neminski Rhonda Oneglia Trish O’Reilly Tom Outwater Jennie Panchy Mia Pelosi ‘91 Tealia Ritter Jennifer Ryan Betsy Renwick Katie Ré Scheidt Natasha Schnabel Coco Sellman Angela Siebrecht Kevin Siebrecht Jill Skilton Marci Silverman Katherine Smith Jamie Spannhake Kate Suscovich Helena Sweet Megahann Theriault Cherry Thurlow Jessica Travelstead Lindsey Turner ‘95 Janice Uhl Carla Vial Sara Videtto Tim Walsh Shannon Wheeler Jami Weiner Jane Wieder Ellen Willert Matt Woodhall Aaron Zweig

Elliot Davis of Mine Hill Distillery serves up cocktails for guests. Coco & Frank Sellman. Telia Ellis & David Ritter.

SPECIAL THANKS

Our Auctioneer Eric Hummel, and Suzanne Blaicher, for a lively auction. Jaime Bachrach & Tim Clew for generously donating this evening’s wine for the 3rd consecutive year. Laura Neminski, Laura Martin, Trish O’Reilly, Jill Skilton, Ellen Hadad, Cherry Thurlow, Erik Hawvermale, Greg DeRosa, Ginny Habbas and Dan Evon for their contributions, patience and time for this event. Taylor Rental for always tending to the details. Executive Cuisine for delivering another warm meal. Infinity Printing for their immediate turnaround. Rob Alberti for the spectacular lighting and sound. To the WMS Teachers, Advisors and Administrators, who offered assistance with classroom projects. To the MAP room ladies, who cared for our children during the auction. To PBM Cleaning, who always keep our spaces tidy. Allumé Home Care Administration for the extra helpful hands. And finally, to Pat, who provides her wisdom and thoughtful leadership.

DONORS, BIDDERS & PATRONS OF THE AUCTION

@ The Corner Restaurant and Pub, Litchfield A Better Way Wholesale Autos, Naugatuck Leslie & Austin Abramson Hilary Adorno After School Arts Program (ASAP), Washington Depot Jena & John Allee Arbor Services of CT, Inc., Washington Depot Art Room Atelier, Litchfield Jennifer & Tyson Averill Jennifer & Craig Badger Bain Real Estate, Kent Briana & Landon Ball Alissa Monteleone & Daniel Banks Bantam Home & Energy, Bantam Bantam Pizza Bowie Barnett-Zunino & Jeff Barnett-Winsby Barry Strom Antiques, Litchfield Suzanne Lefebvre & Chip Barth Jason Baumgartner Amy Julia & Peter Becker Rebecca & Ted Bent Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Torrington Berlandi Nussbaum & Reitzas LLP, Pawling, NY Barrie Birge Chuck Birge Suzanne & Trip Blaicher Kimberly & Marc Blair Lauren & Mark Booth Lisa Breese

Bridgewater Chocolates, Brookfield Scarlett Brooks Laura Hutchins & Steven Brooks Ali & Steve Brown Deborah Burton Camp Cody, Freedom, NH Camps Road Farm, Kent Candy Club, El Segundo, CA Canterbury School Basketball Camp, New Milford Canterbury School, New Milford Ray & Leslie Cappella Carmen Carillo Mary Caruso ’14 Matt Caruso ’14 Rebecca & Michael Caruso Meghan & Kevin Casey Deborah Burton & John Celebi Matthew Charles Sarah Jane & Michael Chelminski Laura Christie CLOTH, Bantam Sheila Coad-Bernard & Randy Bernard Justine Keating & Daniel Colton Compass Capital Management, Southbury Colleen & Tony Comunale Connecticut Science Center, Hartford Cookhouse Restaurant, New Milford Tal Fagin & Robert Copen Copes Waste Solutions, Oakville Alicia & Timothy Copp Lisa Cornelio Amanda Carlson & Craig Cornell

County Wine & Spirits, New Preston David Gavin Salon, Kent Elliott Davis Karen Davis Suzanne & Doug Day Jessica Dell’Aera Andi & Nick DePreter Gillian Desjardins David DeVos Liz DeVos DiFranco’s Restaurant & Pizzeria, Litchfield Julie Dobson Jacques Dobson Pools, LLC, New Preston Kerry Dorton ’83 Joline & Gregg Douglas Donna & William Dreska Jana & Bill Dunbar Eagle Rock Day Camp, Washington Susan & Michael Eanes Elite Gymnastics, New Milford Ericson Insurance Advisors, Washington Depot Dawn Hathaway & Evan Estern Daniel Evon FABRIC, Washington Faces by Shirley, New Milford Blaire Farrar Fife ’n Drum Restaurant and Inn, Kent Finch, Brooklyn, NY Stacey & David Fiorillo Emily Fitzhugh Marie Flamand Avery Flamand-Browne ’12 Forman School, Litchfield

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 23

Fort Hill Farm, New Milford Julie Loughran & Brendan Foulois Frazier Farm, Woodbury Julie Fulling Sam Funk ’05 Liz & Steve Funk Gager, Emerson, Rickart, Bower & Scalzo, LLP, Bethel Diana & Marc Genovese GeronNursing & Respite Care, Inc., New Milford Lani & Dale Geurts Matilda Giampietro Gifford’s, Kent Gilded Lily Jewelry, Woodbury Ann Gilpin Heidi & Thomas Giraldi Christina & Joseph Gorbecki Carolyn Gordon Grace Mayflower Inn & Spa, Washington Greenleaf Energy, Oxford Greenwood Trails, Winsted Kara & Steve Gritti Gunn Memorial Library, Washington The Gunnery, Washington Susan & Murray Haber Ellen Hadad Michael Halperin Vanessa Hammond Jessica Giampietro McMackin Harvill

Nick Hawvermale ’03 Mary & Erik Hawvermale Melissa & John Hay Hermitage Club, West Dover, VT Hickory Stick Bookshop, Washington Depot Justine & Christian Hoagland Hopkins Inn, Warren Tanya & Denis Horgan Ania & David Hubbard Trish O'Reilly & James Huffstetler Jean Grasmere & Peter Hume Ice Blink Designs, Morris Lela Ilyinsky ‘98 Alex & Brandon Ince Infinity Music Hall & Bistro, Norfolk Ellen Barrett & Steve Inglese Inn at Kent Falls, Kent Jack Black, Litchfield Armand Jacoby Janet Janssen & Craig Puffenberger Joe's Salon & Spa, New Milford Joseph Abdella Tile & Flooring, New Preston Emily Dalton & Matthew Karpas Karpas Strategies, Litchfield Kawasaki Japanese Restaurant, LItchfield Myrna Kenausis Kent Coffee & Chocolate Kent Greenhouse & Gardens

Hilary Ram and Justine Hoagland.

24 · Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017

Kent School Kidcity Children’s Museum, Middletown Kidsplay, Torrington Julia ’97 & Jeff Kivitz Erika Klauer Jane & Charles Klein Klemm Real Estate, Washington Depot Alex Konheim Kramer Portraits, Connecticut, New York, NY F. Todd Johnson & Michael LaHart Larry Low Electric LLC, Washington Depot Miriam & Sam Laufer Jennifer Laviano Andrew & Diane Law Elizabeth Lawlor Mary Beth Lawlor Sara Lynn Leavenworth ‘83 JoMarie Leifert Cindy & Ken Leili Louise & John Lewis Beth Lillard Caroline & Michael Lind Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes, Darien Lindsey Victoria Photography, Litchfield Litchfield Athletic Club Litchfield Bancorp, Washington Depot Litchfield Hills Family Dental, Torrington Litchfield Historical Society Litchfield Jazz Camp Litchfield Performing Arts Litchfield Saltwater Grille Marina Belica & Steven Lowy Luz & Bill MacArthur Shari & Mike Mahan Mahard's Piano Service, LLC, Bethlehem Makery Coworking, New Milford Kiersten & Michael Marich Market Place Kitchen & Bar, Woodbury Bailey & Tom Martignetti Laura ’86 & Richard Martin Marvelwood School, Kent Stacey & Pels Matthews

Matthews Group, Washington Depot Kristie & Artur Matuszewski Susan & Ian McLeran Rebecca McMackin ’91 Alex McNaughton Men of Montessori Melora Mennesson Isabelle Menozzi & Marc Weisgal Carol Beebe-Mestel & Stephen Mestel Jill & Basil Mirren Amy & John Moisan Kirsten Leon & Shane Mongar Monster Mini Golf of Danbury, Danbury Bola & Brian Mooney Laura & Mickey Morris Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe David & Mulenga Mwanza Laura & Perry Neminski New Morning Market, Woodbury New Preston Wellness New York Jets, Florham Park, NJ New York Red Bulls, Harrison, NJ Chrissy Armstrong & Ben Nickoll Beatrice Rossi-Landi & Darryl Nitke O & G Industries, Torrington Oliphant Design, Litchfield Ollie's Restaurant and Pizzeria, Litchfield Rhonda & Chris Oneglia Marina & Tom Outwater Eliza & Mike Paolucci Carol & Vladimir Papov Park Lane Animal Hospital, New Milford Mia ’91 & John Pelosi Pergola Garden & Home, New Preston Pilar's Mobile Beauty, Washington Pilobolus, Washington Depot Portico New York, Inc, Kent Powerhouse Kitchens & Appliances, New Milford Sonja Shivpuri & Dalip Puri Pratt Nature Center, New Milford Gillian Desjardins & Fletcher Previn Psycho Bunny, New York, NY R. Derwin, Litchfield Hilary & Ethan Ram

Carol Leskanic & Michael Regan Audra ’17 & Willa ’22 Regan Marsha Reid Carolina & Darren Reid Wendy & Rick Rhodes RIDE, New Preston Katie & Adam Rissolo Tealia Ellis & David Ritter Christopher Roddick Kathy Root Jennifer & Michael Ryan Salvatore Anthony Hair Studio, New Preston Betsy Renwick & Jorge Sanchez Courtney Saulnier ’95 Katie Ré & Eric Scheidt Martha & Bob Schindhelm Natasha Page-Levin & Eric Schnabel Amparo & Brad Sedito Coco & Frank Sellman Sharon Audubon Angela & Kevin Siebrecht Silly Sprout, Litchfield Silvia Castro Massage Therapist, New Milford Erin Simmons Jill & Mark Skilton Skip Barber Racing School, LLC, Lime Rock Marci Silverman & Bill Slepoy Elizabeth Smith Kasia & Hamilton Smith Soccer Extreme, New Milford Karyn & Sal Sorce South Kent School, South Kent Spa at Litchfield Hills, Litchfield Malie Grasmere & Peter Spangenberg Jamie & John Spannhake Spirit Camp, South Kent Rosanne Costa & David Stewart Super Science, New Milford Kate & John Suscovich Swank on Bank, New Milford Helena & Zachary Sweet Will Talbot ’06 Barbara & Peter Talbot Megahann & Gisele Theriault Thorncrest Farm, Goshen Thule Group, Seymour Cherry Thurlow

Pilar & Sebastian Tillinger Jessica & Jason Travelstead Denise & John Trevenen Trevenen & Coploff, LLC, Washington Depot True Value of Bethlehem, Bethlehem True Value of Litchfield, Litchfield Lindsey ’95 & Nathan Turner Janice & Doug Uhl Heidi Diedrich & Kevin Umeh Union Savings Bank, Danbury Upper Crust, New Milford Linda & Gerry Valletta Valley Spirit Cooperative, Washington Depot Carla & Fabricio Vial Sara & Aaron Videtto Ingrid Salcedo & Ulrich Vilbois Village Restaurant, Litchfield Ellen Shu & Eliot Wadsworth Tim Walsh Elizabeth Warner Washington Food & Liquor Jami Weiner Pat & Erhard Werner Westover School, Middlebury Shannon & Brett Wheeler Whistling Hawk Studio, Bethlehem White Horse Country Pub, New Preston White Memorial Conservation Center, Litchfield Jane & David Wieder Jennifer & Craig Wilber WMS, New Preston John Woytowicz Grace Woytowicz Jason Wright YardApes, Inc., New Milford YMCA Camp Mohawk, Litchfield YMCA Camp Takodah, North Swanzey, NH Bill & Tina Zampaglione Zaragoza Restaurant, New Milford Kate & Steve Zimmerman Sally & Tony Zunino

Pilar Tillinger took a chance in the Heads or Tail raffle. Pat Werner, Matt Caruso ’14, Mary Caruso ’14 and Rebecca Caruso. Matt & Mary were both asked to speak during the auction.

Washington Montessori School · On Circle · Summer 2017 · 25

An aerial view of the WMS campus with newly completed tennis courts and playing field. Special thanks to WMS parent and pilot Elliot Fisher who made this shot possible.

LIKE US on facebook

WA S H I N GT O N M ONT E SSOR I SCHOOL

SUPPORT WMS WHEN YOU SHOP AT AMAZON.COM.

Visit smile.amazon.com and search for Washington Montessori Association. Earn contributions to WMS with every purchase you make!

Washington Montessori School 240 Litchfield Turnpike New Preston, CT 06777

Bulk Rate Non-Profit Org. New Milford, CT Permit No. 249

On Circle is published by Washington Montessori School - 860.868.0551 - www.washingtonmontessori.org Editor: Jill Skilton - Designer: Jennifer Gianfagna - Annual Report: Trish Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Reilly Washington Montessori School requires that its board, staff, teachers, students and their parents do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, or sexual orientation in administration of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s admission policies, educational programs, financial aid program, extra-curricular or any other school-administered programs, or any activities supported by the school.