The Woodland Way: The Power of the 2K-8 Journey
Woodland Presbyterian School has championed an educational model that research increasingly validates: the K-8 approach. While this structure might seem traditional, modern studies reveal it as transformative—creating an environment where students don’t just learn but flourish during their most formative years. In an era where educational choices abound, Woodland’s commitment to remaining a two-year-old through eighth-grade school is a testament to our deep understanding of child development and educational excellence. This intentional learning environment allows young learners to develop into confident, capable individuals ready for their next academic chapter.
THE “TOP DOG” EFFECT: MORE THAN JUST LEADERSHIP
Research confirms what Woodland has long understood: middle school students in K-8 schools thrive as the “top dogs” of their community. Unlike their peers in 6-12 or K-12 settings, our middle schoolers experience:
● higher academic achievement and test scores.
● increased sense of safety and belonging.
● reduced instances of bullying.
● greater opportunities for authentic leadership.
● stronger self-confidence.
“Each year, our eighth-grade students showcase their leadership skills by speaking at weekly chapel services, directing all-school HOUSE activities, and organizing time spent with their first-grade friends,” notes Head of Middle School Angie Hackmeyer. “These leadership experiences build and strengthen a positive self-concept as our students learn and grow.”
THE POWER OF SIZE: 320-400 STUDENTS STRONG
Woodland’s intentionally small size is one of its greatest strengths. With a student body of 320-400 students, we create what larger institutions cannot: a personalized educational and social experience for every child. Our size allows us to:
● maintain small class sizes averaging 14 students.
● offer diverse curricular and extracurricular opportunities.
● ensure every student feels known and valued.
● foster meaningful relationships between faculty, students, and families.
● create a tight-knit, supportive community.
BUILDING FOUNDATIONS FROM THE EARLIEST YEARS
The journey at Woodland begins at age two, setting the stage for long-term success. “One of my favorite experiences for our students is the confidence built each year in the classroom,” shares Amy Smythe, Head of Early Childhood and Lower School. “Our Early Childhood students step into Lower School at the Senior Kindergarten level knowing how to communicate with their teachers and peers. They are set up for an environment of learning that is proven successful due to each child being known.”
This early start allows our educators to identify and nurture each child’s unique learning style, interests, and potential areas for growth. By the time students enter Lower School, they have already developed strong learning habits and a genuine love for discovery.
PERSONALIZED LEARNING IN ACTION
“In Lower School, our teachers have daily opportunities to shift gears or thoughtfully consider each student’s strengths and needs during an academic lesson. Only a small class size allows this flexibility when considering a child’s development,” explains Amy Smythe.
This differentiated approach means:
● teachers can tailor instruction to individual student needs.
● students receive appropriate challenges or support.
● active participation replaces passive learning.
● each child’s unique talents are recognized and developed.
GROWING THROUGH THE MIDDLE YEARS
The transition from Lower School to Middle School—often a challenging period for students—becomes seamless in our model. Unlike traditional K-12 schools or separate middle schools, our students experience this crucial developmental stage in a familiar, supportive environment.
“Middle school students need nurturing and independence,” notes Mrs. Hackmeyer.
“Our eighth graders are not at the bottom of a high school hierarchy—they’re leaders of our school community. This leadership opportunity develops confidence that serves them well in high school and beyond while still being able to embrace their youth.”
and challenge. Younger students have positive role models in their older peers, while older students develop empathy and leadership skills through interactions with younger children.
THE WOODLAND DIFFERENCE
Our unique grade structure provides students with developmentally appropriate experiences during the most formative years of their lives, ages two through fourteen. In our environment:
● children feel confident exploring their interests.
● leadership opportunities arise naturally.
● learning is tailored to developmental stages.
● community connections strengthen character development.
Ending at eighth grade isn’t just a stopping point—it’s a strategic advantage. Our graduating eighth graders:
● enter high school with strong academic foundations and study skills.
● possess the emotional maturity to handle new social dynamics.
● have experienced authentic leadership opportunities.
● feel ready for a fresh start at a crucial developmental stage.
● are prepared for meaningful mentorship across grade levels.
BUILDING CHARACTER THROUGH CONSISTENCY
Woodland fosters deep relationship-building between teachers, students, and families. Faculty can track student progress across multiple years, ensuring consistent support
Our two-year-old through eighth-grade model is more than about what we teach—it’s about how we help children grow. By providing a nurturing environment through these crucial developmental years, we create a foundation for lifelong learning and success.
LOOKING FORWARD WHILE HONORING TRADITION
As research continues to validate the 2K-8 model, Woodland stands confident in its approach. Our commitment to “smaller is better” is a proven path to student success. By maintaining optimal size and focusing on these crucial developmental years, we create an environment where every child can discover their potential and develop the confidence to pursue it.
A Legacy of Welcome:
Tim Tatum Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Service
WHEN TIM TATUM first walked through Woodland Presbyterian School’s doors in 1996, he was simply a father seeking the right educational home for his daughters, Alex (4) and Sophie (2). “You will know when the school feels right,” he often tells prospective families today, drawing from his own experience. “And Woodland felt ‘right’ to me from the start.” Little did he know that this search for his daughters’ education would lead to a remarkable 28-year journey with Woodland, including 22 years as the school’s inaugural Director of Admission.
As Tim prepares for his retirement on June 30, 2025, his impact on the Woodland community is nothing short of extraordinary. Six years after joining the Woodland family as a parent, Tim was approached about a development role overseeing school fundraising. This conversation led to a pioneering opportunity: becoming Woodland’s first-ever Director of Admission. “I was excited about this new opportunity,” Tim reflects, “but was concerned that being on the ‘inside’ might diminish my good feelings about Woodland.” His concerns proved unfounded. “That notion turned out to be the complete opposite. Witnessing firsthand the commitment of our Board of Directors and the thoughtful work of our administration, faculty, and staff, I realized that everything I had experienced as a dad was genuine.”
Over his 22-year tenure as Director of Admission, Tim has:
● Guided approximately 3,400 families through campus tours
● Welcomed more than 1,700 students into the Woodland family
● Helped shape nearly a quarter-century of the school’s community
“
Numbers only tell part of the story.
“One of the things I have enjoyed most is the opportunity to meet new families and talk with them about something am passionate about,” Tim shares. “I firmly believe in the foundation Woodland provided my girls and other students who have gone on to be extremely successful in rigorous academic high schools, higher education, and their professional lives.”
Throughout his years at Woodland, Tim has been a passionate advocate for the school’s unique approach to education. “Our teachers take the time to know each child and cater to their individual needs academically, socially, and emotionally,” he explains. “Everyone here has each student’s best interests in mind.”
As Tim prepares for his next adventure, his commitment to service continues. He is completing a Master’s Certification in Canine Training with a specialty in Socialization and Behavior Modification. Post-retirement, he plans to volunteer part-time at the Tunica Humane Society, training dogs to become “adoptable” and helping place them in loving homes.
“Working at Woodland Presbyterian School has been an absolute privilege,” Tim reflects. “I will leave with many great memories of fun times, laughs, and wonderful experiences, all working together to guide young people to be successful students and strong young men and women.”
Those who know Tim won’t be surprised by his parting words:
“This is not goodbye but rather see you soon.” His legacy at Woodland—marked by warmth, dedication, and genuine care for each family—will continue to influence the school community for generations to come.
When we think of Woodland Presbyterian School, we think of Tim Tatum His love and commitment over the years have led many families to Woodland; he will be missed by the staff, parents, grandparents, and most of all, every student. He has been the best ambassador for the school and community and will forever be a friend to Woodland.”
The Inaugural “WIT” Award honored Dianne Lucchesi
THE WHATEVER-IT-TAKES “WIT” AWARD was established by Head of School Adam Moore in the spring of 2024 to honor a distinguished faculty or staff member who exemplifies an exceptional commitment to going above and beyond. Presented annually, the “WIT” Award recognizes a teacher who consistently exhibits a do-whatever-it-takes approach and maintains an outstanding attendance record. This award includes a monetary prize and the recipient’s name is added to a plaque displayed in the main school hallway.
Last May, the inaugural award was named in honor of Diane Lucchesi who retired after 34 years of service to Woodland. Throughout her teaching career, Lucchesi was known for her steadfast dedication, impeccable attendance record, and willingness to undertake any task necessary, often volunteering for duties beyond her regular role. Her legacy of tireless service and unwavering support continues to inspire and set the standard for future award recipients.
Woodland hosted New York Times best selling author Michael G. Thompson, Ph.D., (third from left) during in-service in August. Faculty and staff enjoyed group and individaul sessions about the parent-school relationship. Thompson’s thoughtful guidance helped set the tone for the 2024-2025 school year. Pictured above: art teacher Paul Miller, Head of School Adam Moore, guest speaker Michael G. Thompson, SK teacher Kimberly Vollmer, Head of Early Childhood and Lower School Amy Smythe, and Middle School teacher Julie Sully.
All Lower School teachers read and discussed the book, Social Emotional Learning and the Brain: Strategies to Help Your Students Thrive, by Marilee B. Sprenger. Pictured are third grade teachers Melissa Salentine and Taylor Gough, with Head of Early Childhood and Lower School Amy Smythe (middle).
Professional Development Events for 2024-2025
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT presentation with Ana Belk, Behavioral Analyst Intern at Germantown Behavioral Solutions (All Teaching Faculty)
FOSTERING JOYFUL LEARNING EXPERIENCES WITH SEESAW (LW-2nd Grade Teachers)
GUEST SPEAKER DURING IN-SERVICE: NY Times Best Selling Author & International Speaker Michael Thompson, Ph.D.: Hopes and Fears: Strengthening the ParentSchool Relationship (All Faculty & Staff)
SAIS INSTITUTE FOR NEW TEACHERS: PUBLIC-TO-PRIVATE COURSE (Summer 2024) (Kasey Dixon, Kodie Norville, Madeline Pegg, Taylor Gough, Kyle McDougall, Ben Rolston)
GET YOUR TEACH ON CONFERENCE
Las Vegas, NV (Amelia Cowan, Stephanie McLain, Taylor Gough, Melissa Salentine)
HANDWRITING WITHOUT TEARS CURSIVE (Amelia Cowan, Stephanie McLain)
TAIS NEW AND EMERGING LEADERS INSTITUTE (September 2024-April 2025) (Kyle Lawrence)
THE ANNUAL FALL FAMILY PICNIC is the perfect time to meet new families and mingle with friends, faculty, and staff and gets the school year off to a fun-filled start!
HOUSE is a program at the center of our students’ servicelearning experience, embodying the “social consciousness” piece of our mission statement by promoting and fostering community among students, faculty, and administration both inside and outside the classroom.
ANNUAL FALL TRIPS FOR 5th - 8 th GRADES
Fifth graders enjoyed DISCOVERY PARK OF AMERICA while 6th graders took an overnight trip to CAMP PINECREST . The Marine Lab in OCEAN SPRINGS was the destination for 7th graders, where they researched beaches around the world, learned about tide pools, and kayaked to a nearby island. The long-awaited trip for our 8th graders was the CAMP BEAR TRACK experience in the Ozark Mountains. They gained valuable team-building and life skills while making memories and connections with their classmates and teachers.
THE ANNUAL LOWER SCHOOL S.T.E.A.M. NIGHT was a glowing success. Families and students visited classrooms and participated in stations from creating glow bracelets with a pattern to building a tower with index cards.
THE THIRD-ANNUAL TALENT SHOW was a night to remember! With 17 acts ranging from group dances to solos, it was a huge success.
ROBOTICS In December, our Middle School Robotics team competed in the St. George’s Rapid Relay Holiday Hustle competition finishing second overall and taking home the Innovate Award.
1 st - & 8 th - GRADE FRIENDS First graders are paired with eighth grade “friends” each year as part of a long-standing tradition. Throughout the year, they enjoy various activities such as reading, service opportunities, and having lunch together that foster meaningful relationships between our younger and oldest students.
WARRIORS ATHLETICS Our JK-4th grade students and kids throughout the greater community enjoyed our recreational sports program this fall. Ninety percent of our 5th-8th graders are participating in at least one sport—with 60 percent of them playing two or more. Middle School athletics offers basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis, track and field, and volleyball.
CONGRATULATIONS
TO
THE CLASS OF 2024!
Our newest alumni are now attending some of the top high schools in Memphis and in the state, including:
Briarcrest Christian School
Christian Brothers High School
Crosstown High School
Hutchison School
Lausanne Collegiate School
St. Agnes Academy
St. Benedict at Auburndale
St. Mary’s Episcopal School
Memphis University School
St. George’s Independent School
SPELLING BEE Congratulations to Andre Mathis, our spelling bee champion for the second consecutive year, and to Avyan Patel (left), who came in honorable mention.
“Woodland’s small, nurturing academic environment helped my confidence as a student, which has without a doubt contributed to my success within academia.”
Ashlyn Barclay ’14
I attended Woodland for first through eighth grades. She reflects, “Woodland’s intimate educational environment profoundly shaped my academic and personal development. The small class sizes created a nurturing space where could actively participate, ask questions, and receive personalized attention from invested teachers. Woodland allowed me to explore various extracurriculars and forge lifelong friendships.”
A pivotal moment was the seventh- and eighth-grade trip to Washington D.C., particularly our visit to the Newseum. This experience ignited a lasting passion for journalism and history. Years later, during my master’s studies, I eagerly returned to D.C., and those formative memories are still vivid in my mind. Mrs. Boydstun, my fourth-grade teacher, was instrumental in cultivating my love for reading. Her wisdom that “reading could take us anywhere” became a guiding principle. She instilled in me the understanding that reading is not just an academic skill, but a gateway to broader understanding and exploration.
My educational journey has continued with significant milestones:
● Master’s in Mass Communication from Louisiana State University’s Manship School
● Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Communications at Columbia University’s Journalism School
● Research focusing on war reporting, legacy media, and state-controlled narratives
Looking ahead, aim to complete my doctoral dissertation and pursue an academic career as a professor, with the hope of inspiring and working with the next generation of students.
From the small classrooms of Woodland to the research halls of Columbia, my educational journey has been defined by curiosity, mentorship, and a commitment to understanding the world through communication and storytelling.
Robert Vestal, M.D. ’05
My journey at Woodland included seven formative years that piqued my curiosity and shaped my future career trajectory.
From fourth grade onward, I consistently sought challenging academic work. My math teachers recognized and supported advanced learning, providing me with Algebra II and pre-calculus textbooks to explore beyond the standard curriculum. This early intellectual hunger would become a defining characteristic of my academic and professional path. My time at Woodland was marked by significant personal growth. As the eighth-grade yearbook editor, I developed critical leadership skills in organization, delegation, and meeting deadlines—capabilities that would serve me well in my future medical career. Involvement in school plays also nurtured my creativity, teaching me the value of spontaneity and selfexpression.
Perhaps most importantly, Woodland provided me with transformative relationships including Debbie Brooks, a teacher who profoundly influenced my approach to interpersonal
“The seeds planted at Woodland continue to shape my path forward.”
Sarah Grace Taylor ’21
My educational journey at Woodland from first through eighth grade was transformative, profoundly shaping my academic and personal development. The school’s intimate learning environment and dedicated faculty provided me with experiences that have been instrumental in my growth.
Because of the small class sizes, was able to have meaningful relationships with my teachers. These early interactions became a cornerstone of my academic success, helping me develop communication skills and confidence serving me throughout my educational career.
Leadership opportunities at Woodland were particularly impactful. The skills developed in collaboration and group dynamics prepared me to seek and excel in leadership roles during high school. This foundation has been evident in my subsequent achievements, including leadership positions in various school organizations.
My passion for learning, cultivated at Woodland, has led to academic high school recognitions:
● Induction into the Cum Laude Society
● National Honor Society membership
● College Board AP Scholar with Distinction (2023-2024)
Beyond academics, I’ve embraced leadership roles that reflect my Woodland experience:
● Peer Council Representative, supporting freshman transitions
● President of the Latin Honor Society
● President of the Government Club
As a senior at Hutchison School, I’m currently navigating college decisions with a clear vision. My college academic plan is to major in accounting and pursue a graduate degree.
The seeds planted at Woodland—a love for learning, leadership, and intellectual curiosity—continue to shape my path forward.
interactions. Her ability to bridge different groups and her infectious warmth became a model for my own social approach. My Woodland experience laid the groundwork for several personal achievements including:
● Graduating salutatorian from Memphis University School
● Earning a full scholarship to Washington and Lee University
● Receiving a fully-funded research grant in 2011, working in the Nobel Prize-winning Brown Goldstein Lab at UT Southwestern
● Pursuing and achieving my childhood dream of becoming a physician specializing in ophthalmology Today, I am a comprehensive ophthalmologist at Memphis Eye & Cataract Associates while also using my skills for community service work. I have translated professional skills into meaningful community service including founding a volunteer ophthalmology clinic at the Memphis Muslim Medical Center and serving as a volunteer physician at Church Health Center, performing cataract surgeries for uninsured patients. Beyond professional accomplishments, define my current journey through faith. As a church leader, I am dedicated to “growing in knowledge of the Lord, and obedience to Christ, and living in step with the Holy Spirit.”
Madelyn Havard ’20
I attended Woodland for eight years, then attended St. Agnes Academy, graduating in May of 2024. I am now a freshman Stamps Scholar at the University of South Carolina studying public health while also participating in a social sorority, a pre-professional fraternity, and the top scholars community.
I credit Woodland for providing a supportive, close-knit community that has helped to shape my educational journey. The school’s personalized approach gave me the confidence to ask questions, advocate for myself, and develop strong leadership skills that I continue to use in my academic pursuits. Because of my Woodland foundation, have been able to achieve the following accomplishments:
● Valedictorian at St. Agnes Academy
● Stamps Scholar at the University of South Carolina
● President of STEM Club in High School
● Leader of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital fundraising Initiative
● Tutor in St. Agnes Academy Tutoring Lab Woodland provided me with a love of learning that I have carried with me throughout my high school journey and my current college experience.
My long-term goal is to become a pediatric physician at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; I have had a passion for healthcare and community service since I was young. Because of my years at Woodland, I am committed to learning, leadership, and making a positive impact.
“Woodland provided me with a love of learning that I have carried with me throughout my high school journey and my current college experience.”
2024 AUCTION & GALA
The 2024 auction raised more than $61,000 because of your participation from purchasing tickets to bidding on silent and live auction items. Thank you to the auction committee for all their hard work, especially the Event Chairs Ashley Lunsford and Jackie McKinley.
Sponsorship support was record-breaking, and we are grateful to our corporate sponsors.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
Cindy and Edward Dobbs
INSURICA-Brooke Campbell
Panther Creek Stables
Paragon Bank
Polycryl Corporation
BLUE AND GOLD SPONSORS
Duncan Williams Asset Management
Memphis Endodontics
Anneliese and William Watts
Martha and Kevin Wells
Wild Beat Salad Company
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Alliance Restoration Inc.
Collier Insurance
Frazee Ivy Davis, PLC
Kelman-Lazarov, Inc., Patrick O’Hearn, CFP
Proscan Solutions
4FDesign
Spec Building Materials
Wills & Wills, LP
Hook Point Brewing Company
MARCH MADNESS PARENT PARTICIPATION CHALLENGE
Congratulations to the Class of 2031 for winning the 2024 March Madness Warrior Parent Participation Challenge. We are grateful for the school-wide participation and support of the Annual Fund during this challenge.
MUSIC RISERS CAMPAIGN
Ms. Christine Belling
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Black
Mr. Rich Davis and Mrs. Jackie Mckinley
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Dobbs
Mr. and Mrs. Brad Earhart
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Eddins
Mr. Charles Harrison
Mr. Drew and Dr. Candace Hinote
Mr. Matthew Jakes and Mrs. Rachel Cheek
Mr. and Mrs. Danny Lyons
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Blair Miller
Ms. Peggy Phillips
Mr. and Mrs. John Shikhule
Drs. Kevin and Martha Wells
Dr. Ellen Whitnack
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT CAMPAIGN
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Anderson
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Hackmeyer
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Humphrey, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. William Myers
Mr. Marcus and Dr. Tiffany Palmer
Mr. Erick Ranta
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Russell
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Stotts
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Worledge
SPECIAL DESIGNATION
DON FRAZIER TUITION ASSISTANCE FUND
The Don Frazier Tuition Assistance Fund was established by the Board of Directors in 2022 to ensure students that would otherwise be unable to afford an independent school education have access to attend Woodland. Mr. Frazier served as Headmaster from 1992-2005. We are grateful to the many people in our community who have made gifts to the fund honoring Mr. Frazier’s legacy.
Ms. Christine Belling
Mrs. Brittany Cawford
Mr. and Mrs. Kyle McDougall
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Pipkin
GRANDPARENTS CLUB
Woodland is grateful for the gifts of time, talent, and Annual Fund support from our Grandparent Community.
Mr. and Mrs. William Abraham
Ms. Marie Rosa Aguilar
Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Barnes
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Berger
Mrs. Dorothy Bickerstaff
Mr. and Mrs. Earle Bourne
Mrs. Donna Brown
Mr. and Mrs. John Cox Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Criss
Mr. and Mrs. Bennie Crowder
Ms. Amber Deberry
Mr. and Mrs. Terry Deibler
Capt. and Mrs. Mike Donohoe
Ms. Rosemary Earp
Mr. and Mrs. John Fox
Mrs. Anne Francis
Mr. Joe French
Mr. and Mrs. William Gibson
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Giordano
Mrs. Nancy Goodman
Mr. Charles Harrison
Mr. and Mrs. Ronny Hawkins
Mr. and Mrs. John Henriksen
Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Higdon
Mr. and Mrs. William Hooker
Dr. and Mrs. Dennis and Sandy Ireland
Ms. Ruth Ivy
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Johnson
Ms. Jane Jordan
Mr. Robert Kirk
Mr. and Mrs. Dan Lyons
Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Matthews
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Maynard
Mr. Alfredo Mesa and Mrs. Beth Robuck
Mr. and Mrs. Randy Miller
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mitchell
Mr. and Mrs. Larry Moss
Dr. and Mrs. Phillip Newton
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Osso
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Padovano
Dr. and Mrs. Phillip Pedigo
Ms. Peggy Phillips
Mr. and Mrs. T. David Pittman
Mr. Erick Ranta and Mrs. Wanda McKnight
Mr. and Mrs. Terry Roberts
Mr. and Mrs. Brad Rogers
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Shoopman Jr.
Mrs. Karla Smith
Mrs. Nancy Smythe
Dr. Nina Staples
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Verk
Mrs. Rebecca Wade
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Wallach
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Waters
Ms. Margaret Welch
Dr. Ellen Whitnack
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Winn Winsett Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Worledge
Thanks to the Music Risers Campaign, Lower School students enjoy using new risers during weekly music class taught by Mrs. Danetta Townsdin.
The annual Auction & Gala “80s Prom”: Ben and Brooke Campbell with event chairs Jackie McKinley (with Rich Davis) and Ashley Lunsford (with husband Wes).
First graders Remy Anderson and Kayleigh Nagel enjoy the new music xylophone.
Charlotte Jimenez ’35 with her grandparents at Grandparents Day in September.
