The Woodstock Academy prepares all students by providing diverse opportunities through a rigorous curriculum and a variety of programs in order to cultivate the necessary skills to become lifelong learners and global citizens.
Photo by Hayden Budd '14
EDITORS
Madison Millar
Samantha Romero
CONTRIBUTORS
Sarah Andrews ‘16
Christopher Sandford
Jonathan Sturdevant
Julie Woodland
Please direct magazine inquiries to communications@woodstockacademy.org
The Woodstock Academy 57 Academy Road Woodstock, CT 06281 (860) 928-6575
woodstockacademy.org
ON THE COVER Giorgia Giannini '19
THE GLEANER
Growth & Transformation of WA Under Chris Sandford
As Head of School Chris Sandford departs WA for his next chapter, we reflect on the last 11 years of visionary leadership with gratitude.
Becoming an Apple Distinguished School
The Woodstock Academy is the first high school in Connecticut recognized as an Apple Distinguished School!
Centaur Sweethearts
Over 50 alumni found love in WA's classroom walls and are still going strong today.
Snapshots and highlights from the year at WA.
Alumni Connections Stay connected with the WA community! View & Share The Gleaner at
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL’S DESK
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
As I write my final letter for the Gleaner, I want to start by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to all of you who have shared such kind and affirming words. Your support has overwhelmed me with gratitude and reminded me of the incredible community I have had the privilege to serve.
Over the course of my 11 years as Head of School, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable impact of the larger Woodstock Academy community. More than 11,000 students from around the world have benefitted from your unwavering dedication to their growth and success. To our exceptional faculty, staff, and leaders: those who teach our children, clean our rooms, cook our meals, coach and direct our students, and provide guidance and leadership — I am deeply honored to have worked alongside you. Our school is filled with individuals of the highest character and integrity, and I am better for having had the opportunity to work with each of you.
I will carry countless special memories from my time here — connecting with alumni, students, and community members, and building lifelong friendships. I leave The Academy a better person than when I arrived, enriched by the experiences and relationships formed here.
While I believed I understood the educational landscape prior to joining The Academy, serving as Head of School allowed me to fully appreciate what it means to work within a remarkable community. The dedication, passion, and inspiration I witnessed daily have been profoundly impactful.
When I first accepted this position, I was drawn by The Academy's reputation for rigorous teaching and learning, creativity, and bold engagement with complex issues. What I discovered far exceeded my expectations. This is a community that thrives on collaboration, perseverance, and a deep commitment to student success.
I am confident that The Academy's future is bright. With Dr. Lawrence Filippelli stepping in as the next Head of School, I know The Academy is in excellent hands and poised for even greater achievements. The challenges we have faced in recent years have only strengthened our resolve and propelled us forward. Through our collective focus on students, we have made tremendous strides toward becoming a more integrated, student-centered institution that serves as a standard of educational excellence in Northeast Connecticut.
As I prepare to step away, I do so with immense optimism for The Academy's future. With a dedicated faculty, talented administrators, committed staff, and a deeply supportive community, I am certain The Academy will continue to provide an exceptional and unparalleled academic experience for generations to come.
Lastly, I want to extend my deepest thanks to the entire Woodstock Academy community for your unwavering support throughout my time here. Your dedication, encouragement, and belief in our mission have been instrumental in our progress and success. It has been a true honor to serve such a remarkable community.
With heartfelt gratitude and warm wishes,
Chris Sandford Head of School
SENIOR ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Christopher J. Sandford
Head of School
Mrs. Holly G. Singleton ’86
Associate Head of School
Mr. Jonathan D. Sturdevant
Associate Head of School for External Affairs
Mr. Michael P. Susi
Associate Head of School for Finance & Operations
Mrs. Amy W. Favreau ’93
Assistant Head of School
Dr. Michael D. Harten Dean of Academics
Mrs. Karin A. Hughes '01 Dean of Student Affairs
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mrs. Christine Swenson, President
Mr. Edwin Higgins, Esq., Vice President
Mr. Hans Rhynhart ‘89, Treasurer
Dr. Walter McGinn, Asst. Treasurer
Mrs. Philippa Paquette, Secretary
Mrs. Martha Beckwith ‘80
Mr. Cary Bentley ‘98
Mr. Andrew Bessette
Mr. Robert Blackmer ‘77
Ms. Lauren Brown ‘98
Mrs. Nancy Duvall
Mr. Robert Ellsworth
Mr. Adam Keser
Mrs. Leisl Langevin ‘04
Mr. Jeffrey Larrow ‘04
Mr. David Morse ‘76
Ms. Heather Munroe ‘87
Dr. Melissa Perkins-Banas
Mr. Eric Quinn
Mr. Matthew Rich ‘15
Dr. Leonard Samborowski
Mr. Brent Tuttle
Mr. Scott Young ‘82
HONORARY TRUSTEES
Mrs. Barbara Child ‘61
Mr. Paul M. Kelly ‘69
Mrs. Jeri Musumeci ‘63
1 A new student enjoys the North Campus view 2 Avery Plouffe '26 breaks record at Nike Indoor Track Nationals
3 Colton Sallum '25 & Christian Menounos '25 at the Indoor Track ECC Championship 4 Juniors upset Seniors in the Centaur Challenge Flag Football Game 5 Medical Club hosts a "Go Pink" fundraiser for Dana-Farber 6 Josh Welch '98 and students recognized by National Center for Women and Information Technology 7 Maddie Bloom '25 & Sophia Sarkis '25 reading to Eastford Elementary students 8 Rania Almashharawi '26 celebrating her birthday 9 10 Class of 2025 Valedictorian Xandar Miller & Salutatorian Kira Greene 11 Oratorical Contest Winners Greyson Dery '26 (2nd place), Phoebe Griffin '25 (1st place), Shaun Mugagga '25 (3rd place)
UConn Software Engineer & Entrepreneur
San Francisco, CA
"... That process of analyzing and having great in-depth conversations in our small classes is definitely something that I continue to use in a lot of aspects of life."
2015
Vishal Cherian
2016
Cornell University, Temple University Medical Student
Philadelphia, PA
“At WA, I learned the importance of being invested in my education, asking questions, and making connections with my teachers.”
Vrije Universiteit
PR/Marketing Intern Amsterdam, Netherlands
“The Woodstock Academy is a place where you are taught that your voice matters. It’s a place where you are surrounded by people who empower you and teach you to embrace both your strengths and your weaknesses.”
2019
Giorgia Giannini
BLUE & G.O.L.D.
2018
Barry University
International Trade Consultant
Kigali, Rwanda
“The character and love of all our 2016 graduates shaped & brought light to my life.”
Harvard College, Brown University
PhD Economics Student Providence, RI
"Having diverse educational experiences, as well as teachers that pushed me to be my best, really helped prepare me for the academic rigor of college."
Sakindi
Brendan Chapuis
Columbia University
Mathematics-Statistics Student
New York, NY
“I owe my current professional trajectory and a lot of my personal interests to the advanced classes and clubs/sports teams I was involved with at WA.”
Clark University Marketing Student & Entrepreneur Worcester, MA
“I’ve managed to balance being on the Dean’s List while interning for the Clark marcom team and running a successful photography, videography, and DJ business called chamilton_studios.”
GRADUATES OF THE LAST DECADE
2020
Luis Miranda
Carleton College
Process Engineer
Minneapolis, MN
“One lasting take-away that I learned while at WA is to be open-minded. There is only so much one person can know, but by being open-minded to different, sometimes contradictory, perspectives, I can excel and continue to grow holistically and broadly.”
2022
Tolland, CT
"WA is unique in its dedication to making the learning environment for students as comfortable as possible."
2024
Brandeis University
Economics & Finance Student
Waltham, MA
"I think WA's sense of community is what makes it unique. It gave me the feeling of a tight-knit community whether that was on North or South Campus"
Maggie Ebbeling
Jaiden Banton
Marco Maluf
Collin Hamilton
ATP Flight School Pilot
'15 VISHAL CHERIAN
When Vishal Cherian ’15 joined the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) club while at WA, it was just one of his many academic and extracurricular endeavors. His course schedule was stacked with college-level classes, he was a member of the National Honor Society, and most days you could find him in WA’s recording studio, making original music for hours after school. Vishal doesn’t remember being particularly passionate about business at the time. In fact, he guesses that a friend probably convinced him to go to an FBLA meeting and he serendipitously ended up selling popcorn for the club’s snack start-up. Ironically, nearly a decade later, he’s co-founded a new company (and one of his business partners is a fellow alumnus)!
Along with Ryan Heilemann ’15 and David Palmer, Vishal has founded Siiv, a software-data management company that serves the construction industry in the San Francisco Bay Area. Siiv helps general contractors centralize and digitize their financial document data, and Vishal is one of the tech experts who gets the job done. He’s got years of experience as a software engineer to help inform his work. After graduating from the University of Connecticut with a BS in computer science, Vishal went on to work in Philadelphia and Baltimore before joining Salesforce in San Francisco. The west coast has clearly charmed him. When he’s not busy with work, Vishal loves exploring the beautiful city, taking in the amazing culture and delicious food, and trying new things, like his latest adventure— learning salsa dancing.
When he reflects on his time at WA, Vishal is struck by the sheer variety of his experiences and the opportunities to explore different subjects comprehensively.
“I enjoyed my AP history and English classes because the teachers engaged us in really high-level discussions,” remembers Vishal. “It might not seem like it applies directly to my career path, but that process of analyzing and having great in-depth conversations in our small classes is definitely something that I continue to use in a lot of aspects of life.” No doubt, this analytical approach serves Vishal well in the business world, as does his ability to form connections with others through meaningful communication. He advises current and future Centaurs to focus on those meaningful connections and skill development, rather than stressing too much about what the future holds.
“It’s ok if you don’t have everything figured out in high school,” Vishal maintains. “You don’t have to know exactly what you want to do or how you’re going to do it…take advantage of the variety of experiences that are offered, and it will naturally lead you to the next step.”
Vishal's WA yearbook photo
BRENDAN CHAPUIS '18
Having diverse educational experiences, as well as teachers that pushed me to be my best, really helped prepare me for the academic rigor of college,” says Brendan Chapuis ’18, when he reflects on his four years at The Woodstock Academy. Since graduating from WA, Brendan has certainly added to those educational experiences. At Harvard College, he explored engineering and political science before settling his focus on economics, and in 2022, he graduated with Highest Honors and won the Harris Prize for the best senior honors thesis in economics.
After working for the Federal Reserve Board of Governors in Washington, D.C. for two years, Brendan enrolled in an economics PhD program at Brown University, where he will continue working on research related to the consequences of job loss for communities and designing policies to promote economic growth in areas that have been left behind. He’s working toward a career as a professor of economics—so he can teach the next generation — but he also hopes to one day return to a role in goverment and contribute to economic policy-making directly.
In many ways, his interest in government work and societal issues was first developed at WA. “The Model UN program and International Relations course expanded my worldview beyond Woodstock and helped inspire me to want to tackle some of the bigger issues we face as a society, which I hope to do using economics as a toolkit,” says Brendan. He is also grateful to have had a unique high school experience. “The structure of WA as an independent school with international students allows locals like myself to have meaningful interactions with other students from around the world.” Fostering a global perspective so early in his educational journey undoubtedly helped prepare him for life beyond the Quiet Corner.
It's no surprise that Brendan’s current life is mainly focused on his studies, but he still finds time to enjoy Providence’s beautiful parks, great restaurants, and fun bars. When he’s not in the classroom, Brendan can be found exploring the city with his camera in hand, playing soccer, basketball, and pool with friends, or training for an upcoming half marathon.
Brendan's WA yearbook photo
MAGGIE EBBELING '22
In the fall of 2021, Maggie Ebbeling ’22 started her senior year at WA with more questions than answers. “I had no idea what I even wanted,” she admits, as she remembers struggling to find a passion and a path she wanted to follow post-graduation. However, once she enrolled in WA's private pilot ground school class, taught by Rich Garceau '84, that all changed. She credits the veteran WA teacher with molding her into the person she is today and showing her that aviation is about so much more than just flying a plane.
After graduating from The Woodstock Academy, Maggie enrolled in the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) flight school at Brainard Airport in Hartford and has been steadily working toward a career in aviation. After three years of hard work and dedication, she’s already reached many milestones along that journey. Maggie now holds a private pilot’s license and earned an instrument flight rating, which qualifies her to fly in a variety of conditions using only the instruments available in the aircraft. She also received her single-engine commercial pilot’s license followed shortly thereafter by her multi-engine commercial license.
“I’m still learning and growing,” Maggie says, though she’s quickly progressing through her aviation education already. She’s grateful for the teachers and coaches at WA who helped instill in her a lifelong learning mindset and steadfast work ethic that will serve her well as she reaches great heights.
Maggie's WA yearbook photo
Maggie earning her commercial pilot license
JAIDEN BANTON '24
Mr. Meyers’s AP Macroeconomics class was integral in pushing me to pursue an economics major,” says Class of 2024’s Jaiden Banton when asked about the influence WA has had on his post-graduation life so far. The former prep soccer player is wrapping up his first year at Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass., majoring in economics with a minor in finance. He hopes to follow a path toward a career in investment banking or financial analytics but still finds plenty of time for soccer. Even though he’s new to the Brandeis team, Jaiden made two appearances on the pitch in his first season and the team finished second in the University Athletic Association (UAA) league. He offers “a huge thank you to WA’s Coach Finberg, Coach D’Alessandro, and Coach Glemawu for the work they did to help me get the opportunity to play soccer in college.”
While much of his time is spent in the classroom or on the field, Jaiden has settled in nicely to his cozy college town and keeps up with the photography passion he was able to showcase in the 2024 edition of WA’s literary and arts magazine, The Deep End. He’s thankful to have made fast friends with teammates and roommates at Brandeis, and together they enjoy watching horror movies, playing FIFA, and heading into Boston for a night out on the town.
Though his time at WA was short, the lasting friendships, warm atmosphere, and tight-knit community of the school has clearly made a lasting impact on Jaiden. “It was a proud moment for me when I, along with my graduating classmates, was inducted into the alumni association during the Pink House ceremony,” he remembers. “WA is now and forever will be a part of my life.” W
Jaiden (L) & his Brandeis University soccer teammates
Jaiden's WA yearbook photo
SHAPING THE FUTURE: THE GROWTH & TRANSFORMATION OF WA UNDER CHRIS SANDFORD
After serving nearly 12 years as head of school at The Woodstock Academy, Christopher Sandford has announced his plan to retire at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. When he joined The Woodstock Academy in December 2013, the school already had a well-established reputation of educational excellence and a storied history in Connecticut’s Quiet Corner. However, his new role was not without challenges. The district faced a declining sending town population and had recently created an international student homestay program. Like many school districts across the country, there was a growing income learning gap amongst the student body, and some programming was limited by inadequate facilities in want of repair.
When he exits the commencement stage along with the graduating class of 2025, Sandford will leave behind a school that has seen tremendous growth and development over the past decade—thanks, in large part, to his dynamic and forward-thinking leadership.
UNPARALLELED GROWTH
When our alumni return to campus for special events and campus tours, they revel in the nostalgia of their old haunts like The Academy Building, or the old Hyde Gym (which now houses the Bracken Memorial Library). Just as impactful, however, is their astonishment at how much the school has grown—not only in student enrollment, but in its facilities, programming, and technology. Over the last decade, much of this growth can be attributed to Chris Sandford’s vision for The Academy. He saw a school with strong academic standing and deep historical roots and believed that it could also expand to become a modern institution that fostered lifelong learning and brought together students from diverse backgrounds with a shared goal of global citizenship.
Sandford began rising to these early challenges while maintaining a constant focus on student needs. To
modernize WA classrooms and help bridge the income learning gap, Sandford led the school in a significant move to a 1 to 1 technology program, outfitting every Centaur with an iPad device to more easily access learning and level the playing field for students from all backgrounds. Similar programs have since become popular across the state, but in 2015 WA was among the first in the area to adopt this approach. It has not only eliminated the technology disparity amongst students, but it has also allowed for more innovation and efficiency in instruction, a wider range of creative expression, and greater mastery of the technological skills essential to success in college and careers. Ten years after implementing the iPad device program, The Woodstock Academy is recognized as a beacon of innovative educational technology and is the first high school in Connecticut to have been named an Apple Distinguished School.
To address the physical limitations of WA’s campus size and its impact on programming, Sandford worked with the Board of Trustees to find a creative solution. In 2016, he announced one of the most significant updates in WA’s long history: the school had purchased the former Hyde School, which would become its South Campus. The year that followed was one of dramatic growth and change. In just a few short months the new campus was transformed, and dozens of new staff members were added to establish a residential life community, as WA finally had the facilities to house boarding students. This put the school in a position to supplement the naturally declining population in its sending towns with domestic and international boarders. In the years to follow, WA welcomed a larger and more diverse group of students. Of course, the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily slowed the program’s growth, but it has since rebounded. Currently, 165 boarding students are enrolled at The Woodstock Academy, joining us from 32 countries and multiple U.S. states. The diversity of perspectives and life experiences these students bring to The Academy helps to round out
every student’s WA experience and foster the global citizenship central to the school’s mission.
Naturally, the rapid growth that Sandford pushed for would not be possible without the support of the community. Early into his tenure, he recognized the need for a robust advancement department to help improve WA’s standing in the independent school community and raise essential funds for improved equipment, upgraded classrooms, and additional program offerings. Since then, The Academy, along with The Woodstock Academy Foundation, has raised more than $19 million in gifts and grants, grown the school’s endowment by more than 300%, and created the building blocks for a sustainable future that ensures a better WA experience for all. WA also secured one of its most significant grant initiatives, the Beagary Investment Grants and Scholarships (BIGS) endowment in partnership with the E.E. Ford Foundation for increased equity in student opportunities.
Today, students from around the world and just around the corner benefit from this important work. A partnership with local manufacturer SPIROL resulted in a state-of-the-art STEAM center on North Campus with a makerspace, flight simulator, 3-D printers, robotics equipment, and more. A gift of historic proportions from
Joan Loos allowed the school to establish the Loos Center for the Arts, which features a professional 1,000-seat theater, public art gallery, and lecture hall offering programming for both the school and the greater community. A series of grants and donations helped build an industry-standard television studio on campus for WA’s communications courses. In May of 2024, Sandford took the stage in the Academy Building to thank the community for their aid in its $7 million renovation and restoration. The iconic centerpiece of the school’s North Campus is now accessible to all (with the installation of an elevator) and classrooms have been updated for modern learning while restoring and retaining their historic charm. All of these advantageous updates are a result of Sandford’s unwavering support for bold innovation at The Woodstock Academy.
LEADERSHIP & LEGACY
Sandford’s impact on The Woodstock Academy cannot be overstated, but it is perhaps best articulated by individuals who’ve worked closely with him during his tenure. As a veteran teacher currently in his 27th year at WA, Rich Telford has witnessed several changes in leadership at the school. In his former role as English Department Chair and current role as President of the Woodstock Academy Education Association, he’s collaborated with Sandford extensively. “I have long appreciated Chris’ authentic belief that every student should be valued, that every student deserves our advocacy,” said Telford. “He has never lost sight of the one question that should drive all school policy: ‘Is it good for kids?’” It's a question often repeated by Sandford in meetings with other school administrators, faculty, and families, and it has clearly served as the “North Star” for WA’s institutional goals under his leadership.
“It’s difficult to rank the importance of Chris’ many contributions other than to say that ‘the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,’” remarked WA Board of Trustees President Christine Swenson. “That said, his commitment to an inclusive student-centric culture is the pinnacle.”
“As an individual, Chris is a humble leader, preferring to provide others with the opportunity to explore and develop professionally. He’s the kind of head of school who knew everyone’s name, was accessible, ever-present, authentic, and inspiring.”
As The Woodstock Academy looks to its future under the leadership of Dr. Larry Filippelli, the legacy left behind by Chris Sandford’s tenure at WA will undoubtedly add to the school’s rich history, leaving an indelible impact on the community.
“Chris leaves The Woodstock Academy with a two-campus facility, a proven resource development capability partnered with The Woodstock Academy Foundation, and exceptional administrative, faculty and staff anchored in a student centric culture, well positioned for an exciting future accepting of both the opportunities and challenges that are ahead,” said Swenson. W
Chris Sandford with former WA Heads of School Kent Weaver, William Troy & Richard Foye
A NEW CHAPTER: INTRODUCING WA'S NEXT HEAD OF SCHOOL
The Woodstock Academy Board of Trustees is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Lawrence Filippelli as the next Head of School, beginning July 1, 2025. Selected through a national search, Larry brings a wealth of experience and fresh perspective to The Academy.
A PROVEN LEADER IN EDUCATION
With over 22 years of educational leadership experience, Larry has served in various teaching and administrative roles, most recently as the Superintendent of Lincoln Public Schools in Rhode Island. In this role, he led a district-wide curriculum overhaul, increased enrollment, and spearheaded major infrastructure improvements, overseeing $107 million in school construction projects.
His dedication to student success and school safety has earned him statewide recognition, as he was named the 2023 Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year. Larry is also deeply involved in higher education, serving as adjunct faculty for Educational Leadership masters and doctoral programs at Providence College and Johnson & Wales University. Additionally, he is a member of the Board of Trustees at LaSalle Academy in Providence.
Larry’s commitment to inclusive education is evident in his leadership. His work supporting multi-language learners and promoting equity through initiatives like the Minority Business Enterprise program demonstrates his belief in providing an accessible and well-rounded education for all students.
BUILDING ON A STRONG FOUNDATION
As he prepares to take on this new role, Larry is eager to build upon the strong foundation established by Chris Sandford, who has led The Woodstock Academy through a period of unparalleled growth over the past 11 years.
“I am incredibly excited to join The Woodstock Academy and make an impact on such a strong and distinguished educational institution,” Larry shared. “The Academy’s unique independent
school model, its passionate faculty and staff, and its vibrant student body make this an extraordinary opportunity. My goal is to build on The Academy’s foundation by increasing enrollment, expanding and enhancing student programs, and promoting excellence in all facets of The Academy.”
Board of Trustees President Christine Swenson emphasized the significance of this leadership transition: “Selecting a Head of School is the most important responsibility of the Board of Trustees, and we are thrilled to welcome Larry to WA. His leadership philosophy—rooted in collaboration, integrity, and accountability—aligns perfectly with our mission.”
With a vision for growth, innovation, and student success, The Academy is well-positioned for a bright future. W
GETTING TO KNOW DR. FILIPPELLI
Key professional values: Collaboration, Integrity, Accountability
Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year 2023
A top goal at WA: bringing the student population to capacity levels and supporting the diverse student body we have in place
Hopes to grow professional and career pathways at WA including a law/policy and business/entrepreneur pathway
He has independent school experience as a member of the Board of Trustees at LaSalle Academy in Providence
As superintendent in Lincoln, RI, he oversaw 6 schools with a total of nearly 500 faculty and staff members and 3200 students
In recent years, he’s taught courses at the masters and doctoral level in educational administration and leadership at Providence College and Johnson & Wales University
He has an interest in horology (the study of the measurement of time) and collects vintage watches (he was fascinated by the Academy Building’s bell and clock!)
He loves classic cars and is a member of the BMW Car Club of America, Boston Chapter, and the Porsche Club of America, Northeast Region
He enjoys cheering on his daughters, whether on the sidelines of his youngest’s soccer games or in the audience of his eldest’s music performances at Providence College
WA’s Journey to Becoming an Apple Distinguished School
In August 2024, The Woodstock Academy was recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for the 2024-2027 program term. Schools apply and are selected for this distinction based on their commitment to continuous innovation in education and using Apple products to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning.
GETTING STARTED
For The Woodstock Academy, the road to this special recognition started in 2014. “A conversation started happening around academics and equal access to technology,” said Head of School Chris Sandford. “We wanted to establish a program where everyone had equal access to technology so that academic success wasn’t dependent upon any financial reality.”
Sandford pushed for a 1:1 technology program, where each student borrows a personal device for the duration of their time at The Woodstock Academy and uses it daily in the classroom and to complete schoolwork at home. The technology department collaborated with WA administration and a technology committee to conduct research on various products and programs, and a few classes piloted the use of iPad devices before the program started schoolwide in 2015.
LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD
“To be honest, when we first started the 1:1 program, I was really nervous,” admits Career & Technology Teacher Eric Collelo. “But it’s been really good overall because it puts all the students on a level playing field.”
No longer were lessons and assignments limited by the level of access to technology that each individual student had at home. Teachers knew that every student had the same tool to help them learn and demonstrate their learning, and as the faculty and staff received training and learned more about how best to use these new tools, barriers to learning were broken down.
“I’m teaching one class where I have five different home languages spoken amongst my students,” explains Science Teacher and Apple Coach Melany Gronski. “Normally, that might present a significant barrier to understanding a lesson, but with the iPad devices, students can highlight the English text in an assignment and translate it in real time.” This ensures that everyone in the classroom can equally engage in Mrs. Gronksi’s chemistry or forensic science lessons equally.
Chris Sandford, Holly Singleton '86, Dr. Michael Harten, Melany Gronski with the Apple Distinguished School certificate
“Having this technology in our classrooms is a great example of how we live our mission to make sure all students have equal access to academic programming,” noted Sandford.
PUSHING LEARNING FURTHER
Teachers and students alike have shared praise for the way in which WA’s 1:1 iPad device program has allowed for more creativity in the classroom.
“We do a lot of project-based assessments here, which is how I learn best,” said senior Kate Ritzau.
In Music Technology classes, students use their iPads to record and produce original music. In English class, some students are demonstrating their understanding of non-fiction articles in the form of podcast episodes specially crafted on their iPads. Photography students are using Apple software to edit their photos, whether they’re working in the classroom or finishing up an assignment at home.
In Eric Collelo’s Game Design class, his students use a program from a company called Pixicade on their iPads. “Students can literally draw out what they want their video game to look like on a piece of paper,” explains Collelo. “They take a photograph of their drawing using the camera app on their iPad and the program adapts it into a real game. The next thing you know, they’re playing and sharing it with others.”
CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY
Apple also provides resources for educators, including special training and a resource library with countless ideas for instruction and lessons.
“I was going through the resources that Apple provides us, and I found the ‘Challenge for Change’ project,” said Gronski. “It gives students an opportunity to take action on an issue that’s important to them.”
The “Challenge for Change” project was discussed in advisories across the entire student body, sparking deeper conversations and inspiring spin-off projects and ideas.
“Some of the students are really climate change activists,” Gronski explains, “so in advisory they were looking at WA’s systems and what we do here in terms of recycling. As the advisor to EarthSave club, some of those conversations spilled into our club.” It inspired a student-led EarthSave Summit for the community.
“It’s really special that, as a school, we can use technology to engage with the world,” said senior Emily Smock.
This level of impact is one of many reasons why WA’s program has received recognition.
“Since we became a 1:1 iPad school 11 years ago, we have always looked to improve our practice to use the technology to improve our instruction,” said Dean of Academics Dr. Michael Harten. “To that end, we developed a relationship with the Apple Professional Learning team that has provided us access to a worldwide collection of innovative schools and allowed us to attend a regional conference with ADS partners.”
In Apple Distinguished Schools like WA, forward-thinking leaders and their communities work to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning. As teachers incorporate technology into their lessons, students are empowered to lead, learn, and thrive, to discover new opportunities, and to make their world a better place. W
INSPIRE IMAGINE IMPACT
Students using Apple technology in the classroom
RECORD TURNOUT AT ALUMNI WEEKEND 2024
In early October, more than 300 WA alumni gathered to celebrate milestones, reflect on shared memories, and make connections across several generations of Centaurs. Highlights of the weekend included:
ALUMNI ART SHOW
From paintings, to photography, sculpture, and textiles, the talents of our alumni artists were on full display in The Gallery at Loos Center for the Arts. This event was a wonderful way to kick off Alumni Weekend.
CAMPUS TOURS
Nearly 50 alumni joined us for a tour of North Campus. Led by Head of School Chris Sandford, the tour was both a trip down memory lane and an in-depth look at how far WA has come. The crowd favorite was a visit to the Academy Building, which has been a central part of our campus for more than 150 years and recently underwent an historic renovation.
ALUMNI LUNCHEON
Alumni Luncheon attendees represented WA graduates from class years spanning several decades, but we were especially honored to bring together members of the Class of 1954 for their 70th high school reunion.
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD
Jeri Lee Carpenter Musumeci ’63 was recognized with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Service to Alma Mater for her 22 years of service to The Academy Board of Trustees, Alumni Association Board, WA Booster Club, and Bicentennial Committee.
HILL
SINGERS REUNION
Former WA choral directors Dan Graves (1971-1984) and Bob Beckwith (1984-1996) joined current director Amy Ranta in assembling more than 100 Hill Singers from the Class of 1972 through 2027 for a moving reunion concert.
ALUMNI
SHINDIG
The weekend ended on a high note—with good drink and great company at the nearby Taylor Brooke Brewery, where more than 100 alumni raised their glasses to another remarkable WA Alumni Weekend.
“It was incredible to see the largest gathering of WA alumni come together on campus this past fall,” said Sarah Andrews ’16, Advancement Operations Associate at The Woodstock Academy. “We’re looking forward to inducting an exceptionally accomplished new class into the Athletic Hall of Fame, and our 2nd inductee into the Hall of Excellence. Our revamped slate of events for Alumni Weekend 2025 will build on our traditional alumni events with the addition of a young alum gathering to the schedule.”
Program details for Alumni Weekend 2025 will be announced in May. W
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WA Music Department Directors Bob Beckwith (1984-1996), Amy Ranta (2001-Present), Dan Graves (1971-1984).
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WA
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WA
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WA Music Department Directors on stage with the returning past and present Hill Singers for their reunion concert.
Alumni catching up at the Taylor Brooke Brewery Shindig.
Jeri Lee Musumeci '63 accepting the Distinguished Alumni Award at Loos Center for the Arts with her son and WA LAB Director, Joseph Musumeci '92.
Grace (Gregory) Russell '16, her husband Tyler, and Sarah Andrews '16 enjoying the Taylor Brooke Brewery Shindig.
Class members of 1954 gathered at the Alumni Luncheon for their 70th reunion.
When The Woodstock Academy’s administration met to develop a school-wide goal for the 2024-2025 school year last summer, members took stock of the ways in which technology continues to reshape the world around us. As leaders at a school that takes great pride in being ahead of the curve pedagogically and technologically, they decided to take a bold step forward with a school-wide initiative to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into WA’s educational environment. This goal reflects The Academy’s commitment to preparing students for the future by providing training on the ethical and responsible use of AI, ensuring that both students and staff are equipped to navigate an evolving digital landscape.
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR A CHANGING WORLD
With AI’s growing presence in industries ranging from healthcare to finance, it’s important that schools familiarize students with this transformative technology.
“Integrating AI in education isn’t just about enhancing how we teach today; it’s about preparing our students for the world they will shape tomorrow,” Dean of Student Affairs
Karin Hughes '01 explains. She’s crafted an AI “on-ramp” guide for WA’s faculty and shares weekly “A-Ideas” with teachers, providing valuable resources and training opportunities for educators. “By teaching our students to harness AI thoughtfully, we empower them not only to adapt and innovate, but also to reimagine possibilities, using technology to see the world—and its challenges— through new lenses.”
While AI presents exciting opportunities, WA is also committed to ensuring that students understand the ethical implications of this technology. Discussions surrounding bias in AI algorithms, data privacy, and responsible decisionmaking are an essential part of classroom conversations on
The Future is Now: AI Integration at The Woodstock Academy
the topic. As faculty members continue to receive training on AI applications in education, special focus is given to integrating these tools in ways that enhance learning while maintaining academic integrity.
HANDS-ON LEARNING & REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS
To bring AI learning to life, The Woodstock Academy is implementing hands-on experiences across various disciplines. From using AI-powered tools for research and writing to exploring coding and machine learning concepts in STEM courses, students gain exposure to how AI functions in real-world settings. The school is also exploring partnerships with industry professionals to provide mentorship and practical insights into AI-related careers.
Math and Science Department Chair Tom Young has highlighted the benefits of Notebook LM, an AI tool that allows students to upload their own course materials and interact with AI-generated responses. “Often students will ask ChatGPT a question about an assignment, but the answer produced is not within the scope of the course they are taking. By limiting the sources that the AI is using to produce a response, such as uploading screenshots of handwritten notes, the AI can better understand the main ideas of the course and provide more relevant answers.”
Young also noted that Notebook LM offers features like a two-person, fully-voiced podcast, which he has used to create audio summaries of class notes. “It’s perfect for students who want to review material while doing chores or traveling,” he said. “In the classroom, it’s a great resource for organizing notes and structuring AI-assisted learning.”
Additionally, Special Education Teacher Vicki Despres '98 has embraced MagicSchool, an AI-driven platform designed to help students with structured learning and organization.
“I learned about MagicSchool last summer and completed the training to become an ambassador because I loved the structure and delivery it offers,” she said. “The MagicSchool ‘student room’ allows students to engage with AI tools specific to their needs, and I can monitor their interactions to see how they are utilizing the technology.”
During the first semester, Despres and her students used MagicSchool for various activities, including brainstorming scenarios for demonstrating growth mindset, improving organization and time management, summarizing videos, and even generating personalized statements of encouragement. “It puts useful tools directly in front of students, allowing them to frame how AI can best assist them,” she explained.
Despres also introduced students to Goblin Tools, an AI resource for refining and rewording text. “We evaluate whether the AI-generated content aligns with how we naturally speak or write,” she said. “It’s a great way to engage students in critical thinking about AI-generated outputs.”
LOOKING AHEAD
By embracing AI, The Woodstock Academy is ensuring that its students are not just consumers of technology but informed and responsible participants in the digital age. As the school year unfolds, The Academy will continue to refine its AI integration efforts, gathering feedback from students and faculty to enhance this forward-thinking initiative.
It’s a move that provides yet another example of The Woodstock Academy’s dedication to innovation and excellence. As AI continues to shape the future, WA students will be ready—not just to keep up, but to lead the way. W
ADVANCING OUR WA FAMILY
Hello WA Alumni and Friends,
As we approach the end of our 224th year, I am grateful for the many positives we have to celebrate as a school community. It’s been one year since we reopened the Academy Building after a historic renovation, and it’s now being utilized at full capacity. Our student body is among the strongest and most diverse it has ever been, with students from our six sending towns, many other towns in both Connecticut and Massachusetts, and 32 different countries around the world. Students are about to take off for various athletic, musical, and travel experiences around the country and the world during spring break, and our outlook for the future is strong.
Last fall we held our first affinity reunion for Alumni Weekend as we celebrated 50+ years of the Hill Singers. It was an incredible time to welcome more than 300 alumni back to various events on campus and around town and watch as all three Hill Singer directors led a choir made up of graduates from the 1970s through just last year. We expect we will hold more affinity group reunions in the future, and for this year, we are looking forward to celebrating the next classes of the Hall of Fame and Hall of Excellence.
The Woodstock Academy Foundation and the advancement office have begun the early stages of planning the next significant project for enhancements to the student experience here at WA. For
now, we are looking forward to engaging with many of our alumni at events here in Woodstock, around the country and the world in the coming year. Please be on the lookout for events in your area – or let us know if you would like to see one come closer to you.
In the article on page 10, you read about the tenure of my colleague and friend, our Head of School, Chris Sandford. I want to express my own gratitude for his leadership, mentorship, and vision that has guided us for almost 12 years. The Academy is in a strong position for continued growth and progress because of the good work he inspired and led. Most importantly, students during his headship and those in the future have access to far more opportunities than before he arrived. Chris, we wish you well, and thank you for your great service to The Academy.
Thank you all for your support and advocacy for The Academy–we could not do it without you.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Sturdevant Associate Head of School for External Affairs
Balancing Act
Achieving work-life balance can be difficult for any teacher, but for those who choose to serve their country in addition to their roles as educators, this challenge can be even more complicated. Such is the case for Nik Ververis, WA Physical Education Teacher and Staff Seargent in the Connecticut Air National Guard.
“The military had always piqued my interest from a young age,” said Ververis, “but as I approached the end of high school, I chose to pursue another passion— playing baseball in college.”
This led to a career in physical education, but in March of 2020, Ververis found himself reflecting on paths he’d not yet explored. “It was then that I made the decision to enlist, knowing I needed to embrace the challenge rather than risk wondering what could have been,” Ververis said.
With his background in physical education, it should come as no surprise that Ververis’s fitness and hand-eye coordination earned him the Thunderbolt Fitness Award on the Air Force Fitness Test and Expert Marksmanship Honors for his duty weapons during military training. Since enlisting, he’s served in Security Forces roles during a deployment to Qatar and has had the privilege of being armed security for both the President of The United States in 2021 and the Vice President of The United States in 2022.
“My favorite aspect of military service is meeting people from diverse cultures,” explained Ververis. “While traveling the world and connecting with people from different countries is incredible, even within the U.S. military there is a rich diversity of backgrounds and experiences.”
These experiences no doubt inform his teaching when Ververis returns to the classroom. For several years, he’s volunteered to speak about his military experience during WA’s Veteran’s Day presentations and he’s also led field trips to the Connecticut Air National Guard base in East Granby for Centaurs interested in military service.
“High school is a pivotal time,” noted Ververis. “If I can share my experiences and lessons learned from my own challenges, it allows me to help students grow, overcome obstacles, and set the foundation for a prosperous future.”
In January, halfway through his 10th year of teaching at The Woodstock Academy, Ververis took a leave of absence and is currently serving a deployment that will likely extend into fall of the 2025-2026 school year.
“Wearing multiple hats as an educator and service member can be tough, but with a community like ours, I am reminded that I am not navigating this journey alone,” said Ververis.
In September, The Woodstock Academy was recognized by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) for its ongoing commitment to supporting employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve Forces. Over the past several years, The Woodstock Academy has implemented various initiatives to assist National Guard and Reserve employees. These include additional paid leave, comprehensive insurance coverage, and other support mechanisms designed to ease the challenges that come with serving both our country and the school. By offering these benefits, The Woodstock Academy aims to ensure that its employees can fulfill their military responsibilities while continuing to excel in their roles within the WA community.
"At The Academy, we believe in standing by our employees, especially those who are committed to defending our nation,” said Head of School Chris Sandford. “Their service is an inspiration, and we are proud to support them in every way possible."
That unwavering support is certainly felt by Ververis. “Not once have I felt like my military commitments were a burden to the leadership and community at WA,” Ververis said. “Instead, they’ve always been encouraging and proud of my service, making it possible for me to excel in both roles. It’s truly an honor to serve both in the classroom and in the military.” W
WHAT WA HAS LEARNED FROM LUNCH
At the start of the 2022-2023 school year, WA implemented a new daily schedule that carved out time for something called “community lunch.” It was an idea born from the community’s reflection on the e-learning that took place when Covid19 interrupted in-person classes. One benefit of the e-learning schedule was the community lunch hour it included and the flexible time to address student needs that it afforded. WA leadership, faculty, and staff were eager to find a way to continue this positive trend as the school returned to campus, so they adopted an ambidextrous leadership approach to rework the schedule and allow everyone the opportunity to customize their day.
Over the past few years, community lunch has offered WA students extra time to study, exercise, and gather, as the library, gymnasiums, and academic help rooms are open to all. Dozens of
clubs rotate their meetings throughout the week, which has led to a significant increase in student participation and club engagement.
“Community lunch places that essential contact time during the school day, reducing inequities of geography or work or family responsibilities that many of our students have when these opportunities occur only after school,” said Dean of Academics Dr. Michael Harten.
Additionally, community lunch allows time for colleagues to collaborate and better monitor their students’ mental health and wellness.
“This practice aligns with educational research emphasizing the importance of flexible learning time and socialemotional development,” said Associate Head of School Holly Singleton ’86.
Senior Maggie McHugh remembers being worried about the shift to a more flexible daily schedule at the start of her sophomore year. “I assumed that it would be super difficult to get food or find a place to eat with everyone being in lunch at the same time,” said McHugh, whose concerns were for naught. She now uses the time to attend meetings with Model UN, Earthsave, Book Club, and more and has embraced the freedom and opportunities community lunch provides. “I use the hour to meet with teachers, talk to my counselor, and see my friends that I don’t share a class with. Being able to go to clubs during lunch has enabled me to join clubs I wouldn’t have the time for if I didn’t have an hour provided to me during the school day.”
But how could a lunch hour have such a significant impact on the student experience?
Singleton points to scientific-based research to explain the connection. “Studies, such as those from the Learning Policy Institute, highlight
that students perform better academically and experience lower stress levels when schools incorporate time for unstructured social interaction, tutoring, and extracurricular engagement into the school day.”
As McHugh explains, “It gives students a time to find their little communities. Whether that’s a club that supports a cause you care about, or just finding your own corner of campus to sit down and eat lunch in—community lunch provides each student with a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of their time in whatever way is best for them.” W
WA BASEBALL TEAM WINS FIRST-EVER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
In the final game of the 2024 season, The Woodstock Academy boys baseball team triumphed over Regional Hebron, Andover, and Marlborough (RHAM) High School with a 5-2 win at Palmer Field in Middletown.
Pitcher Brady Ericson ‘25 struck out 11 and allowed only one hit in nearly 5 innings. At the plate, Ericson also made a mark with a two-run homer in the first inning. Junior Maxx Corradi followed with an RBI in the second inning and a two-run single in the fifth inning for good measure.
The Centaurs finished with an impressive 26-2 record for the 2024 season. After the big win, the team’s late-night return to campus was celebrated with a cheering crowd of fans and an impromptu parade, courtesy of the town’s fire departments and emergency vehicles.
Head Coach Connor Elliott pointed to the team’s dedication as one of the key ingredients to their success in 2024. “They took practice seriously, appreciated the value of hard work, and LOVED to play the game of baseball together,” Elliott said. “I was lucky to be a part of that special group of young men.”
In September, custom championship rings were distributed to the team in a ceremony at Bentley Athletic Complex. Some Class of 2024 players returned to campus for the special event, having just started their first year of college. Shortstop Eric Mathewson ‘24 has gone on to play for the Eastern Connecticut State
University Warriors while pursuing a degree in finance and Riley O’Brien ’24 will take the field this spring with the Southern Maine University Huskies.
As for Class of 2025’s Brady Ericson, he’ll take the mound for one more season with the WA Centaurs but has already committed to pitch for the Division 1 University of Connecticut Huskies next year.
“Playing baseball at WA has prepared me for college in many ways,” said Ericson. “I was put into high pressure situations multiple times throughout the season and had to find a way to prevail. Along with that, this last season taught me many leadership skills. Going into college, I am going to need these traits if I wish to continue being successful.”
This spring, he will no doubt return to take a leadership role for the Centaurs and Elliott looks forward to the experience that Ericson and other returning varsity players will bring to the field. The coach predicts that his team will face more adversity this year, as teams in conference and around the state recognize them as a serious threat, but he’s not too worried.
“If we have commitment to each other, dedication to improve, and attention to detail up to the standard of the program, everything will take care of itself,” said Elliott. “Focusing on those things, while ignoring the outside noise is our recipe for a successful 2025 season.”
PREP SOCCER: BACK-TO-BACK CHAMPIONS
The WA Boys Prep Soccer Team has done it again! Under the exceptional leadership of head coach Owen Finberg, the Centaurs solidified their status as the number one prep soccer program in the nation for a second consecutive season. The team capped off an impressive season with a 14-1-2 record and their second straight Prep Premier League (PPL) championship title.
With a remarkable 29-1-3 record over the past two seasons, The Woodstock Academy continues to set the standard in prep soccer. This season, the Centaurs dominated on the pitch, going 6-0-1 against other Prep Top 10 programs, with their sole loss coming against Pennington School (New Jersey), last year’s High School Boys Soccer fall national champion.
The PPL title was clinched with a 2-1 victory over Hoosac School, showcasing the depth and talent of Woodstock's roster. Rutgers signee Jude Essuman ‘25 led the charge, scoring a team-best eight goals in league play. Standout performances also came from Lehigh commit Ajani Banton ‘25 (defender) and Middlebury commit Dylan Payne ‘25 (midfielder). Sophomore forward Richard Sarpong also made his mark, finishing second on the team in league goals and fourth overall in the PPL, underscoring the program’s bright future.
“Not only do we have a group of talented players that are also growing into great young men, but we also have a culture within our program that is both competitive and supportive, and one
that we work hard to sustain year after year. It is unbelievably satisfying to help this group of players and coaches achieve the success of being both Prep Premier League and National Champions again,” said Coach Finberg.
In addition to their collective success, Essuman and goalkeeper Alvaro Medrano Lopez ’25 represented The Woodstock Academy in the High School All-American Game in Charleston, S.C. At a celebratory team banquet held in January, Essuman also received the team’s Abel Mickey Watson Most Valuable Player and Golden Boot awards. Medrano Jr. shared the team’s Golden Gloves Award with Kevin Christensen, Tyler Hoadley was named Most Improved Player and Tommy Broderick received the Golden Boot award for the Prep 2 soccer team.
As the program celebrates its back-to-back No. 1 rankings, The Woodstock Academy remains committed to fostering excellence both on and off the field.
“Our soccer program exemplifies the values we instill in all our students—commitment, collaboration, and excellence. Their achievements not only highlight the incredible talent of our players and coaches but also unite and inspire our entire school community. We couldn’t be more proud,” said Head of School Chris Sandford. W
Centaur Sweethearts
In February, we asked alumni who’ve partnered up with a fellow Centaur to share their love story for a Valentine’s-themed social media challenge, and we were overwhelmed by the response. We received an outpouring of wedding photos, “then & nows”, family portraits, and heartwarming stories of first loves, decades-long partnerships, and second-chance romances. What an honor it is for WA to have provided the backdrop for these special love stories!
