2014–15 Report on Philanthropy

PLURALISTIC SCHOOL ONE Fall 2015

Welcome Back!

In This Issue:PAGE 1

Head’s Column

PAGES 2–5

Traditions Old and New

PAGE 6–8

Pluralistic Connections

PAGES 9–12 2015 Graduates

PAGE 13 2014–15Report on Philanthropy

BACK COVER New Faculty and StaffNotable NumbersCurt!

The Periscope

Volume 25, Number 3

Editors:

Amanda Perla

Deirdre Gainor

Designer:

David Mellen Design

PS1 Pluralistic School

1225 Broadway

Santa Monica CA 90404

(310) 394-1313

(310) 395-1093 fax

To learn more about our

school, visit our website

www.psone.org

Why?I asked for some favorite WHY questions that members of my staff could remember from their own children or students. Here are some of the ones I received:

• Why when you’re sad does water come out of your eyes?

• Can a person believe in science and God?

• Why do people smoke when they know that it gives you cancer?

• Do colors look the same to you as they do to me? And why can’t we smell colors?

• Why would anyone want to hurt animals?

• Do you think that brains have evolved to allow kids to look at video games longer?

• Why do we have summer break because I want school to be all year?

You’ll have your own favorite WHY questions from your chil-dren. What’s important about all of them is that they point to the curiosity and inquisitiveness that is so directly tied to intelligence, achievement, progress, growth, purpose, and challenge. Which is why, of course, we repeat those questions to friends and family when bragging about our kids. Why did I found PS1 45 years ago? I realized that the frequency of these questions dissipated as a child got older and more entrenched in the traditional educational system. There had to be a better way. Efforts to reform education are doomed to fail if the orga-nizing question, the very first question asked, is not WHY. (See Simon Sinek’s video on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPYeCltXpxw on the power of why.) The Why must provide the context, the organizing principle behind education reform. The following are pertinent and necessary, but not sufficient, questions: What?What should we teach? What should our textbooks include? What is the role of computers and technology in classrooms? What do educators mean by blended learning?

How?For 100 years now, there have been disagreements between traditional and progressive educators about ‘how’ teaching and learning should be presented to students. Where?Should learning take place in schools? On line? Did you know that the largest university in our country now is the University of Phoenix which exists without a campus?

When?When should we teach algebra? Geometry? What would be gained by making mandatory schooling for children before the age of five?

Who? The emphasis so often is on ‘what should teachers teach?’ rather than ‘how do children learn?”

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Head's Column

Despite sincere efforts at reform, the educational system still fails thousands if not millions of children. Why? Because systems can only change after you can decide why you need them in the first place. Why have schools? Why do we need them? In the industri-al age, we needed schools to train the masses to fill existing jobs. Today we need to figure out ways for every person to be a contributing member of our society. That’s today’s purpose; that’s today’s WHY. The answer is we must start with the child. Education comes from the Latin word educare which means to bring forth. This is where pluralism comes in, to help children develop the best version of themselves. We must start with what students already have within them, respecting and valuing the things they know and/or wonder about, the things they are most passionate about, the things they are already good at, and the things that make each of them the unique individual they already are. We recognize at PS1 that it is our responsibility as educators and as schools to honor and cultivate that genius within each child, to help each child feel known, and to build a cohesive community that demonstrates respect for all of these similarities and differ-ences. Pluralism helps to develop the best version of every single child in a school by getting to know them. Some ways this hap-pens on our campus includes:

• Teachers write for themselves and me what they value, honor, and cherish about each of their students before they ever write a child’s assessment

• Snack and recess duties are very important parts of every day, not an afterthought — we work to catch children doing something right and build on the positive

• We have an annual camping trip where we foster independence, develop personal and group responsibility, and live together as one

• We share and acknowledge each other’s work — at Circle Times, Open House, etc.

• We organize around multi-age classrooms and Clusters

• We have an extensive Financial Aid program and an emphasis on inclusivity

• We honor of each student every year at Moving Up Day and, in the end, at Graduation

• We embody our Vision Statement: Celebrate the Many; Build One.

Just as pluralism doesn’t happen by accident, the conscious and deliberate planning by teachers and specialists informs what their students do in their classrooms every day. We haven’t worked as hard in the past to explain WHY teachers make the choices that they do. It is only when we start with the why that we can be certain that what we are doing with our students is right. This year, we are expanding the bi-weekly class letters to demonstrate our intentionality. Teachers will continue to tell you the what and the how of their class programs; the difference this year is that they will also share with you the why. 2015–16 is the Year of WHY. Maybe this year we will learn: Why is the sky blue anyway? –Joel Pelcyger, Head of School

On Pluralism and Education Reform

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Independent School Alliance Information Night

PS1 was proud to host an informational event with the Independent School Alliance (ISA) this spring. The meeting brought families from all over Los Angeles, who were interested in learning more about the independent school admissions process. PS1 is a proud member of ISA, whose mission is to inform members of racial communities presently underrepresented in independent schools of the option of independent school education; to identify applicants from these communities and assist them in the application process; to provide on-going support programs for students and their families; and to act as a resource to member schools assisting them in their individual efforts to address issues of racial diversity and multicultural education.

Joel and Beth are featured here with Keishia Gu, ISA’s Executive Director.

Traditions Old and New

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Santa Monica Youth Orchestra/Summer OPUS Music Camp

Instrumental Music can be heard year-round on campus, as students from Santa Monica (ages 7-16) participated in the second OPUS Musical Summer Camp held at PS1. Musicians explored art, choir, orchestra, and conducting during the two week camp, which culminated with a final concert for family and friends. Here, students enjoyed their first field trip to the Getty Villa!

Grad Leaf Ceremony

At the end of each school year, a special ceremony takes place on the bridge overlooking the Euclid yard. The Grad Leaf Ceremony is a passing of the torch, where students in the current graduating class place their Grad Quote on the Quote Tree and receive their very own PS1 Alumni ID Cards. Students then raise their glasses (of sparkling cider!) in a toast to their Olders classmates who will be entering their final year at PS1.

Traditions Old and New

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Traditions Old and New

Moving Up Day!

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“ And suddenly you know: It’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings.” - Meister Eckhart

Traditions Old and New

Make New Friends Day!

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Gina Jang and Jen Lui

Gina and Jen spent a week at the Teach-ers College Reading and Writing Project’s (TCRWP) summer writing institute at Columbia University in New York City. The week invigorated them both, as they spent their days working with colleagues from around the country (and world!) thinking about the best ways to engage students in the work of becoming better writers. In her opening keynote address, Lucy Calkins (founder and director of the TCRWP) spoke about the importance of finding signifi-cance in the small bits of life and not be-coming disengaged or discouraged, which struck a chord for Jen and Gina. They both hope to nurture this sentiment in their Writers’ Workshops program, as they help students take notice of the ordinary mo-ments and create a culture that allows time to stop, notice, and wonder more deeply.

Kitaka Mixon, Bonnie Koo, and Daniel Larson

Bonnie, Daniel, and Kitaka attended a week-long Responsive Classroom Work-shop together over the summer. The workshop was affirming and enlightening. They enjoyed being students again and were able to gain valuable insights on empowering students and providing them with the tools they need to take control of their learning. The Responsive Classroom approach consists of a set of practices that build academic and social-emotional competencies and that can be used in conjunction with many other programs. These practices include Morning Meeting, rule creation, interactive modeling, positive teacher language, logical consequences, guided discovery, academic choice, classroom organization, working together with families, and collaborative problem solving. The three teachers left their week-long workshop feeling energized about the coming school year and can’t wait to begin implementing what they learned in their daily practice.

Pluralistic Connections

Each summer (and throughout the year) faculty members embark on a journey of exploration, sharpening teaching skills through professional development - attending and presenting at workshops and conferences around the country. The faculty culture at PS1 is enriched by this continual growth and desire to learn. By devoting their time to professional development, our teachers also demonstrate their passion for continuous learning to students, helping students see that there are always new pathways to discover and new strategies to undertake.

Summer Professional Development Highlights

In Search of a Good Book?Reading is one of life’s great pleasures and an important element of the PS1 program and curriculum. Not surprisingly, reading is equally significant to the PS1 faculty. Each summer, faculty members choose a summer reading book as a means of broadening their horizons of knowledge and experience. Once teachers return in August, reading groups gather together to share their reflections on each of the books. This summer’s book choices were:

Have you read any of these selections? Write in to share your thoughts!

Understanding Inde-

pendent School Parents:

The Teacher’s Guide

to Successful Family-

School Relationships

by Michael G. Thompson

and Alison F. Mazzola

Selected because Mi-

chael Thompson is our

featured Parent Educa-

tor and Professional

Development speaker

this coming fall. This

practical guide strives to

help teachers and admin-

istrators understand the

needs of today’s families

in order to develop

healthy and strong rela-

tionships between home

and school.

Loving Learning: How

Progressive Education

Can Save America’s

Schools

by Tom Little and Kather-

ine Ellison

Selected because we

admire and respect the

contributions that this

late educator made to

progressive education.

This book highlights Tom

Little, the longtime head

of Park Day School, as

he embarked on a U.S.

tour of 43 progressive

schools. Through his

experience, the reader

comes to understand

the history of Progres-

sive Education and the

impact this philosophy

can have on our broader

system of education.

Quiet: The Power of In-

troverts in a World That

Can’t Stop Talking

by Susan Cain

Recently reviewed in the

NY TIMES BOOK RE-

VIEW - it’s about plural-

ism and understanding

that differences are to be

valued. Cain highlights

research in psychology

and neuroscience as she

discusses the differences

between extroverts and

introverts. Her enlighten-

ing book will undoubted-

ly alter the way we think

about what it means to

be an introvert.

Things Fall Apart

by Chinua Achebe

First published in 1959,

the twin fables of hu-

man nature and clash

of culture are timeless

in this book by Nigerian

author Achebe. Achebe

depicts tribal life in a

group of fictional Igbo

villages called Umuofia

both before and after

colonialism.

Pedro Ortega

Pedro spent a week this summer at the 42nd Elementary Physical Education Workshop at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. He returns to EPEW every year to learn new insights, both from the presenters as well as his fellow participants. We know students learn through moving, learn more after moving, and learn more when they are healthy. Through the experiences at this workshop, Pedro expanded his knowledge, laughed a lot, and finished the week excited. Year after year, the EPEW conference provides a forum to rejuvenate and incorporate new practices into the PS1 curriculum.

Pluralistic Connections

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Pluralistic Connections

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Welcome to PS1, Glenetta!

What makes you happy when you walk into a classroom?I get so excited when I see a child enjoying learning something new. The look on their faces is priceless. I also find joy when I see a child who was struggling with a concept have an “I got it” moment. No one can give that moment to a child and no one can take it away. Last, but not least, I love when children know they are in the presence of adults who believe in them. You can see that belief in the interactions, on the bulletin boards, and on the faces of all involved!

What was your favorite homework as a child?It would have to be a tie between writing and reading. I loved to write because the written word allowed me to create an alternate reality. Reading allowed me to block out the world and simply escape as needed. I ordered books from Weekly Reader on a regular basis!

What games did you love to play as a child?I loved to play tetherball, kick ball, double dutch, monopoly, and operation. I also loved to create my own classroom and have other kids in the neighborhood as my students. I was famous for starting clubs as early as elementary. I ran into a friend from elementary school recently and she was reminding me how I formed a girls club on campus that had fundraisers and taught cheers.

What one piece of advice would you give a new parent whose kindergartener is just start-ing their educational journey?What’s interesting is that my youngest child (of 4!) is entering kindergarten and I am HAPPY! I would say to simply....RELEASE. Kindergarten is such a fun time of discovery for our children as they begin the process of discovering their voice. Listen a lot to them and to those who work with them. Limit your expectations of what they should and should not be doing and just let them enjoy getting to know the educational world around them.

What is your favorite thing to do on the weekend?My favorite thing to do on the weekend is drop my children off at my Mother-in-Love’s house on Friday evenings!! I get time to recharge my batteries through a good book, writing in my journal, checking out a new movie, or just sitting on the couch and enjoying the silence. When I pick them up on Saturday I am ready for a family outing to the park, movie night, and/or game night.

What excites you about PS1?From the beginning of my educational career over 20 years ago, I have always believed that every child is unique and special. As educators, it’s our job to help them discover their gifts and talents and provide a secure environment where they can be themselves, take risks, and be heard. It is refreshing to be in a place where we all believe in every child and not just a select few. I am also excited about working with such an experienced and talented group of educational professionals.

Glenetta Pope is PS1’s new Assistant Head for Teaching & Learning. Glenetta brings a wealth of leadership experience, most recently serving seven years as the Founding Principal of Lou Dantzler Prep Elementary School, and previously as Brentwood School’s Director of Community Service for eight years. Welcome to PS1, Glenetta!

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2015 Graduating Class

Delilah Freund, MarlboroughOver the years at PS1, I have been at a second home with great teachers and friends. When I first walked through the gate, seven years back, I was greeted by a nurturing community that has helped me grow. I have been so happy to have gone to this school and to have been able to live this life; to be who I am; to have the ability and support to do so. My friends and family have helped me achieve that. They have reached far beyond the sun for me, and for that I am so happy and so grateful.

Noah Eatman, CrossroadsMy time in the Olders Cluster has molded me into who I am today. I am more responsible and diligent with my schoolwork. Now I am very aware of who I am and in tune with my feelings. It has helped me approach my teachers with confidence. This year has been a great year to complete my elementary school journey. PS1, I am going to miss you terribly. From the all-school camping trip to the bake sale, from the Aftercare Club-house classes to PSRun, from Make New Friends Day to advisory work blocks, from yummy food at Dishversity Day to

The Grad Speeches are a PS1 Rite of Passage. Each year, each grad stands in front of parents, teachers, and fellow students to address the crowd, and deliver his or her words of wisdom. Here are excerpts from their speeches:

playing pranks on teachers. All of these experiences are life-long fond memories for me.

Carver Messick, Oaks ChristianThe support of my teachers is what helped me to become confident on the stage. I used to dread Circle Time when I first came to PS1. In fact, I used to beg my mom to call in sick for me. My teachers knew it was hard for me and always made sure to give me parts I felt comfortable in. They did not force me, but they encouraged me. Because of this I was able to overcome my fear and now I look forward to our Circle Times. These performances will become some of my greatest memories from PS1.

Charlie Kortleven, WildwoodThe friendships that I have made over the past seven years have helped me to learn what it means to be a good friend. My friends have brought me laughter and joy and touched my heart deeply. I immediately knew the teachers at PS1 were special. They have a unique ability to make their students feel heard and cared for and understood. It feels like everyone at PS1 can have a different personality and a different way of learning, and everyone is respected

for who they want to be. In addition to all that I have learned from my teach-ers here, I am grateful for how they’ve inspired me and supported me so much over these years. They have taught me that fitting in is about being yourself!

Jacob Madley, BrentwoodWe are explorers! Intrepid and bold!In the uncharted playground, we con-tinue our quest for treasure, for monsters and perhaps that missing hat. Later, after the day’s closing circle,As I scramble downstairs to pick up,I find myself filled with gratitude for this magical school, and all the outstanding teachers.

Julian Angus, WindwardPS1 has changed me so much. It is amaz-ing being able to show yourself for who you are in such a caring and understand-ing environment. I have so many friends here and it’s a pity I’m going to have to leave them when I go into middle school. Here at PS1 you really become a huge family of friends and you always look out for the others no matter what grade. PS1 is such a comforting and caring place to grow and learn. It is great hav-ing a school family of amazing friends and people.

Amelia Jenkins, BrentwoodMy years at Hogwarts…. I mean PS1, have been nothing but magical. When I was nine, I always used to think about what my life would be without this school, and it was hard to imagine. PS1 has not only shaped me into the person I am today, but helped raise me. I have to admit, leaving PS1 seems like it’s the hardest thing I’ll ever do, but I know that they have prepared me for what’s to come.

Billie Riess, BrentwoodI consider PS1 my second home and my learning community. Going here has not only impacted my learn-ing experience positively, but it has impacted my life in multiple ways. I not only love the school, I admire it. I admire the respect everyone has for one another and that is something I have held deep in my heart. It does not matter who you are, what you look or act like. At PS1 you are always welcome with open arms. Something I am most grateful for of PS1 is its originality and its personality. I have been places where the word recess is foreign, and being different is a shame. I am forever grateful the rules don’t apply to PS1.

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Dylan Santana, ChadwickSince my first day of school as a “Younger” to my last day as an “Older,” teachers and staff often ask me, “What do you think?” It appears to be a very simple question but it carries thought-fulness and always made me stop and reflect. I would like to thank all my teachers and the specialists at PS1 for making an impact in my life NOT just as educators but for being incredibly caring. Although our school does not give out letter grades, every year I found my-self evolving as a student and wanting to do my best work. Not for my teachers, not for my mom and dad, but for myself.

Emily Beck-Hallstrom, WindwardThis is my graduating year, my final year where my journey is coming to an end at PS1 but I still have a long life to live. I am grateful for the knowledge and experi-ences I have been given at PS1, from the incredible teachers who have supported me along the way and to my friends who I know I can always lean on. This was a year of leadership, trying new things but most of all it was a year of having fun. At PS1 not only has my knowledge grown but so has my confidence.

Justin Yu, WindwardOthers may think of PS1 as a small phase in life, a stop between you and your destination, but to me, PS1 means much more. PS1 is a guide, a compan-ion that follows you along the way. It stays with us, stands beside us, and walks with you down the most difficult roads. PS1 is a piece of the mold that picks up the sloshy goo, and shapes us into who we are. The teachers and staff who provide us with knowledge don’t just prepare us for the road ahead, they give us a memory, an experience to re-member. They give us a community to come back to so we can re-live a part of our childhood.

Maddie Boudov, Harvard-WestlakeI feel like I have made full circle now. I went from being a Younger to an Older in what seemed like a flash. I will cherish the lessons I have learned and, the friends, family, and moments I have made here for my whole life. Every single person at this school has made an impact on my life and I am so thankful to have been given the gift of PS1. I have learned to love learning, and that is the greatest gift anyone can be given.

Morgan Spencer-Nielsen, New RoadsNow I don’t know how I can even begin to thank my teachers, because in this situation, words are indescribable, so with that I say thank you for strength-ening my knowledge and understand-ing. I would like to thank everyone, from friends to family, from classmates to teachers, for making these vivid and heartwarming memories become one of the best experiences I have had.

Emily Lippman, Paul RevereWalt Disney wrote a tagline for Dis-neyland, calling it the “Happiest Place on Earth,” but I think differently. PS1 should take that title. PS1 is a school that kids like to be at; they enjoy coming to school every day to see friends and fabulous teachers. They enjoy the presence of staff members and other members of the PS1 family. Walking through the blue gate into school every day, you feel a sense of the community, knowing everyone like they are part of your family. I have made so many life-long friends at this school, some I consider family, not guests at my house. They know where everything is and unfortunately where everything is hidden!

Gena Levin, Paul RevereI have grown so much at PS1 and have learned more than I could have ever dreamed of knowing when I was a little girl. Looking up to where I am now, standing here on this stage graduating from what I have known for the last six years of my life, so many feelings are passing over me: happiness, fear, exci-tement, thankfulness. The point is, I still have to write the next part of my story. There are still chapters yet to come, all of those empty pages waiting to be written. And I can’t wait to start.

Kaelen Song, WildwoodWe think that school is about learning, books and homework-it is, but it is also about learning to make friends, how not to be socially compromised and how to deal with those things we call friendships. PS1 has taught me how to make new friends each year and sustain my old friendships. I am so grateful that I have been fortunate enough to attend this wonderful, amazing and talented school called PS1.

Lola Butan, Berkeley HallMy years at PS1 have been like a book with a new experience in each chapter.

The things that make me different are the things that make me.” A.A. Milne

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When I started going here I had no idea what my experience was going to be. Fast forward six years and I have made some of my best friends, found my love for reading, and made so many amazing memories. Leaving this school is going to be hard but I’m prepared for the next chapter in my life and I am sure it will be an amazing adventure.

Lucy Hayes, Paul RevereLittle did I know that I would need to savor those moments because this is the time I move on past PS1. Yes, I will be able to visit, but that will never be the same as being a student. The dread of going, but the anticipation of what to come is unbearable. I am off to seek adventures for the rest of my life. This is one that will never be forgotten, and I will not forget the friends I have made on the way.

Sam Walker, BrentwoodYou know, the greatest thing about baseball, and what I admire most about the game I love, is that there is no clock. No icon on the scoreboard slowly ticking away the time until the three digits all read zero and the game is over. As Hall of Fame New York

Yankees Catcher Yogi Berra, or maybe it was Joel Pelcyger, once said, “It ain’t over till it’s over.” Until the last out is made, the game will play on as long as it desires. Sometimes I wish I could stay at PS1 forever, but unfortunately, unlike the game I love, the school I love does in fact have a clock. And here I stand in the seventh inning, my seventh year at PSONE, and the clock is emitting its last ticks. The game is coming to an end. But as you know, there are nine innings in a baseball game, and after I finish playing the next two, there are many, many, more innings and games to be played after that. And that is what we call my future.

Viswa Douglass, Harvard-Westlake PS1 has guided me throughout my childhood years. It has taught me how to be kind and gracious, but most importantly how to have great relation-ships with the teachers and friends. I can remember one instance where this skill has come in handy. I was recently on the Harvard-Westlake campus, shadowing my brother. He introduced me to my future teachers, and, using the skills PS1 taught me, I was able to talk and interact with these figures. Not

only did I make a good impression, I already had a teacher rooting for me at my new school. So I thank PS1 for teaching this valuable skill to me.

Cheval McNairy, Westchester LutheranFriends will always help you along here at PS1 because they care about you like family. If you’re shy, or scared like Piglet, your friends will always be here for you. Friends can be the most important people in life because they not only share their love with their fam-ily but they also show love to you, their friend. Winnie the Pooh always shows love to his friends; that’s why they call themselves family.

Destinee Flonnoy, BrentwoodPS1 has given me the opportunity to be myself, to learn, to love. PS1 isn’t just some school, it’s a loving, caring, and welcoming family. This campus is what I am going to remember as home. These people that I am graduating with and that are at this school are who I’m go-ing to remember as family. Since last year I’ve imagined being scared for this moment, but now I real-ize there’s nothing to be scared about because everyone here is a part of my

family. As Christopher Robin once said, “ You are braver than you believe, stronger than you’ve seen, and smarter than you think.” I believe this quote was made for all of PS1, and I know this is what I’ve discovered over my six years here. Jay Jay Venegas, CrossroadsI am leaving here today with beautiful memories of PS1 that I will always trea-sure. Attending school here has been a fantastic growing experience and I am thankful for the skills I’ve acquired. I feel as if growing here with all these wonderful people has made me a bet-ter and stronger person. I’ve learned how to take criticism and compliments, among other skills. These are things I probably wouldn’t be able to handle if I had gone to a different school, and now I feel that I can apply these things in many differ-ent situations. I’ve also learned to be open-minded, to value other people’s opinions, and to consider other ideas along with mine. I’ve come to realize that being a part of a team is a lot more than just sharing credit. A team effort takes compromise. When you are on a team

The things that make me different are the things that make me.” A.A. Milne

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you have to at times lead, follow, and more often than not, meet in the middle. And realizing this will help me in middle school.

Jonathan Smiley, WildwoodAt PS1 you know everyone’s name. Even in different classes and grades. Everyone is so close. Each year the cluster and each class perform in Circle Time. I disliked acting at first so I was reluctant to perform. By the second Circle Time I was so excited because the teachers work really hard to assign the perfect parts for you. By third grade I even had a solo to sing! It was super fun once I learned my lines. Now this year I’m going to go to middle school and I’ve learned a lot. Now I’m more independent and will be more grown up for middle school. I’m so upset to go and I’ll take everything I learned these years to middle school.

Juliana Ciccone, Harvard-WestlakeI am honored to graduate with this wonderful class of students. I consider all of you my friends and I hope you consider me yours. Thank you for helping me when I am hurt, for supporting me when I need support, for understand-

ing me when I feel misunderstood, for helping me when I am lost, for being there to talk to and share things with, for laughing at my jokes and being interested in what I am saying… and for always, always sticking by me. My friends have been there for me, through thick and thin, through bad times and good. They have shaped me into the person I am today. I will miss all of you and the school that taught everything I need to know to move on in life.

Olivia Rosen, Archer School for GirlsAs I spend my last day at PS1, there is one quote that I know will stay in my heart forever. It is: “It is not how smart you are, but how you are smart.” I don’t remember the first time I heard this quote, but now I REALLY understand what it means. And it is because of this quote that I under-stand who I am, how I learn, and what I am good at. I’ve learned, most importantly, that everyone is good at something but very few people are good at everything. The journey through life is to figure out that very thing you are good at and not try to do EVERYTHING.

PS1 Class of 2009 Colleges and Universities

Dean Abuneimeh > Westmark > Automotive School outside of Houston

Mason Allport > Wildwood > Pursuing music career

Alia Becker > Windward > moved to Japan > Occidental College

Kalia Bornstein > Marlborough > University of Vermont

Dylan Champion > Wildwood > Arete > Bard College (entered 2014-15)

Sofia Duffy > Archer > Notre Dame > Washington State University

Jack Ennis > Harvard-Westlake > Santa Monica College

Jacob Feldman > Crossroads > Emerson College

Henry Fillo > Crossroads > USC

Aidan Fite > Brentwood > Ithaca College

Emily Gasster > Marlborough > Colgate University

Sam Gaynor > Brentwood > Syracuse University

Madelyn Holtzman > Windward > Loyola Marymount

Abigail Kuhns > Windward > Smith College

Marie Line > Windward > George Washington University

Jake Mindel > Brentwood > University of Wisconsin, Madison

Robert Munn > Crossroads > Pepperdine University

Cameron Roberts > Wildwood > The Theater School at DePaul University

Daniel Sabet > Lincoln Middle School > Samo High > SMC > USC

Nicki Shapiro > Windward > Samo High > UCLA

Emily Surloff > Windward > Columbia University

Bryce Terman > Harvard-Westlake > Tufts University

Austin Wilson > St. Marks School > Wildwood > Occidental College

Claire Goldberg > SAMO High > Georgetown University

Congratulations!

1971–79Please email beth@psone.org if you’d like to volunteer as a grad rep for this decade1980–89Please email beth@psone.org if you’d like to volunteer as a grad rep for this decade Classes of 1990–94: Please email beth@psone.org if you’d like to volunteer as a grad rep for these yearsClass of 1995: Brian Roth, Briroth@gmail.comClass of 1996: Cody Dashiell-Earp, codyde@gmail.com Heston Liebowitz, heston@hestonliebowitz.comClass of 1997: Brianna Dollinger, bfdollinger@gmail.com Zachary Brock, zbrock@gmail.comClass of 1998: Nora Frankel; Zachary Meredith, zachmeredith@gmail.comClass of 1999: Beryl Liebowitz, berylliebowitz@gmail.com Isabella Lebovitz, Isabella.lebovitz@gmail.comClass of 2000: Michael Larson, michaelkentlarson@gmail.com Erica Everage, Erica.v.everage@gmail.com Gina Rockenwagner, ginarocca@gmail.com Jake FaulknerClass of 2001: Devin Carli Singer, devincarli@gmail.com Kylie Clark, kbclark@gmail.com James Weinberger; Alex Marshi, alexandermarshi@gmail.com Sam Alper, alper.sam@gmail.comClass of 2002: Hayley Lloyd, hayley.d.lloyd@gmail.com Brad Thompson-Moreland, bradleytm@gmail.com Molly Wertheimer, babyridr@aol.comClass of 2003: Rosie Achorn-Rubenstein, SRAR1290@sbcglobal.net Michelle Cortrite; James LarsonClass of 2004: Lindsay Rapkin, lindsrap@aol.com Griffin Harris, theroastedplum@aol.com Alex Hartung; Elijah Tilghman-Eddings Class of 2005: Elle Brosh, ellebrosh@gmail.comSam Mindel, samuel.mindel@gmail.com Lili Cohen; Natalie Swain Class of 2006: Gabe Schuman, febesons@yahoo.com Wade Clement, wade01@aol.com Gina Segall, ginasegall@yahoo.comClass of 2007: Ariel Fenster; Emma Laurent, esl2@st-andrews.ac.uk Leslie Dinkin, leslied1017@aol.com Morgan Pantuck, creepycrawlies54@aol.comClass of 2008: Zak Fenster; Louly Maya, summergirl5896@aol.com Hero StevensonClass of 2009: Kalia Bornstein, Kalia@bornarch.comNicki Shapiro, Caligirl81297@gmail.com Jake Mindel: jmindel@bwscampus.com Marie Line, mjl913@yahoo.com Class of 2010: Asa Germann, 121497@gmail.com Veronica Crow, misscrow98@gmail.comRudy Frayre, rudyfrayre@yahoo.com Kelly Riopelle, Kerio311@gmail.com Class of 2011: Amanda Reymer; Rod Henley, rhenley123@gmail.com Olivia Bornstein, Olivia@bornarch.comDylan Vecchione, Dylan@vecchione.com Class of 2012: Matthew Tovar: dkm3tov@icloud.com Sadie Abraham, sadiejean@me.comLukas Mitchell; Camille Riopelle, catlover131@gmail.com Class of 2013: Melina Waldman, mew3221@gmail.com Sage Brand Wolf, smailbox715@gmail.com Farid Adibi, farid@adibi.me Zachary Leete, pelicanmouth@verizon.net Katie Raphaelson, katesfluffy@aol.com

Find Your Class Rep…Find your graduation class representatives listed below and send them your updates, news & announcements! Our Director of Admissions & Alumni Relations, Beth Kemp, will collect them throughout the year for future editions of Periscope. You can also email Beth directly at beth@psone.org.

2014–15ReportonPhilanthropyat PS1

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Administration and Finance CommitteeGareth AstenKevin CrombieBob EatmanDamien McCann Darren Peers, Chair Joel PelcygerJosh PerttulaKristieAnne ReidEric ReidJeff ReynaGlenn Rosen Maggie Rosenfeld Matt SchwabJason Schwarz Richard Steets Steve Trilling

Advancement CommitteeBillie FischerDeirdre GainorLizzie MurrayHilary RosenMaria SmithKerri Speck, Chair

Building and GroundsCommitteeStephen AbronsonJesse AldanaMarwan Al-SayadEric Britton Afshin Ghodsi Alexandra Marx Joel PelcygerAbbie PerttulaJosh PerttulaCharles RawlinsEd RogersBilly RoseGlenn Rosen Maggie RosenfeldAaron Sevier Bradley Shimada Pandro SokolowMike Tatum, Chair

Communications and Marketing CommitteeBarbi Appelquist Meredith Blake, Chair Scott Chamberlin Reagan FeeneyAlexa Fischer, Subcommittee Chair of Current Parent CommunicationsCindy Fitzgerald Nicole Haimes Jennifer Kalish Beth Kemp Priya Nambiar, Subcommittee Chair of Parents of Alumni (Alumni Ambassadors Program)Kimberly Perttula Jeanette RahillJessica Reid, Subcommittee Chair of Prospective Parents (Preschool Ambassador Program)Chris Tragos

Standards and SearchCommitteeGareth AstenJoel PelcygerAnna Tran Reyna Maggie RosenfeldMatt Schwab, Chair

Strategic Vision CommitteeGareth Asten Jared CarneyCaskey EbelingMark Emtiaz, ChairAlexa FischerPhillip LeslieJoel PelcygerCourtney SpikesChris ThinnesJames Vincent

This year I’m going to give you my recipe for a year of good health: INGREDIENTS: You, Your Child and PS1 DIRECTIONS:

1) Pre-set alarm clock to 30 minutes earlier than normal

2) Remove one child from their bed and prep for school (add siblings as necessary)

3) Take child (or children) to PS1

4) IMPORTANT: Don’t drop your child at the carpool lane — find a parking space (may require additional prep-time)

5) Take your child’s hand and let the feeling marinate on the walk to school

6) Watch child play on the Euclid yard for 20–30 minutes (time can vary depending on child — do not overheat).

7) Breathe in and out and watch their joy — watch everyone’s joy

8) Repeat at least 1x/week This recipe can serve as many parents and children as neces-sary. What I can’t guarantee is how long the ingredients will be in season for… so take advantage now. We all give to PS1 in many ways — our time, our resources, and ourselves. We do it for moments like these. Keep giving and keep enjoying! On behalf of the Board, we welcome our newest members, Priya Nambiar and Steve Trilling. And we all look forward to a delicious year ahead. Enjoy!

Matt Schwab, Chair, PS1 Board Of Trustees

Our Board Committees, chaired by Board Members and enhanced by talented volunteers, work to enrich and strengthen our community.

2014–15 PS1 Board Committees:

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Matt and his family

Message from our Board Chair

Matt’s Secret Recipe

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PS 1?Why

As our second child heads off to college, we can reflect back on why we chose PS1 and how it contributed to the love of learning and creative spark we see in our children. They both know what it means to take ownership of their learning and ask for what they need. This was evident not only at PS1, but throughout middle and high school, and for our oldest, in college. We are grateful for the PS1 community and teacher student involvement that makes for enthusiastic learners!

Lauren Fite, PS1 Alumni Parent (Aidan, Class of 2009 and Lexi, Class of 2005)

PS1 has felt like home from the moment I began working here. I feel lucky and privileged to work with such talented, compassionate, and creative coworkers. The families are supportive and the kids are extraordinary. There is not another place like PS1; it’s like everyone who is at PS1 was meant to be at PS1 and together we can accomplish anything!

Jamie Bennett, PS1 Faculty

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PS 1?Why

A friend was looking through the 2015 PS1 Yearbook and said this about our students: the air around them tells their story — meaning their fresh and open faces were so full of exuberance and enthusiasm that they just look like a generation of children who are ready to take on the world. His words made me think of Twyla Tharp, that dancing force of nature, who titled her autobiography, The Collab-orative Habit. For me, up there in the PS1(derful) Library, doing my ideal job every day, Why PS1?, is that we — all of us — have the collaborative habit. As adults, we are not opening up little heads and pouring the knowledge in — oh, no. We collaborate with the kids in the same way we collaborate with our colleagues — we are all on the path together.

Christina Garcia, PS1 Librarian

I love that my grandchildren attended a school where they were immersed in a community of such energy and variety. I also celebrate the opportunity to be an active member of a community of like-minded grandparents acting on their lust for living.

Nancy Waldman (Grandmother of Louis, Class of 2011 and Melina, Class of 2013)

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Being a good Board member takes ability, generosity, dedication, commitment, time, effort, and selfless giving. It takes something more as well. It takes perspective, stepping back and thinking about what is best in the long term for the institution, not just for the time that you and your family are enrolled.

2014–15 PS1 Board Members

Gareth Asten

Meredith Blake

Jeff Dinkin, Chair Emeritus

Mark Emtiaz

Billie Fischer

Afshin Ghodsi

Lizzie Murray

Darren Peers

Joel Pelcyger, Head of School

Abbie Perttula

Kimberly Perttula

Anna Tran Reyna, Board Vice-Chair

Glenn Rosen

Maggie Rosenfeld, Director of Finance and Operations

Matt Schwab Board, Chair

Maria Smith

Kerri Speck

Mike Tatum

New Board Members…

Priya Nambiar has worked in education for over 20 years. She earned a B.A. in Education Studies from Brown University and a M.Ed. from Harvard University. She is the Founder of Nambiar Advis-ing, where she helps families navigate the private school admissions process. Prior to Nambiar Advising, Priya was the Associate Director of Admissions at Brentwood School, a Program Associate at the Coalition of Essential Schools (an organization focused on public school reform), and has taught high school Math in Wellesley, MA, Atherton, CA, and Los Angeles, CA. In addition to the PS1 Board, she also is on the Parents Guild Executive Board and is an active school volunteer. Priya lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Sanjay, and their identical twin daughters, Uma and Miya, who attend PS1.

Afshin Ghodsi spent eleven years sup-porting PS1, four of them as a Board member. A structural engineer, he advised the school on many projects. He used his wisdom and kind attentive mind to create solutions in many needed areas. Always willing to share his considerable knowledge and expertise in support of the school, we are indeed grateful for having Afshin and his wonderful family be a part of this community and we thank him for his outstanding service to PS1.

Steve Trilling is the Chief Technology Officer at Symantec, the world’s leading Internet security company, and best-known to most consumers through its Norton brand of products. Symantec protects diverse systems from mobile phones, to desktops and laptops, to the data centers of the world’s largest en-terprises. Steve received his BS degree from Yale University and his MS from the Massachusetts Institute of Technol-ogy. He lives in Brentwood with his wife Wendi, and their twin boys Max and Joe who are both entering their second year of Middles as PS1 students.

2014–15PS1BoardMembers

Retiring Board Member…

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Why PS1? I love the theme of this Report on Philanthropy, because it is always so interesting to learn why people select PS1 — why they choose to send their children to the school, why they spend hours participating in the community, and why they give so generously of their resources to PS1. The answers to the question “Why PS1?” are as diverse as our community. We all have PS1 in common, and I like to think that because we all chose PS1, we have more in common than just the elementary school we help support. When I was looking at schools for my oldest daughter, Maggie, I heard Joel speak at an elementary school symposium. He said “PS1 is a place where a kid can be a kid for seven years.” I didn’t need to look any further — I knew that I wanted my children to attend a school where childhood was celebrated and enjoyed. That is why my husband and I chose PS1. Since that moment, over ten years ago, I have developed many more answers to the question “Why PS1?” But for purposes of this Report on Philanthropy, I want to share just one additional reason — and that reason is YOU. YOU have helped make PS1 a place where children are valued for who they are, and allowed to become the best versions of themselves. YOUR support helps make a difference at PS1, and helps make PS1 a very special place. PS1 is able to do this by recruiting and maintaining faculty and staff members who are energetic, committed, and engaged; by being a leader in the conversation surrounding progressive elementary education; and by building a campus that is inviting, state-of-the-art, and fun. These things would not be possible without the additional support that our donors provide. As a Board member, Chair of the Advancement Committee, and a parent, I want to thank you for your support. The lists contained in this report are lengthy; I want you to know that, for the Board, each name on these lists is an answer to the question “Why PS1?” Thank you! Kerri Speck, Chair, Advancement Committee

Kerri Speck

Advancement

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PS 1?Why

When Ryan was a new kindergartener, just a week or so into the year, she came across some Olders girls in the music room doing some kind of dance routine with a teacher. She stood in the doorway to watch, entranced by the big girls. The teacher, instead of asking Ryan if she was lost, or if she knew where she was supposed to be, or directing her back to her classroom, said, “Would you like to come in and join us?” And Ryan said yes, and did join them. That she was welcomed in and treated like she belonged there without any question, and that she already felt confident enough to join in, just astonished me. It was such a small but beautiful moment to me — the respect that teacher afforded her, even as a tiny kindergartener, and the sense of belonging that gave her, encapsulated everything I have grown to love so much about PS1.

Lindsey Hay (Mother of Ryan Meyer, Class of 2020)

PS1 has been a wonderful environment of learning for the sake of learning for our son Luke. That foundation, coupled with the 7-year holistic experience of evolution and emer-gence for each individual child at PS1, and the remarkable camaraderie and friendship among PS1 students across ages and classes, has helped foster in Luke a genuine intellectual curiosity and respect for others. He truly is a “PS1 kid.”

Megan Kissinger and Chris Trunnell (Parents of Luke Trunnell, Class of 2016)

Finance and Development

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PS 1?Why

When my boys awaken each school day they are eager to get to school early. There are no fake coughs or requests to take their temperature. In fact, sometimes my kids pretend to feel well when they’re actually too sick to go to school. PS1 is a stress-free environment, with warm families and nice children, a place where my boys have developed a love of school and learning. I can’t think of a better introduction to education.

Frank Smiley (Father of Adam, Class of 2019 and Jonatha,n Class of 2015)

Expenses

Income

Interest andOther Incomes 5.5%

Fundraising 10.3%

Tuition and Fees 84.2%

2014–15 Contributions:

$728,790.00

Financial Aid

13.1%

Program 13.6%

Facilities 12.9%

Salaries and Benefits 60.4%

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PS 1?

I’m always blown away by the kids’ Circle Time perfor-mances and how comfortable they all become at speaking and performing in front of the entire school. Not only is this an important life-skill to learn, but they always seem to be having a ball doing it!

Ed Rogers (Father of Mary, Class of 2017 and Audrey, Class of 2020)

In a city that can feel overwhelming, PS1 is a child’s oasis; a community where “everybody knows your name” — teachers, staff and students across all ages. This makes for a safe, nurturing, empowering environment for the youngest to the oldest students. The students’ ability to navigate the world is nurtured by trusting in and empowering their problem solving skills. Letting little kids work through a problem isn’t always the most expeditious way to learn or resolve a problem, but it builds a sense of competence that is a valuable lifelong skill-set. There is a real respect for the individual child’s gifts.

Cathy Watts, PS1 Alumni Parent (Caroline, Class of 2008, Ian, Class of 2011, and Alec, Class of 2013)

Our community members supported the school with wisdom, talent, time, and resources. It was a year of hard work, laughter, love, and learning. We thank each one of you for giving to PS1 and for helping to make this our 2014-15 year so full of adventure.

2014–15 PS1 Annual Fund

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List of Contributors:

Solar Circle $25,000 and above

French American Charitable Trust

Bridge Circle $10,000 to $24,999

Capital Group Co. Charitable FoundationBillie and Steven FischerNadene and Jeff HainesStavros Merjos and Honor FraserKelly and Darren PeersEleanor and Joel PelcygerBill Robins and Mia Rue RobinsMaria and Kevin SmithJenny and Mike TatumJames Vincent and Marie NoorbergenWeingart Foundation

Bell Circle $5,000 to $9,999

Anonymous (2)Michelle and Gareth AstenDeborah and Andrew BogenRobin and Bob EatmanThe Reid-Goldstein FamilyGabrielle and Rob GreenbergSky Hansen and Sharon StanleyJimmy Jellinek and Emily AnnLizzie and John MurrayDan Offner and Mayumi IjiriAmy and Billy RoseHilary and Glenn RosenMaggie and Mort RosenfeldPamela and Matt SchwabRobert Schwentke and Jennifer HowardDevin SellersKerry Speck and Paul MarksJennifer and Richard SteetsMark Teichman and Nayla AmmarThe Teitelbaum FamilyWendi and Stephen TrillingJoodi and Norman VeitzerGreg Walker and Michelle AshfordSelene and Brad Wilk

Oak Tree Circle $2,500 to $4,999

AnonymousChristina AguileraJesse Aldana and Rachel HarrisJamie and Michael AngusThe Bank of America Charitable FoundationMat BeckCindy and Alex BoudovJordan BratmanTracy and Adam BromwichKimberly and Marc ButanJared Carney and Deirdre WallaceKaren and Jim CicconeMarshall Coben and Jane LeevesRaymond De Felitta & Sherry BrennanDIRECTVGary Garland and Beth Holden-GarlandNilou and Afshin GhodsiCameron Gray and Ramaa Mosley-GrayJeff and Marcie GreeneMatthew Hayutin & Lizette Sanchez-HayutinJoAnn and Charlie KaplanKayne Anderson Capital Advisors FoundationStephanie and Gustav KovenMaya and Matt LiebermanAlexandra and Peter MarxLorraine and Damien McCannLinda and David MichaelsonLaura and Chris MillerPardee PropertiesKimberly and Josh PerttulaJeanette and Bernard RahillJessica and Eric ReidTim Reuben and Stephanie Blum-ReubenJeff Reyna and Anna TranEdward & Johanna RogersDavid Schumacher and Yvonne HsiehJessica and Jason SchwarzLaurie and Michael SeplowToni SpencerPeri and Christian Vincent

Bamboo Circle $1,000 to $2,499

The Abronson FamilyApple, Inc.Farhad Ashofteh and Gazelle JavadiShane Barach and Jenny DalyEric Beale and Jennifer KalishMarci and Jeff DinkinTammy and Jeff EllisReagan Feeney and Richard Levine First Pacific AdvisorsLauren and Austin FiteZack Freedman and Heather SingletonJonathan Gardner and Barbi AppelquistLee Gardner and Lily NgGood Life OrganicsJohn GoodmanJulia GoodmanTamara and Andrew GrossLinda and Mel HoltzmanMoje and Hyder HussainHyman Family Charitable FoundationMaura and Lewis KayAnna and Richard KornguteThe Koven FoundationLori and Scott LahmanNancy and Jerry LahmanLakeshore Learning

Jeremy Langer and Meredith BlakeRobert LaPorta and Alexa FischerPhillip Leslie and Christina MillsAmy and Victor LiuMac and Christina McGaryScott Messick and Carey HernTom Meyer and Lindsey HayKevin Newman and Amy WeimerScott Packer and Loren KaplanChris Riess and Amy HillRon and Camilla SchurReid Shane and Laura Berland-ShaneLinda and Ronald SittlerFrances and Frank SmileyDavid Sobie and Emily O’BrienPandro and Tracy SokolowSony Pictures EntertainmentSusan StichAndre Stringer and Tracy ChandlerTracy and Chris TragosIan Williams and Tessa BlakeEmily and Peter Yu

Field of Dreams Circle $500 to $999

The Boeing CompanyChristian Carter and Jen LuiMichelle Williams Court and James Court Sahaja and Bill DouglassCaskey and Mick EbelingLaurie and Rudy EksteinRoger Fishman and Courtney Thorne-SmithDeirdre GainorPhyllis and Phil GainsboroughJudy and Paul GardnerAline and Jack GoodmanGilberto Granados and Jyoti PuvvulaMichelle and Erik GustavsonHumphrey Gyde and Cielo CerezoNicole and Ted HaimesStephanie and Marc HayutinAlefiya and Naveed HussainJon Hyman and Susan Hoffman-HymanTally and Andrew LippmanDavid and Jacklyn LouiePriya and Sanjay NambiarHeather and David NevellNeda and Ivan NikkhooCharles Rollins and Natalie McAdamsMaggie and Jon ShermanRochelle and Ian SiegelSam Surloff and Joanne Van EmburghChris Trunnell and Megan KissingerAndrea and Maurizio VecchioneStacia VinarSean Weber-Small and Cara KleinhautManuel Weiskopf and Evelyn Lanner

Blue Gate Circle Up to $499

AnonymousKelli and Peter AbrahamCarol and Robin AcuttLucia L. Alcantara-Chibane Marwan Al-Sayed and Mies GrybaitisEduardo Alvarez and Olga CuevaTina AndrewsAlia ArbasRaymond BakaitisKen Baum and Julie CantorThe Bennett FamilyRikki and Michael BogenRachel and Philip BrunoChristine and Rob Burchuk

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Evelyn CazunMarilyn and Chris CazunScott Chamberlin and Stephanie BarishKirstina Rasmussen CollinsJohn Dent and Pam McBrideJaime and Don EstesLouise Everett and Steve CollinsDavid Fishman and Lara SachsJack FishmanCindy and Jon FitzgeraldDerek Flonnoy and Michelle Todd-FlonnoyHolly FrazierMichelle and Eric FreedSally and Tom FreedNancy and Gary FreedmanTom FreundJudy FukasawaRichard Gabriel and Kay Seymour-GabrielChristina and David GarciaSam Gasster and Dianne WaingrowOna Gauthier and Eric BrittonThe Gelinas and Hillebrand FamilyChris GerolmoBrad “BG” GilbertNancy GogliaBenita GriffinAshley GuillemOlivia and Stephen HamelWendell HamickPhil Hayes and Holly Swope The Hill/Hall FamilyAleeza and Joe HobeckAnita HoffmanAndrea and Scott HoltzmanReina and Rich HoltzmanMary HowardMaleka and Moayyed HussainBilly HuynhBeryle JacksonNicole JacobyGina JangChristine and Larry JenkinsNicolina KarlssonElizabeth KempJudith and David KeyesBonnie KooEmille KortlevenAlexander Kruglov and Alia ZaharudinChris KuzinaLois Lambert GalleryBarbara B. LuchsBarbara and Ben MadleyDebbie MartinezDaphne and Devon McNairyKitaka MixonZoe MooserKathleen and Robert MulhollandRuth Naiditch and Alan LevinAmber and Olubusayo OjuriOracle CorporationPedro OrtegaCarol and Eugene PantuckAmanda PerlaCraig Perry and Courtney SpikesAbbie and Howard PerttulaLisa and Tavi PerttulaJayme PohlRigo RamosDan Roberts and Nicole CavazosJennine Rodriguez and Scott HevesyBev and John RogersLisa and John RushingDavid SalamancaEva SalamancaGail and Roger SamuelMaricela and Victor Santana

SC ConstructionAletta SchaapMadeline and Phil SchwarzmanSempra Energy FoundationBarbara and Ken SeplowBrad ShimadaSheila and Michael SiegelEvan and Bria SilbertCharles Song and Sunny LeeAnnie Catherine SpongMindy StaleyPhil and Maria StarrMark Stratton and and Susie SchroerLisa and Josh TaubRaeleen Taylor-BrandyKimberly and Jeffrey TinsleyOmar Torrez and Masha TsiklauriMaya and George TrillingGeorgi Tsiklauri and Marina SerednitskaiaCarol and Juan Venegas Liz and John WaldmanNancy WaldmanGwen and Peter WallMaria and Jeffrey WauerIda and Fred WilliamsNat Wilson and Laura BeckFrancie Wong Freund

Please Support the 2015–16 PS1Annual Fund

Five,Four,Three,Two,One… Done.

Neda and Ivan NikkhooDan Offner and Mayumi IjiriAmber and Olubusayo OjuriPedro OrtegaScott Packer and Loren KaplanKelly and Darren PeersCraig Perry and Courtney SpikesKimberly and Josh PerttulaLisa and Tavi PerttulaAllen Pomianek and Sitara CaveJeanette and Bernard RahillJessica and Eric ReidTim Reuben and Stephanie Blum-ReubenJeff Reyna and Anna TranChris Riess and Amy HillDan Roberts and Nicole CavazosBill Robins and Mia Rue RobinsEdward and Johanna RogersCharles Rollins and Natalie McAdamsAmy and Billy RoseHilary and Glenn RosenLisa and John RushingMaricela and Victor SantanaDavid Schumacher and Yvonne HsiehRon and Camilla SchurPamela and Matt SchwabJessica and Jason SchwarzRobert Schwentke and Jennifer HowardDevin SellersReid Shane and Laura Berland-ShaneMaggie and Jon ShermanRochelle and Ian SiegelLinda and Ronald SittlerFrances and Frank SmileyMaria and Kevin SmithDavid Sobie and Emily O’BrienPandro and Tracy SokolowCharles Song and Sunny LeeKerry Speck and Paul MarksToni SpencerAnnie Catherine SpongJennifer and Richard SteetsSusan StichMark Stratton and and Susie SchroerAndre Stringer and Tracy ChandlerJenny and Mike TatumRaeleen Taylor-BrandyMark Teichman and Nayla AmmarThe Teitelbaum FamilyKimberly and Jeffrey TinsleyOmar Torrez and Masha TsiklauriTracy and Chris TragosWendi and Stephen TrillingChris Trunnell and Megan KissingerCarol and Juan VenegasStacia VinarJames Vincent and Marie NoorbergenPeri and Christian VincentGreg Walker and Michelle AshfordSean Weber-Small and Cara KleinhautManuel Weiskopf and Evelyn LannerSelene and Brad WilkIan Williams and Tessa BlakeFrancie Wong FreundEmily and Peter Yu

Alumni Families

AnonymousKelli and Peter AbrahamTina AndrewsRaymond BakaitisDeborah and Andrew BogenChristine and Rob BurchukEvelyn CazunJohn Dent and Pam McBrideMarci and Jeff DinkinLaurie and Rudy Ekstein

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Raymond De Felitta and Sherry BrennanSahaja and Bill DouglassRobin and Bob EatmanCaskey and Mick EbelingMark Emtiaz and Elizabeth FreitasJaime and Don EstesReagan Feeney and Richard LevineRoger Fishman and Courtney Thorne-SmithDavid Fishman and Lara SachsCindy and Jon FitzgeraldDerek Flonnoy and Michelle Todd-FlonnoyMichelle and Eric FreedZack Freedman and Heather SingletonTom FreundRichard Gabriel and Kay Seymour-GabrielJonathan Gardner and Barbi AppelquistLee Gardner and Lily NgGary Garland and Beth Holden-GarlandOna Gauthier and Eric BrittonThe Gelinas and Hillebrand FamilyChris GerolmoThe Reed-Goldstein FamilyJohn GoodmanJulia GoodmanGilberto Granados and Jyoti PuvvulaCameron Gray and Ramaa Mosley-GrayGabrielle and Rob GreenbergJeff and Marcie GreeneTamara and Andrew GrossMichelle and Erik GustavsonHumphrey Gyde and Cielo CerezoNicole and Ted HaimesNadene and Jeff HainesOlivia and Stephen HamelSky Hansen and Sharon StanleyPhil Hayes and Holly Swope Matthew Hayutin and Lizette Sanchez-HayutinJennine Rodriguez and Scott HevesyAleeza and Joe HobeckReina and Rich HoltzmanAlefiya and Naveed HussainMoje and Hyder HussainJon Hyman and Susan Hoffman-HymanJimmy Jellinek and Emily AnnChristine and Larry JenkinsMaura and Lewis KayAnna and Richard KornguteEmille KortlevenStephanie and Gustav KovenAlexander Kruglov and Alia ZaharudinLori and Scott LahmanJeremy Langer and Meredith BlakeRobert LaPorta and Alexa FischerPhillip Leslie and Christina MillsMaya and Matt LiebermanTally and Andrew LippmanAmy and Victor LiuDavid and Jacklyn LouieBarbara and Ben MadleyAlexandra and Peter MarxLorraine and Damien McCannMac and Christina McGaryDaphne and Devon McNairyStavros Merjos and Honor FraserScott Messick and Carey HernTom Meyer and Lindsey HayLinda and David MichaelsonLaura and Chris MillerLizzie and John MurrayRuth Naiditch and Alan LevinPriya and Sanjay NambiarHeather and David NevellKevin Newman and Amy Weimer

PS1 Board Members

Michelle and Gareth AstenJeremy Langer and Meredith BlakeJeff and Marci DinkinMark Emtiaz and Elizabeth FreitasBillie and Steven FischerAfshin and Nilou GhodsiLizzie and John MurrayKelly and Darren PeersEleanor and Joel PelcygerAbbie and Howard PerttulaKimberly and Josh PerttulaJeff Reyna and Anna TranHilary and Glenn RosenMaggie and Mort RosenfeldPamela and Matt SchwabMaria and Kevin SmithPaul Marks and Kerri SpeckJenny and Mike Tatum

Current Parents

Anonymous The Abronson FamilyCarol and Robin AcuttChristina AguileraJesse Aldana and Rachel HarrisMarwan Al-Sayed and Mies GrybaitisEduardo Alvarez and Olga CuevaJamie and Michael AngusFarhad Ashofteh and Gazelle JavadiMichelle and Gareth AstenShane Barach and Jenny DalyKen Baum and Julie CantorEric Beale and Jennifer KalishMat BeckRikki and Michael BogenCindy and Alex BoudovJordan BratmanTracy and Adam BromwichRachel and Philip BrunoKimberly and Marc ButanJared Carney and Deirdre WallaceChristian Carter and Jen LuiMarilyn and Chris CazunScott Chamberlin and Stephanie BarishKaren and Jim CicconeMarshall Coben and Jane LeevesMichelle Williams Court and Jamie Court

PS1 Annual Fund Participation

Lizzie Murray took the helm and chaired the Annual Fund Committee this year. She brought humor, fun, and creativity to every meeting. Under her guidance we had our most successful campaign ever.

2014–15 Annual Fund Committee

Alex Boudov

Deirdre Wallace Carney

Mark Emtiaz

Matthew Hayutin

David Michaelson

Lizzie Murray, Chair

Kimberly Perttula

Jeanette Rahill

Matt Schwab

Jason Schwarz

Tracy Sokolow

Maria Smith

Greg Walker

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Tammy and Jeff EllisLauren and Austin FiteDeirdre GainorSam Gasster and Dianne WaingrowNilou and Afshin GhodsiThe Hill/Hall FamilyAndrea and Scott HoltzmanBeryle JacksonZoe MooserAbbie and Howard PerttulaMaggie and Mort RosenfeldEva SalamancaGail and Roger SamuelAletta SchaapMadeline and Phil SchwarzmanLaurie and Michael SeplowBria and Evan SilbertMindy StaleyMaria and Phil StarrSam Surloff and Joanne Van EmburghAndrea and Maurizio VecchioneLiz and John WaldmanMaria and Jeffrey WauerNat Wilson and Laura Beck Faculty And Staff Tina AndrewsAlia ArbasThe Bennett FamilyEvelyn CazunLucia L. Alcantara-ChibaneKirstina Rasmussen CollinsLouise Everett & Steve CollinsLauren FiteHolly FrazierJudy FukasawaDeirdre GainorChristina and David GarciaBrad “BG” GilbertNancy GogliaBenita GriffinAshley GuillemWendell HamickThe Hill/Hall FamilyBilly HuynhNicole JacobyGina JangNicolina KarlssonElizabeth KempBonnie KooChris KuzinaJennifer LuiDebbie MartinezKitaka MixonPedro OrtegaJoel PelcygerAmanda PerlaAbbie PerttulaJayme PohlRigo RamosJennine Rodriguez and Scott HevesyMaggie RosenfeldDavid SalamancaEva SalamancaBrad ShimadaMindy StaleyHolly Swope John Waldman

Grandparents and Special Friends

Deborah and Andrew Bogen Grandparents of Kamden BogenCaroleen Feeney In honor of Frank, Samantha and Julia GerolmoBillie and Steven Fischer

Grandparents of Ian and Elio La PortaSally and Tom Freed Grandparents of Jade and Troy FreedNancy and Gary Freedman Grandparents of Finn and Zadie FreedmanPhyllis and Phil Gainsborough Grandparents of Violet and Calvin MurrayJudy and Paul Gardner Grandparents of Samantha GardnerAline and Jack Goodman Grandparents of Sean GoodmanStephanie and Marc Hayutin Grandparents of Bianca and Luca HayutinAnita Hoffman Grandparent of Isabelle and Alex HymanLinda and Mel Holtzman Grandparents of Ronan HoltzmanMary Howard Grandparent of Konrad and Theo HowardMaleka and Moayyed Hussain Grandparents of Hannah HussainHyman Family Charitable Foundation Family of Isabelle and Alex HymanJoAnn and Charlie Kaplan Grandparents of Eli Kaplan-PackerJudith and David Keyes Grandparents of Charlotte and Penelope TragosThe Koven Foundation Family of Gus and Benjamin KovenNancy and Jerry Lahman Grandparents of Noah and Toby LahmanBarbara B. Luchs In honor of Billie and Steven FischerKathleen and Robert Mulholland Friends of Tanner GoldsteinCarol and Eugene Pantuck Grandparents of Morgan and Alex PantuckEleanor and Joel Pelcyger Grandparents of Isabella and Finn Leeves CobenAbbie and Howard Perttula Grandparents of Jonah, Lucas, Anna, Mia and Allie PerttulaBev and John Rogers Grandparents of Mary and Claudia RogersGail and Roger Samuel Grandparents of Frankie SamuelBarbara and Ken Seplow Grandparents of Rachel and Danny SeplowSheila and Michael Siegel Grandparents of Charlotte and James SiegelLisa and Josh Taub In memory of Ken Olsen, Grandfather of Wyatt and Chase PeersMaya and George Trilling Grandparents of Joe and Max TrillingGeorgi Tsiklauri and Marina Serednitskaia Grandparents of Alejandra TorrezJoodi and Norman Veitzer Grandparents of Jordan and Zachary SchwabGwen and Peter Wall Grandparents of Elijah KayNancy Waldman Grandparent of Louis and Melina WaldmanIda and Fred Williams Grandparents of Cheval and Ciahna McNairy

Matching and Organizational Gifts

Apple Inc.The Bank of America Charitable FoundationThe Boeing CompanyCapital Group Co. Charitable FoundationDIRECTVFirst Pacific AdvisorsFrench American Charitable TrustGood Life OrganicsKayne Anderson Capital Advisors FoundationLakeshore LearningLois Lambert GalleryOracle CorporationPardee PropertiesSempra Energy FoundationSC ConstructionSony Pictures EntertainmentWeingart Foundation

MISSION STATEMENT:

PS1 is a diverse community committed to an ever-evolving model of pluralistic elementary education. On a path to self-knowledge, students engage and become the best versions of themselves. They develop critical academic and interpersonal skills to be confident and passionate contributors to an increasingly connected world.

Parents Guild

Executive Board 2014–15

Loren Kaplan, Coordinator

Cindy Boudov

Nicole Cavazos

Scott Chamberlin

Cindy Fitzgerald

Christine Jenkins

Priya Nambiar

Lily Ng

Maricela Santana

Kay Seymour-Gabriel

Rochelle Siegel

Kim Tinsley

Auction Aleeza Hobeck Cara Kleinhaut Lily Ng Stacia Vinar

Back to School PicnicMaria De Lorenzo Neda Nikkhoo Kim Tinsley

Book FairNicole Cavazos Christine Crombie Rochelle Siegel

Community Service Gaby Greenberg Susan Hoffman-Hyman

Grandparents Day Selene Vigil-Wilk Sharon Stanley Mia Robins Camilla Schur

Fall Festival Carol Acutt

Farm to SchoolJessica SchwarzAmy Weimer

Fathers BreakfastPhillip BrunoEd RogersMike Tatum

First Day CoffeeCindy BoudovChristine JenkinsFrances Smiley

Hot LunchJenny TatumKim Tinsley

Itty BittyMark HyattChristina Mills

Library SupportLily NgJyoti Puvvula

New Parent CoffeeNicole CavazosMatthew HayutinPriya Nambiar

One From the HeartCindy FitzgeraldKerri Speck

Parent POPJohn Murray

Room ParentCoordinatorCindy Fitzgerald

School SpiritEmily AnnKyle Hawley

ScripKevin CrombieYvonne HsiehNeda NikkhooLizette Sanchez- Hayutin

Staff AssistanceChristine JenkinsPriya NambiarSusie SchroerCourtney Spikes

Staff AppreciationCindy BoudovKimberly Perttula

Staff BirthdaysCindy Fitzgerald

YearbookJeanette RahillKelly PeersJennifer Steets

Parents Guild Committee Chairs

PS1 Parents Guild makes so much happen. The warp and woof of our community depends upon them. Under the leadership of the Executive Board, our Committee Chairs create opportunities for every parent to use their talents, time and skill to enrich not only their own lives but the lives of all of us.

Party Book

We thank all the families who offered such a wide range of adventure and fun this year in hosting a Party Book Party. We learned, we laughed, and we played!!! It was stellar!

Party Book Hosts:

Beth and Stephen AbronsonChristina AguileraMichelle and Gareth AstenShane Barach and Jenny Daly (2)Chris Beck and Jane Wang (3)Cindy and Alex BoudovTracy and Adam BromwichKimberly and Marc ButanJared Carney and Deirdre Wallace (2)Marshall Coben and Jane Leeves Sahaja and Bill DouglassBillie and Steven FischerRoger Fishman and Courtney Thorne-SmithCindy and Jon Fitzgerald (2)Zach Freedman and Heather SingletonJonathan Gardner and Barbi AppelquistGary Garland and Beth Holden-GarlandLen Goldstein and KristieAnne ReedJohn GoodmanCameron Gray and Ramaa Mosley-GrayGabrielle and Rob GreenbergTamara and Andrew GrossNadene and Jeff Haines (2)Kyle and Noah HawleyAlefiya and Naveed HussainMark Hyatt and Malerie MarderChristine and Larry Jenkins Lori and Scott LahmanRobert LaPorta and Alexa Fischer

Paul Marks and Kerri SpeckMac McGary and Christina MusreyHeather and David NevellKelly and Darren Peers (2)Craig Perry and Courtney Spikes (3)Kimberly and Josh PerttulaJessica and Eric ReidTim Reuben and Stephanie Blum-ReubenDan Roberts and Nicole CavazosJohanna and Edward Rogers (2)Amy and Billy Rose (2)Lisa and John RushingDavid Schumacher and Yvonne HsiehCamilla and Ronald Schur (2)Jessica and Jason Schwarz (2)Robert Schwentke and Jennifer Howard (3)Reid Shane and Laura Berland-ShaneMaggie and Jon ShermanMaria and Kevin SmithAnnie SpongSue StichMark Stratton and Susie Schroer (2)Jenny and Mike TatumCindy and George Teitelbaum (2)Kim TinsleyWendi and Stephen TrillingPeri and Christian VincentGreg Walker and Michelle Ashford (2)Manny Weiskopf and Evelyn Lanner

Fathers’ Breakfast Party Book

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Itty BittyArt SaleThe art came from all corners of the planet. Small but mighty pieces! Some were purchased for gifts, some for keepsakes, but everyone who came had a good time and went home with unique art pieces.

Fall Festival Fall FestivalFirst Day Coffee

Book Fair

Teachers who love to read, parents who love to read, a librarian who loves to read, students who are learning to love to read, and an annual book fair to feed us all.

Itty Bitty ArtBook Fair

It was a MADAUCTION and we all had a maddingly good time thanks to the creative, hardworking volunteers listed below. Everyone who attended thanks you!!

$1000 and Up

Shane Barach and Jenny DalyRichard Ehrlich and Jenni KayneBillie and Steve FischerPaul Marks and Kerri SpeckLizzie and John MurrayEllie and Joel PelcygerMia and Bill RobinsAmy and Billy RosePamela and Matt SchwabMaria and Kevin SmithGreg Walker and Michelle AshfordSean Weber-Small and Cara Kleinhaut

Auction Volunteers

Beth AbronsonCarol and Robin AcuttAftercare TeamJamie and Michael AngusEmily AnnBarbi AppelquistMichelle AstenKen Baum and Julie CantorTessa BlakeRikki BogenSherry BrennanTracy BromwichRachel BrunoNicole CavazosScott Chamberlin and Stephanie BarishKirstina Rasmussen Collins and Michael CollinsKevin CrombieJenny DalyReagan FeeneyLauren FiteCindy FitzgeraldElizabeth FreitasOna GauthierNancy GogliaJulia GoodmanBenita GriffinTamara GrossMichelle and Erik GustavsonAmy HillAleeza Hobeck, Auction ChairReina HoltzmanYvonne HsiehMark HyattChristine JenkinsLoren KaplanMaura KayBeth KempAnna KornguteLori and Scott LahmanEvelyn LannerRobert LaPorta and Alexa FischerSunny LeeDebbie MartinezNatalie McAdamsChristina Mills

Auction Angels

Lizzie MurrayPriya and Sanjay NambiarLily Ng, Auction ChairNeda NikkhooMarie NoorbergenKelly PeersKimberly PerttulaMia and Bill RobinsLisa RushingEva SalamancaVictor SantanaDevin SellersKay Seymour-GabrielJon ShermanBrad ShimadaHeather SingletonLinda and Ron SittlerMaria and Kevin SmithTracy SokolowCourtney SpikesMindy StaleyMark Teichman and Nayla AmmarKim TinsleyCourtney Thorne-SmithWendi TrillingStacia Vinar, Auction ChairChristian VincentDeirdre WallaceSean Weber-Small and Cara Kleinhaut, Auction ChairFrancie Wong

Up to $999

Jamie and Michael AngusChris Beck and Jane WangMarne and Kurt BoulwareSandi CantorJared Carney and Deirdre Wallace Joan CarneyMarshall Coben and Jane LeevesMichelle and James CourtSahaja and Bill DouglassRobin and Bob EatmanMark Emtiaz and Elizabeth FreitasDeirdre GainorJonathan Gardner and Barbi AppelquistLen Goldstein and KristieAnne ReedJulia GoodmanCameron Gray and Ramaa Mosley-GrayGabrielle and Rob GreenbergMarcie and Jeff GreeneNadene and Jeffrey HainesReina and Rich HoltzmanLori and Scott LahmanRichard Levine and Reagan FeeneyJacklyn and David LouieLinda and David MichaelsonMayumi Ijiri and Dan OffnerScott Packer and Loren KaplanJessica and Eric ReidJeff Reyna and Anna Tran ReynaHilary and Glenn RosenMaggie and Mort RosenfeldDavid Schumacher and Yvonne HsiehCamilla and Ron SchurJessica and Jason SchwarzRobert Schwentke and Jennifer HowardRochelle and Ian SiegelDiane and Andy SolomonWendi and Stephen TrillingPeri and Christian VincentChrissy and Antoine Wilson

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Auction

Great efforts have been taken to ensure the accuracy of this philanthropy report. If there is any error or omission, please accept our apologies and contact Deirdre Gainor, Advancement Director at 310 394-1313 ext. 138 so that future reports and permanent records reflect all gifts correctly.

Before the big day even arrives our Auction Angels have stepped up to help underwrite expenses. What an enormous boost they give to the volunteers. It helps ensure the event will be a success.

MadAuction

$1000 and Up

Beth and Stephen AbronsonJamie and Michael AngusMichelle and Gareth AstenMarshall Coben and Jane Leeves Mark Emtiaz and Elizabeth FreitasBillie and Steven FischerRoger Fishman and Courtney Thorne-SmithLauren and Austin FiteJonathan Gardner and Barbi AppelquistNadene and Jeff HainesMatthew Hayutin and Lizette Sanchez-HayutinJon Hyman and Susan Hoffman-HymanRichard Levine and Reagan FeeneyPaul Marks and Kerri SpeckLorraine and Damien McCannStavros Merjos and Honor FraserLaura and Chris MillerLizzie and John MurrayKelly and Darren PeersEleanor and Joel PelcygerKimberly and Josh PerttulaTim Reuben and Stephanie Blum-Reuben

Up to $999

Carol and Robin AcuttLucia Alcantara-ChibaneJesse Aldana and Rachel HarrisOlga and Eduardo AlvarezFarhad Ashofteh and Gazelle JavadiEric Beale and Jennifer KalishCindy and Alex BoudovTracy and Adam BromwichJared Carney and Deirdre WallaceJoan CarneyChristian Carter and Jennifer LuiEvelyn CazunMarilyn and Chris CazunScott Chamberlin and Stephanie BarishKaren and Jim CicconeKirstina and Michael CollinsMichelle and James CourtKaren and Ryan CraigMaria and Stefano De LorenzoZack Freedman and Heather SingletonDeirdre GainorLily and Lee GardnerNancy GogliaGabrielle and Rob GreenbergBilly HuynhAnna and Richard KornguteAlexander Kruglov and Alia Zaharudin

Fund A Need This important part of our Auction raises much needed dollars to strengthen our Financial Aid Endowment and ensures the rich, diverse community known as PS1.

Lori and Scott LahmanJeremy Langer and Meredith BlakeRobert LaPorta and Alexa FischerMaya and Matt LiebermanAmy and Victor LiuDaphne and Devon McNairyPriya and Sanjay NambiarScott Packer and Loren KaplanAmanda PerlaJessica and Eric ReidChris Riess and Amy HillDan Roberts and Nicole CavazosCharles Rollins and Natalie McAdamsHilary and Glenn RosenMaggie and Jon ShermanBradley ShimadaAnnie SpongMark Stratton and Susie SchroerRaeleen Taylor-BrandyMark Teichman and Nayla AmmarCindy and George TeitelbaumJuan Venegas and Carol FrayreStacia VinarManny Weiskopf and Evelyn LannerIan Williams and Tessa BlakeEmily and Peter Yu

Jeff Reyna and Anna Tran ReynaMia and Bill Robins Maggie and Mort RosenfeldDavid Schumacher and Yvonne HsiehPamela and Matt SchwabJessica and Jason SchwarzRobert Schwentke and Jennifer HowardDevin SellersRochelle and Ian SiegelJulie SimpsonMaria and Kevin SmithJenny and Mike TatumWendi and Stephen TrillingChris Trunnell and Megan KissingerPeri and Christian VincentKen Wimer and Heidi Hendrix

Fathers’ BreakfastGrandparents Day

1225 BroadwaySanta Monica CA 90404

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Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage

PAID

Mercury Mailing

Systems Inc.

Notable Numbers

25 New Families entering PS1 this fall

7 New PS1 faculty/staff members

4 Summer Mailings

34 Middle Schools attended by PS1 Grads in the last 10 years

8 Colors in the PS1 logo

80 solar panels on the PS1 campus

22 PS1 Parents Guild Committees

PS1 Welcomes New Faculty and Staff:

Left to Right:Kasia Roca, Music Teacher Aurora Culpo, Middles Long-term Substitute TeacherGlenetta Pope, Assistant Head for Teaching & LearningNina Tepper, Child Development SpecialistPreethi Raghu, Youngers Teacher Daniel Larson, Bridge Teacher Danielle Valadez, Aftercare TeacherNot pictured: Kristina Schuman, Learning Specialist

Original 1971 PS1 Student

Curt Harper was a PS1 student back in 1971. CURT is a short doc-umentary film about 50-year-old competi-tive surfer, Curt Harper. Diagnosed with autism as a child, Curt faced many challenges grow-ing up, but one thing that came easy was his love for surfing. Over the past 21 years, Curt has become a beloved fixture in the Southern California surf scene, having played an unlikely, yet vital role in the growth and development of multiple generations of groms. http://www.curtthefilm.com/. Curt’s mom Fieldon says, “PS1 was our first school experience. It was the first time anyone had embraced us, and it was so warm and welcoming!”