Education in and Around the Valley - Amazon Web … · Hudson Valley August 2013 109 Education in and Around the Valley Kids deserve only the best when it comes to education, and

Hudson Valley August 2013 109

Education in and Around the Valley

Kids deserve only the best when it comes to education, and these regional schools provide just that

By Gabriella Tutino

The autumn season is synonymous with many things: leaves changing color, temperature drops, pumpkin flavored food and drink, and of course, school. Receiving a good education is a critical foundation for many

Americans; a college degree or higher gives an individual the opportunity to improve not only his or her own life, but the lives of others, as well. Through schooling from an early age, people are given multiple tools with

which to interpret, understand, and impact the world around them. As American educator Edith Hamilton said, “To be able to be caught up in the world of thought — that is educated.”

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Hudson Valley October 2013 109

110 October 2013 www.hvmag.com

What classes or experiences are crucial for children’s early education?

Michael Grannis, Mizzentop Day School 64 East Main St., Pawling

845-855-7338; www.mizzentop.org

The experiences of feeling safe, respected, loved, and understood are experiences ev-ery child deserves. They increase a child’s self-confidence in all areas of development. Mizzentop Day School provides an academic environment which embraces a program of living values: respect, responsibility, toler-ance, and cooperation — all crucial to chil-dren’s development as life-long learners. More than teaching values, this program leads our students to live them. Whether in class or at lunch, our faculty continuously de-velops traditional and innovative ways to cre-ate this reality.

We believe learning has more value when concepts and topics are taught in a related context rather than in isolation. A multi-dis-ciplinary, integrated curriculum correlates subject matter to promote higher-level think-ing. Early childhood and lower school themes center learning on a common idea or topic. Middle school classes work collaboratively to connect content and skills taught in both core and special area classes.

What role should current events play in the classroom dynamic/experience?

Mark Devey, Indian Mountain School211 Indian Mountain Rd., Lakeville, CT

860-435-0871; www.indianmountain.org

Few educational experiences draw students in like a current events discussion. Current events allow us to weigh in on real world is-sues, not abstract questions raised from a textbook. A healthy intellectual debate re-quires each student to do research on the topic; reflect on his or her own values and personal experiences; and take ownership of a position. Current events discussions can create an opportunity for parents and stu-dents to open up discussion at home, too.

There are so many layers to each issue that classroom discussion helps students to understand other people’s point of view, en-couraging them to “walk in someone else’s shoes,” as Atticus Finch said in To Kill A Mockingbird. Students are engaged when they can play an integral role in an experi-ence, especially when their opinions are val-ued. It provides a perfect place for students

to empathize with others, form an opinion, and develop their own identity.

What are the advantages of a K-12 school?

Carol Bahruth, Poughkeepsie Day School

260 Boardman Rd., Poughkeepsie

845-462-7600; www.poughkeepsieday.org

The advantage of a K-12 school lies in the three C’s of the 13-year experience: commu-nity, curriculum, and continuity.

Beginning in kindergarten, PDS students work together in multi-age teams to solve problems, express themselves artistically, and take part in school traditions such as mu-sic festivals and pumpkin carving. Working with faculty mentors, students take on the role of teacher and get to know one another within a community of learners. In yearlong “buddy” pairings, students collaborate on reading, writing, mathematics, science, and the arts. The goal is a learning community based on mutual interests, trust, and respect.

A well-planned curriculum proactively supports each student. K-12 faculty members in our academic departments design a robust curriculum of skills and experiences that build on each other to ensure continuous develop-ment of learning from grade to grade. The result is a personalized, learning experience that continuously builds knowledge about each student over time.

How does the coed boarding experience ready students for the college boarding

experience?

Katherine Almquist, The Marvelwood School

476 Skiff Mountain Rd., Kent, CT

860-927-0047; www.marvelwood.org

Prep schools are just that: prep. Our stu-dents are taught time management, self-ad-vocacy, and discipline to prepare them for the next stage in their lives. Marvelwood is struc-tured, not rigid, and is the perfect stepping stone to college. It fosters independence. The majority of students are overwhelmed by the total freedom they have during that first year in college. There is no parent to wake them and get them to class. They can stay up all night and eat Oreos all day and nobody cares if they attend class. (Their parents will once they get the first report card, but that’s it.) Marvelwood students are given the tools for success that they take with them so they


to aThere’s more

mind

The Masters School develops complex skills for a complex world.

To learn more about

Masters renowned

Harkness teaching

methodology and why

Masters is Westchester

premier day and boarding

school for grades 5-12,

call 914.479.6420 or email

[email protected].

ADMISSION EVENTSMIDDLE SCHOOL Tuesday, October 22 at 7 PM

Saturday, November 9 at 1 PM

UPPER SCHOOL Thursday, October 24 at 7 PM

Saturday, November 9 at 3 PM

Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522

914.479.6420

www.mastersny.org


are prepared to handle college.

What are some ways to build community in an internationally

diverse boarding school?

Tim Weir, The Master’s School 49 Clinton Ave., Dobbs Ferry

914-479-6400; www.mastersny.org

Research confirms that an ethnically and cul-turally diverse student community broadens a student’s worldview and imparts valuable ex-periences that are proven to be beneficial in college and throughout life.

To build a strong community among a di-verse group of students requires a strategic and well-executed plan. The key is creating a welcoming environment; student advisors and dorm parents must also take an active role in their students’ academic and social adjustment.

A school’s educational philosophy plays a major role in building a sense of community. The Masters School is distinguished by the renowned Harkness teaching methodology — taught around oval tables in a seminar for-mat, every student contributes to the conver-sation. International students bring culturally unique viewpoints to Harkness discussions, evoking engagement and heightening cul-tural awareness.

A rich array of activities — from athletics, performing arts, to community service — provides students with additional opportuni-ties to collaborate, share experiences, and further enhance community building.

How important are extra-curricular activities?

Ryan Egan, The Hun School of Princeton

176 Edgerstoune Rd., Princeton, NJ

609-921-7600; www.hunschool.org

Faculty at The Hun School of Princeton believe strongly that student involvement in cocurricu-lar activities is important, because they believe in a balanced approach to life. The Hun School is home to 44 extracurricular clubs, 46 athletic teams, and 10 performance groups for vocal, instrumental, dance, and performing artists. Through these various programs and offerings students are encouraged to explore their cu-riosities academically, athletically, artistically, and socially, while also learning valuable lead-ership and teamwork skills. Last year, students traveled to Harvard University as delegates of the School’s Model U.N.; to the University


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of Pennsylvania where they exhibited oratory excellence in forensic competitions; and to Washington, D.C. to perform a cappella as guest entertainers at the National Association of Independent Schools conference. Time is designated for these pursuits as part of the daily schedule and included as a requirement for graduation.

What are the benefits of attending an all-boys school?

Tom Javery, South Kent School 40 Bulls Bridge Rd., South Kent, CT

860-927-3539; www.southkentschool.org

At South Kent, we’ve been educating boys since 1923. What we have learned is that education must be based on what works for each gender. Boys are hardwired differently from girls. Anecdotally, we’ve known this for years, but now, research from the frontiers of neuroscience proves this to be so. One benefit of an all-boys school is that the boys inherit a tribe — a band of brothers. They benefit from structure and discipline, mean-ingful work and their own unique spiritual path. Here, boys are able to maintain a high level of academic intensity while participat-ing in top-level athletics — giving them the necessary physical activity and appropriate competition without the distractions found in coed schools. Each boy is challenged to participate in his own personal hero’s journey. He will learn the meaning of service, creative exploration, and adventure. He will receive individual attention and a rigorous gender appropriate college preparatory education.

As a school that incorporatessustainability into the curriculum,

how can institutions prepare students for a greener, healthier future?

Alexandra Heddinger, Darrow School 110 Darrow Rd., New Lebanon

518-794-6000; www.darrowschool.org

Bringing balance is an ultimate goal of sus-tainability and involves one’s personal re-sponsibility to integrate human, environmen-tal, and economic concerns. Thinking about sustainability raises consciousness. We begin to think about what our actions mean and the nature of our relationships, whether those are with the environment or with people. The idea of making a more sustainable commu-nity means helping people learn how to live together better.


Small Community, Big OpportunityOur challenging and individually focused college preparatory curriculum features a unique combination of classroom instruction, hands-on learning, and environmental consciousness.Our beautiful mountainside campus in the Berkshires is a National Historic Landmark, rich in its Shaker heritage and provides an ideal setting for learning.Visit www.darrowschool.org or call today to schedule a visit.

110 Darrow Road, New Lebanon, NY 12125Tel: 518.794.6000 Toll Free: 877.432.7769 or (877.4DARROW)

[email protected]

October 14, 2013

November 9, 2013

January 20, 2014

February 17, 2014

Open House Dates!

A remarkable, diverse community where the whole student

OPEN HOUSESat., Oct. 26 at 9 a.m.

260 Jay Street • Katonah, NY 10536 • 914.232.3161 [email protected] • www.harveyschool.org

Harvey is a coeducational college preparatory school enrolling students in grades 6–12 for day and in grades 9–12 for fi ve-day boarding.

A remarkable, diverse community where the whole studentth

rives

OPEN HOUSECome visit

us!


At Darrow School, we seek to build, edu-cate, and inspire an active, environmentally conscious community of global citizens. We recognize that our existence depends on the health of our natural resources, and we ac-cept responsibility for reducing our environ-mental impact, both locally and beyond our mountainside campus. Drawing on our Shak-er heritage, we commit to adopting practi-cal and innovative solutions and methods toward these ends. Like the Shakers, we put our hands and minds to work, and dedicate our hearts to what sustains us.

What are some ways high schools prep their seniors for college?

Bill Porter, The Harvey School 260 Jay St., Katonah

914-232-3161; www.harveyschool.org

One of the great advantages of an indepen-dent school education is that the students have extraordinary access to their teachers. Classes often average 12-15 students, so teachers really get to know their students well. Class discussion is a more regular fea-ture of the curriculum, essays can be assigned more frequently, and students generally re-ceive more feedback from their teachers. In addition, independent school educators do not have “teach to the tests” which gives them more freedom to explore topics in greater detail. At Harvey, the students have one further advantage: Because of the five-day boarding program, many of the teachers are available to their students not only during the school day but also during breakfast or dinner because they actually reside on cam-pus. In these ways, and in many others, in-dependent school students are well prepared when they finally head off to college.

Has technology affected the work ethic of students in a positive or negative way?

Joseph Healy, St. Johnsbury Academy 1000 Main St., St. Johnsbury, VT

802-751-2130; www.stjacademy.org

St. Johnsbury Academy, a boarding and day school in northern Vermont, instituted a plan for freshmen to receive iPads last year as part of their freshmen humanities curriculum. Whereas the 20th century was primarily dominated by individualization of work, the 21st century will be led by those who learn how to collaborate within and across cultures and disciplines. Stu-dents need to learn to be not only responsible


College PreParatory Program • Quaker Values • grades 6-12 • Boarding & day • CoeduCationalFinanCial aid aVailaBle

22 spackenkill road, Poughkeepsie, ny www.oakwoodfriends.org

10696 Oakwood HVM.indd 1 3/23/09 2:43:02 PM

Please call to make an aPPointment

for a camPus tour.

for more information845-462-4200

Founded in 1796 and guided by Quaker principles,

Oakwood Friends School emphasizes the impor-

tance of intellectual pursuits, individuality and

one’s responsibility to the community at large.

Oakwood Friend School educates and strengthens

young people for lives of conscience, compassion

and accomplishment.

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DIVERSE STUDENT BODY27 countries, 11 states, over 40surrounding communities

AWARD WINNING FACULTY77% with advanced degrees

COMPREHENSIVE CURRICULUM22 advanced placement, 40 fine and performing arts, 5 languages, career and technical education

SMALL CLASSESAverage of 12 students per class


consumers of information, but ethical creators of original content as well. The abilities to eval-uate and synthesize various materials and de-sign and create products for real clients are all skills needed to be successful in this new age.

How do individualized programs nurture community and success

for high school students?

Anna Bertucci, Oakwood Friends School 22 Spackenkill Rd., Poughkeepsie

845-462-4200; www.oakwoodfriends.org

Understanding each individual student’s worth and nurturing community are both essential parts of the Quaker educational mission, and important to us at Oakwood Friends School. In our small classes we em-phasize getting to know students individually, challenging them to ask the right questions that will lead to their own growth. We know that interpersonal connection between stu-dents and faculty is key to academic success. The trust and mutual respect that develops in the classroom then plays out in the com-munity. Each student understands his or her strengths and contributes in meaningful ways to the whole school. Students feel comfort-able trying new things, such as acting in a play. Students are supportive of one another as they recognize their peers are also pursu-ing interests and taking intellectual risks. It makes the community stronger that each stu-dent knows him or herself so well as a learner.

What are the main elements crucial to a religious school experience?

Pete Hary, St. Thomas More School 45 Cottage Rd., Oakdale, CT

860-859-1900; www.stmct.org

St. Thomas More strives to foster students with a sense of responsibility to the commu-nity and the world around them. As a Catho-lic college preparatory school that upholds the traditions of the Church, however, we are proud of our diversity and students of many different faiths attend our school. Our Lady’s Chapel is located on campus. Christian students are required to attend one service on either Saturday or Sunday. Our resident priest is on hand to assist in spiritual devel-opment and to teach the students about the traditions, rituals, and values of the Catholic Church. He holds evening classes to prepare students for Confirmation in the spring and works with students periodically throughout


For more information, please call Dominican College’s Office of Admissions, 1-845-694-7031 or visit www.dc.edu.

FINISH YOUR DEGREE.FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN QUICKLY COMPLETE

YOUR DEGREE AT DOMINICAN COLLEGE.

ADULT UNDERGRADUATE / GRADUATE INFO SESSIONWEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2013

5:30 – 7:30 PM IN THE HENNESSY CENTERAdults who are seeking a great education, are invited to learn more about our online and on campus degree programs.

ONLINE UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES• Business Administration,

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Learn more at online.dc.edu

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Two Options – weekday and weekend options available

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Weekend Programs• MS Education – Teachers

of the Blind and Visually Impaired, Teachers of Students with Disabilities*

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the year so to they can receive the sacrament of Reconciliation if they choose. He has also initiated individual dorm Masses in an effort to gather together smaller groups of students to promote bonding and spiritual growth.

What are some ways to help freshmen adjust to college?

Ralph Johnson, Dominican College 470 Western Highway, Orangeburg

845-694-7031; www.dc.edu

Here are some of the approaches taken by Dominican College. Dominican offers sup-port services specifically for freshman. They have their freshman directorate, made up of the freshman director, assistant director, fac-ulty, and peer mentors. All these people as-sist incoming freshman with the transition to college life.

There is also the freshman seminar that offers students a strong foundation in the liberal arts and introduces them to the tools that can help foster academic confidence. And, at freshman registration students will have a faculty advisor specifically trained to register incoming freshman. The advisor will provide one-on-one advice. Also available at Dominican College is the coordinator of special services, who can set up accommo-dations and arrangements for students who have special needs.

How can a Catholic college accommodate for students of other faith?

Danielle Kobryn, St. Thomas Aquinas College 125 Rte. 340, Sparkill

845-398-4100; www.stac.edu

A college rooted in Catholic tradition creates an environment that fosters its students’ edu-cational, social, and spiritual development. St. Thomas Aquinas College, founded by the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill, is proud of its Catholic heritage and is mindful of support-ing students of all backgrounds.

The college’s office of campus ministry is staffed by a priest, rabbi, Protestant minister, and a Dominican Sister of Sparkill in order to serve students of all faiths. The campus ministry’s focus is to assist students’ growth and provide them with opportunities to ex-plore their own faith and spirituality. Interfaith prayer services, volunteer opportunities, and events promoting peace are organized with the intention of bringing the campus commu-


Mount Saint Mary CollegeMount Saint Mary CollegeNewburgh, New York

Learn in the Hudson Valley,succeed in the world.

OPEN HOUSES: Oct. 27 and Nov. 10www.msmc.edu/rsvp or 1-888-YES-MSMC

The Mount offers an excellent college experience, and a close community focused on your success.


nity together. The college is dedicated to cre-ating an environment for students to explore, share, and celebrate their own expressions of faith, prayer, and service.

What are some ways students can make the most of their college experience?

Jane Hanley, Mount Saint Mary College 330 Powell Ave., Newburgh

845-561-0800; www.msmc.edu

Students can create wonderful college experi-ences at Mount Saint Mary College by pursu-ing their interests and passions, developing new skills, and joining campus clubs and orga-nizations. While study and grades are a major part of college life, college students develop valuable lifelong leadership, organizational, and social skills by working with others who share their interests. Many students find their life’s work through talents and interests devel-oped during the college years, be it journal-ism, law, healthcare, art, theater, film, social justice, marketing, information technology, or management. Mount students are at work every day in internships, clubs, and organiza-tions, making the most of their college expe-rience. The added dimensions that students gain in pursuing interests, thinking critically, and developing personal goals are less tan-gible than their studies, but are a vastly impor-tant part of education and personal growth.

How can community college prepare students for employment?

Judith Stokes, Dutchess Community College

53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie

845-431-8000; www.sunydutchess.edu

Community colleges are leaders in preparing individuals for employment, both by provid-ing a solid foundation for those who wish to continue on for a bachelor’s degree, and teaching the career-specific skills necessary in the workplace. At DCC especially, where tuition is $3,200 per year, a quality education is accessible and affordable.

According to a recent study, a high school graduate can expect to earn $1.3 million over a lifetime, while a worker with an associate degree earns $1.7 million and one with a bachelor’s earns $2.3 million. Those with a college degree also have more options in to-day’s competitive work environment, and are happier and more fulfilled. A community col-lege education enables students to acquire


Learn to Make a Difference … Right Here.Since its founding, Utica College has built a tradition of helping people pursue their goals, discover their talents, and achieve success, with programs that include:

◆ 37 Undergraduate Majors◆ 21 Graduate Programs◆ Many options for part-time study◆ Innovative online programs … and more

UC’s excellent academic programs, outstanding faculty, and high degree of personal attention offer students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to realize their full potential … so that they can make a difference as individuals, professionals, and members of their communities.

Learn more about the UC experience.

Contact us today.

Office of Admissions(800) 782-8884 • [email protected] www.utica.edu

With tuition assistance and flexible payment plans,it’s more affordable than you think. Call for a tour.

Our children’s future...

Learning by doingGlobal partnershipsMaker spacesSTEAM (Science Technology EngineeringArts & Mathematics)Visual, performing and digital media artsWellness & athletics Wellness & athletics

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the necessary critical thinking and/or techni-cal skills to succeed, and to pursue whatever path they choose: A.A., A.S., A.A.S. or career certificate.

Additionally, the office of community ser-vices offers noncredit classes and programs that provide career-track training.

Given the current economic slump, how can a college help its senior class prepare

for the upcoming post-grad year?

North Callahan, Concordia College 171 White Plains Rd., Bronxville

914-337-9300 ext.2150; www.concordia-ny.edu

Besides making sure that a student is on schedule to graduate, it’s most important that graduates are prepared to enter the work-place with the skills needed to perform at a high level. Career counseling is a critical part of the senior year experience, and that means much more than just learning how to create an impressive resume. Job interviewing skills and learning best practices for the industry that a student plans to enter are critical to success.

What types of leadership programs do colleges offer students?

Christine Leogrande, Utica College1600 Burrstone Rd., Utica

800-782-8884; www.utica.edu

Utica College is a small college with many large possibilities — especially when it comes to leadership programs and opportu-nities for students. One of these opportuni-ties is leadership weekend, a weekend-long development program at Raquette Lake in the Adirondack Mountains. Led by an ambi-tious group of students, leadership weekend allows students — as well as some faculty and staff — to improve individual leadership skills through experiential workshops, team-building games and team-oriented activi-ties. All UC students are welcome to apply and participate.

UC also offers myriad on-campus clubs and organizations, from cultural to Greek life to special interest groups. Many leader-ship opportunities include sports, intramural athletics, college media, and on-campus jobs, which provide chances for creating and achieving goals. Finally, Utica College’s campus theme for the 2013-14 school year is “Drivers of Change,” encouraging stu-dents to be creative leaders in all aspects of their lives. •


Where Young Minds Grow

Preschool Through Eighth GradeTraditional learning in

an innovative environment

415 Route 343, Millbrook, NY 12545 845.677.5014·[email protected]

www.dutchessday.org

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Documents

Education in and Around the Valley - Amazon Web … · Hudson Valley August 2013 109 Education in and Around the Valley Kids deserve only the best when it comes to education, and