All School News
November 2009 All-School News
Calendar Highlights
Rummage Set-Up and Sale Week
November 2 – 8
Gambol Online Auction
November 9 – 23
No Beginning and Lower School Classes – Parent-Teacher Conferences
November 12 and 13
Viewfinder Film Series Screening
November 12
Middle and Upper School Grandparents and Special Friends Day
November 13
Middle and Upper School Admission Open House
November 15
"Higher Than the Eagle Soars" Outdoor Education Benefit with Mountaineer Stephen Venables
November 17
PFA General Meeting about Global Education with Student Panel
November 19
No Upper School Classes – Parent-Teacher Conferences
November 19 –24
Beginning and Lower School Admission Open House
November 22
No Middle School Classes – Report Writing Days
November 23 and 24
Beginning School Grandparents and Special Friends Day
November 24
Lower School Grandparents and Special Friend Day
November 24
Thanksgiving Break
November 25 – 29
View as web page
Headlines
School Finances Q&A
The October PFA general meeting was canceled out of respect for Empty the Lot Day. The meeting topic would have been school finances, so PFA president Marie Godbey and PFA volunteer coordinator Heidi Owens sent these questions about the school’s endowment, tuition, and more.
How is our endowment doing?
Lark: Thanks to generous charitable gifts received last year, we were able to draw down less from the endowment than we have in previous years. Preserving our endowment and proceeding conservatively has been a real advantage for Catlin Gabel.
At the worst point in the recession, our endowment was down 34 percent. We made up important ground during the summer. The endowment currently stands at a respectable
$18.9 million, and we are optimistic overall. However, if we depend on endowment earnings alone to return the endowment principal to where it stood two years ago, it would take seven to eight years. The quickest way to get the endowment back on track is through new contributions.
How will the school fill the gap in financial aid dollars when Rummage is gone?
Miranda Wellman ’91, development director: We are considering several ideas for replacing Rummage revenue—at a much lower cost to the school—and have a task force of trustees helping us analyze the best options. In addition to the 12,000 volunteer hours required to hold the Rummage Sale, development staff members work many hours supporting the event. Those staff resources will be freed up to focus on an event with a higher return for Catlin Gabel’s financial aid program.
Fortunately, we have until 2011 before our new idea has to generate income. This spring we plan to announce our revenue replacement plan. On a related note, some families have told me that shopping and volunteering at Rummage provides a way for them to support financial aid in a meaningful way even though they cannot “write big checks.” I want to remind everyone that supporting our community fund — the Annual Fund — directly supports financial aid. Gifts to the Annual Fund range from $5 to several thousand dollars and support the immediate needs of the school. Certainly, financial aid is a top need every year. As for volunteering, there are many existing opportunities at the school, and in January a community task force will launch to brainstorm new volunteer opportunities. We're collecting some ideas in an online forum. Everyone is welcome to get involved!
What is the best guess on tuition increases?
John Gilleland, board of trustees co-chair: Within our annual process, it is too early to give a prediction on any change in tuition for the 2010-11 school year. The end of January is when Catlin Gabel determines the tuition rate for the following school year. In December, the finance committee of the board meets with Lark and Theresa Long, director of finance and operations, to project the tuition figure and the rate of increase. We aim for a tuition rate that will respect the needs of our families while providing an appropriate amount of operating funds. In January, the board of trustees reviews the tuition figure and either accepts it or suggests an alternative.
Last January as we considered the tuition increase we took into account the flagging economy, while at the same time we considered our increased financial aid needs and our commitment to fairly compensating our dedicated teachers and staff members. Keep in mind that our biggest expense is people. After thoughtful discussion and deep reflection, we agreed to increase tuition by 3 percent, which was less than our recent historical increases of 4 to 5-1/4 percent.
Any movement on the capital campaign for the arts center?
Lark: We have raised enough money to fund the design process and get plans ready for construction. However, we are still searching for an arts lover to champion this project. Our community needs a lead gift to launch this $7.5 million arts center for Middle and Upper School students.
Creating a new arts center is rooted in our curricular needs, so this is not about adding unnecessary square footage. That makes the project attractive to potential donors. Yet, we also know that until the economy rebounds, families will have a difficult time making big capital commitments. We are going to keep talking about the importance of the arts center and the opportunities to support it.
What is the goal for the Annual Fund this year?
Stuart Ellis, Annual Fund co-chair: This year our goal is $890,000. Two years ago, the board set an aggressive Annual Fund goal that was 5 percent over the previous year. Last year, given the economy, the board decided to keep the goal flat, so $890,000 is the goal for the second consecutive year.
We are lucky that 35 amazing parent volunteers have stepped up to lead the Annual Fund effort. They understand that what Catlin Gabel can offer in the classroom depends on the success of the Annual Fund. These volunteers have already started calling to remind parents and donors to pledge and contribute early. Early commitment helps the school make budgeting decisions for the year and reduces the number of calls we must make to reach our goal.
What do Annual Fund dollars cover?
Becky Ellis, Annual Fund co-chair: All that Catlin Gabel provides for our children, and that we value so much, costs about $2,200 more per student than tuition covers. The gap is filled through Annual Fund donations. Each student benefits from the Annual Fund. That’s why it is important that every family give at whatever level they can. Everyone gives, everyone receives. The Annual Fund supports exceptional teachers and small class sizes, and all of our extraordinary programs such as music, art, PE, languages, college counseling, field trips, science labs, outdoor education, and libraries.
How has the school tightened its belt?
Lark: Every department and division reduced its budget for this year, some by 30 percent. We decreased staffing by more than 7 FTEs, mostly by combining jobs and not replacing teachers and staff members who were moving on. We reduced publications expenses, delayed about $100,000 in technology equipment purchases, postponed furniture and equipment acquisitions, and maintained the benefits package at last year’s rate due to a very low premium increase that was shared between the school and employees. The fact that the school was able to maintain enrollment at 728 students through aggressive financial aid support and incredible community loyalty meant we did not have to compromise our curriculum or programs this year. I am grateful for the commitment of our parents!
Congrats!
Read about poetry, chess, science awards, and more.
Eagles athletes rip it up
Read about the fall season and what lies ahead.
Do you have a hard time describing Catlin Gabel to your friends, neighbors, and colleagues? Tell them to come see for themselves!
Admission open house events are scheduled for Sunday, November 15, for Middle and Upper Schools, and Sunday, November 22, for Beginning and Lower Schools.
Link to detailed schedules.
Mark your calendar for two can't-miss events in November
Viewfinder Global Film Screening: Coming of Age in a Culture
Thursday, November 12, 6:30 p.m.
“Higher Than the Eagle Soars: From the Eiger to Everest” a talk by renowned mountaineer Stephen Venables
Tuesday, November 17, 7:30 p.m.
A benefit for Catlin Gabel's outdoor education program
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There's No Place Like Home"
Gambol online auction
Support our students and teachers in this important fundraiser for the school. The Gambol auction committee invites you to follow the yellow brick road to our online auction launch party on Monday, November 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Jubitz seminar room (lower level of the Upper School library). Food, drinks, music, and online shopping. A great place to start your holiday shopping!
Annual Fund gifts rolling in, thanks to parents
Remember, there is a $2,200 gap between tuition and the cost of educating each student. If you can possibly cover the gap for your child this year, please do.
Don't forget to make your Annual Fund pledge early in the fall to avoid getting a reminder phone call. Just think how many fewer hours our Annual Fund volunteers will have to spend making calls if you contribute promptly!
Pledge or give online.
All hands on deck for our 65th and final
Catlin Gabel Rummage Sale!
If you have not signed up to volunteer, don't worry about it. Come to Expo and we'll find a job to your liking.
Great deal on Windows upgrade available to students and faculty-staff
Purchase the new Windows 7 Professional Upgrade for only $39.99 through the Oregon Technology Education Consortium's (OETC) personal technology purchasing website. This promotion runs through December 31, and is available to all students and faculty-staff for personal use at home. Limit is one copy per person per year. You will need to enter your faculty-staff ID or student ID during processing in order to verify that you are eligible to purchase this item. Find your ID online. You will be asked to login to the website before the information is provided. If you have a problem, please e-mail webmaster@catlin.edu.
What’s new on the website?
The website is frequently updated with news, photographs, blogs, and videos. Big news and events are promoted with home page badges posted below the photo. Here are a few website highlights.
Global Viewfinder Film Series and Post-Rummage discussion forums
Michael Heath podcast: “In Praise Of Opposing Views”
Ruth Patterson Hart art exhibition closes November 18
Don’t miss this amazing show. Drop by the Cabell Center foyer during school hours for a visual treat.
The next exhibition in the Cabell Center will feature the artwork of our very own Lower School students.
Do you have a passion for art? Do you want to help expose our students to a broad range of art? If you love art and would like to help bring exhibitions to our campus, please get in touch with Lee Stewart, art exhibition committee chair.
February 2012 All-School News
Calendar Highlights
Poetry Festival assembly
February 2
ADHD in young adults presentation
February 2
No Lower School classes –
LS admission visits
February 3
Upper School play: Office Hours
February 3 and 4
LS parent coffee with Vicki
February 6
Middle School parent-teacher conferences and student ERB testing
February 9 and 10
No kindergarten classes – admission visit day
February 10
No Middle School classes – MS parent-teacher conferences
February 16 and 17
No Lower School classes – LS teacher planning day
February 17
Upper School play: Fools
February 17 and 18
No classes, offices closed – Presidents' Day
February 20
Let Creativity Bloom panel discussion
February 21
Upper School diversity conference
February 23
No preschool classes – admission visit day
February 24
Viewfinder Film night: sustainability
February 24
Upper School play: Fools
February 24 and 25
View as web page
Headlines
I hope you plan to attend tonight's Portland mayoral debate, sponsored by the Upper School student newspaper and moderated by its staff members. The students, who exemplify our mission–inspired learning, leading to responsible action–have worked hard to bring the candidates to campus and prepare for the debate. Your support is important. The Cabell Center doors open at 6:30 p.m. The debate is from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Free and open to the public.
In the fifth video segment of my conversations with James Furnary '12, he asks the biggie: "Why Catlin Gabel?" We've been showing the clip to prospective families. Now we share it with you as a Iittle nudge to get that online re-enrollment contract completed by the February 17 deadline. — Lark
Next year’s calendar highlights coming soon
We are finalizing major dates for the
2012-13 school year. Look for information in upcoming division newsletters.
What do you think?
Make your voice heard. Please complete the online survey to evaluate Catlin Gabel.
» Link to survey
New re-enrollment process in place, contracts due February 17
IMPORTANT: Re-enrollment contracts for the 2012-13 school year were emailed to all families on January 28.
The online forms must be completed and deposits made by February 17. Note that both parents need to sign the online form. We cannot guarantee a spot for your child(ren) if we do not receive the contract and deposit by February 17.
If your child is not returning, please go to the online form and select "review documents" and then "decline to sign" by February 17.
Questions about the online application?
Call Karen Warton in admission, 503-297-1894 ext. 347
Questions about financial aid?
Call Mary Yacob in admission, 503-297-1894 ext. 315
Questions about payment options?
Call Mary Ann Rogers in the business office, 503-203-5114
Congrats!
The Music Teachers National Association awarded 6th grader Aditya Sivakumar honorable mention for his composition Prelude and Canon. Aditya's composition was also one of five winning works in the Friends of Rain First Annual Young Composers Forum competition. His piece will be performed by Friends of Rain faculty and guests at Lewis & Clark College on March 17.
The Catlin Gabel Roboticons, composed of 7th graders Robin Attey, Jasper Gordon, Matt Maynard, Grace Wong, and Sage Yamamoto, won the first place inspiration award at the state FIRST Lego league robotics competition on January 15. “The award covers a lot of what we hold dear at Catlin Gabel,” said robotics director Dale Yocum. “It measures how effective a team is at getting others excited about science and technology while gaining awareness and understanding about the world and themselves.”
The Diack Ecology Education Program awarded 7th grade science teacher Pete Ritson and his students a grant to study Balch Creek. The field-based ecology project teams groups of students to select micro sites and measure, record, and identify macro-invertebrates. Once back in the classroom, the young scientists are responsible for entering, organizing, and analyzing their data.
Freshman Valerie Ding was named a winner in the Young Artists Debut! Concerto Competition. She and the other winning soloists will perform with a combined orchestra of professional musicians from Oregon Symphony and the Oregon Ballet Theatre, conducted by Niel DePonte, on April 10 at the Newmark Theatre. Valerie will perform Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, first movement.
Sophomore Alex Lee’s midget hockey team went 5-0 and took home the first place trophy at a recent tournament in Bellevue, Washington. Alex, who plays defense, was awarded MVP in one of the games. The championship game against a Canadian team ended in a shootout.
Juniors Hannah Rotwein, Zoe Schlanger, and Kenny Woods are Gold Key art winners, the highest regional award given annually in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program, sponsored by New York’s Alliance for Young Artists & Writers. Their Gold Key work is currently on display at the Pacific Northwest College of Art. At the end of February, their pieces will be shipped to New York for judging on the national level. Zoe received Gold Key awards for two pieces and honorable mention for two pieces. Hannah received one Gold Key award and two honorable mention awards. Kenny received one Gold Key award. Senior Thalia Kelly was awarded eight Silver Key awards for pieces in her portfolio.
Development director Eileen Andersen and her husband, Paul, welcomed baby Samuel Wesley on January 9.
So close!
Almost 800 friends like the Catlin Gabel Facebook page. Our base is growing quickly, but we won’t be satisfied until every parent, student, and alumni Facebook user likes our community page. Get in on the fun.
Upper School assembly: Poetry Festival
Thursday, February 2
10:40 – 11:40 a.m.
Cabell Center Theater
Seven local poets, including two Oregon Book Award finalists, present at this special assembly. The visiting poets will also work with students in classes on Thursday and Friday.
Carl Adamshick | Michael McGriff | Matthew Dickman
Paulann Petersen | Emily Frey | Endi Hartigan | Jae Choi
Guests are welcome to attend the assembly. However, questions will be limited to student audience members. Sponsored by Pegasus, Upper School literary magazine.
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Thursday, February 2
7 p.m.
Middle School Commons
The Inside/Out Thursday Teaching and Learning Center series presents Dr. Ajit Jetmalani, director of child and adolescent education at OHSU, and MS humanities teacher Ann Fyfield in a discussion of adolescent ADHD.
Let Creativity Bloom
A distinguished panel, from artists to doctors and entrepreneurs, will discuss the vital importance of creativity in work and learning
Tuesday, February 21
7 p.m.
Cabell Center Theater
Seven panelists with Catlin Gabel connections, whose careers have been enhanced by their creative powers, will discuss the central role of creativity in this year’s Esther Dayman Strong Lecture.
This panel discussion honors the late Joan Shipley, a former Catlin Gabel staff member and parent of alumni, who was an ardent supporter of the arts.
The event is free and open to the public.
THE PANEL
Dr. Brian Druker, developer of a revolutionary anti-cancer drug, OHSU, current CG parent
Denise Mullen, new president of the Oregon College of Art and Craft, CG neighbor
Sherrie Wolf, noted Pacific Northwest painter and printmaker, parent of alumna
Michael Mandiberg ’96, interdisciplinary artist, College of Staten Island/CUNY, alumnus
Dr. William Long, fundamentally reorganized trauma care, Legacy Emanuel Hospital, parent of alumni
Riley Gibson ’04, co-founder and CEO of crowdsourcing platform Napkin Labs, alumnus
Peter Bromka ’00, product and marketing strategy, Orchestra.com, alumnus
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Gambol 2012
Portland. Inspired.
March 3 at the Governor Hotel
We are excited to unveil a livelier format for this year’s Gambol. The new look and feel celebrates Portland’s weird...er…unique…qualities. The Governor Hotel 3rd and 4th floor ballrooms are getting full-on Portland-centric makeovers.
Doors open at 5 p.m. for patrons, who get to bid early on silent auction items including class art projects, job shadows, and party sign-ups. General admission opens at 5:30 p.m. with continued silent auction bidding, a golden ticket raffle, and wall of wine roulette. Guests will be treated to a full spread of complimentary appetizers, microbrews from Ninkasi, and wine from Catlin Gabel family wineries Apolloni Vineyards, Elk Cove Vineyards, Hamacher Wine, Ponzi Vineyards,Garden Vineyards, and Wahle Vineyards. As the silent auction closes, guests will make their way to theater-style seating for a fast-paced live auction and special appeal for financial aid. The speedier live auction leaves plenty of time before the night is over for mingling, dancing, and a buffet dinner with open table seating. Late night munchies will be sated by sweet selections from Voodoo Donuts, Cupcake Jones, and Ruby Jewel.
Annual Fund goal in sight
Thanks to everyone who has supported the Annual Fund so far this year. We’ve reached the 70 percent mark and are well on our way toward the goal.
Every gift truly helps. If you haven’t yet given to the Annual Fund, fear not! Catlin Gabel’s fiscal year ends on June 30, so there is still time: http://www.catlin.edu/giving/annual. Our dedicated Annual Fund volunteers will call soon to urge everyone to get on board.
365 days, 52 weeks, 12 months, and 1 magical year - made possible by you!
Cabell Center art exhibitions celebrate student creativity
Stop by to see the wondrous creativity our students bring to their work. The current exhibition features Beginning School artists. The Middle School show goes up February 13, followed by the Lower School exhibition beginning March 19, and the Upper School show from April 20 through graduation.
January 2012 All-School News
January highlights
Parents of 8th graders meeting about transition to Upper School
January 5
Lower School parent coffee with Vicki
January 9
Teaching and Learning Center presents parent evening about underage drinking
January 12
Martin Luther King Jr Day – no classes
January 16
Upper School report-writing days – no US classes
January 17 and 18
Parent community meeting: perceptions and misconceptions about college admission
January 19
Board of trustees meeting
January 19
College information night for juniors and their parents
January 19
Winter information evening
January 19
Lower School MLK community meeting
January 20
Middle School parent coffee with Barbara
January 24
Viewfinder Film Night: "Diversity – Challenging our Assumptions"
January 27
Middle School dance
January 27
Chinese New Year celebration
January 30
Mayoral candidates debate
January 30
Headlines
Happy New Year, one and all. I hope you had a splendid break and are raring to go for 2012. —Lark
In the fourth video segment of brief conversations between James Furnary and me, we talk about his college application process.
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TLC parent evening about underage drinking
Thursday, January 12
7 – 8:30 p.m.
Middle School Commons
Perception, myth, and reality. What do we do? Rosemary Schwimmer, parent for prevention coordinator at the Oregon partnership, and Upper School counselor Kate Grant discuss. Sponsored by the Teaching and Learning Center's Inside/Out Thursdays Speaker Series.
Parent community meeting: college admission perceptions and misconceptions
Thursday, January 19
8:30 – 10 a.m.
Gerlinger
Guest speakers are Upper School college counselors Nancy Donehower and Blythe Butler, admission director Sara Nordhoff, and Knight Family Scholars Program director Chad Faber. All four speakers worked in college admission before coming to Catlin Gabel. This meeting is sponsored by the PFA.
Student newspaper sponsors Portland mayoral debate
Monday, January 30
7 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Cabell Center Theater
The Upper School's CatlinSpeak newspaper is pleased to host a debate with the three front-runners in the 2012 race for Portland mayor: Charlie Hales, Jefferson Smith, and Eileen Brady.
The event is free and open to the public. Invite your friends!
In recognizing the importance of youth involvement in politics, CatlinSpeak has invited students from Portland high schools to the event. CatlinSpeak seeks to heighten awareness of the mayoral race, especially among teens nearing voting age.
Congrats!
Junior Anne Gilleland was featured in the Beaverton Valley Times for putting her robotics knowledge to work for Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue. She revived the fire district’s robot fire hydrant, which is used at community events to talk to children about fire safety. Anne gave Robbie the Robot a fresh start by repairing corrosion and connection problems, installing a new battery, and replacing the old drive belts.
Kudos to shop students who made wooden toys for child residents of Bienstar’s affordable housing in Hillsboro. The following “elves” provided serious cheer with their puzzles, cars, boats, stacking blocks, and geometric blocks: freshmen Zach Greenleaf and Max Luu; sophomores Ali Corwin, Lexi Cromwell, Peter Koe, Jonathon Yau, and Sadie Yudkin; juniors Evan Hallmark, Benji Lin, Chris Reimann, and Jaime Yu; and senior Brandon Wilson.
Sixth grader Isabel Larson won 1st place on vault in the 2011 women's compulsory gymnastics state championships.
Three Middle School robotics teams competed at the FIRST Lego League qualifying tournament. All three teams earned trophies and two advanced to the January 15 state competition. The Roboticons, with 7th graders Robin Attey, Jasper Gordon, Matt Maynard, Grace Wong, and Sage Yamamoto, won the Champions Award, placed 2nd overall, and are going to state. Team Omega, whose members are 7th graders Adolfo Apolloni, Ryan Selden, Liam Wynne, and 6th grader Roy Stracovsky, earned an ACE award and an invitation to state. Team Echo, with 8th graders Julian Baynes, Jake Hansen, Gregor Peach, and David Vollum, won the Robot Design Award for their rock-solid robot design. Thanks to the Upper School robotics team for staffing the event.
The future looks bright for Catlin Gabel robotics! The 4th grade’s Blazing Eagles team, with Liam Wang, Annika Holliday, Lauren Mei Calora, Will Attig, Ibrahim Ahmad, and Dan Lezak, went home with the 2nd place Champions Award and an invitation to state.
Lower School players did well at the Ridgewood chess invitational. Fifth grader Avi Gupta won the tournament, and 3rd grader Bowen Blair placed third overall. Second grader Arlo Maslen and 4th grader Jimmy Maslen won their grade level competitions.
Fifth grader Rowan Treece appeared as “Marie” (Clara) in George Balanchine's Nutcracker with the Oregon Ballet Theatre.The performances marked the fulfillment of a personal goal she set at age 2-1/2 when she saw the Nutcracker live for the first time.
Hit the slopes
The Catlin Gabel ski bus runs on six Saturdays:
February 4, 11, 18, 25, and March 3 and 10.
This Catlin Gabel ski program is supervised by faculty members from all divisions, and lessons are taught by Mt. Hood Meadows ski and snowboard instructors. The program is open only to Catlin Gabel students in 5th through 12th grades. » Details about the ski bus program.
December 2011 All-School News
Calendar
Viewfinder Film Night: "Women, Families, and the Global Community"
December 2
Middle School dance
December 2
6th grade parent potluck
December 2
Upper School dance
December 3
Middle School service learning day
December 7
Senior parent potluck
December 7
8th grade production of St. George and the Dragon
December 9
Upper School winter concert
December 13
Lower School Revels
December 15
Winter break
December 17 – January 2
Classes resume
January 3
Headlines
Interview with athletic director Sandy Luu
Athletic director Sandy Luu came to Catlin Gabel this year from Liberty High School in Hillsboro, where she was AD of their large 5A program. (She is pictured here with Len Carr and Lark Palma at Homecoming.)
We asked Sandy about her adjustment to Catlin Gabel's smaller program, talked about her philosophy of school athletics, and got the inside scoop on college athletic scholarship. » Read our interview with Sandy.
Congrats!
Seventh grader Anna Bishop played the lead in New Century Players' production of the 1954 play The Bad Seed. She was profiled in the Oregonian. » Check it out.
Three 8th graders won prizes in the Beaverton Public Library’s Halloween creative writing contest. Ian McClanan won 1st prize, Julien Leitner won 3rd, and Holden Denson won honorable mention.
Freshman Victoria Michalowsky will perform ballet solo in Northwest Dance Theatre’s performance of A Nutcracker Tea, with performances December 17-19 at the PCC Sylvania Performing Arts Center.
Sophomore Mckenzie Spooner was among the top 40 girl cross-country runners in Oregon to compete against the top 40 girls from Washington at the 13th annual Nike-sponsored Border Clash.
Senior Zoë Frank has been accepted into the Guiness Book of World records for breaking the world record for balance board. Zoë’s balancing act was a fundraiser for women in Zambia. » Read more.
Fall sports wrap-up
Congratulations to all the Eagles and thanks for a great season! Last month we reported cross-country honors. Here are the volleyball and soccer honors.
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Girls Soccer League MVP First Team All-League Second Team All-League Honorable Mention
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Volleyball First Team All-League Honorable Mention Boys Soccer First Team All-League Second Team All-League Honorable Mention |
Major giving officer joins development team
We are happy to welcome Joan Gardner to Catlin Gabel. Joan has more than 15 years experience as a fundraiser and wealth manager in Oregon. Most recently she has been a fundraising consultant. Joan also served as a financial consultant with Smith Barney, and was development director for the Berry Botanic Garden and the University of Oregon School of Music. Joan is a proud Peace Corps alumna and has a background as a music educator and trained flutist.
Reserved on-campus parking could be yours
Make your gift by 4 p.m. on December 30 to qualify for the Annual Fund parking raffle
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported Catlin Gabel’s Annual Fund this year. If you haven’t make your gift yet, don’t worry, there’s still time!
Every parent, teacher, and staff member making a gift or pledge to the Annual Fund before December 31 will be entered to win the Annual Fund parking space for the rest of the school year! If you’ve already given to the Annual Fund, you’ve already been entered. Voila!
Thank you so much for your support!.jpg){kind=icon}
Raffle Rules
You need not be present to win.
The parking space will be assigned by the school.
The space is reserved from January through June 2012.
Catlin Gabel hosts BunnyBot competition on December 17
What better way to ring in the holiday season than to snuggle around and watch menacing 120-pound student-built robots fling and shove defenseless stuffed bunnies? The FIRST robotics game this year is a demented mash-up of capture the flag and Nerf dart tag. Fun for the whole family.
The BunnyBot scrimmage offers an opportunity for Oregon teams to bring new members up to speed before the intensity of the January and February build season sets in. The BunnyBot event is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 17, in covered tennis courts 1 and 2.
» Link to rules and video from last year.
» Link to photos from last year.
Wanted: stuffed bunnies
The Upper School robotics team seeks stuffed bunnies for the BunnyBot competition. The bunnies need to measure between 9 and 12 inches tall (ears not included). Bring your donation to the Nutshell or Outback robotics labs after school.
Get a jump on holiday shopping
The bookstore has a new shipment of hoodie sweatshirts. We also stock T-shirts, hats, blankets, umbrellas, and more. Or shop online for a wide variety of Catlin Gabel logo items.
Resiliency expert Dr. Kathy Maserie podcast
Dr. Kathy Masarie spoke at a Catlin Gabel parent community meeting in November 2011 about the courage it takes to foster resiliency in children, and how parents can model autheticity, honesty, and self-care. » Link to the podcast.
November 2011 All-School News
November Highlights
Sophomore parents potluck
Wednesday, November 2
BS and LS parent-teacher conferences
November 3 and 4
College financial aid workshop
Thursday, November 3
Evening with artist in residence Eric Adjetey Anang
Monday, November 7
Upper School campus and community service day
Wednesday, November 9
US play: Dead Man's Cell Phone
November 10 – 13
Admission Open House
Sunday, November 13
Board meeting
Tuesday, November 15
Middle School service day
Wednesday, November 16
PFA meeting with Kathy Maserie, MD
Thursday, November 17
US parent-teacher conferences
November 17 – 22
MS report writing days
November 21 and 22
BS and LS Grandparents and Special Friends Day
Tuesday, November 22
Thanksgiving break
November 23 – 27
View newsletter on web page
Headlines
Video conversation with Lark and James
Lark Palma and student body president James Furnary ’12 interviewed each other, and we caught it all on camera.
Stay tuned as we roll out additional footage in the coming weeks of Lark and James talking about what distinguishes Catlin Gabel, applying to college, and more. Special thanks to Judd and Natalie Girard for advising on this project and producing the video.
How does our garden grow?
With each passing week, the garden behind the Middle School expands and improves thanks to the efforts of many community members. From shed doors created by the Upper School shop class to pavers laid by Upper School students, to the latest addition – a cob pizza oven – there are many wondrous elements to discover. Chief garden honcho and 6th grade English teacher Carter Latendresse writes about the latest developments.
» Read Carter's inspiring story of our community coming together, and be sure to drop by the garden. You will be amazed by the bounty and beauty.
Making sense of accreditation
You may have heard: Catlin Gabel will formally seek re-accreditation next fall. What is the school accreditation process, and what does it mean for Catlin Gabel? Technology and learning innovation director Richard Kassissieh answers the questions.
» Richard makes sense of the accreditation process
Congrats!
Junior Valerie Balog interned during the summer with Dr. Gary Westbrook, co-director of the Vollum Institute. Valerie performed advanced molecular biology techniques like virus transduction and polymerase chain reaction analysis. At the same time, she completed the neurobiology course offered through Harvard’s summer school. Because of her enormous commitment to the study of neuroscience Valerie was unable to participate in the Britt Festival String Quartet Academy. She was one of 32 students admitted. Happily, the program allowed her to defer to next summer.
Team USA, including junior Katy Wiita, won the silver medal in the synchronized swimming competition at the Pan American Games.
» Check out the video of Team USA's free routine.
» Read the Columbian newspaper article about Katy.
Freshman Valerie Ding appeared on the October 26 edition of the Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Comedian Aasif Mandvi visited the Broadcam MASTERS science, technology, engineering, and math fair to interview several finalists including Valerie.
The girls varsity cross-county team will compete for the state title at Lane Community College on Saturday, November 5, at 10 a.m.
Several runners on the varsity cross-country teams received district honors.
Girls
Sophomore Mckenzie Spooner: district champion and first team all-district
Senior Sarah Koe: second team all-district
Senior Talbot Andrews: second team all-district
Junior Hannah Jaquiss: second team all-district
Sophomore Kelsey Hurst: honorable mention all-district
Freshman Riley Hutchings: honorable mention all-district
Boys
Senior Parris Joyce: honorable mention all-district
Junior Casey Currey-Wilson: honorable mention all-district
The girls varsity soccer team won the district championship and will continue on to league playoffs in their pursuit of competing at state.
Seventh grader Hannah Cassin’s poem, "Their Water," was published in the latest edition of Edible Portland. See page 56.
Seventh grader Lucy Sondland and sophomore Nicholas Elliott ran the Portland Marathon, and alumni director Lauren Dully completed the half marathon.
Director of technology and learning innovation Richard Kassissieh placed 1st in his age division and 6th overall in the Columbia Gorge Half Marathon.
First grade teacher Mimi Tang presented at the Northwest Conference on Teaching for Social Justice. Her workshop was called "Unpacking the Ode." More that 600 educators attended the Seattle conference.
The Tualatin Valley Water District featured Catlin Gabel on the front page of its September-October newsletter. As we reported last spring, the water district recognized our successful water conversation and efficiency efforts with its first Water Hero Award. Now, the 65,000 households and businesses that receive the newsletter know about our award, too!
Get a jump on holiday shopping
The bookstore has a new shipment of hoodie sweatshirts. We also stock T-shirts, hats, blankets, umbrellas, and more. Or shop online for a wide variety of Catlin Gabel logo items.
Fantasy coffin sculptor artist in residence
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Eric Adjetey Anang, a Ga fantasy coffin sculptor from Ghana, will be an artist in residence at Catlin Gabel from November 7 to November 11. We have invited him here to demonstrate his amazing art of sculpting a coffin out of wood in whatever shape a family feels best represents their deceased elder. He will be sculpting a woodworker’s hand plane, approximately 7’ long, 3’ wide, and 4’ high, on the front deck of the Barn. Please come ask him questions, watch him work, and feel free to participate in the building of the hand plane. Two years ago, Michael de Forest, the LS woodshop teacher, traveled to Ghana for a summer and studied with Eric in his carpentry shop in Teshie, near Accra. There is also a US trip planned for Ghana from July 29 to August 19, 2012, where students will be working in the Kane Kwei Carpentry Shop with Eric.
Please join us on Monday, November 7, at 7:30 p.m., in Gerlinger to learn more about Eric's work. The presentation is free and open to the public.
Catlin Gabel Players present "Dead Man's Cell Phone"
The Upper School show runs November 10 through 13 in the Cabell Center Theater
Show times
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday at 5 p.m.
Admission: $8 for students and senior citizens; $10 adults
About the play
The person at the next table just bit the big one and his cell phone will not stop ringing. When Jean answers his phone, her fateful act dials her deeply into the dead man’s mysterious business and his eccentric family – not to mention trips to the afterlife and the black market. This imaginative and dark-edged comedy, written by Sarah Ruhl, is the captivating odyssey of a woman forced to confront her assumptions about morality, redemption, and the need to connect in a technology-obsessed world.
Directed by Robert Medley
Mature themes and strong language
Admission open house for preschool – grade 12
Sunday, November 13
Tell your friends and colleagues
We know word of mouth is the most effective way to get the news out about our terrific school—and current parents are the school’s best spokespersons. Encouraging families to come see for themselves why Catlin Gabel could be a great school match would be a big help in our open house promotion efforts.
» Learn more about the open house schedule
PFA meeting with Kathy Maserie, MD
Thursday, November 17
8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Gerlinger
Do you have the courage to foster resilience in your kids, when the culture is telling you to rescue and prop them up? Do you have the courage to be truly compassionate not only to others, but to yourself, too? Learn how to model authenticity, honesty, and self-care in order to empower your kids.
October 2011 All-School News
Calendar
US Homecoming Dance
October 1
8th grade parent coffee with Barbara
October 3
LS parent coffee about modern languages program
US hosts 8th grade lunch
BS Back-to-School Night
October 5
Jean Vollum Distinguished Writer assembly: Heidi Durrow
US Back-to-School Night
October 6
Teaching & Learning Center parent night – For the Love of Nature
October 13
Teacher in-service day – no classes; prearranged child care available
October 14
Robotics FIRSTFare
October 15
LS teacher planning day – no LS classes; prearranged child care available
October 17
College mini fair
October 18
Freshman parents potluck
October 19
PFA meeting: Guest speaker MS head Barbara Ostos
October 20
MS parent-teacher conferences – no MS classes
Lower School Harvest Festival
Viewfinder Film Night
October 21
Former headmaster Kim MacColl memorial service
October 22
LS parent coffee with Vicki
October 24
Past trustee and development director Joan Shipley memorial service
October 25
Seniors and 1st graders visit the pumpkin patch
MS service learning day
Parent meeting about bullying
October 26
Photo retake day
October 27
MS and US Grandparents & Special Friends Day
October 28
Robotics Girls Generation event
October 29
» October calendar details
Headlines
Interview with Middle School head Barbara Ostos
Are you curious about our new Middle School head, Barbara Ostos? We are too! That's why we interviewed her for this month's edition of "Headlines."
Congrats!
» News about the accomplishments of campus actors, athletes, activists, and academics
A tip of the hat to the class of 2012
When new Upper School history teacher Dave Whitson told this story about the start of the school year, we couldn't resist sharing it with a wider audience.
"On the freshman trip, a group of seniors served as advisors for the incoming 9th graders, volunteering to give up two days to accompany us and work long hours. It was my first introduction to many of the soon-to-be-graduates. Their relentless good cheer was impressive enough, but the thoughtfulness they displayed towards the freshmen was remarkable. At all times, they worked to learn names, build connections, and create one of the most positive and welcoming environments I've ever been in. On the last morning, they gathered before the freshmen and sang a song they had prepared the night before, reinforcing everything they had done over the retreat and reiterating that the relationships they had established would remain as strong when we returned to campus on Monday. The singing might not have been pitch perfect, but every other aspect of their performance was."
Annual Fund launches today – September 30
Watch it grow!
Help us reach 100 percent.
Give now!
Spread the word: admission hosts open house
Open house for all grade levels
Sunday, November 13
1 – 5 p.m.
We know word of mouth is the most effective way to get the news out about our terrific school—and current parents are the school’s best spokespersons. Encouraging families to come see for themselves why Catlin Gabel could be a great school match would be a big help in our open house promotion efforts.
Please send people to our website to RSVP and to learn more about the day's schedule at www.catlin.edu/admission
Meet auction coordinator Kecia Welt
We are excited to welcome back Kecia Welt, who rejoined the development staff as auction coordinator in early September. She was Catlin Gabel’s annual giving program director in 2001 and 2002 before moving on to work at OPB as director of leadership giving. Kecia has since worked for the Multnomah County Library Foundation, first as their director of corporate relations, then as coordinator of their Every Family Reads program. Kecia earned a BA in chemistry and art history from New York University. She lives in Portland with her husband, Tyler, and their 7-year-old son, Henry. Kecia looks forward to working with the community. Email her if you are interested in volunteering for the Gambol, weltk@catlin.edu
October events extend learning for parents, friends
Please join us for any or all of these special events. Guests are welcome.
Jean Vollum Distinguished Writer Assembly
Thursday, October 6, 10:40 – 11:40 a.m.
Author Heidi Durrow will talk about her book The Girl Who Fell From the Sky at the Upper School assembly. All US students and teachers read the book in the summer.
For the Love of Nature
Thursday, October 13, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
The Teaching & Learning Center presents the first in a series of evenings for parents. Join outdoor education teacher David Zanona and filmmaker Meg Merrill for a talk about the importance of getting kids outside and connected to nature.
Viewfinder Film Night – Schooling Across the Globe
Friday, October 21, 6:30 p.m.
Films for adults and young people with a focus on education in the U.S. and abroad
Bullying Isn't What It What It Used To Be: Strategies for Coping with Bullying
Wednesday, October 26, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
This parent night is a schoolwide discussion about anti-bullying strategies and how Catlin Gabel uses them.
Check out our new social media page on the website
Visit the new social media page in the parent section of the website to see what we've been talking about on Facebook, Twitter, and on our website's home page.
September 2011 All-School News
September calendar highlights
PFA coffee for Lower School parents
September 6
Middle School athletics information meeting
September 7
PFA coffee for kindergarten parents
September 8
PFA coffee for preschool parents
September 9
PFA barbecue for Beginning School families
September 11
Lower School photo day
September 12
Middle and Upper School photo day
September 13
PFA coffee for Upper School parents
September 13
Beginning School photo day
September 14
Coffee for parents of 1st graders
September 14
PFA 101 for all parents
September 15
Middle School back-to-school night
September 15
Lower School parent coffee with Vicki
September 19
Board of trustees meeting
September 20
Middle School discovery days
September 21 and 22
Middle School campus day
September 23
Lower School back-to-school night
September 22
6th grade parent coffee with Barbara
September 27
7th grade parent coffee with Barbara
September 28
Homecoming (girls soccer vs. OES)
September 30
Headlines
by Lark Palma
Welcome to a new school year! We open our doors with the strongest enrollment in school history, a testament to our program, teachers, students, and community. Thank you to new families for choosing Catlin Gabel. And thank you to returning families for sharing our school’s story and encouraging a wide range of people to consider Catlin Gabel for their children.
Goals for the year
This year I will focus on leading the community--connecting with students, teachers, parents, alumni, grandparents, and donors.
The Campaign for Arts and Minds is just in the early stage, and already we are on our way to reaching the campaign goals of building a Middle and Upper School creative arts center and increasing our endowment. We are off to a successful start, and I am determined that part of my legacy at Catlin Gabel will be completion of these goals.
Next year, we will engage in the accreditation process for independent schools. To prepare for that rigorous evaluation the entire faculty and staff will take part in a self-study this year.
Also on the docket for this year is a new approach to curriculum review. Teacher leaders will focus on curricular scope and sequence as well as best teaching practices.
Innovation
The National Association for Independent Schools has designated “innovation” as this year’s theme. As a member school we embrace the theme and take pride in leading the way.
Innovation is at the forefront of so much that we do, from kindergarten activities such as student-produced videos about worm power to senior projects out in the community. We continually seek new ways to reach students and prepare them for an increasingly complex world.
The Knight Family Scholars Program is just one example of a new initiative with innovation at the forefront.
Last year we joined a prestigious group of independent day schools across the country in co-founding the Global Online Academy and are honored that the Upper School PLACE course is one of the five inaugural offerings this year. That’s innovation!
To help us reach important institutional goals and steward innovative initiatives I have asked Vicki Swartz Roscoe and Michael Heath to serve as assistant heads of school in addition to their roles as division heads.
» More about Vicki and Michael’s new roles as assistant heads of school.
New faculty and staff
One of the most important jobs of any school head is hiring faculty and staff. On average since 1995, we hire 27 new people a year, with the most being 46 new employees in 1998 and the least being 10 in 2003. Just five years ago, we hired 33 new faculty-staff members and the following year 35. This year we welcome 38 new employees.
» New teacher, intern, and staff member photos and introductions
Please join me in welcoming all of our new students and faculty-staff, and their families. Have a great start to the year. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Meet our new teachers, interns, and staff members
» Photos and introductions
Congrats!
Seventh grader Sophie Glew placed 1st in the novice division of the Scottish Highland Games fiddle competition.
Julien Leitner, an 8th grader, was featured in an Oregonian op-ed piece about his Archimedes Alliance project. Its mission is to encourage and promote philanthropy on the broadest scale by providing a vehicle through which a large number of people of ordinary means can collaborate to make a significant positive impact on the lives of others. » Check out his persuasive video.
The Society for Science and the Public has announced that freshman Valerie Ding is one of 30 national finalists in the 2011 Broadcom MASTERS competition for science, technology, engineering, and math. She will compete at the national finals in Washington, D.C., in late September.
Sophomore Jonathan Cannard competed at the Youth Laser 4.7 World Championships in San Francisco. He sailed his 14-foot rig alongside the top 113 boys and 52 girls from 48 countries including Japan, Peru, and Australia.
Senior Katy Wiita swam with Team USA in the World Aquatic Championships in China. The team placed 10th. » Watch a video of Katy’s team in action.
Senior Cydney Smith and junior Marina Dimitrov participated in Saturday Academy’s Apprenticeships in Science and Engineering (ASE) program this summer. ASE matches high school students with scientists and engineers for summer internships in a professional, scientific, and/or engineering environment. Marina’s internship at IBM consisted primarily of planning a middle school girls’ summer technology camp. Cydney interned at Multnomah County Facilities and Property Management, where she visited construction sites and helped with 3D architectural models.
Catlin Gabel’s FIRST Robotics Team 1540 – The Flaming Chickens – was invited to demonstrate their robot and the school’s robotics program at several events this summer, including a middle school girls’ summer technology camp hosted by IBM, a camp at Sunnyside Elementary, the Mensa annual gathering in Portland, and IBM Beaverton’s annual employee Family Fun Day.
Speaking of the Flaming Chickens, a robotics tutorial site by robotics program director Dale Yocum has reached 750,000 uses internationally. » Visit the site.
The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) selected Upper School Spanish teacher Lauren Reggero-Toledano as part of the 2011-12 Teachers of the Future program. She was selected from a large pool of nominees who inspire academic excellence in students and who serve as opinion leaders among their colleagues and peers. The Teachers of the Future were also chosen for their expertise in particular areas— environmentalism, globalism, technology, and equity and justice—which NAIS believes are hallmarks of a high-quality education for the 21st century. As one of only 25 teachers nationwide chosen for the program, Lauren will lead an online discussion forum designed to share innovative ideas and teaching techniques and will create a demonstration video to inspire others.
Upper School math teacher Jim Wysocki married Shari Levine on July 23 at the Columbia Gorge Hotel.
Don’t be shy. Share your news. Submit “Congrats!” information about student and faculty-staff achievements to Karen Kitty Katz, editor, katzk@catlin.edu, 503-297-1894 ext. 305.
Faculty-staff art show in Cabell Center foyer
The first art exhibition of the year begins September 14 and features the works of teachers and staff members. Drop by any time during school hours.
The arts committee seeks members to help select and exhibit future shows in the Cabell Center. If you are interested, please get in touch with committee chair Lee Stewart at lrstew@qwest.net.
Homecoming
Friday, September 30
Cheer on the mighty Eagles at this great family evening. Students young and old, parents, alumni, faculty-staff, and friends come together for this don't-miss community event. The girls JV and varsity soccer teams face our friendly rivals OES.
JV vs. OES at 4:15
Varsity vs. OES at 6:15 p.m.
Catlin Gabel around the world
The perspectives gained when our students connect with people in faraway places enrich our community. So, too, bringing guests from abroad to our school enhances our lives.
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Meet our exchange students
Sophomore Nimsi Campos-Solis is from Costa Rica. She lives with the Zechnich family. Senior Tapiwa "Taps" Nkhisang is from Botswana. She lives with the Gideonse-Higgins family this fall. After winter break, Taps will move in with the Sue Spooner household. Please join us in greeting and getting to know our international students. Thanks go to the host families for opening their doors and hearts to care for our visiting scholars.
Where in the world did we go this summer?
Twenty-five Upper School students traveled abroad on school trips this summer. Mandarin teachers Janet Chiu and Beining Hu led a group to China. IT director Richard Kassissieh and science teacher Aline Garcia-Rubio led a group to Botswana.
» Photos and blog posts from Bostwana
What’s on tap for global trips in 2011-12?
Upper School
Nepal – Spring 2012
David Ellenberg, Becky Wynne, and Nance Leonhardt will lead Catlin Gabel’s second trip to Nepal in four years. Starting in Kathmandu, the group will trek to 10,000 feet in the Himalayas and visit UNESCO world heritage sites. Students will work with local peers during their time in Kathmandu and study the area’s unique mix of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Ghana – Summer 2012
Michael de Forest and two others (TBD) will lead Catlin Gabel's first art-focused trip. The primary destination is Accra, Ghana's capital city, where students will work with world-famous wood sculptor Eric Adjetey and arts educator Ellie Shimelman, a Boston native, who splits her time between Accra and Boston.
Ecuador – Summer 2012
David Zonana, Erin Goodling, and one more trip leader (TBD) will introduce students to Ecuador’s culture and highlands on a trip that combines global and outdoor education. Students will work with local service organizations and schools, enjoy brief homestays, and work on language learning. Plans include hiking up a volcano or two. Participants need to be in good shape, but prior climbing experience is not required.
Japan – Summer 2012
Yoko Iwasaki and others (TBD) lead 10 days of travel to Tokyo, Kamakura, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, followed by an 11-day homestay in Gifu Kita. More than 113 Catlin Gabel students have visited Gifu Kita in the past 20 years. CG students will attend classes and activities, and participate in the three-day Kitakou-sai Cultural and Sports Day events in Gifu Kita.
Middle School
Martinique – Spring 2012
Monique Bessette and two others (TBD) will take French language students to this small and developing island to live with families, do service work, and speak French.
Costa Rica – Spring 2012
Wally Wilson and two others (TBD) will lead Spanish language students to Monteverde, where Catlin Gabel has an eight-year relationship with the Cloud Forest School. Students will live with local families and work alongside peers in this bio-diverse community.
If you have questions or ideas about global trips, please get in touch with global education coordinator Spencer White at whites@catlin.edu
Don't forget to grab a directory
Pick up your copy of the 2011-12 Handbook•Directory at the front desk in Toad Hall. Beginning Friday, September 9, families may purchase a second (or third or fourth!) copy of the directory for $7 each.
Students are welcome to pick up directories for their family.
June 2011 All-School News
June calendar highlights
Upper School concert
June 1
Senior project presentations
June 2
Third grade portfolio night
June 2
Lifer ceremony and parents of lifers gathering
June 3
First grade overnight
June 3
Senior trip
June 3 – 6
Eighth grade musical: The Mikado
June 6
Fifth grade portfolio night
June 7
Celebration for departing BS and LS teachers
June 8
Sixth grade portfolio night
June 8
Kindergarten Olympics
June 9
Upper School awards assembly I
June 9
Lower School field day
June 9
Fifth grade ceremony
June 9
Eighth grade ceremony
June 9
Upper School awards assembly II
June 10
Last day of classes
June 10
Commencement
June 11
Alumni Weekend
June 17 – 19
» View as web page
In this issue
Headlines
by Lark Palma
Takeaways from "Life After Catlin Gabel" program
Another year flew by! How does that happen? In wrapping up the year I want to share with you some of the marvelous takeaways from last week’s inspiring event, Life After Catlin Gabel: Alumni and Student Voices, hosted by the alumni and college counseling programs. But before I get to that, please take a moment to reflect on all the amazing people who work so hard to teach, support, feed, and engage our students. I’d particularly like to extend my gratitude to parent volunteers who give in countless ways from putting on the Ritz at the Gambol to shelving books, to reading with children, raising money, serving on committees, joining the Service Corps efforts, organizing meals, supporting athletes, and on and on. I extend special thanks to the PFA executive council members and grade representatives. You make a difference!
Now, back to our alumni and student panel. Our student panelists were seniors Henry Gordon, Rebecca Kropp, and Josh Langfus. The alumni panelists included Leslie Nelson ’10, attending Pitzer College; Rivfka Shenoy ’09, attending Washington University St. Louis; Riley Gibson ’04, BS in business management from Babson College and co-founder and CEO of Napkin Labs; and Peter Bromka ’00, BA in anthropology from Tufts University and a design researcher at IDEO, a global design firm.
Our moderator, Rukaiyah Adams ’91, has a BA from Carleton College, a JD and MBA from Stanford University, and is a consultant for Plum District and Regence Blue Cross/ Blue Shield. She asked the following questions.
Tell us about an academic challenge you faced here, and what you learned from that experience?
Leslie: I learned that I’m not too big to ask for help.
Josh: Freshman English was tough. The teachers tear you up to pieces so they can build you back up in the proper form. It prepares you for the next three years.
Riley: It’s okay not to have the answer but you have a foundation to figure it out. Curiosity and unstructured thought gives you an amount of confidence to find the answer.
Rivfka: Leading an English class was challenging because I had to teach my friends and peers. But it gave me confidence and respect.
For those in college and beyond: did you feel prepared for college? What academic skills turned out to be most important for your own success?
Rivfka: Learning how to study. I was ready to enter a rigorous academic environment because I was coming from a rigorous school.
Leslie: I want to graduate with knowledge, not just good grades because that is what you leave with – what you have learned.
Peter: The learning center helped me understand my own learning style and what worked for me – everyone is different. That’s powerful to learn.
Riley: In the work world, especially a start-up business, you have to be prepared for ambiguity. Writing a five-paragraph essay and thesis statement helps me form an argument and support it.
One thing about this school is that it forces you to make hard choices about how to use your time. Do you agree?
Riley: The challenges here taught me how to prioritize. I use that today in my business. You have to be able to prioritize to get stuff done.
Josh: Being on the Judicial Council was hard. When the actions of a person rupture the community it makes me examine my own ethics and morals.
Seniors, do you feel socially prepared for college? For those in college and beyond, did Catlin Gabel prepare you socially?
Rebecca: CG prepared me to interact with people outside of the CG community by the relationships I have with teachers and adults. These relationships gave me confidence to not be intimidated to meet new people and I’ve applied this to my work with Search and Rescue.
Henry: The trips we go on with outdoor ed, or class, create interactions and bonds with our peers. Being in an environment different from a classroom helps you form these bonds across grade levels.
Rivfka: There is a great deal of trust amongst the CG community. I inherently believed that people are good. I wasn’t aware that trust had to be earned.
Tidbits
Peter: Tools CG teaches you to have a point of view and figure out what you care about. I learned this in experiential days in the Lower School in a class called, "Where does it come from? How is it made?"
Josh: I wanted to do well in my classes because of my teachers. They made me passionate about what they were teaching and I wanted to honor that.
Rivfka: Relationships you foster with teachers is a big advantage in college applications. They know you so well and it comes through in their recommendations.
Rebecca: Find what you love and do it. It translates into a great story.
Our goal is to graduate students who know how to plan, self-evaluate, solve complex problems, and nourish their curiosity — the skills needed to succeed in college and career. Our panelists and moderator beautifully personified Catlin Gabel’s mission. My thanks go to alumni relations director Lauren Dully Hubbard and college counseling director Nancy Donehower for bringing us together for a lively and enlightening evening.
A video of the program will be posted soon.
Congrats!
Senior Vighnesh Shiv was named a finalist in the international Google Science Fair. Google narrowed down their search out of more than 7,500 entries from around the world before naming Vighnesh as one of five finalists in the 17-18 age category. Vighnesh and the other finalists will be flown to Google’s Mountain View, California, headquarters in July for the final judging round. The panel of judges includes “Nobel Laureates, tech visionaries, and household names.”
French and Spanish awards
Catlin Gabel's terrific language program is evident every day in classrooms from Lower School through Upper School. Test results are gratifying external validation.
Spring sports wrap-up
The boys golf team won its 9th consecutive district title. The girls team made it to state for the first time in school history.
» Golf, track and field, tennis, and baseball results at a glance
Class of 2011 destinations
The list of enrolling colleges is in keeping with lists from previous years. As always, the range and variety shows evidence of independent thinking and decision-making by our students, and their focus on finding schools (near and far) that meet their own academic and personal criteria for a great match. We are proud of the outcomes for the class of 2011, and know our students are well prepared for their next steps. (Plans change. This information is current as of May 31, 2011.)
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Rohisha Adke |
Stanford University |
Catlin Gabel co-founds online academy
Catlin Gabel has helped found a new nonprofit organization called the Global Online Academy (GOA), a consortium of ten leading independent day schools that will offer online high school courses beginning this fall. We are honored that our own PLACE urban studies class, taught by George Zaninovich, has been selected as one of the five inaugural courses. Lakeside School in Seattle led the effort to found the academy and will hire the director.
» Partner schools and more information
Success is just around the corner
We’re getting there! We need all community members to get on board so we can raise the $95,000 left to meet this year’s Annual Fund goal.
- Give in honor of a teacher or staff member.
- Give in support of the Eagle Club and to celebrate Mike Davis’s tenure.
- Give to raise participation percentages (which are closely scrutinized when we seek foundation grants).
As you know, the Annual Fund is Catlin Gabel’s top current giving priority and the most critical ongoing fundraising effort. Every gift matters, no matter the size. Give online or by calling 503-297-1894 ext. 310. Thank you!
Summer homework coming for all families
Watch your inbox for an e-mail from Lark Palma with links to our new online forms for updating your student's emergency contact and medical family directory listings, and publicity preferences. In previous years, these forms were sent via U.S. mail. We're saving time and money by providing forms online.
Update your listing online for next year's directory
If your summer plans include moving, or changing phone numbers or e-mail accounts, please update your information so the 2011-12 directory will be accurate. Go to the Update Contact Details page in the Parent section of the website. You will need to log in to gain access.
Tuition due July 1
Tuition for the 2011–12 school year will be billed on your June statement and is due by July 1. There will be a finance charge assessed if payment is not received by July 15. If you will be away at this time, please make arrangements with the business office before you leave to pay your bill in advance or have your bill sent to a different address than your home.
A convenient way for families to pay school bills is to set up an automatic bank draft. This payment method allows Catlin Gabel to automatically debit your bank account each month for the balance due or for a determined amount that you choose.
Please contact Mary Ann Rogers in the business office at 503-203-5114 or rogersm@catlin.edu if you would like more information about tuition due or setting up an automatic payment.
Unique trip combines camping with ecology, biology, and policy study
The outdoor education program offers this trip in partnership with the Gorge Ecology Institute. Travel from the headwaters of the Hood River at Eliot Glacier on Mt. Hood to the Columbia River by bike, raft, and foot from July 25 through 29 (four nights, five days).
Along the way, meet with a climatologist, a glaciologist, representatives from the Warm Springs tribe, U.S. Fish and Wildlife scientists, and Forest Service employees working on stream and salmon habitat restoration. Students do not need special experience, and we can loan equipment such as backpacks and tents.
- The trip is open to high school students and current 7th and 8th graders.
- Non-Catlin Gabel students are welcome.
- Cost: $450 – $500 depending on the number of students.
- Need-based financial aid may be available.
- E-mail Erin Goodling at for more details and to sign up.
Students encouraged to join athletic teams
Preseason practice begins August 22
We encourage all Upper School students to join a Catlin Gabel team. Each year some students, particularly freshmen and sophomores, hesitate to come out for sports, believing they are too inexperienced to participate. In most of our sports there are several athletes who have had no previous experience. Our no-cut policy allows for everyone to participate. We provide great opportunities for students to give new sports a try. You have nothing to lose and a lot to gain.
Soccer, volleyball, and cross-country preseason practice begins on Monday, August 22. For conditioning, skill development, and team organization, athletes planning to participate in the first fall contests are required to attend preseason practices. Athletes missing practices or arriving after the starting date will be withheld from competitions until they have met the practice requirements determined by the coaching staff. Varsity teams will participate in the Jamboree at Catlin Gabel on Saturday, September 10.
We hope to see you on August 22!
Have a safe and wonderful summer!
May 2011 All-School News
May calendar highlights
Lower School parent coffee
Monday, May 2
Celebration of language day
Wednesday, May 4
New Middle School student and parent social
Wednesday, May 4
New preschool parent social
Wednesday, May 4
Upper School art exhibition begins
Monday, May 9
Senior projects begin
Monday, May 9
New kindergarten parent social
Wednesday, May 11
Preschool circus
Friday, May 13
Seniors and first graders to zoo
Wednesday, May 18
Laptop showcase
Wednesday, May 18
Upper School new family social
Wednesday, May 18
Donor picnic
Thursday, May 19
Life after Catlin Gabel: student and alumni voices
May 24
No Beginning and Lower School classes
Friday, May 27
Eighth grade performance: The Mikado
Friday, May 27
Memorial Day – No classes
Monday, May 30
View newsletter as web page
Headlines
by Lark Palma, head of school
Recapping a wonderful visit with Michael Thompson, PhD
On Wednesday, the school community was treated to a day with Michael Thompson, psychologist, educator, and lecturer. Michael spoke at five meetings, each with different topics and audiences including parents, faculty-staff, and Middle School and Upper School students. Thanks go to the PFA for sponsoring Michael’s wonderfully informative day with us.
Michael has a common-sense approach to child development. He frames societal issues and pressures around the needs of the child. His words resonate for me because his beliefs are mirrored in our school. Michael has worked with 40 high-powered, high-performing public, private, and international schools for many years. He draws on anecdotes from all of those visits with razor-sharp recall.
We must keep the conversation going on all of the important issues he raises for our schools.
Three of Michael's talks were recorded and will be posted soon. Here are a few nuggets from my interactions with Michael.
Raising responsible children
• Remember that adolescence lasts until about age 25.
• Your child’s developmental conditions are in charge. Support children where they are. You can’t get them to go beyond where they are ready to go.
• Responsible children are resilient and meet the moral demands of living in a community.
• Four factors are needed to raise responsible children: strong families, close friends, a moral community, and school. The fifth factor, the legal system, is one you want to avoid.
• Know your children. The best way to know them is to spend time with them.
• Be a good disciplinarian. The hardest part of that is being consistent. Do not belittle and do not abandon them.
• Accept that your child is different from you. Love that and love the difference.
The pressured child
• Think about what school was like for you. Did you have time to contemplate the universe for hours atop a tree? Ride your bike? Do you remember what middle school was like? The social bits? The dread of sitting in a chair for 10 more minutes until it was time to go?
• One-third of children are perfectly matched to school, one-third can be successful but have a poorer fit, and one-third can hardly stand to be in school.
• On the above scenarios, parents can do very little to affect the outcome. Why push and prod the perfectly matched third?
• The top third needs help with picking the passion and asset they love. They are essentially pretty good at everything, so pick the place where they get the most efficacy.
• Encourage and celebrate the talents in one area to offset weaknesses in another area for the middle third. If the child in struggles in math, don’t lead with, “How did you do on the math test today?”
• Help the bottom third feel good about where they are, again by helping them discover the thing or things they are good at.
• From the time students enter a school to the time they graduate, these three bands of students rarely shift. Knowing that, let’s accept children where they are and strive to improve the skills they need but develop the assets they have to a high level.
• Only a psychologist’s assessment of testing can determine true giftedness. It is rarely in line with parental perception.
• Parenting has become a business project, with an urgency that suggests paucity of opportunity.
College craziness
• People often underestimate how many colleges there are (over 3,000), and how many of those would be very successful places for students. If everyone is trying to get into the “top” 30 colleges, many people are going to be disappointed.
• The stress of applying to and making decisions about college is largely about the family changing when a child leaves. Families need to reorient to a new way of being a family. Acknowledge and celebrate the shift in family dynamics.
• Resist calling your college student too often. There is no empirical evidence that indicates that frequent contact with parents improves the outcomes of college life. (Remember the days before cell phones with one telephone in the dorm hall?)
Michael’s condensed simple wisdom
• Let children be children.
• Let children make their own mistakes; don’t run interference for them, or they won’t develop resiliency.
• Think about your own experience in school every day, and try to walk in your child’s shoes. Help your expectations for your child fit with what you know about your own experience.
Congrats!
Senior Vighnesh Shiv first place in the Computer Science category at the state science fair and was selected to represent Oregon at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Los Angeles.
The Middle School Science Olympiad team will compete at the national competition in Madison, Wisconsin.
Spring Festival
Sunday, May 1, noon – 4 p.m.
» Festival details
Laptop program showcase
Wednesday, May 18, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
» More information
Life after Catlin Gabel: student and alumni voices
The alumni and college counseling programs invite parents and students from all divisions to come hear from seniors and alumni.
Tuesday, May 24
7 – 8:30 p.m.
Cabell Center Theater
How does lifelong learning take shape?
What are the benefits of a Catlin Gabel education?
Who do Catlin Gabel graduates become?
Update your listing online for next year's directory
If your summer plans include moving, changing phone numbers, or e-mail accounts, please update your information so the 2011-12 directory will be accurate. Go to the Update Contact Details page in the Parent section of the website. You will need to log in to gain access.
Bulletin Board is Catlin Gabel’s Craigslist
Are you looking for a carpool, house to rent, or babysitter? Do you have a car for sale, tickets to exchange, or an idea to share? All Catlin Gabel community members are invited to post information on our online Bulletin Board. Find the Bulletin Board in the Quick Links menu on the home page of the school website. Login required to gain access to the Bulletin Board.
Yikes! Traffic pattern violations raise safety concerns
We need your help in the traffic loop around the main lot to prevent accidents
The traffic loop is two-way until after the theater parking lot. Please, do not enter the left lane until you pass the theater. Follow the direction arrows painted on the pavement. We ask that you review the traffic patterns with friends, relatives, or nannies who pick up your children.
Gambol a grand success
Oh, What a Night it was!
The highlight of the April 2 auction at the Governor Hotel was a moving speech by Rachel Cohen ’90, who talked about being a Catlin Gabel "lifer." She spoke emotionally about how fortunate she was to attend Catlin Gabel thanks to financial aid. Rachel has spent the past 15 years working in international health and humanitarian aid, primarily with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Rachel joined Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) as the Regional Executive Director of DNDi North America in January. A great video about Rachel was produced for the Gambol.
» Watch the brief video about Rachel Cohen '90
Special appreciate goes to Gambol chair Tina Koehler! And thank you to all the bidders, donors, volunteers, and supporters who made the Gambol festive and fruitful. We are pleased to share with you that the Gambol grossed $415,000 – a 20 percent increase over last year – for faculty professional development and the nearly 200 students on financial aid. We'll know net figures in late April when we finish accounting for expenses.
» Photo galleries of the party and the warm-up slide show of students of all ages
Fantastic fundraising news
The Eagle Club has taken flight—honoring our athletes, athletics program, and wonderful coaches. Giving to the Eagle Club is a lovely way to celebrate Mike Davis as he sets to retire after 23 years of service to Catlin Gabel.
Only $4,000 to go in our Annual Fund Challenge! Thanks go to the community members who have risen to the challenge with $31,000 in gifts that were doubled.
We’re so close! Only $140,000 left to meet our Annual Fund goal! As you know, the Annual Fund is Catlin Gabel’s top current giving priority and the most critical ongoing fundraising effort. Every gift matters, no matter the size. Give online. Thank you!
Summer Programs classes filling fast.jpg)
Once again Catlin Gabel’s Summer Programs offers numerous creative and dynamic opportunities for all ages. Summer Programs courses are open to Catlin Gabel students and non-Catlin Gabel students.
Look for favorite courses from previous years and exciting new offerings in our catalog and enroll today. Spread the word to family, friends, neighbors, and community groups.
Catlin Gabel Summer Programs - our difference is learning.
For additional information and to enroll please visit www.catlin.edu/summer
Questions? E-mail Len Carr, Summer Programs director, or reach him by phone at 503-297-1894 ext. 406
April 2011 All-School News
April calendar highlights
One-act plays
April 1 and 2
Gambol
April 2
Transition evening for parents of 5th graders
April 5
Upper School community service and campus day
April 6
Art building presentation for all parents
April 8
Middle School dance
April 8
From Darkness to Light: Diary of Anne Frank by Grigori Frid
April 9 and 10
Middle School service learning day
April 13
Viewfinder film night
April 14
Lower School campus day
April 15
Upper School diversity conference
April 19
PFA meeting: panel of seniors and arts building update
April 21
Jazz band benefit with Portland rockers Search Party
April 22
Michael Thompson, PhD: How to Raise Responsible Children
April 26 - parent lunch
Michael Thompson, PhD: The Pressured Child
April 26 - evening lecture
Middle School track invitational
April 29
View as web page
Headlines
by Lark Palma
Experiential week triumphs
What kind of crazy school is this? Sometimes this question comes up when people meet our students and teachers during Winterim, Breakaway, and Experiential Days. And it’s a question we love to answer!
Catlin Gabel is a school that prizes deep, hands-on learning and innovation. We integrate experiential learning into our daily classes—and we dedicate one special week for alternative schooling that is totally experiential.
Our experiential week courses and affiliated trips offer between four days and two weeks of focused study, and a healthy break from routine. In the Upper School, students design the courses, and in the process they learn about planning and leadership. Course offerings for 1st through 12th graders this year ranged widely, from pirates exploring the Peter Iredale shipwreck at the Oregon coast to investigating Portland through photography, studying literary satire, and learning about coastal biology.
Perhaps you heard about the Middle School group traveling to Taiwan and their encounter with the aftermath of the massive earthquake in Japan. Their flight from the U.S. had been scheduled for a layover in Tokyo. After a long but uneventful flight across the Pacific, they learned of the earthquake when their plane began circling the Tokyo airport. The flight was diverted to a military base and the group was later flown to Osaka, where they were grounded for two days.
Despite exhaustion, hunger, and a night on the airport floor, spirits were high. The 10 students were philosophical about their circumstances. They knew a bit of discomfort and inconvenience paled in comparison to the horrors and sorrow facing the people of Japan. They passed the time playing cards and telling stories. Once flight arrangements were made for their continuation to Taipei, everyone’s thoughts turned to practicing the Mandarin language skills they would need during homestays in Taiwan.
I share this story with you to illustrate how experiential learning teaches self-reliance, resilience, and perspective. No other experiential week adventure could claim high drama, but during a week of miserable Oregon weather, I saw cheerful students and teachers return from adventures at Mt. Hood, the Oregon coast, Ashland, and downtown Portland. The cold and rain might have dampened anyone’s spirits, but our students and teachers carried on with joy and a sense of accomplishment.
When we ask alumni about their favorite Catlin Gabel traditions, Experiential Days, Breakaway, and Winterim top the list. Among the reasons they give for valuing this particular Catlin Gabel tradition are interacting with students and teachers they had not previously known and discovering they have a passion for something they had never tried before. Learning happens in so many ways, and discovering how to do new things, work together with new people, and brave the unknown is valuable for all our students. During experiential week, Catlin Gabel really walks its talk.
Experiential Days, Breakaway, and Winterim course samplerLower School: Walk Like an Egyptian, Super Sleuths, Hip Home Ec, Forts, Pets and Vets Middle School: SeARTle, The River Wild, Shakespearience, Glass Fusion, Salmon Nation Upper School: Urban Adventures, The Art of Movement: Parkour, Sailing in the San Juans, Cylinders, Pistons, and Crankshafts: Driving, Fixing, and Learning About Cars |
Congrats!
Bravo to the mock trial team for winning Catlin Gabel’s second consecutive state championship… science students competing at Intel science expo…chess players make mark…school honored for water conservation and community service…
» More news about accomplishments
Brenda Miller selected for service award
We are pleased to announce that Brenda Miller has been selected for the 2011 Joey Day Pope ’54 Volunteer Award. Brenda stands out for her long span of service to the school's athletic program. She has been an enthusiastic and committed three-season fan and team parent, has represented Catlin Gabel at countless school’s gyms, tracks, and fields, and has provided unparalleled support for Eagle athletes, parents, and coaches. Brenda has steadfastly given the gifts of time and talent, and has admirable qualities of character and responsibility. Her children are Eloise '11, Isabelle '09, Madeleine '07, and Harry '05.
"I can't even imagine another parent giving as much heart, mind, and effort over such a long period of time," says John Hamilton, coach and PE teacher. "Brenda is in a class by herself."
Brenda will be honored at the Celebration of Leadership and Service on June 17. In honor of Joey Day Pope '54's service, this award has been given annually since 1992 to a school community member who personifies volunteerism at Catlin Gabel.
Garden Club seeks volunteers for Spring Festival preparations
The Garden Club is looking for volunteers to help fill the garden beds with soil and seeds, and attaching irrigation. No need to sign up. Just drop by!
Sunday, April 10
9 a.m. - noon
Sunday, April 17
9 a.m. – noon
Come for as long as you like to participate in this wonderful community-building project.
Jazz Band fundraiser and Search Party concert
Rock trio Search Party is recording a concert CD and Catlin Gabel's own Jazz Band is the opening act! Don't miss this night of rockin' good music sponsored by Slipknot Productions.
Friday, April 22
7:30 pm. (doors open at 7 p.m.)
Cabell Center Theater
Advance tickets $5 (available through division offices)
Tickets at the door $10
Proceeds benefit the Catlin Gabel Jazz Band
How to Raise Responsible Children
Lunchtime conversation with Michael Thompson, PhD
Tuesday, April 26
Noon – 1:45 p.m.
Location to be determined
RSVP required. E-mail Mary Yacob
Light lunch provided, brown bags welcome.
Parents and guardians of students from age 4 to 18 will find Michael's talk relevant.
» More about Michael Thompson and this conversation
The Pressured Child: Helping Your Child Find Success in School and Life
Free lecture by Michael Thompson, PhD
Tuesday, April 26
7 – 9 p.m.
Cabell Center Theater
The Pressured Child is, in fact, a presentation for "pressured parents" who have forgotten what school is actually like. It is a talk for parents who are gripped by worries and misapprehensions about their children's life in school.
Catlin Gabel has invited parents from six independent schools to come to our campus for this special event: Arbor, FAIS/Gilkey, OES, PJA, Childpeace Montessori, and St. Andrew Nativity.
» More about Michael Thompson and this presentation
Catlin and Beyond: Student and Alumni Voices
Alumni and senior panel discussion
Plan ahead for Tuesday, May 24
7 – 8:30 p.m.
Cabell Center Theater
The alumni and college counseling programs invite parents and students from all divisions to come hear from seniors and alumni. The panel members will talk about their experiences at Catlin Gabel and how their education prepared them for what they are doing today.
Register for the Gambol auction and purchase Golden Raffle tickets
The Golden Raffle winner will walk away with one live auction item. You must be an Oregon resident to purchase raffle tickets online. (You need not be present to win.)
Check out your child’s class art project and get ready to bid.
Thanks to everyone for supporting financial aid and professional development at Catlin Gabel. We look forward to seeing you at the Gambol at the Governor Hotel on Saturday, April 2.
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So, you do like a Challenge.
We knew it!
The Annual Fund Challenge has already raised nearly $15,000.
Double your donation, double your impact
The two generous anonymous donors who established the 2011 Annual Fund Challenge will match gifts up to $35,000 to generate new dollars to the Annual Fund and increase participation from community members. You can make a difference now for hundreds of students and families to enrich our entire community, and to provide countless teaching and learning opportunities.
It’s easy to participate
Make your tax-deductible gift online, by telephone to 503-297-1894 ext 310, or by mail to 8825 SW Barnes Rd., Portland OR 97225. You also can help by spreading the word. Tell five friends or family members how important Catlin Gabel has been to you and how they too can double their dollars by making a donation.
» Learn more about the challenge
Great schools don’t just happen. We make them so.
The Catlin Gabel 2010-11 Annual Fund
Will you rise to the Challenge?
March 2011 All-School News
March Calendar Highlights
Fourth grade music and poetry sharing
March 1
Beginning and Lower School parent-teacher conferences – no BS and LS classes; childcare available
March 3 and 4
Upper School musical: The Fantastiks
March 4 and 5
Lower School parent coffee: arts campaign update
March 7
Upper School choir concert: Shakespeare meets Paul Simon
March 8
Fifth grade music and poetry sharing
March 9
Upper School assembly with poet Jimmy Santiago Baca
March 19
Upper School Winterim begins
March 14
Lower School Experiential Days and Middle School Breakaway
March 15 – 18
Spring break
March 20 – 25
Nell Givler memorial service (retired music teacher)
March 26
Headlines
Interview with Lark Palma, head of school
Arts campaign update
Catlin Gabel plans to build a new Middle and Upper School arts facility, something the school has needed for a long time. So far architect Brad Cloepfil and his Allied Works team have developed preliminary designs, and we are in the leadership stage of fundraising. Here Lark answers some important questions about the project.
Why we are building an arts center
What are the educational benefits of studying art, especially if you aren’t an artsy person?
Beginning School parent, noted artist, and Rhode Island School of Design alumnus Michael Lazarus explained it beautifully when he said, “We are developing one of the most important tools: a creative, problem-solving mind. The process of art making is great practice for life!”
We know that art education strengthens overall academic achievement and school success. Studies show that young people who participate in the arts are:
• Four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement
• Four times more likely to participate in a math and science fair
• Four times more likely to win an award for writing an essay or poem
And, compared with their peers who do not take art classes they:
• Read for pleasure nearly twice as often
• Perform community service more than four times as often
In a still challenging economy, can we afford to invest resources in the arts?
One hallmark of a Catlin Gabel education is innovation. Another is our dedication to a comprehensive liberal arts and sciences curriculum. The arts are central to innovation and a well-rounded education. We cannot afford to ignore the arts. Can you imagine Stanford or MIT neglecting the arts? That would be unthinkable! In fact, Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, and Pomona are raising money for arts facilities. We’re in fine company. Don’t think of this as investing in a building; we’re investing in our students.
What are the arts requirements at Catlin Gabel?
The arts are integral to our program schoolwide. Creative study is central to our mission. We require all students to be involved in the arts throughout their time at the school. Beginning and Lower School students take art, music, and woodshop. Middle School students rotate through a full complement of arts classes in drama, music, woodshop, fine art, and media arts. Upper School students are required to take at least two years of art — many take three or four years — and choose from a wide array of classes.
What does the future of the arts look like at Catlin Gabel?
Lower School head Vicki Roscoe is leading a two-year curriculum review of the arts. Arts teachers are working with Vicki to investigate best practice in arts education, examine the role of technology in the arts, and explore the role arts play in cross-disciplinary studies. We are excited that the curriculum review coincides with the arts center project, because it allows our teachers to think big.
Project nuts and bolts
I thought the arts center was going to be built two years ago. Why was the project delayed?
The economy! While a handful of generous families stepped forward, the downturn in the economy delayed the larger fundraising effort.
Where are we in the process?
We have selected an architect, approved a preliminary schematic design, formed a volunteer campaign committee, and secured some important lead gifts. Fundraising is one of my top priorities this year.
When will shovels go in the ground?
The board of trustees determined that we would only break ground when 80 percent of the funds are raised. The facility will cost $6.9 million total. We need about $4.1 million more to proceed. We hope to break ground next year; construction will take about 15 months.
Tell us more about the architect.
Brad Cloepfil and his team at Allied Works Architecture are known nationwide and are becoming internationally known for designing facilities that fuel creativity. An early local project example is the Wieden + Kennedy Agency headquarters in Portland. Current parent Renny Gleeson, global director of digital strategies at Wieden + Kennedy, describes their building as a spa for the soul. Allied Works also designed the Seattle Art Museum expansion, the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, and the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas, Texas.
Brad Cloepfil studied with Thomas Hacker, who created Catlin Gabel’s master plan in 1996, designed most of the Upper School buildings and grounds, and remodeled the Beginning School. It is fitting that Tom and Brad’s teacher-student relationship will be reflected on our campus.
How would you describe the early schematic design?
Brad Cloepfil and Allied Works has sketched out an elegant yet simple, open facility that will attract spectators, art dabblers, and serious artists alike. We’ve joked about naming the building the Magnet! The design includes an outdoor courtyard that mirrors the Upper School quad and an indoor gallery, both of which will serve as community gathering spots.
What will the new arts center house?
Middle and Upper School classrooms, including fine arts and media arts studios, vocal and instrumental classrooms, a computer music lab and music rehearsal rooms, a gallery, and an intimate black box theater with a spring floor for classes, rehearsals, and performances. The facility will be a great venue for interdisciplinary studies, collaborative project work, and independent study.
How will the building accommodate changes in the arts curriculum?
Allied Works is especially thoughtful about how arts education has changed and will change in ways we cannot even predict. Their design emphasizes flexibility so that different disciplines can be accommodated. The plans call for raw studio space that is like an artists’ retreat. The students and teachers who use the spaces will influence how they are used. A studio might house a filmmaking class one year and a painting class the next. The black box will be a haven for drama, dance, and music. For the first time students will be able to collaborate across disciplines on a single project, in the same space.
The Cabell Center is in great shape. Why do we need a black box theater?
The Cabell Center is in high demand for performances, classes, lectures, formal presentations, meetings, assemblies, rehearsals, and community events. It doesn’t accommodate our needs the way it did when it was built in 1973. For example, the Cabell Center is not available for the 19 performances produced by Middle School students each year. They make do in Chipmunk Hollow, a cramped and inadequate “temporary” building that was put up 42 years ago. The Middle School drama program will move to classrooms in the new arts center. Upper School students will also take classes in the new classrooms. Students in grades 6 – 12 will perform in the black box. The intimate size and flexibility of a black box is something we’ve needed for a long time, and will open up possibilities in our theater curriculum.
What is the location for the new arts center?
The building site is west of the Dant House and adjacent to the Middle and Upper School areas of campus. The building will link the Middle and Upper Schools, benefiting older and younger students academically, artistically, and socially. For the first time, Catlin Gabel will have a building that allows the arts faculty to work together in a central location.
Will the new building free up space for other programs?
Most immediately, our computer science classes will no longer share space with media arts classes in the lower level of the library. It’s premature to make plans for the other 4,200 square feet of classroom space that will be vacated. We need to carefully consider what the greatest needs are before determining what programs move into current spaces such as Chipmunk Hollow, the Middle School art classroom, and the choir room.
Are we going to increase the size of the school when the arts center is built?
No, we are not planning to increase enrollment.
Funding the arts center
Is the new arts center a real need or a luxury?
Upper School students cannot paint on large canvases or do large three-dimensional works, because the art studio is too small. Film editors and composers collaborating on a project, for one example, must work separately in classrooms that are across campus from each other. Bringing the arts together in one facility will provide proximity, stimulating collaboration and increasing creativity.
During the past 17 years, the school has grown, but the square footage per student that is dedicated to the arts has decreased. The lack of adequate space for teaching the arts has been singled out in our last two accreditation reports as an important area for improvement. This project is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. We owe it to our students.
Have we secured any lead gifts?
Being in the leadership phase of fundraising means we are seeking families who are willing to be the first, and in some cases the largest, donors to the project. I am happy to say that several donors have stepped up with lead gifts. Campaign volunteers, trustees, the development team, and I are working hard to secure the 80 percent of funding we need to break ground.
Will everyone be asked to give?
In due course, we will ask all parents, alumni, faculty-staff, and friends to participate in supporting the arts campaign. I love how campaign co-chair Craig Hartzman talks about the responsibility shared by all community members to invest in our school’s future, just as others have done before us. People who cared about the future funded every building on this campus. That is what community responsibility is all about.
Does this mean the Annual Fund and the Gambol auction will ease up?
Absolutely not. Our first priority is to fund the operating budget, which includes $1.5 million in essential annual gifts. Historically, capital campaigns strengthen overall giving to programs like the Annual Fund and the auction.
Find out more
How can people see for themselves what our arts program is about?
The arts faculty welcomes drop-in visitors. They are very proud of the program and are eager for parents and friends to see why our students deserve better facilities. We want parents, especially of younger students, to see the amazing array of talent and artistic pursuit in our upper grades. Please e-mail or call arts department chair Laurie Carlyon-Ward to arrange for a tour, carlyon-wardl@catlin.edu or 503-297-1894 ext. 402.
A lot of information about the arts program is available on our website, including an overview and the Upper School course catalog, which is a great resource for class descriptions.
Can you share the architect’s schematics?
We are not posting the current schematic design on the website because it is a preliminary plan, and building plans tend to evolve. We don’t want people to become wedded to something that could change significantly. But we are presenting the designs at a Lower School coffee on Monday, March 7, at 8:30 a.m.; at a Beginning School coffee on Friday, March 18, at 9:15 after Friday Sing; and at a yet-to-be-scheduled PFA meeting in the spring. Join us!
Captivating speaker Rachel Cohen ’90 confirmed for Gambol auction
We are delighted to announce that alumna Rachel Cohen ’90 will speak on behalf of the special appeal at this year’s Gambol. Rachel brought down the house when she accepted the Distinguished Younger Alumni Award during last June’s alumni weekend. We knew then that Rachel’s story and voice should be shared more widely. “Rachel’s not just changing lives, she’s saving lives,” says Lark Palma. “Gambol attendees will be inspired not only by this alumna’s many accomplishments at a young age but also by her engaging style and wit.”
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The Fantastiks, world’s longest-running musical
The Upper School’s Catlin Gabel Players present The Fantastiks on Friday, March 4, and Saturday, March 5, at 7:30 p.m. in the Cabell Center Theater. The Fantastiks is a captivating and simple romantic comedy. The score, which includes "Try To Remember," "They Were You," and "Soon It's Gonna Rain," is as timeless as the story itself. Appropriate for children ages 10 and older. Admission: $8 for students and senior citizens, $12 for adults.
Summer Programs registration open
Check out the catalog online!
Catlin Gabel Summer Programs class offerings range from arts and music to modern languages, writing, SAT prep, outdoor education, service, and more. The dates for most 2011 summer classes are July 5 – August 5 and serve preschool through high school students. Also on tap for the summer are the PLACE urban studies program, outdoor education trips, and the Elana Gold ’93 Memorial Environmental Restoration Project.
PFA seeks volunteer leadership for the 2011-12 school year
All parents and guardians interested in a leadership position with the PFA can put their names forward. Go ahead, nominate yourself! Serving in a leadership capacity with the PFA is a great way to get to know fellow parents, work with the faculty, and feel connected to Catlin Gabel.
» Nominating process and details
Jordan Schnitzer '68 collection art exhibition: Oregon Artists
Show closes March 17 - don't miss it!
It is our privilege to host an annual exhibition of work from Jordan Schnitzer '68's art collection. This year's show features Oregon artists Rick Bartow, Lucinda Parker, Tad Savinar, and Sherri Wolf. Objects by four of the Northwest's most influential artists from this important collection range in style from expressionist to language-based, and refer to culture from Baroque Italy to the Wiyot and Yurok tribes of Northern California.
Congrats!
Senior Rebecca Garner awarded the Gold Key in art, the highest regional award given annually in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program, senior Alex Foster elected basketball player of the year, National Merit Semifinalists announced, and more.
» Read about some amazing students and teachers
Free robotics event fun for the whole family
Everyone’s invited to see Catlin Gabel’s Flaming Chickens robotics team and their 120-pound robot, Lightning, compete at the high school Autodesk Oregon Regional Robotics Competition on March 25 and 26 at the Memorial Coliseum. Admission is free. These competitions are part sporting event, part rock concert, and fun for everyone. If you go, be sure to visit the underground pit area where teams madly work on their robots between matches.
» Learn more about about the Flaming Chickens
Catlin Gabel group assists wildlife biologists in frog census
Seventh grade science teacher Peter Ritson is leading a group from Catlin Gabel to the Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge to monitor Oregon spotted frogs, the amphibian species at greatest risk of extirpation across the higher rainfall portions of the Pacific Northwest. This frog population is key to wildlife biologists' understanding of Oregon spotted frog ecology and has been the focus of study since 1997. A basic part of the effort is volunteer-supported monitoring.
Seniors support school through $20.11 Campaign
We recently launched the $20.11 Campaign, asking seniors to come together as a class to participate in financial aid fundraising by donating $20.11 to the Annual Fund. Financial aid is important to the class of 2011 — 36% of this year's seniors receive financial assisstance.
Students are asked to pledge to give $20.11 over the course of five years or to make a one-time gift. It’s not the amount of the gift that matters; it’s the act of giving. For about the price of a coffee shop beverage, seniors can make a vital difference. When the school asks foundations for grants for our programs, they consider alumni participation when they make their choices. Annual Fund gifts communicate appreciation for the extraordinary education our students receive.
The senior giving committee includes Max Semler, Morgan Henry, Ko Ricker, and Jackson Morawski, and faculty-staff members Kate Grant, Nancy Donehower, George Zaninovich, Mary Foulk, and Sara Case. The committee commends the class of 2011’s efforts and invaluable investment in the school, our community, and their legacy.
2011-12 calendar highlights
Upper School book pick-ups, lockers, etc. – all grades (specific dates and times to follow)
Tuesday-Thursday, August 30, 31, and September 1
9th grade orientation; senior seminar
Thursday, September 1
Upper School classes begin
Friday, September 2
Middle School orientation
Thursday, September 1
Lower School open house
Thursday, September 1, 10 a.m. – noon
Lower and Middle School teacher prep day (no classes)
Friday, September 2
Middle and Lower School classes begin
Tuesday, September 6
Preschool classes begin for half of class
Kindergarten orientation
Wednesday, September 7
Preschool classes begin for half of class
Kindergarten classes begin
Thursday, September 8
Beginning School – all classes begin
Friday, September 10
Thanksgiving break
Wednesday, November 23 - Sunday, November 27
Winter break
Saturday, December 17 - Monday, January 2 (Classes resume Tuesday, Jan 3)
Martin Luther King Jr. Day - no classes
Monday, January 16
Presidents' Day - no classes
Monday, February 20
Spring break (tentative, to be confirmed early March)
Saturday, March 17 – Sunday, March 25
Last day of classes
Friday, June 8
Graduation
Saturday, June 9
Reserved days for closure make-up (if we have three or more unplanned closures)
June 11 - 13
February 2011 All-School News
February Highlights
Lower School math night for parents
February 1
Middle School parent-teacher conferences - no 6th and 7th grade classes, ERB testing for 8th graders
February 3 – 4
Preschool admission visits - no preschool classes
February 4
Ski bus program
February 5, 12, 19, 26
March 5 and 12
US winter formal dance
February 5
Chinese New Year celebration
February 7
Gambol online auction
February 7 – 13
Assembly with Gabriel Bol Deng
February 9
Middle School parent-teacher conferences - no classes
February 10 – 11
Kindergarten admission visits – no kindergarten classes
February 11
Esther Dayman Strong Lecture: woodshop teacher Michael de Forest talks about his apprenticeship in Ghana
February 15
PFA meeting: James L. Mason, Ph.D., talks about cultural competence
February 17
Adoptive families affinity group meeting
February 17
Lower School teacher planning day – no classes
February 18
Presidents' Day – no classes
February 21
Science night for all parents
February 22
LGBT affinity group meeting
February 24
Viewfinder Film night
February 25
View on website
Headlines
Interview with Lark Palma, head of school
Hiring new administrators: the process and the opportunities
Is there more turnover this year than in previous years?
For each of the past five years, between 18 and 24 faculty-staff members have departed and been replaced. Catlin Gabel enjoys a balance of deep-seated traditions and an emphasis on growth and progress, so we can embrace the fresh ideas and infusion of energy that comes with hiring new faculty-staff.
Hand, Mind, Wood: My Apprenticeship with Ghana’s Fantasy Coffin-Makers.jpg)
Tuesday, February 15
7:30 p.m.
Cabell Center Theater
Michael de Forest, an artisan in wood, explores creativity and his extraordinary experience in Ghana in the 2011 Esther Dayman Strong Lecture
Catlin Gabel and OCAC teacher Michael de Forest will discuss his recent apprenticeship as a fantasy coffin-maker in Ghana. In addition to talking about his experience, illustrated by many images, he will speak about how practical knowledge and creative thinking work together in the making of art. Michael has brought his experience to bear on how he thinks about his own woodworking and teaching, which he will share in his slide-lecture.
The event is free and open to the public.
Find a babysitter! Buy, sell, and trade!
Services, sales, and trades posted on our Bulletin Board
Check out Catlin Gabel's Craigslist
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The Bulletin Board is just a click away from the Quick Links menu on the home page.
Do you like a challenge?
How about one that will make a difference for hundreds of students and families, enrich our entire community, and provide countless teaching and learning opportunities?
We thought you might.
Stay tuned for more details.
Gambol online auction launches February 7
Something for everyone!
Ready, Set, BID!
So you’re the outdoorsy type that enjoys fishing, golf, and birdwatching.The online auction offers just the outings for you!
Maybe you’re a sports fan. How about Blazer game tickets? The Gambol’s got it! Seahawks fan? You’re in luck!
Want to get out and about? Dinner at Portland’s top restaurants, maybe bowling, or a visit to the Oregon Zoo--the online auction offers many recreational activities for everyone in your family!
Perhaps you’re looking to relax … yoga, spa services, a facial, or a great massage. The online auction has something just for you!
In just a few days, the 2011 Gambol online auction goes live with wonderful and exclusive opportunities for you and your family.
Mark your calendars for February 7. See you online then!
Congrats!
USA Synchro named junior Katy Wiita to the 2011 National Synchronized Swimming Team, which will represent the United States at the 14th FINA World Aquatics Championships later this year. The elite international competition is scheduled for July 16-31 in Shanghai, China. Katy has relocated for the remainder of the school year to Indianapolis for training.
Senior Joseph Oberholtzer was voted soccer player of the year in the all-state selection. Joseph and teammate senior Ian Agrimis made first team all-state.
Senior McKensie Mickler was selected first team all-state for volleyball.
Senior Alex Foster has been nominated for the 2011 McDonald's All American games for basketball. About 150 players in the nation are selected by a committee composed of high school analysts, prep scouts, journalists, and coaches.
Junior Esichang McGautha was named athlete of the week in the Portland Tribune. The 4 foot 10 inch point guard had recently put together three games of 30-plus points for the Eagles.
Senior Rohisha Adke has earned the AP Scholars Award for receiving scores of 3 or higher on three or more Advanced Placement exams. Senior Vighnesh Shiv earned the AP Scholar with Distinction Award for receiving and average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.
Fencing 6th grader Miguel Gachupin placed 2nd in Y12 foil at the Pacific Northwest Regional Youth Competition and qualified to compete in the North America Cup in April. In local tournaments Miguel placed 2nd in the Y14 foil at the Youth Progressive #3 and 1st in the Y14 foil at the Youth Progressive #4.
Eighth grade Team Delta won the 1st place champion's runner-up award at the state Lego robotics competition. Team members are Evan Chapman, Sophie Paek, John Williamson, and Max Armstrong. Their research project and technology dealing with lower leg prosthetics for Third World countries is so innovative that Max applied to the U.S. patent office for a provisional patent. Seniors Rohan Jhunjhunwala and Jenny Faber coach Team Delta.
Fifth grader Aditya Sivakumar has progressed to the national level in the MTNA music competition. He is one of seven finalists nationwide in the elementary division.
In team play, seven out of nine Lower School chess players finished in the top half of the Chess for Success Regional Tournament, meaning they had three or more wins. Every player on the team scored two points or more. In the individual competitions 4th grader Avi Gupta, 3rd grader Jimmy Maslen, and 2nd grader Brodie Leo each won four out of five games, tying for second place in the K-4 section and earning berths in the state individual finals.
Service Corps book drive success
Knight Family Scholars Program
At the January PFA meeting, several parents said they would like to review the Q&A about the Knight Family Scholars Program. » Follow this link to the Q&A that was posted in October.
The search is on to find a program director for the program. Next year, with a director in place, details will emerge as her or she works with the Upper School faculty to develop the program.
January 2011 All-School News
Calendar highlights
Gifu Kita visitors
January 3 – 10
Beginning School art show
January 4 – February 10
Beginning and Lower School admission information evening
January 5
Lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender family affinity group meeting
January 6
Upper School play: Leaving Iowa
January 7 and 8
Book drive
January 10 – 21
Families of color affinity group meeting
January 11
Center for Movement Arts and US dance club performance
January 14
Martin Luther King Jr. Day – no classes
January 17
Upper School report writing days – no US classes
January 18 and 19
Juniors and parents of juniors college information event
January 19
PFA meeting with Lark Palma and Erin Goodling '99
January 20
Lower School community meeting honoring Martin Luther King Jr.
January 21
Middle and Upper School admission information evening
January 25
Viewfinder film night
January 27
Middle School dance
January 28
View as web page
Headlines
Q&A with board chair John Gilleland
What do you want families to know about the board?
First I want families in our community, and beyond, to know that each member of the board is focused on the well-being of the school. Members include current parents, parents of alumni, alumni, those who are independent from the school, and Lark. The board also includes the presidents of our student body, PFA, Faculty-Staff Forum, and Alumni Association. Each person brings a different area of expertise, distinct perspective, and unique connection with the school, making for active, valuable discussions and thoroughly considered decisions. Each trustee takes his or her role seriously and has a desire to help Catlin Gabel. Trustees allocate substantial time to the meetings, and they also serve on one or more committees that report to the board.
What is the role of the board at Catlin Gabel?
The role of the board is very well defined within the by-laws of the school, as are the roles of officers and committees. Each trustee is a fiduciary, and the board is a governance group, not a management group. The board’s role is to envision what the school can be, while maintaining what it is now. We make sure the school is relevant and true to its mission and principles, see that the finances are well managed, and make sure that our policies and procedures are adequate and relevant. We approve the annual budget and tuition rate. We help manage risk, help set a strategy for the future, approve a current budget, and help establish a long-term financial plan and long-term outlook for our facilities. We ensure that the school operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. We actively engage with and support Lark and those who carry out the work of the school. In fact, it is the board’s job to employ our head of school and provide advice to him or her. I am exhausted just thinking about all of it!
What makes you so committed to the school?
I find it easy to commit to Catlin Gabel and sincerely appreciate the ability to allocate time and resources to the great work being done here by our faculty, staff, and leadership. Catlin Gabel parents all want the best for their children – an excellent education that gets their kids learning by doing – and they care about school and the community beyond our campus. The investment in education we each make in our children is significant, so just having an opportunity to serve is great. Catlin Gabel students are wonderful, smart, and skilled beyond what I achieved as a student. I have served on the board with nine student body presidents. I am always impressed with their grasp of complex issues, their insights, and their commitment to serving the school. The faculty is tremendous. I don’t want to be unrealistic, and there are always challenges and improvements to make, but we have a school that is among the very best in the nation – and it is great to be a small part of that.
How are board members chosen?
Board members are chosen through recommendations from parents, community members, and staff, which are then given to the trustee committee. The maximum size of the board is set within the by-laws, and the size grows or shrinks depending on the needs that we have projected out for several years. We currently have 25 members. Members are selected using a number of factors, usually qualitative in nature, such as willingness to serve, commitment to the school, a specific area of professional or community expertise, and willingness to spend the needed time, among many others. It helps if people interested in board service have served on one or more of the standing committees of the school or been involved in other activities on campus before serving on the board. I must tell you, I am extremely impressed by the caliber of the individuals who serve on our board. They are smart, thoughtful, responsive, and great to be around. I am honored to be with this group.
How long do they serve?
Generally, members may serve up to three consecutive three-year terms. There are exceptions from time to time (shorter or slightly longer), depending on circumstances, such as stepping into a term that may have been vacated during a year, or shortened service due to work obligations or relocation or other rare situations.
What are board members’ responsibilities?
Each member carries the responsibility of the entire board, as discussed earlier. Certain trustees take on specific roles, such as serving as elected officers, serving as committee members, being members of a specific task force, or taking on projects assigned by the board. We want each member to fully understand the mission and strategy set for the school, and understand the budget and by-laws, among other issues. We ask every member to read materials in advance of meetings and to come prepared to discuss topics on the agenda. We do our best to create consensus around decisions. When we reach decisions, we expect each member to carry the voice of the board as a whole. Each member is also expected to support our Annual Fund, the Gambol, and other financial initiatives in a meaningful way. Board members must focus on what is best for the school and the community, as opposed to individual or personal situations. While we each have our own views and are vested with the school in different ways, the interests of the school do prevail.
What are some of your goals for the board and for the school?
As a board, we have many goals. The board leadership and head of school present goals for the year and beyond, which helps guide our work. We do this at the beginning of the school year, and then we do our best to keep on track. Some examples for the current year include finalizing our five-year financial plan. Once approved, this plan is reviewed annually, and will be reset directionally every five years. It serves as a financial picture of our goals and priorities, because it is very important to align our financial plan with the needs of the school and important initiatives, and maintain financial health along with fiscal discipline. Another important goal is to plan for our future capital and endowment needs. As a matter of course, we review and reset policies, as needed. For example, our contract review processes and our student conduct practices were revised or are under review for possible revision. These are some of the details, but broader goals of the board include working effectively together and helping Lark and the staff succeed.
What are the annual operating needs of the school?
As everyone probably knows, our tuition covers about 84% of our operating costs every year, with the difference being a critically important “gap” to fill. We fill the gap by placing great emphasis on our Annual Fund, our annual auction event, and special gifts. We must raise funds to help support critical needs such as financial assistance and maintain valuable programs. We do draw from our endowment each year and are always attempting to increase our total endowment. The board and staff have done a good job of balancing the changes in annual tuition with the operating needs of the school; it is a challenge each and every year. Our school does an excellent job of managing costs while keeping to our mission. The vast majority of our annual expenditures are for the people who teach our children and manage the school – about 80% of our annual operating funds are wages and benefits for the professionals who work at Catlin Gabel. Given the fact that we do not receive funding from any source outside of tuition and the support of our donors, it is important to fill the gap of approximately $2,500 per student through fundraising. I cannot overstate how critical it is to support our Annual Fund and other efforts to keep our school fiscally sound.
How do you view the long-term needs of the school?
The long-term needs of our school are not unlike many other high-quality independent schools. Catlin Gabel is in an excellent position in terms of the beauty of our campus and the quality of our programs. When I think of long-term needs, I tend to think about how our campus serves our students, faculty, and programs, and how we must plan for unmet needs. We have a long-term master plan for our buildings and campus, which require planning for upkeep. I also think about how to permanently endow critical programs, faculty chairs, and general operating support. I think about how to further provide opportunities for children in our broader community and would like them to have an opportunity to attend Catlin Gabel. I want to continue to strengthen and broaden the pool of applicants each year. We also must keep our sight on maintaining our culture and attention to excellence, and continue to make our style of progressive education relevant and meaningful, as it always has been. Great schools do not just happen – our people, faculty, leadership, and supportive community make the difference. The people who have served on the Catlin Gabel’s board over the past decades have set the tone, direction, and leadership that this board and I hope to emulate.
Join us in welcoming students and teachers from Japan
January 3 – 10
Fourteen students and two teachers from the Gifu Kita School visit Catlin Gabel and stay with school families in this 20th anniversary year of our exchange program with our sister school in Japan. Be sure to say hello, or, rather, konichiwa!
Catlin Gabel Service Corps book drive, January 10 – 21
Community-wide sorting parties on
January 15 and 22
We are excited to announce the next CG Service Corps activity: a book drive benefiting Bienestar, a nonprofit housing and service organization serving Washington County’s Hispanic community.
Upper School students have been volunteering at the Bienestar homework club for three years. Our book drive will further cement a wonderful partnership and boost Bienestar’s efforts to educate the migrant labor population they serve.
Cross-divisional teams of Catlin Gabel students and faculty-staff will collect and presort donated books between January 10 and 21.
Parents, students, faculty-staff, and alumni are invited to two sorting parties in the barn on Saturday, January 15, and Saturday, January 22. Come to one or come to both!
We will load books onto the retired Rummage truck for delivery to Bienestar.
Details about book drop locations to follow.
“If there’s one thing Catlin Gabel families have in abundance, it’s books!”
–Service Corps Core Steering Committee
Diversity committee introduces affinity groups for parents
Hit the slopes
The Catlin Gabel ski bus runs on six Saturdays:
February 5, 12, 19, 26, and March 5 and 12
This Catlin Gabel ski program is supervised by faculty members from all divisions, and lessons are taught by Mt. Hood Meadows ski and snowboard instructors. The program is open only to Catlin Gabel students in 5th through 12th grades. » Details about the ski bus program.
Congrats!
Third grader Lauren Mei Calora was the winner in her age group at the Oregon Music Teachers Association classical piano competition.
Fifth grader Aditya Sivakumar won the Oregon Music Teachers Association composition competition in the elementary category. His piece next will be judged at the Northwest Division level.
Fourth grader Isabella Pozzi is the Oregon gymnastics champion for 9-year-olds in three events: balance beam, floor exercise, and all-around. She placed 2nd on vault and parallel bars. Second grader Francesca Pozzi placed 2nd for 6 to 7 year olds on vault, 5th on bars, and 10th all-around. Fifth grader Isabel Larson took first place in all-around in her age division.
All five Middle School robotics teams competed at the two-day regional competition, and all five teams came home with trophies. Team Delta, our most experienced team, won the 1st runner-up champion’s trophy and advanced to the state championship on January 16. Team Delta members are 8th graders Evan Chapman, Sophie Paek, John Williamson, and Max Armstrong. Senior Rohan Jhunjhunwala coaches them.
Team Echo won the 4th runner-up champion's award and also earned a slot at the state competition. Team Echo is a 7th grade team of MacGregor Beatty, Julian Baynes, Nicolas Bergen, David Vollum, and Colby Skeggs. Senior Henry Gordon coaches team Echo.
The other teams all won category awards that recognize their skill in a particular area. While not advancing to state, these teams have a lot to be proud of. The Fat Chickens, 7th graders Jack Bishop, Jack Cavenaugh, and Jake Hansen, earned the robot performance award for the highest score on the course. Senior Jenny Faber coaches the Fat Chickens.
Both of our first-year teams won the robot design award on their respective days of competition. This award recognizes superb engineering both on the mechanical and software portions. Saturday that was 6th grade Team Theta, with Jasper Gordon, Sage Yamamoto, Robin Attey, Grace Wong, and Matt Maynard. Henry Gordon coaches them. Sunday it was the Porcupines’ turn. This team is made up of 6th graders Liam Wynne, Colin Mitchell, Ryan Selden, and Adolfo Apolloni. Sophomore Anne Gilleland coaches the Porcupines.
Six Catlin Gabel students won prizes in the Beavertion Library’s 55 Fiction Writing Contest for teens. In the middle school category these 8th graders were recognized: Raina Morris 1st place, Victoria Michalowsky 2nd place, Simon Schiller 3rd place, and Andrew Lee honorable mention. In the high school competition senior Linnea Hurst placed 3rd and Rachel Savage earned honorable mention.
» Read the great stories written in 55 words, no more, no less. Scroll to the bottom of the library's web page to find the link to the 55 words contest.
Junior Megan Stater took 1st place in her division of the Oregon Music Teachers Association classical piano competition.
Sophomore Casey Currey-Wilson won first prize in the Canon Photography in the Parks contest.
Spanish V honors students visited the Multnomah County Courthouse to interview Circuit Court Judge Angel Lopez for their Hispanic Presence in Oregon Oral and Written History Archive. Fifteen juniors and seniors conducted a 45-minute interview in Spanish. Students asked Judge Lopez about his personal and professional background, what it’s like to be a Latino judge in Oregon, what it’s like being bilingual, and if there is a difference in the types of cases common among Hispanics and non-Hispanics.
Congratulations to the Upper School shop class for their stellar work on the “Gates of Paradise” doors for the new garden shed. The artisans are seniors Anthony Eden, Austin Hunter, Rohan Jhunjhunwala, Max Semler, sophomores Spencer Immel, Matthew Junn, and Will Schneiger, and freshmen Ben Hutchings and Jordan Riddle.
Happy New Year, one and all!
December 2010 All-School News
Calendar
Viewfinder Film Night
December 2
Lower School art show
December 6 – 17
Middle School service learning day
December 8
Parents of seniors potluck
December 8
St. George and the Dragon
December 10
Middle School robotics tournament
December 11 and 12
Upper School concert
December 14
Lower School Revels
December 16
Railroad club open house
December 16
Winter break
December 18 – January 2
Classes resume
January 3
» View as web page
Headlines
by Lark Palma, PhD
Good news and bad news
First the bad news: This will be Paul Andrichuk’s last year as head of the Middle School.
Now for the good news: Paul is staying at Catlin Gabel!
Recently, Paul told me he would like to step down as head of the Middle School at the end of this year. He has been a tremendous leader and advocate for students, so my first reaction was utter disappointment. But I know Paul to be the epitome of a lifelong learner, and I support his desire to explore new challenges after leading the Middle School for eight years. And yet, I was not ready for Catlin Gabel to lose him. Then I realized we have a great opportunity for Paul, right here on campus. Kathy Qualman had announced earlier this year that she would retire in June after 20 years as a learning specialist at Catlin Gabel. I asked Paul if he would consider a new challenge, and am delighted to report that he has agreed to serve as director of Catlin Gabel’s teaching and learning center.
What’s the teaching and learning center?
Background
Our extraordinary learning center is unique. No other private school in the area is staffed with learning specialists for students in preschool through high school. Catlin Gabel is also different because we make learning center resources available to every student. Kathy Qualman has made it her mission to support all students in their understanding about their own learning styles. Kathy, Anne Fyfield, Sue Sacks, and Kathie Kimmy have led the way in educating students, teachers, and parents about advances in brain research and knowledge about different learning styles.
Looking ahead
For some time we have been working on ways to broaden the mission of this vital program that directly improves teaching and learning for everyone. We want to take advantage of Kathy’s expertise before she retires, so we are proceeding with plans that Kathy and the other learning specialists have set in place to expand the scope of the learning center.
Changing the name from the “learning center” to the “teaching and learning center” reflects an enhanced view of what the service can provide. Linking teaching and learning in this way demonstrates our belief that every child and adult on our campus is a lifelong learner and teacher.
Among the improvements you can expect to see in coming years are:
• Integrating learning services and faculty professional development.
• Schoolwide coordination of the teaching and learning center services and counseling services.
• Enhancing transitions for new students and students moving from one division to the next.
• Emphasizing the link between expanding teacher skills and improving outcomes for our diverse learners.
• Strengthening the role of learning specialists in teacher coaching and education.
• Augmenting summer orientation for new and young teachers.
• Directly and quickly addressing patterns of student need through targeted professional development.
• Focusing on teacher professional development that directly addresses student needs.
We will know our enhanced approach is successful when:
• We house a well-used center for study, tutoring, learning resources, and learning conversations by people of all ages.
• Teacher seminars and study groups are a regular feature of the school.
• We offer classes and workshops for parents.
• The teaching and learning center becomes a hub for older and younger students to meet for peer tutoring.
• Students, teachers, and tutors agree that teaching is effective, and we offer an appropriate balance of challenge and support.
I thank Paul Andrichuk for accepting my invitation to direct the teaching and learning center. His strong background as a counselor, teacher, division head, and Klingenstein fellow make him a great fit for the job.
And I am enormously grateful to Kathy Qualman for her professional and personal generosity in ensuring that we are poised to accomplish our shared goals for the teaching and learning center before she retires. Her vision and leadership are invaluable.
We will conduct a national search for a new Middle School head.
Meet our new eighth grade teacher
Glenn Etter came on board as eighth grade English teacher in mid-November when Holly Walsh began her maternity leave. Glenn has a BA in math and English from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a PhD in cultural anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley. His previous experience includes teaching language arts at Vermont Commons School and science at Woodleaf Outdoor School and at the Lawrence Hall of Science at UC Berkeley. Glenn has also been an improvisational theater performer with several professional troupes in San Francisco and a whitewater rafting guide.
Congrats!
» Chess successes, girls-only robotics news, a new baby, and more!
Fall athletics awards and records
Boys and girls soccer, and girls cross country win state championships.
Volleyball teams takes a run at the state title.
» Read about team and individual records
Put school spirit on your holiday shopping list
Here’s a great idea for the Catlin Gabel community members on your giving list: shop the online store for school apparel and gear. Prefer shopping in person? Visit the bookstore in the lower level of the Barn before December 24 for some great deals on close-out items and assorted merchandise.
Annual Fund parking space raffle
Deadline: Make a gift by December 31 at 4 p.m.
Every Catlin Gabel family (including faculty and staff) making a gift or pledge to Catlin Gabel’s Annual Fund by December 31 is entered to win reserved parking from January until June.
You have already been entered if you made your gift or pledge to Catlin Gabel’s Annual Fund earlier this fiscal year (July 1 to now)!
Why support the Annual Fund?
The Annual Fund is Catlin Gabel’s top current giving priority and the most critical ongoing fundraising effort. Tuition and fees do not cover the total cost of educating our students, with tuition providing only 82% of the operating budget. Like most independent schools, we solicit tax-deductible Annual Fund donations that directly offset the operating costs not funded by tuition.
Tuition Gap
This gap could be minimized through tuition increases. But given Oregon’s economy last year, the school’s volunteer finance committee recommended a tuition increase of only 1 percent for the 2010-11 school year. The board of trustees agreed that this minimal tuition increase was best for our school’s families. We ask you to do whatever you can to help close the $2,500 tuition gap through tax-deductible charitable giving.
Raffle Rules
1. You need not be present to win.
2. The parking space will be in one particular spot that is subject to approval by Catlin Gabel.
3. The parking space is reserved from January through June 2011.
» Support the Annual Fund today and enter to win the parking spot.
Gambol 2011 theme announced – Oh, What a Night
And what a night it will be! The Gambol is on Saturday, April 2, at the Governor Hotel.
The Gambol planning committee is looking for people to help with some important volunteer jobs. If you are interested in volunteering in one of the following areas, please call auction chair Tina Koehler at 619-889-0455 or email her at tina@vrnational.com.
Procurement Committee
Join the team that secures the amazing auction items. If you enjoy meeting new people and aren’t afraid to ask for a donation, this is the job for you.
Class Art Project Leaders
Organize a student-created art project in any grade from preschool through 5th, except for kindergarten. The student art projects are always highly sought-after auction items.
What Else Can You Do?
Look within our community and think creatively! Do you know of Catlin Gabel families who own businesses (small or large) that could contribute a gift certificate or item, or support the Gambol at the sponsorship level? Do you know someone who would offer a gathering or party at their home? Families have offered tie-dye parties, knitting parties, soup of the month clubs, and more. Invite your friends to think creatively about how they can help make the Gambol fun and successful.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Heather Blackburn, auction coordinator, at 503-297-1894 ext. 242 or at blackburnh@catlin.edu
Visit www.catlin.edu/giving/gambol for Gambol news.
Railroad Club open house
Thursday, December 16
2 – 6 p.m.
Catlin Gabel Caretaker’s House
The Catlin Gabel Model Railroad Club invites all Catlin Gabel families to drop by their first annual holiday open house. Come see a variety of steam and diesel locomotives run on double mainline tracks. Enjoy the magic of a fully illuminated miniature town and engine facility with roundhouse and turntable. The model trains are especially fun for children.
The trains are set up in the basement of caretaker James Heintz and his wife Suzanne’s house on Barnes Road. Park in the school’s main lot and walk up the driveway behind the facilities building, which leads to James and Suzanne’s house. See you there!
November 2010 All-School News
Calendar Highlights
November 4
Beginning School harvest evening
November 5
CG Service Corps – Food Bank
November 6
As You Like It performance at Winningstad Theatre
November 7
Veterans Day
US and MS classes in session
November 11
College mini fair
November 11
Beginning and Lower School parent-teacher conferences
– No BS and LS classes
November 11 and 12
Middle and Upper School Grandparents and Special Friends Day
November 12
Billy Collins Assembly
November 17
Upper School parent-teacher conferences – no US classes
November 18, 19, 22, and 23
Admission open house for Beginning and Lower Schools
November 21
Middle School report-writing days – no MS classes
November 22 and 23
Beginning and Lower School Grandparents and Special Friends Day
November 23
Thanksgiving break
November 24 – 28
Classes resume
November 29
Headlines
by Lark Palma, head of school
As you can imagine, I am bursting with pride about the Knight Family gift to Catlin Gabel. My pride is more than personal (although I do confess to some high-fives around campus). My pride extends to the entire community and the confidence you engender through your commitment to the school.
I do not take for granted that Phil and Penny Knight have selected Catlin Gabel for their generosity. Philanthropists can invest in countless worthwhile causes. I firmly believe they chose our school for their gift because we demonstrate success in education, and because they can count on Catlin Gabel to meet their high hopes for the Knight Family Scholars Program.
My goal as head of school is to honor the progressive ideals articulated by school founders Ruth Catlin and Priscilla Gabel—not by resting on our laurels, but by continuing to progress. Phil and Penny Knight have given us the financial ability to try a new teaching and learning paradigm, see how it works, evaluate the program, and refine it over time. We have been given the opportunity to research, experiment, and stretch our wings in pursuit of improving education. We can be bold, like our students.
The Knight Family Scholars Program will benefit all students through the innovations we pilot. The program also catapults Catlin Gabel’s visibility as one of the leading independent schools in the country, adds to our financial aid corpus, and will undoubtedly have a positive overall effect on admissions and on our ability to attract phenomenal student applicants. I could not be more delighted.
About the Knight Family Scholars Program
The Knight Family Scholars Program is a pilot program that will allow Catlin Gabel faculty to explore a new model for high school education. It expands on the school's interdisciplinary, real-world, project-based approach to learning and its focus on nurturing future leaders. A network of community experts and influential visitors will teach seminars, both on and off campus. Seminar topics will emerge from the shared interests of the high school students and the director as they move through the program together. The Knights’ gift provides financial assistance to the scholars and funds Catlin Gabel’s first endowed faculty position to direct the program. Four or five outstanding students who have been accepted into 9th grade as Knight Scholars will begin their studies in the fall of 2012.
» Link to Q&A about the Knight Family Scholars Program
New challenge course emphasizes cooperation, ingenuity
Catlin Gabel has recently installed a challenge course where students will have the opportunity to test themselves on a variety of high and low elements. The course is nestled in the woods below the Lower School Art Barn.
Safety issues have been thoroughly vetted and were our top priority in designing and building the course. Professional arborists assure us that the trees used to anchor the course are not at risk of damage.
» Read more about the challenge course
Catlin Gabel community members invited to Billy Collins lecture
Upper School Assembly
Wednesday, November 17
10:40 – 11:40 a.m. Cabell Center Theater
Two-time U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins returns to the Catlin Gabel campus as the 2010-11 Karl Jonske Memorial Lecturer. His last visit was in 1999, the year of Karl Jonske's graduation, as a Jean Vollum Distinguished Writer.
Due to space limitations in our theater, this event is open to Catlin Gabel community members only.
» Information about the Karl Jonske '99 Memorial Lecture Series
Congrats!
» Read about student and faculty-staff achievements
Catlin Gabel Service Corps successfully under way
The October Service Corps events were great successes, and participants had a lot of fun. Just as we had hoped, generations mixed, alumni met current students and parents, parents of Lower Schoolers got to know parents of older kids, and people from outside the school got to know something about Catlin Gabel.
The Service Corps is so popular that registration is filled for the November 6 event at the Food Bank. But don’t despair, the Catlin Gabel Service Corps is just getting started. Upcoming service opportunities are in the works and will be announced as soon as plans are firmed up.
Works by Eve Bachman ’44, Tina Beebe ’65, and Mary Park on exhibit in Cabell Center
The works of three artist friends with strong ties to Catlin Gabel are on exhibit in the Cabell Center foyer through December 3.
Eve MacVeagh Bachman ’44 has focused her attention on ceramics, specializing in whimsical and politically charged pots. Tina Beebe ’65’s small still life paintings capture fruit, flowers, and landscapes. The paintings of Mary Park, who died in 2006, are also still lifes, but range in size and represent different points of view from realistic to abstract.
Eve, Tina, and Mary’s friendships and art emerged from their relationship with Catlin Gabel. Eve and Tina are alumnae, and Eve and Mary met and became friends when their daughters (five lifers) attended Catlin Gabel in the 1960s and ’70s.
We are delighted that three women with shared interests in the school and the arts come together again through this show.
Please welcome new faculty-staff members
Heather Blackburn ’90 joins the development office as part-time Gambol coordinator. She comes to the job with direct experience: she was last year’s Gambol co-chair. Heather has a BA in communication from the University of Portland. She has recently worked in human resources with Encore Senior Living and microHelix, Inc.
Jaime Fabey is our new kindergarten teaching assistant. She has a BA in film and media arts and women studies from Temple University. Jaime has previous experience as a nanny, lead counselor at Fulton Park Community Center, education counselor at Sherman Lake YMCA, and team leader/member in AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps in Colorado.
Transitions
Lisa Unsworth is part-time admission associate with a focus on Upper School admission. She will continue in her three-season coaching role as assistant varsity girls soccer coach, racquetball coach, and Middle School track and field coach. Lisa works as a college advisor for student-athletes and families for the Varsity Student Institute and a part-time instructor at Portland Community College. She has a BA in physical education from the University of Calgary, a BA in education from Gonzaga University, and an MA in education from Drury College.
Mary Yacob expands her role at Catlin Gabel. In addition to serving as part-time administrative assistant in the Upper School, Mary will work part time as financial aid coordinator in the admission office. She will help students and families and the business office manage the financial aid process.
Holiday shopping (yes, we said it!)
The online store for Catlin Gabel gear is up and running! You'll find Catlin Gabel gear such as clothing, hats, bags, and more. What better gift for the CG Eagles in your familiy?
A limited selection of items is available in the bookstore in the lower level of the Barn.
By clicking on the link below, you will be directed to the Catlin Gabel website and then to the website of Fieldhouse, which hosts the official Catlin Gabel store. All of the merchandise available on this site is licensed by Catlin Gabel School for sale through Fieldhouse. Click here to start shopping!
Gambol 2011
We are excited to announce that Tina Koehler (parent of Madalyne ’22) will chair this year’s Gambol. Thank you, Tina!
Save the dates!
Online Auction
February 7-11
Gambol Party
Saturday, April 2
Governor Hotel
5 – 6 p.m. Patron party
6 – 7:30 p.m. Check-in and limited silent auction
7:30 p.m. Dinner and live auction
We seek volunteers to help organize, procure, and make Gambol 2011 a success. If you would like to be a member of the Gambol volunteer team, please call Heather Gaudry Blackburn ’91, Gambol coordinator at blackburnh@catlin.edu.