Summer 2014 - The Briarwood School
Transcription
Summer 2014 - The Briarwood School
the Briarwood School a school for children with learning differences & intellectual disabilities 12207 Whittington Dr. Houston, Texas 77077 nonprofit org u.s. postage paid Houston TX permit no. 2438 www. briarwoodschool. org address service requested Newsletter for The Briarwood & Tuttle Schools | S u m m e r E d i t i o n 2014 Briarwood, A School for Children with Learning Differences the briarwood school The Tuttle School at Briarwood, a School for Children with Intellectual Disabilities www.briarwoodschool.org Always a Heart for Briarwood A celebration for one is a celebration for the entire Briarwood community! At the end of May, we bid a fond farewell to eighteen Upper School graduates and six Tuttle School graduates, each off to a new adventure. With sheer excitement of a new beginning, the students and their families experienced those bittersweet moments of reflection on leaving a school where their lives were changed. Words of praise flowed from all, as parents, grandparents and friends stepped forward to shower thanks upon our team. “You changed our son’s life. He came to you believing that he could not learn, that he would never graduate from high school, let alone enter college. Now he has the confidence, the skills, and the knowledge that his strengths will continue to emerge as gifts, and he’s college-bound! We will always be indebted to Briarwood. Our hearts will always be here.” Students Who Decide To Remain: Many students elect to remain at Briarwood after successful remediation. On or above average grade level classes are offered so that these students continue to build upon the organizational, advocacy and academic skills taught at Briarwood in a small, structured classroom environment. Students Who Transition Out: Since it is impossible to predict the length of time a child Students enter Briarwood at many different stages in their lives, as did each member of the Class of 2014. Whether a will need for remediation, student’s journey to Briarwood begins in kindergarten, sixth grade or tenth grade, at the point of entry, each student each student at Briarwood is embraced by a team of caring, knowledgeable, and highly trained teachers and administrators, all of whom is regularly evaluated to immediately delve ‘into the child’ to scaffold him for success by providing him with an education that is designed with determine if he/she may purpose and that is specific to his needs. Briarwood is a significant piece of a child’s journey, for it is a combination of be ready to transition to classes specific to remediation, courses that tap into a student’s strengths, and an emphasis on creativity that enables a more traditional school dreams to flow into realities. Thus, a child’s life, his destiny, is changed forever. setting. Academic progress, homework independence, A question posed several years ago by Seth Moran, who had transitioned at that time to another private high school, social-emotional development, gave us reason to reflect. “How do you do what you do at Briarwood? How do you find those incredible teachers who and the ability to self-advocate understand us and our LD’s and know how to teach us?” My answer was simple. We seek the best who are degreed, are all important in this determination. As that time certified and who are passionate about teaching, about changing a life, and who have a heart for the child. Staying approaches, the Briarwood abreast of the research in our field is critical, for through the findings of the leading researchers and their quests to transition team will transfer their knowledge into the classroom, we enhance our skills. advise and offer recommendations Parenthetically, the student who posed the question asked to return to Briarwood to complete his high school career. to parents. In May of 2013, prior to Seth’s senior year, he became a licensed pilot. A graduate of the Class of 2014, Seth entered Louisiana Tech University in June, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Aviation, with a minor in Aviation Management. Seth’s most recent accomplishment came in June when he was deemed proficient to operate as pilot-incommand of aircraft owned by the State of Louisiana and/or operated by Louisiana Tech University. We believe that Seth’s heart will always be a part of Briarwood. He will surely remain in our hearts! We reflect on those who have come our way and who have given us opportunities to teach in ways that our students learn best. We changed the pathways of learning for Will Donnell, who entered Briarwood as a 5th grader who struggled to read. With the village of support surrounding Will, he accepted the intensity of remediation that became part of his daily schedule. His world changed from that of a struggling child to a young man who experienced countless successes. After four years of academic remediation, coupled with strategies that supported accomplishments all around, Will was ready to transition to Episcopal High School. Following four successful years at EHS, where he was named Outstanding Male Student his Senior year, Will began his college career at Rhodes College where he met with success once more and graduated Cum Laude. Following his graduation from Rhodes, Will spent two years in Argentina, where he taught English to children and adults, all ages and levels. In May 2013, Will earned his Master of Science Degree in Finance at The University of Texas in Austin. He was one of twenty-eight in the inaugural program (Master’s in Finance) at UT and was recognized as recipient of the Leadership Award at his graduation. Today, Will is living in Houston and is in the world of energy investment banking, employed by PPHB. Will, a confident young man, accepted all that was offered at Briarwood, and he soared! Entering as a sophomore in 2007, Nick Newland also accepted all that was offered to him, which included three years of a high school curriculum that included classes that were specific to his learning challenges. In addition to the work that Nick devoted to remediation, he also developed an interest in photography, an area of strength that was fostered at Briarwood. Emerging as a leader, Nick graduated in May of 2010. Following his graduation from Briarwood, Nick entered Schreiner University in August of 2010, where he has maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and has also maintained an academic scholarship for his entire four years at the university. With his interest in photography, Nick continued to perfect his skills in this area. As a result, Nick had his first professional photography exhibition at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center in Kerrville in May 2014. Nick will graduate from Schreiner University in December 2014, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design-Computer Graphics, and a minor in photography. The entire Briarwood community celebrates with pride the accomplishments of Seth, Will and Nick. Our hearts will forever remain with these fine alumni. COVER STORY Giving Back Never Looked So - Carole C. Wills to toot your own horn, but it is perfectly acceptable to toot others’. Look at how these students are helping others, giving back and putting their skills to Good Use! In This Edition Nick M.’s Eagle Project was to construct an outside basketball half-court for Ascension Episcopal School on one of their parking areas. There were over 300 total man-hours spent toward completion of this project from Nick, other volunteer scouts, volunteer Briarwood students, along with adult support. Jake S. worked with the Hermann Park Conservancy Volunteer Department. The Conservancy wanted the park benches in Hermann Park to be refurbished. This entailed disassembling the large teak bench, the boards being sanded, then stained, and the bench put back together. The boards had to be hauled by foot about 1/2 mile back to an area where tents were set up to sand and stain the bench. Lon B. built and installed 5 ADA handicap benches at Faith United Methodist Church in Richmond, Texas. Lon will attend Wharton Junior College and then transfer to Texas State with a major in business. Sarah M.’s Gold Award was about dyslexia awareness. Sarah will be attending the University of St. Thomas in Houston next year. Read more about Sarah’s Gold Award on Page 19. Taylor P. started his Eagle Project in Spring 2013 and completed it on July 1, 2013. He renovated a World War II era canon located at a VFW Post in Rosenberg, Texas. Taylor’s future plans are to attend a military college and be commissioned as an officer in the US Army. He has received early acceptance at Marion Military Institute in Alabama and Valley Forge Military College in Pennsylvania. David D. worked on a public environmental awareness project with Ms. Susan Saccomen of the Mason Creek Utility District and Harris County’s Storm Water Inlet Marketing Program Director. He developed a plan for the project, organized the work crews and led the installation of 350 storm drain decals and the delivery of over 2200 flyers door-to-door in 8 sections of Nottingham Country neighborhood. The goal was to raise community awareness of the environmental impact on dumping in storm drains. FORD A.’S job was to raise money and purchase specific native plants that naturally attract more birds and butterflies at the Russ Pittman Park in Bellaire, a sanctuary for birds and retreat area in the middle of the city. Then Ford and his troop removed unwanted non native plants and grasses and replaced them with the native plants. The project took over 125 hours from start to finish. James M.’s project will be approved at a later date. the briarwood school Good! › COVER STORY It can be frowned upon 04 Development 06 Middle-Upper School 10 Lower School 12 Tuttle School 14 Donors 19 M/U News 20 LS News 21 Tuttle School News 22 Around Briarwood 23 Alumni News Briarwood School the From The Head of School a school for children with learning differences & developmental disorders The Briarwo od Scho ol & Tuttle Scho ol 12207 Whittington Drive | Houston, TX 77077 www.briarwoodschool.org 281.493.1070 tel | 281.493.1343 fax The Briarwood School/Tuttle School admits students of any race, gender, color, national or ethnic origin. The school selects students who are interested in completing their education and who need a prescriptive educational program. Briarwood is a publication of The Briarwood School & Tuttle School. Briarwood is published annually and sent to alumni, present and past parents and friends. www.briarwoodschool.org Development T here are some things that are just meant to be together; a bud and a vase, a bouquet and a wedding dress, a Briarwood fundraiser and success. In a glorious setting of wildflowers, The Briarwood School welcomed friends on Friday, March 7 to the Houston Country Club for its 44th Annual Benefit, “Out of Difficulties Grow Miracles.” Mother Nature herself was green with envy at the sunflower-inspired event which was the perfect backdrop for the glorious fields of auction items, the splendid array of delicious food, and live entertainment and dancing amid a beautiful floral bounty. The night was made even more special with the participation of dads who became auctioneers and personally brought in top dollars for their items, thanks Charles Clark, David Lindsey and Jim McIngvale! Spring was definitely in the air on this evening in March, but the air was also thick with friendship, goodwill and a shared love for Briarwood. The flawless flow of the event was orchestrated by Benefit Chairs Susie and Asche Ackerman and Katherine and Joel Schrock and their team of exceptional volunteers. Even Briarwood’s notorious auction was bolstered thanks to the ingeniuty and hard work of Auction Chairs Sherry Clark and Jenn Parent. The only thing more fragrant than the wildflowers at this year’s benefit was the sweet smell of success and the $500,000 raised for The Briarwood School. One day a year (preferably on the day of the Annual Benefit) it is recommended to stop, smell the roses and give thanks for little miracles. Thank you, little miracles, for making Briarwood blossom! Save the Date! 45th Annual Briarwood Benefit March 27, 2015 Houston Country Club Benefit Chairs: Sherry Clark & Kelli DesChamps Born to Soar 4 the briarwood school r wo o od ds cs hc ho o ol .lo. or gr g wwwwww. b. br ir ai ra w 5 Taught by Carole Wills Head of School Required by all juniors, the purpose of the Foundations Course is to prepare students to transition out of high school following graduation by assigning projects that are created to teach team work and the values of collaborative efforts, creative thinking, along with attention to detail, time management and executive functioning skills. Each project also endorses a mindset of seeking islands of competence, otherwise known as one’s individual strengths. With each project, students are provided specific guidelines to which they must adhere, interim checklists, and the gift of time to discuss project-related issues in a collaborative and safe environment. The culminating activity of each project is a presentation to the class, followed by peer critiques. At the end of the semester students are equipped with skills, including social skills, that are necessary for effective and positive working relationships throughout life. Learning about Self & Others (Self Awareness) Business Partnership Project - Students select partners within the class and, working collaboratively, design a business that will be based on interests, goals, aptitudes and individual strengths. The business partners must select the type of business they will establish, its location, name, design of logo and business card. Additionally, the partners must determine ownership, number of employees, and financial backing. School Design Project - Working individually, each student’s goal is to design his/her ‘dream high school’. Students are encouraged to tap into their own interests and strengths, while enjoying the freedom to think outside the box. Each student is required to name his high school, select its location, select its courses and faculty, identify school colors, mascot, motto, and design the blueprint of its buildings and campus. Desicion-Making & Time Management (Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking) Senior Retreat Project - Students work as partners or in small groups to develop a Senior Retreat that will include the Senior class. Through partnerships or small group discussions, the students work together to establish the purpose of their Retreat, the point of destination, all travel plans, and lodging. The Senior Retreat Project requires that educational and entertainment components are included. Time and deadline management skills are taught throughout the project. Middle-Upper School the briarwood school www.briarwoodschool.org 7 7 Middle-Upper School Sports the briarwood school www.briarwoodschool.org 9 Lower School the briarwood school ww ww w .. bb rr ii aa rr w w oo oo dd ss cc hh oo oo ll .. oo rr gg w 11 T hanks to Dow, Tuttle School had the opportunity to meet the amazing Jerome Singleton! Born in Greenwood, South Carolina, Jerome had to have his leg amputated below the knee when he was 18 months old. Always the athlete, he attended Dutch Fork High School where he excelled at varsity football, junior varsity basketball and track. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Math and Applied Physics from Morehouse College and a Bachelor’s in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan and has even worked as a researcher at NASA! Jerome spoke to students about perseverance, and always doing your best. There was even an impromptu demonstration on running techniques for Briarwood’s Special Olympians. Considered “The Fastest Amputee on the Planet” Jerome has excelled athletically his entire life and has won gold and silver medals in the Paralympic Games and IPC World Championships. Tut tle School the briarwood school w ww ww w .. bb rr ii aa rr w w oo oo dd ss cc hh oo oo ll .. oo rr gg 13 Briarwood Revenue/Expenditures A n n u a l G i v i n g D o n o r s 2013-14 T riarwood is truly grateful for the contributions made to our Annual Giving Fund, “The Sky’s the Limit” this year. The campaign raised $138,434.00, a 10.5% increase over last year! Each gift goes directly into our operating budget to provide funds for technology, teachers’ salaries, staff development and it helps to fund the difference between tuition and the actual cost to educate a child. Our entire school benefits from the many resources only our Annual Giving Fund can provide. Thanks to more than 135 of our parents, grandparents, alumni, board of trustees, faculty, staff and special friends who helped reach our goal! The donors listed gave to Briarwood during the past year, July 2013-May 2014. $30,000 and above Fred and Mabel Parks Foundation Legacy Circle | $10,000 and above A Friend of Briarwood A Friend of Briarwood Founder’s Circle | $5,000-$9,999 Jim Earley John C. & Carolyn Noonan Parmer Private Foundation Joan and John Scales Scurlock Foundation Martha and Dave Swift Head of School Circle | $2,500-$4,999 Charlotte Christman Marie Evnochides Friend of Briarwood Elsie Layton Rusty and Tawnya Rubenstein Leadership Circle | $1,000-$2,499 Michael Appelbaum Julianne Bass Marion and Eliot Bowytz Catharine and Grant Faulconer Ralston Foster Harvey Friedman Jackie and John Gaylord Luis and Angela Gonzalez Fay and Paul Lewis Susan and Vern Ludwig Atty. and Mrs. Harry D. Martin Donna and Mark Meyer Alison Mohr Wiley L. Mossy Susan and John Roper John Welch Julie and Chris Whitten Tom and Kathryn Wilson Franciso Zorilla Educator’s Club | $500-$999 Bruce Barnum Craig and Galen Brown Foundation Craig Curd and Deborah Gennero Twila and Bill Day Ramona and Michael DiMarco William Donnell Karl & Debbie Fancher Janet and Thomas Frobase 14 the briarwood school Rima and Ahmed Hashmi Yana and Doug Hohertz Charlotte and Arthur Leibold Lydia and Alfredo Lira Mr. and Mrs. John T. Malone Denis and Trey Mayfield Cheryl and James McAnear James Donald McGinty Rosemary Moriarty Christina and Steve Morse Andrea Reed Pam and Greg Roche Lyndsey and Damian Stead Diana Strassmann and Jeff Smisek Houston Texans Foundation Mustang Club | $250-$499 Adria Baker Patricia and Matthew Buck Michael Clark Ben Duckworth Debbie and Karl Fancher Jeffrey Hurley Lorena and Terry Kubera Kathy and Patrick McLane Samantha and Gil Melman Tine Overton Jenifer and Chad Points Philip Szota Julie Toups Edith and Henry van Wageningen Dorothy Verhalen Hallie Zietz Blue & Red Club | $100-$249 R.T. Bell Lucinda Berlew Frank and Rita Blumfeld Linda and Michael Clark Allison and Alan Daughtry Janice and Jim Falick Mary Finger Garrett & Boyd DDS Cathie and Neal Gittleman Paul & Jo Glaves Jim & Lynda Lea Goodall Mona and Thomas Ignas Martha Keller Janet and Mark Lauritsen Gary Lew & Ronnie Kurtin Karen and Nick Lopez Kathryn McKnight Talley Melton Frances Parker Terri and Matt Pitner Peggy and William Samuels Pat, Mike and Kelcie Shaw Suzanne Stuchly Cindy and Bill Sudela Tracy Sullivan Robert Tucker Anne and Ron Vachon Kim and Richard Yeh Friend | $1-$99 Judge and Mrs. Richard Abrams Richard and Cynthia Cadle Pam and James Gaspar Suzanne & Eric Gschwind Eric Huelskamp and Mollie Hellige Terri and Tom Lawrence Julie and Louis Mayer Peggy and Lewis Metzger John Morris Joan Rubin Norman Jeff Parent Joanne and Clyde Perkins Pat Ross Mary and Skip Skinner Directed Gifts for 2013-14 In Memory of Bridgette Brophy Bertha and John Brophy Bill De La Garza and Associates Curves Spring Valley Friends Dorothy Taylor Elizabeth and Ben McAndrew, III Julie and Chris Whitten Lanette and Dennis Whitley Margaret and Jeff Louk Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Petty Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Fox Mr. and Mrs. Martin Brophy Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Roberts Patricia and James Whitten Pattie McBride Penny and John Hollyfield Sheila and Robert Shinkle Tauber Oil Company for the 2013-14 School Year In Memory of Brian Boles Chris Dooley Briarwood Revenue for the 2013-14 School Year In Honor of Robin Vaiana by Tom Sellers Susan Reike by Laura Church Paige Suvalsky by Rita Blumenfield ▲ Tuition & fees, net tuition assistance $6,135,000 ▲ Donations (unrestricted) and tuition assistance $270,000 ▲ Benefit prior year earnings $190,000 ▲ Interest and other income $5,000 Total $6,600,000 Matching Gifts AIG Apache Corporation BP Fabric of America Chevron Conoco Phillips Freeport Oil & Gas Greater Houston Community Foundation Halliburton Foundation Morgan Stanley Novartis Phillips 66 Shell OIl TIAA-CREF Athletic Facility Briarwood Booster Club The Brown Foundation Charlotte Christman The Cullen Foundation Friend of Briarwood The Hamman Foundation Junior Trustees of The McNair Foundation The Robert and Janice McNair Foundation Fred and Mabel Parks Foundation Melissa and Ryan Reichert Technology Charity Guild of Catholic Woman The Huffington Foundation Rebecca and Lee Jackson Strake Foundation Woodforest Charitable Foundation Tuition Assistance Assistance League The Hamill Foundation Sally and Don McGinty Richardson Family Foundation General Operating The Ellwood Foundation Galleria Area Rotary Club Steven Krodman Tuttle School Robin and Jim Vaiana Briarwood Expenses for the 2013-14 School Year Staff Development M.D. Anderson Foundation Gay Roane Community Donors Kroger Safeway-Randalls Target For omissions|corrections|giving opportunities, please contact Linda Peters in the Development Office, 281.493.1070 or at [email protected]. ▲ Salaries/Benefits $5,770,000 ▲ Classroom curriculum & student activities $360,000 ▲ Building & utilities $305,000 ▲ Insurance & other $70,000 ▲ Technology $40,000 ▲ Capital Expenditures $20,000 ▲ Professional Fees $20,000 ▲ Administrative & Development $15,000 Total $6,600,000 wwwwww. .bbr ri iaar rwwoooodds scchhooool l. .oor rgg 15 Benefit Donors for th e 44th Annual Be nef it $30,000 and above Kelly Gene Cook, Sr. Charitable Foundation, Inc. Friend of Briarwood Linda & Jim McIngvale $10,000-$29,999 Susie & Asche Ackerman Mary Crow & Sammy Jones Ellwood Foundation Friend of Briarwood Mr. and Mrs. Robert Muraro Phillips 66 Mrs. Vale R. Russell Ursula & Mike Sharp $5,000-$9,999 Jeannie & Trey Able Sherry Clark/Charles Clark Gina & Larry Corbin Marvy Finger Family Foundation Luis Javier Gonzalez & Angela Monoz Rebecca & Lee Jackson Julie & Louis Mayer Andrea & Bill Reed Regent Care Katherine & Joel Schrock Mary & Greg Whalley $2,500-$4,999 BP Employee Matching The Louis K. Brandt Foundation Charlotte Christman Twila & Bill Day Paula & Louis Faillace Rima & Ahmed Hashmi Kim & David Lindsey Suzy & Steve Mahoney Arthur & Sarah Merrill Foundation Neuhaus Education Center Susan & John Roper Sherry & Rolland St. Aubin Jeannette & Scott Stevenson Mitchell Toups Carole & Jim Wills Wilmington Trust $1,000-$2,499 Joan & Stanford Alexander Apollo A/C & Heating Barbara & Larry Bellatti Heather Feray & Richard Bohan Marion & Mika Bowytz Mr. and Mrs. Martin Brophy Liz & Phil Buelow CenterPoint Energy Donna & Kenneth Conly Deborah Gennero & Craig Curd Becca & James Edmiston 16 the briarwood school Chris Fearing Nancy & Dan Garrison Mr. & Mrs. George Helland, Jr. Lynn & Robbie Jacobe William S. & Lora Jean Kilroy Foundation Stephanie & Rich Langenstein Charlotte & Art Leibold Paul & Fay Lewis Mr. and Mrs. John H. Lindsey in honor of Blake Lindsey Teri & Sonny Milos Jenn & Jeff Parent Pam & Greg Roche Mr. & Mrs. Gary L. Rosenthal Linda & Jerry Rubenstein Sheri & David Saunders Annie & Steve Seay Liliana & Tony Staples Cindy & Bill Sudela TIAA-CREF Matching Mr. & Mrs. Richard W. Weekley Wendy & John Welch Julie & Chris Whitten Francisco and Rocio Zorrilla $500-$999 Ann & Keelan Adamson Cheryl & David Bagby Debra & Wade Bradford Mr. and Mrs. Michael Brady Henry T. Brooks, in honor of Jim Gustafson Bonnie Brookshire, Ph.D. Bullock Estate & Diamond Brokers Becky & Dan Carter Archna & Kenny Chainani Priscilla Conoley The Daughtry Family Mano & Melissa DeAyala Denise & John Deiss Dr. Elizabeth Dybell Debbie & Randy Etheridge Rita & Brian Fader Paige & Richard Fass Catharine & Grant Faulconer Fidelity Investments Deborah J. Gennero D.D.S. Cathie & Neal Gittleman Lanette & Scott Harris Lisa & Ole Hofelmann The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa Carole & Larry Huelbig Jamie Humphries Mr. and Mrs. Tom Ivy Fatima & Syed Jafri Janet & Forrest Jenkins Erica & Brian Jordan Shannon & Marco Juarez Pam & Bill Krocak Elsie Layton Linda & Paul Lynn Kimberly & Michael Martin Mary & Frank McConville Ann & Bill McCulloch Andrew & Laura McCullough Family Fund Christine & Chip Miller Andrea & Thomas Mims Mulanax Familiy Alison & Alexander Mohr Moody National Bank William B. & Vona Morefield Christina & Steve Morse Paula & Thomas Munson Karen & Richard Ogden Parker School Uniforms Linda & Jim Parmer Teresa & Matthew Pitner Rachel & James Poysky Cindy & Drayton Prator Jill & Barry Presley Kay & Paul Roeh Jeanie & Steve Simonich Mr. and Mrs. William T. Slick, Jr. Sarah & Ross Stalker Lyndsey & Damian Stead Shuana & Gregg Steffen Terrye & Darren Stidham Sandra & Paul Swofford Caroline & Paul Trulock Robert Tucker Lynn & Mike Turner Wanda & Bert Williams Kay & Danny Williamson Debbie & Jim Wood $250-$499 Adria & Ross Baker Balfour/Dilly Letter Jackets Julianne Bass Susan Williams & Tissie Bean Sharon Brougher Olga Bullock Nisreen Bunkheila Chevron Matching Gifts Julie and Daniel Chew Sevan & Edwin Cruz Mr. & Mrs. Clayton Daughtry Marcia & Mark DeBuyl Kelli & Daniel DesChamps Gina & Dan DiLuzio Michael & Ramona DiMarco Julia & Mike Falick Kim & Phil Fraher Lisa & Rick Garza Renee Gehm Tandy & Jonathan Harris Lillian & Michael Howard Jane & Jeff Hurley Lisa & Brad Hutchings Marcia Smith & Frank Jones Katy Child Psychology Associates Sonya & Paul Kelly Ben Krywick Renee & Mark Lange Christina & Charlie LeDoux Analyn and Stephen Lee Sally & Don McGinty Patti & Phil McGraw Kathryn McKnight Bonita & Bill Merrill Christina & Steve Morse Charles Neal Maria Oakum Melissa & Ryan Reichert Becky Roach Courtney & Mark Saldivar Stephanie & Kirby Shanks in honor of the Ackermans Sherwin Williams Matching Gifts Cindy & Paul Smith Julie Toups James & Robin Vaiana Lisa & Craig Walker Sandra & Ralph Weaver Cindy & Donald Westheimer Belynda & Mark White Linda & Jerry Woodson $150-$249 Anchor Communications/Steve Smith Cynthia & Bob Anderson Gail Bailey Nancy & Dave Baxter Gerry & Leonard Broussard Kathy & Geoff Cane Elvia & Paul Cardinal Phyllis & John Chancey Clinic for Academic Therapy Dr. & Mrs. Carlos Ferrari Suzi & Trey Grant Theresa & Kent Hanszen Healthy Lunch Box Brandey Heckeroth Jose & Josefina Hernandez Ashley Mims & Chuck Ivy Erin & Todd Jones Mary & Rich Jones Lindy Kahn, M.A., CEP Klara & Kirt Keelan Ali & Setara Khan Victor Kilchrist Susan & Kevin Kirby Amy & Josef Klam Rachel & Melvin Krezer Lauren & Drew Krocak Tammy & Michael Lane Janet & Mark Lauritsen Ronnie Kurtin & Gary Lew Mary & John Martel Kathy & Patrick McLane Donna & Mark Meyer Beth Mitchell Dr. Michael Mizell Carol Pena Cindy & Paul Price Susan & Mark Purdy Kristen & Jonathan Rosenberg Deb & Dave Schultz Mary & Skip Skinner Naomi & Adam Soffar Speech Language Learning Speech & Language Remediation Lisa & Bob Suvalsky T’s Quality Automotive Bronwyn & Mark Turner Rilla & Shannon Walker Beth & Jim Watt Teresa & Lance Witt Kenna Worthington $100-$149 Melanie Appelbaum Angela Ashley Waverly & Ronald Bailey Laura & Jimmy Bates Cynthia & Bobby Blackburn Barbara & Tom Blocher Trina & Michael Blood Jennifer & James Brolan Melanie & Steve Browne Patricia Buck Melissa & Richard Cantu Michelle Curb Allison & Alan Daughtry Suzanne Duin Sarah & Robbie Fish Felicia & Jay Fogal Lisa Malosky & Don Friedell Jackie & John Gaylord Annabel & Richard Gonzalez Suzanne & Eric Gschwind Matthias Heinkenschloss & Marjorie Nicol Souha El-Badawi & Ziad Hitti Jill & Stephen Hockett Mari & Frantz Jean-Louis Donna & Clay Jeansonne Yvette Jones Jennifer & Kenny Kearns Jill & Kevin Keenan Gloria & John Knoerzer Lorena & Terry Kubera Johna & Judd Lowe Karen & Irvin Lutz Julie & Louis Mayer Denis & Trey Mayfield Cheryl & James McAnear Amy & Daniel McCarthy Tysh & Jonathan Mefferd Samantha & Gil Melman Jean & Kevin Mulholland Shira & Samuel Mytelka Ivy & Rob Nulisch Eva & Jeff Oberg Jane & Nathan Pash Kristin & Mike Penny Tawnya & Rusty Rubenstein Tamara & Manuel Sanchez Dan Simpson Dan Smith & Ann Pickard Michael Sorge Kathleen & Mark Spangler Brenda Stubbs Laurie & Charles Swihart Cristina & Jim Treadway Liz & Paul Webb Todd Womble Michele Bauman Janis Block, M.Ed. Julie Fricks Nancy & John Gennaro Mr. and Mrs. Mark Hobson Carolyn & Norbert Janik Carolyn Lange Cheryl & Kent Marshall Janice Melcher Mr. and Mrs. Francis Miller, Sr. Nancy Moncrief Gail Orr in honor of Katherine Schrock Michelle Miller & Cliff Shedd Lois Young Taber Mr. and Mrs. Paul Walker Pam & Bill Wallace Mr. and Mrs. Robert Watson Kathryn & Tom Wilson Jessica & John Donnelly Joe & Debra Dryer Christa Elliott Lucinda & Brad Fleming Karoline & Scott Gammeter Lynda-Lea & Jim Goodall Debra Grade Peggy & Michael Gregg Sari & Ruben Gutman Nanette & Chris Haskins Margaret & Bill Hatfield Monique & Sean Hazell Jennifer & Scott Heitshusen Maria & Gene Henneke Traci & Bob Henry Yana & Doug Hohertz Mollie & Eric Huelskamp Dia Hutchins Mona & Thomas Ignas Jeanie Joe Tina & Lionel Johnston Kelly Jones & Renee Ricca Kristin & Scott Kell Courtney & Matt Kilgard Susan & Randall Klein Deetra & Michael Koch Marcine & John Kowpak Angela Ladet Matt Lightfoot Cindy & Edward Long Karen & Nick Lopez Brandy & Edwin Martinez Jenny & David McCann Susan & Joe McDuffie Becky & Bradley Melton Kerrie & Mike Moran Amy & Robert Nuttall Lori & Jerry Ordeneaux Carrie & David Pena Christine & Asquith Phills Jenifer & Chad Points Nancy & Mike Polychronopoulos Mildred & Steven Poock Cynthia & David Portugal Beth & Nick Posa Rachael Ramos Alice & Andrew Roach Joy & Tom Roeh Wendy & Lowell Rosenthal Emily & Mike Saathoff Peggy & Bill Samuels JoAnn & Robert Schaffer Pat & Mike Shaw Monica Simpson Luna & Peter Sisan Michael Stuchly Suzanne Stuchly Anna & Matthew Tremblay Sandy Turner in honor of The Ackermans Anne & Ron Vachon Molly Vaughan in honor of Katherine Schrock Niki Wokocha Nora Dobin & Chris Wolfe Abigail & Jason Wood Special Thanks to: Kian Adkins Chance Al Farb, Class of 2005 Mona Ignas Lisa Malosky and Don Friedell Cindy Price Regent Care OUR FABULOUS PARENT AND BRIARWOOD STAFF VOLUNTEERS Up to $99 Judge & Mrs. Richard Abrams Sarah & Lane Amos Jane & Mark Arnold Gayla & Brian Baird Lauren & David Balat Harrietta & Miles Baldwin Paul Bass Judy & Jimmy Bates Lucinda Berlew Tashera Warner & Fred Brooks Mark Brophy Valerie & Derek Brown Cindy & Richard Cadle Rosemary & Ken Cash Genette Chenevert Kerry & Chad Courtney Shannon & Jeff Davis Candice De Los Santos Karla & Gino DeRanieri Mary & Charles Dewhurst www.briarwoodschool.org 1717 Middle-Upper School Outreach & Opportunity Auction Donors f o r the 44th An n ual Benefit abientot A.D. Players Advantage Testing Andi Alyse Jewelry Amelia Amador Ann’s Clock Shop AREA Artmix Creative Learning Center Ashford Veterinary Hospital/ Dr. Sally Slomer Fickes Athena Gun Club Auntie Pasto’s Balfour/Dilly Letter Jackets Bath Junkie River Oaks Beautique Day Spa Beck’s Prime Ben Keith Foods Bering’s Bikram Hot Yoga Houston Biron Gymnastics Blue Willow Books The Boardroom Salon for Men Heather Bohan, D.D.S. Brasserie 19 Briargrove Pharmacy Brooks Brothers Bonnie Brookshire, Ph.D. & Associates The Brookwood Community Cadillac Bar/ Paige & Tilman Fertitta/Landry’s Café Benedicte Capital Grill Carmelo’s Italian Restaurant Charming Charlie Cheesecake Factory The Children’s Museum of Houston China Baroque Cinemark Theater - Market St. Ciro’s Italian Grille Cliff House at Pikes Peak/Gal-Tex The Clinic for Academic Therapy Container Store Coppa Ristorante The Cos Bar Crowne Plaza Resort & Spa, Asheville NC The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Cypresswood Golf Club/Foresight Golf Demeris Bar-B-Q Dessange Paris Salon/Charles Moyse Deutsch & Deutsch Fine Jewelry and Watches Devi Rao Jewelry District Dental Downtown Aquarium/Paige & Tilman Fertitta/Landry’s Elizabeth Dybell, Ph.D. P.C. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood 18 the briarwood school A ‘Golden’ COMBINATION Elaine Turner Designs Elegant Portraits by Kian Fadi’s Mediterraneon Grill Fibex Design/Michelle Anna Irion Wrubel Fiori Spa Flyways Dove Shooting Fuad’s Gallas Plastic Surgery Gallery Furniture George’s Pastaria Get Personal The Gilbert & Sullivan Society of Houston Girlie Girls Glass Wall The Restaurant Glazed Over Golden Nugget Hotel Las Vegas/ Paige & Tilman Fertitta/Landry’s Good Company BBQ Grand Lux Café Great Wolf Lodge Debbie Greenbaum - DDG Grotto Gulf States Toyota Hal Martin’s Watch & Jewelry Co. Haven, A Seasonal Kitchen Brandy Heckeroth/ Heritage Texas Properties Hero Martial Arts Academy Joanie Herring Designs Hilton Houston Westchase Hotel Hockett Gallery Houston Archery/ James Loesch Houston Astros Houston Ballet Houston Museum of Natural Science Houston Rockets Houston Symphony Houston Zoo The Houstonian Hotel I. W. Marks Jewelers ibiza Food and Wine Bar Ideal Body Institute of Anti-Aging James Avery Craftsman Josephines Day Spa & Salon Kahn Education Group Katy Child Psychology Associates Katie Design Jewelry and Décor Kemah Boardwalk/ Paige & Tilman Fertitta/Landry’s Kendra Scott Jewelry Kenny & Ziggy’s Deli Esta Kronberg Dermatology The Lounge Next Door at ibiza Luke’s Locker Luna Fish Designed, Vanja Fetahagic Magpies Gifts Maida’s Belts & Buckles Maison Maison Mariquita Masterson Mark Anthony Salon Mark’s American Cuisine The Melting Pot Memorial Health Club Menger Hotel San Antonio/Gal-Tex Jenn Tucker/Millason Place Mike Mizell Orthodontics Mockingbird Bistro Wine Bar Moody National Bank Museum of Fine Arts Nacol & Co. Neuhaus Education Center Niko Niko’s Greek & American Café Norris of Houston Salon & Day Spa Ooh la la Dessert Boutique Orvis Sporting Traditions Palazzo’s Trattoria - Westchase Parker School Uniforms Perry’s Restaurant Group Phillips 66 Phoenicia Specialty Foods Pinot’s Palette Pleasant Hill Winery Punk’s Simple Southern Food Robert’s Fine Gifts Royal Oaks Country Club Ruggles Green San Luis Resort Galveston/ Paige & Tilman Fertitta/ Landry’s Seasons 52 Sensia Studio: Japanese Day Spa Elizabeth Showers Shudde Brothers Hat Company Silpada Jewelry Sisley Cosmetics/Michelle Smith Skeeter’s Mesquite Grill Sky High Trampoline Park Smashburger South Shore Harbor/Gal-Tex Southwell’s Hamburger Grill Spec’s Fine Wines Speech & Language Remediation Center Stella & Dot Stones by Kate Studio JACS Sugar Cycles Sweetwater Country Club T’s Quality Automotive, Inc. Tall Plants Taste of Texas Taylor & Company Jewelers Texas Rock Gym Theater Under the Stars Trey Thompson D.D.S. Glennis Tolunay Underbelly Upperhand Salon/Samantha Jacobe UrbanCHEF Ron Vachon Photography Vanity Salon/Eve V V Salon/Carolle Balassi West Houston Dermatology/ Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Mahoney The Wine Man The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center Zadok Jewelers Keep the Ball Rolling! Help us keep our donors by frequenting their businesses and partaking of their services. Please remember to tell them you’re with Briarwood and saw their names here! What began as a Scout project that led to Sarah M.’s Gold Award, the highest award in scouting for females, resulted in a magnificent opportunity for a team of upperclassmen from Middle-Upper School to share their own journeys with dyslexia with graduate students at The University of St. Thomas! The purpose of Sarah’s Scout project was twofold: to promote awareness of dyslexia to both undergraduate and graduate-level students in a university setting and to create a legacy of a sustainable project. Thanks to the generous support of Dr. Tera Torres, Assistant Professor in the School of Education at the University of St. Thomas, Sarah and her team of five classmates attended a graduate-level class in May, 2014. Dr. Torres’ graduate students, soon-to-be diagnosticians, welcomed the team from Briarwood into their evening class. Sarah introduced the film, ‘The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia’, to Dr. Torres’ students and then followed the film with a panel of Briarwood students, who answered questions about their own journeys with dyslexia. Sarah’s team, pictured, included Henry B., (Sarah), Ross A., Abbie S., and Baker W. GETTING CREATIVE This past school year Briarwood’s Middle-Upper School unveiled its sleek, new Literary Magazine “Hoofbeats.” Students in 7-12th grades had the opportunity to compose in many forms for a real-world audience. The magazine promotes awareness of the unique talents and differences among students while fostering respect and connections in the Briarwood community. ‘Neigh’ to go, Briarwoodians! On a Personal Note This year I want you to know how very much I appreciate you and all the help you have given Kiernan. He was so lost last year in private school... then in public school...no special help...unable to write. It was a disaster and he was so discouraged even though he is a smart little guy. Then God led us to Briarwood. And Kiernan’s whole life was turned around! You have so empowered him! He is learning and he loves it! Allowing him to use the iPAD was an INSPIRED idea and has made such a difference! I love the curriculum and your teaching methods. Your program is so success oriented. I love the character values you impart to your students. And you all give Kiernan so much individual attention. He is no longer flying under the radar (at which he was becoming very adept!). In this holiday season, please know how much my family and I appreciate your wonderful work. You are the answer I prayed so hard every single night last spring. As a former teacher, I collect quotes about teachers. And my favorite is that “A teacher will never know how much she affects eternity.” You have affected eternity with Kiernan. Thank you so much for admitting him to your program and allowing him to be a part of the Briarwood Community. You all have literally saved his academic life! God Bless You, Marilyn Feray Grandmother of a Lower School Student www.briarwoodschool.org 19 Tuttle School Lower School NEW! AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR LOWER SCHOOL After school on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 3-5 p.m., several classes will be provided. From 3-3:45 students will receive homework help in the Mastery Center where teachers are available for supervision and to give guidance with homework. Students may sign up for Mustang Madness offered between 4-5 p.m. and enjoy one of several programs including crafts, science experiments, robotics, sports activities, music and art. Tutoring is also offered during this time period. Two speech sessions are offered concurrently during the 4-5 p.m. time period through Mustang Roundup. Students focus on conversational skills and friendship management or executive functioning and time management skills. Camp: These kids are amped! me Barbara Lower School will welco ren’s book Esham, renowned child e Adventures author of the series ‘Th during the of Everyday Geniuses’, ir, Fa ok Briarwood Bo . 14 November 5-8, 20 res of dventu A e h T ope mplish? o you h es acco l s What d iu n e or socia ay G Everyd its an academic of us has eh ay. Each . Everyon ng the w ing preference lo a k c lo rn al a c le ti r ri roadb c g style o style” is a learnin each other’s “ intelligence nal ting orld. Respec ity and emotio adult w e rs e th iv d d n -a for onal, lassroom dvocacy, emoti are c e th in a r others ng self Promoti , and respect fo eries. is s nce intellige ain goals for th m a h s the m E ra THE SOCIAL SIDE W of Camp Sunrise at Camp for All in Burton, Texas (5 days, 4 nights) • Horseback riding, archery, canoeing, climbing wall, zipline, arts & crafts, campfires, hayrides, talent show, and recording studio. d by Esham’s books are utilize r School Brairwood’s own Lowe their remediation. Counselor to assist in tails Stay tuned for more de it! on her vis - Barba By Jill Wiseman, MA, LPC The Tuttle School offers three unique summer camps for its enrolled students; Camp Sunrise, Camp S.O.A.R. and Summer Horizons. No matter which camp students attend, the goal is obvious, FUN! It’s hard not to smile with these happy campers! Welcome Barbara! ABOUT THE AUTHOR The Adventures of Everyday Geniuses, received the 2008 Parents’ Choice Awards, were featured on the American Library Association Booklist, and listed on the Reading Rockets Recommended Readings. In addition, Ms. Esham speaks and headlines numerous conferences and education events including the National Association of Gifted Children Conference, SENG, and the State of Maryland International Reading Association Council. LEARNING DIFFERENCES hile some children are naturally social butterflies, others find navigating the social world challenging. As Rick Lavoie notes in his book, It’s So Much Work to Be Your Friend, positive social relationships during childhood and adolescence are better predictors of adult happiness than intelligence or academic standing! Several factors contribute to the social challenges of children with learning differences. Language difficulties can interfere with social communication (pragmatics) and contribute to misunderstandings between children. Children with LD may have difficulty being flexible and understanding another perspective. Impulsivity and hyperactivity associated with ADHD may lead to behaviors that annoy peers. Coordination and sensory issues may interfere with a child’s success in games and sports. Often children with LD are less mature than peers. What does Briarwood do to counteract social deficiencies? The Lower School T.O.P.S. class (Teaching Opportunities for Pragmatic Skills) directly teaches social skills that facilitate friendship, such as conflict resolution, problem solving, refusal skills, and how to respond to bullying. Speech and language pathologists work with students who need individualized work with pragmatics, and the school counselor assists students in making and maintaining friendships. In class, teachers make seating arrangements and group assignments that promote positive interactions. Lunch and recess times provide opportunities for students to get to know as many of their peers as possible. Our character education programs reaffirm positive personality traits that encourage tolerance and friendship. Briarwood recognizes the importance and benefit of teaching the whole child, promoting social and emotional growth as well as academic remediation and achievement. 20 tthhee bbrriiaarrwwoooodd sscchhooooll Summer Horizons (3 week, half day camp) • Tomball Train Depot • Yoga at Briarwood • Bowling at Palace Lanes • Breakfast at Denny’s • Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP) • BBVA Compass Stadium – Home of the Dynamos • Glow in the Dark Putt Putt Golf • George Ranch Historical Park Camp S.O.A.R. (Summer Opportunities and Recreation) Camp Aranzazu in Rockport, Texas • Ropes Course • Zip Line • Kayaking • Fishing • Scuba Diving • Beach Combing • Yoga • Karaoke • Nature Trails • Mrs. Baird’s Bakery • Main Street Theater • Top it Pizza • Wortham Center • Menil Collection www.briarwoodschool.org 21 LINK 2 CHANGE Around Briarwood T he Student Council Link Crew is comprised of students in grades 7-12 who have been elected to represent and serve the student body to the best of their ability. Student Council Link Crew members work diligently to plan exciting events for the student body while actively participating in community service activities and promoting monthly character values throughout the school. This group of students is helping all of Briarwood to remember to mind its p’s and q’s but more importantly to approach life according to a profound list of words to live by. . . Character values for the 2014-2015 school year: August - Friendship September – Integrity October – Acceptance November – Kindness & Caring December – Empathy & Compassion January – Giving February – Tolerance March – Responsibility April – Creativity May – Courage During the 2013-2014 school year, the Student Council Link Crew sponsored the following events: • Service project to benefit the animals at CAP • Just Run for a Just Cause • Race for a Cure • Caroling & Christmas cookies at the Sunshine Nursing Home • Service day at Brookwood • Can Drive benefitting WHAM (collected over 2,484 pounds of food which will feed over 2,000 people!) • Teens for Jeans • Penny Wars to benefit the Gulf Coast Sentinels of Freedom • Three pep rallies • Annual alumni game • Stroll for Epilepsy • AAMDS 5K • WHAM service day • Community service day at Books between Kids • Great Kindness Challenge • Halloween Dance • Powderpuff Game • Back to School Social • Go Texan Day BBQ Lunch • Talent Show – all proceeds benefitted the Stroll for Epilepsy • Teacher Appreciation Day • Spirit Week/Days • Compliment Canes 22 tthhee bbrriiaarrwwoooodd sscchhooooll DOUBLE TAKE Alumni News C ourtney Saldivar had an edge over other parents when daughter Isabella started school in the fall. The nerves were still there, but she was completely at ease with her and husband Mark’s decision to transition her daughter from a traditional school to Briarwood. Courtney personally knew how Briarwood could remediate a student with learning differences because it worked in her own life. Although the structures and teachers had changed a bit since 1987 when Courtney left Briarwood after attending 4th-7th grades, that warm, helpful, knowledgeable foundation remained. And, ultimately, the decision to make Briarwood a part of their daughter’s life was an easy one. Courtney attended St. Cecilia until third grade when she was diagnosed with a learning disability. Much like today, in 1978 Briarwood was the leading program for students who needed remediation for a learning difference. After five years at Briarwood, Courtney transitioned to Duchesne where she later graduated and went on to the University of Texas Architectural School. In 1994, she graduated as one of five women in her entire class and was employed by Baylor College of Medicine as one of their in-house architects. Later, she and husband Mark worked together in Breckenridge as a home design and building team with Allen-Guerra. They moved with Allen-Guerra back to Houston and continue to build their dreams with Isabella. Welcome (back) Saldivar Family! Alumni | Call Us! Words to live by Please complete and fax or mail to The Development Office. . . or Call Us! We love to hear from Alumni and former students! (courtesy of the Link Crew) Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become your character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny. The Student Council Link Crew sponsors for the 2014-2015 school year are Cathy Smith [email protected] and Jamie Boyce [email protected]. Name _________________________________ Class of _____________ Years attended ________ Address ________________________________ City ______________ State ______ Zip ______ Home Phone ____________________________ Email ________________________________ Is this an address change? _______ Yes _______ No Occupation _________________________________ Schools/Programs attended after graduating ____________ _________________________________________ _________________________________________ What is new with you? __________________________ _________________________________________ _________________________________________ Parents: If you have a student who graduated from or attended Briarwood and who no longer lives with you, please help us update our addresses. Thank you! www.briarwoodschool.org 23