2015 Annual Report - The Siskiyou School

THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
2015 ANNUAL REPORT AND NEWSLETTER
A NEW TIME!
INSIDE
2
From our Head of School
3
From our Pedagogical Director
4
Thank you, Catherine and Amy
7
Board and Faculty Hails & Farewells
8
A Look at our Finances
11
Donor List and Thank Yous
14
Fall Festival Photos
18
New Programs and Eurythmy
20
The Glendale House Story
24
Alumni Reunion, Class of 2011
26
Graduation, Class of 2015
Welcome to Lisa Barry,
our new Head of School,
and Karl Johnson, our
new Pedagogical Director.
For the first time since
2006 we have a change in
administration, and the
school year began with a
feeling of newness in the
air. As a team, Lisa and
Karl come well suited to
build on the strong foundation laid by Catherine Razi and the faculty
and to lead our school into its next chapter. Welcome also to Megan
Kirkwood, our new Board President, who has taken up the reins from
Amy Ahrendt after a busy four-year term.
In this newsletter, we will hear from Lisa, Karl, and Megan and also
note other changes in the school’s landscape since our last newsletter
in 2013. We’ve added programs, graduated classes, welcomed new
teachers and Board members, said goodbye to valued colleagues, and
been gifted a major expansion to our campus.
Amidst the changes, the beat goes right on. Each morning the
playground resounds with four square balls bouncing and children’s
voices at play. The bell rings, and children line up in front of their
classroom doors to shake hands with their class teachers. Morning
verses are recited, and another school day gets underway.
Overlaid on the daily rhythm are the traditions of the months and
seasons…first graders stepping forward on Opening Day to receive
their flowers and buddies; second graders taming the dragon; buddies
walking to the pumpkin patch; littlest ones venturing into the dark
with their lanterns; Katie and our dedicated parents putting on
another stupendous WinterFaire; middle schoolers delivering our
Thanksgiving Food Drive yield to the Ashland Food Bank. December
brings Advent wreaths, holiday songs and stories, and our resplendent
Winter Assembly.
The children are held by the school’s rhythm and traditions.
So are we all.
May the circle be unbroken! Long live our school!
OUR NEW LEADERSHIP MODEL
The school’s 18-month search process
to find a new Administrator led to our
adopting a new two-person leadership
model, similar to that of other Waldorf
schools our size. Our new Head of School,
Lisa Barry, and Pedagogical Director, Karl
Johnson, each have their responsibilities,
but also collaborate closely in many areas.
Lisa “holds the whole,” with overall
responsibility for the effective day-to-day
operations and long-term success of
the school. She provides collaborative
leadership to the faculty, Board, and
parents, and serves as the primary
liaison among them. She also leads the
administrative team, managing enrollment,
fundraising, budgeting, employee/HR
matters, etc. In consultation with the faculty
and the Board, she develops the plans that
support the School’s mission and goals.
Karl ensures that our program is
effectively delivered to our students. He
mentors teachers, is the point person for
the faculty for questions related to the
well-being of their classes, and makes sure
that classes are adequately staffed to meet
the needs of all the students. He also holds
the parent enrichment part of the school’s
mission, speaking at class meetings on
curriculum and hosting presentations for
the larger community on matters related to
Waldorf education and child development.
Areas of collaboration between the Head
of School and Pedagogical Director include
parent concerns, staffing, admissions,
organizational development, strategic
planning, and teacher support as needed
to fulfill the school’s core mission: providing
our students with the best Waldorf
education we can.
Already in the four short months of
their collaboration, we feel blessed in the
good partnership between Lisa and Karl.
As a school we are better for both their
respective skill sets and their teamwork.
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THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
LETTER FROM OUR NEW
HEAD OF SCHOOL
WALDORF EDUCATION:
THE “META-CURRICULUM”
Lisa Barry, Head of School
Karl Johnson, Pedagogical Director
Thank you, Siskiyou School, for your
welcome. It has been wonderful getting
to know you and your children. I am in
awe every day of all that this school is
and so grateful for the support I have
received. The best part of my new role
is working with the exceptional people
who make up this organization.
In just four short months, it is clear
to me that this school is blessed with
parents who believe in our mission and who are ready to help at any
moment in any way that is asked. What a model for the children and
support for our teachers!
The faculty inspires me every day. They truly reflect teaching at its best in
their ability to maintain a consistent, clear rhythm for the children, to see
each child and hold the whole of their classes, to weave creativity and heart
into their lessons, and to be a loving presence in every teaching moment.
Working with the Board has also been deeply informative and enriching.
The Board’s holding of the big picture is what makes the future we envision
possible. I am so grateful for their guidance and ongoing support, from the
thoughtful interviews through this time of transition.
And then, there is our remarkably capable administrative team who
ensure that day-to-day operations go smoothly. A day in the school office is
full of all kinds of activity, some predictable, much unexpected. Whatever
comes at them, Aurilia, Katie, and Cynthia field it all with grace, calm,
efficiency, and warmth.
Collaborating with Karl is yet another gift. I so appreciate his thoughtful
presence and learn from
him every day.
I feel privileged
to be at this school
surrounded by all of
you. Thank you for
welcoming me into your
community and for all
you do for our school.
It has been so wonderful to join the
Siskiyou School this year! Every time I
walk onto our beautiful campus, I am
struck by the richness of this community,
including, of course, the stellar quality
I feel from our students. The Siskiyou
School has a reputation for graduating
students who have a strong academic
background and who possess a love of
learning. Our students acquire strong
writing skills, gain a broad sense of scientific inquiry, enter into the rigors of
logical-linear thinking through math and geometry, and have historical and
cultural perspective. The Waldorf curriculum blossoms in the upper grades
and clearly covers academic skill development in a comprehensive way.
Additionally, Siskiyou School graduates stand out as individuals. This is
not a coincidence. From first grade onward Waldorf students are educated
emotionally and socially by way of a somewhat unspoken, overarching
“meta-curriculum” that is a defining aspect of this education. The Waldorf
meta-curriculum contains many character-building aspects that strengthen
and engage every student.
Starting in the youngest grades, with deliberate consciousness, the
teachers guide students through experiences that strengthen their will,
perseverance, and problem-solving capacities; activate their imaginations;
and foster empathy, compassion, and acceptance for one another. Through
the daily practice of artistic processes, the weekly practice of gardening,
handwork and woodwork, and the challenging wilderness expeditions,
students grow inwardly stronger because their hearts and wills are
meaningfully engaged.
The main lesson curriculum in humanities and the sciences furthers this
character development. Through the stories, myths, and biographies, our
students are faced with the dilemmas of heroes, heroines, and historical
individuals that allow them to develop a feel for justice and moral
discernment—the basis for good choices. The study of math, geometry,
science, world philosophies and religions engages the students in the search
for universal truths, and we see the capacity for broad perspective and
sound judgment begin to emerge in the adolescent student.
Through this meta-curriculum, our students are being equipped to take up
their own lives with a sense of purpose and direction while also developing
the strength and capacities to serve their communities—now and into the
future. This important growth is experienced by students through the
Siskiyou School’s rich and unique expression of Waldorf Education.
LISA BARRY
Lisa grew up in New York, Wisconsin,
and California, and graduated with a
Collaboration and
teamwork are key in our
busy office. These
colleagues are the best!
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WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
BA in History from San Francisco State
University. Her professional background
is in business management and school
administration. She served as Director of
Operations for over 10 years in several
businesses and then, most recently, as
Enrollment Director at the San Francisco
Waldorf High School for eight years,
helping to grow it into a full high school.
She is a Waldorf parent and will complete
her Waldorf teacher training in the
summer of 2016. Lisa enjoys spending
time with her daughter, traveling,
cooking, camping, hiking and dancing
Argentine Tango.
KARL JOHNSON
Karl grew up in the Midwest and received
a BA in Music Education (Utah State
University) and a MA in Guidance and
Counseling (Adam’s State College, CO). He
is also certified as an Educational Support
Specialist and Outdoor Wilderness Guide.
In his 35-year career as an educator,
Karl has served as a class teacher,
counselor, music director, remedial
specialist, and outdoor educator, as well
as in the leadership of several Waldorf
schools. As a Waldorf consultant, Karl
has conducted mentoring visits to over
30 schools, presented at conferences, led
workshops, and trained teachers in the
US and internationally. Karl and his wife,
Kymberly, have two children, Kyriane
and Kreston—both Waldorf graduates. In
addition to his family, Karl loves hiking,
mountaineering, whitewater boating,
traveling, music, poetry, and reading.
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
3
THANK YOU, CATHERINE — ADMINISTRATOR, 2006–2015
THANK YOU, AMY — BOARD PRESIDENT, 2012–2015
create a school where everything was on the table and
Catherine gave us nine
everything was possible, where creativity and flexibility of
full years. She arrived
thinking would be driving forces, and the children’s mastery
early and left late each
of core skills would be a priority. On July 1, 2006, two weeks
day, and was on campus
after graduating her tenth 8th grade, she arrived in Ashland
through most vacations
from Maine and jumped in.
as well. That was her way.
Within the first six months, the Board and faculty
She always saw things that
adopted two documents: the Four Pillars Governance
needed tending, and she
Model and the Protocol for Concerns. These set in place
was glad, even eager, to
specific responsibilities for each body of the school
do the work, in service of
and delineated clear channels of communication and
the school. No task was too big or too small. In the midst of
procedures for parents with concerns. These documents,
all the doing, if a hurt child or distressed parent or teacher
adapted from the Bay School model, have served the
walked through the door, her heart leapt towards them and
Siskiyou School in good stead these last nine years and
she dropped everything. Over her years as our founding
allowed for smooth sailing.
Administrator, Catherine held us all and touched every
Catherine saw her primary job as creating a faculty forum
aspect of the school.
where conversations around program development and
She was offered the job in the spring of 2006. The
children’s needs could happen. To this end, she instituted
community was in its sixth year without a Waldorf school.
regular faculty and in-service meetings and engaged the
Now a family had offered a loan to buy a church property,
teachers in discussion around
and parents, eager for a “real
everything from Opening Day to
school” for their children, had
May the generosity of her
Graduation, academic expectations
collectively raised $600,000 to
spirit,
can-do
attitude,
and
to student assessments, dress code
build classrooms on the empty lot
to media policy. Meanwhile, the
out back. With this resounding
love of children live on in
parents, led by Karen O’Dougherty
parental commitment in hand,
the
ethos
of
the
school.
and later by Katie LaCroix, hosted
the Board and class teachers of
events and created community, and
the pods knew the time had come
the Board ensured our financial
to hire someone to put the pieces
stability to support the unfolding
together into a coherent whole—a
vision. Together, under Catherine’s
new Waldorf school.
sure-handed guidance, the faculty,
Catherine was drawn to the
parents, and Board fashioned the
task because she could see what
Siskiyou School, as described in our
needed doing and felt she had what
Parent Handbook and reflected in
it would take. She had 19 years of
our campus, festivals, curriculum and
experience as a class teacher and
program. Thank you, Catherine, for
had been instrumental in shaping
your leadership.
a very successful Waldorf school
in Blue Hill, Maine. What excited
The luckiest and most blessed mom and
her most was that she saw in the
grandmother in the world is looking
team of founding teachers, kindred
forward to a lot more time with her
spirits—committed to Waldorf
girls, all pictured here at her birthday
philosophy and eager to pioneer a
celebration: granddaughters, Grace,
new vision.
Juniper, and Kepler; niece, Catherine;
Together they were excited to
and daughters, Nadejda and Ghigs.
Modest hero is the
term that comes to
mind thinking of Amy
Ahrendt’s years as Board
president. Quietly and
systematically, she led
the Board through a
particularly full agenda.
Her leadership style and
vision were integral to the
Board’s impressive accomplishments these last four years.
Strengthening the Board’s sense of itself and connections
between the Board and the other pillars of the school was
part of Amy’s vision, and she achieved it. As a leader her
gesture was to be inclusive, transparent, and collaborative.
She included the full Board in discussions of just about
every issue, and, when the need for a new head search
came up, she cast it as an opportunity to build bridges
with the faculty and parents too. Not only did we find
our new leaders, but our community was strengthened
in the process.
Amy also turned her attention to areas previously
untended to. Her legal and HR background made her
sensitive to the need for more professionalism in our
school systems. Under her direction, background checks,
new security protocols, and new faculty phone and email
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THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
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systems were put in place, along with more order in our
administrative and financial practices.
Navigating the acquisition of the Glendale property
was another part of the Board’s work during Amy’s term.
Obstacle after obstacle was overcome until finally all the
pieces came together. Our campus expansion has changed
the educational experience of our students and teachers.
While managing the school’s finances is part of the
Board’s everyday duties, there was nothing “everyday” in
what the Board achieved in the area of school finances in the
last three years. Sticking with an aggressive debt reduction
campaign begun in 2011 and not giving in to other demands
took leadership. The money that was freed has allowed
the Board not only to add to the administrative staff, but
improve faculty benefits and strengthen programming—
core mission pieces.
Amy’s best helpers were daughters, Fiona and Emmeline.
On many a still dark morning, they’d arrive at school before
7:00 and sweetly hug their mom goodbye as she stepped
into the Music Room to meet with committees to take care
of school business. Without a word of complaint, they’d do
homework or read in the van Gogh Room until the other
children arrived. Their good grace lifted us all. Thank you,
girls, for being the best sports. Thank you, Amy, for giving
so much of your time, heart and mind to the school and
making us better in so many ways.
WELCOME, MEGAN — NEW BOARD PRESIDENT
Megan Kirkwood’s
quiet manner and low
key demeanor belie the
powerhouse that she is.
She brings to the job
of Board president an
incredible work ethic,
strong organizational
skills, a firsthand sense
of Waldorf school
administration, and an ability to hold many pieces, not
to speak of four years’ experience as Board VP. Megan is
one of our rare parents born and raised in Ashland. (Her
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
parents run the town’s oldest B & B, Cowslip Belle, where
our school guests are often housed.) After graduating from
Lewis and Clark, Megan started a career in the technology
field which led her to the Bay area. When her daughter
came of preschool age, Megan created a Waldorf preschool
and ran it for three years before moving back to Ashland
with her family in 2009. Megan’s busy schedule continues
to this day, but, strikingly, she always has time to make pots
of amazing soup and homemade bread for families when
needed. Megan is in her 16th year working with Adobe.
Today, her children Rogue and Spencer are in 4th and 6th.
Thank you, Megan, for volunteering to hold the school too!
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
5
OUR MISSION
The Siskiyou School’s mission
is to honor and cultivate the
intellectual, imaginative, artistic,
and individual gifts in each student
within a community that celebrates
childhood, practices compassion,
and inspires a passion for learning
and service.
2015–2016 BOARD
OF DIRECTORS
Megan Kirkwood, President
Erik Larsen, Vice President
Henry Whitridge, Treasurer
Caraway Timmins, Secretary
Amy Ahrendt Karin Volpert
Bob Hackett Matthew Beers
Stephen Sloan
ADMINISTRATION
Lisa Barry, Head of School
Karl Johnson, Pedagogical Director
Aurilia McNamara, Office Manager
Cynthia Bower, Bookkeeper and
Business Manager
Katie LaCroix, Director of Community
LETTER FROM BOARD PRESIDENT
BOARD HAILS AND FAREWELLS
Megan Kirkwood
Board President
Our Board of Directors consists of 7–9 parents who meet monthly to reflect on school finance matters and/or agenda items
brought to them by the faculty and administration. Each year some members complete their terms and others join through
a self-nominating process. When long-serving board members step off, it is always hard to imagine how the Board will go
on, but it does, year after year. Our most recent farewells were to Jack Gibbs and Stephen Sendar. Newest to our board are
Erik Larsen, Karin Volpert, Caraway Timmins, and Matthew Beers.
When my daughter Spencer entered first grade in 2009, I couldn’t have imagined
the changes that would take place in our school over these years. We have grown
not just in enrollment and financial stability but as an institution and presence
in the Rogue Valley. Everywhere I go, people know of our school. As a parent my
gratitude to the Board and faculty is immeasurable. My children are thriving, and
the peace of mind I have dropping them off each morning is worth everything.
It has been a privilege to be able to give back to the school by serving on the
Board, and now I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Judy Newton, Hank
O’Dougherty, Stephen Sendar, and Amy Ahrendt as Board president. Those are
big shoes to fill, and I am heartened knowing I am working with an outstanding
team. I share their excitement in the school’s new chapter.
As noted in the opening piece, the traditions of the school are well laid, and
we can rest knowing that even through change, the experience of our children
is guaranteed by the traditions and rhythms. That said, we are always striving
to be better still. Each fall Board and faculty meet to reflect and vision together
about next steps. We hope you will join us at our State of the School Annual
Meeting in late January where we will share with you elements of the new Five
Year Plan we have begun formulating with the teachers and in conjunction with
Lisa and Karl.
I want to thank you for your ongoing support of our school through
participation at school events and much needed help with all our fundraising
efforts. Your help is indispensable. It truly does take a village.
Development
PAST BOARD PRESIDENTS
Judy Newton, 2004–2006
Hank O’Dougherty, 2006–2008
Stephen Sendar, 2008–2012
Amy Ahrendt, 2012–2015
PAST BOARD MEMBERS
2006–PRESENT
Yarrow Sylvan Karen Harris
Heidi Martin
Serena St. Clair
Linda Sussman
Eric Strong
Jeff Falzone
Rebecca Hutchison
Chris Wallace
Molly Gramley
Bob Hackett
James Day
Erik Glatte
Jeff Wiencek
Nick Doherty Jack Gibbs
6
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
Left to right: Megan Kirkwood, Amy Ahrendt, Henry Whitridge, Stephen Sloan,
Matthew Beers, Bob Hackett, Caraway Timmins, Karin Volpert, Erik Larsen.
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WELCOMES
Erik Larsen spent his childhood
in rural New Jersey and Maine. He
attended the University of Maine and
then Lewis & Clark Law School. He
moved to the Rogue Valley with his
wife, Sarah, and daughter, Lucy, (5th
grade) in 2006.
Caraway Timmins grew up in
Amherst, MA, got her BS at UC Santa
Cruz, and her MS in Nursing (MSN)
with a specialty in Midwifery from
Yale. She and husband, Josh, moved
to Ashland in 2007. Their children,
Noah and Fiona, are in 4th and 1st.
Karin Volpert grew up in Germany
and graduated from a Waldorf high
school. She attended UC Davis. With
husband, John, she then operated a
European vacation rental business. She
now works in financial planning. Sons
Ben and Dieter are in 8th and 6th.
Matthew Beers was born in Hawaii
and raised in California. He received
both his BS and PhD in Computer
Science from UC Irvine, and then
moved to Ashland with his wife,
Kristin in 2007. They have two boys,
James (2nd) and Luke (Kindergarten).
Jack Gibbs joined the
Board in 2009 and became
Treasurer in 2011. His
financial expertise was
invaluable as was his knack
for seeing solutions and
possibilities. He helped move
the agenda along in a positive
way— whatever the topic.
“Anything I can do to help!” he was frequently overheard
to say, and he meant it! Jack’s gift of time to the school was
boundless. As Board Treasurer he not only attended all
the meetings, but helped track school expenses, draft our
budget, prepare the “financials” for meetings and our taxes
at tax time. And when morning committee meetings would
end, Jack would always go wait out front for Ainsley, Brea,
and Connor to hug them good morning and walk them
to class. His gratitude for the school inspired his service.
Thank you, Jack!
Stephen Sendar carried
the vision for this school
before it even saw the light
of day; he is one of our
founding fathers. It is thanks
largely to his foresight and
service that we were able to
acquire this campus in 2006
and that our school enjoys
the financial health it does today. During his seven years on
the Board (four as president), Stephen guided us through
“the forming and storming year”; coined the term “financial
architecture” and set us on a course to build it; launched
the Debt Reduction Campaign; negotiated the acquisition
of Glendale; and helped form the vision for our leadership
search process. To this day, he’s our go-to person for a range
of matters. His three daughters all attended Waldorf; we
hope his granddaughters will too. Blessed are the children
and institutions for whom Stephen is the guardian.
GOODBYES
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
7
A LOOK AT THE
SCHOOL’S FINANCES
The manuscript under glass
on the wall in Pine Hall says
that the Siskiyou School
stands as a testament that
“together we can do great
things.” It was written in 2006
after a capital campaign to
build a new Waldorf school
succeeded beyond anybody’s
expectations. Well, the
Siskiyou School also stands as
a testament to the role sound
financial management plays
in the health and vitality of an
Inspired by Mi-cha-el, we
institution.
faced our fears, tackled
We are often asked, How
our debt, and tamed it!
are you doing it? How is the
school able to hire new people, properly support current
faculty, and continue to develop programming and the
campus? How is the school so apparently successful?
The answer is that we have created a Waldorf program
for which there is consistent, high demand, and our
Board has been very good at managing our resources.
For nine years we have been guided by principles set
in place in 2006 by the Board under Hank O’Dougherty
and continued under subsequent Board presidents.
There has been a multi-pronged plan. The plan has
served us well and is now literally paying off.
Aggressive debt reduction, wise management of
reserves, continual successful fundraising, and full
enrollment with very small yearly increases in tuition
have allowed us to steadily grow our budget in the areas
which reflect our values and priorities:
•continually fine-tuning our programming and staffing
to best meet our students
•supporting our outstanding faculty
•maintaining a robust tuition assistance program
•developing our beautiful campus
•making sure we have the administrative support
necessary to “hold” a school our size.
Wise planning goes hand in glove with creating
possibilities.
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THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
COMPARISON OF
ANNUAL BUDGETS
2015–2016 BUDGET — $1.728 MILLION
2013–2014 BUDGET — $1.585 MILLION
Reserves$26,000
Debt Reduction
WHAT A DIFFERENCE TWO YEARS MAKES!
Reserves$40,000
In comparing the current budget with the one of two
Debt Reduction
years ago, we see a 9% increase from $1.585 million in
2013–2014 to $1.728 million in the 2015–2016 budget.
Fundraising$200,000
$150,000
$24,000
Scholarships$121,000
Plant, Ops, Admin
Fundraising Events
Annual Giving
$65,000
$135,000
$210,000
Mortgage$65,000
Scholarships$70,000
The 11% increase in income is accounted for by slightly
increased enrollment, slightly higher tuition, and very
Plant, Ops, Admin
successful fundraising.
Mortgage$65,000
In the expense column we see a notable decrease in
$280,000
Tuition/Fees$1,385,000
interest payments and reserve payments but a big jump in
payroll, up 41%.
With our debt paid down and a safe amount in our
reserves, our “savings” are now available for program
Tuition/Fees$1,538,000
Payroll$1,282,000
Payroll$980,000
development and teacher support.
Expenses
Income
Expenses
Long-Term Debt Reduction History and Interest Expense
Growth in Fundraising over the Past Four Years
Enrollment History
$1,200,000
$200,000
$180,000
200
$160,000
180
$100,000
$90,000
$80,000
$70,000
$60,000
$50,000
$40,000
$30,000
$20,000
$10,000
$0
$1,000,000
$800,000
$600,000
$400,000
$200,000
$
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
(projected)
Year-End Loan Balance (Left Axis)
Interest Expense (Right Axis)
190
$140,000
$120,000
$100,000
$80,000
$60,000
$40,000
$20,000
$
Income
170
160
150
140
130
120
2010–2011
Total Fundraising
Annual Giving
Winter Faire
2014–2015
May Day Raffle
Auction
SCRIP
110
100
06/07 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 15/16
Beginning Enrollment
Year-End Enrollment
THE IMPORTANCE OF DEBT REDUCTION
THE KEY ROLE OF FUNDRAISING
STRONG ENROLLMENT
Keeping debt and concurrent interest payments low is a
Annual fundraising goals are reached through contributions
Maintaining full enrollment, combined with small yearly
guiding principle of our financial architecture. Over the last
into Annual Giving and fundraising events. Under Katie’s
increases in tuition, has also contributed to the school’s health.
five years our interest payments have been reduced from
leadership as Director of Community Development, the number
Since 2006, enrollment has grown by 30%. Meanwhile we have
close to $100,000 yearly to $25,000 because our debt was
of fundraising events has grown and revenue from these events
been able to maintain one of the lowest Waldorf tuitions in the
paid down by over 50% and refinanced. (Thank you, Jack!) The
has increased. This growth has contributed to the doubling
country. Our reputation for low tuition, academic excellence,
money that used to go to interest payments has been freed to
of overall fundraising since 2010. Successful fundraising has
and an innovative Waldorf program has spurred our rapid
address other needs.
always been integral to the school’s overall strength. Fundraising
growth. There is a demand for what the Siskiyou School offers.
revenue averages between 12–15% of our annual budget.
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THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
9
LOW TUITION/HIGH FUNDRAISING: ANOTHER GUIDING PRINCIPLE
Keeping tuition as low as possible has been a guiding value
at a level that works with their budget. We count on every
of the school since its founding. We want families who
family to participate, and we communicate that it is in every
want this education to be able to afford it. Lower tuition
family’s interest to do so. By giving voluntarily, parents
also benefits the social fabric
help keep tuition lower than
of the school, ensuring full
otherwise possible, guarantee
We achieve virtually 100%
enrollment, healthy class sizes,
that classes will not be cut
and economic diversity.
due to a budget shortfall, and
participation in Annual Giving
And yet, there are real costs
become eligible for a tax break.
because parents know that in
to maintaining a program of
Parents who have the
this quality. A Siskiyou School
resources are encouraged to
giving voluntarily, they win, their
education costs about $1,000
bridge not only their own
children win, the school wins.
more per child more than we
child’s $1,000 tuition gap but
that of another child as well,
charge in annual tuition. Rather
knowing that some families can only contribute a modest
than raise tuition, we set a high fundraising goal—$200,000
amount to the fundraising total. Thanks to the tax system,
for the last three years—and work hard to reach it.
the bigger the contribution, the bigger the tax break. See
We create community events that generate revenue, and
OCT description below.
we invite every family to contribute into Annual Giving
ANNUAL GIVING DONORS 2013–2014 & 2014–2015
THANK YOU, EACH AND EVERY ONE!
The list below includes parents, grandparents, alumni,
friends, businesses, trusts, and foundations that donated
to Annual Giving in 2013–2014 and in 2014–2015. Direct
contributions into Annual Giving cover two-thirds of
the $1,000 per child we need to raise each year to bridge
the difference between tuition and the actual cost of
a Siskiyou School education. If you find an omission
or error, please contact our Director of Community
Development, Katie LaCroix, at 541-482-8223 so we may
correct our records and issue a most sincere apology.
We are deeply grateful for and honored by every
contribution. Your generous support is what makes this
education possible.
Current & Past Parents
GIVE TO OREGON CULTURAL TRUST AND THE SCHOOL…AND SAVE
The Siskiyou School is a member of the OCT, a cultural
preservation organization that provides funding to arts,
humanities, and heritage nonprofits in Oregon. By matching
your gift to the Siskiyou School with one to the OCT, you
not only support both the arts in Oregon and our school,
but you receive a mind-boggling tax break from the State
of Oregon.
Here’s how it works: If you give $1,000 to the school
and a matching $1,000 to OCT, your net cash outlay,
after taxes, will be $350. In essence, if you give to both, the
State subsidizes our school. To learn more, go to www.
culturaltrust.org or call our Treasurer, Henry Whitridge,
at 541-821-4972, or Jack Gibbs at Fortress Financial,
541-488-3600. The OCT’s annual matching limit is $2,500 for
corporations, $1,000 for couples, and $500 for individuals.
10
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
EXAMPLE OF TAX BENEFITS TO DONORS
(ASSUMING A 28% FEDERAL TAX RATE)
Donation to the Siskiyou School
$1,000
Donation to the OCT by a couple filing jointly
1,000
Total cash outlay
2,000
Federal tax savings ($2000 x 28%)
560
State tax savings on gifts to cultural organizations
($1000 x 9%)
90
State savings from OCT credit (100% of OCT)
1,000
Total tax savings
1,650
Benefit to cultural charities
2,000
Net cash outlay
$350
WWW. SISKIYOUSCHOOL .ORG
541.482.8223
Ashleigh Adams & Kelly Burns
Catherine & Allen Adler
Amy Ahrendt
Taylor & John Alexander
Amanda & Greg Alford
Anouschka Andresen
& Aaron Smith
Abbey & Michael Arciniega
Jodie & Bobby Arellano
Lance Aryeff
Anne Ashbey
Jon Barry & Jennifer Jones
Christie & Chaska Bartow
Ann Bass & Angela Fleischer
Lisa & Tom Beam
Kristin & Matthew Beers
Caryn Belafsky & John Trivers
Jason Bennett
Eric & Holly Berg
Morgan Blank
Nick Boney
Alisson Bonney
Bill & Gretchen Boylan
Michael & Jen Briola
Erik Brown
Sheila & Ben Carder
Bill & Sue Carroll
Kevin Casey & Tammy Van Eycke
Andrew Chester
Kevin Christman
Paul Clark & Julie Freed
Shannon Clery & Rob Sweeney
Sarah Collard
Josh Cott & Caraway Timmins
Brigitte Culhane & Jorge Andrade
Megan Danforth & Tom Pike
James Day & Adena Tryon
Javier & Dawn del Rio
LeeAnn & Dominick DellaSala
Bryon DeVore
Ai DeVore
Jodie & Robert Dilansa
Thomas Dimitre
Maria & Mattias Jansson
Katie Ellison
Kimberly Era
Nancy Escherich
Tom & Devon Evans
Jamie Fahey & Alfred Blea
Jeff & Caitlin Falzone
Erin & Kevin Federline
Ann Fielder
Paul Flowers
Bhavani Flowers
John & Robyn Forsyth
Melanie Freeman
Glenn Gelfenbein & Alaiya Aguilar
Jack & Jennifer Gibbs
Erik Glatte & Ingunn Skjervold
Aaren & Jazzmin Glover
Mahalath Gordon
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
Molly & Andrew Gramley
Francesca & Al Gunn
Analuisa Guzman-Witt & David Witt
Bob Hackett & Karen Zischke
Hani & Vanessa Hajje
Shawna & Alfred Hanan
Abby & Tobias Hatfield
Tyler Hawkins &
Ruth Nelson-Moore
Jake Hayes & Angie Renick-Hayes
Bill Hernon
Tasia & Rylan Heyerman
Alissa Rae Hill
Krista Holland & Eric Novisedlak
Laura & Russell Holtsberg
Ellie Holty
Jennifer Maslow
Lora & Adrian Horvath
Jennifer Janota
Tracy & Chris John
Peter & Tunde Jordan
Stephen Kaestner & Nora Lynch
Terry & Ali Kau
Chris Keefe
Keval Khalsa
Megan Kirkwood
Marijana Knez
Kristin Laak
Erik & Sarah Larsen
Dean Ledbetter & Suni Teker
Zoe & Ryan Lehmann
Sonia & Chris Lemacks
Kathleen & Gil Livni
Mark & Carol Ann Logan
Cory & James Loos
Brian & Kelle Lovett
Steve Lovich & Tracy Samples
Patrice & Paul Lowes
Margaret & Mark Machala
Lauren & Richmond Mack
Jason Margulis &
Kim Zwemer-Margulis
Melissa & Tom Marks-Ladd
Seth Marsh & Jawea Stasny-Marsh
Nikki & Brad Martell
Paul Martin &
Linda von Hanneken
Heidi & Greg Martin
Lorraine McDonald & Michael Davis
Laura & Robert McLellan
Brenda & Robert Mead
Angie Megarity & Dicken Weatherby
Rebecca Mehta
Angela & Ron Mellon
Sequoia Miller
Leslie & Chad Moyer
Mark & Shawn Nasralla
Jeff Nielsen
Andre Nogues & Dana Mitchell
Kelly Nutters & Aaron Fimbres
Julie O’Dwyer
Kristine Pandey
Sabrina & John Paulick
Gabe & Michele Pereira
Ray Pettengell
Claire & Matthew Picton
Bryan & Jessica Pistole
Jason Plotts
Kaia Porter
Wayne Prentice & Susan Jaques
Pamela Purinton & Luc Tremblay
Nadejda Razi-Robertson
Marilyn & Marty Reece-Sullivan
Michael Rozenfeld &
Venessa Johnson
Marla Samuel & Steve Del Valle
Mary Sandlin
Jocelyn Sanford
Nate & Trina Sanford
Karen Sauer
Liz & John Schmidt
Melinda Rippe
Malika Semper
Shahrzad Sheibani & Yujen Wang
Megan Sheer
Steve Sirianni
Kirra Sirianni
Stephen & Katie Sloan
Bret Snyder & Tasa Painter
Jeff Solomon
Zahara Solomon
Aleks Spasic & Jonathan Raymond
Violit Springford
David & Courtney Stiemert
Bethany & Jesse Stonewood
Mike & Libby Sturgill
Joby & Liz Talbot
Tara Thomas & Brad Boucher
Michael Thompson & Kelly Stone
Cory Tichauer & Kolleen Feldman
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
11
Katja Toal & Reggie Gilbert
Leann & David Tourzan
Erin Van Dyke
Matt Vogel
Tod Vogel
Karin Volpert & John Spillman
Thomas & Margaret Dwyer
Mary Escherich
Sue & John Falzone
Mark & Carma Feigal
John & Yvonne Gibbs
Jane Golden
Wanda & William Putnam
Frederic & Lundy Reynolds
Sally & Anthony Roberts
Louis & Marjorie Samples
Gail & Roger Samuel
James & Susan Sandlin
Current & Past Teachers
Melissa Archer & James Berge
Cynthia Bower & Timm Ahern
Jennifer & Robert Carroll
Christine Crawley & Don Sever
Catherine Dixon
Jen Franczak
Individually we are one drop. Together we are an ocean. —Ryunosuke Satoro
Nina Gallwey
Ben & Mia Gaskin
Margie & Hayden Glatte
Gretchen Vos & Richard Brock
Nicole & Chris Wasgatt
Emily Waymire
Eric Webb
Jeff Westergaard
Amy & Charlie Whitley
Henry & Carole Whitridge
Jeff & Vicky Wiencek
Davis Wilkins & Matt Oliva
Jennifer & Donny Yance
Current & Past
Grandparents
Christine Amen
William & Julia Ashbey
Patte Barry
Jack & Deborah Bartello
Mark & Betty Belafsky
Donald & Jane Benbow
Hilary Best & Allen Thomashefsky
Zoe Blilie
Marc & Charlene Bole
Margaret Bradford
Joseph & Louise Burke
Leland & Felice Cott
Nancy Cott
Will & Laurie Danforth
Cynthia DeFilippo
Joanie DeVore
Sue Goldstein
Bernice Gower
Barbara Haade
Julie & Jerry Hagstrom
Perry Hart & Sydney Volpert
Maria Limon Hernandez
Barbara & Robert Heyerman
Winifred Favell Hood
Jennifer Humiston
Sally & Tim John
Sunny & Drew Jones
Sally Kirkwood
Camille Korsmo
Bernard J. LaCroix
Karen & Arthur Larsen
Raymond & Elaine Ledbetter
Miriam Lichtenstein
Richard & Leslie Lovett
Ann Macrory
Richard Maslow
Helga Michaels
Deborah Mitchell
Deborah & Doug Mokma
Virginia & Dennis Monda
Robert & Susan Naymik
Niki Newkirk & Don Greene
Patricia Newton
Mary Ann Payne
Maureen & Thomas Phillips
Mark & Deborah Sanford
Peter & Joy Sloan
Mary Steinman
John & Shirley Sturgill
Jeanette Suggs
Karena Toal
Jane Van Dyke & Dennis Gray
Mary Vanier
Alan & Joan Vogel
Isabel Wiencek
Peter & Midge Zischke
Andy & Jeanne Zwemer
Alumni Parents
Joe Borecki
Margaret Brownlie
Joseph Friedman &
Marilyn Northcross
Janis Hunt-Johnson &
David Johnson
Rebecca Hutchison & Ken Crocker
Paul Nash
Judy Newton & Gary Hansen
Cindy & Wes Norton
Karen & Hank O’Dougherty
Bruce & Leslie Sargent
Sara-Lynne Simpson
Serena St. Clair
Betsy Wessler
Dhyana Haynes
Jesse & Claire House
Molly McKissick
Aurilia & Darran McNamara
Dustin Monda
Debbie Murphy
Magda & Sergio Paz
Catherine Razi
Ghigs Razi-Robertson &
Michael McGlone
Yelena Sedochenkova
Kelly & Tom Shelstad
Businesses, Trusts,
Foundations
Adobe Systems Incorporated
Casey Family Fund of The Oregon
Community Foundation
JustGive
Magnolia Fine Homes
Microsoft Matching Gifts Program
Oregon Retina Specialists
People’s Choice Acupuncture
Sangham Foundation
Scrub Hub, LLC
Tides Foundation
Valley Plastic Surgery
EVENT DONORS AND SPONSORS 2013–2015: THANK YOU, ALL!
The following businesses, parents, and friends of
the school donated or sponsored events such as our
WinterFaire, Auction, May Raffle, and Dine Outs.
These events generate over a third of the difference
between tuition and the real cost of a Siskiyou School
education. Thank you for your help in educating all
our children! We just couldn’t do it without you.
12
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
Abbinito
Active Acupuncture
Adam Danforth
Alchemy Botanicals
Amuse Restaurant
Angelina McClean
Anna Fienbork
Anne O’Connell & Ethan Kunz
Arete Crossfit
Ashland Custom Frame
Ashland Food Coop
Ashland Parks & Rec
AudioFile Mobile DJ
Aura Sunshine Aryeff
B. Stonewood Designs
Banyan Botanicals
Bear Creek Naturopathic Clinic
Bee Magic
Bernard & Mary Alice Nogues
WWW. SISKIYOUSCHOOL .ORG
541.482.8223
Bikram Yoga of Ashland
Bloomsbury Books
Brothers’ Restaurant
Bryon DeVore Photography
Caldera Tap House
Canopy LLC—The Care of Trees
Carlos Delgado Architect
Case Coffee Roasters
Chozu Bath & Tea Gardens
Cliff Creek Winery
Coquina Restaurant
Creekside Strings,
Duane Whitcombe
Dean Ledbetter Construction
Denise Souza Finney
EMyth
Enchanted Florist
Eric Poole—Full Circle Real Estate
Eve Smyth & the Hamazons
Feral Fitness
FlipSide Studio
Fortress Financial Group, LLC
Frank Philipps
G.U.M.B.O.
Georgia Young
Grizzly Peak Winery
Growing Green Baby
Heart & Hands
Huycke, O’Connor, & Jarvis, LLC
Independent Film Festival
Jackson Wellsprings
Jacksonville Inn
Jerrold Hagstrom Photography
John Trivers
JulieO Design
Kerulos Center Animal Sanctuary
Kira Body Love
Kira Ferrer Jewelery Designs
Lance Aryeff
Laura Holtsberg
Lexi Delgado
Lizzy Royce
Lucky Scooters
Matthew & Kristin Beers
Mark Yaconelli
Martolli’s Hand Tossed Pizza
Mary Bernreuter
Medford Soccer Post
Milagros Fresh Mexican
Music Coop
Nancy Rush Yates
Nate Sanford—Xperience
Southern Oregon Real Estate
Natura Health Products
Night Owl PJ’s
Nikki Newkirk Felted Bags
NW Raw
Oregon Retina Specialists
Organic & Healthy, Inc.
Pacific Domes
Paschal Winery & Vineyard
Pasta Piatti
Patrick J. Wedlake, DO
Paulino Arteaga
Pella Sana
Polly Beach
Rachael Orozco
Renaissance Rose
Rogue World Music
Ruth Rhiannon Designs
Samantha Smith
Sauce Whole Foods Café
Sequoia Photography
Sesame Asian Kitchen
Siskiyou Chiropractic
Siskiyou Seeds
Siskiyou Vital Medicine
Small Change
Solid Ground Landscape, Inc.
Southern Oregon
Subaru & Volvo
Spirit of Shakti
Spring Air, Inc.
Stephen Victor
Sue Lundquist
Sunday Afternoons
SunStone Artisan Bakery
Taj Indian Restaurant
The Enchanted Florist
The Grange
The Jewel Box
The Mix Sweet Shop
The Web*sters
Treasure Chest Trading Post
Tree House Books
Unicorn Gifts & Toys
Uriel Pharmacy
Valley View Nursery
Waterstone Salon
Wild At Heart Wool Art
Wiley’s World
Pasta Shoppe & Eatery
Zoey’s Café & All Natural
Ice Cream
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Katie LaCroix, in
conjunction with the
faculty, holds many
events for the school
including Michaelmas,
WinterFaire, the
Auction, Grandparents’
Day, and the May
Day Raffle. The focus
of these events
varies from outreach to fundraising, but all events are
in the spirit of creating community and deepening our
connections to each other and to the community at large.
As parents, we know that the beauty of the school
year is in the rhythm. One thing flows to the next,
giving us markers of time, comfort of the familiar, and
known opportunities to connect with each other. Now
in my sixth year at the school, I’ve come to appreciate
the repetition of it all, the returning parents, and the
gratitude for being able to do it again, and, hopefully,
make it better. Of all the events in the school year,
WinterFaire highlights the best of these things. Parent
volunteers come back year after year to hold their
piece; things run more smoothly each year; fundraising
goes up; and the traditions hold and fill us until it
comes again. Alumni parents and students come back,
because they, too, know the importance of returning
home. —Katie
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
13
FALL 2015 — MICHAELMAS AND HALLOWEEN TIME
14
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
WWW. SISKIYOUSCHOOL .ORG
WINTERFAIRE 2015
541.482.8223
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
15
IN MEMORIAM
WELCOME, NEW TEACHERS!
GABE & STEPHEN
DJARUNA SMITH
(1994–2015)
Djaruna joined Ms. McKissick’s Class
of 2008 in fifth grade. The sparkle of
her ever-ready smile and sound of her
bubbling laughter became an integral
thread in the fabric of the class. By
eighth grade Djaruna had transformed
from a little girl into a stunning young
woman with a very special kind of
brilliance. She was an original talent.
Her artwork was full of imagination and
unique artistry. She was a hard worker
and a stellar athlete—strong, fast, and
agile. She could outrun anyone, flying
as if she had invisible wings. She was
of another world and an inspiration to
all who knew her. She will be sorely
missed but never forgotten.
At the dinner held at the school
in July, attended by her class and
community, a Crepe Myrtle tree was
planted in her memory.
Djaruna embodied these blessings:
Greatest Grace, Fullest Compassion,
Deepest Gratitude, Wise True Love.
16
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
GREGORY BEECH
Last summer, within weeks of each
other, two third grade dads lost their
battles to brain cancer. Gabe Pereira
(1955–2015) is survived by his wife,
Michelle, and daughters, Evangeline
and Genevieve. Stephen Kaestner
(1969–2015) is survived by his wife,
Nora, and daughter, Oona. They were
friends and of support to each other in
their common fight. They were both
truly as good as they come—kind, wise,
brilliant, funny, loving. Each led a full
life with fulfilling work, but in the end
we remember them first as family men
who loved their wives, adored their
daughters, accepted their moment with
amazing grace, and felt blessed in this
school and grateful to this community
for holding their families.
The Siskiyou School brings
great joy to me and to my
wife, Adde, every single
day. The children are bright
and happy, the parent
community is warm and
welcoming, and the faculty is
strong and smart. We are so
grateful to call Ashland home. Thank you, Siskiyou School!
ALEX NEWPORT-BERRA
(1981– 2014)
In July 2014 we lost Alex-Newport
Berra, one of our beloved faculty
members, to a mountain climbing
accident. That autumn we mourned
and celebrated him at an assembly with
his parents and siblings (see school
website). At that time we created a
temporary altar with a bench made by
former student Quinn Sargent. This
summer we found a permanent spot we
could dedicate to his memory. A large
deck was built between the 3rd and 4th
grade classrooms. It’s a place for quiet
conversations between teachers and
kids, a hangout spot during recess, and
an outdoor classroom for our gardening
program. We think Alex would smile
watching the activities through the day.
The plaque that marks the spot reads
as follows:
We dedicate this peaceful spot to our
beloved Mr. N-B—math teacher, mentor,
cherished colleague. May we live by the
teachings he embodied:
•being present for one another,
•taking time daily in nature,
•always saying yes to an adventure,
•sowing fun surprises along the path,
•and striving to love more.
With love, The Siskiyou School Faculty
WWW. SISKIYOUSCHOOL .ORG
541.482.8223
JEN FRANCZAK
I wake each morning with
genuine excitement. My
class has made its way into
my heart on such a deep
level that I cannot help
but think of each student
morning, day, and night and
how lucky I am to be their
teacher. I am also so very grateful for my colleagues! I teach
at a school that is filled with so much heart. I feel my roots
not only growing but being nourished in this incredible
atmosphere of learning. Shine on!
2015–2016 FACULTY ROSTER
CLASS TEACHERS
First Grade Second Grade
Third Grade
Fourth Grade Fifth Grade
Sixth Grade
Seventh Grade
Eighth Grade Jen Franczak
Ghigs Razi-Robertson
Christine Crawley
Gregory Beech
Javier Alvarez
Molly McKissick
Ben Gaskin
Catherine Dixon
SPECIALTY & SUBJECT TEACHERS
Handwork
Games
Music
Woodwork/Gardening
Spanish/Math
Mandarin
Latin/Ohana
Painting ACORN/Form Drawing
Eurythmy Recorder 6 – 8
Math 6 – 8
Math 5 – 8
Drama 5 – 8
Middle School Art Blocks
Cynthia Bower
Margie Glatte
Melissa Archer
Michael McGlone
Dhyana Haynes
Jennifer Carroll
Nina Gallwey
Christine Crawley
Magda Paz
Aurilia McNamara
Lori Calhoun
Claire House
Dustin Monda
Eve Smyth
Kelly Shelstad
FAREWELLS
MRS. MARTIN
JONATHAN
I am honored to have taught a wonderful
class for three years among such
exceptional colleagues. Now, I smile
imagining my preschoolers entering first
grade at the Rose Ceremony on Opening
Day. A magical journey awaits them!
After two years in Ashland, I followed
my heart to Hawaii where I live and
work on a dairy farm, learning and
loving every day. The life-energy here is
powerful, lush, beautiful. Stay in touch:
P.O. Box 1852, Pahoa, HI 96778.
MS. YELENA
MS. SHELSTAD
After being a teacher for many years,
now I’m learning what it feels like to be on
this side! Luke and I are delighted to begin
our new life as parents of little Sofia. I
look forward to seeing everyone more
often as Sofia gets older. Big love to all!
The Siskiyou School will always be a
quintessential piece of who I am. After
eleven years, the faculty feel like family,
the rhythm is embedded in my bones, the
children are sparks of inspiration. Thank
you for all the years of support and love.
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
17
NEW PROGRAMS AND EURYTHMY
Each spring the faculty as a whole and in smaller
committees reviews the school’s program to see where
adjustments would be valuable. The Program Review
takes place over several faculty meetings, culminating in
the week-long June in-service. It’s the process by which
we have evolved over time and developed our curriculum,
including adding such programs as Middle School Fridays,
Ohana, blocks for middle school music, etc. In 2014 one of
the questions the faculty took up was around science in the
younger grades.
Between 5th–8th grade Waldorf students are introduced
to the earth and physical sciences in an in-depth,
experiential way through 10–12 main lesson blocks,
whereas science in the early grades is traditionally brought
mostly through nature walks and nature stories. We agreed
we wanted to bring science to the younger children in a
way they too would actually feel they were “doing science.”
We also wanted to give our 4th and 5th graders a dose of
environmental education and an opportunity to know our
beautiful region better. Out of those faculty discussions
grew the ACORN Program for grades 1–3 and Field Fridays
for grades 4– 5.
THE ACORN PROGRAM, GRADES 1–3
FIELD FRIDAYS, GRADES 4–5
OUR EURYTHMY PROGRAM COMES OF AGE
The ACORN program is the brainstorm of Magda Rose Paz.
ACORN is an acronym for Active Curiosity, Observation
and Reverence of Nature. Grades 1–3 spend time observing
phenomena around campus and engaging in activities that
give rise to lively discussions, develop observation skills,
and foster a new
awareness, curiosity,
and sensitivity for
their surroundings.
Activities have
included seed
collection, bulb
planting, bird
Students joyfully “swim” their handmade,
observation,
hand-dyed, salmon-shape kites up the
sustainable
park in celebration of Japanese Children’s gardening, proper
Day: The Joy of Koi!
tool use and
maintenance, and craft-making. The area behind the 2nd
and 3rd grade classrooms has now been dedicated for
ACORN gardening and exploration. Magda’s co-teacher is
parent Shannon Clery.
The goal of Field
Fridays is to introduce
our 4th and 5th graders
to the ecology of our
area through outdoor
exploration, hands-on
conservation activities,
and classroom work.
On most Fridays after
main lesson, 4th and
5th graders head off
for an adventure, or
sometimes the adventure
happens right on campus.
Activities in 2014–2015
Matilda and Ayla mulch trees
included hikes and
planted for a Lomakatsi riparian
nature walks; visits
restoration project.
to ScienceWorks and
Wildlife Images; watershed and trail restoration work with
Lomakatsi’s Outreach Education Director Niki Delpiso; bird
identification work with specialist Jeanne Moy; and learning
about beekeeping with Bee Girl, Sarah Red-Laird. The
vision is still evolving; designating a specific time for regular
exploration was an important first step.
When children move together in
Eurythmy, they are brought into a
flow and become one. Eurythmy is
speech and music in motion, and
when Aurilia leads and Maureen
Phillips is at the piano, magic
happens, synergy is achieved,
and the children are transported.
From the moment they enter Pine
Hall, the music envelops them. At
the end of class there’s a lightness,
a spaciousness, and a quiet in
each of them, and in the group,
harmony.
Little by little, Eurythmy has
taken hold in our school. Each
year a new grade has been added; now classes 1–6 have
Eurythmy each week. Classes are scheduled first thing
in the morning when the children can best take in the
experience. Over the years, a rich repertoire of classical
music becomes part of the children as they bring the music
into themselves through the integrative movement.
Eurythmy is now often incorporated into class plays, and
pieces are also sometimes prepared for special occasions,
such as at our Day of the Dead Assembly. Children eagerly
volunteer to participate in these offerings. This spring we
look forward to our second annual Eurythmy Assembly.
Thanks to Aurilia and Maureen, we all experience the gift
of this art form.
2015–2016 FACULTY
Back: Gregory Beech,
Javier Alvarez, Jennifer Carroll,
Claire House, Margie Glatte,
Dustin Monda, Magda Paz,
Michael McGlone, Ben Gaskin,
Aurilia McNamara.
Middle: Karl Johnson,
Catherine Dixon, Melissa
Archer, Christine Crawley,
Dhyana Haynes, Lisa Barry,
Ghigs Razi, Katie LaCroix.
Front: Cynthia Bower,
Nina Gallwey, Molly McKissick,
Jen Franczak.
SCHOOL MEDIA POLICY
Last year, also as part of our Program Review process,
the faculty articulated a media policy for our school. It
endorses limiting exposure, open communication, and close
supervision and monitoring of screen time. Class teachers
presented the policy at class meetings and facilitated
conversations among the parents of their classes. Kim John
Payne and other speakers addressed the topic at all-school
forums. The talking and sharing was welcomed by all. For
the full policy, see our Parent Handbook or request a copy
from the office.
THE 2015–2016 PROGRAM REVIEW DOCKET
•Coming of Age/Wellness curriculum for the Middle School
•Computer
Literacy curriculum for the Middle School
Ongoing review, evaluation, and adjustment of our offerings
to best meet the kids is a hallmark of the Siskiyou School.
18
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
WWW. SISKIYOUSCHOOL .ORG
541.482.8223
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
The quality of the Eurythmy pieces at this year’s Winter Assembly
reflects the maturing of our Eurythmy program and Aurilia’s
loving direction.
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
19
HOW MIRACLES HAPPEN — THE GLENDALE HOUSE STORY
April 6, 2015 was a milestone for our school. When the 11:00
o’clock bell rang, children and teachers walked through
the new gate in the wooden fence behind our wood shop,
followed the curved chip path across the backyard up to the
green deck, entered the Glendale house through two glass
doors which looked and felt like doors on our Clay Street
campus, and headed into their new classrooms. It felt like
home because it now was part of our home.
Acquiring 678 Glendale, a property adjacent to ours, was
a dream come true. In the summer of 2006 when we were
buying the Clay Street campus, the Glendale house also
came up for sale. We looked at it with yearning, but passed
on it as there was no way we could buy that property and
build classroom buildings on our new campus. Yet a seed
was planted.
In the spring of 2012 opportunity came knocking again.
The owner of the property said he was interested in
renting his house to us. At that point, we were holding
small group breakout classes on picnic tables, the kitchen,
and in corridors, and were therefore eager to explore the
possibility of more space. The first step was to see if anyone
would help cover the rent long-term.
Ah, the power of even a tentative yes! A long-time
benefactor gave us a vote of support and encouraged
our conversations with the homeowner and the City.
Applications, drawings, and plans had to be submitted.
Helping us navigate that
process were planning
consultant Mark Knox and
our school architect, Carlos
Delgado. Their expertise and
support were invaluable.
Still, the path to approval
for another school building
in the neighborhood seemed
fraught with obstacles. A
breakthrough happened
when planners and inspectors
did an on site visit. It’s fair
to say they were deeply
moved by what they saw in
the classrooms that quiet
morning. They realized that
what they’d reluctantly said
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yes to back in 2006—building a school in a neighborhood—
had been turned into an educational oasis. They realized the
addition we were asking for also would benefit children and
that it was a worthy cause, once again, to support. We had
their endorsement of our vision.
Soon thereafter, we received the checklist of modifications
needed to bring the house up to Code as a school site. Happy
as were finally to have something concrete to work with, it
turned out the remodeling required was…major! Any talk of
renting no longer made sense; we needed to own the house
before investing that kind of money.
The new obstacle was that the owner had been clear from
the start that he would not sell. We decided to ask anyway.
Stephen Sendar brilliantly led the talks on behalf of the
Board. Negotiations lasted several weeks. We had to give up
hope before the breakthrough came, and the owner finally
agreed to let the place go. At last we had both the possibility of
buying the house and the list that would make our buying it
acceptable the City. All we needed now was an angel to fund it.
To this day, this part still moves us.
Because the angel came! And there’s just something about
angels. You don’t know it until it happens. They take you by
surprise every time. It’s a moment so filled with grace, you can
hardly stay standing. It’s like being hit with a lightning bolt, and
you literally fall to your knees.
As of that moment, all systems were go. Dean Leadbetter
turned out to be the most
devoted and thorough general
contractor ever. He and his
team, including two other
parents, Andre Nogues and
Jason Bennett, spent much
of the next year readying the
space, room by room. In their
loving and expert hands, the
house became a school.
We count our blessings
every day.
Looking back, we could say
miracles unfold when many
hands join to help, and we
meet the hierarchies halfway!
WWW. SISKIYOUSCHOOL .ORG
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GLENDALE HOUSE MAKES US
A BETTER SCHOOL
Glendale is the first major expansion of our campus facilities
since 2008 when classrooms for grades 3–8 were completed.
The new Glendale classrooms and meeting spaces are
allowing us to do some things better than we have ever been
able to before. It is also allowing us to expand our offerings in
ways we only dreamed of.
• Small group classes including Ohana groups, reading
groups, small math groups, and tutoring groups now have
quiet classrooms to work in, hugely enhancing the learning
experience for the students and the teaching experience for
the teachers.
• Our cooking program now has a fantastic, dedicated kitchen.
• Our gardening program has gained a lot of space.
• Our first real school library will become open to classes in
late January.
• We are able to offer enrichment classes and morning coffee
conversations to parents on school mornings because we
now have space available in the day.
• Our Pedagogical Director has an office and can meet with
teachers or parents in private.
• Moving our library out of the main building into Glendale
has allowed our Head of School also to have an office.
• Teachers and parents can access school storage space (the
garage) without driving to rented units.
• Last but certainly not least, considerable administrative time
formerly spent scheduling space has been freed up because
more classroom space is now always available!
678 Glendale looks like just another house from the outside, but
inside, it’s a beehive! Cooking classes are a favorite, thanks largely
to the guiding presence of Jennifer Maslow who has a gift for
making any activity easy, fun, and of service to others. Whether
making treats for the faculty, school functions, or the food bank,
students can’t wait for their class with Jennifer and her helpers,
Brenda Mead, another alumni parent, and Tracy Biada. Pictured
here, a Middle School Friday class and happy Third Graders.
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
Glendale has become a haven for the Ohana Program where children
with unique learning styles find support through integrative movement
and specialized reading/writing programs in a small group setting.
The Ohana program currently serves 35 students per week.
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
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PARENT ENRICHMENT OFFERINGS
Our Parent Enrichment Series, open to the public,
2014–2015 CLASS PLAYS
CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT
Each year our campus becomes more welcoming,
features several presentations a year by faculty
homey, and usable. In the last couple of summers,
and/or invited speakers on child development,
we have added two outdoor cubby rooms, a
Waldorf education, and parenting matters. Over
platform in memory of Mr. N-B, and a new garden
the last two years presenters have included Nina
area behind third grade. We also planted several
Gallwey, Kim John Payne, Janet Allison, Matt
apple trees donated by former parent Grey Hecht
Vogel, Mark Yaconelli, Godfrey Masauli, Kelly
and, next to Jennifer’s ginkgo, a Crepe Myrtle, in
Shelstad, Lexi Delgado, Susan Moen, Christine
memory of Djaruna. Our much-used picnic tables
Crawley, and this fall, very actively, our new
were all recently re-sanded and re-finished with a
Pedagogical Director, Karl Johnson. Below, some
glaze Dean swears will last for years! If as a parent
of the topics presented:
you want to beautify our campus and fund one of
these “summer projects,” let Lisa know. We have a
Foundations of Learning
running list and welcome the help.
The Temperaments Children & Media:
The Impact of Screen Time on Discipline
Good to the Last Drop
Media, Sex, and Kids Today
The Adolescent Brain
Navigating Adolescence
Gateways to Learning Boys Alive! The Boy Who Could Fly (see photo below)
The Soul of Discipline: Loving Limits & Boundaries
Storytelling Night Wet-on-Wet Painting Class for Adults Portland Eurythmy Troupe
It’s nice to have an out-of-the-way corner to go to
when you want to have a quiet lunch and chat. Fourth
grade girls enjoy a moment together on the platform
built in memory of Mr. N-B.
Education for the 21st Century:
Fostering Creativity, Imagination & Intelligence
in Today’s Children
Treasuring Childhood: The Wisdom of How
Waldorf Supports the Young Child
Crossing the Rubicon: The Development Milestone
of the Nine Year Change
Class plays are highlights of the year. Older kids love watching the little ones
do plays they once did; the younger children think the plays of the big kids
are “the best ever!” Plays performed last year were as follows: 1st: Satchkin,
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Patchkin 2nd: St. George and the Dragon 3rd: Noah’s Ark 4th: Baldur’s Fate
5th: The Odyssey 6th: The Sword and the Stone 7th: The Wonderful
Wizard of Oz 8th: The Tempest.
WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
The outdoor cubby rooms, situated outside of first and
sixth, were the brainchild of Ghigs Razi and Magda Paz.
Keeping the backpacks and gear outside frees up
valuable classroom.
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
23
NAUTILUS CLASS IS LAUNCHED!
NAUTILUS CLASS REUNION OF CLASS OF 2011
We’re often asked, “How do your graduates fare in high
school? These Nautilus alumni stand as testimony that
our graduates do well academically and also often become
leaders in their communities and areas of interest. We
are delighted but not surprised. They were chock full of
goodness, brightness, “smartness”, and capability when
they were little. Growing up is about discovering for
yourself what those who see and love you as children
have always known: You’re all “the best!” Blessings on
your journeys. Stay in touch. We always care!
—Catherine and the faculty
Autumn Henderson-Brazie
Natalie Alexander AHS (Honors)
Tejas Leier Hayden AHS
Sam Becker
Lars Bohanna
Oregon Connections Academy, Portland
Salutatorian at Graduation
Attending PCC, Business
Vivianna Juncal
Salutatorian at graduation
Attending UC Berkeley, Chemical
Biology
Avery Kerwin
Attending Davidson College,
Biochemistry
St. Mary’s High School (Honors)
President of student body
Salutatorian at graduation
Led the ban of Styrofoam in Medford
Attending Claremont McKenna,
Poly Sci/Environmental Studies
Attending Los Angeles College of Music
AHS
Working for Inner Guide Expeditions
NOLS Certification Emergency First
Responder
Attending Fire Fighting School in WA
Kye DeVore
AHS
Recording artist
Joseph Livni
AHS (Honors)
1st place in State, Speech and Debate
Recipient of Rotary Scholarship
Attending U of O Honors College
Rachel Parks
AHS (Honors)
Attending University of Idaho
Orly Perl
Steen Fredrickson AHS
Honorable mention two years/Class 5A
Hannah Ring
St. Mary’s High School (Honors)
Attending Lewis and Clark College
Melaiah Romine
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
Graduated in three years from AHS
(Honors)
Pursuing music career in Portland
Attending PCC, Music Program
Pyper Sirianni
AHS
Front: Sam Becker, Natalie Alexander,
Hannah Ring, Viviana Juncal,
Spencer Tesluk, Kye DeVore
2 Year District Champion, Equestrian
Team
Attending U of O
Plans to be an EMS pilot
St. Mary’s High School (Honors)
Catlin Gable, Portland
Attending UCSC in Environmental
Science
the journey this class shared
we shared.
“I learned self expression and how to be a person
from preschool through 8th
Finally, the graduates shared
who contributes.”
grade. It was a moment to
their dreams for the future and
“This education nourished my creativity and
celebrate the rich years and
their plans for the upcoming
allowed me to develop my character.”
community that grew these
year. It is such a joy to feel each
children up from silk-caped
of these young adults following
“It would take a year to describe what I got at
Siskiyou School. In short I learned about what
first graders to strong, creative
their individual passions and
matters—authenticity, reverence, integrity, beauty, unfolding their unique gifts. This
individuals ready to move out
family, intelligence that serves others, and love!”
into the world. From this new
class still feels like a “family,”
vantage point, the alumni
and I look forward to the next
were able to express their gratitude for the years they had
reunion, planned four years from now! Congratulations,
together, and each one had something to say about how
Nautilus Class! Blessings on your next chapter.
California Institute of the Arts
All-State baseball team
Attending Montana State Univ.
Mentors under privileged children
Attending Saint Mary’s College of
California
On Sunday, May 17, parents and students of the Nautilus
their Siskiyou School years molded their lives. Written
Class (Class of 2011) gathered at Grey and Nicoya Hecht’s
comments put into the basket included those in the inset
house in Talent to share memories of our eight years
box on this page.
together and to celebrate their upcoming graduation from
Although some of us had not seen each other for a long
high school. 18 alumni were able to attend, including a few
time, we all agreed that it was so familiar and easy to be
of our classmates who left the class in 6th and 7th grade.
together again. The afternoon stretched on for many,
We shared a beautiful potluck
many hours filled with great
brunch and laughed and cried “I have life-long friends and a very unique
conversation, laughter, and
perspective on the world.”
over a slide show documenting
remembering all the adventures
Graduated in three years from AHS
Recipient of Rotary Scholarship
Attending U of O
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St. Mary’s High School (Honors)
Recipient of Rotary Scholarship
St. Mary’s High School
Taking gap year to travel and work
Kadin Hecht
St. Mary’s High School (Honors)
Attending U of O Honors College
Sage Boucher
Alice Hackett
Nina Gallwey — Nautilus Class Teacher, Grades 1–8
Spencer Tesluk
Middle: Tejas Leier Heyden,
Steen Fredrikson, Kyle Milgram,
Kadin Hecht, Pyper Sirianni,
Rachel Parks, Nina Gallwey, Alice
Hackett, Autumn Henderson-Brazie,
Amelia Austin, Sage Boucher
AHS (Honors)
Led National Music Honor Society at AHS
Recording music artist
Recipient of Rotary Scholarship
Attending U of O Honors College,
Back: Joseph Livni, Avery Kerwin
Neuroscience
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WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
25
2015 GRADUATION ADDRESS
ACORN GRADUATING CLASS OF 2015
Christine Crawley — Acorn Class Teacher, Grades 1–8
Eight years ago I began
In Seventh Grade, inorganic chemistry was so much
teaching this class of
fun. I loved teaching with a blowtorch in my hand! I also
23 first graders, and we
cherished teaching you the artists of the Renaissance.
called ourselves The
Eighth Grade has gone by in an eye-blink. Thank you
Acorn Class. Of the 22
for doing The Tempest. It meant so much to me to honor
present here now, 13
my mentor Francis Edmunds by having you perform his
of you were with me
favorite play, and you did it brilliantly…
that first day of school.
Eighth Grade is the completion of the octave. It is landing
We began each day
back at home base. It was a gift conversing with you about
doing zoo exercises,
Civil Rights and modern times. You all seek to know in
and the classroom was
your own unique way, vertically taking lessons to new
always very noisy when you were being animals, hopping,
heights and horizontally enveloped with your neighbor,
crawling, and squirming over and under the desks. You
passing notes! You are engaged in life and focused at the
settled instantly when we said our morning verse, sang
same time, questioning, “What is true? What is out there?
songs, and recited poetry and birthday verses. And then
And what is my part in it all?”
there was the story. You have always been a superb audience.
Mighty oaks from tiny acorns grow is rather a synopsis of
You listened attentively and then drew pictures, and soon
this eight-year passage we have made together…I am so sad
you were writing the stories.
We also always had our plays.
Remember, When Mary Goes
“To wonder at beauty, stand guard over truth,
Walking? You recited the poem
look up to the noble, resolve on the good...This
and did threefold walking around
four Marys who were in the center
leads us truly to purpose in living, to right in
of the circle. Kaj was one of the
Marys. In second grade we focused
our doing, to peace in our feeling, to light in our
on saints and did the St. George
thinking, and teaches us trust in the working of
play at the band shell in the park for
Michaelmas, and Saint Francis in the
God, in all that there is in the width of the world,
spring. Third grade we celebrated
in the depth of the soul.“ —RUDOLF STEINER
my birthday at Pennington Farm
where you all made your own berry
pies, and we ate cake.
In Fourth Grade we went to Box R Ranch and collected
to part from each of you, yet I am thankful for the time we
thousands of pine cones, and the teenage grandson of the
have shared together. It has been a challenge, a joy, idyllic,
owner told us how his family had reenacted the journey
and always an honor.
of the pioneers on the Oregon trail… Fifth Grade we had
Thank you for being a group of leaders with boundless
Olympics and you all excelled. The odes you wrote were
energy and steadfast determination, who are always willing
so beautiful. You well deserved your laurel wreaths. Sixth
to meet and serve the needs of others. I rejoice in your
Grade we went up to Earth Teach for the Medieval Games,
random acts of kindness and the sweet tenderness of your
and Debbie Murphy was one of our queens. I remember
hearts… I will carry you in my heart forever.
her knighting several of you. I appreciated teaching you
THANK YOU TO ALL PARENTS AND FRIENDS WHO CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
calligraphy, which you adopted and use to this day.
TO THIS NEWSLETTER. GRADUATION PHOTOS BY SEQUOIA MILLER.
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THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
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WINTER 2015 NEWSLETTER AND ANNUAL REPORT
THE SISKIYOU SCHOOL
27
DISCOVERING A PASSION FOR ART
Mina DeVore, 2015 Graduate
My small clumsy fingers
eagerly grasped the clean new
paint brush. I looked down
at the beautiful paints, and
all I could think about was
dumping those colors on my
paper to create the messiest
rainbow ever! With trembling
hands I began to slowly
spread the paints on my page,
carefully at first. But as I gained confidence, my colors grew
darker and thicker. I worked in the silence of the first grade
classroom alongside 24 other excited artists, and before I knew
it, I had created the perfect, slightly oblong, circle.
As the years have passed, I have continued to paint my
imagination. Each time I look down, my paintings slowly evolve
from simple shapes, to animals, landscapes and portraits. Over
time, many things have changed, whether they be for the better or
for the worse, but painting has always remained a staple in my life.
Ever since I was that lizard-catching 4-year old at Nancy’s
preschool, I’ve been creating watercolor paintings and decorating
my house with them. To this day, I literally have mountains of
colorful memories, each a reminder of a main lesson block, a
myth, or a memory. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity
this school has given me to develop my skills as a painter and
artist, as I know art will bring me home wherever I am.
THANK YOU, BRYON!
Bryon DeVore, dad of Mina (above) and
alumnus Kye, has been photographing
our school for more than ten years. The
moments he captures and the way he
makes us look elevates both us and the
moment. Treasured memories, indeed!