FALL 2013 We Got Game! Story on page 4 Alumni Coordinator ALUMNIBrooke Van Lear-Jones ‘97- ‘02
Dear Oakhill Alumni,
I am amazed at what has happened in only 12 months. In just one year I have heard from 75 alumni, spoken with 200 alumni families, and we have moved from one to two issues of ROOTS. Starting this year we will be publishing both a fall and spring issue of ROOTS. Thank you, Panthers, for your support and dedication to our school. Several alumni attended the 2013 Annual Auction, the Alumni versus Faculty Basketball Game and the 8th Grade Graduation. I can’t wait to see more of you at these events this school year!
As always, keep the updates coming. I love hearing from you.
Go Panthers!
Brooke Van Lear-Jones
The Kalsu Society of Friends honors Oakhill alumni who make a gift to the annual fund. Inclusion in the Society will be renewed each year you make a financial gift to Oakhill Day School.
Giving is easy! Cash/Check Corporate Matching Gifts Online Pledge a Gift
oakhilldayschool.org/annual-giving.html
2 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL EDUCATING THE MIND & BODY
Education at Oakhill extends beyond academics. Our mission is to provide excellence in education by focusing on the “whole child” by addressing the importance of each students' intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development through our individualized curriculum and child-centered approach to teaching. We want to inspire and equip young leaders for both today and tomorrow through challenging each student to reach their personal best in all areas of development. Grade experience new ingredients and flavors while learning about healthy foods and cooking techniques during Chef Justin’s cooking class. Chef Brittani is new to Oakhill and leads our Middle School cooking elective which guides students on their own unique food adventure from week to week.
Outdoor Classroom/Garden and Community Supported Agriculture @ Oakhill The CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Program is another addition to Oakhill’s healthy living initiatives. This program is an alliance between Good Natured Family Farms and over 160 other local family farms. The bulk of the products provided through CSA are seasonal produce, though meats, milk, cheese, eggs and bread are occasionally Physical Education @ Oakhill included. The CSA program at Oakhill runs 18 weeks, Physical development of children is equally as important as beginning in May and concluding in late September. that of the intellectual, social and emotional. The physical In addition to CSA, Oakhill hosted its first Farmers education curriculum at Oakhill Day School includes Market this fall. The market provided an opportunity movement and exercise, sports, nutrition and healthy living for all Oakhill families, not just those who participate instruction. Students in Toddler through Prekindergarten in the CSA program, to conveniently access farm fresh attend Physical Education class 1 to 3 times a week depending produce with the aid of our resident chefs who helped on how many days they are enrolled at the school. Kindergarten answer questions and offer cooking tips to market patrons. through 4th Grade students spend 25 minutes, 5 days a week The dynamic science duo of Dena Cole and Maggie in Physical Education class while 5th through 8th Grade Newhouse oversees the school garden. (Dena Cole is the students attend five days a week for a 40 minute class period. Science Specialist for grades 1st through 4th and Maggie Newhouse is the 6th Grade Advisor and Middle School Farm 2 School @ Oakhill Science teacher.) The school garden is an exciting, hands-on This is Oakhill’s 7th year providing Farm 2 School lunches in living classroom that teaches the students about nutrition, cooperation with Bistro Kids and Treat America. Partnering the life cycle of plants, how vegetables and fruit grow from with local farmers and food purveyors improves the the earth and not the grocery store, and how to care for a health of our students by introducing and reinforcing the garden. Students also learn how to create and use compost! consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, grass fed meats and hormone-free milk in their school lunches.
Thanks to our wonderful Chef Justin, our entire student body participates in monthly cooking classes. Toddler through 8th
ROOTS FALL 2013 3 2nd Alumni/Faculty Basketball Scores Big
Thank you to all of our alumni and our current Oakhill Alumni Roster: families who supported the 2nd Annual Alumni versus Ben Becker - Alumni Coach Faculty Basketball Game in February 2013. The game Luke Becker was a huge success…and we had a ball! 23 Oakhill Leah Booth alumni returned to play basketball and it was wonderful Steven Brady Taylor Clevenger to reconnect with parents and families. We are so proud Alex Diaz of our alumni! Jacob Eisler Brianna Ely The final score was Alumni, 44, to Faculty, 31. Gabby Ferro Mitchell Henderson A special “shout out” to… Cole Koeniguer Coach Ziggy, winner of the half court challenge! Max Laney Ryan Roberts, the Alumni MVP! Andy Lee Steven Brady, the 2nd top Alumni scorer! Mitchell Manley Satchel Manley The Alumni versus Faculty Basketball game will take a Perri Miller Louis Reinmiller different shape this year. There will still be a basketball Ryan Roberts game, but there will be some new and exciting Patrick Robey additions… Alex Roney Bryce Wehling High School Alumni, you are invited to participate in Jack Yosel the ultimate alumni challenge…The Color Games! Maddy Yosel When you RSVP, you will be assigned to one of two teams and will be given a specific team color. You must Faculty Roster: show up wearing your team color. Special spirit attire Mrs. McCanles - Faculty Coach will be available to pre-order prior to the event if you Mr. Feagles choose. Mrs. Feaster Mr. Derrick Forbis Mr. Alex Hall The first team to win 3/5 games will be announced the Chef Justin winner of The Color Games. Mrs. Manley Mrs. Newhouse Oakhill faculty will be there to cheer you on and Mrs. Robertson participate in faculty challenges that will take place Coach Speer between the games. Mrs. Van Lear-Jones Coach Ziggy If you would like input on what games will be played, visit: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SHS9LVC
May the odds be ever in your favor.
4 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL MEET COACH ZIGGY
This is Coach Tim Ziegler’s 4th year working at Oakhill Day School and his second year as the Physical Education Specialist for the Toddler through Kindergarten students. In previous years, Coach Ziggy has coached volleyball and basketball at Oakhill. Coach Ziggy played soccer at both Liberty High School and Park University and shared that he has always loved sports, gym class and working with children. Coach Ziggy said that choosing to be a P.E. Coach was simple because all of his interests “meshed together” in this position. The word he uses to describe himself as a coach is “spunky,” and Coach Ziggy’s students and fellow teachers would have to agree…he is indeed spunky and energetic! He loves to play with his students and he enjoys that P.E. is a place where children can use their energy to move and express themselves. Coach Ziggy commented that he loves working with early childhood children because they are always “super excited and want to participate in all class activities.” When asked why he thinks P.E. and health are important, Coach Ziggy responded, “It’s important for kids to learn lifelong skills that will keep them healthy and active for the rest of their lives.” What is your favorite part about coaching P.E? I played soccer. I love to move around with the kids. I like that P.E. is a place where kids can use their energy and are free to Why do you think P.E. and health are important? express themselves. It’s important for kids to learn lifelong skills that will keep them healthy for the rest of their lives. What do you love most about working with the early childhood children? They are always super excited and want to participate in everything we do in class.
What is one word to describe you as a coach? Spunky!
How did you know you wanted to coach P.E.? I grew up loving sports, loving P.E., and loving kids…so it all meshed together. What sports did you play in high school and college?
ROOTS FALL 2013 5 Oakhill Day School Class Representatives By becoming a class representative, you agree to be the bridge between Oakhill and its alumni. Your job as class representative is very important. We hope that by accepting this duty, you will always be an advocate of Oakhill Day School to your fellow classmates/alumni, prospective families, and members of the community at large.
Representative responsibilities include: Updating contact information, such as mailing addresses, telephone number and email addresses, of fellow alumni upon notification of such changes. Notify Oakhill of changes
Encouraging communication and participation in Oakhill Alumni events
Gathering alumni data on a per class basis (including college acceptance, honors and awards, marriage, birth, illness, death, etc.)
Keeping Oakhill current on the needs of its alumni community, such as summer or after school work, volunteer opportunities and connections
Assisting in future alumni fundraising and assist in various phases of planning for alumni events: ideas, planning and implementation
Please contact Brooke Van Lear-Jones if you would like to be a class representative or if you would like more information. ([email protected])
Upcoming Events Calendar
We are pleased to announce that the 2014 Annual Auction will be held off campus for the first time in 10 years. The theme this year for the auction is Boots, Bids, and Bling! The 2014 Auction will be held at Embassy Suites hotel on Saturday, February 15th, 2014.
Oakhill’s annual holiday shopping experience, Holiday on the Hill, is on Sunday, November 10th, 2014 from 11:00-4:00pm. Holiday on the Hill will be held at The View by Visions KC, LLC in Briarcliff, located in the Courtyard Marriot Hotel. Admission is $7... children age 4 and under are free! Can't wait to see you there!
6 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL OAKHILL FACES
Making a Difference: On and Off the Field Nick Hennessy attended Oakhill Day School in 1986 when his from The Pembroke Hill School in 1999 and Drake University in family moved to Kansas City. He fondly remembers his time at 2003. He shares that he loved playing sports in high school; he was Oakhill (1986-1990) when his Kindergarten classroom was located on football, wrestling, and track teams. In college, Hennessy had in the building Oakhill occupied on Englewood and North Oak. the opportunity to play football. While it was a great experience, it Nick recalls moving to the current Oakhill campus during his did not last beyond his sophomore year. first grade year, where he had Mrs. Wills as his 1st and 2nd grade teacher and Mrs. Calvert for 3rd grade. Moving into Oakhill’s Nick is now a Middle School Social Studies Teacher, Dean of current building is one of Hennessy’s favorite Oakhill memories. Students, Head Middle School Football Coach and assistant for the Nick reminisces that, “Moving to the new building was something Varsity Football Program at The Pembroke Hill School. Nick and I will always remember… it was such a big deal for us as kids.” his wife Cara have a 6 month old daughter named Eloise Madeline Hennessy. When asked about specific teachers who stand out in his memories, Hennessy named two: Mrs. James and Mrs. Wills. Mrs. Judy James Nick is no stranger to hard work on and off the field. Hennessy taught Hennessy during his Kindergarten year at Oakhill and discovered that being upfront with expectations as a teacher and lived close to him in his neighborhood growing up. He remembers a coach gives children the opportunity to rise to any occasion. being quite sad when she passed, though he states, “the teacher that He says, “being consistent with your message to each child and was the greatest effect on my learning being Mrs. Wills because of providing a warm environment makes it much easier to get out of the tough love I received… she also truly helped me in my love of them the kind of effort and production that even they are not sure reading.” Although there were no “official” Oakhill sports teams they’re capable of.” To Hennessy, his goals as an educator and coach during Hennessy’s time at the school, he certainly remembers his are twofold. First, his goal is to be a teacher that “helps identify and Oakhill P.E. Teacher Mrs. Hildebrand and her love for playing Neil teach children the skills to be successful as they grow into young Diamond music during gym class! adults.” Secondly, Hennessy wants each child “to remember how they were treated and the experience they had as a positive one so After his years at Oakhill Day School, Nick went on to graduate they come back to see me.”
ROOTS FALL 2013 7 CATCHING UP WITH COACH CARTER Coach John Carter graduated with a BS in Physical Education, Health and Recreation from Southwestern College in Winfield, KS. He worked with the city of Kansas City in Parks & Recreation for 11 years before teaching at Oakhill Day School. Coach Carter currently teaches at Notre Dame de Sion.
Coach Carter was always a fan favorite to the students of Oakhill. Alumni have so many great memories of Coach Carter in P.E class; he always greeted us with a smile and challenged us to be our best. So imagine the excitement we had when awarded the opportunity to reconnect with Coach Carter!
Coach Carter, what years did you work at Oakhill Day School? After leaving Kansas City Parks and Recreation, I worked at Oakhill Day School for 5 years, from I think 2000 to 2006.
In addition to being a P.E. instructor, what sports did you coach? I coached Oakhill Day School’s first Volleyball and Basketball teams!
What are your favorite Oakhill memories? Teaching P.E. and Health and interacting with the Oakhill parents.
Does any athlete in particular stick out to you from your Oakhill coaching days? Kaitlyn Lewis was a great athlete. She gave her all in sports and she was a great student!
What are you doing now? I am currently teaching at Notre Dame de Sion Lower School.
What’s your favorite thing about coaching PE? How much fun it is to interact with the children.
8 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL She's Got Speerit!
oach Lauren Speer is the Athletic Coordinator at How do you teach sportsmanship? Oakhill and is the Physical Education teacher for I am a big, big, big believer in good sportsmanship! I grades 1-8. In addition to these positions, Coach constantly challenge and remind the kids to display good CSpeer coaches Oakhill’s Cross Country, Basketball, sportsmanship at all times to their teammates, opponents, and Track and Field teams. This is her seventh year working referees and fans. Sportsmanship encompasses many of at Oakhill. Prior to working at Oakhill, Coach Speer coached our school’s life skills such as integrity, effort, responsibility the Varsity and Junior Varsity Field Hockey teams for four and friendship. I challenge my athletes to always wear the years at Notre Dame de Sion. In high school, Lauren played Oakhill name with pride, while making the school proud to Field Hockey, Basketball, Soccer and Softball. She went on have them wear it. You can’t control what other people do to play Division I Field Hockey in college at Miami of Ohio – or as I call it the ‘uncontrollables’ – you can only control and was co-captain her senior year. Coach Speer is not only your own actions – the ‘controllables.’ Good sportsmanship athletic…she is also quite the artist! In the past, Coach Speer will take any person far in life and people will remember you worked at an art gallery and frame shop, as well as a self- for it. employed artist. She showed artwork at a few local art shows and sold commissions for her drawings. Are you excited about the new P.E. additions…the rock wall and new athletic field? What does physical fitness mean to you? I am very excited. Every time the kids receive new equipment, Physical fitness means to me that individuals are able to carry jerseys or gym accessories, their excitement builds and they out a healthy and active lifestyle. Life-time fitness is my become more proud to be a Panther. Confidence can make favorite term! I hope to educate and influence our students to any athlete ten times the player they are. When our kids see have life-time fitness and to be able to go through their own the athletic program and facilities grow with their success and lives having a solid background and knowledge of how to their hard work and dedication, they gain more confidence keep their bodies in shape. Whether that is going for walks, and pride and that is priceless! running a marathon, exercising at a gym, playing sports or even just choosing to take the stairs instead of an elevator.
How do you instill a love for fitness and health in the lives of your students? I try to lead by example. From my own personal experiences, I remember not appreciating my coaches when they would only tell me what to do and they would never be involved in the workouts or running that was expected of me. Therefore, I strive to participate as much as possible in class and athletic practices. If I expect my students to stay active, run and exercise, then I need to show them that I live by what I preach.
What do you love most about teaching P.E.? Sports and athletics are one of my top loves in life! I get to do what I love every day. Team sports are some of my favorite things - the competition, teamwork and challenge to do your best.
I also love when I am a part of a child’s first experience! Their first time to run a mile without stopping, first time to sled, first time to score in a game…There is nothing better than seeing their joy and sense of accomplishment!
ROOTS FALL 2013 9 Back Row (L to R): Grant Gravis, Anthony Giordano, Daniel Miller, Alex Lee, Max Gruschka Middle Row (L to R): Shannon Hule`, Kayla Roesner, Holly Hawkins, Molly Soltis Front Row (L to R): Bailey Ferrara, Suzanne Brown, Ellaina Sanders, Amy Gruschka
Congratulations to the Oakhill Day School Class of 2013! Suzanne Lawton Brown - Park Hill South High School Bailey Noel Ferrara - Staley High School Anthony Peter Giordano - Staley High School Grant William Gravis - Kearney High School Amy Grace Gruschka - Oak Park High School Max Carl Gruschka - Oak Park High School Holly Marie Hawkins - Liberty North High School Shannon Elizabeth Hulé - North Kansas City High School Alexander Brian Lee - Park Hill South High School Daniel Scott Miller - Park Hill South High School Kayla Morgan Roesner - Adlai E Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire, Illinois) Ellaina Rose Sanders - The Pembroke Hill School Molly Mai Christine Soltis - Platte City High School
10 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL AnnualANNUAL ReportREPORT OF GIVING of Giving 2012-2013 he Board of Trustees joins me in thanking all school year, profited $3,110. constituencies – current families, alumni, alumni families, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends – for • A new south building campus expansion including four Ttheir support of Oakhill this past 12/13 school year. Support classrooms, bathrooms, and two office spaces. comes in many forms: giving time and expertise, assisting in • New carpet and tile in six classrooms and four office spaces. classrooms, chaperoning field trips, facilitating in the lunch room, serving on committees, submitting information • Continued improvements in curb appeal made by Fuller Lawn and pictures for the ACORN, lending a green thumb to and Landscaping. the gardens, planning school events, and donating to the Annual Fund and Fund raising efforts. • Playground additions and parking improvements made by Mike Morris of Musselman and Hall, as well as Frank Yager, of KG The Oakhill Annual Report is published each fall and Striping. serves two main purposes: to acknowledge those who have voluntarily participated in sustaining our mission and • Countless hours given by parents and families as leaders and operations, as well as to report our financial wellbeing. volunteers to sustain the integrity and connectedness of our school community.
The 2012/2013 school year was distinguished by the • Total fundraising efforts equaling $306,273! following fund raising and advancement highlights: The generosity, philanthropy, and spirit of volunteerism • Collective gifts of $83,411 to the Annual Fund - $22,409 more across our entire school community inspire and drive than the previous year our continued growth and progress. We all share the • Average Annual Fund gift of $371 based on 81% of the parent responsibility to be leaders through our involvement on population, 100% of the Board of Trustees, and 100% of the committees and in our daily interaction with one another. faculty and staff who participated in the campaign. The students benefit from your investment in the school, establishing a pattern for them to emulate as they become • Twenty-six (26) Annual Fund Leadership gifts of $1000 or more the leaders of the future – making Oakhill a priority. I with three (2) being $5000 or more and one (1) gift of $10,000. thank you for your generous contribution of time, talent, and resources which are critical components to provide an • Auction revenue of $161,535, which includes our new rock excellent educational experience to our children. climbing wall in the gymnasium, and fund-a-need gifts for special projects totaling $9,268. We hope to see 100% of the parent population giving to • Our second annual Panther Scamper 5K profited $3,256, the Annual Fund this coming year! We have many exciting up slightly from the previous year. We are looking forward to things to come! launching our very own Neon Rush 5K in May of this year – family oriented and fun for all. Your support of Oakhill Day School is deeply appreciated!
• Community Partners brought in $20,146, up significantly from the prior year.
• The Golf Tournament profited $9,387, up $3,516 from the prior Suzanne year.
• Our third annual Acorn Day Celebration held to help beautify areas of the campus brought in $5,250.
• Rebate programs including Box Tops, Scrip, Target Red Cards, etc… brought in $7,611, up $4,288 from the 11/12 school year.
• Holiday on the Hill, a brand new fundraiser for the 12/13 school
ROOTS FALL 2013 11 AnnualMESSAGE FROM Report THE BOARD ofOF TRUSTEES Giving he 2013-2014 school year is off to a great start at Oakhill. Once again the halls are abuzz with energetic and smiling students- happy to be back with friends in familiar surroundings and under the care and guidance of trusted and dedicated faculty Tand staff. In short, they’re glad to be back home. It’s evident the faculty and staff are glad to be back as well. You hear it in their voices and see it in their actions. Excitement for the new year is everywhere you look. From my perspective it’s comforting to witness the contentment…the sense of belonging that is so prevalent in our school. It gives me the reassuring sense that ‘all is well.’
These are exciting times at Oakhill- so many changes and so much growth. Enrollment is up significantly which, while being a wonderful thing, brings challenges as well. Growth in the middle school necessitated additional restrooms which were constructed over the summer. Growth in lower grade class sizes necessitated additional classroom space which was also constructed this summer in cooperation with the City of Gladstone in the 2012-2013 Board of Trustees professional building to our south. Technology and security improvements have been Michael Morris- President made. Sustainability and ‘green initiatives’ such as the solar power generators have been Sean Schultz- Vice President installed. Much progress has been made to facilitate growth, improve facilities and improve Brian Grauer-Treasurer the educational experience at Oakhill. Renee Richardson- Secretary
The Board of Trustees joins me in thanking you for your continued support. Without that Melanie Carter support the continual progression of everything ‘Oakhill’ would not be possible. Last year Sean Eisler your generosity resulted in record numbers for our annual auction, community partnerships, Jane Ann Gorsky annual fund and many other fundraising events. The Oakhill community stepped up like Derek Potts never before. Again, we sincerely thank you for your generosity- your support means so much to our school.
As another year gets into full swing please consider a renewed commitment to help us keep the momentum going. The Board of Trustees establishes tuition rates consistent with the recommendations of The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). NAIS guidelines call for tuition to be set at roughly 85% of the actual cost to educate our students. The remaining 15% is to be made up through fundraising efforts. This design allows for tuition rates to be kept as low as possible and also creates a sense of purpose and sense of community as we work together to fill ‘the gap.’ Currently ‘the gap’ (the 15%) amounts to 2012/2013 roughly $1,500 per year per student. Of this amount roughly $1000 is needed to cover Fundraising Summary:* normal operating expenses. The remaining $500 is needed to help us plan and provide for the future of Oakhill. Just as you’ve seen with recent expansion and improvements, future expansions and improvements will be necessary to ensure a thriving Oakhill for generations to follow. $306,273 *This total includes the following: I again challenge the Oakhill community to support our various fundraisers and help Acorn Day us provide ‘Excellence in Education’ for our current students, as well as help our school continue to grow and progress for future students. Oakhill’s status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit Annual Auction & Fund-a-Need organization provides tax deductibility in some cases. This is a great way to invest in your Annual Giving community as well as your child. Community Partnerships Golf Tournament The Board of Trustees thanks you once again for your past support and future consideration Grants of Oakhill Day School. Holiday on the Hill Scarecrow Panther Scamper 5K Michael E. Morris Rebate Programs President, Board of Trustees
12 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL Annual2012-2013 Report FINANCIAL of GivingHIGHLIGHTS
INCOME Tuition & Fees 82% Fundraising 9% School Events >1% Other Programs 9%
Miscellaneous >1%
ANNUAL FUND OVER 3 YEARS
2010-11 $56,697
2011-12 $61,001 EXPENSES 2012-13 $83,411 Personnel 83% Curriculum 3% Facilities 5% Utilities 2% Administrative 4% Miscellaneous 3%
ROOTS FALL 2013 13 Annual2012-2013 LIST Report OF DONORS of Giving Larry and Sara Shandy • Kalsu Society of Friends Alumni Donors Bill and Robin Spooner C A S F C Curriculum Family of Funds Daphne Yang C A Arts Family of Funds S Athletics Family of Funds F Campus Family of Fund Teal and White Vikas and Sonali Agarwal Circle of Excellence Stephen and Sarah Anderson The Cass Family Brad and Wendy Barth • Michael and Karen Morris Robert and Stacey Becker John Ku• Tim and Courtney Bettington Kevin and Constance Brown Head of School Circle Anonymous Carter Family Partnership Quentin and Dena Cole Robin Morris and Darrin Clawson David and Jackie Conkling Marcy Driskill Andrew Harkin and Stacie Cooley Dustin and Shelby Durand Brett and Tara Coughlin Sean and Haley Eisler Christopher and Elizabeth Cuzner The Kansas City Chess Club Amy Davis The Grauer Family The Feaster Family Ron Gregg and Dr. Michelle Dew Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Fitzpatrick Brent and Jenny Giles Scott and Traci Fleming Todd and Cynthia Gugler David and Kimberly George Ben and Cinnemon Hilmes Steve and Mary Giordano Benjamin and Susan Jones Jane Ann Gorsky Tan Nguyen and An Le Bryce and Dana Grandberg Thomas and Kari Lipscomb Michael and Jana Guidry Kevin and Suzanne McCanles Robert and Lauren Hamby William and Lisa Meiners Ryan and Dina Hamilton Marcus and Cara Painter Jeremiah and Anita Hauser Mr. and Mrs. Derek Potts Joel and Kristin Hennenfent Eric and Monica Puls Jay and Nataliya Hennings The Roesner Family Mike and Janet Holloway Sean and Robin Schultz Drs. Michael and Colleen Hupp Brett and Elaine Smith Cam and Aimee Kirkpatrick Jason and Micah Sonderman Bill and Kathryn Lingerfelt Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Van Duser Mr. Andrew Wert and Mrs. Michelle McDaniel Frank and Kristi Weatherford Lance and Veronika McDonald Mr. and Mrs. Brett Yantis Zachary and Lindsy Morton Bryan and Melissa Ness 1947 Club Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Kent Peterson Ed and Jill Kirkpatrick Bounds Mr. and Mrs. Chris Phillips F Kendall and Leecil Culbertson Stephen and Angela Tatum-Smith Carl and Rebecca DiGerlamo Jim and Stephanie Soltis David and Erica Ferrara Vijay and Sarah Somasegaran Michael and Anna Gibson Conrad and Shannon Stumpenhaus Family of Mackenzie King Mr. and Mrs. Dan Sturdevant Joel and Ann Koeniguer Vincent and Kedra Vaccaro Phil and Jennifer Latier Mr. and Mrs. Barry Yantis Alex Lee Family Shannon Maples Friends of Oakhill Art Umali and Kathy Miller Scott and Joy Miller Gregory and Emily Abella Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Roche` C Nicklas and Piper Abernathy American Vacuum
14 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL Joshua and Felicia Bean Mike and Lisa King Cathy Bernholtz F Craig and Heather King Brenda Bock Robert and Claudia Kisela Scott and Angela Boedecker Nicolaus Kuehn Calvin and Sandra Bond Stephanie Kuehn Apollo and Charlie Boyd A Anonymous Susan Brown Joshua and Tara Leighr Matthew and Janese Brown Anonymous Randal and Edie Brown Marcus and Kayla Mackey John and Angela Brown GionCarlo Moreno-Mangum Heath and Martha Burch Lisa Manley Dennis and Jan Carter Aaron and Hillary Marshall Georgia Carter Drew and Rana Martin Mrs. H.M. Cassity Brett and Carol Martin Charles Melloway and Monica Chandler Russell and Jennifer McCullough Stephen and Tara Clark Mr. Gage and Mrs. Alicia McGarry The Clevenger Family Ryan and Emily McNellis Michele and Jared Cole John and Stacy Miller Michael and Janelle Crouse John and Lenora Miller• Lauren and Travis Cunningham Brad and Elizabeth Miquelon A Deborah Dillon Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth R. Moorman Anonymous Anonymous Jason and Carina Draut The Murch Family Marshall and Erin Ellington Dean and Janet Nash The Ely FamilyA S Nancy Neutgens Robert and Emily Eshleman Peter and Maggie Newhouse Oscar and Kayla Estrada Chad and Valerie Nichols Anonymous Brian and Cyndie O'Bleness Lee Feagles C A S F The Parrack Family Ms. Terri Ferris Mickeal and Kelli Pennington Bradley and Rebecca Fisher Sharon Phillips Aaron and Katie Fowler Louis and Laura Pollina Ryan and Amie Francois Justin and Shannon Quigley Amy and Jeff Ganaden Ashley Ralph Andrew and Leah Gipe Phil and Cristan Rayl Vladislav Goodman and Inna Sirota Anonymous Graham Family Melinda Reynolds Anonymous The Richardson Family Jane Gruschka The Riddle Family Matthew and Haley Haar Dale and Amie Robertson John and Janet Hagan Thomas and Susan Rolli Mr. Aaron Hall Franklin and Alexandra Rosenblatt Thomas and Celia Hancock Jason and Julie Rule Michael and Renee Hannigan Joseph Sacco III and Sarah Sacco Hargiss Family Bill and Janet Sanders Tyler and Shauna Hartman Eddy and Jeanne Saylor Michael and Mary Hawkins Ross and Sara Scimeca Jo Hill Lisa Sexton Lucina Holloway Kylie Shaffer Adam and Shana Holmes Kristen Sloan Gregory and Colleen Horwitz Gerrad and Lauren Speer S Heidi Hule' Lori Stallman Jennah Irsik Mary Steinle Eric and Meghan Jansen Robert Stevens• Timothy and Chelsea Johnson Kate Stinson Kim Jones Robert Biehl and Nicole Swartz Steve and Brooke Jones Anonymous
ROOTS FALL 2013 15 Micah and Sarah Tenner Ms. Kathy Trager Marc and Mandy Van Gorp Chris and Tonya Vaughn Leon and Heather Versfeld Cody WalkerHolmes James and Eva Webb Daniel Weeks Lawrence and Jennifer Weimhold Jacques and Melissa Wenenn Logan and Jennifer Wilkin Anonymous Benjamin and Amy Wright Brian and Starla Yarbrough The Yosel Family Sargis and Victoria Zadoyan Maria Zdvorak Anonymous
Corporations and Foundations American Century Investments Foundation CARMAX Foundation DST Systems The Eli Lilly and Company Foundation Ericsson Matching Gift Program KSHB TV MeadWestvaco Foundation Union Pacific Funds
Gifts in Memoriam The Cass Family in Memory of Brad Cass Lee Feagles in Memory of Gene Feagles Mr. and Mrs. Steve Giordano in Memory of Pete and Betty Giordano Mickeal and Kelli Pennington in Memory of Lucille Boyd Faulhaber Vincent and Kedra Vaccaro in Memory of the Parents and Sister of Kedra Vaccaro
Annual Fund Participation by Class
Oakhill Day School Total Participation: 81% Ralph 65% Parrack 79% Ferris 81% Bock 100% Jones 75% Boyd 100% Trager 72% Brown 100% Crouse 86% Wills 100% Tenner 47% Mackey 89% Zdvorak 60% Stripling 90% Clevenger 82% Robertson 77% Driskill 91% Newhouse 71% Hulè 82% Stinson 87% Manley 71% Feagles 100%
16 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL Annual Report2012-2013 of FUND-A-NEED Giving The project chosen for fund-a-need during the 2012-2013 school year included hanging microphones, new stage curtain, and LED stage lighting.
The total amount of funds needed to complete this project was $12,000. Through the generosity of donors who attended the 2013 Cirque du Oakhill Auction, we were able to raise $6,750!
2013 Fund-A Need Contributors Dennis & Jan Carter Melanie Carter Monica Chandler & Chuck Melloway Christopher Cuzner Carl & Rebecca DiGerlamo Haley & Sean Eisler Alan & Melanie Fashion David & Erica Ferrara Steven & Gig Ferro Jeff & Amy Ganaden Steve & Mary Giordano Ron Gregg & Michelle Dew Joel & Kristin Hennenfent Trish Herzog Dr. Lori and Mr. Zachary Kramer Dr. Tracy Stevens and Mr. Brian Lee Scott & Joy Miller Karen & Michael Morris Larry & Debbie Osborn Marcus & Cara Painter Phillip & Cristan Rayl Sean & Robin Schultz Sharon Middleton Stephen Smith & Angie Tatum-Smith Micah & Jason Sonderman William & Robin Spooner
ROOTS FALL 2013 17 Annual2012-2013 LIST Report OF DONORS of Giving Thank you to all of the generous donors that purchased a piece of the rock climbing wall at the Cirque du Oakhill Auction.
2013 Rock Wall List of Donors The Abernathy Family Angela Austin Dennis & Jan Carter Chandler Family Stephen & Tara Clark Joseph & Amy Clevenger David & Jackie Conkling Kendall & Leecil Culbertson Christopher & Elizabeth Cuzner Jason Dake Amy Davis Sean & Haley Eisler Brad & Claudia Feaster David & Erica Ferrara The Ferro Family Steve & Mary Giordano Michael Guo & Daphne Yang The Hennenfent Family Cameron & Amiee Kirkpatrick Robert & Claudia Kisela Stephanie Kuehn Bill & Kathryn Lingerfelt Kevin & Suzanne McCanles Scott & Joy Miller Michael & Karen Morris Brian & Melissa Ness Robin Nguyen Marcus & Cara Painter Chad & Kirsten Pickens Phillip & Cristan Rayl Melissa Reynolds Jason & Julie Rule Sean & Robin Schultz Stephen & Angie Smith William & Robin Spooner Vaccaro & Herzog at RE/MAX 1st Choice Charles & Sarah Van Duser The Versfeld Family Matthew & Jennifer Waldman Franklin & Kristi Weatherford Brett & Deborah Yantis
18 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL Annual Report2012-2013 of GivingACORN DAY Acorn Day is a collaborative effort between Alumni, Faculty, Students, Parents, Grandparents, and Friends of Oakhill. Through song, student poetry, and a ceremonial planting, the Acorn Day Celebration serves as the first event celebrating the end of the Eighth Grade Class' educational journey at Oakhill, as they pass down their legacy to the preschool students just beginning their journey. Oakhill celebrated Acorn Day on April 19, 2013. 2013 Acorn Day List of Donors Adrian and Mary Jo Goettl John and Linda Younghanz Amy Potts The Saylor Family Stephanie Kuehn Lisa Meiners Jan Carter Sean and Robin Schultz Jenny Giles The Culbertson Family Veronika McDonald The Smith Family- Stephen, Angie, and Tatum Becky DiGerlamo Mike and Lisa King Kristen Sloan and Taylor Le Susan Tate Ernest and Darlene O’Dell Kisela Family Royce and Sara Jeffries Linda F. Wilson Conrad and Shannon Stumpenhaus Benches were underwritten in recognition of the following: Sonderman family Mike and Jana Guidry In Memory of: The Somasegaran Family Linda Marie Redfern from the Van Duser Family The McCanles Family Frank L. Shaw from Jolene N. Shaw Lew Krausse Wanda Lee Kalsu from the Board of Trustees Brett and Elaine Smith Wanda Lee Kalsu from the Friends of Oakhill Day School Chase Candy Company Susan and Bill Ellis In Honor of: The Conkling Family The Reinmiller Family Dennis Carter Family Susan and Tom Rolli Frank, Kristi, and Isaac Weatherford The Dozier Family Brianna Ely- Class of 2011 Julie and Jason Rule Robin Nguyen Harper Rosenblatt Dr. and Mrs. Bob Peterson Brad and Becky Fisher John and Mary Jo Diefenbach The Vaughn Family Terry Abella Joel and Erin Frank The Bettington Family Kathy Trager Terri Ferris Morrissey Quigley The Draut Family The Van Duser Family Ben Yager Kate Yager Kathryn Valenti Mary Lee Sturdevant The Hancock Family The Roche Family Evelyn T. Mendes
ROOTS FALL 2013 19 Annual2012-2013 COMMUNITY Report PARTNERS of Giving
Thank you to all of our community businesses who financially supported Oakhill Day School through the 2012-2013 school year.
Community Partnership Levels for 2012-2013 Mighty Oak ($7,500 and above) Pride ($5,000) Spirit (3,500) Panther (2,000) Acorn ($1,000) Cub ($500)
Musselman & Hall Contractors Mighty Oak BankLiberty Mighty Oak ROCA Vending Acorn Shoal Creek Valley Cub TREZO MARE Mighty Oak Dentistry for Children Panther Clayview County Club Cub
20 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL ALUMNICLASS NOTES
students in his school. He is also on with honors with a Bachelor's Degree the KC Dragons basketball team in Entrepreneurship and a minor coached by Steve Newman. Taylor in Leadership and plans to start law spent the summer playing in out of school in the fall of 2014. She recently town tournaments. If he is not on the studied abroad in Barcelona, Spain court in a gym, he is shooting in the for a semester. She enjoys traveling, backyard or playing at the lake. He is volunteering and being with family also practicing to take the wheel and and friends. get his license in December. Jess Van Lear '97-'02attends Maple Woods Community College and COLLEGE works for Luke Draily Construction. Jess’ hobbies include fishing, playing HIGH Jessica Michaelis with his dog and eating Chipotle. '99-'05graduated from SCHOOL Liberty North High School May 2013. For three years she competed Max Gruschka on the varsity track and varsity swim GRADUATE '00-'13graduated from teams. Jessica was an active member Oakhill in 2013 and is now attending of marching band and got to perform SCHOOL Oak Park High School. As part of his with the Liberty North High School Eagle Scout project, Max and Scouts Band in the Inaugural Parade in Tessa Williams from Troop 360 built a wooden gate Washington, DC this past January. '94-'00graduated in May and fence on the Early Childhood Jessica is attending UMKC for 2013 from Missouri Western State Playground. This was a very welcomed Physical Therapy. University with a degree in Sociology. addition for both Oakhill’s students She is attending UMKC for her and early childhood teachers. Ray Saari became Masters in School Counseling. Tessa '98-'03an Oak Park High works at Oak Park High School as the Holly Hawkins School graduate in May 2013. Ray color guard coach for the marching '00-'13graduated from received both academic and athletic band. Oakhill’s 8th Grade May 2013. She scholarships at the University of Tulsa is a freshman at Liberty North High and is playing soccer there this fall. School and is on the varsity tennis team. Taylor Spooner '94-'02went to Oakhill and '09-'12 Taylor from early learner through fourth '03-'05Clevenger is a grade. She graduated from Park sophomore at Kansas City Christian. Hill South in 2010 and currently is He played freshman and JV basketball finishing her senior year of college last year. Taylor volunteered this at Oklahoma State University in summer at a camp for the younger Stillwater, OK. She will graduate
ROOTS FALL 2013 21 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where POST she has taught 1st, 2nd, and 4th grade. She also coaches cheerleading, and GRADUATE hopes to continue to coach cheer and to add soccer in the mix in the future Kyla Henderson once her family grows. '97-'02The expression “time flies” is an understatement Kaela Rae Schuetz when I reminisce about my years of '94-'97is getting married education. From running through the fall 2014. She works for her family’s halls as a young first grader at Oakhill company, City Rent-A-Truck, doing Day School to graduating from sales and marketing. Pittsburg State University last May; I have really learned to appreciate the instruction I have received along the way. I attended Oakhill from first through fifth grade and recently graduated college with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and minors in Roots is published for the alumni, parent, past parent, Chemistry and Physical Sciences. grandparent, faculty, staff, and friend community of Oakhill I plan to further my education by Day School. attending Dental Hygiene School next fall. While encountering many new Head of School: Suzanne McCanles chapters in my life, I am also planning Co-Editors: Brooke Van Lear-Jones and Michelle McDaniel a wedding! I recently said “yes” last Director of Development: Rebecca DiGerlamo March and we are excited for what the next chapters will bring! Letters and suggestions for future editions of Roots are welcomed and encouraged. Correspondence should be Taylor Leigh addressed to Brooke Van Lear-Jones, Alumni Coordinator at '89-'92Beamer(Freeman) [email protected]. attended Oakhill for first through third grades and remembers her Oakhill Day School admits students of any race, color, religion teachers Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Wills, and national origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and and Mrs. Calvert. Taylor went on to activities generally accorded or made available to students play soccer in college for and graduate at Oakhill. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, from Appalachian State University color, religion or national and ethnic origin in administration with a degree in Elementary of our educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid Education. Taylor Leigh met her programs or other school-administered programs. husband of 8 years, Adam Beamer, in college and they are currently living Please send all address changes and Notifications (Marriage, in Ponte Vedra, Florida, with their 2 birth, and death announcements) to the Development Office. dogs (Cally-7yr old black and white lab mix, Cole- less than 1 yr black Oakhill Day School lab) and 2 cats (Bella-3yr old golden 7019 N Cherry Street tabby, Zoe-3yr old gray and white Gladstone, MO 64118 tuxedo tabby). She is in her 8th year 816.436.6228 as teacher for St. Johns County School www.oakhilldayschool.org District at Ocean Palms Elementary
22 OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL ON STREET Familiar facesCHERRY can be spotted visiting 7019 N Cherry Street throughout the year... Maybe next time it will be you!
Taylor Clevenger was spotted helping Oakhill Faculty move into the new South Building with current student, Brady McCanles, 8th Grade.
Max Gruschka was spotted updating the Early Childhood playground with Troop 360. Shelby Dodson, Kaitlyn Lewis, Perri Miller, Madison Ferrara, Taylor Clevenger, Maddy Yosel, Mary Gravis, Brianna Ely, and Brooke Van-Lear Jones (L to R) came out to support the 2013 graduates on May 23, 2013.
High School and College age alumni came out in large numbers to support the second Alumni/Faculty Basketball Game on February 16, 2013.
Noah Barth, Maddy Yosel, Leah Booth, Brianna Ely, Gabby Ferro, Mary Gravis, Taylor Clevenger, Steven Brady, Alex Roney, and Patrick Robey (L to R) meet with the 8th grade class to talk about their Got Pics? Please send any photos of yourself and high school years at the Chat-n-Chew event. alumni friends to [email protected] to be featured in the next On Cherry Street!
ROOTS FALL 2013 23 7019 N Cherry Street Gladstone, MO 64118
Oakhill Road Racers Preparing to Take Off!