gsl spring 2014 anchor magazine

GRACe - St. Luke’S epiSCopAL SChooL SpRinG 2014

plus: WEBSITE REDEVELOPMENT

NEW LOWER SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

CLASS OF ’14 HIGH SCHOOL PLACEMENTS

MISS LEE’S RENOVATION PLANS

ALUMNI REUNION & NEW RECOGNITION WALL

special feature:ANNUAL GIVING: WHY YOUR GIFTS MATTER

FULL SPEED

AHEADTECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS

FUEL LEARNING AT GSL

AbOut the COVeR:

GSL maintains its focus on science and technology by staying abreast of new trends, constantly evaluating new teaching tools, and seeking out hands-on, 21st century learning experiences that will maximize student engagement in the classroom. This is well-aligned with the current focus on STEM and STEAM initiatives at campuses across the country, and part and parcel of GSL’s current mission. Eighth grade student Sydney Nichols uses her critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills to work with peers on robotics programming assignments for science class.

Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, one they see as lacking in a standards-based, teach-to-the-test environment. While that corrective may be needed in some educational institutions, these are areas that GSL has incorporated and promoted in its curriculum for years.

Back in my Head of Middle School days, one of my favorite things to do was to visit science classes because our kids really DO science here at GSL. Watching our students do animal dissections (usually right before lunch) was always interesting. Working in pairs, they would gradually peel back various layers of tissue and compare what they saw with their directions. I loved seeing them have aha! moments and watching them marvel at the complexity of the organisms.

I’ve also enjoyed watching our Middle School students engineer model cities to withstand simulated tornadoes in their study of physics. I used to love seeing students carry in elaborate models constructed from a wide range of materials, curious to find out which (if any) would survive the tornadic onslaught of Mr. Boyd’s leaf blower. The results were both illuminating and entertaining!

In Lower School our students benefit tremendously from our FOSS (Full Option Science System) curriculum. This program, based on research done by UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall School of Science, challenges students to think like true scientists. Students are required to be active investigators, recording observations and testing hypotheses to arrive at scientifically based conclusions. Our students spend time doing thoughtful scientific exploration in a way that encourages creative and complex thinking, a basic tenet of our mission statement.

In fact, technology is well-integrated throughout GSL, from Little Lukers to eighth grade. Beginning in Preschool,

our students are exposed to technology in age-appropriate ways that enhance their learning. They use iPads to learn letters, numbers, shapes, colors, and other early literacy and numeracy skills. As they progress into Lower School and become more fluent readers, laptops and iPads are made available in the classroom to allow them to research a wide range of topics, from spelling words to past presidents to foreign cultures.

As they move into Middle School, students begin using technology to create, synthesize, and analyze. Thus, 5th and 6th grade students spend an entire trimester in the tech lab each year honing their computer skills, collaborating on video and online projects, and familiarizing themselves with the latest new technology tools. As they continue on through Middle School, they become well versed not only in creating research papers, but in making videos, podcasts, Prezis, Powerpoints, and much more.

Of course, no discussion of STEAM at GSL would be complete without mentioning the Anchor Center. This beautiful building has added so much to our ability to teach. The spacious, light-filled art rooms and ample display areas have allowed our studio arts program to flourish. The two new science labs, each fully-equipped with electricity, gas, and water (like our renovated Lower School Science Lab) provide the perfect setting for our children to DO science.

In the pages of this Anchor magazine, you will learn all of this and much more as we continue to live into our mission. Our curriculum program is STEAMing along here at GSL, as it has for many, many years!

Sincerely,

Thor A. KvAndeHead of School

contentsWebsite Gets Overhaul

New Saint Jay Sansing

Full Speed Ahead: How Technology Fuels Learning at GSL

Campus News Briefs

Preschool Renovation Announced

News from the P.A.

Lower School Leadership Transition

Farewell to Departing Teachers

8th Grade Legacies

Annual Giving: Why Your Gifts MatterClass of ’14 High School Placements

Anchors Away Updates

In Memoriam

Saints Superlatives

Alumni Reunion & Recognition Wall

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Editor: Marci WoodmanseeContributors: Denise Dubois taylor, Jeff

White, and Kimberly WhiteMagazine layout by Disciple Design (www.discipledesign.com)

The Anchor is a publication of Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School. Articles are published at the discretion of the school. To contribute Alumni News, email [email protected].

Grace-St. Luke’s’ mission is to prepare boys and girls to become creative problem solvers, confident lifelong learners, and responsible citizens in their communities and the world.

901.278.0200www.gslschool.org

from the head of school:SteM. SteAM. theSe woRdS are some of the latest buzzwords in education, and the ideas behind these concepts are gathering steam (pun intended!). Proponents of these initiatives believe there should be an emphasis on Science,

2 • the Anchor • s p r i n g 2 0 1 4

s p r i n g 2 0 1 4 • the Anchor • 3

website Redesign team SelectedRocketFuel to design new mobile-responsive site with improved functionality

GSL is pleased to announce a partnership with RocketFuel, a local web design firm, to redevelop the school’s current website.

“Given numerous changing trends in web design and in how people access the Internet, we’ve had a website upgrade on our wish list for some time now,” said thor Kvande, head of School. “We reviewed a number of well-recommended firms, both inside and outside of Memphis, and decided that RocketFuel had the right knowledge of this city’s competitive independent school market, as well as the best expertise to take on this project.”

When GSL’s current website was being designed and developed in 2008-09, the iPhone had only been on the market for about a year. In the relatively short amount of time that has passed since then, the use of mobile devices has exploded. “Our site was designed primarily for the desktop computer user,” says Marci Woodmansee, Director of Communications. “the new website will be mobile-responsive, which means the layout and content of the site will adapt to the size of the device that is being used to access it, whether it be a laptop, tablet, or smartphone.”

Social media channels like Facebook, twitter, and Instagram have also surged in the years since the site was developed and will

be featured more prominently on the new site. Another improved feature will be the option to pay online for GSL’s numerous Parents’ Association events.

“We are very excited to be working together with GSL on the website,” says RocketFuel president Lori brunson. “Our goal is to create a new site that will serve its distinctive audience groups better than ever. We want to make the site more engaging, while also being simpler to use for parents, teachers, administrators, and students.”

the overall goal for the site is to improve the look and feel for current users as well as for prospective parents. “today’s technologically-savvy families who may be relocating to Memphis or who are just trying to select a school will undoubtedly be checking us out online before they decide to inquire or schedule a tour,” says Shelly McGuire, Director of enrollment. “Making sure our site appeals to those prospects and tells the GSL story is critical in attracting visitors to campus.”

the target launch date for the new site is September 2014.

GSL welcomed alumnus Jay Sansing (’91) as the school’s new Database and Systems Administrator this spring. He succeeds former database administrator Veer Saxena, who accepted a new position in Dallas in December.

Jay got his B.A. in Urban Studies from Rhodes College and was working as a technical product manager for a forensic software company in San Francisco before moving back home to Memphis with his wife Leah last year. “I’ve been in IT for almost 15 years now, but changing priorities brought us back to Memphis; it seemed like a good place to come home to since we both had roots and family here,” Sansing says.

As the uncle of GSL 8th grader Annie Murff, Sansing easily reconnected with GSL in the fall. At GSL’s football homecoming game, while watching his niece cheer, he was recruited (as GSL alumni often are) to serve as a coach for one of the 7/8 boys basketball teams.

“As the basketball season was wrapping up, Coach Kohlhof told me this position was open,” Sansing says. “Of course, I was extremely interested, and thought that with my experience, I could

make a difference and be an asset to the department. So, I guess one thing led to another. As he told me, sometimes you make your own luck! It’s been very fun being back here and really nice to see some of the same faces from when I attended school here before. It’s just a very positive environment. No matter what’s going on, you come here in the morning and the energy of the students really affects you in a positive way. Plus, the people here are wonderful; I’ve never felt more welcome at a job in my entire life.”

Sansing says that while many things are very familiar, the most surprising thing has been the technical prowess that GSL students show at such an early age. “Of course, I’d read about how accustomed millennials are to technological tools, being digital natives; I just had not yet witnessed it first hand. It wasn’t until college that we got to use email, but now kids in fifth grade are banging away at stuff! It’s pretty impressive.”

With his expertise, Sansing will undoubtedly be a great resource to the tech department as GSL continues to evolve to meet the needs of its millenial and Gen Z users. “My hopes are just to build upon the great work that my cohort Jeff White has already begun here; I think our unique skills complement each other well, and I believe we both see ways that we can better leverage what we do for the enhancement of the IT department and the school.”

New Saint on Staff

The RocketFuel team reviews site designs.

i

FuLL Speed AheAd


If you keep up with the latest trends in education, you surely have noticed the new focus on SteM (and even more recently, SteAM) initiatives on campuses across the country.

haven’t heard of this, you say?

SteM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. the SteAM acronym reflects those areas, as well as an additional emphasis on the arts. Whereas past achievement rubrics in education generally centered on measuring a student’s ability to memorize and recount certain facts, figures and formulas, today’s SteM- and SteAM-focused initiatives encourage schools to find ways to address and measure essential 21st-century skills needed for success, such as collaboration, creative problem-solving, and critical thinking.

If that is starting to sound familiar now, it may be because you are already acquainted with GSL’s mission statement: GSL prepares boys and girls to become creative problem-solvers, confident lifelong learners, and responsible citizens in their communities and the world. through the emphasis we have always placed on the whole child at GSL, we are continually working to find new ways to produce well-rounded students who are not only comfortable with all of the “trending” areas of emphasis above, but also developing the ability to think critically and problem solve successfully, no matter what the subject.

“SteM may be a relatively new buzz word, but we feel like we’ve been doing this for a while,” says thor Kvande, head of School. “the FOSS science program we implemented in Lower School several years ago is a top-notch, hands-on curriculum that allows kids to learn by experimenting, researching, and thinking like a scientist. We consider that the perfect foundation to build upon as our students advance to higher level science tracks in Middle School. Of course, technology by its nature will continue to change, so we are constantly looking for ways to enhance

and evolve our curriculum plans to add new challenges and opportunities for our students.”

One new initiative this year on the math front included offering seventh graders multiple levels of math for the first time: Introduction to Pre-Algebra, Pre-Algebra, and Algebra I. to complement this, eighth grade math in 2014-15 will offer four levels of instruction: Algebra I A, Algebra I, Advanced Algebra, and Geometry.

“With the exception of geometry, we currently offer these courses,” explains Mike boyer, head of Middle School. “For each student, math readiness is something that can differ greatly. Children become ready at varying intervals for more complex concepts and abstract reasoning, so we feel that by better targeting instruction in math, we can enhance each child’s learning experience.”

Robotics also got a boost at GSL this year. While the school has offered robotic camps and clubs for years, it is also a part of a unit of study in Jackson boyd’s eighth grade science classes. this year, thanks to a gift from the P.A., students got to learn and build with the newest LeGO Mindstorms eV3 robotics.

“this fits very well with our study of physics, and it’s also a good opportunity to learn introductory computer programming,” says boyd. “Plus, the kids love it. the SteM initiatives in the news lately include a lot of things like this that we are already doing at GSL. And a lot of what we are doing now ties into our long-time Air & Space Day program that was founded almost 20 years ago by my predecessor here, tina Gault, and her colleague betty Wilson. In that unit, kids from first through eighth grade spend weeks on age-appropriate scientific tasks, from making paper airplanes and kites to creating rockets, catapults, and hot air balloons, all with the goal of hands-on experiential learning at our Overton Park Air & Space Day event.”

Left: Brian Savage and John Henley chase the hot air balloon they helped create with eighth grade peers at last year’s Air & Space Day event.

Right: Science instructor Jackson Boyd reviews robotics programming with eighth graders Edward Henley and Sydney Nichols.By M A r c i W o o d M A n s e e ‘ 8 3 , Director of Communications

ever-changing technology tools fuel creativity and learning for all ages at GSL

This year GSL added a new web-based program to provide students additional online practice in a wide variety of different math skills, called IXL (a play on the words I excel).

“The online programs we’ve used in the past have just never really resonated with our students or teachers,” says Rachel Bishop, GSL’s Foundations teacher. “So we did a 30-day trial with IXL this winter in an attempt to find something more engaging and versatile. Everyone loved it. It can be accessed from school or home, and we got great feedback on its usability. As students master skills, they collect medals, ribbons, and other virtual prizes to keep them motivated.

“Teachers get detailed reports so they can monitor student progress and see how they are performing,” she adds. “They can look at which problems students missed and what they may need additional help on, set practice goals, and even assign IXL for homework. It’s a nice supplement to our Everyday Math curriculum and our Middle School math programs—an

extra tool for the toolbox for our grade 1-8 students.”

The versatility of the program and variety of drills offered allow it to be used as enrichment for students who have the ability to go a little further, or as extra practice for students who are struggling with a certain skill. Teachers will be able to use it to supplement classroom work every day if desired. Teachers are also planning to enhance the summer math program assignments with IXL drills going forward.

To sign in: Visit www.ixl.com/signin/grace. Each child has a personal user name and password to log in. Parents can get login information from their child’s homeroom teacher or advisor.


Isabelle Mansour tackles IXL practice drills in Carrie Galphin’s third grade classroom.

While the technology focus has been a critical part of GSL’s curriculum for years, teachers are always looking for new hands-on tools to engage student learning. As boyd explains, robotics is one of them. “the week before Christmas, I basically just give them the kits and off they go,” he says. “there are directions for building and online tutorials, but the kids can also make something totally different.

“One special thing about these types of new tools is that they can work really well for kids who may not be traditionally high-achieving,” boyd adds. “the opportunity to tap into creativity can really give those students a chance to shine. It opens up avenues for non-traditional student leadership; in other words, kids who may not be straight-A students get their chance to be all-stars. Plus, they all get to discover if the exercise resonates as a strength or skill set.”

As Kvande explains, staying abreast of current and new educational trends is mission-critical for GSL and essential for benefiting current and future generations of students. “It’s gratifying to know that our well-thought-out curriculum already has many of the components n place that other institutions may be scrambling to add today,” he says. “Whether it be through the arts, or engineering, or robotics, or something else coming down the pike, part of our growth goal is to continue exploring new technology tools and incorporating new teaching methodology so that we keep challenging our students. Our ultimate goal is always to have GSL’s students well-positioned to keep achieving at the highest levels.”

the most important fact that GSL’s teachers keep top of mind is that all of GSL’s current students are members of the generation referred to as Gen Z, or Gen Net, the Internet generation. These children are the true digital natives, those who have been connected their entire lifetime by media technologies and the World Wide Web. As such, they already have an innate (and often times greater) familiarity with technology than many of their teachers and most of their parents.

“there are lots of times when the kids know more than the teachers about a particular technology,” says boyd. “I think that’s very cool! It’s why we have to be sure we stay on the leading edge of technology implementation.”

GSL Adds iXL for differentiated Math instruction

Successful Launch of online Re-enrollmentStudents aren’t the only ones tackling new technology opportunities at GSL. The administration also embraced a technology change this year by implementing a new software program called School Admin that allowed for online applications as well as online enrollment and re-enrollment.

“Our first test of this software was with prospective student applications, which made so much sense for our younger generation of parents who appreciate the ease and access of web-based platforms,” says Shelly McGuire, Director of Enrollment. “When that launched successfully, we quickly moved ahead to add online enrollment.”

The new online enrollment system was introduced to current families in January. “The initial set up was a lot of work on our end, but it proved to be well worth it.” says McGuire. “Last year by January 31, we were at 67% re-enrollment. This year by January 31, we were at 84%! That was a remarkable improvement and allowed us to plan earlier in offering new contracts and figuring out our space needs for the coming year. Plus, it is more efficient, cost-effective (no mailing), and eco-friendly (no paper). Now our parents can complete and submit the enrollment agreement at their convenience, without having to make trips back and forth to our office with a paper contract. It is a win-win all the way around!”

Campus NewsPresChool

lower sChool


Trick or Treat! A crowd of superheroes appeared to protect the Preschool from villains and dastardly deeds on Halloween.

Reason for the SeasonPre-Kindergartners dressed in hand-made vintage costumes created by former Preschool teacher Ann Glenn (see memorial on page 22) for their annual Christmas play.

GSL Parents RuleWe did not hold a “Best Parent Costume” contest this Halloween, but if we had, the Morices would have won it hands down!

Fun in ASCIt’s a GSL tradition for After School Care students to help decorate the office Christmas tree.

Community HelpersLittle Lukers had a fun morning learning about firefighters and even got to try on a real lieutenant’s helmet!

Joyful NoiseThird and fourth graders helped us celebrate the holidays with performances that featured great songs and beautiful costumes.


Happy about Our Hoodies! Sixth graders were very excited to get their “Class of 2016” hoodies, a special Middle School tradition at GSL.

Fantastic ShowMiddle School students and a fourth grade chorus brought the tale of Dear Edwina to life on stage this spring.

They’ve Got GameEighth grade basketball players Caroline Ciaramitaro, Josh Crawford, and Whitney Ziegenhorn were named to the Shelby 7/8 All-Tournament Team.

Worth 1000 WordsIntricate collages, colorful self-portraits, and more were on display at this year’s Middle School Trimester Art Exhibits.

middle sChool

On the JobEighth graders spent three days in February completing individual business internships at places ranging from Minglewood Hall and the Mayor’s Office in Memphis to Fashion Week and HBO in New York. Jackson Roberts is pictured here at Stax Museum of American Soul Music.


all sChool

Seal of ApprovalGSL received its SAIS re-accreditation this year! Head of School Thor Kvande is pictured here with GSL’s review team.

Telling Our StorySeventh and eighth grade ambassadors showed prospective families what makes GSL special during this year’s Open House.

Our School is CoolWe already knew this! ABC-24 agreed and sent anchor Rodney Dunigan to interview students and feature GSL as its Cool School of the Week in December.

Campus Security EnhancementsAfter soliciting numerous bids last summer, GSL contracted with a new firm to handle campus security this school year. Clarion Security, a local organization that works with a number of independent schools in the Memphis area, was selected. It was an added bonus that the firm’s president happens to be a GSL (’82) alumnus, Larry Heathcott. Students, faculty, and parents have enjoyed getting to know the new security team members this year, and we are happy to have them on campus.

In other news this year, a new airphone camera was installed at the door of the school administrative office, allowing us vastly improved visual identification of visitors to the school. Many thanks to Dillard Door for their work on the installation of this improved security measure for front office access. Dillard also finished work this winter on additional improvements to our campus-wide access control, which included adding card readers to the keypads at all building doors.

“These measures were implemented as part of our continuing effort to provide a safe and secure environment for our students, faculty, and families,” said John Adrian, Director of Finance and Operations.

’82 alum Larry Heathcott is the president of Clarion Security.

new LittLe LukeRS pRoGRAM poweRS GRowth At GSLsuccessful addition of two-year-olds catalyzes Miss lee’s summer expansion plan

In March GSL was pleased to announce plans to expand Miss Lee’s Preschool this summer. the ability to plan early for next year was due in large part to the school’s new online enrollment system, which allowed the administration to forecast earlier and with greater accuracy the coming school year’s enrollment levels. At press time GSL had reached a total enrollment number of 530, a significant improvement compared to spring enrollment benchmarks last year, according to Shelly McGuire, Director of enrollment.

“Little Luker retention has been very good, and we are delighted to report that there is more than enough interest to fill Little Lukers again,” says McGuire. “Just as we hoped, the program has done a great job of filling the pipeline into pre-kindergarten, with 41 of our 43 current Little Luker students re-enrolled for PK this fall.”

“the current re-enrollment and expected new enrollment for the 2014-15 school year has made expansion at Miss Lee’s a necessity,” adds thor Kvande, head of School. “the board of trustees in February approved our plan to move from our current configuration of eight classrooms to nine classrooms for the coming school year. Currently, Miss Lee’s features three Little Luker rooms, two pre-kindergarten rooms, and three junior kindergarten rooms. Next year, we will have three Little Luker rooms again, but we will move to four pre-kindergarten rooms and two junior kindergarten rooms. Our ultimate goal will be to maintain a 3-3-3 configuration for each grade level.”

For GSL, growth of the Preschool is a very promising sign for the future. “this is a very exciting opportunity,” says Kvande. “We are thrilled to add classroom space to Miss Lee’s so that we can continue to grow enrollment, which will help ensure our sustainability in the future. When we launched the Little Luker program last summer in response to increasing demand for our program, it was our hope that the new grade level would serve as an additional entry point into Miss Lee’s, and it has done just that. being able to fill the Preschool pipeline and have it bubble up to Lower School and Middle School is our ultimate goal. the early success of the Little Lukers program is a real testament to the strength of our NAeYC-accredited Preschool program and a great foundation for future growth.”

In the winter, GSL’s board of trustees asked local architecture firm hnedak bobo, which designed the Anchor Center building and Miss Lee’s last expansion in 2009, to create a new master site plan for the school.

“With the recent purchase of the 240 South belvedere property next to the school office, we realized it was time to look at the overall campus map and re-think best uses of our space,” said eric barnes, Board President. “The Board approved a planning process to review the space needs of the campus in its entirety, and we are working hand-in-hand with the church to make sure any changes benefit the entire community. hnedak bobo is creating recommendations now on how we can best utilize our spaces long-term, and we look forward to sharing more information on these plans in the fall.”


AntiCipAted eXpAnSion tiMeLine:• Construction Management Plus hired to serve as GSL’s

owner’s representative

• Contractor to be selected this spring

• Construction to begin after school ends in May

• Construction will be restricted to south end (PK hallway) of Miss Lee’s

• Summer Camp will be held on west end (JK wing) of Miss Lee’s

• Construction completed by start of school in August

hnedAk BoBo pLAn to outLine FutuRe GRowth At GSL

t

1 0 • the Anchor • s p r i n g 2 0 1 4

theRe’S neveR A dull moment with the Parents’ Association! We’ve been busy throughout the year. Here’s a quick recap:

Our annual fall wrapping paper fundraiser, followed by a great Book Fair at The Booksellers at Laurelwood, started us off strong. We are glad to have a mutually beneficial relationship with this local independent bookstore.

Book Swap week culminated in a fantastic Italian Dinner produced by the eighth grade families; more than 1,000 meals were served by a team of enthusiastic volunteers. Many thanks to everyone who came out to support our eighth graders. This event really is one of the best community-wide experiences at GSL.

Our Teacher Appreciation team has held a well-received series of events throughout the school year to remind our wonderful faculty how much we appreciate them and all they do.

In February, we had the Father-Daughter Red Carpet Gala; the paparazzi were busy while dads and girls danced the night away! That was followed by the Mother-Son Challenge, which had teams spread all over Central Gardens. You might have seen them performing odd yoga stunts or cramming people in a tree. It was all in good fun.

Of course, by the time you read this, we will have completed our signature event, the annual Anchor Auction. The theme of this year’s soiree was “Kickin’ It Old School”…the pictures will, no doubt, tell all.

I am also pleased to tell you about a new P.A. initiative called Luker2Luker. This is a support network formed to help GSL families deal with short-term crises by helping with rides, meals, or other needs. This committee was launched in the fall and has been active several times already, often working quietly behind the scenes to help families maintain normalcy during a trying time. Going forward, Luker2Luker will also be active in helping new families get assimilated into the GSL community.

All of these events and activities show the depth of commitment our families have to GSL. I am grateful for the support of all the participants, attendees, and volunteers who make these activities possible, both through their generous financial support, as well as through their time and talents. It is no surprise at all that the number one thing that parents, students, and faculty value about GSL is its sense of community.

Thanks for your support, past, present, and future!

By B e T s y h o o d , 2013-14 P.A. President

CONNECTIONthepA

First Photo: Father-Daughter Gala: Another dashing couple takes the red carpet! Second: Fifth graders commandeer the crafts table at the Book Fair. Third: Ready for guests at the Italian Dinner. Fourth: Getting into the competition at the Mother-Son event! Fifth: Book Swap 14: Decisions, decisions!

s p r i n g 2 0 1 4 • the Anchor • 1 1

GSL Selects new Lower School head tom Sauterteachers bid farewell to interim head Linda Niell and prepare for new leadership.

After the departure of former Lower School head Andy Surber at the end of last year, GSL turned to a veteran GSL educator and long-time teacher, Linda Niell, for help filling his shoes while a search could be mounted for a permanent replacement.

Niell came to GSL in 1976 as a first-grade teacher. She left for several years when her children tracy and Will were born but returned in 1985 for another 10 years in GSL’s Lower School. In 1994, she left GSL for an appointment as the head of buntyn Preschool for several years, but when GSL called in 2004 in need of an interim Preschool Director, she came back to help the school. A calm and welcoming presence on GSL’s campus, Niell was the go-to choice once again for a one-year term as Interim head of Lower School, and the school has benefited greatly from her leadership.

“this year was busier than I expected, but I have loved it,” Niell says. “Now I am looking forward to getting back to my tennis! Plus my daughter tracy (mom of Little Luker hazel) is having another little girl in September. I am sure that new grandbaby will keep me busy but I will be around. I will get to go back to my appointment on the school board this fall, and I hope to do some tutoring in Lower School, as needed, and who knows what else. We will see what thor has in store!”

“Linda was a true Saint in every sense of the word to come out of retirement and fill this important position for us,” says thor Kvande, head of School. “She was a welcoming and familiar face for our community and did an absolutely fantastic job guiding our Lower School division. her leadership, enthusiasm, and school spirit made her a vital part of the Lower School team at GSL. She will be greatly missed.”

After a national search in the fall, GSL announced in January the appointment of tom Sauter of the Instituto San Roberto in Monterrey, Mexico as the next head of Lower School at GSL. he currently serves as the elementary Principal of the Valle

Alto Campus of Mexico’s Instituto San Roberto. San Roberto is an SACS accredited PK-8 school on two campuses with a dual-language program. At San Roberto, Sauter has been responsible for curriculum and professional development, staff supervision, student discipline, and parent education. he has led the elementary division as they worked to develop critical thinkers and confident learners for high school and beyond.

Additionally, Sauter’s career spans three decades, including 17 years as a teacher and coach in Minnesota and another 17 years of international experience as a teacher and administrator at schools across the globe, in countries such as Kuwait, Slovenia, Jamaica, and Vietnam, to name a few. Sauter holds a b.S. in elementary education from Crown College in Minnesota, as well as a Master’s in elementary education from Minnesota State university and a PK-12 Principal License from the university of Minnesota. he comes to GSL well-recommended as an educator who works to build relationships among faculty, students, and parents.

Sauter and his wife Joyce, also an educator, visited GSL this spring and hope to take up residency in late June. he has said he was drawn to GSL because of the family atmosphere, dedication and experience of the staff, and the rich history and traditions of the school.

“I am delighted that tom has accepted our offer to join GSL,” says Kvande. “he is an excellent choice, with a wide range of experiences and insight to share at Grace-St. Luke’s. he brings energy, expertise, and a commitment to fostering relationships among all the stakeholders here at GSL to build on our recent accreditation and lead the Lower School as we implement our strategic plan and vision for the future.”

GSL will schedule meet-and-greet opportunities for the Sauters over the summer so everyone can give them a warm welcome as they establish themselves in Memphis.

Left: GSL will host a welcome

party for new Head of Lower

School Tom Sauter and wife Joyce

once they are settled in Memphis.

Right: Linda Niell channels

her inner Cat in the Hat with

Foundations Teacher Rachel

Bishop on Dr. Seuss Day.

It has been said that the only constant in life is change, and that is certainly true this year at GSL. Three departing teachers are leaving big shoes to fill on campus. Senior kindergarten instructor Katie Donald moves with her husband Brian and three daughters to Nashville after 17 years at GSL. It will be hard to imagine GSL without Emma Kate, Maggie, and Pepper on campus! In addition, Diann Youngblood, Director of After School Care and Enrichment, will retire this summer after 25 years at GSL, along with long-time Lower School science and computer teacher Karen McLaren, who retires after 27 years on campus. Brief profiles of each spectacular Saint follow below. We wish them all the best!

Katie DonaldSenior Kindergarten Teacher1996-2014

Katie Donald was teaching preschool in Nashville before moving here with her husband Brian so he could attend the University of Memphis. “I applied at GSL and remember meeting Patty Dixon and thinking, ‘We are like minds!’” Donald says. “I think we both felt a connection, and I was hired. I’ve been in this same Senior Kindergarten classroom ever since! I remember GSL celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1997 right after I got hired, so it was a big year with lots of special events.”

Donald remembers other funny things about that first year: She was excited about setting up her room (but couldn’t do so at first, because all of the PA school supplies were stored there that summer). She thought she might prefer open classroom space, rather than having a real desk. (It turned out, she did need a desk after all.) She wanted more space, so her husband Brian built a fantastic classroom loft, which was such a hit, he had to build one for her colleague’s classroom too! And there were no pets... until Katie decided to bring in her parrot Cheech, who quickly became a loud and enthusiastic class mascot. He has been the subject of countless senior kindergarten journal entries ever since.

“I’m sure I’m not the first person who’s said this upon leaving here, but I don’t know how we’ll live without GSL,” Donald admits. “I’ve been at GSL as long as I’ve been in Memphis. We moved here over the summer, before having kids. Eventually the kids came along, and they have loved it, too… it’s been a real home for all of us.”

Diann Youngblood Director of After School Care & Enrichment1989-2014

Diann Youngblood was a teacher’s assistant at Westwood Elementary, looking for another opportunity when she heard about an opening at GSL. “I was hired as an After Care teacher in SK and started working under Diane Glueck, who was then the director of After Care for the older kids,” says Youngblood. “Eventually Diane moved into


Three Long-Time Teachers Bid FarewellGSL says goodbye to Katie Donald, Diann Youngblood, and Karen McLaren

Top Photo: Katie Donald with her last class of senior kindergartners at GSL. Bottom: A hug for Lillian after morning drop off.

“Miss Diann” will be greatly missed by GSL’s many After School Care students.

her current art position and our then-Headmaster Father Merchant said he liked what I was doing and asked me to take over the reins of After School Care. And the rest is history!

“We had established an enrichment program by then, and some people are still here today, like our karate teacher Pat Register (known to some kids as Mr. Dragon) and our long-time piano teacher Lynda Strickland. We expanded enrichment because there was a demand for it, and it was an awesome opportunity for parents because we offered everything here on campus. It was also a good way for the kids to try new things in familiar surroundings and find out what interested them most.”

While Youngblood is looking forward to retirement, she says she it will be hard to leave the children. “I will miss walking down this hall and students coming up to give me a hug,” she says. “One of my grandchildren asked me not to retire so he could come to school here like my older grandson Tré (a 2010 graduate). Being here with Tré and meeting his friends who called me “Granny” too, from the time they were about three-years-old, those were some of my favorite times. I work now with the youth department at my church, Shady Grove Baptist, so next year I can be more hands-on there. I will also have more time to spend with my younger grandsons and to help take care of my mom. That will be good, and I’m looking forward to that.”

Karen McLaren Lower School Science & Computer1987-2014

Karen McLaren first learned from her friend Judy Johnson that a “great neighborhood school” had an opening she might be interested in. “GSL had just gone through a SACS evaluation that identified math as an area of need, and then-Head John Effinger ended up hiring me part-time as a Lower School math specialist,” says McLaren. “Our enrichment teacher who did computer left for another position soon after my arrival, so I took over the Commodore 64s for Lower School, too. Pretty soon, my job increased to full-time. At some point we decided our math program was in good shape but that science could use a little enhancement. So I started assisting in that area too and eventually settled into doing science for grades 1-4 and computer for SK-4, as well as serving as a faculty liaison to the administrative team.”

McLaren’s children Annie and Michael grew up here with her, and the Commodores were replaced by candy-colored iMacs and finally, laptops and iPads.

“Everything I know today I learned from our former GSL Director of Technology Betty Wilson, who trained me,” McLaren says. “She was amazing, and such a patient teacher, about both computers and our Powerschool system, which was also new. Her brain worked a totally different way than mine, so when I’d come to her with a problem, she could look at in a completely new way. She was wonderful. And, of course, I have loved the Lower School faculty; you couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with. One thing I always loved about my job was the freedom to go from one room to the next. I could walk by and hear how teachers were teaching, and it taught me so much about how I could be a better teacher. Because of the

way my job was structured--not tied to just one particular classroom—I had the luxury of floating through the whole division and got to see everyone’s style. It was just wonderful.”

With technology being the part of her job that has changed the most, McLaren says it’s hard to predict what will be in store in the future. “You learn every single day. Who knows what will come next, but that’s a testament to lifelong learning. We always have tried to be on top of the newest trends because what’s popular one year can get replaced by another tool or app the next year. But that’s good; it’s what has kept me on my toes!

“It’s funny how retirement comes along,” she adds. “There was a time when I dreaded the thought of quitting work, but then things come into your life that you want to give a higher priority. I will miss the day-to-day, seeing the kids change from kindergarten through fourth grade, but this feels like the right time and right place to retire. I’m ready to spend time with the grandbabies that are here and my daughter who’s in California. When it feels this way, you know it’s the right decision.”


Top Photo: GSL’s Lower School students have learned lots of interesting things about technology and science in their lab classes with Karen McLaren. Bottom: Karen circa 1989!

Legacy eighth Graders: continuing the saints traditionCongratulations to the six graduating eighth grade legacies who are featured below along with their alumni parents. We will miss you next year!

Annie Murff, GSL ‘04-’14

Favorite class: LatinFavorite extracurricular: VolleyballFavorite memory: Making the office bingo chart in LatinWhat I will miss most: The teachers and my friends

Benjamin Freeman, GSL ’03-’14 Favorite class: Spanish with Mr. Burnett

Favorite extracurricular: Basketball, running track and cross-country, and

iPhone gaming with friendsFavorite memory: My 8th grade basketball team

From Coach Taylor’s skills academy: “Jab step, shot fake, fundamental layup, fundamental pass,

pass fake,” and just playing around with my teammates. Plus the tapshow, balling, get ripped,

And1 mixtape (Coach Taylor’s favorite) What I will miss most: All my friends who poke

fun at me, have fun with me, and mess around with me

dad: John Freeman, GSL ’73-’81

Favorite teacher/class: Mrs. Griggs and scienceFavorite extracurricular:

Helping start the first school newspaperFavorite memory:

Basketball trips to Florida in 8th and 9th grade

Marshall Jones, GSL ‘04-’14

Favorite class: World Religions Favorite extracurricular: Basketball

Favorite memory: Chicago tripWhat I will miss most: The people

Mom: Jennifer Sansing Murff, GSL ‘76-’86

Favorite class/teacher: I distinctly remember having Linda Niell (Linda White back then!) in first grade. We were her very first 1st grade class, and I remember thinking she was sooooo pretty. I also vividly remember Ms. Betty, our librarian; she was always so animated and happy to see us! In kindergarten, we would all sit “criss-cross applesauce” in the room that is now Thor’s office while she read to us. Favorite extracurricular: EYC, and Friday Night Alive and “Polaroid Panic” scavenger hunts all over Midtown. One Friday night we all piled in the telephone booth on Central near Parkway… Good. Clean. Fun. Favorite memory: Riding to field trips in the Bullet, sitting in the GSL fire engine on the Belvedere playground, playing volleyball for Coach Callahan, crawling out the window in Coach Scully’s history classroom, weaving sit-upons as a Brownie in the Scout Room... and many more! I also loved walking from school over to my mom’s “office” at the church (now the closet near the icemaker in the kitchen in Trezevant) to do homework while my mom cooked for the church! After all these years, there are days I can’t remember what I had for breakfast, but I can still remember the GSL School Prayer word for word!

dad: ken Jones, GSL 1973-79

Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Knight (all of the teachers were great!)

Favorite Extracurriculars: Soccer and basketball (played through Idlewild

Pres., our family’s church) Favorite Memory: Recess on the old

playground (kickball and swinging) and playing prison warball in PE


ivy Sharp, ‘04-’14

Favorite classes: Latin and EthicsFavorite extracurricular: CheerFavorite memory: A tie between the time when a roach fell from the ceiling in Mrs. White’s room (If you didn’t know, roaches are one of Mrs. White’s biggest fears) and that one class period where Mr. Boyd was extremely happy, resulting in the entire class having the best class period ever.What I will miss most: Definitely the people – my teachers and my fellow classmates.

Mom: Amy deshaies Sharp, GSL ’75-’85

Favorite class and/or teacher: Hands down, Latin! Taught by my favorite teacher, Mr. Ellis! He was a hard teacher, but always found ways to make the subject fun and interesting.Favorite extracurricular: Any art class and cheerleading… GOOOO SAINTS!Favorite memory: Good memories all around, especially the lifelong friendships. One highlight involved being forced by Coach Lass to try the hurdles (during the inaugural year of track at GSL) and clearing them (in front of the entire eighth grade!).

emma pounders, GSL ’04-‘14

Favorite class: 8th Grade ScienceFavorite extracurricular: TheaterFavorite memory: Bus rides on 7th grade class tripWhat I will miss most: All my fabulous teachers and friends!

Mary woodmansee, GSL ‘04-’14

Favorite class: LatinFavorite extracurriculars: Volleyball and softball

Favorite memory: 7th grade history classWhat I will miss most: Everybody in my grade and all the teachers

Mom: tiffany white pounders,

GSL ’81-’85

Favorite teacher: Coach Popp, because he was so dynamic and hilarious. Favorite extracurriculars: Class trips! Space camp, NOLA, river rafting. And I loved the lock-ins (so 80’s!), where we ALL spent the night in the GSL PDO building and had dance contests.Favorite Memory: Turning Lass Hall into Venice, Italy for the annual Social Studies Fair.

Mom: Marci deshaies woodmansee, GSL ‘75-’83

Favorite teachers: Mr. Ellis for Latin and Coach Scully for history; they were both simply amazing, the two best teachers I ever had.

Favorite extracurriculars: The basketball trip we took to Navarre Beach in 1982 and the World’s Fair trip to Knoxville. There was also the camping trip to Middle Tennessee, where our Headmaster Mr. Gamble threw me off a small cliff into

an icy cold lake because I was taking too long to jump in on my own. Good times! Favorite memory: In sixth grade our homeroom teachers (Mrs. Tusa and Mr. Toney) let us spend weeks creating a life-

sized replica of King Tut’s tomb in our classroom for the younger grades to visit during the Social Studies Fair. And we got to dress in Egyptian costumes. It was awesome.

dad: ken woodmansee, GSL ’71-’81

Favorite class/teacher: Coach Scully’s U.S. History class because he was so passionate and animated. He often jumped on top of his desk to emphasize a point.

Favorite extracurricular: Definitely the annual basketball trips.Favorite memory: It’s impossible for me to select just one favorite memory. My 12 years at GSL were filled with lots of

meaningful and memorable moments. I am grateful that I still get to share those memories with many of the friends that I made when I was a student.



from the development departmentThe Ledger

By d e n i s e d u B o i s T Ay l o r , Director of Development

have you given to GSL yet this year? three-fourths of GSL’s families give to the Annual Fund every year, but we are always aiming for 100%!

“We know that Grace-St. Luke’s is an exceptional school where our children are not only being educated, but also building a foundation that will carry them throughout life,” says Michael Rowland, Co-Chair with wife Virginia of this year’s Annual Fund Campaign. “As parents, it is our responsibility to make sure GSL has the resources it needs not only to remain exceptional, but also to keep improving. the annual fund makes that possible. We hope you’ll join us and so many other parents by giving generously!”

TUITION + FEES ANNUAL FUND - Tax Deductible -

Salaries/benefits estimated $2000 per student to offset general expenses

Facility insurance Advanced faculty training

Maintenance of main campus, Snowden Field and school buses

Special projects (Improvements to playgrounds, lighting, equipment, etc.)

textbooks Special classroom furnishings

technology purchases technology purchases

Financial Aid Financial Aid

Security endowment (5% of funds raised yearly)

the two most important sources for an independent school’s income and operating budget are tuition and the Annual Fund. here’s what they pay for:

Michael & Virginia Rowland Chairs, 2013-2014 Annual Giving Campaign

Gray Clark – LausanneMax Courtney – St. George’sJosh Crawford – Lausannetess emerson – St. AgnesBenjamin Freeman – MUSvivi Gray – St. Mary’sJames Griffith – LausanneSavannah hall – hutchisonedward henley – MUSemma kate hughes – Moving to Nashville

Marshall Jones – MUSAmelia kerr – LausanneJay Lattimore – LausanneGrace Lee – St. Mary’selsie Morrow – St. Mary’sAnnie Murff – St. George’s Sydney nichols – St. Mary’sFulton o’keeffe – MUSolivia pletz – White Stationemma pounders – St. George’sdavid Rhea – Lausanne

Jackson Roberts – CbhSRyan Seamons – MUSivy Sharp – White StationLogan Sorrels – Lausannekyra tennyson – St. Mary’sRaymond williams – CbhS

Mary woodmansee – hutchison

Aali Yarbrough – Undecidedwhitney Ziegenhorn – St. George’s

ethan Adcox – CbhSpaul Adefeyisan – White StationConnor Anderson – CbhSMackenzie Barnes – St. Mary’sBennett Barousse – St. George’s Lil Bird – White Stationhudson Brown – St. George’s Anna Butler – St. Agneswill Callow – CbhSAlexander Carayiannis – CbhSCaroline Ciaramitaro – St. Mary’s

GSL’s Class of 2014 Congratulations to our 41 graduating eighth graders (see photo at right) as they prepare to set sail for high school in August. We are proud of you, and we will miss you very much!


the GSL development department oversees and supports all fundraisers. While the Annual Fund (also known as the Annual Giving Campaign) is the department’s primary responsibility, its staff also provides guidance and support for these additional fundraising activities:

• pARentS’ ASSoCiAtion: Dollars are raised through the Annual Auction, box tops, wrapping paper sales, the book Fair, and Spirit Wear sales. these funds go toward fulfilling teacher Wish Lists and providing teacher Appreciation activities. the Italian Dinner offsets costs of the traditional eighth grade class trip. (the Father-Daughter Dance and Mother-Son event are self-supporting.)

• CApitAL CAMpAiGn: every few years, major new construction or renovation work is needed for the GSL campus. Capital campaigns are organized for these on an as-needed basis. (the last capital campaign was launched in 2007 for construction of the $8 million Anchor Center.)

• RetAiL BonuS: be sure to designate GSL as the charitable recipient of your target or Kroger card, then every time you shop, GSL gets a percentage of the sale, which is donated to the Annual Fund.

• LiSA LASSAndReLLo 5k ReMeMBRAnCe RACe: this annual event is a great source of fun as well as funds. GSL shares the proceeds annually with St. Agnes and a third designated charity (most recently Wings Cancer Foundation).

• ALuMni ASSoCiAtion: Founded in 2004, members of GSL’s Alumni Association are an integral link between the school’s past and its future. this year, as they plan another exciting Alumni Reunion (set for May 10), alumni are also helping to promote the Alumni Corner, a permanent new addition to the campus, which will feature commemorative plaques that recognize alumni, their families, and GSL faculty.

we are delighted to report that we are ahead of our budgeted goal for the current year, although we haven’t yet met our participation goal. please give today and help us continue the fantastic program we offer at GSL! we appreciate your support!

EVERY SINGLE STUDENT AT GSL RECEIVES FINANCIAL AID!The single biggest benefit of the Annual Fund to you, the parent, is its direct impact on the cost of tuition. Contributions to the Annual Fund – whether they be gifts of $50 or $500 or $5,000 – help offset the cost of doing business. Donations of all sizes add up, and that keeps the cost of tuition down – by roughly $2,000 per student per year!

FASt FACtS ABout GSL FundRAiSinG:

The Class of 2014 prepares for guests at the annual Italian Dinner.


anchors Away

Late ‘50s Cary Fowler, executive director of the Rome-based Global Crop Diversity trust, premiered a documentary film titled Seeds of Time in March at the South-by-Southwest Film Festival (SxSW) in Austin, and in April at the Full Frame Documentary Festival in Durham. the film is also scheduled to be distributed in theaters and on television, and to be available through outlets such as Netflix. For more info and film trailer, visit http://seedsoftimemovie.com/.

‘95 John Burruss graduated in May 2013 from Virginia theological Seminary and is now the reverend at Church of the Annunciation in Cordova. he and his wife Anne and son Jack welcomed new baby sister Lulu this spring.

‘98 Ann Burruss is a second grade teacher at the Bodine School in Memphis.

hunter durbin will marry Katherine Carr (sister of tucker ’04 and John ’03) on May 10 at the Pelican Inn on Pawley’s Island. they will reside in Memphis where hunter is self-employed, doing custom residential renovations and construction.

‘99 patrick hanthorn is baking and cooking at Rock ‘N Dough Pizza Co. in Jackson, tennessee.

‘00 harris Jordan got married in October and now lives in Wyoming.

‘96 Carson Claybrook and wife Martha welcomed daughter Claire Wallace Claybrook on October 26, 2013; she weighed 5 lbs, 6 oz.

‘02 duncan Adrian married brennen Sweeney on December 28 at Immaculate Conception in Memphis.

Bryce hendry married Kasey Kaspar on October 26 in highlands, North Carolina. they currently live in Memphis where bryce works for Pittco Management. (Pictured with sister Natalie hendry ’05).

‘05 katelyn nichols lives in New York where she was recently the lead in two off-off broadway productions and has been working on the sets of

hbO’s Boardwalk Empire (Katelyn pictured at far left), The Carrie Diaries, and Orange is the New Black. She is an acting coach at a professional theater company in NYC and also works in the casting department for Showtime’s hit series Homeland. She regularly coaches students across the country via Skype for major network auditions, acting competitions, and agent meetings.

‘93 Lisbon, Portugal based fashion designer ellis dixon* was in Memphis in March to showcase her line of clothing for Fluid Sunwear during Memphis Fashion Week. (the Annie Griffin Collection by Annie Gerber Griffin ‘98 and Robin Gerber ‘01 was also featured at this event.)

Alumni are listed by their last year completed at GSL, regardless of grade level.

‘97 Rob Mayer and wife emily welcomed new baby Andrew Gates Mayer (Drew) on January 9, 2014. he was 7 lbs, 15 oz and 20 inches.

‘04 Caroline todd* graduates from Rhodes this May with a degree in environmental Studies. Last summer she interned for the Water board in New York. before that she worked both in Memphis and in Washington, D.C. for u.S. Rep. Steve Cohen.

‘05 Aja Jenkins* graduates in May from the university of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She plans on working in pediatrics.

‘06 Majoring in particle astrophysics at Princeton, will taylor traveled to Italy twice this year to work at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, the largest lab of its kind in the world, where he contributed research on the detection of dark matter and solar neutrinos. he graduates this spring and will continue his dark matter research as a Ph.D. candidate at brown university in the fall.

Austin Magruder will graduate from a five-year architecture program at the university of Arkansas in 2015 and plans to join his family’s architecture firm in Memphis.

elizabeth Gibson graduates from Ole Miss in May and will be attending university of tennessee School of Nursing beginning in July.

Joe hanthorn graduates from tulane this spring with a degree in biochemistry.

May todd is at Ringling College of Art where she has been on the President’s List throughout college. She is majoring in film and has worked on many productions, including a documentary on Jerry Lee Lewis. When back in Memphis, she has enjoyed working as an assistant to Jonathan Pekar (GSL ‘81), Director of Film for Ardent Recording Studio.

Mitchell thompson is graduating from Washington & Lee university this spring.

walker thompson* is studying engineering at George Washington university in D.C., focusing on computer security.

‘10 Bailey Archey was recognized by the Commercial Appeal in February as an Academic All-Star in social sciences and history.

Joseph elrod is vice president of White Station high School’s Global Awareness Club and was inducted into the school’s chapter of the Delta epsilon Phi honor Society in German.

White Station seniors Sam kitterman and Margaret Grace haltom were recognized during an on-field presentation at the ut-South Carolina football game this fall with the 2013 Good Sports Always Recycle award by Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell. this recognition includes a $1,000 grant for having one of the top 10 school recycling programs in tennessee.


‘07 Barrett heffington is majoring in history and political science at Ole Miss and interning for u.S. Rep. Steve Cohen in Washington, D.C. this semester. (Pictured here with current GSL students Will and Sara Fraser.)

For more than 40 years, hutchison’s graduating seniors have celebrated the character and integrity of a classmate by selecting her for the Christmas Madonna tableau; this year’s Madonna was Sally Clark. Sally was also recognized by the Commercial Appeal in December as an Academic All-Star in the category of drama and theater.

‘08 Laura Mathews, who swims at Duquesne university, competed in her first triathlon last spring during Memphis in May and came in third in

her age group. Last August, she competed at Nationals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and came in ninth in her age group, which qualified her for the uSA triathlon team. She will represent the U.S. at the World Competition in edmonton, Canada in August. She stayed home this year to train for Worlds and is taking physics and cellular biology at the university of Memphis. She will return to full-time college studies after the world competition. (Pictured above right at Nationals with Chrissie Wellington, a four-time World Ironman Champion.)

(continued on page 20)

Russell Sands* worked with children at Perea Preschool as part of MuS’ Civic Service Organization’s service week this fall.

‘12 Liam Gildea was recognized in the Commercial Appeal’s Cross Country best of the Preps category in December.

‘13 Audrey Garrett made the junior varsity basketball team at White Station.

emma heiter was recognized at the Magna Cum Laude level for academic success in her first semester at St. Agnes Academy.

elizabeth elrod and emma heiter are both singing in St. Agnes Academy’s Starletts choir and were cast in the SAA spring production of The Wiz. elizabeth also had a painting entered in the National Scholastic Competition.


Lyda turley and Cal edge attended Junior Cotillion together over the holidays. Lyda is bound for ut-Knoxville this fall and Cal is going to the university of Arkansas.

‘11 Anna Johnson and Claire Sentilles were inducted into hutchison’s Cum Laude Society in February in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements to date. they were among only seven juniors who received this honor.

Carter Stovall won the 110% Award for the hutchison Varsity basketball team and was also given an honorable Mention on the All-Region team in Division 2-A.

*Asterisk by name indicates student left GSL before his or her graduating year.

Alumni on Campus

Adele Fish (’11), Sarah Simmons (’11), Anna harwood (’10) and virginia Strother (’12) performed at Celebration with hutchison singing group Vocal Point.

Class of ’11 alumni Augie van deveer, evan Arkle, and Baker Ball performed at Celebration with MuS vocal ensemble beg to Differ.

Class of ’11 grads Ashley Lowe, Garner howell, and Chloe Butler stopped by at Christmas.

the Italian Dinner always brings alumni back! Adele Fish (‘11), Suzanne McGehee (‘11), Manning pletz (‘11), and Bailey pletz (‘13).

Audrey Garrett, Georgia edwards, and Margo huber joined their Class of ’13 peers on campus for Yearbook Signing Day in the fall.

Summer Fest 2014 offers a variety of action-packed, fun-filled

camp opportunities for children ages 4 through 13 (rising JK -

Grade 8). Our week-long day camps are open to all children,

regardless of school affiliation, and there is something for every

child to enjoy!

Activities range from LeGO-building, tie-dying, and art, to

sewing, cooking, and Camp hogwarts. Campers can learn

more about animals, gardening, and science. they can explore

Chinese culture. they can play flag football, basketball,

volleyball, chess, and Minecraft. they can brush up on reading

and math skills. they can paint, sing, act, and dance. We also

have a newly refurbished swimming pool where our younger

students can take swimming lessons, and where all of our

campers can enjoy water play!

No matter which camp you choose, your

children will learn, explore, and most

importantly, have fun!

Visit our home page (gslschool.org) today

to access the Summer Camp page for full

brochure and online registration links.

After witnessing the 220,000-plus pounds of discarded electronics brought to the e-cycling drive co-sponsored by the Commercial Appeal and the Downtown Memphis Commission last April, ellis Keplinger decide to launch an e-cycle drive that would engage his generation at CbhS.

“My interest in the green movement began when I was still a student at GSL and participated in the eco Club,” he says. “I believe my generation will be the one to own the green movement, as we have been raised all of our lives during a time

of increasing environmental awareness and global efforts for sustainability.”

ellis led the inaugural e-cycle event for CbhS during earth Week. More than 50 CbhS students participated, earning a total of almost 200 service hours. When the weeklong event was over and the donated electronic equipment was weighed and tallied, the event had gathered approximately 100,000 pounds of equipment that was recycled properly. Last summer, ellis was recognized by the Memphis City Council for his efforts.


ellis keplinger ’12 Starts e-Cycling at CBhS

Summer Fest 2014: June 2 – August 1 at GSLJune 2nd _ August 1st

Weekly camps for boys and girls,

ages 4-13 (rising JK-8th grade)

90 1-278-0200 www. gs lschool . org

& much more!sports

sewing t heater

minecraft

robot ics

h ip hop

chineselegos

Excited campers love Summer Fest! Our improved pool!


in MeMoRiAM

Ann Glenn was one of the most creative, artistic, and loving teachers to ever serve at GSL. the mother of two GSL students, D’Ann and Max, Mrs. Glenn was well-known for her caring heart and her ability to make absolutely anything for the classroom. She was an expert seamstress and famous for the wonderful quilts she loved to make. every December, her former pre-kindergarten teaching partner Miss Meg still uses the beautiful costumes she made years ago for the Christmas play that the Daring Dinosaurs perform during the holidays. In her 28 years at GSL, Mrs. Glenn taught hundreds and hundreds of Preschool and Lower School children, and she will be dearly missed. her obituary from the Commercial Appeal is excerpted below.

Ann Glenn, formerly of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away on March 23, 2014 at Linwood Care Center in Linwood, New Jersey, with her sister at her bedside. She was born on December 2, 1940 in Memphis, Tennessee. Her parents were Charles and Eula Bee Gresham. Ann graduated from Bartlett High School and the University of Tennessee at Martin. She was a beloved pre-school teacher at Grace-St. Luke’s School for 28 years. Ann is survived by her daughter, D’Ann Glenn and husband, Ted Herzchel and their twin grandsons, Damon and Daniel; son, Max Glenn; sister, Eleanor and husband, Jim Stanford.

Coach beall started coaching at GSL when his grandson Richard Raines entered GSL Middle School in the late ‘90s, but he kept coaching for the school for almost another 10 years. he is fondly remembered by the students he coached, and he was well-known for the handwritten notes he sent to the athletes who played for him. he will be dearly missed by all who knew him. his obituary from the Commercial Appeal is excerpted below.

William Erby “Coach” Beall, 91, passed away November 2, 2013. Beall was a decorated combat veteran of World War II who served his country as a fighter pilot in the Pacific Theater from 1943-1945. After returning home, he began a distinguished six-decade long career as a football coach, including time as an assistant coach at Rice, defensive coordinator at LSU, and head football coach at Baylor.

Whether coaching an All-American at LSU or a ten-year-old at Grace-St. Luke’s, Coach Beall believed in teaching the fundamentals and helping players reach their full potential through a positive experience that would impact the rest of their life. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Doris Hembree Beall of Memphis, their three sons, Billy (Rosalyn), Phil (Rebecca) and Charlie (Kaye), one daughter, Belinda Raines of Memphis, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Beall, who enjoyed greeting his neighbors at the door with a smile and a butterscotch candy, was a beloved resident of The Monarch.

Ann GlennGSL preschool teacher August 18, 1978 through July 31, 2006

william erby “Coach” BeallGSL volunteer Basketball & Football CoachApprox. 1998-2009

Beloved GSL teacher Ann Glenn in 1989.

Coach Beall with the 7th grade boys “Wings” team, one of the earliest groups he coached at GSL, in 1998.

SAINTS SUPERLATIvESStudent and faculty accomplishments outside the classroom.

Fantastic Faculty

New Graduate: Senior kindergarten assistant Renee Norris received her Master of Arts degree in Teaching from CBU in December. She also presented at the recent Project Zero conference put on by Harvard University, CASIE, PDS, and

The Martin Institute for Teaching Excellence in Memphis. Project Zero’s mission is to understand and enhance learning, thinking, and creativity in the arts, as well as humanistic and scientific disciplines, at the individual and institutional levels. She presented “I Can Do PBL, Too!: How Project-Based Learning and Thinking Routines Can Thrive in Any Classroom.” (Pictured above far right with other conference presenters.)

New Baby Saints: Pre-kindergarten assistant teacher Sally Tomlinson welcomed Cora Lynn on December 27 at 6:30 pm. She weighed 7 lbs, 2 oz.

Summer Camp Director and Athletic Department assistant Emily Merrell welcomed Sam on April 2 at 1:41 pm. He weighed 7 lbs, 6 oz.

Fifth grade teacher Becky Gilbertson welcomed Kylie on March 31 at 12:04 pm. She weighed 9 lbs, 2 oz.

Fast-Moving Faculty: The following GSL staff members placed in their age division in this year’s Lisa Lass 5K Race at St. Agnes:

Collin Buckner: 2nd place (women’s 25-29) John Adrian: 3rd place (men’s 25-29) Jackson Boyd: 2nd place (men’s 30-34) Jeff White: 1st place (men’s 40-44) Sherry Emerson: 2nd place (45-49)

Once a Saint, Always a Saint: A group of GSL’s retired faculty members still meets monthly to catch up on news and stay in touch. Pictured here at a recent lunch at the Woman’s Exchange are Brucia Mory and Patty Dixon (top, right) and Betty Wilson, Evelyn Stevens, and Brenda Hawkins (bottom, right). Other group regulars include Judy Miller, Tina Gault, Pat Gray, Sue Crabtree, Clay Phillips, and one current staff member, Marilyn Kidd!

s p r i n g 2 0 1 4 • the Anchor • 2 3Gloria Bird shows her winning tile.

Super Speedy Saints

The following students placed in their age division in this year’s Lisa Lass 5K Race at St. Agnes:

Lydia Ford: 1st place (girls 6 and under)

Sam Dyer, McEwen Taylor, and Evan Erickson: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place (boys 6 and under)

Mary Claire Carney, Winnie Wilson, and Gloria Bird: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place (girls 7-9)

Nick Dyer, Charlie West, and Benjamin Berntson: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place (boys 7-9)

Bennett Vaughan: 1st place and Ava Vining: 3rd place (girls 10-14)

Sloan McHugh, Nino Barnes, and Duncan McLean: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place (boys 10-14)

Non-Profit

U.S. Postage

P A I DPermit No. 927

Memphis, TN

Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School

246 S. Belvedere Blvd.

Memphis, TN 38104

www.gslschool.org

Change Service Requested

• Celebrate the Outstanding Alumni Award recipient! • See the newly-installed Alumni Corner plaques! • Catch up with all of your favorite Saints from the past!

Appetizers, wine, and beer provided. Fun guaranteed! Please join us. Visit our Facebook page to talk it up: www.facebook.com/GSLAlumni. RSVP: [email protected]

Alumni Reunion! Saturday, May 10

6:30-9:30 pmAnchor Center

For all GSL alumni age 21 and over, plus current and former faculty

gsl spring 2014 anchor magazine

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