Fairhill School and Diagnostic Assessment Center | 16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248 | Phone 972.233.1026 | Fax 972.233.8205 | www.fairhill.org

Volume 13 | Number 3 | June 2009

Teachers Make A DifferenceIn the late spring of each school year I am always amazed at the accomplishments of our students. We celebrate these accomplishments in a variety of events such as the sports, art, and thespian banquets, drama productions, band and choral productions, academic awards ceremonies, and end with graduation. I am always keenly aware that none of this would happen without the dedication and hard work of some incredible teachers. Do they really know what a difference they make in the lives of the students they teach? Do they realize the significance of the career they have chosen?

Most people can point to a single teacher whose talent and dedication made a lasting memory or critical difference in their lives. Good teachers inspire, challenge, encourage, open doors, and expand the worlds of their students. Good teachers really want to be good teachers. In addition to imparting knowledge, they have a positive attitude, never have enough time, listen to their students, and strive to give students confidence. We can all think of characteristics that describe effective teachers and for each of us these may be different.

Fairhill’s greatest asset is a skilled and caring faculty. Fairhill teachers provide an academic oasis for students where they learn despite challenges, gain confidence in their abilities and learn how to learn.

Jane Sego Executive Director

School news, information and events

Senior Class of 2009 Pages 2-3

Pura vida! This Is Living! Page 6

Sports Action Pages 8-9

Parent’s Corner “I am ever grateful for my child’s academic progress, her high self esteem, enthusiasm, and sheer love for her school. She now speaks of her future with hope and ambition. I am awed by the confidence she now has in her capabilities. Fairhill School is her academic oasis.”

Teacher TrainingKim Mlcak attended the National Science Teacher’s Convention in New Orleans over spring break. She participated in field trips to study the effects of damming the Mississippi River on native plants and animals, the rescuing of land on the coastal waterways and the necessity of levies in areas below sea level. She also took several classes on using manipulative techniques in the classroom and innovative ways to make standard labs more green.

Karen Boozer received a fellowship to attend The Reynolds High School Journalism Institute this summer at the University of Missouri, Columbia, July 12 – 24. She was one of 35 participants chosen out of 541 applicants to participate in this intensive two-week newspaper journalism training program for high school teachers. Instruction is based on the core tenets of journalism and the skills needed to produce a top-notch scholastic publication, on paper or online.

Jan Kirkland will be completing a doctoral Reading Research class which is a summer long study and critique of significant reading research while developing research designs to study the topics of “Strategy Instruction in Reading Comprehension as an Intervention for Students with Learning Disabilities” and “Motivation, Academic Resilience and Self-Efficacy of the Struggling Reader.”

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Farewell to Fairhill Class of 2009

The Fairhill class of 2009 bade farewell to their high school on May 29, 2009. The graduation ceremony, held at Bentwood Trail Presbyterian Church, began with the procession of proud seniors. Following the procession, Fairhill salutatorian, Sarah Vint, welcomed parents and guests and presented the invocation. She was then presented with her salutatorian cord by Jennifer Allen, upper school English teacher and senior class sponsor. Mrs. Allen also introduced Michael Alford, valedictorian for the class of 2009, and presented him with his cord. Michael gave a heartfelt, prop-filled speech commemorating his time at Fairhill and memories of each of his peers. After Michael’s speech, upper school drama teacher, Deni Kington, and upper school English teacher and senior class sponsor, Lissa Dallas presented the anecdotal senior reflections and were followed by a joyful rendition of “Lean on Me” by the Fairhill Singers, under the direction of Lynn Firmin.

Fairhill Senior Class of 2009

Senior Class of 2009

Head of Lower School, Carla Stanford, introduced the keynote speaker, Mr. Jeffrey Coen, a graduate of Creighton University and SMU Law School. His professional resume includes eighteen years as a practicing lawyer, thirteen years as a Family Court District Judge, and three years as the developer of a mediation/arbitration practice. In his speech, Mr. Coen conveyed the core values of friendship and persistence in achieving goals in personal life. He urged the new graduates to make and maintain friendships throughout their lives, as it is through friends that we find the greatest joy. He also quoted Winston Churchill when reminding the students to “never, never, never, never give up,” inspiring and encouraging them to follow every dream with fervor and tenacity.

Head of Upper School, Melinda Cameron, and Roy Pendergrass, Chairman of the Fairhill Board of Directors, presented each of the seniors with their diplomas. Each senior lined the steps and was given a candle. As they individually lit their candles, Fairhill psychologist, Dr. Caroline Ford, sang “Candlelight.” The new graduates then exited the church to throw their caps in the air. A reception with refreshments provided by the junior class was held at the school following the ceremony.

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Graduates and their future plans: Michael Alford Austin College

Max Bannon University of the Ozarks

Alissa Best American Musical and Dramatic Academy

Eileen Lee University of the Ozarks

Ryan McAtee Brookhaven College

Tori Murphy North Lake College

Andre Pecorari St. Louis University

Blake Perini Undecided

Elena Phifer Stephen F. Austin

Ryan Rafie Collin College

Ben Revell University of Texas, El Paso

Kendall Sargent Savannah College for Art and Design

Art Schuster Richland College

James Smiser Collin College

Andrew Stribling University of Texas at Arlington

Matthew Sutton Collin College

Sarah Vint Oklahoma State University

Jake Walnick Curry College

Cody Walsh University of North Texas/ Honors Program

Annual Cap and Gown CeremonyOn May 15, 2009, Fairhill seniors, family members, and upper school students attended the annual cap and gown ceremony. This is a Fairhill tradition in which seniors receive their graduation cap and gown in a personalized, poignant ceremony. Upper school teachers and senior class sponsors, Lissa Dallas and Jennifer Allen, along with Head of the Upper School, Melinda Cameron, read letters to each student from their parents. After the letters were read, seniors received their gowns and were presented with caps from senior buddies they mentored throughout the year. Honor cords were presented to those students achieving high honors in art, theater, Spanish, and overall academics. To end the ceremony, Mrs. Cameron announced this year’s salutatorian, Sarah Vint, and valedictorian, Michael Alford.

Fairhill Senior Class of 2009

Blake Perini received an honor cord from Ms. Deni Kington for his hours of participation in drama. Blake is a member of the International Thespian Society.

Fairhill Class of 2009 Valedictorian Michael Alford and Salutatorian Sarah Vint

Eileen Lee and Christiana Cary are all smiles after Christiana presented Eileen’s graduation cap.

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Climbing to Record Heights in 2008-2009!We are grateful to announce that the Fairhill Annual Fund Drive has reached a new record of $105,000.00. Your generous donations enable Fairhill to fulfill its mission of providing an affordable yet stellar education to our bright students with learning differences. The students, faculty, staff, and parents of Fairhill want everyone to know how thankful we are for your tremendous support. Thank You! Sincerely, Cathryn & John St.Wrba, Parent Campaign Chairs Founders Society ($3000 and above)J. W. Bagley FoundationMr. Mark Bagley and

Ms. Kimberly Grant Mr. and Mrs. Donald J. Carter, Jr.Dr. and Mrs. Don CheatumMrs. Bobbie EmbreyMr. and Mrs. Russell FerraroMrs. W. K. Gordon, Jr. W. K. Gordon, Jr. FoundationMr. and Mrs. Kee KimbrellMr. and Mrs. Roy McClurg The Glazer FoundationThe Eugene McDermott Foundation In Honor of Cole RandallThe Ginger Murchison Foundation Ms. Renie RandallMr. and Mrs. Gerald Reihsen

Chairmans Circle ($1000-$2999)

Mr. and Mrs. Jack BrannonMr. Chris Chavez

Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.James Donald Duke Family Partnership, LP The Rick Wieland FamilyMr. and Mrs. Richard GarrettMr. and Mrs. Richard Greco William and Sylvia Zale FoundationMr. and Mrs. Donald Hallum In Honor of David, Vicki, Max and Casey McKinneyMr. and Mrs. Steve LevineDr. and Mrs. Samuel MitzMr. and Mrs. Paul PlunketMr. and Mrs. Robert PryorMr. and Mrs. Bill SickMr. and Mrs. John St. WrbaMr. and Mrs. Evan StoneMr. and Mrs. Art TiseoMr. and Mrs. Robert Vint

Falcon Club ($500-$999)Mr. and Mrs. Thomas AlfordMr. John Bannon and

Ms. Sandy Means-Bannon Mr. and Mrs. Kevin BerkemeierMr. and Mrs. E. Paul BighamMr. and Mrs. Paul BoyntonMr. and Mrs. Mark J. Brannon, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. John DziminskiMs. Lena Flores and Ms. Christie Congleton Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Kevin FoxMr. and Mrs. David GrayMr. and Mrs. Stephen Marshall In Honor of Megan Marshall

Mr. and Mrs. Mark McKeehanMr. and Mrs. Tim NorrisMr. and Mrs. Terry Olson

In Honor of Keaton OlsonMr. and Mrs. Anthony PecorariMr. and Mrs. William PeirsonMr. and Mrs. Mike ReichensteinMr. Bill Bell and Ms. Jane Sego Mr. Steven Spradlin and

Ms. Rebecca GuthrieMr. and Mrs. Kent Stone

In Honor of Harrison and Bailey Stone

Ms. Kim TimpaIn Honor of Gail Berkemeier

Mr. and Mrs. Donald UpdegraffMr. and Mrs. Tim Whisler

Sustaining Member ($300-$499)Mr. and Mrs. John Cartwright

In Honor of John R. ThomasMs. Linda F. Caruth

In Honor of Sean and Clifford Caruth

Mr. Anthony J. Flesch, Jr.In Honor of Emily Schneider

Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie FreeMs. Shelly K. HarperMs. Stephani Hopper

In Honor of Jewel HopperMr. and Mrs. David HughesDr. and Mrs. Jerry HuttonMr. and Mrs. Dick Jack

In Honor of Kirsti JackMr. and Mrs. H. Glenn RobertsonMr. and Mrs. Frank Sauer Mr. and Mrs. Jason StrongDr. and Mrs. Terry ThamesMr. and Mrs. Richard TroesserMr. and Mrs. Jerry Vanceil

In Honor of Jerry Don Vanceil

Friend of Fairhill (Up to $299)Mr. and Mrs. Brantley Allen

In Memory of Linda StewartMr. and Mrs. Charles AmbroseMr. and Mrs. Arthur Anderson

In Honor of John AndersonMr. and Mrs. Bradley BaduraMr. and Mrs. Vernon Bailey

In Honor of Nelka Bailey Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bardwell

In Memory of Linda StewartMr. and Mrs. Willam K. BarnardMs. Winnie Beck

In Memory of James M. BeckMrs. Mildred Bellows

In Honor of Trevor MalloyMr. and Mrs. Greg BlackMs. Krista BomarMr. and Mrs. John Brewer

Mr. and Mrs. William BronsonMr. and Mrs. Val Buckmiller

In Honor of Ezra StoneMr. and Mrs. Randy BurrowMr. and Mrs. Lee BurtonMr. and Mrs. Richard Carrell

In Memory of Linda StewartMr. and Mrs. Dan Carson

In Honor of Alec ReihsenMr. Joseph Champ and

Ms. Polly Holyoke-ChampMs. Sheau-Chin Chang

In Honor of Zachary GrubbsMrs. Harriet Ching

In Honor of Caitlyn ChingMr. and Mrs. John Clark

In Honor of Kristi ClarkMs. Winifred L. Clayton

In Honor of Tim CheatumMr. and Mrs. Robert CollinsMr. and Mrs. Kirk Dallas

In Honor of Kay WendellDr. and Mrs. Allan Disraeli

In Honor of Ari and Alexa Disraeli

Dr. and Mrs. Phillip H. DisraeliMr. and Mrs. Arden DouceMr. and Mrs. Melchior EloutMr. and Mrs. Mart FinnellMr. and Mrs. Michael FischerMr. and Mrs. Glenn FitzMs. Belva Fox

In Honor of Bradley FoxMr. and Mrs. Jim D. FraleyMs. Meg French

In Honor of Hunter StokesMr. and Mrs. Terry GibbonsMs. Fonda Glazer

In Honor of Jeremy McClurgMs. Patricia Gorman

In Honor of Katie GormanMr. and Mrs. Steve GumbertMr. and Mrs. Thomas HanftMr. and Mrs. Robert Hatfield

In Memory of Robert J. HatfieldMr. and Mrs. Eric HawkMr. and Mrs. Glenn HennigMr. and Mrs. Billy HensleyMr. and Mrs. Christopher Hill

In Memory of Linda StewartMr. and Mrs. Robert HiltsDr. and Mrs. Wayne HoffmanMr. and Mrs. Kenneth HoodMr. and Mrs. Ben HuangMr. and Mrs. Ward HughesMr. and Mrs. Richard JackMr. and Mrs. Oliver Jensen

Holiday Gift for Ryan FischerMrs. Cheryl JonesDr. and Mrs. Richard Jones

In Honor of Lindsay WilliamsMr. and Mrs. George Kilpatrick

In Honor of Brandon BoersenMr. and Mrs. Brian KyddMr. and Mrs. Neil LangeMr. and Mrs. Matthew LathamMr. and Mrs. Dennis Lencioni

Mr. and Mrs. William LootsMr. and Mrs. Michael Lovell

In Honor of Ross LovellMr. and Mrs. Gregory LowryMr. and Mrs. Rick LynchMr. and Mrs. Paul MartinezMr. and Mrs. Greg McCandlessMr. and Mrs. James McCoy

In Honor of Grace McCoyMr. and Mrs. Ray McDonaldMr. and Mrs. Randy McElroyMr. and Mrs. C. W. McKeehan

In Honor of Molly McKeehanDr.’s Tony and Mary McRaeMs. Leigh MillerDr. and Mrs. Mark Mlcak

In Memory of Linda StewartMr. and Mrs. Keith NeifachMr. and Mrs. Scott NorbyMr. Jerry Olivarez and

Ms. Nancy Brenner Mr. and Mrs. W. L. PendergrassMs. Jeanann PirtleMr. and Mrs. John PowersMs. Lisa Proffer and

Mr. David Norris Mr. and Mrs. William Reed

In Memory of Lydia’s PoppyMr. and Mrs. Gerald J. ReihsenDr. and Mrs. Michael R. RosenthalMr. and Mrs. William R. RussellSy Saffran & Associates, Inc.

In Honor of Max Sedacca Mr. and Mrs. Rob SanchezMr. and Mrs. Alan SandgartenMs. Emilie Schmalzreid

In Honor of Keaton OlsonMr. and Mrs. Brad SewellMs. Jane ShoresDr. and Mrs. Jeffrey SiegelMr. and Mrs. James SimsMs. Bobbie Strong

In Honor of Hayden StrongMrs. Mary Louise Teasdale

In Honor of Erica and Bryce Dallas

Mr. and Mrs. Robert ThomasIn Honor of John Robert Thomas

Ms. Katherine TinklerIn Honor of Christina Tinkler and Kim Mlcak

Mr. Jimmy TinsleyMr. and Mrs. J. P. Tlapek Mr. and Mrs. Paul WalnickMr. and Mrs. Timothy Whisler

Birthday Gift to Honor Ellen Whisler

Mr. and Mrs. Bill WilloughbyIn Memory of Linda Stewart

Dr. and Mrs. John WillsIn Memory of Linda Stewart

Ms. Cynthia WittenburgMr. and Mrs. David WoodMs. Tish Woodruff

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Auction UnderwritersMr. John Bannon and

Ms. Sandi Means-BannonMr. and Mrs. Kenneth BartleyMr. and Mrs. Paul BoyntonMr. David HarperMr. and Mrs. Kee KimbrellMr. Ken and Dr. Anna NguyenMs. Jeanann PirtleMs. Emilie SchamalzriedDr. Jeffrey SiegelSt. Jude Medical Neuromodulation Division and Mr. Chris Chavez

Elite 1st ClassDr. and Mrs. Don CheatumMs. Christie Congleton and Ms. Lena FloresMr. and Mrs. Russell FerraroWilliam K. Gordon, III Ph.D. Mr. and Mrs. Roy McClurgPlano Endodontics and Dr. Kimberly HoltMr. and Mrs. Gerald Reihsen

1st Class

Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Hutton

Business ClassMr. and Mrs. Tom AlfordMr. Bill Bell and Ms. Jane SegoMs. Ann MinnisMr. and Mrs. Antonio PecorariMr. and Mrs. Paul PlunketMr. and Mrs. John St. WrbaMr. and Mrs. Jason StrongMr. Doug and Dr. Connie Wilson

Auction Donors1st Grade Class2nd Grade Class3rd Grade Class4th Grade Class5th Grade Class6th Grade Class6th Grade Class7th Grade Class8th Grade Class9th Grade Class10th Grade Class11th Grade Class12th Grade ClassAcademic OutfittersMr. Andrew AlexanderMr. and Mrs. Brantley AllenAmerica’s Ice GardenAMF Richardson LanesAngels and ThingsAtHome AmericaMr. and Mrs. Rick BaldelliMr. John Bannon and Mrs. Sandi Means BannonMr. and Mrs. William BarnardMr. and Mrs. Kenneth BartleyBehringerHarvardMrs. Mildred BellowsBentley’s Art & FrameMr. and Mrs. Kevin BerkemeierMs. Krista BomarMs. Karen BoozerMr. and Mrs. Paul BoyntonMr. and Mrs. Jack BrannonMr. and Mrs. Tim BrewtonBrookhaven Country Club

Mr. and Mrs. Chris BurnsCafé PacificMr. and Mrs. Terry CameronCaptivating Images Portrait StudioMr. Joseph Champ and Ms. Polly HolyokeDr. Richard J. ChapmanDr. and Mrs. Don CheatumMr. and Mrs. Joey CarterDr. Richard ChapmanMs. Tracy Cobb Cracker BarrelMr. and Mrs. Kirk DallasDallas Children’s TheaterDallas StarsDallas SymphonyDallas ZooMr. and Mrs. David DendyMr. Eddie DeenEdward Lozano PhotographyEmbassy Suites HotelFairhill Parent CouncilMr. and Mrs. Russell FerraroMr. and Mrs. Mart FinnellMr. and Mrs. Grady FirminMr. and Mrs. Glenn Fitz Ms. Judy Flippin and Ms. Mary KeetonMs. Shelly Fort and Gold WorksMr. and Mrs. Kevin FoxFort Worth Museum of Science and HistoryFort Worth ZooFour Seasons Hotel & ResortFriends of FairhillGaido’s of GalvestonMs. Diane GibsonMr. David HarperMr. and Mrs. Eric HawkMr. and Mrs. Billy HensleyHerbert Goldberg & Co.Mr. and Mrs. Rob HiltsMr. and Mrs. Gwynn HodgesMrs. Robin HodgesDr. and Mrs. Wayne HoffmanMr. and Mrs. Ken HoodMs. Stephani HopperImprov Comedy ClubMr. Raymond Jackson and Dr. Vennecia JacksonJennifer Cary Design, Inc.Ms. Sarah KadeyMr. and Mrs. Kee KimbrellMs. Deni KingtonMr. and Mrs. William KruegerMr. and Mrs. Brian KyddL’AncestralL’Unique JewelryLa Hacienda RanchMr. and Mrs. Matthew LathamLearning RxMs. Theresa LeatherwoodMr. and Mrs. Steve LevineMr. and Mrs. Jim LewisMr. and Mrs. William LootsLos Rios Country ClubMr. and Mrs. Michael LovellMaggiano’s Little Italy RestaurantMalibu SpeedzoneMr. and Mrs. Stephen MarshallMr. and Mrs. Paul MartinezMr. and Mrs. Greg McCandlessMr. and Mrs. Roy McClurgDr. Todd McConnell

Mr. and Mrs. Ray McDonaldMr. and Mrs. Randy McElroyMr. and Mrs. Randy McLaughlinMr. Andrew MeadowsMr. Wade MercerMr. and Mrs. Chuck MixDr. and Mrs. Mark MlcakMosquitoNixMr. and Mrs. Richard MurphyNate’s Seafood and SteakhouseMr. Ken Nguyen and Dr. Anna TranMr. and Mrs. Joe NovotnyOakridge Country ClubMr. and Mrs. Jerry OlivarezPacuigo Italian Gelato & Cafe`Mr. and Mrs. Antonio PecorariPerini RanchPetals and StemsMs. Elizabeth PhiferMs. Jeanann PirtlePlano Super BowlPolly DuPontMrs. Jo PreesPrestonwood Country ClubMr. and Mrs. Bob PryorRainforest CaféMs. Renie RandallMr. & Mrs. Mike ReichensteinMr. & Mrs. Gerry ReihsenMr. Joshua Jones & Ms. Karen RobertsonSam’s Burger HouseMrs. Karen SanchezMr. and Mrs. Frank SauerScapes, Inc.Ms. Emily SchalzriedScholastic Book CompanyMr. and Mrs. James SchusterMr. and Mrs. Brad SewellMs. Jane ShoresDr. Jeffrey SiegelMr. and Mrs. Jim SimsSix Flags Over TexasSmiley’s StudioMr. and Mrs. James SmithSouthwest Rodeo, LPSt. Jude Medical Neuromodulation DivisionMr. and Mrs. David StanfordMrs. Marlene SternStonebridge Country ClubMr. and Mrs. Jeffrey TaylorTexas Rangers BaseballThe Original Pancake HouseThe Portrait PhotographerThe Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy PlazaThe Tribute Golf CourseThe Wellness InstituteThe Westin Stonebriar ResortMr. and Mrs. Jim ThomasTony’s Wine Warehouse Twin Creeks Golf ClubUniquely YoursMr. and Mrs. Don UpdegraffMr. Ken UtzMr. and Mrs. Jerry VancielMr. and Mrs. Robert VintMs. Carol WalkerMr. and Mrs. Bill WilloughbyMr. and Mrs. Paul WalnickMr. and Mrs. John WalshMr. and Mrs. Arlan WittWoodbridge Golf ClubMr. and Mrs. David WoodWrite Selection

Golf DonorsPlatinum SponsorsMr. Collin Gibson

Golf SponsorsBehringerHarvardPhifer and Colvin, LLPMr. and Mrs. Kee Kimbrell Adrian and ReisMr. Russell Ferraro Alec FerraroMr. and Mrs. Bob Pryor

Stephen Pryor

Silver SponsorsCreekwood Properties Mr. Neil LangeTwo Brothers Cigars Mr. and Mrs. Rick Baldelli Ryan Baldelli

Student/Teacher SponsorsMr. John Bannon and Ms. Sandi Means-BannonMr. Raymond and Dr. Vennecia JacksonMr. and Mrs. Evan Stone

Hole SponsorsBehringerHarvardCarse Law FirmMr. Collin GibsonCreekwood PropertiesThe Ferraro FamilyThe Kimbrell FamilyMr. and Mrs. Ronnie MastersMalibu Pool ServiceThe McCandless FamilyThe Nguyen FamilyPhifer and Colvin, LLPThe Plunket FamilyThe Pryor FamilyTwo Brothers Cigars

DonorsCanyon Creek Country ClubMr. and Mrs. Steve CosgroveEdwin Watts Golf Learning CenterEmbroidMe Mr. and Mrs. Mike LovellFirewheel Golf ClubHide-A-Away Golf ClubMr. David HowardMr. and Mrs. Jerry Jacobs Chris JacobsMs. Jennifer Keene-MooreMrs. Jennifer MartinezMr. and Mrs. Terry Olson Keaten OlsonMs. Elizabeth Phifer Elena PhiferPrestonwood Country ClubSaturn of North Texas James and Jana SmithRobbie Schacter PhotographyStitchin’ Chicks Penny McClurgStonebridge Ranch Country ClubTaco BuenoTwo Brothers CigarsTwin Creeks Golf ClubMr. and Mrs. Kevin Vivian Kelly VivianWorld Wide Sign Guys

Gala/Auction and Golf Tournament Sponsors

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Daniel Harper, Kyle Brannon and Art Schuster celebrated after reaching the overlook at the Continental Divide in Costa Rica.

Students on the Costa Rica trip were ready for a nature walk and to visit the Aztec burial grounds in the Sarapiqui region.

Matthew Swanson, Isaiah Williams, Alexa Disraeli, Adam Neifach, Tina Vint, and Erica Dallas

Educational TravelsPura vida! This Is Living! Fairhill 10th-12th graders, along with Mrs. Cameron, Mrs. Dallas, Mr. Wiemann, and Mr. Mercer, visited Costa Rica on a science based trip focused on observing tropical wildlife and studying volcanic activity and environmental matters. The students traveled extensively across this Central American nation from the capital city of San Jose in the Central Valley to the eastern rainforests of the Sarapiqui River basin, to the active volcano area of Arenal, and to the western cloud forests of the mountainous region of Monteverde. Popular events included: white water rafting, bird watching, tracking bat activities, visiting a butterfly and snake farm, studying native dancing and cooking, hiking along the edge of a volcano and to the top of the Continental Divide, zip lining through the clouds and tree canopies, shopping in local markets, and, of course, practicing the Spanish language. Even though the travel literature calls late winter and early spring, the “dry season” in Costa Rica, the

group found that their emergency rain ponchos were a daily necessity. However, the wet weather could not dampen the spirit or the fun of the hands-on learning experience the expedition provided. An added bonus from this trip is that students who completed additional online coursework received a full year of high school science credit. A fascinating experience in a tropical paradise with a year’s credit for the course work – what more could you ask for? As the Costa Ricans would cheerfully exclaim, “Pura vida!”

STUCO LEAD Conference Members of the Fairhill Student Council attended the National Association of Student Council’s LEAD Conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee, March 27 – 29. (LEAD) Leadership Experience and Development conference offers national-level leadership training in areas such as team building, fundraising, and community service projects. Students attending were: Erica Dallas, Alexa Disraeli, Adam Neifach, Matthew Swanson, Tina Vint , and Isaiah Williams led by Student Council advisors Karen Boozer and Lissa Dallas.

The group participated in officer training and small workshops. Students were moved by the messages delivered by the Keynote speakers at the conference, Chad Hymas and Scott Greenburg. Hymas, now a paraplegic, captivated the students with his gripping tale of hope following a tragic accident where he found himself pinned under a 1,000 pound bail of hay. They hope to raise funds to bring him to Fairhill. Swanson said that Hymas taught him to “never let insecurity get in [his] way of personal growth.” Williams shared how Greenburg encouraged him to “never listen to his inner heckler.” Other students shared lessons on

organizing the council more efficiently and the importance of working together as a team. Disraeli said through the officer training she learned “to get out of [her] comfort zone to be a good leader.” Students shared their reflections from the trip through a PowerPoint presentation delivered at a council meeting following their return.

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Digging for artifactsFairhill’s fifth and sixth graders look forward all year to their off-campus learning experience at the Outdoor School of Texas, located near Marble Falls. Teamwork and nature studies are the focus of the three day event. Students learn cooperation skills as they work in teams studying animal habitats and habits as well as conservation techniques.

Fifth graders Jack Thurman and Andrew Ingram were digging for artifacts from the 1800’s in the “Diggin’ History” class at the Outdoor School.

8th and 9th Graders Explore Washington, D.C.Fairhill eighth and ninth graders enjoyed the many historical sights and sounds of the Washington, D.C. area in a planned five-day American History learning excursion. A few stops on their busy schedule included tours of the U.S. Capitol building arranged by Representative Pete Sessions, the Smithsonian complex, war memorials, presidential memorials, and Arlington National Cemetery. The group traveled outside D.C. to tour Monticello, the University of Virginia and Mt. Vernon.

Texas Road TripEach spring seventh graders participate in the Texas Road Trip to Austin and San Antonio. A visit to the Capitol building is the highlight of a day spent in Austin. San Antonio provides the perfect setting for an in-depth study as students explore everything from the Spanish Mission Trail to Sea World. The natural history and geography of Texas are also highlighted in various activities.

In a “behind the scenes” tour at Sea World in San Antonio, seventh graders learned about sea life and enjoyed feeding the dolphins.

Seventh graders stopped for a photo

op on the steps of the state capital

building in Austin. Students toured

the capital building and grounds on the

Texas Road Trip.

8th and 9th graders toured the Capitol as guests of Texas Representative Pete Sessions.

Kendall Wolf, Brett Barnard, Stephanie Sims and Alexa Disraeli were selected to participate in the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

Sixth grader Chris Flores successfully completed the High Ropes course.

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End-of-the-year Sports Action

Top: Coach Bill Pearson presented Intramural Tennis Awards to the following: Travis Olivarez, Alec Ferraro, James Black, Elizabeth Spradlin, Taylor Fitz, Alexis Levine, John Thomas, Amber Yen, Andrew Bitterman, John Boynton, Alec Reihsen, Nicholas Whisler, Cole McCandless, and Anna Dabrowski.

Top: Senior Elena Phifer’s skills helped the Fairhill Girl’s Tennis win 3rd place in TAPPS District 2A.

Left: James Smiser was selected Most Valuable Player of the Fairhill Boy’s Tennis Team. Coach Joanna Hamilton presented IAA Basketball Awards to

Taylor Fitz, Daniela Garza, Nicole Wilson, Rickie Huang, Alexis Levine, Molly McKeehan and Elizabeth Spradlin

After enjoying a hamburger cookout with athletes and their families Coach Tom Wiemann and Coach Bill Pearson presented Intramural Soccer awards to Alyssa Lowry, Elizabeth Spradlin, Daniela Garza, Hunter Stokes, and Nicholas Whisler.

Eileen Lee and James Smiser were honored at the Fairhill Sports Banquet with the Falcon Awards. Eileen and James are pictured with their coaches, Bill Pearson, Matt Adams. Roy McClurg, Joanna Hamilton, Mayian Corioso and Tom Wiemann.

Varsity TennisBoy’s Team, 1st Place TAPPS District 2 2AJames Smiser and Ari Disraeli, District 2 Champs and State Quarter-finalistHunter Harty and Owen Harry, District 2 Runner-upJames Smiser, Most Valuable PlayerAri Disraeli, Most Improved Player

Girl’s Team, 3rd Place TAPPS District 2 2AAlissa Best and Tina Vint, District 2 Runner-up, State Semi-finalistAlissa Best, Most Valuable PlayerEileen Lee, Most Improved Player

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The Falcon Baseball team celebrated at the Falcon Sports Banquet.

From left: Coach Brad Stribling, Austen Kennedy, Ryan McAtee, Zach Masters, Conner Wood, Cory Free, John Anderson, Caleb McCandless, Andrew Stribling, Coach Denver Bowden, Coach Mayian Corioso, and James Smiser.

IAA Track Meet at Loos Studium

Trent Edmonds races to the finish line.

Andrew Stribling is in position to hit another long one for Fairhill!

John Anderson is ready to make a run!

Collin Gibson won First Place District, Second Place Regional and 2-A State Championship. Congratulations Collin!

Boy’s Team District 2 ChampionshipThe Fairhill Golf team had a great season. Fairhill boys were District Champions and placed 5th at the regional tournament.

Boy’s Team: Ryan Baldelli, Collin Gibson, Nicholas Gierczak, Tyler Pruitt, Kelly Vivian, and Conner Wood.Girl’s Team: Erica Dallas and Stephanie Sims

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Fairhill Drama and Musicals

Jerry Don Vanciel and Hayden Strong joined Alyssa Tinsley, Keaten Olson, Meagan Kennedy, Jessie Champ and Hannah Howard performing “My School.”

Fairhill the Musical The Fairhill Singers and 1st – 6th grade chorus combined to present “Fairhill the Musical.” Many songs were presented including “Fairhill Family,” “Fifty Ways to Loose Your Homework,” and “I Hate the Dictionary.” Opening the performance was the award winning Fairhill Percussion Ensemble that has been organized and directed by Lynn Firmin. The group received a division one rating at the Sandy Lake Instrumental Festival in April.

Kaden Collins and Ali Stevens joined in

the choral group for the Lower School

performance, “Fairhill the Musical.”

Ross Lovell and Alissa Best entertained the crowd with a fabulous number from the Tony Award winning musical, “Wicked.”

Trey Reichenstein rocks out during the musical number,

“All for One.”

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Back to the EisemannFairhill Acting Troupe continued its run at the Eisemann Center for the Performing Arts with a lively evening of comedic pieces. Senior directed shows included “Philadelphia,” directed by Blake Perini, “Cheeseshop,” directed by Alissa Best and “Raincheck,” directed by Andrew Stribling. Closing the presentation was “Spamlet,” a hilarious adaptation of “Hamlet” and “Mmmbeth,” a spoof of “Macbeth.”

International Thespian Society Induction Eleven new members were inducted into the Fairhill Chapter of the International Thespian Society on May 7th. The new members are Taylor Proffer, Daniel Harper, Alex Sauer, Stephanie Sims, Catherine Dabrowski, Chris Krueger, Ross Lovell, Anne Lightner, Caleb McCandless, Torie Shelton, and James Smiser. The seniors were honored with a PowerPoint presentation and Andrew Stribling, Blake Perini, Alissa Best and Art Schuster received honor chords, each having completed at least 600 hours of service to the drama department.

James Smiser performs the death defying move on Andrew Stribling during the hilarious one act “Mmmbeth” at the Eisemann.

Alissa Best presents Catherine Dabrowski with her International Thespian Society pin.

International Thespian Society: Catherine Dabrowski, Alissa Best, Alex Sauer, Anne Lightner, Torie Shelton, Ross Lovell, James Smiser, Caleb McCandless, Blake Perini, Matt Speer, Taylor Proffer, Daniel Harper, Andrew Stribling, Chris Krueger, Greg Loots, and Art Schuster.

Gifts to FairhillDads’ Family Cookout SponsorsTom Alford Matthew Latham Rick Baldelli Paul PlunkettEdmund Dabrowski Mike RichensteinRussell Ferraro Jerry Vanciel

Gifts In KindDr. & Mrs. Don Cheatum Dr. Pepper Bottling Company of Texas Mr. William K. Gordon III, PH.D.Mrs. Vickie McCandlessRon Jon Publishing Mr. & Mrs. David Sipp World Wide Sign Guys Mr. & Mrs. Greg McCandless

In Memory Linda StewartMr. and Mrs. Gerald Reihsen

Library GiftsMichael Alford Andre PecorariAlissa Best Elena PhiferCatherine Dabrowski Ryan RafieErica Dallas Ben RevellMickey Earsing Michael RosenthalRyan Jones Kendall SargentChris Krueger Art SchusterEileen Lee Matthew SuttonGreg Loots Devon TaylorAnnie McRae Sarah VintElijah Norman Isaiah Williams

Technology FundFairhill Parent Council9th Annual Fairhill Golf ClassicPassport to Europe Gala/AuctionThe Westerman Foundation

Significant GiftsAnnual Fund $105,000.00Fairhill Golf Tournament & Gala/Auction $72,000.00Fairhill Parent Council $23,000.00Glazer Foundation/Roy & Penny McClurg $12,000.00Westerman Foundation $5,000.00

Parent Council ReportCash forward $2,953.00Dues 344.00T-Shirts 1, 508.00School Supplies 4,640.00Rebates 6,500.00Magazines 4,900.00Lunch Program 1,860.00Dad’s Cookout 446.00Booster Club 1,990.00Homeroom Account 1,750.00Total $26,891.00

Parent Council Gifts to SchoolAim for Success $990.00Library Books $1,000.00Hospitality $500.00Technology $23,000.00

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From left: Kaden Collins, Christiana Carey, art teacher Betty Sue Finnell, Hayden Strong and Preston Cramer.

Plano Profile Kid Art Contest Plano Profile recently sponsored an art contest for children ages 3 – 10. Several Fairhill students entered the contest. Second grader Hayden Strong won Honorable Mention for his very creative oil pastel tiger painting.

Alissa Best and Brandon Boersen enjoyed working together on a “Senior Buddy” art project.

Earth Day CElEbration anD DaDs’ Cookout Tom Alford, Michael’s dad, led his team of chefs through a day of rain to prepare a great cookout for students and their families. The rain did not dampen the family fun! Mr. Alford whose son Michael graduated this year has chaired the cookout for several years.

On Earth Day Mitchell Hawk won first place for his creation of a litter bug using recycled materials.

Fairhill ChEEr tEam The Cheer team will be attending Camp through NCA (National Cheerleader Association) at SMU July 28th-July 30th.The Team is made up of Stephanie Sims, Catherine Dabrowski, Erica Dallas, Megan Marshall, Mary Falkenberg, Kirsti Jack, Devon Taylor, Sarah Thames, and Rickie Huang. Sam Wieland will serve as Mascot.

Fairhill Budding Artists

PoetryDuring the poetry unit fourth grade students were asked to write a limerick about a dragon. All of the students entered their poems into the Creative Communication Poetry Contest. The following students’ poems were selected to be published and are finalists in the contest: Lauren Badura, Anna Brigmon, Christian Hensley, Lydia Reed, Isabella Serrano and Jamie Timpa. Congratulations fourth graders!

Upper School students also entered their poems in the contest. The following students will have their work published: Max Beannon, Catherine Dabrowski, Sabah Dhanani, Anne Lightner, Megan Marshall, and Torie Shelton.

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Fairhill ChEEr tEam The Cheer team will be attending Camp through NCA (National Cheerleader Association) at SMU July 28th-July 30th.The Team is made up of Stephanie Sims, Catherine Dabrowski, Erica Dallas, Megan Marshall, Mary Falkenberg, Kirsti Jack, Devon Taylor, Sarah Thames, and Rickie Huang. Sam Wieland will serve as Mascot.

Former FalconsKevin Campbell, Class of 1999, completed his Master’s degree in teaching in 2007. He is moving to Shanghai, China to teach Studio Arts and Digital Animation.

Brandon Bonicard, Class of 2003, graduated in 2007 from the University of North Texas with a degree in General Studies. He is working for DeVry University in Irving, Texas as Community Outreach Representative. Brandon plans on campus and off site events as well as promoting DeVry at high schools, conferences, and seminars.

Nick Cera, Class of 2003, completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography at the University of Kansas in 2007. He is in his second year of the master’s program in Applied Geography at Texas State University.

Bryce Dallas, Class of 2003, graduated in December with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in visual arts with concentrations in sculpture and painting. He lives in Dallas and is employed by Woodward Skate Parks, working at the location at Grapevine Mills Mall and doing graphic designs for them.

Mary Macaluso, Class of 2003, graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Family Studies from Texas Women’s University in 2007. She is currently living in San Francisco pursuing a master’s degree at San Francisco State University in Public Administration emphasizing Public Health. Mary is working at the San Francisco Department of Public Health doing disaster planning/emergency preparedness for the hospitals and healthcare providers in the city. Mary stated that this past year had been an incredible learning experience and a great start to what she feels will be a long career in Public Health.

Christina McDonald, Class of 2003, graduated Magna Cum Laude from St. Edwards’s University in Austin,Texas with a degree in Communication with an emphasis on Communication in Culture. She is working at an accounting firm as an administrative assistant and looks forward to pursuing a career in school administration.

Steve Sobkowiak, Class of 2003, graduated from the University of Tulsa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and a minor in Marketing with emphasis in advertising and public relations. He is currently working in sales and marketing at Dave’s Claremore RV. Steve recently married and he and his wife, Stephanie are living in Tulsa.

Michael Alford, Sarah Vint and Matthew Sutton received Physics Awards from Mr. Wade Mercer.

Mrs. Jennifer Allen presented English Awards to Stephen Pryor, Andrew Stribling, Jake Walnick, Art Schuster, Torie Shelton and Ross Lovell.

Our next Literary and Science Scholars

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An Excellent Year! The Fairhill BandThe Fairhill Band had an excellent year! With the first year of a dedicated Upper School Band Class, the students were able to play at school basketball games, Mom’s and Dad’s Visiting Days, regular school concerts, and other activities. Members of the Upper School performed for the Vanguard School Dinner and Auction.

The Beginning and Concert Bands worked hard to learn difficult music from “Pirates of the Caribbean” to “25 or 6 to 4” for older band members and “Surfin’ USA” to “Star Wars” for the first year band. In addition to all the performances at school, members of the Fairhill Band performed at the American Airlines Center during Dallas Stars Hockey Games, and even had an appearance on regional sports network FSN Southwest! A large contingent of parents and band members attended the Band Ski Trip to Winter Park, Colorado. The band performed at the base of the mountain, visited Capulin Volcano, and enjoyed skiing and snowboarding.

Many Fairhill Band members will continue their music activities at Band Camp at Lake Murray in Oklahoma. Campers will study new music, play in jazz bands, and take additional instrument master classes. Jazz Combo: Matthew Swanson, Greg Loots, Matt Speer, and Stephen Pryor

TAPPS State Art Results 2009Taylor Proffer 1st Place Digitally Manipulated Photography

Michael Alford 3rd Place Digitally Manipulated Photography

Alexa Disraeli 1st Place Seek and Sketch

Alexa Disraeli Honorable Mention State On-Site Drawing

Sarah Vint Honorable Mention Seek and Sketch

Madalyn Coon 6th Place On-Site Photography

Mrs. Jo Prees and yearbook staff 2nd Place in State

Mrs. Betty Sue Finnell presented awards to members of the National Art Honor Society at a banquet at Maggiano’s Little Italy in Plano. The following members and their families attended: Sarah Vint, Cody Walsh, Tyler Pruitt, Jake Walnick, Preston Sokol, Bennett Updegraff, John Anderson, Trent Galvis, Megan Marshall, Erica Dallas, Alexa Disraeli, Matthew Sutton, Michael Rosenthal, Michael Alford, Madalyn Coon, Adam Neifach, and Elena Phifer.

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16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248

FAIRHILL SCHOOL AND DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT CENTER

MISSION STATEMENT

Fairhill is dedicated to providing the best possible education to learning different students,

emphasizing each student’s unique pattern of information acquisition, processing, and expression. To accomplish this, Fairhill focuses upon academic,

social, and emotional developmemt. Fairhill guides its students in “learning to learn.”

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

W. L. Pendergrass, Jr., Chair Tom Carse, Vice-Chair

W. K. Gordon III, Ph.D., Secretary William K. Barnard, Treasurer

John M. Gala Leslie Zale Greco

Jerry B. Hutton, Ph.D. Carol Young Marvin

Ann Minnis Jane Sego

Jeffrey Siegel, Ph.D. Thomas C. Thompson Connie Wilson, Ph.D.

ADMINISTRATION

Jane Sego, Executive Director

Carla Stanford, Assistant Director & Head of Lower School

Melinda Cameron, Head of Upper School

Ruth Willoughby, Director of Development & Public Relations

William K. Gordon III, Ph.D., Director of Psychological Services &

Director, Diagnostic Assessment Center

Tom Wiemann, Athletic Director

Cricket Burton, Business Manager

16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248 Phone 972.233.1026 | Fax 972.233.8205

www.fairhill.org

JamletoOver 40 students from the Spanish II, III, and IV classes participated in Jamleto, an original adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The performance was entirely in Spanish with an accompanying PowerPoint in English to help the audience, comprised of parents, staff, and Upper School students, follow along as the forlorn Prince Jamleto, played by Ben Revell, experienced familial strife. The action followed Jamleto from his romantic complications with Ofelia, played by Alissa Best, to unraveling the mysterious death of his father, El Fantamsa de Jamleto I, played by Caleb McCandless, to seeking revenge on his evil Uncle Claudio, played by Blake Perini, and his scheming mother Gertrudis, played by Sarah Vint. Although technically a tragedy since after a fencing match that goes terribly wrong, the entire royal family is left dead at the end of the play, lighthearted performances from the five Chinese servants, seven gravediggers, and three priests, kept things more in the vein of a comedy than a tragedy. Just when all seemed lost for Spain, Prince Fortinbraus of Portugal, played by Kyle Brannon arrived to save the day. The entire peninsula united under Fortinbraus’ rule and formed the new nation of Ibérica.

Jameleto (Ben Revell) and Horacio (James Smiser) hide from Ofelia’s family.

Two of the seven Enterradores (gravediggers), Feliz (Mickey Earsing) and Tonta (Tori Murphy) discuss preparation for Ofelia’s funeral.

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A FRIENDLY REMINDER Former Falcons and Falcon Alumni If you have former student or alumni news to share, please call or email Ruth Willoughby, Director of Development at 972-233-1026 or rwilloughby@fairhill.org.

Free $$$ for Fairhill!!!!Tom Thumb, Albertson’s, Kroger, Target Visa and Central Market offer free $$$ to Fairhill through their customer participation rebate programs.

16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248

FAIRHILL SCHOOL AND DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT CENTER

NON PROFIT US POSTAGE

PAID PLANO, TEXAS

PERMIT NO. 181

Mrs. Krista Bomar, sponsor, looked on as Matthew Sutton expressed surprise over his casino winnings at the Black and White Prom.

Kendall Sargent and Michael Alford, king and queen of the prom, led the presentation dance.

Black & White Prom Celebrations

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