Faculty, Staff, and Volunteers Recognized

On May 3, parents, grandparents, trustees, and friends joined Shore faculty and staff—more than 200 guests in total—to applaud colleagues as they celebrated significant service anniversaries, and Head of School Clair Ward offered a tribute to Upper School Mathematics Department Chair Bruce Wright, who retires in June 2018. Also recognized at the event were outgoing and incoming parent volunteers and Board members.

The evening in the Trustey Family Theatre began with the annual meeting of the Shore Corporation, during which the outgoing Treasurer of the Board of Trustees, Duncan Wilkinson, presented an overview of the school's strong financial position, and nominees to join the Board were unanimously approved. These new trustees include: Steve Boyko P '19, Lauren Crane P '26, Dino Di Palma P '25, Kristin Goedkoop P '20, '22, and Blake Liggio P '29, '29. Also acknowledged for their service to Shore were the following outgoing trustees: Josh Webber P '19, '19, '21, Cynthia Mazareas P '18, Robin Ellis P '21, Libby Mallon P '19, '22, and Anne Ruben P '21.
 
Next, Head of School Clair Ward applauded Ruben again as the outgoing Chair of the Parents Association, and congratulated Dean of Students and sixth grade English teacher Sean Melia on receiving his Masters of Liberal Studies in Creative Writing from Dartmouth College. After acknowledging Shore teaching assistants, Ward praised the valuable contributions of six five-year faculty and staff members: Upper School science teacher Jake Ahern, Lower School S.A.I.L. teacher Shay DeAngelis, fifth grade homeroom teacher Louis Frank, School Counselor Katie Hertz, Innovation Lab Manager Cam McNall, and Buildings and Grounds staff member Matt Thurlow. She then went on to recognize the dedication of individual employees on their 10-, 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, and 35-year anniversaries at Shore.

 

First to be honored was Director of Food Services Scott Flanagan, for his 10 years of service. Ward explained that Flanagan has "one of the most complicated jobs on campus—overseeing the servery that is responsible for feeding 400 children and nearly 100 employees each day." An experienced coach with the Boys Varsity Baseball team as well as a volunteer at the annual United in Service event, "Scott Flanagan plays a crucial role in fostering community," Ward said.

Celebrating 15 years at Shore was Nancy Keaton, Flanagan's close colleague in the Dining Hall. Ward noted, "Nancy has helped to prepare and serve over one million delicious lunches!" A baker who takes every opportunity to connect with children, Keaton demonstrates "kind leadership in action," said Ward. Also marking 15 years was Kindergarten teacher Keisha Myrie. “For those of you familiar with the Measurement Olympics or the annual Rainbow Fish plays,” Ward said, “these are curriculum hallmarks attributed to Keisha. Her mind is keenly focused on what young children need to solidify their learning.” Noting that Myrie also coaches Upper School sports, Ward said, “Keisha sets a calm and principled example for our young women.”

Upper School History Department Chair Gwen Sneeden was another teacher recognized for 15 years of service. “One of Gwen’s greatest attributes is her ability to model,” said Ward. “She sets high standards for students and then tirelessly models how to achieve them. Gwen also models for young people how to find their own strength not only intellectually, but also personally. She is a quiet guide-by-the-side helping everyone (including Heads of School) always do their best.”

With 20 years at Shore, Technology Integration Specialist Jill Codding received praise from the Head of School as a gifted teacher. “In her technology role,” Ward said, “Jill stands eagerly in the shoes of the learner and anticipates everything necessary to get children to a place of understanding. She is known for doing this with adults as well.”

In her 25th year at Shore, math specialist Mardi Lowery is “a math icon for our children,” said Ward. “When children work with Mardi, they know she is rooting for them. … In addition to the technical knowledge of math, Mardi understands the layered technical challenges of learning math.” At the same time, Ward added, Lowery is just as understanding when children need emotional support. “She looks at each and every child through a lens of possibility,” Ward said.

The Head of School also celebrated the 25-year anniversary of Interim Head of Upper School and English teacher Walter Morris. “Each day, Walter lives and teaches the Shore mission,” Ward acknowledged. “While Walter’s favorite place is the classroom, he gave us all the gift of stepping in as interim head this year. As both a leader and a person, Walter is calm, wise and steady. … Known for striking the perfect balance between being the hardest grader and the most nurturing educator, Walter is tireless in his care for both children’s minds and hearts.”

In celebrating Pre-K teacher Beth White’s three decades at Shore, Ward said, “Shore is deeply grateful to you for your 30 years of care and keeping of children. Your energy to embrace new things and continue building relationships is second to none. Thank you for all that you have given and continue to give.” A calm and consistent voice for the youngest Shore children, always knowing exactly what they need to be happy and healthy, White is also known for the support she provides parents, especially in the early days of their child’s school career, Ward said. “Radiating sunshine each day, it is no wonder that people, especially our littlest, gravitate toward her.”

The Head of School next congratulated reading and language arts specialist Rondi Kilham on achieving 35 years of service. “Rondi has a calm and gentle approach that makes each child feel valued. … She is a caretaker as well as a teacher. She has the uncanny ability to sense someone in need; over the years her colleagues recall community service projects and drives to help Shore families and beyond. … Rondi, you are our gift, and Shore is lucky to have you here each day. Thank you for all that you do.”

To conclude the tributes to faculty and staff, Ward recognized Bruce Wright on the occasion of his retirement after 24 years at Shore. “Watching someone do what they love is amazing,” Ward began. “When what you are watching is the inspiration of children, it is pure magic. Watch Bruce Wright speak about unlocking the magic of mathematics for his students and you will see him grin from ear to ear. It is different than a mere smile. This grin is made of a passion for both teaching and learning.”

Quoting Shore’s motto—Suum Quisque Optimum (from each their best)—Ward said, “For each of his 24 years, Bruce has not only been helping children be their best, but doing it by always giving his best. Bruce, you are a Shore icon, a true inspiration. We are grateful for all you have given us and wish you well as you move into your next exciting stage.”

Before inviting guests to the freshly planted learning garden outside the Center for Creativity to enjoy “toasts and treats”—champagne and an assortment of desserts prepared by Shore parent Carol Harlow-Carlson of Treat confections—Ward took a moment to acknowledge a final significant transition as Jenn Borggaard '84 prepares to step down as President of the Board of Trustees in June. “I want to extend a personal thank you to Jenn for bringing me to Shore,” Ward said, “and for supporting our leadership transition with a calm and measured stance. Thank you for your loyalty, your leadership, and your tirelessness in always doing what is right for our school.”