Growing Up Graland I 1

CLASS OF 2014

Growing Up Graland

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GRADUATES CELEBRATED AT COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

Growing Up Graland I 3

Sixty-eight fresh-faced eighth graders enjoyed their last hours as Graland students on Friday, June 6, before their long-awaited graduation ceremony commenced. Girls in white and cream dresses, many wearing colorful shoes, clutched bright bouquets of flowers. Boys in navy blazers with ties or bowties laughed and teased each other. Time and again, they gathered in small groups to pose for photos and selfies. This was a moment to savor.

For 36 families, this was their last Graland graduation; their only or youngest child was poised to move on from our halls. For 39 students, they would be attending a school other than Graland for the first time next year; they’re known as Graland “lifers” who have been here since kindergarten. Again, this was a moment to savor.

The Class of 2014 excelled in many ways during their years at Graland and the pinnacle of their achievement was due. On cue, they confidently walked arm in arm into the Fieldhouse for the big occasion. Inside, family, friends, faculty, staff, trustees and Middle School students proudly watched the procession as music teachers played “Trumpet Voluntary in D-Major.”

The first to formally address the crowd was Board President Christopher Hunt. He advised students to carry forward the Graland Guiding Principles as they transition into high school and continue to be role models for those who will follow them.

“Rely on your character to make good decisions, strive for excellence, and continue to be engaged citizens and thoughtful leaders,” he said.

Following Chris, Head of Middle School Josh Cobb shared a few words with the Class of 2014. He started by noting that they were the first class of fifth graders to attend the restructured Middle School during his first year as head. Josh not only led the Middle School last year, but also taught several eighth graders in film class and joined the Civil Rights trip. His speech referenced the life of Nelson Mandela and spoke to the power of humility.

“Over your time here, I have stressed compassion, gratitude and respect,” Josh said. “Humility is at the root of those qualities. If you are humble, you are open to the world. You listen. You learn. You grow. In contrast, if you are arrogant, you avoid risks and only do the things that will maintain your standing in the eyes of others. If you act only with arrogance, you will be stifled. If you act with humility, you will thrive.”

Next it was the students’ turn to address their peers and event guests. Class co-president Sophia Rase reflected on their shared Graland experiences using the metaphor of a smart phone; although the phone is a lifeline, sometimes you have to go without it.

“Some of us have been responsible for taking care of each other for nine years,” she said. “We are individuals but our grade is a family. We have to realize that as great as we are together, we are going to be okay by ourselves.”

Her counterpart, co-president Matthew Romo-Nichols, spoke next. He shared details about the Grade 8 MESH teachers (math, English, science, history) before thanking each for guiding and educating the class. Finally, he sent his classmates off with a few words of encouragement.

“The Class of 2014 is truly special and one of a kind,” Matthew said. “We embrace one another like we are family. I have grown up with you, and I share tons of memories with you. Whether it’s screaming ‘admonish me’ while playing Knockout, or our time on the Civil Rights trip, we’ve truly come far. After nine years together, depending on the person, we know each other from the inside and out. I’m really going to miss you all from the bottom of my heart. I truly wish the best of luck to the Class of 2014.”

In its final performance, the Grade 8 girls’ choir performed “Turn the Page,” a song written by the singers and alumna Sophie Levine ’11. With music teacher Josh Gaffga at the piano, the song expressed the inevitable and bittersweet goodbyes that would follow later that day. This was another moment to savor.

Head of School Ronni McCaffrey closed the ceremony with a message on “coming of age” milestones such as graduation. She reminded students that they go forth with the love of their families, peers and teachers, something for which they should always be grateful.

“Reflect on what each person has given you, and then take the time to tell each of them individually,” she advised. “Continue to do that for as long as you live.” She concluded with a blessing written by Maya Angelou.

With one last round of applause, members of the Class of 2014 again linked arms to walk proudly into the next stage of their education and their lives. As they leave the familiarity of Graland for new adventures, our hope is that they will use their gifts, talents and tools to live extraordinary lives. Congratulations, graduates!

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View more graduation ceremony photoswww.graland.org/2014GradSlideshow

Take a look at the Class of 2014's Graland retrospectivewww.graland.org/2014GradRetrospective

Growing Up Graland I 5

Will you always stick by me?‘Cause I’ll always stick by you.

You are everything I need: the faces that I can’t lose.Posing for a photograph, staying up ’til 3 a.m.,

runnin’ through the streets of our town,just because we know that we can.

Will you always laugh with me?‘Cause I’ll always laugh with you.

Ignoring all the non-believerswith far too many things to do.

Even on the rainy days, we’ll be smiling through the gray,

walking through the footsteps they didwhen they were makin’ history.

The moon and back isn’t that far.I’ll always love you past the stars.

Now that we’re goin’ our ways,let’s throw away our mistakes.

Because I’m leavin’ today, if that’s okay,but I guess it’s time that we go

and turn the page.

Will you remember me?‘Cause I’ll remember you.

Even when we’re big and old,

Watch the performancewww.graland.org/2014GradChoir

Turn the PageLyrics by the Grade 8 Choir and Sophie Levine ‘11

Music by Sophie Levine ’11 and Josh Gaffga

and have too many things to do.When I see a photograph,

it’s like a movie in my head.Bringing me back to the time before

I wore this white dress.

When I’m having a bad day,you’re always there to make sure I’m okay.

Now that we’re goin’ our ways,let’s throw away our mistakes.

Because I’m leavin’ today, if that’s okay,but I guess it’s time that we go

and turn the page.

Who will I have to smilethrough the gray?

And if we say goodbye,what will be on the next page?

Now that we’re goin’ our ways,let’s throw away our mistakes.

Because I’m leavin’ today, if that’s okay,but I guess it’s time that we go...

Because I wish I could stayif that’s okay, but I guess it’s time that we go

and turn the page.

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AWARDS HONOR STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTGraduation awards are a distinguished honor given each year to outstanding eighth graders.

This year, the award presentation was held at the graduation dinner on June 5. Congratulations to these deserving students.

Mr. Comfort was the School’s head from 1964-75. The award in his honor recognized a student for his or her well-rounded development in the areas of academics, athletics, arts and citizenship.

Sophia Rase is one student who perfectly embodies the criteria for this award. She not only excelled academically across multiple subject areas, she was an Eagle Award winner in sports and an award-winning artist. Sophia devotes the same effort toward her relationships, setting the tone for an inclusive community with warmth and respect for others. Congratulations, Sophia.

This award is presented annually to a graduate who displays exemplary effort in service and leadership to the graduating class, school, community and self.

Teachers call Tucker Hamilton “a model student who brings a commitment and an optimism” to every task. He is known around campus for his maturity, willingness to work hard, leadership, resilience and helpfulness. He naturally manifests an attitude of service and care that endeared him to peers and faculty during his years at Graland.

The Georgia Nelson Award is given to the student who personifies an outstanding work ethic; courage and fortitude; enthusiasm and love of learning; passion and conscientiousness; and personal growth.

Throughout her years at Graland, Lila Arnold immersed herself completely in the task at hand and was a tremendously positive influence on others. Her advisor, Jane Maslanka, says: “I can assure you that Lila faces every day with a fantastic attitude, never seems overwhelmed or discouraged, and that she never, ever complains. Her teachers and coaches describe her as having dedication, character, enjoyment, honesty, compassion, enthusiasm, and perfect comedic timing.”

JOHN COMFORT HEADMASTER’S AWARD

TIMOTHY JOHNSON SERVICE & LEADERSHIP AWARD

GEORGIA NELSON AWARD

SOPHIA RASE TUCKER HAMILTON LILA ARNOLD

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“It is your personalities that have defined this grade as confident, innovative, explorative, creative, caring, tolerant, supportive, and imaginative.”

-Tucker Hamilton, student speaker at graduation dinner

Growing Up Graland I 7

Motto: Go Higher

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

Ascende Omnem Montem. You’ve seen and heard this familiar Latin phrase since your kindergarten days, but do you know the history and symbolism behind these words?

As early as the 1960s, Graland has stood behind Ascende Omnem Montem as its theme, goal and motto. Translated “Climb Every Mountain,” its use is attributed to former music teacher and assistant head Mr. John Riley. While Colorado’s landscape provides us with plenty of literal mountains to climb, the symbolism of Ascende Omnem Montem goes further.

“Climb every mountain” is a call to take on challenges, assess risks and go higher. As a Graland student, your teachers, parents and peers challenged you to keep climbing even when the path seemed too difficult. To protect you and build your confidence, thoughtfully placed nets and ropes supported and caught you if your step became unsteady.

As you move forward into new terrain beyond Graland you will continue to face obstacles. Some mountains will be familiar, others new. Remember, you are well equipped to meet these challenges and to make wise decisions.

Be discerning; just because a mountain is in front of you does not mean that you must climb it. Take your time and ask questions. While you have many fine tools at your disposal, you don’t have all the answers. No one does.

Be brave. Trust yourself and know on whom you can rely. Be adventurous and grow and then come back and share your adventures. Tell us about your successes and perhaps how a few failures nudged you in a different direction.

While it is good to move away from the familiar and make your own space and identity, don’t forget the foundation that you have developed and will continue to draw upon.

Class of 2014, Ascende Omnem Montem.

Class of 2014 on their Chief Mountain Hike in 2008

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class representatives (Lila Arnold and Tucker

Hamilton)

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families at their last Graland graduation

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different high schools selected

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graduating members of the class

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graduated with honors

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Golden Eagle Award winners

Growing Up Graland I 9

2024

first milestone reunion year for this class

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“Lifers” who attended Graland since kindergarten

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graduation award winners

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retiring teachers said goodbye

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graduating members of the class

COME BACK TO THE GRALAND GALLOP!SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 ◆ WASHINGTON PARK

Run, walk or cheer at the annual Graland Gallop 5K race! Join your friends from the Graland community and the Class of 2014!

Register before September 17 and save $5! Online registration available later this summer at graland.org/gallop

Making the College Transition EasierIt’s always nice to find a friendly and familiar face in a new environment. Once you conquer high school, your transition to college is next and the Alumni Association is here to help.

During your junior year as you are considering colleges, look for the Graland Alumni College Ambassador Program to ease you into your new adventure. We pair high schoolers with college-aged alumni as a resource for questions. If possible, they will even meet you on campus when you tour.

We have more than 20 Graland alumni serving as ambassadors on campuses all around the United States including Princeton, Chapman, Stanford, Regis, University of San Diego, Bowdoin, University of Michigan, University of Colorado and many others.

For questions about using the Graland Alumni College Ambassador Program, contact Kristin Weber (kweber@graland.org or 303-398-3623).

Move Up Day 2014Remember Move Up Day? Last April, eighth graders experienced a preview of the coming year when several alumni attending local high schools* returned to Graland and shared tips and tricks for surviving freshman year.

During Move Up Day, the Class of 2014 divided into small groups with a representative of their selected high schools. They asked questions and listened to the advice of these young alumni, who encouraged them to make the most of their experience in high school and reassured them that nothing would be more challenging than Ms. Maslanka’s English class. The goal was to prepare students for their upcoming transition from Graland.

Our goal for next year is to have one boy and one girl from each high school at Move Up Day. If you are interested in representing your high school or you have ideas to make this event more worthwhile, please contact Kristin Weber (kweber@graland.org).*High schools represented at Move Up Day: East, St. Mary’s, Cherry Creek, Regis, George Washington, Kent Denver, Colorado Academy.

STAYING CONNECTED:

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Patrick, Pencil ArtistUnlike his oldest sister Clare, new Graland graduate Patrick doesn’t like to draw people. His artist tools are simple, pencil and paper, but the piece that won him a Silver Key in the awards program took sketching to a new level. He created a zinc plate drawing called “The Flight” that depicts an eagle flying over a golf course.

“The process was a lot of detail work,” Patrick says. “I sketched it, then etched it onto metal which made it into a giant metal stamp. I was pretty excited when I won the Silver Key because I thought the other kids submitted pieces that were better than mine. I was hoping for honorable mention.”

Although pencil art is his first choice, Patrick wants to learn how to work with oil pastels as the next step in developing his skill set.

Clare, Curator of Art AppreciationClare just graduated from East High School and is headed to Boston College in the fall. She is a two-time Silver Key award winner in the Scholastic Art Awards contest and has one piece in Graland’s Permanent Art Collection. She likes to draw portraits in pencil or marker.

After years of attending Graland, Clare was struck by the plain, white walls surrounding her at East. “It was hard to know there was an art program at the school,” she says. “East is so diverse; it was counterintuitive to have so much emptiness on the walls.”

And so, like an artist facing a blank canvas, she was inspired to create a program similar to Graland’s

Permanent Art Collection. Thanks to her persistence, the school now hosts a community event called the Arts Walk where students’ visual and performing art is showcased. As a result, there are dozens of new pieces of permanent student art, including one of Clare’s, decorating the halls at East.

Caroline, Art

ExplorerNow a senior at East High, Caroline has the most art honors in the family with a Scholastic Gold Key, Silver Key, two honorable mentions and three pieces in the Permanent Art Collection. She likes to work with watercolor and markers. Like all creative types, she sometimes needs a muse.

“At Graland, there was a lot more direction in art class,” she explains. “We studied artists and genres and got inspiration from books. At East I’m more on my own. My way to deal with artist’s block is to look around me and draw inspiration from nature and photography. I doodle a lot. Sometimes I get into a phase where I try to perfect one thing, like a certain type of flower.”

Bridget, Budding Art LoverThe youngest Berzins is Bridget, Grade 5. She has her own unique style, taking images that are unrelated and putting them together in a picture. Like Caroline, she turns to nature for inspiration.

“I like to look out the window and then turn my surroundings into something with that same feel,” she says. Thanks to encouragement from her art teacher, Cathy Naughton, Bridget has learned to believe in herself as an artist.

GOOD GENES: GRALAND’S FAMILY OF ARTISTSThe Berzins siblings are becoming well known in the student art community after this year’s Scholastic Art Awards ceremony. Patrick Berzins ‘14 and his sisters Clare ’10 and Caroline ’11 all won honors for their various submissions. Take a moment to learn more about this creative and accomplished family!

We’d love to share YOUR story! Contact Kristin Eklund ‘88 Weber (kweber@graland.org or 303-398-3623).

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Graland Country Day School55 Clermont StreetDenver, CO 80220

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Kristin WeberAssociate Director of Alumni Relationskweber@graland.org303-398-3623

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Photos by Bower Photographics