the write stuff: spring 2014

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An important part of our mission at Chartwell School and The New High School Project (TNHSP) is to help students see themselves as part of a bigger picture, be it as peers in a classroom, members of a community, trustees of an ecosystem, and so much more. This process involves helping them to understand and accept themselves and their unique learning styles in order to instill them with the self-knowledge and confidence they need to make their way in the world. From this personal dignity comes an ability to not only better engage and collaborate with others but to help, lead, and inspire them in ways both big and small. Our students already know firsthand what it is like to face challenges that may at first seem beyond their control, and they also know, in coming to Chartwell, what it can feel like to receive positive acknowledgement and a helping hand. At Chartwell, students have the opportunity to return these gestures to other individuals and groups in need – and to do so through activities that are not just driven by teachers but by the students themselves. The outcome is that our young learners, from an early age, begin to share in the culture of philanthropy that does so much for our own institution and so many others in our community – all part of the bigger picture. One way that Chartwell students give back each year is by preparing a hearty homemade SPRING 2014 2511 Numa Watson Rd. Seaside, CA 93955 tel: 831.394.3468 chartwell.org newhighschool.org The Newsletter of Chartwell School and The New High School Project Giving Back: Student Philanthropy at Chartwell Because Not All Great Minds Think Alike LOOK INSIDE • Garden Project • Alumni Updates • Annual Report • Science Fair • Atkins Farewell • High School Updates continued on page 4 Members of the Chartwell “Because We Care Club” meet with Catherine Powers at the Community Hospital in Monterey All in together! Club members make a group high-five after delivering their gifts to CHOMP Students donated crayons and colored pencils along with their homemade workbooks

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The Newsletter of Chartwell School and The New High School Project

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Page 1: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

An important part of our mission at Chartwell School and The New High School Project (TNHSP) is to help students see themselves as part of a bigger picture, be it as peers in a classroom, members of a community, trustees of an ecosystem, and so much more. This process involves helping them to understand and accept themselves and their unique learning styles in order to instill them with the self-knowledge and confidence they need to make their way in the world. From this personal dignity comes an ability to not only better engage and collaborate with others but to help, lead, and inspire them in ways both big and small.

Our students already know firsthand what it is like to face challenges that may at first seem beyond their control, and they also know, in coming to Chartwell, what it can feel like to receive positive acknowledgement and a helping hand. At Chartwell, students have the opportunity to return these gestures to other individuals and groups in need – and to do so through activities that are not just driven by teachers but by the students themselves. The outcome is that our young learners, from an early age, begin to share in the culture of philanthropy that does so much for our own institution and so many others in our community – all part of the bigger picture.

One way that Chartwell students give back each year is by preparing a hearty homemade

S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 2511 Numa Watson Rd. S e a s i d e , C A 9 3 9 5 5

t e l : 8 3 1 . 3 9 4 . 3 4 6 8c h a r t w e l l . o r g n e w h i g h s c h o o l . o r g

The Newsletter of Chartwell School and The New High School Project

Giving Back: Student Philanthropy at Chartwell

Because Not All Great Minds Think Alike

LOOK INSIDE• GardenProject

• AlumniUpdates

• AnnualReport

• ScienceFair

• AtkinsFarewell

• HighSchoolUpdates

continued on page 4

Members of the Chartwell “Because We Care Club” meet with Catherine Powers at the Community Hospital in Monterey

All in together! Club members make a group high-five after delivering their gifts to CHOMP

Students donated crayons and colored pencils along with their homemade workbooks

Page 2: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

2013-2014 Board of Trustees

Mary Ann Leffel

President

Katrina Maestri

Vice President

Ralph Bailey

Treasurer

Mary Jane Gonzalez-Huss

Secretary

Douglas Atkins

Jonathan Beck

Scott Fosmark (‘90)

Catherine Hawley (‘91)

Robert Hernandez

Michael McMahan

Carrie Miles

Ronald Parravano

Art Pasquinelli

Jason Togneri

John Ward

TRUSTEE EMERITIThomas deRegt

Judy Lewis

Nicki McMahan

Marsha Zelus

HONORARY TRUSTEESMarjorie Love

Save the Date

Saturday, December 6th,

2014

Party in a Pear Tree

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Green Stars: Parent Volunteers Revitalize Garden

Chartwell Trustees in Action: Carrie Miles

In March, Chartwell Board President Mary Ann Leffel was named the 2013 Citizen of the Year at

the annual Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner. The Chamber recognized Mary

Ann and fellow honorees for “their leadership in our community, their commitment to excellence, and

their inspiration to all.” We congratulate Mary Ann for this distinguished honor and extend our most

sincere gratitude for her service to our school and the greater Monterey County community!

Mary Ann Leffel Named Citizen of the Year

Since joining the Chartwell School Board of

Trustees in 2011, TNHSP parent Carrie Miles has

served as a four-time Event Chair for Chartwell’s

annual Party in a Pear Tree fundraiser. Her

significant efforts in supporting this and other vital

fundraising activities have provided an immense

contribution to the Advancement Office and the

greater Chartwell community. As a testament to

her commitment to the school and its mission,

in 2013 Carrie received the Chartwell Churchill

Award, which is bestowed to Trustees who perform

exceptional “behind-the-scenes” work for our school. We are deeply grateful for her tireless support,

as well as that of all our volunteer Trustees who help make our mission possible.

Carrie is a proud TNHSP parent whose son Andrew is part of the graduating class of 2014

At Chartwell, parent volunteers play a vital role in supporting

many program, fundraising, and community-building activities

that serve our students and advance our mission. This spring, in

a tremendous volunteer effort led by parent Cat Mikkelsen,

the Chartwell garden has been beautifully restored and

revitalized through the helping hands of both K-8 and high

school students.

Cat, along with fellow parent Theresa Beheshti, has provided

daily effort and guidance in making every aspect of the garden’s

restoration a fun and engaging learning opportunity for

students. Indeed, with instruction and material support from

these parent volunteers, students cleared out the old garden; helped plan a new layout; created new

garden beds for herbs, flowers, and vegetables; laid an entire drip system; planted numerous plants,

shrubs, and trees; laid a rock walkway; and so much more!

For photos and more details about this vibrant transformation of one of Chartwell’s central green

spaces, visit Cat’s Chartwell Garden Project blog at chartwell-garden.squarespace.com.

We extend our deepest appreciation to Cat and fellow parents for their remarkable donation of time,

energy, and materials toward a project that nurtures not only our green campus but the fertile minds

of our creative, hands-on learners. We salute you as honorary Chartwell Green Stars!

Chance and Chiara explore the newly planted garden beds

Page 3: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

Looking back over a dozen years as Executive Director of Chartwell School, I am confident that we have been able to advance the interests of many by advancing the educational understanding of a few.

If it is true, as some suggest, that the strength and stability of communities can be foretold by how they nurture those least understood, then Chartwell has done its part.

Just as tomorrow’s resources will be diverted to correct any current lapses of understanding, so too will vital resources be protected by a community’s efforts to learn more. In no way is this truer than when applied to the best educational practices for all, and in preparation of a future workforce equal to the community challenges ahead.

Ambitious, self-defined students often benefit from educational opportunities that prepare them locally for productive effort in communities across the nation and the globe. Other students, perhaps less understood and thereby more challenged, may find a limiting factor in local opportunities because these represent the only options at the nexus of access and preparation.

In this way the strength and stability unique to our regional future is shaped by how we understand and prepare our children to become literate and critically thinking adults in the local workforce.

A good question to keep asking ourselves is whether they have been adequately prepared for what they may or could bring to the economic and social fabric uniquely fitted to the communities of California’s Central Coast.

I am confident that these last 12 years at Chartwell have added disproportionately to where the need has been the greatest and often least understood. Chartwell will continue to enjoy this special status precisely because not all great minds think alike.

I salute the Trustees, faculty, families, staff, foundations, individual donors, and friends who have made it possible for this commitment to burn as brightly today as ever before.

Katrina Maestri spent 15 years in an international corporate career with General Motors and has a wide range of Marketing, Strategy, and New Business Development experience. While at GM, she specialized in working with start-up operations, including entering new geographic markets as well as launching new technology ventures. Since leaving the corporate world, Katrina has enjoyed applying her experience to non-profits in both the U.S. and abroad. Katrina and her family moved to the U.S. in 2010 so that her daughter could receive the specialized support she needs to thrive with her dyslexia. She is passionate about fostering educational opportunities for students with learning differences and raising awareness regarding the high potential of this creative, dynamic population.

Welcome to the Board

Message from Douglas Atkins, Executive Director

Ronald Parravano is a local attorney in Monterey who has been in practice since 1976. Outside of his professional career he has been an active member in the non-profit and educational community. Ron is a past member of the Carmel Unified Schools Board of Trustees, and he has taught classes at both Monterey College of Law and Golden Gate University for over 25 years. He has served in leadership positions for numerous non-profit boards, including Big Sur International Marathon, Carmel Youth Center, Kinship Center, John XXIII Foundation, and The Robert and Audrey Talbott Foundation, where he also served as Executive Director. Additionally, Ron is a long-time member and past president of the Rotary Club of Carmel. He lives in Carmel Valley with his wife, Michelle.

Michael “Mick” McMahan is a recently retired lawyer who practiced law in Monterey County for over thirty years. Mick may be new to the Board but he is a long-time stakeholder in the Chartwell mission and community. As Nicki McMahan and Judy Lewis were co-founding the school, Mick was advising the first Boards of Trustees and often doing the books. When Chartwell began searching for a permanent home, Mick joined the Site Committee and was deeply involved in finding the location and planning and building the new campus. In addition to being married to one of the founders, Mick is the father of Michel, who attended the first two Chartwell summer schools, and the grandfather of two other Chartwell alumni. Mick is an avid boater and has enjoyed cruising with a number of members of the Chartwell family, including Douglas Atkins and the late Chuck Jacobson.

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Page 4: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

meal for the homeless. As part of a long-time partnership with Dorothy’s Place in Salinas, our students spend the half-day before every winter holiday break putting together a healthy meal for those in need. This includes making lasagna, garlic bread, and salads; decorating cookies; and designing hand-crafted holiday cards. Students also contribute during this time to the Salvation Army’s annual holiday food drive, which provides vital foodstuffs to families with limited means. These activities serve as a timely opportunity, during a season of giving, for students to think of those less fortunate than themselves.

This year, Chartwell and TNHSP students led the charge in giving back to our community in so many additional ways. At the lower school, as part of our Club Friday program, a group of fourth and fifth-grade students formed the Because We Care Club under the leadership of Chartwell educator Billy Swift. In looking to help others, the club decided to make fun workbooks for children who were hospitalized and in need of cheerful activities during their stay. Over the course of several Fridays, students designed their homemade workbooks to include coloring pages, puzzles, games, and more.

Then, in March, the Because We Care Club took a field trip to the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, where they delivered the books to Catherine Powers, director of the Community Hospital’s Family Birth Center and Main West, where children stay. In accepting the gifts, Ms. Powers said: “Thank you for making a difference for our young patients, and thank you for helping to make their stay a little brighter.” The club members were delighted to donate their creations for such a worthwhile purpose.

In a self-directed effort, Chartwell fifth-grader Frank Barros also supported fellow community members facing health challenges this year. After raising money by selling elastic bracelets that he made over the summer, Frank donated his total earnings of $87.00 to the Community Hospital’s Carol Hatton Breast Care Center for a program designed to help local women access health screenings. Frank received a certificate of appreciation for his thoughtful and caring donation.

Also this year, a group of TNHSP students formed a new High School Leadership Team under the guidance of educator Matthew Gutierrez. The goal of this new club is to serve as a venue for student-driven community outreach and leadership activities. For its first project, the team decided to make spring baskets for the many homebound seniors and disabled adults served by Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula (MOWMP).

To carry out the project, the team enlisted the assistance of lower and middle school students and described their intentions in doing so: “We are organizing the Meals on Wheels spring basket project because we wanted to share a special and joyful part of the year with those who are homebound. As students who are lucky enough to have access to a great education, we feel a moral obligation to give back to the community...We believe it is important to teach kids that some people are not as fortunate as we are, and we hope that modeling community-mindedness will inspire our student colleagues to do more for their community.”

Together, over two days in April, high school and K-8 students used supplies donated by the leadership team and their families, as well as from Marra Brothers Distributing and Koda Farms, to create the baskets. Students wove colorful

Giving Back: Student Philanthropy at Chartwell…continued

The Chartwell Just Run® team poses with their medals

Frank gives his donation to Dr. Susan Roux of the Community Hospital’s Carol Hatton Breast Care Center

Gavin and his peers make lasagna for Dorothy’s Place

Olivia and Sean lend a hand in making a meal

Chance fills Easter eggs with goodies

Michelle shows off a finished basket - bowtie and all!

Students come together to make spring baskets for elderly and disabled recipients of Meals on Wheels

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Page 5: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

ribbon into strawberry baskets; stuffed them with candy-filled Easter eggs and hand-crafted cards; and finished them with wrapping and bow ties – making 200 spring baskets in all!

In extending her organization’s gratitude to the leadership team and their many helpers, Viveca Lohr, the Executive Director of MOWMP, wrote: “Our meal recipients were delighted with their tasty Easter treats and deeply moved by your kindness.” As noted by MOWMP, such recipients are mostly poor or low-income adults and seniors who are frail, disabled, or otherwise homebound and in need.

Finally, Chartwell students not only helped others in our community this year but also helped raise money for our school.

As part of a program designed to promote student health and raise funds for schools, Chartwell students participated in the Just Run® Just Kids 3k event at the Big Sur International Marathon in April. By running in this event, students, along with some faculty and staff, raised $600.00 for Chartwell School. We are deeply grateful for our students’ efforts to support their peers and the Chartwell mission, and in such a manner that promotes their own health and wellness!

These diverse philanthropic activities speak to the values of Chartwell School and our remarkable community of students, families, and supporters. The long-term outcome of such an early introduction to philanthropy can be seen among our many caring alumni who give their time and support for diverse causes.

Just a few examples include Ben Sugar (’07) and Graden Golston-Kreyche (’11) (see page 6), who volunteer, respectively, for the ALS Association and the Lupus Foundation of America; Sa Vanna Baker Leyva (’93), who has volunteered in health clinics around the world; Ted Balestreri (’86), a Trustee for the Salinas-based youth program Rancho Cielo; and Scott Fosmark (’90) and Catherine Hawley (’91), who serve on the Chartwell School Board of Trustees.

We are extremely proud of our students and alumni who have overcome their own challenges to give back to a community that has done so much for our school and for children and teens who learn differently!

Cracking the code: Cecilia uses code.org to learn programming basics in Ms. Hill’s tech class

All smiles! Gracie reads in the Chartwell library

Members of the Chartwell “Naturalist Club” take field notes amid the Chartwell oak groves

Nekoda treasures a visit from family on Chartwell’s annual Grandparent’s Day

Dominic runs for the end zone during a flag football game

Luke makes a feathered friend at an SPCA presentation on campus

Makenna plays a tune in a music recital on Grandparent’s Day

Middle school students and faculty show their hops while on a bike trip into the wilds of Fort Ord, Chartwell’s backyard

Chartwell Courageous Spirit Award winners take the stage with presenters Shary Farr and Nicki McMahan

Kristy and Michelle visit AT&T Park on a student field trip to EdRev 2014

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Page 6: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

Mission Accomplished Alumni Updates

Class of ’97 – Ben BensonBen Benson attended Chartwell from 1992-1997 and has since enjoyed many travels and diverse educational and work experiences. After graduating from Sierra College with an A.S. in Fire Technology, he moved to London, England, where he earned a B.A. in Marketing, with a minor in Art Design and Media, from Richmond University. During this time he traveled throughout Europe and the Middle East, visiting such destinations as Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Greece, and Egypt. After graduating in December 2007, Ben met the challenges of the 2008 financial crisis by traveling around the U.S. in his RV, exploring different job opportunities in diverse locales. Proving himself a jack of all trades, he worked in a copper mine in Arizona, as a radio show host in Denver, and as a mechanic for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in Houston.

After living on the road for three years, Ben returned home to California to take over the family business, which has grown substantially under his management. He is now President and CEO of Six-Pac Recycling Corporation, his family-owned recycling business in Corona, California. His company has 20 employees, handles about 1.5 million pounds of recycling each month, and runs on solar power. Since returning home, Ben also met and married his wife, Claudia, and together they care for three American Eskimo rescue dogs.

Class of ’11 – Graden Golston-KreycheGraden Golston-Kreyche attended Chartwell from 2005-2008 and The New High School Project in 2010-2011. Currently a senior at Kirby Preparatory School in Santa Cruz, Graden has been accepted to the college of his choice, McDaniel College in Maryland, where he plans to major in Chemistry and minor in American Sign Language. He received a substantial merit scholarship from McDaniel, as well as admission to its honors program and additional honors scholarships! His mother April writes: “It’s a testament to Graden’s hard work and the help he got at Chartwell that he is on the cusp of this very exciting opportunity, and we are very grateful for the help and support he received while there.”

Graden has excelled not only academically but artistically, as he has won several local and national awards for his artwork, which primarily focuses on film photography but has extended into clay, sculpture, and xylography (a form of woodcut). Reflecting his own health challenges, Graden also serves on the Youth Services Task Force for the Lupus Foundation of America. His mother notes that Graden has not let either dyslexia or lupus “define him or stop him from pursuing anything he has wanted to do.”

Class of ’92 – Dugan O’NealDugan O’Neal attended Chartwell from 1990-1992. After graduating from Carmel High School, he went on to study art and business at Arizona State University before moving to Los Angeles to pursue his interests in film and photography. Dugan has since developed a successful career as a director, writer, and actor, working in music videos, short films, commercials, and web series. In 2008, Dugan co-directed, co-wrote, and co-starred in a mini episodic series called Two Renegade Cops, which airs on Fuel TV. He has directed music videos for such recording artists as M.I.A., TV On The Radio, Duck Sauce, The Acid, The Temper Trap, The Glitch Mob, and many more. Among these, Dugan’s “Will Do” video for TV On The Radio was part of the Grammy®-nominated film Nine Types of Light, which was released in 2012. For his work on such projects, Dugan was named one of the top ten music video directors of 2011 by Entertainment Weekly.

In 2013, Dugan co-created and directed Stupid Hype, the first web series for the CW Seed, a web-based digital network. He recently completed his second web series for CW Seed, called L.A. Rangers, which he co-created, directs, and stars in. Readers can check out this latest series, which follows the imaginative adventures of two L.A. park rangers, at cwseed.com. To see more of Dugan’s many creative projects, visit duganoneal.com.

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Page 7: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

Annual Report 2012-20132012-2013 in Review By Douglas Atkins

Independent school leadership is a privilege born in the classroom and tempered in the boardroom. It is a gift that keeps giving and a responsibility that keeps us asking the right questions and ensuring the right answers.

I am fortunate, and wiser, to have experienced this during my 12 years at Chartwell School. Fortunate because Chartwell has been able to distinguish itself in both the classroom and boardroom, and wiser because the institution has had to study and implement the complementary skills that each of these different roles demands in order to be uniquely effective as a whole.

The Annual Report is an opportunity to comment quantitatively about how each of these important institutional roles has performed.

Classroom and program commitments remain strong, as evidenced by 86% of available resources being directly applied to develop, deliver, and assess individual student growth.

Dynamically assessing individual student learning is perhaps the most essential part of the educational process at Chartwell because it is the most important tool by which diagnostic instruction informs what and how each student needs to learn.

Board members protect the integrity of Chartwell’s mission by ensuring the commitment of resources, while classroom teachers use these resources efficiently to deliver a uniquely effective diagnostic educational experience.

Even with tuition, the cost of a Chartwell education is yet greater. Board members continue to play an important role in closing this gap because they understand and act on the need to keep our educational programs as affordable as possible. Tuition income for 2012-2013 covered 82% of operational expenses. The balance was covered by our annual campaign, including Trustee-led special event fundraising like our annual Party in a Pear Tree.

The $1,000,000 gift for our Tuition Support Fund is yet another stunning example of board member commitment to keep the Chartwell experience as affordable as possible, for as many as possible.

We thank all of our foundation, corporate, and individual partners for pitching in to make these fundraising efforts more successful per capita than any in the region.

We can reliably look to 2013-2014 and beyond to carry these traditions of a balanced classroom and boardroom forward. Indeed, the success of these complementary efforts will continue to keep us exactly where we need to be.

Educational Programs86%

Operating Expenses - $3,017,533(w/o depreciation)

Fundraising 5%General and Administrative 9%

Outreach <1%

Operating Revenues - $4,644,846

Fundraising Events 3%

Auxillary Programs 3%

Net Tuition & Fees50%

Other 4%

Donations 40%

Grades 4-8 72%

Net Tuition Income - $2,468,160

Summer School 2%

High School 25%

Grades K-3 1%

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Page 8: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

Chartwell School benefited from an extraordinary year of giving in 2012-2013. We are deeply grateful for the tremendous

generosity of our many donors and supporters who believe in our mission and the potential of our students. Your gifts are vital for

ensuring program quality, accessibility, and sustainability for current and future students alike.

Listed below are the many individual donors and organizations who contributed to Chartwell School and The New High School

Project between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013. We make every effort to ensure that our records are accurate and complete.

Please contact Diana Trapani at (831) 394-3468 ext. 1020 to notify us of any corrections.

On behalf of students and their families, the Board of Trustees and all of us at Chartwell School and The New High School Project

sincerely and whole-heartedly thank you for your support.

Memorial Gifts

Mr. Andrew DelucchiMr. and Mrs. William CasalegnoMr. and Mrs. Andy DelucchiMr. John T. Negri, Jr.

Mr. Austin EadieMrs. Lynn LanglandMr. and Mrs. Robert W. Smith

Mrs. Billie Parsons (Mother of J. Gaughf)Mr. and Mrs. Marc BeiqueMs. Harriet P. ClaessenMs. Marian CorriganMrs. Mary EvansMr. and Mrs. Stewart J. FullerDr. and Mrs. Hisashi KajikuriMs. Nora LeeMs. Sheila McGuireMr. and Mrs. Walter G. MooreMr. and Mrs. Tim MorganDr. and Mrs. James PennaMs. Marion PetersenMr. and Mrs. Harold G. RaganMs. Philomene R. SmithMs. Nancy O. Willoughby

Mrs. Claire DavisMr. and Mrs. Murray Yeomans

Mrs. Donna WoodsMs. Susan DraperMr. and Mrs. Michael L. McMahanMr. Jack J. Miller

Mr. James GillMr. and Mrs. John C. Juhring

Mrs. Jessie AndersonMrs. Judy Lewis

Ms. Martha J. MulfordMr. Robert Mulford

Mr. Valerio Giusi Mr. and Mrs. John C. Juhring

Honorary Gifts

Mr. Thomas Hoover George, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Garibaldi

Ms. Hilary JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Herbert Johnson

Mrs. Marjorie P. LoveMrs. Mary Henning Jones

Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. McMahanMr. and Mrs. Leslie C. Nichols

Ms. Amy Melton and Mr. Somphone Soukhaseum

Dr. and Mrs. Robert Melton

Mr. Glen W. Schofield Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Garibaldi

Mrs. Lynne White DixonMs. Alexandra M. DanielsMr. and Mrs. William B. DanielsMr. and Mrs. Jeff GreenbergMr. and Mrs. Bill LeyvaMr. and Mrs. Piper LoomisMs. and Mrs. Mel MasonMs. Nancy MurphyMr. and Mrs. Sidney Smith

BequestsEstate of Ms. Martha J. Mulford

Donor List BUSINESSES

Accista SpaAnnieGlassAnthropologieArt du JourBaja CantinaBall CorporationBaskin & Grant, LLPBayonet and Black Horse Golf CoursesBlair Estate Wines

Boulder Creek Golf and Country ClubBruno’s Market and DeliByington Vineyard & WineryCafe Sparrow, Inc.Cafe StravaganzaCalifornia Rodeo SalinasCalifornia’s Great AmericaCannery Row CompanyCarmel Academy of Performing ArtsCarmel Personal Fitness ElementsCarmel Valley RanchCentral Coast AviationChardonnay ll Sailing ChartersChateau Julien Wine EstatesCooper Garrod Estate VineyardsCorral de Tierra Country ClubCos Bar of CarmelDawn’s Dream WineryDeetjen’s Big Sur InnDennis Murphy School of MusicDimock Operating CompanyDowntown DiningDriscoll’sEarthbound FarmEl Estero Car WashEpsilon RestaurantFEMCOFifi’s Cafe BistroFlawless BeautyGasper’s JewelersGino’s Fine Italian FoodsGizdich RanchGrove MarketH2 SolutionsHartnell College PlanetariumHayashi & Wayland Accounting and Consulting, LLPHealthy Images Skin CareHearst San Simeon State Historical MonumentHeaven, A Child’s BoutiqueHeller Estates Organic VineyardHot Spring Spas of Santa CruzHotel AbregoIl FornaioIn Style Home FurnishingsInsight Eyewear

Our Deepest Gratitude

Annual Report 2012-2013

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Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

Iolis’ PizzeriaJ. Lohr Vineyards & WineJudith RipkaKaiser Family RestaurantsLaguna Seca Golf Ranch, Inc.Land Rover Experience at Quail LodgeLighthouse Lodge and CottagesLloyd’s ShoesM.A.S.T. Restaurant ManagementMe Too Day SpaMonterey Bay PhotoMonterey Bay Whale WatchMorgan WineryMy MuseumNepentheOld Fisherman’s GrottoPacific Grove AntiquesPacific Repertory TheatrePaper Wing Theatre CompanyParaiso VineyardsParis BakeryPasadena City College Health Sciences DivisionPassionfish RestaurantPatrick JamesPebble Beach CompanyPebble Beach Concours d’ElegancePeppers Mexicali CafePharmaca Integrative PharmacyPilates MontereyPlanned KitchensPortola Hotel and SpaPotter’s ElectronicsPrecision NailsQuail Lodge Resort and Golf ClubRefugeRising Star GymnasticsRoudon-Smith WinerySalinas Golf and Country ClubSalinas PressSan Juan Oaks Golf ClubSanctuary Rock GymSanta Cruz Coffee Roasting CompanySanta Cruz Mountains Winegrowers AssociationSardine FactorySchubert Nursery, Inc.Scott Campbell PhotographySea Mist FarmsShadowbrook and Crow’s NestSkinovation Skin Care and MassageStephan CoriSwenson & SilacciSylvie Unique BoutiqueTantara WineryTessuti ZooThe Cheese ShopTrader Joe’sTrailside Café and Coffee HouseTravel Bag LuggageValley Art GalleryVenture Art GalleryVesuvio TrattoriaVision Quest Ranch & Monterey ZooWhole Foods Market, MontereyWinchester Mystery HouseYoga Center of Carmel

GRANTORSAnonymousBarnet Segal Charitable TrustBellini FoundationThe William McCaskey Chapman and Adaline D. Chapman

FoundationCommunity Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC)Jack Kent Cooke FoundationDaniels-Houlton Family FoundationDunspaugh-Dalton FoundationFrances Elgan and Werner Kunkel Fund #2 of the CFMCeScripGreen FoundationHarden FoundationIntero FoundationKiwanis Club of Carmel Valley Catherine L. and Robert O. McMahan Fund of the CFMCMarjorie McNeely Fund for the Blind or Illiterate of the CFMCMargaret L. Musser Field of Interest Fund and the B.G. Mayer

Fund of the CFMCMonterey County Weekly Community Fund of the CFMC Monterey Peninsula FoundationGilbert M. Neill Math Fund of the CFMCNewman’s Own FoundationThe Packard Humanities InstitutePebble Beach Company FoundationQuest FoundationNancy Buck Ransom FoundationRotary Club of MontereySamson FoundationSC Johnson FundS.H.A.R.E.S.May and Stanley Smith Charitable TrustThe Robert and Audrey Talbott FoundationTarget: Take Charge of EducationTruistUBS Employee Giving ProgramsUpjohn California FundEmilie Welles FoundationWells Fargo Foundation Education ProgramThe Wollenberg FoundationWoolpert Family FoundationYellow Brick Road Benefit Shop

INDIVIDUALSMr. John M. AbelDr. Douglas Adams and Dr. Patricia QuallsMr. and Mrs. Nat A. AglianoMr. and Mrs. Sam AlladeenMr. and Mrs. Robert AlspaughMs. Dawn V. AnderleMr. and Mrs. Bob AndersonAnonymous (10)Mr. and Mrs. Rick AntleMr. and Mrs. Douglas AtkinsMr. and Mrs. Christopher AugustineMs. Kelly AustinMr. Ralph A. BaileyMs. Larisse BakerMr. and Mrs. Gay F. BaldwinMrs. Sigrid S. BanksMr. and Mrs. John BarisoneSister Claire BaroneMr. and Mrs. Art BarrientosMr. Eric Bartel

Mr. and Mrs. Lee BassianMr. and Mrs. Lance BastnagelMs. Sharon BatesMr. and Mrs. Robert N. BeckMr. and Mrs. Joe BedellMr. and Mrs. Elias BedollaMr. and Mrs. Jacob BedollaMr. and Mrs. Marc BeiqueMr. and Mrs. Todd BennettMs. and Mr. Mary BenninghovenMr. and Mrs. Timothy P. BensonMrs. Edwina BentMr. Hugo BernalMr. and Mrs. Robert W. BianchiMrs. Betsy W. BlissMr. and Mrs. Bruce BloxomMr. and Mrs. Mark BoenMr. and Mrs. Anthony BoncutterMs. Mary BoncutterMr. and Mrs. Richard BordaMr. and Mrs. Sam BozzoMr. and Mrs. Gary BrantMr. and Mrs. Peter K. BrooksDrs. Clifford and Carolyn BrothersMayor and Mrs. Jason BurnettMr. Cord BynumMr. and Mrs. Frank CamachoMr. and Mrs. Joseph A. CamposMr. and Mrs. Walter M. CardinetCol. and Mrs. John W. CarleyMr. and Mrs. Patrick D. CarstensMr. and Mrs. Joseph CaseyMr. and Mrs. Frederick CastMs. Leigh CeckaMr. and Mrs. Mario ChavezMr. and Mrs. Robert A. Davies, IIIMr. and Mrs. Joe CingariMr. and Mrs. Woody ClumMr. and Mrs. Richard ColeMs. Amanda ColeMs. Rose ColeMs. Betsy Collins and Ms. Mary WhitneyMs. Alexandra P. ConnellMr. Ray CorpuzMr. and Mrs. Ronald CoulterMr. and Mrs. Nick CraftMr. and Mrs. Marshall CrismanMr. and Mrs. Ray CuencaMr. and Mrs. Robert CurrieMr. and Mrs. John CurroMr. and Mrs. Larry DanielsMr. and Mrs. Philip DauntMs. Alora DauntMr. and Mrs. Gervaise G. Davis IIIMr. Charles C. DavisMrs. Edwina E. DeLongMr. and Mrs. Robert K. Dixon, IIIMr. John M. DixonMr. and Mrs. William G. DoolittleMr. and Mrs. Frank DostMr. and Mrs. Blaise DourosMs. Susan DraperMs. Mary O. DubberlyMr. and Mrs. Pierre DubeMs. Olalla Duffy

Annual Report 2012-2013

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Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas DunnionMr. David DutyMr. Allan J. Dyson and Ms. Susan C. CooperMs. Daphne EllingtonCapt. Eugene J. ErnerMr. and Mrs. Joel FarsonMr. and Mrs. Hunter FinnellMr. and Mrs. Dan FishMr. and Mrs. Bill FlanaganMr. Paul FleischmanMs. Carol FlintMr. and Mrs. Frank FloresMs. Danielle FolsomMr. and Mrs. Scott F. FosmarkMr. and Mrs. Richard FosterMs. Julia FosterMr. and Mrs. John A. FoyMr. Gary K. Fujii and Ms. Caroline HaskellMr. and Mrs. Stewart J. FullerMr. and Mrs. Michael T. GallowayMr. and Mrs. Matt GarciaMr. and Mrs. Robert M. GaribaldiMr. and Mrs. Ed GarrettMr. and Mrs. Gerald GasparyMr. and Mrs. Patterson GaughfMr. and Mrs. Donald GaverMr. and Mrs. James GibsonMr. and Mrs. James GiuffreMs. Lynn GoldsteinMr. and Mrs. Jack GoldwasserMr. Kurt J. Gollnick and Mrs. Janet P. RodgersMrs. Mary Jane Gonzalez-Huss and Mr. Dale D. HussMr. and Mrs. Bruce GrahamMr. and Mrs. Stephen GrantMs. Nancy P. GriffinMr. Prashant Gupta and Ms. Kym ShentonMr. and Mrs. Rodolfo GutierrezMr. John A. GutierrezMr. and Mrs. Samuel HaleMr. and Mrs. Terry HansenMs. Susan HardingMr. and Mrs. Christopher G. HarrisMr. Fredric Hartzell and Mrs. Janet M. WilsonMr. Art HaseltineMr. and Mrs. Charles HawleyMs. Catherine HawleyMr. Robert L. Hernandez and Ms. Susan J. MatchamDrs. Douglas G. Hetzler and Suzanne M. KerleyMr. and Mrs. Kenneth HigashiMs. Kris Hill and Ms. Dianna WilliamsonMr. and Mrs. Dave HoberMr. and Mrs. Bill HoganMr. and Mrs. Darren HuberMr. and Mrs. Charles HughesMr. Wayne Hunneman and Mrs. Alice DaubenbisMr. and Mrs. Chuck JacobsonDr. and Mrs. Albert B. JankoMr. and Mrs. Hans W. JannaschMr. and Mrs. Colby JonesMs. Cherie S. JonesMr. Brooks JuhringMs. Carolyn M. KelleherMr. and Mrs. Claude KeyzersMr. and Mrs. James W. KirshnerMs. Lily Klauer

Dr. and Mrs. Robert KurtzMr. John LaughtonMr. and Mrs. John A. LavagninoMs. Nora LeeMr. and Mrs. Hal LeffelMr. and Mrs. Robert LeidigMr. and Mrs. Wally LeValleyMs. Alyse LeValleyMr. and Mrs. Bill LeyvaMs. Sheryl LivingstoneMr. and Mrs. Paul WinemanMrs. Dani LopezMrs. Marjorie P. LoveMs. Marsha LubowMr. Gregor LynnMs. Anne G. LynnMr. and Mrs. Scott MacClellandMs. Dee MacDonaldMs. Frances MajorsMr. and Mrs. Blair G. MandellMrs. Ingrid D. MannMr. and Mrs. Glen MarraMs. Melannie Marra ArellanoDrs. Roy and Evangelina MartinezMrs. Marta Martinez-FifeMr. Mark MartinsMr. and Ms. Jon McCleanMr. and Mrs. Larry McCoyMrs. Patricia McDermottMr. and Mrs. Matt McGrathMr. and Mrs. Michael L. McMahanMrs. Michel McMahan and Dr. Jason CamaraMr. and Mrs. Bob McPeek, IIMr. and Mrs. Forrest MeltonMrs. Marli S. MeltonMr. and Mrs. Bruce MichelsMr. and Mrs. Grant MilesMr. Chuck Harmon and Mrs. Elizabeth MilesMr. and Mrs. Graydon MitchellMs. Jane MitchellMr. and Mrs. Vaughan P. MonnesMs. Martha J. MulfordMr. Robert MulfordMr. and Mrs. Peter MungridisMs. Shelley NewellMr. and Mrs. Leslie C. NicholsMr. and Mrs. Phillip NickolMr. and Mrs. Michael J. NinoMs. Joanne NissenMr. and Mrs. Frank R. NunesMr. F. Robert Nunes, Sr.Dr. and Mrs. John OlinMr. and Mrs. Matthew OlinMr. Connor OlinMr. Nathan K. OlivasDr. and Mrs. Gary D. PalmaMr. and Mrs. Vic PaneroMr. and Mrs. Arthur W. PasquinelliMr. Granville PerkinsMr. and Mrs. Tom PetersDrs. Stephen and Catherine PetronijevicMs. Angeline PetronijevicMr. and Mrs. Ted PewthersMr. and Mrs. Kenneth PodioMr. and Mrs. Greg V. Prussia

Mr. and Mrs. Richard QuagliaMs. Lauren RacusinMs. Rene Rambo-RodgersMr. Dan Ramirez and Ms. Jeanne TanimuraMr. and Mrs. Richard RamrasMr. and Mrs. Wade ReeseMr. and Mrs. Carlos RiveraMs. Barbara O. RossMr. and Mrs. Thomas G. RussellMr. Art Ruvalcaba and Ms. Suzanne RosenMr. and Mrs. Jonathan D. RyanMs. Joyce RyanMrs. Lee SadegMr. and Mrs. Robert SalinMr. Nikolas SandoMr. and Mrs. Albert SaroyanMs. Sharon SarrisMs. Catherine ShirleyMs. Carli ShortMr. and Mrs. Warren C. ShukisMr. Scott SilveiraMr. and Mrs. Neal SmithMs. J. Joy SmithMs. Karen SmithMr. and Mrs. Michael SpanosMr. and Mrs. Sam SpringMr. and Mrs. David SteinmannMr. and Mrs. Rudy TalbertMs. Zelda TallmanMr. and Mrs. Gary K. TanimuraMr. Keith TanimuraMr. and Mrs. Jason TogneriMs. Karen TooleMr. and Mrs. Vincent TorrenteMr. and Mrs. J. B. TostevinMr. and Mrs. John TrapaniDr. and Mrs. Terrence K. TrappMrs. Dolores W. VelcoffMs. Merri-Jane ViglizzoMr. and Mrs. Jim WalkerMr. and Mrs. John WardMr. and Mrs. Dan WeinerMr. and Mrs. Daniel WelchMs. Emilie S. WellesMs. Lynn Westerkamp and Ms. Cynthia MontagueMrs. Lynne White Dixon and Mr. Robert K. DixonMr. Steven Whyte and Ms. Ellen WilsonMr. and Mrs. Russ WilksMs. Marilyn R. WillettMr. and Mrs. Ernest WilliamsMs. Nancy O. WilloughbyMr. and Mrs. W. Thomas Wilson, IIMr. and Mrs. David WittrockMs. Bobbie WolcottMr. and Mrs. John WolfeMr. and Mrs. Reed WolthausenMr. and Mrs. Swarup WoodMr. and Mrs. Mark YamaguchiMs. Valerie YangMr. and Mrs. Murray YeomansMs. Pat YoungMr. Steven Yu and Ms. Taylor PerkinsMs. Marsha M. ZelusMr. Bradley Zeve and Ms. Jeanne HowardMr. and Mrs. Steven Zlotkin

Annual Report 2012-2013

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Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

NEW FACULTY AND STAFFErin Laidler is the new executive assistant at Chartwell. She joined the Chartwell team in December after honorably serving four years as an active duty Marine Officer, with most of her service spent overseas in Okinawa, Japan. As an undergraduate, she earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Bradley University in Illinois. Erin brings a wealth of organizational and leadership skills with her, as well as unique perspectives on life and learning shaped by her experiences. With her significant background in math, she is also teaching an eighth-grade math class in addition to her administrative support duties. Erin’s goals include earning a graduate degree in education and teaching high school math.

Erin Miller comes to Chartwell School as the new academic executive assistant. She is local to the Monterey area and has professional experience in both the public and non-profit sectors. In addition to her administrative background, Erin possesses a commitment to creating positive social change. She is happy to be joining the Chartwell staff.

Seventh-grader Dalton, pictured here with Mr. Atkins, Ms. Hill, and Mr. Kirshner, won third place in the Physics and Astronomy category as well as an award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Point Lobos Section

Michelle, also in eighth grade, won second place in the physical science category for her egg-drop experiment

Eighth-grader Andrew won second place in the zoology category for his experiment with daphnia

Teacher Training Institutefor educators and parents

July 7-10, 2014Learn about diagnostic education, early

intervention, and reading instruction

chartwell.org

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Chartwell held its biennial Science Fair in February, when K-8 and high school students presented a diverse array of science projects to teachers, parents, and friends from the community, including local STEM professionals. Seven Chartwell students later took their projects to the Monterey County Science Fair, where they competed against students from schools throughout the region. Three Chartwell students won prizes (see photos), proving once again that our young learners can be among the best and brightest anywhere! We salute all of our students for showcasing their creativity and critical-thinking skills in this year’s Science Fair, and we extend a big thanks to science teachers Jim Kirshner, Kris Hill, David Nishijima, Marika Anderson, and the many guests and volunteer judges who made this special event possible.

Chartwell Students Win at County Science Fair

Page 12: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

The Chartwell mission has been advanced over the years by many committed leaders, educators, trustees, and advocates whose collective efforts have established our school as a model for diagnostic education in California and beyond. For the past 12 years, two of our most ardent, visionary, and tireless stewards have been the husband and wife team of Douglas and Kristen Atkins, whose efforts – each in their own right – have shaped our school’s upward trajectory.

As they look to take on new challenges beyond Chartwell, Douglas and Kristen will complete their respective highly accomplished tenures in June 2014, leaving behind a legacy of forward-thinking leadership and dedicated service. We would like to take this opportunity to look back, as well as ahead, with Douglas and Kristen as they reflect on their time at Chartwell and prepare for their next adventure.

Douglas was appointed Chartwell Executive Director in 2002 following a search process headed by then Board President Bruce Michels. Douglas fondly remembers meeting with Bruce, following the standard visit and interview process, for a casual lunch where they agreed to terms on the back of a napkin, which Douglas keeps to this day as proof that such things really do happen!

Douglas recalls the meeting as the beginning of a strong and productive relationship that would serve the school well into the future, exceeding even their own high expectations: “Bruce delivered on everything, and even more over the years as we launched a newly energized institutional vision catalyzed by the opportunity to build a new campus. That was just the beginning for the next 12 years.”

Indeed, the collective achievements of the Chartwell community over those 12 years are too many to list, but include a successful $13 million capital campaign to build the Chartwell campus, which Douglas looks back on as “an amazing transformational process that allowed the whole school to envision its expansive future of possibilities.” Opened in 2006 as the first LEED Platinum certified campus in the U.S., the new Chartwell campus set the stage for the school’s continued growth while complementing, in so many ways, Chartwell’s data-driven, student-centered approach to maximizing potential.

“Having our own school building was a dream that was 20 years in the making,” recalls long-time Chartwell educator and Head of School Nora Lee. “Douglas, who was very hands-on in every aspect of designing and building our amazing campus, was the right person at the right time to make that dream a reality.”

Kristen, a highly experienced LD educator, did not immediately join the Chartwell team with Douglas but came on shortly thereafter to fill an emergency opening in the faculty. Her ensuing tenure has been marked by this type of selfless commitment and versatility in meeting any challenge at hand.

Kristen has variously, and often simultaneously, worked as a classroom teacher in both the K-8 and high school programs; served as a learning support advisor to other schools; actively engaged in youth and adult literacy programs throughout our region; trained literacy volunteers; led countless school, community, and teacher-training workshops; headed the Chartwell Math Department; served as the Director of the Center for the Advancement of Language and Literacy (CALL); and, for the past two years, fulfilled the Head of School position for The New High School Project (TNHSP), which she proudly describes as “one of the most innovative high schools in the country.”

Kristen’s work for CALL and TNHSP reflects Chartwell’s significant expansion of both

Dream Big and Execute Well Looking Back with Douglas and Kristen Atkins

Douglas helps Stuart with a launch at the catapult contest, 2003

Douglas, Jean Draper, Jennefer Wineman, and Kay Sullivan break ground on the new campus, 2005

A strong partnership - Douglas with Bruce Michels at the groundbreaking

An early view from the ED’s new office

Kristen works with children at the Salvation Army - one of many outreach activities coordinated via CALL

And the awards roll in...

Kristen explains the “habitat game” to students on Earth Day

The dream is realized! Key members of the Chartwell family come together to cut the ribbon at the new campus

Kristen shares a hug with Audrey on Halloween, 2005

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Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

outreach and program offerings over the last decade. Douglas and Kristen are both proud and appreciative of the collective hard work, collaboration, and support that enabled Chartwell to extend its expertise through such exciting means, and they deeply value the relationships that fostered and grew out of such efforts. “I will always be grateful to this community for providing us with and supporting us in these wonderful opportunities,” says Kristen. “The personal and professional relationships we have developed have nurtured our educational souls and the memories we have established will remain dear to us always.”

Indeed, among their fondest memories the Atkins cite the many annual events that bring the Chartwell community together in celebration and shared commitment, such as Achievement Night, Grandparent’s Day, TNHSP Graduation, and Party in a Pear Tree. “Every special event at Chartwell was a pleasure,” says Douglas. “I loved them all.”

Now, in following the same spirit that brought them to the Chartwell community so many years ago, the couple is preparing for their next big adventure – a move to Guatemala, where Douglas will assume the position of General Director at the American School and Kristen will teach in the classroom. In doing so, the Atkins will step away from the Chartwell team, passing the torch to current and future stakeholders, but will remain lifelong friends and advocates of our community and our mission.

“What the Atkins accomplished during their 12 years at Chartwell has been extraordinary,” says Nora Lee. “Without question, we are a better school now than when the Atkins first arrived, and for that we will always be thankful.” In particular, Nora applauds the Atkins for challenging the school to continually reassess and raise the bar in student-centered diagnostic education: “What I personally take away from Douglas and Kristen’s tenure at Chartwell is to not be complacent about what and how we are teaching just because it is what and how we have always done it, but to always ask myself if there is something more we could and should be doing for our students. For this and so much more, Douglas and Kristen will always be a part of the illustrious history of Chartwell School.”

As he looks to the future, Douglas aspires to take “the essence of the student-centered educational model that has been the hallmark of schools like Chartwell…and infuse other school systems and educational processes with similarly powerful principles and promising outcomes.” To the Chartwell community, he offers the following advice in carrying the torch forward: “Do not be afraid to act boldly and with the purest of motives. This will continue to attract the type of support that surprises and inspires others to be part of something they have not found anywhere else in education. Chartwell is capable of transforming human potential and should continue to engage the challenge of helping others to do the same.”

In summing up her heartfelt goodbye to the students themselves, Kristen offers her own parting thoughts to parents and community members: “Working with your children has been one of the best and most rewarding aspects of my job – they have taught me many things and I have cherished my time with them. When I announced my departure to the students, I mentioned one of my favorite quotes from Eleanor Roosevelt, who said: ‘Do something every day that scares you.’ I told the students that I admired their grit because I knew that for some of them, coming to school was scary, and I was so very proud to have had the opportunity to get to know them and watch them work hard to reach their dreams. I encouraged them to keep doing things that were difficult – because they can do them, and I wish all of you the very best now and always.”

We extend our best wishes and most heartfelt gratitude to Douglas and Kristen for their vision, passion, and steadfast commitment in supporting and inspiring creative thinkers and doers at Chartwell and beyond. Their contributions will continue to help us serve this population for generations to come.

In closing, Douglas’s parting words serve as not only a clarion call for our community but a retrospective on his and Kristen’s leadership: “Dream BIG and execute well!”

More shovels! Breaking ground for TNHSP with Elizabeth Miles, Steve Henderson, and Ashley Vizurraga

Douglas and his steady steed “Rocinante” prepare to take students on the Steinbeck tour

Party in a Pear, 2007

Kristen (lower right) on a TNHSP field trip to San Francisco

Growing up in the Chartwell family - Douglas and Kristen with their children Katherine (left), Frances, and Ethan

Dressing up on 50s day...

Kristen helps Lexi in the TNHSP classroom

...and with the whole gang on 60s day

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Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

Message from Kristen Atkins, Head of SchoolA frequent reflection of our seniors is that when they first entered our program, many of them did not see themselves as “college material.” And, yet, one of the greatest joys of our work at The New High School Project is celebrating the many letters of college acceptances that come in for each new batch of seniors!

Since we initially conceived our high school program, we have set out to define the manner in which we help our students prepare for and select a college or university. Reflecting our emphasis on creating independent learners and doers, we empower our students to be the driving force behind this important decision.

Choosing the right college is an increasingly pivotal and complex process, and it is common for families to become anxious and concerned about the costs, value, and placement of students, particularly for those who may have previously struggled in traditional educational environments. At TNHSP, we have invested many resources in establishing a college-prep program that helps students and families navigate this myriad of possibilities, questions, and concerns.

One of the hallmarks of our program is the many college visits that our students enjoy on our regular field experiences. All students, not just our seniors, participate, so from their first months in our program, they begin to see the different higher education options and support systems available to unique learners. Students can ask direct questions of admissions directors and talk to undergrads who know firsthand what it is like to be in a college setting and need some level of support.

Additionally, our seniors have a daily class, called Senior Advisory, in which they research and apply to colleges and universities, develop their college essays and portfolios, and practice for college entrance exams, all with the personalized guidance of faculty. TNHSP educator Alyse LeValley has been instrumental these past two years in developing this program along with former Chartwell Trustee Duffy Grant, an independent education consultant and certified college advisor.

Our college counseling process begins during junior year, when we ask students to define their interests, consider their goals for the future, and, with the guidance of our college counselors, develop a list of colleges and universities they would like to consider. We help students find schools that best fit their needs and interests and help them plan their high school course schedules to meet admissions requirements.

As part of the college-prep process, we also provide direct instruction in how to manage time, stress, and relationships with professors; and how to create a balanced schedule to fully meet one’s academic responsibilities but also find time to sleep, exercise, and relax! Moreover, we have TNHSP alumni come back and talk to juniors and seniors about their own experiences in college so that our students can get even more advice from current undergrads with similar needs.

Overall, this program has proved invaluable in providing students with the structured time and individualized counseling they need to transform their anxiety into excitement and help them make a confident, informed decision about their next step. The proof of this program’s value can be seen in our students’ achievements, as our first two graduating classes of seniors – in 2012 and 2013 – as well as this year’s senior class of 2014, have all received acceptances to a junior or four-year college of their choice, with many receiving scholarship offers!

We are deeply proud of these graduates, and all of our students, who continue to re-define “college material” for the benefit of all unique learners and doers.

College-Prep: Opening Doors and Minds to Higher Education

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Seniors Kelsey and Mark on a class field trip to Point Lobos

TNHSP students visit the Monarch Grove Sanctuary in Pacific Grove

Katie, Daniel, and Kristy explore a tide pool at Point Lobos

Page 15: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

TNHSP Class of 2014College AcceptancesWe are proud to report that our five high school seniors

have received acceptances to the following colleges and

universities for the 2014-2015 academic year:

Academy of Art University (CA)

California College of the Arts

California State University, Chico

California State University, East Bay

Chapman University (CA)

Cornish College of the Arts (WA) *

Hawaii Pacific University *

Linfield College (OR) *

Marlboro College (VT)

McDaniel College (MD)

Montana State University, Bozeman *

Northern Arizona University *

Notre Dame de Namur University (CA)

Pacific Northwest College of Art (OR) *

Portland State University (OR)

Rochester Institute of Technology (NY)

Santa Fe University of Art and Design (NM) *

Savannah College of Art and Design (GA)

Sierra Nevada College (NV) *

Southern Oregon University

Southwestern University (TX)

Syracuse University (NY)

University of Arizona *

University of Hawaii, Hilo *

University of Hawaii, Manoa *

University of La Verne (CA) *

University of the Pacific (CA)

University of San Francisco

Warren Wilson College (NC)

* Includes scholarship offer

Congrats, TNHSP seniors!

Chartwell Newsletter – Spring 2014

TNHSP Leadership Transition

15

We are pleased to introduce our new TNHSP leadership team for the 2014-2015 academic year: Alyse LeValley, Head of School, and William “Billy” Swift, Dean of Students. These bright and talented educators will bring ample experience and expertise to a high school program that continues to set the standard for college-prep education for high potential teens who learn differently.

Alyse assumes the Head of School position after serving as an educator and college counselor at TNHSP for the past two years. She has worked at Chartwell in various capacities since 2007, bringing a range of educational experience as a teacher and tutor across the K-12 and higher education spectrum, as well as advancement and administrative support experience particular to our school.

Outgoing Head of School Kristen Atkins describes Alyse, a former pupil of hers at CSUMB, as an “excellent educator who has helped so many of our students with their studies and college planning.” Kristen adds, “She has a high level of organization, expertise, and energy that will serve her well as Head of School.” Alyse is excited to take on this new role, noting: “We have a very strong team in place at TNHSP, and we are looking forward to continuing to grow and enrich the program for the benefit of students.”

Billy assumes the Dean of Students position after teaching in the Chartwell middle school program for the past year. He came to Chartwell from Landmark School, where as a teacher and case manager he gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in working with teens who have learning differences. As Kristen notes, “Landmark, where I received my training, is a hallmark of excellence, so I am fully confident that Billy has all the talents and skills he needs to support the mission of our school. He also has a great rapport with young adults and a humor and exuberance that I know everyone will respect and adore.”

In looking to next year, Billy says: “The New High School Project is a place of great passion and promise. I am excited to help guide and support each student, family, and fellow teacher in furthering the school’s success.”

Alyse LeValley, new Head of School, and Billy Swift, new Dean of Students

Page 16: The Write Stuff: Spring 2014

Chartwell School & The New High School Project

2511 Numa Watson Rd.

Seaside, CA 93955

All photos conceived and captured by Chartwell students as part of their digital media studies

Taking Flight...at ChartwellBecause Not All Great Minds Think Alike