Annual Report
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Transcript of Annual Report
80 years ago, just before the “Black Monday” stock market crash and the Great Depression, the Erie Day School
bravely opened the doors to its first classes. The founding principles of the school were based on providing the finest
possible elementary education in a caring and supportive environment which would, at this crucial formative period,
instill in its students a love of learning that would serve them well as they progressed through life.
As we fast forward to 2009, amid major new economic turmoil, we can be thankful for the foresight and perseverance
of the school's founding families. I am pleased to report that these original principles remain fully in place and
influence every activity of the school. This is not to say that there have not been significant changes since 1929. The
school is stronger in nearly every way: academics, athletics, student productions, extra-curricular activities, and
physical plant. It continues to provide the premier PS-8 educational programs in the region. Under the leadership of
Mike Mullin and the experienced and capable faculty and staff, our 155 Erie Day School students perform at a very
high level and, as evidenced by their eagerness to be at school, appear to enjoy it as well.
Through the enlightened guidance and strong financial support of our Board of Directors, the school finances and facility are also improving each year.
As we enter the 2009-10 year, the school has no outstanding bank debt and has planned its 5th consecutive balanced budget. Our ongoing $1.5 million
Endowment/Capital Campaign has had strong support in its initial stage from current and past trustees and friends. We have begun building a
meaningful endowment (about time, after 80 years!) and recently have made major improvements in our facilities. Primary among the latter are new
playground equipment, major upgrade and expansion of our computer systems and technology, and installation of new high-efficiency HVAC systems
in the Zurn Building and Cafeteria. The school has never looked better or operated more efficiently.
We are proud of our 80 years of providing an outstanding education and, when we talk with our alumni, we consistently are reminded of how our
efforts work to serve our students and prepare them to be the leaders of our future. From the time I entered the Erie Day School Kindergarten over 60
years ago, the school had a profound impact on my learning skills and thought processes, serving me well through the remainder of my formal
education and thereafter. My re-acquaintance with the school over the past eight years, combined with the experience my granddaughters have had in
their first years at the school, have only enhanced my opinion of its strengths and capability. These strengths are evidenced in our Alumni, Faculty and
Staff, our Head of School, and our Board. The tradition lives on and is intact. Bring on the next 80 years!
Sincerely,
Thomas C. Vicary
Chair, Board of Trustees
Message from the Head of School
Report from the Board Chair
As I look at the cover of this Annual Report, it strikes me that while a great deal has changed over the past 80 years,
some things have stayed the same. Cliché as it may seem, it is true. The two photographs, one from 1933 and the other
2009, speak to the core values that have served Erie Day School, its students and families very well over the years.
Individual attention, small classes, a close and caring environment and a challenging curriculum have been the
hallmarks of the school since its founding in 1929.
In preparing this publication, I have poured over hundreds of photographs, newspaper clippings and countless pages
of notes and reports. In doing so, one cannot help but be impressed by the rich heritage that this school enjoys.
However, I could not help but wonder what became of the smiling children, engaged teachers and involved parents
frozen in time in these classic photographs, many of which are available for viewing on the school's website
(www.eriedayschool.org). In many ways, the search for an answer to this question has led to the creation of this
publication. When we speak about being a member of the Erie Day School community, that relationship does not end
when a student receives a diploma. No, it is a bond that cannot be broken by time and distance since everyone who has ever been a part of Erie Day
School has contributed to the mosaic of who we are today.
We are delighted to have been able to produce this Annual Report and hope that as you peruse its pages, it informs you about the school today,
rekindles fond memories about time spent here and encourages you to become an active member in the school's life today. Being a small day school,
born in the year the Great Depression started, Erie Day School has shown incredible resilience over the years while never losing sight of its core values
and mission. Its commitment to diversity, challenging academics and focus on the individual are the core values that have been the foundation on
which our longevity has been built.
Yes, the more things change the more they stay the same, and as we begin our 80th year of providing a quality independent school education, we do so
with a renewed commitment to our mission. As the upcoming school year unfolds, there will be several events scheduled to celebrate our community,
and I invite you to join us. Erie Day School is a family, and I hope you all get the chance to come home.
Warmest regards,
Michael S. Mullin
Head of School
Technology At Erie Day School
Parent Group News
The 2008/2009 school year was a very exciting one for Parent Group. I've been involved in Parent Group activities
for over 10 years at Erie Day School and continue to marvel at the inventiveness and dedication of the parents that
participate in our ambitious little group! First and foremost, let me say that EVERY parent who has a child at EDS
is a Parent Group member. We realize that careers, obligations and other demands on your time may prevent you
from participating, but please know that you are always welcome. The strength and success of our group depends
solely on the volunteer base that we attract. We are grateful for an hour of your time, a dozen cookies for an
activity that we are hosting, or a weekend of volunteering at the Whale of a Sale—anything!
The 2008/2009 school year saw the implementation of two very exciting new activities. Because we found ourselves with a budget surplus, we were able
to form a Mini Grant Program that allowed teachers to apply for a mini-grant for items/activities that were not part of their regular school budget. The
requests were presented at our monthly Parent Group meetings and voted upon. I am happy to report that all requests were able to be granted. Some
of the items that we were able to provide funds for were: Orff Instruments for the music department; an I-Pod sound system for the gym; three teachers
were able to attend workshops with the help of our funds; the third grade was able to attend an Erie Zoological Society program on wolves/canines; two
microscopes were purchased for the science department; an incubator for the fourth grade classroom; Mrs. Rogers' vast library of cassettes were
upgraded to DVDs; and finally, we were able to provide a TV and a DVD/VCR combo for two other classrooms.
Second, we instituted a Teacher Appreciation Week to coincide with the nationally recognized week. Every day provided a different “treat” for teachers
and staff. By far, the most well received treat was the head/neck massage! Don't worry staff, it's on the list for this coming year, as well!
Parent Group hosted and/or participated in over 23 activities during last school year, and we are looking forward to a very busy 2009/2010 school year.
We try to limit our fund raising requests, but instead rely heavily on your commitment of time. Our two Whale of a Sales and book fairs are the
activities that provide the funds for things like the free Ice Cream Social and allow us to provide teachers with Mini-Grants. All of our activities and our
requests for volunteers directly relate to the success of our children at EDS.
We are excited to begin this new school year. We always welcome new faces and invite you to participate in our monthly meetings which are held in the
cafeteria on the first Monday of each month that school is in session. Our meetings begin at 8:30 a.m. If you cannot attend the meetings, please feel free
to give me a call and ask how you can help. We are a friendly bunch and would love to see you become involved!
Kim Connelly
Parent Group President
Preparing students for the 21st century is a major focus of the programs offered at Erie Day
School. Recently the school was the beneficiary of several gifts that have allowed us to
further attain this goal. In 2008, the school received a generous gift from the Britton
Foundation that enabled the school to renovate its technology offerings. The computer lab
was completely renovated with the addition of twenty new work stations. There were also
new computers installed in every classroom for faculty and student use. An additional
twenty laptops were purchased for a mobile lab. The school now possesses both a hard
wired and wireless network and new educational software. This year, with another generous
gift from the Hardner Foundation, the school purchased five interactive whiteboards that
will enhance learning for those students who tend to be more visual or kinesthetic learners.
We have also expanded our course offerings to include advanced HTML and robotics.
Educating what some refer to as the “net.generation” for the 21st century, however, does not
end with the acquisition of computer skills. At Erie Day School we focus on how to integrate
these tools into each student's daily studies. It is not unusual to walk past classrooms and
find students building databases for their science classes, doing Internet research on a
history paper or preparing a PowerPoint presentation for math or English. Starting as early
as pre-school, our students are exposed to a wide range of courses and topics which make
use of technology. The integration of technology into the classroom is an important
component of an Erie Day School education. Research suggests that when students use
technology to assist with their learning it enhances critical thinking skills, encourages better
writing skills, promotes learner independence and fosters greater interest.
“The current and future health of America's 21st Century Economy depends directly on how broadly
and deeply Americans reach a new level of literacy—'21st Century Literacy'—that includes strong
academic skills, thinking, reasoning, teamwork skills, and proficiency in using technology.”
— 21st Century Workforce Commission - National Alliance of Business
Donor ListListed below are the many alumni, families and friends of the school that generously contributed throughout the
2008-09 school year. The donor recognition circles encompass cumulative giving to Adopt A Scholar, Annual Fund,
Capital Campaign and Endowment.
Patron Circle continuedFounder’s Circle Supporter Circle Erie Day SchoolDonor Recognition Circles
Leadership Circle
Benefactor Circle
Headmaster’s Circle
Green & White Circle
Patron Circle
Circle of Friends
Susan RiehlThe Britton Family Foundation Armand AmendolaDaniel & Dawn Schaaf Ralph BiggsRoger & Laurel Taft W. Peter & Wendy Bolding Founder’s CircleWalnut Street Enterprises Richard Bristow Gifts of $20,000 +Amerail Systems, Inc.John & Barbara Weber Jacqueline Brown Leadership CircleThe Black Family Foundation
Donald Buseck Gifts of $10,000—$19,999Dr. Gunnar & Mrs. Amy BergqvistCraig & Susan Chase Headmaster’s CircleC. A. Curtze Food CompanyDrs. Zdislaw & Kathy ChorazyDrs. J.P. & Penny Dailey Gifts of $5,000—$9,999Contemporary MotorcarRichard CoxHart, McConahy & Martz, Inc. Patron CircleE. E. Austin & Son, Inc.Daniel DweckDrs. Robert & Rebecca Haverly Gifts of $2,500—$4,999The Norbert H. HardnerDrs. Jason & Maribelle EstradaDr. Manjot Kang Benefactor CircleFoundationThomas GrandinettiDr. Gurjaipal Kang Gifts 0f $1,000—$2,499Dr. Scott & Mrs. Terry HenryRay LambertJeffrey & Leslie Marsden Green & White CircleThe Kang FamilyWilliam LewisJohn & Michele McCandless Gifts of $500—$999Scott Kern & Amy Cuzzola-KernBlossom McBrierMichael & Jennifer Mullin Circle of FriendsMacDonald Illig AttorneysCheri McGuireAtty. Sumner Nichols Gifts of $250—$499United ConcordiaNicholas MeyerPerry Mill Supply Company Supporter CircleBrandon & Bobbi MinnickPrinting Concepts, Inc. Gifts of $1-$249Robert MuchoneyAlan & Patti Schaal
Baldwin Brothers Inc.Michael MurphyAllen Shenk
Mid Atlantic Capital CorporationJames NixDavid Zurn Every effort has been taken to ensure the Patterson Erie CorporationJudith Redlawsk accuracy of this listing. We apologize if we PNC Bank
have neglected to include a donor in our Laurie Rudolph-FrancisJohn & Kelley Schultz recognition. Please notify Leslie Marsden in the Hugh ShieldsClemont & Penny AustinSchultz Furniture Company Development Office if you believe an error has Jefrey & Jayne StartDori Fish Buseck
been made.UPMC Health PlanRoger & Amy SwansonJeffrey & Kim Connelly
Thomas & Cheryl VicaryRobert TaftB. F. Fields Moving & Storage
Matthew & Marian WolfordCarol UglowLife Services Management Corp.Constance WolfordThe Nadworny FamilyAndona Zacks-JordanMichael & Carol Redlawsk
Gregory & Trina Baldwin Anthony ZonnaTimothy M. & Laura C. RyanByham’s Insurance Services, Inc. Rena ZurnMagnus & Gertrude WeberCarolyn EmersonGreg & Janis FilbeckHenry & Laurana Fish
Richard & Elizabeth MorgenGE Foundation (matching gift)
Charles SupleeDr. Jeffrey Levine
Andrew ZurnThe Merwin Foundation
A huge thank you to the following Lene Currie Chuck Przybylinskipeople and businesses that Curtze Food Company Alto Cucinasponsored our Adopt-a-Scholar Timothy DeCapua Laura C. & Timothy M. Ryan Hole Sponsor
events raising $57,000 in Monica & Ron DiNicola Sandcille Demi Spa Building Systems Inc.
scholarship funds! Discount Beer Alan & Patti Schaal The Connelly Law OfficeDoleski & Wolford Orthodontics Scott Enterprises Doleski-Wolford OrthodonticsAnn Giannelli Smith Provision Company Edinboro University
Gregory & Trina Baldwin John Gravanda Mary Ellen & Chris Sorce Erie Copy ProductsRay Benacci & Jeannette Zaykowski Brian Gutowski Missy & Sean Taylor Erie Youth LacrosseJeff & Kim Connelly Julie Hauser The Schultz Family Full Circle InvestmentsPatty Corella Mary Pat Haven Phyllis Turner HBK Sorce FinancialJ. P. & Penny Dailey Becky & Robert Haverly Twelve o'One Kitchen High Pressure Equipment Co. Henry & Laurana Fish Terry Henry Carolyn Vendetti Connie Britton, Dori Fish Buseck Gay S. Hilton Thomas & Cheryl Vicary Howard Hanna Real EstateScott & Terry Henry Michael Hronas Wegman's Maloney, Reed & Scarpitti Co.Scott Kern & Amy Cuzzola-Kern Tauna Hunter Jo Wilcko Perry Construction Group & Betty Ann Levine Sandra Jarecki Potomac BuildersJeffery & Leslie Marsden Kada Gallery Sparrow Pond CampgroundMichael & Jennifer Mullin Caryn Kadavy-Doolittle STARTUP IncubatorTrenton & Laura Pierce Jay Kang Varo EnterprisesTimothy M. & Laura C. Ryan Dinner SponsorJan KidderJohn & Kelley Schultz MacDonald Illig AttorneysAdele Larsen Tee SponsorChristopher & Mary Ellen Sorce Les Crago Jewelers Baldwin Brothers Inc.Thomas & Cheryl Vicary Lunch SponsorPaul Lorei Michael Brittain, Classic LexusMatt & Marian Wolford Smith Provision CompanyLeslie & Jeffrey Marsden Creative Imprint Systems
Pepsi CompanyCathy McCalmont Dave Hallman ChevroletCheri McGuire Dusckas Martin Funeral Home
Cart SponsorMercyhurst College Erie Beer CompanyScott AllenA Friend of The SchoolMi Scuzi Ristorante Hart, McConahy & Martz, Inc.Arthur F. Schultz Furniture
Lynn & Tom Ohmer Logistics PlusAllison BearGreen and White SponsorPanache Salon & Spa The Lowther FamilyAmy & Gunnar BergqvistThe Britton Family FoundationPetra Restaurant Mercyhurst CollegeBoothby InnErie Strayer CompanyLaura & Trent Pierce Mid Atlantic Capital Corp.John CalabreseHamot Medical CenterPittsburgh Pirates Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Chautauqua InstitutionScott Kern & Amy Cuzzola-KernStephanie Potous-Eaker CompanyPatty CorellaRoth CadillacHeather Prather
Auction In-Kind Gifts continued Auction In-Kind Gifts continued John E. Britton Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament continued
Auction Hosts
John E. Britton Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament
Auction In-Kind Gifts
..
..
Operating BudgetIn the midst of uncertain economic times, we are proud that Erie Day School is holding
steady and continues to offer its robust academic programs while operating within
budget. The Board of Trustees and Administration are committed to continuing this trend
and maintaining the School's good financial health. Below is a snapshot of Erie Day
School's 2008-2009 operating budget.
INCOME $1,636,554.00
Tuition $1,190,118.00
Other Revenue $34,512.00
Student Related Activities $139,976.00
Development Income $271,948.00
EXPENSES $1,621,333.00
Salaries $981,382.00
Benefits $231,353.00
Educational Materials $71,326.00
Maintenance $34,575.00
Utilities $43,628.00
Marketing/Development $66,793.00
Student Related Activities $117,334.00
Other $74,942.00
Development Report
We are truly thankful to the many donors that gave so generously to Erie Day School in 2008-2009. Every gift is
meaningful and positively touches the lives of our students. There are few better investments than those in our
children and their education. We are deeply grateful to the supporters who partner with us in this cause.
Our donors give for many personal reasons. As parents your gift signifies your belief in the value of an Erie Day
School education and the difference it makes in your children's lives. As alumni your gift underscores the impact
Erie Day School has had on your life. As grandparents and friends of the School your gift shows your dedication
to our young learners and future leaders.
With tuition covering just 73% of our operating costs and charitable support making up much of the difference, philanthropy is an integral part of our
overall financial health. There are many ways to give to Erie Day School. Listed below are a few of the important funds that enable Erie Day School to
continue its path of academic excellence.
This program allows the School to offer tuition assistance to our families in need. At Erie Day School we are committed to diversity
within the student body. We are passionate about ensuring that any child, regardless of socioeconomic background, has the opportunity to receive an
Erie Day School education. This year we extended more than $300,000 in tuition assistance to more than 30% of our students.
The resources generated from our Annual Fund Drive pick up where tuition leaves off with regard to general operating expenses. This is
one of the most important forms of giving for the school.
Gifts directed to the Capital Fund are designated for improvements to the physical plant, buildings and grounds of the school. In 2008-
2009 we completed many capital improvements including our HVAC system, computer systems and playground equipment.
Our Endowment Fund is administered through The Erie Community Foundation. The income from the principal balance is used to
help address operating expenses, capital expenditures and scholarships.
This program allows certain types of Pennsylvania based businesses to take advantage of a credit on taxes owed
in exchange for a gift to the School's scholarship program. The credit is dollar for dollar, up to 90% for a gift to scholarships for K-12 and 100% for a gift
to our preschool program.
For more information on any of these programs, please give me a call at or send an email to .
Again, thank you for your support and commitment to our students.
Best Regards,
Leslie V. Marsden
Adopt A Scholar:
Annual Fund:
Capital Fund:
Endowment Fund:
Educational Improvement Tax Credit:
(814) 452-4273 [email protected]
INCOME
EXPENSES
An Alumni Perspective by Stacey Dias Hammer
Hello! My name is Stacey Dias Hammer.
1989 when I became one of ten members of the second grade class with Ms. Ann Giannelli as my teacher. I began the school year with a negative
attitude towards school and especially reading. I believe this was due to my first grade experience in public school where eight out of the twenty-four
children in my class were held back. The teacher was so overwhelmed with twenty-four students (many of them discipline problems) that she did not
have the time or the energy to i
I am an EDS alumna and currently a faculty member at Erie Day School. My Day School experience began in
nstill that much-needed love of learning in her students. As my second grade year began, I was a shy and reserved child
who was afraid to speak up and rarely participated. By the end of the year, my enthusiasm for learning had blossomed and I was reading at a fourth
grade level – I LOVED coming to school!
Aboard, about, above, according to, across . . . I can still recite all sixty prepositions that I learned in sixth grade! My years at Erie Day School are
full of great memories and fantastic learning experiences – all of which hold a special place in my heart. I feel very
fortunate to have spent my elementary school years at Erie Day School. I cannot say enough
good things about the teachers at EDS who were not only concerned with
my academic success but also my success as a
whole person – i.e., character, self-
respect, citizenship, etc. The extra
educational opportunities such as the
Shaw Festival, the Stratford Festival,
the Cleveland Ballet, and my 8th
grade trip to Boston made the EDS
experience even more memorable.
I graduated from Erie Day School in
1996 and began my freshman year at
Iroquois High School. I was excited to
begin high school and ready for any
challenge it might bring. As I was
saying good-bye to my EDS classmates
and teachers, my parting words to
Headmaster Dr. Bill Kindler were, “I'll be
back; look for my teaching resume in
eight years!” How far I had come during
my seven years at Erie Day School!
Confidently, I tackled high school where I
excelled in French, English, and Math. As a
freshman, I was able to immediately enter
French II and Honors English. After
graduating Magna Cum Laude in
2000, I entered Edinboro University
where I pursued my lifelong dream
of becoming a teacher. I was so
fortunate to be able to complete my
field work at Erie Day School under
the tutelage of great teachers like
Cathy McCalmont and Kami
Novicki. Their enthusiasm and
evident love of children inspired
me to be the teacher that I am
today.
In 2007, I kept my word to Dr.
Kindler when I was hired as the
Head Preschool teacher at Erie
Day School. I am very blessed
and fortunate to be given the
opportunity to give back all
that I received from Erie Day
School!
This may sound a little odd coming from someone who runs a school with high academic expectations, who touts his students' performance and stresses
the need for homework. But, it is also very important that Erie Day School include in our student's daily schedules a critical ingredient in childhood
happiness and school success that is rapidly disappearing. With the emphasis today on standardized test scores, extracurricular activities and longer
school days, something important is being left out: Children's play.
Play is vitally important to children, not just to their social and emotional development, but to their academic achievement as well.
Besides being fun, play is the way children make the world their own. It makes sense of all their new experiences and knowledge, and helps them to
recover from life's upsets. They need as much of it as they can get and it does not have to be constructive. Developmentally, young children need lots of
time to run around, to act goofy, to not have to be anywhere at any given time, to play endless games of Barbie or fantasy dress up games. They need
time to play what I call disorganized sports, where they get to argue about the rules and work out conflicts, figure out fairness and decide for
themselves whether to keep score or not.
A child's major task is to grow up, and play is an important part of this maturation. A recent study found that children remember new information
better if they get to use it in a play format. Taking what is learned and integrating it into what children do best, play, is a wonderful way to learn.
School can be hard for many children. It may be hard academically, socially, emotionally or some combination of the three. Some are anxious about
grades, others about peers. Some have troubles at home. In order to recover from these worries and pressures a child needs to play. School should be
fun and recess is just as important as any of the academic subjects.
I recently read an article in which a Kindergarten teacher discussed a conversation she had with a parent who was concerned about the amount of time
being used during the school day for recess. When she asked the parent if the child was happy, the parent replied, “Happy does not get you into
Harvard!” Play can be a “rest period” for children from the pressure of adults who want them to grow up fast.
Young children need down time to decompress from a day at school. To help avoid the eventual homework power struggle that many parents face, and
which can contribute to anxiety and stress in families, it is recommended that there should be a built-in play time before sitting down for homework.
This is not a time to plop in front of the TV or Game Boy or the computer but a time to slay dragons, play school, or seek some individual attention from
their parents. Recent research by Anthony Pellegrini, a leading child psychologist, suggests that boys who engage in playful rough and tumble
wrestling with their dads have more positive social skills than boys who do not.
There is another body of research that suggests many children who are being diagnosed with attention disorders are really suffering from attachment
disorders. They do not get enough closeness with their parents or anyone else, and that makes it hard to concentrate, focus and maintain impulse
control. Having someone take the time to show an interest in what a child is doing is incredibly important. If we do not spend time with our children to
raise them, then popular culture will. Not a pretty thought!
Play, especially for the younger children, helps them cross lines that might otherwise keep them separate – lines such as gender, race,
cultural, class, and physical differences. However, when children from different backgrounds and genders play together,
they are promoting understanding and breaking down barriers and stereotypes. Play is one thing all children
have in common.
It is important that we find balance for our children. While academics are
important, they cannot be all consuming. While play does not guarantee a spot
in Harvard, it does go a long way in making a happy child and the one point all
the research points to is this, a happy child is a successful child. So the next
time stress and anxiety are building, stop what you are doing and “Go out and
play! “
in many ways,
The Importance of Play by Michael Mullin
The Performing Arts are Alive and Well!
Erie Day School was built on a foundation of integrated education. No school in Erie has such a strong commitment to the arts, as we believe it is
important to the very core of a well-balanced learning environment. And we are happy to report as we enter our 80th year serving the community; the
performing arts are alive and well at Erie Day School. This year under the careful
direction of Mrs. Cherie Lachowski, classes in performing arts range from theater
offerings to chorus to general music and of course we cannot forget our weekly
Friday Morning Meetings, an Erie Day School tradition, where, during the course
of the year, each class performs for the entire student body. Another highlight of
the year is the 8th grade “Evening of Shakespeare” performance, where, under the
inspired direction of Mrs. Ginny Rogers, the 8th graders prove that Shakespeare
can be fun for all ages. Our connection to the arts, however, is not limited to just
within our walls. Throughout the year our students take trips to enjoy
performances at the Warner Theater and the Erie Playhouse while the 7th and
8th grades go north of the border to attend the Shaw Festival and the Stratford
Festival.
In addition, two years ago in keeping with these strong performing
programs at the school, Mrs. Yates and friends officially started The Erie Day
School Playhouse. Our first year, we mounted a
production of “The Wizard of Oz.” It was a magical
classic that featured our youngest as colorful
munchkins, while allowing our talented lower and
middle school students to show off their
performing skills in acting, singing, and dancing.
The production had all the makings of a
professional show with lights, sound, designer
stage and live orchestra!
“Among the highest expression of every culture, the arts teach us much about every historical period through its literature, visual arts, music, dance, and drama. Today
it is recognized that to be truly well educated one must not only learn to appreciate the arts, but must have rich opportunities to actively participate in creative work.
The arts cut through individual differences in culture, educational background, and ability. They can bring every subject to life and turn abstractions into concrete
reality. Learning through the arts often results in greater academic achievement and higher test scores.”
- New Horizons for Learning
This past year, under the direction of Mrs.Yates, the students rose to
the occasion again with their colorful rendition of “Seussical Jr.”
This Broadway musical cleverly entwined the stories of Dr. Seuss
into a seamless tale. Our cast numbered over 40 with a crew of 10
who were assisted by numerous moms and dads in pulling together every aspect
of the production. It was a true Erie Day School “family” affair. “Seussical,” held the weekend before
Thanksgiving, was a huge success with all performances being standing room only.
And what about EDS Playhouse's plans for 2009? Well, we are already rehearsing and let's just say, with a cast of over 80 students and 108 costumes
being designed for this very event, it promises to be something you won't want to miss. So save the dates in your calendar…November 20-22, as you
are invited to relax and pull up a chair as Erie Day School Playhouse proudly presents… “Beauty and the Beast!”
National Junior Honor Society Induction
This year saw eight students inducted
into the Georgina Fust Patterson
Chapter of the National Junior Honor
Society. To be nominated for
membership a student must possess a
GPA of 3.95. Students who have
achieved this standard are extended an
invitation to join and asked to submit
an essay in which they highlight their
experience and qualifications in five
areas: citizenship, character,
leadership, scholarship, and service.
These submissions are then reviewed
by a Faculty Council who vote on
extending membership to those
students who they believe have met
the school's criteria in these areas.
Selection to the NJHS is one of the
highest honors that can be bestowed
on a middle school student.
Congratulations to this year's
inductees!
NJHS Officers (front row) Kevin Kang, Ron Cox, Logan Henry and Michael Yost share a laugh with new
inductees(back row) Abigail Gilman, Collier Tonkin, Monica Gustin, Andrew Dolan, Haley Sechrist, Trevor
Bergqvist, Hannah Gilman and Kyle Buseck.
Spartan Athletic AccomplishmentsThis past year not only found our students doing outstanding work in the classroom but also enjoying success on the athletic fields and courts. In
keeping with its athletics ideals of sportsmanship, teamwork and effort, the Spartans represented the school and themselves extremely well.
More than seventy students in Grades 1 through 8 signed up to run cross country under the guidance
of Coaches Stacey Hammer and Ann Giannelli. 8th grader Mark Lyons had an outstanding season
winning all three meets, with more than 150 runners participating, and setting personal best records
each time.
Our tennis team was comprised of more than thirty middle school students and several players reached
the semi-finals and the finals of the Parochial League Tennis Tournament. Alec Wilcko and his partner
Andrew Dolan made it to the doubles semi-finals as did Sam Dhaliwal and his partner Adam Dailey.
Alec and Sam also made it to the singles semi-finals.
On the distaff side, 6th graders Mirela Jojic and Taylor Levinson made it to the finals of the JV girl’s
doubles and Taylor to the JV girls’ singles finals. While the girls came up just a little short in both finals,
they accorded themselves very well. This is the first time in ten years that Erie Day School had a player
reach the finals.
This year also saw the re-emergence of basketball at the school. In our first year
as members of the CLAY League (Christian League of Athletics for Youth) our
boy’s basketball team won their divison with a one point victory over Westlake
United Methodist by the score of 27-26.
Members of the team were Erik Swanson, Steven Haemer, Alec
Wilcko, Mark Lyons, Mat Haemer, Kyle Buseck, Thomas
Mitchell, Nick Weber, and Joe Start.
Congratulations to the team and
Coach Tony Martin on an
impressive season. As
always, they represented
themselves, their families,
and the school very well
exhibiting good teamwork
and sportsmanship!
Future tennis stars Taylor Levinson and Mirela Jojic.
Spartan Athletic Accomplishments continued
While we did not win any championships, our four indoor soccer
teams did a great job. More than fifty students made up this year’s first
and second grade, third and fourth grade, fifth and sixth grade and
seventh and eighth grade teams. Often playing against older teams
and against club teams as well, the Spartans exhibited great
determination and effort. Our thanks to Coach Rob Van Rheenan for
his stellar leadership of our teams.
With the coming of spring, the Spartans took to the soccer field with
more than forty students in Grades 5 through 8 comprising our varsity
and JV teams. The JV team played well and had a 500
season while the varsity garnered their
third straight
The spring also saw the introduction of two more sports to Erie Day School
with the launching of a fledgling lacrosse program that had more than 20
students sign up to learn the game in Grades 1 through 4 and another 30 in
the 5th to 8th grade. It would seem that lacrosse is finding a home at EDS.
We want to thank Mr. Gutowski for introducing this program to our school
and to Mr. Henry Fish for his support.
The School also added Karate Instruction as a weekly extracurricular. Eight
students enrolled in this exciting program directed by Sensei Michael
Hronas of Red Dragon Martial Arts.
The culmination of the year's sports program was the annual Sports
Banquet where, after enjoying a wonderful pot luck dinner, Coach Rob
presented a plaque to each of the student-athlete participants. Each
plaque listed those sports in which the student-athlete participated. A
highlight of the evening was the presentation of the David Gray Award
to Mark Lyons and Hannah Gilman as the top 8th grade student athlete.
During the course of the year, more than 100 students participated in
one or more of the various athletic activities offered by the school. To
paraphrase Coach Rob, the level of commitment to the Erie Day School
sports program by its students and parents speaks to the heritage we
have as a school of creating well rounded individuals who have
explored the academic, athletic and artistic opportunities afforded them.
Coed Parochial League Championship with a 3 to 2 overtime victory over St.
John's. Led by 8th graders Erik Swanson, Alec Wilcko, Mark Lyons, Adam
Dailey, Steven Haemer, Hannah Gilman, Spencer Howell, Elijah Williams and
Madison Victor the Spartans finished the year undefeated with eight wins and
one tie. Again, the steady hands of Coach Rob Van Rheenan led the Spartans and
exemplified the outstanding teamwork, skill and sportsmanship.
Calling all Alumni
Class of 2005
Future Education of Graduating Alumni
Class of 2009Front Row (L to R) Second Row (L to R) Third Row (L to R)
Elijah Williams Shadyside Academy Kyle Filbeck Collegiate Academy Andrew Dolan Collegiate Academy
Mark Lyons Cathedral Preparatory Monica Gustin Collegiate Academy Steven Haemer Western Reserve Academy
Hayley Bolding Mercyhurst Prep Alec Wilcko Cathedral Preparatory Erik Swanson Cathedral Preparatory
Rachel Byham Meadville High School Michaela Boscaljon Erie First Christian Academy Ronald Cox George School
Hannah Gilman Collegiate Academy Olivia Dhaliwal Collegiate Academy Anthony Benacci Collegiate Academy
Madison Victor Villa Maria Academy Adam Dailey Collegiate Academy
Spencer Howell Mercyhurst Prep Daniel Fox Collegiate Academy
Carly Fisher Mercyhurst Prep
Trevor Bergqvist Mercyhurst Prep
Front Row (L to R) Second Row (L to R) Third Row (L to R)
Nevin Gunduz University of Grayson Patterson Mercyhurst College Michael Wilcko Hawaii Pacific University
Pennsylvania Lindsay Palmer Duquesne University Sydney Victor Case Western Reserve
Mary Gamble Warren Wilson Michael Murphy John Carroll Bryan Uglow Edinboro University
Brittany Friedman James Madison Jamie McCormick Hartwick Brian Spaeder Purdue University
University Bethany Markle Edinboro University Chris Southard St. Olaf's
Emily Eighmy Baldwin Wallace Elizabeth Lukjanczuk Pennylvania State University, Abram Sorek Mercyhurst College,
Caitlin Dennis Entered the Workforce Behrend College North East
Sandro Dakalovic Middlebury College Aladin Jojic Mercyhurst College, Cassidy Schultz Miami of Ohio
Madison Bott University of Arizona North East
It's a top priority at the School to develop a strong Alumni Association and provide opportunities for you to network and socialize with one another.
Recently, we added an alumni registration tab to our website ) and we hope you'll log on and encourage your alumni friends to
do the same. We can't keep you informed if we don't know where you are!
If you're interested in volunteering on the Alumni Association or if you would like to help organize an Alumni event, please call or email Leslie Marsden
at or .
Alumni Fast Fact: Did you know you can talk with fellow alumni on Facebook? Check out the Erie Day School Alumni Page!
(www.eriedayschool.org
(814) 452-4273, ext. 105 [email protected]
Class of 2009Class of 2005
1372 West Sixth Street • Erie, Pennsylvania 16505
Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage
Erie, PA 16505Permit No. 6509
PAID
www.eriedayschool.org
Board of Trustees
School Administration
Gregory S. Baldwin Fred O. Rush, Jr.Kimberly A. Connelly Daniel J. Schaaf
Amy Cuzzola-Kern, Ph.D. John V. Schultz, IIIRebecca M. Haverly, M.D. Jayne F. Start
Scott P. Henry, M.D. Cheryl WardGurjaipal Kang, M.D. John R. Weber
Sumner E. Nichols, II, Esq. Anne Zaphiris, Ph.D.
Thomas C. Vicary, ChairMatthew L. Wolford, Esq., Vice-Chair
Greg Filbeck, Ph.D., TreasurerLaura C. Ryan, Ph.D., Secretary
Henry E. Fish, Trustee EmeritusPatricia A. Schaal, Trustee Emeritus
Michael S. Mullin, Trustee Ex-Officio
Michael S. Mullin, Head of SchoolCathy McCalmont, Lower School Head
Leslie Marsden, Director of DevelopmentCindy Minnick, Business Manager
Dianna Dias, Administrative Assistant
May I live each day being mindful of the goodness that
surrounds me. May I always stretch my mind and heart
so that I live my life in wisdom and love. May I be a loyal
friend to others and willingly help those in need, and may
I always honor and respect the earth of which I am a part.