It takes time to develop deep thinkers. Really, it takes about nine years for a student to learn how to write and present a great thesis. It all starts in preschool when a child’s interests ignite a love of language.

Take yourself back and imagine you are in Pre K at Parker. You proudly tape your handwritten labels, “tower” and “do not touch,” to the giant castle you just constructed. In kindergarten your excitement is hardly contained as you sit with your sixth grade buddy, reading simple reference books while together collecting facts about venomous snakes for a rain forest exhibition. In first grade you find a caterpillar and make observational drawings of its chrysalis. When the butterfly emerges, you map its journey to Mexico and write a story about its life cycle – then share the book at Assembly.

In third grade your research on a Hindu goddess yields an informative and engaging paragraph after you re-draft it based on a critique from your peers. It becomes part of a class book on India that is submitted to a national competition. In fourth grade you give a stump speech in a mock presidential election, and in seventh grade you research and write a mini-thesis on the women’s rights movement, presenting your supporting PowerPoint and bibliography to the class.

Now it’s eighth grade, and you are ready to take steps that will result in an oral and visual presentation of your 18-page thesis “Arthurian Legend: Fiction or Reality” before assembled parents, friends and teachers in the gym.

At Parker, when children are encouraged to pursue fascinating topics in meaningful ways, excellent skills in research, writing and oral communication result. It takes time to develop curiosity, self-direction and a creative intellect. But it is time well spent – because once Parker students internalize these traits, they have them for life.

Meg Taylor, Head

A N N U A L G I V I N G R E P O R T ROBERT C. PARKER SCHOOL

2011–2012

HONORARY COMMITTEE

ChairsChristine and James CunninghamCathey KennedyBeth and Paul SchroederMeg and Dick TaylorMargery and Michael WhitemanAtlantic British, Ltd.

BeelieversGilles and Beth Chapados Caroline MelkonianPeg Parker

BeekeepersJohn and Tamara ArnasonKurt and Dawn ArnoldAssemblyman Ron CanestrariBarbey and Ned DoughertyErik and Margie EddyEmma Willard School

Hon. Kathleen M. JiminoLaura Mandelson and Bob KatzBill and Kate McLaughlinCarol and Uriel OkoMarlisa ParkerMr. and Mrs. Robert Warsh

Committee ChairJes Marcy

Committee MembersDawn ArnoldMichele and Rob BeaulieuSarah BiondelloChristine and James CunninghamMikko and Brian CookNancy DavisAnn DelaneyDarcy DeMariaBeth ChapadosShelli Failing

Sarah GoffCrystal KnappAgi LauferJessica MarcySusie and Mark MerrettLaura MandelsonSusie and Seth PowellMichele RidgewayLisa RossLara StelmaszykMeg TaylorErin WallaceJen WenacurNatalie Winne

Underwriters and SponsorsMark Merrett, VideographerPaul SchroederEast Greenbush Window and BlindRoute 4 PizzeriaWord Communications

Fleurtacious Designs: Floral Design Boutique

ContributorsEdith DenneyErik and Margie EddyRalph and Sandy EddySarah and Tim GoffKristin KoehlerAlicia and Scott OsurJohn and Jane PattisonRisa and Laird ScrantonPeter Stix

Gifts for Financial Aid in Honor of Margery WhitemanBruce Backer and Debra SpilfogelPeter BaileyMatthew BenderJoAnn and Jim BennettErik and Margie Eddy

Beth ChapadosChristine and Jake CunninghamJeri Eisenberg and Jay MartinPeter and Beth ElitzerAaron and Denise GagnonJ. C. Glendinning and Joel BrainardPriscilla Fairbank and Owen GoldfarbKaren HitchcockJoan and Brian LawsonLaura Mandelson Frank McKeanThomas and Anne OlderCarol and Uriel OkoMarlisa ParkerLynne and Paul ShatsoffPadma SripadaMeg TaylorDana Wright

Generous donors at The Bee Bop Auction raised over $25,000 for school programming and financial aid. Guests enjoyed the beautiful Crooked Lake House and music by Parker’s own George Doody and his band. Spirited bidding garnered $4,190 in the Fund-a-Need Live Auction for new technology. $4,000 for financial aid was raised in honor of Margery Whiteman, who was feted for her wisdom and many contributions during 13 years as a Parker trustee.

The Bee Bop Benefit Buzz

By supporting Parker, you are supporting education that is deep, motivating and lasting…education that will make a difference in the lives of Parker students now and for years to come, as they engage the world in ways that make a difference. Thank you!

Jeri Eisenberg (Jesse ’97, Matt ’99) with

Associate Director and art teacher Susie Merrett (Molly ’95, Sam ’97)

Margery Whiteman, shown here working at the Fall Festival ticket table, was honored at the

Bee Bop for her dedication to Parker.

STEM Week Rocket Launch

DEVELOPING NATURALISTS AND LEADERS After many wonder-filled afternoons in Muddy Boots Club – balancing on branches, collecting treasures and making observations in the woods – students learn to care deeply about natural science and the environment. And this year, the Muddy Boots program was extended from Pre K to K-1 and 2-3.

Students spend time on Fridays conducting nature scavenger hunts or determining “Who eats what in the woods?” The Muddy Boots Club curriculum goals include: Developing a sense of place, wonder and discovery; observing the connections and relationships between living and non-living things; and fostering stewardship of the environment.

LEARNING SHOULD BE Fascinating, NOT FASTER

In this age of captivating change and instant everything,

there is one process that should not be rushed.

Strategizing with friends to negotiate the “Wild Woozy” or “Up and Over,” students learn about perseverance, teamwork and trust on the low ropes course. They come away with increased confidence and the knowledge that they can be leaders.

Grades 6 and 7 suspended classes for a week of STEM activities (Science, Tech-nology, Engineering, Math) and entrepreneurialism. They formed Space Tourism companies, designed and built rockets and staged a launch. Their humorous marketing videos were a big hit at Assembly.

Christine Cunningham, President of Parker’s Board of Trustees, with Jake

(Kiki ’10, Lara ’13, Coleman ’16)

Head-for-the-Day was a

hotly contested item at the

Bee Bop live auction. Two

lucky K-1 winners got to

greet students at the front

door, declare an extra

recess and enjoy lunch

with Head, Meg Taylor.

ROBERT C. PARKER SCHOOL Preschool through grade 8 • Coeducational

4254 NY Route 43, North Greenbush, NY 12198 (518) 286-3449

PARKEREngage. Empower. Embolden.

Meg Taylor, Head

Laura Mandelson, Director of Admission

Beth Chapados, Business Manager

Carol Oko, Associate Director

Susie Merrett, Associate Director

Jamie Crouse, Planet Parker Coordinator

Jes Marcy, Development Coordinator

2012–2013 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

President: Christine Cunningham

Vice President: Kurt Arnold

Secretary: Caroline Melkonian

Treasurer: Veronica Mangione

John Arnason, Martin Burke, Jamie Crouse, Barbey Nyce Dougherty,

Joan Evans Giddings, J.C. Glendinning, Kristin Koehler, Agi Laufer, Joan Lawson,

Rachel Leibson ’00, Max Levine, Morgan Lindsay ’00, William McLaughlin,

Susan Merrett, Padma Sripada, Meg Taylor, Jennifer Wenacur, Nancy Wolf

Robert C. Parker School does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or age in the administration of its educational policies,

admission policies, financial aid programs, and athletic or other related school programs.

Mission: Robert C. Parker School engages each student in a thoughtful and challenging learning process that inspires curiosity and a passion to achieve, nurtures confidence and community, and cultivates purposeful action.

Core Values: Emotional security. Intellectual vibrancy. Ethical awareness. Social responsibility.

Motto: In caring for our world, our community and ourselves, we reach out to others with kindness, speak and act with respect, strive for understanding of differences, and share our time, our talents and our energy.

Robert C. Parker School expresses its appreciation to the parents, alumni parents, trustees, alumni, faculty and friends who made a difference by donating to the Annual Fund and other projects during the past year. This strong demonstration of support recognizes the exceptional program that Parker offers its students.

HAWK’S NESTGifts of $5000+Henry and Susan FlintCathey KennedyKate and Bill McLaughlin

GREAT OAK CIRCLEGifts of $2500+John and Tamara ArnasonChristine and James CunninghamJohn A. Parker Fund of Triangle Community FoundationMarlisa ParkerMeg TaylorRichard TaylorMargery and Michael Whiteman

NATURE TRAILGifts of $1500+Gilles and Beth ChapadosErik and Margie EddyCharles Johnson and Trudy E. HallBeth and Paul SchroederJohn and Charlotte Wunderlich

TREE HOUSEGifts of $1000+Atlantic British Ltd.Peter BailyJoAnn and James BennettNancy Hershey Lord Joseph Braun and Pearl Weisinger

HILLTOPGifts of $500+AnonymousEllen Bettigole and William LloydEdward and Barbey Dougherty J.C. GlendinningLaura Mandelson and Robert Katz Peter J. KasiusJoan LawsonMarion ListerMr. and Mrs. Michael MelkonianCarol and Uriel OkoMrs. John ParkerPatti Sachs and Dr. Barton SachsPadma SripadaTriad Foundation Judy and Bob WarshJoann Wellner Jennifer and Russell WenacurDana Wright

WOODLANDSGifts of $250+Kurt and Dawn ArnoldMarta and Stephen BanksAmy Barasch and Ray BresciaAssemblyman Ronald CanestrariMartin Burke and Lara StelmaszykColumbia Internal MedicineEdith Denney Jeri Eisenberg and Jay Martin Priscilla Fairbank and Owen GoldfarbHon. Kathleen M. JiminoJory and Hope LangnerLuis A. Leon and Birgit M. AsbornsenFrank McKeanSarah and Timothy GoffAlicia and Scott OsurSusan Davidson Powell and Seth Powell

BUTTERFLY GARDENGifts of $100+Vincent Armanino and Sarah BiondelloSandra Baptie and Lawrence LinderJoel and Andrea BartfieldStephenne A. BrownKatherine Brainard ’99Jerry Cosgrove and Judy Anderson Jonathon Clement and Barbara HawnAnn and Tom ConnollyNancy Davis

Liliana DeGiorgioKathleen DenneyKim Denney and Rich Jakshtis Ann and Tren DolbearStephen and Shelagh DornRalph and Sandy EddySarah Firisen and Michael TanenblattNina Fleishman and Barry LeibsonRoberta FoxAaron and Denise GagnonJoyce Gallimore and Sam Swanson Anna K. Hong Marc Judson and Sooyeon KwonDavid and Linda KahnWendy Kahn and Robert GibbsJoan Evans Giddings and Mark GiddingsFran and Bob GodgartLara Kaye and Carl MasKristin KoehlerThomas and Margaret Koehler Terry and Tricia Lasky Rachel Leibson ’00Max Levine and Janel LeoneShira Love and Alexander GrinshpunVeronica MangioneCarter and Jessica Marcy Mr. and Mrs. George McAvoySusie and Mark MerrettAnnette Nanes and Scott MeyerRose NolanMichael and Carol O’BrienLinda PassarettiJesse Pickard ’98Sugi and Keith Pickard Theodore and Dorothy-Jane PorpegliaLisa Ross and Jamie PilkingtonMichelle and Kevin RichardsonLynn Schuster Risa and Laird ScrantonLynne and Paul Shatsoff Nina and Aaron SherJanet A. Smith Jordan and Mary-Alice SmithJeremy Snyder and Elana MartonPeter Stix Nick and Vicky StonemanLucie and Hugh Van Der VeerBarb and Mike WeilerAlissa and Rob WordenElizabeth Young and Terry Fina

MEADOWGifts up to $99AnonymousMuriel T. AsbornsenColette BealRob and Michelle BeaulieuBen Barker-Benfield Ben Braun ’12Eve Burstein ’00Sherri CeravoloChandree and Antonio CogliandroTina Lieberman-CohenBrian and Mikko CookJamie and Russell CrouseTamara DeMartinoAngelina Doherty ’07Amy Elitzer ’02Deborah and Henry Epstein Rocky and Shelli FailingShelli Failing Sanford Fels ’12Marie-Josee FonsecaVeronica Fuentes ’12Robin L. Galinsky and Gregory P. Miller MDGordon-Christenfeld FamilyAaron and Marina GoreLiz Hanna and Hank OlzakShawn and Noelle Hardy Kathy and Michael HatchAmy Jesaitis

Carol KanalleyBen Katz and Becky CarmenCrystal and John Knapp Pablo Leon ’12Morgan Lindsay ’00Jenna Litton ’12James LizardoJonathan Lord ’97Kristhal Marianjelias Ayala-Campos ’12Jessie Martin ’97 Nancy Messer and Ethan BlochJoseph and Daphne Muench John and Jane PattisonKate PerryEfrain PontazaSophie Pratt ’12Jan and John ReillyRenee Davis Ricci ’12Dani Pontaza-Santander ’12Lynn ScheinerSara Schuman Jennifer and Emil SlaneAniz Taylor ’12Erin and Cory Wajda Erin and Dan WallaceJacqueline Weaver and H. Craig McMillanChristopher WhiteRussell Youngman and Cynthia Fox

Jay Murnane Scholars FundSteven Axelrod and Gwenn MayersBruce Backer and Debra Spilfogel

Thomas and Alberta Baker Professional Development FundCarol and Frank Curran

International Student ScholarshipThe Bert Johnson Charitable Foundation

In Honor of Aaron and Sadie BanksMarta and Stephen Banks

In Honor of Rose NolanJerry Cosgrove and Judith Anderson

In Honor of Marlisa Parker and Dana WrightEdith D. DenneyKathleen Denney

In Honor of Kallana Manjunath’s 18th BirthdayCarol and Uriel Oko

In Honor of Agi Laufer, the many three year olds I have taught at Parker, in honor of my first grandchild, Phillip Vincent Bruce and in honor of MegJoAnn and Jim Bennett

In Honor of all the Parker administration, faculty and staffJoseph Braun and Pearl Weisinger

In Honor of Liliana DeGiorgioIsabella Corina, Triad FoundationGeorge and Ann McAvoy

In Memory of Matthew A. Asbornsen, grandfather to Pablo and Diego LeonLuis Leon and Birgit AsbornsenLaura Mandelson Nancy Messer

In Memory of Joel BrainardAnn and Tren DolbearJoyce Gallimore and Sam Swanson

In Memory of Emanuel Glantz and Ethel SpitalnyLinda and David Kahn

In Memory of Walter ListerMarion Lister

In Memory of Nan RosenbachMarta and Stephen Banks

Gifts to the Library in Honor of John C. Parker’s BirthdayPeg Parker

Gifts to the Library in Honor of Robert C. Parker’s BirthdayPeg Parker

Gifts for Scholarship Sugi and Keith Pickard

Gifts for Teacher TravelAnonymous

Gifts for Planet Parker Peg Parker

Gifts for the Pre K Playground and PlayhouseKurt and Dawn ArnoldJoAnn and Jim BennettMartin Burke and Lara StelmaszykChandree and Antonio Cogliandro Brian and Mikko CookJessica DuffySarah and Tim GoffShawn and Noelle HardyBen Katz and Becky CarmenJohn and Crystal KnappShira Love and Alex GrinshpunCarter and Jes MarcyH. Craig McMillan and Jacqueline WeaverJoseph and Daphne MuenchDorothy-Jane and Theodore PorpegliaSeth and Susie PowellJan and John ReillyJennifer and Emil SlaneErin and Cory Wajda

Gift for Professional DevelopmentCathey Kennedy

Gift for Professional Development and LEGO RoboticsGeneral William Mayer Foundation

Gift for Teacher WishesJerry Cosgrove and Judith AndersonJohn and Tamara ArnasonDawn and Kurt ArnoldRay Brescia and Amy BaraschLara Kay and Carl MasAnn and George McAvoyWilliam Lloyd and Ellen BettigoleDorothy Jane and Theodore PorpegliaJennifer and Russell Wenacur

Gifts for TechnologyVincent Armanino and Sarah BiondelloRay Brescia and Amy BaraschGilles and Beth ChapadosChristine and Jake CunninghamAnn and Michael DelaneyMargie and Eric EddySean FaganPriscilla Fairbank and Owen GoldfarbAaron and Marina GoreJennifer and Bill HallockCrystal and John KnappTerry and Tricia LaskyAgi and Andras LauferJoan and Brian LawsonVeronica MangioneLaura Mandelson and Bob KatzKate and Bill McLaughlinCaroline and Michael MelkonianAnnette Nanes and Scott MeyerCarol and Uriel OkoBeth and Paul SchroederSteve SpringerRichard TaylorJudy and Bob WarshJennifer and Russell WenacurMargery and Michael Whiteman

This report recognizes contributions made between July 1, 2011,

and June 30, 2012. Every effort has been made to ensure the

accuracy of this list. If we have made an error or omission, please

accept our apologies and contact Jes Marcy at 518-286-3449

or jmarcy@parkerschool.org to submit a correction.

Parker Alumni Model Lives of

Purposeful ActionMorgan Lindsay ’00 is now a Parker trustee. A dedicated bobsledder through middle school and then in high school at Doane Stuart, Morgan switched to crew while at the University of Chicago. Creating her own major in Scandinavian Studies, Morgan graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 2008. She received study grants at the University of Oslo during two summers and wrote her bachelor’s thesis about literary and pop-cultural assertions of Norwegian national identity, entitled “Et lite eventyr” meaning “A Little Fairytale.”

When Morgan decided to attend medical school, she got a job as a medical assistant in a primary care clinic. She completed all the pre-med requirements in one year in the Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program at Bennington College while also working part-time as a nanny and a medical assistant.

In August 2011, Morgan began medical school at Albany Med, joining the U.S. Army’s Health Professions Scholarship Program. She is president of the Outing Club, helping to organize medical student involvement at the Capital Region Stand Down for Homeless Veterans event, and she is training to become a Tobacco Cessation Counselor.

Tom Dollar ’00 attended Troy High after Parker. He graduated from Princeton University in 2008 where he majored in public and international affairs, also maintaining an interest in Latin American literature. Tom recently wrote:

“I just started my first year at NYU Law School. I’m interested in doing public-advocacy litigation when I finish, but realize that I may change my mind one or two times before all is said and done. Before law school, I worked at a reproductive rights nonprofit in Washington, DC, and for the political blog “FiveThirtyEight.” And before that, I spent a year working in Sierra Leone on public health projects. Sierra Leone was a real eye-opener for me, and helped push me in the direction of legal advocacy for human rights, especially women’s rights.

“I think Parker really created a foundation for me for being intellectually curious, not taking for granted that the way the world works is how it has to work, and valuing giving back to the community.”

General William Mayer Foundation Supports Creativity and Collaboration

Robotics Rules!

Thanks to a 2011 grant from the General William Mayer Foundation and funding through RPI’s CIPCE program, Parker students are engaged in critical thinking, creativity and collaboration as they design and program their own unique robots. Math teacher Shelli Casler-Failing has brought LEGO Robotics to Parker’s math classes, after-school programs, and popular summer camp sessions. The Parker Robotics Team will compete for the second year in First LEGO League.

2-3 Students Curate Historical Society Exhibition

In December 2012 Parker 2-3’s will be mounting and curating a display at the Rensselaer County Historical Society about the development and transformation of rural, suburban and urban communities. Their study has taken them on a historic scavenger hunt in Troy, a visit to Hancock Shaker Village, and all over the Parker grounds as they analyze census data, maps and historic photos. The study incorporates language arts, social studies, history, art, and statistical analysis and culminates in an evening event that will be open to parents and the public.

2011-2012 ANNUAL FUND DONORS

10%11%

79%

y Tuition 79%y Auxiliary and Other Income 11%y Contributions 10%

58%

5%7%

13%

17%

Who gave to the Parker Annual Fund?Board of Trustees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

Faculty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

Graduating Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

Current Families. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73%

Total Contributions to the Parker Annual Fund, Grants, Gifts, and Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $165,700

The Parker Endowment . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$540,780 (as of June 30, 2012)

2-3 students search for clues about Troy’s past.

Mapping the topography of

Parker’s land: What did it look like

when Native Americans lived here?

Preschool Play Scape – Naturally

Parents and teachers donated over $1,400 to help create a natural play scape for the preschool. Combined with a 2012 grant from the General William Mayer Foundation, the Pre K playground has been transformed into a space of wonder and whimsy, enhancing students’ experience of discovery and creativity. Phase II will be completed in the spring with a boulder garden, playhouse and labyrinth – and a big ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Alumni-parent Cathey Kennedy (right) with preschool

teacher Michele Ridgeway on the preschool playground.

Cathey has been instrumental in securing General William

Mayer Foundation funding to support science and leadership

education as well as professional development at Parker.

Sources of Funds

y Salaries 58%y Financial Aid 17%y Maintenance and Mortgage 13%y Instructional 7%y Administrative Costs 5%

Application of Funds

2011-2012 FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT

Robert C. Parker School expresses its appreciation to the parents, alumni parents, trustees, alumni, faculty and friends who made a difference by donating to the Annual Fund and other projects during the past year. This strong demonstration of support recognizes the exceptional program that Parker offers its students.

HAWK’S NESTGifts of $5000+Henry and Susan FlintCathey KennedyKate and Bill McLaughlin

GREAT OAK CIRCLEGifts of $2500+John and Tamara ArnasonChristine and James CunninghamJohn A. Parker Fund of Triangle Community FoundationMarlisa ParkerMeg TaylorRichard TaylorMargery and Michael Whiteman

NATURE TRAILGifts of $1500+Gilles and Beth ChapadosErik and Margie EddyCharles Johnson and Trudy E. HallBeth and Paul SchroederJohn and Charlotte Wunderlich

TREE HOUSEGifts of $1000+Atlantic British Ltd.Peter BailyJoAnn and James BennettNancy Hershey Lord Joseph Braun and Pearl Weisinger

HILLTOPGifts of $500+AnonymousEllen Bettigole and William LloydEdward and Barbey Dougherty J.C. GlendinningLaura Mandelson and Robert Katz Peter J. KasiusJoan LawsonMarion ListerMr. and Mrs. Michael MelkonianCarol and Uriel OkoMrs. John ParkerPatti Sachs and Dr. Barton SachsPadma SripadaTriad Foundation Judy and Bob WarshJoann Wellner Jennifer and Russell WenacurDana Wright

WOODLANDSGifts of $250+Kurt and Dawn ArnoldMarta and Stephen BanksAmy Barasch and Ray BresciaAssemblyman Ronald CanestrariMartin Burke and Lara StelmaszykColumbia Internal MedicineEdith Denney Jeri Eisenberg and Jay Martin Priscilla Fairbank and Owen GoldfarbHon. Kathleen M. JiminoJory and Hope LangnerLuis A. Leon and Birgit M. AsbornsenFrank McKeanSarah and Timothy GoffAlicia and Scott OsurSusan Davidson Powell and Seth Powell

BUTTERFLY GARDENGifts of $100+Vincent Armanino and Sarah BiondelloSandra Baptie and Lawrence LinderJoel and Andrea BartfieldStephenne A. BrownKatherine Brainard ’99Jerry Cosgrove and Judy Anderson Jonathon Clement and Barbara HawnAnn and Tom ConnollyNancy Davis

Liliana DeGiorgioKathleen DenneyKim Denney and Rich Jakshtis Ann and Tren DolbearStephen and Shelagh DornRalph and Sandy EddySarah Firisen and Michael TanenblattNina Fleishman and Barry LeibsonRoberta FoxAaron and Denise GagnonJoyce Gallimore and Sam Swanson Anna K. Hong Marc Judson and Sooyeon KwonDavid and Linda KahnWendy Kahn and Robert GibbsJoan Evans Giddings and Mark GiddingsFran and Bob GodgartLara Kaye and Carl MasKristin KoehlerThomas and Margaret Koehler Terry and Tricia Lasky Rachel Leibson ’00Max Levine and Janel LeoneShira Love and Alexander GrinshpunVeronica MangioneCarter and Jessica Marcy Mr. and Mrs. George McAvoySusie and Mark MerrettAnnette Nanes and Scott MeyerRose NolanMichael and Carol O’BrienLinda PassarettiJesse Pickard ’98Sugi and Keith Pickard Theodore and Dorothy-Jane PorpegliaLisa Ross and Jamie PilkingtonMichelle and Kevin RichardsonLynn Schuster Risa and Laird ScrantonLynne and Paul Shatsoff Nina and Aaron SherJanet A. Smith Jordan and Mary-Alice SmithJeremy Snyder and Elana MartonPeter Stix Nick and Vicky StonemanLucie and Hugh Van Der VeerBarb and Mike WeilerAlissa and Rob WordenElizabeth Young and Terry Fina

MEADOWGifts up to $99AnonymousMuriel T. AsbornsenColette BealRob and Michelle BeaulieuBen Barker-Benfield Ben Braun ’12Eve Burstein ’00Sherri CeravoloChandree and Antonio CogliandroTina Lieberman-CohenBrian and Mikko CookJamie and Russell CrouseTamara DeMartinoAngelina Doherty ’07Amy Elitzer ’02Deborah and Henry Epstein Rocky and Shelli FailingShelli Failing Sanford Fels ’12Marie-Josee FonsecaVeronica Fuentes ’12Robin L. Galinsky and Gregory P. Miller MDGordon-Christenfeld FamilyAaron and Marina GoreLiz Hanna and Hank OlzakShawn and Noelle Hardy Kathy and Michael HatchAmy Jesaitis

Carol KanalleyBen Katz and Becky CarmenCrystal and John Knapp Pablo Leon ’12Morgan Lindsay ’00Jenna Litton ’12James LizardoJonathan Lord ’97Kristhal Marianjelias Ayala-Campos ’12Jessie Martin ’97 Nancy Messer and Ethan BlochJoseph and Daphne Muench John and Jane PattisonKate PerryEfrain PontazaSophie Pratt ’12Jan and John ReillyRenee Davis Ricci ’12Dani Pontaza-Santander ’12Lynn ScheinerSara Schuman Jennifer and Emil SlaneAniz Taylor ’12Erin and Cory Wajda Erin and Dan WallaceJacqueline Weaver and H. Craig McMillanChristopher WhiteRussell Youngman and Cynthia Fox

Jay Murnane Scholars FundSteven Axelrod and Gwenn MayersBruce Backer and Debra Spilfogel

Thomas and Alberta Baker Professional Development FundCarol and Frank Curran

International Student ScholarshipThe Bert Johnson Charitable Foundation

In Honor of Aaron and Sadie BanksMarta and Stephen Banks

In Honor of Rose NolanJerry Cosgrove and Judith Anderson

In Honor of Marlisa Parker and Dana WrightEdith D. DenneyKathleen Denney

In Honor of Kallana Manjunath’s 18th BirthdayCarol and Uriel Oko

In Honor of Agi Laufer, the many three year olds I have taught at Parker, in honor of my first grandchild, Phillip Vincent Bruce and in honor of MegJoAnn and Jim Bennett

In Honor of all the Parker administration, faculty and staffJoseph Braun and Pearl Weisinger

In Honor of Liliana DeGiorgioIsabella Corina, Triad FoundationGeorge and Ann McAvoy

In Memory of Matthew A. Asbornsen, grandfather to Pablo and Diego LeonLuis Leon and Birgit AsbornsenLaura Mandelson Nancy Messer

In Memory of Joel BrainardAnn and Tren DolbearJoyce Gallimore and Sam Swanson

In Memory of Emanuel Glantz and Ethel SpitalnyLinda and David Kahn

In Memory of Walter ListerMarion Lister

In Memory of Nan RosenbachMarta and Stephen Banks

Gifts to the Library in Honor of John C. Parker’s BirthdayPeg Parker

Gifts to the Library in Honor of Robert C. Parker’s BirthdayPeg Parker

Gifts for Scholarship Sugi and Keith Pickard

Gifts for Teacher TravelAnonymous

Gifts for Planet Parker Peg Parker

Gifts for the Pre K Playground and PlayhouseKurt and Dawn ArnoldJoAnn and Jim BennettMartin Burke and Lara StelmaszykChandree and Antonio Cogliandro Brian and Mikko CookJessica DuffySarah and Tim GoffShawn and Noelle HardyBen Katz and Becky CarmenJohn and Crystal KnappShira Love and Alex GrinshpunCarter and Jes MarcyH. Craig McMillan and Jacqueline WeaverJoseph and Daphne MuenchDorothy-Jane and Theodore PorpegliaSeth and Susie PowellJan and John ReillyJennifer and Emil SlaneErin and Cory Wajda

Gift for Professional DevelopmentCathey Kennedy

Gift for Professional Development and LEGO RoboticsGeneral William Mayer Foundation

Gift for Teacher WishesJerry Cosgrove and Judith AndersonJohn and Tamara ArnasonDawn and Kurt ArnoldRay Brescia and Amy BaraschLara Kay and Carl MasAnn and George McAvoyWilliam Lloyd and Ellen BettigoleDorothy Jane and Theodore PorpegliaJennifer and Russell Wenacur

Gifts for TechnologyVincent Armanino and Sarah BiondelloRay Brescia and Amy BaraschGilles and Beth ChapadosChristine and Jake CunninghamAnn and Michael DelaneyMargie and Eric EddySean FaganPriscilla Fairbank and Owen GoldfarbAaron and Marina GoreJennifer and Bill HallockCrystal and John KnappTerry and Tricia LaskyAgi and Andras LauferJoan and Brian LawsonVeronica MangioneLaura Mandelson and Bob KatzKate and Bill McLaughlinCaroline and Michael MelkonianAnnette Nanes and Scott MeyerCarol and Uriel OkoBeth and Paul SchroederSteve SpringerRichard TaylorJudy and Bob WarshJennifer and Russell WenacurMargery and Michael Whiteman

This report recognizes contributions made between July 1, 2011,

and June 30, 2012. Every effort has been made to ensure the

accuracy of this list. If we have made an error or omission, please

accept our apologies and contact Jes Marcy at 518-286-3449

or jmarcy@parkerschool.org to submit a correction.

Parker Alumni Model Lives of

Purposeful ActionMorgan Lindsay ’00 is now a Parker trustee. A dedicated bobsledder through middle school and then in high school at Doane Stuart, Morgan switched to crew while at the University of Chicago. Creating her own major in Scandinavian Studies, Morgan graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 2008. She received study grants at the University of Oslo during two summers and wrote her bachelor’s thesis about literary and pop-cultural assertions of Norwegian national identity, entitled “Et lite eventyr” meaning “A Little Fairytale.”

When Morgan decided to attend medical school, she got a job as a medical assistant in a primary care clinic. She completed all the pre-med requirements in one year in the Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program at Bennington College while also working part-time as a nanny and a medical assistant.

In August 2011, Morgan began medical school at Albany Med, joining the U.S. Army’s Health Professions Scholarship Program. She is president of the Outing Club, helping to organize medical student involvement at the Capital Region Stand Down for Homeless Veterans event, and she is training to become a Tobacco Cessation Counselor.

Tom Dollar ’00 attended Troy High after Parker. He graduated from Princeton University in 2008 where he majored in public and international affairs, also maintaining an interest in Latin American literature. Tom recently wrote:

“I just started my first year at NYU Law School. I’m interested in doing public-advocacy litigation when I finish, but realize that I may change my mind one or two times before all is said and done. Before law school, I worked at a reproductive rights nonprofit in Washington, DC, and for the political blog “FiveThirtyEight.” And before that, I spent a year working in Sierra Leone on public health projects. Sierra Leone was a real eye-opener for me, and helped push me in the direction of legal advocacy for human rights, especially women’s rights.

“I think Parker really created a foundation for me for being intellectually curious, not taking for granted that the way the world works is how it has to work, and valuing giving back to the community.”

General William Mayer Foundation Supports Creativity and Collaboration

Robotics Rules!

Thanks to a 2011 grant from the General William Mayer Foundation and funding through RPI’s CIPCE program, Parker students are engaged in critical thinking, creativity and collaboration as they design and program their own unique robots. Math teacher Shelli Casler-Failing has brought LEGO Robotics to Parker’s math classes, after-school programs, and popular summer camp sessions. The Parker Robotics Team will compete for the second year in First LEGO League.

2-3 Students Curate Historical Society Exhibition

In December 2012 Parker 2-3’s will be mounting and curating a display at the Rensselaer County Historical Society about the development and transformation of rural, suburban and urban communities. Their study has taken them on a historic scavenger hunt in Troy, a visit to Hancock Shaker Village, and all over the Parker grounds as they analyze census data, maps and historic photos. The study incorporates language arts, social studies, history, art, and statistical analysis and culminates in an evening event that will be open to parents and the public.

2011-2012 ANNUAL FUND DONORS

10%11%

79%

y Tuition 79%y Auxiliary and Other Income 11%y Contributions 10%

58%

5%7%

13%

17%

Who gave to the Parker Annual Fund?Board of Trustees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

Faculty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

Graduating Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

Current Families. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73%

Total Contributions to the Parker Annual Fund, Grants, Gifts, and Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $165,700

The Parker Endowment . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$540,780 (as of June 30, 2012)

2-3 students search for clues about Troy’s past.

Mapping the topography of

Parker’s land: What did it look like

when Native Americans lived here?

Preschool Play Scape – Naturally

Parents and teachers donated over $1,400 to help create a natural play scape for the preschool. Combined with a 2012 grant from the General William Mayer Foundation, the Pre K playground has been transformed into a space of wonder and whimsy, enhancing students’ experience of discovery and creativity. Phase II will be completed in the spring with a boulder garden, playhouse and labyrinth – and a big ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Alumni-parent Cathey Kennedy (right) with preschool

teacher Michele Ridgeway on the preschool playground.

Cathey has been instrumental in securing General William

Mayer Foundation funding to support science and leadership

education as well as professional development at Parker.

Sources of Funds

y Salaries 58%y Financial Aid 17%y Maintenance and Mortgage 13%y Instructional 7%y Administrative Costs 5%

Application of Funds

2011-2012 FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT

It takes time to develop deep thinkers. Really, it takes about nine years for a student to learn how to write and present a great thesis. It all starts in preschool when a child’s interests ignite a love of language.

Take yourself back and imagine you are in Pre K at Parker. You proudly tape your handwritten labels, “tower” and “do not touch,” to the giant castle you just constructed. In kindergarten your excitement is hardly contained as you sit with your sixth grade buddy, reading simple reference books while together collecting facts about venomous snakes for a rain forest exhibition. In first grade you find a caterpillar and make observational drawings of its chrysalis. When the butterfly emerges, you map its journey to Mexico and write a story about its life cycle – then share the book at Assembly.

In third grade your research on a Hindu goddess yields an informative and engaging paragraph after you re-draft it based on a critique from your peers. It becomes part of a class book on India that is submitted to a national competition. In fourth grade you give a stump speech in a mock presidential election, and in seventh grade you research and write a mini-thesis on the women’s rights movement, presenting your supporting PowerPoint and bibliography to the class.

Now it’s eighth grade, and you are ready to take steps that will result in an oral and visual presentation of your 18-page thesis “Arthurian Legend: Fiction or Reality” before assembled parents, friends and teachers in the gym.

At Parker, when children are encouraged to pursue fascinating topics in meaningful ways, excellent skills in research, writing and oral communication result. It takes time to develop curiosity, self-direction and a creative intellect. But it is time well spent – because once Parker students internalize these traits, they have them for life.

Meg Taylor, Head

A N N U A L G I V I N G R E P O R T ROBERT C. PARKER SCHOOL

2011–2012

HONORARY COMMITTEE

ChairsChristine and James CunninghamCathey KennedyBeth and Paul SchroederMeg and Dick TaylorMargery and Michael WhitemanAtlantic British, Ltd.

BeelieversGilles and Beth Chapados Caroline MelkonianPeg Parker

BeekeepersJohn and Tamara ArnasonKurt and Dawn ArnoldAssemblyman Ron CanestrariBarbey and Ned DoughertyErik and Margie EddyEmma Willard School

Hon. Kathleen M. JiminoLaura Mandelson and Bob KatzBill and Kate McLaughlinCarol and Uriel OkoMarlisa ParkerMr. and Mrs. Robert Warsh

Committee ChairJes Marcy

Committee MembersDawn ArnoldMichele and Rob BeaulieuSarah BiondelloChristine and James CunninghamMikko and Brian CookNancy DavisAnn DelaneyDarcy DeMariaBeth ChapadosShelli Failing

Sarah GoffCrystal KnappAgi LauferJessica MarcySusie and Mark MerrettLaura MandelsonSusie and Seth PowellMichele RidgewayLisa RossLara StelmaszykMeg TaylorErin WallaceJen WenacurNatalie Winne

Underwriters and SponsorsMark Merrett, VideographerPaul SchroederEast Greenbush Window and BlindRoute 4 PizzeriaWord Communications

Fleurtacious Designs: Floral Design Boutique

ContributorsEdith DenneyErik and Margie EddyRalph and Sandy EddySarah and Tim GoffKristin KoehlerAlicia and Scott OsurJohn and Jane PattisonRisa and Laird ScrantonPeter Stix

Gifts for Financial Aid in Honor of Margery WhitemanBruce Backer and Debra SpilfogelPeter BaileyMatthew BenderJoAnn and Jim BennettErik and Margie Eddy

Beth ChapadosChristine and Jake CunninghamJeri Eisenberg and Jay MartinPeter and Beth ElitzerAaron and Denise GagnonJ. C. Glendinning and Joel BrainardPriscilla Fairbank and Owen GoldfarbKaren HitchcockJoan and Brian LawsonLaura Mandelson Frank McKeanThomas and Anne OlderCarol and Uriel OkoMarlisa ParkerLynne and Paul ShatsoffPadma SripadaMeg TaylorDana Wright

Generous donors at The Bee Bop Auction raised over $25,000 for school programming and financial aid. Guests enjoyed the beautiful Crooked Lake House and music by Parker’s own George Doody and his band. Spirited bidding garnered $4,190 in the Fund-a-Need Live Auction for new technology. $4,000 for financial aid was raised in honor of Margery Whiteman, who was feted for her wisdom and many contributions during 13 years as a Parker trustee.

The Bee Bop Benefit Buzz

By supporting Parker, you are supporting education that is deep, motivating and lasting…education that will make a difference in the lives of Parker students now and for years to come, as they engage the world in ways that make a difference. Thank you!

Jeri Eisenberg (Jesse ’97, Matt ’99) with

Associate Director and art teacher Susie Merrett (Molly ’95, Sam ’97)

Margery Whiteman, shown here working at the Fall Festival ticket table, was honored at the

Bee Bop for her dedication to Parker.

STEM Week Rocket Launch

DEVELOPING NATURALISTS AND LEADERS After many wonder-filled afternoons in Muddy Boots Club – balancing on branches, collecting treasures and making observations in the woods – students learn to care deeply about natural science and the environment. And this year, the Muddy Boots program was extended from Pre K to K-1 and 2-3.

Students spend time on Fridays conducting nature scavenger hunts or determining “Who eats what in the woods?” The Muddy Boots Club curriculum goals include: Developing a sense of place, wonder and discovery; observing the connections and relationships between living and non-living things; and fostering stewardship of the environment.

LEARNING SHOULD BE Fascinating, NOT FASTER

In this age of captivating change and instant everything,

there is one process that should not be rushed.

Strategizing with friends to negotiate the “Wild Woozy” or “Up and Over,” students learn about perseverance, teamwork and trust on the low ropes course. They come away with increased confidence and the knowledge that they can be leaders.

Grades 6 and 7 suspended classes for a week of STEM activities (Science, Tech-nology, Engineering, Math) and entrepreneurialism. They formed Space Tourism companies, designed and built rockets and staged a launch. Their humorous marketing videos were a big hit at Assembly.

Christine Cunningham, President of Parker’s Board of Trustees, with Jake

(Kiki ’10, Lara ’13, Coleman ’16)

Head-for-the-Day was a

hotly contested item at the

Bee Bop live auction. Two

lucky K-1 winners got to

greet students at the front

door, declare an extra

recess and enjoy lunch

with Head, Meg Taylor.

ROBERT C. PARKER SCHOOL Preschool through grade 8 • Coeducational

4254 NY Route 43, North Greenbush, NY 12198 (518) 286-3449

PARKEREngage. Empower. Embolden.

Meg Taylor, Head

Laura Mandelson, Director of Admission

Beth Chapados, Business Manager

Carol Oko, Associate Director

Susie Merrett, Associate Director

Jamie Crouse, Planet Parker Coordinator

Jes Marcy, Development Coordinator

2012–2013 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

President: Christine Cunningham

Vice President: Kurt Arnold

Secretary: Caroline Melkonian

Treasurer: Veronica Mangione

John Arnason, Martin Burke, Jamie Crouse, Barbey Nyce Dougherty,

Joan Evans Giddings, J.C. Glendinning, Kristin Koehler, Agi Laufer, Joan Lawson,

Rachel Leibson ’00, Max Levine, Morgan Lindsay ’00, William McLaughlin,

Susan Merrett, Padma Sripada, Meg Taylor, Jennifer Wenacur, Nancy Wolf

Robert C. Parker School does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or age in the administration of its educational policies,

admission policies, financial aid programs, and athletic or other related school programs.

Mission: Robert C. Parker School engages each student in a thoughtful and challenging learning process that inspires curiosity and a passion to achieve, nurtures confidence and community, and cultivates purposeful action.

Core Values: Emotional security. Intellectual vibrancy. Ethical awareness. Social responsibility.

Motto: In caring for our world, our community and ourselves, we reach out to others with kindness, speak and act with respect, strive for understanding of differences, and share our time, our talents and our energy.