ETON EDITION Vol. 35 No. 1
September 2012
From the Head of School I am thrilled to be a part of the Eton Community. It was apparent to me—throughout the Head search process—that Eton is a strong school with an excellent program. What I am also learning, however, is that this is a special place with truly remarkable people. The commitment and dedication of the entire faculty and staff to Eton’s Mission is reflected in the engaged, smiling, and friendly faces throughout our student body. The discovery of Eton is, however, far from complete for me. I am having wonderful and enlightening conversations with board members, faculty, staff, students, and parents. The image I am forming of Eton is a mosaic, and each conversation adds another piece to the whole picture and helps bring it to life. While I am making an effort to get to know the different facets and various constituencies of Eton, I also want to ensure that I am providing an opportunity for everyone to get to know me. We will, therefore, work to provide chances for anyone and everyone to come in and have coffee, sit and chat, and hear more about my background, my educational philosophy, and my perceptions of Eton and Eton School’s future. Many of these events will be scheduled in advance and will be an open forum. I will also attend all Parent Council general meetings (the first
is October 4 at 6:30 pm). Please, however, also feel welcome to schedule a time to come in for a sit-down, if you feel that a one-on-one meeting would work best for you. Everything I have thus far learned of Eton School and those who make up this fabulous community has only served to reinforce my belief that this is the right place for me, as a professional and as a person. I look forward to further immersing myself in the Eton Experience. Dr. Russell Smith, Head of School E-mail: russellsmith@etonschool.org
In This Issue Board Corner: Strategic Plan......................................2 Admissions: High School Night.................................3 Culture Fair.....................................................................3 Eton Parent Council......................................................4 Lower Elementary News...............................................5 Learning Specialist........................................................5 Development Office......................................................6 7th/8th Curriculum.......................................................6 Upper Level News..........................................................7 Meet Eton’s Faculty.......................................................8 From the Office..............................................................15
Eton School Newsletter
Board Corner: Strategic Plan
Dear Eton Family Members, I am pleased to present to you the Strategic Plan for Eton School for the next five years. During the past school year, a Strategic Planning Steering Committee guided by Tracy Bennett of Ian Symmonds & Associates, has been engaged in a planning process with the aim of identifying key strategic initiatives that the school will implement in the near future. This plan is the culmination of intensive thinking and hard work by Board members, faculty, staff, and parents—both current and past. The plan was informed by a survey that many focus groups of parents and staff members participated in. The initial task of the Strategic Plan Steering Committee was to identify five strategic issues to be the primary focus going forward. Once issues were identified, we divided ourselves into sub-committees that examined each of them in depth. Many more parents, faculty and staff joined us here to translate the strategic initiatives into specific goals backed by time-driven action plans that the Board and the school will implement over the next few years. Over the past many years and in countless ways, Dr. Patricia Feltin, founder and former head, has left an indelible imprint on Eton School. She has nurtured it with the passion of a visionary and the caring touch of a founder. The new non-profit Eton School has started with a strong educational, operational and financial base that the new Strategic Plan will build on. Dr. Feltin’s involvement in the Strategic Planning process was total and her informed input has been priceless. At the same time, members of the school community who volunteered their time to work in this group deserve special mention. Mere words are inadequate to describe their insight, tenacity and generosity of time. The serious meetings were made more pleasant with their good humor and absolute willingness to make the sacrifice of family time for the greater good of this unique institution that we love—Eton School. The task of overseeing the successful implementation of this plan now falls to the Board of Trustees and Dr. Russell Smith, Head of School, with the help of committees and task forces over the next few years. While the ultimate responsibility lies with the Board of Trustees, it will require a continuous synergistic effort of the entire school community. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I solicit your continued input and energy in this worthy endeavor. Thank you, Vibhas Chandorkar President, Board of Trustees
Eton School’s Strategic Plan Five core strategic issues were established by the steering committee, and workgroups were formed to build comprehensive action plans in each of these key areas. These focus areas are: • Enhancing Student Learning
• Ensuring Eton’s Legacy
• Fostering a Community Experience
• Securing and Managing Resources
• Communicating the Value of an Eton Education
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For more information, view the Eton Strategic Plan (pdf) available on our website. VOL 35 NO. 1
Admissions: High School Night
High School Evening at Eton—September 27 Once again, Eton School will be hosting an event for families with seventh and eighth grade students interested in learning more about high school options. The evening is planned early in the fall so that families can gather information about upcoming admission events. Admission directors from 10 Seattle area schools, all members of the Pacific Northwest Association of Independents Schools will be attending the event. Those schools participating include Annie Wright, the Bear Creek School, the Bush School, Eastside Prep, Eastside
Catholic, Forest Ridge, Holy Names Academy, Lakeside, the Overlake School and University Prep. Families from Eton and other schools in the area have been invited to attend. Following last year’s evening, several families commented how much they appreciated the convenience of having a high school event for eastside families. The event will take place on Thursday, September 27 from 7:00–8:30 pm in the Main Building. Cherie Goetz, Admissions Director
Culture Fair
The Cultural Fair is a Trip Around the World! On Saturday September 29, from 12:00 pm–3:00 pm, the Cultural Fair will transform the main building into a global village. Please come and explore the beautiful booths full of exotic treasures that are hosted by Eton families. Journey to France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Syria, Israel, Southeast Asia, India, Nepal and China. Finish your world tour at the United States of America and Farm Life displays. Discover more about our new Head of School, Dr. Russell Smith, at his own special booth! Students will have fun answering questions in their Passports at each
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stop. Completed Passports earn a prize! Relax with an international lunch and be entertained by music, dances and more, performed by talented students and professionals. Families are encouraged to wear their native attire and students can join the Parade of Nations as it circles the Fair. We hope you will be a part of this annual celebration of the cultures and customs of our diverse Eton community. Use the registration forms sent home with your child or register online. Do not miss this special kick-off event that proves it’s a small world after all!
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Eton Parent Council
Building Connections, Making Things Happen A warm welcome back to school from the Parent Council Executive Committee and an even warmer welcome to all new families! For those of you new to Eton School, your Parent Council (PC) supports inclusion, partnership and cooperation amongst the entire school community. We have a small committee, but our most important members are you -- the parents and guardians of Eton students. We look forward to supporting you throughout the year, making new connections and building on existing ones through conversation and involvement.
We are always looking for help with the wider school events, such as the Cultural Fair (on September 29), the School Auction (which takes place in February) and the Spring Social event. For more information about these events and how you might be able to help, keep an eye on the Eton website and keep a look out for further announcements coming home. Alternatively, drop us an e-mail and we will point you in the right direction. We appreciate all offers of help with however much time you have available.
Enabling conversations
Parent Council meetings
One of the key roles of the PC is to facilitate communication throughout the Eton community. Our first event of the year to help us on our way was a Welcome Picnic for new families and those transitioning to a new level at the school. The weather was in our favor, and the picnic was well attended. Families had the chance to mingle with each other and to chat with Parent Ambassadors and Classroom Representatives. It was a great success and it was wonderful to see the camaraderie between familiar faces and new families. Throughout the academic year, the Parent Council will send you e-mail updates with news, events, and ways you can get involved. Please add parentcouncil@etonschool.org to your address book and if you have any thoughts or questions, please do not hesitate to use this address to get in touch. Remember, good conversations are two-sided!
Encouraging involvement
Another key role of the PC is to encourage involvement with the Eton community. There are endless opportunities to get involved--help with a school event or join in with a classroom party. We had a fantastic response from families in completing the Volunteer Questionnaire – thank you! If you have not yet filled in this form, they are available from the front desk. Reach out to your classroom representative if you are keen to get involved in class events. If you do not know who your rep is, there is a list on the website, or send us an e-mail.
All parents or guardians of Eton School students are automatically members of the Parent Council. Everyone can vote on PC issues and we highly encourage you to attend our meetings. They are a great way to learn more about what is going on at Eton School and to get involved with the Eton community. Our first meeting is on Thursday, October 4, at 6:30 pm in the Main Building. Mark your calendars and come along to meet other parents and the Parent Council committee. Free childcare is provided to make it easier for you to attend and we hope to provide pizza and milk for the children. Other PC meetings this year are: Wednesday, January 16, at 6:30 pm Thursday, April 18, at 6:30 pm Wednesday, May 22, at 6:30 pm
Thank you!
The Parent Council extends a big thank you to everyone who has made the start of the school year such a success. Specifically, thank you to the Parent Ambassadors who took time to welcome and acquaint new families to Eton. We also extend our gratitude to all of the 2012-2013 Classroom Representatives for taking on this important role in facilitating communication within your classrooms and for building community here at Eton. Last, but not least, thank you to all of our families for making the start of the year such a warm welcome—for new and old faces.
Save The Date! Fall Open House Sunday, November 4 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm 4 | ETON EDITION
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Lower Elementary News
Rules Assembly: Simple but Important On Friday, September 7, the lower elementary students gathered in the Activity Room to talk about the Eton School Rules. It was Dr. Smith’s first opportunity to address the lower children. He talked about the importance of rules for our country, for the teachers, and for the students. The children told him the four main rules that they had discussed in their classrooms. They are as follows: • • • •
Act in a Safe and Healthy Way Treat all Property with Respect Respect the Rights and Needs of Others Take Responsibility for Learning.
Each classroom teacher had prepared a classroom document of rules for all the children to sign. Rooms 1-6 now have the rules posted in their rooms signed by each child in the room. The Eton School Rules although very simple allow each child to feel safe as they are used in many ways in each classroom. As Dr. Smith told the children, “Simple rules can be the most important rules because they are so clear.” The lower elementary students are off to a safe start of the school year.
Learning Specialist
How Was Your Day? It is the end of a long day and here comes your child! “What did you do today?” you ask, eagerly anticipating a peek into that unseen world. “Nothing,” replies your beloved. You feel like Charlie Brown when Lucy pulls the football away. Instead, try asking, “How was your day?” Your child will probably say, “Fine.” You follow up with, “Tell me one thing that was great today.” (You will probably hear about recess or lunch.) Then you can say, “Ask me how my day was.” In answer to that question, you can share your world and also model ways to give satisfying answers. “I feel good about making a breakthrough on a project I’m working on.” “I was frustrated early in the morning, but then I went for coffee with a coworker and I felt better the rest of the day.” SEPTEMBER 2012
There are several reasons why kids all over the world say, “Nothing,” when asked what they did in school. Among them: • It is long and complicated, they are tired and cannot even figure out where to begin. • They honestly cannot remember because they were in a state of nonverbal processing and to attach language to the experiences at this point is too late. • They do not know the vocabulary (Knobless cylinders? Trinomial cube? Third passage to abstraction on the Multiplication Checkerboard?). • Some children—adolescents especially—regard school as their world. They perceive the question as prying and are guarding their emerging independence. So try, “How was your day?” You may open the door to sharing both your worlds. Diana Butler, Learning Specialist
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Development Office
Many Ways of Giving at Eton It is exciting to get the school year going after the weeks of enthusiastic and thoughtful planning by the teachers and staff here at Eton. Our sense of purpose is affirmed once again on that first day of school with the arrival of happy, eager students. It has been an absolute delight to meet new parents and visit with returning parents these past few weeks in the various meetings we have had at school. I have talked a little about my role as Development Director and what that means as far as fundraising goes. But more than that, it is about relationships with people and helping to build the community here at Eton. As a parent of two Eton students myself, I truly value my relationships with other parents. We support each other through the trials and tribulations of parenting and share stories that help us feel connected and part of a bigger community. We work together to organize amazing events for students and their families, and to raise money to support the program. It is all founded in the desire to create an enriching, exciting environment that follows our mission of educating the whole child. A powerful way of giving to the school is through volunteering. Many opportunities exist for volunteering at Eton that include helping in the classroom or on an all school level. Being a reading parent, chaperoning children on a field trip or organizing classroom parties are some of the ways parents support their children and their teachers. Parent Council meetings, the Cultural Fair, the Auction and the Spring Event are all ways to be
involved in the school and are driven by the diligence and commitment of our wonderful parents. There are some companies like Microsoft that have a volunteer hour matching program in which the school receives contributions for the hours that you volunteer here. Please make sure to check if your company has such a program and if you have any questions about matching volunteer hours please contact the Development Office. In October, we start our Annual Fund campaign, a fundraising drive that independent schools undertake in order to raise money to help strengthen the educational program and enhance the environment. The Annual Fund supports the school in many ways from providing funds for technology, curriculum related field trips, and classroom materials. It enables teachers and staff to pursue professional development endeavors as well as providing aid to those families who might not have the financial capability to have their child educated at Eton. You will be receiving a letter from the school regarding the Annual Fund in which you will be invited to participate by making a donation. We hope you will feel inspired to contribute to support the students, the teachers, the staff and families of Eton and help build more connections within the community! If you have any questions, ideas, or would like to help in any way, I would love to hear from you! Contact me at mmaling@etonschool.org or 425-881-4230 ext 61. Monica Maling, Development Director
7th/8th Curriculum
Brain Camp at Eton! This summer, I was fortunate to participate in a teacher‑training workshop for the Brain Camp program and am now certified as a Brain Camp instructor. We are now integrating the program into our curriculum for the seventh and eighth grade students. Laura Moore, Marjie Butler, Ellen Gatton and I, the teachers from each discipline, are following up with students and their developing skills as they move from class to class. We have each instituted changes in the way we assist students in note taking, organization, and tracking their own homework and assignments. As described in the Brain Camp literature: Brain Camp is an innovative academic skill‑building program for teens. Students come to Brain Camp to build the essential skills needed for success at school. This engaging program teaches middle and high schoolers how to capitalize on their unique learning style strengths. Participants
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become more organized, resourceful and confident learners by discovering the most effective ways to study and manage schoolwork. Instructional focus: Self‑Knowledge – Organization – Listening Skills – Memory – Note-Taking – Time Management – Test‑Taking & Preparation. Our hands-on approach draws on brain science and the latest research on learning, enabling students to find reliable study strategies and organizational techniques that work well for them. Eton students are so fortunate to have this as a part of their school day with assistance and follow-up from each one of us as these new skills become a part of their daily habits and preparation for future success. Dr. Susan Walker, Upper Level Faculty
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Upper Level News
Assembly Welcomes Everyone to a New Year! During the first assembly of the year, upper level welcomed fourth graders and new students. Fifth grade made beautiful name banners for all students new to the upper level, for Katie Adams, a new assistant and Dr. Russell Smith, the new Head of School. Mrs. Butler then led the upper level in challenging team games. Photos courtesy of Kirsten Steinhauer-Zender.
6,900 Pounds of Corn…7/8th Grade Sense of Accomplishment! Eton’s 7th and 8th grade students converged at the Northwest Harvest Kent Distribution Warehouse on Wednesday, September 12, to sort and repack thousands of pounds of corn into boxes for delivery to food banks across the state. Our parent drivers, Alex Armanasu, Janet Ludeman, and Nathan Johnson accompanied us. We joined with local community volunteers, who trained us in the process. We learned to choose the suitable ears of corn and clean them for repacking. Our students worked elbow-to-elbow with their newly formed friends for three hours. “I don’t want to eat corn for one month,” one 7th grade student joked. Despite
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the joking, our time was well spent and we all felt a huge sense of accomplishment: 6,900 pounds of corn processed…over 5,300 meals! Our volunteer coordinator told us that Northwest Harvest is especially proud to preserve the dignity of those seeking food in that anyone who comes to request food is served…no questions asked. Northwest Harvest provides food to over 300 food banks across Washington. They strive to offer as much fresh and frozen produce as possible. Laura Moore, 7th/8th Grade Teacher Photos courtesy of Kirsten Steinhauer-Zender
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Meet Eton’s Faculty
2012-2013 Eton School Faculty Dr. Russell Smith
Head of School
I am honored to have the opportunity to be the new Head of Eton School. My wife, Rebecca, and I moved to the Pacific Northwest over the summer. We have long loved the area, and are thrilled that the Eastside is now home. My own education began with a Montessori foundation; I attended Alexander Montessori School in Miami, Florida as a young boy. I later attended public school for several years and completed my secondary schooling at boarding school in England. It was in my high school years that I developed a love for History, and it was History that I chose for a major at the University of Miami. I would, eventually, go on to complete a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D.—all in the study of History. I began teaching in 1994 in a public middle school in Miami. Although I loved the connections I made with the students, I was disenchanted by the bureaucracy and politics of that public school system. Since then, my teaching and administrative experience has been in independent schools. Most recently, I spent 11 years at The Alexander Dawson School in Las Vegas, Nevada. There, I taught for several years and served as Head of Middle School for five years. My time in education has always been personally rewarding; my favorite aspect of being in a classroom is the opportunity to witness the “ah-ha” moment on students’ faces and watch their eyes light up with understanding.
Nasreen Shamsuddin Mezzo A, Pre-elementary I joined Eton School in 1986 as a pre-elementary teacher to start a new classroom in the Main Building. For the past 26 years, Eton has been my second home and I look forward to coming to work each and every day. The joy of working with children, the camaraderie of colleagues and the community of wonderful families are all reasons why I love my job. I was born and raised in Bangladesh and have lived in Europe and North America for the past forty years. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of Dhaka. I received my Montessori teaching credentials in Canada and have a diploma in Early Childhood Education from California. Prior to teaching at Eton, I have worked in Montessori schools in Montreal, Vancouver, BC and in the San Francisco Bay area. I am a member of Pacific Northwest Montessori Association (PNMA) and a member of American Montessori Society (AMS). Montessori has been an integral part of my professional as well as personal life. I have two grown children who were both early Montessorians. Besides teaching, some of my interests include traveling, gardening, cooking, reading and watching the game of cricket with my husband.
Sharon Gonzalez
Mezzo A, Pre-elementary
It was almost six years ago when I first walked through the main door of Eton School, armed with a freshly minted Montessori teaching certificate for 3-6 years old, to apply for a job in a pre-elementary classroom. I first worked as a classroom assistant, then became a teacher for Eton’s Summer Program and for the past three years, have been most fortunate to be Mrs. Shamsuddin’s co-teacher in Mezzo A and Mezzo After-School Clubhouse Supervisor. I came to Washington in 2006 to take the training to be a certified Montessori teacher. I have lived all my life in the Philippines where I got my Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and a Juris Doctor degree. My journey towards Montessori enlightenment took a bit longer, but the decision to take that first step proved to be rewarding in so many ways. I have four children who are my source of pride, inspiration and strength. A cause that is close to my heart is raising childhood cancer awareness. And though home is 6,590.23 miles away, and my children miss the warm beaches, I can happily say that we have found a new home and family here in Washington and in the Eton Community.
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Kalsom Walli
Mezzo B, Pre-elementary
A friend in Ashland, Oregon, whose daughter used to be in Mezzo B, told great stories about Eton to me. I took her great advice and travelled to Bellevue to check it out. Long story short, I landed my feet in Mezzo B as an intern under Jeannine Blink, and have never left! The vast majority of my life however, did not start in Ashland. I was born and raised in Malaysia. I went to a college called ITM (now UiTM), which is in a city just outside of Kuala Lumpur, and studied Applied Science. I did my Montessori training with Montessori Institute of America and I am a member of Pacific Northwest Montessori as well as American Montessori Society. My Sundays are filled with watching football, and occasionally I attempt to play golf, my newly discovered hobby.
Susan Baccellieri
Mezzo C, Pre-elementary
This is my 24th year at Eton School. Yikes! I was so lucky all of those years ago to discover a career that indeed has turned into a vocation. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in geography from San Francisco State University, I chanced upon a “Clubhouse” like position at a local Montessori school in San Francisco, and I have not looked back since. I received my Montessori 3-6 teaching credential in 1984 and a Masters in Education with a Montessori emphasis about 7 years ago. Dr. Montessori said that the guides in the classroom should be Renaissance men and women. This is a task I can truly appreciate; I love learning a bit of EVERYTHING! My three children attended Montessori schools and the lives they are now living as adults truly reflect the learning skills they developed in the prepared environments of their youth. These environments nurtured their emotional health, stimulated their curious natures, fostered their creative spirits and always had high expectations. Most gratefully, I get to experience this environment everyday!
Lynette Oshiro
Mezzo 1, Pre-elementary
I was born and raised in Hawaii on the island of Oahu. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Child Psychology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. I have a Master’s degree in Education and received my Montessori teaching credentials from Chaminade University of Honolulu. The first school I taught at was at L. Robert Allen Montessori School that is affiliated with Chaminade University of Honolulu. I joined Eton School in 1997 and I have been a Montessori teacher for 21 years. Eton is a huge part of my life. I am the happiest when I am teaching my students. Children bring me great joy and contentment. I enjoy baking, cooking, reading, hiking and swimming. Golf has been a passion of mine since I was 5 years old. My dad was an avid golfer and we would watch golf together every Sunday.
Michelle Lee
Mezzo 2, Pre-elementary
It is hard to believe that this is my 8th year at Eton School. I joined Eton in 2005 as an assistant, then worked as an intern in Mezzo A, served as the Pre-Elementary Clubhouse supervisor, and finally co-teacher in Mezzo 2. I am becoming more competent and growing every year just like the children at Eton School. I was born and lived in South Korea for 17 years then I moved to America with my family. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Art from the University of Washington. I received my teacher certification from the Montessori Teacher Preparation of Washington program. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family especially with my three‑year-old niece, volunteering for Sunday school at my church, hiking, reading, and doing some art projects. It is always a great joy working with children. I love kids. They make me happy and give me so much energy. I discover myself working with the children. SEPTEMBER 2012
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Holly Fleming
Mezzo 2, Pre-elementary
I began working at Eton School in September 2005 first as an assistant in Room 5, then in Mezzo 2 as a co-teacher of pre-elementary children. I received an Early Childhood Education degree from Green River Community College and a Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree from Evergreen State College. My professional memberships include the American Montessori Society (AMS) and the Pacific Northwest Montessori Association (PNMA). I am a native of Western Washington with a large extended family living in the Puget Sound area. In 1995 I began working in Montessori schools. I was amazed at what young children were capable of achieving and learning in a prepared environment and decided to take the Montessori teacher’s training at Spring Valley Montessori School. My husband, Ryan, and I have been married for seven years. We have a Siamese cat, Carmel. Ryan and I enjoy reading, hiking, and making home improvements. I also own an Arabian horse, Echo, that I enjoy riding on trails and at local dressage schooling shows.
Sudha Vaghul
Mezzo 3, Pre-elementary
My association with Eton School began 16 years ago when my daughter first started in pre‑elementary. Soon after, my son spent much of his childhood at Eton, attending both the pre and lower elementary programs. I could say that they were the hook that lured me into becoming a Montessori teacher! Having a Bachelors degree in Economics and a Masters in Social Work, I had always envisioned myself as being in a field that would involve helping others, but I certainly did not think it would be 3-6 year-olds! Watching the amazing transformations that were happening in the classrooms with the children, seeing the beauty in the materials and the method, not to mention the incredible dedication and talent of the teachers at Eton School, inspired me to take the AMS training for early elementary with MEIPN. As I embraced Maria Montessori’s lessons, I began my transition from an Eton parent to an Eton teacher. Montessori’s emphasis on connecting the dots between our actions and its impact on everything around us thereby enabling us to live a holistic life resounds with my own personal philosophy. Maria travelled East to India to build her curriculum of peace and mutual respect for all living things. I am glad that through Maria I have gained an even deeper respect for my own roots.
Madeline Lee
Mezzo 4, Pre-elementary
I was born and raised in Hawaii, receiving a B.S. from the University of Hawaii. Leaving home, I attended Indiana University where I received a M.S. in Education. I later attended Chaminade University and received my 3-6 AMS Certification. I was fortunate to join Eton School in 2008, after teaching in Hawaii and Virginia. I am currently a member of the American Montessori Society and the Pacific Northwest Montessori Association. Teaching preschool children is an endless adventure! They are all curious, innocent, and funny. They are open to all ideas, and nothing is impossible to them. When I am not enjoying the Eton School family, I relax with the Seattle Sounders, Dallas Cowboys, dinner with the grandchildren, and reading.
Regan Becker
Room 1, Lower Elementary
In 2004, I began by career at Eton—first as an intern and assistant, then as a co-teacher, and eventually (in 2008) as a lead teacher in Room 1. Having taught English as a Foreign Language at a bilingual school in Romania, I felt determined to find a method of education that addresses the needs of the child and allows for freedom of thought, expression, movement, and peace. After working in a 9-12 AMI classroom in Portland, Oregon, I was inspired to gain my AMS certification at the MEIPN program in Seattle—a decision that gives incredible meaning and purpose to my life. Children are my role models. The Montessori Method addresses the whole child through a holistic approach that involves hands-on self-correcting materials, peer learning, individual and group lessons, and equal
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respect for emotional, social, spiritual, and physical well-being—not simply academic success. I consider myself lucky to earn a living in this daily walking meditation of patience, positive communication, and peace-making. Maria Montessori treated children with great respect —which they deserve—and inspired them with Great Lessons that continue to spark their imagination. I also love parent education of Montessori philosophy and “talk shop” whenever given a chance.
Room 3, Lower Elementary
Angela Kim
Northern Arizona University in beautiful Flagstaff, Arizona is my alma mater. (Go Jacks!) I earned a B.A. in Art History with every intention of doing art restoration in some museum somewhere. After college, I spent a year teaching ESL in Korea. Then I worked at the YMCA with their Youth Enrichment Program for 3 years. (I never found that museum.) I discovered Eton as an assistant in 2008 without an inkling of who this mysterious Dr. Montessori was. I observed the children and asked a million questions. I could not believe I had never heard of the Montessori method despite its 100 plus years of existence in the world. Being surrounded by all the amazing teachers at Eton inspired me to take the training and become certified at the Montessori Education Institute of the Pacific Northwest. So here I am. I interned at Eton and it is now my second year of co-teaching in Room 3. I am happy to say that I am able to apply my major and share my passion for art with the children. They inspire me and challenge me everyday. They make me laugh, they frustrate me, and they give me the flu every year, but boy, do I love this job!
Cindy Merritt
Room 3, Lower Elementary
My career at Eton School began in 1996 as an Assistant in Room 6 with Diana Butler. With Diana’s encouragement, I enrolled in the MEIPN 6-9 program, and received my Montessori certification to go along with a BA degree in History, a MBA in Marketing, a Masters in Teaching, and a Washington State Teaching Certificate. Over the past 16 years that I have been at Eton, I have had the opportunity to be a classroom teacher in Room 3, as well as a PE and Technology specialist. I love what I do, and cannot imagine teaching anywhere else or in any way other than Montessori. Outside of school, I am a Daughter, Sister, Aunt (which is awesome), and a “Mom” to two very large dogs. I enjoy biking, am passionate about golf, play a shaky third base on a coed softball team (The Smoldering Remains), and enjoy learning about, and attempting, all types of art forms. I drove a race car for my 50th birthday, and flew a fighter jet for my 55th. My 60th is very close, and I am open to suggestions.
Jeannine Blink
Room 4, Lower Elementary
Coming back to Eton School two years ago was like coming home. I had first become aware of this special place in 1997, through a parent education magazine. After observing in a pre-elementary classroom, I knew this was where I wanted to be. These young children worked with such peace, joy and intensity! In addition, I could see that the individualized curriculum was highly successful. I began at Eton as an assistant, then an intern, and finally, a pre-elementary teacher. Prior to this, I had tutored children in reading and math clinics, and also served as Director of Education at Sylvan Learning Centers in California; two jobs I absolutely loved. While working at Sylvan, I also finished my B.S. degree in Child Development with a Minor in Music, as well as a state teaching credential. I left Eton after five years to teach music, chorus, drama, and piano and guitar lessons at various schools. During this time I was asked to teach lower elementary at another school. I enjoyed it so much I decided to take the additional training and now hold age 6-9, as well as 3-6 Montessori certifications. It is so gratifying and fun to spend my time with children of this age. They continually amaze and inspire me through their colorful conversations, accomplishments, and natural curiosity. Being a Montessori teacher also allows me to incorporate my two passions, music and nature into the classroom. Montessori education creates children who are confident, responsible, compassionate, globally aware, and who love to learn. My job keeps me incredibly busy, but in my spare time I enjoy playing the violin, hiking, camping, reading, and writing children’s songs. SEPTEMBER 2012
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Kris Gaskins
Room 5, Lower Elementary
My time at Eton School began in 1988 as a pre elementary teacher. After teaching several years, I took a break from work to become a mom. I returned to Eton in 1999 as a lower elementary teacher and have been in Room 5 since September 2000. My undergraduate degree at Willamette University in humanities set the stage for my passion for learning. Montessori education was such a good fit for me. I completed my three to six training at the College of Notre Dame in Belmont, CA in 1982 and spent six years teaching, running a school and eventually getting married in the San Francisco Bay Area. After a move back to the Seattle area, I did end up getting my 6–9 Montessori credential through the local Montessori training program in Woodinville in 2000 as well as my MEd. with a Montessori emphasis in 2005. I am currently a member of both the Pacific Northwest Montessori Association and the American Montessori Society. Growing up, the last thing I wanted to be was a teacher. School was okay, but it was not exciting. College really opened my eyes to learning and when I was contemplating what to do with my life after college, I stumbled across the Montessori method of education. It was truly one of those AHA moments in my life. Ever since entering the first training program in 1981, I have followed a Montessori path for myself and then for my children. It has served us well on so many levels. I love seeing children grow over the course of the three years they are with me. Watching that timid first grader become, over time, a confident third grader who knows how to learn, be compassionate, and be a global thinker is a wonderful and fulfilling experience.
Catie Zarski
Room 5, Lower Elementary
I like to say: I did not find Montessori, Montessori found me. I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2003 with a Communications Arts degree. After dabbling in freelance graphic design for a couple years, I decided I wanted to do more for the community. When I moved to Seattle in 2006, I started out by working for a number of non-profits. I was a Program Director for a digital arts program that served low-income youth, I volunteered for a garden program that taught children healthy eating habits through gardening, and I was an after school coordinator for an alternative school in Seattle. It was not until I got a job as an assistant at an AMI Montessori School in Burien that I found my true passion. I started my Lower Elementary Montessori training at MEIPN in 2010, the same year I had my daughter, Olivia. After taking a year off, I started working at Eton as an intern in the fall of 2011. This year I am very excited to be working alongside Kris Gaskins in Room 5. Montessori may have “found me”, but I like to think I was a part of it all along. I love working with children and thinking about the “whole child”; not only in the classroom but in the community as well. These are skills I incorporate in the classroom as well as at home with my daughter. My favorite pastimes include spending time with my husband and daughter doing anything outside.
Sadie Reitz
Room 6, Lower Elementary
I am so excited to be starting my 5th year of teaching at Eton School! I came to Eton in the 2008 school year while I completed my student teaching internship for Montessori Certification from the Montessori Education Institute of the Pacific Northwest (MEIPN). I received my undergraduate degree in Environmental Education in 2001 from Western Washington University. After teaching outdoor school for several years at Moran State Park and the Seattle Audubon Society, I went back to school at the University of Washington, Bothell, in 2005 to attain my Washington State Teaching Certificate. Just this summer I finished my Masters of Education degree from Plymouth State University with a focus in Montessori. I am a member of the American Montessori Society (AMS) and the Pacific Northwest Montessori Association (PNMA). Some of my favorite things to teach are: math, language, and cosmic studies. I take my responsibility as a teacher seriously, but I also make sure to have fun along the way. Going outside to appreciate the beauty and strength of nature is as important to me as spending time with my family and friends. My favorite way to enjoy all of those things is to combine them together! I also enjoy traveling, watching live music, and playing with my cat, Zoe and my nephew, Leo. My favorite job (besides teaching!) was being a Naturalist/Tour Guide on a whale watch boat in the San Juan Islands.
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Sonja Everson
4th Grade, Upper Level
Although I was born in Boulder, Colorado, I consider myself a true Pacific Northwest native. I have lived here since I was two years old and can genuinely say I would rather hike in the rain or explore rocky tide pools than play at a warm, sandy beach. For the past 5 years, I have taught 4th grade Language Arts and Social Studies at Eton School. My favorite part of the year is when we spend a week at Islandwood building our 4th grade community and exploring the outdoors. Before I found myself at Eton, I graduated from Seattle University with a Masters in Teaching. I taught 4th grade in the Highline School District and outdoor education classes at the Mercer Slough. While not teaching, I enjoy spending time volunteering for the Seattle Aquarium, gardening, hiking, and curling up with a good book. I feel lucky to have landed at Eton School, where its philosophy of education, to honor the whole child, matches my own.
Tricia Wray
4th Grade, Upper Level
A native Texan, I graduated from Texas A & M University with a Bachelors Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with teaching certifications in Math, Psychology and Sociology. After graduation, I taught middle school math in the Allen Independent School District in Texas. In 1995, my husband and I moved to the Seattle area and I took the job of full-time mom. Two of our children attended Eton, affording me the opportunity to volunteer in their classrooms. In 2008, I accepted a position as a Math Specialist for the Eton upper level. The following year I began teaching 4th grade Math and Science. It is a wonderful opportunity to be able to share my passion for math with Eton students. My husband and I have three children. Our oldest daughter works in Denver. Our second daughter is a high school senior, and our youngest son started high school this year. My favorite pastimes are watching our middle daughter play softball and my son play soccer. I also enjoy traveling to sunny places.
Pete Kashevarof
5th Grade, Upper Level
Although you will not hear a Midwest accent in my writing or speech, I was born in Wisconsin, which, for me, is a wonderful place… to visit. My dad, brothers, and nieces and nephew still live there, but I like it all too much in the Northwest to be anywhere else. Seattle University brought me to Washington, and I majored in English with a minor in Business Administration. After graduating, I worked in a few schools. I was fortunate enough to wind up at Eton as a teaching assistant, and I liked it so much I left Eton and returned to Seattle University to get a Master’s in Teaching. Then, fortune found me again as I returned to Eton in 2011 as a fifth grade teacher. Getting a little more personal, I feel I was destined to be a Muppet. I frequently sing and whistle to myself, many times without conscious thought, and I apologize to anyone who is bothered by such sounds. I play the cello and guitar, and soccer is my sport of choice. I like video games, board games, outside games, indoor games, and really just games of any sort. I enjoy drawing with pen, and I feel confident drawing faces and stick figures, but I struggle with colors and shiny objects. If I was not me, I would hope to be a Jedi or the Doctor (David Tennant style) flying about the galaxy helping those I come across.
Candace Davidson
5th Grade, Upper Level
I consider myself very fortunate because I am able to come to work with a smile every day (well, almost every day). I am energized by teaching, particularly math and science. I completed my Montessori training about 16 years ago with certification from pre-school through upper elementary. I first started working at Eton about 22 years ago. I did my Montessori internship here; then began teaching the Physical Science classes (pre through 8th grade). Biology and chemistry were the two sciences that had always intrigued me; so teaching physical science gave me a reason to delve into physics. For the last decade, I have had the privilege to work with the 5th grade teaching math and science. I was born in North Dakota, but moved to Seattle to be closer to my mother’s family and have lived in Kirkland since I was 10. I still live in the same house where my 29 year-old son SEPTEMBER 2012
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was born. I love animals and over the years I have given a home to numerous dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs, snakes, rats, mice and a gopher. In addition I have read every book that ever crossed my path, sewed and knitted since I was ten, am always ready to try a new art activity, solved all kinds of puzzles, and drawn in pencil and ink for years.
Marjie Butler
6th Grade, Upper Level
This is my eleventh year at Eton and I love teaching in the Upper and P.E. in the Lower School. Finding Eton gave me the opportunity to continue growing as a teacher. Moving to the northwest 12 years ago, my family settled here knowing that we would be here for the rest of our lives. Both my husband and I taught in the Midwest for many years; discovering the northwest, being close to the mountains and the ocean provides the perfect inspiration as we continue on our chosen paths. I received my B.A. in Recreation and Outdoor Education with a minor in Psychology from Graceland University in Iowa and have continued to further my education ever since. Teaching and sharing my passion for the outdoors nourishes the wonder in me. I love learning and the adventures that come from doing that very thing with students. The community here at Eton is a wonderful place to grow, for our students, and also for myself as a teacher.
Dr. Susan Walker
7 th/8th Grade, Upper Level
I am excited to begin my sixth year at Eton School where my primary duties are to teach language arts to the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students. My students write and write and write, and I love watching them find their voices as they learn to put their thoughts and ideas on paper. We read amazing literature that brings the students to new worlds and allows them to walk in others’ shoes, learning about empathy, justice, and our common humanity. I have the opportunity to work with the great fourth grade team this year, teaching earth science, life skills, and assisting with the writing process for the science fair. I hail from the Detroit area in Michigan where I graduated from Oakland University with a B.A. in psychology. My goal was to become a psychologist, and I received my doctorate degree in clinical psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy. I practiced as a clinical psychologist for many years. After volunteering in my own children’s classrooms, I fell in love with the energy and potential for growth, returned to school and received my teaching degree from Heritage University on the Yakama Indian Reservation in Toppenish, Washington; my husband was a psychologist working for the Indian Health Service. I taught in Yakima for several years before moving to this side of the mountains. I love to travel and learn about people from diverse backgrounds, believing wholeheartedly that we are one human family.
Laura Moore
7 th/8th Grade, Upper Level
I started working at Eton in 1992 as a tutor through the Learning Enrichment Center, working with many students across Grades 1 through 8 in numerous subject areas. This experience enriched my life. Helen Gilbert, the Director of the Learning Enrichment Center and stalwart Montessorian, helped me bring Montessori materials into my instruction and I still use them today. In 1996, I transitioned into the classroom, teaching math and science at Veladare School, and ten years later I became the 7/8th Homeroom Teacher here at Eton School. I grew up in the Midwest and remember most fondly the long summer camping trips that I took with my family. I have a Bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University in Civil Engineering. I worked as a Project Engineer from 1985-1988 at Southern Natural Gas Company. I earned a Master’s degree from the University of Washington in Civil and Environmental Engineering. I was working towards a PhD in the same field when I decided that I really wanted to teach middle school. I later took all of the coursework to earn a Masters in Education through Western Washington University. I am a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the National Science Teacher’s Association. I appreciate the diversity and energy of my sixth, seventh and eighth grade math and science students. I can think of no job that I would rather do than teach here at Eton School. When not teaching, I am most passionate about year-round camping and backpacking and am likely planning or experiencing my next trip.
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From the Office Tuition Payments for 2012-2013 School Year
Clubhouse (Childcare)
Eton School Calendar September - October 2012
The seventh tuition payment was due at the beginning of September. The eighth tuition payment is due on October 1. Eton School’s installment plan for tuition payments for the 2012-2013 school year began immediately with enrollment documents. Many parents elected to pre-pay the entire amount in order to receive a 2% discount. The 2% discount was also offered to parents who signed up for ACH automatic withdrawal from their checking accounts. The installment plan is set up for 12 payments to ease the family budget – March through the following February. If you selected the ACH method, your payments are debited on the first, but no later than the fifth of each month. There is a second ACH run for parents needing the debit to occur mid-month (by request). These transactions debit on the eighteenth of the month, no later the twentythird of the month. If you are a family that joined late, you received a different fee schedule. If you have questions or need to refresh your understanding, please call Cindy Mattix at 425‑881‑4230, ext. 66 or e-mail cmattix@etonschool.org. She is happy to assist you with any questions you may have. Please remember that Eton School does not send home billings and that payment is due the first of each month. If not received before the fifth, a $20 late fee is assessed by the Business Office.
Eton School’s Childcare billing is connected to the individual student clock-in. The electronic clock-in system calculates a rate based on the time used. Pre-payment in minimum increments of $170 is required for daily or drop-in care and will be changed at the $8 hourly rate. There is a maximum charge of $380 per child per month for any month except those with Weeklong Breaks (February, April, June or August). For the extra time during Weeklong Breaks when school is not open, there will be an additional cap of $300 per week with a minimum charge of $80 per day per child. In summary, all Childcare is charged on an hourly basis ($8) with two maximum circumstances:
September 22 CPR/First Aid Staff and Parents 8:30 am–5:00 pm Main Building Call the school office to register.
Checks Payable to Eton School All checks should be written to “Eton School.” If your child’s last name is different than the name printed on the check, please be sure to note your child/children’s name on your check in the memo portion. Please write separate checks for tuition and clubhouse. SEPTEMBER 2012
• $380 monthly cap—except February, April, June, August • $300 weekly cap with a minimum charge of $80 per child—additional, for use during Weeklong Breaks Clubhouse must be paid via check or cash and not as a credit card transaction.
Hot Lunch: Zaytoon Catering Zaytoon Catering offers flavorful food that is creatively balanced and nutritious to Eton School children and staff. You can find information and place your order online at zaytoonlunch.webs.com. Should you have questions about your order, please call Awring Mahmud at 425‑503-6923.
Late Arrivals If you arrive late for school, please be sure to park your vehicle and walk your student(s) into the building. Drivers must sign children into school if they are late. Thank you for your cooperation with this procedure.
September 24 – September 27 4th Grade Field Trip to Islandwood September 26 HIV Training for Staff and Parents 6:45 pm Main Building Call the school office to register. September 27 High School Evening at Eton School 7:00 pm–8:30 pm Main Building September 29 All-school Cultural Fair 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Main Building. Registration October 04 Parent Council Meeting 6:30 pm Main Building October 08 – October 10 7th & 8th Grades Salish Sea Expedition October 12 School Closed/Clubhouse Open Teacher Inservice: PNAIS Conference October 17 Picture Day: All Levels October 18 Early Dismissal: All Levels Parent-Teacher Conferences October 19 School Closed/Clubhouse Open Parent-Teacher Conferences October 22 – October 26 Upper Level Student Council Elections October 31 Halloween Celebrations: All Levels For more information, visit Eton’s online 2012-2013 School Calendar ETON EDITION | 15
Save the Dates (See inside for more information) High School Night
Thursday, September 27
Fall Open House
Sunday, November 4
Culture Fair
ETON SCHOOL 2701 Bellevue-Redmond Road Bellevue, WA 98008-2253 425.881.4230 | www.etonschool.org
Saturday, September 29