2025-2026
Volume 29, Issue 3
About U.S.
A Publishing Tradition of Unquowa School
A Message From the Head of School
A
s we close another school year at Unquowa, I find myself
classrooms specifically. Beginning this fall, Unquowa will
reflecting on the moments that define a community
remove 1:1 student devices from classrooms up through Grade
and invite us to look more closely, listen more carefully,
three, reaffirming our belief that the earliest years of childhood
and grow more fully into ourselves. This year, those moments
should be grounded in human connection, hands-on learning,
took many forms. They lived in our classrooms, on our stage
and purposeful play. While we remain deeply committed to
and playing fields, in quiet
digital literacy and to preparing
conversations and bold public
students for a changing world,
presentations. They reminded
we also believe that technology
us that education is not only
should be introduced with care
about what students know,
and intention. It is one more way
but about how they learn to
in which we are striving to ensure
see the world, understand
that our students’ earliest school
one another, and discover the
experiences leave room first
power of their own voices.
for imagination, collaboration,
As a faculty, we will carry
curiosity, and joy.
that spirit of reflection into
This past spring celebrated
the summer through our
another remarkable year of our
shared reading of The Power
Upper School literary magazine,
of Moments, a book about
Pen & Paper, with both individual
creating experiences that
student Circle Award recognitions
elevate, connect, and inspire.
and a third consecutive year
The book’s message resonates deeply with the work we do at
of the publication’s Gold Crown recognition earned through the
Unquowa. We know that childhood is shaped by meaningful
Columbia Scholastic Press Association. These honors reflect the
experiences–by the teacher who sees something special in a
talent, and creative voice of our student writers and artists, and
child, the project that sparks a new passion, the presentation
the faculty who guide them with such care.
that builds confidence, the conversation that broadens
And finally, we celebrate the Class of 2026, who have now
perspective. Those are the moments that help students grow
graduated and joined the growing community of Unquowa
into themselves and begin to understand the impact they can
alumni. We send them on to high school with great pride, knowing
have on the world around them.
that they leave us with strong minds, kind hearts, and the unafraid
Throughout this past year, I have been moved by the
spirit that has been shaped by their years here. They will be deeply
compassion, and imagination our students bring to their work.
missed, but we are excited for all that lies ahead of them and
Our 7th graders honored the lives of Unsung Heroes through
grateful for the many ways, both academically and socially, that
research, reflection, and art, while our 8th graders used Voices of
they have contributed to this community.
Change to explore the issues that matter most to them.
I hope you enjoy reading more about these moments and
This summer marks the introduction of a new Grade 6 capstone
many others in the pages ahead. Thank you for being part of
project that will join our 7th and 8th grade projects in giving
a school community that values curiosity, character, creativity,
students the opportunity to pursue a topic of personal interest
and connection. It is a privilege to witness our students grow
with independence and purpose. They will connect deeply with
into themselves here. To see them discover who they are, what
ideas, with one another, and with their own growing sense of
they care about, and how they want to move through the world.
voice. Read more about our new 6th grade “Passion Project” in
Those moments, taken together, are what make a school year
this issue.
unforgettable, and what make a place like Unquowa unique.
The past year has also brought thoughtful reflection among faculty about the role of technology in children’s lives and in our
Sharon Lauer, Head of School
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Announcing Our Gold Circle Award Winners
Congratulations to our talented student contributors, dedicated editorial team, and faculty advisors on another extraordinary achievement! Pen & Paper: Morning Has Broken has once again been awarded the prestigious Gold Crown Award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), marking the third consecutive year that Unquowa’s nationally recognized literary and art magazine has earned one of scholastic publishing’s highest honors. The celebration doesn’t end there. Six student contributors have also received individual Gold Circle Awards from the CSPA in recognition of their outstanding creative work. Even more impressively, Unquowa students swept the entire Multimedia category, a outstanding accomplishment while competing against submissions from other middle schools and high schools across the country. These remarkable honors reflect the talent, creativity, and dedication of our student authors, artists, editors, and advisors. We are incredibly proud of all who contributed to Morning Has Broken and continue to uphold the tradition of excellence that makes Pen & Paper one of the nation’s premier student literary magazines. Special congratulations to our award winners!
Scholastic Gold Circle Award Winners: Poetry:
- Ellie Mae Sullivan (Honorable Mention) - Kaitlyn Mesiya (Honorable Mention)
Fiction:
- Oola Breen-Ryan (Honorable Mention)
Multimedia:
(Single Subject Feature Package, Single Page Design) - Vivian Winkelmann (1st Place) - Nerushka Lopez Aponte (2nd Place) - Maxim Michniewicz (3rd Place)
To view Pen & Paper scan the QR
Lower School Art and Literary Magazine Working with the Lower School Art and Literary Club on Unquowazine Volume 8 has been a true pleasure. Throughout the year, these talented young writers, artists, and editors contributed to every stage of the magazine’s creation, from selecting submissions and editing content to designing pages and preparing the final publication. This year’s edition features an even greater variety of original student work from every grade, including interviews, comics, poetry, stories, and artwork that celebrate the creativity and imagination of our Lower School students. Editors-in-Chief Miles, Nina, and Blythe led the editorial team with thoughtful leadership, carefully honoring the authenticity of each student’s voice while creating a magazine the entire community can enjoy. As their advisor, I was proud to provide guidance while watching these students grow as collaborators and creative leaders. Unquowazine is also nurturing the next generation of Pen & Paper contributors, inspiring our youngest students to one day join and perhaps even lead the nationally award-winning literary magazine. Congratulations to our Lower School students on a wonderful Volume 8!
- Karen Engelke, Unquowazine Advisor
To view Unquowazine scan the QR
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Human First, Future Ready:
How Unquowa Is Reimagining Technology in Education. As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms education, schools face an important question: How do we prepare students for an AI-driven future while protecting what matters most about childhood? At Unquowa, we believe the answer isn’t choosing between innovation and tradition, it’s knowing when each belongs. That philosophy has shaped several important initiatives this year. Beginning this fall, Unquowa will remove student devices from classrooms through Grade 3, reaffirming the school’s belief that the earliest years of learning should be rooted in human connection, purposeful play, hands-on discovery, and engagement with teachers, classmates, and the world around them. While educational technology has become increasingly common in elementary classrooms, Unquowa believes the early years should first develop the habits that support lifelong learning: attention, curiosity, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Play is central to that work. At Unquowa, play is not viewed as separate from learning, it is one of the primary ways children learn. Through exploration, imagination, collaboration, and problem-solving, students build confidence, resilience, and independence while developing the academic and social foundations that prepare them for future success. Yet protecting childhood does not mean stepping away from technology. Rather, it means introducing technology with intention. Students continue to build digital fluency through dedicated technology classes, where they learn keyboarding, Google Workspace, digital citizenship, responsible communication, and the thoughtful use of technology before transitioning to more robust technology integration in the Upper School. This philosophy is reflected in the leadership of Lloyd Mitchell, Director of Operations & IT, who recently represented Unquowa as a presenter at the Educators AI Playbook Conference at the United Nations International School in New York City. There, he shared the school’s approach to developing AI policies and practical classroom applications while joining school leaders from across the country in conversations about the future of education. Shifting away from individual 1:1 screens for our youngest learners allows us to model true digital balance. It ensures our curriculum relies on intentional tech use, where devices enhance a lesson rather than dominate it, giving students the vital space to develop social-emotional and fine motor skills through real-world interaction.
The conversation continued on campus at the close of the school year when Unquowa’s faculty and staff participated in a keynote and workshop led by Maggie Renken, Ph.D., an Independent School Management consultant. Together, faculty explored what human-centered, developmentally appropriate AI readiness should look like at Unquowa and engaged in strategic planning conversations about how emerging technologies can strengthen teaching while remaining grounded in the school’s mission and child-centered philosophy. For Unquowa, these initiatives are not separate conversations. They are part of one educational vision. Children deserve the opportunity to build relationships, solve problems, create, communicate, and play before they are asked to navigate increasingly sophisticated technology. At the same time, they deserve an education that prepares them to engage confidently, ethically, and thoughtfully with the tools that will shape their future. By protecting childhood while embracing purposeful innovation, Unquowa is leading with a simple belief: technology should enhance great teaching, never replace it. The strongest schools prepare students not only for the future of technology, but for the future of humanity.
- Jessica Costa, Director of Enrollment and Marketing
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Capstone Projects
Eighth Grade: Voices of Change The 2026 Voices of Change reception transformed the Unquowa Dining Room into a vibrant pop-up gallery, which invited guests to immerse themselves in the inspiring culmination of our 8th graders’ capstone visual arts projects. The exhibition reflected months of rigorous research, intentional planning, and creative artistic expression. Through their exploration of their chosen social, political, or environmental justice themes, students channeled their insights into compelling conceptual art pieces designed to provoke awareness and inspire advocacy. Each year, their chosen topics offer a poignant cultural barometer and grant adults a rare glimpse into the minds of the next generation. This year’s collection tackled pressing global and contemporary issues including climate change, substance abuse, gun violence, generative AI, body image, wealth inequality, and fast fashion. Accompanying artist statements served as powerful calls to action that underscored a collective commitment to fostering a more equitable, just, and sustainable world. It was an incredible evening that celebrated not only our students’ creative talents, but also their courage to confront the complex realities of our world and spark meaningful dialogue across our community. To view Voices of Change scan the QR
Seventh Grade: Unsung Heroes The 7th grade shared the stories of Unsung Heroes, individuals who made a positive impact on the course of history, but were largely unrecognized during their lifetimes, at a special reception for family and friends. Students were tasked with selecting and interpreting one of these Unsung Hero stories through art. They were allowed to work in any media, and they conducted extensive research on their chosen hero. Students also wrote artist statements to accompany their artwork that discuss the Unsung Hero’s unique contribution, the student’s creative process and interpretation, the hero’s enduring legacy, and what each student learned from the process. The students’ art and writing can be viewed in the online gallery by scanning the QR code. We hope that you are inspired by the students’ work as well as the legacies of these incredible individuals. To view Unsung Heroes scan the QR
- Krissy Ponden, Visual Arts Teacher
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Sixth Grade Passion Project!
In the fall, Unquowa’s 6th graders will embark on an exciting new learning journey through the launch of our Passion Project program. Rooted in student curiosity and authentic inquiry, the Passion Project invites each student to explore a topic that genuinely fascinates them. Whether inspired by science, engineering, art, history, nature, technology, or another area of interest, students will spend the year asking questions, conducting meaningful research, and transforming their learning into a creative, hands-on project. Throughout the process, students will strengthen essential skills including research, critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, communication, and project management. Their work will culminate in a final project and presentation. To deepen these experiences, students will also connect their projects to the world beyond the classroom through carefully selected field experiences and visits from expert guest speakers. These opportunities will help students see how their passions connect to real people, careers, and communities. We are excited to watch our 6th graders discover where their curiosity leads and look forward to sharing their work with our
- Lisa Sylvestro, Director of Academic Learning
community throughout the year.
Community Time Third graders have been exploring Native American tribes, learning about their cultures, histories, traditions, and lasting impact. As they compared and contrasted the different tribes, one theme stood out: the importance of community, coming together, sharing stories, supporting one another, and building meaningful connections. Inspired by this idea, students concluded their Social Studies unit by creating their own version of “Community Time” at Unquowa. Through shared activities, conversations, and collaborative experiences, they explored what it means to be active, caring members of a community. The project began with a visit from Makerspace teacher Mr. Casey, who shared one of his favorite childhood books, stories about growing up in Kentucky, and led students in creating tissue paper butterflies. They also welcomed their first grade buddies, asking “get to know you” questions, reading together, and discovering fun facts about one another including that rainbow sherbet is a favorite Unquowa dessert! As students strengthened relationships across campus, they experienced firsthand the same sense of connection and belonging that inspired their study of Native American communities.
- Annie Henry, Director of Social/Emotional Wellness
Learning Through a Voice of History At Unquowa, we believe that some of the most powerful learning happens when students can connect directly with voices from the wider world. Each year, our school community is fortunate to welcome a range of guest speakers and visitors who bring real-world experiences into our classrooms and deepen our academic study. These moments help students build empathy, ask meaningful questions, and connect their learning to lived history. Recently, our 7th and 8th grade Humanities students and parents had the privilege of hearing from Holocaust survivor Endre Sarkany, whose powerful testimony brought meaningful depth to our courses of study. Confronting hard history and bearing witness to survivor stories is essential to honoring the promise of “Never Again.” Experiences like this remind us of the vital role honest education plays in helping students understand the past to shape a more just future.
- Ariel Warshaw, Humanities Teacher
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Matilda, The Musical Jr. Unquowa’s 2026 Upper School Spring Musical was a high energy and amazing production of Matilda, The Musical Jr. The story of Matilda is about the triumph of good over evil, and delivers the message that we are all brave, important, powerful, and capable of changing things for the better. Complete with British accents, the 6th, 7th and 8th grade ensemble worked together to tell the story. The audience was treated to stellar performances and the ensemble’s months of hard work was evident in their singing, acting, and dancing. The tech crew was invaluable, executing challenging set changes, lighting, and sound that helped bring the production to life. The cast and crew should be very proud of performing a sensational and unforgettable show!
- Patty Carver, Upper School Performing Arts Teacher To view Matilda, The Musical Jr. scan the QR
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Night Of Talent Celebrating teamwork and talent, Unquowa School hosted its Upper School Instrumental Concert in May. Despite the summer-like temperatures that night, the students played it cool while performing an exciting mix of rock, jazz, and classical selections. The 4th graders kicked off the evening with an all-ukulele ensemble, and from there, students in grades 5-8 expanded the sound by adding guitars, keyboards, bass and percussion. The Upper School Drumming Ensemble closed out the evening with complex and catchy African rhythms that brought tremendous energy to the performance. The concert was a wonderful example of how the power of music shapes confident, expressive learners, and I am incredibly proud of these talented students and their dedication.
- David Coe, Performing Arts Teacher
“For Which It Stands…” Supporting their Humanities and Visual Arts studies, our 8th graders visited the Fairfield Art Museum at Fairfield University for the exhibition “For Which It Stands.” In recognition of the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence’s semiquincentennial, the show features more than 70 works exploring the complex legacy of the American flag. Our recent graduates were tasked with the question, “What do you think and feel when you see the American flag?” as they engaged with pieces centered on immigration, injustice, nationalism, and freedom. We share the sentiment of museum educator Elizabeth Vienneau, who stated that “art is a mostly safe space to talk about difficult things,” and we were grateful for this chance to deepen our understanding of the American experiment.
- Krissy Ponden, Visual Arts Teacher
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Spring Comes to Life! We were so happy to welcome grandparents and special friends to campus for our annual May Day celebration, a cherished Unquowa tradition that captures the joy of spring and the warmth of our school community. In the weeks leading up to the event, students practiced diligently for this special day, and their excitement and preparation were evident in every performance. Each grade took their talents to the stage to present a special concert filled with music, singing, and dancing, impressing their guests and filling the room with smiles and pride. Of course, May Day would not be complete without one of Unquowa’s most beloved traditions: the Maypole dances performed each year by our 4th and 5th graders. Full of color, movement, and celebration, this time-honored performance captures the spirit and joy of spring, and our students brought it to life beautifully! With a noon dismissal, families had the opportunity to spend the rest of the afternoon together, making May Day not only a celebration of the new season, but also a heartwarming reminder of the traditions and togetherness that make the Unquowa family so special.
- Jacqui Mudre, Director of Communications
For all those who were able to give this past year, the result of your generosity is reflected in these pages. Many thanks to all our donors for making the 2025-2026 Fund For Unquowa such a success!
THE FUND FOR UNQUOWA Their Childhood. Their Future. Your Priority. 2026-2027 fund is now open! To give, please go online at unquowa.org/giving , or scan the QR code
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Coastal Explorers Suited up in outdoor gear and carrying full water bottles and packed lunches, our 7th Grade Gators set off this spring for a day-long excursion to the Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the cheerful chirping of Purple Martins and the sight of their nesting houses. Students learned that these birds rely almost entirely on human-made nesting structures for their survival before exploring the refuge on a guided tour. The day was filled with hands-on learning opportunities, including crab identification (comparing species and distinguishing males from females), bird identification, and biodiversity surveys known as “bio blitzes,” during which students recorded and counted the various species they observed throughout the refuge. They also examined evidence of the area’s geologic history and discussed how local ecosystems function, the natural resources they provide, and the important connections between human activity and environmental health. Midway through the day, students relaxed and enjoyed a lunch break while taking in picturesque views of the Audubon salt marsh from the observation tower. This memorable field experience provided a meaningful connection to the concepts of biodiversity and ecosystem relationships that students have been studying throughout the trimester, bringing classroom learning to life in a truly engaging way.
- Joshua Bartosiewicz, Science Teacher
Community Outreach Whether we’re welcoming visitors to campus or joining celebrations throughout the community, we love spending the summer sharing what makes Unquowa such a special place to learn, grow, and belong. We’re excited to welcome families to our three Discovery Days, featuring hands-on fun like science experiments, flower art, face painting, nature crafts, playground games, bubbles, and popsicles. These events offer a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends, make new ones, and introduce prospective families to Unquowa. You’ll also find us back at the Westport Farmers’ Market, where we’re proud to continue as a community sponsor. This partnership reflects our commitment to healthy, sustainable food and joyful learning. Stop by our booth for our Gator Scavenger Hunt, Chef Adam’s favorite recipes, and other family-friendly activities throughout the season. We never pass up a chance to sing and dance! We’re delighted to sponsor Fairfield’s Peanut Butter Jam free family concert series, where we’ll be joining the fun with bubbles, crafts, and exciting giveaways. Earlier this summer, we were proud to celebrate with our neighbors at the Westport and Fairfield Pride events, and we’re already looking ahead to sponsoring the Stratfield Village Association’s Lincoln Park Palooza on Saturday, September 12. We hope to see you at one—or many—of these events over the summer. Be sure to follow @unquowaschool on social media for event updates, and don’t forget to stop by and say hello!
- Karen Williamson, Director of Admissions
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Celebrating the Class of 2026
On the last day of school, the entire Unquowa community came together to celebrate a very special milestone–the graduation of our 8th grade students. The day began with Closing Ceremonies, where the whole school gathered to honor the Class of 2026. Awards were presented, and faculty shared heartfelt tributes celebrating each graduate. One of the most moving moments came when our younger students bid a musical farewell, followed by a beautiful video highlighting the memories, friendships, and growth that defined their years at Unquowa, leaving hardly a dry eye in the house. One of the ceremony’s final traditions came as Ms. Lauer invited the 7th graders to “take the 8th grade seats,” symbolically welcoming the Class of 2027 as Unquowa’s next student leaders. The morning culminated in our cherished farewell procession, where students, faculty, and staff lined up to offer hugs, high-fives, and heartfelt congratulations to the graduates. That evening, graduates returned with their families, friends, the Board of Governors, faculty, and staff for Commencement, a celebration marking the end of their Unquowa journey and the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Valedictorian, Sophia Borges, delivered a heartfelt and eloquent speech capturing the spirit of the Class of 2026, while Co-Salutatorians, Alexandra Murphy and Olivia Weatherly, delighted the audience with humorous predictions of where their classmates might be 20 years from now. We were also honored to welcome Unquowa graduate Adav Noti ‘92, Executive Director of the Campaign Legal Center in Washington, D.C., as our commencement keynote speaker. Reflecting on his own journey from Unquowa student to national leader, he encouraged graduates to embrace the strong foundation they built here and use their knowledge, confidence, and character to become the changemakers of tomorrow. As they leave our “little school by the brook” and begin the next chapter of their lives, we are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026. We know they will continue to lead with curiosity, courage, and purpose wherever life takes them. We’ll be cheering them on every step of the way, and hope they always remember: once a Gator, always a Gator!
- Kelly Sullivan, Advancement Team Associate The Class of 2026 are heading off to these schools in the fall and we wish them all the very best! Ines Alexander .............................................................Kent School Jack Bazzanella ..........Fairfield College Preparatory School Sophia Borges .........................................................Lauralton Hall Ian Curran ............................................................St. Luke’s School Blair Davidson .....................................The Ethel Walker School Denny Dumbwizi .........Fairfield College Preparatory School Nathan Evanko ..................................................St. Luke’s School Adam Lerner ................................................................King School Zaheera McDowell ...........................................St. Luke’s School Kaitlyn Mesiya ........................................................Lauralton Hall Maxim Michniewicz ............................................Hopkins School Nora Mulvehill .............................................Staples High School Alex Murphy .............................................................Lauralton Hall Juliana O’Brien .......................................................Lauralton Hall Jordan Page .......................................................St. Luke’s School Cullen Peck ..................Fairfield College Preparatory School Guinny Prapopulos .............................St. Joseph High School Riley Saint ..............................................................Hopkins School Anthony Venditto ..............................................Masters’ School Olivia Weatherly .................................Greens Farms Academy
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2026 Awards William J. Grippin Award Sophia Borges Unquowa Award Nate Evanko Board of Governors’ Award Denny Dumbwizi Headmaster’s Cup Maxim Michniewicz Robert L. Cleveland Award Ian Curran John P. Blessington Award Alexandra Murphy Alison D. Gray Award Nora Mulvehill Janice Shannon Award Ines Alexander Curtis/Turlick Award Anthony Venditto Class Agents Sophia Borges Nora Mulvehill UPA Award Alexandra Murphy Costume Closet Key Sophia Borges Riley Saint Gator Bowl Denny Dumbwizi Alexandra Murphy Cullen Peck Riley Saint Backstage Crew Recognition Jack Bazzanella Riley Saint Ultimate Unquowan Alexandra Murphy Riley Saint
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Powered by Imagination This spring, students in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade Science and Makerspace classes explored renewable energy, with a focus on passive solar energy, wind power, and hydropower. Throughout the unit, students examined the benefits of replacing nonrenewable energy sources with renewable alternatives and considered the many ways these energy sources can be used in everyday life. Working individually or in groups, students created models that demonstrated their understanding of these concepts and highlighted how renewable energy can be integrated into modern living. Fourth Grade focused on passive solar energy. Students learned how structures can use the sun—or the absence of it—to heat and cool spaces depending on seasonal needs. They created imaginative models ranging from nautical beach homes and flower-shaped houses to mushroom-inspired dwellings and elegant hotels. Fifth Grade researched and discussed wind power. They learned how wind energy can be transformed into either kinetic or electrical energy. Students designed a variety of inventive projects, including a wind-powered car racing ramp, a whale tail–inspired turbine, a boat, and even an amusement park. Sixth Grade applied their understanding of hydropower to create original models. Many students incorporated water wheels to bring their ideas to life, both large and small. Their final creations included amusement parks, water parks, a personal ice machine, and even pizza makers. On Earth Day, students enthusiastically presented their models and ideas to the community. They reflected on how exciting and meaningful it was to showcase their work while also viewing the creative projects of their peers. It was wonderful to welcome so many family members and friends to the event, and we hope everyone left with a greater appreciation for renewable energy, and for the imaginative possibilities it can inspire for the future.
- Joey Casey, STEM Fair Coordinator
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Language Masters Academic excellence and global perspective were on full display as Unquowa students participated in this year’s Connecticut Council of Language Teachers (CT COLT) Virtual Poetry Recitation. Joining more than 400 students statewide, ten students represented Unquowa in Spanish, Mandarin, Portuguese, Hebrew, and Hindi languages. Each participant recited a poem in their language of study, demonstrating fluency, comprehension, and expressive delivery before a live virtual audience. We are so proud to share that five of our students were top finishers in this year’s competition. Congratulations to all participants for their thoughtful preparation and commitment to language learning.
- Carina Blackwell, World Language Department Chair Connecticut Council of Language Teachers Poetry Recitation Results: Sophia Borges – 1st Place (Portuguese) Avery Holtz – 1st Place (Hebrew) Maxim Michniewicz – 2nd Place (Mandarin) William Esteves Cooper – 2nd Place (Portuguese) Salma Mehra – 3rd Place (Spanish)
Drop Everthing and Read! There is something truly magical about a silent school! Right before Spring Break, the Unquowa community participated in our very first schoolwide D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) event. For 45 minutes, the usual hustle and bustle was replaced by the quiet turning of pages as students and staff alike dove into their favorite books. With March officially recognized as National Reading Month, this schoolwide session was the perfect way to kick off our month-long celebration. Students settled happily into every corner of campus, and many even brought favorite “stuffies” from home to snuggle with as they read, making the morning feel extra warm and comforting. In those shared quiet moments, we were reminded that reading has the power to spark imagination, inspire curiosity, and build lifelong readers. This peaceful morning of reflection created a beautiful sense of community, and we are already looking forward to making D.E.A.R. a cherished Unquowa tradition!
- Karen Engelke, D.E.A.R Coordinator
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Spring Soccer Training Little Gators -This spring, our youngest athletes took the field as Gators in Training for a season full of learning, teamwork, and fun. Our K–2 players brought energy and enthusiasm each week as they learned the fundamentals of soccer in a supportive environment. For many participants, this was their first experience being part of a team. Through interactive drills and games, players developed skills like dribbling, ball control, and field awareness while building confidence along the way. Two favorite activities quickly became season highlights. In “Steal the Bacon,” players raced into small-sided matchups after their number was called, creating exciting and fast-paced game play, while “Kick the Coach” challenged them to use coordination and quick thinking to tag their coaches with soccer balls. Most importantly, the season was about making friends, gaining confidence, and discovering a love for the game. The smiles, laughter, and nonstop energy on the field showed just how much fun these young Gators had each week.
Young Gators - Our 3rd and 4th Grade Soccer Team enjoyed another fantastic spring season filled with growth, enthusiasm, and teamwork. Every Thursday and Friday, our student-athletes arrived at practice eager to learn, determined to improve, and ready to give their best effort on the field. With each practice, players strengthened their soccer skills, built confidence, and demonstrated an impressive willingness to learn. Watching their growth throughout the season and seeing how coachable they were out on the field was amazing to be a part of! The primary goal of our younger soccer programs is to provide every studentathlete with the opportunity to have fun, develop a love for the game, and build important life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. While competition is a natural part of athletics, it is not the primary focus at this level. Instead, we emphasize skill development, personal growth, and fostering a positive team experience. We are incredibly proud of all our players for their dedication, commitment, and positive attitude throughout the spring season.
- Sarah Pollex and Ryan Taylor, Physical Education Teachers
Spring Runners Our Gator runners wrapped up an outstanding spring season, demonstrating dedication, perseverance, and growth with every practice and meet. Throughout the season, team members consistently challenged themselves, worked to improve their times, and supported one another every step of the way. Their hard work was reflected in the final Fairchester County League standings, which are determined by the combined results and placements from each regular-season meet. We extend special congratulations to the athletes who earned overall placements this season, and we are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished. Congratulations to the entire spring Cross Country team for representing Unquowa with determination, sportsmanship, and Gator pride.
- Joey Casey, Cross Country Coach
FAIRCHESTER LEAGUE
Season Standings:
6th Boys: 2nd - Callan Robinson 7th Girls: 1st - Alysa Yeung 3rd - Pooja Bedi
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Gators Take The Field!
Field Day 2026 delivered another unforgettable day of school spirit, teamwork, and nonstop fun at Unquowa School. Dressed in green and white, students took to the field ready to compete, cheer each other on, and celebrate one of our school’s most beloved traditions. Seventh graders did a fantastic job running the classic events like the 50 Yard Dash, Limbo, and the always-soaked Sponge Relay, keeping the energy high all afternoon long. A new fan-favorite was “Score on Grady,” a soccer challenge run by one of our talented 7th graders. A standout soccer player himself, Grady designed a series of soccer shootout games where students tested their skills against him as he defended the net. Younger students especially loved trying trick shots and celebrating wildly whenever they managed to sneak one past him. Between saves, Grady offered encouragement, tips, and high-fives, making the station one of the most talked-about attractions of the day. Another exciting competition featured the Upper School homerooms going head-to-head in tug-of-war matchups. With two homerooms competing against each other at each grade level, students lined the sideline cheering loudly as teams battled with determination, teamwork, and plenty of school pride. One of the biggest highlights of the day was the return of the Faculty/Staff vs. 8th Grade Tug-of-War showdown. Both sides battled fiercely for bragging rights, though opinions may still differ on who truly claimed victory. More than the games themselves, Field Day remains a celebration of community, teamwork, and joyful competition. A tradition that continues to bring the entire school together. Until next year!
- Sarah Pollex, Physical Education Department Chair
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Monet’s Picnic After studying the life and work of Claude Monet in our classroom and his instrumental role creating the Impressionist art movement, the PreK students followed his lead by embarking on a field experience complete with a picnic and an outdoor painting activity. Gathered beside Horse Tavern Brook at the edge of our campus, we set the scene by enjoying scones and sipping juice from fancy glasses before picking up our paint brushes. As the sunlight danced across the water on this beautiful spring day, the students tried to capture on canvas how the light hit the water. Just as Monet would have done.
- Faith Barbuto, PreK Teacher
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT - Change 4 Change Hi Unquowa! We are the original members of the Change 4 Change community! We have been doing Change 4 Change for a long time, and it has become a tradition. Since second grade with our teacher Mrs. Young, we have been donating to Save the Children. It all started when we made cards to send to refugee camps. We thought it would be a good idea to create an organization that would support kids in need. It was clear that we needed others’ help to make this possible. We put up posters around the school to inform others about what Change 4 Change was all about and we would like to continue this tradition until we graduate from Unquowa. Our announcements at the weekly Wednesday assemblies reminded our fellow schoolmates and parents to donate. It was fun to write the scripts and make the announcements. This year, we also wrote and performed a rap song with Mrs. Hall for a little added inspiration to helping our cause. We chose Save the Children because we wanted to help kids around the world. We have been donating to Save the Children for three years now. We hope it has helped a lot and has made a difference in their lives. We donated money to help buy food, clothes, and other essential items they needed. This would not have been possible without our community. We all worked together by sorting the money into pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters, and then putting the coins into coin wrappers. Every year, we have done this, and it has been so much fun. We all helped each other count, sort, and roll the coins! Thank you for all for your donations over the years. This community has helped thousands of people by donating to many challenges and drives. Our Change 4 Change drive would not be possible without our Unquowa community. We would like to thank Mrs. Young again for helping us start Change 4 Change. Thank you for everything! This year, we raised $411.55! We are so proud of our class for carrying on this tradition! Go Gators!
- by Micah Esteves Cooper, Ali Mesiya, Harper Smith, Maddie Theodore and Grace Toolan
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Notes From The UPA
As we close the chapter on another incredible school year, the Unquowa Parents Association (UPA) extends its heartfelt thanks to the many parent volunteers whose generosity, creativity, and dedication helped make this year so special. Your time, talents, and enthusiasm brought our community together and created countless opportunities for connection, celebration, and fun. One of the year’s highlights was our annual Spring Auction, held in April. Unquowa families, friends, alumni, faculty, and staff came together for an unforgettable evening celebrating and supporting our school. Thanks to the creativity and hard work of our parent volunteers, the gym was transformed into a lively carnival, complete with a concession stand, side show games, a magician, and even a tarot card reader, creating a festive atmosphere enjoyed by all who attended the evening. The evening was a tremendous success, thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our community. Contributions to the Giving Tree–matched by the Unquowa Board of Governors– spirited bidding on an incredible array of auction items, and an inspiring paddle raise all helped earn significant funds in support of our beloved “little school by the brook.” From unforgettable teacher experiences and exciting date nights, to Broadway tickets and weekend getaways, the auction offerings reflected the creativity, generosity, and spirit that make Unquowa such a special place.
This spring also featured UPA sponsored social events for our 5th–6th and 7th–8th grade students. These evenings gave students a chance to celebrate with friends and make lasting memories outside the classroom. During Teacher Appreciation Week, the UPA celebrated our exceptional faculty and staff with breakfast, snacks and treats throughout the week as a small token of our gratitude for all they do. We also honored our graduating 8th graders with commemorative sweatshirts, giving them a special keepsake to remember their time at Unquowa. Throughout the year, the Community Closet continued its mission of extending the life of every Unquowa blazer, helping families share gently used uniforms while promoting sustainability and supporting one another. We also wrapped up the year with our Welcome Day and Parent Coffee, a wonderful opportunity to welcome new families, reconnect with returning parents, and share information about upcoming UPA events, committees, and volunteer opportunities. As summer begins, thank you to everyone who helped make this year such a success. We wish all of our families a joyful and relaxing summer and look forward to seeing everyone back on campus this fall for another year of Unquowa spirit!
- The Unquowa Parents Association
page 18
FACULTY NEWS This summer, Unquowa faculty will be reading The Power of Moments by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. The book explores how meaningful moments shape connection, learning, leadership, and memory, and how intentional experiences can create lasting impact. Grounded in Unquowa’s commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences, this shared read will inspire faculty to thoughtfully create even more experiences that foster belonging, spark curiosity, strengthen relationships, and leave a meaningful impact on their students. Instrumental music teacher, David Coe, is retiring this year after twelve years at Unquowa introducing students to ukuleles, guitars and partnering with Henry Kwame Jones in ensemble work that has instilled the love of instrumental music in our Upper School students. At this year’s Closing Ceremonies, Mr. Coe was presented with a “David Coe concert poster” whose frame was signed by all of his students, including inspired alums who attended his last student instrumental concert this past spring. Mr. Coe, thank you for sharing your talent, passion, and kindness with the Unquowa community. Your impact will continue to resonate through the music your students make and the confidence you helped them discover. As we say to each of our graduates, please don’t forget your way back to Unquowa. You will always have a home here.
ALUMNI NEWS 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award: Rosanna Warren
2026 Commencement Keynote Speaker: Adav Noti
We are proud to recognize American poet and scholar
We were honored to welcome Adav Noti ‘92, our 2024
Rosanna Warren ‘68 as the 2026 recipient of the Jean
Distinguished Alumni recipient back to campus as the keynote
Carpenter Distinguished Alumni
speaker for Commencement, where
Award. Since her days as a student
he shared inspiring words with the
at Unquowa, Rosanna has built an
Class of 2026. Adav encouraged
extraordinary career in literature
graduates to use their education not
and higher education. She
only to pursue success, but also to
graduated from Yale University in
demonstrate compassion, engage
1976, earned her doctorate from
thoughtfully in civic life, and to care
Johns Hopkins University, and
deeply about American freedom. His
has served on the faculties of
message echoed Unquowa’s motto,
both Boston University and the
“The Future is in Our Care.” A graduate of the University of
University of Chicago. Rosanna’s remarkable contributions to the literary arts have
Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, and New York University
earned her numerous poetry and fiction honors throughout
School of Law, Adav has built an exceptional career in public
her distinguished career. She served as Chancellor of the
service and constitutional law. He currently serves as Executive
Academy of American Poets from 1999 to 2005 and is
Director of the Campaign Legal Center in Washington, D.C.,
currently a member of the American Academy of Arts and
where he leads bipartisan efforts to advance democracy, argues
Letters, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the
constitutional cases in federal courts, including the United
American Philosophical Society.
States Supreme Court, and advises policymakers on election and democracy issues.
Her most recent collection of poetry, Hindsight, offers a
We are grateful to Adav for returning to celebrate this
thoughtful exploration of aging, injustice, and uncertainty through rich spiritual and political reflections. We are honored
milestone with our graduates. His distinguished career in public
to celebrate Rosanna Warren’s extraordinary achievements,
service is a powerful example of how an Unquowa education can
unafraid spirit and the lasting impact she continues to make
inspire a lifetime of leadership, integrity, and meaningful impact.
We were excited to continue our tradition of welcoming alumni back to Unquowa four years after graduation in a special mini reunion for the Class of 2022. The evening was filled with laughter, stromboli, and the joy of reconnecting with classmates. It was wonderful to see how much these young alumni have grown and hear about their adventures and future plans. Their connection to Unquowa remains strong, and we look forward to following their next chapter. Go Gators!
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ALUMNI NEWS We are thrilled to celebrate Unquowa alumna Nerushka Lopez Aponte ’25 on two outstanding accomplishments! Nerushka was recently crowned Miss Puerto Rico Fairfield County, an honor recognizing confidence, leadership, and her commitment to representing Puerto Rican culture and community. In addition, Nerushka earned a Second Place Gold Circle Award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association for her “Voices of Change” feature in Unquowa’s Pen & Paper literary magazine, Morning Has Broken. The prestigious Gold Circle Awards recognize exceptional student journalism from across the country. Congratulations, Nerushka, we are so proud of you!
Bryan Wilson ’22 embodies the qualities of a true scholar-athlete, combining academic achievement with dedication on the basketball court. A member of Unquowa School’s Class of 2022, Bryan continued his education at St. Luke’s School in New Canaan, where he excelled both in the classroom and in athletics. Over four demanding years, he maintained an impressive 3.5 GPA while competing at a high level in basketball, demonstrating exceptional discipline, perseverance, and time management. Bryan’s hard work earned him the opportunity to continue his academic and athletic career at Wheaton College, where he has committed to play collegiate basketball. His accomplishments reflect the determination and character that have defined his journey from Unquowa through
We are proud to celebrate
high school. We congratulate Bryan and look forward to following
siblings Brooke, Kelly, and
his continued success both on the court and in the classroom.
Michael Jones, three Unquowa alumni who continue to excel in academics, athletics, and leadership. Brooke ’18 graduated from Harvard University in May,
College Bound Recently we heard from these former Unquowa students who have graduated from high school and are now preparing to head off to college in the Fall. We wish them the very best of luck as their next exciting chapters unfold.
earning Magna Cum Laude
Isabel Alfageme..................................................Wake Forest University
honors and induction into Phi
Eli Ames...............................................................................Tufts University
Beta Kappa. She also served as
Matt Anto..............................................................Washington University
captain of the Harvard Mock Trial
Marianela Cardona..............................Pontifical Javierian University
team and plans to attend law school after a gap year.
Henry Cooper.................................................................Hamilton College
Kelly ’19 is entering her senior year at Boston University,
Elliott Goodman.................................Southern Methodist University
where she continues to thrive as a student-athlete. Majoring
Nolan Howe.........................................................University of Wisconsin
in Communications with a Business minor, she has earned
Michael Jones...........................................................Wesleyan University
academic honors while competing on the track and field team.
Devin Kelly.......................................................................Bryant University
After battling injuries this past year, she looks forward to a
Lukas Keras...........................................................................Yale University
strong senior season.
Robert Krueger........................................................Connecticut College
Michael ’22, a top graduate and golf team captain at St. Joseph High School, recently finished second in a competitive qualifier to earn a spot in the prestigious Metropolitan Amateur Championship at Sleepy Hollow Country Club. This fall, he will begin his next chapter at Wesleyan University as a member of the golf team. Their accomplishments are a testament to the strong foundation they built here at Unquowa throughout the years, and we can’t wait to see where their journeys take them next. Congratulations to Brooke, Kelly, and Michael!
Gator Spirit Swag is now Online!
Madison Mitchell..............................................Sacred Heart University Ella Morris.........................................................................Emerson College Anya Muktavarem........................................University of St. Andrew’s Max Oberhand.............................................................Monroe University Henry Schwartz..........................................................Providence College Michael Scotto..............................................University of Connecticut Avery Speller...................................................Texas Christian University Clem Thomson....................................Southern Methodist University Bryan Wilson...................................................................Wheaton College Mikey Winkler..................................................................Marist University
Remember To Keep In Touch! visit alumni@unquowa.org
See you at Founders’ Day Saturday, October 17th, 2026
981 Stratfield Road Fairfield, Connecticut 06825-1697
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Cura Futuri Nobis ~
The Future is in Our Care
Class of 2026
203.336.3801 Unquowa.org