A MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS |
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| Rudy Brandl ’83, Director of Communications, shares insights on the power of the connection among the lifers in the Class of 2024 in his June blog post. Below is an excerpt: There’s something special about this year’s class of senior lifers. There are 12 of them, call them the Dynamic Dozen if you will, and it was a pleasure to spend a few hours on a Saturday afternoon with these accomplished and impressive LA students and their families at the Lifer Luncheon in the Oakwood Room.
As a 1983 LA alumnus who has worked at his alma mater for the past 15 years, I clearly value connection. I have watched these lifers grow up at WardlaLAartridge, having begun my employment here the same year in which Sydney Geissler ’24 entered the school in Pre-K. Eleven other lifers began their LA careers soon after in JK, Kindergarten and first grade, and this group and their families have built an incredible bond over the past decade plus. I have taken thousands of photographs of these students over the years and witnessed their growth as students, athletes, artists, performers and young adults.
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Friday, June 7 11 a.m. - Fifth Grade Capstone Presentations in Berry Performing Arts Center Monday, June 10
12:30 p.m. - Kindergarten Moving Up Ceremony in Amphitheater Tuesday, June 11 10:30 a.m. - Fifth Grade Moving Up Ceremony in Berry Performing Arts Center Wednesday, June 12 10:30 a.m. - Eighth Grade Stepping Up Ceremony in Berry Performing Arts Center Thursday, June 13 12:30 p.m. - Senior Class Pizza Lunch and College Sweatshirt Photo in Amphitheater 1:30 p.m. - Commencement Rehearsal on Front Field Friday, June 14 9:30 a.m. - 141st Commencement Ceremony on Front Field
NOTE: All graduation ceremonies will be live streamed HERE SCHOOL CALENDAR
2023-2024 ONE-PAGE SCHOOL CALENDAR
2024-2025 ONE-PAGE SCHOOL CALENDAR |
NOTE: Due to the length of this week's edition, readers may be prompted to "View Entire Message" or "Download Entire Message" while scrolling through the newsletter. |
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| Busy June wraps up school calendar |
As the school year winds to a close, there are many major events on the schedule. Below is a snapshot of major events on tap for June: June 7 – Fifth Grade Capstone – 11 a.m. June 10 – Kindergarten Moving Up – 12:30 p.m. June 10 – Senior Dinner – 5:30 p.m. June 11 – Fifth Grade Moving Up – 10:30 a.m. June 11 – Senior Prom – 4:00 p.m. June 12 – Eighth Grade Stepping Up – 10:30 a.m. June 13 - International Family Breakfast - 9 a.m. June 13 – WHPA Faculty Luncheon – 12 p.m. June 13 – Senior Class Luncheon – 12:30 p.m. June 14 – 141st Commencement – 9:30 a.m. |
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Seniors reminisce at Lifer Luncheon |
All 12 senior lifers in the Class of 2024 joined their families at the annual Lifer Luncheon, held June 1 in the Oakwood Room. Dr. Corinna Crafton, Head of School, welcomed the guests and offered brief opening remarks and a toast to the students and their families. The event was catered by Chef Anibal and Sage Dining Services.
The seniors and their families perused yearbooks dating back to their Lower School days. Dr. Crafton challenged everyone to find an old picture of themselves and at least one fellow lifer. This activity led to some wonderful reflections, sharing of old stories and many laughs.
Lifers in the Class of 2024 (listed alphabetically): Samina Aziz ’24, Vineel Bandla ’24, Anushka Dalal ’24, Sydney Geissler ’24, Nidhin Kumar ’24, Diya Patel ’24, Simrah Razvi ’24, Sanya Sidhu ’24, Charlie Silver ’24, Naomi Valcourt ’24, Hannah Yin ’24, Zara Zaidi ’24.
Rudy Brandl ’83, Director of Communications, created a six-minute video featuring images and clips with highlights of the lifers dating back to their Kindergarten days. The day’s many photo opportunities included family pictures, a lifer group photo and a massive group shot of the lifers and their families.
LIFERS LUNCHEON PHOTO GALLERY |
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Students present genetics research |
Upper School science students addressed the fields of genetics and molecular biology in a series of informative presentations in the Oakwood Room on May 31. Dr. Susan Zusman, who guided the students in their yearlong research, provided a brief welcome and introduction to the program, which was attended by students, parents, faculty and administrators.
Students worked on an independent genetic research project using drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) in collaboration with active researchers at Princeton University. Having visited their mentors recently during a trip to Princeton University, the students were eager to share their research and findings. |
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| LS assembly celebrates animal shelter project |
The Lower School celebrated its successful yearlong service project supporting the Edison Animal Shelter with a special assembly last week in the Berry Performing Arts Center. Students representing various grades shared the many ways in which their classes contributed to this extensive project and helped many pets find new homes.
Ms. Katherine Heiss, third grade teacher, and Mrs. Jen Molloy, first grade teacher, led the assembly and welcomed the audience, which included Edison Animal Shelter Coordinator Ed Dobrosky and Animal Control Officer Maria Flores. They invited students on stage to share highlights of their work throughout the year. In addition to every grade level, all the specialist teachers in art, STEM, Spanish, music and the Girls on the Run organization participated. |
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| Vinay Karthik '25 receives RPI Medal |
LA junior Vinay Karthik ’25 received the prestigious RPI Medal after the final Upper School meeting of the school year on June 3. Vinay is pictured with Dr. Bob Bowman, Upper School Head, Ms. Alayne Birnhak, Associate Director of College Counseling, and Ms. Sarah Honan, Director of College Counseling.
RPI Medal recipients must be ranked within the top 10 percent of their class, excel in advanced math and science courses, have completed chemistry, biology, lab-based physics, and at least four years of math, including pre-calculus by the end of high school. They must also demonstrate potential for success in a challenging academic setting and exhibit significant involvement in extracurricular activities. Founded in 1824, Rensselaer is the oldest technological institution in North America, and it is located in the Capital Region of New York State. This prestigious award has been awarded since 1916 to one student in any given high school and is designed to recognize that student’s strength and success in the fields of mathematics and science. Medalists who apply, are admitted to, and enroll at Rensselaer are awarded a scholarship worth $40,000 per year.
“I am honored to have been selected for the RPI Medal in mathematics and science,” Vinay said. “I am extremely grateful to all of my teachers who have guided and supported me throughout my years at LA and I hope to make them proud through my hard work and contributions to STEM in the future.” |
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| Upper School students cited for service |
On Wednesday, May 22, eight LA students representing the school’s 14-member contingent of The Empathy, Equality, Entrepreneurship Mission group were honored at the Taste of TEEEM Student Showcase at Biagio's Restaurant in Paramus. WardlaLAartridge was recognized with a Leadership Award for the work its students have done over the past two years with One Spirit and The Lakota Nation.
The students who attended the dinner with their families included, from left: Tapleen Kaur ’25, Aarya Patel ’25, Chiara Baldi ’26, Jasteij Sappal ’25 in front row, Arjun Vora ’25, Rajwans Sindhar ’25, Daniel Zaidi ’25 and Amelie Leu ’25 in back row. |
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| Middle School musicians dominate at festival |
The Middle School musicians performed beautifully and gained top awards at Saturday’s Music in the Parks Festival. LA earned individual and ensemble recognition in vocal and instrumental categories. Congratulations to the winners: Best Vocalist – Shweta Saravanan ’28 Best Instrumentalist – Hamilton Ji Dressel ’29 1st Place, Excellent Rating – MS Jazz Band 1st Place, Superior Rating – Vocal Ensemble Junior High/Middle School Choir Overall Winner – Vocal Ensemble Congratulations to Mrs. Sharon Byrne and Dr. Dana Mandell for guiding the students to amazing performances! The students and chaperones celebrated with lots of fun and excitement in Dorney Park after the performances.
MS MUSIC IN THE PARKS PHOTO GALLERY |
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| Teachers honored for service at dinner |
Congratulations to LA faculty and staff members who were honored with milestone service awards at last week’s Faculty and Staff Appreciation Dinner sponsored by the Board of Trustees.
Lower School teacher Donna Pedde and Middle School art teacher Tanda Tucker were recognized for 25 years of service with a pin, while Upper School math teacher Brian Staub was honored for 10 years at LA and received a Windsor chair.
Dr. Corinna Crafton, Head of School, and Dr. Ayesha Sitlani, Board of Trustees President, shared remarks during which they expressed their appreciation for the faculty and staff. The guests enjoyed a wonderful dinner catered by Sage Dining Services. |
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| Scenes from the second grade Poetry Cafe |
Second graders in the classes of Mrs. Lisa Greenberg and Ms. Aiko Ioh delighted parents, faculty and classmates with entertaining presentations of their original poetry at last Friday’s Poetry Café.
Students used great expression while reciting their prose and truly embraced the performance spirit. Some students dressed in fancy aprons, took orders from the customers in the audience, and enhanced their presentations with visual projections. Students, teachers and parents enjoyed a reception in the Berry Performing Arts Center lobby after the event. SECOND GRADE POETRY CAFE PHOTO GALLERY |
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| Tanya Chowdary '24 commits to college golf |
Tanya Chowdary ’24 is joining a group of WardlaLAartridge teammates past and present on the collegiate golf circuit. She made the commitment to continue her academic and athletic careers at Bentley University official during a signing ceremony in the Admission Conference Room on June 3.
The LA senior, who will graduate next week, was joined by her parents, Manny and Anu, and her sister, Tiya, who plays golf at New York University. Tanya is also pictured with Mike Romeo, Athletic Director, Sarah Honan, Director of College Counseling, and Gerard Gonnella ’89, Director of Admission.
Tanya’s journey to college athletics wasn’t confirmed until just recently, when she learned of an opportunity to compete at Bentley, a Division II program in Waltham, MA just outside of Boston. |
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| Seniors excited to share college decisions |
Congratulations to several seniors in the Class of 2024 who have made their college plans official after accepting admission offers. The WHEN will continue its weekly spotlight on seniors who have made their college decisions throughout the remainder of the school year.
Meet Luke Tan ’24, who is excited to be enrolling at Harvard University, where he will major in Environmental Science & Public Policy. Luke entertained an impressive variety of attractive college options but ultimately chose Harvard as the next place to pursue his passions.
“I’m incredibly excited to learn from such esteemed faculty who are doing cutting-edge research in their fields. At Harvard, I’ll have access to rich academic resources, but I’m also looking forward to meeting incredible people who love learning and pursuing their dreams,” Luke said. “Majoring in ESPP seemed perfectly natural to me since I’ve always been fascinated by both how our environment works and how we as humans are impacting it. For me, this is a chance to dive deep into my passion to learn how I can make a difference in the world while growing as a student and as a person.”
Click here to read more about Luke and view other college acceptance features |
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| MS spring athletes, teams recognized |
The LA Athletic Department honored the spring Middle School athletes and teams for a successful athletic season on May 29 in the Berry Performing Arts Center. The baseball, softball, boys’ tennis and co-ed track and field teams all showed enthusiasm and hard work, while enjoying laughter and fun throughout the season. Coaches were present to congratulate all of the Middle School spring athletes. In addition, there were several outstanding eighth grade student-athletes who showed true commitment. They were given award pins for competing in the same sport for three years throughout their Middle School careers.
MS SPRING SPORTS AWARDS PHOTO GALLERY |
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| Middle School Athlete of the Week |
Mike Romeo, Athletic Director, announced the final Middle School Athlete of the Week at last week’s division community meeting. Congratulations to track and field athlete Shaina Patel ’30.
When one of the team’s top milers dropped out of the Middle School GMC Track and Field Championships due to illness, Shaina was asked if she wanted to fill the vacancy. Shaina wanted to think about it and talk it over with her parents. But the bigger problem was that she had never run the 1600-meter race before; Shaina's event is the 800. But Shaina accepted the challenge and used her cross country toughness to throw down an awesome initial clocking of 7:21. |
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| Explore our LA Summer Programs |
Now that spring has arrived, it’s the perfect time to register for our 2024 Summer Adventures and get ready for a summer of fun!
Visit WHschool.org/summer to view all of our offerings for the summer of 2024. We have programs for students of all ages that are sure to excite and engage campers to provide an enriching and memorable experience. |
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FROM THE LA PARENTS' ASSOCIATION |
WHPA Announces 2024-2025 Slate of Officers
The LA Parents’ Association announced and installed its officers for the 2024-2025 school year at its annual Appreciation Luncheon on June 6 in the Oakwood Room. Below is the listing of officers: President: Shakti Jha Treasury Team: Nirmala Devi and Saniya Dhala Lower School VP (Early Childhood): Jackie Oladeji
Lower School VP (Grades 2-5): Sara Lee Middle School VP: Cindy Williams Upper School VP: Youlin Tsai Communications Liaison (Written): Kevin Kornecki Communications Liaison (Social Media): Pareesa Naveed Volunteer Coordinators: Shanu Sahni and Archana Singh Recording Secretaries: Frank Rellosa and Natasha Soni |
Parents' Association Calls for Volunteers
The WHPA is seeking volunteers for the next school year! Please let us know what you may be interested in volunteering for next year. Whether you have one hour or a lot of time, we are happy to have you join us as we plan, coordinate and host many fun, unique and engaging community events for the 2024-2025 school year.
Click here to view the opportunities and/or email us at parents@WHschool.org. |
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Giving Thanks for our LA Parent Donors
The Development Office would like to thank the LA community for supporting The WardlaLAartridge Fund. Click here to view a list of LA parents who have contributed to The 2022-2023 LA Fund between July 1, 2023 and June 5, 2024. Click here to make a gift to The WardlaLAartridge Fund! Varsity Cheer Team Running Sneaker Drive
The LA varsity cheer team is holding a sneaker drive. Donations are being accepted until Commencement. Lower and Middle School families may drop off sneakers until the last day of school and Upper School families may donate until Commencement Day. Please drop off all donations with Miss Tanda Tucker in the Middle School art room. Click here for more information and to view a flyer.
Attention Parents - Check Your Contact Information
Each trimester it is a good habit to double check the information in the school database (PCR) to make sure it is up-to-date and accurate. In doing so, you ensure that the school has the best contact to reach you in the event of an emergency or school closure. The process is simple and quick.
PCR is the platform that we will use to contact you in the event of a snow day or any other school closure. Once you follow the steps below to log in (SEE INSTRUCTIONS HERE), please check that ALL of the following information is correct and up to date.
- All Parent / Guardian Email Addresses and Phone Numbers
- Your Home Address
- Your preferred Salutation and Identifier (Name, Title, Relationship to Student)
It is our continued effort to ensure that our student and family contact information is accurate, so we thank you for your help. Follow LA on Social Media, Share with Community WardlaLAartridge has a vibrant, active presence on social media with daily content posts highlighting our academics, athletics, arts and extracurricular programs.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn and check out our Vimeo page! You can assist us in promoting the school by sharing our content within your network and posting it on your local town pages and feeds. |
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This publication is produced by The Communications Office at The Lena Archuleta School. |
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