w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

briarwood

Newsletter for the Briarwood & tuttle schools | S u m m e r e d i t i o n 2 0 1 2

Briarwood, A School for Children with Learning Differences

The Tuttle School at Briarwood, a School for Children with Developmental Disorders

We want to feature You in the next issue of “Briarwood!”

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l

Successes Versus Failures | Traits that Define the Differences

It is always interesting how things come together when we least expect it! As I pondered how I could possibly weave a myriad of thoughts together that could describe with clarity the topic that had landed recently in my lap, I received a celebratory phone call that gave me guidance that was beyond a dream. Following our most recent tour of families who are interested in Briarwood as an option for their children, a father lingered at the end of the tour. Offered

assistance by another administrator, the gentleman stated that his question could be answered only by the Head of School. As I ushered the couple into my office, the father quickly posed his question: “You talked about the many successes you have with your students following their education at Briarwood. You did not mention any failures. Do you have failures?” I responded with an honest “Yes, we do have some students who are not as successful as others. One might consider a “non successful” student a failure. We do have students we cannot reach, no matter how hard we try.” The father pressed on: “Can you tell me the differences in those students who are successes and those who are failures?” The conversation quickly guided me into a rapid analysis of “Successes Versus Failures.” A student who is considered a success at Briarwood possesses the following characteristics and/or traits, all of which mirror closely the Frostig Center’s Success Attributes, results of a longitudinal study completed approximately thirty years ago. Three of the six Success Attributes include the following:

Self-AwAreneSS - the student is aware of his learning difference and can articulate how the difference impacts his world; Self-AdvocAcy - the student can and does advocate respectfully for himself in what he needs for support in order to learn; PerSeverAnce - the student possesses a strong work ethic, does not give up and understands the demands of the rigors of learning.

Additional traits that Briarwood has identified over our forty-four year history are as important as the three listed above. A student who is successful at Briarwood and into transitioning years “owns and buys in” to our program. He has a positive attitude about being at Briarwood. He accepts why he is here, accepts his learning difference as a part of who he is and can almost always reframe his learning difference into a positive component in his life. Additionally, a successful Briarwood student trusts the process of learning: he is taught, through direct instruction, how he learns. The student who might present as non-successful is typically one who resists accepting and owning the reality that he learns differently. A child with a learning difference becomes an adult with a learning difference. Acceptance and ownership of that learning difference make or break the child and/or adult. As adolescents with learning differences mature into adults with learning differences, they begin to compartmentalize the learning difference as a part of who they are. Owning and accepting the learning difference are keys to success. Another trait observed in students who do not experience success is that of impulsivity. A student who has not been in an educational environment where self-management skills are directly taught and applied will often make choices and decisions in a moment of impulsivity. Results and consequences can be life-changing in a negative way.

The conversation and the story present only hope. The end of the story came with a phone call from Alison, a former Briarwood student. Alison entered Briarwood as a kindergartner and transitioned to another private high school following her freshman year. A gracious young woman, Alison called to share her exciting news and to give thanks to Briarwood. Her news: Alison is graduating this Spring from The University of Dallas with a Bachelor’s Degree in English. Her words: “I was blessed to be a Briarwood student and to receive the solid foundation that I did. I will always hold a special place in my heart for Briarwood.” Alison represents those thousands of students who have accepted a Briarwood education, who have owned their own learning difference and have applied coping mechanisms that support a positive spirit and attitude. Congratulations to Alison and to our Upper School Seniors, the Class of 2012, who are the epitome of Briarwood’s successes. Each of you has owned who you are, you’ve worked with positive spirits, you’ve found your talents, and you are well equipped with the tools you have been taught. Job well done! On behalf of the entire Briarwood community, I applaud you for your successes. We wish you well.

Carole C. Wills | Head of School

From The head oF School

t h e B r i a rwo o d s c h o o l & t u t t l e s c h o o l

1 2 2 0 7 W h i t t i n g t o n D r i v e | H o u s t o n , T X 7 7 0 7 7w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

2 8 1 . 4 9 3 . 1 0 7 0 t e l | 2 8 1 . 4 9 3 . 1 3 4 3 f a x

The Briarwood School/Tuttle School admits students of any race, gender, color, national or ethnic origin. The school selects students who are interested in completing their education and who need a prescriptive educational program.

Briarwood is a publication of The Briarwood School & Tuttle School. Briarwood is published biannually and sent to alumni, present and past parents and friends.

briarwoodteaching students K-12 with dyslexia

and similar language based learning disabilities since 1967

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g 3

i n t h i S e d i t i o n

d e V e lo p m e n tThe 42nd Annual Benefit : Hats Off!

m i d d l e - u p p e r S c h o o lGraduation, spor ting achievements and helping out - Go Mustangs!

low e r S c h o o lThe Lower School keeps busy with color ful and beautiful ar twork. Find out what the KCC is. Learn about Briar wood Boot Camp and more.. .

t u t t l e S c h o o l“Go, go, go!” should be the motto for Tuttle School. This active group creates some impressive ar twork, graduates some beloved students, par ticipates in spor ts and enjoys learning and having fun!

A n n uA l F u n d n e w SThe Annual Fund brings educational programs, staff development, community outreach and parent education to Briar wood!

d o n o r SA big THANK YOU to Briar wood’s generous donors!

Y e A r i n r e V i e wDiscover what’s been going on around Briar wood!

0 4

0 6

1 0

1 2

1 4

1 6

1 8

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l

dev elopmenT

Hats Off! | Briarwood’s 42nd Annual Benefit

Be sure to never underestimate the power of Briarwood supporters! After forty years, Briarwood’s parent volunteers still have what it takes to throw a party and excel at their objective: to raise money.

Friday, February 24, 2012 marked Briarwood’s 42nd Annual Benefit, “Hats Off to Briarwood!” Holding steadfast to the expression “stick with what works!” Briarwood continued its winning combination of cocktails, live and silent auctions, a seated dinner and musical entertainment, and guess what? It worked! Briarwood’s volunteers created a venue at Lakeside Country Club exquisite enough to impress William and Kate, yet not forgetting its main purpose, supporting a great cause. We tip our hats to all of Briarwood’s supporters...thank you!

WANTED: A Few Good Women (and Men) Every year women (and men) put their lives on hold for a cause quite close to our hearts, Briarwood. They call on friends and family, work their fingers to the bones, strategize, organize and just plain end up ‘hitting it out of the park.’ Here are just a few of the people who selflessly have given over the past twelve months to make this Benefit a success.

Benefit ChairsHeather & Jeff FirestoneDebi & Sam Mishael

Benefit BoardSusie AckermanGina DiLuzioTeresa FerruzzoPeggy FriedrichsNancy GennaroJamie HumphriesSonya KellySusan KirbyBonita MerrillTeri MilosChristina MorseLinda ParmerKatherine SchrockStephanie ShanksJeanie SimonichLee Ann SmaltzRobert TuckerGail Van NestJulie Whitten

4

Below: Steve and Annie Seay, Kristen and Jonathan Rosenberg: Jeanie Kilroy and Charlie Read.

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

Phot

ogra

phs c

ourt

esy

of B

riarw

ood

Alu

mni

Kia

n A

dkin

s

5

Above: Co-Chairs Debi and Sam Mishael; Steve and Jeanie Simonich; Susie Ackerman, Andrea Reid, Lisa Hightower, Katherine Schrock; Bonita Merrill and Heather Firestone; Cindy Sudela and Mary Whalley; Above right column: Teachers and Briarwood Alumni Daniela Ferrari and Ed Finger; Briarwood graduate and Master of Ceremonies, Al Farb; Jeff Firestone and Asche Ackerman; Peggy Pool and Carole Wills.

What a huge success! Over $430,000 raised by our fabulous families and friends!

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o lM i D D l E - U p p E r S C H O O l

Food DriveOur students conducted the most successful food drive to date, for the West Houston Assistance Ministries.

Congratulations Briarwood Class of 2012!

Left: The annual Junior vs. Senior Girls Powder Puff Game; Sophomores Alex and Michael searching for clues in their forensic science class. Top right: Proud 2012 graduate Michael; Leon 8th grade student of the year recipient and Austin, 7th grade Student of the Year; Caroline and mom, Beth Mitchell.

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

Acting Up The Spring Upper School production of “Clue.”

Seniors with Art on the BrainAshley A. and Billy m. graduated from Briarwood this May and are off to fulfill their exciting futures. Ashley, who will be attending Curry College in Milton, Massachusetts, and Billy, who is attending The University of Houston, were honored with a scholarship into The Advanced Junior Studio (AJS) Program from The Glassell School of Art two years ago. This May, this accomplished, artistic duo completed the elite program which consists of a 3-hour class held on Saturdays. Congratulations on this prestigious honor and good luck to you both!

Above: Ashley’s “Poppies” masterpiece was auctioned off at the 42nd Annual Benefit!

inset: Middle-Upper Art Teacher mitzi prince is known for her inspiring teaching style and creative approach to, well, everything!

7

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o lM i D D l E - U p p E r S C H O O l Sports

A Year of AccomplishmentsJUNiOr HiGH .....................................Flag Football All District: Dominick D., Matt G.

Girls BasketballAll Star Team: Liann F., Addie H.

Boys Basketball: District ChampionsAll Star Team: Dominick D., Gabriel L., Patrick O.

Girls VolleyballAll Star Team: Liann F., Addie H., Tori P.

tennisBoys Doubles: District Champions Christian L./Jake S.

Girls Singles: Alexandra D. 3rd Place DistrictGirls Doubles: Cierra C./Abbie S. -2nd Place District Liann F./Katrina D. - 3rd Place District

HiGH SCHOOl ...................................Flag FootballAll State: Hayden C., Brian G., Billy M.

Soccer 1st Team All District: Jonathan H.Honorable Mention All District: Nathan P.

Golf Girls Regional Qualifiers: Hannah B., Kelsey G., Laura K. Danielle L., Mary Kate W.Boys State Qualifiers: Lon B., Hayden C., Thomas F., Travis S., Jared v.- 2nd Regional Tournament, 2nd District Tournament

tennisState Qualifier: Boys Singles, Steven R.District Alternate: Girls Singles, Katya G.

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g 9

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o llOW E r S C H O O l

Briarwood Boot CampDuring the last few weeks of school, Ms. Hobock’s and Mrs. Leppard’s classes participated in Briarwood Boot Camp - a fun-filled initiative focused on building self-management, leadership and positive

character traits, such as respect, responsibility and cooperation. Structured activities during

specialty classes (such as obstacle course work during PE) challenged students to set and achieve

goals, both individually and as a group. Students really enjoyed wearing their special Army hats, marching

through the hallways, and demonstrating “Ranger” leadership. They earned special patches for their positive effort and attitude.

On Wednesday, April 25th, Sergeant Kevin Betts helped us kick-off Boot Camp. Sergeant Betts has a special relationship to Briarwood – his mother is our own Devora Miller, Music Teacher. The kids loved working with Sergeant Betts and his contagious, positive attitude!

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g 11

KCC: Kindness Compassion CourageThe KCC Club continues the legacy of the Rachel’s Challenge program by spreading kindness, compassion, and courage throughout our school, homes, and community. During the monthly KCC meetings, students participate in games and activities to learn more about kindness. Rachel’s Challenge encourages students to always look for the good in others and to start a chain reaction of kindness. Students and teachers give KCC hearts to recognize people for doing acts of kindness, compassion, or courage. The hearts are then posted in the lunch room so that everyone can see how small acts of kindness really add up! In the words of Rachel Scott, “I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it will start a chain reaction of the same. People will never know how far a little kindness will go.” Sixth grade students deserve special recognition for the amazing leadership they have provided for the KCC Club. They have led small groups, encouraged participation and performed several memorable skits. Adult sponsors of the KCC Club include Devora Miller, Meg Smith, and Jill Wiseman.

project Wows!Senior Michael S. demonstrates his project from his Chemistry Foundation’s Class, WOW!

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o lT U T T l E S C H O O l

All the Beautiful ColorsThe Tuttle School showcases its artistic side at The Annual Tuttle School Art and Reception.

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g 13

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l

donorS

legacy circle | $10,000 and aboveLillian Bean Friend of Briarwood Kim & David LindseyAbbie & Kelli McNair

founder’s circle | $5,000-$9,999Stephanie & Richard Langenstein

head of school circle | $2,500-$4,999Scott Pierce,IIIAnnie & Steve SeayJulie & Chris Whitten

leadership circle | $1,000-$2,499Nora DobinHarvey FriedmanMartha & Alex GalbraithJackie & John GaylordAntonia & George HellandKelli HunterWanda KiblerLisa & Jean Michel LavergneJoan & John ScalesJenni & Brad SlivenskyRuth SmithDiane Strassmann & Jeff SmisekKatherine & Brian ThompsonToyna & Mitchell ToupsRobert TuckerPam & Bill WallaceMichelle Friedman & Joseph WeissCarole & Jim Wills

educator’s club | $500-$999Lori & Phill Cohen Twila & William DayGina & Dan DiLuzioRamona & Michael DiMarcoCarolyn & Charles FetznerTerri & Tom Haight Klara & Kirt KeelanDonna & Mark MeyerDebi & Sam MishaelRosemary & Keith MoriartyTawnya & Rusty RubensteinBrenda ShortKatherine & Joel SchrockMarcia SmithCindy & Bill Sudela Edith Wittig van WageningenKatherine & Tom Wilson

Mustang club | $250-$499BP Fabric of America (Ahmed A. Hashmi) Pam & Mike Davenport Debi, Bart & Ben Duckworth Debbie & Karl Fancher

AnnuAl Fund GiFtsThe following is a list of donors who have given to Briarwood during the past year, July 2011-June 2012.

Briarwood’s donors helped provide some of the following programs in 2011-12:

educAtionAl proGrAmS initiAted & eXpAnded RAVE-O (Remediation Program in K-3) SYMPHONY MATH (Remediation Program/Technology in Lower School and Middle School), Nov. 2011 RACHEL’S CHALLENGE PROGRAM (Character/Respect) in Lower and Middle-Upper School iPAD for each Tuttle School Teacher

BriArwood proFeSSionAl StAFF deVelopment Houston Branch IDA - Fall Symposium attended by all Teachers Depression & Bipolar Workshop presented by DB Support Alliance (DBSA) Symphony Math Training for Lower School Teachers William Van Cleave -Writing Workshop for Lower School Teachers Autism Conference-attended by Tuttle School Teachers Rachel’s Challenge Symposium (Dallas) attended by Teachers and Administrators Epilepsy Foundation presented training film on seizures

BriArwood pArent educAtion Symphony Math Parent Meeting Texas Children’s Learning Differences Simulation Counselor Breakfast for LS/MU Parents “Friendship and Bullying” iPad Training for TS parents with Bonita Merrill

BriArwood communitY outreAch proGrAmS Student Teacher from University of St. Thomas in Spring HBIDA-sponsored film (Journey Into Dyslexia) screening at Kinkaid School, Oct. 20, 2011 – Carole Wills chaired and moderated panel of experts following screening Consulting with Educational Diagnostician, Board Members, Administrators and Parent Group - private school in Conroe area

Gerald GehmMary & Kent LenertzGene & Jill LewisMelodie U. HalfenMichael MerrittSally & James McGintyDebbie & Dave SchultzGail & Joe Van NestKathryn Williams

Blue & red club | $100-$249Diane & Steven AndersonLaura & Skip CorneliusShannon & Marco JuarezMike & Lou Ann KellyJulie & James Mayer Jim McGintyTalley MeltonLynne & Charles MillerPaula & Tom MunsonAlix & Jimmy NakfoorTeresa & Matthew PitnerNancy & Michael PolychronopoulosMildred & Steven PoockJennifer ReichekMelissa & Ryan ReichertPeggy & William SamuelsPat & Michael ShawTracy & Ronald SullivanJerome Truax

friend | $1-$99Steven Duin Pam & Jim GasparPaul GlavesSari & Rubin GutmanChristopher HaskinsSusan & Joe McDuffiePeggy & Lewis MetzgerStephanie PhillipsKathleen & Mark Spangler

in Honor/MeMoryBarbara & Larry Bellatti Memory of Ruth & Dale Williams Chris Dooley Memory of Brian Boles Marie Fay Evnochides Honor of Jan Doherty Margaret Funderberg Honor of Mary & Greg WhalleyCharles G. Hooks III Honor of Sue Ann HooksMark Williams Family Honor of Ione Harrell

CoMMunity donorsKrogerRice EpicureanSafeway-Randall’sTarget

!Briarwood

Loves Its

Donors

14

For omissions|corrections|giving opportunities, please contact Linda Peters in the Development Office, 281.493.1070 or at lpeters@briarwoodschool.org.

the Annual Giving Fund

The Annual Giving Fund fulfills the needs that would not be possible with tuition dollars alone. Your help does impact all students. The total amount raised was $102,577, which represents a 46% increase from

our inaugural year. Briarwood is thankful to all of its 2011-12 participants!

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

direCted GiFtsathletic facility Friend of Briarwood

technologyVale-Asche FoundationWilliam and Lora Jean Kilroy FoundationFriend of Briarwood

tuition assistanceAscende Charitable Trust Assistance League of Houston, Inc. Galleria Area Rotary ClubThe Hamill FoundationHerzstein Foundation The Huffington FoundationThe Looper FoundationStrake Foundation

General operatingThe Ellwood FoundationScurlock Foundation

lower school libraryLuis Javier Gonzalez-Cimadevilla and Angela Munoz-Eustace

community speakers luncheonComerica Bank

tuttle schoolHenry and Maria Sostman

Middle-upper schoolJonna Grizzle

lower school art departmentLois & Jim BlackLaurine MillerLeisa & Galen MillerPeggy & Lyle Miller

science classesTGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company

rachel’s challengeRoger Wadsworth

MAtCHinG GiFtsAmerprise Financial Apache Corp.ChevronConocoPhillipsHalliburtonMarathon Oil MEPACMerck Partnership for GivingMorgan Stanley Smith BarneyShell Oil Company Foundation

Tuition and fees, net of student

financial assistance of $423,639

$5,599,287 Designated contributions

$1,009,404 Friends of Briarwood contribution

$484,649 Investment return

$398,848 General and Annual Fund

$117,907 Other revenue

$4,711 total $7,614,806

Briarwood revenue for the 2010-11

School Year

Educational Programs

$6,692,120 Management & General

$233,485 Fundraising

$234,141

total $7,159,746

15

Briarwood revenue/expenditures for the 2010-11 School Year

Briarwood Expenses for the 2010-11

School Year

Comerica Bank Gives Back Carole Wills and Linda Peters accepted a $5,000 check from Shelley Ewart, Donna Mittendorf and Carl Dase of Comerica Bank to kick off the Community Speakers Luncheon.

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l

don orS

$25,000 and aboveKelly gene Cook, sr. Charitable Foundation, inc.Pam & steve eakinFriend of BriarwoodMartha & Dave swift

$10,000-$24,999the h.g. ash FoundationConocoPhillipsMary K. Crowellwood Foundationstephanie & scott PierceMary & greg Whalley

$5,000-$9,999susie & asche ackermantwila & Bill Dayangela Munoz & luis Javier gonzalesMrs. emily griffinregent Carenancy & Clive runnellsDirk sostman & Maria Prekalori & Kurt von Plonski

$2,500-$4,999gina & larry CorbinDr. & Mrs. louis a. Faillaceheather & Jeff Firestonerima & ahmed hashmiJeanie KilroyDebi & sam MishaelCarol & ron ostermayertine tollan overtonrichard PooleCarol & Dan Price (honor of olivia shanks & andrew Firestone)annie & steve seayKatherine & Ken smithsherry & rolland st. aubin

BeneFit GiFtsBenefit gifts included for the 42nd Annual Benefit.

Mr. and Mrs. Dave streitJulie & Chris WhittenCarole & Jim Wills

$1,000-$2,499teecie aldridgeJoan & stanford alexander Barbara & lawrence BellattiMr. and Mrs. Martin BrophyDr. Dennis & laurel BrownCharlotte Christmanella & Paul DolanJenny and Jim elkins Family FundChris FearingFidelity investmentsnancy & Dan garrisonMr. & Mrs. saad hashmisheila & Mike hutchingsMarcia smith & Frank Jonesstephanie & rich langensteinranson lummis & isabel lummisatty. & Mrs. harry D. MartinCharisse MayerDenis & trey Mayfieldthe arthur & sarah Merrill FoundationDonna & Mark Meyerteri & sonny MilosChristina & steve MorseMr. Wiley Mossyshelly MulanaxMr. and Mrs. gary rosenthallinda & Jerry rubensteinleslie & shannon sasser Family Fund lisa & Karl schmittursula & Michael sharpBrenda shortJeanie & steve simonichCindy & Bill sudelathompson Custom homesMitchell toupsPaula & Joe toussaintlynn & Mike turnerJenni & John vogel

$500-$999Cynthia & robert anderson tissie Bean & susan WilliamsBank of texasBank of river oaks

Dr. Bruce BarnumBonnie Brookshire PhDolga Bullocklinda DeckerDenise & John DeissDr. elizabeth DybellPaige & harding erwinDebbie etheridgeDebbie & Karl FancherMr. & Mrs. edward griffinMr. & Mrs. t.D. howe

Janet & Forrest Jenkinserica & Brian Jordan

louann & Mike KellyDeborah & edward KoehlerJanet lauritsen, realtorsara & Jim ledbetterCharlie & Christina leDouxlMi Paintinglinda & Paul lynnBonita & Bill MerrillMoody national BankJennifer & Clifford MooreParker uniformsCindy & Drayton Pratorgay roaneMark sassKatherine & Joel schrockMichael & Pat shawJeannette & scott stevensontexaco Matching giftstommy vaughn FordJulie toupsKay & Danny WilliamsonKathryn & tom WilsonMr. & Mrs. Frank Wozencraft

$250-$499ann & Keelan adamson Dina & Mike BahramipourKathie & Paul Boitmannarchna & Kenny ChainaniChevron Matching giftsKeith & sue ChilesPage & gregory CokinosMaria Colomethe house at Pooh CornerPriscilla Conoleyanne Conner (honoring andrew Firestone)Debi & Bart DuckworthMichelle FriedmanBellynda & Mark haydenMarjorie & Matthias heinkenschlossthe house of Pooh Corner (honoring heather Firestone)lillian & Michael howardlisa & Brad hutchingssonya & Paul KellyWanda & greg Kiblerrenee & Mark langeellen leBlanclevine velva g. & h. Fred levineKim & David lindseyalbert liralesley McBrideChris travis & Denise McgahaJ.D. McgintyBeth MitchellDiane & David ModesettCathy Moorelinda & Jim Parmerrice epicurean Marketssusan & tim rohrDebbie & Dave schultzstephanie & Kirby shanksgretchen simmen

speech & language remediationgerard Keith sperlingteacher’s to gotexas Children’s Pediatric assoc.Martha vanceDorothy verhalenJackie & roger WadsworthWaste Managementranda & K.C. Weinertylor & David WelchCindy & Brian Whitewater Kenna Worthington

$249-$150anchor Communications/steve smithapache Corp.adria & ross Baker gail Baileylori & randy Barnettnancy & David BaxterMike & susan BilberryMr. & Mrs. Michael Bradyleonard & gerry BroussardMelanie & steve BrowneKathy CaneJulie & Daniel Chewregina & Dan DiluzioBecca & James edmistonJulie & Mike FalickPaige & richard Fassed FingerFreeman PhotographyDaniel grimmerMark P. hablinskiJeannine & Kelly haizlipthe healthy lunch BoxJamie humphriessheila & Michael hutchingsDonna & Clay JeansonneYvette & leatrice Joneslindy Kahn, M.a.Jennifer & Kenny Kearnsali & setara Khan susan & Kevin Kirbyrachel & Melvin KrezerPam & Bill Krocaktammy & Michael laneCarol leBlancJill & gene lewis

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

speech & language remediationgerard Keith sperlingteacher’s to gotexas Children’s Pediatric assoc.Martha vanceDorothy verhalenJackie & roger WadsworthWaste Managementranda & K.C. Weinertylor & David WelchCindy & Brian Whitewater Kenna Worthington

$249-$150anchor Communications/steve smithapache Corp.adria & ross Baker gail Baileylori & randy Barnettnancy & David BaxterMike & susan BilberryMr. & Mrs. Michael Bradyleonard & gerry BroussardMelanie & steve BrowneKathy CaneJulie & Daniel Chewregina & Dan DiluzioBecca & James edmistonJulie & Mike FalickPaige & richard Fassed FingerFreeman PhotographyDaniel grimmerMark P. hablinskiJeannine & Kelly haizlipthe healthy lunch BoxJamie humphriessheila & Michael hutchingsDonna & Clay JeansonneYvette & leatrice Joneslindy Kahn, M.a.Jennifer & Kenny Kearnsali & setara Khan susan & Kevin Kirbyrachel & Melvin KrezerPam & Bill Krocaktammy & Michael laneCarol leBlancJill & gene lewis

Janette lorenz & Michael lemenMichel & sherry loutchaninoffCheryl & James McanearDr. Mike MizellJennifer & Clifford MoorePaula & tom Munsonalix & Jimmy nakfoorneuhaus education CenterCindy & Paul Priceterri & Matt PitnerKristen & Jonathan rosenbergtawnya & rusty rubensteinCindy & Paul smithnaomi & adam soffarKathleen & Mark spanglerspeech language learningshauna & greg steffentracy & ron sullivanlisa & Bob suvalskyt’s automotiveCris & James treadwaygail & Joe van nestPeggy vaughnJennifer & Fernando villarrealPam & P.J. Whiteniki Wokochatodd Womble

$125-$149trina & Michael Bloodelvia & Paul Cardinalsuzanne DuinKim & Phil Fraherrebeka garciaPam & Jim gasparMonique & steve hazellsyed & Fatima JafriJulie & louis Mayerlaschel & tim McCoyPatti & Philip McgrawDr. raja nasiramy hammond Polasek Carolyn & Dennis royPeggy & William & samuelsKim & robert sicklerlee ann & randy smaltzterrye & Darren stidhamlaurie & Charles swihart

robert tuckerBeth & Jim Watt

$100-$124rita BlumenfeldDilly letter JacketsJanice & Jim FalickMary B. FingerPatricia gowMorton l. Katz, PhDMrs. Ben langeMary K. & Kent lenertzCheryl & Kent Marshalllinda MauterstockChristine & Kelly Paigeheidi & tim PerryMr. and Mrs. Miguel Quintana Peggy & William samuels Michelle & Cliff sheddDiane & David swedelson (honoring of the Mishael Family)Mr. and Mrs. lawrence thomsonlibby vesterKay WalkerPam & Bill WallaceKim & richard Yeh

$99 and belowJudge & Mrs. richard abramssarah & lane amosrobert albrightChrista alliottJoan anderson, Ph.D.Mark & Jane arnoldCynthia & Michael atchisonCheryl & David Bagbygayla & Bryan Bairdlauren & David BalatMiles & harrietta BaldwinPaul BassJudy &Jimmy BatesBarbara & Michael Baudlerstephanie Boatesash & ronda Bowdenvalerie & Derek BrownJoy & ed BuettnerKristin Buffington Karen & Bruce Burtonteri & Clay Carwilerosemary & Ken Cashgenette Chenevertandrea & greg Chilsonlori & Phil CohenKerry & Chad CourtneyMichelle CubPamela & Mike Davenportshannon & Jeff DavisJeff DavisMarcela ortega & Julio de la Colina Karla & gino DeranieriDianna & John DesJardinsramona & Michael DiMarcorita & Brian Faderelham & Babak Far

Janice & ed FastowCarolyn & Charles Fetznersarah & robbie Fishlucinda & Brad Flemingnanette & Pat Ford Karoline & scott gammeterlisa & rick gardnerJackie & John gaylorgerri & David gellernancy & John gennaroJim & Marcia ghariblynda lea & Jim goodallDayna gorskiaudrey & David gowPeggy & Michael greggDebra & victor grinshsteinDeloris guillorysari & rubin gutmanCarrie & John hackerteresa & rob hannatheresa & Kent hanszennanette & Christopher haskinsJosefina & Jose hernandezalice hiltonMona & thomas ignaserin & todd Jonesshannon & Marco JuarezKlara & Kirt Keelansusan & randall Kleinellen Wallace & Mitch Kreindlerlorena & terry KuberaJanet & Mark lauritsenniki & richard leeDr. & Mrs. Kenneth lehrerlily & luis lomeliCindy & ed longtina & scott lynchelizabeth & galen Madisonhope & Michael MartinKim & Mike MartinBrandy & edwin MartinezJennifer & David McCannsusan & Joe McDuffiesally & Don Mcgintytina & Keith MillerMoshe and Barbara MishaelBecky & Mike Mooneyrosemary & Keith Moriarty

Jean & Kevin MulhollandCindy & Chuck nelsonamy & robert nuttallMichelle o’ByrneBeatriz o’haraDjuanna oglesbylori & Jerry ordeneauxCarter overtonMr. & Mrs. robert PackPam & Don PalmourChristie & allen PearlKristen & Michael PennyFiona & Colin PerkinsChristine Phillsnancy & Michael PolychronopoulosMildred & steven PoockCindy & David PortugalBeth & nick PosaMr. & Mrs. robert PullenKate & stephen Pultssusie & tim randallMelissa reichertalethea renyWendy & lowell rosenthalPat rossemily & Mike saathoffMaria & heinz schneeklothPat & Mike shawshell oil Company FoundationMary Catherine shouseelsa silvaedward simonichMr. & Mrs. Wallace sisk Jenni & Brad slivenskyshelley & stephen smabyleah & Chris sperryChristy & greg swidenskyMichelle & Will symondssusan & Philip szotaBronwyn & Mark turnerDavid upshaw anne & ron vachonrobin & James vaianarilla WalkerMary ann & lawrence WardMrs. ellen Westnajja & robert Williamsnora Dobin & Chris Wolfe

17

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l18

YeAr in reView

We celebrated the end of the 2011-2012 school year with three commencement ceremonies for three outstanding groups of students! Congratulations to our four Tuttle School students, who graduated on May 16. Two graduates will continue their work at The Brookwood Community, one will continue with art classes at Houston Community College and one currently is undecided.

Twenty-six Upper School students received their diplomas on May 17. Their post high school plans include Baylor University, Curry College, LeTourneau University, Sam Houston State University, Schreiner University, Trinity University, the University of Mississippi, the University of Houston, Houston Community College. Lone Star College and Wharton County College. Congratulations to all! On May 23, thirty sixth graders completed their Lower School education with a ceremony attended by families and friends. Most of the sixth grade graduates will transition to the Middle School at Briarwood. Congratulations to our newest Middle School students! Reflecting on the beginning of 2012, we hosted our accrediting agency, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. A Quality Assurance Review Team, led by Dr. James May and comprised of Mrs. Jane May, Educator, Dr. Marian Danita Bailey-Perry, Texas Southern University, Ms. LuAnn Park, Cornerstone Christian Academy, Mr. Lawrence Domino, Klein Forest High School, and Dr. Randy Soffer, University of St. Thomas., spent two days interviewing three groups of stakeholders: parents, faculty and students.

The culmination of the visit was a report that commended Briarwood on the following: 1) The school has a learning climate for students that makes them feel safe, secure, and confident that they can trust their teachers; 2) The school enjoys parental support that both sustains the daily operations of the school and helps establish mission and purpose of the school; and 3) The school enjoys a financial base of support that provides exemplary facilities and staffing ratios while maintaining costs to parents. 4) The report also presented obligatory recommendations that include the following: a) Review the existing Mission Statement to ensure consistency to the school’s vision and purpose; b) Integrate existing technology into instructional practices so that opportunities to individualize learning styles are optimized; and c) Increase awareness of post-secondary opportunities for students. We owe a debt of thanks to the many parents, students and faculty who devoted their time, efforts, and expertise throughout the re-accreditation process. Coming as no surprise, we were re-accredited by SACS. A milestone in the history of The Briarwood School is the addition of an Advisory Board for Briarwood. Chairing the Advisory Board is Jim Gustafson, owner of The Gustafson Group, a long-time Houstonian and a student’s grandfather. Joining Jim on the Advisory Board are Charlotte Christman, former parent and Community Affairs and Education Advocate, John Clarke, former parent and Senior Vice President, Bank of Texas, Dr. Zach Hodges, President, Houston Community College-Northwest, Barbara Scott, former parent and Community Volunteer extraordinaire and Scott Stevenson, former parent and Vice President, Laredo Energy. This group of Advisory Board members brings with them a wealth of experience and countless areas of expertise, along with an understanding of and passion for our school. We are so happy to have this impressive and caring team’s guidance and leadership as we challenge ourselves to only the highest standards of excellence in our specialized field of education. Barbara Bellatti and John J. Scales, two of the newest additions to the Briarwood-Brookwood Board, are serving as Board liaisons to the Advisory Board. We deeply appreciate their guidance and service to Briarwood and to the Briarwood-Brookwood Board. As we close another stellar year, we simultaneously welcome 2012 - 2013, our forty-fifth year! We move forward with focus on enhancing our program, now world-renowned, to masterfully serve our students who learn differently. We remain thankful for opportunities that come our way every day to change children’s lives.

Best regards,

Carole C. Wills

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

m i ddle-Upper School

19

T U T Tle School

lo wer School

Showing Our True Colors!

t h e b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l

12207 Whittington Drive

h o u s t o n , t e x a s 7 7 0 7 7

t e l 2 8 1 . 4 9 3 . 1 0 7 0

F a x 2 8 1 . 4 9 3 . 1 3 4 3

w w w . b r i a r w o o d s c h o o l . o r g

address service requested

t h e

briarwoods c h o o l

Al Farb, Class of ‘05 | Hear Him Out!

You may have seen, or heard, Al at the Rodeo, around Briarwood volunteering as Master of

Ceremonies, maybe at 93Q? That’s because Al Farb has his capable hands (and mouth) in just

about everything!

Al officially started his radio career at the age of 13; his first big interview was Donnie

Osmand and former President George HW Bush. When the show ended, it was back to school right here

at Briarwood! Then, shortly after High School, Al began working at Clear Channel Radio, where he did just

about everything, finishing up as Assistant Program Director for SportsTalk 790. In January of 2012, Al

started his ‘dream-job’ at The New 93Q, where he currently serves as the Producer for critically acclaimed

”Q Morning Zoo” with Tim Tuttle, Kevin Kline and Erica Rico. Industry professionals have been quoted as saying, “Al’s energy and passion for radio

are infectious.”

In his ”spare” time, Al also enjoys giving back to the community. He serves as Lifetime Member of the Houston Livestock Show &

Rodeo committee volunteer where he is a Rookie Coordinator for the Speaker’s Committee and Committee Member of Lamb and Goat Auction

Committee. Through his work with the Rodeo, Al participates in ‘Rodeo Days’ at Houston-area schools and is a part of the show’s ‘Rookie Boot

Camp’ for newcomers to the Rodeo Committees. You’ll also find him on a street corner during the Rodeo Parade announcing to the crowd as all

of the different trails ride by. Whoa! But don’t think that’s all...he also owns and operates a small live event/audio production company, Al Farb

Productions. You can also see Al (pictured on page 5) as Master of Ceremonies at Briarwood’s 42nd Annual Benefit!

Alumni | Call Us! We want to feature You in the next issue of “Briarwood!”