2009

Annual

Fund Campaign

Everyone

Can Help

The Annual Campaign is the cornerstone of The Community School’s financial foundation.  It is how contributors from all backgrounds, from modest means to financially comfortable, assure that our students continue to have the opportunity to receive a rigorous academic education, improve their lives, and find success. Contributions to this campaign have ranged from $5.00 to $5,000 and every donation counts.

For more information:

Visit:  Ways to Give Webpage

Email: Donations@TCS-CAMP.com

Newsflash 5/5/09 Volunteer tutor Byung Joon Park gave a presentation to the class on his mother country of  South Korea as part of the geography course.

Newsflash 5/3/09 There was a lively Community Pot Luck Dinner tonight at the school.  Family and community members watched a slide show of the trip and heard stories as the students recounted their experiences in Niagara Falls and Canada.  This was the last dinner of the school year and was well attended with some great food and fellowship.

Newsflash 4/30/09-5/2/09 The class had their first journey to a foreign country as they crossed the border into Canada. The students visited Niagara Falls and Toronto as part of their geography studies in an action packed couple of days.  Besides the Falls, sites included the Parliament at Queens Park and the castle called Casa Loma.  By bus, boat, and amphibious vehicle the students were able to observe some amazing geographic sites up close as well as learn about another culture and country. This once in a lifetime trip was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Check back in a few days when we will have completed work on a separate web page with photos and stories from the trip.

Canada Trip

4/30-5/2

Happy Birthday Peggy

Newsflash 5/15/09 It was a proud day for everyone at the school as Justin Switzer walked across the stage signaling his graduation from Stevenson University. Justin entered The Community School 6 years ago when he was just 14.  He fulfilled all of his requirements for earning a Maryland High School Diploma in just 2 years. Justin then entered Baltimore City Community College where he graduated with honors earning his Associates of Arts Degree at the age of 18. He immediately enrolled in Villa Julie College where he completed his studies for his Bachelor of Arts Degree.  Along the way Justin carried a heavy course load also taking courses at Goucher University and the Community College of Baltimore County. Justin worked the entire time he was in college, including the last 2 1/2 years as a teacher’s assistant at our school. When Justin spoke to the current class about his journey, he explained how on his first day of college he found himself homeless with all of his possessions missing except for those in a small duffel bag.  Still, he never missed a day of school during that time as he explained that the most important ingredient in his success was determination. The entire school community is proud of the achievements of this fine young man and we remain firmly behind him as he continues his educational and life journeys. Justin is truly a model for the rest of us.

Left: Justin Switzer graduates from Stevenson University

Below: Justin with his Professors

Justin after graduation with his Aunt Donna, Heather, Mom and Tom

From Concept

              to Painting...

The Mural Project is complete.

CONTRIBUTIONS

$41,569.39

as of 6/30/09

7/1/08-6/30/09

GOAL

$60,000

Newsflash 5/4/09 Kate Culotta, school supporter and wife of Advisory Board member Tony Culotta, brought a delicious homemade meal of Sloppy Joes and fresh fruit for the students’ lunch today. It was a terrific gesture on the students first day back after the Canada trip. Thanks Kate!

Newsflash 5/19/09 The last Sponsor Meeting of the 2008/2009 Term was held tonight at the school with all students and nearly every sponsor represented. The meeting started with reports on changes, activities, and progress made since the last Sponsor meeting in March.  Trustee Chairperson Dave Bayer presented plans for the End of Year Ceremony and asked for additional volunteers. The focus of the meeting, however, was to evaluate the school term.  Each sponsor was given a 4 page evaluation form in addition to the open discussion held. The feedback will be compiled, presented to the Trustees, and then included in an annual report to be available to the entire organization. The valuable comments and ideas of the sponsors will be included in planning for the new term.

Newsflash 5/26/09 Members of the Advisory Board - Peggy Lashbrook, Carol Berman, Paul Coates, Sherry Welch, Tom Iacoboni, Tony Culotta, Don Riesett, and Mary Pat Clarke enjoyed lunch with the students today which was followed by a discussion about the school year.  This was an official part of the evaluation process that the school uses to plan for the next term. The wide ranging discussion examined such issues as new curriculum materials, teaching methods, sponsor and family participation, interactions with the Board members throughout the school year, and preparedness for college and career. The students also related the highlights of the year such as the visit of the students from France, the Canada trip, and the diversity of speakers who came to the school. Stories of personal growth as well as academic achievement were shared as well as challenges the students faced and overcame during the term. The results of the discussion will be written up as part of the annual report on the term and the input of the students and counsel from the Advisory Board will influence the design of the program for 09/10.

Advisory Board Lunch

and Evaluation Session

May 26th

Visitors & Students pose in front of mural

End of Year Ceremony

May 31, 2009

Newsflash 5/21/09 It would have been hard to find a prouder, more excited crowd in Baltimore today than the one that was at the End of Year Ceremony.  It was held for the Class of 2009 at Johns Hopkins University Glass Pavilion to a packed room filled with students, families, sponsors, volunteers, Board members and supporters. The program started with a welcoming by Board of Trustees Chairperson Dave Bayer and remarks from the Advisory Board delivered by Peggy Lashbrook. Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Dr. Andres Alonso inspired all as the guest speaker. Dr. Alonso said, “This celebration is a tribute to the perseverance, determination, and hard work of every young person being honored here today...I congratulate you all, and I thank you for the feeling of pure joy that your accomplishment inspires in me, as I contemplate the obstacles that you have overcome.” This speech was followed by remarks from Tom Culotta on gratitude and all of those that have helped this year be such a special one for the students and the school.  Tom also announced the creation of 2 new scholarship funds to help graduates go on to college - one set up by the  Good Shepherd United Methodist Women and a second, The Anna Iacoboni Memorial Education Fund.  The class valedictorian was Samantha Sloat who both told her personal story and explained what she had learned from each of her classmates. As Sam stated, “...we each have our own story of how we came to The Community School and how it has challenged us and helped us grow.” Fellow graduate Desmond Carter followed up with remarks that ended with the words, “Three years ago I was a boy, but now I have proven to be a man.” There was barely a dry eye in the house through these two heartfelt student presentations. Awards were then read off by Dave Bayer and Tom presented certificates of completion for the term to the following students who will be moving on next year: Lindsay Bigham, Desmond Carter, Erin Foltz, Jarrad Gladden, Kevin James, Ebony Love, Samantha Sloat, and Kris Watt. Students who are continuing their education next year at the school also received certificates of completion including: Sara Ciulla, Freddy Chilcote, Evan Green, Larry Kearns, Amanda McCarty, and Anthony Mulcahy. Samantha, Kevin, and Erin also received certificates for ending the year on the Honor Roll. The Community School Diplomas recognizing the awarding of Maryland State High School Diplomas since last year’s ceremony were awarded to Jackie Bales, Thomas Magaha, and Kenyon Paye. The awards ceremony was concluded with special Beacon Awards being presented to alumni Justin Switzer  for earning his Bachelor’s Degree at Stevenson University and Lauren Ashley Dure  for earning her Licensed Practical Nurse Certification. The ceremony was concluded with a special presentation to the Class of 2009 by Don and Sande Reisett of a hardbound book that they produced from the students writings.  Everyone enjoyed the reception that followed the event. What a day!

7/1/08-6/30/09

GOAL

$60,000

Newsflash 6/5/09 Students Samantha Sloat and Lindsay Bigham were hosted by Dr. Steve Plantholt at St. Agnes Hospital today.  Dr. Plantholt is the head of cardiology at the hospital and learned about Lindsay and Sam’s interest in the health profession when he visited the school. He extended an invitation for these two students to shadow him for the day and get some first hand experience into the life of a medical professional. Both students left committed to the health field.

Newsflash 6/1/09 The students enjoyed their 3rd Annual Day at the Beach House on the Severn River.  The kindness of Debbie, Chris, Colby, Carter & Chase Loetz was once again on display as the students went boating, tubing swimming, kayaking, as well as playing beach volleyball and cooking out.  This year’s trip was a tribute to Gordy Loetz who recently passed away and whose larger than life presence was the centerpiece of our first 2 visits to the Beach House. Joining the students and staff was Advisory Board member Ken Bancroft and his wife Paulette along with their sister-in-law Jackie Bancroft. We deeply appreciate Debbie and her sons for continuing this treasured tradition.

Newsflash 6/9/09 Longtime Advisory Board member and  key school supporters Tom & Jacque Iacoboni hosted the students at their house for an End of Year Pool Party. The students had a blast swimming and playing games all afternoon and into the evening.  Several of the students also learned the Italian game of bocce ball and there was a dunking booth on hand where all of the adults and some of the kids ended up being dumped into the pool of water. Toward evening when the rains came, everyone moved indoors for dinner and to exhibit their talents playing the video game Rock Band.  It was a fun-filled last day together for the Class of 2009.  Thank you Jacque and Tom.

Newsflash 6/11/09 The Henry Hall Program of the National Aquarium in Baltimore awarded graduating student Kristophor Watt a $1,000 college scholarship at a ceremony tonight.  Kris has been attending environmental study camps with the Henry Hall Program for the last 6 years that have taken him from Maine to Key West. This scholarship was only awarded to 5 individuals.  Congratulations Kris!

Newsflash 6/18/09 There was a first meeting of the Alumni Association Organizing Committee tonight.  It was organized by ’09 graduates Samantha Sloat and Kris Watt.  Also attending were alumni Lauren Ashley Dure, Justin Switzer, Dave Bayer, and Erin Foltz.  The purpose of the group was discussed and it centered around 3 main areas: mutual support and fellowship, support for current students, and support for the school. The group will meet again in early August. Plans are under way to develop a mailing list of all past students.  If you are an alumni or know where to locate any past students, send the information to: alumni@tcs-camp.com.

Newsflash 6/28/09 The school received great news from The Commonweal Foundation that we will be receiving a major grant from them in support of the 2009/2010 school term. This provides a great foundation for planning and growth as the school continues its tremendous momentum. Commonweal Foundation’s Chairman Barbara Bainum along with staff Marilyn Wu  and Rosita Green visited the class in April and both observed and met with the students. This was followed up with a number of insightful conversations with foundation staff including Christopher Sharkey, the Chief Financial Officer. Our thanks go to the Board of Commonweal and all of the wonderful representatives from the foundation with whom we met.  This is the beginning of a great partnership.

Newsflash 7/1/09 Peggy Lashbrook was the guest speaker at the Catonsville Sunrise Rotary Club breakfast meeting this morning. She spoke about the students and the school and invited them to lend their skills and talents.  Peg was impressed with the group and especially their Four Way Test: “Of the things we think, say or do: 1) Is it the truth?, 2) Is it fair to all concerned?, 3) Will it build goodwill and better friendships, and 4) Will it be beneficial to all concerned?” Our Advisory Board Chairperson, Sherry Welch, is a member of this Rotary Club and also spoke about the school. We appreciate this opportunity to spread the word about our program.

Advisory Board member and volunteer Developer, Peggy Lashbrook at the Catonsville Sunrise Rotary Club

Newsflash 7/1/09 Today was the first day of the Summer Session held each Wednesday through August 5th.  Students are able to take any of 3 learning tracks: math review, G.E.D. exam prep, or preparation for the college accuplacer test. This is also an opportunity for new students to become familiar with the school and its methods. It was wonderful to have students back in the classroom again!

Newsflash 7/2/09 Susama Agarwala and Daniel Berger officially left Baltimore today for Los Angeles where Susama will be starting her professorship at Cal Tech. Susama has been a daily volunteer in the math class for the last 2 years while she earned her PhD at Johns Hopkins and Daniel has been a key member of our tutoring team while working on his PhD at NYU.  We will miss them both very much and appreciate their service to the students and the community.  We wish you all the best!

Newsflash 7/8/09 We were honored to have a visit today from Michael D’Ovidio from the new Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning of the Maryland Department of Labor.  This is the office that is now in charge of G.E.D. testing and the Adult External Development Program, both of which have been transfered over from the Maryland State Department of Education. Mr. D’Ovidio was interested in our organization’s experiences with these programs and our opinions of how they could better serve adult learners.  This is an important signal of both a fresh outlook and a commitment to improve the administration of the G.E.D. and EDP programs from this office which has only had jurisdiction of these programs for one week. Thank you Michael.  We look forward to working with you and wish you well in your new duties.

Newsflash 7/28/09 We received a grant from the Baltimore City Foundation today to help stock the student food pantry and purchase student supplies. We appreciate their support of our students. Thanks also to Mr. L. Patrick Deering for his help with this.

Newsflash 8/5/09 Today was the last day of the summer session of the school.  Students used this opportunity to review their math skills so that there would not be any loss during the summer. The news term of the school starts on Wednesday, September 9th.

Newsflash 8/6/09 Word was just received from Sabrina Conte of the Office Depot Foundation that the grants committee has approved a donation to help purchase school supplies for the new school year. Sabrina wrote, “Best wishes for continued success in all that you do to enrich the lives of others in the communities in which we live, work and conduct business. Thank you Office Depot!

Student Update 8/13/09

Students Ebony Love and Kristophor Watt registered for college today at CCBC - the Community College of Baltimore County.  Ebony is pursing a degree in nursing and Kris a degree in automotive technology. We’re proud of you Kris & Ebony!

Student Update

7/29/09

Samantha Sloat has been accepted at BCCC - Baltimore City Community College and will begin classes in September. Sam’s goal is to become a pediatrician and this is   another major step in that direction. We’re behind you 100% Sam!