Messenger June 9 2011 - Summerfield Waldorf School

Messenger
V OLUME 23
ISSUE 10 | J UNE 9, 2011
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2-3 ................. Admin Notices
3 ................... Spirit of Giving
5 ............................. Programs
6 ......................... Farm News
8 ....................................Sports
8 .................................. Alumni
9-10 ................... Marketplace
Top Row: Kazimir Malon, Matthew Lyons, Brett Marquette, Jeremy Baril, Cooper Davis. Second Row: Arjuna Strandjord,
Liora Jacob, Genevieve Schmitt, Daniella Islas, Elena Sloman, Storm Foley, Skeydrit Baehr. Third Row: Eva Marichez,
Manon Graham, Roxann Guthman, Kevin Simmons. Bottom Row: Maria Onorato, Rosalinde Wurfel.
Congratulations to the Class of 2012!
Knowing that we are at a point in time when college acceptance has become increasingly difficult, we’d like to
congratulate our wonderful seniors who are now bound for college and life beyond. We warmly wish you all a fruitful
journey. May each and every one of you be destined for a wealth of experiences which can now only be imagined. The
Class of 2011’s vibrant zest and grace will be missed here on campus, but all parents, faculty and staff wish to warmly
send you on your way. Please keep in touch, and do come back and visit!
Best Wishes Seniors!
~The Summerfield Waldorf School Community
And Away They Go…
 Jeremy Baril - University of San Fransisco
 Kazimir Malon - Humboldt State University
 Cooper Davis - Sonoma State University
 Brett Marquette - University of Oregon
 Storm Foley - Stanford University
 Maria Onorato - UC Davis
 Manon Graham - Otis College of Art and Design
 Genevieve Schmitt - Dominican University
 Roxann Guthman - University of San Fransisco
 Daniella Islas - Chapman University
 Elena Sloman - University of Southern
California
 Liora Jacob - Occidental College after a gap
year with Israeli Year One Program
 Arjuna Strandjord - Gap year of working before
college
 Matthew Lyons - Chapman University
 Rosalinde Wurfel - Lewis and Clark College
New Lower School Coordinator
O
st
n August 1 , Chris Topham,
our graduating eighth grade
class teacher, will be taking
over the job of Lower School
Coordinator at Summerfield. This is a
3- to 4- year rotating position which
may be applied for by available
teachers. In the coming year, Chris will
be assuming the tasks previously
carried by Roland Baril, which are
generally enumerated in the following
description:
The Lower School Coordinator (LSC)
is the principal representative of the
lower school and is responsible for
coordinating its healthy day-to-day and
long-term functioning. The LSC works
with the lower school faculty and staff
to build, nurture and deepen an
awareness of the core ideals and
mission of the lower school. The LSC
supports the faculty, parents and
students with clear communication and
coordination of activities, and helps
integrate the lower school into the
larger school organism.
Chris has ably led this year’s eighth
grade class from first grade, taken a
sixth through eighth grade class here
previously and, before that, taught
fourth through eighth at the Novato
Charter School. He has been a
member of our Board of Directors, the
Finance Committee and the Lower
School Support Group for several
years. He has been both Faculty Chair
and College Chair. Chris recently
completed a credential program in
Education Administration at Sonoma
State. He and his wife Heather have
three children in our school.
Serving as chair of the Lower School
Support Group and member of the
Governance Council, Chris is eager to
take on the challenge of administrative
work at Summerfield, and he looks
forward to serving the community of
parents, teachers and children here.
Please join us in welcoming Chris to
this important work!
We Offer Our Most Heartfelt Farewells!
It is with some sadness that we must say goodbye to some of
our fabulous teachers and staff:
 Roland Baril - Lower School Coordinator and Fathers'
Group Leader, here for 4 years
 Jennifer Bowen - Red Rose Kindergarten Teacher and
(previously) Assistant, here 12 years
 Laura Sternik - Class Teacher, here for 3 years
 Rio Govea - High School Secretary, here for 1½ years
We wish them the best in their future journeys and greatly
appreciate the gifts they have brought to our school through
their warm presence and excellent work. A heart-felt and
resounding thank-you to each of these dedicated individuals we will miss you all!
~Leslie Young, on behalf of the SWSF Community
Rummage for SWSF
Seeking volunteers who would be interested in starting an
annual late summer Rummage Sale in the surrounding
community to raise general funds for Summerfield. There’s
plenty to do in stages of planning, collecting donated
items, setting up, selling, and cleaning up. There’ll be
opportunities for campus groups to sell refreshments, as
well. If you would be willing to join me in helping to start
such a project, please contact me at
kjbsoprano@yahoo.com. ~Kris Boshell
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June 9, 2011
A Note from Farmer Perry
Perry's Grandmother always said that it was never
too late to say “Thank You!” Without going into
details, this has been a very busy period in our
lives. Even though quite a bit of time has elapsed,
according to the calendar, since we drove off from
The Farm at Summerfield, not a day has gone by
that we haven't thought with appreciation of the
generosity of all our friends there. The love and
warmth expressed during the emotionally difficult
process of bidding farewell to a significant part of
our lives will always be remembered. From that
incredibly love-filled Farewell Evening in late
February through the countless hours of packing
and loading assistance and all the many gestures
in between, we feel truly blessed. The felted acorn
from the first grade sits on our desk. The truly
inspired felted farm scene that was the work of so
many of you will always hold a special place in our
hearts.
Thank you again to all who have given us so much
as we set off on our journey.
With Love, Perry Hart and Sydney Volpert
W
e Proudly Announce the Commencement of the
2011 Eighth Grade Class on June 11, at 2pm in Sophia Hall:
E. Mercedes S. Bähr
William Dunsmoor Humphreys
Elliot James Behling
Zoe Joanne Hunt
Drew Conroy Bulloch
India Grace Farley Kellogg
Shawnie Cichosz
Eliana Rei Lanphar (not present)
Cage Claypool
Sabrina Ashley Mann
Taravati Mae Schmitt
Alexa Elain Criste
Eric Reed Marquette
Tessa Paloma Scholl
Tom Daligault
Delek Gyamsto Miller
Siena Wolf Shepard
Ashlyn Martine Dean
Ryan James Spindler O’Hara
Bryce Sage Silver-Bates
Tennessey Grace Elledge
Yulan Raineri Holtz
Kelly Callan Souza
Jenner Rayne Glessner
Alexander John Rossin
Kodiak Robin Whitmore
End-of-the-Year Update from the Board
As another great school year draws to a close, I want to wish you and your families a wonderful summer on behalf of the
Board here at Summerfield. As you head off for your summer vacations and the wonderful time of year when family
barbeques, trips to the beach and weekends at the nearest body of water become the focus, I hope you’ll take some time
to reflect back on what a terrific school year we’ve had here at SWSF.
Along with the remarkable educational, athletic and community service accomplishments (Continued on Page Seven)
Spirit of Giving
The 2010-2011 School Year is Coming Full Circle
As a hectic, yet successful, school year ends, it’s time to reflect
upon the reasons we all work so hard: our students.
Development’s fundraisers from October’s Farm Dance to
May’s Farm to Feast® (please see our heart-felt Farm to Feast
list of thank-you’s) had this singular focus translated into
monetary and, hopefully, good-will terms, which is to ensure
that each child receives an inspired education on our campus
and farm. Our grants, including Ronni Sand’s high school
Ocean Guardian grant, music and performing arts grants, green
projects, and the Roseland City-Country Learning Garden
project, added extra ingredients to our Waldorf curriculum—and
outreach. At a recent Summerfield Administration Meeting, our year-end review included sharing gratitude for the support
and positive energy shown when we reach out to each other and families to plan and execute events, festivals and special
assemblies.
This year’s Feasibility Study recommended that we focus on developing a culture of philanthropy. In part, this means that
in the coming months all parts of the school will engage in meaningful conversations about our vision for Summerfield and
the culture necessary to achieve that vision. We must find common ground for our divergent philosophies and styles to
craft and publish a clear, strong message. We plan to establish a committee of leaders to guide us as we implement an
agreed-upon plan. If each member of our community is a Summerfield ambassador, we will spread the spirit of giving, on
behalf of our students, to each other and newcomers on a consistent basis. We’re beginning an exciting and inspiring
journey.
Thank you to all our donors, supporters and volunteers. May the summer bring warmth and joy to enrich your lives.
~Andrea Johnston, Development Director and Cyndi Yoxall, Development Associate
June 9, 2011
Messenger | 3
T
hank you to the following volunteers and sponsors for helping make this event a successful fundraiser for all our
students. * We apologize if anyone has been omitted, and will revise this list before posting online.
Addie Mullennix
Eddie Gelsman
Kathryn Sloan
Sandy Sylvers
Ajalon Printing
Alex Reed
Ellen Walsh
Elsa Clyde-Garcia
Kerry Arrendondo
Kirsten Austin
Sallie Miller
Sarah Whitmore
Andrea Jolicouer
Andrea Trinei
Emma Shaw Crane
Exchange Bank
Kristie Amezcua
Les Claypool
Selena Cate
Southern Wine & Spirits
Angela Garat
Ann Platz
Fong Brothers Printing
Fred Bassett
Leslie Young
Lia Gaetner
Sunset Linens
Susan Bass
Ann Strack
Gail Ahlas
Liberty Farms
Susie Hagemeister
Anna Dufloth
Anne Marie Allen
George Martinelli
Gina Martinelli
Lindsay Austin
Lisa Ulmer
Suzi Redlich
Tamara Easter
Autumn Rose
Beauty Oasis Photography
Glenn Berger
Guy Davis
Luke Bass
Lyza Meyers
Tara Kelly
Tara O’Riley
Brett Marquette
Harmony Farm Supply &
Margo Norman
Ted Lemon
Bridget Palmer
Bryan Sloan
Nursery
Heather Irwin
Mark Feickart
Mark Holtz
Terra Savia
Tim Allen
Carla Carletti
Catherine Bartolomei-Smith
Heather Topham
Heidi Lemon
Marshall Bauer
Marshall Behling and Sons
Tod Brilliant
Tracy Saucier
Chaney Claypool
Charmaine Stainbrook
Holly White-Wolfe
Hot Shot Photo Booth
Max Allen
Melissa Wood
Traci Des Jardins
Valerie Raineri
Cheryl Paulus
Ignacio Garat
Miguel Salmeron
Veracross
Chris Anderson
Chris Topham
Iron Horse Vineyards
Ivo Austin
Nancy Cherniss
Natalie Cool Ramos
Wendy Mardigian
WIN Realty Connections
Cielo Garat
Corrine Kenner
James Dufloth
Jamie McMains
Nick O’Riley
Nick Peyton
Wine Tasting: Claypool
Cellars, Davis Family
Costeaux Bakery
Jason Gross
Pacific Foundation for
Vineyards, Kings Hill
Craig Silva
Cynthia Hoston
Jeff Allen
Jefferson Buller
Medical Care
Patricia Taan
Cellars, Littorai Wines
Estate Winery, Martinelli
Dan Westphal
Dana Revallo
Jeffrey Westman
Jesse DeNatale
Paul Sloan
Pam Franceschi
Vineyards and Winery,
Porter-Bass, Small Vine
Darth Elledge
Dave Mordue
Jim Reichardt
John Stewart
Peter Lowell’s Restaurant
Platypus Tours
Deborah Pulido
Jon Mann
Porter-Bass Vineyards
Cellars, Littorai Wines
Deborah Simmons
Dirck Bass
Judy Davis
Judy Reid
RSF Social Finance
Rachael Richardson
Estate Winery, Martinelli
Vineyards and Winery,
Doug Silberstein
Duskie Estes
Karen Cabron-Heineck
Karla Peyton
Redwood Hill Farms
Rio Govea
Small Vine Wines
Yvette Serrano
Dustin Deason
Kathleen Escamilla
Rod Smith
Ziggy
* A list of auction donors will be posted on our website and our Facebook pages.
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June 9, 2011
Wines
Wine Safari: Claypool
The Third Grade Building Project
A
By Richard Ciccarelli
nyone wandering behind the first grade classroom is sure to notice the
yellow caution tape encircling an area of the first and second grade
playground. That’s the spot where the third grade is building a new play structure
to replace the old playhouse that was there.
Beginning in late January, we began a series of classroom meetings during main
lesson to bring the students slowly into the process of what, how, and why one
would choose to build in the world. In the meetings, we discussed the old structure,
what it was like, and a bit about the story of how it was destroyed by the horses.
The students were very enthusiastic about the story and about what we would
build, and began to shoot out ideas, though we encouraged them to hold their
visions for a while yet. We went out to visit the site and spoke about the place,
behind the classrooms, amidst the trees, with the large field to look out over. We
asked them to pay attention to the sun and the shadows over the coming days. It
was still cold, and the sun had yet to come out. On one day we went out to the site
with paper and colored pencils to draw and write what they noticed. The sun was
already warm that day, and we measured Ms. Sternik's shadow on the ground. It
was 24 ft. long! The class was quiet and observant. The birds were chattering.
The first graders came running up and down the road to the barn and sounding like
a herd of horses. At some point some of the upper grade students started playing
beautifully on their flutes. The class's picture-poems of this session were really
remarkable. Then, because it was still wet outside, we started in on imaginative
drawings. The students all did fantastic design-drawings. Then we put all of these
ideas together into a final design. We also wanted to choose materials and
building types that would allow the students to get the feel of how different
materials actually form structure, that would illustrate how different types of
materials and structures create different feelings of space (light and airy versus
closed and intimate), and that would encourage students to use their hands in
different building ways. Hence the basic components of the design are a TOWER
(wood-built, assembled, rigid, skeletal, hard, sawing & hammering) and a CURVED
WALL (cob, malleable, soft, hands & feet in mud).
Student Design
Earth Bags
Cobbing
By mid-May, we had assembled student teams of six, led by one student foreman
and a rotating crew of parents and grandparents. We had the great fortune to have
the guidance of Miguel Elliot, of LivingEarth Structures, who led the class in the
creation of the cob structure. The students reveled in the mixing and dancing of
the mud. And they also worked, one hard day, mixing the cob in the pouring rain.
It was a true initiation, and I was proud to call them builders. The redwood tower is
still taking shape. The upper lookout area should be completed by the end of the
school year, but the spiral wattle-and-daub cob structure is almost complete and
Cob Spiral
sports two panes of stained glass left over from a ceiling restoration of the Palm
Court of the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Go sit in the spiral in the late afternoon sunlight for a treat!
Roots and Shoots – An Ending or a Beginning?
From our youngest corner, sweet goodbyes seem a trifle unfair.
What makes these last days of school different from the first? It may seem obvious, but it still warrants pondering. New
beginnings are exciting and full of anticipation and, at times, anxiety; yet, after time has passed and the novelty settles
into smoothness and comfort, a sort of relaxation begins to grow. This is when real learning can take place. It is obvious
on so many levels, all across campus this year, that many classes have reached this level of maturation. I happened to
come upon the seniors the day after their class trip, and the difference in their interactions was palpable. It was not in
(Continued on Page Nine)
June 9, 2011
Messenger | 5
A Final Note From the Farmyard
I
st
une 1 has always been the
most special day of the year,
and today was no exception,
perhaps because it began with all the
fourth graders coming to the Farm at
6:30am for their turn to try milking the
cow and enjoy a scrumptious breakfast
under the walnut tree, prepared by
st
dedicated parents. From June 1
st
through September 1 , the whole,
entire, juicy summer stretches out
before us. The crops for the most part
are all in, with just pumpkins and winter
squash to go in next week; the manure
has been moved from the winter barns
into the compost piles; sunflowers are
growing in leaps and bounds, thanks to
the cool, fragrant and amazingly
reliable rains; and the animals and
children are full of vim and vigor. So,
again, the words of James Russell
Lowell written in 1848 come to mind:
And what is so rare as a day in
June?
Then, if ever, come perfect days;
When heaven tries the earth if it
be in tune
And over it softly her warm ear
lays.
Once again this year, the faculty will
have the honor of gathering under the
spreading walnut tree on the farm with
the senior graduating class to listen to
shared stories of the students’ time at
Summerfield and where their
education will next take them. A few
of the students have been here since
Kindergarten. Earlier in the year, one
of the seniors wrote me a letter
reflecting on a formative student
experience, a trip to Bhutan, with
some of her classmates. She wrote:
"While going through India I witnessed
the most poverty I have seen in my
whole life. Throughout my life I have
been conscious of the severity of life
in a third world country, but seeing it
with my own eyes was entirely
different. This experience caused
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June 9, 2011
many emotions to arise within me. At
first I felt extremely sad that human
beings would have to suffer such a
difficult life. However, the sorrow that
I felt transformed into inspiration. In
my life I have been blessed with an
education, health, and many other
things. What I realized is that the
privileges I have received in my life
can be put to use by helping those
who are less fortunate than myself...I
feel that my trip to Bhutan made a
profound impact on my perspective of
the world. I learned that no matter
how challenging my life is, there is
always someone in a more
challenging situation. In addition I
found that the happiness in Bhutan
does not come from materialism, but
instead is a joyful appreciation of life!"
Last week we also enjoyed a special
group of second graders from the
Roseland School whom our seniors
worked with to set up a gardening
program at their school. We wanted to
share a day of animal visits, pizzamaking in the brick oven, and planting
sunflowers out on Summerfield Farm.
Divided into three groups, each child
rotated through eating pizza, feeding
the chickens and gathering eggs, and
planting sunflowers. All three tasks
seemed like a lot of fun to a well
behaved and smiley group, and in the
closing circle everyone agreed,
(including Ms Sands, Farmer Dana
and Apprentice Rachel, senior
hostess Roxann Guthman, visiting
parents, students and teachers) that it
had been a truly wonderful day!
There are so many memories that
come to mind after another year on
the Farm with the students. Perhaps
it has been a little harder to close out
the school year with my dear fellow
mid-western farming buddy, Farmer
Perry, gone. I have been in touch
with him and yes, it’s been hard for
him to adjust to his life away from the
daily routines of milking, fieldwork,
animal care and all the friends who
make the Summerfield farming
community such a warm and vital
place. In trying to articulate in words
how special each day on the Farm is
with the students, one could
paraphrase the words of the master
poet Pablo Neurda, who wrote, "I
watch my words from a long way off
and they seem to climb on my
memories like ivy that climbs the
same way on damp walls. Now I
would like my words to say what I
want to say to you, to make you hear
as I want you to hear me. My words
become stained with the memories of
the children's faces as they work, with
the joy and love they imbue this
special place with. These memories
are made of light, of smoke, of a still
pond. Without them all I wouldn't be
who I am."
Summer Farm Camp lies ahead,
along with a season of growth towards
the fall harvest, vacationing with
family and friends, yard and garden
work and, of course, trips to the
beach. On an early summer outing to
the beach as a young man, the Indian
sage Tagore remarked: "The waves
were dancing in noisy mirth....Looking
at them, one felt as if millions of
children had been released from
school." Blessings and safe travels to
all of you over the summer, and
please feel free to visit the farm on
Wednesdays for farm produce sales.
~Warmly, Farmer Dan
RSF Social Finance Dinner a Success
S
incere thanks to our Board of
Directors for hosting the very
well attended RSF Social
Finance Pricing Meeting here at
Summerfield last week. After the
meeting, there was pizza prepared
by the Board and salads provided by
Peter Lowell’s of Sebastopol. By
inviting their borrowers and investors
to Summerfield, RSF, who is a
partner in funding our road project
which will begin this summer,
created a venue for a broadening of
our Waldorf community, with many
new friends and acquaintances
made.
RSF Social Finance provides loans,
gifts, and investments that foster
social and spiritual renewal.
Originally incorporated as the Rudolf
Steiner Foundation in 1936, RSF has
been making loans to Steinerinspired organizations since 1984. In
2007 RSF began partnering with
Waldorf schools on an affinity
program called the Waldorf
Collaborative, which provides a way
for Waldorf parents and friends to
place some of their savings and
investments in service of Waldorf
schools and other cutting-edge
organizations and businesses, while
helping support their schools with
grants.
Each calendar quarter, RSF resets
the interest rates for investors and
borrowers of its Social Investment
Fund (SIF). In keeping with their
values of interdependence, trust, and
community, they invite their investors
and borrowers to take part in a
facilitated discussion with RSF staff
to help determine what rates will best
meet the needs of all stakeholders.
The feedback provided at these
quarterly meetings informs the
decision-making for the SIF Pricing
Committee, which also considers
current market rates and
macroeconomic conditions.
Investing in RSF and participating in
the Waldorf Collaborative promotes
socially responsible investments in
three focus areas – Food &
Agriculture, Education & the Arts,
Ecological Stewardship.
This quarter’s RSF meeting was the
most well attended meeting they’ve
had to date, and we’re hoping it
won’t be their last here at
Summerfield!
~Karen Cabron, Administrative Asst.
(Board Update, from Page Three)
of our student body, our community celebrated a wonderful
year of both tradition and change. We wished a fond
farewell to our dear Farmer Perry and welcomed, with
open arms, our new Farmer Dana. From an outreach
perspective, the press we received this year was
unprecedented, and the recognition we received in both
the broader community and internally has never been
better. Our enrollment has held strong, unlike a number of
peer schools, and we have continued a steady progress
toward our community’s recovery from the difficult
economic environment of the last few years. Due to the
diligence of the Finance Committee and a school-wide
group focused on efficiencies, our budget is reflecting a
small surplus. Farm to Feast was a success again, and it
continues to bloom as a premier food, wine and art
fundraiser, rivaling the best in the region; and too, there is
renewed energy focused on the vision for next year’s event
and how we can continue to improve.
the Rudolph Steiner Foundation (now known as RSF
Social Finance) to fund our work. Weather permitting, our
expectation is to have our preliminary soil engineering
completed in the next few weeks and significant progress
to be made over the summer. (This means we can also
expect a probable launch into a capital campaign for
funding in the fall – stay tuned.) The 2011-2012 school
year promises to be interesting again, economically, but I
am confident in our community’s ability to rise to the
occasion.
As always, I encourage you to attend Board meetings next
year, if you are interested and able, as it is with your
valuable insight and support that we are able to
accomplish our goals. Have a restful and rejuvenating
summer break, and we’ll see you in the fall.
~Jefferson J. Buller, President, SWSF Board of Directors
As to looking forward, we are thrilled to have added three
very strong members to the Board this year, bringing a
wealth of experience and perspective. A hearty welcome to
Karl Forsyth, Julia McIlroy, and Patrick Sullivan, who have
jumped in feet-first already. (To read their full bios, please
check our website, www.summerfieldwaldorf.org.) The
work towards our road expansion project continues,
supported by a diligent and hard-working core of
volunteers and Board members. We have re-engaged with
June 9, 2011
Messenger | 7
SWSF Baseball: a First Great Season!
The first season of baseball for Summerfield's high school Mustangs ended with the same upbeat and positive attitude
amongst the players that prevailed in the dugout the entire season. The last game, against Rincon Valley Christian,
played to a familiar theme of other games this year, which was that we were in the game for most of the contest, had one
unfortunate inning and, in the end, lost by more runs than we should have. There were many great plays in the field and
some good hits with the bats, exciting base running, and a few errors by both offense and defense. Nevertheless, we
fielded a team of 16 boys, and everyone got to participate in the contest and feel the excitement of that ball coming toward
you and the crack of the bat as the ball goes in the opposite direction. During one game I looked in the dugout and
realized that we had no seniors because they were on their senior trip and we still had 13 players. What this season was
all about was planting the seed of baseball fans’ “field of dreams” and seeing whether we could find enough enthusiasm
from the student body for baseball. To this end, I think it was quite a successful season, and I look forward to next year’s
baseball team being as fun and rewarding as this one was. Oh, and maybe a few less rained out games and practices!
Thanks to all who came out to one or more of our games and rooted for us! Also a big thank you to the players and
parents for supporting baseball at Summerfield. Major thanks to Mike Carrell for the great work you have done as
Atheletic Director!
Go Mustangs! ~Coach Eddie Guthman
Proud of our Alumni
Vincent Valentin, SWSF Class of 2010, has accepted
membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars,
based on academic achievement, at Loyola Marymount
University, Los Angeles, CA. Vincent will be honored
during an Induction Convocation this fall on the campus of
Loyola Marymount University. NSCS is a member of the
Association of College Honor Societies and is the nation’s
only interdisciplinary honors organization for first- and
second-year college students. Membership is by invitation
only, based on grade point average and class standing.
NSCS has more than 750,000 lifetime members and 270
chapters in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and
Puerto Rico.
Jessica Jones, SWSF Class of 2008 has been busy,
teaching and implementing sustainability programs, most
recently receiving the Sonoma County Environmental
Youth Award. She has also become very involved in
student government at Santa Rose Junior College and was
recently voted in as the Associated Students President for
2011-2012. In addition, the achievement for which she is
most proud was SRJC’s adoption of the Talloires
Declaration. The declaration, which was signed on April 20,
2011, confirms the college’s commitment to sustainability.
Jessica states, “The road to this success has been one of
the most influential and enriching in my years of higher
education.” Jessica succeeded in garnering the support of
a myriad of governance groups within the college,
culminating in Jessica meeting with SRJC President, Dr.
Robert Agrella. In the meeting, she explains, “I conveyed
with all the passion I could muster why it was important to
have the college recognize sustainability as a value in the
midst of devastating budget cuts, his upcoming retirement,
and an Earth Day Celebration. I told him that institutions of
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June 9, 2011
higher education have the responsibility to impart
ecological intelligence and rear environmentally
responsible citizens….. Jessica continues, “April 20, 2011
became an historical date for SRJC as I stood in honor,
overjoyed that we had met the first step toward our
sustainability management plan for SRJC, as now SRJC
recognized sustainability as a value! Throughout the
experience of learning how to move policy through Santa
Rosa Junior College, I have gained respect and authority
with faculty, staff and administrators; Katie Gerber and I
are now taking the next steps toward our plan, excited by
the ripple that the signing has caused, as students, faculty
and administrators are coming to us with their ideas,
enthusiasm and willingness to jump on board to help with
research, outreach and educational efforts.”
Jessica attending the signing of the Talloires Declaration with
SRJC President, Dr. Robert Agrella.
W
(Continued from Page Five)
hat they said or did, but in
the way they interacted and
smiled and laughed. There
was a palpable new feeling that lived
between them; an achievement of
camaraderie and a celebration of
completion. The class plays are yet
another example of a school group
coming together through much hard
work and struggle.
We have had many farewells in the
Roots and Shoots infant & toddler
classes this week, and they have
been bittersweet. In each class,
throughout the year, the little ones
have learned to say goodbye with
such innocence, knowing they would
go off to their nap or their lunch at
home. And how does one explain
Summer Break to a toddler? You
simply cannot.
And what have they learned in school
this year? For the toddler who has
barely spoken ten words the entire
year, the learning experience has
been very rich indeed. They have
learned to associate the concept of
“school” with the parking lot and the
classroom, with their friends and with
their teachers. They have learned to
sit around a table and wait to be
served. They have learned to share
by bringing a banana from home and
watching it be carefully divided into
drink out of a glass cup without
spilling on themselves, and some
have even have mastered pouring
their own water. They have learned to
rely on what comes next in the
schedule of the morning, and this has
hopefully added to their sense of
security. They have learned how to
hold their own when someone tries to
take their toy away. They have also
learned how to give a toy to a friend.
They have learned their fingers can
become small birds in a finger game.
They have practiced over and over
again how to give and receive hugs
(almost always unsolicited) without
falling over. They have practiced
crying in a group and being
comforted… and practiced forgiving
and forgetting when hurt by another.
They have learned how to go around
a ring in a circle and fall down. (This is
a lesson in timing that could develop
into theatre arts.) They have learned
to trust other people outside their
family. And the list goes on…
But, really, more important than all
these accomplishments is the fact that
Mom or Dad or Grandma has
participated in these experiences with
them. The children have been seen,
and have shared something that is
special to them with those they love.
And all this without words. Now when
I say “without words”, of course some
words are spoken by the adults. But
the words are far less important than
the feelings that have been shared.
Like the seniors, the toddlers have
been seen by caring adults in a
relaxed yet attentive environment. It
has been the glances, the sighs, the
smiles and the furrowed brows that
have gone deeper than the words. I
will always remember the day when a
momma came with her son for the first
time after he had already been with
papa in many classes. The son
crossed the room to the shelf to hold
up the toys, making sweet sounds
while looking at his momma, to share
these with her. And then there is the
celebration on the last day of class
when the child, who on the first day
was clenching his Mom’s leg as if to
say, “Oh, please don’t make me go in
there with all those people,” opens the
door and leaps like a bunny into the
teacher’s lap with a huge smile, as if
to say, “Hello, everyone! I’m here.
Let’s play!”
It has been a very rich year, and we
would like to extend huge hugs of
gratitude to the Roots and Shoots
families for the many wonderful
moments we have been able to share
and witness together. They are part of
us now. We hope you all have an
enjoyable summer and come back to
see us in the fall.
~ Donna Stusser, Melissa Wood, and
Erin Hallinan
June 9, 2011
Messenger | 9
Messenger Marketplace
Community Enrichment
Services Offered/Needed
Planet Organics would love you to join our
community of happy customers! We’ve been
bringing organic, local, produce and groceries to
the doorsteps of many households for over 14
years.As members of Summerfield, ourselves,
we’d like to make you a special offer. For every
new customer sign-up, you will not only receive
$5.00 off your first order, but we will give $10.00
directly to the school! Please use the promotion
code: Summer 2011, on the bottom of your order. www.planetorganics.com.
Summer Carpentry Projects by Farmer Dan
Do you need a chicken coop, fencing, deck repair, shelving, painting, sheet
rock, book cases, etc? Many favorable SWSF family references,
reasonable rates, child friendly. Call Farmer Dan at 526-3917.
Need Help??? Weekends and Summer Student Workers
Available for Hire
High School 11th Grade "Students For Hire" Program: Do you need help
with gardening, painting, childcare, tutoring, catering, house sitting,
cleaning, moving, or pet care??? These dedicated students will bring their
strong hands and willing attitudes to your home or business to help you.
The 11th grade is fundraising now for their 12th grade trip to Dornach,
Switzerland in April 2012 where they plan to perform for the International
Waldorf Teachers' Conference. Please call Pamela Carty, parent
coordinator, phone # 579-1631, to arrange for a student worker. We ask a
minimum donation of $10 an hour. Remember, it's a very good cause.
Thanks for your support.
June 17 – 19 The Esoteric Trials of Humanity Leading
to the Rose of the World : Penetrating the Spiritual
Condition of our Time
Led by Karen Rivers and Robert Powell. This years’ annual conference of
the Sophia Foundation of North America will be held at Sophia’s
Sanctuary, Sebastopol. Sacred dance and a Sophia Grail circle will be
included. Email: sophia@sophiafoundation.org • Phone: 415-522-1150.
Classes/Training
Summer Camp
7-11 years olds: looking for some lakeside fun in Sebastopol this summer?
Come join two Waldorf Seniors this July for swimming, French baking,
photography nature walks, kayaking, and more! Check out our blog at
www.sebastopolsummercamp.info!!
Summer Preschool with Ms. Catherine now Enrolli ng
Join Ms. Catherine in the Rosebud classroom and play yard at
Summerfield for gardening and singing, playing and baking, simple crafting
and storytelling. Seven sessions beginning June 13th. Tuition is $150 per
week. Flyers and registration materials are in the main office and in the
foyer of the Rosebud Preschool classroom. For information, please call Ms.
Catherine at 575-7194 ext. 322.
Marigold Playgarden
Waldorf home preschool for 3-5-year-old children is accepting applications
for fall. Rhythmical days include imaginative playtime, morning circle,
stories and puppetry, as well as, baking, cooking, painting, and seasonal
crafts in a joyful setting. We are located in Sebastopol and offer 2-day, 3day, and 4-day options, Tues- Fri, 9am-1pm. Please call Jennifer Bowen
for more information, 824-9127. Summer Camp at Marigold Playgarden for
3 1/2 - 6 year olds. Come join us for summer fun at our Waldorf home
based camp in Sebastopol! Wonderful crafts, cooking, organic snacks,
story time and creative play with a Summerfield early childhood teacher
and helpers. Mon - Thur, 9am-1pm, 5 sessions to choose from June 20 July 21, $150 per session. Please call Jennifer Bowen, 824-9127.
Singing and Piano Lessons
Strong classical foundation, contemporary styles as well (e.g. theater style
for voice). I have lots of experience teaching Waldorf students. (Member
Music Teachers Assoc. of California and National Assoc. of Teachers of
Singing). Mary Beard 546-8782
Playing-Based Approach to Music Theory
Pitches, scales, melody, harmony, rhythm. Contact Nadia Gardner,
nadiargardner@gmail.com, http://www.nadiagardner.com
For Sale/Rent/Needed
Violin for Sale
For Sale - 1/2 size Suzuki violin with nice tone, hard case and new bow
strings. Very well cared for. $250. Please call Catherine at 829-2879.
Messenger Marketplace
lots of trees. Non smoker. Near bike trail, approx 4 mi. to SWSF. Call
Annalyce (707) 235-9179.
Fair Oaks Home For Sale!
Walk to Sacramento Waldorf, Rudolf Steiner College and American River
Parkway! Spacious 4 bedroom, 3 bath with remodeled kitchen, bamboo
floors, dual pane windows, newer central heat & air, 3 car garage. Built-in
pool and relaxing covered deck. $489,500. Angela Gitt - Lyon RE - CA
DRE Lic# 01132561 - SWS Grad & Past Parent - Top Fair Oaks Agent with
over 20 years experience. (916)224-5843 or angelagitt@aol.com. More
information at www.angelagitt.com.
Home Exchange
Los Angeles Waldorf family seeking home exchange for 1-2 weeks starting
July 16th or before! Flexible on dates . Below is a link to many photos of
our home. Thanks! Email scottyweil@mac.com for more info, or visit:
https://www.homeexchange.com/account/?tab=my_listings.
New Family Looking for Rental
A new family to Summerfield is looking for a house to rent in the vicinity of
the school or in the Sebastopol area or anywhere that can be easy for
commuting down south for work. We are a family of four. We need at least
three bedrooms, and it will be nice to have a big back yard for gardening.
Please contact Vered or Rinat: (415)662-4616; rabastado@gmail.com.
Program Space Available
A beautiful space for a summer or long-term program is available July 1st.
Large high-ceiling rooms, many lazured smaller rooms, three bathrooms,
full kitchen, private yard, and ample storage. Please call Mulberry Farm,
(415) 507-5037.
Mulberry Farm Summer Day Camp
F o r S a l e / Re n t / N e e d e d , C o n t i n u e d
Join us for a fun-filled summer experience, that focuses on developmental
movement and social interaction skills through nature and arts.Children,
Kindergarten through 8th Grade, will enjoy swimming, games, crafts,
gymnastics, and more! Dates: July 18 - 22 through July 25 - 29, 9am-2pm,
daily. Please call Mulberry Farm for registration information, (415) 5075037. Space is limited. Located in Santa Rosa, five minutes from
Summerfield.
Rick Concoff Violins
Looking for Rental
Quality string instruments for rent or sale at below-market best prices. Rent
to own as well. Accessories available too! Call Rick at 823-3916 for an
appointment.
Veteran parent and long-standing friend of SWSF (living on student's
budget) looking for rental in Sebastopol or W Santa Rosa. Space to
accommodate some furniture and craft projects. Flexible re: studio or
multiple BR to share; willing to exchange time caring for children or elders
(20+ yrs exper. in home care, parent of 2 independent adult children, extra
lesson trainee). Employed and responsible. Please contact Christine
Badura at badura88@hotmail.com or 707-494-6741 with leads.
Looking for a House Mate
I, Isabel Wundsam, am opening my house (Sebastopol, close to
downtown) to a new housemate. I can offer one private room in a spacial
beautiful home and a guest room with a big yard in a very desirable, quiet
neighborhood for $925/month. It's worth it!!!Since I am a High School
teacher of the arts and a musician, I would ideally need someone who also
loves having "old" music in the house; I practice and sometimes rehearse
and entertain in the common areas; I have spontaneous dinners together,
but I am not a "party hardy". I like to be green and live as close to the earth
as possible, which includes having a big, productive garden in the back
yard. In short: I am thinking that our place is ideal for a sociable, mature,
music-loving working person. iWundsam@sonic.net.
Unicycle for Sale
In good condition; 16" black. "Sun" brand. $45. Please call 824-0783.
Home for Rent
Lovely 2 bd 700-sf granny w/privacy. Woodstove, harddwood flrs, lots of
light. $1200/mo inc W/D, water, internet, sewer, garbage. Room to garden,
Messenger
655 Willowside Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Visit us online at
www.summerfieldwaldorf.org
Volunteer Building Project on the Farm
The Farm will be starting a five-day-a-week farm market at the packing shed and
we’re looking for someone who can help build shelving to hold the
bushel baskets that will display the produce. Email me at
dana@summerfieldwaldorf.org should you be able to help with the shelving.
We’re also looking for donated 1-quart yogurt containers which will
be used for distributing our bio- dynamic, Summerfield Compost
Tea. The containers can be dropped off at the packing shed.
Thank you!
~Farmer Dana