Fairhill School and Diagnostic Assessment Center | 16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248 | Phone 972.233.1026 | Fax 972.233.8205 | www.fairhill.org

Volume 16 | Number 2 | July 2012

School news, information and events

Senior Class of 2012 Pages 2-3

Texas Road TripPage 8

Ann Flores Minnis Back Cover

A Year of Lasting MemoriesAs each school year comes to a close, we hope our students have learned and grown academically, socially and emotionally as well as created lifetime memories. What were the memories and, most importantly, what lessons did they teach? What events stood out, were they in the classroom, on school trips, in sporting events, art class or theater? School trips certainly have opportunities to create lasting memories such as the trip to London, The Outdoor School and the Texas Road Trip. Some memories might be related to a breakthrough moment such as when a student finally understands math or reading gets easier. A student might always remember when they developed a love of art, theater, music or an interest in science or history. Most people remember a favorite teacher, the one who left a lasting imprint on their life, the one that sparked a love of reading or the one who really made learning fun. We share this newsletter with you with highlights of the year that represent a few of these lasting memories.

This publication also is to recognize the many people who contribute time, money and effort to our school. The Gala/Auction and Golf Tournament keep our technology current, and the Annual Fund Campaign and Parent Council raise funds that provide the extras that tuition does not cover. We are especially appreciative of the new digital message board at the entrance to the campus. Fundraising efforts of the Parent Council provided this as well as a new Smartboard for a math classroom. We also recognize the talented faculty, staff and Board of Directors.

Thanks to all who help provide an academic oasis to learning-different students, helping them thrive, not just survive their educational journey.

Please enjoy this publication highlighting the 2011-2012 school year.Jane Sego

Parent’s Corner My son will be a junior at Dallas Baptist University. He had an awesome semester, 4-A’s and 1-B. My six years of driving him to Fairhill School from 6th grade through 12th grade has paid off. He and I truly have a testimony to share with other parents of children with Dyslexia and Dysgraphia.

Farewell to Fairhill Class of 2012The Fairhill Class of 2012 received their diplomas in a formal ceremony at Bentwood Trail Presbyterian Church on May 31st. Speakers from the class included Adam Neifach, Valedictorian; Nicholas Gierczach, Salutatorian; and Stephanie Sims, Salutatorian. Class member, Michael Martinez, played Beethoven Sonata 8, 2nd Movement, “Pathetique”. Mr. Ray McDonald, highly successful team leader at Zija International, who also struggles with learning differences, was the keynote speaker. He challenged each student to: know who you are; accept who you are; and believe you can become whoever you want to be. The graduates were presented their diplomas by Mr. Roy Pendergrass, Fairhill Board of Directors and Mrs. Melinda Cameron, Head of Upper School. Following the ceremony, a reception was held in the graduates’ honor at Fairhill School.

Fairhill Senior Class of 2012

Senior Class of 2012Back row from left: Michael Martinez, Neil Rickoff, Adam Neifach, Sam Wieland, Jazmine Austin, Patrick Belshe, Kelly Vivian, Hunter Harty, Alex Gregory, Preston Sokol, Thomas Hodges, Ryan Baldelli, Connor McNeil, Lindsey Williams, Emily Latham, Lori Mayo, Stephanie Sims, Katie Osten, Nicholas Gierczak, and Trent Galvis

Fairhill Class of 2012 Salutatorian Stephanie Sims, Valedictorian Adam Neifach and Salutatorian Nick Gierczak

Graduates and their future plans:

Jazmine Austin Grand Canyon University

Ryan Baldelli Collin College

Patrick Belshe Southwest Baptist University

Trent Galvis Brookhaven College

Nicholas Gierczak Texas Tech

Alex Gregory Texas A&M Galveston

Hunter Harty Tabor College

Thomas Hodges Collin College

Emily Latham Weatherford College

Michael Martinez University of North Texas

Lori Mayo Collin College

Connor McNeil Richland College

Adam Neifach Texas A&M

Katie Osten Pursuing a career in photography

Neil Rickoff University of Alabama

Stephanie Sims Stephen F. Austin

Preston Sokol Texas A&M Galveston

Kelly Vivian Xavier College

Sam Wieland Columbia College Chicago

Lindsey Williams Oklahoma Christian University

Fairhill Senior Class of 2012

Mrs. Melinda Cameron, Head of Upper School, presented Trent Galvis his diploma.

Lindsey Williams, Lori Mayo, Stephanie Sims and Katie Osten took an elephant ride at Scarborough Faire.

Ethan Hull presented his buddy, Hunter Harty with his graduation mortarboard at the Cap and Gown Ceremony.

Scarborough Faire SeniorsEach year Fairhill seniors attend School Day at Scarborough Faire. Experiencing 16th century life in Britain at the renaissance festival is a highlight of the year! Accompanied by teachers Jennifer Allen and Jo Prees, seniors gathered for candid and group shots on the beautiful site near Waxahachie.

“Falcons are the Future 2011-2012”Your generous donations enable Fairhill to fulfill its mission of providing an affordable yet stellar education to our bright students with learning differences. The students, faculty, staff, and parents of Fairhill want everyone to know how thankful we are for your tremendous support. Thank you.

Sincerely,Cathryn and John St. WrbaParent Campaign Chairs

Founders Society$3000 and aboveJ. W. Bagley Foundation/ Mr. Mark BagleyTexas Medical & Surgical Association/ Dr. and Mrs. Don Cheatum Mrs. W. K. Gordon, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. William Hardcastle In Honor of Will HardcastleMr. and Mrs. Kee KimbrellMr. Charles LathemDallas Jewish Community Foundation/ Mr. and Mrs. Eliot RaffkindThe Ginger Murchison Foundation, Mr. Don Wills, President/ Mrs. Lisa Whisler

Chairman’s Circle$1000-$2999Mr. Tom BakerMr. and Mrs. Kevin BerkemeierMr. and Mrs. E. Paul BighamMr. and Mrs. Greg BlackMr. and Mrs. Tom CarseMr. and Mrs. Gary W. DennisMr. and Mrs. John M. DziminskiMr. and Mrs. Russell FerraroMr. and Mrs. Richard Greco/ William & Sylvia Zale FoundationMr. and Mrs. Donald Hallum In Honor of Max McKinneyMr. and Mrs. Baron HammanMr. and Mrs. Thomas HanftMr. and Mrs. Richard JonesMr. and Mrs. Timothy KasprowiczMr. and Mrs. Robert KralMr. and Mrs. Steve LevineLuther King Capital Management/ Mr. Vince MelashenkoMr. and Mrs. William H. Peirson, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Paul PlunketMr. Frank SchneiderMr. Bill Bell and Ms. Jane SegoMr. and Mrs. William SickMr. and Mrs. Robert VintMr. and Mrs. Rick Wieland/ James Donald Duke Partnership

Falcon Club$500-$999Mr. and Mrs. Michael BaileyMr. and Mrs. Randall Burrow In Honor of Nick BurrowMr. and Mrs. Robert CollinsMs. Lena Flores and Ms. Christie Congleton OTSL Charities, Ms. Gwyneith Black, Executive Director/on behalf of Homer SmithMr. and Mrs. Mike ReichensteinMr. and Mrs. John RickerbyMr. and Mrs. Rashmin Savani In Honor of Meera SavaniMr. and Mrs. Scott SchneiderMr. and Mrs. Terry SlatteryMr. and Mrs. David StanfordMr. and Mrs. Jason StrongMr. and Mrs. Donald UpdegraffMr. and Mrs. Tim Whisler, Sr.Mr. Doug and Dr. Connie WilsonMr. Tom Wolf

Sustaining Member$300-$499Ms. Sheau Chin Chang In Honor of Zachary Grubbs Ms. Stephani Hopper In Honor of Jewel HopperMr. and Mrs. Charles R. Jack In Honor of Kirsti JackMr. and Mrs. James PopeMr. and Mrs. H. Glen Robertson In Honor of Ian RobertsonMr. and Mrs. Harold Sickler Mr. and Mrs. Gary SligarMr. and Mrs. Kent StoneMr. John Sunny and Ms. Elizabeth John Mr. and Mrs. Jerry VancielMs. Claudia VasquezMr. and Mrs. Bill Willoughby

Friend of FairhillUp to $299Mr. and Mrs. Brantley Allen In Memory of Linda StewartMs. Mary Ann AlmackMr. and Mrs. Martin AppellMr. and Mrs. Vernon BaileyMr. and Mrs. Robert BardwellMr. and Mrs.William K. BarnardMr. and Mrs. Kenneth Bartley In Memory of Lindsay BartleyMr. Tony BellisimoMrs. Mildred Bellows In Honor of Trevor MalloyMr. and Mrs. David BennettMrs. Donna BledsoeMrs. Krista Bomar-Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Ken BoozerMr. and Mrs. Lee BurtonMr. and Mrs. Terry CameronMr. and Mrs. Sergio CamposMr. and Mrs. Allan CantorMr. Dave Cary In Honor of Stacy Cary

Mr. and Mrs. Virgil Castelli In Honor of Alex CastelliMr. and Mrs. Timothy CastelliMr. Joseph Champ and Ms. Polly Holyoke Mr. and Mrs. Mark CopelandMr. and Mrs. Ron CrossMr. and Mrs. Kirk Dallas In Honor of Mary L. TeasdaleMr. and Mrs. Robert DornMr. and Mrs. R. Scott DowningMr. and Mrs. Richard EckleMr. and Mrs. Melchior EloutMr. and Mrs. Mart FinnellMr. and Mrs. Grady FirminMr. and Mrs. Jim FraleyMs. Meg French In Honor of Hunter StokesMr. and Mrs. Larry Garner In Honor of Hayden StrongMr. and Mrs. Guillermo GarzaMr. and Mrs. Terrance GibbonsMr. and Mrs. Terry Gorman In Memory of Leonard HarmeyerMrs. Patricia Gorman In Honor of Katie GormanMr. and Mrs. Robert GrafMr. and Mrs. D. W. GrayMr. and Mrs. Steve GumbertMr. and Mrs. Robert Hamby, IIIMr. and Mrs. Albert HanftMs. Amy Harmon-BurrowMr. and Mrs. Glenn HennigMr. and Mrs. Billy HensleyMr. and Mrs. Robert HiltsMr. and Mrs. Gwynn HodgesDr. and Mrs. Wayne HoffmanMr. and Mrs. Ken HoodMr. and Mrs. Fred HullMr. and Mrs. Doug JohnsonMs. Sheryl JonesMiss Deni KingtonMr. and Mrs. Joel KirshenbaumMr. and Mrs. Jeffrey KohnleMr. Kevin LaborMs. Melissa LaborMr. Kevin Lambert In Honor of Garren LambertMr. and Mrs. Neil LangeMrs. Pat Lange In Honor of Nick LangeMr. and Mrs. Jerome LavaultMr. and Mrs. Dennis LencioniMr. and Mrs. Jim LewisMr. and Mrs. Gregory Lowry In Honor of Alyssa LowryMr. and Mrs. Bradley Luna In Honor of Kasey LunaMr. and Mrs. John LunaMs. Marnie MacLennanMr. and Mrs. Paul MartinezMr. and Mrs. Randy McAfee In Honor of Fairhill 6th Grade TeachersMr. and Mrs. Greg McCandlessMr. and Mrs. Randy McElroyDr. and Mrs. Charles W. McKeehan In Honor of Molly McKeehanMr. and Mrs. Mark McKeehanMr. and Mrs. David McKinney

Ms. Linda McNeil In Honor of Connor McNeilDrs. Tony and Mary McRae In Honor of Annie McRaeMr. and Mrs. Wade MercerDrs. Bruce Meyer and Christie Little Ms. Leigh MillerMr. and Mrs. Michael MillerMr. and Mrs. Chuck MixDr. and Mrs. Mark Mlcak In Memory of Linda StewartMr. and Mrs. W. Z. MorganMr. and Mrs. Michael MunirMs. Amy Myrin In Honor of Nicole MyrinMr. and Mrs. Keith NeifachMr. and Mrs. Clif NixonMr. and Mrs. William NowakMr. and Mrs. Chahe OhannessianMr. and Mrs. Jerry OlivarezMr. and Mrs. Roger Owen In Honor of Asher BrownfieldMrs. Lené Westerman PecorariMr. and Mrs. W. L. Pendergrass, Jr.Ms. Jeanann PirtleMr. and Mrs. John Dale Powers In Honor of Preston CramerMs. Shonda L. Robertson In Honor of Christian RobertsonMs. Caisey Robertson In Honor of Ian RobertsonMr. and Mrs. Rob SanchezMr. and Mrs. Alan SandgartenMr. and Mrs. Frank SauerMrs. Kathryn Scott Scoper In Honor of Hannah HowardMr. and Mrs. Brad SewellMr. Anwar Shaikh and Mrs. Ghazala Malik Mr. and Mrs. Alan ShawMr. and Mrs. Sami ShawwaMr. and Mrs. Sam SivaponMs. Dani SmithMr. and Mrs. Homer Smith, Jr. In Honor of Homer Smith, IIIMr. and Mrs. Raymond StoneMr. and Mrs. John St. WrbaMr. and Mrs. Pape Swanson Mr. and Mrs. Tommy ThompsonMr. and Mrs. Ken UtzMr. and Mrs. Jeff Van HessMs. Cheryl Klampe-Van HessMr. and Mrs. Dan WaldronMr. and Mrs. Randall WarmbrodtMr. and Mrs. Donald WendellMr. and Mrs. Tim Whisler Mr. and Mrs. Tim Whisler, Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Charles WigginsMr. and Mrs. Scott WigginsMr. and Mrs. John Wills In Honor of David WillsMr. and Mrs. Roger WilsonMs. Tish Woodruff In Honor of Hunter Stokes

Auction Donors1st and 2nd Grade Class3rd Grade Class4th Grade Class5th Grade Class6th Grade Class7th Grade Class8th Grade Class9th Grade Class10th Grade Class11th Grade Class12th Grade ClassAcademic OutfittersAdventure LandingAimbridge HospitalityMr. and Mrs. Brantley AllenAmerica’s Ice GardenMrs. Claudia BaileyMr. and Mrs. Rick BaldelliBalfourMr. and Mrs. Michael BauerMr. and Mrs. William BaylesBeaute DeJourBehringerHarvardMrs. Mildred BellowsBentley’s Art & FrameMr. and Mrs. Kevin BerkemeierMrs. Sandy BighamBilly Bob’s TexasMr. and Mrs. Kenneth BoozerMr. and Mrs. Tim BrewtonBrookhaven Country ClubMr. and Mrs. Joe BrunoGood Eats RestaurantsMr. and Mrs. Terry CameronCantina LaredoMr. and Mrs. Allan CantorCanyons Rock ClimbingCaptivating Images Portrait StudioMr. and Mrs. Joey CarterMr. and Mrs. Dave CaryMr. and Mrs. Tim CastelliMr. and Mrs. Virgil CastelliChamp Hospitality Dr. Richard J. Chapman Terry L. Carano, DDSDr. and Mrs. Don CheatumClinic EstheticaClub Corp North Texas RegionColdwater CreekCooper Aerobic CenterMr. and Mrs. Steve CosgroveCowboys StadiumCSDMr. and Mrs. Owen CurryDallas Art & DesignDallas StarsDallas Summer MusicalsDallas Symphony OrchestraMr. and Mrs. Kirk DallasDave and Busters Corporate OfficeMs. Ashley DavidsonMr. and Mrs. Wayne DennisDiamond DoctorMr. and Mrs. Xavier DominicisMs. Marea DowneyMr. and Mrs. Dwight DumlerEisemann CenterEquinoxEssensuals LondonExposure Indoor Rock ClimbingFairhill Mom’s Book ClubMr. and Mrs. Russell Ferraro

Mr. and Mrs. Mart FinnellMr. and Mrs. Grady FirminMr. and Mrs. Chris FogartyMr. and Mrs. Earl FogartyFor Those About to Rock SchoolFour Seasons Hotel and ResortFriends of FairhillFt. Worth Botanical GardensFt. Worth Museum of Science and HistoryFt. Worth ZooG Family DentistryMr. and Mrs. Guillermo GarzaGatti Town North DallasMr. and Mrs. Terry GibbonsMs. Diane GibsonMr. and Mrs. Amit GilatGlass Gone WildGlen Eagles Country ClubGolf Club of McKinneyMr. and Mrs. Dave GrayHalf Price BooksMs. Amy Harmon-BurrowMr. and Mrs. Craig HatzmannMr. and Mrs. Rob HiltsMr. and Mrs. Doug HodgesMr. and Mrs. Gwynn HodgesDr. and Mrs. Wayne HoffmanMs. Polly Holyoke and Mr. Joseph ChampMr. and Mrs. Ken HoodMr. and Mrs. Fred HullHuntington Learning CenterMr. and Mrs. Curt HurshIce-Skating Center at the GalleriaJackson’s Home and Garden Ms. Sue Reese JewettMr. and Mrs. Art JohnsonMs. Sarah KadeyMr. and Mrs. Kee KimbrellMs. Deni KingtonMr. and Mrs. George KirklandMr. and Mrs. Jeff KohnleMr. and Mrs. Bill KruegerL’AncestralMr. and Mrs. Neil LangeLe Beau Visage Medical SpaMr. and Mrs. Steve LevineMr. and Mrs. Jim LewisLiberty BurgerLiberty SportDr. Christie Little and Dr. Bruce MeyerLone Star Park at Grand PrairieMaggiano’s Little Italy RestaurantMarket Street GroceryMarshall’s Catering & Special EventsMr. and Mrs. Paul MartinezMr. and Mrs. Randy McAfeeMr. and Mrs. Greg McCandlessMr. and Mrs. Randy McElroyMr. and Mrs. Ed MeeksMr. and Mrs. Wade Mercer MesomayaMs. Tam Warner MintonDr. and Mrs. Samuel MitzMr. and Mrs. Chuck MixDr. and Mrs. Mark MlcakMuseum of Natural HistoryMuseum of the American RailroadMy Diamond ShoppeNate’s Seafood and Steakhouse

Mr. and Mrs. Keith NeifachNeuhaus CafeMr. and Mrs. Clif NixonMr. and Mrs. Jerry OlivarezOur Little Secret JewelryPalm Beach TanPayless Tire, Inc.Mr. and Mrs. Bill PearsonPetals and StemsPetland DallasPicasso’sPlano Body Wrap ShopMr. and Mrs. Paul PlunketPolly DuPont ChinaPremier DiamondsPrestonwood Counseling CenterPrestonwood Country ClubMr. and Mrs. Eliot RaffkindMs. Patty ReaganRed Door Spa and SalonREI - Recreation Equipment Inc.Rent-A-CenterMr. and Mrs. John RickerbyRidgeview Ranch Golf CourseSafe Start Driving SchoolSalon Ana BellaMr. and Mrs. Frank SauerScapes, Inc.Schlitterbahn in GalvestonSchlitterbahn Waterpark & ResortScholastic Book CompanyScotty P’sMs. Jane Sego and Mr. Bill BellMr. and Mrs. Harold SicklerMr. and Mrs. William SickSimoniz Wash DepotMr. and Mrs. Sam SivaponSix Flags Over TexasMr. and Mrs. Terry SlatterySouthern BotanicalSouthwest AirlinesSpeedzone of DallasMr. and Mrs. John St. WrbaMr. and Mrs. David StanfordMs. Kathy StoneStudio Movie GrillMr. and Mrs. Pape SwansonSwitchMr. and Mrs. Jeffrey TaylorTexas Rangers BaseballTexas Tornado HockeyThe Dallas ArboretumThe Lash LoungeThe Mat Yoga Studio, LLCThe Original Pancake HouseThe Palace of Wax & Ripley’s Believe It or NotThe Pizza GuyThe Renaissance HotelTip Top Nails & SpaMr. and Mrs. Joseph TrottaTupinamba RestaurantMr. and Mrs. John TurekTurtle Creek ChoraleTwin Creeks Golf ClubTwo Brothers CigarsUncle JuliosUniquely YoursMr. and Mrs. Don UpdegraffMr. and Mrs. Jerry VancielMs. Claudia VazquezMr. and Mrs. Kevin VivianMs. Nancy WaldronMr. and Mrs. Randall Warmbrodt

Ms. Lené WestermanMr. and Mrs. Scott WigginsMr. and Mrs. Bill WilloughbyMr. and Mrs. John WillsWoodbridge Golf ClubZiziki’s

Golf Tournament Sponsors and Donors

Platinum SponsorsCollin Gibson In memory of Robert Gibson

Gold SponsorsMr. Russell Ferraro and Alec and Cal For Rent Media SolutionsDrs. Barron and Susan Hamman and JackMr. and Mrs. Eliot Raffind and Michael

Silver SponsorsTonti Properties

Student/Teacher SponsorsDutton & Sickler Properties, LLCMr. and Mrs. Robert Kral and Graham

Hole SponsorsThe Cheatum Family Collin GibsonThe Hamman FamilyThe Ferraro FamilyFor Rent Media SolutionThe Lathem FamilyThe McCandless FamilyThe Raffkind FamilyThe St. Wrba FamilyTonti PropertiesTwo Brothers Cigars

DonorsMr. and Mrs. Rick BaldelliBear Creek Golf ClubBehringerHarvardBody and Soul Massage TherapyEdwin Watts GolfMr. and Mrs. Ken HoodIndian Creek Golf ClubJorg’s Cafe ViennaKelly’s Eastside RestaurantMr. and Mrs. Matthew LathamMs. Ghazala MalikPark Place LexusMr. and Mrs. John RickerbySchachter PhotographyMr. Dennis ShirleyStitchin’ ChicksTwin Creeks Golf ClubTwo Brothers CigarsUpper CrustMr. and Mrs. Kevin VivianDr. and Mrs. Roger Wilson

Great effort has been made to acknowledge every donor. Please advise the school office if your name has inadvertently omitted. You gift is important.

Fairhill Mardi Gras Gala Raises $50,000 for Technology

Creative Minds

Fairhill parents, staff, board members, alumni, and friends enjoyed an evening of fundraising at the “Mardi Gras” Gala and Auction. The annual event, held March 3rd at the Renaissance Hotel in Richardson featured a great dinner, music and dancing to the sounds of Soul to Soul/Mile 21 Band, in addition to spirited live and silent auctions. Co-chairs Carolyn Cheatum, Jennifer Kimbrell, and Vickie McCandless and their committee volunteers transformed the hotel ballroom into a lively New Orleans scene. CBS 11/TXA 21 Meteorologist Jeff Jamison, who served as Master of Cermonies, teamed up with Dr. E.T. Boon, Auctioneer, to bring top bids for the live auction items.

Creative CommunicationsCongratulations to Lori Mayo and Stephanie Sims! Their poems were chosen second semester by Creative Communications, an online writing competition which offers both essay and poetry contests each fall and spring. These contests are highly competitive, as they are open to all students across the United States. Last fall, Mrs. Allen’s English students entered poems they wrote for class. Congratulations to the following students who impressed the judges and were selected for publication: Andrew Appell, Trent Edmonds, Andrew Russell, Alexander Sewell, Garrett St. Wrba, Devon Taylor, Nicole Wilson, Hunter Harty and Lori Mayo.

Fairhill Mardi Gras Gala and Auction Co-chairs Vickie McCandless, Jennifer Kimbrell and Carolyn Cheatum

Lori Mayo and Stephanie Sims

Krewe RoyaltyCity Sprint 1.800.DeliverMr. and Mrs. Russell FerraroDr. William K. Gordon, III

Gold KnightsMr. and Mrs. Xavier DominicisDrs. Baron and Susan HammanDr. and Mrs. Jerry HuttonMr. Charles LathemDr. and Mrs. Roger Wilson

Purple DukesMr. and Mrs. Don CheatumMr. and Mrs. Paul PlunketMs. Jane Sego and Mr. Bill Bell

Green LordsMr. and Mrs. Eliot RaffkindMr. and Mrs. Harold SicklerMr. and Mrs. Pape SwansonDr. Connie and Mr. Doug Wilson

GALA/AUCTION SPONSORS AND DONORS

2011 Yearbook“Live, Love, Laugh, Learn” yearbook, won 2nd place in TAPPS District and 5th place in TAPPS State. Yearbook students Preston Sokol, Sponsor Jo Prees, Noah Adams, Trevor Malloy, Hunter Harty, Lindsey Williams, and Lori Mayo celebrated after the announcement.

Vogel Alcove CenterAs a gift of remembrance for the children at Vogel Alcove Center, Fairhill Art students created door murals to decorate the Dutch doors.

Journalism DayTim Cheatum, Stuart Sickler, and Nick Orr attended The Dallas Morning News’ 21st annual High School Journalism Day at SMU with their Fairhill advisor Mrs. Karen Boozer. More than 300 students from North Texas schools participated in workshops.  

Art TAPPS State 2012 Wyatt McReynolds – 1st Place in PrintmakingLori Mayo – 4th Place in Graphic DesignNick Gierczak – 4th Place in PrintmakingAmber Yen – 3rd Place tie in Art History and 4th Place in Photograph

From left: Lori Mayo, Wyatt McReynolds, Landon Cheatum, Amber Yen, Nicholas Gierczak, Adam Neifach, Devon Taylor and Jenna Smith.

Texas Road TripMuch history, modern day government in action and entertainment greeted seventh graders on the annual 7th Grade Texas Road Trip. Highlights of the trip were: Washington on the Brazos, Johnson Space Center, San Jacinto Monument, Battleship Texas, The Alamo, The Riverwalk in San Antonio, The Whitte Museum, Natural Bridge Caverns and the state capitol in Austin.

Educational Travels

Lauren Minnis, Maddie Hodgson, Lauren Badura, Jessica Rickerby, and Isabella Serrano took time for a “fun photo” while touring the Johnson Space Center.

Seventh graders toured the historic Alamo in San Antonio.

Outdoor SchoolThe Outdoor School in the beautiful Texas Hill Country lived up to its legacy of challenging and fun learning experiences for fifth and sixth grade students. They learned about themselves, their environment, and their peers. The educational activities included: water quality studies, birding, rocks and minerals, archaeology, hiking, swimming, archery, climbing and kayaking. It was a fun filled three day trip loaded with memories!

Dallas ArboretumFirst and second graders attended “Butterflies and Blossoms” at the Dallas Arboretum. After the class the students were excited to see the “Chihuly at the Arboretum” exhibit.

Students from Mrs. Betty Sue Finnell’s art classes had a photography field trip to photograph pieces from the “Chihuly at the Dallas Arboretum” exhibit.

Will Hardcastle found kayaking to be a great water sport!

Fifth grader Richard Fogarty successfully completed the High Ropes Challenge Course.

From left: Mrs. Suzy Gibbons, Mrs. Gail Berkemeier, Ethan Hull, Tucker Bauer, Kevin Bernstein, Stephen Vazquez, Ameen Shawwa, Ethan Munir and Allie Nowak

From left back row: Adam Neifach, Josh Reese, Emily Schneider, Landon Cheatham, Amber Yen, Nick Gierczak, Trent Galvis, Ethan Kohnle, Madeline Mengden, Molly McKeehan, Katie Strahan, Lori Mayo, Miranda Davis,Ethan Pierce, and Cole McCandless.

Leeds Castle is the setting for this group photo.

Matthew Bagley led a group in building a stick fence at Butser Iron Age Village.

London TripFrom the Tower of London to Anne Hathaway’s cottage, twenty five seniors and juniors enjoyed an eight-day educational tour of London and the surrounding English countryside. Mrs. Marea Downey, a native Brit and mom of three Fairhill alumni, helped plan the educational experience and accompanied the group. Stops included Canterbury, Stratford-on-Avon, castles, palaces, museums, parliament, and the theatre. The study abroad correlated with the British Literature curriculum required of Fairhill seniors.

Show What You Know ExpoStudents and teachers shared excitement of learning across all grade levels at Fairhill’s annual Show What You Know Expo. Classroom visitors included present and prospective families and friends.

Junior Ring CeremonyJanuary 13th was a long awaited day for the Junior Class. In a ceremony that has become a Fairhill tradition, students were presented their class rings before an audience of family, friends, upper school students and faculty.

In and Around Fairhill…Dad’s Day

On Dads’ Day, Robert and Wells Hamby spent time in art class making an African mask.

Pato Lastra

Will Hardcastle and Luke Dixon

Mrs. Melinda Cameron and Trent Edmonds

Matthew Latham, Dads’ Cookout Chairman, took a break from the grill for a photo with Fairhill senior Emily and her mom Rhonda. The Latham’s have been participating in the Dad’s Cookout since Emily came to Fairhill in 5th grade.

Dads’ CookoutDad’s Cookout Donors Mr. Michael BaileyMr. Rick BaldelliMr. Xavier DominicisMr. Russell FerraroMr. Doug JohnsonMr. Matthew LathamMr. Charles LathemMr. Jeff MizeMr. Marc MyrinMr. Thomas SalantyMr. Sami ShawwaMr. Dan Waldron

Congratulations to the bowling teams! The girls placed third and the boys placed second at the Regional Tournament. The boy’s varsity team finished ninth at the state tournament. Stephanie Sims and Hunter Harty earned college scholarships in bowling. Back row from left: Hunter Harty, Lorenzo Benavides, Wyatt McReynolds, Connor Hatzmann, Coach Mike Lewis, Trey Reichenstein, Amber Yen, Nick Wiggins. Front row: Coach Chuck Mix, Coach Lee Ann Mix, Lindsey Williams, Molly McKeehan, Stephanie Sims, Kirsti Jack and Jenna Smith

Fairhill Senior, Lindsey Williams signed with Oklahoma Christian University to be a goal keeper on the women’s soccer team. OCU is presently an NAIA school and is moving to Division II NCAA. Lindsey is pictured with her parents Tonya and Tim Williams and OCU coach Randall Robinson and Fairhill coach Tom Wiemann.

Hunter Harty, Fairhill senior, recently signed with Tabor College in Kansas. He received academic and bowling scholarships. Hunter is pictured with his family, Fairhill Coach Mike Lewis and Tabor College Head Coach Todd Zinner.

Jake Hensley and Hunter Harty place 3rd in the doubles match in the TAPPS State Tennis Tournament. The Fairhill Boys’ Tennis Team placed 3rd in the tournament.

Sports Awards & Achievements

Falcon Award recipients Lindsey Williams, Jazmine Austin, and Ryan Baldelli were congratulated by the Fairhill coaches.

IAA Basketball placed 2nd in District playoffs. Back row: Coach Joe Bruno, Dylan Scannell, Grant Gumbert, Nick Belshe, Nick Sewell, Noah Steiner, Hunter Struck. Front row: Christian Hensley, Nick Shaddox, Shimon Benklifa, Zach Hurtt, and Ari Schnitzer

Middle School Baseball: Coach Joe Bruno, Hustle Award Winner Nick Sewell, Most Valuable Player

The Fairhill golf team made it to the state playoffs after placing 3rd in district and 4th in regionals. From left: Alex Dziminski, Max McKinney, Ryan Baldelli, Kelly Vivian, Trent Edmonds, Alec Ferraro, Cal Ferraro, and Coach Tom Wiemann

Intramural Basketball TeamCoach Tom Wiemann, Scott Elout, Isaac Sivapon, Hannah Warmbrodt, Jack Miller, Nick Burrow, Sully Curry, Nick Lange, Sophia Cary, Ryan McAfee, and Ivan Ohannessian

High School Athletic Awards Varsity Soccer 1st Team All-District – Ryan Baldelli1st Team All-District – Alex Gregory2nd Team All-Distict – Alex Castelli2nd Team All-District – Trent Edmonds2nd Team All-District – Daniel Garza2nd Team All-District – Joshua Reese1st Team All-District/2nd Team All-State – Lindsey Williams Varsity Basketball (Boys) 1st Team All-District – Ryan BaldelliHonorable Mention All-District – Connor Hatzmann Varsity Basketball (Girls) 1st Team All-District – Jazmine Austin Lindsey Williams Varsity Volleyball 1st Team All-District – Katie Osten2nd Team All-District – Jazmine Austin

Varsity Mascot All American Nominee – Michael Martinez

Varisty Tennis State Qualifiers: Jazmine Austin Andrew Bitterman Hunter Harty Jacob Hensley Travis Olivarez Katie Osten

Varisty Golf State Qualifiers: Ryan Baldelli Alex Dziminski Trent Edmonds Max McKinney Kelly Vivian Varsity Cheerleading All-American Nominee: Hannah Howard Emily Latham Devon Taylor Erin Taylor Varsity Bowling 1st Team All-District/Bowler of the Year – Lorenzo Benavides 1st Team All-District/Odell Hickman Stars of Tomorrow Award – Hunter Harty1st Team All-District – Kirsti Jack1st Team All District/Bowler of the Year – Stephanie Sims2nd Team All-District – Nicholas Gierczak2nd Team All-District – Molly McKeehan2nd Team All-District – Jenna Smith2nd Team All-District – Lindsey Williams2nd Team All-District – Amber YenHonorable Mention – Nick WigginsHonorable Mention – Wyatt McReynoldsHonorable Mention – Connor Hatzmann

Falcon Award Jazmine AustinLindsey WilliamsRyan Baldelli

Cross Country State Qualifiers: Travis Olivarez Carson Olivarez Alex Castelli Kendall Wolf Lorenzo Benavides Hunter Harty

Middle School Athletic Awards IAA Soccer Most Improved – Joshua ChekHustle Award – Ivan Ohannessian IAA Volleyball Most Valuable Player – Jessie ChampMost Improved Player – Hannah HowardMost Improved Player – Taylor Waldron

IAA Basketball (Boys) Most Valuable Player – Nicholas BelsheHustle Award – Ari SchnitzerMost Improved Player – Noah Steiner

IAA Basketball (Girls) Most Valuable Player – Kaden CollinsHustle Award – Allyson AllmackMost Improved Player – Jessie Champ Intramural Basketball Outstanding Performance – Nick LangeOutstanding Performance – Ryan McAfeeMost Improved Player – Ivan Ohannessian

Middle School Baseball Most Valuable Player – Nicholas BelsheMost Improved Player – Ari SchnitzerHustle Award – Nicholas Sewell

Intramural Tennis Outstanding Performance – Nick GrayOutstanding Improvement – Nick LangeOutstanding Improvement – Ian Robertson

Fairhill Drama and Musicals

Students from Spanish II, III, and IV performed Jamleto.

The Fairhill Percussion Ensemble under the direction of Mrs. Lynn Firmin won Second Place in the band competition at Sandy Lake. Back Row from left: Sophia Cary, Erin Taylor, Luke Dixon, Nick Lange, Christiana Cary. Front row: Rayner Cross, Nick Burrow, and Kasey Luna.

JamletoOver 50 students from Spanish II, III, and IV classes participated in Jamleto, an original adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The performance was entirely in Spanish with an accompanying PowerPoint in English to help the audience follow along as the forlorn Prince Jamleto experienced familial strife.

Revenge of the Space PandasCole McCandless, Panda Two aka Boots; Nicole Wilson, Vivian Mooster; and Andrew Bitterman, Binky Rudich; performed in Revenge of the Space Pandas. The performance was directed by Deni Kington, Fairhill Performing Arts teacher.

Sing the Sixties The Lower School Performance, Sing the Sixties, was directed by Deni Kington. From left: Kasey Luna, Peyton Escher, Ali Stevens and Meera Savani.

Class of 2011Megan Marshall is a sophomore majoring in Psychology at Texas A&M-Commerce.

John McLaughlin is attending Collin College. He is majoring in Criminal Justice and made the Dean’s List second semester.

Tina Vint is attending Oklahoma State University. She joined the University Honor’s College in January 2012 and was admitted into Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.

Class of 2010Owen Harry is going into his junior year at UT Tyler. He is studying Kinesiology and is hoping to work in the medical field in Physical Therapy or Chiropractic. He is a member of the UT Tyler Div. 3 NCAA Track and Field Team. He received his Varsity letter this spring. Owen is a member of the SAE fraternity and is working at the university this summer as an Orientation Leader to greet the incoming freshmen.

Greg Loots is a junior at Texas A&M studying Food Science Technology with a minor in Business. He is very involved with the Society for Creative Anachronisms, an international middle ages reenactment group. Last year he served as Hospitalier for the group and was recently certified to be Night Marshall. This spring he was selected for Carpool, a service organization at A&M that provides safe rides on weekends in the Bryan/College Station area.

Sarah Vint has maintained her Oklahoma State University academic scholarship for her 4th year. This summer she has the wonderful opportunity to join a study abroad program for international law and accounting at Regents College, London.

Former Falcons

Mardi Gras Junior-Senior Prom-2012

Stephanie Sims and Adam Neifach danced the night away! Juniors, seniors and their dates also participated in casino games, fortune telling, and having caricatures drawn.

She was also elected Treasurer for her sorority, Delta Delta Delta.

Isaiah Williams, a junior at Dallas Baptist University, was recently named to the Academic Honors List.

Class of 2009Michael Alford is going into his senior year at Austin College. He is majoring in Business Administration and Environmental Studies. He has been on the Dean’s List since his freshman year. He is also in the Who’s Who among College Students. Michael had the opportunity to study Chinese culture and history in Beijing during the January semester. He has completed several internships in the field of business.

Class of 2008Ali Cardaropoli recently graduated from Oklahoma City University with a Bachelor of Arts in English.

Kiersten Davis will graduate in December in Secondary Education from Texas Tech and will continue to study for a Master’s Degree in Economics.

Class of 2007Joe Hill graduated from Midwestern State University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He did two internships at the U.S. District Court 5. Joe made the President’s Honor Roll during the fall semester of 2011.

David Wills graduated from the Honors Program at the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Studies with emphasis in the Middle East. His future plans include studying atShor Yoshuv Yeshiva in New York and working as a self-employed Martial Arts instructor.

Class of 2006Zach Samuels received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Radio-Television-

Film from the University of Texas in Austin in May, 2012.

Class of 1999Drew Hunziker graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas in December, 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Historical Studies.

Honor & Excellence

Physics Awards: Seniors Sam Wieland, Michael Martinez, Preston Sokol, Ryan Baldelli, and Alex Gregory were thrilled with their Physics Awards from Mr. Wade Mercer.

Fairhill Chapter of the International Thespian Society. Back row from left: Thomas Hodges, Sam Wieland, Matthew Bagley, Andrew Bitterman, Alec Ferraro, Kirsti Jack, Andrew Russell, Jonathan Gilat, Nick Orr, Tim Cheatum, Cole McCandless. Middle row: Rickie Huang, Stephanie Sims, Emily Plunket, Shae Kiely, Erin Taylor, Nicole Wilson. Front row: Patrick Belshe, Travis Olivarez, Trevor Malloy and Ryan Fischer

Tenth grader, Amber Yen received 6th Place for her art work, “Holy Night” in the 2012 Third District Congressional Art Competition. She was congratulated by Congressman Sam Johnson.

Mrs. Betty Sue Finnell presented Art Awards to: Annie McRae, Ethan Kohnle, Molly McKeehan, Lori Mayo, Amber Yen, Adam Neifach, Devon Taylor, and Trent Galvis.

16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248

FAIRHILL SCHOOL AND DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT CENTER

MISSION STATEMENT

Fairhill is dedicated to providing the best possible education to learning different students,

emphasizing each student’s unique pattern of information acquisition, processing, and expression. To accomplish this, Fairhill focuses upon academic,

social, and emotional development. Fairhill guides its students in “learning to learn.”

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

W. L. Pendergrass, Jr., Chair Tom Carse, Vice-Chair

W. K. Gordon III, Ph.D., Secretary William K. Barnard, Treasurer

John M. Gala Leslie Zale Greco

Jerry B. Hutton, Ph.D. Carol Young Marvin

Jane SegoJeffrey Siegel, Ph.D.

Karen Smith Thomas C. Thompson Connie Wilson, Ph.D.

ADMINISTRATION

Jane Sego, Executive Director

Carla Stanford, Assistant Director & Head of Lower School

Melinda Cameron, Head of Upper School

Ruth Willoughby, Director of Development & Public Relations

William K. Gordon III, Ph.D., Director of Psychological Services &

Director, Diagnostic Assessment Center

Tom Wiemann, Athletic Director

Cricket Burton, Business Manager

16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248 Phone 972.233.1026 | Fax 972.233.8205

www.fairhill.org

Shae Keily was awarded Third Place and $50.00 by the Dallas Writers’ Journal for her entry In Bloom. She is shown accepting her award from Mr. BJ Morton.

In BloomBy Shae Kiely

Flying from tree to treeSinging its harmonic song,

So entirely free,A bird with outstretched wings,

Seeing what he can see.

Growing from the ground,Reaching for the radiant sunlight

A flower’s purpose is found.With widespread petals,

A colorful beauty is spread around.

Lace your fingers with a loved one,Take a step outside

And look to the sun.Turn on the sprinklers,

Run around and have some fun.

There’s a bird flying from tree to tree, Seeing what he can see.

16150 Preston Road | Dallas, Texas 75248

FAIRHILL SCHOOL AND DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT CENTER

NON PROFIT US POSTAGE

PAID PLANO, TEXAS PERMIT NO. 181

A FRIENDLY REMINDER Former Falcons and Falcon Alumni If you have former student or alumni news to share, please call or e-mail Ruth Willoughby, Director of Development at 972-233-1026 or rwilloughby@fairhill.org.

Free $$$ for Fairhill!!!!Tom Thumb, Albertson’s, Kroger, Target Visa and Box Tops for Education offer free $$$ to Fairhill through their customer participation rebate programs.

In Memory of Ann Flores MinnisFairhill School Board of Directors 1988-2012 Fairhill School was very fortunate to have Mrs. Ann Minnis as a member of the Board of Directors for 24 years. She played a significant role in taking a small struggling school to the outstanding school it is today. She had a unique combination of being very child oriented and practical with a keen understanding of the financial underpinnings of schools and nonprofit organizations. Mrs. Minnis was especially devoted to children with learning differences, those in need, and individuals in the Hispanic culture. Her experience as Director and Grants Administrator of the Texas Instruments Foundation as well as member of the T.I. Foundation’s Board of Trustees provided unique expertise to the Fairhill Board of Directors.

Ms. Deborah G. ClevelandMr. Eric DoriotMr. Henry DoritMr. and Mrs. Dewayne GloverMs. Lois GravesMr. W.J. Hunsucker

Mr. and Mrs. Max PostMs. Linda SiresMr. and Mrs. Tommy Thompson Texas Instruments FoundationMs. Susie J. Yium

Fairhill School Scholarship FundMr. and Mrs. William Sick

IN MEMORY OF ANN MINNIS