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Class of 2024

To the Class of 2024, we are so proud of you. In all, you are O W L S. You are Open to Growth. Willing to Live your Faith. Leaders in your Community. And, you Strive to Live a Just and Joyous Life. These are the pillars we have placed on a tremendous foundation that you have laid with the help of your teachers and families. These are the pillars on which you will build your lives. Go forth and lead lives of significance. We will watch in awe. Congratulations to the Class of 2024!

The Woods Academy - Class of 2024.

This year's graduating class will attend the following schools:

About Our Graduates

Lucy has been here at The Woods for three years. Her teachers shared that Lucy is curious about the world and loves learning about new places. She is a creative spirit who shows determination and strength in overcoming all obstacles and is particularly interested in science. Lucy is a strong role model for younger students both at The Woods through her mentoring with her prayer partner, during chess as well as in her role as a counselor at a Children’s Hospital summer camp. She is a wrestler and plans to continue to pursue that in high school. Lucy participated in FLL during Grade 6 and 7. In addition Lucy is a dedicated choir student, having been involved with choir since she was in Grade 3. This year Lucy was able to take on a leadership role serving as a cantor and as the only Grade 8 student she was able to assist younger students in learning the ins and outs of choir. Her RISE project on animal shelters really illustrated her service mentality to give to those in need.

Lucy is headed to Mercersburg Academy in the fall and I am certain she will have a positive impact on that community just as she had in ours.
Thomas is a Woods lifer having been here at The Woods for 11 years. His teachers share that he has consistently shown himself to be diligent in all aspects of his life at The Woods. Thomas embodies the idea that if something is worth doing it is worth doing well. Thomas is a great friend and looks out for others, making sure to stand up for anyone who he thinks is not being treated kindly. In first grade Thomas developed a love for reading mysteries, and his love of reading continues to this day. In PE Thomas is known about Big T, and apparently he is a Dodgeball Ninja, proving impossible to get him out, which this nimbleness could certainly prove useful in the future. Thomas shines on the stage, last year as Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka and this year as Smee in Peter Pan Jr. Thomas is an exceptional chess player, he plays baseball and is active in boy scouts. He earned a Gold Medal on the National French Exam and applies himself to his studies with dedication.
 
We wish Thomas all the best as he blazes a new path at Georgetown Prep next year.

Dylan is a lifer and has been here at The Woods since Montessori. His teachers share that he is an amazing student who is a self starter. One teacher shared that Dylan is an intelligent and dedicated learner with outstanding critical thinking skills. Another shared that Dylan is a very talented student as well as a good friend to all. Dylan has an aptitude and appreciation for science and STEAM. His strong character was always on full display, whether it was conducting a parent tour for prospective families or taking part in a service project. Dylan played basketball, soccer and baseball at The Woods. He currently plays soccer and participates in taekwondo. He also participated in FLL last year.

We wish Dylan all the best next year at St. Alban’s as he continues to embrace academic challenges and lead by example.

Drew is a Wood lifer because has been here at The Woods since he was four-years. Drew is a thoughtful, caring and fun young man. Drew has always been interested in STEM and robotics and next year will be part of the STEM program at Good Counsel. He participated in the First Lego League during his sixth and seventh grade years. He contributed significantly to his group’s coding and was a leader on both teams. Drew has been playing soccer since he was 3 years old and has developed into an brilliant soccer player. He helped The Woods soocer team win the Norwood tournament this year and led the team to a one loss season. Drew is also an exceptional chess player. Recently Drew has started competitive rock climbing and he hopes to start a rock climbing club with some of his fellow Woods graduates. Drew has also excelled at playing chess while at The Woods.

We are excited to see how Drew continues to flourish at Good Counsel next year.

Asher has been at The Woods for 4 years and has been one of the friendly faces greeting our Lower School and Montessori students out front during arrival each morning. Asher and his friends arrive early each morning and live out their service towards the community through arrival duty. Asher’s RISE project focused on addressing climate change and was able to reflect on the importance of that issue in relation to leading a just and joyous life. One teacher shared that Asher excelled with the engineering challenges in 5th and 6th grade science and thrived in the hands-on environment. His arch bridge is still used as an example in class and his detailed 3-D print of Taipei 101 showed a great attention to detail. He participated in FLL during the 2021-2022 season, on the Owls EAT team which won the Core Values Award. Asher won a writing contest in 6th grade. Outside of the classroom Asher is a great cross- country runner, a skilled rock climber and he recently took up chess and got his family involved in the game. He played on The Woods soocer team that win the Norwood tournament this year and led the team to a one loss season.

We are excited for this next chapter for Asher as he attends Whitman HS and will no doubt find numerous meaningful ways to give back to that community.

Christina has been at The Woods for 3 years. Her teachers repeatedly shared that Christina is a hard worker who always wants to do her best. She is a great writer who loves creative writing and consistently puts forth her best effort. Christina is also a strong math student who is well-prepared for high school. Christina is also a great basketball player and competitive athlete who gives her best effort and perhaps most importantly a great team-mate. Christina was very helpful as a lower school basketball clinic counselor. She looked out for the younger students and tried to support and encourage them during each session. They enjoyed her leadership.

We wish Christina all the best at the Academy of the Holy Cross next year and hope she continues to shine inside and outside of the classroom.

Zé has been at the Woods for 4 years and has consistently shown that he is a trailblazer, not a follower. Ze has shown strong character throughout his time at The Woods, especially as a role model for younger students. He has proven that he is a global citizen concerned with social issues and advocating for marginalized individuals. He is interested in marine biology, which was the focus of his RISE project, and global climate change. Ze is a brilliant soccer player who helped the team win the Norwood tournament this year and led the team to a one loss season. Zé took full advantage of all of the amazing things to eat in Paris, reveling in steak-frites and various desserts. He even convinced a waitress to bring him extra fries by sadly asking for just one more fry, pretty please (in French). Clearly bilingualism has its advantages.

We wish Zé all the best next year at Dematha, and his leadership and vision.

Andrew joined The Woods in Grade 6 and has had a positive impact on our community. Andrew is very athletic, has taken up boxing, but played basketball for The Woods. Andrew is extremely gregarious and could single handedly light up a room with his personality and charisma. He always says hi to teachers-even after they no longer teach him. He strives to do well and he is willing to take time after school to meet with teachers. Andrew participated in FLL in Grade 6.

Andrew is headed to St. John’s next year and will continue to have a positive impact on that community as well.

Soraya has been at The Woods for 4 years. Soraya is a ray of sunshine and a ball of positive energy. Soraya has a good natured disposition and is always willing to help those in need.Soraya excelled with the engineering challenges in 5th and 6th grade science and thrived in the hands-on environment. Her 3-D print of the Eiffel Tower showed a great attention to detail and required a significant deal of patience to complete. It is still used as an example to 5th grade students. Participated in FLL for two seasons (6th and 7th grade). Teachers shared that they will never forget Soraya’s love of all things PANDA :) Soraya is a competitive soccer player, serving as a leader on and off the pitch. She played basketball and soccer at The Woods. Soraya has the gift of gab. I truly believe she can talk herself out of any situation. For example, her Chromebook died right before she was due to present her RISE project, so she winged the whole thing without notes and did a great job, Soraya is never afraid to be herself and you can’t slow her down. :)

Next year, The Woods will be a bit quieter, but Holton-Arms is lucky to welcome Soraya.

Noah joined The Woods in Grade 4 and during his capstone presentation he reflected that he grew a lot in and out of the classroom. Noah is a well rounded student who’s ideas go beyond imagination, someone who demonstrates curiosity and willingness to explore, especially in science. One teacher reflected that Noah was the head banker for classroom economy and took his job seriously. He was my go-to student to make sure the bankers were doing their jobs and keeping track of money going in and out. Noah played lacrosse at The Woods, and as the oldest this past season he served in a leadership role to his teammates. Noah is also a wrestler, once again taking a leadership role as he grows in the sport. Noah made a commanding performance as Augustus Gloop in Willy Wonka JR. and this year as Mr. Darling in Peter Pan, JR.

Noah is headed to St. Alban’s next year and we wish him all the best in his future.

Clementine has been a well-rounded member of The Woods for 3 years and has had a strong positive influence. Clem is an amazing athlete and great leader! She has a calming leadership style, the younger girls on The Woods soccer team really enjoyed playing with her. As a 7th grader, she joined the basketball team for the first time. She easily picked up the sport and hit a game winning 3 pointer her first season playing. Clem started her lacrosse career as a 7th grader and stuck with it as the only 8th grader to help lead the team this season. She was a great counselor for our All-Star sports camp last summer. Clem is a capable, serious student who is really set up for success next year and beyond. Clem also ran costumes for Peter Pan, JR. this year and she is also a very strong artist.

Maret is fortunate to have you, Clem, best of luck in all you do.

Dalton is a true lifer who has been at The Woods since she was 3 years old and we have been so fortunate to have you here, Dalton. At the Father Daughter dance this year your dad showed me a photo of the two of you from your first Father Daughter dance - and I understood the depth of connection to The Woods. Teachers shared that Dalton is a wonderful writer who created her own books with extremely detailed illustrations and captions. She is extraordinarily creative and artistic. She lit up the stage this year as Wendy in Peter Pan, JR. Her performance was inspired and I could see the positive influence your performance had on younger students. During her trip to Spain, Dalton’s interest in art shone through. It was impressive how profoundly interested she was in learning about the art and paintings in the Prado Museum in Spain.

Dalton is set up for success next year at Holy Cross and we wish you all the best!

Megan joined The Woods last year and has proven herself to be an inquisitive, dedicated learner. Megan is always a scholar and took her studies very seriously. She always went above and beyond in completing all of her assignments diligently and flawlessly. Megan is strong academically and even-keeled. She earned the Gold Medal on the National French Exam. Megan is a wonderful math student, and she has been so great to have in class. Megan participated in FLL for two seasons - (7th and 8th grade) and served as a Youth Mentor for FLL. She helped The Bite Sized Bakers remain organized and took notes during some of their sessions. Megan plays chess and enjoys drawing.

I am sure Megan will continue to thrive and grow next year at Bishop O’Connell.

Sarah also joined The Woods last year and has really grown. Sara is a scholar and someone who is very adept at thinking critically and being able to put her ideas on paper. Sarah went out of her comfort zone by traveling to Paris and did an amazing job, growing and learning a lot. She also earned a Silver medal on the National French Exam. Sarah is a wonderful artist and math student. Sarah enjoys painting, sculpting and drawing. She is an avid reader and enjoys Language Arts. She participated in FLL for two seasons (7th and 8th grade). She served as a Youth Mentor for FLL and shared her experience with The Bite Sized Bakers. Sarah plays chess as well.

I wish you all the best next year at Bishop O’Connell, Sarah!

Nicholas has been at The Woods since Grade 2 and has grown into a true gentleman with a tremendous moral compass. One teacher reflected that anyone who crossed paths with Nicholas was extremely fortunate. This same teacher watched him grow over the years from a timid sixth grader into a confident eighth grader! Nicholas has a particular interest in history, especially ancient history. Nicholas is a dedicated baseball player playing year round. In addition he is interested in archery and blacksmithing, he even has a forge in his backyard. Nicholas has a quiet confidence and a real interest in serving others.

Next year at St. Andrews I am confident that Nicholas will have a tremendous impact on his community.

Ryan has been at The Woods since Grade 2 and has grown tremendously. Ryan has come a long way during middle school and is clearly ready for high school. He is confident in himself and a very talented hockey player. Ryan is a talented athlete, helping the basketball team go undefeated this year and playing baseball for The Woods. Ryan played soccer for The Woods this fall and helped the team win the Norwood tournament this year as well as had a one loss season. Ryan is always in the middle of the action. His easy going disposition and ability to get along with everyone will long be remembered. Ryan is a very talented math and science student. Ryan embraced the service learning trips and opportunities this year and will hopefully continue to give back to the community in high school.

Ryan will be attending Gonzaga next year and we are confident he will continue to flourish.

Liam has been at The Woods for the past three years and has had a positive impact on countless members of our community. Liam is an extremely hard worker, in the classroom as well as on the playing field. He plays lacrosse, soccer, baseball and basketball. Liam played on The Woods soccer team this fall that won the Norwood tournament and had only one loss. Liam shows resilience and dedication, and reflected during his capstone presentation that most things worth anything are the result of hard work. Liam is a genuine person who was in his element during service learning trips. During the trips it was clear that Liam really enjoyed giving back to the community. Another teacher reflected that Liam was a joy to have in class. We all expect him to go on and be of tremendous service to others and make many meaningful contributions to the UNS. The world could use a few more Liam Mood's. Liam has a great sense of humor and a smile that lights up the room. He was also one of the best crocodiles ever in Peter Pan JR.

Liam, we wish you all the best next year at St. Johns and know that you will continue to work hard and make a difference.

Charles joined The Woods Academy this school year and quickly fit right in with the community. Charles made an immediate positive impact on the class, fitting in quickly and forming friendships. Charles is very athletic, especially on the basketball court. Charles helped lead the basketball team to an undefeated season. Charles showed tremendous growth during his time here at The Woods, he has been open, reflective and introspective. He has really leaned into a positive growth mindset and being in service to others.

Charles will be attending St. John’s next year and we wish him well both on the court and in the classroom.

Graham has been at The Woods since Grade 4 and has had a positive impact on everyone he comes in contact with. He is a committed learner with an intrinsic desire to learn and grow. He is civil, polite, and scholarly. His genuine concern for others is exemplary and he is the "glue" which brings many of these students together. He shows initiative both as a student and pitches in to help others without even being asked. Graham has a big heart and is a great friend, often serving as a peacekeeper amongst his friends and fellow students. Graham was an important contributor to The Woods basketball team’s 15-0 season and tournament win, battling down on the blocks. He also played baseball for The Woods. Graham is interested in all things mechanical and participated in FLL in Grade 6 on the Kermit the Bot team.

Graham is headed to St. Anselm’s next year and we are certain his curiosity and strong work ethic will serve him well.

Maren has been at The Woods for four years and her impact is felt throughout the school. Maren is one of the students who goes out of her way to be kind to the Lower School and Montessori students. She opens doors during arrival each morning for students. She may not realize the positive impact that this has, but it really makes the younger students feel known and valued as parts of the community. Maren excelled with the engineering challenges in 5th and 6th grade science and thrived in the hands-on environment. As soon as we started working on Rube Goldberg projects, she knew that she wanted her machine to "destroy" a Wordly Wise book. In the end, her group created a chain reaction machine that cut through exercise E of one of the Wordly Wise lessons! Maren loves Wordly Wise so much that she sent Mrs. Kish a video of herself in front of the Eiffel Tower screaming how much she loves it. Yes, she did get extra credit for doing it. Maren is a gifted athlete who works hard to improve herself. She is a great leader on the court and was willing to try something new and play softball as an 8th grader to help make sure we could field a varsity team! She asked to borrow a bat to work on her swing at home and even volunteered to pitch!

Maren has been a lower school sports counselor for the past two years. Always willing to help out with equipment, demonstrating skills or being quarterback for flag football games. The younger students really enjoyed her company and always asked if Maren would be at each session.

Maren also brought the women’s NCAA bracket to The Woods this year - so thank you!

I am certain Maren will bring the same dedication and focus to Georgetown Visitation next year.

Alexis began at The Woods in Grade 5 - her family moved from Canada, she had to join a new school while engaged in online learning, a new culture, and a new city. Alexis has made lifelong friendships during her time here at The Woods. Alexis got a cold in Paris and lost her voice for weeks and was the best sport about it and the teasing you know her classmates subjected her to. Soraya said she used up Alexis' words with all of her talking! She is such a kind, easy-going person, wonderful friend, and excellent student. Alexis is always on task and someone who can always be counted on to do the right thing. She always did the right thing whether she believed someone was watching her or not. During her capstone presentation Alexis reflected that she is a leader by example. She reflected that it doesn't really matter how you lead as long as you are helping others. Alexis is a dedicated artist who strives to learn and understand complex drawing and painting techniques. Alexis has really developed a passion for rock climbing and hopes to start a club in high school. She also participated in FLL during Grade 6.

Alexis will be attending the STEM program at Good Counsel next year and we cannot wait to see what you accomplish.

Jacqueline joined The Woods Academy 4 years ago under the same circumstances, online learning, new country, new culture, new city, but was able to persevere and thrive. Her teachers report that Jacqueline has a wonderful demeanor. She consistently supports her classmates and provides motivation and encouragement each day. She participated in FLL in Grade 6 and played basketball at The Woods. Jacqueline always does the right thing in and outside the classroom. A teacher reflects that she is an absolute "Joy" to teach. She is a hard worker and consistently displays a strong work ethic. She is looking forward to exploring more service opportunities during high school. Jacqueline is not only an excellent math student, but apparently a stuff animal lover as well. Jacquelin has also taken up rock climbing as well as ringette, which is similar to hockey. She also recently joined a travel hockey team.

At Good Counsel next year, Jacqueline is excited to be a part of the STEM program, we all know you will learn and grow!

Graham joined The Woods 3 years ago and has really had a positive impact on our community. Teachers reflected that Graham is a rock solid student and person. He displayed a persistent positive attitude at all times. He was always on task and willing to help those in need. He is not afraid of hard work in the classroom and on the court. He has a genuine interest in STEM and participated in FLL during Grade 6. He played basketball and baseball at The Woods.

We wish Graham nothing but the best next year at Georgetown Prep.

Carina is a Wood lifer who has been at The Woods since Montessori. Carina always has a generosity of spirit that radiates from her. Whether it was seeing how she hugs her brother at carpool, observing her collaborating with her classmates during a lab, speaking with her about a topic she is passionate about, or witnessing her taking time during her break to talk with her prayer partner, we are constantly impressed by Carina's poise, caring, and compassion. Despite her seemingly quiet demeanor, Carina lives out her values by standing up for others and what she believes. She wants others to feel included and seen and her actions support her beliefs. This year Carina was the manager of the basketball team and even played and scored 6 points! She was Mrs. Darling in Peter Pan JR, but I personally enjoyed being kidnapped and taken to the green room to find Carina with her headset on in a formal dress and high heels serving as the set director and green room manager. Carina has a passion for rock climbing and plans to start a rock climbing club at Good Counsel. So I am not sure if Good Counsel is ready for all this rock climbing energy from The Woods graduates!

Carina, it has been an honor to be a part of your journey and we cannot wait to see you flourish at Good Counsel in the STEM program next year.

Andrei is a Woods lifer who began in Montessori. Gregarious by nature, Andrei was always at the center of everything and a complete showman. His smile radiates warmth and compassion and can clearly light up a room or the stage. His good natured disposition and ability to jump right into a conversation will always make him a wonderful addition to any school community. Andrei has always been so full of positive energy. His enthusiasm about learning and hands-on projects in 5th and 6th grade science was contagious. One teacher shared that it was a pleasure continuing to work with him on his RISE scholar project. It was very rewarding to come full circle and see him as the teacher for a class period after teaching him for two years. Andrei won the spelling bee this year, loves playing chess and sports. Andrei was on The Woods soccer team that won the Norwood tournament this year and suffered only one loss. Andrei really dazzled this year as Peter in Peter Pan, JR. His joy and stage presence were evident and I hope you are so proud of all your hard work to make this an enjoyable performance for the entire Woods community.

Here is hoping you continue to shine next year at St. John’s in the De La Salle Scholars Program , Andrei.

Jake is a true lifer, having been at The Woods since he was three-years old. He has made a positive impact inside and outside the classroom. Jake is a leader in the classroom, on the court and field and on stage. Jake has been super helpful as a Lower School sports counselor for the past few years. He is always willing to lend a hand, helping setting up and breaking equipment, demonstrating skills or officiating games. He has a great way with the young kids and they look up to him for his leadership. He has also been a supportive prayer partner, giving his lower school buddy high fives in the hallway or encouraging him when he sees him. Jake is a skilled athlete who helped lead the basketball to an undefeated season and winning the Prep Tournament. He also plays football and baseball. Jake is a dynamic public speaker who can captivate a large audience. He was an Oompa Loompa in Willy Wonka last year and really was fantastic as Captain Hook in Peter Pan JR. Jake is always ready and willing to volunteer and lend a helping hand. He is also willing to take risks and try new things. Jake was the recipient of the Liza Mataac Award Scholarship as a 7th grader.
 
Next year Jake will be attending St. John’s in the De La Salle Scholars Program and we wish you nothing but the best.

Jacob came to The Woods Academy last year and quickly acclimated and became comfortable with the class. Jacob is a kind-hearted person who is enthusiastic and energetic. He is a passionate learner who, in the short time at The Woods Academy, has made friendships and grown personally as well as academically. He is a great soccer player and was able to contribute on and off the field. He played for The Woods this fall on the team that only lost one game and won the Norwood tournament. Jacob enjoys writing, especially creative writing.

Jacob will be attending Good Counsel next year and I am sure he will continue to grow and learn.

Dylan joined The Woods Academy this year and had a tremendous impact. He is a thoughtful, humble, reflective young man who serves as a role model. Dylan is strong academically and athletically. He played soccer, basketball, tennis, golf and baseball at The Woods and was a tremendous teammate and leader. He was chosen as Student Athlete of the Month in the fall because of his strong leadership, commitment and effort on the field and in the classroom. Dylan engaged in community service trips with enthusiasm and was able to make a positive impact on the community in a variety of ways, whether it be during parent tours for prospective families, having a positive attitude or embracing his faith formation by completing his RCIA spiritual journey.

We are better at The Woods because of you, Dylan, and know you will continue that at St. Alban’s next year.

Jackson joined The Woods in Grade 6 and has made a positive impact throughout his time here. Jackson is extremely well-mannered and respectful. He looks you in the eye and is very authentic and genuine, and let me tell you he has a nice firm handshake. Jackson enjoys engineering in science class. He is very knowledgeable about history and politics. Jackson is a resourceful student who exhibits an understanding of diversity and values. He is a competitive swimmer and a natural leader on the swim team.

Next year Jackson is headed to Landon where he will be able to continue his academic excellence.

Selah joined The Woods in the middle of last year and quickly developed friendships and connections with others. She has been essential in helping during the Lower School chess club. She makes authentic connections with students and really values listening to them to help them understand they have something important to say. Selah is adored by younger students and she is so thoughtful and kind. Selah won the most improved award in soccer after overcoming initial reluctance to play, she was amazing. Selah is a curious, inquisitive student who really enjoys writing and being creative. Her RISE project explored healthcare inequities for African Americans.

Selah will continue to shine next year at Stone Ridge and beyond.

Shiloh came to The Woods last year in the middle of Grade 7 and she has brought warmth and enthusiasm to our community. During her capstone presentation Shiloh reflected on her active faith and her relationship with God, and how her service to others is an important part of that faith through the teen choir, serving as a nursery volunteer and teen leader. She has a genuine care for younger students and is able to make meaningful connections with them and as a result they look up to her and admire her. She is a volunteer with the chess club where she helps out students and builds their confidence by showing them that they matter. Shiloh loves art and language arts, clearly she is creative and is able to inspire others.

Shiloh will attend Stone Ridge next year, luckily they have several opportunities to connect with other students, especially younger students and build meaningful relationships.

Chapin joined The Woods in Grade 6 and has grown tremendously in his time here. Chapin is a kind and generous soul with a great sense of humor and such a friendly disposition. Chapin is always energetic and eager to learn. He works hard and is always very eager to learn. He is inquisitive and curious. He loves playing games in math class and he can be very competitive. He has a strong sense of self. He is a talented baseball player as well as an incredibly talented artist, specifically in drawing. Chapin played soccer this fall for The Woods and helped the team win the Norwood tournament and only lose one game. Chapin participated in FLL during the 2021-2022 season, on the Owls EAT team which won the Core Values Award.

Chapin will attend Wootton next year and I am certain his tenacity and that glimmer in his eye will help to make him a success.

Jahlil has been at The Woods Academy for 2 years. Jahlil is a tremendous athlete who also was very gregarious in class when it came to topics about those in our society who have been marginalized. Jahlil is a great role model for younger students, taking time to connect and help make them feel special and seen. He makes friends easily and is able to excel both in and outside the classroom. He is a very capable student who has grown in his time here. Jahlil was instrumental in The Woods basketball team’s 15-0 season and won the Prep tournament championship. Jahlil was named MVP of the Prep tournament. He is a vocal, skilled leader on the court and a great teammate.

We wish Jahlil all the best next year at Georgetown Prep, they are fortunate to have you.

William has been here at The Woods since Grade 5 and during that time his teachers reflect that he has grown tremendously. An extremely polite young man who could always be counted on to do the right thing and help those in need. William is an exceptional chess player. He is an athlete, playing soccer, basketball, lacrosse, tennis and baseball here at The Woods. William is always enthusiastic and committed to giving 100% effort for his Woods athletic teams. William has a great sense of humor and is willing to pitch in and volunteer to help in any situation. William was meant to be a hands-on scientist. His passion for knowing the answers to many science questions compels him to ask questions and engage in exploration. Despite being in a hybrid learning situation in 5th grade, he actively participated in the various engineering activities and was always so excited to share his projects and learning. During the trip to France, William (hilariously) attempted to ruin almost every group picture we took by making an angry face, but rest assured, William is actually joyful the vast majority of the time. William is so great with the younger kids, whether it be in French class with the Owls as a 7th grader or playing basketball with the Lower School students. He was very helpful as a lower school sports counselor this year. He looked out for the younger students and encouraged them during each session. He is kind and patient and the kids love him. He says hello to younger students in the hall in the morning and these little things mean the world to kids.

William is headed to St. John’s where I am sure he will flourish.

Adan came to The Woods three years ago and has made a positive impact on so many. Adan is part of the crew that gets to school early each morning to help with Montessori and Lower School arrival. Adan has gone out of his way all year to be kind to the Lower School students. He may not realize it, but his consistent, cheerful “hello’s,” and calling students by name makes a big difference in how connected they feel to the community. He is incredibly gracious, polite, and kind. Adan is engaged and genuinely cares about the world around him. He often considers others before himself and is able to connect with people of all ages from Montessori students to teachers in the hallway. His RISE project focused on the impact of a K-8 school, which is largely that students and the community are able to interact and learn from each other across ages. He is a hard worker in the classroom and very reflective. Adan affectionately refers to Mrs. Kish as Mom ever since he failed to get an entry form for a writing contest signed. Mrs. Kish signed the form as his mom, so he could enter before the deadline. He participated in FLL during the 2021-2022 season, on the Owls EAT team which won the Core Values Award. Enjoyed playing soccer for Woods this fall and helped the team win the Norwood tournament.

We are excited for Adan to join the St. Andrew’s community next year so he can continue to have a positive impact on that community as well.