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Arts Krewe Wish List Summary

1. Arts Academy Books - $474 Proposed by Tori Taylor
The books will support what the Arts Academy teachers are teaching in their studios.

2. VPAC Theatre Stage Monitors - $2,000 Proposed by Lily McGill
Front facing stage monitors are pretty essential on any stage, especially in a space like ours where the main speakers are directly above the performer. It's often hard to hear the music while trying to sing because the sound is being projected out to the audience. These monitors will be beneficial for theatre classes, theatre productions, dance classes/productions, choir events in the VPAC, and any event where there is a person speaking or singing.

3. Theatre and Dance Sewing Station - $900 Proposed by Lily McGill
These materials would fit into both the Tech Theatre/Play Production curriculum and the theatre productions. Students and staff can sew, alter, and surge costumes and fabric panels for in-class projects and shows. We'd also be able to alter costumes for dance class performances each semester and the annual dance concert.

Parents’ Guild Wish List Requests

1. 3rd Grade Enhanced Project-Based Learning Environments - $6,900 Proposed by Amanda Tupper, 3rd Grade Teacher

The third-grade team was greatly inspired by our recent Professional Development sessions focused on Project-Based Learning (PBL). As a result, we are eager to create engaging and effective learning spaces that cater to our students' diverse needs.

To facilitate this, we propose the acquisition of various educational materials and resources. Access to these items will significantly benefit our students by providing them with the tools necessary to explore their interests and enhance their learning experiences. Moreover, these resources will empower students by offering greater opportunities for choice and creativity when developing their projects.

We envision learning spaces that are not only organized and kid-friendly but also accessible for all students. By creating environments that meet these criteria, we aim to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and active engagement in learning. Our goal is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their educational journey.

2. Shades of Excellence - $3,000 Proposed by Beth Gardner, Lower School Division Head
Shades of Excellence, if granted, would allow us to purchase and install new window shades for our large windows in both the Greer Center and the Lower School hallway. The current, dated shades cannot be lowered or raised. While we love to let the sunshine in, there are times these shades need to be lowered, including during Morning Meeting, as the rising sun shines bright through the windows, making it warmer in the Greer Center, where all Lower School gathers each day, and creating a glare for our speakers and the screen.

3. Gaga Ball - $247 Proposed by Sara Henderson, Kindergarten Teacher
My students did a project entitled Ballmania this last semester. We had a wonderful experience with experiments and guest experts. We even got to see the 4th graders compete in a Gaga Ball game! Currently, there isn't a way to play Gaga ball on our playground. We would love to have our own smaller Gaga ball pit on the early childhood playground. The pit is portable and has a bag that makes it easy to store and offer hours of fun!

4. Robotics Refresh - $6,959 Proposed by Stacy Hill, QUEST Center Coordinator
Students in multiple grade levels have completed a variety of robotics activities as they relate to their topics of study. 5th graders currently take a Coding and Robotics enrichment class and also use various robots as part of their class curriculum. Lower school students are also offered a LEGO Robotics after school club each quarter. These materials will provide an to our equipment, and add to our current materials.

5. Light Laboratory - $1,933 Proposed by Stacy Hill, QUEST Center Coordinator
The Light Laboratory offers children beginning with our tiniest Knights in PK3 the opportunity to manipulate color, light and more. This system includes its own storage pod that includes a Light Lab Panel, Light Lab Weaving Ring, Light Lab Drawing Board, Light Lab Marble Board and Messy Material Tray. In addition to investigating light and color, there are endless opportunities for children to engage in sensory, dramatic play, construction and problem solving. Children will discover through play in a variety of ways using this Light Laboratory.

6. Visual Arts Wish List - $1,900 Proposed by Karen Koprowski, Middle & Upper School Art

Streamlined Art Room & Storage-

Improved organization means less time spent searching for supplies and more time for creative expression.
Better storage for student work keeps track of projects and allows us to see their progress over time.
A well-organized space fosters a more professional, inspiring, and efficient learning environment.

Wireless Microphones for Filmmaking-

Sound quality is often a major challenge in student film projects; wireless mics will ensure clearer audio, improving overall production value.
Students will gain experience using industry-standard equipment, preparing them for real-world media work.
Improved audio quality will enhance storytelling, allowing students to focus on content rather than struggling with technical limitations.

Upgraded Glaze for Ceramics-

Having high-quality glaze ensures students can achieve professional results in their ceramic projects.
Upgrading glaze prevents frustration and ensures consistency in the firing process.
Offering a variety of glazes encourages experimentation and personal expression in student work.
These improvements will make both VPAC rooms #131 & #129 more efficient, enhance the quality of student projects, and create a more professional, inspiring environment for both students and staff.

7. Reading Days for Reading Knights - $1,000 Proposed by Sara Gomez, Lower School Librarian
The role of the library program is to promote literacy and a life-long love of reading. This initiative will expand our typical Book Fair week into a larger celebration of reading with author visits and other events.

8. Art Display System - $6,232 Proposed by Veronica Hallock & Catherine Russell, Art Teachers
It is time for us to upgrade the arts display system. The new system would be magnetic and smaller and would allow us to hang artwork faster and without damaging it. Smaller walls allow the space to be functional and protect the artwork.

9. Artwork Drying Rack - $1,133 Proposed by Catherine Russell, Lower School Art Teacher
Tall, double-sided drying rack on casters which allows for 100-200 papers to dry at once, which is needed often.

10. 3D Printers for Engineering Room - $3,729 Proposed by Jeff McLean, Upper School Science
Upgraded 3D printers will allow engineering students and FRAME club students to 3D print projects with increased quality, speed and reliability. The current printers are over 8yrs old and technology has improved since they were built.

11. Elevating Our Horizons - $8,295 Proposed by Angele Sakovich, PK4 Teacher
Imagine being on a rocket ship soaring into space or climbing to the top of a tree in the rainforest amongst all the animals that call it home, but it’s in your classroom every day! In our PreK-4 classroom, we will be ‘elevating our horizons’ in a play loft that will serve as a dedicated space for imaginative play, encouraging children to develop gross motor skills by climbing and navigating different levels, while also providing a unique setting for dramatic play, role-playing, and creative exploration, all while fostering social interaction and enhancing their spatial awareness. In our classroom, the space is transformed by the class into what they are inspired by and curious about. For the teacher, it is a magical way to ensure academic learning is happening because it is based on student interest!

12. Middle School Snack Cart - $1,664 Proposed by Pat Mahon, Chef
A dedicated cart for Middle School students providing healthy options making students happy!

13. Golf Cart for Admissions and Development - $10,000 Proposed by Dana Messina, Director of Admission and Enrollment
We need a way to get parents all over campus in a timely manner. Borrowing one from other departments is not feasible as it may not be available or clean enough to chauffer guests, and we rarely have advanced noticed if a guest has limited mobility affecting their ability to tour our large, beautiful campus.

14. 4th Grade ELA Classroom Wishlist - $1,310 Proposed by Shirley Markey, 4th Grade Teacher
The resources are to aid in providing quality reading and writing instruction that allows for student choice/flexible seating options.

15. PK4 Garden Refresh - $4,435 Proposed by Stephanie Ezell, PK4 Teacher
The PreK-4 garden is an outdoor classroom for all the PreK-4 classes where we explore science concepts. We observe the life cycle of a butterfly, we learn about plants growing, we explore in the soil, we dig in the rocks, and we build. We need durable furniture and other equipment to continue to create an environment where the children can explore in the PreK-4 garden throughout the year. Requested items include: Jumbo Log Builder, Construction Truck Set, Tough Rigs Dump Truck, Power Hauleres Cement Mixer, Tonka Steel Front Loader, 22” Sink from Community Playthings, Giant water play table, All-weather storage boxes.

16. Learning Support Services Furniture Update - $21,325 Proposed by Tiffany Whitehead, Director of Library
This proposal supports a larger project currently underway to update the spaces in Aldrich Library. The school has made a purchase this year for new upstairs furniture to outfit the Academic Resource Center and the upstairs teaching space. This PG project would replace the miscellaneous collection of furniture in the Learning Support Services Center with high-quality, school-grade furniture that has been planned and selected by our Library Interiors consultant. This furniture would allow for improved testing accommodations and workspaces for our LSS students. Requested items include 5 Testing cubicles ($8,337), 6 tables with acrylic barrier ($8,454), 11 chairs with sled base ($2,420) + taxes and shipping.

17. Guest Speaker Series for Middle and Upper School - $8,150 Proposed by Katie Carpenter, Middle School Counselor
The counseling team is hoping to offer two speaker sessions for the 25/26 school year.

One speaker is McCall Dempsey, owner of Southern Smash. McCall would meet with 5th-12th grade students regarding body image, appearance, etc. There is a possibility we could offer a parent segment if there is interest.

The other speaker is Protect Young Eyes, and they discuss social media in relation to digital discernment, technology choices/truths, etc. Protect Young Eyes would meet with K-12th grade (different sections) and host a parent night discussion.

18. School Store Point-of-Sale Bundle - $1,153 Proposed by Sarah Foret, Payroll & Benefits Manager and School Store Director
This would be to get a wireless checkout system with a barcode scanner for the school store. It will making checking out easier for our volunteer staff and customers, and help with inventory tracking.

19. pH Sensors for Chemistry Classes - $961 Proposed by Jeannette Thompson, Upper School Science Teacher
The Go Direct pH Sensor is an important and versatile sensor for lab and field activities alike. It gives students the freedom to explore pH without the inconvenience of wires‚ no more spilled solutions or dangling wires. The Go Direct pH transmits live readings and captures data in real-time. This sensor is comprised of a pH electrode connected to a Go Direct Electrode Amplifier via a BNC connector. This design enables you to use the Go Direct Electrode Amplifier with other Vernier electrodes, such as the Flat pH Electrode, ORP Electrode, ISE electrode, or a third-party electrode.

20. Student Center Enhancements - $5,000 Proposed by Tom Forti, Upper School Division Head
Need additional seating and upgrades to current seating.

21. Flexi-Firsties - $3,100 Proposed by Michelle Grantham, Assistance to Lower School Head
Flexible seating is used with Reading and Writing Workshop. Flexible seating is used across the lower school. This Wishlist is for Mrs. Smith who is a new teacher with only a few items teachers have shared with her. Having flexible seating allows students to have a voice and choice in their learning space, increases student engagement, and increases on-task time. They also appreciate the comfort of a soft chair or a scoop that rocks for those who need to move.

22. Middle and Upper School Choir Wish List - $8,660
Standing Choral Risers ($7,228) and Chorus Mics for VPAC Stage ($1,400). Both of my items will elevate our performances for Lessons and Carols, Choir concerts, and our Fall and Spring musicals. Students will be more visible and easily heard. We will also have the capability to mix the chorus and solo mics for our musicals getting a nice balance for performances.

23. Be Our Guest - $21,898 Proposed by Carrie Steakley, Head of School
The Alumni House Dining Room is our main multipurpose room where parents, students, faculty, staff, Board of Trustees, and guests use the space for a variety of events. Our juniors and seniors enjoy a special lunch there daily, and the room is also used for presentations, receptions, testing, and so on. 100 chairs @ $206.10 ea. = $20,610 plus tax ($1288) = $21,900 includes shipping.

24. Lower School Art Furniture - $7,195 Proposed by Catherine Russell, Lower School Art Teacher
Upgraded artroom furniture including adjustable height tables, new stools, cubbies for organization, and a stainless steel table on casters.

25. School Step and Repeat - $800 Proposed by Lindsay Turner, Alumni Relations Coordinator
Alumni House Step and Repeat replacement to use for Development, Admission, and Alumni Events.

Squires Wish List Requests

1. Gold Steppers Practice Space - $10,000 Proposed by Dana Kuhn
The Gold Steppers are often shuffling around and working around other sports to find an adequate practice space that is large enough to accommodate what is being taught/reviewed. We would like to turn the G5 space into a space that works for both PE during the day, and dance team practices both in the mornings and afternoons. We would love to use this space by purchasing roll out dance floors and rolling mirrors that could be stored in the closet space during the day and then put out during practice time.

2. Soccer Equipment - $2,200 Proposed by Lynn Bradley
Practice equipment for the Girls and Boys soccer program. 4 small-sided goals for practice ($1,288), 2 shooting nets ($420), 4 custom corner flags with new logo ($300)

3. Riddell Axiom Helmets - $1,800 Proposed by Travis Bourgeois
Two helmets with InSite in-helmet technology – each helmet is $900.00 including decals, shipping, and Riddell Service.

4. Athletic Hall of Fame Display - $11,534 Proposed by Lindsay Turner
Signage in the Field House honoring our past Athletic Hall of Fame inductees.

5. Chair Set for Phillips and Main Gyms - $7,392 Proposed by Taylor Wharton
This project will significantly benefit the experience of our student-athletes and coaches by improving the Phillips Gym area. This new chair set will help our athletic programs by allowing for each gym to have its own set. Right now, only the Main Gym has a set of athletic chairs for games and practices. Gym chairs are also beneficial to Physical Education classes in the Phillips Gym. Chair sets can be used by all Lower, Middle, and Upper School students. 36 Next Level Folding Sideline Basketball Chairs with artwork

6. Athletic Chair Floor Mats - $13,596 Proposed by Madeline Gugich
These customized floor mats will be used on game days to protect the floor from chair scratches and drink spills. These mats will be used by both middle school and high school volleyball and boys and girls basketball games. Having the new custom design on them will also modernize our game day set up. These mats also tend to be heavy. Having a set in each gym will them both last longer and make it easier to access. 4 Cusomized Mats 4’x35’

7. Softball Locker Room - $16,695 Proposed by Heidi Hebert
Softball is the only team without a locker room. The players have to change in the public bathroom or the equipment room that is dirty and holds not only the equipment but dirt for the baseball and softball fields.

  • 16’x16’ Tuff Shed $12,708
  • Mini Split A/C and heater $1,930
  • Sheetrock and hanging materials 2,058

8. Soccer Program Pinnies - $1,440 Proposed by Lynn Bradley
New Pinnies for both the Middle School and Upper School soccer programs. 20 for Boys High School, 20 for Girls High School, 50 for the 5 middle school teams

9. Powerlifting Squat Suits - $2,241 Proposed by Mark Harper
Allows more lifters to work with powerlifting equipment and solves lack of availability of the most commonly used sizes. 6 Squat suits ($185 each) and 6 Bench shirts ($185 each) in most popular sizes.

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