Upper School Weekly Update
Week of March 27 – March 31
Increase your impact. Now through April 1, make a gift to the MVFund to be one of the 300 donors needed to unlock a generous gift of $50,000.
Monday, March 27: MOD 4 Begins
Grades from MOD 3 are visible in Veracross Parent Portal at Noon.
Monday, March 27: Junior & Senior Prom 2023 Tickets go on sale
Prom will be held at the Illuminarium on April 15, 7:00 – 10:00 pm. Students must purchase tickets prior to April 5. Tickets are $85 each. Menu includes appetizers, desserts, and refreshments. Parents of Juniors and Seniors will receive an email on March 27 with more details and the link to purchase tickets.
Monday, March 27: Community Assembly Featuring Solidarity Sandy Springs
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Parents are invited to hear from Jennifer Barnes, Co-Founder of Solidarity Sandy Springs, as she shares the organization’s mission and how our MV community is making an impact on local families.
Monday, March 27: Mustang Golf Tournament
8:00 am until Tournament Completion
White Columns Country Club, 300 Clubhouse Dr, Milton, GA 30004
Parents, grandparents, businesses, and corporate partners are invited to participate in the inaugural Arrow Exterminators Mustang Golf Tournament. All proceeds going to the MVFund benefiting MV Athletics. Purchase brunch tickets, sponsorships, and foursomes here. Registration begins at 8:00 am, with a shotgun start at 10:00 am.
March 27 – 31: Week of Impact Solidarity Food Pantry Collection Drive
Morning & Afternoon Carpool Collection
During the Week of Impact, the School will collect individual pantry items in support of Solidarity Sandy Springs. Students and families are encouraged to drop off non-perishable food items, personal hygiene supplies, paper products, and cleaning supplies. Items will be sorted and delivered on Friday, March 31.
Upper Campus
Food/Personal Hygiene
- Pasta Sauce
- Cooking Oil
- Cereal
- Oatmeal
- Ramen
- Canned Fruit
- Shampoo
- Deodorant
- Body Wash
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
Lower Campus
Paper Products/Cleaning Supplies
- Paper Towels
- Toilet Paper
- Diapers (size 5-6)
- Baby Wipes
- Fabuloso
- Laundry Detergent
- Dish Soap
- Hand Soap
Wednesday, March 29: Late Start
Childcare is not provided before school.
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Thursday, March 30, Tea With Trish (RESCHEDULED To April 12, 8:30 am)
Thursday, March 30: Parent University: Innovation Flash Lab Hosted by MV Ventures
8:30 – 9:30 am
Studio(i) on Lower Campus
Want to explore Design Thinking? Join Mount Vernon faculty and experience a Design Thinking Flash Lab. This interactive and invigorating session will immerse you in the fundamental learning approach of the School. Please RSVP here.
Thursday, March 30: Interim Showcase Assembly Part I
CORE, Greece, Internships, Japan, Scotland, Spain/Portugal, Vietnam
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students will share highlights and takeaways from their Interim experiences. Parents are welcome to attend.
Friday, March 31: Interim Showcase Assembly Part II
Austria/Switzerland/Germany, Colombia, France, Hawaii, Italy, New Zealand, Patagonia, South Africa
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students will share highlights and takeaways from their Interim experiences. Parents are welcome to attend.
Friday, March 31: Deadline To Purchase Additional Mustang Rally Shirts
All students in Preschool – Grade 12 will receive a Mustang Rally t-shirt at no cost. Family members are invited to purchase additional shirts at $20 each.
Friday, March 31: Week of Impact Hands-on Service Day, Solidarity Sandy Springs Pantry
8:45 – 11:00 am
Help Solidarity Sandy Springs unload Mount Vernon buses full of items collected during the week along with the truck containing the weekly drop off from Atlanta Food Bank.
Save These Dates
Saturday, April 1: Week of Impact Hands-on Service Day, Solidarity Sandy Springs Pantry
8:15 am – 12:30 pm
Solidarity Sandy Springs, 86 Mount Vernon Highway
Kick off Mount Vernon’s inaugural Week of Impact with a community-wide day of service. Volunteers will help sort, pack, and shop for pantry items with families in need. Sign up here. Minimum age to serve is five years old.
Saturday, April 1: Mount Vernon Arts Alliance Build Event
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upper School Dance Studio
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Little Shop of Horrors show. Volunteer here.
Wednesday, April 5: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Upper School Café
Wednesday, April 5: Final day to purchase Junior & Senior Prom tickets
Thursday, April 6: Open Parent Q&As with Head of School Kristy Lundstrom
Join Kristy to get your questions answered live, in a group environment, either in-person in the morning, or via Zoom in the evening. At Mount Vernon, we believe that relationships and trust are foundational to our community. We grow, fail, and progress together. Let’s do this!
Friday, April 7 & Monday, April 10: No School for Students/Staff
Tuesday, April 11: Grandparents Virtual Coffee Via Zoom
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Zoom Link Coming Soon
Wednesday, April 12 Tea With Trish
8:30 – 9:30 am
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Parents and grandparents are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students. This month we will focus on grading with Head of Learning and Innovation Jared Colley as our guest speaker.
Thursday, April 13: Deadline to Purchase Mustang Rally Family Lunch & Carnival Tickets
Communication Archive
March 20, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Increase your impact. Now through April 1, make a gift to the MVFund to be one of the 300 donors needed to unlock a generous gift of $50,000.
Tuesday, March 21: Mustang Rally Sponsorship Window Closes
Friday, March 24: Upper School i-Learning Day
8:15 am – 3:15 pm
Upper School students may learn at home on this day. In response to student needs, teachers are piloting an i-Learning day in which we aim to meet students’ individual learning needs. For more information watch this short video or refer to the email sent by Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik on March 15.
Friday, March 24: Final Day of Mod 3
Grades will be viewable in the Parent Portal on Monday March 27 at Noon.
Friday, March 24: Parent University: Setting the Conditions for Students’ Online Safety
8:15 – 9:30 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents of students in Kindergarten – Grade 12 are invited to attend this informational session about Bark, a tool to monitor online content, manage screen time, and filter websites. Renee Abrams, a representative from Bark, and Katie Cain, Lower School Director of Instructional Technology will lead the session. Please RSVP here.
Save These Dates
Saturday, March 25: Week of Impact Hands-on Service Day, Solidarity Sandy Springs Pantry
8:15 am – 12:30 pm
Solidarity Sandy Springs, 86 Mount Vernon Highway
Kick off Mount Vernon’s inaugural Week of Impact with a community-wide day of service. Volunteers will help sort, pack, and shop for pantry items with families in need. Sign up here. Minimum age to serve is five years old.
Sunday, March 26: Week of Impact Soup Supper
5:00 – 7:00 pm
Upper School Cafe
Families are invited to come together in fellowship for a soup supper in support of the Week of Impact. Each participant will select and receive a handcrafted ceramic bowl created by a MV Upper School student. $25 per person, with all proceeds going to the MVFund benefiting MV Studios. Space is limited. Register here.
Monday, March 27: Mustang Golf Tournament
8:00 am until Tournament Completion
White Columns Country Club, 300 Clubhouse Dr, Milton, GA 30004
Parents, grandparents, businesses, and corporate partners are invited to participate in the inaugural Arrow Exterminators Mustang Golf Tournament. All proceeds going to the MVFund benefiting MV Athletics. Purchase brunch tickets, sponsorships, and foursomes here. Registration begins at 8:00 am, with a shotgun start at 10:00 am.
March 27 – 31: Week of Impact Solidarity Food Pantry Collection Drive
Morning & Afternoon Carpool Collection
During the Week of Impact, CGI (Community, Giving, & Impact) will collect individual pantry items in support of Solidarity Sandy Springs. Students and families are encouraged to drop off non-perishable food items, personal hygiene supplies, paper products, and cleaning supplies. Items will be sorted and delivered on Friday, March 31.
Thursday, March 30: Tea With Trish
8:30 – 9:30 am
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Parents and grandparents are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students. This month we will focus on grading.
Thursday, March 30: Parent University: Innovation Flash Lab Hosted by MV Ventures
8:30 – 9:30 am
Studio(i) on Lower Campus
Want to explore Design Thinking? Join Mount Vernon faculty and experience a Design Thinking Flash Lab. This interactive and invigorating session will immerse you in the fundamental learning approach of the School. Please RSVP here.
Thursday, March 30 & Friday, March 31: Interim Showcase Assemblies
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students will share highlights and takeaways from their Interim experiences (Travel, CORE, and Internships). Parents are welcome to attend, more details to follow.
Saturday, April 1: Week of Impact Hands-on Service Day, Solidarity Sandy Springs Pantry
8:15 am – 12:30 pm
Solidarity Sandy Springs, 86 Mount Vernon Highway
Kick off Mount Vernon’s inaugural Week of Impact with a community-wide day of service. Volunteers will help sort, pack, and shop for pantry items with families in need. Sign up here. Minimum age to serve is five years old.
Saturday, April 1: Mount Vernon Arts Alliance Build Event
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upper School Dance Studio
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Little Shop of Horrors show. Volunteer here.
Wednesday, April 5: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Upper School Café
Thursday, April 6: Open Parent Q&As with Head of School Kristy Lundstrom
Join Kristy to get your questions answered live, in a group environment, either in-person in the morning, or via Zoom in the evening.
In Person: 8:00 – 9:00 am
Fellowship Hall on Lower Campus
Coffee will be served.
Virtual: 6:00 – 7:00 pm (via Zoom)
RSVP here for either or both. A zoom link will be sent to those that RSVP for the virtual Q&A.
Friday, April 7 & Monday, April 10: No School for Students/Staff
March 13, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Increase your impact. Now through April 1, make a gift to the MVFund to be one of the 300 donors needed to unlock a generous gift of $50,000.
Thursday, March 16: MVGlobal Affinity Group Launch Event
3:30 – 5:30 pm
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Fostering connections between families with strong international interests MVGlobal will create a vibrant space to celebrate Mount Vernon’s rich cultural diversity. The whole family is invited to participate in this collaborative event featuring international and cultural experiences through music, displays, food, and more. If you are interested in showcasing a culture important to your family, sign up here.
Friday, March 17: MV Cares Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to attend this monthly prayer group meeting to lift up those in our MV community through care and prayer.
Save These Dates
March 20 – 24: Upper Campus Arts Madness Week
During Community each day, students will make and appreciate art through featured performances, ceramics, drawing, and conclude the week with a fashion show.
Tuesday, March 21: Mustang Rally Sponsorship Window Closes
Friday, March 24: Parent University: Setting the Conditions for Students’ Online Safety
8:15 – 9:30 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents of students in Kindergarten – Grade 12 are invited to attend this informational session about Bark, a tool to monitor online content, manage screen time, and filter websites. Renee Abrams, a representative from Bark, and Katie Cain, Lower School Director of Instructional Technology will lead the session.
Saturday, March 25: Week of Impact Hands on Service Day at Solidarity Food Pantry
8:15 am – 12:30 pm
Solidarity Sandy Spring, 86 Mount Vernon Highway
Kick off Mount Vernon’s inaugural Week of Impact with a community-wide day of service. Volunteers will help sort, pack, and shop for pantry items with families in need. Sign up here. Minimum age to serve is five years old.
Sunday, March 26: Week of Impact Soup Supper
5:00 – 7:00 pm
Upper School Cafe
Families are invited to come together in fellowship for a soup supper in support of the Week of Impact. Each participant will select and receive a handcrafted ceramic bowl created by a MV Upper School student. $25 per person, with all proceeds going to the MVFund benefiting MV Studios. Space is limited. Register here.
Monday, March 27: Mustang Golf Tournament
8:00 am – Tournament Completion
White Columns Country Club, 300 Clubhouse Dr, Milton, GA 30004
Parents, grandparents, businesses, and corporate partners are invited to participate in the first annual Arrow Exterminators Mustang Golf Tournament. All proceeds going to the MVFund benefiting MV Athletics. Purchase brunch tickets, sponsorships, and foursomes here. Registration begins at 8:00 am, with a shotgun start at 10:00 am.
March 27 – 31: Week of Impact Solidarity Food Pantry Collection Drive
Morning & Afternoon Carpool Collection
During the Week of Impact, CGI (Community, Giving, & Impact) will collect individual pantry items in support of Solidarity Sandy Springs. Students and families are encouraged to drop off non-perishable food items, personal hygiene supplies, paper products, and cleaning supplies. Items will be sorted and delivered on Friday, March 31.
Wednesday, March 29: Late Start
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Thursday, March 30: Tea With Trish
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Parents and grandparents are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
Thursday, March 30: Parent University: Innovation Flash Lab Hosted by MV Ventures
8:30 – 9:30 am
Studio(i) (Lower School)
Want to explore Design Thinking? Join Mount Vernon faculty and experience a Design Thinking Flash Lab. This interactive and invigorating session will immerse you in the fundamental learning approach of the School.
Sunday, April 1: Mount Vernon Arts Alliance Build Event
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upper School Dance Studio
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Little Shop of Horrors show. Volunteer here.
February 27, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Wednesday, March 1: Financial Aid Applications for 2023-2024 Due
Create your Clarity account here.
Thursday, March 2: MV Studios Spotlight and Speaker Series
8:00 – 9:30 am
Black Box Theatre (Upper School)
Join the MV Arts Alliance and special guest Director of Lower Campus Visual & Performing Arts/Middle School Dance Studio Manager Shay Jones, for coffee and community to learn more about the transition from Lower to Middle School Art programs.
Friday, March 3: Early Dismissal
Preschool 11:15 am
Lower School 11:30 am
Middle School: 12:00 pm
Upper School: 12:15 pm
Save These Dates
March 6 – 10: No School
Spring Break
Thursday, March 16: MVGlobal Launch Event
3:30 – 5:30 pm
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
MVGlobal facilitates connections between families with strong international links and interests to create a vibrant space in which we share Mount Vernon’s rich cultural diversity. The launch is an MVGlobal family collaborative event for the whole community to enjoy. If you are interested in participating or contributing to the event, sign up here.
Friday, March 17: MV Cares Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to attend this monthly prayer group meeting to lift up those in our MV community through care and prayer.
February 13, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Students are invited to celebrate Valentine’s Day by wearing a red/pink shirt with uniform bottoms.
Wednesday, February 15: Parent University: Rise Up Grade 10
8:45 – 9:45 am
Black Box Theater
Grade 9 parents are invited to participate in an informational session regarding expectations and course information for Grade 10. No RSVP needed. Course Request Information
Wednesday, February 15: Upper Campus Jazz Night
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper School Cafe
Join Middle and Upper School students for dinner and show with special guest appearances from Lower School Performing Arts Teacher Amanda Lower and others. Buy tickets here.
Thursday, February 16: Parent University: Rise Up Grade 11 & 12
8:45 – 9:45 am
Black Box Theater
Grades 10 and 11 parents are invited to participate in an informational session regarding expectations and course information for Grades 11 and 12. No RSVP needed. Course Request Information
Friday, February 17: No School For Students
Friday, February 17: No School For Students
Faculty/Staff Professional Development
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, February 20: No School
Friday, February 24: MVGlobal Affinity Group Meeting
8:15 – 9:30 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
As the MVGlobal Affinity Group continues to be developed as a new addition to the IDEA Affinity and Alliance program at the School, parents and grandparents with international backgrounds are invited to design connections that increase the rich cultural diversity within the MV Community.
Friday, February 24: Inclusion Network BIPOC Family Affinity Excursion
8:15 – 10:00 am
Cafe I Am, 5825 Mount Creek Road, Sandy Springs, GA 30328
BIPOC (Black, Indigenous & People of Color) families are invited for a morning of connection & conversation at Cafe I Am. This affinity group is open to all BIPOC members of the MV community, including parents of BIPOC children.
February 27 – March 3: Upper School Interim
Wednesday, March 1: Financial Aid Applications Due
Create your Clarity account here.
Thursday, March 2: MV Studios Spotlight and Speaker Series
8:00 – 9:30 am
Black Box Theatre (Upper School)
Join the MV Arts Alliance and special guest Director of Lower Campus Visual & Performing Arts/Middle School Dance Studio Manager Shay Jones, for coffee and community to learn more about the transition from Lower to Middle School Art programs.
Friday, March 3: Early Dismissal
Preschool 11:15 am
Lower School 11:30 am
Middle School: 12:00 pm
Upper School: 12:15 pm
February 6, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Monday, February 6: Parent University: Virtual Lunch & Learn, Partnering to Support Your Child’s Social-Emotional Development
12:00 – 1:00 pm
The Mount Vernon experience is one of partnership in which there is a shared understanding of how to best support the social and emotional development of your children, our students. Join this session to hear from local healthcare experts Dr. Cecilia Williams Durden of TLC Psychology and Dr. Shayna Smith of Flourish Pediatrics. This presentation is intended to provide further understanding on social-emotional development and how best to support your child. Register to attend here.
February 6 – 7: Little Shop of Horrors, Upper School Spring Play Auditions
3:30 – 6:00 pm
Black Box Theatre
Audition sign up for actors
Audition sign up for crew
If interested in auditioning, please fill the forms above.
Wednesday, February 8: Grandparent Tour, Bingo & Hot Chocolate
4:00 – 4:30 pm: Upper School Tour With Head of School Kristy Lundstrom
4:30 – 6:00 pm: Hot Chocolate and Bingo in Upper School Café
The MVPN Grandparent Committee welcomes Grandparents of students in Grades 6 – 12 for an afternoon of conversation, hot chocolate, and bingo. The event will kick off at 4:00 pm with an Upper School tour led by Kristy Lundstrom, the Head of School. Following the tour, guests will gather in the Upper School Café for hot chocolate and bingo from 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm. Please register for the event using this link or email Jenn Brown if you plan to attend.
Thursday, February 9: Interim Pre-Departure Parent Meeting
6:00 – 7:30 pm
Upper School Building
Parents of students who are participating in trips abroad will meet with group chaperones to talk about logistical details and other relevant information prior to departure.
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, February 15: Parent University: Rise Up Grade 10
8:45 – 9:45 am
Black Box Theater
Grade 9 parents are invited to participate in an informational session regarding expectations and course information for Grade 10. No RSVP needed. Course Request Information
Thursday, February 16: Parent University: Rise Up Grade 11 & 12
8:45 – 9:45 am
Black Box Theater
Grades 10 and 11 parents are invited to participate in an informational session regarding expectations and course information for Grades 11 and 12. No RSVP needed. Course Request Information
Wednesday, February 15: Upper Campus Jazz Night
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper School Cafe
Join Middle and Upper School students for dinner and show with special guest appearances from Lower School Performing Arts Teacher Amanda Lower and others. Buy tickets here.
Friday, February 17: No School For Students
Monday, February 20: No School
Friday, February 24: MVGlobal Affinity Group Meeting
8:15 – 9:30 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to join in conversation to design connection opportunities among Mount Vernon families with strong international ties as we build the Global Affinity Group.
Wednesday, March 1: Financial Aid Applications Due
Create your Clarity account here.
January 30, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Introducing Mount Vernon Live, a night of laughter, music, and entertainment produced by the Middle School theatre students. Come for the scripted scenes, improv, musical theatre, and more. Don’t miss out on the fun. Reserve your tickets today.
Thursday, February 2: Tea With Trish
2:30 – 3:00 pm
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Families are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
Friday, February 3: MV Cares Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to attend this monthly prayer group to lift up those in our MV community through care and prayer.
SAVE THESE DATES
Saturday, February 4: Upper School Winter Dance
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper School Café
Buy tickets online
Monday, February 6: Perennial Enrollment Period Ends
Information on Financial Assistance can be found here.
Monday, February 6: Parent University: Virtual Lunch & Learn, Partnering to Support Your Child’s Social-Emotional Development
12:00 – 1:00 pm
The Mount Vernon experience is one of partnership in which there is a shared understanding of how to best support the social and emotional development of your children, our students. Join this session to hear from local healthcare experts Dr. Cecilia Williams Durden of TLC Psychology and Dr. Shayna Smith of Flourish Pediatrics. This presentation is intended to provide further understanding on social-emotional development and how best to support your child. RSVP here.
Wednesday, February 8: Grandparent Tour, Bingo & Hot Chocolate
4:00 – 4:30 pm: Upper School Tour With Head of School Kristy Lundstrom
4:30 – 6:00 pm: Hot Chocolate and Bingo in Upper School Café
The MVPN Grandparent Committee welcomes Grandparents of students in Grades 6 – 12 for an afternoon of conversation, hot chocolate, and bingo. The event will kick off at 4:00 pm with an Upper School tour led by Kristy Lundstrom, the Head of School. Following the tour, guests will gather in the Upper School Café for hot chocolate and bingo from 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm. Please register for the event using this link or email Jenn Brown if you plan to attend.
Thursday, February 9: Interim Pre-Departure Parent Meeting
6:00 – 7:30 pm
Upper School Building
Parents of students who are participating in trips abroad will meet with group chaperones to talk about logistical details and other relevant information prior to departure.
Wednesday, February 15: Parent University: Rise Up Grade 10
8:45 – 9:45 am
Black Box Theater
Grade 9 parents are invited to participate in an informational session regarding expectations and course information for Grade 10. No RSVP needed. Course Request Information
Thursday, February 16: Parent University: Rise Up Grade 11 & 12
8:45 – 9:45 am
Black Box Theater
Grades 10 and 11 parents are invited to participate in an informational session regarding expectations and course information for Grades 11 and 12. No RSVP needed. Course Request Information
Wednesday, February 15: Upper Campus Jazz Night
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper School Cafe
Join Middle and Upper School students for dinner and show with special guest appearances from Lower School Performing Arts Teacher Amanda Lower and others. Buy tickets here.
Friday, February 17: No School For Students
Monday, February 20: No School
January 23, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
More information to come.
Tuesday, January 24: Uniform Resale
7:45 – 9:15 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear (including athletics) are available for purchase at $5 and $10. Volunteers are needed to prepare and help with sales and breakdown. Sign up to help.
Wednesday, January 25: Late State For Students
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Wednesday, January 25: Sunrise Senior Salute Rescheduled to Wednesday, March 29
Wednesday, January 25 – Saturday, January 27: 39 Steps Theater Performances
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Black Box Theater (Upper School)
39 Steps is entirely run by senior theatre students. The show set in interwar Europe blends comedy with thrills and action, and features countless laughs, romance, and over 100 characters, played by a tremendously talented four-person cast. There is limited seating in the theater so reserve your tickets today.
Thursday, January 26: Towson University Choral Performance
5:30 – 6:30 pm
Lower Campus Sanctuary
Maryland’s Towson University Chorale is a mixed-voice ensemble dedicated to the performance of choral music from all styles and historical periods. No reservation or ticket required.
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, February 1 – Friday, February 3: Middle School Winter Show
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Introducing Mount Vernon Live, a night of laughter, music, and entertainment produced by the Middle School theatre students. Come for the scripted scenes, improv, musical theatre, and more. Don’t miss out on the fun. Reserve your tickets today.
Thursday, February 2: Tea With Trish
2:30 – 3:00 pm
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Families are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
Friday, February 3: MV Cares Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to attend this monthly prayer group to lift up those in our MV community through care and prayer.
Saturday, February 4: Upper School Winter Dance
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper School Café
Buy tickets online
Monday, February 6: Parent University: Virtual Lunch & Learn, Partnering to Support Your Child’s Social-Emotional Development
12:00 – 1:00 pm
The Mount Vernon experience is one of partnership in which there is a shared understanding of how to best support the social and emotional development of your children, our students. Join this session to hear from local healthcare experts Dr. Cecilia Williams Durden of TLC Psychology and Dr. Shayna Smith of Flourish Pediatrics. This presentation is intended to provide further understanding on social-emotional development and how best to support your child. RSVP here.
Wednesday, February 8: Grandparent Tour, Bingo & Hot Chocolate
4:00 – 4:30 pm: Upper School Tour With Head of School Kristy Lundstrom
4:30 – 6:00 pm: Hot Chocolate and Bingo in Upper School Café
The MVPN Grandparent Committee welcomes Grandparents of students in Grades 6 – 12 for an afternoon of conversation, hot chocolate, and bingo. The event will kick off at 4:00 pm with an Upper School tour led by Kristy Lundstrom, the Head of School. Following the tour, guests will gather in the Upper School Café for hot chocolate and bingo from 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm. Please register for the event using this link or email Jenn Brown if you plan to attend.
Thursday, February 9: Interim Pre-Departure Parent Meeting
6:00 – 7:30 pm
Upper School Building
Parents of students who are participating in trips abroad will meet with group chaperones to talk about logistical details and other relevant information prior to departure.
January 9, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Join Community Giving and Impact for a moment of connection. Join via Zoom.
Friday, January 13: Parent University: Trends In College Counseling
8:15 – 9:15 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Join MV’s College Counseling Team, Dr. Erin McCubbin, Ryan May, Aerial Dickerson, and Alejando Ramirez to learn more about the added advantage to a Mount Vernon education. The team looks forward to sharing what they have learned about the shift in education through COVID19 and how The School is uniquely prepared to be competitive even in the most uncertain times. RSVP here.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, January 16: No School for Students/Staff
Monday, January 23 – Monday, February 6: Perennial Enrollment Period
More information to come.
Tuesday, January 24: Uniform Resale
7:45 – 9:15 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear (including athletics) are available for purchase at $5 and $10. Volunteers are needed to prepare and help with sales and breakdown. Sign up to help.
Wednesday, January 25: Late State For Students
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Wednesday, January 25 – Saturday, January 27: 39 Steps Theater Performances
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Black Box Theater (Upper School)
39 Steps is entirely run by senior theatre students. The show set in interwar Europe blends comedy with thrills and action, and features countless laughs, romance, and over 100 characters, played by a tremendously talented four-person cast. There is limited seating in the theater so reserve your tickets today.
January 2, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
December 7 – 14: Winter Impact Drive Benefiting Toys for Tots
In partnership with the United States Marine Corps, Mount Vernon is hoping to collect 3,000 new, unwrapped toys throughout the week in carpool and in classrooms. This collection drive will culminate in Chapel on both campuses on Wednesday, December 14.
December 11 & 12: Mount Vernon Arts Alliance Build Event
Sunday: 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Monday: 1:00 – 6:00 pm
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Christmas Arts Showcase. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested.
Tuesday, December 13: Upper Campus Christmas Arts Showcase
4:00 pm or 6:00 pm
Parents, grandparents, and special friends are invited to attend one of the most magical afternoons of the year. The Christmas Arts Showcase is a time for students to show off their artistic talents in the spirit of the holidays. Reserve your tickets today.
Wednesday, December 14: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Seniors are invited to have breakfast together.
Wednesday, December 14: MV Serves Toys for Tots Chapel
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Thursday, December 15: Upper School Holiday Assembly, Candle Ceremony
9:30 – 10:15 am
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students will gather for a moment of community before the break. Parents are welcome to attend.
Friday, December 16: Early Dismissal 12:15 pm
SAVE THESE DATES
December 19 – January 2: Holiday Break – No School
Classes resume on Tuesday, January 3.
December 12, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
In partnership with the United States Marine Corps, Mount Vernon is hoping to collect 3,000 new, unwrapped toys throughout the week in carpool and in classrooms. This collection drive will culminate in Chapel on both campuses on Wednesday, December 14.
December 11 & 12: Mount Vernon Arts Alliance Build Event
Sunday: 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Monday: 1:00 – 6:00 pm
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Christmas Arts Showcase. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested.
Tuesday, December 13: Upper Campus Christmas Arts Showcase
4:00 pm or 6:00 pm
Parents, grandparents, and special friends are invited to attend one of the most magical afternoons of the year. The Christmas Arts Showcase is a time for students to show off their artistic talents in the spirit of the holidays. Reserve your tickets today.
Wednesday, December 14: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Seniors are invited to have breakfast together.
Wednesday, December 14: MV Serves Toys for Tots Chapel
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Thursday, December 15: Upper School Holiday Assembly, Candle Ceremony
9:30 – 10:15 am
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students will gather for a moment of community before the break. Parents are welcome to attend.
Friday, December 16: Early Dismissal 12:15 pm
SAVE THESE DATES
December 19 – January 2: Holiday Break – No School
Classes resume on Tuesday, January 3.
December 5, 2022
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8:00 – 9:30 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents are invited to sign up to speak with Jenn Brown, MVPN Chairman about committee-specific questions, event planning, newsletter help, or post-event after-action reviews.
Tuesday, December 6: Christmas Arts Showcase Volunteer Meeting & Prop Build Event
3:30 – 6:30 pm
Middle School Cafeteria
Families are invited to support MV Studios and the upcoming Christmas Arts Showcase by volunteering to help build and paint props. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested in participating at any capacity.
Wednesday, December 7: Late Start For Students
Childcare is not provided before school.
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Wednesday, December 7: Gently Worn Uniform Collection
During Carpool, gently worn uniforms will be collected for the uniform resale on January 10.
Wednesday, December 7: Middle and Upper School Faculty Appreciation Luncheon
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Middle School Lightbox
Parents are invited to show appreciation for Mount Vernon Faculty and Staff on this special day. Sign up for one or two hours.
December 7 – 14: Winter Impact Drive Benefiting Toys for Tots
In partnership with the United States Marine Corps, Mount Vernon is hoping to collect 3,000 new, unwrapped toys throughout the week in carpool and in classrooms. This collection drive will culminate in Chapel on both campuses on Wednesday, December 14.
SAVE THESE DATES
December 11 & 12: Mount Vernon Arts Alliance Build Event
Sunday: 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Monday: 1:00 – 6:00 pm
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Christmas Arts Showcase. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested.
Tuesday, December 13: Upper Campus Christmas Arts Showcase
4:00 pm or 6:00 pm
Parents, grandparents, and special friends are invited to attend one of the most magical afternoons of the year. The Christmas Arts Showcase is a time for students to show off their artistic talents in the spirit of the holidays. Reserve your tickets today.
Wednesday, December 14: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Seniors are invited to have breakfast together.
Wednesday, December 14: MV Serves Toys for Tots Chapel
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Thursday, December 15: Upper School Holiday Assembly, Candle Ceremony
9:30 – 10:15 am
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students will gather for a moment of community before the break. Parents are welcome to attend.
December 19 – January 2: Holiday Break – No School
Classes resume on Tuesday, January 3.
November 28, 2022
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8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Families are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
Tuesday, November 29: Mount Vernon Celebrates #GivingTuesday
Giving Tuesday is a movement that unleashes the power of impactful generosity around the world and reimagines a world built upon shared humanity. Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help. Every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give. Have an impact on Mount Vernon this #GivingTuesday by making a commitment to Learn, Serve, and Give.
Wednesday, November 30: Admissions for MV Siblings – Informational Meeting
8:15 – 8:45 am
Fellowship Hall
Are you considering submitting an admissions application for a current Mount Vernon student’s sibling this year? Mount Vernon values keeping families and siblings together when it is the right educational choice. Join the Admissions Team for an informational session where they will review the application process and share helpful tips as well as all the ways to visit campus. RSVP here.
SAVE THESE DATES
Saturday, December 3: Clark Taylor’s One-Man Performance of A Cherry Log Christmas Carol
Black Box Theater (Upper School)
2:00 – 3:30 pm & 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Mount Vernon’s annual holiday performance features Clark Taylor who brings his one-man performance to the stage. This adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol has a ghostly twist this year. Local Atlanta professional actors and musicians take the stage for this amazing and moving evening of storytelling. Reserve your ticket today.
Tuesday, December 6: Christmas Arts Showcase Volunteer Meeting & Prop Build Event
3:30 – 6:30 pm
Middle School Cafeteria
Families are invited to support MV Studios and the upcoming Christmas Arts Showcase by volunteering to help build and paint props. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested in participating at any capacity.
Wednesday, December 7: Late Start For Students
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Wednesday, December 7: Middle School and Upper School Faculty Appreciation Luncheon
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Middle School Lightbox
Parents are invited to show appreciation for Mount Vernon Faculty and Staff on this special day. Sign up for an hour or two time slot.
Monday, December 7 – 14: Winter Impact Drive Benefiting Toys for Tots
In partnership with the United States Marine Corps, Mount Vernon is collecting new, unwrapped toys throughout the week in carpool and in classrooms. This collection drive will culminate in chapel on both campuses on Wednesday, December 14.
December 11 & 12: Mount Vernon Arts Alliance Build Event
Sunday: 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Monday: 1:00 – 6:00 pm
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Christmas Arts Showcase. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested.
Tuesday, December 13: Upper Campus Christmas Arts Showcase
Two start times: 4:30 and 6:30 pm
Parents, grandparents, and special friends are invited to join their students for one of the most magical afternoons of the year. The Christmas Arts Showcase is a time for students to show off their artistic talents in the spirit of the holidays. Reserve your tickets today.
Wednesday, December 14: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Seniors are invited to have breakfast together.
Wednesday, December 14: MV Serves Toys for Tots Chapel
Details will be coming soon.
November 14, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
Parents and grandparents are invited to this event to foster community and learn more about how students learn at Mount Vernon. Beginning with an interactive hands-on activity, Mount Vernon will model experiential learning for you and with you. Following, Kristy Lundstrom will host a Q&A session. RSVP here.
Friday, November 18: Early Dismissal
Preschool 11:15 am
Lower School 11:30 am
Middle School: 12:00 pm
Upper School: 12:15 pm
SAVE THESE DATES
November 21 – 25: Thanksgiving Break
No school for students/staff.
Monday, November 28: Milepost Grades Viewable in Veracross
12:00 pm
Mod 2: Milepost 2 grades will be viewable in Veracross. Mileposts are not final grades, but rather a snapshot of current progress. Robust student work and progress is found in Altitude Learning. Please reach out to your child’s teacher if you have any questions.
Tuesday, November 29: Tea With Trish
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Families are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
Wednesday, November 30: MV Sibling Admissions Information Meeting
8:15 – 8:45 am
Fellowship Hall
Are you considering submitting an admissions application for a current Mount Vernon student’s sibling this year? Mount Vernon values keeping families and siblings together when it is the right educational choice. Join the Admissions Team for an informational session where they will review the application process and share helpful tips as well as all the ways to visit campus. RSVP here.
Saturday, December 3: Christmas Carol Showtimes
Black Box (Upper School)
2:00 – 3:30 pm & 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Mount Vernon’s perennial holiday event, featuring Clark Taylor bringing his one-man performance to the stage, this year with a ghostly twist. Local Atlanta professional actors and musicians take the stage for this amazing and moving evening of storytelling. Ticket information is coming soon.
Monday, December 7 – 14: Winter Impact Drive Benefiting Toys for Tots
In partnership with the United States Marine Corps, Mount Vernon is collecting new, unwrapped toys throughout the week in carpool and in classrooms. This collection drive will culminate in chapel on both campuses on Wednesday, December 14.
November 7, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
7:45 – 9:00 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, polo dresses, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear (including athletics) are available for purchase at $5 and $10. Volunteers will be needed to set up, help with sales, and break down. Volunteers are needed, sign up to help.
Wednesday, November 9: IDEA Global Affinity Meeting
8:00 – 10:00 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to join in conversation to design connection opportunities among Mount Vernon families with strong international ties as we build the Global Affinity Group.
November 9 – 11: Middle School Mainstage Performances
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Black Box Theater (Middle School)
Families are invited to join Mount Vernon’s young thespians as they perform The Great Middle School Poe-A-Thon & Peter And The Starcatcher. Purchase tickets here.
SAVE THESE DATES
Saturday, November 12: MV Inclusion Network: Affinity & Alliance Celebration Brunch
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Hotel Avalon 9000 Avalon Blvd. Alpharetta, GA 30009
Mustangs of all ages are welcome to join in celebration as Mount Vernon strides towards inclusion & the diversity of the community. A short program will be followed by brunch and fellowship as we welcome the season of thanksgiving.
Saturday, November 12: MV Arts Alliance Build Event
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Christmas Arts Showcase. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested.
Wednesday, November 16: MVXchange: Fostering Community, a Q&A with Kristy
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
Parents and grandparents are invited to this event to foster community and learn more about how students learn at Mount Vernon. Beginning with an interactive hands-on activity, we will model experiential learning for you and with you. Following, Kristy Lundstrom will host a Q&A session. RSVP here.
Friday, November 18: Early Dismissal
Preschool 11:15 am
Lower School 11:30 am
Middle School: 12:00 pm
Upper School: 12:15 pm
There will be no PlayMaker Classes or Extended Play on this day.
November 21 – 25: Thanksgiving Break
No School for students/staff.
October 31, 2022
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Monday, October 31: Halloween Spirit Day
Students are invited to wear orange or Halloween-themed tops with uniform bottoms. Seniors can wear costumes (no dangerous props, no face masks).
Thursday, November 3: MV Studios Monthly Spotlight and Speaker Series
8:00 – 9:30 am
Join the MV Arts Alliance and Shay Jones, Director of Lower Campus Visual & Performing Arts and Middle School Dance Studio Manager for coffee, community, and classwork to learn more about the Arts program, student creativity, and insight from MV Studios artists.
Friday, November 4: Early Dismissal
Preschool 11:15 am
Lower School 11:30 am
Middle School 12:00 pm
Upper School 12:15 pm
There will be no Extended Play or Playmaker on this day.
Friday, November 4: MV Cares Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to attend this monthly prayer group to lift up those in our MV community through care and prayer.
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, November 8: Uniform and Spirit Wear Resale
7:45 – 9:00 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, polo dresses, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear (including athletics) are available for purchase at $5 and $10. Volunteers will be needed to set up, help with sales, and break down. Volunteers are needed, sign up to help.
November 9 – 11: Middle School Mainstage Performances
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Black Box Theater (Middle School)
Families are invited to join Mount Vernon’s young thespians as they perform The Great Middle School Poe-A-Thon & Peter And The Starcatcher. Ticket reservation information coming soon.
Sunday, November 12: MV Arts Alliance Build Event
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Families are invited to support MV Studios as they build the set for the upcoming Senior Theatre Project, 39 Steps. Contact Desiree Vogt if you are interested.
Wednesday, November 16: MVXchange: Fostering Community, a Q&A with Kristy
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
Parents and grandparents are invited to this event to foster community and learn more about how students learn at Mount Vernon. Beginning with an interactive hands-on activity, we will model experiential learning for you and with you. Following, Kristy Lundstrom will host a Q&A session. RSVP here.
Friday, November 18: Early Dismissal
Preschool 11:15 am
Lower School 11:30 am
Middle School: 12:00 pm
Upper School: 12:15 pm
There will be no PlayMaker Classes or Extended Play on this day.
October 24, 2022
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8:15 – 9:15 am
Fellowship Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents are invited to join Chief of IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Action) Stacey Lee to explore the ties between Mount Vernon’s expressed Christian values and its commitment to IDEA. RSVP here.
Wednesday, October 26: Upper School Parent Interim Meeting
6:00 – 7:00 pm
Meet in Upper School Lobby
Parents will join their student’s respective trip chaperones to discuss details for their selected trip. Bring all of your questions, concerns, and your traveler’s updated passport.
Friday, October 28: Home Varsity Football Game With Lower Campus
3:30 – 6:00 pm
The Upper Campus Green (between Middle and Upper School buildings)
The Mustang Athletic Club invites all Lower Campus families to enjoy bouncy houses and participate in a costume contest on the Upper Campus during the football game. Concessions will be open. Don’t forget to wear a costume!
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, October 31: Halloween Spirit Day
Students are invited to wear orange or Halloween themed shirts with uniform bottoms. Seniors can wear costumes (no dangerous props or face masks).
Thursday, November 3: MV Studios Monthly Spotlight and Speaker Series
8:00 – 9:30 am
Join the MV Arts Alliance for coffee, community and classwork to learn more about the Arts program, student creativity, and insight from MV Studios artists.
Friday, November 4: MV Cares Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to attend this monthly prayer group to lift up those in our MV community through care and prayer.
Friday, November 4: Early Dismissal
11:30 am – LC
12:00 pm – MS
12:30 pm – US
Tuesday, November 8: Uniform and Spirit Wear Resale
7:45 – 9:00 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, polo dresses, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear (including athletics) are available for purchase at $5 and $10. Volunteers will be needed to set up, help with sales, and break down. Volunteers are needed, sign up to help.
November 9 – 11: Middle School Mainstage Performances
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Black Box Theater (Middle School)
Families are invited to join Mount Vernon’s young thespians as they perform The Great Middle School Poe-A-Thon & Peter And The Starcatcher. Ticket reservation information coming soon.
October 17, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
October 20 – 22: Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility Events
Thursday, October 20:
4:30 – 5:00 pm: Fall Arts/Theatre Showcase in MS Art Gallery
5:00 – 6:00 pm: Grandparents Reception in MS Art Gallery
6:00 – 9:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
Friday, October 21:
4:00 – 6:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
Saturday, October 22:
2:00 – 4:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
6:00 – 9:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, October 26: Upper School Parent Interim Meeting
6:00 – 7:00 pm
Meet in Upper School Lobby
Parents will join their student’s respective trip chaperones to discuss details for their selected trip. Bring all of your questions, concerns, and your traveler’s updated passport.
Friday, October 28: Home Varsity Football Game With Lower Campus
3:30 – 6:00 pm
The Upper Campus Green (between Middle and Upper School buildings)
The Mustang Athletic Club has invited all Lower Campus students and families to the Upper Campus to enjoy bouncy houses and participate in a costume contest. Concessions will be open. Don’t forget to wear a costume!
Monday, October 31: Halloween Spirit Day
Students are invited to wear orange or Halloween themed shirts with uniform bottoms. Seniors can wear costumes (no dangerous props or face masks).
Thursday, November 3: MV Studios Monthly Spotlight and Speaker Series
8:00 – 9:30 am
Join the MV Arts Alliance for coffee, community and classwork to learn more about the Arts program, student creativity, and insight from MV Studios artists.
Friday, November 4: MV Cares Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall (Lower Campus)
Parents and grandparents are invited to attend this monthly prayer group to lift up those in our MV community through care and prayer.
October 10, 2022
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Fall Break
Tuesday, October 11: Upper Campus Picture Retakes
10:15 – 11:45 pm
Middle School Roundabout
Students who were absent on their original picture day, or would like to have a retake, can sign up to have their portraits taken on Tuesday. If you have not received picture proofs from Clicks of Love via email, please check your spam folder. If they are not there, please email Helen Hudgens, Communications and Content Strategist. Please have your student bring their dress uniform shirts to change into before their picture.
Tuesday, October 11: Pink Out
Students are encouraged to wear pink tops, socks, and/or shoes with uniform bottoms in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Students choosing not to participate should wear their regular uniform.
October 11 & 12: Fall Decor Carpool Collection
Morning Carpool
Fall decorations will be collected during morning carpool on both campuses on Tuesday, October 11 and Wednesday, October 12. Sign up to contribute by donating decorations, setting up for the event, and/or breaking everything down. All decor will be placed throughout both campuses to be enjoyed for the rest of fall.
Wednesday, October 12: Grade 10 & 11 PSAT
Upper School
Grades 10 & 11 will take the PSAT the morning of October 12. An email with details has been shared with parents.
Grades 9 & 12 will be learning virtually on Wednesday.
Thursday, October 13: Interim Travel Registration and Deposit due
Parents must complete registration via WorldStrides for Interim travel.
Friday, October 14: Rock the Block Community Social
6:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Green
All families and alumni who are over 21 are invited to celebrate Home Team Pride together. Dress in your favorite “Home Team” gear, whether it’s the MV Mustangs, World-Champion Atlanta Braves, the National Champion Dawgs, or any other team. Pre-sale ticket registration has closed but walk-up tickets are available for $40 at the event. Admission fee includes food, two drink vouchers, and live music by The Rainmen, who cover hits from the 60’s and 70’s. Some seating will be available and tailgating chairs are welcome. Additional drinks are available for purchase.
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, October 19: Late Start
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
October 20 – 22: Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility Events
Thursday, October 20:
4:30 – 5:00 pm: Fall Arts/Theatre Showcase in MS Art Gallery
5:00 – 6:00 pm: Grandparents Reception in MS Art Gallery
6:00 – 9:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
Friday, October 21:
4:00 – 6:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
Saturday, October 22:
2:00 – 4:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
6:00 – 9:00 pm: Sense & Sensibility performance in Upper School Black Box Theatre
Wednesday, October 26: Upper School Parent Interim Meeting
6:00 – 7:00 pm
Meet in Upper School Lobby
Parents will join their student’s respective trip chaperones to discuss details for their selected trip. Bring all of your questions, concerns, and your traveler’s updated passport.
Friday, October 28: Home Varsity Football Game With Lower Campus
3:30 – 6:00 pm
The Upper Campus Green (between Middle and Upper School buildings)
The Mustang Athletic Club has invited all Lower Campus students and families to the Upper Campus to enjoy bouncy houses and participate in a costume contest. Concessions will be open. Don’t forget to wear a costume!
October 3, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
9:30 – 10:15 am
Upper Campus Gym
Families, faculty/staff, and Upper School students are invited to join former MLB pitcher and MV guest John Trautwein as he shares his story and reminds us how essential belonging is for the well-being of our students. John’s message is motivated by the loss of his son to suicide, illustrating the critical nature of showing and sharing care on a daily basis. This is a moment of encouragement as we bolster our commitment to talk about mental health and create an environment that supports openness and normalizes the use of resources. RSVP HERE.
Tuesday, October 4: Interim Term Trip Selection – Class of 2024
Students will submit a google form via email to select their top three trips.
*If your family is observing Yom Kippur, your Grade 11 student can email [email protected] for individual arrangements.
Tuesday, October 4: Fall Arts and Music Festival & Open Mic Night
5:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper School Café and Learning Stairs
All families are invited to attend. There is no charge for admission for performers and Grandparents.
$5 tickets sold on Veracross.
Wednesday, October 5: Interim Term Trip Selection – Class of 2025
Students will submit a google form via email to select their top three trips.
*If your family is observing Yom Kippur, your Grade 10 student can email [email protected] for individual arrangements.
Wednesday, October 5: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Seniors are invited to attend a breakfast at which they are the guests of honor before school on Wednesday, October 5.
Wednesday, October 5: College Panel Night
6:00 pm
Upper School, 2 South
Register here to gain insight and candor on the college application process from admission representatives from Emory University, Georgia College & State University, Purdue University, and George Washington University. This event is ideal for families of juniors and sophomores, but all members of the Mount Vernon community are welcome. We will address topics like demonstrated interest, standardized tests, application essays, parent involvement in the college process, early action/early decision, and much, much more. The dress is casual and there will be plenty of time for open Q&A.
Thursday, October 6: Interim Term Trip Selection – Class of 2026
Students will submit a google form via email to select their top three trips.
*If your family is observing Yom Kippur, your Grade 9 student can email [email protected] for individual arrangements.
Thursday, October 6: Tea With Trish
9:30 am
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Families are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
Thursday, October 6: Final Day to Register For Rock the Block
October 7 – 10: No School
Fall Break
SAVE THESE DATES
Sunday, October 9: Interim Term Rosters Released
Students and parents will receive trip rosters via email.
October 11 & 12: Fall Decor Carpool Collection
Morning Carpool
Fall decorations will be collected during morning carpool on both campuses on Tuesday, October 11 and Wednesday, October 12. Sign up to contribute by donating decorations, setting up for the event, and/or breaking everything down. All decor will be placed throughout both campuses to be enjoyed for the rest of fall.
Wednesday, October 12: Grade 10 & 11 PSAT
Upper School
Grades 10 & 11 will take the PSAT. An email with details has gone out to parents. Grade 9 & 12 will be learning virtually on this day.
Thursday, October 13: Interim Travel Registration and Deposit due
Parents must complete registration via WorldStrides for Interim travel.
Friday, October 14: Rock the Block Community Social
6:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Green
All families and alumni who are over 21, are invited to join together for a celebration of Home Team Pride. Dress in your favorite “Home Team” gear, whether it’s the MV Mustangs, World-Champion Atlanta Braves, the National Champion Dawgs, or any other team. Tickets are $25 per person and available for purchase until Thursday, October 6. Admission fee includes two drink vouchers, food, and live music by The Rainmen, who cover hits from the 60’s and 70’s. Some seating will be available and tailgating chairs are welcome. Additional drinks are available for purchase.
Wednesday, October 19: Late Start
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Thursday, October 20: OPENING NIGHT: Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility
4:30 – 6:00 pm – Fall Arts/Theater Showcase in MS Art Gallery
5:00 – 6:00 pm – Grandparents Reception in MS Art Gallery
6:00 – 9:00 pm – Doors Open in Upper School Black Box Theatre
Ticket info coming soon
September 26, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
12:00 – 12:30pm
Zoom Link
The Mount Vernon Admissions Team is looking forward to partnering with parents. There are three ways to get involved as a Parent Admissions Ambassador throughout this school year: follow along on a guided tour at an Open House, share stories online, or reach out to prospective families who request a call from a current parent. Join this virtual information session to learn how to participate. If you are not able to join, and want to get involved, sign up here.
Tuesday, September 27: Made in MV Spirit Shop
7:45 – 9:00 am
Gear up for fall at the Made in MV Spirit Shop, with sweatshirts, long sleeve tees, and brightly colored tees available in youth and adult sizes, bags, bows, and LOTS of hats. Stop by Tuesdays/Wednesdays from 7:45-9:00 am or Thursdays from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Or, go behind the scenes by signing up to work in the store, at a Pop Up Shop during varsity home football games, or help with the Uniform Resale (next one is on Tuesday, November 8).
Thursday, September 29: Interim Term Trip Selection – Class of 2023
Students will submit a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Friday, September 30: Parent University: Maker, Design & Engineering at Mount Vernon
9:45 – 10:45 am
Studio(i), Lower Campus
Families are invited to join Jim Tiffin, Director of MV’s Maker, Design & Engineering (MDE) to dig in and tinker while learning more about one of the School’s signature programs. Put your maker mindset to work to achieve the call for Inquiry, Innovation, and Impact. RSVP here.
Friday, September 30: Upper Campus Picture Retakes
9:00 – 10:15 am
Middle School Roundabout
Students who were absent on their original picture day can have their make-up portraits taken on this one day only. Retakes will also take place on this day. If you have not received picture proofs from Clicks of Love via email, please check your spam folder. If they are not there, please email Helen Hudgens, Communications and Content Strategist. Since Friday is a spirit day, please have your student bring their dress uniform shirts to change into before their picture. Please sign up if you would like your child to participate.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, October 3: Parent University: John Trautwein, Will to Live Foundation
9:30 – 10:15 am
Upper Campus Gym
Families, faculty/staff, and Upper School students are invited to join former MLB pitcher and MV guest John Trautwein as he shares his story and reminds us how essential belonging is for the well-being of our students. John’s message is motivated by the loss of his son to suicide, illustrating the critical nature of showing and sharing care on a daily basis. This is a moment of encouragement as we bolster our commitment to talk about mental health and create an environment that supports openness and normalizes the use of resources. RSVP HERE.
Tuesday, October 4: Interim Term Trip Selection – Class of 2024
Students will submit a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Tuesday, October 4: Fall Arts and Music Festival & Open Mic Night
5:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper School Café and Learning Stairs
All families are invited to attend. There is no charge for admission for performers and Grandparents.
$5 tickets sold on Veracross.
Wednesday, October 5: Interim Term Trip Selection – Class of 2025
Students will submit a google form via email to select their top three trips.
*If your family is observing Yom Kippur, your Grade 10 student can email [email protected] for individual arrangements.
Wednesday, October 5: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Seniors are invited to attend the second of four breakfasts at which they are the guests of honor before school on Wednesday, October 5.
Thursday, October 6: Interim Term Trip Selection – Class of 2026
Students will receive a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Thursday, October 6: Tea With Trish
9:30 am
Upper School Arts District: Room S102
Families are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
October 7 – 10: No School
Fall Break
Sunday, October 8: Interim Term Rosters Released
Students and parents will receive trip rosters via email.
Wednesday, October 12: Grade 10 & 11 PSAT
Upper School
Grades 10 & 11 to participate in PSAT. A logistics email has gone out to parents. Grade 9 & 12 to virtually learn, more information to come via email.
Thursday, October 13: Interim Travel Registration and Deposit due
Parents must complete registration via WorldStrides for Interim travel.
Friday, October 14: Rock the Block Community Social
6:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Green
Register by October 6
All families and alumni who are over 21, are invited to join together for a celebration of Home Team Pride. Dress in your favorite “Home Team” gear, whether it’s the MV Mustangs, World-Champion Atlanta Braves, the National Champion Dawgs, or any other team. Tickets are $25 per person and available for purchase until Thursday, October 6. Admission fee includes two drink vouchers, food, and live music by The Rainmen, who cover hits from the 60’s and 70’s. Some seating will be available and tailgating chairs are welcome. Additional drinks are available for purchase.
Tuesday, November 8: Uniform and Spirit Wear Resale
7:45 – 9:00 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, polo dresses, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear (including athletics) are available for purchase at $5 and $10. Volunteers will be needed to set up, help with sales, and breakdown. Sign up to help.
September 19, 2022
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7:00 – 8:30 pm
Upper School Learning Stairs and Café
Upper School families are invited to this informational event, which is most relevant to families with Junior and Senior students. Please register here.
Wednesday, September 21: Interim Travel Meeting for Families
6:00-7:00 pm
Upper School
Upper School students interested in traveling for interim are invited with their families to an in-person meeting at the Upper School to discuss trip details, payment arrangements, refund policy, Covid restrictions, and other important concerns.
Wednesday, September 21: Late Start For Students
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
Wednesday, September 21: Final Day For AP-Exam Opt-Ins
More information and Opt-In Form
SAVE THESE DATES
Saturday, September 24: MV Arts Alliance Build Event
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Middle School Cafeteria Patio
All students and parents are invited to build Christmas Arts Showcase props.
Saturday, September 24: Senior Casual Photo Day
8:00 am
Lenox Park
As a convenience to Seniors, Clicks of Love and Mount Vernon have teamed up to provide an off-site, one-day senior casual portrait shoot. RSVP to schedule your appointment. Please send your Senior Casual Photos to Helen Hudgens, Yearbook Advisor, by November 7.
Monday, September 26: Parent Admissions Ambassadors Kick-Off Meeting (virtual)
12:00 – 12:30pm
Zoom Link
The Mount Vernon Admissions Team is looking forward to partnering with parents. There are three ways to get involved as a Parent Admissions Ambassador throughout this school year: follow along on a guided tour at an Open House, share stories online, or reach out to prospective families who request a call from a current parent. Join this virtual information session to learn how to participate. If you are not able to join, and want to get involved, sign up here.
Thursday, September 29: Interim Term Trip Selection – SENIORS
Students will receive a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Friday, September 30: Parent University: Maker, Design & Engineering at Mount Vernon
9:45 – 10:45 am
Studio(i), Lower Campus
Parents and grandparents are invited to join MV’s Maker community to learn more about the School’s Maker, Design & Engineering (MDE) program, while using a maker mindset to achieve the call for Inquiry, Innovation, and Impact. RSVP here.
Monday, October 3: Parent University: John Trautwein, Will to Live Foundation
9:30 – 10:15 am
Upper Campus Gym
Parents, grandparents, faculty, and Upper School students are invited to listen to guest speaker John Trautwein remind us how essential belonging and well-being is to supporting ourselves and our students. John’s message is motivated by the loss of his son to suicide, and brings to life the critical nature of showing and sharing care on a daily basis. This is a moment of encouragement as we bolster our commitment to talk about mental health and create an environment that supports openness and normalizes use of resources.
Tuesday, October 4: Interim Term Trip Selection – JUNIORS
Students will receive a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Tuesday, October 4: Open Mic Night
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students and families are invited to attend Upper School Open Mic Night. Students in Grades 9 – 12, please sign up by Tuesday, September 27 for a chance to perform. Performers can attend for free. $5 tickets sold on Veracross.
Wednesday, October 5: Interim Term Trip Selection – SOPHOMORES
Students will receive a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Wednesday, October 5: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:20 am
Seniors are invited to attend the second of four breakfasts at which they are the guests of honor before school on Wednesday, October 5.
Thursday, October 6: Interim Term Trip Selection – FRESHMEN
Students will receive a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Thursday, October 6: Parent University: MV Studios
8:00 – 9:30 am
Mount Vernon families are invited to enjoy coffee, community and classwork with the MV Studios staff. Each month an MV staff artist is featured, as well as student-created work. Find out more on the Arts Alliance website.
Thursday, October 6: Tea With Trish
9:30 am
US Arts District: Room S102
Upper School families are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about issues relevant to Upper School students.
Sunday, October 8: Interim Term Rosters Released
Students and parents will receive trip rosters via email.
Thursday, October 13: Interim Travel Registration and Deposit due
Parents will receive an email with deposit links after rosters are released.
Friday, October 14: Rock the Block
6:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Green
All families and alumni who are over 21, are invited to join together for a celebration of Home Team Pride. Dress in your favorite “Home Team” gear, whether it’s the MV Mustangs, World-Champion Atlanta Braves, the National Champion Dawgs, or any other team. Tickets are $25 per person and available for purchase until Thursday, October 6. Admission fee includes two drink vouchers, food, and live music by The Rainmen, who cover hits from the 60’s and 70’s. Some seating will be available and tailgating chairs are welcome. Additional drinks are available for purchase.
September 12, 2022
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September 12 – 14: Fall Impact Service Drive Individually Packaged Snack Collection
Morning Carpool
In partnership with Atlanta Mission, The School will be collecting individually packaged (nut-free) snack items during morning carpools on September 12, 13 and 14. On September 15, students in every division will pack 3 – 4 snack items into paper bags that they will decorate with encouraging pictures and notes. In addition, the MV Grandparents Committee invites grandparents to help by donating snack items and/or by helping Lower School students assemble the snack bags on September 15. Contact Andrea McGrath, MV Serves Co-Chair, for more information.
Tuesday, September 13: Altitude Learning Parent University
9:00 – 10:00 am
Zoom Link
Meeting ID: 820 4039 5516
Passcode: h2s97V
All Middle and Upper School parents are invited to attend this virtual informational session on Altitude Learning, Mount Vernon’s Upper Campus Learning Management System. Although letter grades are periodically reported using Veracross, Altitude Learning is the platform that contains the most robust data about course materials, assignments, and most importantly, your child’s academic growth and progress. In this session, parents will learn how to access and navigate the platform as well as how to make sense of a student’s progress in relation to assessment results.
September 12 – 16: Homecoming Spirit Week
Upper School themed dress up days are as follows:
Monday: Music Genre
Tuesday: Star Wars
Wednesday: Holidays
Thursday: Baby’s First Halloween
Friday: Disco Fever
No weapons or face masks should accompany outfits throughout the week.
Friday, September 16: Homecoming Game And Field Dedication
3:45 pm: Dedication to the Ron Hill Field, in memory of our beloved coach, teacher, and friend
4:00 pm: New Family Reception. Please register here.
4:15 pm: Kickoff
Halftime: Homecoming Court ceremony
A parent/guardian should remain with student(s) at all times after carpool and during the homecoming game.
Families are invited to join the festivities under Grade level tents.
Sign up to bring munchies and drinks to your tent below.
Grades 9 – 10
Grades 11 – 12
Saturday, September 17: Upper School Homecoming DISCO Dance
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Cafe/Patio (Gym in case of inclement weather)
Dress is semi formal, tickets can be purchased for $25 in the Veracross portal or in person at lunch using cash. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Approved non-MV guests are allowed by submitting this form by September 15 at the front desk. The theme is Disco.
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, September 21: Late Start For Students
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
All School
Wednesday, September 21:Final Day For AP-Exam Opt-Ins
More information and Opt-In Form
Saturday, September 24: MV Arts Alliance Build Event
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Middle School Cafeteria Patio
Come join the fun and help build the Christmas Arts Showcase props for the Lower and Upper Campuses, all ages and all skills welcome.
Monday, September 26: Parent Admissions Ambassadors Kick-Off Zoom Meeting
12:00 – 12:30pm
Zoom Link
The Mount Vernon Admissions Team is looking forward to partnering with parents. There are three ways to get involved as a Parent Admissions Ambassador throughout this School year: follow along on a guided tour at Open Houses, share stories online, or reach out to prospective families who request a call from a current parent. Join this virtual information session to learn how to get involved.
Thursday, September 29: Interim Term Senior Trip Selection
Students will receive a google form via email to select their top three trips.
Thursday, September 29: Tea With Trish
2:30 – 3:00 pm
US Arts District: Room S102
Upper School parents are invited to join Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik for light refreshments while chatting about learning, assessments and reassessments in the Upper School. Registration is not required. Please drop in.
Friday, September 30: Parent University: Maker, Design, Engineering at MV
9:45 – 10:45 am
Studio(i), Lower Campus
All parents (and grandparents) are invited to join MV’s community of makers to learn more about the School’s Maker, Design & Engineering (MDE) program and use a maker mindset to achieve the call for Inquiry, Innovation, and Impact.
Tuesday, October 4: Open Mic Night
6:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
Upper School students and families are invited to attend Upper School Open Mic Night. Upper School students, please sign up by Tuesday, September 27 for a chance to perform. Performers can attend for free. $5 tickets sold on Veracross, link coming soon.
Friday, October 14: Rock the Block
6:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Green
All families and alumni, over 21, are invited to celebrate Home Team Pride. Dress in your favorite “Home Team” gear, Whether it’s the MV Mustangs, World-Champion Atlanta Braves, the National Champion Dawgs, or any other team. Tickets are $25 per person and available for purchase until October 6. Admission fee includes two drink vouchers, food, and live music by The Rainmen. Some seating will be available and tailgating chairs are welcome. Additional drinks are available for purchase.
September 5, 2022
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Tuesday, September 6: Uniform Resale
7:45 – 9:00 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear are available for purchase from $5 – $10. Volunteers are needed during this busy back-to-school season. Sign up to help.
Wednesday, September 7: Interim Travel Information Meeting
6:00 pm
Zoom Link
Join DeShawn Jenkins, Director of Interim & Global Impact via zoom for an informational session to learn more about Interim opportunities. The session will be recorded and shared afterwards.
Friday, September 9: MV Cares Group Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Upper School Cafe Outdoor Patio
All parents and grandparents are welcome to attend this monthly prayer group. MV Cares strives to exemplify The School’s foundational bedrock of the fruit of the Spirit by lifting up our students, families, faculty/staff, and greater community through prayer and caring actions.
SAVE THESE DATES
September 12 – 14: Fall Impact Service Drive Individually Packaged Snack Collection
Morning Carpool
In partnership with Atlanta Mission, The School will be collecting individually packaged (nut-free) snack items during morning carpools on September 12, 13 and 14. On September 15, students in every division will pack 3 – 4 snack items into paper bags that they will decorate with encouraging pictures and notes. In addition, the MV Grandparents Committee invites grandparents to help by donating snack items and/or by helping Lower School students assemble the snack bags on September 15. Contact Andrea McGrath, MV Serves Co-Chair, for more information.
Tuesday, September 13: Altitude Learning Parent University
9:00 – 10:00 am
Zoom Link
Meeting ID: 820 4039 5516
Passcode: h2s97V
All Middle and Upper School parents are invited to attend this virtual informational session on Altitude Learning, Mount Vernon’s Upper Campus Learning Management System. Although letter grades are periodically reported using Veracross, Altitude Learning is the platform that contains the most robust data about course materials, assignments, and most importantly, your child’s academic growth and progress. In this session, parents will learn how to access and navigate the platform as well as how to make sense of a student’s progress in relation to assessment results.
September 12 – 16: Homecoming Spirit Week
Upper School themed dress up days are as follows:
Monday: Music Genre
Tuesday: Star Wars
Wednesday: Holidays
Thursday: Baby’s First Halloween
Friday: Disco Fever
No weapons or face masks should accompany outfits throughout the week.
Friday, September 16: Homecoming Game And Field Dedication
3:45 pm: Dedication to the Ron Hill Field, in memory of our beloved coach, teacher, and friend
4:00 pm: New Family Reception. Please register here.
4:15 pm: Kickoff
Halftime: Homecoming Court ceremony
Families are invited to join the festivities under Grade level tents.
Sign up to bring munchies and drinks to your tent below.
Preschool – Grade 1
Grades 2 – 5
Grades 6 – 8
Grades 9 – 10
Grades 11 – 12
Saturday, September 17: Upper School Homecoming Dance
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Cafe/Patio (Gym in case of inclement weather)
Dress is semi formal, tickets can be purchased for $25 in the Veracross portal or in person at lunch using cash. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Approved non-MV guests are allowed by submitting this form by September 15 at the front desk. The theme is Disco.
Wednesday, September 21: Late Start For Students
Carpool: 9:10 am
Class Starts: 9:30 am
All School
Saturday, September 24: MV Arts Alliance Build Event
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Middle School Cafeteria Patio
Come join the fun and help build the Christmas Arts Showcase props for the Lower and Upper Campuses, all ages and all skills welcome.
Friday, October 14: Rock the Block
6:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Green
Welcoming all families and alumni, 21 and over. This year’s theme is Home Team Pride. Come dressed in your favorite “Home Team” swag. It could be The MV Mustangs, the World-Champion Atlanta Braves, and the National Championship-winning Bulldogs, or any other collegiate or professional team. Tickets are $25 per person and available to reserve until October 6. Tickets include 2 drink vouchers, food and live music by The Rainmen. Some seating will be available. Tailgating chairs are welcome. Additional drinks are available for purchase. More info via email to come.
August 29, 2022
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9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Students will compete in a trivia game to unlock the locations to this year’s Interim travel options. Families are welcome to join in the gym.
Wednesday, August 31: Chapel
PK3 – Grade 1: 8:45 – 9:05 am, Lower Campus Sanctuary Building
Grade 2 – 5: 8:05 – 8:35 am, Lower Campus Sanctuary Building
Middle School: 8:00 – 8:25 am, Upper Campus Gym
Upper School: 9:30 – 10:00 am, Upper Campus Gym
Parents are welcome to join chapel services throughout the year.
Thursday, September 1: BIPOC Family Welcome and Orientation
5:30 – 7:00 pm
Lower Campus Fellowship Hall
All students, parents, and grandparents are welcome to attend this Inclusion Network meeting with the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Affinity group to learn about the group’s impact on campus.
Thursday, September 1: MV Studios Parent University
8:00 – 9:00 am
Upper School Blackbox
All families of Kindergarten – Grade 12 students are welcome to join this informational event held by the Tri-M Society, an organization focused on creating future music education and music advocacy.
Friday, September 2: Early Release For Students & Staff
Preschool – Grade 1: 11:15 am
Grades 2 – 5: 11:30 am
Middle School: 11:50 am
Upper School: 12:15 pm
There will be no Extended Play classes.
Middle School siblings are welcome to wait in the Upper School lobby until 12:15 pm for their siblings. If an Upper School sibling needs to pick up their younger sibling at the Preschool or Lower School, parents must submit a Student Attendance Notice in the Veracross Parent Portal to request early dismissal. Older siblings in Lower School will be dismissed at 11:15 am to join their Preschool siblings for carpool.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, September 5: No School
Tuesday, September 6: Uniform Resale
7:45 – 9:00 am
Middle School Overlook
New and gently worn polos, dress shirts, shorts, pants, skirts, outerwear, and spirit wear are available for purchase from $5 – $10. Volunteers are needed during this busy back-to-school season. Sign up to help.
Wednesday, September 7: Intro to Interim Travel Information Meeting
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Please look out for more information coming soon.
Friday, September 9: MV Prayers Group Meeting
8:00 – 9:00 am
Upper School Outdoor Cafe Patio
All parents and grandparents are welcome to attend this monthly prayer group. MV Prayers strives to exemplify the school’s foundational bedrock of the fruit of the Spirit by lifting up our families, staff, faculty and greater community through prayer and caring actions.
Monday, September 12: MV Serves Atlanta Mission Service Project Begins
In partnership with Atlanta Mission, the School will be collecting individually wrapped snack items during morning carpools on September 12, 13 & 14, to be packed by students in every division and delivered on Thursday, September 15. Additional details will be shared soon.
September 12 – 16: Homecoming Spirit Week
Upper School themed dress up days are as follows:
Monday: Music Genre
Tuesday: Star Wars
Wednesday: Halloween
Thursday: Holidays
Friday: Disco Fever
Saturday, September 17: Upper School Homecoming Dance
7:00 – 10:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
August 22, 2022
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11:00 am – 1:30 pm
The Springs Cinema And Taphouse
All MV Grandparents are invited to attend this free event. Sign Up Here
Wednesday, August 24: Upper School Fall Mainstage Auditions
3:30 – 5:30 pm
Upper School Blackbox
The Fall Performance will be Sense & Sensibility by Bedlam Theatre member, Kate Hamill. No theater experience is required to audition. Please complete the audition registration and information form for actors and technical support.
Thursday, Aug 25: Upper School Dance Tryouts
3:30 – 5:00 pm
Upper School Dance Studio
Under the direction of Ms. Jasmine Gray, the team will perform at sporting events, compete in organized competitions, and develop relationships they’ll always remember. Please prepare a choreographic number for this tryout.
Friday, August 26: Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) Volunteer Fair
9:30 – 10:15 am
Outside by the entrance of the Middle School
Parents are invited to meet/talk to all of the MVPN Steering Committee on their way into Convocation. Come and learn how to get involved with Mount Vernon through the Mount Vernon Parent Network.
Friday, August 26: Convocation
10:15 – 11:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
An all-community annual gathering where we come together to recognize our students and share our hopes for the year to come. Speakers include Mount Vernon CEO, Head of School, and Head Prefect.
Friday, August 26: First Varsity Home Football Game BBQ
4:30 – 6:30 pm
The Ron Hill Field
The entire MV community is invited to cheer on our Mustangs and enjoy a BBQ dinner at the first home Varsity Football game of the season on the new Ron Hill Field on Upper Campus. The admission fee for the game is waived and there is no charge for the BBQ. The concession stand will be open for refreshments and snacks.
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, August 30: Interim Reveal
9:30 – 10:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
Students will compete in a trivia game to unlock the locations to this year’s Interim travel options. Families are welcome to join us in the gym.
Friday, September 2: Early Release for Students & Staff
Preschool – Grade 1: 11:15 am
Grades 2 – 5: 11:30 am
Middle School: 11:50 am
Upper School: 12:15 pm
There will be no Extended Play classes.
Monday, September 5: No school
Wednesday, September 7: Senior Breakfast
7:30 – 8:15 am
Upper School Cafe
Seniors are invited to attend the first of four breakfasts at which they are the guests of honor before school on Wednesday, September 7.
August 15, 2022
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Doors are open at: 7:15 am
School starts at: 8:15 am
Wednesday, August 17: Upper School Portraits
Students will report to GTD classes as usual. GTD teachers will lead students by class to picture taking locations. Students should wear their dress uniform (MV button down shirt).
Wednesday, Aug 17: Senior Formal Portraits
Students will report to GTD classes as usual. GTD teachers will lead students by class to picture taking locations. Students should wear their dress uniform with the appropriate undergarments per the “Senior Picture Day” communication sent via email.
Wednesday, August 17: Made in MV Spirit Store Open
7:45 – 9:00 am
Upper School Building
The store is stocked with new MV spirit wear. Come by and see for yourself. The Store experiences high traffic during this time of year as families are stocking up on all the latest MV spirit wear. Please consider volunteering for a one-hour shift to work in the Made in MV School Store.
Regular store hours are:
Tuesday & Wednesday: 7:45 – 9:00 am
Thursday: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Thursday, August 18 – Friday, August 19: Freshman Retreat
The details of this overnight event were shared with Freshman families via email. Please return your permission form prior to the retreat.
Friday, August 19: MV Studios Launch Party
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper School Cafe
Enjoy refreshments and entertainment while learning about MV Arts clubs, productions and activities available to Grades 6-12.
SAVE THESE DATES
Saturday, August 20: MV Studios Boot Camp Day 1
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Activities include Drumline, Theater, and Visual Arts workshops.
Grades 6 – 12 welcome. Sign Up Here
Sunday, August 21: MV Studios Boot Camp Day 2
12:30 – 5:00 pm
Activities include Film, Jazz Band, Rock Band, and Strings workshops.
Grades 6 – 12 welcome. Sign Up Here
Wednesday, August 24: MV Grandparents Committee Movie Outing
11:00 am – 1:30 pm
The Springs Cinema And Taphouse
All MV Grandparents are invited to attend this free event. Sign Up Here
Thursday, Aug 25: Upper School Dance Tryouts
3:30 – 5:00 pm
Upper School Dance Studio
Under the direction of Ms. Jasmine Gray, the team will perform at sporting events, compete in organized competitions, and develop relationships they’ll always remember. Please prepare a choreographic number for this tryout.
Friday, August 26: Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) Volunteer Fair
8:00 – 8:45 am
Outside by the entrance of the Middle School
Parents are invited to meet/talk to all of the MVPN Steering Committee on their way into Convocation. Come and learn how to get involved with Mount Vernon through the Mount Vernon Parent Network.
Friday, August 26: Convocation
10:15 – 11:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
All-community event. Mount Vernon CEO, Head of School, Head Prefect, and others will speak and set the tone for the 2022 – 2023 school year.
Friday, August 26: First Varsity Home Football Game BBQ
4:30 – 6:30 pm
The Ron Hill Field
BBQ will be outside on the Upper School Cafe Patio. All are welcome. No RSVP required.
August 8, 2022
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9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Second Administration Building (HQ2) Upper Campus
Volunteer for a one-hour shift at the Uniform Resale Shop.
The Uniform Resale will be held on the first Tuesday of every month.
Tuesday, August 9: MV Parent Portal Zoom Tutorial For All New Families
2:30 – 3:30 pm
Zoom Meeting Link
ID: 393 948 3946
Password: MVMustangs
Join us for a live Zoom session. Kirsten Beard, Chief Admissions Officer, will lead a virtual tour through the MV Parent Portal illustrating where and how to access all the features and information you might need.
Tuesday, August 9: Student Schedules Shared With Families
Tuesday, August 9: Dance Team Tryouts
3:00 – 5:00 pm
Upper School Dance Studio
Friday, August 12: Upper School Orientation
8:30 – 9:30 am Grade 10
9:30 – 10:00 am Grade 10 – 12 (New Students)
10:00 – 11:00 am Grade 11 and 12
12:30 – 2:00 pm Grade 9
Orientation schedule and details
Saturday, August 13 – Monday, August 15: Senior Retreat
College Counseling has shared details with Senior families.
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, August 16: First Day of School
Carpool starts at: 7:45 am
School starts at: 8:15 am
Wednesday, August 17: Upper School Portraits
Students will report to GTD classes as usual. GTD teachers will lead students by class to picture taking locations. Students should wear their dress uniform.
Wednesday, August 17: Made in MV Spirit Store Open
7:45 – 9:00 am
Upper School Building
The store is stocked with new MV spirit wear come by and see for yourself. The Store experiences high traffic during this time of year as families are stocking up on all the latest MV spirit wear. Please consider volunteering for a one-hour shift to work in the Made in MV School Store.
Thursday, August 18: Freshman Retreat
Details were shared with Freshman families via email.
Friday, August 19: MV Studios Launch Party
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Upper School Cafe
Enjoy refreshments and entertainment while learning about MV Arts clubs, productions and activities available to Grades 6-12.
Saturday, August 20: MV Studios Boot Camp Day 1
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Activities include Drumline, Theater, and Visual Arts workshops.
Grades 6 – 12 welcome. Sign Up Here
Sunday, August 21: MV Studios Boot Camp Day 2
12:30 – 5:00 pm
Activities include Film, Jazz Band, Rock Band, and Strings workshops.
Grades 6 – 12 welcome. Sign Up Here
Wednesday, August 24: MV Grandparents Committee Movie Outing
11:00 am – 1:30pm
The Springs Cinema And Taphouse
All MV Grandparents are invited to attend this free event. Sign Up Here
Friday, August 26: Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) Volunteer Fair
8:00- 8:45 am
Outside by the entrance of the Middle School
Parents are invited to meet/talk to all of the MVPN Steering Committee on their way into Convocation. Come and learn how to get involved with Mount Vernon through the Mount Vernon Parent Network.
Friday, August 26: Convocation
10:15 – 11:00 am
Upper Campus Gym
All-community event. Mount Vernon CEO, Head of School, Head Prefect, and others will speak and set the tone for the 2022 – 2023 school year.
Friday, August 26: First Varsity Home Football Game BBQ
4:30 – 6:30 pm
The Ron Hill Field
BBQ will be outside on the Upper School Cafe Patio. All are welcome. No RSVP required.
May 23, 2022
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9:00 – 10:00 am
Upper School, Learning Stairs
Kate T. Parker, a professional photographer with two daughters at MV, was fed up with the media’s prevailing imagery of girls as demure and overly feminine. “I wanted to show my girls that beauty isn’t about being a certain size or having your hair done (or even brushed, in their cases), or wearing a fancy outfit. I wanted to combat the messages the media sends to women every day. I wanted my girls to know that being themselves is beautiful and that being beautiful is about being strong.” But what about boys? Kate soon realized that their voices needed to be heard as well – not just fearless and confident and wild but also curious and kind and vulnerable. The Heart of A Boy, published in 2019, was a New York Times bestseller and shows the richness and diversity of boyhood from all across the country. “It’s time to discuss how to raise our sons to become good people and to talk about defining masculinity in a way that is less narrow and limiting.”
Thursday, May 26: Last Day of School
Noon Dismissal
SAVE THESE DATES
Week of June 6: Summer ePacket Information
Be on the lookout for an email with links to important information including summer learning, uniform requirements, medical forms and summer workouts.
Mid- Late July: 22/23 ePacket Information
Be on the lookout for an email with links to orientation information and other back to school information.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Yet again, we find ourselves processing the news of traumatizing events that are happening in our own country and paying careful attention to our students who may have seen or heard of the tragic shootings. I am grateful to be part of a faith-based community who will pause and pray through these times. We don’t have all the answers, but we are here to partner with you and your family.
This week in chapel, Coach T talked about Distractions that Lead to Destruction. Reading from Romans 8:37-38, he reminded all of us that even in moments of distraction nothing can separate us from the love of God. He then went on to talk about how we can be bold and take control of what might distract us. Together we talked about the positive and the negative influences of our telephones. He challenged us to look up and engage with people IRL (in real life). We all set a reminder in our phones to take time out this summer and just “look up.” I share this message because I believe this gives you a great connection point to what is being discussed in school.
Last week was full of celebrations for our Class of 2022. We are now looking ahead to final advisory, yearbook signing and the last day of school. What a pleasure it has been to serve the Class of 2023, 2024, and 2025. Here’s to a great last week of school!
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
May 16, 2022
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Wednesday, May 18: Last Day of School for Seniors, Senior Painted Uniform Day
Thursday, May 19: Upper Campus Spring Instrumental Concert
4:30 – 5:30 pm
US Cafe
MS Music Department (strings, band, and drums) will be performing their final concert for the 2021-2022 school year in the US Cafe beginning at 4:30 pm. Families and friends are invited to join us to enjoy the continued work of our young musicians.
SAVE THESE DATES
Saturday, May 21: Commencement Ceremony
10:00 am
Upper Campus
General Seating is in the home stands
Monday, May 23: Parent University: Strong is the New Pretty with Kate Parker
9:00 – 10:00 am
Upper School, Learning Stairs
Kate T. Parker, a professional photographer with two daughters at MV, was fed up with the media’s prevailing imagery of girls as demure and overly feminine. “I wanted to show my girls that beauty isn’t about being a certain size or having your hair done (or even brushed, in their cases), or wearing a fancy outfit. I wanted to combat the messages the media sends to women every day. I wanted my girls to know that being themselves is beautiful and that being beautiful is about being strong.” But what about boys? Kate soon realized that their voices needed to be heard as well – not just fearless and confident and wild but also curious and kind and vulnerable. The Heart of A Boy, published in 2019, was a New York Times bestseller and shows the richness and diversity of boyhood from all across the country. “It’s time to discuss how to raise our sons to become good people and to talk about defining masculinity in a way that is less narrow and limiting.”
Thursday, May 26: Last Day of School
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Last week, Upper School students took 549 AP Exams, crashed carpool at the Lower Campus, ran in the finals of the State Track & Field Competition, and finalized many assessments. We celebrated student athletes at the MVEES and student artists at our Thespian banquet. We also celebrated the MVPN (outgoing) volunteers who have helped to support our events this year.
Next week, we are looking forward to all of our graduation week activities from the Senior Salute to Baccalaureate to Commencement. Innovation Diploma students are hosting an Education Conference for more than 125 guests and there will be a Ceramics “throw-down” exhibition. In the midst of all that excitement, we are also looking forward to the final Chapel of the year.
In the final two weeks of this MOD, we will be engaging in lots of feedback and reflection exercises. A great question that you could ask at the dinner table: What has been your biggest success and what has been your biggest stretch?
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
May 9, 2022
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Monday, May 9: MVEE Awards
6:30 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
The MVEES highlight the best Mount Vernon Athletics sports stories throughout the year in one amazing night of celebration. Join us to recognize and award outstanding sports performances, best plays, male and female athletes of the year, and best team performance of the year, just to name a few. All Junior Varsity and Varsity athletes and parents are invited to attend. You don’t want to miss out on this spectacular event for Mount Vernon Student-Athletes!
Friday, May 13: Yearbook Distribution
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, May 18: Last Day of School for Seniors, Senior Painted Uniform Day
Thursday, May 19: Upper Campus Spring Instrumental Concert
4:30 – 5:30 pm
US Cafe
MS Music Department (strings, band, and drums) will be performing their final concert for the 2021-2022 school year in the US Cafe beginning at 4:30 pm. Families and friends are invited to join us to enjoy the continued work of our young musicians.
Monday, May 23: Parent University: Strong is the New Pretty with Kate Parker
9:00 – 10:00 am
Upper School, Learning Stairs
Kate T. Parker, a professional photographer with two daughters at MV, was fed up with the media’s prevailing imagery of girls as demure and overly feminine. “I wanted to show my girls that beauty isn’t about being a certain size or having your hair done (or even brushed, in their cases), or wearing a fancy outfit. I wanted to combat the messages the media sends to women every day. I wanted my girls to know that being themselves is beautiful and that being beautiful is about being strong.” But what about boys? Kate soon realized that their voices needed to be heard as well – not just fearless and confident and wild but also curious and kind and vulnerable. The Heart of A Boy, published in 2019, was a New York Times bestseller and shows the richness and diversity of boyhood from all across the country. “It’s time to discuss how to raise our sons to become good people and to talk about defining masculinity in a way that is less narrow and limiting.”
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
It’s a busy time in the MOD with three weeks left. Our second milepost grades will be posted in Veracross on Monday. While these are only a snapshot of the progress your child has made so far, it is a good indicator of where their grade is currently. The rich and specific feedback from teachers is in Altitude Learning. I advise you to ask to “see their cards” to gain a better overview of what assignments are coming up.
Best of luck to our Track & Field athletes who will be competing in the Regional Competition this weekend. Like many other 21-22 sports teams, both our men’s and women’s track teams have advanced further than ever before. We look forward to celebrating all of our athletes at the MVEEs on Monday evening. Check your email for the invite and the details.
Finally, join me in applauding the efforts of all students involved in making Spongebob the Musical the “best day ever”! Attention to detail in the tech and costumes, stage performances, and behind-the-scenes support made for an incredible show! This performance was full of joy and important messages about sustainability, friendship, and resilience. Thanks, too, to our MVArts’ parents who supported this inclusive project from staging to rehearsals to set building to snacks – the entire experience was impactful.
I am grateful for the inquiry that students bring to their work. And, the constant nurturing our teachers bring each day when we ask “how are you today?”
I am grateful for the innovation that occurs in the small settings of iterating a poem or a design to grow into a better version and in the larger moments where parents come to meetings at school to help us think through our programs so that we can better serve our kids.
I am grateful for the impact shaped by our community whether by sharing virtual reality experiences with elderly friends or by joining together to renew a field that will serve students in many sports for years to come.
I am grateful to partner with you to support all Mount Vernon students.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
May 2, 2022
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Monday, May 2 – Saturday, May 7: MV Allstars Presents: The Spongebob Musical
All are invited to join Spongebob and all his friends in this musical phenomenon! With five chances to catch the show, you don’t want to miss out! Reserve your tickets here.
Monday, May 2 – Friday, May 13: AP Exam Administration
Thursday, May 5: Coffee with Kristy
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Cafe
Join Kristy Lundstrom for a morning coffee and conversation as we talk all things Athletics. Brad Dehem, our Athletics Director, will join us.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, May 9: MVEE Awards
6:30 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
The MVEES highlight the best Mount Vernon Athletics sports stories throughout the year in one amazing night of celebration. Join us on to recognize and award outstanding sports performances, best plays, male and female athletes of the year, and best team performance of the year, just to name a few. All Junior Varsity and Varsity athletes and parents are invited to attend. You don’t want to miss out on this spectacular event for Mount Vernon Student-Athletes!
Friday, May 13: Yearbook Distribution
Wednesday, May 18: Last Day of School for Seniors, Senior Painted Uniform Day
Thursday, May 19: Upper Campus Spring Instrumental Concert
4:30 – 5:30 pm
US Cafe
MS Music Department (strings, band, and drums) will be performing their final concert for the 2021-2022 school year in the US Cafe beginning at 4:30 pm. Families and friends are invited to join us to enjoy the continued work of our young musicians.
Monday, May 23: Parent University with Kate Parker
9:00 – 10:00 am
Lower Campus, Fellowship Hall Quad B
Kate T. Parker, a professional photographer with two daughters at MV, was fed up with the media’s prevailing imagery of girls as demure and overly feminine. “I wanted to show my girls that beauty isn’t about being a certain size or having your hair done (or even brushed, in their cases), or wearing a fancy outfit. I wanted to combat the messages the media sends to women every day. I wanted my girls to know that being themselves is beautiful and that being beautiful is about being strong.” But what about boys? Kate soon realized that their voices needed to be heard as well – not just fearless and confident and wild but also curious and kind and vulnerable. THE HEART OF A BOY, published in 2019, was a New York Times bestseller and shows the richness and diversity of boyhood from all across the country. “It’s time to discuss how to raise our sons to become good people and to talk about defining masculinity in a way that is less narrow and limiting.”
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2022-23 PREFECTS
Head: Lindsey Franklin
Ambassador: Mary Fuentes
Student Events: Campbell Bruening
Academic: Bennett Bogdanchik
Community: Taylor Keller
Sustainability: Autumn Kelley
Wellness/Spiritual Life: Joe Srinivasan
Student Life/Culture: Daniel O’Keefe
Outreach: Cate Jacobsen
NEW DEAN AND ASSOCIATE HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL, 2022-23
We are excited to announce that Brad Droke will be our new Dean of Students. Brad has been at Mount Vernon serving as Director of our Innovation Diploma Program since 2017. Brad is a familiar face to many of our families, and we are excited for him to take on a new leadership role. His experience leading the Innovation Diploma program will benefit students, staff, and parents as he focuses on the culture and overall experience of our entire Upper School student body.
We are also excited to announce the appointment of Abraham “Abe” Pachikara as the Associate Head of Upper School. Abe brings many years of teaching and leadership experience within the realms of both public and independent education. Abe is joining us from Georgetown Day School in Washington, DC, where he most recently served as a Dean of Students and taught history. In his free time, Abe loves spending time with his wife and son along with regularly training Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ). He is very excited to join this community; please welcome him!
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Bye-bye April! Starting with our Honors Celebration on Thursday morning, followed by the senior moment where all students wore the shirts of their colleges of choice, to the Tennis Elite 8 match to Mustang Rally – last week ended on a high note! Thank you for an amazing Mustang Rally on Friday! We are so thrilled to have this Mount Vernon tradition back, and we are so grateful for all our community did to make it happen.Even though MOD 4 is passing quickly, taking time to pause, gather, and celebrate is important.
Hello May! Next week, we are back to the grind with a renewed focus. AP Exams begin. We are halfway through the MOD, and students are busy with projects, formative assessments, and reassessments. As a reminder, teachers are available for tutorial sessions before and after school if arranged in advance. I hope you can join us for the last Coffee with Kristy of the year on Thursday. We will focus on Athletics in the Upper School. Our guest will be Brad Dehem, Mount Vernon’s Athletic Director.
Less than 20 school days left; let’s make them count!
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
April 25, 2022
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Wednesday, April 27: All-School Late Start
9:10 am Carpool begins
9:30 am School begins
*Childcare is not available before school begins
Wednesday, April 27: Mustang Rally T-Shirt Swaps and Sale
9:10 – 10:10 am
Lower Campus Courtyard
If you received a Mustang Rally shirt and need to exchange it for another size, you may do so during this time. Additionally, if you did not purchase a shirt, all extras will be on sale for $20.00 per shirt.
Friday, April 29: Mustang Rally
Check out the Rally schedule, fun facts, and frequently asked questions here. Let’s get ready to Rally!!!
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, May 2 – Saturday, May 7: MV Allstars Presents: The Spongebob Musical
All are invited to join Spongebob and all his Bikini Bottom friends in this musical phenomenon! With five chances to catch the show, you don’t want to miss out! Reserve your tickets here.
Thursday, May 5: Coffee with Kristy
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Cafe
Join Kristy Lundstrom for a morning coffee and conversation as we talk all things Athletics. Brad Dehem, our Athletics Director, will join us.
Monday, May 9: MVEE Awards
6:30 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
The MVEES highlight the best Mount Vernon Athletics sports stories throughout the year in one amazing night of celebration. Join us on to recognize and award outstanding sports performances, best plays, male and female athletes of the year, and best team performance of the year, just to name a few. All Junior Varsity and Varsity athletes and parents are invited to attend. You don’t want to miss out on this spectacular event for Mount Vernon Student-Athletes!
Wednesday, May 19: End of Year MS Music Showcase
7:00 – 9:30 pm
Upper School Café
The MS Music Department (strings, band, and drums) will be performing their final concert for the 2021-2022 school year in the US Café beginning at 4:30 pm. Families and friends are invited to join us to enjoy the continued work of our young musicians.
Pending New Date in Late May: Parent University with Kate Parker
9:00 – 10:00 am
Lower Campus, Fellowship Hall Quad B
Kate T. Parker, a professional photographer with two daughters at MV, was fed up with the media’s prevailing imagery of girls as demure and overly feminine. “I wanted to show my girls that beauty isn’t about being a certain size or having your hair done (or even brushed, in their cases), or wearing a fancy outfit. I wanted to combat the messages the media sends to women every day. I wanted my girls to know that being themselves is beautiful and that being beautiful is about being strong.” But what about boys? Kate soon realized that their voices needed to be heard as well – not just fearless and confident and wild but also curious and kind and vulnerable. THE HEART OF A BOY, published in 2019, was a New York Times bestseller and shows the richness and diversity of boyhood from all across the country. “It’s time to discuss how to raise our sons to become good people and to talk about defining masculinity in a way that is less narrow and limiting.”
AN ATTENDANCE UPDATE
You will notice a new button in your Veracross Parent Portal labeled – Student Attendance Notice. The purpose of this function is for parents to notify the School in advance when your child will miss school. This allows us to better prepare and provide support in their absence. We also hope that directly sending this via Veracess will streamline the process of how you report family absences. The Upper School will be piloting this function to test processes and then give feedback. In true Mount Vernon fashion, we will test the prototype, hear your feedback, and iterate to ready us for an all-School launch in August 2022.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
In chapel this week, Coach T shared a touching tribute to our seniors, the Class of 2022. This is truly a special time of year and we are so honored to celebrate with them every step of the way. As we get closer to graduation, it is more important than ever to make sure that we are partnering and supporting students to do their very best. Being on time, in uniform, and ready to learn will lead to a more successful experience.
One of the ways that we support students is through our advisory program. This unique opportunity allows us to provide students with a small group of peers and an advisor for four continuous years. In advisory this week our grade 9 through 11 students gave feedback to help shape advisory next year. Student voice and empowerment are an important part of the learning process and valuing students’ opinions makes the experience better for them.
We are gearing up for Mustang Rally next week; we hope to see your family enjoying the fun, welcoming community that we are so proud of!
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
April 18, 2022
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Monday, April 18: No School for Students and Faculty
Thursday, April 21: New Family Coffee
7:45 – 9:00 am
Upper Campus Green
MVPN’s New Family Chairs Amanda Woodall and Amanda Richmond invite new families who joined MV for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years to the Upper Campus Green to build community among our newest Mustangs. Come as you are, bring your morning caffeine or grab a cup from the Ground Floor coffee shop in the US Cafe. We can’t wait to see you! RSVP here.
Friday, April 22: MV Cares: MV Parent Prayer Group
8:00 – 9:00 am
Upper Campus, Upper School Patio
All are welcome to attend the last Prayer Group gathering of the school year. We will be meeting on the Upper School Patio and take a walk around the football field as we pray for our School, students, and faculty. If the weather does not allow for an outdoor gathering, we will meet in the Church Sessions Room on Lower Campus. Prayer requests may be made here.
Saturday, April 23: Lower Campus PlayMaker Dance Recital
3:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
Come support dancers from the PlayMaker program as they showcase their talents in the annual Dance Recital. Admission is free and all ages are welcome to attend. This year, dancers will be celebrating the past 50 years of music, performing to songs from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, 2000’s, and now.
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, April 27: All-School Late Start
9:10 am Carpool begins
9:30 am School begins
*Childcare is not available before school begins
Wednesday, April 27: Mustang Rally T-Shirt Swaps and Sale
9:10 – 10:10 am
Lower Campus Courtyard
If you received a Mustang Rally shirt and need to exchange it for another size, you may do so during this time. Additionally, if you did not purchase a shirt, all extras will be on sale for $20.00 per shirt.
Friday, April 29: Mustang Rally
Check out the Rally schedule, fun facts, and frequently asked questions here. Let’s get ready to Rally!!!
Tuesday, May 2 – Saturday, May 7: MV Allstars Presents: The Spongebob Musical
All are invited to join Spongebob and all his Bikini Bottom friends in this musical phenomenon! With five chances to catch the show, you don’t want to miss out! Reserve your tickets here.
Thursday, May 5: Coffee with Kristy
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Cafe
Join Kristy Lundstrom for a morning coffee and conversation as we talk all things Athletics. Brad Dehem, our Athletics Director, will join us.
Friday, May 6: Parent University with Kate Parker
9:00 – 10:00 am
Lower Campus, Fellowship Hall Quad B
Kate T. Parker, a professional photographer with two daughters at MV, was fed up with the media’s prevailing imagery of girls as demure and overly feminine. “I wanted to show my girls that beauty isn’t about being a certain size or having your hair done (or even brushed, in their cases), or wearing a fancy outfit. I wanted to combat the messages the media sends to women every day. I wanted my girls to know that being themselves is beautiful and that being beautiful is about being strong.” But what about boys? Kate soon realized that their voices needed to be heard as well – not just fearless and confident and wild but also curious and kind and vulnerable. THE HEART OF A BOY, published in 2019, was a New York Times bestseller and shows the richness and diversity of boyhood from all across the country. “It’s time to discuss how to raise our sons to become good people and to talk about defining masculinity in a way that is less narrow and limiting.”
AN ATTENDANCE UPDATE
You will notice a new button in your Veracross Parent Portal labeled – Student Attendance Notice. The purpose of this function is for parents to notify the School in advance when your child will miss school. This allows us to better prepare and provide support in their absence. We also hope that directly sending this via Veracess will streamline the process of how you report family absences. The Upper School will be piloting this function to test processes and then give feedback. In true Mount Vernon fashion, we will test the prototype, hear your feedback and iterate to ready us for an all-School launch in August 2022.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
We are partners in your student’s learning journey, and often rich feedback and information can be found in your inbox. These emails come from [email protected] and often have the Subject line: “Today’s post for (Student Name) in Stream.”
We are partners in your student’s character journey. In Chapel this week, we talked about remembering the great story of love and sacrifice in our Easter story. This is the reason for our days off this weekend. We encouraged the students to look up and appreciate the opportunity to have time to hear, appreciate and lean into the message together with loved ones.
We are partners in your child’s wellness journey. I wish all of you a restful long weekend where we can recharge and recommit to finishing strong. For more on wellness at the School, check out a recent episode of the Made in MV Podcast featuring two of our counselors, Dr. Kelli Bynum and Stephanie Corbett.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
April 11, 2022
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WEEK OF APRIL 11 – 15
Wednesday, April 13: Deadline to Purchase Mustang Rally Chick-fil-A Lunch
The deadline has passed for Mustang Rally t-shirts, but there’s still time to order your Chick-fil-A lunches and pre-sale carnival tickets. With just three weeks to go until this highly anticipated event, be sure to place your orders by Wednesday at noon. Parent volunteers are still needed to make Rally a success – learn more and sign up here.
Thursday, April 14: Parent University with Essential Partners Part 2: Dialoguing Across Difference
8:30 – 9:30 am
Virtual: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87140045705?pwd=SmQ3VTVLTkUyemNIb2h4U0ZvR2JSUT09
Meeting ID: 871 4004 5705
Passcode: D8nghL
Essential Partners returns in conjunction with Mount Vernon faculty/staff and students to share ways in which our community has absorbed and implemented learning connected to dialogue and effective communication. With the support of faculty facilitators, students will have had the opportunity to engage in the practice of dialogue through Upper School Advisory and Middle School Community gatherings to learn more about themselves and one another. This work reflects our belief that we are #bettertogether and directly supports the advancement of IDEA. Join us to hear stories of growth and curiosity as we share moments and ways in which we’ve achieved deeper understanding across differences.
Friday, April 15 – Monday, April 18: No School for Students and Faculty
SAVE THESE DATES
Thursday, April 21: New Family Coffee
7:45 – 9:00 am
Upper Campus Green
MVPN’s New Family Chairs Amanda Woodall and Amanda Richmond invite new families who joined MV for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years to the Upper Campus Green to build community among our newest Mustangs. Come as you are, bring your morning caffeine or grab a cup from the Ground Floor coffee shop in the US Cafe. We can’t wait to see you! RSVP here.
Friday, April 22: MV Cares: MV Parent Prayer Group
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall on Lower Campus
MV parents and grandparents are invited to lift up our Mount Vernon community in prayer. Prayer requests
Saturday, April 23: Lower Campus PlayMaker Dance Recital
3:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym
Come support dancers from the PlayMaker program as they showcase their talents in the annual Dance Recital. Admission is free and all ages are welcome to attend. This year, dancers will be celebrating the past 50 years of music, performing to songs from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, 2000’s, and now.
Wednesday, April 27: All-School Late Start
9:10 am Carpool begins
9:30 am School begins
*Childcare is not available before school begins
Friday, April 29: Mustang Rally
Check out the Rally schedule, fun facts, and frequently asked questions here. Let’s get ready to Rally!!!
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
In Chapel this week, Coach T led us through a discussion of being a transactional vs a transformational friend. He reminded us that:
-we never know what another person may be going through so we must be mindful of our actions and words
-life is precious: we should appreciate each other and the moments we share, and
-may our greatest legacy be how we treated one another.
We all agreed that the most important value in these moments is love.
Seeing the students at Prom last night was a reminder of these precious moments. Dressed up in their finest, students danced and ate and enjoyed each other’s company. We were proud of how they included each other and represented Mount Vernon well.
As we enter Holy Week, I wish every Upper School family peace during the long Easter weekend.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
April 4, 2022
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Monday, April 4: Grandparent Reception & Tour
4:00 – 6:00 pm, Upper School Cafe Patio
Encourage your child’s grandparents to attend a reception and tour of the Upper Campus, led by incoming Head of School Kristy Lundstrom. Light refreshments will be served. Grandparents can RSVP here.
Tuesday, April 5: Last Uniform Resale of the Year
7:30 – 9:00 am
Administration Building 2, Upper Campus
Stop by for the last Uniform Resale of the year to purchase gently used uniform and spirit wear items: shirts/$5, bottoms/$10, sweatshirts, jackets, sweaters/$10. To donate gently used items, please drop off at the Administration Building on Upper Campus.
Wednesday, April 6: Senior Breakfast
7:45 – 8:15 am
Thursday, April 7: Coffee with Kristy
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Cafe
Join Kristy Lundstrom for a morning coffee and conversation as she shares a look ahead to the 2022-23 school year.
Saturday, April 9: Junior and Senior Prom
7:00 – 11:00 pm
The Fox Theater
Tickets are now on sale for Prom. Tickets can be purchased in Veracross until April 6 at 1:00 pm and cost $100 per person (dinner included!). Prom is for Juniors and Seniors only – outside guests must be preapproved before attending. Picture parties (not school sponsored) will be held by parents in each grade. For more information, please refer to the email sent from Associate Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik on March 21.
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, April 12: All-School Open Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) Meeting
The purpose of the MVPN is to build community through engagement and volunteerism, amplifying Mustang pride. The newest of the 15 committees, MV Connection, will focus on the full-circle relationships built at Mount Vernon School. Join us at either meet up to learn more about engaging in one or more of the 100+ opportunities and hear from Chief of Community Development Anne Katz and her special guest, Mustang Alum Alex Alba, Class of 2015.
Join us in person or via Zoom to learn more about the 15 committees that make up the MVPN.
In-person: 9:00 – 10:00 am, Lower Campus Fellowship Hall
Virtual: 7:00 – 8:00 pm, Zoom Link, ID: 89197797205, Passcode: Rxhcc8
Thursday, April 14: Parent University with Essential Partners Part 2: Dialoguing Across Difference
8:30 – 9:30 am
Virtual: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87140045705?pwd=SmQ3VTVLTkUyemNIb2h4U0ZvR2JSUT09
Meeting ID: 871 4004 5705
Passcode: D8nghL
Essential Partners returns in conjunction with Mount Vernon faculty/staff and students to share ways in which our community has absorbed and implemented learning connected to dialogue and effective communication. With the support of faculty facilitators, students will have had the opportunity to engage in the practice of dialogue through Upper School Advisory and Middle School Community gatherings to learn more about themselves and one another. This work reflects our belief that we are #bettertogether and directly supports the advancement of IDEA. Join us to hear stories of growth and curiosity as we share moments and ways in which we’ve achieved deeper understanding across differences.
Friday, April 15 – Monday, April 18: No School for Students and Faculty
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
PROM is this week! Remember, students must purchase a ticket to attend.
As we finish up the first week of MOD 4, I want to share with you what we are reminding students:
- How we show up for school sets the conditions for a successful day – be on time, be in dress code and be prepared and ready to participate fully.
- Formative assessments are very important – that is when we practice and learn.
- If a student does not complete a summative assessment, a grade of Novice will be assigned as a placeholder. This “Novice” can be removed when the student completes the assessment successfully. This distinction is being added to hold students accountable for deadlines and “keeping up” with current work.
- Every Friday, students should reflect on “what have I learned, what do I still need to do, and what is my next step?” These reflections can be streamed home.
- Use your GTD to actually get.things.done.
- If you need help, ask for it. Don’t wait, advocate (for yourself)!
We have high expectations and high levels of support. Every student has unique gifts and needs. We are working to support their development. I would be grateful if you would reinforce these messages at home.
Thank you for all the treats, kind notes, prizes, and delicious teacher appreciation luncheon. Our teachers enjoyed all of the special treats and really felt appreciated.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
March 28, 2022
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Monday, March 28 – Friday, April 1: Teacher Appreciation Week
MV’s Appreciation Committee has a baseball-themed week of events planned, culminating in a tailgate luncheon on Friday, April 1. Please sign up to monitor the Upper School lunchroom or to help with luncheon set up, tear down, or serving lunch to the teachers.
Sign-up to help cover G9 – G12 classes during the luncheon
Sign-up to help set, serve, and breakdown
This is a special week specifically designed to call out everything we appreciate about our wonderful Mount Vernon teachers. A table will be set up in the main entryway of the Upper School Building throughout the week with all the materials needed for students to write notes of thanks to their favorite teachers.
March 31: Deadline to Purchase Mustang Rally T-Shirts
*Sponsors Do Not Need to Order
T-shirts for Rally are now available for purchase. Additionally, Chick-fil-A lunches and carnival tickets are now available for purchase until Wednesday, April 13. Submit your Mustang Rally order here.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, April 4: Grandparent Reception & Tour
4:00 – 6:00 pm, Upper School Cafe Patio
Encourage your child’s grandparents to attend a reception and tour of the Upper Campus, led by incoming Head of School Kristy Lundstrom. Light refreshments will be served. Grandparents can RSVP here.
Tuesday, April 5: Last Uniform Resale of the Year
7:30 – 9:00 am
Administration Building 2, Upper Campus
Stop by for the last Uniform Resale of the year to purchase gently used uniform and spirit wear items: Shirts/$5, Bottoms/$10, Sweatshirts, jackets, sweaters/$10. To donate gently used items, please drop off at the Administration Building on Upper Campus.
Wednesday, April 6: Senior Breakfast
7:45 – 8:15 am
Thursday, April 7: Coffee with Kristy
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Cafe
Join Kristy Lundstrom for a morning coffee and conversation as she shares a look ahead to the 2022-23 school year.
Saturday, April 9: Junior and Senior Prom
7:00 – 11:00 pm
The Fox Theater
Tickets are now on sale for Prom. Tickets can be purchased in Veracross until April 6 at 1:00 pm and cost $100 per person (dinner included!). Prom is for Juniors and Seniors only – outside guests must be preapproved before attending. Picture parties (not school sponsored) will be held by parents in each grade. For more information, please refer to the email sent from Associate Head of Upper School Trish Bogdanchik last week.
Tuesday, April 12: All-School Open Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) Meeting
The purpose of the MVPN is to build community through engagement and volunteerism, amplifying Mustang pride. MVPN leads the charge to support learning, innovation, creativity, and fun for our entire community. From Special Events and MVXperts to Campus Engagement and MV Cares, there are 100+ ways for MV parents and grandparents to get involved at the School.
Join us in person or via Zoom to get a peek into next year and learn more about the 15 committees that make up the MVPN.
In-person: 9:00 – 10:00 am, Lower Campus Fellowship Hall
Virtual: 7:00 – 8:00 pm, Zoom Link, ID: 89197797205, Passcode: Rxhcc8
Friday, April 15 – Monday, April 18: No School for Students and Faculty
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
When some of our students were getting some extra rest or finishing assignments on Wednesday, the school was buzzing with excitement. Staff gathered in an RDI session to give input into our Foresight & Strategic Planning process. We are eager to hear from you as well in this process, you can give your input via this survey. Our BIPOC Affinity Group for students gathered for the first time for a supportive time together. At the same time, more than a dozen students finalized their dialogue-facilitation training with Essential Partners. Equipping these young people to lead and facilitate challenging conversations provides a powerful resource for our school and a lifelong, transferable leadership skill to them for many years to come. Utilizing this out-of-schedule time is an efficient and effective way to accelerate the work of the Upper School.
Exciting to see evidence of learning this week in the form of an iDiploma dinner where freshman students used their chemistry and digital design skills, the fashion show from the Fashion & Fibers course, cheering on the Lacrosse team in their win in overtime, and the (many) quiet conversations between student and teacher where formatives lead to summatives and students finalize their work. Careful planning, skill and determination, coupled with high expectations and high levels of support, yield amazing results. It is all really inspiring to see.
Please remember to order Chick-fil-A lunches for Mustang Rally, Friday, April 29. Lunch will not be served at the School that day. The deadline for purchase is April 13.
As we prepare to start the final mod of the year, some of our rising juniors and seniors are eager to become a Prefect in the 2022-2023 school year. Applications went out this week and we are excited for the process to begin. The student leadership system at the Upper School plays an integral role in cultivating a positive environment.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
March 21, 2022
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Monday, March 21 – Friday, March 25: MV Serves Solidarity Pantry Food Drive
MV’s spring athletes will be at carpool this week to collect items for Solidarity Pantry. Upper School specific collection: household and personal care items such as laundry pods, dish soap, shampoo, soap, diapers. Sign up to help at carpool.
Tuesday, March 22: Deadline to Sponsor Mustang Rally
Mustang Rally (April 29) is a free family event, but there are extra perks for family/corporate sponsorships (unlimited wristbands, lunch, tshirts). Pre-sale of t-shirts, Chick-fil-A lunch tickets, and carnival tickets, will begin on March 23. Learn more here.
Wednesday, March 23: All-School Late Start
9:10 am Carpool begins
9:30 am School begins
*Childcare is not available before school begins
Friday, March 25: MV Cares: MV Parent Prayer Group
8:00 – 9:00 am in Gailey Hall on Lower Campus
MV parents and grandparents are invited to lift up our Mount Vernon community in prayer. Prayer requests
Saturday, March 26: 1972 Society Appreciation Party
More than 200 Mount Vernon families and organizations have contributed to the 1972 Society in honor of the School’s founding year. Every family that makes an initial gift, or increases their gift, to the $1,972 level or above is invited to attend.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, March 28 – Friday, April 1: Teacher Appreciation Week
MV’s Appreciation Committee has a baseball-themed week of events planned, culminating in a tailgate luncheon on Friday, April 1. Please sign up to monitor the Upper School lunchroom or to help with luncheon set up, tear down, or serving lunch to the teachers.
Sign-up to help cover G9 – G12 classes during the luncheon
Sign-up to help set, serve, and breakdown
This is a special week specifically designed to call out everything we appreciate about our wonderful Mount Vernon teachers. A table will be set up in the main entryway of the Upper School Building throughout the week with all the materials needed for students to write notes of thanks to their favorite teachers.
Monday, April 4: Grandparent Reception & Tour
4:00 – 6:00 pm, Upper School Cafe Pati
Encourage your child’s grandparents to attend a reception and tour of the Upper Campus, led by incoming Head of School Kristy Lundstrom. Light refreshments will be served. Grandparents can RSVP here.
Thursday, April 7: Coffee with Kristy
8:30 – 9:00 am
Upper School Cafe
Join Kristy Lundstrom for a morning coffee and conversation as she shares a look ahead to the 2022-23 school year.
Tuesday, April 12: All-School Open Mount Vernon Parent Network Meeting
Connect with fellow MV Parents during our next All-School Open MVPN Meeting. We look forward to seeing you at one of the meetings.
In-person: 9:00 – 10:00 am, Lower Campus Fellowship Hall
Virtual: 7:00 – 8:00 pm, Zoom Link, ID: 89197797205, Passcode: Rxhcc8
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
In Chapel this week, we watched a student-created video highlighting the influence and impact of the BIPOC community as a way of celebrating Black History Month. Lyndsey F, Keith W and Spencer S did a great job! It was powerful to hear the important message of love from within our own community.
We are all back now from our Interim 2022 experiences and have worked hard to gather feedback from students, staff and parents. This information will inform our planning as we move forward with Interim 2023.
Excited to continue to celebrate the successes of our seniors:
800+ Applications
187 Different Colleges
100% of students have been accepted by at least one school
$8.8 Million in Scholarships (excluding HOPE/athletic)
For our 9th – 11th graders, this week marks the start of one-on-one scheduling meetings for their academic classes next year. Students are highly engaged regarding the opportunities and classes available to them next year. The building is buzzing with excitement. This is just one of the ways we personalize the journey for each of them.
Remember, this is the last week of MOD 3.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
March 14, 2022
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Wednesday, March 16: Senior Breakfast
7:45 – 8:15 am
Thursday, March 17: St. Patrick’s Day
Students are invited to wear green tops with uniform bottoms.
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, March 23: All-School Late Start
9:10 am Carpool begins
9:30 am School begins
*Childcare is not available before school begins
Friday, March 25: MV Cares: MV Parent Prayer Group
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall, Lower Campus
Our MV community is invited to lift up our students and others who have needs, in prayer. At this meeting, we will reflect on our community, and pray for individuals – students and staff members by name – offering gratitude for where we are as a school and ask for grace as we build something exceptional, together. Prayer requests may be made here.
Saturday, March 26: 1972 Society Appreciation Party
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
I hope you and your family had a wonderful spring break. Right before break, MV Upper students and teachers were immersed in learning experiences all over Georgia, DC, and beyond. Each experience was an opportunity for students to be solution seekers, communicators, collaborators, creative thinkers, ethical decision-makers, and innovators. Whether it was learning about American history through memorials and monuments in DC or on the beaches of Normandy, understanding art and engineering from Ancient Greece and Egypt, learning about the entertainment industry that is booming here at home or exploring climate and ecology from multinational perspectives. We even had students on important internships and leading younger students in how to start a business. Each student had the opportunity to explore their passions and learn something new while being guided by our amazing MV Upper teachers. Without their care and commitment, Interim would not be possible.
As we return to finish MOD 3, it is important that we all “land quickly” and finish strong. I need your help as we guide our students back into school mode. This would be a great week to log into Altitude learning and review the Progress tab. As you review Altitude Learning, what areas are Proficient to Advanced? What areas are Novice to Emerging? What is the feedback from their teacher? Are there any overdue cards? What plan does your child have for making up any missed work? Although students are encouraged to be agents of their own learning, it can be helpful for them to verbally share their plan with you.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
February 28, 2022
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Upper School COVID Landscape
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, February 25.
Upper School Students |
Lower Campus & Upper Campus Employees |
|
C19 Positive | 7 out of 452 | 0 out of 265 |
February 28 – March 4: Interim Week and CORE
Tuesday, March 1: Uniform Resale
7:30 – 9:00 am
Administration Building 2, Upper Campus
Stop by the Uniform Resale to purchase gently used uniform and spirit wear items: Shirts/$5, Bottoms/$10, Sweatshirts, jackets, sweaters/$10. The Uniform Resale is open the first Tuesday of each month. If you are able and interested, please consider becoming a Uniform Resale volunteer. Bring your friends or make new ones at this fun and easy one-time volunteer opportunity. As a bonus – parent volunteers will have the first pick of inventory! Sign up here.
SAVE THESE DATES
March 7 – March 11: Spring Break, No School
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
We have an exciting week ahead of us with internships and relational experiences taking place here in Atlanta, and students and faculty traveling both domestically and internationally. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of the many people who have worked so hard to make these experiences possible. From our administrators to our business office to our chaperones planning all of the details – please join me in thanking them for their continued commitment to making the learning at MV meaningful. Thanks to you, too, for partnering with us.
After this week, it will be Spring Break. This will be a much needed moment of recovery, rest and rejuvenation before we bounce back into school to finish MOD 3 and start our final MOD of the year. I wish every family peace and joyful time together.
Regards,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Engage as an MVPN Parent Volunteer in 2022-23
The Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) relies on family volunteers to help the School build connections through community, while enhancing the student experience. Make a school-wide impact through athletics, arts, social events, service, MVXperts, and more, from home or on campus. Sign up for specific positions/committees for the 2022-2023 school year. Please contact Director of Community Impact Hunter Pierce for more information – [email protected].
Made in MV Spirit Shop
Engage in the Upper School with students, teachers, and other parents by volunteering for a short shift in the Made in MV Spirit Shop. Be some of the first to see the newest spirit wear and gear. Training is quick and easy! Contact Teresa Campbell at [email protected] with questions.
- Tuesday mornings, 7:30 – 9:00 am
- Wednesday afternoons, 2:30 – 4:00 pm
- Thursdays at lunch, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
February 21, 2022
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Monday, February 21: No School
Tuesday, February 22: Jazz Night, All Ages Welcome
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Upper School Cafe
Join us for Jazz Night featuring live music, dancing, and food. This event is free to all. Swing dance lessons begin at 6:30 pm with live music from Middle School students, the Upper School Fabulous Mustangs, and professional jazz musicians starting at 7:00. Reserve your free tickets here.
Friday, February 25: MV Cares: MV Parent Prayer Group
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall, Lower Campu
Our MV community is invited to lift up our students and others who have needs, in prayer. At this meeting, we will reflect on our community, and pray for individuals – students and staff members by name – offering gratitude for where we are as a school and ask for grace as we build something exceptional, together. Prayer requests may be made here.
SAVE THESE DATES
February 28 – March 4: Interim Week and CORE
Tuesday, March 1: Uniform Resale
7:30 – 9:00 am
Administration Building 2, Upper Campus
Stop by the Uniform Resale to purchase gently used uniform and spirit wear items: Shirts/$5, Bottoms/$10, Sweatshirts, jackets, sweaters/$10. The Uniform Resale is open the first Tuesday of each month.
March 7 – March 11: Spring Break, No School for Students
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Upper School Rise Up Meetings
Thank you so much for joining us for Rise Up Meetings! If you missed your grade-level meeting, you can view the information on the slide decks below. With questions, please reach out to Upper School Head of Academic and College Counseling Erin McCubbin at [email protected]. For additional information, view the 2022-2023 Course Catalog here.
Classes of 2023 & 2024: Slide Deck
Class of 2025: Slide Deck
Class of 2026: Slide Deck
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Peer support is an important part of our learning environment. I see examples of this everyday. At basketball games, in the spirit tunnel wishing the theater troupe luck, or writing well-wishes cards on Random Acts of Kindness Day, our students seek opportunities to cheer on each other.
In Chapel this week, Coach T challenged us to be transformational friends as opposed to transactional friends. Specifically, he shared that transformational friends invest their time and energy, praise you behind your back, criticize you to your face, see the most in you, work to improve you and are trustworthy. Leaning on the story of Peter in Luke 22:54-62, we are in a three week study about how to bridge the gap between people and “be the bridge.” It was a powerful moment. Please ask your children about the message.
This long weekend hopefully provided some rest for students as we prepare for our upcoming 2022 Interim. We are so excited for students who will engage in internships in their chosen field, relational experiences in our community, and in international travel with rich cultural experiences. This is an opportunity to really lean in to being a globally competitive, engaged citizen leader.
We gathered as a faculty on Friday to engage in a full day workshop with Jennifer Klein to deepen our practices and commitment to project based learning. We know that authentic, relevant project work pushes our students to apply their learning and create meaningful products for the real world.
Regards,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
February 14, 2022
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Upper School COVID Landscape
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, February 11.
Upper School Students | Lower Campus & Upper Campus Employees | |
C19 Positive | 0 out of 452 | 0 out of 265 |
As a reminder, effective February 14, the School will shift the face covering protocol from required to recommended for all students and faculty/staff members in Preschool through Grade 12. While not required, the School will recommend wearing a face covering, in classrooms and hallways. Supporting all members of our community, we will continue to have available KN95 face coverings and will offer vaccine clinics on both campuses at periodic times throughout the spring.
Monday, February 14: Valentine’s Day
Students are invited to wear a Valentines top with uniform bottoms or jeans.
Tuesday, February 15: Rising Grade 10 Parent Meeting
8:30 – 9:30 am
Upper Campus Black Box Theater
Learn more about the Upper School experience for Grade 10 students at this meeting for parents. At this time, Rise Up meetings are planned to take place in person.
Thursday, February 17: Rising Grade 11 & 12 Parent Meeting
8:30 – 9:30 am
Upper Campus Black Box Theater
Learn more about the Upper School experience for Grade 11 & 12 students at this meeting for parents. At this time, Rise Up meetings are planned to take place in person.
Friday, February 18 – Monday, February 21: No School for Students
SAVE THESE DATES
Friday, February 25: MV Cares: MV Parent Prayer Group
8:00 – 9:00 am
Gailey Hall, Lower Campus
We invite all parents, grandparents, and caregivers to help lift up our Mount Vernon community in prayer. At each meeting, we reflect on a very relevant and timely devotion and pray for different MV students, faculty, and staff members by name. Prayer requests may be made here.
February 28 – March 4: Interim Week and CORE
March 7 – March 11: Spring Break, No School for Students
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
What an incredible night of community, fun, and dancing at the MVat50 Benefit Gala. Thank you for supporting the event and helping us reach our goal for brand new buses! This will allow our Upper School students to attend expeditions, community service, arts, and athletic events.
As I write this letter, we are still celebrating our fabulous MV ALL STARS who went to the state theatre festival performance at the Georgia Theatre Conference in Columbus, Georgia last weekend and knocked it out of the park. You can read about their success here. In addition, our US Mustangs have had great success in Swim & Dive, Wrestling, Tennis and Soccer. Friday, we were excited to kick-off our baseball season as well as celebrate the seniors on our basketball teams. With track & field getting underway as well, there are many opportunities for you to visit campus and support our students as they perform and excel both inside and outside of the learning studios.
Love is in the air. We had our Winter Formal on Saturday evening. It was a huge success. We look forward to celebrating Valentine’s Day on February 14. Students can wear a Valentines top with uniform bottoms or jeans. Thank you to our Mount Vernon Parent Network for providing treats for every student in the Upper School to have on Valentine’s Day. We are incredibly thankful for our parent volunteers!
Don’t miss the upcoming Rise Up Meetings offer families an opportunity to hear more about next year’s Upper School experience for your student(s). Look for specific dates and times above. We look forward to seeing you on campus!
The MOD 3 Milepost grade will be live on February 14. As a reminder, the most complete and robust information about student learning continues to be archived on Altitude Learning.
Regards,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
COMMUNITY UPDATES
Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN)
As members of the Mount Vernon community – parents and grandparents are automatically a part of the MVPN, which works to promote a strong sense of community by encouraging MV families to Learn, Serve and Give. We provide our families the opportunity to support each other, as well as faculty and staff in an informed, welcoming environment. Our success is grounded in a shared mission, supportive community and strong parent participation.
Please complete this form to indicate your interest in getting more involved in the MVPN next school year. Please contact Director of Community Impact Hunter Pierce – [email protected] – with any questions.
Made in MV Spirit Shop
Located in the Upper School Building
Store Hours:
- Tuesday, 7:30 – 9:00 am
- Wednesday, 2:30 – 4:00 pm
- Thursday, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Apple Pay, Credit Card, or electronic invoice via email available. In the Made in MV shop you can find men’s and women’s apparel, youth and toddler apparel, winter hats, leather goods, water bottles, umbrellas, aluminum MV car badges, and more.
Contact Teresa Campbell at [email protected] with any questions.
Uniform Resale
Located in Administration Building 2, Upper Campus
First Tuesday of every month, 7:30 – 9:00 am
Purchase gently used uniform and spirit wear items:
- Shirts/$5
- Bottoms/$10
- Sweatshirts, Jackets, Sweaters/$10
February 7, 2022
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Wednesday, February 9: Virtual Grandparent Coffee
10:00 – 11:00 am
Zoom Link
ID: 87266610410
Passcode: wCDk9c
Please invite your students’ Grandparents & Special Friends to join us from the comfort of their own homes for this virtual event. Director of Visual and Performing Arts Matt Neylon will be joining the call to share more about the School’s integrated art strategy across all four divisions.
Wednesday, February 9 – Friday, February 11: Middle School Sketch Show
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Middle School BlackBox
The Mustang Musical Sketch Show is a hilarious mash-up of short student-written comedy sketches and some musical numbers – it’s like “Saturday Night Live” meets “Studio C” meets “Glee.” Don’t miss out!
Thursday, February 10: All-School Open Mount Vernon Parent Network Meeting
Two opportunities to participate – in person or virtual
Connect with fellow MV Parents during our All-School Open MVPN Meeting.
Our incoming Head of School, Kristy Lundstrom will share her vision for next year, and Chief Community Development Officer Anne Katz will update us on our growing community and share more about how to get involved. You will also hear from several of the School’s most engaged parent volunteers who inspire us to Learn, Serve, and Give every day. From boots on the ground to behind the scenes support, MV parents are the core of our community. We look forward to seeing you at one of our meetings. Please RSVP for the meeting(s) that you will attend.
IN PERSON
9:00 – 10:00 am
Lower Campus Fellowship Hall
VIRTUAL
7:00 – 8:00 pm
Zoom Link, ID: 89972634786 / Passcode: 806488
Saturday, February 12: US Dance “Lights, Camera, Action!”
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Upper Campus Gym, Middle School Building
At this time we will move forward with the scheduled dance on February 12, with the understanding that we may have to pivot depending on developing circumstances. Students will be required to follow the Covid protocols of the school during the dance. Due to the risk of unnecessary exposure, only current MV students will be allowed to participate. The dance will be held in the Upper Campus MS gym and Lightbox area from 7:00-9:00 pm. Student drop off will be in the Middle School carpool loop. Student parking will be in the Upper School parking lot and the Senior lot next to the baseball field. More details about ticket sales coming soon.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, February 14: Valentine’s Day
Students are invited to wear a Valentines top with uniform bottoms or jeans.
Tuesday, February 15: Rising Grade 10 Parent Meeting
8:30 – 9:30 am
Upper Campus Black Box Theater
Learn more about the Upper School experience for Grade 10 students at this meeting for parents. At this time, Rise Up meetings are planned to take place in person.
Thursday, February 17: Rising Grade 11 & 12 Parent Meeting
8:30 – 9:30 am
Upper Campus Black Box Theater
Learn more about the Upper School experience for Grade 11 & 12 students at this meeting for parents. At this time, Rise Up meetings are planned to take place in person.
Friday, February 18 – Monday, February 21: No School for Students
RECAP
PARENT UNIVERSITY RECAP: Courage, Connection, and Resilience with Rachel Simmons
Watch the full recording in the Veracross Parent Portal. Rachel is a bestselling author, educator and executive coach helping people to be more authentic, assertive and resilient. As a regular on Good Morning America, she shares her expertise with MV families on how to navigate parenting tweens and teens through times that are more turbulent than ever.
“Once again, Mount Vernon has brought us a nationally renowned author/speaker to share her expertise on what our children are facing in today’s environment and how we can best support them. I truly value the commitment of our school to sharing such valuable resources with our parent community and encourage everyone to take advantage of this session, as well as all of the programs offered through Parent University.” – Grade 9 parent Terri Badour
PARENT UNIVERSITY RECAP: Trends in College Counseling
In case you missed it, you can learn more about Mount Vernon’s College Counseling program here. In this Parent University, the College Counseling team shared what they have learned during the unprecedented shift in the educational landscape since March 2020, additionally sharing the ways that Mount Vernon students are uniquely prepared to be competitive even in the most uncertain of times.
COFFEE WITH KRISTY RECAP: Building a Transcript to Reflect Students’ Passions & Strengths
If you missed Coffee with Kristy this week, you can view the slidedeck here, which includes a slide highlighting graduation requirements for students.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
As a school of inquiry, innovation and impact, we are always looking for ways to highlight the impact students can make right now. During Chapel this week, Coach Lamar Howardled us in a message about “bridging the gap”. Leaning on Ezekiel 22:30, “I sought a man that should stand in the gap,” Coach Howard talked about the ways we can bridge the gaps in our families, our school community and beyond. He shared four ways that we can prepare ourselves: approach situations with understanding, be active listeners versus responsive listeners, express gratitude and to love. He challenged us all to seek ways to use our open and grateful hearts to have an impact that just might make the difference for someone around us.
After the message, we celebrated three student athletes as they officially signed athletic scholarships on #NationalSigningDay. Coaches spoke to the character, the effort and the heart that these young people have brought to our school, their teams and themselves. Then the students themselves thanked all who have supported them during their journey. It was an impactful moment.
It is re-enrollment time at Mount Vernon. Thank you for entrusting your child(ren) with us. It is an honor to be a part of shaping their personal learning story. Not only are we excited about the moments of impact today, we also look forward to partnering with you on what opportunities we are able to accomplish in the future.
Regards,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
January 3, 2022
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COVID Landscape
Due to the current COVID surge present in the Mount Vernon community, all faculty/staff members and students are required to wear face coverings, as the School temporarily shifts the protocols for the health and well-being of our entire community. For more information, be sure to read the email from December 28.
Monday, January 3: No School for Students
MOD 2 grades published
Wednesday, January 5: Senior Breakfast
7:45 – 8:15 am
Upper School Cafe
Thursday, January 6: Coffee with Kristy, 8:30 – 9:00*
Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. January’s theme: Assessment in the Upper School – How we measure learning.
Following the session, parents are invited to stay and chat with one another. *(9:00-9:30)
SAVE THESE DATES
Thursday, January 13: Parent University with Dr. Lisa Damour: Helping Children and Teenagers Manage Challenging Emotions in Challenging Times
8:30 – 9:30 am
*Zoom Information to come
Upper School Blackbox Theater
Dr. Lisa Damour explains the psychological science key to understanding how stress and anxiety operate, both under everyday conditions and at times of heightened concern and disruption. Join us to learn more about how we can:
- cultivate and protect kids’ psychological health
- help kids develop adaptive strategies for managing intense emotions
- address the specific challenges which come with each stage of development
Recognized as a thought leader by the American Psychological Association for her work on stress and anxiety, Dr. Lisa Damour is the author of two New York Times best-selling books, Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood and Under Pressure: Confronting the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in Girls.
Monday, January 17: No School for Students
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: LEARN, SERVE, GIVE
MVFund
Through the month of December, more than 250 families answered the call to contribute to the MVFund, joining the 450 families already participating in the School’s annual giving campaign. All families are asked to participate to help the School meet its commitment to enhance the experience for every student at MV through a variety of projects to improve the fields our students compete on, the stages they perform on, the unique spaces they learn in, and even the buses they travel in. Every student on both campuses benefit from this year’s Mount Vernon Fund.
MV Impact
Did you know that if each MV Family serves at least 50 hours, we will exceed our goal of 50,000 volunteer hours during our 50th anniversary of Mount Vernon School! To date, the heart of service in our MV Community has reached individuals and organizations in Georgia, Alabama, Missouri, and California and have accumulated 32,081.75 of volunteer impact hours! Thank you for sharing your time, talent, and treasure with worthy causes all over the world.
Engagement
There are many opportunities to get involved throughout the second half of this school year. Volunteer your time and talent while you make new friends! View all of our current volunteer opportunities or contact Hunter Pierce at [email protected] to learn more.
Currently, we are looking for volunteers to help in Lower School through the end of the year, weekly or bi-weekly. The teachers could use a break at lunchtime and parents could join their children in the cafeteria. This is a great way to show appreciation to our teachers…just a short block of time per week! Lunchtime Support for LS Teachers
Events
Thursday, February 10: Open Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) meeting
9:00 – 10:00 am in person
7:00 – 8:00 pm on Zoom
All MV community members including parents, grandparents, faculty, and staff are invited to join this open meeting to hear from existing Network Chairs to learn how the Parent Network operates, how to get involved and engaged from helping at events to participating in the MVXperts program, and what the Network with look like in the 2022-2023 school year.
Saturday, March 26: 1972 Society Appreciation Social
In honor of Mount Vernon’s founding year, those families who contribute gifts of $1,972 and higher to the MVFund become members of the 1972 Society, reflecting our Mount Vernon community’s strong legacy of giving. We look forward to celebrating all 1972 Society members at the 1972 Society Appreciation Social on Saturday, March 26.
Saturday, February 5: The MVat50 Benefit
7:00 – 11:00 pm
Guardian Works
755 Echo St NE
Tickets and sponsorships are going fast for the MVat50 Benefit – be sure to reserve yours today. You can find more detailed information about the Benefit here, as well as on Instagram and Facebook.
This gala event will feature both a live and silent auction. To learn more about how you can donate an item or experience, please contact Amanda Richmond at [email protected] or Carrie Patrick at [email protected].
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Happy New Year! I hope you and your family had a restful and meaningful time making memories with family and friends.
As a reminder, there is no school for students tomorrow. Teachers will be back on campus engaged in foresight and strategic planning work as well as making exciting plans to welcome students back and capitalize on the routines and foundations that were established in the first semester.
MOD 2 grades will be published on Monday.
MOD 3 begins on Tuesday.
The new year brings new opportunities for inquiry, real world connections, and collaboration for our students. I am excited to include you in our plans for MOD 3. We will resume Coffee with Kristy on the first Thursday of every month – January theme: Assessment in Upper School. Thank you for sharing your child with us and allowing us to be a part of their learning journey.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
January 10, 2022
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Thursday, January 13: Parent University with Dr. Lisa Damour: Helping Children and Teenagers Manage Challenging Emotions in Challenging Times
9:00 – 10:00 am
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85081015382?pwd=cytxT1N3Z1VmNm03U1FsTXI2Y3VXUT09
Meeting ID: 850 8101 5382
Passcode: GiN3Hf
Dr. Lisa Damour explains the psychological science key to understanding how stress and anxiety operate, both under everyday conditions and at times of heightened concern and disruption. Join us to learn more about how we can:
- cultivate and protect kids’ psychological health
- help kids develop adaptive strategies for managing intense emotions
- address the specific challenges which come with each stage of development
Recognized as a thought leader by the American Psychological Association for her work on stress and anxiety, Dr. Lisa Damour is the author of two New York Times best-selling books, Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood and Under Pressure: Confronting the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in Girls.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, January 17: No School for Students
Wednesday, January 19: MV Cares, Parent Prayer Group
8:45 – 9:30 am
Gailey Hall, Lower Campus
We invite all parents, grandparents, and caregivers to help lift up our Mount Vernon community in prayer. At each meeting, we reflect on a very relevant and timely devotion and pray for different MV students, faculty, and staff members by name. Prayer requests may be made here.
Monday, January 24 – Monday, February 7: Perennial Enrollment Period
More information to come.
Saturday, February 5: The MVat50 Benefit
7:00 – 11:00 pm
Guardian Works
755 Echo St NE
The MVat50 Benefit Gala will be here before we know it on Saturday, February 5 at Guardian Works in Midtown. Volunteers are planning a spectacular night for our community and you will not want to miss it – dress is cocktail attire. Dance to live music by the band Yacht Rock Schooner, enjoy heavy appetizers followed by dinner, and bid on unique experiences and items through both a silent and live auction. Get your tickets now!
Wine/Bourbon Drive for MVat50 Benefit Gala
The MVat50 Benefit event Parent Co-Chairs are looking for donations of high-end quality bottles of bourbon and/or wine for the MVat50 Benefit Gala. The donations will be used at the event in the Wine/Bourbon Toss game.
If you would like to donate a bottle of wine or bourbon they are looking for a variety of labels that range at $50/bottle and above.
The event chairs will be at the morning and afternoon carpools on Lower Campus on Thursday, January 13 to collect any donated bottles. On Upper Campus they will be at morning and afternoon carpool on Friday, January 14 to collect donations.
Please reach out to the co-chairs with questions:
Ashley Giardino
Marci Ehrlich
Ashly Cox
INTERIM UPDATE
Reminder: All travelers must be fully vaccinated by February 1.
We currently have no updates on travel status for our planned trips. Right now, we are proceeding as planned. As we near departure dates or if we get any new information regarding protocols, we will inform families immediately.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Welcome back! We are all excited to be back together and starting MOD 3. Students have begun their new schedules and met their new classmates. Yes, we do have additional Covid protocols in place, but our community is strong and supportive. Committing to these protocols helps us remain in a face-to-face, on-campus setting.
We have a lot to look forward to this spring: February dance, Interim, art showcases, sporting events and extra curricular activities such as service opportunities, book clubs, pick-up sports and more. If your child is looking for a club to join or an activity to try-out, remind them to read the Sunday update email from Ms. Bogdanchik to see what is planned for the week to come.
Inspired by our National Youth Poet Laureate, Amanda Gorman’s New Day’s Lyric Poem:
“ …Tethered by this year of yearning,
We are learning
That though we weren’t ready for this,
We have been readied by it.”
We are ready to embrace 2022. I admire and applaud our students’ ability to listen, understand and adapt to the situations that come before them. We will continue to focus on health, wellness and balance. We will continue to hold high expectations matched with high commitments of support. Thanks for partnering with us on this journey.
All the best,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
December 6, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
COVID LANDSCAPE
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, December 3, 2021.
Upper School COVID Positive: 0 out of 454
Lower & Upper Campus Employees: 0 out 257
Monday, December 6 – Wednesday, December 15: Toys for Tots Drive
Students are encouraged to donate a new, unwrapped toy to Toys for Tots in partnership with the United States Marine Corps. On Wednesday, December 15, the drive will culminate with a special Toys for Tots chapel on each campus where members of the USMC are expected to be present to accept the donated toys. Lower Campus toy collection will take place in each classroom, while Upper Campus collections will take place at each respective front desk.
Monday, December 6: Interim Travel Parent Meeting
6:00 – 6:45 pm
Upper School Learning Stairs
Join us for a general information meeting, as well as a specific trip meeting. Meet your trip leaders and get details regarding travel requirements, packing, preparations and more.
Tuesday, December 7: Uniform Resale
7:30 – 9:00 am
Administration Building 2, Upper Campus
Stop by Uniform Resale on the first Tuesday of each month to pick up lightly used uniform and spirit wear items.
Wednesday, December 8: All-School Late Start
9:10 am Carpool begins
9:30 am School begins
*Childcare is not available before school begins
Thursday, December 9: Parent University – Parenting in a Tech World: Live Q&A
8:15 – 9:15 am
Fellowship Hall, Lower Campus
Please join Chief Parent Officer Titania Jordan and Vice President of Business Development Matt McKee, co-authors of Parenting in a Tech World and leaders at Bark.us, as they answer families’ questions live and in-person. Although Preschool through Upper School families are invited to attend, this event is most applicable for families of children in grades 4-12.
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, December 14: Christmas Arts Showcase
6:00 – 9:30 pm
Upper Campus
Join us for our 10th Annual Christmas Arts Showcase on Tues, Dec 14. Visitors will be guided on a 90-minute immersive tour with short performances, visual art installations, showcases of learning, virtual reality, hot cocoa and more. Mount Vernon’s creativity will be on full display as our instrumental and vocal ensembles, dance teams, theatre troupes, VR club, and iDiploma programs join forces to create a truly unforgettable experience. Get your tickets today here.
Wednesday, December 15: MV Cares, Parent Prayer Group
8:45 – 9:30 am
Gailey Hall, Lower Campus
We invite all parents, grandparents, and caregivers to help lift up our Mount Vernon community in prayer. At each meeting, we reflect on a very relevant and timely devotion and pray for different MV students, faculty, and staff members by name. Prayer requests may be made here.
Friday, December 17 – Monday, January 3: School Break
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: LEARN, SERVE, GIVE
Volunteers Needed: Faculty Appreciation Lunch
Thursday, December 9
Upper Campus, Upper School Building
Help is needed for the annual Faculty Appreciation Lunch, a moment faculty and staff look forward to each year. Volunteers can sign up to help serve lunch or to provide student coverage during lunch. With questions, please contact Hunter Pierce, [email protected].
Make an End-of-Year Impact: MVFund
With the end of the calendar year fast approaching, we invite you to make an impact with a year-end gift! Thank you to these 400+ families that have already contributed to the MVFund, the School’s annual giving campaign.
Please make a gift or pledge to the MV Fund to provide additional learning opportunities and expedite key projects. As a reminder, you have until June 30, 2022, to fulfill your pledge for 2021-22. Thank you in advance for your generosity and participation!
The MVat50 Benefit
Tickets and sponsorships are going fast for the MVat50 Benefit – be sure to reserve yours today. You can find more detailed information about the Benefit here, as well as on Instagram and Facebook. Proceeds from ticket sales, as well as both the silent and live auctions, will benefit our entire community by providing the opportunity to purchase a new fleet of buses for the School. Don’t miss your chance to attend this event!
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Often when we send kids off at a carpool or wish them well on a Friday afternoon, we say, “Make Good Choices!” Just how to do that was the topic of our Chapel message this week. Coach Dabbs led us all on a journey of different examples where good choices and less than good choices have been made. He referenced the biblical story of Abraham and Lot in the book of Genesis where one bad decision led to another and how easy it can be to “dig yourself into a hole.”
In addition, Coach Dabbs talked about the story of Elijah and how he was fed by a widow who had very little food. Yet, she followed her faith and served others. Her consistent commitment to faith and charity led to her food source never going dry.
These two stories were also related to our students’ everyday lives and the choices they are making. Students were given three tips on how to make better choices and reminded that when you serve others and give of your own resources and talents, abundance will come to your life. I share this so that you can ask your child – what were the three tips Coach Dabbs shared about how to make better choices?
Making choices is something we all face, making good ones is a constant challenge. We believe this is an important part of college readiness and character development.
Coach Dabbs ended this engaging talk with these phrases:
We believe in you.
We know you are destined for great things.
We love you.
I couldn’t have said it better myself, wish you could have been there. Thanks for allowing us to be a part of your child’s life.
Partners in the process,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
Novermber 12, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
COVID LANDSCAPE
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, November 5.
Upper School COVID Positive: 0 out of 454
Lower & Upper Campus Employees: 0 out 257
Sunday, November 7- International travel on Interim registration deadline!
Reminder: You must complete registration no later than Sunday, November 7, 2021 at 11:59 PM. To register interim trips with WorldStrides, go to www.worldstrides.com/register, and use Mount Vernon’s unique Trip ID number: 199698.You will be prompted to provide traveler/parent contact information and passport information. You will get a confirmation email when you have completed registration.
Wednesday, November 10: Grade 11 Parent Coffee
8:30 – 9:30 am
Lower Campus Fellowship Hall
Join the College Counseling Team as they discuss a timeline of the junior and senior year college process, their philosophy on writing preparation and strategy, how to create meaningful involvement in school and the community, college counseling events, and standardized testing. Please RSVP here.
Thursday, November 11: Vaccine Clinic
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Middle School Lightbox
The next vaccine clinic is scheduled for Thursday, November 11 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm located on the Upper Campus, MS Lightbox. This clinic will be available to employees and students ages 12+ wanting the Pfizer vaccine or booster.
Friday, November 12: Managing and Monitoring K-12 Children’s Online Presence
9:00 – 10:00 am
Hosted by Katie Cain and Bark
Register for webinar here
Back by popular demand, Katie Cain and our partners at Bark will share strategies and resources for managing children’s online presence. From school-issued iPads to personal cell phones, from web filters to parental controls, we aim to equip families with resources to confidently approach technology use with their children/teenagers.
SAVE THESE DATES
CORE & INTERNSHIP Timeline:
Nov 12 Deadline to finalize choice for CORE or Internship
First meeting in cohorts (during Advisory)
Dec 20 Internship placements finalized
Tuesday, November 16 – 18: Upper Campus Production of Little Women the Musical
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Mount Vernon Studios is thrilled to bring you Little Women. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s life, Little Women follows the adventures of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication, but the publishers are not interested – her friend, Professor Bhaer, tells her that she has to do better and write more from her life experiences. Begrudgingly taking this advice, Jo weaves the story of herself and her sisters and their lives growing up in Civil War America. Reserve your tickets here.
Thursday, November 18: MV Grandparents Reception at the Night of the Arts
All Grandparents have received an invitation to a Grandparents only reception from 5:30-6:30. This will take place prior to the performance of Little Women. Please RSVP and reserve your tickets through the Paperless Post Invitation.
Friday, November 19: Early Release for Students
12:15 pm
All Upper School students will be released at 12:15 the Friday prior to Thanksgiving break. No students will be permitted on campus after this time.
November 29: Authentic Connections: Virtual Lunch and Learn
11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Join Zoom Here
The Mount Vernon School is advancing its mission by engaging all students – through stories, experiences, data, and research serving as guides. As a result of the pandemic, MV students have had to adjust to a variety of circumstances, learn to be agile, and develop resilience. Partnering with Authentic Connections to collect and analyze data, we will be able to strengthen our focus on supporting well-being and resilience within our students. Join us virtually to hear from experts regarding trends and best practices for supporting adolescents through these unique times.
Wednesday, December 1: Vaccine Clinic
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Middle School Lightbox
December 3: Babysitter Bootcamp Class
The Mount Vernon School is offering a Babysitter Boot Camp class to all Middle School and Upper School students through the CPR Training Center. View more information here.
NEW OPPORTUNITY – Math Labs
We now offer Math Labs during every period of the day. Students are allowed to sign out of their GTD to join a MV Math teacher to review, practice and extend their learning in math. These one-on-one tutorials are available to all students whether you are studying math this MOD or not. Math Labs are always available in the 2S Community Space.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
At Mount Vernon, we work to infuse the MV Mindsets throughout all of our teaching and learning. In the weeks to come I will share examples of each one.
Solution Seeker: one who formulates meaningful questions, inquires, evaluates, synthesizes, and discerns cross-disciplinary knowledge and perspectives; additionally, sets goals, develops a plan of action, and tests solutions
I see examples of this mindset when Innovation Diploma students work through their design brief on the Future of Retail, the Forensic Science students investigate what we can learn from follicle cells as compared to hair strand cells, Pre-Calculus students estimate the length of treadmill bands using trigonometric ratios, Virtual Reality students design an interactive escape room to challenge perceptions and test problem solving skills, and involving students in feedback sessions for our strategic plan work. Answering real questions with transdisciplinary knowledge is one way we build our students’ “solution seeker” muscles.
While the plan of action of a solution seeker can differ from person to person, if we work together we will have a greater impact. As shared in chapel this week, G11 student, Keith Williams, challenged us all to:
- Take time to actually listen to each other’s problems
- Be honest with yourself and others
- Spread positivity and love
He shared his own personal journey and Psalm 147:3 as support when we seek solutions and support.
As always, grateful to partner with you on this journey!
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
October 25, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
COVID LANDSCAPE
As a reminder from the October 21 announcement, effective Monday, October 25, the School is shifting the face covering protocol from required to recommended for grades 7-12. The School recommends that students, regardless of vaccination status, wear a face covering in classrooms and hallways. However, all Upper Campus students and faculty/staff, regardless of vaccination status, will continue to be required to wear a face covering in confined spaces during larger divisional gatherings such as Chapel, assemblies, and pep rallies.
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, October 22.
Upper School COVID Positive: 0 out of 454
Lower & Upper Campus Employees: 0 out 257
Monday, October 25
October 25 and 26
US Student Audition for Fringe Theatre Festival (in Edinburgh, Scotland)
3:20 pm both days – All Upper School Students are invited to audition for the opportunity to perform at the Fringe Theatre Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer with the American High School Theatre Festival. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at the world’s largest theatre festival so check out this information/audition packet.
Tuesday, October 26
Parent University, 8:30 – 9:30 am – Affinity and Alliance Program at Mount Vernon School (virtual only) Join via Zoom
Mount Vernon norms call upon community members to start with questions and to share the well. These actions make a difference for individuals, and research shows that when individuals are able to gather in groups where they see themselves reflected, the questions and sharing take on new meaning and deeper impact toward positive ends. In this academic year, the Mount Vernon School will begin hosting Affinity Group gatherings for members of our Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. As a school grounded in Christian values, we draw upon sound research, stories, and experiences of our students, alumni, and families in the action of convening these affinity groups. Join Stacey Lee, Mount Vernon’s Chief IDEA Officer to experience, first-hand, the ways in which the design of Affinity Groups will enhance our school community.
Wednesday, October 27
New Family Drop-In Coffee, 7:45 – 9:15 am
MVPN’s New Family Chairs Amanda Woodall and Amanda Richmond invite new families who joined MV in 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 to the Upper Campus Green to build community among our newest Mustangs. Come as you are, bring your morning caffeine, or grab a cup of coffee at the Ground Floor Coffee Shop in the US Cafe.
Thursday, October 28
CORE Interim Meeting for students and parents, 7:45 – 8:15 am
US Learning Stairs
Thursday, October 28
Portrait Retakes RESCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2
On October 28, School Portrait Retakes will be taken on Lower Campus from 8:20-11:20 am and on Upper Campus from 8:20 am – 3:30 pm. If you would like your student to retake photo, sign up at mountvernonschool.org/retakes. If your student was absent on the original Portrait Day, you should have received a separate email from the School and do not need to sign up using the above form. Should you have any questions, please contact Reagan Langston at [email protected].
Friday, October 29
No School for Students/Upper Campus Faculty RDI & Work Day
Friday, October 29
INTERNSHIP Interim Meeting for students and parents, 7:45 – 8:15 am (Virtual)
The link will be distributed to all interested students via email.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, November 1: MOD 2
Milepost 1 grades will be published on Veracross.
Tuesday, November 2: Varsity Letter Jacket Fitting
On November 2, varsity athletes are invited to stop by the Made in MV School Store from 10:45 am – 12:45 pm to be fitted for a varsity letter jacket. Please send this completed form and payment with your student athlete to their fitting. If they have a varsity letter already, students may bring that to the fitting as well.
Thursday, November 4: Coffee with Kristy
Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. November’s theme: What are we reading? Let’s talk about the role of reading in the Upper School and which books we recommend. Bring your favorite book right now – let’s share!
Following the session, parents are invited to stay and chat with one another.
Friday, November 5: Early Dismissal
The Mustang Varsity Football Team is hosting their final regular season game of the year. Since we don’t have field lights, games typically start earlier, later in the season. With a 3:00 pm start time, carpool, parking, guests, and other logistics impact both campuses. On November 5, the Upper School will have an early dismissal at 1:45 pm. Extended Play will also be available until 6:00 pm.
- 1:30 Preschool and Lower School Dismissal
- 1:45 Upper School Dismissal
- 2:00 Middle School Dismissal
Thursday, November 11: Vaccine Clinic
Friday November 12: Managing and Monitoring K-12 Children’s Online Presence
Hosted by Katie Cain and Bark
Registration to attend will begin next week.
From 9:00 – 10:0 am, Back by popular demand, Katie Cain and our partners at Bark will share strategies and resources for managing children’s online presence. From school-issued iPads to personal cell phones, from web filters to parental controls, we aim to equip families with resources to confidently approach technology use with their children/teenagers.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Thanks @MVArts for a hilarious play last week!
As we enter our third week of the MOD, I want to remind all students and parents that they have a choice of whether or not to take each course as an Honors Course. To review the requirements, please check the “Honors Card” in Altitude for that course. Students must sign an Honors contract indicating their intentions with their teachers. Another question I have received is how important is a “formative”? Formative assessment is the (low stakes) practice round for how students can test themselves and their knowledge to see how far they have come and what they need to improve on. These opportunities are essential to the learning process. Much like an olympic swimmer swims many practice laps before a race, formative assessments offer students the practice needed to master their skills and abilities before the “summative” assessment that really counts. A formative opportunity is very important.
This month is Hispanic Heritage Month. We celebrated with our teachers and students through music, dance, learning about Hispanic culture, and trivia throughout the month of October. In chapel this week, the fabulous Mustang Praise Band performed Corazon Espinado by Santana and we watched a video created by Ms Villafane and our students highlighting the many contributions of notable LatinX people to our daily lives.
And, as we enter next week, a special shoutout of “Good Luck” to our Varsity Softball Team who is headed to Columbus, GA to compete in the Elite 8 round of State playoffs. This is the first time this has happened at Mount Vernon!
As always, grateful to partner with you on this journey!
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
Novermber 5, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Monday, November 1: MOD 2, Milepost 1
Milepost 1 grades will be published on MV Parent Portal (Veracross).
Tuesday, November 2 – Uniform Resale
7:30 – 9:00 am
Administration Building 2, Upper Campus
Stop by Uniform Resale on the first Tuesday of each month to pick up lightly used uniform and spirit wear items.
Tuesday, November 2: Varsity Letter Jacket Fitting
On November 2, varsity athletes are invited to stop by the Made in MV School Store from 10:45 am – 12:45 pm to be fitted for a varsity letter jacket. Please send this completed form and payment with your student athlete to their fitting. If they have a varsity letter already, students may bring that to the fitting as well.
Tuesday, November 2: School Portrait Makeup Date
Due to the forecast for rain, we will be moving Retake Picture Day to Tuesday, November 2. School Portrait Retakes will be taken on Upper Campus from 8:20 am – 3:30 pm. If you would like your student to retake their photo, sign up here. If your student was absent on the original Portrait Day, you should have received a separate email from the School and do not need to sign up using the above form. Should you have any questions, please contact Reagan Langston at [email protected].
Wednesday, November 3: Senior Breakfast
7:45 – 8:15 am
Upper School Cafe
Thursday, November 4: Coffee with Kristy
Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. November’s theme: What are we reading? Let’s talk about the role of reading in the Upper School and which books we recommend. Bring your favorite book right now – let’s share!
Following the session, parents are invited to stay and chat with one another.
Thursday, November 4 – Saturday, November 6: Middle School Production of Puffs
The School of Magic is coming to Mount Vernon – Don’t miss an opportunity to see PUFFS or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic & Magic. For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the Puffs… who just happened to be there too. A tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world. Reserve your tickets here.
Friday, November 5: Early Dismissal
The Mustang Varsity Football Team is hosting their final regular season game of the year. Since we don’t have field lights, games typically start earlier, later in the season. With a 3:00pm start time, carpool, parking, guests, and other logistics impact both campuses. On November 5, the Upper School will have an early dismissal at 1:45 pm.
- 1:30 Preschool and Lower School Dismissal
- 1:45 Upper School Dismissal
- 2:00 Middle School Dismissal
SAVE THESE DATES
CORE & INTERNSHIP Timeline:
Nov 1 – 5 Student Information meetings and discussions regarding
CORE and Internship options
Nov 12 Deadline to finalize choice for CORE or Internship
First meeting in cohorts (during Advisory)
Dec 20 Internship placements finalized
Thursday, November 11: Vaccine Clinic
Friday, November 12: Managing and Monitoring K-12 Children’s Online Presence
9:00 – 10:00 am
Hosted by Katie Cain and Bark
Register for webinar here
Back by popular demand, Katie Cain and our partners at Bark will share strategies and resources for managing children’s online presence. From school-issued iPads to personal cell phones, from web filters to parental controls, we aim to equip families with resources to confidently approach technology use with their children/teenagers.
November 29: Authentic Connections: Virtual Lunch and Learn
11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Join Zoom Here
The Mount Vernon School is advancing its mission by engaging all students – through stories, experiences, data, and research serving as guides. As a result of the pandemic, MV students have had to adjust to a variety of circumstances, learn to be agile, and develop resilience. Partnering with Authentic Connections to collect and analyze data, we will be able to strengthen our focus on supporting well-being and resilience within our students. Join us virtually to hear from experts regarding trends and best practices for supporting adolescents through these unique times.
NEW OPPORTUNITY – Math Labs
We now offer Math Labs during every period of the day. Students are allowed to sign out of their GTD to join a MV Math teacher to review, practice and extend their learning in math. These one-on-one tutorials are available to all students whether you are studying math this MOD or not. Math Labs are always available in the 2S Community Space.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: LEARN, SERVE, GIVE
Connect to and with our MV Community through volunteer engagement, impact projects, and service learning. The Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) works to promote a strong sense of community by encouraging families to Learn, Serve and Give. Our success is grounded in a shared mission, supportive community, and strong parent participation.
The MV Fund: Make a significant impact in the School’s 50th year by supporting our annual giving campaign, Mount Vernon Fund, with a gift or pledge. Your contribution helps the School provide additional learning opportunities, while accelerating key projects this school year.
In honor of the School’s 50th year, please consider contributing a $5050 anniversary gift. Learn more about how to make an impact in our 50th year.
The MVat50 Benefit
Plan to join us on Saturday, February 5, for an evening of fellowship with a purpose. Tickets will go on sale next week. All proceeds from sponsorships and auctions will benefit our entire community by providing the School the ability to purchase a new fleet of buses, allowing students to take advantage of expeditionary learning, athletes to travel to away games, and artists to take shows on the road. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities for The Benefit here.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
This week in Chapel, our senior prefect, Kate Christian, talked about service as an integral part of learning. Currently, the students are collecting goodies for troops overseas as a way of working together to serve their greater community. In addition, Kate’s committee offers many other service opportunities during November and December. As a community, we are trying to serve more than 50,000 hours this year – how can your family get involved?
We also listened to a brave 10th grade student share his personal journey about what Christ teaches us to do with worry. Inspired by Philippians 4:6-7, we took time out of our busy week to focus on service and care for ourselves and for others.
Milepost grades will be posted on Monday. Please remember that this is only a snapshot of a moment in the course. The rich feedback is available in Altitude Learning. A great conversation starter could be: Where have your Glows & Grows been these first three weeks? Let’s look (together) for the evidence in your cards in Altitude.
As always, grateful to partner with you on this journey!
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School
October 10, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
COMING UP THIS WEEK IN UPPER SCHOOL: OCTOBER 11 – 15
HOMECOMING WEEK
Monday, October 11: NO SCHOOL
Tuesday, October 12: Superhero/Villain Tuesday (no masks or accessories)
MOD 2 BEGINS
Final grades for MOD 1 classes will be published in Veracross by the end of the day.
Wednesday, October 13: MV Spirit Wednesday
Grade 9: asynchronous learning and will not report to campus
Grade 10 and Grade 11: take the PSAT-NMSQT exam at Mount Vernon. This testing requires our entire building and entire staff. Please read: PSAT Letter to Families 2021 (COVID) NOTE: 8:00 start!
Grade 12: working on finalizing college app work either from school in the US Cafe or from home.
Thursday, October 14: Tacky Prom Day
INTERIM Internships and Collection of Relational Experiences (CORE) information Package published and shared with families
Friday, October 15: Tropical Getaway Friday
INTERIM Trips Finalized: No deposit refunds after this date
9:30 – 10:05 Pep Rally
Homecoming* Football Game and Activities
4:00 pm Varsity Mustangs take on Providence Christian Academy for Homecoming 2021
Join 50 years of families, 14 years of Alumni, 1200+ current students including 117 seniors, 900 current families, and 250 faculty and staff members for the largest collection of Mustangs in one place, ever, as our entire community celebrates the School’s 50th year. Past performers and athletes, along with active service members, will be recognized. Former Homecoming Kings and Queens will participate in the halftime tradition of honoring this year’s Homecoming Court and the crowning of our new King and Queen.
Grade-Level Tents: Families are welcome to gather with grade-level peers for snacks and connection at their respective tents:
PS – Grade 1 Tent
Grades 2 – 5 Tent
Grades 6 – 8 Tent
Grades 9 and 10 Tent
Grades 11 and 12 Tent
Silent Online Auction: Visit the MVHOCOAuction online to bid on school-related experiences, including carpool VIP, front row seats at student performances, out-of-uniform days, and more. Text MVHOCOAuction to 76278. Bidding ends at 11:00 pm on Friday, October 15.
Putt the Vern – A Journey Through Time 9-Hole Golf Course: This student-conceived, planned, designed, and executed mini-golf course on the Upper Campus Green will be available for all ages to play during Homecoming. Relive iconic MV-places, spaces, and events, while learning more about the School’s history. Every structure on this course was created or repurposed in the Upper School maker space by the Innovation Diploma (ID) Grade 10 Cohort. Thoroughly and intentionally crafted, every hole has a story. Innovation Diploma – where age does not indicate capability.
Join us to participate in all of the Homecoming festivities, meet up with long-term Mustangs, and continue the celebration of our School’s 50th year.
Saturday, October 16: Homecoming Dance*
Purchase tickets in-person at school or online
7:00-9:00 pm Tropical Getaway 2021 on the US Cafe patio
Dress is semi-formal: pants (no jeans), jackets, party dresses
*HOMECOMING BEHAVIOR
As always, students are expected to behave with respect in every situation, especially during school events. Our expectations are respect for themselves, respect for each other and respect for our school community. Any community member who is unable to participate in a positive and appropriate way will not be allowed to attend the festivities.
COVID LANDSCAPE
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, September 24.
Upper School
COVID Positive
0 of 454
Lower Campus & Upper Campus Employees
0 of 257
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, October 19: Veracross Parent Portal Hands-on Workshop for Upper Campus families
11:45 – 12:45 Families are invited on-campus to learn more about the Veracross system, including a hands-on tutorial on the many capabilities of the platform: subscribe to your student’s class schedule, update your profile information, find families within a 10-mile radius, donate to the MV Fund, link to key resources, and much more.
Wednesday, October 20: Vaccine Clinic for Adults and Students who are 12 or older
11:00 -1:00 in the MS Lightbox – Required forms:
1) Briarcliff Health Mart Vaccine Immunization Form
2) MV School Consent, Waiver & Release Form
Wednesday, October 20: 9th Grade Parents Meeting – Partners in Progress
6:00 – 7:00 pm in US 3 North All freshman parents are invited to join our Upper School Leadership Team for a session where we come together to talk about all of the ways we can support our youngest Upper School students. Coming out of pods in Middle School during COVID, shifting to a new division and building, navigating social complexities, and managing the academic workload can be exciting as well as challenging for our ninth graders. During this session, we will address both perspectives. Additionally, you may want to take advantage of this opportunity to connect with other parents in this grade level and get to know one another.
October 25 and 26: US Student Audition for Fringe Theatre Festival (in Edinburgh, Scotland)
3:20 pm both days – All Upper School Students are invited to audition for the opportunity to perform at the Fringe Theatre Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer with the American High School Theatre Festival. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at the world’s largest theatre festival so check out this information/audition packet.
Tuesday, October 26: Parent University – Affinity and Alliance Program at Mount Vernon School (virtual)
8:30 – 9:30 am Join via Zoom
Mount Vernon norms call upon community members to start with questions and to share the well. These actions make a difference for individuals, and research shows that when individuals are able to gather in groups where they see themselves reflected, the questions and sharing take on new meaning and deeper impact toward positive ends. In this academic year, the Mount Vernon School will begin hosting Affinity Group gatherings for members of our Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. As a school grounded in Christian values, we draw upon sound research, stories, and experiences of our students, alumni, and families in the action of convening these affinity groups. Join Stacey Lee, Mount Vernon’s Chief IDEA Officer to experience, first-hand, the ways in which the design of Affinity Groups will enhance our school community.
Wednesday, October 27: New Family Drop-In Coffee
7:45 – 9:15 am MVPN’s New Family Chairs Amanda Woodall and Amanda Richmond invite new families who joined MV for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 to the Upper Campus Green to build community among our newest Mustangs. Come as you are, bring your morning caffeine, or grab a cup of coffee at the Ground Floor Coffee Shop in the US Cafe.
Friday, October 29: No School for Students
Thursday, November 11: Vaccine Clinic
Wednesday, December 1: Vaccine Clinic
ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
MVCares
MVCares is a part of the Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) created to serve our community through appreciation, service, and support. If interested in participating on a committee, please contact Telisha Jackson, MVCares Chair.
Appreciation: Help with faculty/staff appreciation days in the fall and winter, snack donations for monthly faculty meetings in each division, assist with gifts, meals, and other classroom activities per grade.
Service: Impacting our local and global community through community service, participating in community outreach.
Support: Join the Parent Prayer Group, organize meal trains, send care cards, video cards, and other special expressions that best meet the needs of our MV families going through challenging times. Support Request Form
END OF MOD 1
Final grades for MOD 1 classes will be published in Veracross by the end of the day on Tuesday, October 12.
START OF MOD 2
MOD 2 courses begin on Tuesday, October 12. You can find the new schedules in Veracross.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
As we complete our first MOD, many memories stand-out: Convocation when our seniors walked the MV littles over from Lower Campus, and Dr. Jacobsen reminded all of us to be bridges in our community; when the greater MV Community rallied together at our first home football game; the many practices, scrimmages and matches of our fall sports’ teams; the work it takes to produce a film in 72 hours or a 3-Day-Play; the uplifting music from our Praise Bands; the iProject ideas that solve real school challenges or suggest how we can reuse water; the presentations that showcase the new knowledge acquired or the essay that shares honest opinions supported by evidence. In these examples and countless others, I am reminded of Ecclesiastes 9:10, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” I have observed students and teachers and staff working with all of their might, together. I applaud our students’ achievements. I am inspired by the care and creativity and commitment that our team brings each day in meeting the students where they are and lifting them up. And, I am continually grateful for your support as partners in the process. So, Upper School families – celebrate!
We talk about rest from your work, so that you may work from your rest as a reminder that balance is key to well-being. Recovery and rejuvenation is important for all of us, especially young adults. I trust you all had a restful, long weekend.
Welcome back on Tuesday when we start MOD 2 with Homecoming Week!
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School | X2901
October 17, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
COMING UP THIS WEEK IN UPPER SCHOOL: OCTOBER 18 – 22
Monday, October 18
Tuesday, October 19
Veracross Parent Portal Hands-on Workshop for Upper Campus families
11:45 – 12:45 in the MAC on Upper Campus
Families are invited on-campus to learn more about the Veracross system, including a hands-on tutorial on the many capabilities of the platform: subscribe to your student’s class schedule, update your profile information, find families within a 10-mile radius, donate to the MV Fund, link to key resources, and much more.
Wednesday, October 20
Vaccine Clinic for Adults and Students who are 12 or older
11:00 -1:00 in the MS Lightbox – Required forms:
1) Briarcliff Health Mart Vaccine Immunization Form
2) MV School Consent, Waiver & Release Form
9th Grade Parents Meeting – Partners in Progress
6:00 – 7:00 pm in US 3 North All freshman parents are invited to join our Upper School Leadership Team for a session where we come together to talk about all of the ways we can support our youngest Upper School students. Coming out of pods in Middle School during COVID, shifting to a new division and building, navigating social complexities, and managing the academic workload can be exciting as well as challenging for our ninth graders. During this session, we will address both perspectives. Additionally, you may want to take advantage of this opportunity to connect with other parents in this grade level and get to know one another.
Thursday, October 21 at 6:00 pm
Friday, October 22 at 6:00 pm
Saturday, October 23 at 2:00 pm
Upper School One-Act Play in the Upper School Black Box
Don’t miss The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong this week in the Upper School. This super-hilarious one-act is a hilarious 75 minute comedy like you’ve never seen before. The actors are accident-prone, and everything that can go wrong…does! Reserve your tickets here.
SAVE THESE DATES
October 25 and 26: US Student Audition for Fringe Theatre Festival (in Edinburgh, Scotland)
3:20 pm both days – All Upper School Students are invited to audition for the opportunity to perform at the Fringe Theatre Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer with the American High School Theatre Festival. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at the world’s largest theatre festival so check out this information/audition packet.
Tuesday, October 26: Parent University – Affinity and Alliance Program at Mount Vernon School (virtual only) Join via Zoom
8:30 – 9:30 am Mount Vernon norms call upon community members to start with questions and to share the well. These actions make a difference for individuals, and research shows that when individuals are able to gather in groups where they see themselves reflected, the questions and sharing take on new meaning and deeper impact toward positive ends. In this academic year, the Mount Vernon School will begin hosting Affinity Group gatherings for members of our Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. As a school grounded in Christian values, we draw upon sound research, stories, and experiences of our students, alumni, and families in the action of convening these affinity groups. Join Stacey Lee, Mount Vernon’s Chief IDEA Officer to experience, first-hand, the ways in which the design of Affinity Groups will enhance our school community.
Wednesday, October 27: New Family Drop-In Coffee
7:45 – 9:15 am MVPN’s New Family Chairs Amanda Woodall and Amanda Richmond invite new families who joined MV for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 to the Upper Campus Green to build community among our newest Mustangs. Come as you are, bring your morning caffeine, or grab a cup of coffee at the Ground Floor Coffee Shop in the US Cafe.
Thursday, November 11: Vaccine Clinic
Wednesday, December 1: Vaccine Clinic
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
#HaveFun is an important MV norm. Last week, during Homecoming, we did just that. Dress-up days, mini-golf design, PSAT, Advisory competitions, college applications, sports and play rehearsals – it was a fun-filled start to Mod 2. We were also able to host our first in-person dance in nearly two years. I wish you could have seen the joy on their faces at the pep-rally and at the dance. If we learned anything during the last 18 months, it is the value of community and being together.
As we move forward, students will be focused on their mastery in their new courses. Great questions to ask your child is what will you or what do you hope to learn by the end of the mod in this course? Which course has grabbed your attention, and why? How might we support you so that you are able to do your best this Mod?
In the next month, there will be lots of opportunities for you as families to engage on campus – Grade 9 Connection Night, the US fall play, interim information meetings, new parent gatherings, and more.
As always, we are grateful to partner with you,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School | X2901
October 3, 2021
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October 3, 2021
COMING UP THIS WEEK IN UPPER SCHOOL: OCTOBER 4 – 8
Monday, October 4
7:30 – 9:00 am: Uniform Resale in HQ2
Tuesday, October 5
Wednesday, October 6
9:30 – 10:05: Chapel: Dress uniform
7:00 – 8:30 pm
US Mod 1 Open Mic Night
Join the MV Arts Alliance as students take the mic to perform with a live band in the Upper School cafe. There will be free coffee, live music, and a visual arts show. Come celebrate the start of Fall and the end of Mod 1 with the artists and musicians from Mount Vernon Studios
Thursday, October 7
8:30 am: Coffee with Kristy: What does it mean to be Globally Competitive?
Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. October’s theme: Globally Competitive – what does that mean to the Upper School at Mount Vernon?
9:00 – 9:30 am: Parents are welcome to stay and connect with each other
6:00-7:00 pm: College Panel Night
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have all your questions about the college admissions process answered by admission representatives from SCAD, Georgia College, Purdue University, and the University of Kentucky. Reserve your spot today
Friday, October 8: NO SCHOOL
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, October 11: No School
October 12 – 15: HOMECOMING
Spirit Days
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Tuesday: Superhero Tuesday (no masks or accessories)
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Wednesday: MV Spirit Wednesday
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Thursday: Tacky Prom Day
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Friday: Tropical Getaway Friday
Wednesday, October 13: PSAT
Grade 9: asynchronous learning and will not report to campus
Grade 10 and Grade 11: take the PSAT-NMSQT exam at Mount Vernon. This testing requires our entire building and entire staff. Please read: PSAT Letter to Families 2021 (COVID)
Grade 12: working on finalizing college app work either from school in the US Cafe or from home.
Friday, October 15: Homecoming
Fourteen years of Alumni, New Mustang Families, Grandparents, and our entire MV community are invited to celebrate the School’s 50th year by drawing the largest collection of Mustangs in one place, ever. We will recognize past performers, athletes, active service members, and former Homecoming Kings and Queens, while honoring this year’s court and crowning our new King and Queen. Varsity football kicks off at 4:00 pm against Providence. Be there to participate in the festivities, meet up with long-term Mustangs, and continue the celebration of our School’s 50th year.
Homecoming Tents by Grade-Level
Providing an opportunity for families to gather together at Homecoming, grade-level tents and tables will be set up behind the stadium seating. If interested in participating, please sign up to bring food and beverages to share.
PS – Grade 1 Tent
Grades 2 – 5 Tent
Grades 6-8 Tent
Grades 9 and 10 Tent
Grades 11 and 12 Tent
Homecoming/Fall Silent Auction
Celebrate Homecoming by bidding on school-related experiences. This online silent auction will open for live bidding at 8:00 am on Thursday, October 7. Bidding will end on Friday, October 15. Register today to preview the auction items or text MVHocoAuction to 76278. Be the next Carpool VIP, reserve your seating for performances, or buy an out-of-uniform day.
Saturday, October 16: Homecoming Dance
Tropical Getaway 2021 7:00-9:00 pm on the US Cafe patio
Dress is semi-formal: pants (no jeans), jackets, party dresses
Tuesday, October 26: Parent University – Affinity and Alliance Program at Mount Vernon School (virtual)
8:30 – 9:30 am Join via Zoom
Mount Vernon norms call upon community members to start with questions and to share the well. These actions make a difference for individuals, and research shows that when individuals are able to gather in groups where they see themselves reflected, the questions and sharing take on new meaning and deeper impact toward positive ends. In this academic year, the Mount Vernon School will begin hosting Affinity Group gatherings for members of our Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. As a school grounded in Christian values, we draw upon sound research, stories, and experiences of our students, alumni, and families in the action of convening these affinity groups. Join Stacey Lee, Mount Vernon’s Chief IDEA Officer to experience, first-hand, the ways in which the design of Affinity Groups will enhance our school community.
ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Parent Volunteers Needed for the ARTS
Do you enjoy designing, building, making, or creating? Would you like to use the design skills you have or gain experience learning new skills? The MV Arts Alliance is looking for parent volunteers to support Arts and Design. There are hundreds of opportunities from making robots and building sets, to painting Christmas trees and designing experiences. Chase your passion.
MVCares
MVCares is a part of the Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN) created to serve our community through appreciation, service, and support. If interested in participating on a committee, please contact Telisha Jackson, MVCares Chair.
Appreciation: Help with faculty/staff appreciation days in the fall and winter, snack donations for monthly faculty meetings in each division, assist with gifts, meals, and other classroom activities per grade.
Service: Impacting our local and global community through community service, participating in community outreach.
Support: Join the Parent Prayer Group, organize meal trains, send care cards, video cards, and other special expressions that best meet the needs of our MV families going through challenging times. Support Request Form
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
A highlight of this week was visiting the Genius Hour presentations in our iProject classes. Throughout the MOD, these students have spent one day a week researching a topic of passion, interest or wonder. The presentations were an exhibition of their work. The topics ranged from beating a chess bot to learning Korean to identifying the hallmarks of American fashion throughout the 1900s. Developed with inquiry driven methodology and guided by their teachers, students have deepened their understanding and shared their new knowledge in creative ways.
This week’s chapel message was an important reminder about making time in our busy lives for the messages that God is sending. Luke 11:28, Jeremiah 25:4, and Matthew 18:12 reminds us to not get so busy that we can’t make time to hear the important messages we need in our lives to guide us.
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School | X2901
September 26, 2021
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COMING UP THIS WEEK IN UPPER SCHOOL: September 27 – October 1
Monday, September 27
Student Portraits, Grades 6-11: Dress uniform
12:00 – 1:00 Parent Admissions Ambassadors – live webinar
Learn more about how you can be an extension of MV’s Admissions team and make an impact as a Parent Admissions Ambassador. Engagement opportunities include engaging with prospective families during admissions events, assisting with direct outreach, submitting online reviews, and discussing your creative ideas with us. Be an integral part of our School’s future.
Tuesday, September 28
Wednesday, September 29
9:30 – 10:05 Chapel: Dress uniform
11:00 -1:00 Vaccine Clinic for adults and students who are 12 or older. The clinic will be held in the MS Lightbox. Required forms to complete: 1) Briarcliff Health Mart Vaccine Immunization Form; 2) MV School Consent, Waiver & Release Form
Thursday, September 30
Interim Term Financial Aid application due
Friday, October 1: Spirit Day
Advisory: My experience with welcoming spaces
Interim 2022 initial deposits due (via the MV Parent Portal)
Interim 2022 trip preference form must be completed by 3:00 pm on Sunday, October 3 (via the MV Parent Portal)
ATHLETIC TRYOUTS
Winter sports tryouts for Upper School have been published. Please reach out to the respective coaches for additional information.
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, October 5, 7:30 – 9:00 am: Uniform Resale in HQ2
Thursday, October 7 at 8:30 am: Coffee with Kristy
Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. October’s theme: Globally Competitive – what does that mean to the Upper School at Mount Vernon?
Thursday, October 7, from 6:00-7:00 pm: College Panel Night
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have all your questions about the college admissions process answered by admission representatives from SCAD, Georgia College, Purdue University, and the University of Kentucky. Reserve your spot today
Friday, October 8 and Monday, October 11: No School
October 12 – 15: Homecoming Week Dress Up Days
Tuesday: Superhero Tuesday (no masks or accessories)
Wednesday: MV Spirit Wednesday
Thursday: Tacky Prom Day
Friday: Tropical Getaway Friday
Wednesday, October 13: PSAT
Grade 10 and Grade 11 will take the PSAT-NMSQT exam at Mount Vernon. This testing requires our entire building and entire staff.
Grade 9 and Grade 12 students will have asynchronous learning this day, and will not report to campus.
Friday, October 15: Homecoming
Fourteen years of Alumni, New Mustang Families, Grandparents, and our entire MV community are invited to celebrate the School’s 50th year by drawing the largest collection of Mustangs in one place, ever. We will recognize past performers, athletes, active service members, and former Homecoming Kings and Queens, while honoring this year’s court and crowning our new King and Queen. Varsity football kicks off at 4:00 pm against Providence. Be there to participate in the festivities, meet up with long-term Mustangs, and continue the celebration of our School’s 50th year.
Saturday, October 16: Homecoming Dance
Tropical Getaway 2021 7:00-9:00 pm at the MV US Patio
Dress is semi-formal: pants (no jeans), jackets, party dresses
INTERIM 2022 INFO
September 24 Interim information letter
September 24 Parent information session video (Passcode: 6Rck.Yg%)
September 24 Parent information session digital presentation
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Are you curious what goes on at school on a late start day? Our teachers took off their teacher hats and put on their learner hats for a morning of rich professional learning and collaboration. This year’s RDI focus is on foresight and strategic planning as well as the School’s four priorities: Competency-Based Education, Inquiry-Based learning, IDEA, and Wellness & Resilience.
An important part of our Wellness & Resilience Program is finding “Rest from our Work.” I recently asked a group of students, “How will you rest and recover this weekend?” They replied, “Ms L, we don’t have time to rest. We have too much work to do.” This definitely gave me pause. Is this something they just say? Or, is this something these students really feel is true? Either way, I want us all to continually remind our students that REST is key to achieving our best. One way to think of it is R = relaxing, E = exercise, S = silence/social media free and T = thankfulness. We have two weeks left in this MOD. Let’s make sure that REST is a regular part of our work week.
I hope everyone has seen the information for Interim 2022. The Deposit and Trip Preference form is available on the MV Parent Portal (Veracross). The registration form opens this Friday, Oct. 1, for students to confirm whether they want to travel, participate in CORE or do an internship.
Wishing you all a productive and learning-filled week,
Kristy Lundstrom
Head of Upper School | X2901
September 19, 2021
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COMING UP THIS WEEK IN UPPER SCHOOL: September 20-24
Monday, September 20
11:00 am – 12:45 pm Club Fair (Rescheduled from last Thursday)
Tuesday, September 21
Student Portraits, Grades 6-11: Dress uniform (rescheduled to September 27 due to rain forecast)
Wednesday, September 22
All-School Late Start
9:10 am Carpool begins
9:30 am School begins
Thursday, September 23
6:15 – 7:30 pm US Theatre Student/Parent Informational Meeting for summer trip to Scotland. Learn about an opportunity to travel to Scotland to represent Georgia by performing at the world’s largest high school theatre festival, The Fringe, during the summer of 2022. The meeting is in-person in the US Café, via Zoom, and also being recorded. Decisions about this trip do not need to be made until mid-October, as families are currently weighing Interim Term opportunities. (Zoom meeting ID: 850 6600 2602 / Passcode: fp3m1N5U)
Friday, September 24: Spirit Day and Advisory*
Coach Ron Hill Day: In memory of beloved Coach Ron Hill, students are asked to wear their 03 Reunite spirit shirts. A moment of silence will be observed to start the day, his favorite meal (chicken fingers and french fries) will be served for lunch, and Coach Hill’s twin daughters will lead the football team out to the field for the home game against George Walton Academy at 4:15.
8:30 – 9:30 am Interim Term virtual information session and Q&A, via Zoom. Director of Interim Term and Global Impact DeShawn Jenkins will share a general overview of each of the interim programs along with registration process details. Time will be provided for questions. Parents were emailed details about Interim Term last Friday.
*ADVISORY
During the next three Advisory sessions, students will be engaging in reflection and dialogue about the “spaces” we want to create as a community. After a year of being socially distanced from each other in all areas of our life, we are now in close proximity. The pandemic has redefined how we understand what it means to be together with others and offers an opportunity to reexamine what we want or need from the spaces we inhabit. Specifically, how do we create a “well being space” that supports our needs and where people feel welcome and included? How do we create “brave spaces” where we feel comfortable being ourselves and taking risks, or “engaged spaces” where we feel invited to share our unique perspectives and ask others about theirs? We are excited for this continued work with structured, reflective dialogue.
September 24: Thinking about my favorite space
October 1: My experience with welcoming spaces
October 6: Making welcoming spaces
ATHLETIC TRYOUTS
Winter sports tryouts for Upper School have been published. Please reach out to the respective coaches for additional information.
SAVE THESE DATES
Monday, September 27: Student Portraits, Grades 6-11: Dress uniform (rescheduled from September 21)
Thursday, October 7, from 6:00-7:00 pm: College Panel Night
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have all your questions about the college admission process answered by admission representatives from SCAD, Georgia College, Purdue University, and the University of Kentucky. Keep an eye on your inbox for registration information in the coming weeks.
Thursday, October 7 at 8:30: Coffee with Kristy
Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. October’s theme: Globally Competitive – what does that mean to the Upper School at Mount Vernon?
Friday, October 15: Homecoming
Fourteen years of Alumni, New Mustang Families, Grandparents, and our entire MV community are invited to celebrate the School’s 50th year by drawing the largest collection of Mustangs in one place, ever. We will recognize past performers, athletes, active service members, and former Homecoming Kings and Queens, while honoring this year’s court and crowning our new King and Queen. Varsity football kicks off at 4:00 pm against Providence. Be there to participate in the festivities, meet up with long-term Mustangs, and continue the celebration of our School’s 50th year.
Saturday, October 16: Homecoming Dance
Tropical Getaway 2021 7:00-9:00 pm at the MV US Patio
Dress is semi-formal (pants – no jeans/jackets, party dresses)
ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
MV Serves: Year of Impact
Year of Impact is a year-long integration of service. Beginning on September 11, our MV Community committed to logging 50,000 hours of selfless service through May 11, 2022. This impactful opportunity will give us the chance to collectively give back while commemorating Mount Vernon’s 50th year. We ask our community to log every hour served, to reach our goal of 50,000 hours this year. Together we give back. #MVImpact
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
On Monday, students and parents will be able to view Milepost #2 grades on Veracross. While each grade is important and tells the story of progress in an individual course, it is also important to zoom out and look for trends. Is your child happy and thriving at school? How is your child managing their workload? Are they making progress in the way that they had hoped? If yes, yeah! If not, here are a couple of ways you can support their learning during the last three weeks of MOD 1:
- encourage your child to talk directly to their teachers to craft a plan of action
- reach out and share concerns/ideas with your child’s advisor or teacher
- remind your child that G.T.D. (Get Things Done) is 70 minutes dedicated each day to managing their workload
- check in with them about which clubs/activities they are interested in to connect with peers
- help them plan their time outside of school to be able to meet deadlines
As always, we are here to partner with you in supporting our students and their continued success.
Sincerely,
Kristy Lundstrӧm
Head of Upper School | X2901
September 12, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
September 12, 2021
COMING UP THIS WEEK IN UPPER SCHOOL: SEPTEMBER 13-17
Monday, September 13
Tuesday, September 14
Wednesday, September 15
8:30 – 9:30 am MV Cares Parent Meeting via Zoom: Join the Community Development team to learn how, with your help, we can better support our MV community and make a strong impact through appreciation, prayer, and service. (ID: 95415716123 Passcode: YDOD9UoK)
9:30 – 10:05 am US Chapel
Thursday, September 16
11:00 – 12:45 Club Fair
Friday, September 17: Spirit Day
Interim trips announced during Advisory
3:15 pm Milepost 2 Assessment and Grading Period Ends
Faculty will post Milepost letter grades in Veracross that will be viewable by parents and students on Monday, September 20. These Milepost grades are indicators of current progress, and final letter grades are not posted until the end of the nine-week module. For the most robust and complete information about student work, progress, and feedback, see Altitude Learning through the Parent Portal.
COVID LANDSCAPE
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, September 10.
Upper School
COVID Positive
1 of 456
Lower Campus & Upper Campus Employees
0 of 257
SAVE THESE DATES
Tuesday, September 21: G9- G11 Student Portraits
Wednesday, September 22: Late Start
Mount Vernon will implement a late start across all divisions five times this year to allow faculty and staff to participate in cross-divisional professional learning prior to students arriving on campus. On these select days, carpool will begin at 9:10 am and the school day will start at 9:30 am. Childcare will not be available before carpool on either campus. (Remaining four late starts: December 8, January 6, March 23, April 27)
Friday, September 24: Interim information ZOOM meeting for families, 8:30 am
On Friday, September 17, Interim trips for 2022 will be announced during Advisory. Following that event, an information packet will be sent to all Upper School families with details including login information. On Friday, September 24, parents are encouraged to attend a virtual informational session to answer any questions.
Friday, October 15: Homecoming
Varsity football kicks off at 4:00 pm against Providence for 2021-2022 Homecoming. Join the festivities as we welcome 14 years of alumni back to campus, crown a new Homecoming King and Queen, and continue the celebration of our School’s 50th year.
ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
MV Serves: Year of Impact
Year of Impact is a year-long integration of service. Beginning on September 11, our MV Community committed to logging 50,000 hours of selfless service through May 11, 2022. This impactful opportunity will give us the chance to collectively give back while commemorating Mount Vernon’s 50th year. We ask our community to log every hour served, to reach our goal of 50,000 hours this year. Together we give back. #MVImpact
Mustang Athletic Club and MV Arts Alliance
Joining the Mustang Athletic Club and/or the MV Arts Alliance is a great way to support Mount Vernon students outside of the classroom – on the court, track, and field, or on the stage, in the recording and art studios.
- The Mustang Athletic Club is your guide to all things athletics. Whether you have a student-athlete participating or you’re just a Mustang fan, learn more about supporting MV athletes and joining the Mustang Athletic Club.
- The MV Arts Alliance provides an opportunity for families to support artists – students, faculty, and staff – while building a community of parents and grandparents at the School. Your membership to the MV Arts Alliance helps celebrate all of the School’s artists from Preschool through Upper School.
A WORD FROM YOUR HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
In Chapel this week, Coach T talked to all of us about serving others. He lifted up the ideas of “We Over Me” and reminded us of Dr Jacobsen’s convocation message of “Being a Bridge Connector”. During the message, we were asked how many people remember 9-11? It was a striking reminder that none of our students remember this historic event personally. As a way of honoring those who lost their lives, we are kicking off our Learn, Serve, Give initiatives for this year. Our goal is to serve our community more than 50,000 hours. No one person can achieve that, but if we work together we can. Coach T highlighted Galatians 5:13 and Matthew 23:11-12 as reminders that we should humbly serve one another. Our weekly Chapel assemblies offer us an opportunity to pause from our busy lives and think about what is really important.
Sincerely,
Kristy Lundstrӧm
Head of Upper School | X2901
September 5, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
September 5, 2021
Dear Upper School Mustangs,
As I walk the hallways at school, I am continually reminded of how we are all connected. Yesterday, I heard about a student who was so nervous to present his work that he literally couldn’t speak. Then, in the silence while everyone was waiting another student said “you got this” and another student followed suit with “you practiced and you are ready.” Happily, the student was able to overcome their nervousness and make the presentation successfully. In another setting, I observed two teachers team-teaching. One was presenting material to a group of 10 students while the other was working coaching a smaller group of two students. It is not always in positive settings that I recognize our connectedness. In an online social media setting this week, a group of students were chatting, the conversation took a sarcastic turn and students were hurt. Several students reached out asking for support in how to say “that’s not ok.” In each setting, I saw our MV Norm of #assumethebest at work. When we all assume the best, we find ourselves ready to solve problems, make any situation better and support one another.
It is not always easy to #assumethebest, sometimes feelings, anxiety or lack of awareness gets in the way. In Advisory, we have been practicing skills that help us stay focused on being present and aware in our relationships with one another. This week’s activity focused on active listening. As one student shared a story about their own life where they had been challenged but managed to meet that challenge, other students practiced listening – listening for emotions, values and actions. It is a powerful feeling when you feel really seen and heard. This norm of #assumethebest is one of the ways we achieve our goal of “… creating and sustaining a school culture where all members feel valued and safe, sharing their authentic selves to design a better world together.”
Lots of exciting events and developments coming up in September, read on for more information.
Celebrating student success
We are pleased to announce that Conlan Weeks, Channing Hall, Rediet Yonas and Angelina Tuggle have been designated as College Board National African American and National Indigenous Recognition Program Scholars, based on their remarkable academic achievements and outstanding performance on the PSAT and/or AP. This is a very prestigious honor that often offers scholarships at the college level. Congratulations to these hard working students.
WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 6 – 10
Monday, September 6: NO SCHOOL
Tuesday, September 7
Wednesday, September 8
9:30 am Chapel
11:00 – 1:30 pm Vaccine Clinic
As part of our continuing commitment to the safety of our community, our next vaccine clinic will be offered on September 8 in the Middle School Light Box from 11:00 am – 1:30 pm. This opportunity is available for all students who are 12+ years of age, staff, and families.
Thursday, September 9
8:30 – 9:30 am Parent University: Essential Partners Virtual Zoom
Equipping Mount Vernon to Dialogue Across Difference: Why do conversations get stuck? Why do discussions sometimes leave participants feeling misunderstood and attacked for their perspective? Essential Partners will lead families through an experiential session designed to equip participants with an understanding of how to shift the dynamics of a stuck conversation to support effective communication. At Mount Vernon, dialogue across difference directly advances the work of IDEA by supporting an environment of listening and inquiry to further understanding—where students are partners in cultivating a community that acknowledges and communicates across differences. Thus, they are prepared to effectively engage with complex issues in their future beyond Mount Vernon, whether at a university campus, in the workplace or boardroom, or on the international stage.
Friday, September 10: Spirit Day
6:30 – 9:30 pm Rock the Block Adult Social (80’s Theme)
Our MV community is ready to socialize! Connect with parents, faculty, staff, grandparents, and alumni (21 and older) to celebrate the School’s 50th year. Join us on campus, dress up in full-on 80’s attire, and relive the neon decade with The Breakfast Club band playing on the Upper Campus lawn from 6:30 – 9:30 pm. Purchase tickets prior to September 7.
SAVE THESE DATES
Wednesday, September 22: Late Start
Mount Vernon will implement a late start across all divisions five times this year to allow faculty and staff to participate in cross-divisional professional learning prior to students arriving on campus. On these select days, carpool will begin at 9:10 am and the school day will start at 9:30 am. Childcare will not be available before carpool on either campus. (Remaining four late starts: December 8, January 6, March 23, April 27)
Friday, September 24: Interim information ZOOM meeting for families, 8:30 am
Friday, October 15: Homecoming
Varsity football kicks off at 4:00 pm against Providence for 2021-2022 Homecoming. Join the festivities as we welcome 14 years of alumni back to campus, crown a new homecoming King and Queen, and continue the celebration of our School’s 50th year.
Mustang Athletic Club and MV Arts Alliance
Joining the Mustang Athletic Club and/or the MV Arts Alliance is a great way to support Mount Vernon students outside of the classroom – on the court, track, and field, or on the stage, in the recording and art studios.
- The Mustang Athletic Club is your guide to all things athletics. Whether you have a student-athlete participating or you’re just a Mustang fan, learn more about supporting MV athletes and joining the Mustang Athletic Club.
- The MV Arts Alliance provides an opportunity for families to support artists – students, faculty, and staff – while building a community of parents and grandparents at the School. Your membership to the MV Arts Alliance helps celebrate all of the School’s artists from Preschool through Upper School.
Interim 2022
(Reminder from last week …)
We are excited to announce that we are moving forward with Interim Trips in March 2022. As we work to round out the details to be shared soon, we want to already now communicate:
- Interim destinations and the 2022 process will be announced mid-September.
- Interim information will be shared with families on September 19 via the weekly update.
- Interim information meeting for families will be held on September 24.
- Of course, we are working with our travel service provider to monitor Covid-protocols and advisories in the countries we intend to visit. We will have a Plan B if the pandemic does not allow international travel at that time, and any cancellations of international travel due to health or safety concerns will include reimbursement from our travel service provider.
- Because of delays in passport processes, we highly recommend beginning immediately the processes for securing passports or renewals. Remember that US passports must have at least six months of remaining validity to travel internationally.
- Making every effort to mitigate risks and heighten safety for our travelers, Mount Vernon students traveling internationally will be expected to be vaccinated at least a month prior to travel.
Parent Engagement Opportunities
As a member of the Mount Vernon community – parents and grandparents are automatically a part of the Mount Vernon Parent Network (MVPN), which works to promote a strong sense of community by encouraging MV families to Learn, Serve, and Give. We provide our families the opportunity to support each other, as well as faculty and staff in an informed, welcoming environment. Our success is grounded in a shared mission, supportive community and strong parent participation. If you haven’t already determined how you would like to share your time and talent with the School, please complete this engagement interest form and you will hear back from Hunter Pierce, Director of Community Impact.
Parent University: Wellness Jumpstart Recap
Recently, our parent community joined together on Zoom to learn more about Wellness at Mount Vernon – how students and families are holistically supported throughout the School. The work and the progress being made in every department is focused on the betterment of our community, developing character, empathy, confidence, and safety, in addition to expanding on the foundation of academic growth.Hear from representatives of Community Development, IDEA, Athletics, Arts, Counseling, and Technology Safety.
As we near the halfway point of MOD 1, we have established relationships, diagnosed academic progress and identified next steps. By all accounts, we are in the FLOW. This is a point where the workload can feel heavy, learners may demonstrate signs of stress and lots of activities happen at the same time. In this week’s Coffee with Kristy, I had the opportunity to talk with engaged parents about how we might talk to our kids about time. And, what does a healthy balance of time look like? We framed the conversation using The Healthy Mind Platter by Dr. Dan Seigel. I look forward to continuing this conversation with students and parents.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us. I am happy to partner with you on this Upper School journey.
Sincerely,
Kristy Lundstrӧm
Head of Upper School | X2901
August 29, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
August 29, 2021
Dear Upper School Mustangs,
When you have ambitious students, supportive parents and capable and dedicated teachers and staff, the capacity for greatness is huge. In this high-performing environment, it is important that we build in moments of recovery and rejuvenation to sustain enthusiasm and positive energy. This is why MV Upper School focuses on our school wide norm #havefun in many ways. We want our students to look forward to coming to school, be excited to work hard and play hard and to support each other in the moments of joy. You can see examples of this norm in the rocket launching, the fire and ice students’ section at last week’s football game, in the snacks served at Advisory and in the impromptu ping-pong and chess tournaments that start up each day during lunch. While we are very intentional about learning and have high expectations for our students, we know that when kids #havefun during the process, they will do better.
We also intentionally build in #havefun touchpoints. One example is by providing an opportunity for students to dive into a project of their own choosing. This passion-driven project is referred to as iProject. Watch this film to learn more. Another way we intentionally build in #havefun is to help kids plan their time to allow for breaks and balance. On Thursday of this week, I will be sharing one tool we can use to help students map out their time in a healthy way. Please join me on Thursday at 8.30 for our first “Coffee with Kristy” focused on the Healthy Mind Platter.
COVID Announcements
Beginning Monday, August 23, the School transitioned the face covering mitigation strategy from “strongly recommend” to “required” for all students and faculty/staff members regardless of vaccination status. Students in grades 7-12 will be required to wear face coverings while indoors only, entering buildings, walking through hallways, and during classroom settings. Read the announcement sent on August 20 from the School for more details.
COVID Landscape
The following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, August 27.
Upper School
COVID Positive
2 of 456
Lower Campus & Upper Campus Employees
0 of 257
Altitude Learning and Veracross
The first Milepost grading period ended on Friday, August 27. For students in grades 6-12, their ongoing work, learning progress, and most robust feedback are viewable anytime in Altitude Learning. Additionally, every three weeks, teachers post Milepost letter grades in Veracross. These Milepost grades serve as benchmarks at regular intervals. The official, final grades are posted at the end of a nine-week module. In Upper School, the honors distinction is only designated at the end of a mod. Because teachers may be completing the assessment of submitted student work at the end of a Milepost, grades typically will be viewable on the following Monday. For this Milepost 1, grades will be available in Veracross by Monday, August 30. Please feel welcomed and encouraged to reach out to a particular teacher should you want to discuss any questions you may have related to assessment and grading in a course.
Additional Resources:
- For an instructional video about how to access the Milepost letter grades in Veracross, please see “Veracross Parent Portal: Viewing Milepost Grades” from Director of Instructional Technology Katie Cain.
- As previously shared in these Weekly Updates, Parents can find a brief handout linked here to read more and review how to login to the Parent Portal of Altitude Learning.
- To submit a Family Tech Ticket to Mount Vernon’s Instructional Technology (IT) department, use this link: https://tech.mvps.us/group3_pages/forms/family_tech_ticket.php
- On Wednesday, August 25, the School offered a Parent University focused on “Competency-based Education (CBE) and Altitude Learning.” To see the slide deck from that session, visit “CBE and Altitude Learning August 25, 2021 – Parent University.”
Interim 2022
We are excited to announce that we are moving forward with Interim Trips in March 2022. Started in 2010, Interim allows students a week to travel internationally and nationally, participate in career-exploring internships, and explore learning experiences beyond the regular-year MV curriculum. This program has been an integral part of our MV Upper School experience, with a COVID-related hiatus last year. We are thrilled to be finalizing “Plan A” details, as well as “Plan B” contingencies.
As we work to round out the details to be shared soon, we want to already now communicate:
- Interim destinations and the 2022 process will be announced mid-September.
- Interim information will be shared with families on September 19 via the weekly update.
- Interim information meeting for families will be held in early October.
- Of course, we are working with our travel service provider to monitor Covid-protocols and advisories in the countries we intend to visit. We will have a Plan B if the pandemic does not allow international travel at that time, and any cancellations of international travel due to health or safety concerns will include reimbursement from our travel service provider.
- Because of delays in passport processes, we highly recommend beginning immediately the processes for securing passports or renewals. Remember that US passports must have at least six months of remaining validity to travel internationally.
- Making every effort to mitigate risks and heighten safety for our travelers, Mount Vernon students traveling internationally will be expected to be vaccinated at least a month prior to travel.
We are also excited to introduce DeShawn Jenkins as our new Global Impact Coordinator. DeShawn joined Mount Vernon this year after working in Senegal, France and around the country. DeShawn has worked at Georgia Tech with Women’s Entrepreneurship, taught at the Midtown International School, led Africa Atlanta, and served as the Executive Director of Alliance Francaise.Together with the entire admin team in Upper School, DeShawn will lead the work to plan, prepare, implement and follow-up next spring’s trips.
Week of August 30 – September 3
Monday, August 30
View Milepost 1 grades in Veracross
Wednesday, September 1, Dress Uniform
9:00am Chapel
Thursday, September 2
8:30 am Coffee with Kristy: I’d like to get to know you better. I welcome any parent who is interested to join me for a quick coffee in the Upper School building on the first Thursday of each month. Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. September’s theme: Health & Wellness – How might we use the Healthy Mind Platter structure to support our students to find a healthy balance in their daily lives. We will meet in the Arts District on the first floor.
Friday, September 3: Spirit Day
12:15 pm Early Dismissal
Save These Dates
Wednesday, September 8: Vaccine Clinic
As part of our continuing commitment to the safety of our community, our next vaccine clinic will be offered on September 8 in the Middle School Light Box from 11:00 am – 1:30 pm. This opportunity is available for all students who are 12+ years of age, staff, and families. More information will be coming, but please keep that date in mind as you plan your coming weeks.
Friday, September 10: Rock the Block Adult Social (80’s Theme)
The School’s 5th Rock the Block evening social will be hosted on campus for the first time as we celebrate our parents, grandparents, special guests, faculty, staff, and alumni (21 and older) for our 50th year. The Breakfast Club – an 80’s tribute band – will be playing on the Upper Campus lawn from 6:30 – 9:30 pm. Wear your totally tubular 80’s attire. Purchase tickets today!
Friday, October 15: Homecoming
Varsity football kicks off at 4:00 pm against Providence for 2021-2022 Homecoming. Join the festivities as we welcome 14 years of alumni back to campus, crown a new homecoming King and Queen and King, and continue the celebration of our School’s 50th year.
We are a third of the way through the first mod for this school year. You will be able to view a snapshot of your child’s progress in Veracross (on Monday), but I encourage you to look in Altitude to get a better picture of what is happening in your child’s classes. In GTD next week, we will be checking in with each student to see how they view their own progress – are they #havingfun? And, are they making progress in the way they want to be? I look forward to hearing their responses.
As always, if in your conversations at home, you discover or wonder about something going on at school, contact us! We are always here to partner with you in supporting your child.
Sincerely,
Kristy Lundstrӧm
Head of Upper School | X2901
August 15, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
Dear Upper School Mustangs,
We did it! Our first week has been a huge success – much thanks to your continued support. Our focus this week has been: Start With Questions, showcased through get-to-know-you activities, design briefs, investigations in science class, literature walk and talks and much more. I also wanted to brag about our students intentionally including one another in informal, unstructured discussions. This has taken the shape and form of adding extra chairs around a lunch table for the student who might otherwise have been alone, cheering on classmates during our first assembly, and helping the “new crew” find their way. Read on to find out more about what is in store for week two.
COVID Landscape
As communicated in the July 30 COVID announcement, the School has designed a set of thorough and thoughtful COVID protocols and mitigation strategies influenced by, among other things, the interdependence of the following factors: recommendations from public health officials; consulting with experts within the Mount Vernon community; proven effectiveness of multiple layers of mitigation strategies; analysis of COVID positive cases and transmission data at the School; real-time COVID data in counties surrounding the School; strong vaccination rates for age-eligible adults and students (12+); maintaining as many students on campus as possible and preventing extended periods of being sent home; affect on social-emotional health of students and faculty/staff members; and impact on the quality of teaching and learning between teachers and students.
After the first week of school, the following reflects the COVID landscape as of Friday, August 13.
Upper School
COVID Positive
0 of 456
Direct Exposure
0 of 456
Upper Campus Lower Campus Faculty/Staff
0 of 257
0 of 257
Advisory
Advisory began this week. In Advisory, we focus on connections. Research shows that when kids connect to one another, to their teachers and to their school community, they are happier and more successful. Advisory activities include, but are not limited to, games, snacks, mindfulness, individual check-ins, walk and talks, and more. It is truly a timeout from the academic day for personal connections. To further strengthen the stamina and abilities of our students to make these connections, we are partnering with Essential Partners this year to build dialogue competencies. On August 20 & September 1, in preparation for two dialogue activities on September 24 & October 6, advisors will introduce some skill building frameworks in listening and inquiry to equip students to better engage with the dialogue and each other. Deep, multifaceted listening and inquiry allows students to both connect better with their peers and navigate moments of challenge and controversy in more holistic and complex ways. Starting from how we listen and ask questions of each other, we can invite this complexity into a conversation and shift the dynamics of communication patterns. Competencies built in this work are directly transferable to their current and future lives in industry, business, civic leadership and a whole host of other situations. This is one of the ways we work towards global competitiveness.
Interim Trips
Every year, Mount Vernon Upper School offers Interim Trip experiences as an important step in reaching our goal of graduating students who are globally competitive. These trips offer students the opportunity to experience new cultures, languages and learning in authentic settings. Although we do not know what the situation will be in March 2022 regarding the pandemic, we have begun the planning process. Currently, we are planning international and domestic alternatives. As always, the safety and well-being of our students is the priority. We hope to make a final decision in late September and communicate in October where and what themes we will be focused on in 2022. For now, we recommend that all families who may have a student who would be interested in traveling on an international trip go ahead and initiate the process to submit a new passport application or renew their current documents if needed. The passport process is expected to take longer than normal due to the pandemic. And, we all need to travel on passports that have, at least, 6 months left before expiration.
Altitude Learning
In the August 8 Weekly Update, we shared a big picture overview of Altitude Learning, and we encouraged families to login to the Altitude Learning Parent Portal. Some families have contacted the School regarding some difficulties or issues with login. Thank you! Here’s a quick update and some additional resources:
- Many of the parent login issues seem to be related to our transition to Veracross and the typical wrinkles to iron out when switching to a new technology system. We are resolving those issues.
- In order to ensure that Altitude Learning notifications reach your email inbox, be sure to check your spam folder and set a filter/rule that allows notifications from [email protected] and [email protected]. When a Stream is shared, many times it comes from [email protected].
- You may also contact Altitude Learning directly at [email protected] with any technical issues you encounter.
- To learn more about the Family Experience on Altitude Learning, see the linked Loom video (6 minutes).
- To learn more about Family Onboarding: View-Only Student Experience, see the linked Loom video (6 minutes).
- Parents can find a brief handout linked here to read more and review how to login to the Parent Portal of Altitude Learning.
- A Parent University focused on competency based learning and the Altitude Learning platform will be offered to families on August 25 from 9:00 – 10:00 am via Zoom, and the session will be recorded for families unable to attend the live session.
Joining the Zoom meeting
Meeting ID: 864 6065 8882
Passcode: 127683
WEEK OF AUGUST 16-20
Monday, August 16
10:00 am – 1:00 pm Vaccine Clinic in the Black Box Theatre in the Upper School Building
Mount Vernon is offering a COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine clinic, free of charge, administered by Briarcliff Health Mart Pharmacy on Monday August 16, 2021 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Upper School Building for all age-eligible students (12 or older), employees, and parents that would like to participate. In order to receive a COVID-19 vaccine please complete both forms below and bring them to the vaccine clinic. 1) Briarcliff Health Mart Vaccine Immunization Form, and 2) Mount Vernon School Consent, Waiver & Release Form
Wednesday, August 18, Dress Uniform
9:30-10:05 am US Chapel
3:30-6:00 pm Little Women: The Musical (Amanda Lower, Director) and The One Act Play That Goes Wrong (Clark Taylor, Director) Auditions
Friday, August 20
Spirit Day: MV spirit shirt with uniform bottom or jeans
10:15 am Convocation for Grades 6-12: Students, parents and faculty/staff are invited to the Upper Campus gym to hear Dr. Jacobsen and Head Prefect Jaden Ward set the tone for the 2021-2022 school year, the School’s 50th.
Save These Dates
Wednesday, August 25: Parent University (via Zoom)
Join us for an informative session focused on competency based learning and the Altitude Learning platform. The session will be recorded for families unable to attend the live session.
Thursday, August 26: Senior Parent Kick-off Dinner
Senior parents are encouraged to follow the College Connection, a great resource created and maintained by our College Counseling team. You definitely want to follow this.
Friday, August 27: All-School BBQ at the 1st Varsity Football Home Game
Join our entire community to kick off the football season with a BBQ tailgate and special gathering spots for new families, grandparents, and alumni.
Friday, September 10: Rock the Block Parent Social
The School’s 5th Rock the Block evening social will be hosted on campus for the first time as we celebrate our parents, grandparents, special guests, and alumni during our 50th year. More details coming soon.
Coming Up
In the weeks to come, we will begin with our off-campus expeditions. We will, of course, be extremely cautious and vigilant with our Covid protocols in every situation. We are excited to be able to take our learning out into authentic settings. In addition, seniors will now have the privilege of going off campus for lunch if they choose. Please note for any of these excursions to take place, we need written permission from you in the form of a Senior Privilege Agreement, waiver form (given in advance of the expedition) or email to Sharveace Cameron (if students are leaving campus for personal reasons).
Important Upper School Contacts:
Trish Bogdanchik, Associate Head of Upper School | x2202
Jared Colley, Head of Learning & Innovation
Erin McCubbin, Executive Director of Student Success | x2213
Wayne Dabbs, Dean of Student Life, Operations & Athletics
Sharveace Cameron, Executive Assistant | x2200
Lindsay Huie, Upper School Nurse | x7126
Samantha Flowers, Director of Academic Resources l x2007
Kelli Bynum, Director of Counseling Services | x2020
Upper School students may be more tired than usual this weekend. We have demanded their full attention in every experience – lots of excitement and energy! As we enter our first weekend, I wanted to take the chance to remind us all that rest and recuperation is important to be able to bring our best selves back next week.
Looking forward to week two!
Sincerely,
Kristy Lundstrӧm
Head of Upper School | X2901
August 22, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
August 22, 2021
Dear Upper School Mustangs,
Mount Vernon is an exciting place! This week has offered many learning opportunities for our students. I have seen many examples of #sharethewell. This MV norm reminds us all to share our talents as we encourage and support others. This was the message in our first US Chapel. In a time of fellowship, fun and growth, Coach T challenged us all to think about our impact on others. He asked us to “Be devoted to one another in brotherly/sisterly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” -Romans 12:10. Our praise band shared their talents by providing inspiring music.
Beyond Chapel, I have seen many other examples of #sharethewell. Community experts have come to campus to participate in Design Brief meetings. MV teachers and administrative team members have worked with our Student Prefects as mentors. And, in turn, our Student Prefects are committed to passing along their ideas and talents to make the Upper School a place where all students feel seen, heard and appreciated. In Advisory, we practiced asking good questions and really listening to one another to build a more trustful learning environment. I have observed students giving each other helpful feedback on formative assessments. In one after-school workshop this week, teachers from Middle School and Upper School joined together to share experiences and coach one another. In another after school workshop, new faculty shared their “super powers” and how they could be of service to our team this year. In addition, I have appreciated how parents have reached out to me directly to share their expertise and their knowledge about life in the Upper School from their perspective. When we partner, we all benefit from each other’s strengths. These are some of the ways we #sharethewell.
Learning not only happens in the classrooms, I have also been inspired by the tenacity of the football team who continues to practice and practice, the leadership of our senior cross-country runners who coach and encourage the younger runners, the creativity of our playwrights in our 3-day play, dancers dancing, volleyball teams who work together on passes and smashes, and our outstanding softball teams who rally to win as they cheer on each other despite the incredible heat. In these team moments, students put their values like kindness, love, empathy, patience, and hard work into action.
Convocation
The biggest highlight of the week was Dr. Jacobsen’s Convocation on Friday in the Upper Campus gym. It was exciting to sit with our Upper Campus friends, listen to our student praise band and cheer on our Head Prefect, Jaden. We will continue to explore Dr. Jacobsen’s charge for us all year. Considering questions and ideas such as:
- How might we build bridges between different classes within the Upper School and with other grades across Lower School and Middle School?
- How might we connect to our local community in moments of service, to share our talents and to learn in real and relevant ways?
- How might we build connections to students around the world that lead to real collaboration around designing solutions to wicked problems?
We appreciate those of you who were able to join us to hear the message, feel the energy, and be inspired to be a part of a community who is making an impact.
COVID Announcement
Beginning Monday, August 23, the School will transition the face covering mitigation strategy from “strongly recommend” to “required” for all students and faculty/staff members regardless of vaccination status. Students in grades 7-12 will be required to wear face coverings while indoors only, entering buildings, walking through hallways, and during classroom settings. Read the announcement sent on August 20 from the School.
WEEK OF AUGUST 23-27
Monday, August 23
8:30 – 9:30 am Parent University: Wellness Jumpstart
Parents are invited to join a Zoom meetup to learn how Mount Vernon is developing relationships and furthering the School’s mission by getting to know each child and family through work related to Academics [Bo Adams], IDEA [Stacey Lee], Athletics [Brad Dehem], Arts [Matt Neylon], Counseling [Kelli Bynum], Technology Safety and Integration [Katie Cain], and Community Engagement [Anne Katz].
ID: 84259200873 / Passcode: 6n82D9QF
Wednesday, August 25, Dress Uniform
9:30-10:05 am US Chapel
9:00-10:00 am Parent University (via Zoom)Join us for an informative session focused on competency based learning and the Altitude Learning platform. The session will be recorded for families unable to participate via Zoom.
Join Zoom Meeting
ID: 864 6065 8882 / Passcode: 127683
Thursday, August 26
6:00 pm Senior Parent Kick-off Meeting
Parents of the Class of 2022 are invited to the Lower Campus Fellowship Hall to learn more about what is in store for their senior for the year. Senior parents are also encouraged to follow the College Connection, a great resource created and maintained by our College Counseling team. You definitely want to follow this.
Friday, August 27: Spirit Day
9:05 – 10:30 Fall Sports Pep Rally
3:15 pm Mod 1, Milepost 1 Assessment and Grading Period
At the conclusion of the first three weeks of school, faculty will post Milepost letter grades in Veracross that will be viewable on Monday, August 30. These Milepost grades are indicators of current progress, and final letter grades are not posted until the end of the 12-week Trimester. For the most robust and complete information about student work, progress, and feedback, see Altitude Learning through the Parent Portal.
4:30 pm All-School BBQ at the 1st Varsity Football Home Game
Join our entire community to kick off the football season with a complimentary BBQ tailgate and special gathering spots for new families, grandparents, and alumni. Admission is free for all Mustangs for this first game. Future home game admission is $7.
Save These Dates
Thursday, September 2: Coffee with Kristy
I’d like to get to know you better. I welcome any parent who is interested to join me for a quick coffee in the Upper School building on the first Thursday of each month. Every month, I will present a topic for 7 minutes and then we can discuss it for 7 minutes. Then, we can have a free discussion for 14 minutes about life in Upper School. I know everyone has very busy lives, so I promise to keep the session to 30 minutes. September’s theme: Health & Wellness – How might we use the Healthy Mind Platter structure to support our students to find a healthy balance in their daily lives.
Friday, September 10: Rock the Block Adult Social (80’s Theme)
The School’s 5th Rock the Block evening social will be hosted on campus for the first time as we celebrate our parents, grandparents, special guests, faculty, staff, and alumni (21 and older) for our 50th year. The Breakfast Club – an 80’s tribute band – will be playing on the Upper Campus lawn from 6:30 – 9:30 pm. Wear your totally tubular 80’s attire – more details to come.
Coming Up
If you get the chance, ask your child how they will share their well this week in service to others. You can remind them of the hope Coach T shared with the verse
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Thank you for partnering with us on this Upper School journey.
Sincerely,
Kristy Lundstrӧm
Head of Upper School | X2901
August 8, 2021
Your Subtitle Goes Here
August 8, 2021
Dear Upper School Mustangs,
On behalf of the entire US Team, welcome to the 2021-22 school year!
At Mount Vernon, we believe that relationships are foundational. We believe that relationships leverage transformation. And, those relationships ground us. This is why we will spend the first moments of our time together with students building trust. Trust in themselves, trust in each other and trust in our community. This work is intentional. Working and learning in a trustful environment allows students to bring their best selves. It allows us all to be brave in situations where the outcome is unknown. It allows us to test ideas. It allows us to Fail Up.
As we embark on this journey together, know that your student will be nurtured and loved. We will work actively, systematically and continuously to support every student in the way they need to be supported.
As we discussed in our orientation session, our expectations are centered around our norms:
- Start with questions
- Fail up
- Share the well
- Assume the best
- Have fun
Each week, I will write to you about one of these norms and when and where it shows up in the School.
WEEK OF AUGUST 9-13
Tuesday, August 10
First Day of School
Wednesday, August 11
Upper School Student Assembly
Friday, August 13
Spirit Day
COVID Protocol – Indoors
Face Coverings, regardless of vaccination, are required for large group gatherings. Face coverings are strongly recommended for classrooms and hallways. Large group gatherings include but are not limited to: all-school gatherings, chapel, grade level assemblies, and drills. For unvaccinated students, wearing a face covering inside on a daily basis will allow students to remain at the School if a COVID positive case is identified and ultimately, will prevent them from having to quarantine at home for an extended period of time.
Carpool
Upper School morning carpool begins at 7:30 am. Parents are asked to drop their students off by 8:15, for everyone to be settled in class prior to the start of school at 8:20 am. Students will be released at 3:15 pm for afternoon carpool. While there will be assistance during both morning and afternoon carpools, please take a moment to review and become familiar with carpool details for grades 9-12.
Save the Date
Monday, August 16: Vaccine Clinic for 12+
Providing an additional layer of protection within the MV community, the School will offer a vaccine clinic free of charge for students who are 12-years-old, faculty, parents, and grandparents. More details will be shared later this week regarding times, process, and required forms.
Altitude Learning
Altitude Learning is Mount Vernon’s primary learning management system that encourages and supports students having agency in their learning journey, and it gives parents a window into how students are progressing. Altitude Learning allows for organizing learning experiences, assigning work, submitting assignments, receiving feedback, and tracking learning relative to the goals and objectives of a course. As students and teachers engage with Altitude Learning, they can share reflections and highlight learning through the Stream feature, which allows parents a great view into student learning. Students will be oriented to Altitude Learning in the first week of school. Parents can find a brief handout linked here to read more and review how to login to the Parent Portal of Altitude Learning. More information will be provided soon about a Parent University focused on competency-based learning and Altitude Learning.
Veracross
Veracross will be used to report attendance, view schedules and provide resources to families. Veracross will also be where parents can find a summary “Milepost” letter grade for each course approximately every three weeks. You can expect the first “milepost” grade after Friday, August 27. The most robust details about student progress will continue to be found through Altitude Learning.
Important Upper School Contacts:
Trish Bogdanchik, Associate Head of Upper School | x2202
Jared Colley, Head of Learning & Innovation
Erin McCubbin, Executive Director of Student Success | x2213
Wayne Dabbs, Dean of Student Life, Operations & Athletics
Sharveace Cameron, Executive Assistant | x2200
Meet our newest Upper School faculty.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me or any of the team members listed above. As I shared in our orientation today, we are honored to be on this journey with you.
Sincerely,
Kristy Lundstrӧm
Head of Upper School | X2901
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