Fall 2007 Issue - The International Preschools of NYC

The International Preschools Newsletter Fall 2007
From Our Director
The Educational Records Bureau (ERB) is a non-profit organization established in 1927. It is primarily
known for its testing services, but it also offers many other services and resources to over 1600 member
schools, both public and independent, ranging over 46 states and 47 countries. Each year ERB presents a
conference in New York City attended by Heads of Schools, Admissions Directors, Superintendents and
Teachers from all across the country.
This year’s theme was “Schools in Synch” and explored the collaborative power of families, teachers and
community. The keynote speaker, Dr. Karen Mapp, a lecturer and researcher in the field of education and
member of the Harvard Graduate School, described the impact families have on children’s educational
development.
Prior to her work at Harvard, Dr. Mapp was the Director of Admissions at Trinity College in Hartford,
Connecticut. While there, she interviewed incoming students and asked them to what they attributed
their success in school. Without exception, students credited their academic achievement to two main
influences.
First cited was family engagement in the students’ schooling and in their achievements. In the study, all
the students recalled a parent or other influential family member encouraging them to talk about school,
keeping them focused on learning and homework and helping them plan for higher education.
Interestingly, family involvement with middle and high school was seen to be more important than with
elementary school.
Secondly, each student had encountered at least one extraordinarily inspirational teacher who encouraged
them and gave them the confidence to set high goals.
These influences were reported by students from all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Parents
today have many demands on their time and attention but it is important to keep in mind how critical it is
to be connected to children, so that they might reach their full personal potential and become active and
productive citizens.
Valerie Kennedy, Director

Supporting IPS
2007-2008 academic year marks the Annual Fund’s eighth year. As of July 2007, we raised a record
amount of $280,000. All gifts directly support teachers, building fund, insurance and our long-term
financial security. Everyone should have received an Annual Giving Report thanking all those who
made donations during the last school year. Many thanks also to the families that donated tickets to
events this past year. Whether you have tickets to the symphony, a Broadway show or a sports event,
donating your extra tickets is a great way to give a tax-deductible gift to IPS. If you find yourself
with extra tickets, even at the last minute, we will gladly pass them on to our faculty or staff. In turn,
you will receive a tax deduction for a gift in kind for the cost of the ticket. We are grateful for your
commitment to the children of The International Preschools. Should you have any questions, would
like a copy of the Annual Giving Report or have tickets you would like to donate, please contact
Deborah Berkley, Director of Development at 212-371-8604 x24.
14 From IPS Walk
Against Breast Cancer
On Sunday, October 21st, 14 teachers participated in the
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Central Park.
It was a glorious day outside and there were over 28,000
participants. Many of us met at Lenny’s for breakfast and then
off we went. The five mile walk started at 9:30AM at 72nd
Street in the middle of the park. The route took us up the park
drive to about 110th Street and then back down where we
exited at 103rd Street and Central Park West. The last mile
was down Central Park West and back into the park at 72nd
Street. At the finish line, we were greeted by music, entertainment
and refreshments. Thank you to everyone who donated and
participated in the walk. We raised over $13,000 and it is still
growing.
Karen Rosenthal, Teacher, 76th Street
A Good Hair Day!
Daryn Reiner, a wonderful teacher at 76th Street recently
donated her long and shiny brown tresses to the Locks of
Love Foundation. Daryn’s hairstylist told her about this
organization that collects hair to make wigs for children who
have lost their own hair due to chemotherapy. She knew right
away it was something she wanted to do. All hair donated
must be at least ten inches long so she had to keep growing it
to make the “cut”. One year later, after months of measuring
and waiting, Daryn traded in her long locks for an equally
lovely shoulder length bob. When I asked Daryn about a
repeat performance, she replied with a warm smile, “Yes, it
felt really good. I would do it again.” Daryn encourages
anyone interested to check out www.locksoflove.org.
Joy Teising, Teacher, 76th Street
IPS Staff News
California lured away two IPS location directors this
summer. We will miss Kim Bulger, 35th Street
Location Director, who moved to Palo Alto with her
husband Brian Hemedinger in connection with Brian’s
career. Education Director Lynne Mueller will be
Interim Director at 35th Street, aided by Jane Oravec of
Admissions and Marcia Kimmelman, a former IPS
teacher. We also said goodbye to Carline Hinds, 45th
Street Location Director, who moved to Santa Monica
with her husband Simon Hobbs and son Dylan, who
attended Creche last year. Simon is now the manager of
Turnbull and Asser in Beverly Hills. Carline has been
replaced by Barbara Scott. Read about Barbara in the
New Teachers article.
Welcome to Henry Cordova, the new afternoon Guard
at 45th Street. Henry replaces Jose Castillo, who has
joined the Coast Guard. Also say hello to Dwayne
Rose, who joined last spring as our Technology
Manager.
Leoanny Garcia of the 45th Street administrative staff
and husband Ricardo Peralta, son Andrew and daughter
Leilani welcomed a baby boy named Aiden on
September 24th. 85th Street Teacher Emi Tosabayashi
and her husband Roberto Motoki, had a baby boy,
Huma, on October 19th. Congratulations to these two
new mothers and their families!
The Scribbler is the newsletter of The International
Preschools and is edited by Cathleen Vasserman. Please
contact Cathleen with any comments or suggestions for
future articles at 212-371-8604, x14. Articles about or by
alumni are welcome.
2

The Early School Years
in Bhutan
I am from a small village in the central part of Bhutan called Zhemgang. Children in the cities would
probably have attended school at five or younger but I started at the age of six. I was enrolled in a
school that was an hour’s walk away from home and was part of a class known as Infant A (Upper
Kindergarten). Every day I was carried there by Lawa, a man who worked for my family and was
my caretaker when I was younger.
The education system in rural Bhutan in the 1970’s was not well established. Being farmers, most
families did not value formal western education. Most children attended elementary school but did
not continue through high school even though education was free for all. As education was not
popular throughout the country, the government actually had to force families to send their children
to school. Although Bhutan remained isolated, English was the primary language in school because
of the British influence on India. We took up general subjects such as English, Math, and Dzongkha
(our national language).
The classes were small in size, and the teachers
strict and highly disciplined. Perhaps, my
perception of teachers was influenced by my
first teacher in Infant A, Mr. Jacob, a stern
Indian man who seldom smiled. There weren’t
enough books or pencils in school, so students
were given slates to write on.
Lawa is now 82 years old and I often see him
when I return to visit to my village. I clearly
remember one day as he carried me from
school on his back, my slate broke and I cried
and cried all the way home.
Kesang Singye, Teacher, 35IVB
Young Bhutanese schoolchildren in
traditional dress
3

Snapshots from Summer
Once again this past summer 275 happy campers filled the various classes at our four locations. Tennis or
Swimming were offered at different sites and enjoyed for the seven weeks of camp. Miss Peggy, our dear
creative movement, teacher introduced enthusiastic dancers to tap dancing. Mr. Doug, our famous music teacher
dismantled a piano to show the children the mechanics inside. Miss Talcott, our inspired librarian, presented
children’s short movies for the length of the summer with an amazing selection of old classics. The very
youngest were not forgotten with the weekly music class of Miss Alice and her big bag full of surprises. These
specialists enriched the already exciting and educational curriculum created by our own IPS classroom teachers.
When school started in September you heard so much about Summer Camp. This was the time when we met
new people, when we had fun, when we played outside in the sprinkler and went on field trips. This was the
time when the youngest students attended camp with their grown ups and got ready to be in school on their own
in the fall.
Have a great year and see you all next summer! The program for IPS Summer Camp for 2008 will be available
in February.
Marie Claire Foss, Summer Camp Director

Meet Our
New Teachers
Each year, teachers new to The International Preschools participate in an orientation day. They learn
about every aspect of IPS and meet their mentors, experienced teachers who will continue to work with
the new teachers in workshops during the school year. Veteran teacher Monique Tabbs is Mentor
Coordinator and will lead workshops on important topics such as planning field trips and preparing for
conference days. Here, the new teachers tell us a bit about themselves.
Hi! I’m Meredith Brown. I grew up in Rockland County. I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science
Degree in Recreation Management and Tourism. I am currently getting my Master’s in Early Childhood Education at City College.
For three years I worked as an Event Planner. While living in Arizona, I worked as Event Director for a planned community. When
I moved to New York City I worked for the Boomer Esiason Foundation for Cystic Fibrosis, as the President’s Assistant and also did
event planning, and office management. I missed working with children so I decided to go back to school and now be a part of the
IPS family.
My name is Gladys Buffone and I will be working with four year olds at the 45th Street Location. I came to the United States twelve
years ago to pursue my Master’s Degree in Education. I came from the Philippines, where I received a Bachelor’s Degree in
Education. I have also taught in an international school in Cebu City, Philippines for eight years. I’ve lived in New York for seven
years and am married with two children.
Hello, my name is Sarah Cabassa. I am married with a beautiful one-year-old daughter. I was born and raised in the Bronx.
I completed my Child Development Associate Degree at Bank Street College. I’ve been working with children for five years. The
experience of growing and watching children grow with your help is wonderful. I am glad to be part of IPS.
Hello Everyone . My name is Dagmara MacKenty Chrustowska and I come from Poland – a wonderful country of green meadows
and very hospitable people. I am a graduate of Warsaw University with a degree in English as a Second Language and American
Culture. It is my first year at IPS . You can find me at the 45th Street Location behind the Red Door with the all day four year olds.
Thank you for the very warm welcome and I am looking forward to a fascinating and fun year.
Hi! Namaste!! I’m Sangeeta Doraiswanii from India and I moved with my family to New York City last year. I started as a
substitute teacher in March of 2007 and will now be joining the group at the 76th Street Location. I have been teaching since 1996
and have taught in Beijing, China and New Delhi, India. I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s Degree
in Education with degrees in Educational Management and Counseling. I am privileged and happy to be part of the warm and
wonderful IPS family and am looking forward to the coming year.
Hi! I am Amanda Freidus and also go by “Mandi”. I will be teaching three year olds at the 45th Street Location. In high school, I
was an Assistant Teacher at the Temple Israel Nursery School and look forward to assisting in teaching at IPS. In my free time, I
practice yoga, gymnastics and love art and design.
Hi, my name is Sophia Khachatourova, but everyone calls me Sonya. I am originally from Moscow, Russia where I got my Teaching
and English as a Second Language Degree. This will be my first year at IPS and I am very excited about all the great things that lay
ahead.
Hello, my name is Marisol Millan and I was born and raised in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx. I have worked with children
for the past six years at the Bronx YMCA Summer Camp. I am a recent college graduate from Cazenovia College and hold a B.A.
in Liberal Studies. I will be teaching at the 35th Street Location. While teaching I will be pursuing my Master’s Degree in Early
Childhood Education. I am very excited to meet all the children and begin working with them!
6

Pictured above on their first day at IPS: Sangeeta Doraiswanii, Sonia Khachatourova, Sushma Thapa, Marisol Millan,
Dagmara MacKenty Chrustowska, Sarah Cabassa, Silvana Rugilo, Kristen Scotese, Alison Seidner, Meredith Brown, Amanda Freidus,
Krystal Porfidia, Gladys Buffone. New teachers not in photo: Barbara Scott, Randi Sinel
Hi! My name is Krystal Porfidia and I will be teaching the four year olds at 85th Street. I have worked with preschoolers for more
than six years. I received my first Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Early Childhood Education at Lehman College. I also obtained
a second Bachelor’s from Mercy College in Health Science just this past summer. I’m excited to be a part of IPS and look forward
to a terrific year
Hi! My name is Kristen Scotese. I was born and raised in Manhattan and am proud to say that I am a former IPS student. I recently
moved back to New York after studying at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania. I am currently completing my degree at Hunter
College. I will be working at 85th Street with three year olds. I am very excited to be a part of the IPS community and am looking
forward to the school year.
My name is Barbara Scott and I am the new Location Director at 45th Street. I have been a parent, teacher and administrator in
several Manhattan independent schools. I have a B.A. from Hamilton College and an M.A. in Educational Leadership from Columbia
University Teachers College. I have lived in New York City with my husband and children for 15 years and grew up in the college
town of Princeton, NJ. I enjoy cooking (my husband does all the baking!), good books and skiing with my sons. My daughter and I
are enjoying making squiggles on paper and playing with her baby dolls. I have always known that I wanted to work with children
and am thrilled that life’s journey has brought me to IPS. Thank you all for making me feel so welcome!
Cello! My name is Allison Seidner and I will be making my return to IPS, this time as a Creche and Toddler Teacher at 45th Street.
From before I can remember, IPS has been part of my family. Both my brother and I are IPS graduates and my mother, Kathy, is a
Teacher and Director at 45th Street. Over the years, I have worked here as a substitute and as both a Music and Assistant Teacher for
Summer Camp. When not surrounded by children, I surround myself with music. I hold degrees from Boston University in Music
Education and Cello Performance. As a professional cellist, I have toured the Americas and Europe. I know that working at IPS will
be a wonderful welcome home!
Hello, my name is Randi Sinel and I am teaching the magnificent children of 85 III. I grew up in NY but have lived in several
different places in the US, including Cincinnati, Chicago and Washington DC. I also lived in Israel for two years and in Oxford,
England for just under a year. I started my career as a teacher only after using my M.B.A. from Georgetown for executive play in
the corporate world for 13 years. But when I realized that play is so much more meaningful (and enjoyable) with children, I started
teaching immediately and returned to school at Hunter College for a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education. I've taught
children as young as 2 years of age and as old as 7 years of age over the past eight years and am very happy to be bringing my
experience and love of children to the already wonderful IPS community.
Hello, my name is Sushma Thapa. I was born in India but spent much of my childhood at a school in Bhutan. After graduating from
college, I worked with orphanage children in the Himalayas of Sikkim, India. I moved to Southeast Asia and spent some time
teaching young children in Thailand. Then I spent four years with preschool children in Vientiane, Laos. I came to America in 2005.
I started substituting with IPS last January. I will be teaching at the 85th Street Location while continuing my education in Early
Childhood Development. I’m looking forward to meeting all of the children, their families and the rest of the IPS community.
7

WELCOME TO NEW AND RETURNING IPS PARENTS!
We are at the start of another exciting year at IPS. The Parents’Association (PA) is a vital and active part of our
school. The PA’s mission is twofold – to provide a community for our families and to support the school through
fundraising activities. All IPS parents are members of the PA and are encouraged to attend meetings, events and
activities hosted by the PA. This is your Association – take advantage of it to ensure an optimal school experience
for you and your family. I had a chance to speak to many new families at the new parents receptions. I felt the
excitement of our new families and know they will be an integral part of the PA. The children and families of
IPS make this a unique place and I feel fortunate to be a part of this parent body. I’d like to thank all the
dedicated parents who have generously volunteered their time to the PA this year. We have many parents, who,
year after year, devote their time to co-chairing events and/or volunteering as PA representatives or class
parents. This year we also have many new parents who have already started getting involved in PA planning
activities. There are many ways to be involved and we strive to find the right fit for each parent. If you haven’t
already done so, please complete your volunteer form. Getting involved does not require a significant time
commitment – even a small commitment will provide you the opportunity to get to know other parents. Be sure
to mark your calendars for our annual Faculty Enrichment Benefit on Friday, December 7th. This event is one
of three principal fundraisers hosted by the PA. The benefit allows us to pay tribute to our teachers while
raising funds for them to continue their education. It is an elegant evening of music, cocktails and an elaborate
dinner buffet held at Landmark on the Park, a new location for this year. We must thank our dedicated co-chairs
Lauren Hurvitz, Amanda Burton, Cheryl Hussain, and Muriel Jara for their efforts in ensuring this night is fun
for all. On a personal note, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as the President of your Parents’
Association. It truly is a privilege and I look forward to meeting each of you soon!
Maria Schiffer, Parents' Association President