The last stanza of the classic hymn, Come Labor On reads:

Come Labor on. No time for rest, till glows the western sky,

Till the long shadows oe’r our pathway lie, and a glad sound comes

With the setting sun, “Servants, Well Done.”

The most effective teachers are the ones who view their teaching as service toward the growth of others. This quality is distinguished from the appeal of teaching as a means for the teacher to delve more deeply into a subject matter that is personally engaging. Certainly, this is a critically important component of being a successful teacher, as it is an important and necessary catalyst toward professional growth and a commitment to being a life-long learner. This important quality, unless it is done for a purpose of helping others to grow, becomes a strength in search of a subject. Teaching, in other words, is an act of service. In a pandemic, this act of service also becomes an act of courage and perseverance, for which I am most grateful.

As teachers, we have indeed been “laboring on” since August! I want to extend my gratitude to my colleagues for their hard work and dedication to the boys whom they have taught and coached throughout the Fall Term. In the life of a school, any Fall Term can be extremely demanding on time and energy. When the added demands of the pandemic are factored into the equation, their hard work and dedication are only magnified.

My colleagues have sacrificed time with family and friends to complete the demands of their many responsibilities. Those with their own children have had to balance these demands against the increased demands of their profession during this larger health crisis. This hard work is greatly appreciated and meaningful to our students and families. Personally, I am grateful to my colleagues and give thanks for their significant work at Trinity-Pawling on behalf of our students.

Each setting sun affords us the opportunity to reflect on the meaning and significance of the work of educators. There is tremendous value in the work that they do. Though the days and weeks can be long, the difference that they are making in the lives of young people and this community is a true gift. Please join me in recognizing their hard work and extending gratitude for the impact that they make each day.

Well Done!

by William W. Taylor

As Thanksgiving Vacation came to a close, Trinity-Pawling students and faculty prepared for their first-ever remote Wintersession. Wintersession at Trinity-Pawling is a 2.5-week student-centered learning period in which students participate in a multi-disciplined Winter Project or a Global Collaborative Challenge (GCC), depending on their grade level. Guided remotely this year by faculty and staff, the Winter Projects and the GCC are focused on what it means to be a Trinity-Pawling student — working collaboratively, thinking critically, solving problems, and becoming creative, lifelong learners.

Winter Projects and the Global Collaborative Challenge are two of the three parts of the Practicum for Civic Leadership, a graduation requirement for Trinity-Pawling students. “Both the Winter Projects and the GCC require students to strengthen the skill of synthesizing information from different disciplines and sources,” explained Headmaster Taylor. “In every project, there is also an emphasis on critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication, citizenship, and character — 21st-century skills that are essential for students today.”

In the Global Collaborative Challenge, all juniors, new seniors, and postgraduate students are placed into randomly-selected groups of five, and each group chooses a topic from a wide range of global issues — from healthcare to mass pollution to international policy. Students collaborate to take on these relevant global issues and are challenged to fine-tune their communication skills when showcasing their findings to a virtual faculty panel. Questions for the GCC this year include: “Should the electoral college be abolished?”; “Is nuclear energy a feasible option for meeting future energy demands?”; “With homeless shelters and soup kitchens closing due to the pandemic, how can cities continue to best support their homeless population?”; and more.

“In the GCC, students learn how to work as a team, put forth a quality presentation, and literally think on their feet — especially when asked questions by the faculty panel,” shared Slade Mead, Co-Director of College Counseling and a GCC advisor. “These skills are essential.”

The selection of Winter Projects this year also reflect the active, engaged, and dynamic learning that takes place at Trinity-Pawling. Before the end of the Fall Term, students chose from a selection of 18 multi-disciplinary projects, featuring concepts from economics, philosophy, multiculturalism, electronic music production, foreign film, sustainable energy, and much more. The ultimate goal? “To help students discover and foster their gifts and talents,” shared Headmaster Taylor.

Faculty members Cyrus Rothwell-Ferraris and Father Danny Lennox, for example, are leading the Winter Project entitled Global Lens. “One of the goals of the project is to explore how we interpret the world through film and philosophy,” explained Lennox. The group is watching multicultural films (Korean, Argentinian, Mexican, Norwegian, Hungarian, and Chinese, just to name a few), reading relevant works alongside the films, and diving into the themes in each. In the end, students will produce a film critique or a short script incorporating the concepts they’ve learned.

Director of Choral Music Mark Templeton and digital media teacher Connie Rafferty are leading a project centered on virtual music production, in which students are learning to mix, master, and edit virtual music videos. “As a choral conductor I am biased, but I believe singing in a choir is the ultimate collaborative project,” shared Templeton. “Musicians use their voices as instruments to create sounds, and these sounds must be precisely coordinated within time to create lush harmonies and melodies.” Students in the project are recording, editing, and mixing songs performed separately by themselves and other members of the School community to bring one cohesive virtual choir video to life.

Faculty members Cody Doyle and Chris Gillman ’05 are leading the Winter Project entitled Moneyball, based on the work of Oakland Athletics General Manager Billy Beane. The project focuses on the concept of using data and statistics to try to gain a competitive advantage over other teams. “In more recent years in the world of professional sports, statistics and analytics have become an increasingly important resource, perhaps to a fault,” shared Doyle. “The goal of this project is to allow students to explore a particular sport and learn how to use data and statistics to arrive at a conclusion or hypothesis of their choosing.”

And the list of projects goes on!

Both the Winter Projects and the Global Collaborative Challenge have been redesigned for this year to accommodate 50-60 hours of student engagement spread out over the 2.5-week remote Wintersession — with daily team meetings, advisor check-ins, and time for individual exploration. “The Wintersession is just the beginning of students discovering their interests and following their passions,” concluded Headmaster Taylor. “Our goal is for each of them to emerge with a better sense of self-awareness, responsibility, and direction in the midst of our ever-changing world.”

For more information on the Wintersession at Trinity-Pawling, watch the Pride Perspectives webinar held on November 18 detailing the two-week student-centered learning period.

by Emma Christiantelli

Mike Webber is a listener. Leaning closer, taking an extra pause, he will nod. Then thoughtfully, carefully, he builds ideas — selecting each word.

It all starts with language. When Webber’s son, Joe Webber ’18, was a senior, the two devised a Winter Project dubbed Find Another Word, inspired by a Choate Rosemary Hall YouTube video that evinced the pervasive use of the phrase “that’s so gay.” Webber’s older son Larry ’17 graduated from Trinity-Pawling as an openly gay teenager, so both Joe and Mr. Webber desired a lasting change in campus discourse. During that winter project, they found that students resonated on a single idea: just be kind.

“Even though the focus was language, as we brainstormed it developed into understanding stories, empathy, kindness, and sharing.” The project capped with a Trinity-Pawling production titled Talking Kindness, which gained perspective from students and faculty alike.

Webber’s 18 years at Trinity-Pawling have shown a commitment to life-long learning. Leaving the business world behind, Webber came to Trinity-Pawling to make an impact in the science classroom. Coaching on Dave Coratti’s championship football teams in the 2000s, Webber was later appointed as the head varsity baseball coach. Yet, in the spirit of the boarding school triple threat, one of Webber’s major highlights has come in the less tangible realm of boarding school life: the time between our scheduled events.

After the original project period, the father and son duo felt that the thrust of their work needed to extend beyond the winter. They began an anonymous collective called T-P Allies that gathered monthly to talk about inclusion, kindness, and empathy towards marginalized populations on campus. After Joe Webber graduated, Ben Yoon ’20 gained leadership and by the fall of 2020, small groups of seniors were practicing a socially-distanced Trinity Method, speaking and listening with patience in groups of three to further an intimate empathy towards our varied stories.

“It is important for there to be an evolution, for involvement in the community towards better communication,” Webber says. The seasoned educator knows this work is dynamic — he’s been listening.

by Cyrus Rothwell-Ferraris

Over the summer, Whit Hazlewood ’21 took his squash game to the next level. “Back home in the Bahamas, two activities that I love are playing squash and helping my community,” he began. “So for my Senior Independent Project (SIP), I decided to organize and coach a squash camp for underprivileged children.”

Although it was difficult at first to organize the camp around COVID restrictions, Hazlewood worked closely with Four Walls Squash and Social Club, a multipurpose wellness and entertainment facility, and Lend a Hand Bahamas, a local nonprofit organization focused on community development. “Lend a Hand Bahamas had a small group of kids who were interested in joining a summer camp,” Hazlewood explained. “They were all between 12 and 15 years old. Most of them had never even heard of squash!” Introducing the campers to a new sport that they now love, Hazlewood shared, made the experience that much more rewarding.

The squash camp was held at Four Walls for two weeks. Hazlewood and his family purchased rackets and goggles for the children to use, and later donated the gear to the facility. “We played squash every day from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We would start with stretches and learning about the game and then work on running drills and squash skills,” Hazlewood explained. “I actually used the same stretches and drills that we use in varsity squash practice here at T-P!”

In addition to coaching his new players in their squash techniques, Hazlewood also wanted to provide them with a filling and healthy lunch after each day of camp. “Many of the kids are very impoverished, and I wanted to make sure they had at least one solid meal during camp. So I approached the manager of our local Subway and asked if he would like to sponsor the camp,” Hazlewood explained. “He agreed! The kids received daily lunchboxes with a sandwich and snack.”

Throughout the camp, Hazlewood enjoyed seeing his players learn and grow — both as squash players and friends. He taught them about sportsmanship, focus and discipline, and having fun on the court, no matter the outcome of the match. “It was so rewarding to watch them compete at the end of the two weeks and see how much they had learned.” Hazlewood continues to keep in touch with his players and also plans to hold coaching sessions with them when he is home during school breaks, and even through college.

In true SIP fashion, Hazlewood was able to pursue a passion, learn to solve problems and overcome challenges, and think critically and creativity — all while making a difference in his community. “The camp was such a great experience for me,” he concluded. “I’m already looking forward to the next one.”

by Emma Christiantelli

When Solomon Hess ’20 began his senior year last fall, the world was his oyster. As Head Prefect, he was excited to lead the student body and the School through a new year. He eagerly anticipated his involvement in sports and theater and had big plans for his Senior Independent Project. While Hess was able to fulfill many of his anticipated goals, including the masterful staging of a full-length musical he wrote, cast, and directed, his Spring Term took a real-life dramatic turn in March. COVID-19 swept across the country, Trinity-Pawling transitioned to an all-remote learning model, and he was tasked with leading his fellow students through one of the most difficult times in the School’s history.

“While sad and unprecedented, the news that we would not be able to return in the spring wasn’t exactly life-changing. It was just another obstacle that we would have to work through together,” states Hess. Indeed, throughout the Spring Term, Hess played an integral role, supporting classmates during virtual school meetings and continuing the tradition of dismissing “Seniors!” first at virtual Chapel — a gesture of understanding and solidarity in a difficult time. His inspiring, yet pragmatic graduation speech encouraged his fellow brothers to “get busy living” despite the challenges they had all faced.

This attitude of resilience has buoyed Hess and guided him through his first semester at Vassar College as well. Certainly, the college experience was much different for all incoming freshmen this fall. With fewer students on campus, many classes online, and restrictions on sports and activities, learning to be creative took on a whole new meaning!

“The fall semester was definitely frustrating at times but for the most part a great learning experience. I’ve been working around COVID the best I can, with lacrosse and theater. Due to the lack of live theater options on campus, I’ve been practicing more stand-up. Next semester, I will have my own 30-minute set on campus at some point,” Hess commented.

Not willing to let obstacles stand in his way, Hess has found new opportunities for involvement and connection. “Although I couldn’t jump right into theater, the restrictions on performing have not stopped me from building connections with people I can learn from and being creative in my own time. I’ve created a couple of short films, befriended many upperclassmen in the drama and film departments, and I am looking forward to a spring semester with more classes dedicated to my major.” he shares.

For certain, his time at Trinity-Pawling helped to shape his positive attitude and determination, and Hess cites theater teacher Kent Burnham as well as English teacher Bill Dunham as critical influences in his current college success.

“The most important takeaway I got from Trinity-Pawling was the experience and people. Grades do not matter as much as how you get them. Class levels don’t matter as much as your approach to them. Find something you love and run with it,” Hess encourages.

Wise words that we can all take to heart, for sure. Best wishes Solomon, as you pursue your dreams — we look forward to following your success!

by Kate Vengrove

We’ve enjoyed connecting with our community throughout the year for Pride Perspectives – our ongoing series of interactive webinars featuring experts from the Trinity-Pawling community.

On December 2 we had the pleasure of welcoming New York Rangers General Manager Jeff Gorton P’21 to the conversation, along with Bob Ferraris ’93, P’25, Chris Gillman ’05, and Brian Foster ’79. Thank you for sharing your expertise with our community, Jeff — it is an honor to have the Gortons in the Trinity-Pawling family! In case you missed the webinar, you can watch the full recording on our YouTube channel.

Our Winter Series continues with these upcoming conversations:

December 9, 7:00 PM (EST) – Coffee with Ned featuring alumni from the art world, Michael Findlay ’85 and Jon Shore ’86

Join this group for an in-depth conversation about the business of art. Owning, exhibiting, and promoting artists’ work in galleries and other venues is an art in itself — learn more about how the buying and selling of art happens from these industry professionals.

December 16, 7:00 PM (EST) – College Launch Day for the Class of 2022

Join Co-Directors of College Counseling Slade Mead and Scott Harff for the annual College Launch Day for the Junior Class. The official kickoff of the college process for the Class of 2022 features a panel of college representatives from Hobart and William Smith colleges, Penn State University, and Marist College.

January 6, 7:00 PM (EST) – Pride Athletics

Sports play an important role at Trinity-Pawling. Join Trinity-Pawling coaches to learn how our student-athletes are staying engaged, skilled, and strong during this challenging year and beyond.

January 13, 7:00 PM (EST) –  Virtual Open House: The Trinity-Pawling Experience

We have the programs and the people who will help you discover a passion, find your purpose, and reach your potential. Join our School leaders (prefects), educators, and admissions team for a conversation about learning and teaching in a new world.

January 27, 7:00 PM (EST) – Educating Boys in the 21st Century: The Future of Boys’ Education

Trinity-Pawling is constantly reimagining what’s possible in boys’ education. Our faculty and staff are adapting and creating new and dynamic programs and pedagogies based on how modern boys learn and grow. Join our educators and students for a conversation spotlighting our transformational results.

February 10, 7:00 PM (EST) – Trinity-Pawling Theater Arts

Join Theater Director Kent Burnham, along with Trinity-Pawling alumni who are industry professionals in the world of film and theater.

February 24, 7:00 PM (EST) – Bill’s Book Club

Join Headmaster Bill Taylor for his remote book club to discuss the books that keep the Trinity-Pawling community inspired. Amy Foster will join Bill to co-host a conversation about Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell.

March 3, 7:00 PM (EST) – Winter Term Wrap-up: State of the School with Headmaster Bill Taylor and Board President Erik Olstein ’86, P’11,’14,’17

For the full list of webinar topics and registration information, please visit our website. We look forward to connecting with you!

After four decades of loyal service to the School, Debbie and Dave P’08 will retire in June 2021. While they’re eager to spend more time with their kids and four grandchildren, the Corattis will sorely miss the close relationships they’ve developed with faculty and students. “I’ll miss being an integral part of these adolescents’ lives,” Debbie muses. “I always enjoyed helping the faculty grow professionally, both as teachers and coaches,” Dave offers. “We were the youngest couple when we arrived in 1981,” Debbie laughs. “Now we’ve become the grandparents of the community, offering counsel to younger families and empty nesters.”

From high school sweethearts to esteemed educators, Debbie and Dave Coratti have enriched the Trinity-Pawling community by embracing the boarding school promise: That an adult will become involved in the life of each child, will come to care about the child’s growth and development, and that caring will make a difference in the child’s education.

“Working side by side with Deb all of these years has been a dream,” Dave concludes. “I could not have asked for anything more.”

Join us throughout this year as we celebrate and honor Debbie and Dave Coratti and their years of service to Trinity-Pawling. Gifts to thank the Corattis for their dedication and commitment to the School can be made to the Trinity-Pawling Fund in their honor or to the Coratti Varsity Club, a special fund established in Dave Coratti’s name in 2012 to support Trinity-Pawling athletics.

Last spring, Trinity-Pawling quickly adapted to provide students a comprehensive and top-notch remote education. Over the summer, the School invested in the most current technology to ensure that we are ready for whatever the future brings.

Holding fast to our mission, we are preparing boys to be contributing members of an ever-changing world, each and every day, on campus and around the globe. The generosity of Trinity-Pawling alumni, parents, and friends enables this critical work to come to fruition.

The need is greater than ever, and your investment in the School supports exploration, flexibility, resilience, and achievement in every corner of the world. Learning can happen anywhere, but a transformative education happens at Trinity-Pawling.

Help to secure a boy’s future with your gift to the Trinity-Pawling Fund today.

Make your gift today at www.trinitypawling.org/give

Thank you.

During Thanksgiving weekend, over 50 Trinity-Pawling outdoor enthusiasts got up and moving in the first-ever virtual Trinity-Pawling Turkey Trot. From the mountains of Utah to the streets of Manhattan to the loop around campus, alumni, students, parents, faculty, and staff trotted through a 5K while working off those holiday calories! Many current students accompanied their parents as they ran, happy to be reunited after the long Fall Term. As Heidi Voelker P’21 shared, “It was great to have Lucas home and be out together!”

Athletes logged their individual races on Strava and virtually cheered on fellow participants throughout the event. Camaraderie and fun abounded, and we look forward to making this an annual event and hope to organize other races as well. What a great way to keep our community connected during a time when we can’t gather together in person. Thank you to all who “trotted”!

View the Turkey Trot photos here.

Everyone on campus missed the exciting athletic visits from rival schools each Wednesday and Saturday, yet the boys still competed hard every day. Varsity farmers sowed cover crops and split wood for next season, disc golfers donned gloves for their final throw, and the mountain bikes have been stowed away.

As the fall season came to a close, winter sports suited up to play competitive intrasquad games with a small fan base of socially-distanced students and faculty. The varsity basketball boys played three Blue vs. Gold scrimmages, capping off the final Wednesday afternoon of the term with an overtime contest that showed a team with deep talent. The varsity hockey players kept on with weekly Saturday evening intrasquad scrimmages before disbanding for winter play off campus. Concurrently, a group of diverse talents improved and competed on the squash court each day under the tutelage of Coach Fritts, Coach Feeney, and new to the program, Coach Avis.

Heading into the 2021 winter season, Trinity-Pawling eagerly awaits more competition between athletes on campus, including the hottest ticket in Pawling: a new four-team lower basketball league that will host field house competitions every Wednesday and Friday.

by Cyrus Rothwell-Ferraris

As you do your holiday shopping this season, don’t forget to check out the School Store!

You’ll find everything from hats to sweatshirts to masks and gaiters, the Store has everything you need to deck your loved ones in Trinity-Pawling gear!!

Online orders will be accepted through December 16, 2020.
In-person holiday shopping is by appointment only until the School Store closes for the holidays on December 16. To schedule your in-person shopping, please reach out to Sara Ferraris P’25, School Store Manager, at sferraris@trinitypawling.org or 845-855-4844.

Watch the Trinity-Pawling Video Production students’ School Store video here.  Happy shopping!